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Charlie Sheen has admitted to taking yet another drug...so who's shocked? OK, no surprise here, but, still, Sheen recently told Sports Illustrated that he was "roided" up while shooting the 1989 baseball comedy Major League. The Warlock famously played the fast-pitching Ricky "Wild Thing" Vaughn, a part for which he says he juiced for "six to eight" weeks hoping to give his performance an edge.
According to TMZ, he added, "You can print this, I don't give a f--k. My fastball went from 79 [mph] to like 85." A whole six miles per hour more; clearly, the drugs paid off.
We have a special place in our hearts for 'roid heads, but experimenting with the drug for a movie role is about as weak as musicians putting their asses under needles.
[Via TMZ]
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60cm would be better. I have a hawthorn hedge on my Northwest/Southeast boundary and it's doing very well but there is no fence either side. I don't see why it wouldn't work for you as long as you prepare the soil well before planting. Dig it to a depth of between 1.5 and 2 spades, remove stones, rubbish, weeds and then put the soil back with plenty of added garden composta nd well rotted manure to improve its structure and nutrients.
You can buy whips - short, single stems - of hawthorn in autumn which is also the best time to plant. Soak the roots in a bucket of cool water for an hour and then plant at 9 inch intervals if you're doing just one row which will be enough for your purposes. For a thicker hedge you can plant them in two zig zagged rows at 9 to 12 inches. Trim the stems to 9 inches high and water well. They will spend autumn and winter growing new roots which will then provide the energy for new stems in spring.
Mine grew 6' in their first year. You'll need to trim them back to about 3 or 4 feet heigh the first autumn after planting to encourage them to bush out and thicken up and so provide more flowers, berries and shelter for birds and insects. You can keep them trimmed to 6' thereafter. How wide you keep it is up to you.
All hydrangeas like moist but well drained soil and full sun or partial shade. They can get very large if left unpruned and are best off planted in the ground where their roots can stay cool and reach out for water and nutrients.
Dig a hole at least twice as wide and half as deep again as the pot it is currently in and then improve the soil in teh hole and for back flling with plenty of good garden compost and/or well rotted manure to help enrich its soil and moisture retention. Soak the pot in a bucket of water till no further bubbles appear then lift out and plant at the same depth. Water generously once planted and for the rest of this summer to get it established.
The paniculatas flower on new wood so you can prune yours to shape or size at the beginning of spring and it will then grow new stems and flower on those. Give it a good feed of pelleted chicken manure or bllod, fish and bone worked in around its roots every spring and it should be good for years.
If it is phytolacca you need to be aware that it is poisonous to people and animals but the birds love the berries and scoff them with gay abandon and no ill effect. This plant self seeds liberally in my garden but is easy to control and keep in bounds.
You need to go to the nearest tourism office and ask them about gardens and parks to visit. Look in local newsagents and see if there's an English language magazine for the area. There's one called Living Magazine for the Charente and Bordeaux area so maybe there's one for further South. That would give you info about life in the area and where to go/buy/do things.
Then research weather patterns of summer highs and winter lows plus rainfall. Plants do cold winters better under snow than if it's cold and wet or seriously cold and very dry.
Found this on Google for the Saint-Lizier area - de beaux jardins sur les hauteurs de Foix (les "Epines de Lespinet") et à Loubières (les "Jardins de Loubières")
and this - http://www.guide-du-bearn.com/fr/tourisme/decouvrir/sites-touristiques/jardins-parcs.html
I happily kill flies, especially the biting kind but I rescue bees and wasps and ladybirds and lacewings and I throw slugs and snails in the road to be splatted if the eco pellets haven't got them first. I rescue worms and good insects when I find them in need of help. I also feed the birds every day so the adults will hoover up aphids and caterpillars on my roses and veggies. Good trade.
I nurture plants I want and share the spares with friends but I'll happily put weedkiller on paths and cobbles too expansive to weed by hand and I pull up other weeds from the borders. OH does weed and feed on the grass but not every year. I don't care that much as long as it's green.
You can cut off the spent flower heads if you don't want any seed and cut off any brown or spotty foliage but leave the newer, greener leaves to feed the plants roots and make the energy for next spring's show of flowers. If they are otherwise green but wilting they may just be thirsty or need moving to a shadier spot but if you do move them, water well first and again after transplanting and until they re-establish themselves.
It indicates that your pots are on the dry side. You can put down poison traps as indicated by Lesley but you need to stop them coming back too.
Give the pots a thorough soaking several times to make sure the compost absorbs the moisture instead of it just running through. Keep them watered well in future. I read somewhere that one inch of water on the top of the pot will soak down 9 inches. Adjust your regular watering accordingly and water every couple of days in the growing season.
Once the compost is thoroughly moistened you can also water on a solution of one small bottle of essential oïl of cloves diluted in 10 litres of water. The ants can't stand the smell and move on.
If you can, raise your pots onto special feet or even just bricks in order to ensure they drain well and aren't waterlogged, especially in winter. Give your plants a feed or two of liquid rose or tomato feed to help them recover as their roots will have been damaged by the ants' nesting activities so they'll be having a hard time taking up enough moisture and nutrients.

