text:
A portable hand-held reader unit includes a photosensor array, optics for focusing optical indicia on the array, a decoder for remotely decoding optical indicia, and a communication link between the hand-held reader and the decoder for communication between the reader and the decoder. In an additional embodiment, the portable hand-held reader unit includes a marker source disposed adjacent the optical reader unit for projecting marker onto a surface region exterior of the predetermined area so as to delineate the predetermined area and the information contained therein.
1. In a portable optical reader system,
(a) a hand-held optical reader unit having an optical system for focusing at an interior region of the unit an optical image of information comprising discernible indicia disposed within a predetermined area of information external of the reader unit;
(b) an area array of photosensor elements disposed at said interior region of said unit where the optical image of information is to be focused for receiving the optical image of information from the predetermined area;
(c) a decoder remote from said hand-held optical reader unit for decoding discernible indicia disposed within said optical image of information from said predetermined area; and
(c) a communication link between said hand-held optical reader and said decoder for communicating optical image information received by said area array of photosensor elements.
2. The portable optical reader system of
3. The portable optical reader system of
4. The portable optical reader system of
5. The portable optical reader system of
6. The portable optical reader system of
7. The portable optical reader system of
8. The portable optical reader system of
9. The portable optical reader system of
10. The portable optical reader system of
11. The portable optical reader system of
12. The portable optical reader system of
13. The portable optical reader system of
14. A portable optical reader system comprising: a hand-held optical reader unit including an area array of photosensor elements disposed interior of the reader unit, means for focusing an image of an area of information on the area array of photosensor elements, the area of information being disposed externally of the reader unit on a surface and within a field of view of the focusing means; and means disposed adjacent the optical reader unit for projecting marker beams away from the reader unit and substantially along the periphery of the field of view of the focusing means to impinge upon visually discernible indicia for delineating an area disposed within the field of view of the focusing means, such that when the reader unit is oriented to locate the information within the delineated area, the image of the information is focusable on said area array of photosensor elements.
15. A portable optical reader system according to
16. A portable optical reader system according to
17. A portable optical reader system according to
18. A portable optical reader system according to
19. A method of reading optical indicia, comprising:
(a) focusing the image of optical indicia to be read on an area array of photosensor elements housed within a hand-held reader;
(b) imaging said focused optical indicia with said area array of photosensor elements and converting said focused image of said optical indicia into an indicia signal;
(c) communicating said indicia signal from said hand-held reader via electromagnetic radiation to an indicia decoder remote from said hand-held reader; and
(d) decoding said indicia signal.
20. The method of reading optical indicia of
This is a continuation of U.S. Continued Prosecution Application filed May 29, 1998; which is continuation of U.S. Application for patent Ser. No. 08/345,268, filed Nov. 28, 1994, now abandoned which is a continuation of U.S. Application for patent Ser. No. 07/972,822, filed Nov. 6, 1992, now abandoned which is a divisional of U.S. Application for patent Ser. No. 07/616,602, filed on Nov. 21, 1990, now abandoned which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Application for patent Ser. No. 07/238,701, filed on Aug. 31, 1988, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,019,699, issued May 28, 1991.
1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates generally to code readers and particularly to readers which sense optically discernible symbol combinations or codes, such as bar codes.
2. Discussion of the Prior Art
1. Hand-held optical character reading equipment that has been available in the past has not performed well. The reader must be positioned accurately during the entire movement across the label for a valid read to occur. Operators usually "scrub" the label with the reader rather than carefully aligning the reader on the label, and often give up and manually key the information into the terminal.
The primary reason that accurate alignment is required is that the reader uses either a linear matrix of sensing elements, say sixty-four, or a rectangular matrix of sensing elements, say fourteen by forty. The recognition algorithms typically used in these systems assume that the sensor is oriented accurately over or across the character to be read with a misalignment of less than seven degrees typically specified. The operator's guides for the present products instruct the operator to hold the reader exactly perpendicular, centered on the edge of the line to be read, not tilted, skewed, angled or rocked, and to hold this alignment during the sweep across the label. It is unsurprising that few operators use the readers in this way, and that poor read rates and dissatisfaction with the criticality of the reader alignment during scanning, have been serious problems.
2. To date, there doesn't appear to be an optical character reader (OCR) product available that realistically has the capability to be operated portably. Power consumption and circuit complexity seem to be the factors that have discouraged development in this area.
3. While there was significant competition between the use of bar code and OCR systems through the late 1970's, bar coding seems to have emerged as the preferred technology. It is quite likely that the reason for this "win" is the poor performance of the available OCR equipment. If a very good, cost effective portable hand-held OCR reader were available, OCR might again become a contender for a significant share of this large market. The biggest factors in favor of an OCR system are that the label is directly human readable and the information density is high so that minimum label space is required for the information to be presented.
A basic concept of the invention is to provide a hand-held scanner which illuminates the entire width and height of a line or lines of code elements or characters on a label with a highly intense, short duration light pulse, then focusing the reflected area image through an optical lens system onto an imaging device, converting the sensed area signal to a digital signal which may then be stored, manipulated and processed by logic circuits as a complete area image to identify the information content.
In a preferred implementation of the hand-held area image scanner, the light source might be one or more xenon flash tubes arranged in a circumferential configuration to provide uniform illumination of the label surface. A lens system focuses an image of the entire label on the optical surface of the imaging device, preferably a solid state sensor of the charge coupled device type. With the proliferation of small, inexpensive consumer video cameras, very good, cost effective imaging devices of this type have become readily available. The output of the imaging device is converted to a digital signal which is interfaced to a digital processor for storage of the image pattern in memory. Once the information is contained in memory, processing and recognition algorithms may be performed "off-line" by the digital processor to rotate, normalize and enhance the image, remove "noise", and identify the coded information. A novel feature of this hand-held scanner is its ability to identify a broad set of optical information symbols including bar codes. Thus a hand-held reader may be configured that has the ability to read virtually any optically coded information while overcoming the long standing problems with prior hand-held OCR systems.
According to a teaching of the present invention, a hand-held optical reader has an area array of photosensor elements of size and resolution so as to register an entire line or multiple lines of characters at one time. Preferably, the entire field of symbols or characters or both, disposed on a label or the like is illuminated simultaneously by a brief flash of a highly intense light source. In a preferred implementation, a xenon flash tube of ring configuration surrounds the optical axis in the vicinity of a lens means which serves to focus the entire line or lines of code symbols or characters onto a complete image sensor array.
According to another aspect of the invention, alignment of the code configuration of symbols, characters or the like with the "field of view" of the reader may be achieved by orienting or pointing to position optical marker indicia. The marker indicia bracket or frame a sensing area delineated by the field of view of the reader, and impinge on a support surface peripherally about the region within which the code configuration is contained. The marker indicia are visually discernible impinging projections of marker beams which originate from marker type light sources of the reader.
According to a more specific aspect of the invention, the marker beams may be shaped by optical means to project linearly shaped marker spots as visually discernible indicia against an impinging surface, the linearly shaped indicia bounding the area within the field of view which will be focused on a photosensor array within the reader.
Other objects, features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following detailed description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, and from the individual features of the appended claims.
FIG. 1 is a diagram for illustrating the optical sensing area as is defined by a field of view of a lens system, such as from the use of a typical solid state video imaging array and a lens system with a magnification ratio of ten to one, in a hand-held optical reader in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic illustration of a preferred form of a hand-held optical reader according to the present invention, arranged so as to have its optical sensing area or field of view completely encompassing the machine-readable code (e.g. bar code) or human-readable information (e.g. line or lines of text) on a label so that a complete instantaneous optical image thereof is projected onto an area array of photosensors within the reader and may be converted by the reader into digital image data and stored in a processor memory of the reader;
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a typical logic arrangement of a microprocessor circuit and major functional components as are typically associated with such a circuit, and further illustrating a preferred interface between the array of photosensors of the reader as referred to in FIG. 2 and the microprocessor;
FIG. 4 is an illustration of a stacked bar code and of one of the manners in which a field of view of the optical reader is indicated to a user to facilitate alignment of the field of view with a label bearing indicia such as the stacked bar code;
FIG. 5 is an illustration of an alternate manner for indicating to a user of the optical reader the field of view of the information gathering elements in accordance with the invention;
FIG. 6 is an illustration of yet another manner for indicating the field of view of the optical reader;
FIG. 7 shows a schematically simplified view of a light source and related linear optics for delineating the field of view of the optical reader as further described herein;
FIG. 8 is a diagrammatic illustration showing the reader of FIG. 2 and illustrating alternative embodiments relating to flashable light sources and aiming aids such as marker sources;
FIG. 9 shows another embodiment for delineating to a user of the reader its field of view, also showing a stacked bar code label encompassed in a vertical orientation within the delineated field of view; and
