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- Home
- About IE
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Are visas required for Borneo travel?
A visa is required to enter Malaysia. U.S. and Canadian citizens are issued a three-month Malaysia visa upon arrival in Kuching, free of charge. No passport photos are required. You do not need to obtain a visa in advance for Malaysia.
What vaccinations are required to travel to Borneo?
Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if entering Malaysia from an affected area. North American and Malaysia are not yellow fever affected areas. No other vaccinations are required to enter Malaysia. Borneo is a malaria-affected area, and you should take every precaution to protect yourself. The CDC recommends that all travelers to Southeast Asia be up-to-date on vaccinations for measles/mumps/rubella (MMR), diphtheria/pertussis/tetanus (DPT), poliovirus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid and Japanese encephalitis; however, you should consult with your personal physician. Your physician can prescribe anti-malarial drugs for your trip. There are different forms of malarial prevention, each with different risks. Talk to your physician to find out which is right for you. Please note: According to the CDC, chloroquine is not an effective anti-malarial drug for Borneo.
How active is IE's Borneo travel package?
A trip to Borneo is an active holiday that calls for good health. The excursions involve a great deal of walking, standing, and stair climbing, most of which will be in hot weather. You will have to climb/descend stairs and negotiate places where the footing is uncertain. Borneo is not a destination for anyone with serious difficulty walking.
When is the best time to visit Borneo?
There really is not a bad time to visit Borneo. The "dry" season, or "southwest monsoon season," is from May to October, though rain can occur at any time during the dry season. The "wet" season or "northeast monsoon season" is generally from November to April. While the rains can be strong during the wet season, they are short-lived and quickly give way to clear skies. Those who visit Borneo and plan to be outdoors, like our trip, should be prepared for heat, humidity, and sudden downpours that can occur at any time. Temperatures are cooler at the higher elevations of Mt. Kinabalu National Park. Rain is common year round.


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About this set: A collection of Early Dollars from 1794 to 1803 with at least one example from each year is the initial goal. Set also includes 1795 3 leaf XF40 NGC, 1795 2 leaf XF, 1796 B-4 XF40 ANACS, 1797 XF40 NTC, 1798 B-14 EF40 ANACS, 1799 B-11a VF25 ANACS, 1799 B-19 VF20 PCI, 1799 MS63 ACG 15 Star, and 1803 EF40 ACG.
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Here's how RW members rated this race in the past (91 votes).
In short: A lovely runIn full: This really is a lovely run, no cars just a pleasant run through the countryside. It's not overly officous like some races, it's just ready steady go. The junior races beforehand makes it a good day out for the whole family. I'll be back with the kids next year.Date of review: July 11, 2011
In short: lovely run in beautiful countrysideDate of review: July 10, 2011
In short: Charming CranleighIn full: Was hoping it didn't rain, and instead, ended up with some scorching sun around the 6k mark! First race back after a touch of shin splints and was extremely pleased to make it round. No problems parking, everyone was super friendly, good facilities and a medal - absolutely nothing to get me grumpy. In fact, strolling up to the starting area an hour early watching the youngsters play cricket, and the 3k runners cross the line made me wish I lived in Cranleigh!Thanks to the organisers and marshals - sterling job.Date of review: July 10, 2011
In short: Charming people, fairly flat so not too taxing, well organised and definitely worth doinggDate of review: July 8, 2010
In short: A very enjoyable eventIn full: This was a very well-organised event on a very good course; not quite completely flat, but pretty close to it considering that half is on trails and the reaminder is on narrow country roads.Organisation, marshalling etc was excellent. Thanks to all those involved for an excellent event. Date of review: July 5, 2010
In short: Excellent raceIn full: Very well organised - the starting corale's worked especially well. Beautiful scenerey and relatively flat.Date of review: July 4, 2010
In short: Great event - really well organised. Fairly fast flat course. Certainly be back next year.Date of review: July 11, 2009
In short: Very pleasant off-road runIn full: A very enjoyable race; the first 4km along the disused railway path, followed by 5km on concrete roads, including a spection though the farm, and the last km back on the railay path.Well signed and mashalled, and good organisation, with results on the website on the following day.Date of review: July 7, 2009
In short: Beautiful scenary, a great morning out in the country with some lovely country aromas (dung!)Date of review: July 6, 2009
In short: Very friendly, well sign posted. In full: The start was abit crowded and very slow. However the whole event was well organised and the atmosphere excellent. I was surprised and delighted to find two watering holes along the route. The farm yard smells were something else, took my mind right off the pain! Thanks to all those who helped out. The Cranleigh 21 was alot harder so be warned. Date of review: July 6, 2009
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It doesn't take long in any industry, I suppose, to notice certain trends and oddities. My wife is a teacher, and the stories she has of parents and students are enough to make you shake your head. Put together, they are somewhere between a riotous TV sitcom and pure Shakespearean tragedy. My father was an attorney, and the tales of idiocy that he would bring home would make you question the entire human condition.
Being a pilot isn't any different. I was recently reminded of this when it comes to tourists, especially those from other countries. As a little background, I am huge baseball fan, but not just of the modern game. I love the history, of reading about the great players of years gone by that I never got to see. Of particular interest to me several years ago was the period of integration and the "Wait til next year" era of the Brooklyn Dodgers. The Bums, as you may know, had an era of remarkable success on the field, but like Cinderella going to the dance, they just couldn't beat the clock. Instead, they were beaten consistently in the World Series by the Yankees…until 1955, when they won their only title before moving to LA.
As a fan of the history of the game, I own two Brooklyn Dodgers hats with the distinctive "B" on the front.
On a bus ride recently from the hotel to the airport in Detroit, I saw a young lady from Japan. Delta has a large presence in the Asian country, and a large number of Japanese folks travel through DTW. Many are business travelers (especially for Toyota), and others are tourists. The Japanese tourists are as easy to pick out as it gets: They take pictures of everything! The airport, the airplane, the pilots (me included), sites that catch their attention, food, and anything with Mickey Mouse. Further, they keep detailed logs about everything they've seen, and they do so with the seriousness of a student studying for finals. Sometimes, I think we both need to take a lesson from each other…
As for the young gal on the bus, she was wearing a pink and black baseball cap. As many Americans do—and I don't know why they do this, so if you can explain it to me, please do—the bill of the cap was still flat, and it still had the various this-is-a-new-hat stickers on it. And it had the unmistakable and distinctive "B" of the Dodgers. I didn't get a chance to speak with her, so I don't know if she thought it was a Red Sox cap, or if she just got it because she liked it. But it was yet another indicator of just how much the rest of the world looks to Americans for inspiration, style (they do this at their own risk), social norms (ditto), and the ability to make of yourself what you can. This young lady may have been an avid baseball fan herself—the Japanese love the game and have produced a number of exceptional major leaguers, including some signed by the (LA) Dodgers.
I've flown with so many foreign-born pilots that I've lost count, but the common message that they have is that no other country affords the aviation freedom and opportunity that the United States does, and we do it cheaper than they do. I was struck too by the realization that, in this country, we need to do everything we can to keep that dream alive not just for other nationals, but for ourselves and our kids. She, after all, was counting on a pilot most likely born in the United States to take her home. And we are counting on being able to do that in the future, as well as bringing her back to spend her money in the U.S.—be it at Disney World, a baseball game, or a hat store.
But I still don't know why she was wearing those stickers…so keep flying, so we can get her back here and ask her.–By Chip Wright


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Flew into C-town today for the first time in years and I saw the headline in todays PD about the Z trade. "People are upset" was the basis of this headline article.
Just wondering, do you C-town guys get this bullshit jounarlism all the time...or just some of the time? Seems exploitative to me.
/pissed because they never even mention that Z could/should be back soon.


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Forget stamping out license plates. Inmates at the Southern Desert Correctional Facility north of Las Vegas are part of a program that employs inmates to restore classic cars. They have two mottos: "We have the time to do it right", and "Built with conviction".
Obviously, they also have a sense of humor.
Michael Fuller has watched some hard cases come into the SDCF for years, then leave practically reborn. He's talking about cars—very cool vintage cars. They come in rough and battered, and inmates restore them to their original glory. "We've got a '56 Jaguar, a '48 Rolls Royce, and a Studebaker pickup," said Mr. Fuller.
Over 30 medium-security inmates at the prison's auto shop work on classic cars like these every weekday. These inmates restore vehicles for Silver State Industries, a wholly owned subsidiary of Nevada's Department of Corrections.
Some of the others collectible cars they've renovated include two 1960s-era Corvettes, two 1960 Mustangs, a 1959 Thunderbird, a 1965 Malibu, a 1935 Chevy pickup and two 1969 GTOs.
All kinds of customers bring their cars in for restoration. One happy customer, Las Vegas realtor Barry Becker, has had nearly a dozen cars restored by prisoners. Among his prison-rescued treasures are a 1937 Dodge sedan convertible, a 1937 Dodge "Woody" wagon, a 1956 Nash Metropolitan and a 1941 Plymouth pickup truck.
Read the complete article here.