subset: commoncrawl


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Year of publication
- aging (2)
- lymphocytes (2)
- presenilin-1 (2)
- 2-deoxy-D-ribose (1)
- AD patients (1)
- Activation markers (1)
- Aging (1)
- Alzheimer's disease (1)
- Alzheimer's disease (1)
- Apoptosis (1)
- Pharmazie (12)
- Medizin (5)
- Biowissenschaften (1)
- Age-related changes of apoptotic cell death in human lymphocytes (2000)
- Apoptosis seems to be involved in immunosenescence associated with aging. Moreover, in lymphocytes (PBL) of patients with Alzheimer's disease, an increased susceptibility to the apoptotic pathway has been described possibly due to impaired protection of oxidative stress. Accordingly, it seemed to be of particular interest to investigate the contribution of normal aging to the susceptibility from human lymphocytes to programmed cell death. We could show that PBL from elderly individuals (>60 years) accumulate apoptosing cells to a significant higher extent in spontaneous and activation-induced cell death compared to younger controls (<35 years). Treatment with the oxidative stressor 2-deoxy-D-ribose or with agonistic-CD95-antibody pronounced this effect even more implicating a higher sensitivity to reactive oxygen species and a higher functional CD95 expression, respectively. In addition, expression of the activation markers HLA-DR and CD95 was significantly increased in CD3+-cells of aged subjects, while expression of CD25 did not seem to be affected by age. Expression of Bcl-2 was increased in aging and correlated with the number of apoptotic cells.
- Age-related impairment of human T lymphocytes' activation: specific differences between CD4+ and CD8+ subsets (2002)
- The relevance of physiological immune aging is of great interest with respect to determining disorders with pathologic immune function in aging individuals. In recent years, the relevance of changes in peripheral lymphocytes in age-associated neurologic diseases has become more evident. Due to the lack of immunological studies, covering more than one event after mitogenic activation, we envisaged a new concept in the present study, aiming to investigate several events, starting from T cell receptor (TCR) ligation up to T cell proliferation. In addition, we addressed the question whether changes are present in the subsets (CD4, CD8) with aging. Phosphorylation of tyrosine residues declines with increasing age in CD4+ cells. Fewer levels of CD69 positive cells after 4 h mitogenic activation, altered expression of cytokines (IL2, IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha; 22 h) and lower proliferation (72 h) were determined in aging. Moreover, it could be shown that CD8+ lymphocytes react more effectively to mitogenic stimulation with reference to CD69 expression and proliferation in both age groups (<35 and >60 years old). These data indicate that T cell activation, mediated by TCR engagement, is significantly impaired in aging and both subsets are affected. However, bypassing the TCR does not fully restore T cell function, indicating that there are more mechanisms involved than impaired signal transduction through TCR only. The results will be discussed in relation to their relevance in neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders.
- Age-related increase of oxidative stress-induced apoptosis in mice prevention by Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb761) (2001)
- Enhanced apoptosis and elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a major role in aging. In addition, several neurodegenerative diseases are associated with increased oxidative stress and apoptosis in neuronal tissue. Antioxidative treatment has neuro-protective effects. The aim of the present study was to evaluate changes of susceptibility to apoptotic cell death by oxidative stress in aging and its inhibition by the antioxidant Ginkgo biloba extract EGb761. We investigated basal and ROS-induced levels of apoptotic lymphocytes derived from the spleen in young (3 months) and old (24 months) mice. ROS were induced by 2-deoxy-D-ribose (dRib) that depletes the intracellular pool of reduced glutathione. Lymphocytes from aged mice accumulate apoptotic cells to a significantly higher extent under basal conditions compared to cells from young mice. Treatment with dRib enhanced this difference, implicating a higher sensitivity to ROS in aging. Apoptosis can be reduced in vitro by treatment with EGb761. In addition, mice were treated daily with 100mg/kg EGb761 per os over a period of two weeks. ROS-induced apoptosis was significantly reduced in the EGb761 group. Interestingly, this effect seemed to be more pronounced in old mice.
- Alzheimer's disease-like alterations in peripheral cells from presenilin-1 transgenic mice (2001)
- Many cases of early-onset inherited Alzheimer's disease (AD) are caused by mutations in the presenilin-1 (PS1) gene. Expression of PS1 mutations in cell culture systems and in primary neurons from transgenic mice increases their vulnerability to cell death. Interestingly, enhanced vulnerability to cell death has also been demonstrated for peripheral lymphocytes from AD patients. We now report that lymphocytes from PS1 mutant transgenic mice show a similar hypersensitivity to cell death as do peripheral cells from AD patients and several cell culture systems expressing PS1 mutations. The cell death-enhancing action of mutant PS1 was associated with increased production of reactive oxygen species and altered calcium regulation, but not with changes of mitochondrial cytochrome c. Our study further emphasizes the pathogenic role of mutant PS1 and may provide the fundamental basis for new efforts to close the gap between studies using neuronal cell lines transfected with mutant PS1, neurons from transgenic animals, and peripheral cells from AD patients. Copyright 2001 Academic Press.
- Effects of EGb 761® Ginkgo biloba extract on mitochondrial function and oxidative stress (2003)
- As major sources of reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial structures are exposed to high concentrations of ROS and may therefore be particularly susceptible to oxidative damage. Mitochondrial damage could play a pivotal role in the cell death decision. A decrease in mitochondrial energy charge and redox state, loss of transmembrane potential (depolarization), mitochondrial respiratory chain impairment, and release of substances such as calcium and cytochrome c all contribute to apoptosis. These mitochondrial abnormalities may constitute a part of the spectrum of chronic oxidative stress in Alzheimer's disease. Accumulation of amyloid beta (Abeta) in form of senile plaques is also thought to play a central role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease mediated by oxidative stress. In addition, increasing evidence shows that Abeta generates free radicals in vitro, which mediate the toxicity of this peptide. In our study, PC12 cells were used to examine the protective features of EGb 761(definition see editorial) on mitochondria stressed with hydrogen peroxide and antimycin, an inhibitor of complex III. In addition, we investigated the efficacy of EGb 761 in Abeta-induced MTT reduction in PC12 cells. Moreover, we examined the effects of EGb 761 on ROS levels and ROS-induced apoptosis in lymphocytes from aged mice after in vivo administration. Here, we will report that EGb 761 was able to protect mitochondria from the attack of hydrogen peroxide, antimycin and Abeta. Furthermore, EGb 761 reduced ROS levels and ROS-induced apoptosis in lymphocytes from aged mice treated orally with EGb 761 for 2 weeks. Our data further emphasize neuroprotective properties of EGb 761, such as protection against Abeta-toxicity, and antiapoptotic properties, which are probably due to its preventive effects on mitochondria.
- Enhanced ROS-generation in lymphocytes from Alzheimer's patients (2005)
- Introduction: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been implicated in neurodegeneration and seem to be involved in the physiology and pathophysiology of several diseases, including normal aging and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Enhanced ROS production in aging or AD is not restricted to the brain, but can also been seen in several peripheral tissues. The objective of the present study was to evaluate whether the mechanisms involved in the generation of oxidative stress in normal senescence and Alzheimer's disease are identical or not. Methods: We analysed intracellular basal levels of ROS in lymphocytes from AD patients and healthy young and aged not-demented subjects as well as ROS levels following stimulation with d-ribose and staurosporine in all three groups. ROS levels were measured by flow cytometry using the intracellular fluorescence dye dihydrorhodamine123 (DHR123). Results: Our study shows that AD lymphocytes have increased basal levels of ROS, low susceptibility to ROS stimulation by 2-deoxy-D-ribose (dRib) and an increased response to staurosporine when compared with age-matched controls. Discussion: The data suggest that the defect(s) responsible for enhanced ROS production in AD may involve different or additional biological pathways than those involved in enhanced ROS generation during aging.
- Geistig fit durch mediterrane Kost? : Wie Menschen gesünder alt werden können (2003)
- In südlichen Gefilden wächst so manches, was in Maßen genossen dem Wohlbefinden dient. Dies gilt nicht nur für Heilkräuter und Rotwein, sondern vermutlich auch für andere für den Mittelmeerraum typische Getränke und Speisen. Auf der Suche nach diesen "natürlichen Apotheken" erfassen Wissenschaftler aus Deutschland und sechs weiteren europäischen Ländern derzeit seltene Unterarten bewährter Nutzpflanzen wie Thymian, Olive, Wein und Orange. Sie erforschen, ob die seit Jahrhunderten überlieferten Schutzund Heilungskräfte der Gewächse einer wissenschaftlichen Prüfung standhalten und worauf sie beruhen. Die Frankfurter Gruppe um Prof. Dr. Walter Müller hat dabei insbesondere Stoffe im Blick, die das Nervensystem beeinflussen. Macht mediterrane Kost wirklich geistig fit?
- Impact of aging : sporadic, and genetic risk factors on vulnerability to apoptosis in Alzheimer's disease (2003)
- The identification of specific genetic (presenilin-1 [PS1] and amyloid precursor protein [APP] mutations) and environmental factors responsible for Alzheimer's disease (AD) has revealed evidence for a shared pathway of neuronal death. Moreover, AD-specific cell defects may be observed in many other nonneuronal cells (e.g., lymphocytes). Thus, lymphocytes may serve as a cellular system in which to study risk factors of sporadic, as well as genetic AD in vivo. The aim of our present study was to clarify whether lymphocytes bearing genetic or sporadic risk factors of AD share an increased susceptibility to cell death. Additionally we examined whether a cell typespecific vulnerability pattern was present and how normal aging, the main risk factor of sporadic AD, contributes to changes in susceptibility to cell death. Here, we report that lymphocytes affected by sporadic or genetic APP and PS1 AD risk factors share an increased vulnerability to cell death and exhibit a similar cell type-specific pattern, given that enhanced vulnerability was most strongly developed in the CD4+ T-cell subtype. In this paradigm, sporadic risk factors revealed the highest impact on cell type-specific sensitivity of CD4+ T cells to apoptosis. In contrast, normal aging results in an increased susceptibility to apoptosis of both, CD4+ and CD8+ T cells.
- Improved mitochondrial function in brain aging and Alzheimer disease – the new mechanism of action of the old metabolic enhancer piracetam (2010)
- Piracetam, the prototype of the so-called nootropic drugs' is used since many years in different countries to treat cognitive impairment in aging and dementia. Findings that piracetam enhances fluidity of brain mitochondrial membranes led to the hypothesis that piracetam might improve mitochondrial function, e.g., might enhance ATP synthesis. This assumption has recently been supported by a number of observations showing enhanced mitochondrial membrane potential, enhanced ATP production, and reduced sensitivity for apoptosis in a variety of cell and animal models for aging and Alzheimer disease. As a specific consequence, substantial evidence for elevated neuronal plasticity as a specific effect of piracetam has emerged. Taken together, this new findings can explain many of the therapeutic effects of piracetam on cognition in aging and dementia as well as different situations of brain dysfunctions. Keywords: mitochondrial dysfunction, alzheimer's disease, aging, oxidative stress, piracetam
- Lavender oil-potent anxiolytic properties via modulating voltage dependent calcium channels (2013)
- Recent clinical data support the clinical use of oral lavender oil in patients suffering from subsyndromal anxiety. We identified the molecular mechanism of action that will alter the perception of lavender oil as a nonspecific ingredient of aromatherapy to a potent anxiolytic inhibiting voltage dependent calcium channels (VOCCs) as highly selective drug target. In contrast to previous publications where exorbitant high concentrations were used, the effects of lavender oil in behavioral, biochemical, and electrophysiological experiments were investigated in physiological concentrations in the nanomolar range, which correlate to a single dosage of 80 mg/d in humans that was used in clinical trials. We show for the first time that lavender oil bears some similarities with the established anxiolytic pregabalin. Lavender oil inhibits VOCCs in synaptosomes, primary hippocampal neurons and stably overexpressing cell lines in the same range such as pregabalin. Interestingly, Silexan does not primarily bind to P/Q type calcium channels such as pregabalin and does not interact with the binding site of pregabalin, the α2δ subunit of VOCCs. Lavender oil reduces non-selectively the calcium influx through several different types of VOCCs such as the N-type, P/Q-type and T-type VOCCs. In the hippocampus, one brain region important for anxiety disorders, we show that inhibition by lavender oil is mainly mediated via N-type and P/Q-type VOCCs. Taken together, we provide a pharmacological and molecular rationale for the clinical use of the oral application of lavender oil in patients suffering from anxiety.