FIG. 10 shows a variation of the embodiment of FIG. 9 for delineating the field of view of the reader, also showing a stacked bar code label encompassed in a horizontal orientation within the delineated field of view.
Incorporation by Reference
The disclosures of the following applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety: U.S. Ser. No. 07/972,822 filed Nov. 6, 1992 now abandoned; U.S. Ser. No. 07/616,602 filed on Nov. 21, 1990 now abandoned; U.S. Ser. No. 07/238,701 filed Aug. 31, 1988 (see U.S. Pat. No. 5,019,699, issued May 28, 1991); U.S. Ser. No. 06/894,689 filed Aug. 8, 1986, now U.S. Pat. No. 4,877,949, issued Oct. 31, 1989; U.S. Ser. No. 07/422,052 filed Oct. 16, 1989 (see U.S. Pat. No. 4,877,949 issued Oct. 31, 1989 of which U.S. Ser. No. 07/422,052 now abandoned, is a continuation; and U.S. Ser. No. 07/875,791 filed Apr. 27, 1992 now abandoned (see U.S. Pat. No. 5,308,966 issued May 3, 1994, which is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 07/875,791).
General Explanation of a Preferred Embodiment of the Invention
The biggest negatives surrounding the use of portable OCR systems have related to the inherent weaknesses of the available hand-held scanner technology. The purpose of the described invention is to substantially improve the performance and capabilities of hand-held OCR scanners so that this inherently convenient coding method might once again become a viable alternative for automatic identification applications.
The invention consequently seeks to eliminate the need for accurately aligning the reader with respect to the codes to be read. An OCR device in accordance with the invention would therefore desirably include a provision for instantaneously illuminating a region exterior to the reader which region contains the combination of codes or characters to be read. Thus during a single instance of illumination, the selective reflection representing relatively darker and lighter elements of the code configuration to be read may be imaged or focused with suitable optics at an interior region within the reader, the interior region being referred to also as an imaging area. An array of photosensor elements is disposed at the interior imaging area. The photosensor elements receive during that instant of illumination from any information at the exterior region a complete light image or optical image at the interior region. The instantaneous transfer of the image to the imaging area substantially eliminates risk of error due to an operator causing an inadvertent movement of the reader. A possible source of error in aiming was recognized, however. Such source of error may be minimized, if not totally eliminated, when an operator uses a marker source as provided in accordance with the invention. According to the invention it is, consequently, contemplated to identify or mark the region from which optical information would be transferred to the area array of photosensor elements or photosensor array.
As a specific example, marker beams originating from light sources at the four corners of the photosensor array may be projected via suitable optics onto a supporting surface carrying the information, such as a label, to be read. The beam of the light sources may be shaped optically, such as by non-spherical lenses associated with the light sources to linearize the mark spots impinging the surface containing the information. In the case of a marker beam of elongate, linearized cross section, the light sources need not be located at the corners of the photosensor array, though conveniently the optics for projecting and focusing the image of information onto the photosensor array may be used. The marker beams bracket the optical field of view of the photosensor array, desirably in alignment with the periphery thereof. Consequently any information, such as contained on bar code labels, within the region bounded by the marker beams is necessarily projected or focused onto the photosensor array.
Once the image is focused on the photosensor array, the output of each photosensor element may be electrically read and stored in accordance with data processing techniques. However, it needs to be pointed out that the recorded or stored image is a "raw image", as it was received during the instance of illumination. The image may contain an image of dirt spots which may have adhered to portions of a bar code, for example.
One advantage of the OCR device in accordance with the invention over traditional scanner units is that an entire area of the code has been recorded or stored. A scanner typically operates to read a line or section through a bar code, for example. A number of repeat readings may be employed to achieve an average reading. However, with a more complex unit providing for such repeated scanning operations, any movement during these repeat readings would tend to dilute the accuracy of any of the readinqs. Hence, in accordance with the invention, the image representing the entire information becomes fixed instantaneously with electronics of the reader. Subsequently any number of readings may be taken and verified from the fixed or stored information. Also, any data manipulation may be performed in accordance with known data processing techniques to transform the stored image to a clearly recognizable data code.
Another advantage is being realized with respect to recently developing trends in the code marking art. With increasing understanding of data processing techniques for inventory handling and merchandising operations in general, a need has emerged to pack more information into each single code combination or code cluster. Recent developments suggest replacing conventional single line bar codes with multi-line bar code patterns having a more densely packed configuration. Codes having these new configurations are generally known as "stacked bar codes." Simply stated, stacked bar codes are compressed in the direction perpendicular to the reading direction and are arranged in a multi-line stacked configuration, like a page of printed material. A number of differing standards bar codes exist, two of which are known as "Code 49" and "16K". Code 49 may consist of stacked lines or rows of code indicia two to eight rows high, while the 16K code may use stacked rows of code indicia between two and sixteen rows high.
It is understandable that with conventional code scanners, reading scanned codes at angles other than perfect alignment with the linear arrangement of the codes may present code recognition problems. Of course, if less than the entire code information is recognized, the entire code is typically indicated as not having been read, so that a re-read cycle must be initiated. Since valuable time may be lost by repeating reading operations, it is of course desirable to recognize the code. Since a code may also not have been recognized because of a lateral shift of the active area of the scanner away from the label configuration, either the angular misalignment or a lateral shift may be a cause for non-recognition of the code.
It is apparent that the current invention is particularly advantageous for reading the described "stacked bar codes" as well as other information. The referred to marker beams are able to indicate or show when the entire code pattern is within the region from which an image of the code pattern can be transferred to the photosensor array. Hence, a major source of error is eliminated. Secondly, the instantaneous focusing of the information on the photosensor array reduces the risk of error caused by inadvertent movement of the reader during a prolonged process. Thirdly, since typical data processing techniques permit the code to be aligned electronically after it has become stored in the reader, critical alignment requirements are no longer needed for information to be read from the stored code image.
Initial processing of the image is a normalization process which sometimes also may be referred to as "calibration" during which the orientation of the image may be recognized and during which blemishes, such as dirt spots, may be recognized and image electronically reoriented and blemishes neutralized in accordance with known data processing techniques. The stored image may then be read by the reader and the information may be transferred to desired electronic data banks.
In FIG. 1, an optical sensing area is delineated which represents the result of the use of a typical solid state video imaging array with a lens system that provides a magnification ratio of ten to one. The resultant active area is 2.58 inches�1.94 inches as indicated.
FIG. 2 shows a diagrammatic view of an optical system that incorporates the components described. The ring flash is a preferred light source for its ability to provide relatively uniform illumination with minimum backscatter into the imaging device. Also it may be "wrapped" around the lens, as shown, providing a compact, efficient package. The imaging array may be placed directly in line with the optical axis of the reader, so that the optical portion of a hand-held reader can be quite compact.
Operation of the reader consists of the user "aiming" at the target label and activating a switch to initiate the read. The flashtube is effective to provide an essentially instantaneous illumination, so movement of the hand-held reader during this time is noncritical. The digital processor immediately begins clocking the imaging array to read its contents which correspond to the intensity of the light from the active sensing area that was focused on the imaging array. The actual output of the imaging array is normally an analog signal. Since only white or dark information is needed, the conversion decision may consist of a comparator circuit with appropriately selected bandwidth and hysteresis to correspond to the characteristics of the imaging circuit output.
The digital information is assembled into sixteen bit data words corresponding to the word length of the digital processor and stored directly into the processor memory array. An entire image may consist of 492 lines of 512 samples each for a total 251,904 bits or 31,488 bytes of information, as illustrated in FIG. 1. Once the image acquisition process is complete, the digital processor may then begin operating on the image information to remove blemish and noise components, rotate the image to a normalized position, correct for optical skew due to curvature of the target label or reading from an off-axis angle, and the like, to optimize the pattern recognition process. An important feature of the described system is the ability of the digital processor to detect during such discussed normalization the locations of blemishes or flaws in the image sensing array and to store those locations in a non-volatile memory so that flawed image data may be masked or compensated to remove such errors from consideration in the recognition algorithms.
When image normalization is complete, the recognition process may then begin. The first level of recognition is to determine whether the coded information is a bar code or a line of characters, for example. If a bar code is recognized, standard bar code decode algorithms may be employed. If a character format is recognized, then a character recognition algorithm is invoked.
The digital processor employed for the image normalization, processing and recognition functions must be extremely fast and efficient for acceptable user satisfaction. A processor such as the Texas Instruments TMS320C25 type which is designed for digital signal processing applications has the ability to address external program and data memory, perform bit and word manipulations and has extremely fast execution speeds while operating with acceptable power consumption levels for a portable hand-held unit.
Specific Explanation of a Preferred Embodiment (Referrinq by Reference Numerals to the Diaqrammatic Illustrations of the Drawings).