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Brian Leatart
Prolific cookbook author James McNair has been chief judge of Sutter Home Winery's burger cook-off since it began in Napa in 1990. One of his books, Build a Better Burger, includes every winning recipe. Some past winners — and McNair's Louisiana roots — inspired the burger here.
Leave a Review
Have made this several times exactly as written to rave reviews.....a little putsie to assemble but well worth it!
i really like just how this recipe looks i eaten it before with my loved ones all of us enjoyed this we can have a family group gathering again and cook this recipe again soon this really is one tasty recipe you should test it i guarantee you all you could should this its very tasty
I have not reviewed any recipes to date since using this website for 8 years, but this recipe was so fantastic that I felt inspired to post my review. I did make a few tweaks to the recipe -- no watercress or okra and I cooked the burger on my stovetop in a large frying pan rather than grilling since it was raining outside. This burger was AMAZING and decadent, and I would recommend cooking stovetop in a large frying pan rather than on the grill. It was juicy and a bit different from the everyday. We did use top notch ingredients, and bought everything from the butcher counter at Whole Foods, and we made the spicy mayo a bit spicier with some Siracha. I can't recommend it enough! A good quality bleu cheese crumbled with a fork is essential, and a large juicy heirloom tomato added great flavor.
It was a winner for us. My only regret was that I didn't do as many onions as they said, because those were fantastic. That and I didn't put on any bleu cheese, which I think would've really added to it. What I made was good, but honestly it could have used a bit more flavor so that's why I recommend the onions and bleu cheese.
jk it was fire
Great recipe! I wanted something different and this is it. The sweet onions, zingy mayo and slightly salty sausage work great together, and the nuts add a really interesting texture. This will become a go-to recipe for us.
What a fantastic burger! This recipe really elevates the traditional grilled cheeseburger. The only thing that I can see wrong with it is that we didn't have anyone over to share it with us! We can't wait to have a summer BBQ to make these for our friends and family! We used goat cheese instead of blue cheese and it was fantastic.
I love Hamburgers! I used Chorizo since I could not find Andouille. I loved the little spiced up burger meat. I was not sure about putting pecans in my burgers and I will do it again. My fiance said this is what made the burger for him. For me it was the spicy mayo. Simply amazing! I added extra heat and lemon juice to taste and I hate to say that I was dipping my cucumbers into it. Not healthy but YUM! I didn't do the caramelized onions and I don't know if I will. On burgers, they just are not my thing. Instead I used, lettuce, tomato, onion, and cheddar cheese. Wow! I want to make these burgers again today.
All the family love this just as is. One daughter thought grilled pineapple would be a good addition, I'd agree if you like that kind of thing.
Heavy, dry and not very intereting. I added extra hot sauce to the mayo and that was good, as were the onions. The burger, I will not make again.


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A United Nations panel recently released a report on the single most important environmental problem in the world today — and yet you've probably read nothing about it in the news.
Instead, you've likely heard about another U.N. report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. That report claims that global warming could have a "widespread impact" by the year 2100. Yet in 2012 millions of people died — one in eight of total global deaths — as a result of environmental problem occurring today: indoor air pollution.
According to the World Health Organization's latest report air pollution is now the world's largest single environmental health risk, and the main cause is entirely preventable:


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- Admissions
- Academics
- Campus Life
- Athletics
- Cost & Aid
- News & Events
- About Plattsburgh
The nutrition program prepares you for careers in clinical dietetics, nutrition counseling, community health, food service management and related areas. Our program also provides you with a strong foundation in sciences, technology and information literacy. It includes many of the science courses required by most medical programs. By completing additional course work you can combine this major with a pre-medicine, physical therapy, occupational therapist, physicians assistant or pre-pharmacy program.
The mission of the Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) at SUNY Plattsburgh is to graduate students who are successfully prepared to enter a dietetic internship, graduate program or employment in clinical, community, or food service settings.
SUNY Plattsburgh's Nutrition Program is a Didactic Program in Dietetics accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). "The Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND), formerly known as the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education (CADE) is the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics' accrediting agency for education programs preparing students for careers as registered dietitians (RD) or dietetic technicians, registered (DTR). ACEND serves and protects students and the public by assuring the quality and continued improvement of nutrition and dietetics education programs."Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics — www.eatright.org
If you would like to find out more about the nutrition program at SUNY Plattsburgh, please contact:
Jorunn Gran-Henriksen, Nutrition Program Director and Chair
Office: Hawkins Hall 100A
Phone: (518) 564-4247
Fax: (518) 564-3100
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com


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Jordan Morton '12
Many young musicians have role models—artists they look up to and respect—whose success fuels their growing aspirations for musical achievement. Not many get the chance to have one of their most influential role models as a mentor and teacher. But at Ithaca College, Jordan Morton got just that opportunity.
"Nicholas Walker had so much to do with my development as a musician and as a professional personality. He opened up the horizon to what I could accomplish," Jordan says of her double bass professor. "Nicholas treats his studio like family. He cares about and guides each one of us throughout our entire undergraduate career and remains a valuable mentor and professional contact after graduation. Without him, I would definitely not be going to Paris."
Jordan is the recipient of the Harriet Hale Woolley Scholarship and residency at the Fondation des Etats-Unis in Paris, France. Four exceptional American artists and musicians are selected for the award each year. Through the scholarship, Jordan will pursue a year of private study under the tutelage of François Rabbath—a contemporary French double bass player, soloist, and composer—who also taught Nicholas Walker.
"For me, Paris will be an apprenticeship with the teacher of my teacher. I'm going straight to the source, becoming a part of the tradition. I'm going to absorb everything I can from François and explore the possibilities of my own musical voice. Now is the time to do that—to build on the foundation that Ithaca College has provided."
Through close guidance, dedicated training, and industry connections from her professor and mentor, Jordan graduated well prepared for an innovative and fulfilling musical career—and she can't wait to share her passion with the world. "I feel ready to connect with the public and to revitalize soulful, spiritual, intellectual music, because we need that as a culture whether we know it or not."


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News item from 2012
The OSJ Proms 2012 at the Ashmolean
The Ashmolean Museum is delighted to welcome Conductor John Lubbock and the Orchestra of St John's to perform a series of promenade concerts throughout 2012 in the Ashmolean Atrium.
Taking inspiration from the Museum's collections, each themed concert will be introduced by members of the Ashmolean's curatorial team.
Book your tickets today: T 0845 680 1926 www.osj.org.uk
Wed 22 February, 7–9pm
Puccini: 1st Minuet
Cavalli: O Delle Mie Speranze
Soprano: Alice Privet
Puccini: Crisantemi
Pergolesi: Sei Tu M'ami
Puccini: 2nd Minuet
Schumann: Traumerei
Messaien: L'amour de peroutcha
Verdi: Ave Maria
Verdi: String quartet arr for string orchestra
Wed 14 March, 7–9pm
Grieg: Two Elegiac Melodies
Grieg: Incidental music to Peer Gynt - Solveig's song and Death of Ase
Debussy: Arriettes Oubliées
Soprano: Julia Sitkovetsky
Debussy: Dances Sacre Et Profane
Harp: Elen Hydref
Grieg: Holberg suite
Wed 6 June, 7–9pm
OSJ Ashmolean Voices
Holst: Evening Watch
Elgar: The Showers
Stanford: The Blue Bird
Vaughan Williams: Five Shakespeare songs
Tippet: Five spirituals from A Child Of Our Time Oremi and Magwani
M'pulele: Two African folk songs
OSJ Ensemble
Walton: Façade
Wed 18 July, 7–9pm
Finzi: 3 Soliloquies from Loves Labours Lost
Vaughan Williams: Rhosymedre
Vaughan Williams: Violin: Tinyun Jia Lark Ascending
Wagner: Siegfried Idyll
Wed 10 October, 7–9pm
Strauss: Introduction to Capriccio
Woolrich: Capriccio for solo violin and strings introduced by the composer
Violin: Daniel Pioro
Strauss: Metamorphosen
Wed 19 December, 7–9pm
Christmas Carols
OSJ Ashmolean Voices
The Hildegard Choir: Britten Ceremony of Carols
Book Now: 0845 680 1926 www.osj.org.uk
Tickets: £30 chairs, £25 cushions, £10 children, £5 unsighted


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Long Gorgeous Curls
Casual is the latest new trend, this hairstyle is so beautiful and fun. It's youthful and full of life and easy to create. Try curling your hairs with a curling iron with out over curling it and don't be to fussy on getting your curls proper the lovely thing about these curls is that they aren't proper.


