text:
Paul Krugman: An Economic Perspective on 'The Mess We're In'Paul Krugman: An Economic Perspective on 'The Mess We're In'http://www.haverford.edu/calendar/details/166932Founders Great Hall2011-03-28T17:30:002011-03-28T19:00:00
March 28,2011 5:30PM–7:00PM
Founders Great Hall
Made possible through the Comanor '59 Lecture Series
"The most important political columnist in America." -The Washington Monthly
An economist, prolific writer and sought-after international speaker, Paul Krugman divides his energies among many pursuits. He is professor of economics and international affairs at Princeton University, and is, perhaps, best-known as op-ed columnist for The New York Times, a job he began in 2000. For his work on global trade patterns, Krugman won the 2008 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences.
His reputation extends well beyond the U.S. The Asia Times called him "the Mick Jagger of political/economic punditry." The Economist said he is "the most celebrated economist of his generation." Spain awarded him the Asturias Award, often called the European Pulitzer Prize, given by the King of Spain.
Author or editor of more than 20 books and 200 professional journal articles, he received the John Bates Clark Medal from the American Economic Association, an award given every two years to the top economist under the age of 40.
Unlike many others in his field, Krugman has written extensively for non-economists, including monthly columns for Fortune and Slate. His credits include The New York Review of Books, Rolling Stone, The New Republic, Foreign Policy, Newsweek and The New York Times Magazine, to name some highlights.
Prior to his appointment at Princeton, Krugman served on the faculty of MIT as Ford International Professor of Economics. He also taught at Yale, Stanford and the London School of Economics. Before his teaching career, he was senior international economist for the President's Council of Economic Advisers, under Ronald Reagan. (Yes, he served under a conservative President.)
He is a Fellow of the Econometric Society, a Research Associate of the National Bureau of Economic Research, and a member of the Group of Thirty. He has served as a consultant to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, the United Nations, as well as to a number of countries including Portugal and the Philippines.
Both of his recent books, THE RETURN OF DEPRESSION ECONOMICS AND THE CRISIS OF 2008 and THE GREAT UNRAVELING, were highly praised and became New York Times bestsellers. Krugman and his wife, Robin Wells, currently collaborate on two college textbooks -- MICROECONOMICS and MACROECONOMICS.
They live in New Jersey with their two cats.
This is Paul Krugman's second official visit to the College. He was awarded an honorary degree in 2004
For More Info
Kim Minor


text:
One 5770 or paired with a X1900
Hey guys,
I'm new here so my apologizes if this is a stupid question. I'm currently running a Mac Pro 1.1 with 2.66 dual cores. I've bought a ATI 5770 as a video card upgrade to this machine, I run mostly Aperture for photo editing so nothing extreme really. It's also got an X1900 (Soon to be replaced by an 8800GT I believe from Apple) and I'm wondering as I'm running triple 21.5" displays (Currently my centre is ran from the 5770 and the two secondary off the X1900) is it better to run them this way or to simply run all three from the 5770. Also for triple monitor gaming (I do VERY little) is it able to be done from one single card, or multiple cards. Or is an external unit such as the Triple Head 2 Go needed?
Thanks in advance for your help!
Not sure I can be of much help with the overall question but I do have a suggestion for something to ask. There are similar devices on the market which connect anywhere from one to three external monitors to a computer. Some play nice with the Mac and some may not due to lack of drivers.
The other issue which pops up from time to time is a lack of full Open GL support. That may not seem like a big deal but Open GL is sometimes involved in something as basic as applying effects to photos in iPhoto.
|All times are GMT -4. The time now is 12:14 AM.
Powered by vBulletin
Copyright ©2000 - 2015, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
By Sgt. Sean Kimmons, USASpecial to American Forces Press Service
FORWARD OPERATING BASE MCHENRY, Iraq, Dec. 1, 2004 When soldiers conduct convoys in Iraq, they try to watch out for and stay far away from improvised explosive devices.
For the Sappers of Company B, 65th Engineer Battalion attached to Task Force 1- 27 Infantry, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, it's a little different. When the Sappers perform route clearances, their intent is to hunt down these IEDs and make sure they get destroyed.
Route-clearance missions are carried daily inside Task Force 1-27's area of operations. The Sappers have been executing these missions three to four times a week in this area.
"The main thing about the route clearances is ensuring that the (multinational forces) can use the main supply routes safely and also to help out the civilians. We make sure no one gets hurt or hit by an IED," said Army Staff Sgt. Earl Mendoza, a squad leader with the unit.
Since February, the Sappers have cleared more than 50 IEDs as part of their route-clearance missions. The busiest month was July, when they found 13 IEDs in just seven days.
To find IEDs, the Sappers drive in the middle of the roadway at about 10 to 15 miles per hour. If something looks suspicious along the roadway, they stop and investigate. "We look into common spots where (insurgents) would place IEDs, like an old IED hole or underneath culverts," said Army Sgt. Joseph Gumbakis, a team leader.
Disturbed dirt and trash with wires or antennas protruding from it are other things they look out for along the roadside, Gumbakis said. When the Sappers do find an IED, they secure the area, look for secondary explosive devices, find the triggerman and call the explosive-ordnance- detachment guys, who either disarm the IED or destroy it on site, Mendoza said.
While performing route clearance on Nov. 12, the Sappers found a 500-pound bomb rigged up as an IED hidden inside an old IED hole. "That bomb, hooked up as an IED, could have done some major damage," Mendoza said.
Stories like the 500-pound bomb discovery and many more help build the confidence of soldiers who travel along these main supply routes, Mendoza said.
Unfortunately, being in harm's way has taken a toll on the Sappers. "There have been times where we've found IEDs the hard way," Mendoza said. "We've been lucky only to have very minor injuries."
(Army Sgt. Sean Kimmons is assigned to the Public Affairs Office of the 25th Infantry Division.)


text:
It has been a little while since we revamped our website, so we thought it was time for SEARHC.org to get a facelift. For those of you that haven't seen it yet, I invite you to browse the pages and see what we've done. The new look is much fresher and more modern with an updated masthead and menu. Several new images were also added to the slideshow on the home page.
The same content and resources you've come to rely on is still there. Over time, you may begin to notice some additional changes, all of which is intended to improve your experience with the SEARHC website. We will continually strive to make the site as informative and user-friendly as possible. I hope you like the new look as much as I do.
Many of you know that we frequently bring traveling medical specialists to hold specialty clinics at our various facilities. This saves our patients the time and expense of traveling to receive services not usually available in all of the communities we serve.
Some of the upcoming clinics include optometry, dentistry, audiology, gynecology, orthopedics, neurology, cardiology, and many others.
You are encouraged to visit the "Specialty Clinic" section of our website to see what specialists will be coming to your community in the coming months. You may make an appointment directly or contact your provider about any necessary referrals.
Announcement for a September 15-18 Wrangell Eye Clinic
This time of year can be stressful for families; back to school, homework, extracurricular activities, and once you have finally settled into a routine, it seems to ramp up again as the holiday season approaches.
Stress is defined as any type of change that causes physical, emotional or psychological strain. The first symptoms are relatively mild, like chronic headaches and increased susceptibility to colds. With more exposure to chronic stress, however, more serious health problems may develop. It's also not unusual for mental health issues, especially anxiety and depression, to occur with long-term diseases.
If you're feeling the pressure, psychotherapy is a popular form of treatment for stress, anxiety and panic attacks, and is readily available.
We have clinicians in Juneau, Sitka, POW, Hoonah and Haines who can help. For those that are too far away or aren't comfortable seeing a clinician in person, we have clinicians ready to see people by video chat using Polycom. Please call your local clinic to make an appointment with one of our Behavioral Health clinicians, or if you'd rather see a clinician using video chat, call 966-8929 to meet with our clinician who devotes her time to seeing whoever, where ever they are via Polycom.
Beginning September 16th, SEARHC is offering the option of Group Medical Visits at ELMC in Juneau to patients with diabetes.
Group Medical visits are shared medical appointments with about 10-15 others who have the same health condition and include the participation of a medical provider and diabetes educator. Patients talk to others with diabetes, learn about related health issues, and explore skills to help manage their diabetes. Patients also meet with their provider privately.
For more information, patients in Juneau are encouraged to speak to their medical provider, local Diabetes Educator or call the Ethel Lund Medical Center at 463-6664 to schedule participation in a group visit.
SEARHC has a web-based Nurse Triage Smartphone application (or app) for your Smartphone called "Healthcare on the Hip." It contains an extensive library which can help you assess health concerns whenever & wherever your mobile device can get service. It is a convenient tool to help you decide whether you should contact your provider or can treat something at home. To download the web-based Smartphone app, you can visit the Nurse Triage Line page to learn how.
The Injury Prevention Falls Prevention Program kicked off the "Sitka Senior Walking Group" at the Sitka Memorial National Park in June, and there will be weekly walks for the rest of the summer. Walkers of all ages and activity levels are welcome to meet outside the National Park Visitor's center on Tuesdays at 10:15AM. For more information contact SEARHC's Injury Prevention program at (907) 966-8866
Alaska Natives and American Indians may be eligible for free additional health insurance coverage through a trial program known as Tribally Sponsored Health Insurance Program (T-SHIP). Anyone interested in being screened for health insurance coverage should call Andrea Thomas at (907) 966-8883 or email email Andrea.


text:
The boys are trading in snow for rain as they make their way to the Pacific Northwest. Mike and John test out their sea legs on a sailing excursion on Puget Sound before discovering a very different style of tailgating. The guys break into the bar before 7am, chant along with the drum line, and then John takes a nap while Mike tours the lots.
Tailgate32 is a 32-part documentary series that follows the journey of adventure-loving brothers Mike and John Trupiano as they tour the country in a 42-foot RV to explore the American traditions of road tripping, tailgating, and professional football. They push themselves to the extremes on this 25000-mile nonstop trek, struggle with an RV that seems to have a mind of its own, and discover what drives the world's most passionate and colorful fans.