Referring first generally to FIG. 2, there is illustrated somewhat schematically a hand-held area type optical reader. The reader, which may also be referred to as an improved Optical Character Reader ("OCR") device, represents an embodiment according to the present invention. The reader, as will be explained is capable of reading all the characters, bar codes or other information at an optical sensing area such as indicated at 10 in FIG. 1, essentially instantaneously. The area 10 to be read may be illuminated by light from a ring-type illuminator 11, preferably a xenon flash tube. The reader shown schematically as a hand-held scanner unit 12, indicated by dash lines, may house the light source 11, and suitable optics, such as a lens 14. The optics 14 include a focal plane at an interior region 15 of the scanner unit or reader 12. A solid state area type photosensor array such as indicated at 16 is disposed in the focal plane defined by the interior region 15. The photosensor array 16 is comprised of a plurality of photosensor elements arranged in an area corresponding in the sensing area 10 externally of the reader 12 to respective pixels, such as at 17, FIG. 1. The individual photosensor elements or pixels in the area array of photosensor elements or photosensor array 16 may have a density, such as in typical video cameras. Thus, the sensing area 10, as an external projection of the photosensor array 16, is enlarged with respect to the photosensor array 16 in accordance with a magnification ratio, such as ten to one, of optics of such video cameras. However, even with such enlargement of the sensing area 10, the number of pixels 17 illustrated in FIG. 1 provide a resolution of individual pixel of 0.004 inch by 0.005 inch (four mils high by five mils wide).
Once the flash energization of the light source 11 is complete, the photosensor array 16 may be read out, each line of photosensor elements of the array being shifted out serially for example, and the respective lines of photosensor elements being read out in parallel for example to an analog/logic interface component 18 within the hand-held scanner unit 12. A signal processor 19, such as the referred to Texas Instruments TMS320C25 signal processor type, disposed in the scanner unit 12 and connected with the analog/logic interface component 18 may receive from the focused information image e.g. at 20, FIG. 2, the area image data and supply the raw area image data to an associated memory 21 in the hand-held scanner unit 12 for subsequent processing in the hand-held unit. As an alternative, the raw area image data (e.g. in digital form) may be coupled via an RF or optical link 22 to a host processor (not indicated) for storage and processing. Such a separate host processor may also be portable and carried by the user. Where the focussed information image 20, such as that of a bar code or stacked bar code as shown in FIGS. 4 through 6, on the photosensor array 16 is tilted relative to the longitudinal (widthwise) axis of the array 16, the raw image data as stored in digital form may be subsequently processed so as to be rotated into a normal horizontal disposition prior to decoding thereof by well known algorithms. In reference to FIG. 2, the flash tube 11 and the lens 14 may have circular symmetry relative to their common longitudinal axis 25 which is consequently also the optical axis of the reader 12. Hence the illuminator or flash tube 11 is disposed annularly about the optics represented by the lens 14, so that any angle of tilt of label 30 about axis 25 is not detrimental to uniform optical imaging of the entire information field of the label 30.
Marker beams 31 originating from light sources 36, 37, 38 and 39 at the four corners of area photosensor array 16 may be projected onto a supporting surface 40 carrying label 30, via optics 14, to produce visually discernible indicia, such as marker spots 41, 42, 43 and 44, respectively, so that array 16 may be readily aligned relative to area information e.g. on label 30, as the hand-held unit 12 is being moved into proximity thereto. By way of example, the light sources 36-39 may be light emitting diodes at the four corners of the photosensor array 16, which light emitting diodes may be sequentially pulsed so that the marker spots 41-44 are each produced at a repetition rate of sixty per second when the hand-held scanner unit is placed in a target seeking mode. Once the four marker spots "bracket" the information to be read, as in FIGS. 2 and 4 through 6, regardless of tilt, or regardless of whether the information extends horizontally or vertically, the light source 11 may be triggered, marker spots 41-44 being extinguished by this time, or the wavelength thereof being prevented from affecting the photosensor array by filtering, for example.
As long as the marker spots 41 through 44 bracket the information to be read, e.g., information on the label 30, the image 20 of the entire information field is necessarily focussed on the active or photosensitive area of the photosensor array 16. It should be understood that only the information and not the entire label 30 needs to become located within an area 45 of the supporting surface 40 bounded by the marker spots 41 through 44. FIG. 4 shows a stacked bar code label 30 disposed within the area 45 bracketed by the marker spots 41 through 44. Hence the image of the information represented by the stacked bars of the label 30 is projected onto and becomes focussed on the active area of the photosensor array 16. Though the information is captured within the area 45 at an angle, the image 20 will still be focussed on the photosensor array 16. Hence the entire image 20 with all information bearing dark and light configuration combinations of the code can be read into memory locations of the memory 21.
A first embodiment of manner in which the marker spots 41 through 44 define the area 45, such as described with respect to FIG. 2, is also illustrated in FIG. 4. The area 45 as indicated by dashed lines is bracketed at its corners by the marker spots 41 through 44. Thus, to line up indicia to be read, such as the stacked bar code label 30, an operator would aim the marker spots 41 through 44 so that information on the label does not extend to or beyond a straight line between two adjacent ones of the marker spots. FIG. 5 illustrates an alternate embodiment of delineating the area 45. In lieu of the marker spots 41 through 44, FIG. 5 shows linear illumination bars 46, 47, 48 and 49 which closely bound the area 45, again as depicted again by the dashed lines. It may be preferred to mark the area 45 by a linear illumination outline comprised of the illumination bars 46 through 49 in that the photosensor array may be allowed to contain an uninterrupted matrix without the need to preserve corner locations thereof for the light emitting diode as described with respect to FIG. 4. Briefly referring back to FIG. 2, the illumination spots or bars 46 through 49 may be produced by light sources, such as light emitting diodes or laser diodes in combination with linear lenses, which may be disposed in the focal plane 15 at midpoints of each of the edges of and directly adjacent the photosensor array 16, as indicated by the numerals 51, 52, 53 and 54 respectively. Thus, as with respect to the earlier described example, the optics 14 may be used to direct light beams resulting in the marker bars 46 through 49 through the optics 14 against the surface 40.
FIG. 5 shows the label 30 disposed at an increased angle with respect to the major outline of the area 45 and of a smaller size. Again, the criterion for focussing information on the active area of the photosensor array 16 is to aim the field of view of the reader 12 as identified to the user by the marker indicia such as the described spots or bars so as to place the information to be read entirely within the area 45. If the angular alignment of the label 30 is less than that illustrated in FIG. 4, and is disposed at an angle with respect to the illustrated rectangular shape of the active field of view in FIG. 5, the user may simply back off the reader 12 away from the surface 40 until the entire information area of the label 30 is contained within the area 45. An increased distance between the label 30 and the reader 12 results in a smaller image of information being focussed on the photosensor array 16. However, as the label 30 shown in FIG. 4, the entire label 30 in FIG. 5 will become focused on the photosensor array 16. The flash illumination by the referred to xenon flash tube 11 may be chosen to allow the "f-stop" of the optics 14 to be stopped down such that the depth of field of the reader is increased to allow the image 20 to become focused on the photosensor array 16 even though the distance between the reader 12 and the supporting surface 40 may vary for example, between two inches to well in excess of one foot. It may further be found convenient to use currently known and available automatic focusing techniques to further increase the ability of the reader to focus the image 20 over a yet further increased range of distances of several feet between the indicia to be read and the reader 12. Such increase in versatility of the reader 12 would result, of course, in a corresponding increase in the cost of the reader.
FIG. 7 illustrates a light source (such as shown at 51 through 54 in FIG. 2), say source 51, more generally identified as light source assembly 55, in combination with a typical molded casing 56 including a lens 57 for linearly expanding the light emitted from the source 51 in one or more directions away from its optical axis 58. Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the light emitted from the sources 51 through 54 is expanded linearly from center points shown at 59 into two directions disposed at a 180 degree angle. It may also be possible to change the angle between the two legs 61 and 62 (FIG. 7) from 180 degrees to for example a right angle between the two directions of expansion of the emitted light. With such modification, the expansion direction 62 would be directed into the plane or out of the plane of the drawing of FIG. 7. The configuration of marker spots 61, 62, 63 and 64 in FIG. 6 illustrate a right angle expansion of the light emitted through correspondingly configured lenses 57. In the configuration of the marker spots 61 through 64 the corresponding light sources would be located again at the corners of the photosensor array 16, as shown with respect to the light sources 36 through 39, for example. It would be expected that the intensity of the linearly deflected or expanded light decreases with the distance from the optical center of the non-deflected light beam. Thus, as shown in FIG. 5, the corners of the area delineated by the marker bars 46 through 49 may not be illuminated by the marker bars, while the centers of the sides of the area 45 shown in FIG. 6 may not be illuminated or only slightly illuminated relatively to more brightly illuminated corners by the respective marker spots 61 through 64. FIG. 6 also shows the label 30 disposed entirely within the area 45 delineated by the marker spots 61 through 64. While FIGS. 4 through 6 show a somewhat rectangular configuration of the marker spots or bars, a square configuration with a correspondingly square configuration of the photosensor array 16 may be preferred. However, the particular shape of the photosensor array 16 and the marked or delineated area 45 are not critical, as long as the area 45 delineated by the marker spots defines the active area 20 disposed in the interior of the reader 12.
In each of the different embodiments, a complete label, e.g. five inches high by five inches wide, having a complete bar code, or row or rows of characters thereon, can be focussed onto the operative area of a complete image photosensor array, such as 16, in response to a single essentially instantaneous flash of a light source, such as 11. As becomes apparent, a relatively larger sized label 30 would simply require an operator of the reader to increase the distance between the label to be read and the reader 12. In an advantageous embodiment, the height dimension of the complete image area array 16 may be such that a complete area information image including the entire area information width, e.g. of an eighty column line of characters, can be read whether the width of the information image is disposed widthwise or heightwise or diagonally on the photosensor array 16. In general, such area information is focusable on the photosensor array 16 in any angular orientation about the optical axis 25. By way of example, a label 30 containing all its information in an area of square configuration 1.3 inches on a side could be disposed so that its width extended horizontally or vertically or at an acute angle on the photosensor array 16 and in each case the entire contents of the label could be read with a single flash of light source 11.