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The favourite Open Query course modules as well as reworked and brand new ones, with November/December 2009 dates for Brisbane, Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne listed below. You can register for days/modules individually, to suit your time, budget and current needs. Your trainers are Sean, Ray and Arjen (see OQ people).
For the Canberra and Melbourne days which are DBA/HA, registrations for all of the modules in a series before 15 October will receive a copy of the "High Performance MySQL" book (normal bookstore price is AUD 105).
- Thu 5 Nov: MySQL High Availability – Strategy and Tools
- Fri 6 Nov: MySQL Cluster Workshop
- Mon 9 Nov: MySQL Optimisation by Design
- Tue 10 Nov: MySQL Locking, Transactions & Storage Engine Optimisation
- Thu 19 Nov: MySQL Query Performance Optimisation and Tuning
- Fri 20 Nov: MySQL Server Performance Optimisation and Tuning
- Wed 9 Dec: MySQL Installation, Security and User Management
- Thu 10 Dec – Fri 11 Dec MySQL Backup and Recovery + Replication Workshop


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Religion News Briefs
Sheridan church holds special service
SHERIDAN – Sheridan United Methodist Church will hold a special service on Sunday at 10:30 a.m. The Rev. Drew Heitzenrater will lead the service, with the sermon, "Coming to Yourself." There will be Coffee Fellowship immediately following the service. All are invited to attend this worship and gather together with the church family. The Sheridan United Methodist Church is located at 2679 Route 20 in Sheridan. Call 672-2048 for information.
Classical guitarist to perform Sunday
Trinity Episcopal Church is hosting a concert featuring classical guitarist Giancarlo Sidoli at 3 p.m., Sunday. A recent graduate of SUNY Fredonia's master's program, Giancarlo will feature music from Italy, Germany and Hungary. A free will offering will be taken. The concert is open to the public. There will be a reception following the concert. Trinity Church is located on 11 Day St. in Fredonia, on Barker Commons.
Enjoy corned beef and cabbage Thursday
SILVER CREEK – The Silver Creek Assembly of God Church is planning a corned beef and cabbage dinner to be held on Thursday, March 14 from 4:30 to 7 p.m.
The menu will consist of corned beef and cabbage or ham and cabbage, potatoes, carrots, coffee, tea or punch and homemade desserts.
The church is located at 1391 Route 20, Silver Creek.
There is no cost for the dinner although donations are gratefully accepted. For more information, call 934-4782 or 673-5532.
Church plans round and square dance
The Faith and Fun Bunch of St. Joseph Church will host a round and square dance on Saturday, March 23 from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Collins Conservation Club, Conger Road, Collins. Music will be provided by Paul Zittel and the Pure Country Band. Admission is $7 per person, $5 for children ages 10-15 years old, or $20 per family. Refreshments will be available throughout the evening. Contact Dave and Cindy Kerker at 532-5792 to reserve a table.


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Masters in Education
M.A. in Educational Administration and Credential Programs
The M.A. in Educational Administration (K-12) can be earned simultaneously with the credential program with three additional research courses (EDAD 221B, EDAD 221C, EDAD 253) and includes a Master's Thesis Project. It is a two year, 54 unit program.
The Department of Educational Leadership offers two program options for the MA/Tier 1 Administrative Services Credential:
Program 1: Online hybrid program with small group fieldwork seminars
- Students can participate in hybrid courses from any location with an internet connection.
- Online portions of the course use a web-based instructional platform as a centralized location for educational material, course content, and communication.
- Students attend class on campus and in person 4-8 times per semester for each course.
Program 2: Urban Secondary Leadership Program (USLP) with small group fieldwork seminars
- Courses focus on the in-depth study of key issues in middle and high school that school leaders experience on a daily basis.
- Must enroll in both the MA & Tier 1 program by teams, with a minimum of 2 teachers per team from middle/high school. This team model supports collaborative learning, research, and coaching.
- Most courses meet one night per week, including 2-4 Saturdays per semester. Some courses have a hybrid format, meeting in person 4-8 times per semester.


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Gown: Zoe
Date of wedding: January 13, 2012
Photographer: Tanya Lynch
Hot tip: Its worth hiring a Videographer to capture all the moments that you want to relive again and again as well as the things that you might have missed on the day.
What they loved: It suited our vintage tone of the wedding and my love for 50?s fashion and polka dots!
Husband: Jamie


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This year marks the tenth anniversary of PEPFAR, the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, and we have much to celebrate. We are closer than ever to achieving an AIDS-free generation. Today, 13 partner countries have reached the programmatic "tipping point" in their AIDS epidemics -- the point at which the annual increase in adults on antiretroviral treatment is greater than the number of annual new adult HIV infections. And this past June, the one millionth baby was born HIV-free due to PEPFAR-supported efforts to prevent mother-to-child transmission.
With an AIDS-free generation within our reach, PEPFAR continues to prioritize combinations of interventions that are based on sound scientific evidence and have a significant impact on reducing new HIV infections and saving lives. HIV testing and counseling (HTC), which has been a cornerstone of PEPFAR since its inception, is one such activity. HTC is the gateway to many high-impact interventions, such as treatment, prevention of mother-to-child transmission, and voluntary medical male circumcision.
During the last decade, PEPFAR has helped to engender an unprecedented expansion in the number of people accessing HTC. In its first year, PEPFAR supported almost 2 million HIV tests; in 2012 alone, it supported more than 46 million. Since its inception in 2003, PEPFAR has supported nearly 190 million HIV tests along with appropriate counseling to people around the globe, principally in sub-Saharan Africa.
A key factor in this growth has been rapid HIV testing, which PEPFAR has been instrumental in promoting. This simple-to-use technology allows people to learn their HIV status in under an hour, eliminating the challenge of getting patients to return days later for their results. Rapid tests are easy to administer, enabling over-stretched clinics and hospitals to shift the task of HTC to lower-level health workers. Best of all, rapid tests are portable, allowing testing to go where the people who most need it live and work. With the advent of these technologies, PEPFAR has been able to help countries bring HTC to remote rural areas, as well as to populations at higher risk for HIV infection, who are often less likely to go to clinics. This expansion has been further aided by PEPFAR's pioneering of novel approaches to HTC -- mobilizing whole communities to get tested, bringing health workers to worksites, bars and sporting events, even going door-to-door in high-burden areas. These approaches have allowed millions more individuals to learn their HIV status and, if they are HIV-positive, to get the care and treatment they and their families need.
Despite this extraordinary progress, key challenges remain. Globally, fewer than 40 percent of persons living with HIV know they are positive. Without knowledge of serostatus, many people living with HIV do not seek treatment until they are very ill -- meaning the opportunity to provide them with optimal care and to protect their sexual partners and children from HIV is missed. As PEPFAR continues to evolve, so does our approach to HTC. We are increasingly shifting our focus from testing as many people as possible, to identifying as many people living with HIV as possible. This requires more strategic, targeted approaches that overcome the barriers to testing faced by many undiagnosed people living with HIV.
Partner governments, PEPFAR teams, and implementing partners are collaborating on these approaches. In Kenya, PEPFAR piloted a new family-centered HIV testing program, encouraging the partners and children of HIV-positive clients at a treatment clinic to come in for testing. This method has yielded much higher rates of partner HIV testing than the traditional stand-alone testing sites, and helped identify many children living with HIV and link them to care. In Malawi, a country with a high prevalence of HIV, new programs that include support for HIV self-testing at home are bringing HTC to more at-risk groups including urban adult men -- a group that is often reluctant to attend clinics or testing centers. Moving forward, PEPFAR will continue to support our partner countries in making this shift from high-volume to highly-targeted HTC -- to improve results, reduce unnecessary testing, and maximize the impact of each dollar invested.
As we enter the next phase of PEPFAR, with the strong support of the Obama Administration and bipartisan support from the U.S. Congress, the United States remains firmly committed to doing our part to help make an AIDS-free generation a reality. Reaching this goal is a shared responsibility, with country governments convening donors, civil society, and other stakeholders to determine how all can contribute meaningfully to this collective goal. This is especially true of HTC programming, where government leadership is critical to ensuring that resources are directed toward those most in need of these services.
We look forward to continuing to work closely with our partners on this crucial component to the AIDS response.
About the Author: Ambassador Eric Goosby is the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator and head of the State Department's Office of Global Health Diplomacy.