text:
Tags dubstep, house, techno, eurodance, dance
Artists Pendulum, Wiley, Hyper
May 09, 2012
A two hour electronic journey through some of my favorite danceable songs.
With the Lights Off by The Inseam
For those late nights when the buzz is still going.
electroclash, electro house, synthpunk, electronic, trip-hop
Alone Again by The Inseam
If you weren't depressed before, you well be now.
industrial, futurepop, darkwave, electro house, new wave
Predicting the Day by The Inseam
A Ladytron inspired journey, ranging from ethereal/danceable female-fronted sounds to more electronic and bass-driven moments.
future pop, goth, shoegaze, synthpop, new wave
Stuff by The Inseam
future pop, electroclash, industrial, goth


text:
Georgia Chapter
Atlanta, GA 30309 Map 404-431-5213 Visit website
The U.S. Green Building Council-Georgia Chapter (USGBC-GA) exists to advance and promote sustainable and environmentally responsible planning, design, construction and operation of the Georgia's buildings, landscapes, cities and communities; Support the growth and adoption of renewable energy in Georgia and the Southeast; Support the training and growth of the green jobs economy in Georgia and the Southeast; Successfully support all schools in Georgia becoming high performance, healthy schools within 30 years (by 2040).
The state of Georgia is currently ranked #7 in the nation for LEED registered buildings; with over 250 LEED Certified buildings, 989 LEED Registered buildings, and over 3,300 LEED Accredited Professionals (LEED APs) - making Georgia one of the strongest states in the U.S. with regards to sustainable development and green building. Over 400 companies from Georgia are National Member companies of USGBC further demonstrating the strength of the market.USGBC-GA has developed a comprehensive High Performance, Healthy Schools Program that promotes energy & water efficiency (both through retrofits and conservation efforts), sustainable operations & maintenance, and improved indoor air quality for the over 3,000 builidngs in the Georgia Public School & Private School systems.Program partners include: the Office of Lt. Governor Casey Cagle, United Parcel Service (UPS), Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta, the International Knowledge & Resarch Center for Green Building at Southern Polytechnic State University, SkillsUSA Georgia, Clean Air Campaign, and the Construction Education Foundation of Georgia (CEFGA).Founded in 2001, the Atlanta Chapter constructed the foundation of the U.S. Green Building Council Georgia Chapter (USGBC-GA) under the umbrella of Southface Energy Institute. In 2003, the Savannah Chapter was launched to promote sustainable development along the Coastal Empire.In 2008, the Atlanta and Savannah Chapters merged to create the statewide organization known as USGBC-GA. This organization continues to support the development of thriving, livable and highly sustainable communities throughout Georgia. USGBC-GA has become a leading non-profit organization with four regional Branches in: Atlanta, Augusta, Central Georgia, and Savannah; and two Organizing Branches in Athens and Columbus.The organization achieves its mission through public policy and community outreach programs, educational initiatives, and advocacy for USGBC's internationally-recognized LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Certification Program, renewable energy policy, green jobs creation and development, and green building code adoption. Through its advocacy efforts – both within and outside the industry – the USGBC-GA Chapter is helping to improve indoor air quality, reduce CO2 emissions, spur greater energy efficiency, conserve water resources, and develop a strong green jobs economy in the Southeast.


text:
Myson Hydronic Toe Kick Heater - Whispa III 7000
- Under Counter Kickspace Heater - 5,335 to 7,534 BTU - Plug-in Cord
Product ID • WHISPA370000
Myson is a big name in the world of hydronic heat, setting the standard of design and performance in high efficiency compact kickspace heaters. Myson's Whispa III 7000 kickspace heaters are compact, saves space and can be installed in hard to heat areas. Myson Whispa III 7000 are quiet & efficient while delivering convection heat where and when you need it.
Myson Whispa III 7000 toe kick heater is engineered to simply last longer, stay quieter and deliver a heat output you can rely on for accuracy and reliability year after year. They fit easily under a counter, window seat or stairs.
The Whispa III 7000 kick space heater delivers reliability. Each unit has sealed porous bronze sleeve bearings, a rugged two piece motor, a triple reinforced tangential fan, and a high strength rocker switch assembly. Each unit is fully tested, thoroughly inspected and hand packaged at the factory to arrive at the site ready to install and ready to run. Installs with ease.
Inlet and outlet connections are conveniently located together and are easily accessible from the rear. The electrical controls allow for the unit to be controlled directly with the two-speed switch or with a remote speed controller. Service is a snap. The two-piece motor snaps out with an easy quarter turn for quick replacement and a quick service call. In the unlikely event you should ever need service, MYSON's three year warranty assures you that MYSON is confident their product meets the highest quality standards for workmanship and reliability.
Manuals & Docs
Technical Specs
Myson Whispa III 7000 Hydronic Toe-Kick Space Heater Specs
- Dimensions
- 3 15/16 Inches X 21 5/8 Inches by 12 13/16 Inches
- Pipe Connection
- 1/2 Inch Copper
- Grille Color
- Black
- Steady Power Consumption
- 40 Watts
- Pipe Connection
- 1/2 Inch Copper
- Noise Level Fan Power - Low
- 26.4 dBA at 8 feet
- Noise Level Fan Power - Boost
- 37.2 dBA at 8 feet
- Baseboard Replacement
- up to 14.4 Feet
- Weight
- 13 Pounds
- Btu/hr. Range
- 5,335 to 7,534
- Optional
- EZ hose Kit 7000EZ Model
Info & Links


text:
Certainly you haven't forgotten about the soulful British chanteuse who owned 2012 with her diamond-selling 21. Adele's 19 followed by 21 were all about heartbreak. There was nothing for the make-us-cry-with-emotion singer to write or sing about after falling madly in love with Simon Konecki. After the 2012 Grammys she took a hiatus from music to do things rich people in love do– having a baby whose name she won't reveal yet (more on that in a bit). As she slowly creeps back into music with the James Bond 007 theme song "Skyfall" her presence has been requested for an Oscars performance to which she's happily obliged.
According to various reports the new mom is scheduled to perform her Best Oscar Song nominated "Skyfall" at this year's Oscars. Adele's back, baby! Our britches are burning with excitement for a live performance from the singers' singer belting out bluesy soul from the depth of her belly. Maybe she'll bring along baby Angelo whose name we're not sure is Angelo, but per E! Adele sported an ineligible necklace which is assumed to be the baby's name. With a performance on the horizon, let the new Adele songs fall from the sky.
Adele to Perform Live at Oscars: How Long Has it Been? [Pop Dust]
[Photo: Getty Images]


text:
Leave a response… Great to see the families, what a great idea to posting them!
Host Families Welcome Goshen Students
Goshen students met their Lima host families on Friday after a day spent touring downtown Lima.
The students prepared to meet their host parents and siblings by reviewing information about their families, including the locations of their homes, and studying (and practicing) Peruvian greetings and farewells. Celia, our study coordinator, served as the expert in residence, instructing students in how women greet women (kiss alongside the cheek), women greet men (kiss alongside the cheek) and men greet men (handshake) — and in all cases, hugs may be part of the greeting as well.
Parents began arriving soon after the bus delivered us to the Anglican Cathedral of the Good Shepherd (Buen Pastor).
For many students, it's both an exciting and anxious time, sitting alongside each other on the stage of the main hall at Buen Pastor, wondering who will be picked up next. And then, What to say? How to say it?
Some parents left their host children no time to wonder. When Trevor's host mother arrived, she called out from across the room, "Trevor!"
Some parents showed early flashes of humor. When Frances' host father offered to help carry her bags, she said, "Are you sure?" He responded, "I may be going on 60, but I'm not an old man!"
The combination of students studying sign language and Spanish added interest to the introductions. Danielle and Jessica need not have worried about their grasp of Spanish when they met their host sister, one of three sisters in the family who are deaf. Within seconds, they were communicating, finding common ground in signs.
Just before Max's host mother ushered him out the door, she whispered to us the refrain of all the parents, spoken or unspoken: "Don't worry. I'll take good care of him."
Students quickly gathered their belongings, posed for photos and then headed home, some by bus, others by taxi. They'll return to Buen Pastor on Monday morning, for lectures followed by language classes.
15 Students Arrive Safely: Peru SST Officially Under Way »
Comments (3)
So nice to see the students with their families. Thank you for posting and letting us know they are doing well. I look forward to following their adventures!
Thanks Duane and Karen for posting these photos and updates. It's great to hear from the group. Blessings on all as you continue the adventure.


text:
Death Points To Risks In Research
Publication Date:August 06, 2007
Source:The Washington Post
Author:Rick Weiss
Professor Henry T. "Hank" Greely is quoted in a Washington Post story illuminating the risks and dangers to patients, physicians, and manufacturers of experimental gene therapy drugs:
"Because of the relationship . . . you have to worry that they won't listen carefully enough to the risks," said Hank Greely, director of the Center for Law and the Biosciences at Stanford University. Patients, he said, may think, " 'After all, if my doctor is doing this, it must be good for me.' That can be difficult to overcome with words in a consent form."