Preferably the hand-held unit 12 contains batteries "BATTERY" (schematically indicated in FIG. 2 at 65) with sufficient energy so as to supply the flashable light source means 11 and the other components of the hand-held unit, so that the unit is essentially self-contained and free of any connecting cable or the like.
The system of FIG. 2 may be provided with an autofocus ranging system, as already referred to above, so that the reader 12 may have the ability to read at extended distances, e.g., up to forty-eight inches and possibly even greater distances, and may also be capable of reading a wider range of target areas. Autofocus systems are common in 35 mm cameras.
The hand-held scanner unit 12 of FIG. 2 may contain the programming to recognize several types of optically discernible indicia of information, such as bar codes as well as conventional character fonts, and to automatically select the appropriate decoding algorithm from those available in its on-board stored program. Furthermore, the hand-held unit 12 may contain an area array photosensor 16 of size and resolution so as to register the above-mentioned multiple lines of characters, e.g., eight lines of eighty characters each at one time. Preferably, the entire information field to be scanned, or instantaneously to be recorded or read, such as represented by label 30 in FIG. 2 is illuminated simultaneously by a brief flash of highly intense light source such as the xenon tube 11.
The reading of bar codes with a complete area photosensor array such as 16, enables the digital data representing a bar code, for example, to be rotated and otherwise normalized as a complete entity prior to decoding, such that the normalized data may correspond to that obtained by sequentially scanning along a bar code parallel to the longitudinal bar code axis at a multiplicity of levels separated center to center e.g. by four mils. By combining the corresponding data points at different levels, e.g., on an averaging basis, defects in the bar code image can be reliably overcome such as defects due to foreign matter, spurious marking and the like. Again, the bar code can be disposed at any random angle relative to the reader during the reading operation, speeding the reading of the labels, reducing operator fatigue and increasing the number of labels which can be read during a working day.
FIG. 3 is a simplified functional block diagram showing the photosensor array ("CCD") 16 coupled through typical driver circuits ("BF") 66 and 67 to the analog/logic interface ("A/L INTERFACE") 18. The data signal output from such typical interface circuit 18 would be coupled directly to the above referred-to microprocessor circuit ("MICROPROCESSOR") 19, such as the preferred Texas Instrument processor TMS320C25 type. A state of the art signal processing circuit at the time of the prior application hereof, the circuit is still a preferred device, though other devices may be available and may be substituted therefor. The specifications of the device 19 provide for 4K words of On-Chip Program ROM and 544 Words of programmable On-Chip RAM. Typically such minimum ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory) may be supplemented with further programmable memory, such as the memory ("RAM") 21, and with additional read only memory ("ROM") 68. The processor circuit 19 may address and transfer such additional memory by typical address and data buses 69 and 70, respectively. Data may also be transferred to a suitable communication interface ("COMM INT") 71, which in turn is coupled to the above referred-to communication link 22, which may be an RF or an optical link. It should be understood that the specifically described elements and their functions are merely for explanatory purposes and various changes may be possible within the scope hereof.
FIG. 8 illustrates alternate embodiments of the present invention indicative of changes within the broad scope of the invention. FIG. 8 shows as FIG. 2 the supporting surface 40 with the label 30, such as a stacked bar code, for example, in relationship to the hand-held optical reader unit 12. The reader unit 12 also includes preferably typical optics 14 and a photosensor array 16 disposed in a focal plane at an interior plane or region 15 behind the optics 14. An image 20 of information representative of the information on the label 30 may be formed on the photosensor array 16 when the reader 12 is activated by instantaneously illuminating an area ahead of the reader 12 and hence the supporting surface 40 in the region of the label 30 when the reader optical axis 25 is aimed toward the label. The illuminator 11 which in the preferred embodiment is a flashable xenon tube, may of course generally be of any of a number of flash type illuminators 11. FIG. 8 therefore illustrates an annular illuminator 11 which is comprised of a number of discrete pulseable light emitting diodes 76. The light emitting diodes are preferably disposed adjacent the exterior portion of the optics 14 of the reader 12 in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis 25, substantially similar to the arrangement of the xenon flash tube shown in FIG. 2. The number of discrete light emitting elements 76 may be chosen to correspond to a total light intensity needed to illuminate the exterior region of the label 30. Depending on the desired range over which the reader 12 is to function, the number of discrete devices may be increased by closer spaces between adjacent ones of the light emitting diodes 76.
FIG. 8 illustrates another change in the described embodiment with respect to the previously described marker sources, such as the light emitting diodes 36 through 39 or the light sources 55 including lenses 57. Even though it is presently considered advantageous to project beams from the marker sources through the optics 14, within reason it is possible to also project marker spots or bars, such as bars 77, 78, 79 or 80 against the surface 40 from respective marker light sources 81, 82, 83 and 84 without having the projected beams be directed through the optics 14 of the reader 12. Thus, the marker light sources 81 through 84 may be disposed externally of the optics 14 and on a frontal portion 85 of the reader 12. The lenses 57 of the light sources 81 through 84 may be disposed to direct the respective marker beams of the light sources substantially along the periphery of the field of view of the optics 14 of the reader 12. As described with respect to FIG. 7, the lenses 57 may be shaped to linearly shape the emitted light of the marker sources in two mutually opposite directions or at an angle other than 180 degrees, depending on the location of the light sources. A disadvantage may possibly be noticed in that the marker sources are not in total alignment with the periphery of the field of view of the optics 14. Consequently, at extremes of an operating range of the reader 12, resulting marker bars or spots, such as the marker bars 77 through 80 shown in FIG. 8 do not delineate precisely the area 45 which corresponds precisely to the active photosensor array 16 projected against the surface 40 through the optics 14. However, only at close range, the marker spots or bars 77 through 80 may form on the surface 40 somewhat externally of the actual area 45, hence indicating an area larger than one that may be read by the reader 12. When the sources are properly placed such deviation may be confined to a range at which normally no readings are taken. At a medium range, the marker bars may be disposed to clearly delineate the area 45. And an area smaller than the actual area 45 may be indicated at an extended distance for reading the label 30. Thus, for practical purposes the marker sources may be oriented that for substantially all readings the predetermined area 45 is bracketed. It should be understood that not only light sources for generating the bars 77 through 80 may be disposed externally of the optics 14, but light sources disposed to project marker beams generally to corners of the rectangular area 45 may be disposed externally of the optics 14. Such alternate light sources 86, 87, 88 and 89 may similarly be disposed as closely as feasible adjacent the optics, and actually may be disposed within the annular configuration of flashable illuminator source elements 76 as shown in FIG. 8. With respect to the latter sources, lenses 57 may be disposed to linearly expand the respective marker beams at right angles so as to bracket the area 45 as indicated in FIG. 6, for example. It should be understood that various other changes suggest themselves from the preferred embodiments as disclosed herein.
As an example of changes or variations in delineating the area 45 within the field of view of the reader 12 the marker sources may be advantageously limited in numbers. FIGS. 9 and 10 depict an example of an alternate arrangement of marker sources, the respective impinging marker spots being identified by numerals 92 and 93 in FIG. 9 and by numerals 94 and 95 in FIG. 10. In each of the further described embodiments, marker sources are disposed to generate marker beams impinging on the surface 40 as the respective marker spots 92, 93, 94 and 95 with the earlier described right angle expansion from diagonally opposite corners 96 and 97 of the delineated area 45 in FIG. 9, and from corners 98 and 99 of such area 45 as shown in FIG. 10. Also, the orientation of the labels 30 depict a substantially vertical or heightwise arrangement with respect to the area 45 in FIG. 9, and a substantially horizontal or widthwise arrangement of the label 30 with respect to the area 45 in FIG. 10. The different orientations of the respective labels 30 in each instance further illustrate the above described advantage of the reader in providing for the capture of an area of information on the photosensor array independent of the orientation of such information about the optical axis of the reader.
With respect to the shape of the photosensor array 16, photosensor arrays of the current state of the art are generally of rectangular shape or at least the active areas are of rectangular shape. While the preferred embodiment discloses a generally circular lens or optics 14, the shape thereof is preferred because of the generally rectangular shapes of so-called targets or photosensor arrays 16 of video cameras. It should be understood that the invention in its broad scope may not depend on a sensing area of any particular shape.
The ability to capture and manipulate an entire image with a portable unit has important benefits for optical character reading also. In such instances a reading area of elongate rectangular shape may be preferred. For example, the described embodiments allow the use of image enhancement algorithms, e.g., of the type developed for enhancement of deep space probe images, as well as image normalization, e.g., such as image rotation and scaling. Non-linear scaling for improving recognition efficiency with respect to irregular surfaces such as curved surfaces, and with respect to off-axis viewing angles, is also feasible.
It will be apparent that many modifications and variations may be effected without departing from the teachings and concepts of the present disclosure.
Patent Citations
Referenced by
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Gateway Bike Plan Calls for 1,000 Miles of Lanes and Trails In and Near St. Louis
Categories: Community
The plan is to be put into effect over the next twenty years. A hundred area municipalities participated in drafting the plan, as did the Missouri Department of Transportation, Metro, East-West Gateway Council of Governments and Trailnet.
"Connecting communities, promoting good health and providing transportation alternatives are just the beginning of creating a vibrant region," says Susan Trautman, executive director of Great Rivers Greenway. "The Gateway Bike Plan helps to foster the development of safer cycling routes,"
Let's hope so. In the meantime, it would just help if St. Louis motorists would be more willing to share a lane with bicyclists. That's just this bike commuter's opinion, anyway.
Maps and other documents for the plan can be downloaded at stlbikeplan.com.
Sponsor Content