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Foreign Affairs Officer Tara Foley works in the Office of WMD Terrorism, Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation. Here Tara shares her impressions of Saudi Arabia... Tara's previous post: Remember the Ladies in Riyadh
One evening last spring, some friends and acquaintances gathered for dinner in Riyadh. After our meal, our small, international group sat and chatted. Some smoked apple flavored sheesha tobacco out of tall hookahs, filling the air with a cotton candy-like aroma, while the rest of us passed around the sticky sweet dates that are native to Saudi Arabia's palm groves. Amongst the women gathered, the conversation eventually came around to the expat experience: What are the rules of etiquette and interaction when living in a foreign country?
Saudi Arabia is host to any number of expats: European bankers and teachers, American nurses and oil workers, laborers from Southeast Asia, and diplomats from all over the world. Here, in the political and economic hub of Riyadh, all of these people merge, and many must adapt their personal customs to the Saudi way of life. Non-Muslims cannot hold religious services or practice their religion openly, women must alter their mannerisms and dress, and Westerners generally speaking enjoy fewer personal freedoms than they do at home. The difficult question, often, is how to remain true to one's own values, while also respecting the traditions and standards of one's host nation.
One acquaintance sparked this conversation when she said, "I don't understand when people from other places say negative things about living in this country. If they dislike Saudi Arabia, why not go home instead of criticize?" I wondered if that was true. When we are guests in someone else's homeland, are we supposed to follow the age-old wisdom to say something nice or don't say anything at all? Or are friends supposed to be honest with one another, both supporting one another's strengths and working together to improve weakness? I think it's natural to feel challenged when we encounter such differences; I also think it's valuable to discuss these challenges with our friends. In the end, how honest should friends and allies be with one another?
The question applies to both friendship and diplomacy. Whether socializing over tea or negotiating across the conference table, diplomats and expats must balance between courtesy and candor. I believe that through encountering lifestyles and values different from our own, we grow as individuals; and it is by discussing these differences openly, with honesty and respect, that we strengthen our relationships with our friends. Often we reach agreement, and if not, we have at least grown in our understanding of one another.
Joe in Washington, DC writes:
It's great that you're having this discussion openly, candidly and honestly on a U.S. government blog. Given how Saudi Arabia treats non-believers, would such a discussion even be possible in a public forum in that country? Would the Saudis have a public debate on whether Christianity should be allowed in their country? Do the Saudis have freedom of speech like we do?
Dipnote Blogger Tara Foley writes:
@ Joe in Washington –-
Islam is not only the official religion of Saudi Arabia, it is the law. The official title of the King of Saudi Arabia is, after all, the "Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques.†Saudi law does not recognize other religions, nor does it protect freedom of religion. While followers of other religions can, and often do, worship as they choose in private, any public worship or expression of any religion other than Islam is strictly prohibited. That said, many individual Saudis are tolerant and accepting of others' religions and do engage in honest, open-minded dialogue and debate.
Freedom of speech and press also continue to be restricted in Saudi Arabia. Those topics which tend to be most severely restricted are expressions of criticism against Islam or the royal family. Given the religious, legal, and social context, I personally would be very surprised to see an open, public debate on religious freedom in Saudi anytime soon.
Still, there have been advances here, too, in recent years. Media, academic, and other outlets often provide a forum for a diverse variety of opinions. For example, you might enjoy reading the opinion pages on Arab News, a Saudi English-language daily which you can find at www.arabnews.com.
You may also be interested in checking out the State Department's annual Report on International Religious Freedom. Individual country reports are available at: http://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/irf/2007/
RJ in Arizona writes:
This post hits the nail on the head on cultural understanding. I relate to this post on two levels, the first being from my Navajo/Hopi ancestry and the second as a former embassy intern. It's amazing how much we can all learn about each other by talking and sharing our many cultures, especially as it becomes increasingly important in our globalized world. Sharing of cultures and values can eliminate so much of the hostile attitudes on different cultures. Many locals at my post said the same thing about how some visitors complain about not having familiar amenities - if you don't like it, then you should probably go home.
Thomas in Pennsylvania writes:
Courtesy and respect must be two way streets. It is indeed essential to show respect for one's host and his or her customs. But it is equally the responsibility of a host to show at least a modicum of courtesy or respect for his or her guests and their customs and needs.
How are the Saudi's adapting their expectations to meet the needs of the expats in their country. I would not expect too much at the official level, but I would hope some flexibility on a personal level. Do the people show you the courtesy and respect that you are showing them?
This is not meant as a condemnation. I expect they they are bending to meet the demands of hospitality. I just wonder how.
Brian in Colorado writes:
I just read an AP report that the State Department granted immunity to all of the Blackwater mercenaries involved in the 16 September massacre at Nisour Square.
If Secretary Rice doesn't resign over this, we may as well shut down the State Department until January 2009.
Ralph in Greece writes:
Hi Tara, How is the food in Saudi Arabia? Do they have a special dish?
Rick in Canada writes:
I agree that encountering lifestyles different from our own we grow as individuals. However, it is a dangerous line to walk when discussing lifestyle, and values differences. Venturing into that area is an art. Many expats are not artists. Better I think to just live and experience life in other countries as a local. When a foreigner starts to speak to you as a visitor about lifestyle and value differences in his country - then I think you have been given permission to venture into his home, and into his heart. If he doesn't bring it up...treat it as politics and religion - don't bring it up. Until then "vive la difference!".
Ross in Canada writes:
As a Canadian who has lived and worked in the U.S. from time to time. The sanctions placed upon Iran has now raised its head in Canada. The F14 fighter jets employed by the Iranian Air Force are very old and basically out of date. The problem lies that Canada is the prime resource for replacement parts. I guess we hold the trump card in the sanction process. It will be very difficult to police this situation as the underground supplying of military parts and equipment is very prolific both in Canada and worldwide. It will be a diplomatic juggling game for a while. It seems like we are cherry picking what countries are allowed to develop a nuclear program. If Egypt is being allowed to develop a comprehensive atomic energy program, why is Iran excluded. Most countries are becoming dependent on nuclear energy for the production of electrical power. We in North America are becoming extremely paranoid about the whole issue. Not every nation in the Middle East is a threat to bomb North America. The U.S. and Canadian foreign diplomacy is at an all time low. Why can`t we work with the regimes who wish to utilize nuclear power. One gets more with a handshake than a sword.
Kashif in America writes:
Hey like I have commented before in your previous blogs you might feel you are honest, for example, but it still might come out as rude. I mean if I suggested to you that maybe you should wear a head scarf or I told more American women to wear it they might get offended yet I still feel like I am not offending American women by suggesting to them to wear it. I mean I meet a lot of pretty good looking Christian girls like every day and they are so tempting that I don't know what I should do. Sometimes they ruin my concentration that I can't even study when I am sitting in class and they think no one is looking at them when they wear their attractive clothing; arggggghhhhh I am getting frustrated just thinking about it. What should I do Tara? Why do you American women love to tempt us guys? I just want to study and get a good job and good wife that is all. Is that too much to ask for?
Janice in Arkansas writes:
While it may be appropriate for people of different cultures/countries to thoughtfully discuss differences and serious issues that arise, there is also such a thing--too often forgetten--as simply exercising common courtesy, being respectful of a host people and their beliefs and mores and by not unnecessarily giving offense. More people, whether government, military, or everyday citizens (on a job or there as a tourist) should remember that whenever they appear in public or in someone's home abroad, they are representing the U.S.A. and telling (even just by dress, speech, or behavior) what "Americans" (read that "all Americans") are all about. It's worth remembering as well that something we may take for granted back in the U.S. (as, a particular style of dress, or a way of talking) may be greatly offensive to many others in the world. To moderate out of respect is not being unfaithful to self or home nation. And no, if an individual just plain does not like a host country or the people in it, and is not inclined to discover and learn more, then they should just go home.
Eric in New Mexico writes:
Hi Tara, I'm not well known for my political correctness...(chuckle), but at least if I have complaint, you can bet I'll offer a solution along with. Seems only fair, and a fair way of putting it to voice generally fosters debate rather than hurt feelings.
I second RJ's comments, the cultural diversity of the American Southwest is long established in peace, trade, and the cross pollination of peoples. Home to nations within nation, and immigrant communities from across the globe. Might as well be the crossroads of the universe, considering all the international tourists that come every year.
Come to think of it, perhaps this would be an ideal place to host the (and/or future) upcoming regional peace conference on Palestinian/Israeli issues. The parties could see for themselves what peaceful coexistance looks like in practical application.
Ron in Kansas writes:
This is always a hard topic, but especially when it involves Americans "ideals" or ideas. The reasons we feel like it is important to share our "wisdom " with others seems to be largely based in the fact that we can.
Growing up in the states we have many opportunities to experience and see things that many in other parts of the world may not. I think it is important that we remember this is not always a good thing. One thing that seems to be common among our youth is that they always feel they have to experience the mistakes themselves in order to learn and/or grow from them. Exactly where in history has this been the right mindset.
For many countries/societies the "wisdom" associated with the older generations is accounted greater import than the guidance of the leaders in their perspective communities. If we look at this what can we find.
If one where to seek to define intelligence vs wisdom it might be seen in this manner:
Intelligence- The intelligence of an individual or a society is seen through it's decisions
Wisdom- The wisdom of said entities would be found in the results of those decisions
For countries where we go that have so many restrictions we must consider how they percieve the wisdom of our "ideals" vs their own.
Consider crime, divorce rates, children out of wedlock, family structures, honesty, integrity, faith, fortune, and goals just to start with. I think if you do an internal comparative analysis of just these you would very quickly be able to determine which battles to fight idealisticly vs which are better left to time and interaction to overcome.
Just my take on it for what little its worth>>>
Eliza in U.S.A. writes:
I think being "true to one's own values" doesn't hold when you're traveling abroad. You travel to experience other cultures and values and to try to do things like the locals - which means you dress and behave like a local. This should be the goal and it should be FUN. If it's not then it just means you should maybe just go back home early if you can... I've had some people tell me if they travel to a Muslim country, why should they change their ways and dress... as an example one person said when Muslims come to his country they bring their customs and don't adapt to the English way of life and so he said why should I? That's the thing, in a country like the U.S. or any country that the culture is freedom of speech and religion, then the people should be free to express these rights. Because that's the cultures of these countries. If you travel to a Muslim country, then you have to respect their cultures. Maybe you say it's not fair, when tourists and immigrants come to our countries they have many freedoms... That's what culture, and "traveling" is all about - adapting to the rules and culture of wherever you are. If you're not traveling and instead going to a country to do "business", your feelings/experiences may be different when staying in a 5 star hotel or just mingling with expat friends... I've worked abroad a lot and don't expect a firm handshake but I'm sure wherever Ms. Rice goes she gets a firm handshake!!! So I see how you diplomats can look at things differently...
-I enjoyed reading your blog. Nice work!
