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|Weatherspoon should get more big-play opportunities in Mike Nolan's system. (Getty Images)
FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. -- Sean Weatherspoon's voice never stops. Step onto the Atlanta Falcons practice field and you can hear it as soon as you do, a symphony of trash talk mixed with playful enthusiasm.
After a play was run during a recent practice, one with him sitting out on the sidelines, he screamed something for all to hear.
"He hit him in the mouth," he said. "He hit him in the mouth."
|More from NFL camps
His smile was wide at the mere thought, pure linebacker oozing out.
Weatherspoon is loud, confident, plays with a swagger and might be the best player you probably don't know much about.
Looking for the next great defender? He is it.
Entering his third season, Weatherspoon has amazing athletic ability for a 6-3, 240-pound linebacker.
He can run. He can tackle. He can cover. And, if asked, he can rush.
That's the problem. He doesn't rush enough. He had 115 tackles but just four sacks last season.
And while those 3-4 outside linebackers are hogging all the Pro Bowl berths because of their sack totals, those 4-3 outside backers are seemingly losing ground in the glamour department.
"Our position is getting lost a little bit," Weatherspoon said during a break from camp recently.
With more and more teams moving to the 3-4, and those rush linebackers getting most of the highlight plays, the run-and-cover linebackers pretty much go about their business with a lot less fanfare.
Name the top 4-3 outside backers in the league?
Get going now. See what I mean?
Weatherspoon is one of them, and in his third year he's about to show it. He has the "wow" factor, which means he makes those explosive plays that stand out on tape.
It also works against him sometimes. He gets caught out of position, leading to big plays the other way.
There have been several games in his first two seasons where Weatherspoon has come to the sideline and received a tongue-lashing from the coaches because of a missed assignment or his being too aggressive. In New Orleans as a rookie, he left Lance Moore open for a long score, leading to a verbal beating, even though it was a coverage he probably shouldn't have been asked to do.
"Sometimes as a young player, you are just running around," Weatherspoon said. "You have to stay within the scheme. You can't just go find the ball and go. Sometimes, it's somebody else's play. I'm working on that."
Several Falcons players I talked to during my camp visit raved about Weatherspoon.
"He's the real deal," veteran linebacker Mike Peterson said. "That kid is balling."
The Falcons are going to a new defense in 2012, one that will feature Weatherspoon's athletic ability. New coordinator Mike Nolan will move players around, sending guys from a bunch of different looks, making it tougher to figure out.
In Weatherspoon's first two seasons after being a first-round pick out of Missouri, he lined up as a weak-side backer and didn't move around much. Now he can be anywhere in the multiple looks.
It also means he will rush the quarterback more, even if it's not as frequent as the 3-4 outside backers.
"Whenever my number is called to go, I have to be successful," Weatherspoon said. "You have to put the quarterback on his butt. I didn't get to go as much in the past as I will in Mike's system. My batting average just has to be better because I don't get to go as much as the other guys."
The Falcons let middle linebacker Curtis Lofton leave in free agency, signing with the New Orleans Saints. The coaches like Lofton as a run player, but he struggled against the pass. His departure means second-year player Akeem Dent will start in the middle.
It also means Weatherspoon will be making the defensive calls in the huddle, the player with the microphone in the helmet.
"For them to let Curtis move on means they are confident in what they think I can do," Weatherspoon said. "There is pressure, but I think I can step up and be a much better player than last year. This defense is more complicated and it requires more athleticism."
Derrick Brooks is one of the best weak-side 4-3 linebackers to ever play the game. He will be in the Pro Football Hall as soon as he's eligible. Weatherspoon has the same type of ability, only he's bigger.
"I take pride in lining up on someone and they can't run a route on me," Weatherspoon said. "I take pride in my coverage. I take pride in my run fits. I don't do a lot of rushing, but I am working to get better at it. I am trying to do the same things Brooks did. He didn't rush a lot, but he was always around the ball. That's what I want to be."
But, he also knows what gets noticed come Pro Bowl time.
"Sacks, man," he said. "I know what they want. Sacks. That's why I intend to get more."


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The new rickshaw from Honda will feature a modified Honda Eterno engine (150 cc), and may later be offered in a 200 cc version too.
We do not know for sure, but sure we haven't heard about any three-wheeler from Honda before that is a passenger carrier like the proposed three-wheeler. Honda may have other three-wheeled vehicles, but
they are most probably ATVs (all terrain vehicles).
So after making its mark in the scooter market and winning the battle with India's largest scooter manufacturer; and about to launch a motorcycle that will take on the same manufacturer's best-selling motorcycle, Honda India is about to take on the same auto manufacturer in the three-wheeled passenger segment too.
Very, very interesting.
The other players in the three-wheeler segment in India are Mahindra and Mahindra, Piaggio and Atul Auto - all of whom are marginal players in the market. So there is a good chance that Honda Motorcycles and Scooters India will manage to snatch a large piece of the three-wheeler pie. Check back on this page later for an update as and when
more news becomes available.
Innova launched in India and Philippines
Ford Fiesta
Renault Logan car in 2007
DWS Auto price list 1
Feb 2005
Narain Karthikeyan breaks into Formula One!
New Maruti 800 - Old wine
in new bottle
Toyota Fortuner news and pix
Chevrolet Aveo for India
Hyundai Tucson - news and photos
Skoda Fabia by
Ford Fusion launched in India
Toyota Kijang Innova comes to India
Ford Endeavour
Tata Indigo Marina launch
Kinetic Hyosung Comet 250 cc motorcycle to be launched
Porsche comes to
Small Car buyer's guide
New Suzuki plant in
India soon
Maruti Suzuki Swift coming to India!!
Getz, Set, Go!
Hyundai Getz is here with a Rs 4.5 lakh tag
TVS Three-wheeler in a year
Honda Unicorn
motorcycle - news and updates
Honda India to
launch three wheeler rickshaw
Tata's Rs. One lakh car -
the people's car?
The Chinkara roadster
The new
Maruti Esteem and Tata Sumo
Better. Just a little bit.
Honda City vs. Chevrolet
Optra 1.6
Tata Indigo Marina
Dilip Chhabria

subset: commoncrawl


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Yesterday I spoke about social media to a group of B2B companies who are licensees of the Biltmore brand (thoughts on that are forthcoming). The Biltmore Estate, located in Asheville NC, was built by George Vanderbilt as "country retreat where he could pursue his passion for art, literature, and horticulture." Between my stay at the Inn at Biltmore and my tour of the Biltmore House, I was reminded of a level of customer service that most companies do not reach, or even consider.
Treat Each Customer as the Most Important
In a self-service world where we have gotten used to a lack of attention, frequently from people who are in the service business, it was refreshing to be repeatedly greeted by a smiling staff member that really did want to help. These were people happy in their jobs, who understood the importance of keeping guests happy. Next time you are on a call with a customer, don't just ask them how everything is, but really mean it. Say it in a way that shows you really do want an answer. Don't just ask if they need anything, but offer to help. Treat each and every customer as if they are your most important customer. One easy way to do this is to think about every customer as if they are the most important. And on some level, they really are.
Create Experiences that Prevent Customers from Seeing Other Companies
Customers are always have their eyes open for other vendors. The Biltmore Estate owns so much land that from any point on the property, everything you see it part of the estate. While it is not possible to isolate your customers from seeing other companies, one of the ways to truly distinguish your company and reduce the likelihood of them exploring your competitors is to provide a level of service that is unmatched. This means creating a high-level experience that removes any thoughts of competitors from their minds.
Service from Another Era
At the turn of the 20th Century, family members and guests at the Biltmore House were treated like royalty, and in fact, the wealthiest members of society were like royalty in America. Everyone's every need was catered to by a large staff who was trained to serve. Yes, this was another era, and also a part of society most of us never see, but if you treat customers with a high level of respect and concern for their needs, their loyalty follows. Don't think about bottom line, how many hoops you have to jump through to honor a customer's request, or even how your will find time to get it all done. Focus on meeting your customers' needs. Each and every time. Each and every customer.
How This Relates to Social Media
Increasingly, B2B companies are using social media tools and connections to seek out new vendors and partners. If your current customers rave about your company's level of service, new prospects will find it. When people ask their networks for recommendations for new partners, which do you think carries more weight? "I get the best price from XYZ company, but I can never get anyone on the phone" or "I pay a little bit more for ABC company, but the number of times they have helped me get out of jam is amazing. They really care about keeping my business and treat me like a business partner, not just an entry on a spreadsheet."?
What are your experiences with high levels of service as either a provider/supplier or as a customer and have you shared it online? Do you think customer service can be a differentiator?
Disclosure: My stay at the Inn at Biltmore was provided as part of speaking at the licensee partner conference.