text:
Feb 11 2013
Motley Crew
Yesterday morning, Marlboro Man left to take the kids to Sunday School while I stayed behind to get ready for church, which involved showering. I really like to go that extra mile on Sundays!
Not two minutes after they pulled away, Marlboro Man called to tell me he'd just seen some of the dogs in the North Big South and I might want to run get them before they decide to take off on a hunting expedition, which—considering the mix of nose lengths and strengths in our canine population—might mean they'd wind up in Kansas by the time church was over.
So I went outside, got in the pickup, and drove down the road approximately one mile until I crossed the cattle guard that leads to the North Big South. This is not to be confused with the South Big South, by the way, and at this time I shall refrain from confessing the number of times I've embarrassed myself by asking Marlboro Man, "Now which one is the South Big South again? I get confused."
The second I crossed over the cattle guard, there they were: a bunch of crazy, wacky mutts with their tails wagging like crazy, running toward my pickup with their tongues practically dragging on the ground, they were so excited to see me. This was odd, considering I'd just seen them on our front porch twenty minutes earlier.
Dogs are funny, man.
For a moment, I considered making the dogs follow me home on foot to teach them a little lesson about getting wild hairs and taking off like that. But I'm a complete sucker when it comes to dogs and instead got out of the pickup, opened the tailgate, and lifted the turkeys one by one into the back, sustaining approximately 1.7 hernias in the process. Did you know Basset Hounds are dead weight in canine form? Also, they stretch forever, so their hind legs can still be on the ground while their head is at your shoulders.
I strained. I strained much.
We rode the long, lonely mile back to the house, then I got out, walked around the pickup, and snapped this photo with my phone.
Here's the motley crew: Hooker, Charles, Walter, and Bruiser, aka Pookie Sunshine of My Life.
Here are their brief bios:
Hooker: Josh's dog, but she hangs around our house a lot because I rub her ears and look into her eyes and tell her I understand. I didn't name her.
Charles: Butthead.
Walter: Booger.
Bruiser: Susie's great nephew or great grandson or first cousin once removed or something like that, and he's a little spirited ball of enthusiasm and mischief. He also plays a mean game of chess.
Dogs Run My Life,
Pioneer Woman
313 Comments and 13 Replies
Sharon On Monday, February 11 at 12:15 pm
AWWW! What a precious picture! You can certainly tell a good person by the fur-family they adopt. You, my dear Ree, are a GRAND person!
Erin On Monday, February 11 at 12:18 pm
I love them all. I can't wait until we move so we have a yard then a dog.
Jeannine On Monday, February 11 at 12:19 pm
The story without the photo kept me laughing, but I have to say that picture really topped it off! I have two 4-legged "babies" and have had to go for a ride to retrieve them from time to time. It's always refreshing to know other people have to do the same thing. By the way ~ often I'm in my pj's when that happens! Thank you for sharing!
Catherine Anne On Monday, February 11 at 12:19 pm
Love dogs….the picture is adorable! My three give me much joy and a few headaches when they decide to go for a walk without Mom or Dad. I wish I knew what they were/are thinking.
Cindi P. On Monday, February 11 at 12:21 pm
Oh my gosh, how cute! I can see why you couldn't make them walk home. I too am a sucker for dogs and the faces they make. We have 2 beagles (litter mate sisters) and they rule the house, or at least think they do!!
Victoria W On Monday, February 11 at 12:25 pm
Walter looks like he has a smug smile on his face!! Bad puppies. lol… You should make them watch the Westminster Dog Show tonight as a form of punishment.
Joanne S On Monday, February 11 at 12:26 pm
What sweet faces on those babies. I really enjoy seeing them on your show.
We have three rescues (and one we raised from a pupling). They are gifts. They make us smile from morning till we go to bed (and often times I wake up in the middle of the night, look at them, and smile again). Gotta love um.
Debbie On Monday, February 11 at 12:28 pm
Bruiser and I just made an instant love connection via the interwebz. I wuv him.
I am doorman, waiter, referee and dish rag to my five dogs. My male great dane, Farley, lives to wipe his mouth on me – typically at boob height. Our female great dane foster puppy, Lola, wants to go in and out on the hour, quarter hour and half hour — every hour. Our stray* dog, Brownie Ain't Stayin', has an ever evolving collection of treasures (aka random trash) that he displays rather artistically around our yard. Izzie, our little terrier mix, rules the roost and has to be protected from her propensity to encourage our horses and giant dogs to play hard, really hard. Satchmo, a welsh corgi, longs to be an only dog and lets us know it, frequently with blood shed.
Throw 3 horses and two cats into the mix and it's never dull around here!
*Can you still call a dog a stray after 8 months? Is there a statute of limitations? Do I have to change his name? Nevermind, I'd like to remain denial.
Laurie On Monday, February 11 at 12:29 pm
Ree, I am loving your "Motley Crew".. They are all tooooo darn adorable!
neo On Monday, February 11 at 12:29 pm
That is too cute. I want to get a dog for my little girl.
Howdymomma On Monday, February 11 at 12:30 pm
With the exception of your HUGE property, hunky husband and passel of cows & kids, your life sounds a bit like mine. . . my dogs run my life (and my old, broken down hubby's,) too. Cute post!
Pam On Monday, February 11 at 12:32 pm
I have 10 (no that is not a typo) BIG dogs. By big, I mean ranging from 50-100 lbs. Each. We go through 500lbs of dog food a month. We did not mean to have 10 big dogs. We are still trying to find homes for about half of them. It doesn't look good. We are too picky about who can have one. Thankfully, we are almost through the puppy chewing phase for the 5 Boxer/Mastiff/Redbone Coon-hound mixes that my hussy Tobih presented me with last Christmas. It was a close thing, but we made it through without losing the siding off the house. Keeping them home is another story…..
Karen Jo Moseley On Monday, February 11 at 12:33 pm
My face hurts! From grinnin'!
Yvonne On Monday, February 11 at 12:33 pm
That is such a sweet picture. I wonder what was going through their minds when they saw you coming for them. "Momma to the rescue" no doubt.
Megan M On Monday, February 11 at 12:34 pm
I may be in love with Bruiser after seeing this photo. Can we get more Bruiser featured on the blog? swoon.
Cathy On Monday, February 11 at 12:35 pm
Last night I watched the Grammys while making your Cinnamon Rolls to take in for a Fat Tuesday Celebration we are having at work. After spreading the icing on the warm rolls I placed some toothpicks around the edges and tinfoil over both pans and carried them out to a table on our unheated Florida room (we live in Illinois).
The next morning my husband went down to let the dogs out back, and came upstairs to tell me "Faith is gone, she is nowhere in the house." I asked, "Did you check the Florida room?"
We both went downstairs, and sure enough, there was Faith, our youngest Basset Hound. Evidentally she had followed me outside the family room door to the Florida room on one of my trips with the cinnamon rolls. and stayed there. Somehow she managed to get one of the baking pans off the table (without turning it upside down), got the the tinfoil off, and ate 16 cinnamon rolls, leaving the toothpicks on the the floor.
Texan and grandma On Monday, February 11 at 3:24 pm
Faith sure has good taste in cinnamon rolls! Our dog did that with cupcakes about 30 years ago. She did not eat the paper cups. Our little (then) girl could not believe it and still remembers the event to this day. – such a fun memory
Tricia On Monday, February 11 at 12:38 pm
Thank you for the smile this morning!!
They are just too cute!!
And that's one thing I love about dogs…the enthusiastic greetings! Except of course when they decide that they must knock me of my feet and slobber all over me.
Beth On Monday, February 11 at 12:43 pm
They are all so cute! I just want to squeeze them all! Thanks for sharing this adorable pic!
Barb On Monday, February 11 at 12:49 pm
OMG – that story is hilarious!! I l<3 dogs too.
Angielou On Monday, February 11 at 12:51 pm
If they ever do make it up to KS I'll rub their ears for ya til you can come get them.
Melissa H On Monday, February 11 at 12:51 pm
Love it.
Two Barking Dogs On Monday, February 11 at 12:52 pm
Ree – love you dogs!
Could we get an update on the others? The labs? Bob & Mack, and Lady? I still miss pictures and stories of Nell !!
Kathleen T On Monday, February 11 at 12:55 pm
Ya, our dog pretty much rules our life too… So, did you ever make it to church?
Debbie Deal McGee On Monday, February 11 at 12:56 pm
Anybody that knows that dogs, knows that they rule humans even on their worst days. Ummm….I "get" that! Now should this have been me, I am afraid that I would've missed church. Not b/c I don't love church, b/c I DO! However, once I let these critters out of the truck……well, I would've need to sit on the front porch rubbing bellies and talking to each of them, telling them I totally understand their curiosity and unbridled free spirits forcing them to run free like the horses. However! That being said, there would have been a lingering lecture chastening them for living so irresponsibly that they may have gone too far and gotten lost, and do they have any idea WHAT that would have done to me if they couldn't find their way back home again……*inhale…..I'm sure you know what I mean? I live with a rottie, a boxer and a Great Dane. I feel your pain, girl;)
Rebecca N On Monday, February 11 at 12:59 pm
But the real question is, did you get a shower after all this? I love this pic…makes me want a basset hound. My Lab, Koda needs a baby brother or sister!
Catie Cook On Monday, February 11 at 1:02 pm
Dogs are THE. BEST.
Liz in SC On Monday, February 11 at 1:07 pm
Walter and Charlie will sleep for days after such fun and frolic! Adorable and hard to get mad at, for sure!
Mardee On Monday, February 11 at 1:08 pm
Great story and oh so true. Dogs run my life too. As I write this, a Westie is stretched out on the desk, pushing the keyboard just a little farther away so he can stretch in his sleep. Do I move him? Of course not!
Becky B in K3 (Kankakee) On Monday, February 11 at 1:16 pm
Ree you are a stitch and the pic you too is priceless and the caption is perfection Love your sense of humor. I love dogs too and cannot imagine life without my little man Buddy (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel)….the light of my life <3
Bonnie M On Monday, February 11 at 1:19 pm
They may be a motley crew, Ree, but they sure are cute!!!! <3 xoxo, ~Bon
Beckygtx On Monday, February 11 at 1:21 pm
Bruiser looks so much like our Buddy (Jack Russell terrier). Without our electronic fence we would be chasing that dog forever. They are full of so much energy! I think Bruiser would have run the rest of the legs off Walter and Charles.
Karen On Monday, February 11 at 1:26 pm
Janice Wyatt On Monday, February 11 at 1:29 pm
This photo should go to the BOWker dealership! BOW WOW! woof woof!
Nancy M On Monday, February 11 at 1:30 pm
And I thought mind was just spoiled rotten…hmm.
Jan On Monday, February 11 at 1:31 pm
Jack Russells are the best…
Lauren C On Monday, February 11 at 1:32 pm
Life is not complete until you've lived it with a dog!
Tracy On Monday, February 11 at 1:33 pm
How cute lol! I love dogs.
Shea On Monday, February 11 at 1:35 pm
Not sure why but I had "Who Let the Dogs Out?" running through my head when I was reading this. Love their expressions, especially Charlie's. He looks like he's eyeballing another escape.
Liz P On Monday, February 11 at 1:36 pm
They are just so cute. I, too am a dog lover, our daschund has us all trained at home! Would love to live on a ranch like yours. Love country life in general.
Linda On Monday, February 11 at 1:36 pm
Love the picture of your dogs. I wondered too if you made it to church?
sweepea On Monday, February 11 at 1:41 pm
this made my day!
Kimberly On Monday, February 11 at 1:48 pm
Love it! However, my kids keep asking where Susie is. Did she go to the great pasture in the sky?
Cathy On Monday, February 11 at 1:51 pm
Yep I have 2 dogs and 5 cats and they are the children but they are work too I bathe the dogs and cut there hair my self and comb my cats and dogs 1 time a. Week , besides feeding and the best part playing with them….
Linda McShane On Monday, February 11 at 1:53 pm
The are a Motley Crew aren't they? My money is one Bruiser (aka Pookey Sunshine of My Life) to keep you on your toes!! He has that twinkle in his eye!! Enjoy them!
Marita On Monday, February 11 at 1:53 pm
I adore this post…and especially all you write about Walter and Charles! We lost our Bassett Hound, Bud, two years ago and are just now getting the feeling that we might find another slobbering hound to love…it could take some convincing of the hubby- but the kids and I are on board…keep those photos of Charlie and Walter coming…they are wearing him down!!! PS- you are so funny- I LOVE what you write!
Julie Jennings On Monday, February 11 at 2:07 pm
you are so funny! I always get a kick out of you!
Sandra Anderson On Monday, February 11 at 2:11 pm
love that pic..I am a sucker for pooches too!
Dawn Britt On Monday, February 11 at 2:13 pm
You crack me up!!! I love all your hilarious stories, you need to write another book!
Patti W-J from NM On Monday, February 11 at 2:13 pm
Oh, how could you not love all those faces……….Tooooooooooo Cuteeeeeeee! I too am a sucker for dogs….. : )
Beckie On Monday, February 11 at 2:15 pm
Deelightful! Love the picture, too. Bet they were wondering if you were going to let them out!
Kari W On Monday, February 11 at 2:15 pm
Having a family of hounds and one misfit lab, I get this. Their noses and legs can range for miles in minutes. Dang dogs. I wouldn't trade their personalities and antics for the world, though
Err, except when Pete, my boy hound, bays at my slippers for no apparent reason. He's special.
Nickie Courey On Monday, February 11 at 2:23 pm
They are SO cute – it just makes me want to pinch their cheeks!!!
Munchiedog On Monday, February 11 at 2:24 pm
What cute, mischievous poochies!! I love all dogs and the Westminister Dog Show airs tonight!
Jenn Fadal aka Pack Mom On Monday, February 11 at 2:25 pm
This is awesome. Sharing with my fans at @ThePackMom. Dogs rule my life too. I woudn't have it any other way!
Bekah On Monday, February 11 at 2:25 pm
I love this so very much. That Bruiser is a cutie! As are Walter and Charlie. You know, in all their droopy glory. And Hooker looks like a sweetheart!
MRS POOCH On Monday, February 11 at 2:26 pm
Once again, Ree, you've made me laugh on a day gone terribly awry. (No double-espresso this morning, and it was downhill from there!) Thanks!
Patricia On Monday, February 11 at 2:36 pm
That is so funny, love dogs.
Kori On Monday, February 11 at 2:37 pm
They look ornery! And I must say, I just love seeing that Bowker Ford decal on the back of your truck
Ashley On Monday, February 11 at 2:40 pm
I think Bruiser is just the cutest thing….I am in love with that dog.
Toni On Monday, February 11 at 2:40 pm
Glad to hear the story that goes with the photo! I love dogs and wondered if they all belonged to the PW. I have 3 mini Dachshunds.
JennyJoT On Monday, February 11 at 2:42 pm
LOVE the look on Walter's face. He's all, "Yeah, I'm BAD, man!"
Amanda c On Monday, February 11 at 2:42 pm
Ha ha my three old looks at the one on the far right and says look mama look there's Susie! He's a big fan of your book Charlie the ranch dog!
Lynette On Monday, February 11 at 2:43 pm
bwahahahaha!!! I love the way you tell a story and love the doggies, too!!! And their bios!!!
Kelly L On Monday, February 11 at 2:48 pm
Diane On Monday, February 11 at 2:56 pm
I love them!!!
J. M. Vacanti On Monday, February 11 at 3:04 pm
what a great picture!…definitely worth framing!
Sherry Ann On Monday, February 11 at 3:14 pm
This picture and post are awesome!
Debbie On Monday, February 11 at 3:16 pm
I so needed a good laugh today………THANK YOU REE!!!!!
Ashley On Monday, February 11 at 3:17 pm
hahahaha…this shook loose a memory from my childhood. My grandfather's cattle farm (a much smaller operation) had names like that and the two fields that always confused me were "Front Bottoms" and "Back Bottoms" because I didn't know that "bottom" referred to the fact that it was close to the river.
Barbara On Monday, February 11 at 3:18 pm
LOVE the picture. They are absolutely posing for you.
Lezlie On Monday, February 11 at 3:19 pm
How cute and funny.
Nikki B. On Monday, February 11 at 3:23 pm
I just love your dogcapades
Debbie On Monday, February 11 at 3:23 pm
Was having a really crummy day till I read this. It made me laugh and brightened up my day. Thanks!
ERIKA On Monday, February 11 at 3:24 pm
Thats what 4 legged babies are for to run your life or is that what 2 legged babies are for? or maybe its both?
Wendi On Monday, February 11 at 3:26 pm
OK please don't read these out loud to the dogs…I don't want hurt feelings…I love your bassett hounds, and comment often on Charlie….but that Bruiser is the cutest thing ever !! My husband and I had the dog love of our life..Reggie, a Jack Russell, and I see my Reggie in Bruisers face…best dog ever !!!!
Katharina On Monday, February 11 at 3:27 pm
That is so funny, Ree! Dogs are just the most wonderful 4-legged things!
Cheri Hage On Monday, February 11 at 3:31 pm
Soooo, nosy gal that I am….I wanna know if you had time to take a shower (um, considering all that running around and lifting) and did you make it to church on time ?!!
P.S. ~Hope the hernias repair quickly
Mary H On Monday, February 11 at 3:32 pm
I laughed out loud at that crew of dogs! I needed that today. Love dogs, all dogs.
Gina On Monday, February 11 at 3:32 pm
Oh my thank you Ree!!!! Comic relief was much needed at this very moment. That is a motley crew fo' sho'.
Dottie in Nevada On Monday, February 11 at 3:34 pm
I love the pic and this for sharing their names, we had our JRT , Boo, for 17 yrs. best dog ever. We rescued Buster a 7 yr old JRt who had been caged his whole life… We brought him home to the NV desert and it is like he has found his slice of heaven on earth… He runs thru the sagebrush looking for anything to chase, but he is such a little lover too… I tell him he's a pretty good doggie but not the best ..Boo will always be our #1….our kids are jealous!
Leslie h On Monday, February 11 at 3:39 pm
I have 2 dogs and one cat, the cat and one dog is less than a year old and too cute for words, they get into so much trouble together but it is so hard to correct them because you are too busy shaking your head and laughing, they make my day everyday!
Nathalie On Monday, February 11 at 3:40 pm
I love the picture of them all looking over the tailgate. I totally understand about dogs running a life. My 5 run my life as well. (bowing my head in shame, I know, 5, yep)
You can view my motley crew here:
Melissa G. On Monday, February 11 at 3:41 pm
This picture just makes me smile. I love it. I am such a sucker for a dog.
CindyMac On Monday, February 11 at 3:43 pm
Love Bruiser. I have a Jack Russell and they are so much fun.
Seattle Sue On Monday, February 11 at 3:53 pm
Love your picture. I want a DOG!!!!!!
Sandra The Red On Monday, February 11 at 3:56 pm
Where would we be without our dogs. My house is overrun with them. Not counting all the ones in the kennel there are 5 dogs in my life right now – Tyg (my son) is a very large white German Shepherd, Oboe (my granddog) is a large blue murle collie (my daughter's), Burlie Girl (her real name is Burlesque but we just couldn't do that to her – we didn't name her) is a large blue German Shepherd new to the family, Amin (note the Irish names on the German dogs) is a long haired white German Shepherd, and Boo is a small blue and tan German Shepherd. Amin and Boo are learning some social skills and Burlie Girl is getting to know us as she is new arriving just yesterday. They are all friends and know well the word "OUT" as they immediately go to the door and stand with their noses pressed against the glass. If anyone goes close to the door they follow. And I don't even want to talk about when I try to cook. =}
Nancy @ CouponClippingCook On Monday, February 11 at 3:56 pm
These faces are adorable with so much personality. What a bunch of cuties. (My dog runs my life too).
HicksPub On Monday, February 11 at 4:04 pm
Picking up a basset hound = Picking up a filled kiddie pool.
Susan K. On Monday, February 11 at 4:06 pm
Love the photo!! Love dogs!! Love you Ree!!
dan's wife On Monday, February 11 at 4:08 pm
In all truthiness, the world needs another Dog Blog.
P-Dub, make it happen!
Marnie On Monday, February 11 at 4:20 pm
I just love your post…your recipes…your family. You are so REAL! and down to earth! God Bless You Girl! ;D
Jo-Anne On Monday, February 11 at 4:23 pm
A damn good looking bunch indeed
Elaine Shanks On Monday, February 11 at 4:24 pm
Just as it should be. Love the picture. I did a dog post recently. My three are: English Bull Dog named Meathead, Pug named Grimace and a French Bulldog named MIlo.
They run my life – and they aren't even my dogs!!! LOL
lynnw On Monday, February 11 at 4:26 pm
What happened to wayfaring beagle?
Gee On Monday, February 11 at 4:26 pm
You are so good to your doggies! (sorry about hernias)
Now wouldn't a pug just complete the set?
laura bishop On Monday, February 11 at 4:31 pm
I love you Ree, such sweetness….many, many blessings to you and your dear two-legged and four-legged family!
Robin On Monday, February 11 at 4:35 pm
This is by far your best pic ever!
Sandra in TX On Monday, February 11 at 4:44 pm
You are my hero! I cannot pick up my basset hound. She weighs 50 pounds and as I try to pick her up to put her in my crossover SUV (i.e. low to the ground) I somehow manage to drop her or let her rear legs slide under the car. Basset hounds are a rock, as you know. And if they don't want to be picked up they are a wiggling rock. I admire you greatly for being able to pick up Charlie and Walter and put them in the back of a truck. You must let me know your workout secrets! BTW I LOVE the picture.
jeanne graham On Monday, February 11 at 4:52 pm
look at those sweet faces. i would have done the same. we are suckers for our pets.
Rie On Monday, February 11 at 5:01 pm
Dogs should rule your life. At least my "precious baby boy" did. He's gone over a year and a half and I still miss him something awful…..Thanks for the post on your pups. Can never have too many in my opinion…..