Ronald in New York writes:
Diplomatic correctness requires both parties to maintain mutually accepted social expressions and values. We spend too much time focused on idiomatics of language, gesture, and religious norms. it is the underlying moral foundation of humanness which must be conveyed and shared.
Our differences have been over-determined by contentious dealings at the highest (lowest) levels of state. Most people in the world want to live in peace and understanding. It is governments who often harm relations by corrupting the normal interactions between nations.
DS in California writes:
Codes, neat. Like PC in DC! I wouldn't have thought to move a comment from one post to another. I wonder, are you related to Tom, Alan, Laurence or Axel? Didn't Plame work in counterproliferation?
Mike in South Carolina writes:
Excellent points. I recall my years in the U.S. Navy when I visited several countries in Southeast Asia. Each port call we made required us to sit through a short briefing on what to do or not to do while visiting our host nation. Most of it was very good advice. After all despite the fact that we were part of the U.S. military, we are still guests in their country. I think we would expect the same from anyone visiting the United States. Although we did have fun talking about some of the customs and traditions with the native people.
I never realized what a great country we have until you go somewhere else. Sure it's a wonderful experience and I wouldn't trade my experience for anything. But it's great to be back home!
SNP in Syria writes:
Well we learned very important diplomacy lesson from the United States, shock and awe bomb them, radiate them with depleted uranium, threaten them with nuke as a diplomatic way of saying to countries we want all your oil and gas. Is not the Diplomacy diet fad is out and fascism is in and hip way.
Alexi in Australia writes:
All cultures are different therefore friendship and diplomacy are accepted differently. But overall interesting article.
Faisal in Yemen writes:
Every country has its positive and negative points and we have to be just.
Aldendeshe in Syria writes:
The U.S State Department is more about inaction and complacency by very low achievers who will protest on the first instance of being presented with a challenge or even a small change.
Look at the Middle East for the past 60 years, how much time and effort spent by U.S. Diplomats, were Diplomacy of the U.S. State Department in any measure effective in bringing peace and security to the region? Has it been minutely successful in using diplomatic means to introduce Democracy, or minimizing the gross Human Rights violations, trafficking in persons, sex slavery, child slave-labor.
The U.S. Diplomatic Corp, did not fail the Middle Easterner, they failed in the duty the Americans trusted in them, they let America down.
Eric in New Mexico writes:
Regarding your comments to Joe, As what you describe is true and applicable, and Saudi society is part of the family of nations as a "given", then Sharia law logicly must intersect with the Universal Declaration of Human rights in a way that strengthens both, rather than intersect in violation of one or the other.
Discussion and debate to seek a perfect intersection of understanding is essential to peaceful change within societies, the welfare of the people's spirits, and the honoring of traditional values has been going on for millenia among religious leaders. They too ultimately answer to the people, as well as Allah.
While a society may be by nature resistant to change, as it follows beliefs that are seemingly permanent in nature, all things evolve, as change is inevitable. The planet we were given to be good stewards of (perhaps by default)is not static in nature, nor is the human spirit and its relationship to the universe.
Among people I've gotten to know from around the world ( living on or about the crosroads of the universe ), devout Muslims have a bit of an internal struggle in keeping with their beliefs as practice, when the world they've stepped into here seems to lack dicipline.
What works for them is not redily understood by us, and what works for us blows their minds....IE:culture shock.
Imagine if you will, such a conversation as you think will be a long time coming, is already happening...amongst themselves. The essential question, "Where do we fit in?" is pretty universal.
Just as it is human nature to talk about it.
Thanks for giving folks a chance. Regards,
Steve in Thailand writes:
I'm Steve, a "Brit" working in Thailand for a website called www.thaiasiatoday.com
I'd just like to say that my co-worker James from Texas is extremely diplomatically correct and a credit to his country.
Please take a look at our site if you get a moment and learn a bit more about Thailand and Thai ways (customs and culture).
NewsSophisticate in U.S. writes:
In response to your email..Dipnote bloggers..I will definitely give "Dipnote" a chance. By far I am not against the Department of State or anyone else. The concept of the Department of State entering the blogosphere is slightly disturbing, though.. considering the rash of "fake news" coming out of the administration.
I believe in the Department of State. I even thought of trying to get a job at Dipnote. Diplomacy will always be the answer. Until the DoS begins to get the "lions share" of the defense budget the United States will always be on the "hunt". Please, bare with me. I love foreign policy, I love Condi Rice...I thought of Condi as an inspiration during my days at college. I just want her brilliance to shine and I believe she is being held back. She is a woman of peace and I admire it to the fullest. Condi's specialty is Russian Affairs..Let her use her brilliance where she is needed. Please, Dipnote, make a difference.
Let's get this straight. I am a patriot to the fullest. I believe in the United States and I believe in our leaders, but Washington is becoming much too partisan and that is not good for America or the rest of the world.
We need to plant a larger more diverse "garden of Diplomacy"...lately all we've been reaping is pathetic undersized carrots. Let's show the world how loving, kind, and respectful America is. Not what it once was. Please, put down the stick and offer something nutritious.
Dipnote...I respect your 'mission'. I respect the 'cause'. Bloggers are powerful and I wish the DoS the most power of them all. Ask for my service and I will do what I can. But, please...Help US, too.
Send me updates and I will participate. I urge Dipnote to make the difference..to listen to the people. We are you as you are U.S. I am not a U.S. basher like many..I love my COUNTRY.
"United we stand..Divided We Fall". Peace is the ultimate outcome we desire. Let's unite the divide together.
News Sophisticate.
Stu in Tennessee writes:
Aw, the poor babies in the Foreign Service don't want to serve in Iraq. "They may get wounded or killed" so says Jack Croddy their spokesman. What about the 3800 plus troops that have been killed in Iraq. They swore the same oath: "To support and defend the Constitution" that the Foreign Service Officers do. However, Troops dying aren't important to the State Dept. Troops aren't the Elite Foreign Services Officers. After all the Troops didn't go to Fletcher or Wharton.
The names and the faces change but today's Jack Croddys are the same blubbering Foreign Service Officers I served with on Province Advisory Teams in Viet Nam. They were willing to pocket their base pay, hazardous pay differential, housing and food allowances, live in air conditioned comfort with their maids [so called] all the while moaning that they were being treated unfairly. They always had 10,000 reasons why a task could not be completed but never one positive reason to accomplish it. We called this the State Dept. "WAT" [Work Avoidance Technique".
So what's new.
Darrin in Washington, DC writes:
Tara, you seem to think that "women must alter their mannerisms and dress". Perhaps you mean "Western women"? Because I can honestly say that I've seen many other visitors from other countries who didn't have to alter their mannerisms and dress (e.g. a Kuwaiti women).
Also, this "age-old wisdom to say something nice or don't say anything at all"- what makes you think that this is universal wisdom?
Could it be possibly that your friends and acquaintances in Saudi Arabia think a lot like you? Because I wouldn't have made the above assumptions. Same goes for the "working together to improve weakness"- some cultures don't do that.
Rule no. 1 in Diplomacy- start with a blank slate. Work from there.
Dipnote Blogger Tara Foley writes:
@ Darrin in Washington, DC -- Thank you for your thoughts. A few musings of my own follow. Thanks for reading and I hope we hear from you again.
1. I originally had "Western women†in my writing, but then I thought on it for awhile. I thought of my friends and acquaintances from Morocco, Egypt, Lebanon, and elsewhere, and I realized that my statement did not apply to Western women only. You are correct that some visitors don't have to alter their mannerisms and dress. But many women do, including women from other parts of the Arab and Muslim worlds. Many of these women are accustomed to different lifestyles and greater independence than they have in Saudi, and so they must alter their mannerisms while they are there. Additionally, many of these women choose to cover (or not cover) in different ways, yet Saudi law dictates how they must cover (and consequently, how they "should†practice their religion). I've often wondered how this feels for Muslim women visiting or living in the Kingdom who are devout in their faith, but may not necessarily choose to cover themselves or express their faith in precisely the way that Saudi law requires.
2. I think working together to improve weaknesses is the foundation of international relations in our globalized world. Globalization allows both assets and threats to cross borders more easily, and a weakness in one place can have far reaching consequences. It's not a cultural value, but a modern reality. And it's because we and our partners and allies around the world recognize this that we are able to have such strong, mutually beneficial relationships with countries like Saudi Arabia, even if some aspects of our cultures and world views differ.
3. The blank slate is one approach to diplomacy. I personally don't think it's very realistic, nor even desirable. We and our partners and allies around the world (and, yes, our adversaries too) all have various experiences, values, motivations, and objectives. Knowing more about our international partners and what we all bring to the table is what allows us to maintain strong relationships and make progress as an international community.
Eric in New Mexico writes:
If I were to interpret a "blank slate" it would be in the process of analysis in terms of tossing all the parameters of a situation, known and unknown, up in the air and seeing where they land of their own accord.
It took America just about 27 months, from 1942-45 to build an industry from scratch, based on designs from scratch, building a city from scratch to build a bomb from scratch, with only theories to go on, in the middle of the largest and most costly war in history. Yet we did this and ended that war that had cost 50 million lives up to that point with the weapon that no one knew would even work at the time it was being produced. In secret.
Now Iran has had at least 18 years, lots of help from other nations, black market smugglers, and their scientists have had proven designs to work with, and in all probability now has in its possesion, a handful of nuclear devices smuggled in after being bought on the black market. I don't believe the Mullahs nor the Rev. Guard trusted the devices to work properly, and took them apart to study.
This assesment may give pause for thought as to why the Iranians feel comfortable not coming to the table or abiding by chapter 7 resolutions, and the intent to push America into war by killing Americans in Iraq with the bombs the Rev. Guard quods force supplies as "causus belli" has a strategic objective.
To blame the war on the U.S., as "trigger happy".
If I may digress into some "Red team" thinking;
If I were an Iranian Mullah, I'd issue a fatwa prohibiting nukes, have my good friend in North Korea test one of mine to see if it works, but knowing I'm not going to defeat "Zionism" with one bomb and hope to survive I'd nuke Nantez and make it look like a sub launched missile using a conventional missile and a freighter, sink the freighter and blame that on them as well. Now I have a radar track to back up my story. And I can "retaliate".
By the time air samples were analized, I'd have the war I was looking for, and the global jihad Bin laden never succeeded in starting.
That's if I were a Mullah.
After all in their mindset, it is about prepping for the coming of the Mahdi. America stands in the way, and the destruction of America to a Mullah first lies in the destruction of our credibility in the world, to separate us from our allies.
I can roghly imagine the global political fallout from a seemingly "premptive" US suprise attack resulting from a false flag nuclear terrorist act, if it were to succeed.
How do you stop it? Publicize the recognition of the threat so that were it to happen, the global effect would be to direct blame on the true perpetrators.
This post may be regarded as premptive analysis in action, as such.
So that's one way of filling in a blank slate, but catch phrases like "working together to improve weakness" can be too generalistic to properly describe say, the activities of the P5+1, the diplomacy involved in maintaining UN Security Counsel credibility, and the global effort to properly resolve the threats to the humanity in many aspects. Be it disaster relief, or non proliferation, poverty or climate change, the unintended concequences of the actions of ethical infants, and/or genocidal meglomaniacs.
Working together and "in larger freedom" the family of nations can change the diapers of ethical infants. Why we keep having to prove the reasons for doing so to ourselves is beyond my analytical ability. Believe what you see and get your eyes checked often.
Now perhaps that wasn't politically correct, but it be the truth as I know it to be. Toss things up in the air enough and you see patterns, probability, and intent.