subset: commoncrawl


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Your Big Fat House
Obesity-causing chemicals have invaded our homes. It's up to you to kick them out.
ADAPTED FROM 'THE NEW AMERICAN DIET' BY HEATHER HURLOCK AND STEPHEN PERRINE
Carpet (PBDEs), vinyl flooring (PVC), mattress (PBDEs), toys, (BPA), waterproof clothing (Phthalates, PFOA)
One study found that children who live in homes with vinyl flooring in the bedrooms are twice as likely to have autism. To further avoid EDCs in your bedroom: 1) Make sure the mattresses and mattress covers you buy aren't treated with brominated flame retardants. 2) Avoid clothing that's been coated with a water-, stain-, or dirt-repellent. 3) Throw out plastic toys that aren't designated "BPA free" (old plastic leaches more toxins). 4) Buy PVC-free, BPA-free, and phthalate-free toys. You can find some at thesoftlanding.com.
Raincoats (phthalates), rain boots (phthalates), faux leather coats, shoes, purses, and briefcases (phthalates)
PVC might be an obvious component of rain slickers and Wellies, but the phthalate-laden material is almost always found in soft fake-leather accessories as well. To avoid exposure: 1) Buy real leather accessories. 2) Try waxed canvas rain gear instead.
PVC pipes, detergents, and dryer sheets (phthalates)
Most cleaning products contain phthalates, and their containers have BPA. But SC Johnson, the maker of Windex, Shout, Pledge, and Scrubbing Bubbles cleaning products, has started to list ingredients on its products and began a two-year program in 2008 to phase out phthalates from its products. So far, other major manufacturers have not followed SC Johnson's lead. In order to make your cleaning area cleaner: 1) Buy fragrance-free cleaning products. 2) To reduce the amount of laundry detergent you need to use, add baking soda: It softens the water, increasing the detergent's power, according to the Center for Health, Environment, & Justice.
Carpet (PBDEs), air fresheners (phthalates), furniture (PBDEs), electronics (PBDEs)
Flame retardants are especially harmful to children. Human exposure comes from contact with treated products such as electronics, but the majority of our exposure is from dust. A recent study found that the average level of PBDEs in dust is more than 4,600 parts per billion. To reduce exposure: 1) Choose electronic brands that don't contain PBDEs. 2) Use a HEPA-filter vacuum to trap the most dust particles. 3) Open your windows when vacuuming and make sure your home has good ventilation.
Toothbrush (BPA), toothpaste, vinyl shower curtain, water from the shower comes through PVC pipes, soaps, shampoos, deodorants, creams, powders, and makeup (Phthalates), nail polish (Phthalates, PFOA)
Bathrooms can shower you in EDCs, literally. Most soaps, lotions, and deodorants contain phthalates, listed on the ingredients as "fragrance." To decrease the toxicity of your bathroom experience: 1) Buy fragrance-free personal-care products (deodorant, lipstick, nail polish, or hand/face cream). 2) Use only two personal-care products at a time, which one study showed reduced people's phthalate concentrations fourfold. 3) Buy PVC-free shower curtains. 4) Put a filter on water taps to reduce exposure to toxins in your water.
Produce in the fridge (pesticides), meat in the freezer (PBDEs, PCBs, pesticides), canned food in the pantry (BPA), jars of peanut butter (phthalates), jars of tomato sauce (phthalates), jarred baby food (BPA), plastic cups, baby bottles, plates, and utensils (BPA)
To reduce your exposure: 1) choose plastics with the recycling code 1, 2, or 5. Recycling codes 3 and 7 are more likely to contain BPA or phthalates. 2) Use glass baby bottles. 3) Heat your foods in glass, not plastic. 4) Use bamboo, glass, pyrex, stainless steel, and cast-iron cookware. 5) Buy organic fruits, vegetables, and dairy and organic free-range meats.
Buy The New American Diet


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*image shown is 5 x 8 or larger rug
*smaller sizes will not show complete pattern, will be scaled down to fit.
Name: Seville Suzanie Denim Area Rugs
Manufacturer: TransOcean Rugs
Collection: Seville
Material: Wool
Construction: Hand Tufted
Colors: Blues , Multi
Origin: India
Description: Cut and loop construction with varying yarn types maximizes texture and creates for a dynamic artful design. (Seville Suzanie Denim Floral Hand Tufted Wool Rug)


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- Willamette
- Athletics
- News Archive
- 2007
- April
- Willamette Splits Doubleheader at Lewis & Clark
Softball | Friday, April 6, 2007
Willamette Splits Doubleheader at Lewis & Clark
PORTLAND, ORE. -- Willamette University and Lewis & Clark College split a Northwest Conference doubleheader at the Huston Sports Complex on Friday, April 6. Willamette won the first game 19-8, while L&C downed the Bearcats, 3-2, in the nightcap. The Bearcats, ranked #25 in this week's NFCA Top 25 Poll for NCAA Division III, ended the doubleheader with a 14-9 overall record, including 8-6 in the NWC. Lewis & Clark moved to 4-12 on the season, 2-16 in the NWC.
In the first game, Willamette pounded out 15 hits, walked 8 times and took advantage of nine errors by the Pioneers. The Bearcats allowed just six hits, but all six were in L&C's eight-run fifth inning off relief pitchers, after WU built a 12-0 lead in the first four innings.
WU starter Nikki Franchi (So., RHP, Los Gatos, CA/Saratoga HS) threw two separate stints during the game. She allowed no runs and no hits in a total of 5 1/3 innings. She struck out nine batters and allowed just one walk.
Franchi pitched the first three innings. L&C scored all eight runs (seven earned) in the fifth, before Franchi went back to the circle to pitch the final out of the inning, plus all three outs in the sixth and seventh innings.
After L&C cut the lead to 12-8 in the fifth stanza, WU added one run in the sixth. The 'Cats tacked on six additional runs in the seventh for the 11-run victory.
Franchi went 4 for 6 at the plate. She provided the Bearcats with two doubles, seven RBIs and two runs during the game. Liz Gilgan (Jr., SS, Sherwood, OR/Sherwood HS) went 3 for 4 with two runs and two RBIs, while Nicole Wallace (Fr., C, Roseville, CA/Roseville HS) was 2 for 4 with three runs and an RBI.
Barnes led all players in the first game with four runs scored. LaShawna Holcomb (So., CF, Renton, WA/Hazen HS) scored three times. Geneva Hale (Jr., 1B, Shoreline, WA/Shorecrest HS) was 2 for 5. L&C was led by Elizabeth Murrieta, who went 2 for 2 with two RBIs, a run and a walk, and by Char Skeffington, who was 1 for 2 and scored twice.
Pioneer pitcher Janet Freerks threw a complete-game four-hitter for Lewis & Clark in Game #2. She struck out seven batters and allowed three walks.
Willamette had the game's only home run, a solo blast by Molly Barnes to start the fourth inning and pull Willamette within 2-1. It was Barnes' fifth homer of the season.
L&C added a run in the fifth inning for a 3-1 lead. Franchi drove in the game's final run on a triple with one out in the top of the sixth, but ended the inning stranded at third. Franchi was 1 for 3 with a run and an RBI in the second game.
In the top of the seventh, Debra Bohren (Fr., RF, Tillamook, OR/Tillamook HS) walked, stole second and was sacrificed to third, but Freerks struck out the next two batters to end the game.
Freerks helped her own cause by going 2 for 3 at the plate with 2 RBIs. No one else for either team had more than one hit in Game #2.
Game #1 - Willamette University 19, Lewis & Clark College 8 - Box Score
Game #2 - Lewis & Clark College 3, Willamette University 2 - Box Score


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On a chalkboard or chart paper, divide a section into 2 columns. Label 1 column, "Christian behavior," and the other "Non-Christian behavior."
Solicit examples of both from participants of what they have witnessed within the past week. Examples might include sharing a seat on the bus (or refusing to), helping someone carry a heavy package, walking away from an argument, showing someone how to do something… Then, discuss their examples.
Talk about how they can make the coming week one that will have more examples of Christian behavior. Point out that this also helps make the world a better place in which to live.


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Born: July 17,1971
Spouse: Preeti
Parents: Pt. Shyama Narayan Shukla,Jadavati Devi
Zodiac: Cancer
Height: 6 feet 1 inches
Biography: One of the most popular faces of Bhojpuri cinema, Ravi Kishan has acted in a few Hindi movies as well. These include Bullet Raja, Luck, Agent Vinod, Dangerous Ishq, Welcome to Sajjanpur, Raavan, Phir Hera Pheri among others. In 2008, Ravi Kishan was awarded the Most Popular Actor award at ETV Bhojpuri Cinema Samman. He was also participant at Bigg Boss.See full bio
Ravi Kishan : VideosSee more videos
Ravi Kishan : Filmography
- Singh Saab The Great 2013
- Army (film)
- Zakhmi Dil (1994 Film)
- 1971 (film)
- Loot (2011 Film)


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You are here
Safe Kids Fargo/Moorhead
Safe Kids Fargo/Moorhead is led by Sanford Health, which provides dedicated and caring staff, operation support and other resources to assist in achieving our common goal: keeping your kids safe. Based on the needs of the community, this coalition implements evidence-based programs, such as car-seat checkups, safety workshops and sports clinics, that help parents and caregivers prevent childhood injuries.
Contact Address
Sanford Children's Hospital
801 N Broadway
Fargo, ND 58122-2257
Lead Organization
Phone Number
Coalition Coordinators
Elizabeth Oestreich
Email Address
Phone Number
Coordinator Address
Fargo, ND 58122