text:
FOSS K-6 ©2005 (2nd Edition)
Program Component Details
FOSS Teacher Guide
The teacher guide is the most important part of the FOSS program. It is here that all of the wisdom and experience contributed by hundreds of educators has been assembled. Everything we know about the content of the module, how to teach the subject, and the resources that will assist the effort is presented here. The teacher guide is the cerebral cortex of the module. All of the thinking and feeling that has gone into the module is communicated here.
Each FOSS module has its own teacher guide, which consists of:
- An Introduction to the FOSS program.
- A Module Overview, which addresses specific information on science background and national science standards, and offers a teaching schedule for the module.
- A Materials folio that lists the kit inventory and outlines how to prepare, store, and maintain your kit.
- A series of investigation folios that include
- Materials lists
- Preparation outlines
- Detailed lesson plans
- Questioning strategies to encourage discussion
- Interdisciplinary extensions for reading, language arts, math, and social studies
- Assessment opportunities to monitor student learning
- Duplication masters of student sheets to help students record, organize, and interpret their observations (in English and Spanish).
- An Assessment folio
- The embedded assessment is both formative (to provide diagnostic information throughout the module) and summative (to provide end-of-module evaluative information).
- Scoring guides are included to help you effectively interpret student responses.
- There is also a section on portfolio assessment.
- The FOSS Science Stories folio guides the use of the FOSS Science Stories by relating a story to the investigation and providing key discussion questions that focus on both content and the type of literature.
- A Web site folio adds additional opportunities to extend content and knowledge through interactive simulations, bulletin boards, and specific links to other Internet sites to reinforce and enhance the topic.
- A Resources folio recommends student readings (fiction and nonfiction), software, videotapes, and teacher resources for an even more meaningful experience.
Equipment Kits
Active-learning science requires materials. The FOSS program includes those materials in sturdy front-opening drawer-and-sleeve cabinets. Inside you will find high-quality materials packaged for a class of 32 students. Consumable materials are supplied for two uses before replenishment is necessary. The kit contains just about everything needed to conduct the module, with the notable exception of living organisms and food items. The teacher may be asked to supply items like tape, marking pens, or scissors, but otherwise the kits are very complete.
Scope and Sequence of every FOSS kit
The Measurement Module serves two functions in the FOSS program. In addition to being an instructional kit, the tools from this module support many of the grade 3 - 6 modules. If you are teaching a 3 - 6 module, it is important for you to have access to these tools. For schools and districts that want every kit to stand alone without reliance on a Measurement module, these materials are offered separately in specific Tool Kits. Each kit includes class quantities of measuring tools needed for the module.
Teacher Preparation Videos
A teacher preparation video produced specifically for each module is a part of every kit. The video is an introduction to the module, not a substitute for the teacher guide. Each of the 32 videos shows a FOSS staff person or experienced FOSS teacher demonstrating how to set up the equipment for each activity. In addition, the videos provide numerous excursions into classrooms to see the FOSS module in use by real teachers and students.
FOSS Science Stories
FOSS Science Stories are original student books developed specifically to complement the FOSS modules. The books integrate reading and language arts skills in the context of learning science. With FOSS, students first explore science concepts through hands-on investigations. Then they extend and reinforce their classroom discoveries and vocabulary with FOSS Science Stories.
FOSS Science Stories for grades K-2 are designed around large, colorful, instructive photographs. The text relates directly to the images, calling attention to particular details, suggesting comparisons, and moving students to think critically about the images. The stories are written mainly in an expository format to help build essential reading skills. FOSS Science Stories for primary grades are available in student book and teacher big book editions.
FOSS Science Stories for
grades 3 - 6 use a variety of writing styles, accompanied with full-color illustrations and
photos to enrich the science experience. The literature styles include
Narrative tales. Fictional adventures in which the main characters have experiences that relate to the science that students learned in class.
Expository articles. Informative articles that increase students' knowledge about science.
Technical readings. Selections that describe detailed procedures and provide precise explanations of principles.
Historical accounts. Stories about important people and events that shaped the development of science and technology.
The www.fossweb.com web site opens new horizons for teachers, students, and families, in the classroom or at home. Each grade 3 - 6 module has an interactive site where students and families can find instructional games and interactive simulations. Those interested in visiting web sites related to the content of any FOSS module can select a link and explore the subject in greater depth.