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8:03 am
Wed July 13, 2011
Valles Caldera To Reopen Staging Area After Fire
By KRWG News
Northern New Mexico – JEMEZ SPRINGS, N.M. (KRWG) Officials at Valles Caldera National Preserve have decided to reopen the staging area at the northern New Mexico property.
The area has been off-limits since June 26, when the Las Conchas fire started in the mountains nearby. The fire forced staff and visitors to evacuate, and the area remained closed to the public during firefighting operations.
Officials say the staging area will open Wednesday.
Visitors will be able to see the aftermath of the fire from the staging area. Other areas along New Mexico highway 4 will remain closed due to high fire danger.
Hiking, fishing and other tours at Valles Caldera also will not be offered until forest restrictions and closures are lifted.
Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. KRWG


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Veterinarian Markus Baur never has a moment alone at work. He shares a small, drab room with his colleague Tobias Friz -- and with a number of animals. At the moment, his office is home to a freshwater turtle, a Mexican parrot snake, two tarantulas, several twist-necked turtles, giant musk turtles, Chinese false-eyed turtles, mud turtles and an egg-eating snake. "There was no more room anywhere else," Baur explains.
The veterinarians currently care for about 600 animals at Munich University's reptile sanctuary and have seen more than 1,700 animals come through since the beginning of the year. They have been able to find new homes for many of the reptiles -- among them, nine young Nile crocodiles that Baur and Friz escorted to a Spanish zoo via Air Berlin in late June.
"For every animal we're able to place, two new ones turn up," Baur sighs. "We never know what tomorrow will bring."
Customs officials, fire departments and police all drop off confiscated, abandoned or escaped reptiles almost daily. Overburdened pet owners leave paper bags containing baby crocodiles at the door and holidaymakers back from Tunisia come to unload tortoises they smuggled back from vacation.
Many new reptile owners realize too late just what they've welcomed into their living rooms from pet stores, exotic animal markets or Internet suppliers. For one thing, most reptiles continue to grow their entire lives. Alligators, for example, can reach an impressive four meters (13 feet) in length and tend not to be so popular with the neighbors. Even a comparatively harmless green iguana, Baur explains, "grows into a two-meter (6.5-foot) beast that considers the living room its own property."
Still, pet owners increasingly seem to find scaly, cold-blooded species more exciting than traditional dogs, cats and hamsters. Around 460,000 live reptiles were brought to Germany in 2002; by 2009, the number had risen to nearly 600,000. The number of exotic animals in shelters has nearly tripled since 2005 and a sanctuary exclusively for exotic species recently opened in Berlin. "The smaller shelters can't afford it," explains Henriette Mackensen at the German Animal Welfare Federation. "But there's demand everywhere."
At the reptile sanctuary in Munich, many of the stranded exotic animals make their homes in an idyllic courtyard. Here, surrounded by university and residential buildings and with a seminary across the way, an odd collection of outlandish creatures pass their time in pools and terrariums, hothouses and cages. Chinese soft-shelled turtles, primeval creatures with snouts like snorkels and leathery shells, are just one of the exotic species paddling about in the cloudy water.
The Cuban iguanas here, meanwhile, are an endangered species. Friz and Baur found them in the apartment of a pathological animal collector in the countryside near Munich. "The guy is well known," Baur says. "We get called out there about once every two years." During the last raid, police and veterinarians found approximately 2,000 animals, including 200 reptiles, but also monkeys and spiders.


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Posted at: 05/09/2013 11:41 PM
Updated at: 05/09/2013 11:47 PM
Any child can achieve their dreams, despite emotional or behavioral challenges. That was the message at the "Got Dreams" ceremony, recognizing youth and families who have overcome mental health obstacles.
It was held at the Rochester Museum and Science Center tonight.
"We're raising awareness so that more people will feel that it's ok to seek treatment. that its helpful and that it can help you thrive and achieve your goals like the youth we have tonight who run the program are all youth who have overcome challenges and are reaching their dreams and are doing fabulous. They want to thank the people in their life and in their community who have helped them reach those dreams," said Dr. Kathleen Plum, Director of the Monroe Co. Office of Mental Health.
Similar events were held across the country because today is National Children's Mental Health day.


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Taylor Fawbush threw the second no-hitter of her career on Friday.
March 22, 2013
Game 1 Box Score Game 2 Box Score
BOCA RATON, FL - Taylor Fawbush's no-hitter of Bethune Cookman was the highlight as the Florida Atlantic University softball team won both of its games on day one of the Parents' Weekend Tournament.
Bethune-Cookman's only base runners came on three walks and two Owl errors. Christina Martinez provided all the scoring Fawbush would need in the third inning on a RBI single to drive in Whitley Herb. FAU added three more runs in the inning on a Wildcat error and base hits by Alexa Ballard and Jordan Stovall.
Kathryn Spack drew a leadoff walk in the bottom of the sixth and eventually came around to score on another RBI base hit by Christina Martinez. Another BCU error allowed the second run of the inning to score. That brought Stephanie Call to the plate and the senior blasted a two-run homerun to center that ended the game and secured Fawbush's no-hitter. It is the second no-hitter of Fawbush's career and 23rd in school history.
The Owls defeated Dartmouth 5-0 in their first game of the day. Alison Milam put FAU on the board first with her RBI single that allowed Ballard to score in the top of the second. Lindsey Shell scored later in the inning on a Carnesha Thompson double to left.
In the circle, Samantha Messer threw a complete game four hitter to pick up the win.
FAU will continue play at the Parents' Weekend Tournament on Saturday. The Owls will play Iowa State at 3:45 p.m and Bethune-Cookman at 6 p.m. Live stats will be available at www.fausports.com.


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All articles with 'charting principles' Tag
Shading an area chart with different colors for up & down movements [case study]
We all know that area charts are great for understanding how a list of values have changed over time. Today, let's learn how to create an area chart that shows different colors for upward & downward movements.
The inspiration for this came from a recent chart published in Wall Street Journal about Chinese stock markets.
We will try to create a similar chart using Excel. We are going to create the above chart in Excel.
Looks interesting? Read on…Continue »
CP038: Data to Ink Ratio – What is it, How to optimize it, Techniques & Discussion
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
In the 38th session of Chandoo.org podcast, Let's optimize data to ink ratio of your charts.
What is in this session?
In this podcast,
- Announcements
- What is Data to Ink Ratio?
- Obvious ways to optimize Data to Ink Ratio
- More ways to optimize Data to Ink ratio
- Highlighting what is important
- Conclusions
Changing stubborn opinions with visualizations [case study]
We, analysts take pride in the fact that we tell stories. But what if you have a boss, client or colleague who wouldn't buy the story?
This is a problem we face often. Let's say your boss has stubborn opinion about something, like more advertising leads to more sales. You know the data doesn't support this theory. But how do you change your boss' mind?
Here is an interesting way, showcased in NY Times recently.Continue »
CP032: Rules for making legendary column charts
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
In the 32nd session of Chandoo.org podcast, let's make legendary column charts.
What is in this session?
Column charts are everywhere. As analysts, we are expected to create flawless, strikingly beautiful & insightful column charts all the time. Do you know the simple rules that can help you create legendary column charts?
That is our topic for this podcast session.
In this podcast, you will learn
- Few personal announcements
- Rule 0: Start at zero
- Rule 1: Sort the chart
- Rule 2: Slap a title on it
- Rule 3: Axis + grid-lines vs. Lables
- Rule 4: Moderate formatting
- Conclusions
CP029: Impress your boss with Excel charts – 6 step road map for you
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
In the 29th session of Chandoo.org podcast, let's impress the boss with Excel charts.
What is in this session?
Many Excel charts live a short life. They spawn in an ambitious analyst's spreadsheet. They go to boss with literally flying colors. The boss frowns, they disappear in to recycle bin.
Don't curse your Excel charts with short life span.
Here is a 6 step road map to help you create awesome Excel charts, everytime.
That is our topic for this podcast session.
In this podcast, you will learn
- Quick announcements about 50 ways & Einstein
- 6 step road map for charting success
- ONE: Dig your data
- TWO: Validate insights
- THREE: Pick charts that go well
- FOUR: Add title & message
- FIVE: Remove clutter
- SIX: Prompt action
- A real life example with road map in action
- Resources for creating awesome charts
A better chart to visualize "Best places to live" – Top 100 cities comparison Excel chart
Recently, I saw this chart on Economist website.
It is trying to depict how various cities rank on livability index and how they compare to previous ranking (2014 vs 2009).
As you can see, this chart is not the best way to visualize "Best places to live".
Few reasons why,
- The segregated views (blue, gray & red) make it hard to look for a specific city or region
- The zig-zag lines look good, but incredibly hard to understand % changes (or absolute changes)
- Labels are all over the place, thus making data interpretation hard.
- Some points have no labels (or ambiguous labels) leading to further confusion.
After examining the chart long & hard, I got thinking.
Its no fun criticizing someones work. Creating a better chart from this data, now thats awesome.Continue »
CP004: Can I Pie Chart in Public? Discussion about Pie charts, their merits and drawbacks, when to use & when to avoid them
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
In the 4th session of Chandoo.org podcast, lets talk about Pie charts.
Pie charts evoke strong opinions among analysts & managers. Some people love them and can't have enough of them in reports. Others despise them and go to any lengths to avoid them. And that is why we are going to talk about them in this session.
You will learn,
- Special, secret transmission from guest stars
- What is a pie chart?
- Why they work? 2 reasons
- Why they don't work ? 4 reasons
- Cousins & siblings of Pie charts
- Donut charts
- Gauge charts (speedometer)
- 3D pies
- Area charts
- Bubble charts
- 4 Situations when making a pie chart is ok
- Alternatives to Pie charts
- Mistakes you should avoid
- About the resources
- Conclusions
6 Best charts to show % progress against goal
Back when I was working as a project lead, everyday my project manager would ask me the same question.
"Chandoo, whats the progress?"
He was so punctual about it, even on days when our coffee machine wasn't working.
As you can see, tracking progress is an obsession we all have. At this very moment, if you pay close attention, you can hear mouse clicks of thousands of analysts and managers all over the world making project progress charts.
So today, lets talk about best charts to show % progress against a goal.Continue »
I won't eat donut with a thread inside, but lets make one anyway!
Today lets take a stroll outside what Excel can do and make something fancy, fun and may be useful.
Nowadays, many newspapers, websites and magazines are featuring info-graphics. An info-graphic is a collection of shiny, colorful & data-full charts (or often pieces of text.) In many of these info-graphics, you can see threaded-donut charts. Not sure what that is..? It is not same as the blasphemy of spoiling a soft, sweet, supple donut with a piece of string. No one should be excused for an offense like that.
What I am talking about is shown aboveContinue »
42% of the world goes to polls around a pie chart – Like it or hate it?
Today lets have a poll. Lets debate if this pie chart about world elections in 2014 is good or bad.
First lets take a look at the chart
This chart, published by The Economist talks about how 42% of the world population is going to vote this year. Take a look and read on to learn how you can re-create this in Excel.Continue »
Closing gaps in this Gender Equality Gap chart…
Today lets close some gaps.
Recently I saw this interesting chart on Economist Daily Charts page. This chart is based on World Economic Forum's survey on how women compare to men in terms of various development parameters. First take a look at the chart prepared by Economist team.
So what are the gaps in this chart?
This chart fails to communicate because,
- All country charts look same, thus making it difficult to spot any deviations.
- We cannot quickly compare one country with another on any particular indicator.
- It does not provide a better context (for eg. how did these countries perform last year?)
But criticizing someone's work is not awesome. Fixing it and making an even better chart, that has awesome written all over it. So that is what we are going to do. You can see the improved chart above. Click on it to learn how you can create it.Continue »
5 simple rules for making awesome column charts
For every column chart that is done right, there are a dozen that get messed up. That is why lets talk about 5 simple rules for making awesome column charts.
Tip: Same rules apply for bar charts too.Continue »
Never use simple numbers in your dashboards (bonus tip: how to fix default conditional formatting)
Pop quiz: What is wrong with above report?
At first glance, it looks alright. But if you observe closely, you realize that it is not telling the entire story. Just looking at regional sales numbers, you have not much clue what is going on with them.
So how to improve it?Continue »
10 Rookie mistakes to avoid when making dashboards [video]
Are you making these 10 rookie mistakes when creating dashboards?
Watch below to video to understand what these mistakes and how to avoid them.
10 Rookie mistakes to avoid when making dashboards [23 mins]Continue »
Some charts try to make you an April fool all the time (or why 3d pie charts are evil)
Recently I saw a big screaming ad that said "the chartbuster rules". Of course, I know that chartbusters rule. Not just because I was one of them
So I got curious and read on. And I realized the 'chartbuster' is actually a car, not some cool, spreadsheet waving, goatee sporting dude like Jon Peltier. What a bummer!
And then to my horror of horrors, I saw the exploding 3d pie chart, with reflection effects & glossy colors. And the sole purpose of the chart is to create an impression that Verna sells better than any car in India.
Today, lets talk about this chart and alternatives for it. Read on.Continue »