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Could there be a better papal sendoff?
Just what kind of retirement party do you give a pope? Since the Vatican has adhered to a "no pope left behind" policy for the past 600 years, this was surely a puzzler when Pope Benedict voluntarily cashed in his cassock last month.
Most popes, you see, are carried out feet first. Not since Gregory XII, in 1415, has a pope left office under his own steam.
So when Pope Benedict gave his two weeks notice, there was little time for the Vatican papal party planners to organize an elaborate shindig. As a result, a rather shoddy farewell reception was hastily thrown together.
But this need not be the case for future premature papal abdications if the Vatican introduces new celebratory protocols immediately.
To begin with, the farewell party should be an elegant affair. I don't think it was appropriate to give Benedict a pot-luck luncheon, even if there was plenty of angel food cake on hand. And whoever brought the deviled eggs needs some serious timeout in the confessional.
It was also apparent that the event lacked coordination when guests began arriving with duplicate dishes. Catholics have a good sense of humor, but did everyone have to bring along a plate of Ex-Benedict?
And what about those crazy cardinals who were clearly giddy on too much incense? What were they thinking — shamefully sending Benedict out at the last minute in the Popemobile to pick up a bucket of wings and slaw at the local Church's Chicken Drive-thru. That's just not right!
Fortunately, Pope Benny was a good sport and enjoyed one last spin around the block. But he was still disappointed when told he couldn't keep the Popemobile after retirement.
"No Your Holiness," the cardinals cautioned. "The job came with free room and board, but the company car stays for the new guy."
Another papal retirement consideration is the selection of suitable gifts. You just don't send a pope packing with a flagon of Holy Water and two weeks supply of communion wafers. And who was the guy that presented the pontiff with the tee-shirt inscribed with the catchy phrase "Abstinence makes the heart grow fonder"?
So what is appropriate to give a soon-to-be pope emeritus guy?
Clearly, gifts should be simple but tasteful. And honestly, you can't go wrong with sporting gear. I would recommend a handy new sports bag for those Wednesday bowling nights with the Dalai Lama. I believe the Vatican gets a discount in the sporting department of the local See's store.
In the event that His Ex-eminence remains active, the bag could also be used for his sports gear should he make the Vatican soccer team. No kidding. It turns out that Benedict's predecessor, Pope John Paul II, actually created a Vatican soccer team in 2000 — and no, they're not called the Cardinals.
At 85-years-old, however, I don't think Benedict will make the team. Which is a shame. He'd make an excellent goalie, especially after playing defense at the Vatican for so many years.
Finally, there's the question of entertainment. This is quite appropriate at a farewell papal event, provided the performers are low-key and dignified.
Sure, rolling in a giant cake was a nice way to thank Pope Benedict for eight years of Hail Mary's. I just think it was ill-conceived to hire a couple of nuns to leap out, wiggle their Rosary beads, and sing "Na Na Na Na, Hey Hey Hey, Goodbye."
I do hope the Vatican takes these suggestions into consideration because, let's be frank, it's unwise to send a disgruntled pope into retirement after a crappy sendoff. With all that free time, he might be tempted to revisit church scandals in a tell-all book.
And the last thing the pope-in-waiting wants to see atop the New York Times best seller list is a tawdry missive with a title like "Roman Rites and Wrongs."
Thomas' features and columns have appeared in more than 300 magazines and newspapers, including the Washington Post, LA Times, Chicago Tribune, Boston Globe, San Francisco Chronicle, and Christian Science Monitor. He can be reached at his blog: http://getnickt.blogspot.com


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J. Nadir Omowale, a.k.a. Nadir, was in an activist mood when we last heard from him. It was an election year - 2008, to be exact. The nation was involved in two wars and was about to enter the worst economic downturn since The Great Depression. Nadir looked at the state of the nation and the state of protest music, and must have concluded that new crises, atrocities, scandals and scams required some new protest music. Nadir responded by giving the world the polemical Working for the Man, an album with a title track that captured the zeitgeist of the time when banks got bailouts and workers and homeowners received foreclosure and lay-off notices.
It's 2012 and Nadir is back with his latest, The Book of Jonah. The title hints at another work of prophecy and judgment. However, The Book of Jonah returns to the thematic terrain of one of the guitarist's earlier election year releases – 2004's Distorted Soul, 2.0. The Book of Jonah features 11 energetic tracks that primarily deal with the artist's take on love and life. And while Working for the Man stands as one of the best records in the last five years due to its timeliness, The Book of Jonah will just have to settle for being one of the top albums of 2012.
Thematic differences aside, The Book of Jonah and its musical predecessor have a lot in common. The most obvious is that ease in which Nadir fuses all of his many musical influences. Nadir moved from funk, to rock, hip-hop, soul and Latin rock on Working for the Man.
The Book of Jonah features the rock/funk anthem "95 Miles Down the Road," a duet that pairs Nadir with frequent collaborator Mayaeni. The tune tells the story of people escaping a bad situation and is a track where it is possible to discern some type of political statement. Sometimes our current situation is so untenable that driving into the unknown stands as a better option than staying put. That's a message that someone stuck in a bad relationship with a lover or mired in rough economic waters might need to hear.
Another such track is "Stickin'" a funky, percussive, bass plucking number that finds Nadir letting a smooth talker know that he is listening closely to find the lie among all the flowery words. That's something that will work at nightclub and while watching the many political ads you will watch during election 2012.
Nadir showcases his ability to render a ballad on the mournful cut "The Bottle." This 'I can't quit you, even if you quit me' song that tells the story of the singer's unsuccessful attempt to use liquor to wash away the memory of a lost relationship. The track begins as a classic soul ballad, but moves into rock territory as the number reaches its crescendo. Vocally, Nadir begins this track in R&B mode, but he is going to church at the end as he growls "Woman I can't drink you out of my head/but I can't put the bottle down."
Although, The Book of Jonah is not as overtly political as Working for the Man, Nadir latest project yet manages to capture the tenor of the times: We are a war weary nation – whether the battles feature soldiers in far away lands or rhetorical political fights. Americans are stressed out emotionally and at their breaking point economically. An album of ballads and dance numbers might just be what war weary people are looking for. And if that's the case, The Book of Jonah stands as the perfect musical escape. Highly Recommended.
By Howard Dukes


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Nicolas Joly—the Father of Rebirth
Posted on March 6, 2010 in Wine
Nicolas Joly Clos de la Coulée de Serrant 2003
Nicolas Joly Clos de la Coulée de Serrant 2003
Medium-dark golden in color, with hints of orange. Deep, rich fruit, with faint sweet candied nuances— golden apple, lime, caramel, bright new wood; faint herbal notes, menthol, Corinth raisins, pineapple, lychee, plum, apricot, slightest hint of caramel, brown spices; as it evolves mineraltiy and nectar, caramelized apricots, pronounced nectar; faint white peach.
The palate is round with supple mouthfeel—amazing structure; lush golden apples, with ripe undercurrents of apricot, plum, brown spice; layers and layers of ripe fruit, faint nectar; faint lemon, crisp apples, mineral notes. Balanced acids, supple, lemon, apricot. Lingering, immensely full finish. Complete, luscious. Faint peach.
Opened 4 days: left in cupboard 20 hours— nose of golden apples, faint apricot, lemon peel bright, cedar, pear, faint pineapple and tropical fruit. Still well built, far from tired. The palate is balanced, golden apple, faint pear tropical fruit, traces of tame wood, apple sauce, lemon—amazing lingering balance.
For those who have miraculously not had the pleasure of getting to know these singular wines—they must be allowed time to open; and, ideally, age in the bottle. That said, young, they are simple astounding and unequaled.
To learn more about the biodynamic wine movement—Joly is the catalyst of its rebirth—read Wine: From Sky to Earth (Growing and Appreciating Biodynamic Wine). I dare you to put it down after reading the first page.


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City starts 2013-14 budget work with $5.2M gap
City officials start work on the fiscal 2013-14 budget needing to close a $5.2 million gap between projected revenues and expenses, Budget & Management Services Director Bertha Johnson said Friday.
The gap is the largest the City Council and City Manager Tom Bonfield have confronted since early in 2010, when they began deliberations on the fiscal 2010-11 budget facing a $16.3 million hole.
But a gap of some sort is the norm so early in a debate that won't end until mid-June. Revenue projections are still subject to change, and the manager has to cull the requests that come in from city department heads.
"All the things in the gap may not stay in" it once Bonfield and the council are done, Johnson said.
The spending projections assume, for starters, that the council will approve raises for city workers averaging 3 percent for line employees and 3.5 percent for sworn police officers.
Bonfield last year recommended awarding most city workers a 2 percent raise, slightly below the then-prevailing inflation rate. Inflation now is running at about 2.1 percent a year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Johnson's numbers also assume the council will allot $1 million in cash to keep up with street paving.
That's in line with the promises officials made community groups in 2010 when they were campaigning for a bond issue to pay for catch-up paving work. Several groups said they thought the city should be using cash, not debt, to pay for basic maintenance.
Officials responded to that prodding by raising cash allocations.
But they should have hit the $1 million mark in the current fiscal 2012-13 budget. They didn't. Bonfield recommended $750,000 instead, judging that amount "all we could do" given the council's wish for only a 1-cent increase in the property tax rate, with the extra revenue reserved for low-cost housing projects.
The fiscal 2013-14 projections also call for the city to put $500,000 in cash toward its capital improvement program, and to spend $600,000 on catch-up maintenance, a $100,000 increase from the current budget.
There's no cash allotment in the current budget for capital projects, a fact Councilman Steve Schewel picked up on.
"I question why we're putting cash into the CIP when interest rates [for borrowing] are so low," he said, alluding to a previous briefing from N.C. State University Michael Walden, who said rates are as low now as they're likely going to be.
Finance Director David Boyd responded that the Wall Street credit-rating agencies that monitor the fiscal practices of Durham and other cities also want to see it rely more on cash.
He also noted that the city has little room, under current council policy, for unplanned borrowing. It'll borrow to build a new police headquarters, but administrators have already factored that $45 million project into long-range spending projections.