text:
Site Feedback
According to my account, I am not subscribed to any newsletters or compilations, yet I receive daily updates and a weekly newsletter. How do I stop these? I have started uncluttering my email boxes by subscribing to an RSS feed.
Talk is closed, but that doesn't mean the conversations have to stop!
Check out this post for a more thorough explanation, and jump onto our Facebook page or our Twitter feed to keep the conversations going!


text:
Carica papaya 'TR Hovey'Exotic and delicious! This dwarf papaya can produce fruit when the plant is only 2 1/2-3' tall! Perfect for growing in pots, this little gem grows quickly and can produce fruit in as little as one year! Interesting foliage and structure add a tropical feel to your yard or patio. Papayas need sunny, warm growing conditions. Grow it inside in the winter and take it outside in the summer months. Self-pollinating. Item # 1361-B Shipping Height: 1' - 1 1/2'
Cornelian Cherry Dogwood Tree
American Persimmon Tree
Common Juniper


text:
A point-of-sale self-checkout terminal includes a code reader device for automated entry of a product identification code present on items for purchase and a customer input device for receipt of data from a customer. A customer can initiate a purchase of a non-scannable item and, in response, a database is queried to identify items based on a prediction of purchase of the items, and the identified items are displayed for selection by the customer to purchase the item. Inage processing and voice processing, can also be implemented to assist customers with the purchase of non-scannable items.
1. A point-of-sale self-checkout apparatus comprising:
an audio input device;
an audio processing module configured to process an audio input signal comprising item terminology received from the audio input device, and to query a database based on a received audio input to determine a query result, wherein the query result comprises one or more identified products based on a match between the processed audio input and keywords associated with the identified one or more products, wherein at least one of the one or more of the identified products was obtained as a result of a prediction process derived from terminology that is different from the item terminology used in the audio input; and
a display for displaying to the purchaser a graphical user interface comprising a plurality of icons, each icon depicting one of the products identified in the query result; wherein the display in configured to receive from the purchaser a selection of one of the displayed icons.
2. A product purchasing method comprising:
at a point-of-sale self-checkout terminal comprising a code reader device, a customer input device, an image capture device, a touch-sensor device and an audio input device,
receiving from a customer a first input at the customer input device initiating a purchase of an item non-scannable by the code reader device;
capturing an image of a checkout item through the image capture device;
receiving an audio input through the audio input device;
processing said first input, captured image and audio input;
querying a database to identify a first plurality of items based on a prediction of purchase of the items;
in response to any or all of the first input, the captured image and the audio input, displaying to the customer a graphical user interface comprising a first plurality of user-selectable icons, each of said icons representing one of the first plurality of items, and at least one additional user-selectable icon representing an item resulting from a prediction process that is based on information other than information obtained through the code reader device, the customer input device, the image capture device, the touch-sensor device or the audio input device;
receiving from the user a second input through the touch-sensor device selecting at least one of the first plurality of icons; and
processing a purchase transaction for an item corresponding to the selected icon.
3. A point-of-sale self-checkout terminal comprising:
a code reader device for automated entry of a product identification code present on items for purchase;
a customer input device for receipt of data from a customer;
an audio input device;
a database comprising stored data indicating expectation of purchase of items;
a video display;
a processor coupled to the code reader, the input device, the audio device, the database, and the video display and a memory comprising stored instructions to configure the processor to:
receive from the self-checkout customer a first input at the customer input device to initiate a purchase of an item non-scannable by the reader device;
receive and process from the audio input device an audio signal;
query the database to identify a first plurality of items based on either the first input or the audio signal;
in response to either the first input or the audio signal, display to the customer on the video display a graphical user interface comprising a first plurality of user-selectable icons each of said icons representing one of the first plurality of items, and at least one additional user-selectable icon representing an item resulting from a prediction process that is based on information other than information obtained through the code reader device, the customer input device or the audio input device;
receive from the user a second input selecting at least one of the first plurality of icons; and
process a purchase transaction for an item corresponding to the selected icon.
This application is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 09/710,137 filed Nov. 10, 2000 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,168,525. entitled "Self-Checkout Method And Apparatus Including Graphic Interface For Non-Bar Coded Items" and claims benefit to provisional application Ser. No. 60/244,234 filed Oct. 30, 2000.
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for self-checkout. In particular, the invention relates to a method of and apparatus for self-checkout of non-bar coded items which includes using a graphic user interface (GUI) on a touch screen display.
In a traditional retail environment, a customer selects various items for purchase and brings these items to a store clerk for checkout. Over the past few decades, retail point of sale systems have been greatly automated to expedite the checkout process. Computer-based point-of-sale systems are now the norm in the retail environment.
Such point-of-sale systems include one or more terminals, and a database of prices, inventory and other information related to the items for purchase. Each terminal typically has an optical scanner which scans the items to be purchased for a machine readable bar code that identifies the item on its packaging. When an item is scanned, the optical scanner sends a signal corresponding to the product number of the item to a data processing component of the point-of-sale system, which then obtains from the database the price and the description of the scanned item.
More recently, self-checkout point-of-sale systems have been popularized. These systems typically comprise self-checkout terminals each of which typically is provided with a bar code scanner with an integrated scale that allows the customer to scan the bar codes on the items to be purchased. The terminal typically also has other input and output devices such as a printer, electronic fund transfer terminal (EFT), a video camera unit and a display.
Automated self-checkout systems, such as the U-Scan Express� available from Optimal Robotics Corp., have become popular among retailers throughout North America. Some self-checkout systems are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,083,638, 5,115,888, 5,123,494, 5,125,465 and 5,168,961.
In the typical retail market, most produce items, as well as other items such as items priced according to weight but usually not having a standardized weight, do not have a Universal Product Code (UPC), in the form of a bar code, associated with them. A Product Look Up (PLU) code is assigned instead to such items. The PLU code corresponds to a numeric identification of the item and, in most cases, is attached to the item with a sticker.
The non-bar coded item typically is checked out by the item being placed on the scale at the checkout station, if the item is priced according to weight, and then the PLU code of the item being entered by the customer at the self-checkout station, or by the cashier at a manned checkout station, using the numeric keypad. The processing unit then assigns a price to the item based on the PLU code and, if applicable, the weight of the item detected by the scale. Many customers at such self-checkout stations do not know, however, that they need to enter manually the PLU code for such items, and therefore such customers experience delay in the checkout process.
At a self-checkout terminal, the customer is provided means to call for assistance from a supervisory employee when a non-bar coded item is to be processed. In some implementations, a video camera unit at the self-checkout terminal captures a video image of the uncoded item placed on the terminal's scale by the customer. The video image of the uncoded item is displayed at a supervisor station display which allows the supervisory employee to view the non-bar coded item and thereafter enter the appropriate PLU code for the item. This employee typically supervises, however, several self-checkout terminals, and therefore the customer might encounter delay waiting for a non-bar coded item to be processed.
The present invention provides an apparatus and method for self-checkout of non-bar coded items. The apparatus includes a PLU entry device, a PLU database and a processing unit. The PLU entry device includes a display and a GUI. The GUI provides on the display a predetermined image corresponding to a non-bar coded item, and means for the user to select the predetermined image of the non-bar coded item. The PLU entry device supplies a PLU corresponding to the non-bar coded item selected by the user. The processing unit uses the PLU supplied by the PLU entry device to retrieve the price per pound or per unit of the selected non-bar coded item from the PLU database. This data can be used to calculate price in relation to the weight or quantity of the item.
The apparatus may include a GUI editor. The GUI editor may be used to configure the GUI for non-bar coded items.
The processing unit may maintain for each item a count of the number of units of the item sold within a predetermined period of time. The processing unit also may maintain a list of most frequently sold items, and the image of at least one item on the list may be provided on a selected display screen. The processing unit may update the display screen when the list of most frequently sold items changes.
An image of a generic category of items may be provided on the display. The displayed image of the generic category may be selected by the user to view images of respective items in the generic category.
The present invention can be more readily understood from the following detailed description by referring to the accompanying drawings wherein:
Improvements in the operation and usability of point-of-sale self-checkout systems can be provided by a self-checkout system that includes a scanning device for automated scanning of bar-coded items as well as a customer-operated interface for checkout of items that are not coded for scanning. The customer-operated interface can be a graphical user interface (GUI) (a "non-scannable item GUI") that may include features such as a touch-screen display and input device, iconic representations of items for purchase, and search facilities to help identify items being purchased and to enter appropriate checkout data. An editor for provisioning data and setting up various features of the non-scannable item interface can also be provided. The checkout system, and in particular, the non-scannable item GUI, can be used for checkout of items such as produce and bakery items in a grocery sales environment and for non-scannable items in other retail environments. To do so, a flexible method of provisioning data and icon images associated with the non-scannable items is provided.
The self-checkout station (i.e., processing unit 301) also can include a network interface used for communication over a network (e.g., a local area network, wide area network (WAN), wireless and other networks) with other devices. These other devices may include a host computer, such as a store's central controller, and may also include other checkout stations and supervisory stations. The network interface includes the appropriate units for interfacing with the network, including, for example, Ethernet card, modem, radio frequency (RF) transceiver, etc. For example, processing unit 301 may download product and other information from a central point-of-sale database on the network, on power-up as well as periodically during operation, via the network interface. Thus, the PLU database 303 stored in the storage devices may be updated.
Self-checkout orders commonly include a combination of scannable (i.e., bar-coded) and non-scannable items. To purchase a scannable item, the customer moves the item past an automated scanning device which reads the scannable product identifier and thereby determines the item's identification. If the customer wants to purchase a non-scannable item, the customer may do so by entering of a product identifier using the non-scannable item interface. This product identifier can be received through the entry of an alpha-numeric identifier, an icon selection, or by a combination of these methods (the chosen mechanisms may differ in different implementations). In some implementations, speech and visual inputs may be processed by the self-checkout system to assist in identifying a produce.
When the non-scannable item GUI is activated, a PLU entry screen 100, 3100 may be displayed. As shown in screen 100 of implementation #1, the customer can identify an item by PLU code entry using a graphical touch-screen keypad 192. If the item is displayed in the grouping 191, the customer can also select the appropriate item to enter the purchase. In some implementations, icons 191 display images representing a generic category and selection of the generic category's icon will provide a more detailed sub-menu. If the item is not labeled with a PLU code, and an appropriate icon 191 is not displayed, the user may select the "No Label" button 103 to obtain assistance from store personnel. Interface screen 3100 of implementation #2 also permits entry of a PLU code using a graphical touch-screen interface. If the item is not labeled with a PLU code, the user can select the "No Label" button 3103 to access a second interface screen 3200 (
To locate a desired item, keyboard 3204 is used to provide alphabetic character input (or, in some implementations, expanded input sets such as alpha-numeric) to the checkout system. The checkout system receives the input characters, parses the input into search terms, queries a product database, and display results as user-selectable icons. Referring to
To identify the matching products, the checkout system parses input characters to form search terms and uses those terms to query the database 303 and thereby locate matching items. The search terms included in the query can include words (i.e., a group of contiguous letters delimited by a space character) as well as a word fragment (i.e., a group of contiguous letters not yet delimited by a space character). Querying database 303 includes comparing each of the search terms to keywords associated with each product. The item-keyword database may be stored in a local database 303 or a central database (e.g., a store controller database).