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Princess Ariel's Purse
Party-going princesses will have a ball customizing this colorful clutch inspired by Ariel. It's a great way to recycle old purses or small handbags. If you don't happen to have any on hand, you're likely to find a variety at secondhand shops and/or dollar stores.
What You'll Need
Small clutches, change purses, or makeup bags
Low temperature hot glue gun
Shell or other ocean-themed stickers
Scraps of extra-fine sandpaper or sand-colored craft paper
Faux pearl stickers
Faux pearl beads
How To Make It
To create purses inspired by everyone's favorite Little Mermaid, use glue dots to attach a piece of sandpaper or sand-colored craft paper to the lower portions of vinyl or plastic purses. To give the mini stretch of "beach" a more authentic look, try tearing the edges of the paper instead of cutting them. Little princesses can finish up their creations with a scattering of shell stickers and faux pearls.
Tagged as: Ariel, Crafts, Disney Princess, Fashion Accessories, The Little Mermaid
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Top Definition
Yelled in combination with laughter after the miner says or does something stupid or out of line. Can be anything from a drastic exaggeration (usually involves numbers) to rolling around drunk on the ground outside a bar with no pants on. Miner moments are pretty common, and given enough alcohol they are inevitable.
haha Chris just accidently wiped cake frosting all over his face after falling and slamming his head on the dishwasher after taking a few too many shots.
The miner! hahaha!
The miner! hahaha!
by I've had like 27 beers February 04, 2009
Trending Now
Can you define these popular missing words?
A sex move. Where you strap a small bulb to your dick (your "helmet") before you go to work deep in the mine. The warmth of the bulb gives your girl more pleasure that way.
Guy 1: You ever tried The Miner?
Guy 2: Yeah, my bird really screamed when I used that one.
Guy 2: Yeah, my bird really screamed when I used that one.
by Lenwin July 16, 2012
While fucking a girl, your dick is so small the condom falls off and you have to pretend to finger her to get it out.
Joe couldn't find the condom after pulling The Miner on Carrisa.
by Joshuanaganooch September 26, 2006
The act of wearing a strap on penis upon your forid, and proceeding to fuck the vaginal cavity using the strap on and while you eat through the ass ruble.
"deebles said to tyrone I gave Disco Dunkley The Miner"
by Sammuel Cruise August 01, 2006


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As I watch the news today, I'm amazed at the mainstream media as they brazenly and openly support the anti-Christian liberal view. Apparently fair and balanced reporting is a thing of the past.
Those who once prided themselves as reporting the news are now actively striving to distort the news. ABC, NBC and CBS have all become propaganda machines of liberal social ideology. This fact has never been more evident since Senator John McCain selected Governor Sarah Palin as his running mate.
These news outlets use to at least attempt some resemblance of the broadcast ethics of fair and balanced, but now they've removed any and all doubt and are clearly seen as bias. They no longer have any credibility as a true news organization. The unfair and vicious attacks on Governor Palin are simply uncalled for, unconscionable and down right outrageous.
Once a news organization takes the step away from reporting the truth, then from that point on, it becomes nothing more than a tool used to promote propaganda. Notice! What is the first thing that a dictator does when he comes into power? He takes control of the media and immediately begins to promote his agenda and his ideology. He propagates his own views without any rebuttal or reasonable discussion. He takes away every opportunity for the opposing view to have a voice in the public arena.
How did we American slip so far away from our godly roots as a nation? Years ago, it was the Communist Party who was guilty of passing laws to kill its citizens. But now in America we have legalized the murder of unborn and partially born babies. Every day thousands are killed and we act as if it were normal.
It was the Communist Party that took control of a country through social programs. They promised that they would take care of the people by socializing healthcare, childcare, education, law enforcement and protection. Subsequently, the citizens believe the propaganda, took the Party at its word and gave in to the idea that Socialism was the cure for all their problems. They gave up their right to keep and bear arms, and when the citizens were disarmed and vulnerable, they lost their freedom.
Have you heard any of these ideas recently, by any chance? Sounds like the Democratic National Party to me. It's obvious that the mainstream media is in the Democratic camp and it's being used to promote this socialistic form of government.
In all my years as an informed American, I've never seen the media so obsessed on getting a presidential candidate elected, as I have seen with Senator Obama, the most liberal socialist in the Senate.
History is repeating itself, for the propaganda machine is once again alive and well and at work in America, oiled and running at top speed each and every morning and at 6 p.m. each night.
Straight from my heart to yours,
Pastor Tom McCanless