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Used to upgrade several bicycles for Grandkids
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Nice upgrade
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Upgraded my shifters on my road bike. These worked well and were easy to install. Good price value.
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An in-depth look at the art of creating lifelike skins and textures for three-dimensional surfaces using 3ds Max 2010.
Demonstrates one of the most powerful toolsets for photorealistic 3D image visualization, the mental ray renderer in 3ds Max.
Provides everything new users need to know to complete an animation project, while offering tips and tricks to improve experienced users' productivity and workflow.
Explores many of the new cutting-edge features, including the brand-new Modeling Ribbon and advancements designed to improve scene interactivity and production workflow.
"Your presenters are superb. They work well with the camera, they are eloquent, speak well, and establish a collegial rapport with the learner." —Brian C.
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Press release from Marketwire
Fortress Paper to Release Second Quarter 2011 Earnings
Monday, July 25, 2011
Fortress Paper to Release Second Quarter 2011 Earnings18:59 EDT Monday, July 25, 2011VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - July 25, 2011) -NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES.Fortress Paper Ltd. (TSX:FTP) ("Fortress Paper" or the "Corporation") announced today that it intends to release its second quarter financial results for the period ended June 30th, 2011 after the close of the market on Monday, August 8th, 2011. In connection with the release of its results, Fortress Paper will host a conference call Tuesday, August 9th, 2011 at 9:30 a.m. (PST) to discuss the financial results and the Corporation's operations. Mr. Chadwick Wasilenkoff, Chief Executive Officer, Alfonso Ciotola, President, Erich Sulser, Chief Operating Officer, Kurt Loewen, Chief Financial Officer and Peter Vinall, President and Chief Executive Officer of Fortress Specialty Cellulose Inc. will host the call.To participate in the conference call, please dial one of the following numbers:Dial In Numbers:604-681-0262 Vancouver403-532-8075 Calgary or International780-429-7423 Edmonton647-837-0597 Toronto613-683-0932 Ottawa514-788-7663 MontrealToll Free Dial In Number:1-877-353-9586 from Canada and USAParticipant Pass Code:98030#Conference Reference Number:604941A replay of the conference call will be available for 7 days. To access the replay, listeners may dial 1-877-353-9587 from Canada & the USA or dial 403-699-1055 from local Calgary or International. The conference reference number is 604941 # and the participant pass code to access the replay is 98030 #.About Fortress Paper Ltd.Fortress Paper is a leading international producer of security and other specialty papers and products. Fortress Paper operates three mills, the Landqart Mill located in Switzerland, the Dresden Mill located in Germany and the Fortress Specialty Cellulose Mill located in Quebec, Canada. Fortress Paper's security papers include banknote, high security, passport and visa papers and its specialty papers include non-woven wallpaper base products. Fortress Paper's pulp business includes NBHK produced at the Fortress Specialty Cellulose Mill with plans to convert this capacity into dissolving pulp production along with the construction of a biomass based cogeneration plant.FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: Chadwick WasilenkoffFortress Paper email@example.com


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This week on the business intelligence blog round-up we would like to shout out to Jaime Fitzgerald. Jaime is founder and president at Fitzgerald Analytics. Prior to that he was a manager at ABeam Consulting and a manager at Braun Consulting. He has been published on Dataversity and in the Journal of Management Development. You can keep up-to-date with Jaime on his blog and via Twitter under the handle @jaimefitzgerald.
We would also like to mention the work of Tamara Dull. Tamara is a director of emerging technologies at the SAS Institute. She previously ran her own consultancy and before that was a product manager at Lyzasoft. She blogs about about tech and business intelligence on her website and she regularly tweets under the handle @tamaradull.
Finally this week we would like to give a mention to Jim Harris. Jim is an independent consultant, speaker and freelance writer. He is a regular contributor to Information-Management.com and DataRoundtable.com. He previously held the role of contributing editor at Data Quality Pro and was qualitystage architect at RedRiver Systems. He publishes the Obsessive-Compulsive Data Quality blog and is on Twitter under the handle @ocdqblog.


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Duke target Jabari Parker to be on the cover of Sports Illustrated
Chicago high school basketball prodigy and Duke target Jabari Parker will add to his illustrious resume next month when becomes the first high school basketball player since Lebron James to be feature on the cover of Sports Illustrated. The cover refers to Parker as "best high school basketball player since LeBron James," with a picture courtesy of Chicago Hoops.
The honor will continue to fuel the hype of Parker's highly contested recruitment, which Blue Devil head coach Mike Krzyzewski is heavily invested in. Parker, the consesus No. 1 ranked player in the class of 2013, is considering Duke, North Carolina, Washington, Illonois, Michigan State, Kentucky and Kansas, among others.
Current rumblings indicate that Spartan head coach Tom Izzo may be in the lead for landing Parker's services, however, this is pure speculation at this point. Parker and his family have not publicly shown any signs of favoritism.
Since receiving a scholarship offer from Duke in 2010, Parker, who plays on the Mac Irvin Fire AAU team, has been closely tracked by the Blue Devil coaching staff during evualtion periods.
Parker last visited Duke in January of 2011 for the home game against Maryland. Due to his busy basketball schedule at Simeon high school, who plays a national schedule, Parker was unable to take an unofficial visit to Durham this past season.
No definite timetable for Parker's college announcement has been set, though, he has expressed that a fall decision is possible. Parker will likely take all five of his official visits, one of which Duke will be expected to receive.


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Fans Get Up Close With Favorite Soap Stars
"Days Of Our Lives" actors visit Des Peres to promote new book
by Linda Jarrett
Actors from "Days of Our Lives," from left, James Reynolds, Bryan Dattilo and Kate Mansi greet fans a book signing at Barnes and Noble on Monday.
photo by Diana Linsley
click for larger version
September 27, 2013
Actors from the Emmy-award winning soap opera, "Days of Our Lives," thrilled hundreds of fans at a book signing at the Des Peres Barnes and Noble on Monday night, Sept. 23.
The actors are on a multi-state tour to plug the show's newly released book, "Days of Our Lives: Better Living," which came out that day. Groups of five actors are visiting various cities. The St. Louis group included James Reynolds (Abe), Bryan Datillo (Lucas), Shawn Christian (Daniel), Arianne Zucker (Nicole) and Kate Mansi (Abigail). They spoke with fans at Barnes and Noble after spending the day doing TV promos and visiting the John Cochran V.A. Medical Center.
Better Living Book
The book, written by Greg Meng and Eddie Campbell, features five lifestyle categories: Nutrition, exercise, style, inspiration and balance. It includes tips and recipes given by the actors on how they keep body and mind together, in spite of the rigors of filming a five-day-a-week show.
It came about after the actors toured in 2010 for the show's 45th anniversary. Meng, the show's co-executive producer, said that fans wanted to know how cast members never seemed to age and how they stayed in shape.
This book will give fans an insight into the actors' private lives.
"We're on screen and people want to know what we do," Zucker said. "We're kind of mentors, but there is an element of privacy that we like to maintain. We share ourselves in the book."
Mansi agreed.
"It's a beautiful thing when we can share a little piece with our fans about ourselves in a way that's very relatable," she said.
Reynolds said the book is about how everyone maintains themselves with their own personal philosophy of staying healthy, involved and energetic.
Reynolds, who has been on the show for the better part of 32 years, uses the treadmill 30 minutes a day, four days a week. He also owns a television and film production company, which allows him another outlet for his creative energy.
Datillo said he loves "the big three" - basketball, football and baseball.
"I have a 13-year-old son who is involved in all sports, and I coach him," he said. "But now he's out-jumping me on jump balls!"
In his quiet time, he writes poetry and spends time with his family.
Christian also loves basketball and said, "If there's a court nearby, I'll be late for my own funeral."
He quiets his mind by painting. He is quoted in the book saying, "I've always gravitated towards creating something out of nothing."
Zucker does not confine herself to one activity.
"I do 175,000 things because I'm a Gemini and a workaholic. I've had a job since I was 15, and ridden horses since I was three," she said. "I also waterski, golf and play basketball.
She is also committed to an organization she co-founded with her brother, Todd. Arrow Heart Adventure Camp, a camp for nonviolent teenagers at risk of being incarcerated, will be launched on Sept. 29 in Boise, Idaho.
Mansi has been dancing for years and moved from studying ballet to modern and contemporary.
"I think this book is fantastic because it showcases just a tidbit of our favorite things," she said.
Datillo spoke about the show's recipe for success.
"Ours is like American pie. It's like a staple of the nation, and I think 'Days' is different from other soaps in the way people perceive it," he said.
"They (fans) love what we do, they believe who we are, believe our lives, and love to fall into an alternate reality once a day and get away from whatever is on their minds," he said.
"Days of Our Lives"
"Many of our fans have said they started watching with their mothers or grandmothers, and it mirrors the family values we have," Mansi said.
Soaps have to change with the times, and "Days" is no different.
"To maintain the idea of fantasy and romance, drama and intrigue throughout the decades and still be relevant is the hardest part," Christian said. "Now we have a gay story line, very hip, so you can continue to maintain your roots and be true to what created the show, but push the envelope a little."
Many times, fans forget that these individuals are actors, and will come to them with their personal problems, which is what happened to Reynolds when he was on a USO tour in Iraq.
"A young Marine came up to me sobbing, and said his wife was leaving him," said Reynolds, who has had his share of relationship problems on the show. "I talked to him for half an hour giving advice, and it was nice to be able to give somebody comfort."
With 48 years under its belt, "Days" actors have seen cast members come and go, and they consider themselves a family.
"Kate and I are relative newcomers," Christian said. "We listen to them tell stories of past decades of people who have come and gone, but they have maintained friendships and loyalty to each other."
"Everyone is so dedicated to their job and characters, and their understanding of that makes the show better," Datillo said.
While some characters portray people who may have some less-than-desirable qualities - or worse - fans connect with them.
"Even though Ari's character, Nicole, is not always the nicest person, and Brian has had issues, the audience loves those people because who they really are shines through," Reynolds said. "There's a charm, a kindness, and that's how I feel about knowing the people in this room."
And, in case fans are wondering, all of these actors look just as good in person as they do on the show, so they must practice what they preach.
"Days of Our Lives: Better Living" is on sale now at bookstores.
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Mariner is designed with sleek lines and an unobstructed vision field with its wrapped lens and semi-rimless, polycarbonate frame. Hypoallergenic rubber temple tips and adjustable nose pads features add custom fit and comfort to this lightweight style.
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text: Skimp on iron and zinc and your energy will flag. Cooking up some juicy chicken thighs or turkey drumsticks is the best way to get more of both. "Dark-meat poultry is significantly lower in fat than red meat yet has all the iron, zinc, and B vitamins that women need in their diets," says Seattle sports nutritionist Susan Kleiner, Ph.D., author of Power Eating.