Preferably, the product query algorithm will match search terms to an item's keywords regardless of the relative ordering of the search terms and keywords. Further, a search term will match a keyword if the term is present as an initial substring of the keyword. Thus, the term "Pear Bos" will match "Bosc Pears." Additionally, implementations may provide for automatic conversion between plural and singular terms such that a term entered by the user in the plural (e.g., "pears") will match a keyword expressed in the singular (e.g., "pear"). Conversion between singular and plural tenses may be done, e.g., by using a lookup table. In some implementations, a lookup table may also be used to convert a term entered by a user into an alternative term or to expand an entered term into multiple terms. This conversion and expansion feature may be used, for example, to convert a regional product name to a standard term, or where a product may be known by multiple terms (e.g., in a hardware store implementation, the search term "fastener" may be expanded to the Boolean search expression "bolt or screw or rivet"). Where term substitution and/or expansion is employed, the display of results may be in accordance with an ordering that favors results matching the specific terms entered, rather than the expanded or substitute terms.
In some implementations, the icon display 3301 is automatically updated as each letter is entered. In other implementations, the icon display may be updated when there is a pause in data entry (e.g., after a 500 millisecond pause), or upon explicit request by the user (e.g., selecting an "Enter" button). Implementations can also include scroll buttons (e.g., buttons 3302) used to scroll the displayed icons when the number of items exceeds the available screen space. After the desired item icon is displayed and selected, another screen (
In the example implementations (#1 and #2), the system-determined icons (191 and 3201, respectively) are displayed when the non-scannable item GUI is accessed. These initial icons sets 191, 3201 may be selected based on an expectation or probability that a particular items is to be purchased. This expectation can be determined based on the frequency of purchase of particular items during a preceding period (e.g., during the past month) in all customer orders. In other implementations, the initial icons 191, 3201 may be customer specific and can be determined based on a customer's specific sales history. The initial icon set can also be determined based on other statistical/probabilistic factors. For example, the icons 191, 3201 may be determined based on a statistical correlation that a particular item will be purchased when another item has already been entered as part of an order. For example, in a hardware store implementation, if copper piping has already been entered in an order, the icons 191, 3201 may correspond to non-bar-coded joints and fasteners used to connect copper piping.
In some implementations, the system-determined icons 191, 3201 can be determined on a user-specific basis. To enable this feature, the database 303 includes customer purchase history information. Following receipt of a customer identification by the self-checkout system (e.g., by the swiping of a bar-coded frequent-shopper card in front of a scanner, swiping of a credit or debit card entry, or using data entered directly by the customer), the database 303 is queried to determine the user's purchase history. The icons 191, 3201 are then determined based on the user's purchase history or other user-specific information. Correspondingly, at the end of order processing, customer purchase data may be stored in the database 303 reflecting the newly purchased items. In other implementations, the sales history database may be implemented by data stored on the frequent-shopper card (e.g., using a magnetic strip or in "smart card" memory).
Implementations can include further refinements, such as the ability to determine the frequently sold items on a seasonal basis. In such implementations, the database 303 can store customer purchase information along with purchase dates so that seasonal buying patterns can be determined. Thus, for example, during the week before Halloween, icons for purchase of pumpkins may be displayed based on a customers' purchases of pumpkins during that week of the previous year. This information may be stored without differentiating based on the particular customers, or may be stored on a customer-specific basis.
The icon grouping 191, 3201 may change continuously as a result of ongoing sales at the self-checkout terminals. For example, in a frequently-sold item implementation, the system automatically updates the images on the touch screen monitor for those buttons pre-defined as buttons for most frequently sold items. The updating of the buttons may be dynamic and may occur in between the processing of two orders at the self-checkout terminal, or may be at greater intervals (e.g., monthly or quarterly). The processing unit of each self-checkout terminal, or a central database, may maintain an item count of every produce (or non-bar coded item) sold. Checkout terminals may communicate to find the highest count of produce (or non-bar coded) items in their database.
As an example, the following may be a snapshot (in time) of information stored in the databases corresponding to counts of produce (or non-bar coded) items sold at four respective self-checkout terminals in a grocery store:
After the terminals have communicated amongst themselves, (or the purchase information has been aggregated in a central data system) the following results may be displayed on the touch screen monitor of each of the self-checkout terminals:
Each database record may also contain other information such as an expected weight range, density range, and size information. This additional data may be employed in enhanced versions of a self-checkout system. Two such enhancements include the use of image processing and voice recognition.
In an implementation that includes image processing, the system-selected items 191, 3201 may be selected based on analysis of an image of an item as captured by a video camera 306. This image data may include the color, shape, size, texture, and number of items. For example, the camera 306 may capture an image of one or more pieces of fruit placed on the scale 304, process the image to determine candidate items, and display those items on the non-scannable item interface. Technology for the recognition of visual images is known (see, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,546,475; 5,631,976; 5,649,070; 6,005,959; and 6,310,964 specifically addressing the recognition of images of produce). By applying such recognition system technology to the selection of a group of candidate items, rather than merely for the final determination of the product, the system 300 may provide for additional accuracy by including confirmation by the customer of the image processing results.
In some implementations of the system 300, criteria such as weight (as determined by the scale 304) and size or shape (as determined by image processing) can be used together. For example, size, shape, and weight can be used to calculate item density. This size, shape, weight, texture, color, and/or density information can be compared to data stored in the database 303 to further refine the selection of icons 191, 3201. For example, image processing may be used to determine that an item placed on the scale 304 is a spherical item. Therefore, the system will only select items from database 303 where the database 303 indicates that the items are spherical. In some cases, weight may be used to further distinguish item. For example, a melon and a head of iceberg lettuce may each have similar spherical shapes and sizes. However, at a given size, the weight of these two items, and therefore their density, will occupy different ranges and this data can be used as distinguishing criteria. Once the CPU has made the item analysis, it will display a suggestion of photo quality images of the non-bar coded items on the self-checkout terminal's touch screen monitor 191, 3201. Of course, if the image analysis does not yield a appropriate result, the customer may identify the item using the keyboard 3204 search method or PLU entry methods described of the system 300.
In some implementations, the image processing features may be used for security purposes instead of, or in addition to, the use of image processing for item selection. For example, the system may capture an image of a produce item, process that image to make an initial assessment of the item, and compare it to an item selection entered by the consumer using the non-scannable item interface. If the item selected by the consumer matches the recognition system's identification of the item, the purchase is made. If there is a mismatch, an alert may be sent to a monitoring station displaying the image captured by the system as well as the identification entered by the consumer. The attendant at the monitoring station may then approve the transaction (e.g., where the consumer entered the proper identification but the recognition system assessment was inaccurate), or override the consumer's item identification by accepting the recognition system's assessment or by entering a correct item identification.
In some implementations, the system may be equipped with a voice recognition system that can operate to identify non-scannable items. When a non-scannable item needs to be identified, the user may have an option of speaking into a microphone 307 to identify the item. The system can be programmed to recognize both specific and generic descriptions of each item (e.g., "Apple" or "Granny Smith"). If a generic identifier is specified, then the system may display icons corresponding to the specific choices within the generic category. Preferably, speaker-independent voice recognition software will be used to implement voice recognition capabilities. Further, the system may be programmed to identify multiple languages.
An editor for setting up the non-bar coded items GUI, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, will be described below in connection with
A GUI editor may be provided as a tool for an administrator of the self-checkout system to set up the GUI for non-bar coded items. The term "administrator" is used herein to mean a person who has access privileges for configuring the GUI for non-bar coded items. Such person need not be a computer specialist or expert, particularly when the person has the benefit of a GUI editor such as the one described below.
Using the GUI editor, the administrator may select, and configure the terminals to show, the appropriate GUI screens, such as those illustrated in
Configuration of the GUI for non-bar coded items may be performed at, for example, one of the self-checkout terminals in a maintenance mode. The maintenance mode screens at the self-checkout terminal allow the administrator to use a GUI editor for setting up the screens for processing non-bar coded items. After configuration of the GUI for non-bar coded items has been completed at the selected terminal, the GUI data may be broadcast to the remaining self-checkout terminals in the store on a LAN or wireless network, in order for the GUI for non-bar coded items to be installed on those terminals.
The selected checkout terminal on which the GUI for non-bar coded items will be configured enters a maintenance mode from one of a number of possible paths. For example, the terminal may enter the maintenance mode by default upon boot-up or by command from a shell or user interface.
An example of a GUI screen which may be displayed when the terminal enters the maintenance mode is illustrated in
Custom setup is password protected, i.e., the user is required to enter a password to enter custom setup. An example of a GUI screen for entering custom setup is illustrated in
When the password is correct, the administrator is provided with a number of custom setup functions by the GUI. The user interface provides means on the touch screen monitor, e.g., button identified as "Produce Editor" in
After a correct password is supplied (step 112), the GUI editor provides the administrator with two edit options (step 114), as shown for example in
When the administrator selects the first option, the GUI editor prompts the administrator to select a frequency for resetting the database of the most frequently sold items (step 116), as shown for example in
After the administrator completes configuration of the best-seller database, the GUI editor provides the administrator with the edit options again (
After one of the layouts is selected, the GUI editor prompts the administrator to select one of the buttons to be defined in the GUI for non-bar coded items (step 122), as shown for example in
For example, if "A Top 12 Best-seller Item" is selected (step 126), the selected button is assigned dynamically to the item that is currently highest in the list of most frequently sold produce items at the self-checkout terminals (step 128). After the button is assigned to the best seller item, the GUI editor prompts the administrator to select one of the remaining buttons, and the process is repeated for that second selected button.
For example, if "A Specific Produce Item" is selected (step 130), the administrator is prompted to enter a PLU code of the item to be assigned to the selected button (step 132). The image corresponding to the entered PLU code appears in a portion of the GUI editor screen, as shown for example by the image of the banana in
As shown for example in
The administrator may confirm that the image that appears in the GUI editor screen should be assigned to the button by pressing the displayed image (steps 134, 136 and 137). On the other hand, if the wrong code was entered (step 134), the administrator may select "CLEAR" to enter the PLU code again (step 138). If the PLU code entered by the administrator is not valid (step 135), the GUI editor displays a message that the image is not on file, as shown for example in
Next, a fourth button to be defined may be selected from the main screen, as shown for example in
For example, "A Generic Produce Category" button may be selected (step 140). The generic category options include, as shown for example in
Next, the GUI editor prompts the administrator to select a fifth button to be defined, as shown for example in
The option to create a submenu for this button may be selected, and then specific items may be assigned to buttons in the submenu. If the option to create a submenu is selected (step 141), the GUI editor prompts the administrator to select a button in the submenu (step 146), as shown for example in
This process may be repeated, as shown for example in
Let's now return to the GUI editor screen shown in
Let's return again to the GUI editor screen shown in
In some implementations, the system database may be customized on a per-store basis so that only items sold by the particular store are displayed to the consumer.
Various changes and modifications of the described embodiments could be effected by one skilled in the art without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention recited in the appended claims. For example, database 303 may be a local database dedicated to a particular checkout terminal or a remote database shared by terminals and other store systems, and may be a hard-disk or in-memory database or data structure, and although use for the checkout of supermarket produce items is described, the self-checkout system may be adapted for other retail environments such as the checkout of non-bar-coded hardware items in a hardware store. Improvements and modifications which become apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the art after reading this disclosure, the drawings and the appended claims are deemed within the spirit and scope of the present invention. It is therefore contemplated that the appended claims would cover any such modifications or improvements.
Patent Citations
Non-Patent Citations
Referenced by
Legal Events
Original Image