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Index of content:
Volume 26, Issue 11, November 1999
Obituary: Lionel Cohen, M.D., Ph.D. 1918–199926(1999); http://dx.doi.org/10.1118/1.598812View Description Hide Description
- Top
Medical physicists should seek patent protection for new ideas before publishing articles about them26(1999); http://dx.doi.org/10.1118/1.598811View Description Hide Description
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- Rapid Communication
Performance evaluation of a multi-slice CT system26(1999); http://dx.doi.org/10.1118/1.598777View Description Hide Description
Our purpose in this study was to characterize the performance of a recently introduced multi-slice CTscanner (LightSpeed QX/i, Version 1.0, General Electric Medical Systems) in comparison to a single-slice scanner from the same manufacturer (HiSpeed CT/i, Version 4.0). To facilitate this comparison, a refined definition of pitch is introduced which accommodates multi-slice CT systems, yet maintains the existing relationships between pitch, patient dose, and image quality. The following performance parameters were assessed: radiation and slice sensitivity profiles, low-contrast and limiting spatial resolution,image uniformity and noise,CT number and geometric accuracy, and dose. The multi-slice system was tested in axial (1, 2, or 4 images per gantry rotation) and HQ (Pitch = 0.75) and HS (Pitch = 1.5) helical modes. Axial and helical acquisition speed and limiting spatial resolution (0.8-s exposure) were improved on the multi-slice system. Slice sensitivity profiles, imagenoise,CT number accuracy and uniformity, and low-contrast resolution were similar. In some HS-helical modes, helical artifacts and geometric distortion were more pronounced with a different appearance. Radiation slice profiles and doses were larger on the multi-slice system at all scan widths. For a typical abdomen and pelvis exam, the central and surface body doses for 5-mm helical scans were higher on the multi-slice system by approximately 50%. The increase in surface CTDI values (with respect to the single-slice system) was greatest for the detector configuration (190% for head, 240% for body) and least for the configuration (53% for head, 76% for body). Preliminary testing of version 1.1 software demonstrated reduced doses on the multi-slice scanner, where the increase in body surface CTDI values (with respect to the single-slice system) was 105% for the 4×1.25-mm detector configuration and 10% for the 4×5-mm configuration. In summary, the axial and HQ-helical modes of the multi-slice system provided excellent image quality and a substantial reduction in exam time and tube loading, although at varying degrees of increased dose relative to the single-slice scanner.
A simple theorem relating noise and patient dose in computed tomography26(1999); http://dx.doi.org/10.1118/1.598778View Description Hide Description
Presented is a simple model describing the dependence of imagenoise in computed tomography on the x-ray beam profile. The model is used to derive the x-ray profile which minimizes total imagenoise at constant integral patient dose. The profile may be produced with a bow-tie-type beam shaping filter. Results of the analysis are validated using a computer simulation of computed tomography(CT) acquisition and reconstruction.
Dose reduction in CT by anatomically adapted tube current modulation. I. Simulation studies26(1999); http://dx.doi.org/10.1118/1.598779View Description Hide Description
Tube current modulation governed by x-ray attenuation during CT(computed tomography) acquisition can lead to noise reduction which in turn can be used to achieve patient dose reduction without loss in image quality. The potential of this technique was investigated in simulation studies calculating both noise amplitude levels and noise distribution in CTimages. The dependence of noise on the modulation function, amplitude of modulation, shape and size of the object, and possible phase shift between attenuation and modulation function were examined. Both sinusoidal and attenuation-based control functions were used to modulate tube current. Noise reduction was calculated for both ideal systems and for real systems with limited modulation amplitude. Dose reductions up to 50% can be achieved depending on the phantom geometry and tube current modulation function. Attenuation-based tube current modulation yields substantially higher reduction than fixed-shape modulation functions. Optimal results are obtained when the current is modulated as a function of the square root of attenuation. A modulation amplitude of at least 90% should be available to exploit the potential of these techniques.
Dose reduction in CT by anatomically adapted tube current modulation. II. Phantom measurements26(1999); http://dx.doi.org/10.1118/1.598738View Description Hide Description
Theoretical considerations and simulation studies have led to the expectation that patient dose in CT(computed tomography) can be reduced significantly without a concomitant loss in image quality if tube current is modulated according to rotation angle-dependent x-ray attenuation. In this study, the simulation results presented in Part I were validated with phantoms. We used one cylindrical, two oval, and one elliptical phantom, available both as mathematical descriptions and in physical form, to mimic different parts of the human anatomy. Prototype hardware was available to control tube current on a commercial clinical CT scanner. The potential for dose reduction was evaluated for sinusoidal and attenuation-based current modulation for variable modulation amplitudes. Agreement between simulations and measured results was better than within 10%. Dose reduction values of 8%–56% were found depending on the phantom geometry and tube current modulation function. Attenuation-based tube current modulation consistently yielded higher reduction than fixed-shape sinusoidal modulation functions. For the shoulder phantom and 70% modulation amplitude, 44.6% dose reduction was measured as compared to 34.1% for sinusoidal modulation. A maximum of 56% was measured for the shoulder phantom including inserts. Specifying mAs reduction as an estimate for dose reduction proved to be a valid and conservative estimate; measured dose is reduced more strongly than the total mAs product both centrally and on average. First patient studies confirm the results of simulation and phantom studies. We conclude that attenuation-based online tube current control has great potential for reducing patient dose in CT and that it should be made generally available for clinical use.
On the statistical nature of mammograms26(1999); http://dx.doi.org/10.1118/1.598739View Description Hide Description
We show that digitized mammograms can be considered as evolving from a simple process. A given image results from passing a random input field through a linear filtering operation, where the filter transfer function has a self-similar characteristic. By estimating the functional form of the filter and solving the corresponding filtering equation, the analysis shows that the input field gray value distribution and spectral content can be approximated with parametric methods. The work gives a simple explanation for the variegated image appearance and multimodal character of the gray value distribution common to mammograms. Using the image analysis as a guide, a simulated mammogram is generated that has many statistical characteristics of real mammograms. Additional benefits may follow from understanding the functional form of the filter in conjunction with the input field characteristics that include the approximate parametric description of mammograms, showing the distinction between homogeneously dense and nondense images, and the development of mass analysis methods.
Effect of display luminance on the feature detection rates of masses in mammograms26(1999); http://dx.doi.org/10.1118/1.598740View Description Hide Description
Our purpose in this study was to determine the importance of the luminance range of the display system for the detection of simulated masses in mammograms. Simulated masses were embedded in selected portions (512512 pixels) of mammograms digitized at 50 μ pixels, 12 bits deep. The masses were embedded in one of four quadrants in the image. An observer experiment was conducted in which the observer's task was to determine in which quadrant the mass is located. The key variables involved in each trial included the position of the mass, the contrast level of the mass, and the luminance of the display. The contrast of the mass with respect to the background was fixed to one of four selected contrast levels. The digital images were printed to film, and displayed on a mammography lightbox. The display luminance was controlled by placing neutral density films between the laser printed films of mammographic backgrounds and the lightbox. The resulting maximum luminances examined in this study ranged from 34 cd/m2 to 2056 cd/m2. Twenty observers viewed 80 different images (20 observations at each of 4 different mass contrast levels) under each of the 5 luminance conditions for a total of 800 independent observations per observer. An analysis of variance yielded no statistically significant correlation between the luminance range of the display and the feature detection rate of the simulated masses in mammograms. However, the performance of the lower luminance display systems (less than 300 cd/m2), may be reduced due to the high levels of ambient light found in many reading environments.
Analysis of the detective quantum efficiency of a developmental detector for digital mammography26(1999); http://dx.doi.org/10.1118/1.598741View Description Hide Description
We are developing a modular detector for applications in full field digital mammography and for diagnostic breast imaging. The detector is based on a design that has been refined over the past decade for applications in x-ray crystallography [Kalata et al., Proc. SPIE 1345, 270–279 (1990); Phillips et al. ibid. 2009, 133–138 (1993), Phillips et al., Nucl. Instrum. Methods Phys. Rev. A 334, 621–630 (1993)]. The full field mammographic detector, currently undergoing clinical evaluation, is formed from a phosphor screen, read out by a array of butted charge-coupled device(CCD) modules. Each CCD is optically coupled to the phosphor via a fiber optic taper with dimensions of at the phosphor. This paper describes the imaging performance of a two-module prototype, built using a similar design. In this paper we use cascaded linear systems analysis to develop a model for calculating the spatial frequency dependent noise power spectrum (NPS) and detective quantum efficiency (DQE) of the detector using the measuredmodulation transfer function(MTF). We compare results of the calculation with the measured NPS and DQE of the prototype. Calculated and measured DQEs are compared over a range of clinically relevant x-ray exposures and kVps. We find that for x-ray photon energies between 10 and 28 keV, the detector gain ranges between 2.5 and 3.7 CCD electrons per incident x-ray, or approximately 5–8 electrons per absorbed x ray. Using a Mo/Mo beam and acrylic phantom, over a detector entrance exposure range of approximately 10 to 80 mR, the volume under the measured NPS of the prototype detector is proportional to the x-ray exposure, indicating quantum limited performance. Substantial agreement between the calculated and measured values was obtained for the frequency and exposure dependent NPS and DQE over a range of tube voltage from 25 to 30 kVp.
Use of a slit camera for MTF measurements26(1999); http://dx.doi.org/10.1118/1.598742View Description Hide Description
The slit camera was analyzed in order to establish its utility and limitations as an MTFmeasurement tool for characterizing radiographic imaging systems. Commercial slit cameras are attractive for MTFmeasurements because the beveled edges significantly reduce their alignment sensitivity as compared to the conventional parallel jaw slit. Radiation passing through the beveled edges increases the effective width of the slit camera so that a correction based on the nominal slit width would leave residual error in the MTFmeasurement. Experimental and Monte Carlo simulated MTFmeasurements were made on a slit camera (10 μm nominal slit width) in order to estimate its sensitivity in alignment, quantify the error in MTF due to transmission through the beveled jaws, and provide a correction factor. The alignment tolerances of the slit camera were found to be about 12 times larger than for the parallel jaw slit at small HVLs (∼1.3 mm Al) of the incident beam and 9 times larger at higher HVLs (∼7 mm Al). The magnitude of the residual error in MTF was dependent on the quality of the incident spectrum. For incident spectra with high kVp and HVL (⩾120 kVp, ⩾5 mm Al HVL), transmission through the beveled edges produced errors in MTF up to 15% at 5 cycles/mm and 30% at 10 cycles/mm. By assuming a rectangular slit profile with an effective width based on the kVp, HVL, and filtration material of the incident beam, an MTF correction factor was determined. Application of this correction factor reduced the errors to less than 4% up to 10 cycles/mm. At low beam energies and spatial frequencies, the correction is less critical. Ease of alignment and greater availability make a commercial slit camera useful for MTFmeasurements. Accurate MTFmeasurements can be made if appropriate correction factors are applied.
Computerized radiographic texture measures for characterizing bone strength: A simulated clinical setup using femoral neck specimens26(1999); http://dx.doi.org/10.1118/1.598743View Description Hide Description
We are investigating computerized methods to ultimately characterize bone trabecular pattern from clinical skeletal radiographs. In this paper, we present a "phantom" for potential use in the development and evaluation of computerized methods for characterizing radiographic trabecular patterns and ultimately bone strength. Femoral neck specimens were excised during total hip arthroplasties from subjects exhibiting a range of diseases. To mimic the femoral neck in vivo, a "simulated clinical" setup was implemented in which specimens were exposed under conditions that yielded radiographs similar in appearance to standard pelvis radiographs. Fourier-based and fractal-based texture measures were used in the computer analysis; including RMS variation, first moment of the power spectrum, angular-dependent forms of these measures, and fractal dimension. The texture measures obtained from the "simulated clinical" specimen films correlated modestly with those from direct exposure "verification" films of the specimens From our study, we conclude that the femoral neck specimen "phantoms" may be useful in the development and evaluation of computerized methods for analyzing bone trabecular patterns from skeletal radiographs. The use of a phantom that simulates the clinical radiographic examination allows for repeat exposures without the concern of excessive radiation exposure to a patient.
Scatter and veiling glare estimation based on sampled primary intensity26(1999); http://dx.doi.org/10.1118/1.598744View Description Hide Description