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my g4 ipod is dying:(
hi, i have a g4 ipod that is VERY special to me.
like this one: http://bjercke.com/img/400x400_iPodG4.jpg
i use a mac at home but i went to my parents house for the weekend where they use windows XP, my ipod worked fine in both disk mode and normal mode. i put some films on there in disk mode to take home with me and put some new albums on there. it still worked fine.
but then it stopped working:( although fully charged the low battery symbol was stuck on the screen, sometimes it would be an apple logo stuck on the screen for ages and occationly a sad ipod would appear.
for a while it would still go onto disk mode, but now its not even doing that:(
i really really really dont want this ipod to be broken, it has alot of sentimental value please help!
Are you able to boot into diagnostic mode?
(If not there isn't much hope)
Do you hear the hard drive? Any clicking sounds coming from it?
Well, in the worst case scenario, you can replace your battery/hard drive/logic board/faceplate and keep the back plate (if it's an engraving that you're attached to). You can replace parts in it and still have it be "your" old iPod.
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A house fire in Wylam would probably be about $5,000 bucks in damage if it was totaled.
Well they look like such good boys.
The problem with Bama is they have no half court game. Grant has a bunch of good athletes but no basketball players. They need to run the court and try to score in transition. When there are no shooters one has to manufacture points. This team sux as usual. Thank God for football.
Bama can't shoot worth dick. They will be lucky to go .500 in sec play.
I think we should have public hangings. One could charge admission and the state could try and recoup some of the money it has spent feeding this trash. We might even go as far as pay per view. We could have an emcee do a bio on this thug before the hanging detailing his worthless life. I would buy a ticket for sure. Even better would be multiple hangings at the same time.
Lets just be honest. They don't want white man telling them how to do their jobs. They are idiots and incapable of managing the county.
This cat looks like he just came out of Sunshine Trailor Park. Kinda reminds me of Joe Dirt.
Just another day in paradice my friends.
Why the heck is this newsworthy? Not only did he run a crummy food joint his articles on the great outdoors sucked too. I think his next career should be to enter those eating contest. I believe he could excel at that.
I don't understand how the law can require one to wear seatbelts in a car and motorcycles are legal. It just doesn't make any sense to me. God be with this man's family.
The truth will set you free but in this case it will set your scholarships to a dismal number. It's is coming and soon.
I think the title of mayor of Bummerham should be changed to zoo keeper or warden. Just seems to fit better.
With all the killing in Bummerham one would think people would have more to worry about than the snakes. Speices die out every year. Its called survival of the fittest. Right now the thugs in Bummerham are at their heyday.
Thugs R Us Can't Swim A Lick Complex. People will kill to get in the place. Bust a sag brothers.
Seperation of church and state. Take it down. I am a believer but not all are. Might as well put a monument to every religion in the world if this is ok. Our country was founded on Christian principles. Our forefathers came to this land to escape religious persecution that is why they were smart enough to include the seperation clause.
Your right John. We do need more guns. If the couple that was shot was packing heat they may not have been shot. Gun Control= Kill what your shooting at.
I think 40 lashes would do the trick.
How come everyone wants to pump up someone about losing weight. He should have never gotten himself so blowed up in the first place. I am 51 and weigh about the same as I did in high school. If I felt I was gaining weight I would correct my eating habits quickly. He was a pig and now he isn't. Simple as that.
How do you abuse a corpse?
At ausouthal. Thats the pot calling the kettle black.


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William Butler Yeats Collection is a complete electronic version of the scholarly edition of Yeats's work, bringing together 22 printed volumes and including critical and fictional prose, poetry, plays, and autobiographical works.
Photographs, newspaper clippings, maps, postcards, and other ephemera depicting life at Miami and in Oxford during the 1960s.
Exhibit on display in King 321.
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You never know who might be watching. That's the attitude of Charleston Battery midfielder Nicki Paterson.
Every time he takes the field against a Major Soccer League opponent, Paterson feels like he's auditioning for the next level.
Paterson certainly put on a show worthy of consideration for a leading role on an MLS team Saturday night.
Paterson scored two goals and Quinton Griffith had a goal and an assist to lead Charleston past the Houston Dynamo reserve team, 4-1, before a crowd of 2,988 at Blackbaud Stadium.
With the victory, the Battery snapped a three-game home winless streak. The Battery, who had been 0-1-2 in their last three home games, improved to 7-3-2 (23 points) and moved into sole possession of third place in the USL Pro standings.
After helping lead the Battery to a USL Pro division championship a year ago, Paterson spent most of the offseason training with the MLS' New York Red Bulls. When he didn't earn a contract, Paterson returned to the Battery.
"There are a couple of guys on our team that probably deserve to be playing in the MLS," Paterson said. "We don't think there's a lot of difference between the fringe players in the MLS and guys on our team. Any time you've got a chance to prove that, you want to go out and play your best."
Paterson and the Battery have certainly been at their best against MLS opponents during the regular sason. This was the second time the Battery has beaten the Houston reserve team and the third win over an MLS opponent in the regular season. Charleston defeated San Jose, 1-0, on May 28 in the third round of the U.S. Open Cup. The Battery will get another chance against an MLS team on Wednesday when they play at Real Salt Lake in the fourth round of the U.S. Open Cup.
"I don't know what it is about playing MLS teams, but it seems to bring out the best in us," Paterson said. "They give us a certain amount of respect and let us pass the ball, and tonight we proved we can pass the ball and break teams down."
Besides a brief lapse defensively that led to the Dynamo's only goal, it was one of the most complete performances of the season for the Battery.
"I know the guys wanted to make up for Wednesday's draw against Charlotte," Battery head coach Mike Anhaeuser said. "This is a huge confidence boost for the guys. We needed a performance like this. We haven't been playing that great at home over the past couple of weeks."
Charleston grabbed a 1-0 lead on Paterson's free kick in the 18th minute. After a hard challenge on Charleston striker Dane Kelly, the Battery was awarded a free kick from about 25 yards out. Paterson's bending shot beat Houston keeper Tyler Deric for the score.
Charleston pushed its advantage to 2-0 on Jose Cuevas' first goal of the season. Midfielder Bryce Alderson sent a searching ball into the box on a corner kick. The ball squirted to the back post where Cuevas was waiting and slammed the ball home for the score in the 63rd minute.
Houston midfielder Brian Ownby scored less than 30 seconds later to cut the gap 2-1.
Charleston answered in the 77th minute on Paterson's second goal. Griffith got the ball about 35 yards out and found Paterson, who headed the ball in from just outside the six-yard box.
The Battery took a 4-1 lead when Griffith volleyed home a pass from Mike Azira for the score in stoppage time.
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Experience the wonder of Santa's Magical Trail
Christmas starts here! Join Santa's elves on a wonderful journey through Santa's Magical Trail – a fun filled experience for children young and old! Wander through the magical forest and follow the trail of the Mad Hatter to his crazy tea party and discover his security tips for keeping Rudolph safe and in tip top form for the big day.
Check in on the elves to make sure they're hard at work – especially Lazybones, as he has a habit of sleeping on the job! Visit Mrs Clause in Santa's house where you might catch her in the middle of preparing Santa's tea and if you're lucky she'll show you where Santa sleeps.
Step inside the elfs den to see how Santa's Magical Reindeer Food is created – can you guess the secret ingredient? Then, hop onto Santa's Magical Carriage where the elves will whisk you off to Santa's farm to meet all the other animals and find out what jobs Santa has given them.
On your return, challenge Mam and Dad to a snowball fight in The North Pole snow room, before visiting Santa himself in his magical grotto - he will have a present ready for all the good boys and girls.
Unwrap your gift in Snow Whites cottage while you enjoy a cup of hot chocolate with marshmallows.
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Book a trip on Santa's Magical Trail and you can also choose to enhance your experience with any of the following.