text: Isabel Fernandez, PhD, is a clinical psychologist working in Milan. She has been trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and has been on the faculty of the Italian School of Cognitive Behavior for 8 years, providing specialtization training in psychotherapy. She has worked as a consultant psychologist at the psychiatric ward of Niguarda Hospital, conducting clinical research projects. She is a lecturer at the Catholic University of Milan and Rome and at the La Sapienza University of Rome. Currently, she is Director of the Psychotraumatology Research Center of Milan and has published many papers, articles and books on trauma, EMDR and other topics. She is chairman of the Italian Association of EMDR and a member of the Board of Directors of the Italian Federation of Scientific Psychological Societies. She has organized interventions with EMDR in mass disasters (Milan's aircrash on Pirelli Building and Molise's earthquake) and has worked in cooperation with Civil Defense and Fireworkers to provide psychological support and trauma treatment for emergency workers. She trains graduates students and clinicians in trauma, EMDR and crisis intervention in Italy and Spain.


text:
Weekender 24/7
News and views from the Express-News' arts and entertainment writers.
Posts filtered on Tag
Conjunto star Salvador 'Pavo' Garcia dead at age 80
SAN ANTONIO – Salvador "Pavo" Garcia, a pioneering conjunto musician in the mid-1940s with his older brothers in Los Hermanitos Garcia Torres and later with his own band Los Pavos Reales, died Sunday morning from complications of heart disease. He was 80. Garcia is counted among the greatest of the conjunto composers with such hits […] [Read More]


text:
For Service In the:
Thumb and Port Huron/St. Clair County Area
Call: (810) 376-2405 or (989) 635-1399
For All Other Areas:
Call: (810) 678-2194
Email: email@example.com
Fax: (810) 678-2141
Website: allwaysdry.web.com
All-Ways Dry Basement Waterproofing
All- Ways Dry L.L.C. (A.W.D.) is a family owned and operated Basement Waterproofing Company/Waterproofing Contractor. We have over 30 years of experience in the field and waterproofed over 30,000 homes. A.W.D. is fully licensed, insured, and certified. Our time tested methods will eliminate any moisture problems. If water is leaking into your basement or crawlspace, we can help. Call us today to schedule a FREE In-Home consultation. If you're unsure if we can help, call and/or look at our Services Offered page. It's our pleasure to help you with any problems of this nature.
FREE In-Home Consultation Includes:
- Free diagnoses and written estimate
- A complete understanding of the problem and proper solution
- Scheduled Date of Repair
- 1,000's of References at your disposal


text:
Glossary of Education
- Outdoor Leadership
- Management or direction of groups in the outdoors -- includes planning and conducting outdoor group activities, evaluating risks and safety concerns, influencing group dynamics, and facilitating participant reflection on the experience.
Not what you're looking for?
Questions about "Outdoor Leadership"
Showing 1-1 of 1