Scatter and veiling glare are predominant sources of error in videodensitometric iodine quantification. Standard beam stop techniques such as lead strips or an array of lead discs, placed before the patients, have previously been used to measure scatter and veiling glare in digital radiographic images. However, these techniques significantly increase patient x-ray exposure. In order to overcome this limitation, a scatter measurement technique based on sampled primary intensity has been investigated. This technique uses an array of apertures in a lead sheet to sample the primary x-ray intensity. The scatter–glare intensity in these locations is calculated by subtracting the sampled primary intensity from an open field image which contains both primary and scatter–glare. The calculated scatter–glare values can be interpolated or combined with digital filtration to estimate the scatter–glare intensity on a pixel by pixel basis. The technique was evaluated using a Lucite™ step phantom and an anthropomorphic chest phantom. The average rms percentage errors of scatter and veiling glare estimation using bi-cubic interpolation and digital filtration techniques were 8.02% and 7.53%, respectively. The average rms percentage errors of primary intensity estimation using bi-cubic interpolation and digital filtration techniques were 10.01% and 8.91%, respectively. The x-ray exposure-area product (EAP) from the aperture array was only 4.38% of the EAP from the open field. These results indicate that the scatter–glare intensity can be accurately estimated with minimal x-ray exposure using sampled primary intensity.
- Top
Estimation of the depth-dependent component of the point spread function of SPECT26(1999); http://dx.doi.org/10.1118/1.598745View Description Hide Description
The point spread function (PSF) of a gamma camera describes the photon count density distribution at the detector surface when a point source is imaged. Knowledge of the PSF is important for computer simulation and accurate image reconstruction of single photon emission computed tomography(SPECT)images. To reduce the number of measurements required for PSF characterization and the amount of computer memory to store PSF tables, and to enable generalization of the PSF to different collimator-to-source distances, the PSF may be modeled as the two-dimensional (2D) convolution of the depth-dependent component which is free of detector blurring and the distance-dependent detector response. Owing to limitations imposed by the radioactive strength of point sources, extended sources have to be used for measurements. Therefore, if is estimated from measured responses, corrections have to be made for both the detector blurring and for the extent of the source. In this paper, an approach based on maximum likelihood expectation-maximization (ML-EM) is used to estimate In addition, a practical measurement procedure which avoids problems associated with commonly used line-source measurements is proposed. To decrease noise and to prevent nonphysical solutions, shape constraints are applied during the estimation of The estimates are generalized to depths other than those which have been measured and are incorporated in a SPECT simulator. The method is validated for Tc-99m and Tl-201 by means of measurements on physical phantoms. The corrected responses have the desired shapes and simulated responses closely resemble measured responses. The proposed methodology may, consequently, serve as a basis for accurate three-dimensional (3D) SPECT reconstruction.
A mathematical model of motion of the heart for use in generating source and attenuation maps for simulating emission imaging26(1999); http://dx.doi.org/10.1118/1.598746View Description Hide Description
This manuscript documents the alteration of the heart model of the three-dimensional (3D) mathematical cardiac torso (MCAT) phantom to represent cardiac motion. The objective of the inclusion of motion was to develop a digital simulation of the heart such that the impact of cardiac motion on single-photon emission computed tomography(SPECT)imaging could be assessed and methods of quantitating cardiac function could be investigated. The motion of the gated 3D MCAT's (gMCAT) heart is modeled using 128 separate and evenly spaced time samples from a blood volume curve approximating an average heart cycle. Sets of adjacent time samples can be grouped together to represent a single time interval within the heart cycle. Maximum and minimum chamber volumes were selected to be similar to those of a normal healthy person while the total heart volume stayed constant during the cardiac cycle. Myocardial mass was conserved during the cardiac cycle and the bases of the ventricles were modeled as moving towards the static apex. The orientation of the 3D MCAT heart was changed during contraction to rotate back and forth around the long axis through the center of the left ventricle (LV) using the end systolic time interval as the time point at which to reverse direction. Simple respiratory motion was also introduced by changing the orientation of the long axis of the heart to represent its variation with respiration.Heart models for 24 such orientations spanning the range of motion during the respiratory cycle were averaged together for each time sample to represent the blurring of the heart during the acquisition of multiple cardiac cycles. Finally, an option to model apical thinning of the myocardium was included. As an illustration of the application of the gMCAT phantom, the gated heart model was evaluated by measuring myocardial wall thickening. A linear relationship was obtained between maximum myocardial counts and myocardial thickness, similar to published results. Similar results were obtained for full width at half maximum (FWHM) measurements. With the presence of apical thinning, an apparent increase in counts in the apical region compared to the other heart walls in the absence of attenuation compensation turns into an apparent decrease in counts with attenuation compensation. The apical decrease was more prominent in end systole (ES) than end diastole (ED) due to the change in the partial volume effect. These observations agree with clinical trends. It is concluded that the gMCAT phantom can be used to study the influence of various physical parameters on radionuclide perfusion imaging.
Differential attenuation method for simultaneous estimation of activity and attenuation in multiemission single photon emission computed tomography26(1999); http://dx.doi.org/10.1118/1.598747View Description Hide Description
A penalized weighted least squares reconstruction algorithm is described that simultaneously estimates activity and attenuation distributions from emission sinogram data alone. This estimation technique is based on differential attenuation information and is applicable to any single photon emission computed tomographyimagingisotope with emissions at two or more distinct energies, after accurate compensation for Compton scatter. A rotation-based forward projector is used to efficiently model photon attenuation at multiple emission energies, as well as distance-dependent spatial resolution. The algorithm was tested using simulated scatter-freeTl projection data from a single-slice numerical cardiac phantom with and without cold myocardial defects. Poissonnoise was added to the projection data to mimic clinically realistic count densities. The activity estimates resulting from the proposed method had fewer artifacts and were substantially more accurate than images reconstructed with filtered backprojection without compensation for attenuation. Several techniques were employed to reduce the time required for the iterative routine to converge and to reduce the sensitivity of the solution to noise in the projection data. These included: (1) a preconditioning image variable transformation; (2) a coarse-to-fine grid initialization schedule; and (3) a convex hull image mask determined directly from the data. The combined effect of these techniques substantially reduced the compute time required for the reconstruction.
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An automated iterative algorithm for water and fat decomposition in three-point Dixon magnetic resonance imaging26(1999); http://dx.doi.org/10.1118/1.598748View Description Hide Description
An iterative, outlier exclusion, second-order surface fitting algorithm has been developed to solve the well-known phase wraparound problem associated with in vivo applications of the three-point Dixon magnetic resonance imaging method. The technique was optimized for speed by reducing the problem to a pair of planar fits. The spatial misalignment between water and fat components due to the chemical shift was handled on a subpixel level by invoking the shift theorem of Fourier transformation. From the chemical shift corrected water and fat images, high quality recombined MRimages were generated. The algorithm was validated in both phantom and patient studies. In vivo breast images and pelvic images are provided as a demonstration of the method.
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Estimation theory and model parameter selection for therapeutic treatment plan optimization26(1999); http://dx.doi.org/10.1118/1.598749View Description Hide Description
Treatment optimization is usually formulated as an inverse problem, which starts with a prescribed dose distribution and obtains an optimized solution under the guidance of an objective function. The solution is a compromise between the conflicting requirements of the target and sensitive structures. In this paper, the treatment plan optimization is formulated as an estimation problem of a discrete and possibly nonconvex system. The concept of preference function is introduced. Instead of prescribing a dose to a structure (or a set of voxels), the approach prioritizes the doses with different preference levels and reduces the problem into selecting a solution with a suitable estimator. The preference function provides a foundation for statistical analysis of the system and allows us to apply various techniques developed in statistical analysis to plan optimization. It is shown that an optimization based on a quadratic objective function is a special case of the formalism. A general two-step method for using a computer to determine the values of the model parameters is proposed. The approach provides an efficient way to include prior knowledge into the optimization process. The method is illustrated using a simplified two-pixel system as well as two clinical cases. The generality of the approach, coupled with promising demonstrations, indicates that the method has broad implications for radiotherapy treatment plan optimization.
Application of constrained optimization to radiotherapy planning26(1999); http://dx.doi.org/10.1118/1.598750View Description Hide Description
Essential for the calculation of photon fluence distributions for intensity modulated radiotherapy(IMRT) is the use of a suitable objective function. The objective function should reflect the clinical aims of tumorcontrol and low side effect probability. Individual radiobiological parameters for patient organs are not yet available with sufficient accuracy. Some of the major drawbacks of some current optimization methods include an inability to converge to a solution for arbitrary input parameters, and/or a need for intensive user input in order to guide the optimization. In this work, a constrained optimization method was implemented and tested. It is closely related to the demanded clinical aims, avoiding the drawbacks mentioned above. In a prototype treatment planning system for IMRT,tumorcontrol was guaranteed by setting a lower boundary for target dose. The aim of low complication is fulfilled by minimizing the dose to organs at risk. If only one type of tissue is involved, there is no absolute need for radiobiological parameters. For different organs, threshold dose, relative seriality of the organs or an upper dose limit could be set. All parameters, however, were optional, and could be omitted. Dose–volume constraints were not used, avoiding the possibility of local minima in the objective function. The approach was benchmarked through the simulation of both a head and neck and a lung case. A cylinder phantom with precalculated dose distributions of individual pencil beams was used. The dose to regions at risk could be significantly reduced using at least seven ports of beam incidence. Increasing the number of ports beyond seven produced only minor further gain. The relative seriality of organs was modeled through the use of an added exponent to the dose. This approach however increased calculation time significantly. The alternative of setting an upper limit is much faster and allows direct control of the maximum dose. Constrained optimization guarantees high tumorcontrol probability, it is computationally more efficient than adding penalty terms to the objective function, and the input parameters are dose limits known in clinical practice.
The development of target-eye-view maps for selection of coplanar or noncoplanar beams in conformal radiotherapy treatment planning26(1999); http://dx.doi.org/10.1118/1.598751View Description Hide Description
Three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy allows the use of tightly conformed, multiple coplanar or noncoplanar beams. However, visualizing the spatial relationships between the target volume and adjacent critical structures is not always obvious or intuitive. Tools such as beam's eye view (BEV) have aided in this process and been very useful. In this study, a target-eye-view (TEV) map is developed as a functional extension of BEVs. The TEV map for a critical structure is created by checking the BEVs for all gantries and table rotations. For each possible BEV, the amount of overlap between the planning target volume (PTV) and the organ at risk (OAR) is determined. This information is presented in a Mercator spherical map, where the color tone indicates the amount of overlap between the PTV and the OAR. A composite TEV map is then created by summing the TEV grading scores for all OARs. The composite map shows beam orientations with the most overlap being light and the least overlap being dark, thus simplifying the selection of appropriate beam angles. The accuracy of the TEV maps has been confirmed separately with corresponding BEVs generated by a three-dimensional treatment planning system.
Dosimetric verification of intensity modulated beams produced with dynamic multileaf collimation using an electronic portal imaging device26(1999); http://dx.doi.org/10.1118/1.598752View Description Hide Description
Dose distributions can often be significantly improved by modulating the two-dimensional intensity profile of the individual x-ray beams. One technique for delivering intensity modulated beams is dynamic multileaf collimation (DMLC). However, DMLC is complex and requires extensive quality assurance. In this paper a new method is presented for a pretreatment dosimetric verification of these intensity modulated beams utilizing a charge-coupled devicecamera based fluoroscopic electronic portal imaging device(EPID). In the absence of the patient, EPIDimages are acquired for all beams produced with DMLC. These images are then converted into two-dimensional dose distributions and compared with the calculated dose distributions. The calculations are performed with a pencil beam algorithm as implemented in a commercially available treatment planning system using the same absolute beam fluence profiles as used for calculation of the patient dose distribution. The method allows an overall verification of (i) the leaf trajectory calculation (including the models to incorporate collimator scatter and leaf transmission), (ii) the correct transfer of the leaf sequencing file to the treatment machine, and (iii) the mechanical and dosimetrical performance of the treatment unit. The method was tested for intensity modulated 10 and 25 MV photon beams; both model cases and real clinical cases were studied. Dose profiles measured with the EPID were also compared with ionization chamber measurements. In all cases both predictions and EPID measurements and EPID and ionization chamber measurements agreed within 2% (1σ). The study has demonstrated that the proposed method allows fast and accurate pretreatment verification of DMLC.