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Conservation Status
The fin whale is listed as endangered by the USDI and is on Appendix 1 of CITES; it is only listed as vulnerable by the IUCN. Fin whales were heavily hunted over the last century. Harvests from 1946-1965 exceeded 10,000 animals per year. International Whaling Commission quotas were lowered in the mid '70s and were reduced to zero by 1985, with the exception of a small (e.g., 10 in 1987) aboriginal catch and catches for "research" purposes. However, these restrictions may have come too late. Southern ocean populations are currently estimated to be no more than 5,000 individuals and probably only 2-3000. As with the blue whale, it is not certain that the fin whale has been saved from extinction by wanton overhunting.


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Topic: I just launched my hobby project
As I've been hanging here for some time, asking for help, and trying to also help others out, I figured it might be nice to show what I've come up with.
This is my "first" public live project that actually does something serious, but I've been coding other stuff for quite a while that never made it out the door into the public.
Anyway, it doesn't really have much to do with code itself, it is just fun to write here about it as it is a Rails app!
The url is http://www.12khz.com and it is a simple platform for unsigned bands who want to upgrade from the generic community profile page to a more website-like thing. I did this because I wanted it myself, I like having a website, but I don't need the biggest thing around. So I figured more people would have a need for it.
It's been online in this first version for about three hours now. We'll see if people sign up with time!
Thanks for all the help from the members here, I hope I can give back someday!