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Verboten StageONE presents 'Never Say Never' with Sasha, Guy Gerber, Maya Jane Coles and more
Arthur Shikhman / June 28, 2013
What better way to celebrate America than with some of the world's finest DJs in the heart of Brooklyn! This 4th of July, Verboten brings you the first in their outdoor StageONE series, with artisanal foods, high-tech lights, video projection mapping provided by Waking Dream, and a massive custom D&B sound system set to make the series a summer must. To kick off its flagship outdoor event, Verboten is bringing in the legendary Sasha, Supplement Facts boss Guy Gerber, Maya Jane Coles, Davide Squillace, and Bill Patrick, and we've got a wild prize pack that you won't want to miss.


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The Millers, without a win in five matches, put their Yorkshire rivals to the sword early on last season, winning 4-0 on the Bantams' first visit to their new home, and then won the reverse fixture in April to all-but seal promotion.
There is no love lost between the two sides, who have been in the same league for 12 of the last 13 seasons, and Bradley wants another victory, not only to give the supporters bragging rights, but also to kick-start their stuttering league form.
"It is obviously a big competition in England and with it being a local derby hopefully we can put on a good show, get a win and get into the next round which will give us confidence for the league," he told Press Association Sport.
"We love that it's a local derby and a big game with hopefully a big crowd.
"We know it's a big game with the reaction to us beating them 4-0 last year, so hopefully it will be a great atmosphere and we can get a similar result."


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When a company puts out games that are enjoyable, accessible, and entertaining then you want to take a good hard look at everything that company has to offer. This week, we're giving you part two of the in depth scoop on the Choice of Games Library! I'm sorry that this is really late, my phone went and died on me and it took me a while to get it back from the shop and then the other standard excuses started to follow.
You should probably catch up on the previous reviews we have on Choice of the Dragon, and Choice of the Broadsides. Then you can go back and check out Part 1 to see what I've already said about some of the Choice of Games … games. I hate saying that, it's awkward, but it is what it is.
Also, the games pretty much play the same. They are all choose your own adventure type games with stats that the system keeps track of. Unless something is of particular interest mechanically I'm not really going to talk about how the game play is. It's a radio option and a Next Button.
Marine Raider published by hostedgames.org
In Marine Raider you play the leader of a team of marines who have been tasked with infiltrating a Japanese scouting post during World War II. This is perhaps the best game out of all the ones published by hostedgames.org that maintains the same kind of inclusive spirit that a lot of the Choice of Games have. You can choose your gender, or even just make it lieutenant and while it's a bit of a factor in the game, your gender doesn't give or take away anything.
The story itself is one of discovery, problem solving, and escape. It's thrilling and I found myself pausing with every single decision wondering how it would affect me and the soldiers under my command. It's a short game, but you really do get a feel for who you've got under your command and the weight of what you're doing. Now, would I loved to have this game go on longer, absolutely. However, that doesn't take away that this game is probably one of the most well conceived and well executed out of all the games not done by Choice of Games.
Recommended: You're darned correct there soldier. Now move out!
Imprisoned published by hostedgames.org
You've been imprisoned and you have to find a way to escape, well somewhat escape. There are a couple ways to go about making your exit from this dungeon, which I won't spoil, but some of them are rather unpleasant. I'd like to say more about this game, but that's all there really is to it. You've got an interesting character creation section, not that it's a huge difference from the other games of this style but instead of giving you a dualistic choice — like are you strong or charming — the game asks you how good you are at various things, and once you've used up that value you can't go back to it.
What I dislike about the game is that there really isn't all that much to do during the course of the game. You spend a lot of time sitting in your cell doing push-ups, eating and sleeping. The game gets a Trigger Warning for the "interrogation scenes," which you can't really avoid.
Recommended?: If you don't mind the idea of unavoidable torture, and interminable boredom then you should play it. If not, I'd avoid it.
Popcorn, Soda … Murder published by hostedgames.org
There's been a murder in the movie theatre while you enjoy yourself on a Sunday afternoon. As the great detective you are, you'll have to investigate what's going on and discover who the murderer is. It's a pretty quick game, you have only a couple of environments to do your sleuthing and you really need to pay attention to what's going on in order to figure out who did the crime.
The problem is that sometimes the information is a little … too obtuse. The other problem with the limited range of locations to explore is that you don't have to go far to start the "Let's play map the dialogue" game, and considering if you make a mistake it starts you back at the beginning the mapping game is a pretty easy thing to do.
Recommended?: Yes, this isn't that bad a game at all, it's just kind of frustrating. I'd play all the others ones first, but I wouldn't tell you to avoid this one.
The Nightmare Maze published by hostedgames.org
I don't know if I have played any game with a more indifferent beginning, an exciting middle, and a more disappointing finish than The Nightmare Maze. The premise is that you play a 19th century Bostonian, a shout out to the peoples on Boston there I guess, who is plagued by nightmares. Those nightmares are filled with lots of bizarre imagery, which is really rather juicy and fun to play. I know I got so caught up in that I didn't mind having to redo the game again, and again, and again as I tried to figure out what path would be the one that would take me to the best ending.
Then I got there and was left with a feeling of The Hell? That was it? It's one in a series of games where you're trying to save your wife who from what you can tell is just suffering from having to sleep in the same bed as someone who has nightmares? Sure it alludes to something more but when the series is called the Waking Cassandra series it makes you wonder.
Recommended?: If you can handle the imagery go for it, just ignore the ending.
There you have it. The whole Choice of Games and HostedGames.org catalog in easy to digest packets.
Do you have a game that you'd like to see done with this engine?
Do you have a game that you'd like to see reviewed?
Let us know in the comments!