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TWIN FALLS, Idaho - Business is going to town at Expedition Motorsports, a motorcycle and ATV repair shop that's moving from outside of town into the city.
Owner Kevin Young is remodeling a former computer equipment repair shop to move in and expand his business.
"We're gutting the inside of the building," Young told the Twin Falls Times-News. "Once we're done it will be a much better location. Business has been good. We've had an opportunity to buy a building and we won't be renting anymore."
Young, who's spending $25,000 on the remodel and plans to hire one employee when he reopens in December. The shop also sells ATV and motorcycle accessories.
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NEW MADRID - Paul and Mary Ann Perkins have announced the engagement of their daughter, Jennifer Lynn, to Marcus Scott Dunham, son of Scott and Carol Dunham of Warrensburg.
A 1995 graduate of New Madrid County Central High School, the future bride is a 2000 graduate of the University of Missouri-Kansas City, where she earned a bachelors degree in dental hygiene. She is currently employed in Independence.
Her fiance, a 1991 graduate of Warrensburg High School, graduated from Central Missouri State University with a bachelor of science degree in criminal justice. He is employed as a deputy juvenile officer in Warrensburg.
Wedding plans are under way for a Nov. 10 ceremony at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Warrensburg.


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Octopus Resort
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TravelPod Member ReviewsOctopus Resort Waya Island
Was a nice place, room decent and food nice. The general manager was a bit of a tool but bar that it was good. Internet 200mb quota was stupid.
This review is the subjective opinion of a TravelPod member and not of TravelPod.com.
Fantastic welcome, great spa and wonderful snorkelling and to top it all - a pretty good piña colada
This review is the subjective opinion of a TravelPod member and not of TravelPod.com.
had a wonderful wonderful time at octopus. the food was amazing, white sand beaches, hammocks between the palms, a lovely authentic room in an idyllic little thatched cottage and the staff and owners were so friendly. this place is pure paradise. take me back now!
This review is the subjective opinion of a TravelPod member and not of TravelPod.com.
I had the most incredible time at octopus resort in Fiji. I went in expecting a lot and it blew me away. The Bure's were perfectly quaint and the roofless shower was like a dream. The beach and bay are postcard perfect. The snorkeling and diving are world class. But what made it so special was the amazing staff and the vibe they create. Their warm friendly Fijian smiles switch you on to "Fiji Time", and you slip into total relaxation. I have been traveling for two years straight now and Octopus Resort is on a short list of places I must go back to, Thanks for the amazing time Octopus!
This review is the subjective opinion of a TravelPod member and not of TravelPod.com.
This was my last stop with Awesome Adventures before going back to Nadi. I thought this was a wonderful resort, everybody was extremely welcoming and couldn't do enough for you. The food was simply delicious and you could choose from the menu (unlike my previous stops)
The organised activities made the evenings really fun and didn't feel like they were organised. The rooms were the best for me, gorgeous huts to sleep 4 with ensuite outdoor bathrooms.
I would definitely recommend!
This review is the subjective opinion of a TravelPod member and not of TravelPod.com.
Historical Traveler Reviews Octopus Resort Waya Island
Snorkeling & Room
I'm putting "above average" because it's that - for a back-pack resort. If you are looking for luxury this really isn't it, but it was good for the price.
Met some great people at Octopus - those 2 San Diago guys and the girl from Brazil were so nice to sit with us every meal - enjoyed the conversations! Meals are at big tables with everyone (and a bird that likes to eat the bread at the breakfast bar so get there first!) We liked the food - got the meal plan, but the drinks are VERY high - BYOB!!!
Our room was very fun - loved the open air shower and thatched roof, beautiful view of the beach! Since it was a beach front we had our own lounge chairs and hammock. Beachfront is the way to go if you can splurge.
There were bugs in the room but they couldn't get in the netting around the bed and no skeeters when we lit up the coil. Luckily we didn't see any big crawlies.
We didn't do any of the other things to do except snorkel while there - and that was pretty nice off to the right when looking at the beach. We saw an awsome neon purple lipped big clam and a nice line of cuttle fish (squid?) hanging out in the deeper water over the sand. Plenty of reef fish - nice big queen angel and an awesome stingray that had big neon colored dots on it!
Stayed 2 nights and that was enough for us - had to move on to another island. I was with my pre-teen daughter and felt safe (as 2 women alone traveling) so I didn't partake in the party aspect but it looked like it was sort of mellow.
Thought the couple who ran the show there were a bit short & rude, strictly business -- but that's ok - we were only looking for good snorkeling on our vacation anyway. The phones were down almost the whole time we were there.
NOTE ON SUNSET RESORT: We had reservations the next night to meet up with my cousin at this other resort on the Waya - The Sunset Resort - but my cousin left there and called me from the Yasawa Flyer telling me NOT to go there - that it was uninhabitable and awful - even for a seasoned worldwide backpacker like her. She said that they didn't have fresh water (nasty linens washed with ??) and that the bugs were so bad in the hot room (big bugs) that she slept the whole night out on the hammock outside the room - and that we would hate it. We canceled and went on to Treasure Island - see my review on that coming soon...
Hope this helps - Just DO IT!!!!!
We stayed for 5 nights at Octopus after seeing the bay when we stopped a couple of years ago on a captain cook cruise.
Stayed 1 night prior at the Waterfront hotel in Lautoka- was fine for an overnight stay. Only deterant was when I had to race a cockroach to my toast at brekky and the girl on staff who just didnt want to know when we told her it was in the breakfast area!!
However, the island is special- we have been to Fiji a number of times and visited most resorts, but Octopus has a special vibe and it is picure perfect. Many guests commented on the feel on the resort.
It has been voted the editors choice in the lonely planet guide and even though none of the travel agents seem to know about it, the resort is always full. Speaks for itself.
Accom. range from the dorm, which people told us was the best they had ever stayed in; tents that come fully equipped with innersprung mattresses and front door mats! to the bures and poppys lodge. All are cleaned daily. There is always an amazing mix of guests - from backpackers to retiree's, it seems to work for all ages and stages.
We opted for Poppys, but mis-understood that it was a stand alone room, however it is 1 of 4 all joined. This did mean you heard other peoples doors regularly slamming in the wind and we heard snoring thru our inter connected door one night and the same couple arguing the next! Was not great but not over whelming.
Best option would be to ask for poppys 4 as it is at the far end and only has 1 room next door, with no-one walking to and fro, past your verandah.
People are great, food was great, everything was superb. We enjoyed the mix of people there. There is enough room to not be crowded at all too.
Do as much or as little as you want, the pool is well set up for comfortable lounging or swimming, or swim in the sea. However, we found we got dumped alot in the shallows so look out for the 'sand castle' in your togs when you get out!!!
Polly the manager was great and we were impressed that she and her partner came out and sang each day on the beach for any welcomes or departures on the boats with the islanders.
Also nice is that the village over the hill staffs the resort so it is a win-win situation for everyone living there.
Choice of the island boat the amberly or you can get the big yasawa flyer catamaran if you prefer for the transfer. We were taken back to the mainland on a very inferior boat when the amberly broke down, it was awful, but the managers have said this boat will never be used again for this, so you are pretty safe!
It is 2 hours or so each way on the boat, so probably not a place for anyone with unstable health, otherwise you cant beat it! We will definitely be going back again.
If you want more info or photos, you can email me at email@example.com
Pros and Cons of Poppy's Lodge at Octopus
We LOVED our vacation at Octopus Resort, we stayed 5 nights which was way too brief. My husband and I booked there only about 6 weeks in advance after really getting our hearts set on this resort: we were really enthusiastic about the resort's commitment to minimizing environmental impact and their commitment to the local village.
When we booked, they only had Poppy's Lodge, the "premium" accomodation available...we wanted a Garden Bure. But since we really liked everything we'd heard and read about Octopus, we decided to go for it.
We had the 5 day package day but were in Fiji for 6 days, so Octopus arranged a slightly discounted room for us at Beachside Resort in Nadi. I would highly recommend using all of your nights for the package deal actually at Octopus Resort as we did.
We took the Octopus boat to the resort. On the way out, it was smooth and totally fine. On the way back, it was choppy, we popped some sealegs and we were fine as was everyone else. I'd probably take the Yasawa Flyer if we were to return simply to have a restroom on board. It was just fine though, and you can always see an island or the main island to keep you're eyes focused on.
We arrived at the resort and it was just beautiful. The people who work there were great, we got to know some of them and really enjoyed them. The Scottish managers are great! The atmosphere of the resort is laid back and sociable, we met a lot of our fellow travellers at meals and during activities.
The Poppy's Lodge rooms are absolutely beautiful. The king size bed has nice sheets, the decor is lovely, the bathroom is huge. The showers are open to the air in case you thought you'd miss out on that feature in Poppy's...not to worry! We did NOT have many bugs at all, 1 cockroach total which is pretty amazingly low in the tropics. Our friends in the bures reported on more close encounters with bug life and rain than we experienced. It was really nice having the AC as well at night.
The best part of Poppy's is the multiple opportunites for lounging throughout your day. Each room has a deep porch with two wicker chairs and a day bed. Off the porch we had a hammock and two loungers. My husband and I basically rotated around our various seats throughout the day, wandering into the ocean for snorkelling or over to the dining room for drinks and meals.
There was something that disappointed me about Poppy's Lodge, though. We could hear our neighbors. We only heard one set of the three sets we had over our stay, so they may have been especially noisy, but we could indeed hear them through the connecting doors. Also, the bathroom doors slammed loudly sometimes (from wind coming through the open air showers). It was disappointing to pay so much money and be able to hear one set of neighbors.
The food was excellent, especially lunch. I loved the foccaia, we loved all the fruit. At breakfast, the coffee situation was a little stressful, and I'd suggest that the resort try to fix this for the caffiene addict guests...the coffee (the free stuff, you can buy espresso drinks at the bar) comes in french presses, and their just are not enough to meet demand. So you have to wait and there's sometimes quite a scramble.
We did a couple activities, the village visit and the church service. We had planned to do much more but got really into sitting on our things to sit on, as you can probably tell. My husband said the church service was like "church, only worse" because the minister yelled quite a bit and we had no idea what he was saying. The singing was nice, however.
The reef right off the resort was awesome!
We really loved our stay!
Loved the Octopus!
Octopus is an environmentally friendly resort. This places limitations that some people might find difficult: no way of making a hot drink, fan cooling in the room, solar water heating, and no cell phone links. (Medical help is a long way off, so think carefully before taking children there.)
For us, it was great. The staff were friendly and sincere. They were the heart of the resort. The resort has a good dive centre, lots of activities, a pool (small) and lots of sun and sand. Snorkelling is great, but reef swimming can be limited somewhat by the tides.
There is a good library (mainly novels), but no television (except by the bar on special occasions). Bar service is good, and snacks are available for the hungry. There is a choice of food at breakfast and lunch, but dinner is the same for everyone. We are a middle aged couple with particular diet needs. Staff were willing to meet our needs, but the food suited us just fine. We found the friendly atmosphere created by staff spread to the guests. All ages mixed together, especially for activities like quiz nights and crab racing.
In such a pristine environment, it would be sad to have a resort create major changes, but we were thrilled to see the care taken to preserve as much as possible. Local people were employed, water was heated by the sun, buildings were wooden or woven from palm leaves, and a scholarship fund helped support education - the impact of Western Tourism was minimised as much as possible.
The Dive Shop was a great resource, and minor activities such as hand line fishing, basket weaving and bula dancing were most enjoyable. We liked Octopus so much we extended our stay. Would we go back? You bet!
Avoid the 'Private Beach' picnic!
My wife and I recently stayed at Octopus Resort, and for the most part had a great time. However, we chose the Picnic optional excursion and regretted it. First of all, Octopus sells this as a romantic getaway by boat to a private beach, but it's not private at all. It belongs to a local village, and as such people started showing up, coming out of the forest and across the beach from adjacent fishing areas. We were supposed to be picked up again at 2:30, but that time came and went with no sign of any boat. At 3:00 we started to get worried (that's a bit much, even for "Fiji Time"), since we had no way of communicating with the resort and were entirely dependent upon them being responsible. At 3:30 I had had enough and flagged down a passing boat which turned out to be the dive boat for Octopus. They rescued us and took us back to the resort, where we learned our pickup "wasn't written on the board" - meaning they had no plan to retrieve us. I spoke to management, who gave an apology and explained it wasn't a private beach, it's just a beach they use, despite that the resort literature sells it as such, even using the term "private beach". I was sick of arguing at this point and he didn't seem interested in making things right. Sure enough, they had the nerve to charge us for the excursion. It seems they're laid back and relaxed when it comes to schedules and guest safety, but downright meticulous when it comes to billing you.
Fantastic place
Octopus resort was great. Upon arrival you get a kava welcome ceremony. I stayed in the dorm room and it was a really nice clean dorm room with even a flower on my bed upon arrival. The shared facilities are good and clean too. The common place also dining room is very nice and the food is just delicious. The beach is really nice too although there is lots of coral in front of the beach. There is a dive and snorkeling shop. Snorkelling gear is free !
And Octopus Resorts offers a lot of daytours. One of them was snorkeling with Manta Rays which was fantastic and an unforgetable memory ! Also one night the organised a movie night with free popcorn. Octopus is great value for your money !
All I can say is, Wow!!!
It was our first time at the Octopus resort, and we met about 8 of our friends there. Once we arrived, we were greeted by the beautiful native people, who were on the beach waiting for us. I never felt that this was a tourist type thing, but a real heartfelt greeting. Although the beaches were incredible and teaming with wildlife, I must say that the people are what made this vacation so fantastic. We stayed in a beach front "bure" and had an incredible view (just steps from the water). Of course, there are bugs to contend with at night, but the beds have a mesh netting that covers the whole bed. This is not a 5 star resort, and you should know that before you go, but I do give the staff a 5 star rating. Not to say that the accomodations aren't good, they were. They were always clean and they always placed flowers on the beds in the morning. Now remember!! Don't go there if you're expecting everything ASAP. It's just not that type of place. When the maid comes to make up your room, it may take a couple hours. As they say, "relax, you're on Fiji time". Remeber that, and you'll have a wonderfull time. The food was good and the bar drinks were made to specification. You want more Tequila in that margarita? Just ask. The drinks, like everthing else in Fiji are cheap. Anyway, I would go back in a heartbeat. You'll love it.
Excellent Value
Stayed at the Octopus in Feb 2003 and had a fantastic time. I went with a bunch of friends and we were able to negotiate a great deal for the 8 of us to stay for 5 nights that included 3 meals a day (email them directly from their website).
The accomodation is simple but always clean and the open-air bathrooms are cool. You won't be spending much time inside your bure though as there is too much to enjoy outside. The setting is beautiful and everything feels very authentic, unlike some of the resorts I've seen with big hotel-style concrete blocks of rooms.
Within 15 minutes of arriving we were in the beautiful clear blue water and soaking up the sun on the pristine white sand. The beach really is picture-perfect, and although I had never previously been interested in underwater activities, snorkelling amongst the amazing sea life and beautiful coral almost got me into SCUBA. But that cost extra...
The food was excellent and authentic, eaten with everyone together on the big long tables. It is strictly one portion each though. Beware that if you're not at the table the second breakfast is served, there is a strong chance you'll miss out on some part of it!
Looking at the pictures now (3 years later) I've realised how basic it all looks. I see that Octopus has now installed a pool, so I imagine they've tarted up the bures and the bar area too. Even if they haven't, don't be put off by the tumbledown appearance, you will still have great memories from a stay at Octopus, and for a fantastic price.
We travelled to Octopus Resort for a wedding. My partner, myself and our 3 year old. We had the most amazing time there!! The food was amazing and they catered well to our daughter. The bures were lovely and they were cleaned daily! The staff were so helpful and were all having fun too, which was great to see. The resort was very tidy and there were so many activities available...but I chose to spend as much of my time as possible by the pool!! We had an amazing babysitter in the evenings, supplied at a very small cost by the resort. Couldn't really fault the place!! Had the most amazing time!! We will return!
Good value
Background: My fiance and I were coming from New Zealand, where I had been living/studying for the past 6 months. We chose Fiji as a stopover on the way home, and wanted an authentic experience for little cash...
The good:
The beach was beautiful! Likuliku Bay is really gorgeous. A crescent shaped beach with golden sand surrounds teal colored water. The bure are so cool. Each room is actually a "bure" or hut. They are of the traditional Fijian style, which we felt really added to the feel of being in the South Pacific (rather than staying in a big sterile Marriott-type deal on Denarau, for instance). The staff was sooooo sweet, especially the house mothers. They offer a "Fijian Massage"...it's $15 for an hour, and I would highly recommend getting one. Even if you don't like massages, you get to spend an hour talking to the housemother and learning lots about Waya and Fiji. Fijian cookout night was great! they had some sort of Indo-Fijian curried meat that was TO DIE FOR. Oh, and the resort itself was really pretty...lots and lots of tropical plants and flowers everywhere. Like one big garden...mmm Frangipani...
The bad:
Fijians are pretty relaxed, which is good most of the time. Our reservations got all mixed up and so we ended up moving 4 times in 10 days, but it turned out ok, because we got to sample pretty much every part of the resort and every type of bure (garden, oceanview, oceanfront). One night we were in a bure that had to be tarped due to heavy rains...it was pretty funny actually, except for when the tarp fell down and blocked the only entrance...Seqa Naleqah...no worries. The thing we hated the most was the food situation. There were three pretty much set meal times (breakfast was a little more flexible, as it was buffet). You sit down and two long tables and eat whatever they decided to make that day (lunch you had a few choices, but not dinner!). Most of the time it was good,b ut a few times we found ourselves leaving the table hungry. One night they had put really hot asian chili peppers in a chickpea cake they gave us and they didn't say anything. I am allergic to these, so the whole lower right side of my face blew up. At least they were prompt in bringing the milk I asked for to cool it down (albeit, goat's milk..).
The beach:
Beautiful as it may be, buyer beware. If you want to spend all day in the water, don't stay here. Only at high tide can you get into the water because at low tide the coral is uncovered and it stretches to about 50 feet from the shore...great for snorkelling at high tide, but makes the beach useless for 12 hours of the day...At high tide, the waves are big and strong and will smash you to the shore if you aren't careful. It's fun for us adults, but dangerous for kiddies.
All in all, if you want a really cool place to stay in Fiji without spending a ton of money, stay here. You get private bure, maid service, and decent food for a price not much above what you could spend at a backpackers. The Fijians that work at Octopus are very proud of their culture and want to share it with everyone, so if you love culture, this is the place. They invite you to their village (over the hill on the north side of the island) a few times a week.
PS--the showers in the bure bathrooms don't have a roof of any sort, so keep the door to your room closed and beware tarantulas! Seek out "Fijian Arnold" if you get any creepy crawlies...
feel free to contact me. It's been a while since I was there, but I can share more pictures and/or advice.
TripAdvisor Reviews Octopus Resort Waya Island
Travel Blogs from Waya Island
Fiji Gold
BULA All We left Nadi on the wonderful Awesome Adventures Fiji fun bus early in the morning headed to the nearby port. We stayed at the Tropic of Capricorn hostel the night before we left which was fine even though a little pricey considering how basic it was. The night before I got in a slightly close to the bone conversation with a Hindu Fijian …
DAY 2: First Day on the Yasawa Islands
Today we missioned out to Waya Island, where we will be staying at Octopus Resort for two nights. We survived the early start and headed down to the dining area for eggs on toast for breakfast. The sun must have risen pretty early, it was only 6.30am and it already seemed to be high in the sky. It was good weather though, and didn't seem as …
Fiji Island Number Four!
I was really looking forward to staying at the Octopus Resort as I had heard so many great things about it, lots of people had been absolutely raving about it.
It definitely wasn't just for backpackers, although there were lots there, it was for everybody which made it very different from any of the others!
We were given a very posh welcome …
DAY 3: Octopus Resort
Today we had a full day at Octopus Resort. It was hot sleeping last night and felt a bit weird sleeping under a mosquito net, but we must have been so tired that we just slept anyway. It was certainly odd getting up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom with that open roof - "Hello night sky!" We got up at about 8am and …
Underwater Adventures
Saturday the 12th:
-We had about a two hour boat ride from Nacula to Waya, this time on the Awesome Adventures boat, which is the company through which our travel agent booked our resort package. We arrived at Octopus Resort in the late afternoon and had another lovely welcoming, with the staff singing a song and offering us a drink as our boat …