text:
yep. That is it. Told you it was easy.
ok so, all i need to do is make a folder named Nand and inside that one named Install? is it really that easy? lol
sorry for asking so many questions, i just want to make sure i do it right the first time.
yep. That is it. Told you it was easy.
Wii 4.1U - cIOS38 rev17 - 500gbHDD - Wiiflow 2.1 - uLoader 5.1 - Wimc 1.0.9 - Priiloader 0.5 - boot2 - gamecube launcher 2.0 - cMIOS rev3
If I did help you, click on the thanks button , it´s free
How to play out of region games (disc playing) Neogamma
uLoader Priiloader
thanks, and last question i promise.. how do i get uloader installed? i have the folder all ready, but there is so much in it. i already installed hermes 222 223 for another usb loader a while back. what files do i to install uloader and where do i put it.
i'm so close to being done i can taste it. thank you everyone who helpped and this site of course
if you already installed cios 222/223 the you are done, you just have to enter uloader and set the cios
If I did help you, click on the thanks button , it´s free
How to play out of region games (disc playing) Neogamma
uLoader Priiloader
yeah i think i did it right, its way easier then the guides make it look. spent more time confused reading guides then it took to just do it lol.
thats my fault though. i've never modded or hacked anything, most i have done is take apart my xbox 360 a million times
ok so after installing the .wads in uloader it gave a warning saying something about the partition being 4k when it should be atleast 16 or 32. i didnt catch it all b/c my gf chose that exact moment to distract me lol. any clue on what that was? something with my fat32 partition and it wont be as fast unless i change that
its the allocation size you choose when you formatted your hard drive and youneed to reformat it to change but can someone confirm this for me please
^^^^^^^^pimpness from the mighty bmarlo ^^^^^^^^


text:
- Business Internet - Home »
- Reliable, High-Speed Satellite Internet Service for your business
Quick Links
Request a
Free QUOTE
Order Now by Phone
Hughes provides connectivity solutions to more than a quarter of a million businesses nationwide.
HughesNet broadband satellite Internet solutions are available to business customers no matter where they are located — even where DSL and cable lines don't reach, and where T1 lines are too expensive. As long as your place of business has an unobstructed view of the southern sky, HughesNet is there.
With plans providing up to 15 Mbps* downstream, you get the speed you need to run your critical business applications. And with HughesNet, you get enterprise-grade equipment, installation, and customer care.
With a wide range of business Internet plans to choose from, HughesNet has a solution that fits your unique business requirements. And HughesNet Business Solutions are built for growing businesses like yours — offering the ability to instantly upgrade your plan as your business expands.
* Download speeds up to 15 Mbps available with the Select 400 plan provided through the EchoStar XVII satellite. Certain geographical areas are not covered by this satellite.
With its advanced satellite technology, the HughesNet service delivers a secure, reliable wireless broadband connection around the clock — so you can make the most of your business day.
HughesNet utilizes two-way wireless broadband satellite technology to link your business to the Internet. An authorized HughesNet installer will create a cable (wired) connection between your computer, the satellite modem, and the satellite dish (antenna) that's typically mounted on the roof of your commercial establishment. The satellite dish sends and receives information (for example, point-of-sale transactions, Web pages, and files) over the Internet and delivers it to your computer almost instantly!
Hughes has been delivering managed network solutions to Fortune 500 companies for over two decades. From this vast experience in the enterprise market, Hughes has developed a robust suite of new broadband Internet access plans specifically tailored to small- and medium-sized businesses. With HughesNet Business Solutions, your business can take advantage of new opportunities, reach new customers, grow, and thrive.
Hughes provides connectivity solutions to more than a quarter of a million business locations nationwide. Let Hughes — the industry leader in satellite broadband — put the power of broadband into your business!
Complete the form below and one of our representatives will contact you.


text:
Blake Jenner Turns 20! Glee Project Stars Tweet Birthday Wishes
Glee Project winner Blake Jenner (Ryder) turned the big 2-0 today, and his Glee Project co-stars couldn't wait to take to Twitter and wish him a happy birthday. From the very early hours of Monday morning, they tweeted their warm wishes.
A little after 10pm West Coast time, Abraham Lim tweeted "It's @Blake_Jenner's birthday on the east coast! Happy birthday, buddy! See you soon back in LA! Love ya." Just after midnight, he tweeted again, saying, "The WEST COAST is now wishing you a happy birthday @Blake_Jenner! Happy birthday (again)!"
Also right after midnight, Aylin Bayramoglu tweeted, "HAPPY 20th BIRTHDAY@Blake_Jenner!!!!!!"
Just a few minutes later, Nellie Veitenheimer tweeted, "@Blake_Jenner Well I just texted you, but I figure I'll tweet the world wishing you a happy bday :D"
Season 1 Glee Project runner-up Lindsay Pearce (Harmony) tweeted, "Happy birthday @Blake_Jenner !! Not a teenagah anymoh!"
Shanna Henderson tweeted, "Happy birthday @Blake_Jenner ! I can't wait to see how god blesses you this next year:)"
Blake's girlfriend, Maria, tweeted, "Happy 20th Birthday babe! I love you so so much....and I miss you like crazy! I can't wait to see you, and celebrate with you!@Blake_Jenner"
Michael Weisman tweeted, "Best wishes to @Blake_Jenner, my peanut butta brotha on his bday! #bethebat(man) ;)"
Season 1 Glee Project winner Damian McGinty tweeted, "@Blake_Jenner happy birthday bro, hope you have a great day! Hurry up and get yourself back here for FIFA"
Season 1 runner-up Alex Newell (Unique) tweeted, "@Blake_Jenner Happy Birthday!!!!"
Tyler Ford tweeted, "Happy birthday, @Blake_Jenner! I love you and hope you have an awesome day. :)"
Happy birthday, Blake! We hope you're 20th turns out to be just as awesome as you are.
Can't get enough Gleetastic goodness? Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter!


text:
Cord Blood 2.0™ Preserves Up To Twice As Many Stem Cells
Americord takes cord blood banking to the next level with Cord Blood 2.0™, enabling you to preserve up to twice as many stem cells compared to a typical cord blood collection.
Our two-step process starts with our innovative and patent-pending* Gravity Stand™, which is exclusively available through Americord, to collect cord blood. Your baby's cord blood then goes through a proprietary process at our lab to extract up to twice as many stem cells compared to a traditional cord blood collection.
Cord Blood 2.0™ is an important advancement for parents looking to preserve their baby's stem cells, and it is only available through Americord.
Cord blood is an easily accessible source of stem cells that is available only when a baby is born. Cord blood remains in the umbilical cord and in the placenta following the birth of a baby. The cord blood and the placenta are routinely discarded after birth. Every year millions of parents miss out on the opportunity to collect stem cells at the only time they are available, right after birth.
Body System Building Blocks
The type of stem cells that are recovered at birth from the umbilical cord and placenta, called cord blood stem cells, are classified as hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). HSCs can become any of the blood cells and cellular blood components in our bodies (such as white blood cells, red blood cells, platelets, etc.). Transplants of stem cells from cord blood are an effective therapy for certain blood borne and genetic diseases, including various types of leukemia and lymphoma.
Why is it important?
Stem cells in the placental and umbilical cord blood are genetically unique to your baby and family. They can be used to treat various medical problems for your child, his or her siblings, and other family members. With more than 80 diseases now treatable using cord blood stem cells, the motivation for collecting this valuable and potentially life-saving material is clear.
More Stem Cells = More Medical Options
Until now, a significant limitation of cord blood banking has been that the number of stem cells that are preserved in a typical cord blood collection are only sufficient to treat someone who weighs up to about 65 pounds if doctors follow best practices. With Cord Blood 2.0™, up to twice as many stem cells can be preserved, making it possible to treat larger patients or expand treatment opportunities for smaller patients.
When can you save it?
Cord blood (along with cord tissue and placenta tissue, which also contain stem cells) can only be collected right after a baby is born. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity to expand your baby's and your family's future options for medical treatment.
Saving stem cells is effortless
Americord offers state-of-the-art services so that parents can easily save cord blood stem cells and preserve them for years to come. We also offer a variety of payment plans, and our prices all include 20 years of storage for your baby's stem cells.
Quality and affordability
Preserving stem cells is one of the smartest decisions you can make when it comes to the wellbeing of your baby and other family members. Once you make the decision to preserve cord blood stem cells along with cord tissue or placenta tissue stem cells, compare Americord to the other leading cord blood banking and cord tissue banking companies, such as Viacord or CBR.
- Americord has set a new standard for dependable, personalized customer service — our commitment to our customers is unmatched in the industry, and we'll be here for you for years to come with unwavering dedication to your family.
- Americord's prices for cord blood banking are far lower than our competitors' prices.
Don't accept second best when it comes to preserving your baby's cord blood stem cells for the future. Contact us today so we can help put you on the path that will lead to a potentially healthier future for you and your loved ones.
* U.S. Trademark Application No. 86337453


text:
William H. Craig, DVM
Dr. Craig is the Chief Medical and Underwriting Director of San Antonio-based PurinaCare Pet Health Insurance. With over 30 years of experience in veterinary medicine, Dr. Craig is passionate about pets and how to keep them healthy and happy for a lifetime.
Posts filtered on Tag
Hurricane Pet Preparedness
The 2011 Atlantic Hurricane Season began June 1 and is expected to be a busy one, forecasting a total of 15 named tropical storms, eight of which will attain hurricane status and four of which will attain major hurricane status (Category 3 or higher). Preparing your family and your pets to evacuate or take shelter against these devastating storms requires initial planning. [Read More]
Preparing Pets for the Unpredictable
Recently there has been an outbreak of wild weather across the country. Tornadoes, flooding and even wildfires have devastated parts of the country. Preparing your family and your pets to evacuate or take shelter against the unpredictable weather requires initial planning. As part of PurinaCare's mission to provide a lifetime of care for your pets, we believe creating a Pet Evacuation Kit now can relieve some of the unbelievable stress that comes when faced with an evacuation. [Read More]