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|Seattle Storm players, WNBA president Donna Orender (with mic) and Anne Levinson celebrating 2010 WNBA Championship
2010 WNBA Champions Seattle Storm will be honored this afternoon by President Obama in the White House Rose Garden. The Storm won last season going undefeated the entire season at home and sweeping the playoffs. It was a spectacular victory.
And it never would have happened if four local businesswomen — three of them openly gay — hadn't decided to save the team from Clay Bennett's Oklahoma-based group which wanted to take the Storm to Oklahoma City with the Sonics.
Anne Levinson, Ginny Gilder, Lisa Brummel and Dawn Trudeau formed a new ownership group called Force Ten Hoops in hopes of negotiating a deal with Bennett's group to keep the team in Seattle.
Negotiations weren't easy, as Bennett's group had been resistant to overtures from other groups interested in buying the team. Ultimately it was Levinson who persuaded Bennett to sell. She also negotiated a long-term lease allowing the Storm to continue playing at KeyArena even without an NBA team, set up their Foundation and practice facility, and served as the chair of the ownership group.
As chair of Force Ten Hoops, Levinson became the nation's first openly gay person to hold such a position. A trail blazer, Levinson was one of Washington state's first out public officials, serving two Seattle Mayoral administrations during which time she helped Seattle become the second city in the nation to provide domestic partnership benefits (San Francisco was the first). Levinson was also the nation's first out State Public Utility Commission chair, among the first out judges in the state, and chair of the Approve 71 campaign.
You will recall the result of the Approve 71 campaign: On election day 2009, Washington became the first state in the nation whose electorate voted to approve a relationship recognition law for LGBT families.
In 2008 both Governor Chris Gregoire and Anne Levinson served as Grand Marshalls of the Seattle Pride Parade. Today, the Seattle Storm is being feted by President Obama. It's a good sign for the future that women — both straight and gay — are getting the recognition they deserve as being among the nations most capable and inspiring leaders.
Watch live today at 1:50 PM EDT. Watch the archived video here.
Update: Pictures and remarks will be posted below as they come in. I'm liking this screen shot.
Screen shots from the live webcast of the event:
Those cheering on the Storm at the White House included Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius, Anne Levinson, Commerce Secretary Gary Locke, U.S. Senator Patty Murray, Mona Lee Locke, King County Councilmember Larry Gossett, Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn and Deputy Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Ron Sims:
2010 WNBA Championship Trophy glinting in the sun:
After welcoming the team and guests, President Obama made the following remarks:
A few weeks ago, WNBA tipped off its 15th season. And in that time it has become the most successfuil womens professional sports league in the world. Attendance is up, ratings are up, basketball is now the most popular sport for girls in the nation. That's worth applauding! [Applause]
To WNBA President Laurel Richie and everybody else who makes this possible, congratulations. We are very very proud.
Today though is about the Storm. Three years ago when this team's future in Seattle was uncertain, four season ticket holders joined forces to become co-owners. Now they're also the first all-female ownership group in American history to win a championship.
Congratulations to Coach Brian [Agler], three winning seasons in a row, 2010 Coach of the Year, Championship Ring. Not bad.
And he had a special team to coach. They tied the record for the most regular season wins, went undefeated at home, became the first team in WNBA history to go a perfect 7 and 0 in the playoffs to the title.
This was no fluke. It was the result of true teamwork and unselfish playing. When you meet these women, you can't help but be struck by their humility. You ask them how they'd describe a champion, and they say things like "somebody who makes the people around them better".
There's guard Tanisha Wright, who when asked that same question said "Tanisha Wright". But the rest are humble. [Audience laughter]
Lauren Jackson, who couldn't be here today but was there every time she was needed last year picked up her third WNBA MVP award and her first finals MVP award.
Forward Camille Little iced the championship game by draining two clutched freethrows with six seconds left.
Swin Cash and Sue Bird, they're no strangers to the White House. Both know something about perfection from their time playing college ball at U-CONN. In fact we can't get rid of Swin. You know I think she's got a cot here somewhere. She was here as part of teh Detroit Shock championship team, she volunteered to read to children at an Easter Egg roll, she helped out with our Fathers Day mentoring BBQ. So Swin, thank you for going above and beyond the call of duty.
You see the Storm family understands that being a champion doesn't stop when you step off the court. And that's why they're playing their part in the the life of Seattle communies by running healthy lifestyle programs for girls, and reading and mentoring in the schools.
And today they're bringing that commitment to the White House. After we're done, they're going to hold a clinic for young people on the basketball court as part of the First Lady's Let's Move initiative and the WNBA Fit program.
I was telling Coach, as somebody who had an extraordinary time this year coaching a couple of games of Sashas, I can tell you that nothing gets me more stressed — but also nothing gave me more satisfaction — than seeing young girls get confidence and improve and learn how to be competitave and still good sports, it is just wonderful. And since I'm usually surrounded by strong women in this house, seeing these young ladies behind us is a special pleasure.
Michelle and I are always trying to teach our girls to set their sights high for themselves, expectations high for themselves. And we tell them that if they work hard and do right there's nothing that they can't achieve.
So as a father I thank this team for reaffirming that sentiment, and for setting a good example for every young girl with big dreams. And as a basketball fan, congratulations on a thrilling year, and good luck next year.


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iCal Google Cal Sync Question
Setting up my Google cal account to sync with iCal was a breeze. Here's what I want to do next. My wife also has a google cal account. We want to have both accounts talk to each other. I synced her google cal account with my iCal, but it's a separate calendar group. Her google cal information will go to iCal but won't sync to my google calendar so I can see it on my phone. (I hope that's easy to understand!)
In essence, we want to have the ability to post on the same calendar and be able to view it on our phones.
So here is how we did it.
I set up 2 google cals, one called Jacob's work and one called Our Cal. You must do that on the google site. Then share from google to the wife. Then she creates one on her google account called Wifey's Work, or whatever and shares with you. Be sure to give permission in cal settings for wife to make changes to Our Cal. Then add all three to your iCal via caldav. Then grab you iPhone and add google as one of your sync points. Then you must open safari on your iPhone and goto Google Sync for your phone sign in and pick the Cals you want to sync. Done.
That's http://m. Google. Com/sync
Without the spaces.
A little update. now you must goto...
https://www.google .com/ calendar/ iphoneselect (without spaces)
|All times are GMT -4. The time now is 02:54 AM.
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Hotels in 33916 - Fort Myers FL
Only hotels in 33916 zip code are listed below. Search for cheap and discount hotel rates in Fort Myers, FL for your upcoming leisure or conference / group travel. We list the best 33916 hotels and motels so you can review the Fort Myers hotel list below to find the perfect lodging. Hotels in Lee county and area code 239 are also listed.
33916 Hotels/Motels & Accommodations
Next: Show All Available 33916 Hotels with Pricing >


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Like the Mississippi, the Affordable Care Act just keeps rolling along. And as it does, the problems continue to pile up, one on top of the other.
The most recent one, of course, is the disastrous rollout of the ObamaCare exchanges. It's not simply that it's failed; it's that the failure has been so complete, so total, and it has occurred despite the Obama administration having had so much time to prepare for this moment.
It isn't helpful to the president, of course, that even the elite media is covering the story with some candor, skeptically rather than worshipfully. Take CBS News. Reporter Jan Crawford's report is worth watching. It does a nice job showing why the rollout has been "nothing short of disastrous."
This report comes after Comedy Central's Jon Stewart asked some fairly pointed questions of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius on the "level of incompetence that's larger than what it should be." When a liberal Democratic president begins to lose CBS News and Jon Stewart, you know things aren't going well.
But the loss in confidence is understandable. After all, the president's health-care plan has amassed a remarkably dismal record, from the ineptness of the rollout of the exchanges and data systems that are not secure and leave citizens vulnerable to fraud and identity theft to higher premiums, exploding costs, people being forced to leave their preferred coverage, a plan whose "universal coverage" leaves more than 30 million people uninsured, postponing the employer mandate and more. No wonder the Democratic chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, Max Baucus, earlier this year stated that the implementation of the bill was shaping up to be a "huge train wreck." It appears Senator Baucus was understating things a bit.
Here's what's important to realize. We can now judge the president's promises against his results, what he said he would do versus what he has actually done. The president is being assessed not by his rhetoric but by his performance. And his performance is, in almost every respect, simply dreadful. He combines two problematic qualities: dogmatism and ineptitude.
As for the Affordable Care Act: It is, in conception and execution, emblematic of modern liberalism. This is what progressives wanted. It was what they fought for. And now they own it. It's beginning to dawn on a few of them that it may well haunt them for years to come.


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Functions such as remote deposit and mobile pay add to the attraction, consultancy ath Power says.
The $449 million Air Academy FCU said it is now offering mobile remote deposit capture to its 44,600 members.
Mobile picture pay running ahead of mobile bill pay at some customers of Texas mobile banking technology provider.
Google Wallet all but dead, picture pay shows promise and more emerge from Finovate's spring show in San Francisco.


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Chippewa Steel Toe Boots
About Chippewa Steel Toe Boots
If you require steel toe boots for work you need footwear constructed with the finest raw materials available. Whether you're looking for composite toe work boots or steel toe loggers, Chippewas have got you covered. Below you will find a great selection of safety toe boots, workboots and loggers with many features like waterproof, insulated and Electrical Hazard (EH) rated.
A reputable safety work boot brand for over 100 years, Chippewa has built itself into one of the most reliable shoe companies in the world. Headquartered in Fort Worth, TX as a division of Justin Brands, Chippewa continues to manufacture quality-made steel and composite toe boots for the hard-working person. If you don't see the safety style of Chippewa steel toe boots you're looking for please Contact Us with the style information and size needed. A representative from our customer service team will get back to you with availability and pricing information.


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Friday Football Special (FFS): The Week In Football, Humourously
The Premier League is all sewn up… so you may as well have a laugh. FFS brings you footballing funnies and comment about the English Premier League. Time to scream and shout until your lungs burn for a team of nobs who probably don't give a toss.


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The hottest stars in music hopped the pond last night for MTV Europe Music Awards. If you thought Ke$ha, Katy Perry, and Rihanna took fashion risks stateside, wait until you see what they did in Madrid! Interpret their eye-catching choices as crazy hot or just plain crazy; either way, they're worth a closer look. Here are the 12 most mind-boggling get-ups worn across the Atlantic last night.
12. Johnny Rogers: Johnny Knoxville
11. Colonial Chic: Miley Cyrus
10. Fancy Feather Duster: Snooki
5. Apocalyptic Pink: Hayley Williams
4. 80s Prom Gone Wrong: Eva Longoria Parker
2. Walk of Shame: Taylor Momsen
1. Neon Warrior Princess: Ke$ha
Bonus: Lollipop Guild 2010: Snooki and Wee Man
The 2010 MTV EMAs air on MTV this Friday, November 12th at 9PM EST.