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Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site Training and Operations Environmental Impact Statement for Fort Carson, CO
Notice Of Intent.
The Department of the Army announces its intent to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to evaluate the environmental and socioeconomic impacts of proposed training and operations activities at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site (PCMS), CO. The PCMS is the maneuver site for Fort Carson, CO. The PCMS is located near Trinidad, CO, approximately 150 miles southeast of Fort Carson, and consists of approximately 235,000 acres. The EIS will assess proposed PCMS training, infrastructure improvement, and land management activities to support Fort Carson training requirements. It will also assess the impacts of reclassification of the airspace that overlies PCMS. The proposed action does not include, nor would it require, expansion of PCMS.
Table of Contents Back to Top
ADDRESSES: Back to Top
Comments on the Proposed Action or requests for additional information should be sent to the Fort Carson NEPA Program Manager, Directorate of Public Works, Environmental Division, 1626 Evans Street, Building 1219, Fort Carson, CO 80913-4362, or call (719) 526-4666. Comments may also be submitted via email to: email@example.com.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Back to Top
The Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-1269, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. MST; or by email to: firstname.lastname@example.com.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Back to Top
The EIS is being prepared to meet the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to evaluate the environmental and socioeconomic impacts of implementing proposed actions at PCMS.
PCMS supports readiness training for units up to Brigade-size stationed at Fort Carson and for visiting Reserve and National Guard units. Training must fully integrate ground and air resources and reflect the modern battlefield environment for which Soldiers are preparing. The PCMS must accommodate training for current and emerging tactics and new equipment; provide training infrastructure, land and airspace within PCMS necessary to support training requirements; and support assigned and visiting units.
Advances in equipment and weapons systems, to include their incorporation into tactical units, dictate changes in how the Army trains, alterations to ranges (including range airspace) for maneuver training and doctrinal changes to accommodate mission-essential training prior to global deployments. PCMS must support training that incorporates these technological and doctrinal changes.
The proposed action would accommodate additional training tasks and equipment to enable training of current and future Fort Carson units. Additional tasks and equipment include unmanned aerial and ground systems, jamming systems, laser target sightings, non-explosive mortars up to 120 mm, and non-explosive aerial gunnery. Unmanned aerial systems would be reconnaissance systems, with no live-fire capability. The Army recently announced decisions to inactivate one Armor Brigade Combat Team (BCT), realign an Armor BCT and an Infantry BCT by adding an additional maneuver battalion to each, and convert the remaining Armor BCT to a Stryker BCT. The final configuration will result in three BCTs: One Armor, one Infantry, and one Stryker. PCMS must support the training needs of these BCTs. Reclassification of the special use airspace that overlies PCMS (not to extend over land outside the boundaries of PCMS) to restricted airspace is part of the proposed action. This reclassification is required to conduct integrated and realistic air and land training and to accommodate high-angle, indirect-fire weapon systems and airborne laser target sighting system training. This proposed reclassification would enable the safe integration of airborne systems (such as unmanned aerial systems) for force-on-force training. Artillery, high explosive aerial ordnance, and Stinger and Hellfire missiles will not be fired at PCMS. Non-dud producing munitions fired from aerial systems, including 5.56mm, 7.62mm, .50 caliber, 20mm, 30mm, 2.75" inert rockets, none of which exceed 81mm, will not produce residual unexploded munitions.
The proposed action could have significant impacts to airspace, soil erosion, wildfire management, cultural resources, and water resources. Mitigation measures will be identified for adverse impacts.
The proposed action only considers activity within the boundaries of PCMS. The proposed action does not include, nor would it require, any expansion of PMCS. No additional land will be sought or acquired as a result of this action.
In addition to analyzing reasonably foreseeable cumulative impacts, which could include additional site infrastructure capable of hosting more local support staff, the EIS will also analyze a No Action Alternative. Under the No Action Alternative, current mission activities and training operations would continue, as well as range use and training land management. Management would continue to include routine maintenance and natural resource sustainment activities. This alternative, required by NEPA, encompasses baseline conditions and will serve as a benchmark against which the environmental impacts of the proposed action can be compared. Other reasonable alternatives will be considered for evaluation in the EIS.
Scoping and public comments: Governmental agencies, interest groups, and individuals are invited to participate in the scoping process. Public meetings will be held in Trinidad and La Junta, Colorado. Information on the time and location of the public meetings will be published locally. In addition, the Army will engage in consultation with federally recognized Native American tribes regarding the proposed action. The scoping process will help identify possible alternatives, potential environmental impacts, and key issues of concern to be analyzed in the EIS. It will also eliminate issues which are not significant or which have been covered by prior environmental reviews from detailed consideration. Written comments will be accepted within 30 days of publication of the Notice of Intent in the Federal Register.
Brenda S. Bowen,
Army Federal Register Liaison Officer.
[FR Doc. 2014-06423 Filed 3-24-14; 8:45 am]