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Saturday, March 24, 2012 - Axiata Cup and Badmintonphoto (archive)
Tan Boon Heong has given up chasing a seeding for the Olympic Games later this year and will instead concentrate on getting his form back.
The former world junior champion, who was once ranked No. 1 in the world with Koo Kien Keat, has not won an OSIM BWF World Superseries title since the Malaysia Open more than two years ago.
In that time, Boon Heong-Kien Keat have only won the Malaysia Open Grand Prix Gold while other players have surpassed them in the world order, which now sees them ranked eighth in the world.
The 24-year-old from Kedah, a state in the north of Malaysia won the world junior title with Hoon Thien How in 2004, but the pair were split up prior to the 2006 Asian Games with then men's doubles coach Rexy Mainaky deciding to team Boon Heong up with Kien Keat.
It proved to be a brilliant decision with the duo (above), going on to win the gold medal and following that up by grabbing the All England title in early 2007.
The pair then went on to reach No. 1 in the world rankings but since then, have suffered some poor results.
"It has been a while since we have won a big title and now our focus is on the Olympics," said Boon Heong, who is now playing in the Axiata Cup
"Earlier this year, we were chasing a top four seeding for the Olympics and were under unnecessary pressure to perform.
"As a result, we didn't have any good results. Now, we know it will be difficult to finish among the top four so we can be more relaxed.
"Hopefully, this will help us in our quest to win a title or two before the Olympics."
The pair will compete in the India Open next month, the last Superseries tournament before the end of the Olympic qualifying period.
For more information on the Axiata Cup, click here.
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Quist is only 19A Republican candidate
ST. PETER – Republican candidate Allen Quist gained a clear path to the Minnesota House 19A special election Tuesday when no other Republican candidates filed.
Fellow Republican candidate Jim Golgart had initially indicated he may run in the primary after failing to capture the Republican endorsement last week. He declined to file Tuesday, citing the need to attend to his family. Quist won the endorsement with 35 votes or 85 percent of the 41 voting delegates at the endorsement convention.
Quist also picked up a boost from former presidential candidate U.S. Rep. Michele Bachmann on Tuesday when Bachmann sent out a fundraiser e-mail on Quist's behalf. Bachmann is notorious for being very strong fundraiser during her presidential and election bids.
In the e-mail, Bachmann called on her supporters to donate up to $50 to her "dear friend Allen Quist" for his special election run.
Bachmann has been a long-time friend of the Quist family since her political start and Quist's wife Julie served as her district director from 2008 to 2011.
Bachmann previously endorsed Quist for his candidacy for the 1st District congressional race in 2012. Her support came right before the Republican endorsement convention, but it was not enough to help Quist win the 14-hour, 23-ballot endorsement battle that failed to pick an official candidate.
What remains to be seen is whether Bachmann's support will have more of an impact in the state level race. In the congressional race, Bachmann support extended to an in-person event and selling Quist her donor list, but these actions failed to boost Quist's weak fundraising in that race.
Bachmann's well known fundraising abilities may help Quist to raise the $34,300 spending limit for the special election, particularly since he cannot self-fund the majority of the funds like he did in his congressional campaign.
The special election will be held Feb. 12 and the primary will be held Jan. 29.
The DFL party will hold its 19A endorsement convention Saturday at 10:30 a.m. in North Mankato.
(Josh Moniz can be e-mailed at email@example.com)


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U.S. Open Dan Testing Room Information
For those individuals involved in the Kukkiwon Special Dan Testing, here are the times and locations you need to know:
ATTENTION 4th-7th Dan candidates and higher who need to test in person: If you haven't heard from USA Taekwondo to the contrary, you have been approved.
All testing candidates should bring light sparring gear.
Thursday, Feb. 12
Special Dan Testing Registration
Tropicana Tradewinds Rooms 2&3
Friday, Feb. 13
Special Dan Testing Seminar
Tropicana Caribbean Rooms 2&4
Saturday, Feb. 14
Special Dan Testing Seminar
Tropicana Caribbean Rooms 2&4
Sunday, Feb. 13
Special Dan Testing
9am-until completion
Tropicana Caribbean Rooms 2&4


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Hi there. I've been an ubuntu user since last year. I actually started with fedora. Didn't like it at the time, but I really didn't know anything then. I'm fairly happy with my ubuntu, but was thinking of as dif os for my other pc. Was just looking for some suggestions is all. I will be using a media center pc with a 3GHz dual core, 8GB DDR2 RAM, an ok 1080p 3D graphics card. I mainly want a fast, stable, powerfull if I should need it os. I mainly listen and save and swap my music, web, movies, burning DVD's (which I still can't quite figure out LOL) Photos and photo editing and run it through my LCD TV. I thought about trying zorin, but what else is good too. I would probably love the ubuntu much more if I could get half the stuff running right. I follow all instructions to no avail. 3D cube makes plasma crash and had to uninstall compiz to work again and cube screen suddenly quit working days later when I didn't change anything (that I'm aware of) and even unity effects are failing and been running the lxde cause it runs the best. Maybe a premium version with support? I'm just looking for some opinions is all guys. Thanks
P.S. If anybody tells me to get windows, I might just lose it!! LOL :)
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peeker643 wrote:Guys who stink often are not defined by long NFL careers. I thought was self-evident enough but...
6 years, 4 teams.
He was fine against Ravens. Threw some balls up for grabs too. Was late and behind too. That's a trait he has. Some days you get away with it.
Not to mention dude ain't Blood & Guts Patton in the face of adversity. He looked like the whiny kid who lost his bike for a week cuz his parents found it unattended. Very Seneca Wallace-like IMO.
Hope he enjoys his stay at the Last Chance Saloon.
Oh...and know how else I know what Jason Campbell is aside from 4 teams in 6 years and his mediocre numbers and poor leadership attributes?
Brian Hoyer started ahead of the #2 guy.
Meh... not worth the arguing. Not good enough to be the guy equals shit at this point and IMO.
And your opinion is immutable and infallible. You don't think I've learned anything over all these years?
Look, I know you know how he got where he is and the circumstances at DC and Otown. I also know that when you have 3 games and your ratings are 100+, 100+ and 44 that isn't horse shit. It's a bad game; so far. There is NFW that Jason campbell's resume is that of Senaca freaking Wallace. And I can see the level of difference on the field in the 2 players career body of work. Stop being a pouty bitch over a bad game.
You want to just hold your breath and turn blue until Aaron Rogers shows up, kewl. But that's what you're doing.
A far cry, however, from the "build the cockpit" logical Peeker of days of yore.


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I saw a discussion today on PTI with Wilbon and Cornholer about the Phil vs. Tiger rivalry.
I will say that I personally do not think that this is a rivalry. In order for a rivalry to truly exist both sides must have significant wins over the other. Otherwise it is just an asswhipping. Until Michelson actually beats Tiger head to head this is not a rivalry.
I think that what we have right now is that the fans and the media really wish that Tiger had a rival, that is why every couple of years they invent a new one. I think that if I had to pick a golfer to put up against Tiger in a sunday grouping with the tournament on the line, I would pick De Marco, but he still is not really an adequate rival.


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Gilbert ends Trojans' long district streak
GILBERT – A five-touchdown performance by Gilbert quarterback Jared Gescheidler lifted the Tigers to a three-way tie atop Class 2A District 7 with a 40-14 upset victory over third-ranked West Marshall in Friday's regular-season finale.
Gilbert (6-3, 5-1) gained the top spot in the district's postseason seedings and will host a first-round playoff game against Red Oak on Wednesday.
West Marshall (8-1, 5-1) saw its 28-game district streak ended abruptly as Gescheidler answered everything the Trojans threw at Gilbert in the first half. He scored on runs of 1, 1 and 2 yards to counter West Marshall's scoring runs from Duncan Ferch and Devin Chesler.
Chesler's 58-yard TD dash gave the Trojans their first and last lead of the night, 14-13, during the second quarter. Gilbert scored the game's final 27 points to leapfrog West Marshall and North Polk in the district standings.
Gescheidler tossed a 40-yard touchdown pass to Wyatt Rhoads to end the first-half scoring and tacked on a 5-yard scoring run in the third quarter. Christopher Culek finished off the Trojans with a 5-yard TD plunge in the fourth.
Ferch finished with 167 yards on just 17 carries, and Chesler had 109 yards on 12 attempts, but the West Marshall defense was taken for a season-high allowance. Jared Johnson and Chesler tallied 13 tackles apiece to lead the Trojans.
Despite the loss, West Marshall will still host its first-round state playoff game on Wednesday in State Center. The Trojans will entertain Clarinda (4-5) in a 7 p.m. pairing.
Gladbrook-Reinbeck 48, GMG 9
GLADBROOK – Chase Clark racked up his sixth 200-yard rushing performance, piling on three touchdowns as the Class A No. 9-ranked Gladbrook-Reinbeck Rebels claimed the program's first-ever outright district title with a 48-9 rout of GMG in Friday's regular-season finale.
The Rebels (7-2, 6-0) will host Postville (4-5), the fourth seed from District 3, in Wednesday's state playoff opener at 'The Pit' in Gladbrook. It's G-R's fourth straight state playoff appearance.
Clark rumbled 18 times for 200 yards and touchdown runs of 1, 4 and 10 yards to up his season rushing total to a Class A-leading 1,737 yards.
Rebel quarterback Camden Kickbush contributed a 5-yard touchdown run as G-R got out to a 21-0 lead after the first period on the visiting Wolverines (4-5, 2-4), and his 26-yard TD pass to Colton Dinsdale answered GMG's 24-yard field goal by Austin Vaughn.
Clark's third and final scoring run made it 35-3 at the half. Dustin Dinsdale and Eric Stoakes both ran for touchdowns in the second half as Gladbrook-Reinbeck racked up 438 yards rushing and 477 yards total.
Kickbush ended with 85 yards rushing on just four attempts and also threw for 39 yards on 4-for-6 passing. Stoakes totaled 68 yards and Dustin Dinsdale had 59 more for the Rebels.
Tyler Eiffler led the Rebel defense with 5 1/2 tackles and one quarterback sack. Dustin Dinsdale had five tackles, including 3 1/2 for loss. Zach Pierce picked up 1 1/2 sacks.
GMG was limited to 94 yards of total offense. Bridger Claassen's third-quarter touchdown pass to Luke Petty covered 5 yards for the Wolverines' lone tally.
Claassen finished 8-for-12 passing for 88 yards, and Bryce Newcomb hauled in three balls for 52 yards. Vaughn was GMG's leading rusher with 22 yards on 13 carries. Brock Fisher led GMG's defense with 11 tackles, while Tyler Krull and Alec Bovenmeyer had eight apiece. Bovenmeyer also recovered a fumble.