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I am trying to build a data services layer using cassandra as the backend store. I am new to Cassandra and not sure what client to use for cassandra - thrift or cql 3? We have a lot of mapreduce jobs using Amazon elastic mapreduce (EMR) that will be reading/ writing the data from cassandra at high volume. The total data volume will be > 100 TB with billions of rows in Cassandra. The mapreduce jobs may be read or write heavy with high qps (>1000 qps). The requirements are as follows:
- Simplicity of client code. It seems thrift has in-built integration with Hadoop for bulk data loading using sstableloader (http://www.datastax.com/dev/blog/bulk-loading).
- Ability to define new columns at run time. We may need to add more columns depending on application requirements. It seems cql3 does not allow definition of columns dynamically at runtime.
- Performance of bulk read/ write. Not sure which client is better. However, I found this post that claims thrift client has better performance for high data volume: http://jira.pentaho.com/browse/PDI-7610?page=com.atlassian.jira.plugin.system.issuetabpanels:all-tabpanel
I could not find any authoritative source of information that answers this question. Appreciate if you could help with this since I am sure this is a common problem for most folks and would benefit the overall community.
Many thanks in advance.


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(WTVR/CNN) – Republican Presidential candidate Rick Santorum said Friday the country might as well stay with what it has, rather than elect Mitt Romney as president.
Additionally, he said Romney is not all the different from President Obama.
"You win by giving people the choice," said Santorum. "You win by giving people the opportunity to see a different vision for our country, not someone who is just going to be a little different than the person in there. If they're going to be a little different, we might as well stay with what we have instead of taking a risk in what may be the Etch A Sketch candidate for the future."
The response came after Santorum fired back at a reporter who asked a question, telling the crowd of reporters that they needed to do some reporting, instead of just reporting what Romney feeds them.
Santorum has been slamming Romney ever since Romney's adviser compared the campaign to an Etch a Sketch yesterday.
Romney said his adviser was talking about how the campaign organization changes from a primary to a general election, not any changes to his position on the issues.
Romney has been focusing a lot of his attacks on President Obama.


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I don't know about you guys, but, for me, the days that follow Thanksgiving are, no contest, the least inspired days, cooking-wise, all year long. It's not that there's a lack of food—my parents' fridge is no doubt still full, today on Tuesday, with bowls and bowls of leftovers from Thursday's spread, and that meal was just one of the many we took part in all weekend. It's not that there's a lack of ideas—I checked into my Google Reader sometime Sunday and tucked away recipes for pumpkin risotto and oaty shortbread and red lentils and spinach in masala sauce.
It's just that, listen, we are full.
Maybe you feel the same way? Between my parents' place and Tim's relatives' house and a favorite restaurant and a new favorite snack (full or not, I'll take an entire case of those, thankyouverymuch), we ate our weight in holiday meals, and by Sunday night, when we returned to our kitchen, where the refrigerator was the polar opposite of where we'd been, the bearer of a paltry bag of carrots, eggs, butter and one-and-a-half kombuchas from last week, it was all we could do to drink a glass of water and go to sleep.
Coming home from a long weekend like this last one means many things—exhaustion, unpacking, laundry and looming work—but also, the minute we pulled up to our driveway, it means mail. After our few days away, the mailbox we share with neighbors was, of course, stuffed, holding junkmail, our Christmas cards (hooray! and, by the way, if you haven't ordered yours yet, my friend Sarah's doing a $75 Minted giveaway!) and, best of all, this month's issue of Bon Appetit.
So yesterday morning, amidst cleaning and ebay-selling and conference-calling and work, I flipped through the magazine in case, by some miracle, a lunch could be made with what we had on hand. Enter this roasted carrot onion soup with dukkah spice.
I ended up replacing a pound of the carrots with onion, the fennel seeds with anise and the pistachios with hazelnuts (there was exactly 1/2 cup of hazelnuts in the pantry! would you believe it!) to make it work, but, all in all, this beautiful and spice-filled soup is a perfect testament to making do with what one has—and, made of the ever-affordable carrots and onions, topped with a unique spiced mixture unlike anything I've ever tried, combined with the container of vegetable broth I've been freezing since my last Tamar-Adler-vegetable-scraps-boiling a few weeks back, this recipe is also a testament to the fact that while some of the best meals we enjoy are the Thanksgiving feasts—others are the simplest, just a bowl of soup and a spoon.
Roasted Carrot Onion Soup with Dukkah Spice
Services four to six
I've made carrot soup before, right after my mom bought me my first Le Creuset, but this version, topped with a nutty spice blend, is an entirely different taste experience. When you stir the finely chopped hazelnuts and spices through each bowl, the entire recipe takes on new life.
Note, also, that the original recipe also suggested adding a dollop of yogurt to each bowl (but, as you can imagine, that wasn't something we had on hand yesterday).
1/2 cup hazelnuts
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1/2 teaspoon anise seeds
1/4 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more, to taste)
1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into one-inch pieces
1 pound onions, peeled and cut into one-inch pieces
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 quart of vegetable broth
In a large skillet over medium-low heat, toast hazelnuts until fragrant, around five minutes. Let them cool and rub handfuls between your palms, letting the skins fall to the skillet. Separate the toasted, mostly skinned nuts to a plate and set aside. Dump out the skins in the trash and fill the skillet with the sesame seeds, coriander, cumin, anise seeds and black peppercorns. Toast for about one or two minutes, stirring often, until very fragrant. Set aside onto same plate with nuts. Let cool. Transfer mixture to food processor, adding one teaspoon salt. Coarsely grind. (Note: this spice mixture may be made up to a week ahead of time and kept, airtight, at room temperature.)
Preheat oven to 375F. Place carrots and onions on rimmed baking sheet, and toss with melted butter, adding a little salt (and pepper, if desired) all over. Roast until vegetables are tender and just beginning to turn golden, about 45 minutes. Let them cool.
Transfer carrots and onions to a blender, and add the quart of broth. (Don't use a food processor here. Use a blender or a Vitamix. If you do use a food processor, the broth will spill out through the middle and out onto the counter and the floor and all over your hands, just trust me.) Blend until very smooth, about two or three minutes.
Pour the mixture into a stockpot over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You may add water to reach the consistency you like. Season to taste with salt and pepper, but keep in mind the dukkah spice mixture has salt in it, as well.
Divide soup among bowls and top with dukkah spices to taste.
This Post Has 26 Comments
Oh carrot soup is one of my favorite things in the whole wide world. And with roasted onions…oh me oh my.
I love your fluted edge bowls.
I agree with you on the being full thing, and feeling uninspired. The hype is over, but we still need to nourish ourselves, right? This soup looks divine. I love the idea of roasting the veggies in the oven first. I will be making many soups and crusty loaves of bread this winter, this will surely be going on my list!
I love dukkah – if you dunk a little bread in olive oil and then into dukkah it makes such a delicious snack. We're planning to make our favourite barley soup this week but the carrot soup definitely needs to be on the list to make soon.
Carrie | acookgrowsinbrooklyn
I am not at all familiar with Dukkah spice – thanks for the intro! I imagine those toasty hazelnuts and spices make the kitchen smell divine. I kept reminding myself how many veggies I consumed over the course of Thanksgiving and the days (and leftovers) that followed – which kiiind of makes me feel better about the gluttony. I conveniently forget about the cream/butter/bacon fat that those veggies were cooked in.
Love this idea! I recently hosted a blogger who wrote about how to make impressive dishes that look wonderful out of next to nothing (hello, hasselback potatos!). Adding this idea to my repertoire!
little kitchie
totally agree with you! i had an unexpectedly large amount of free time yesterday to cook dinner, but felt so uninspired that we just ordered take out. this soup is beautiful! thank you for inspiring!
Lovely! This looks like such a great bowl of soup.
Ruthy @ omeletta
I fell the same.way! It's like I've been so full of food ideas and inspriration coming up to Thanksgiving, and the whole weekend just drained it all out of me. Also, jealous that you had the exact amount of hazelnuts- that never happens to me!
Of all the soups I have ever made, I have never made a carrot soup! I think this will have to be remedied in the very near future You really did have me at roasted, and then adding dukkah on top of it just swept me off my feet. After my best friend's wedding this coming weekend, which is sure to be a feast of Roman proportions, I think I might need a simple yet flavourful soup to start next week off
I feel exactly that way after Christmas so this recipe will be perfect for us in a couple of weeks. It's such a beautiful colour too.
You're full? Oh come on, Shanna! No, seriously. I feel that way for about a day, and then I'm back in the kitchen, tinkering My eyes landed on this recipe, too, and I'm glad to hear it was so delicious. Is it just me or is dukkah becoming an awesome new thing? I love when ethnic flair is elevated in some very simple dishes.
The Healthy Apple
I miss you guys! Hope you are both well; happy holidays. Sending you huge hugs from NYC.
Love dukkah and especially love your hazelnut freestyle! Sounds so delicious, Shanna. These humble, make-do kind of meals are definitely up there with my favourite kitchen undertakings. A bowl of this under a wooly blanket with a scoop of brown rice stirred into the mix would make me the happiest gal ever. So lovely.
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I discovered dukkah for the first time this week and my mind is running with ways to cook with it. Thanks for adding to my list.


text: Makeup Geek Honeymoon Blush ($9.99 for 0.15 oz. pan; $12.99 for 0.15 oz. compact) is described as a "light pink with mauve undertones and silver flecks." It's a muted, rosy peach with a frosted finish. Marc Jacobs Beauty Shameless (220) (P, $30.00) is warmer, less shimmery. MAC Stereo Rose (2014) (LE, $30.00) is warmer, lighter. MAC Perfect Topping (2014) (LE, $30.00) is lighter. Hourglass Dim Infusion (P, $35.00) is less shimmery. MAC Talk of the Town (LE, $25.00) is more mauve. MAC Light Year (LE, $30.00) is slightly pinker, warmer. See comparison swatches / view dupes.