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Summary: Iowa St Brd of Regents; Revenue - Higher Education, Auxilliary - System; Revenue - Higher Education, Public Coll/Univ - Unlimited Student Fees Nov 99
- November 1999
- Region: Iowa
- Standard & Poors
The rating on Iowa State Board of Regents' (Regents) bonds, issued for Iowa State University of Science and Technology ISU (ISU), includes the following credit factors: The university's general credit strength and strong level of state support as a land-grant institution; The dormitory system's financial strength and diversity; Sound university-wide financial performance; Stable demand; and Moderate 5.6% debt burden. An offsetting credit factor is limited amounts of unrestricted monies. The dormitory bond rating is differentiated due to a more limited pledged revenue stream. Dormitory bonds are on parity with $56.4 million outstanding bonds and are secured by net revenues of the university's residence system, which consists of three residence complexes with dining halls housing 8,970 students. Total system occupancy was...
Companies mentioned in this report are:
Action: New Rating
Standard and Poors RatingsXpress Credit Research provides in-depth coverage of international corporates, financial institutions, insurance companies, utilities, sovereigns and structured finance programs. RatingsXpress Credit Research lets users determine the credit rating of holdings and identify key factors underlying an issuer's creditworthiness, distinguishes the different risk exposures for new and existing deals, and provides an understanding of how their analysts interpret key regulatory, political and environmental events and their economic impact.
This product consists of a Summary Analysis: Bi-annual (at least). An abbreviated analysis containing Standard & Poor's issuer credit ratings as of the time the article was published. The analysis includes a rating rationale - the basis on which the rating was assigned - and an outlook section if the issuer is not on CreditWatch. Financial statistics are not included. SHOW LESS READ MORE >