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NEW "Your Turn To Shine" Challenge!!!
Good Morning, everyone!
I have a new Your Turn To Shine challenge all set up ~ better and easier than before! This is the new posting bonus to be given out, so to find out more, go to: Your Turn To Shine!
Hope to see lots of participation this month!!!
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Carnegie Hall Dressing Room; November 17, 1985
New York Philharmonic in Avery Fisher Hall; November 26, 1985
New York Philharmonic in Central Park; August 4, 1986
Irving Berlin 100th birthday gala concert. When it came time for Leonard Bernstein to rehearse, he appeared onstage draped in Nell Carter's purple boa and wearing shades, to the surprise and delight of everyone present.
Recent Slideshows


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Register now for free, or sign in with any of these services:
EVERYONE PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE STORY BEFORE POSTING MEAN/FALSE INFORMATION. That being said, I am sick that they turned off the water when SHE WANTS TO PAY IT. Yes she has def. been scammed. rgn388 has it right! You can find out info on the house/owner by going to ongov.net - go to http://ocfintax.ongov.net/imate/search.aspx
I watched the video - she is ON DRUGS. It is very clear - look at her eyes and her laughter.
NY has so many regulations about everything and the horrible accident is proof that helments do save lives, but it should be a choice. NY limits our choices everyday.
12 Angry Men..... read it


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The bass is based of the actual double bass measurements, it has a 41.5 scale and a 18 inch tub.
The following steps are the different stages as the bass comes too life.
Step 8: The Head Stock
Step 9: Double Style Wash Tub Bass
(A) machine heads = 7.25
(b) Strings (Weed Wacker) = 19.99
(c) piezo pick up = 10.00
(d) tub = 6.00
Total cost = 43.24
The main reason for the enamel paint was too cover the flaws in the recycled wood.
As you already noticed I have added a pick-up inside the tub...mounted directly too the jack. I have it mounted on the neck brace just under the bridge. For better volume I will be moving the pick up directly under the bridge...but this time mounted directly too the sound board.


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Tags post-metal, sludge metal, stoner metal
Artists Noxious Emotion, Neurosis, Cult of Luna
May 19, 2012
Over thinking, over analyzing,
separates the body from the mind.
Withering my intuition, leaving opportunities behind.
Well done.
Thank you mate.
new obsessions by sigur
When the zeros line up on the 24 hour clock
When you know who's calling even though the number is blocked
When you walked around your house wearing m...
indie, indie rock, lo-fi, experimental
my morning mix by sigur
a choice of tracks to start up your day.
morning, indie, indie pop, happy
military service is over by sigur
This mix includes the songs that i've heard the most during my military service,the past 9 months and kept me company till the end.
indie, shoegaze, post-punk, indie folk
do i wanna know by sigur
Check my heart, check your heart
Check my heart, you're checking, you're checking.
indie, indie rock, indie pop, british


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Mr. Chairman, members of the Committee, thank you for the opportunity to appear before you again to discuss the status of the Navy. Ensuring our Navy remains ready and capable of deterring conflict, reacting to crises and winning our nation's wars are common goals we share. The timing of this hearing clearly conveys the gravity of this matter and I would like to thank you for your continued support
At this moment over half of our ships are at sea conducting operations to ensure peace and stability throughout the world. USS CARL VINSON and USS ENTERPRISE Battle Groups, and USS BELLEAU WOOD and USS NASSAU Amphibious Ready Groups, are currently on station in the Arabian Gulf and Mediterranean Sea ready to influence, directly and decisively, events ashore from the sea. Additionally, USS KITTY HAWK, homeported in Yokosuka, Japan, maintains continuous forward presence in the Western Pacific. Forward presence is the most effective means to prevent conflict since it presents would-be aggressors with a powerful incentive to rethink the consequences of initiating violence. The visibility of the Navy's power and obvious ability to respond quickly from the sea to any contingency -- without the requirement to obtain host nation approval -- makes the Navy indispensable against the backdrop of the uncertainties and challenges of the 21st century. Operation DESERT FOX clearly reaffirmed how essential our forward-deployed naval forces are in shaping the international environment and responding to crisis. Their presence provided the National Command Authorities (NCA) the flexibility to respond immediately to Saddam Hussein's non-compliance with sanctions.
To ensure the Navy remains ready to respond, our men and women in uniform must be provided the proper resources and training to do their jobs; and we must ensure their work environment and quality of life are of sufficient measure to compensate them for the sacrifices they and their families make in service to our country.
When I testified in September, I expressed serious concerns about the erosion of readiness at home and even the beginning stages of degradation in our deployed forces. Today, I report my continuing concern. We have been closely watching readiness indicators. While deployed readiness remains satisfactory, we are still being impacted by the personnel shortages I spoke of in September. Further, degradation of readiness in the Inter Deployment Training Cycle (IDTC) continues.
As I have discussed on previous occasions, it is among our non-deployed forces, in the IDTC, where signs of readiness degradation first appear. That is why we monitor this area so attentively. As an example, the following chart depicting non-deployed air wing readiness is an update of the one I provided in September.
(Graphic not available)
The chart now includes the IDTC readiness data for the two carrier air wings we deployed in November. It is readily apparent that the most recent deploying air wings experienced the most precipitous drop in readiness to date during their IDTC. As you are aware, VF-32 did not achieve an acceptable level of readiness until just prior to ENTERPRISE entering their theater of operations. The lessons learned from the days of the hollow force remain etched upon my mind. Readiness among our non-deployed forces must be improved immediately to ensure we are able to surge sufficient forces in the event of a major crisis. The deeper the "bathtub" becomes, the greater the risk to being able to respond with combat-ready follow-on forces.
At the same time, I am alarmed by the steep slope our IDTC units must climb in a compressed period of time at the end of the IDTC to attain the necessary levels of readiness by deployment. This accelerated activity greatly affects our sailor's quality of life and fleet morale. To make up for resource shortfalls, our sailors work harder and longer to compensate. Not only does this prevent them from spending the needed and well-deserved time with their families, it also stresses them both mentally and physically at a time where they should be focused on preparing for deployment.
The material condition of non-deployed ships and aircraft has also deteriorated. Funding limitations have forced us to reduce the duration and scope of maintenance availabilities. While we have tried to reduce the impact on near-term deployed readiness by deferring modernization and habitability upgrades, such actions ultimately reduce operating efficiencies and increase costs over the long term. More significantly, these actions have a detrimental effect on the near-term quality of life of our sailors and contribute to our retention problems.
So much hinges on the material condition of our ships and aircraft. If sufficient resources are not available to keep our equipment in adequate working condition, training and morale suffer. Training readiness has been degraded among our non-deployed forces, particularly among the aviation community. Fewer aircraft in proper operational condition are available for aircrew training. As a result, those squadrons in the earlier stages of the IDTC must train with fewer aircraft because the squadrons in the latter stages of the IDTC must have their full complement to ensure combat-ready status prior to deployment. Having fewer aircraft impedes training and negatively impacts readiness.
I have talked about readiness and the material condition of our ships and aircraft. This is important, but the heart and soul of the Navy resides in our people -- our sailors. Improving the quality of life of their lives is my highest near-term priority and is absolutely essential to maintaining a viable Navy. Currently, we have approximately 18,000 gapped billets in the fleet. A strong national economy has made it increasingly difficult to attract and retain the quality men and women we need for our all- volunteer force. Retention rates are declining for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd term sailors; and I have significant concerns in the officer warfighting communities.
Fiscal Year 1998 was a difficult year for recruiting as well as retention. While I am pleased to report we have been able to meet our recruiting goals the first three months of this fiscal year, we are about to enter the most difficult months of the year -- February through May. With considerable help from the Congress, we have increased funding for more recruiters, advertising, and bonuses to help reverse our accession trends. While I am, at this point, cautiously optimistic that we will meet accession needs for this year, I am not confident we have solved the larger problem for the longer term. Pay and retirement benefits rank among our sailors' top dissatisfiers. We must be able to offer our sailors a quality of life that is competitive with their civilian counterparts. The Congressionally approved pay increase of 3.6 percent, which took effect January 1, 1999, was greatly appreciated. However, the pay gap that exists and the reduced retirement package for those who joined the Navy after August 1986 continue to hamper our recruiting and retention efforts.
As Secretary Cohen said during his recent press conference concerning military pay and retirement, "The key to our strength is the men and women who serve in uniform". He is exactly right! We must do everything we can to protect this most precious resource. Accordingly, I fully support Secretary Cohen's initiative calling for a 4.4 percent across the board pay raise, pay table reform, and restoration of the 50 percent retirement package. This triad of initiatives is absolutely essential in FY 00 if we are to reverse the negative trends in recruiting and retention.
Recruiting and retention are inseparable from readiness. If we are unable to reverse the Navy's personnel trends, the hollow force will be unavoidable. The Navy's rotational forward-deployed posture presents the toughest lifestyle challenges to our people. Secretary Cohen's initiatives would provide our sailors a compensation package and quality of life that is more comparable to the private sector. I believe these things would greatly enhance our competitiveness to attract and retain a quality career force and thereby improve and ensure readiness.
In addition, we are continuing to strive for ways to reduce the workload of our sailors, particularly when they are at home (non-deployed). In September, I mentioned my directive to reduce IDTC administrative burdens by 25 percent. Our unit commanders have favorably received this initiative and we are seeking to do more.
While taking proper care of our sailors is my number one near-term priority, my longer-term top priority is building enough ships to modernize and recapitalize the Navy our country needs. We are continually pursuing initiatives that will lower our cost of doing business so we can maintain near-term readiness and still invest more in the future. Unfortunately, newfound efficiencies are not keeping pace with requirements. As a result we continue to compensate by shifting resources from modernization and recapitalization accounts to operations and support accounts.
We cannot sustain the Navy we need with cur current budget. The funding provided by Congress in the FY 99 bill was sincerely welcomed and we are grateful for your support. However, to maintain the Quadrennial Defense Review (QDR) force at the proper readiness levels, we need to increase our topline. As I indicated in September, an increase of $6 billion per year, in addition to pay and retirement increases, is necessary to fully meet our operational, modernization, and recapitalization requirements.
Based on our meetings with the Commander-in-Chief, his public statement this past weekend regarding the FY 00 defense budget, and the planning guidance received from the Office of the Secretary of Defense, I expect the FY 00 budget will take significant steps in meeting our most critical needs and begin to address the problems outlined above; subsequent budgets will continue to address our shortfalls. The administration understands our issues and is working hard to assist us, but Congressional help will also be crucial. This committee is key to that help. Your enduring support is greatly appreciated.
I must reiterate a final point: I ask that you support Secretary Cohen's triad of pay and retirement initiatives as the most critical of our needs with this FY 00 budget. Our men and women deserve no less and they are waiting for us to demonstrate our commitment to their service as they preserve our way of life.


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Under the Lilacs
New Friends Trot In
Next day Ben ran off to his work with Quackenbos's "Elementary History of the United
States" in his pocket, and the Squire's cows had ample time to breakfast on way-side
grass before they were put into their pasture. Even then the pleasant lesson was not
ended, for Ben had an errand to town; and all the way he read busily, tumbling over the
hard words, and leaving bits which he did not understand to be explained at night by Bab.
At "The First Settlements" he had to stop, for the schoolhouse was reached, and the book
must be returned. The maple-tree closet was easily found, and a little surprise hidden
under the flat stone; for Ben paid two sticks of red and white candy for the privilege of
taking books from the new library.
When recess came, great was the rejoicing of the children over their unexpected treat, for
Mrs. Moss had few pennies to spare for sweets, and, somehow, this candy tasted
particularly nice, bought out of grateful Ben's solitary dime. The little girls shared their
goodies with their favorite mates, but said nothing about the new arrangement, fearing it
would be spoilt if generally known. They told their mother, however, and she gave them
leave to lend their books and encourage Ben to love learning all they could. She also
proposed that they should drop patch-work, and help her make some blue shirts for Ben.
Mrs. Barton had given her the materials, and she thought it would be an excellent lesson
in needle-work as well as a useful gift to Ben, -- who, boy-like, never troubled himself as
to what he should wear when his one suit of clothes gave out.
Wednesday afternoon was the sewing time; so the two little B's worked busily at a pair of
shirt-sleeves, sitting on their bench in the doorway, while the rusty needles creaked in and
out, and the childish voices sang school-songs, with frequent stoppages for lively chatter.
For a week, Ben worked away bravely, and never shirked nor complained, although Pat
put many a hard or disagreeable job upon him, and chores grew more and more
distasteful. His only comfort was the knowledge that Mrs. Moss and the Squire were
satisfied with him; his only pleasure the lessons he learned while driving the cows, and
recited in the evening when the three children met under the lilacs to "play school."
He had no thought of studying when he began, and hardly knew that he was doing it as he
pored over the different books he took from the library. But the little girls tried him with
all they Possessed, and he was mortified to find how ignorant he was. He never owned it
in words, but gladly accepted all the bits of knowledge they offered from their small
store; getting Betty to hear him spell "just for fun;" agreeing to draw Bab all the bears
and tigers she wanted if she would show him how to do sums on the flags, and often
beguiled his lonely labors by trying to chant the multiplication table as they did. When
Tuesday night came round, the Squire paid him a dollar, said he was "a likely boy," and
might stay another week if he chose. Ben thanked him and thought he would; but the next
morning, after he had put up the bars, he remained sitting on the top rail to consider his
prospects, for he felt uncommonly reluctant to go back to the society of rough Pat. Like


text:
Dodgeball Game - Click on the Action game button to open this game
Dodgeball Game
- Play Free Online Flash Game+
Who don't know the dodgeball game? Its a funny game to play here in a unique and original way because is played with a gaff. You need to hit with the ball in some new Disney stars, if you hit the movement objects you win more points.
Related Games
Reload Dodgeball Game
Install Flash for PC Computer and for Android Browser Photon Flash Player


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|Matthew Dillon <dillon@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
|Thu, 6 Jan 2005 11:59:41 -0800 (PST)
:--- Matthew Dillon <dillon@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote: :> Try physically disconnecting the hard drive, revert the BIOS to its normal :> mode of operation, and then see if the CD will boot. : :Without a hard drive at all? : :Also, the BIOS settings didn't change. But after POST, if I hold down F8 I can get a :list of devices to boot from. That's what I did when my floppy failed and stopped the :POST. : :jonathon Some BIOSes get confused when a hard drive with a semi-broken slice table (or one containing non-windows slices) exists. There have been numerous occassions where I have had to remove a FreeBSD HD that was in dangerously dedicated mode in order to boot from CD. So its worth a shot. -Matt


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Microsoft and Living PlanIT Partner to Deliver Smart City Technology Via the Cloud
Microsoft Connected Government Framework to integrate with Living PlanIT's Urban Operating System
Brussels – March 22, 2011: Microsoft Corp today announced that it has formed a strategic partnership with Living PlanIT SA, one of the world's leading smart city and urban development technology providers. The partnership integrates Microsoft Connected Government Framework (CGF) with Living PlanIT's Urban Operating System (UOS), a real-time control platform that converges cloud computing, deep sensing, simulation, analytics and application services with the fabric of buildings and infrastructure.
This partnership will enable citizens to seamlessly access smart city technologies via the cloud so they can manage their everyday life events and data. It will provide a rich framework for the incorporation of partner technologies and will deliver a platform to enable a new generation of intelligent cities and urban development. Together, these technologies will help improve the quality of life for citizens and industry while preserving the environment and natural resources.
CGF empowers governments to deliver and manage public services in a way that encourages greater citizen engagement. This creates an excellent integration point for Living PlanIT's UOS, a middleware platform that is embedded in the fabric of buildings and infrastructure. It connects with underlying city hardware related to energy, water, waste, transport and logistics to provide an integrated urban control platform. Place- and context-aware applications - known as Place Apps - can easily make use of the extensive data, sensing and control capabilities embedded in the fabric of a city to enhance the productivity of inhabitants and efficiency of real estate.
"Working in collaboration with Living PlanIT and its partners, these technologies will become critical enablers to the solutions that harmonise economic and social development with the environment throughout the world," said Niels Soelberg, vice president, Public Sector Sales at Microsoft EMEA. "This partnership provides the opportunity to realise these ambitions and change how we view the connection between city, society and technology."
Because CGF is delivered via the cloud, it supports Living PlanIT's goal to create a single platform that is universally accessible and scalable, which reduces the time and cost of design, delivery and operations of real estate. UOS will be made available with CGF as part of the Windows Azure platform and will provide central and local government bodies with more flexibility and precision than before as they look to stimulate sustainable development and regeneration.
"We are delighted to be partnering with Microsoft. The combination of Microsoft's cloud computing platform and our market-leading partner ecosystem enables Living PlanIT to create exciting new solutions in the most effective manner," said Steve Lewis, co-founder and CEO, Living PlanIT. "As technologists, we innovate to create value and make a meaningful contribution, individually and collectively. We are in a race, ironically, against ourselves. Our population is growing and moving. Software has transformed industries - medicine, education, science, finance, manufacturing - and software will transform our cities to achieve their economic, social and environmental potential. The convergence of cloud computing, deep sensing and innovative software applications will contribute directly to the viability and sustainability of our cities."
The partnership was officially unveiled at the opening of the Microsoft Cloud Interoperability Center in Brussels. Present at the event were Jean-Philippe Courtois, president of Microsoft International, and Neelie Kroes, vice president of the European Commission responsible for the Digital Agenda.
About Living PlanIT
Living PlanIT S.A. is a technology company enabling the development of innovative, intelligent sustainable urban-scale environments. The company brings together people, industry and educational institutions to create innovation cities where emerging technologies are developed, perfected and experienced. Information about Living PlanIT can be found at www.living-planit.com
About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq "MSFT") is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realise their full potential.
About Microsoft EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa)
Microsoft has operated in EMEA since 1982. In the region Microsoft employs more than 16,000 people in over 64 subsidiaries, delivering products and services in more than 139 countries and territories.
This material is for informational purposes only. Microsoft Corp disclaims all warranties and conditions with regard to use of the material for other purposes. Microsoft Corp shall not, at any time, be liable for any special, direct, indirect or consequential damages, whether in an action of contract, negligence or other action arising out of or in connection with the use or performance of the material. Nothing herein should be construed as constituting any kind of warranty.