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Doha: Qatar Charity (QC)has opened an office in London — QCUK — to oversee its projects in Europe.
The decision was made in light of the development of projects in terms of quality and quantity.
The office was opened by a QC delegation, headed by Chairman H E Sheikh Hamad bin Nasser Al Thani and CEO Yusuf bin Ahmed Al Kuwari, in the presence of Qatari Ambassador Khalid bin Rashid Al Mansouri, a high-level delegation from the Qatari embassy and the Managing Director of the office, Salman Galadari.
Sheikh Hamad bin Nasser and Al Mansouri cut the ribbon that marked the beginning of work in the office.
"The opening of the office comes because of the need for direct supervision of QC projects in Britain and Europe, especially with the development of these projects and the increase in their size," Sheikh Hamad bin Nasser said.
He said the cost of QC's projects in Europe since 2010 had exceeded QR500m, and included those for the Muslim communities.
"QC seeks to increase its presence globally to serve humanity across all continents.
"We see the world as one village and we must serve the whole village, particularly in light of the success we have achieved as we carried out 40 percent of Qatari humanitarian aid abroad. "The office will be a door to Europe, allowing people of good will to donate. It will act as an ambassador of the people of Qatar to improve the impact of donations for charitable projects," he said.
Al Kuwari said the office comes within the framework of an expansion plan adopted by QC, which requires a direct presence through field offices, supervised by staff with expertise in charitable and humanitarian work.
"The office will work on direct follow-up of development projects in Britain or other European countries including France and Italy, where QC has established Islamic centres, schools and institutes, in addition to other projects and programmes in European countries such as Bosnia, Kosovo and Albania."
Galadari gave a presentation on QC and its goals and work, pointing out that the main goal is to support social and economic progress of the most disadvantaged in the UK and other European countries, help strengthen society there, help improve efficiency with which donations are collected in these countries and work with charitable organisations to support humanitarian work in general.
He said the office will provide an opportunity for Qatari investors and businesses in the UK to carry out their social responsibility.
QC has 18 offices in Yemen, Somalia, Sudan, Palestine (two offices), Mauritania, Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Niger, Burkina Faso, Comoros, Mali, Albania, Bosnia, Kosovo, Tunisia and the UK, covering Asia, Africa and Europe.
The Peninsula


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Prakash Raj steals the show in Singham
The 46-year-old actor, who was seen before in Shakti and Wanted, has a meaty role in Singham. Like original version, the director has given an equal footage with the lead star and the major portions of the film are shot on these actors. In fact, the critics say that Prakash Raj steals the show in the film.
The Mangalore-born star will be seen in the role of a extortionist-cum-politician named Jaykant Shikre. The movie also features Ajay Devgn and Magadheera actress Kajal Aggarwal in the leads. It is directed by Rohit Shetty.


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Expressions of interest are due by Jan. 27 for the Citizens' Legislative Seminar at the Statehouse in Boston March 20 and 21. The day-long sessions offer insight into the workings of the state Senate and conclude with a simulated legislative hearing with participation by citizens.
Residents of the Plymouth and Barnstable District represented by Senate President Therese Murray are invited to call Annalyce Shufelt at 617-722-1500 to be nominated by Murray on a first-come, first-served basis.
Location, ST | website.com


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Emergency Dial 911
Non-emergency (541) 693-6911
Date Missing: March 27, 1989
On March 27, 1989 ANGELA disappeared and has not been seen or heard from since. Her vehicle was found on the north shoulder of Hwy 126 just west of the Cline Falls Bridge. The car was in good running condition, however the passenger side window had been broken out and a large rock was lying between the front seats. ANGELA was described as an attractive white female with blond hair, blue eyes who was five feet two inches tall and weighed about one hundred twenty pounds. At the time of her disappearance she was married to Bruce CHAN, an American of Chinese decent, who was a lieutenant in the U. S Marines stationed at Camp Pendelton in California.
The couple was estranged but continued an amiable relationship. ANGELA was living with her parents in Redmond and CHAN was visiting during the weekend.
On the morning of Monday March 27 ANGELA and CHAN went trap shooting. According to CHAN, after shooting, he dropped ANGELA off in front of her parents house at about 2 PM and he left to return to Camp Pendelton. Several witnesses claim they saw ANGELA's car and a female matching her description around the Cline Fall Bridge later that afternoon.
After CHAN's departure, ANGELA's parents believed she had went to Sisters to stay with a friend. On Wednesday March 29 they discovered she had never shown up at the friends house and was reported missing.
If you have any information on this case, please contact the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office at 541-693-6911


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Daley continuing to take small steps forward
Monday, 05.30.2011 / 9:43 AM CT / News
By John Tranchina
For Trevor Daley, the 2010-11 season, his seventh in the NHL, marked another small step forward in his gradual evolution into a valuable, reliable two-way defenseman.
The 28-year-old Toronto native impressed at both ends of the ice, displaying more frequent bursts of offensive flair while recording career-highs with eight goals, 19 assists and 27 points, as well as 131 shots on goal.
|Trevor Daley Highlights
Skating on both the power play and the penalty killing units, in addition to his regular shift anchoring the Stars' second defense pairing, Daley, who also finished third on the club with 124 blocked shots, had an impact on games in multiple ways all season.
"Just trying to take steps forward and just continue to do that this summer and continue to do that next year," the humble Daley said of his performance. "That's my goal."
And despite his relatively average size, at 5-foot-11 and 205 pounds, the smooth-skating Daley remained remarkably durable throughout the year, suiting up for all 82 games for just the second time in his career. Typically, he downplayed the accomplishment, deflected praise to his three teammates who also achieved that feat.
"I think the other guys, it was Morrow, Otter, Ribby - for Otter and Mini (Morrow), it's pretty special they can do that," Daley said. "And I think Robi missed one game because of a suspension and you see the type of style that guy plays, so you really got to put all three of those guys in the same category. For myself, those guys play the game really physical and it's a good accomplishment."
Still, as successful a season he may have had personally, Daley was far from happy with how it turned out in the end, with the Stars missing the playoffs for a third straight season. He knows the bar is set high in Dallas, so the fact that the Stars came so heart-breakingly close, with a chance to sneak in by winning their final game but losing 5-3 in Minnesota on April 10, was difficult to stomach.
"It's tough, it's a tough way to end it," admitted Daley, who had skated in the post-season every year as a pro before the club failed to qualify in 2008-09. "Looking back, you try to take the positives out of what happened this year, but for being here as many years as I've been here and the attitude we've had around here, it's a win-win-win attitude and that's it. To accept that you're not going to make the playoffs for the third year in a row is pretty tough. Considering, it was a decent year, but it's still tough to swallow."
Daley did begrudgingly acknowledge that there were plenty of positives and that the Stars did improve substantially over the 2009-10 version. The team finished with 95 points, tying the league record for most points by a club that didn't qualify for the playoffs, while cutting a crucial 21 goals against off its total from the previous season.
"I thought this year you just look at the numbers and the stats, we improved a lot this year," Daley pointed out. "It's tough to know that there was a lot of positives that we went through this year - a winning record, almost 97 points, that's a pretty good year. Most years it's a playoff team. You look back at games - how'd you miss out on two wins? It's tough to reflect on stuff like that. You try to soak it all in, take the positives and get ready for another one."
Paired alongside Jeff Woywitka most of the season, Daley developed impressive chemistry with his partner and remained hopeful that Woywitka, who becomes an unrestricted free agent July 1, will re-sign at some point.
"I would love to keep the band together," said Daley, who was the Stars' second round selection (43rd overall) in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft. "The chemistry with me and him has been great. We enjoy playing with each other, we feed off of it, and we're becoming great friends off the ice. I would love to see him back for another year. It would be good for our team and I really enjoyed playing with him, so we'll see what happens."
"Me and him got a good relationship," added Woywitka. "We played together all year and I've learned a lot from him and the way he handles himself. He's a tremendous player. He's the kind of player that, for this day and age, that you want your defensemen to be - jumping up, moving the puck, being quick in transition and he's got that. I felt comfortable with him all year and we had some great moments in our play. I felt comfortable with him, we got along really well and it showed."
What has also showed, in flashes here and there over the years, is Daley's immense skill at rushing the puck and generating scoring chances. And although it still doesn't happen quite as often as Stars fans would probably like, Daley increased his contributions to the scoresheet this season, as the statistics demonstrate.
"We want to help out on the offensive end, and in today's game, in order to win, you've got to be able to keep pucks in," said Daley, who put up huge offensive numbers in junior hockey, averaging close to a point-per-game through four years at OHL Sault Ste. Marie. "Especially with our forwards, they're so highly-skilled, they get so many shots and so many chances off those chances, it comes around and it's up to us to keep those pucks in and keep those plays alive, so that's what we've been keying on to try to do."
"I think it's always important to get a little help from those guys back there," noted Dallas assistant coach Charlie Huddy, a former NHL defenseman himself. "And I think we've always given the D, when they're on the blue line, the free reign to be able to come into the slot - never force the play, but if there's an opening and you see the forward has an eye on you, you can come in and get involved.
"And Dales, he's got the legs to skate it. That's part of his game. When he's going and skating like that, it makes his game a lot better, and we need that. It's good to have that element in our game for us."
For Daley, becoming comfortable and confident enough to utilize his offensive instincts more frequently has been a gradual progression and one that will hopefully continue to move forward next year.
"It's definitely been a process," noted Daley, who scored 20 goals and 53 points in 57 games during his final year of junior. "When I came into the league, I came in with a pretty defensive hockey club, with one of the best offensive defensemen in the game, and my role was to play defense and to learn the defensive game. I had such a great coach to do that with (former Stars associate coach) Rick Wilson that I could speak so much about him, but now it's time to take the game to a new level and to add some offense. It has been a focus of mine this year."


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This high-tech eyeshadow formula creates a glittering wave of sequin-like sparkle, leaving your eyes glistening like jewels. A perfect blend of pigment and pearl, these buildable shadows glide evenly onto lids with excellent color release for weightless, all-day wear. Color(s): amethyst, aquamarine, black diamond, blue sapphire, citrine, golden topaz, opal, rose quartz. Brand: stila. Style Name: stila 'jewel eye' eyeshadow compact. Style Number: 525574.. Price: $20.00
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