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Skip to comments.Lights out: House plan would protect nation's electricity from solar flare, nuclear bomb
Posted on 06/20/2013 7:49:53 AM PDT by LSUfan
Amid growing fears of a massive electromagnetic pulse hit from either a solar flare or a terrorist nuclear bomb, House Republicans on Tuesday will unveil a plan to save the nation's electric grid from an attack that could mean lights out for 300 million Americans.
Dubbed the Secure High-voltage Infrastructure for Electricity from Lethal Damage Act, the legislation would push the federal government to install grid-saving devices such as surge protectors to protect against an attack.
"It is critical that we protect our major transformers from cascading destruction. The Shield Act encourages industry to develop standards necessary to protect our electric infrastructure against both natural and man-made EMP events," said Rep. Trent Franks, the Arizona Republican who is offering up the bipartisan bill.
Electromagnetic pulse, or EMP, has come into focus because of fears the sun is pushing out unusually big solar flares that can disrupt the electric grid. Defense officials are also worried about a terrorist attack, possibly in the form of a small nuclear bomb exploded overhead.
"This is serious stuff," said former Pentagon official Frank Gaffney, who heads the Center for Security Policy. But, he added, there is a growing bipartisan consensus to protect the electric grid.
Any EMP attack could be damaging, said Gaffney. He cited a new Lloyds of London report that determined that the area from Washington, D.C., to New York could be without electricity for up to two years in a major solar flare-up.
The legislation will be introduced Tuesday by Franks and former House Speaker Newt Gingrich at a meeting of the House EMP Caucus. Officials said that the legislation, provided in advance to Secrets, will include information from a recent EMP commission report that "contemporary U.S. society is not structured, nor does it have the means, to provide for the needs of nearly 300 million Americans without electricity.''
Gaffney told Secrets that there are some 300 huge electric transformers around the nation that control the grid and that have to be protected. "You are basically talking about surge protectors, of a somewhat exotic kind, but it is a means of interrupting the pulse," he said.
Bravo sir! LOL!
Spare Transformers or the existing ones? And if the transformers survive, but all the other equipment fails, what have you accomplished?
Thread about EMP or nuclear blast over United States.
I wrote an article about this months ago, so I am posting it here. Don't kill the messenger, I am reporting scientists in this area, plus a study for the government also done by experts.
SOLAR FLARE VS. NEMP ATTACK (Nuclear Electromagnetic Pulse)
I received an email about the possibility of a solar flare wiping out civilization during these next several years when occurrences of greater mass ejection will occur. We are in that greater mass ejection period right now. The email was a freak out, the sky is falling, kind of presentation, and, as usual, an NEMP (Nuclear Electromagnetic Pulse) attack was thrown in, too, as causing the same destruction. But, the information was incorrect about both occurrences, anyway.
Some time ago I researched solar flares and NEMP attacks to determine the difference between the two if there was one there are differences.
Report by scientists in electromagnetic energy: I didnt save these scientists discussions of the differences, but I remember them since they werent difficult to remember, they made sense, and made a definite impression on me due to the misinformation people have about these. The report was by scientists in electromagnetic energy, not Doomsday Preppers. Below, when considering a NEMP, is the link to the Report of the Commission to Assess the Threat to the United States from Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) Attack. Part of that report, beginning on page 114, are the results of testing cars and trucks by bombarding them with electromagnetic pulses those experiments apply to both solar flares and NEMP attack as people think a solar flare will destroy a car/truck.
Most people, I think, lump these two occurrences (solar flare, NEMP attack) together because it seems no one thinks to consider the two separate. When one thinks about it, they probably would be different in some way because one is nature and one is manmade.
Lets consider the differences, starting with nature:
According to scientists: The sun throws off a mass of really hot stuff to put it mildly. Here is the important part: it goes in a STRAIGHT LINE when it is thrown away from the sun. Anything in that straight line is going to be hit. Astronomers can calculate where that straight line is going, so they know if its going to hit earth or come close to earth, or never coming even close. These ejections happen from any part of the sun they also vary in power and there is a scale to rate them. The possibility, maybe a slight possibility, is there that a strong straight line ejection could hit earth and we are in a time of stronger ones.
According to scientists, if one did hit earth, its electromagnetic properties send it straight into our electric grid. Wow, it missed your car, yes it did. It missed anything not plugged into the electric grid. Picture an arrow going into the electric grid it doesnt touch anything except that grid. It would fry your TV plugged into the wall. If you had a TV not plugged into the wall, it would be fine. If you have any appliance plugged into the wall that you arent using, for precaution right now, unplug it. It doesnt need to be plugged in, you were just too lazy to unplug it the last time you used it, so unplug it now since you have a reason. Nothing unplugged needs to be in a Faraday Cage as it wont be harmed. Cars/trucks/any method of conveyance not plugged into power will be okay. If you are so unlucky to have a Prius car plugged into power to recharge its battery at the time the flare hits power lines, it will be fried.
If you start at page 114 of the Commission report on a NEMP attack, you will find that test of cars/trucks being hit with electromagnetic charges, and very little happened and what did happen to a few was a nuisance factor rather than destruction of the vehicle. A few cars stopped running but ran again immediately when started again. So, even if a solar created electromagnetic pulse did hit a car/truck, they are still okay. Further on in that report, police cars and emergency vehicles (ambulances/fire trucks) were tested and the only problem was a mobile computer used to input data had to be rebooted and it was fine. The majority of people think cars and trucks will be destroyed and that is not the case. Why havent more people read this report? It is 181 pages long with an Appendix after that. Can people not concentrate long enough to read 181 pages so they ignore the whole thing?
The underground transit in New York City and other cities that are plugged in to power, will be fried.
Huge power grid transformers will be destroyed and cost a fortune so companies dont keep many on hand I read a figure of there are about 300 of those in this main power grid. It will take years, I read a figure of two years, to get enough of those made and here, plus other repairs to get power back on. It will be bad and preppers will do better than any other group to get through that period. People are going to die for many reasons, so many reasons there isnt room to list them, but you all know what those reasons are hospitals cant function due to no power, no medicines, water, food, warmth, cooling, money, jobs, everything disrupted due to the grid down.
But, again, everything is not lost as those items not required to be plugged in, are still working the destruction is limited to the grid. When you hear someone say nothing is going to move except horses after a solar flare hits earth, you will know that is incorrect. Something will have to be devised to distribute gasoline but government and the military will figure that out. Hmm, a huge amount of the gasoline used in this country is refined in the area around southeast Houston, in Pasadena and Baytown, and Texas City just down Hwy. 45 south of Houston. Those will be locations on the list of important places to get power working as fast as possible.
NASAs opinion about solar flares:
NASA says a solar flare could not be strong enough to do more than disrupt satellites, likely affecting cell phones and GPS around the world, for a period of time. They dont think one would hold together long enough to hit earth. Their opinion differs from scientists in the electromagnetic field. Who to believe? Perhaps history is the best clue: we know power was knocked out in Canada and a part of the US from a flare a number of years ago and it took time to repair/replace the damage to that grid and one many years ago took out telegraph capability that was our most advanced technology then.
Our government is more concerned about a NEMP attack being the more likely threat. I expect that is why a commission was formed to investigate the destruction from an attack rather than one studying solar flares. They can identify enemy states right now that want our destruction, but a strong solar flare isnt on the way.
A nuclear blast in the upper atmosphere sends SCATTERED electromagnetic impulses over a region it doesnt go in a straight line as the solar ejection did its more like an umbrella effect, pulses thrown out over a limited region. The size of the region is determined by how strong the nuclear blast is and the height of the blast and where it is in the country. The higher it is, the larger the region affected. We know from the car/truck tests, that vehicles will still run even if they are running at the time of the blast. Their prophesied failure is so engrained in preppers and others that I doubt many will accept those tests as valid. You can read how they did the tests and decide for yourself start at page 114. Then, read the whole report and learn from it. You should read the biographies in the Appendix of the ones on the commission to determine your faith in their expertise to produce this report.
Parts of the grid, then, does go down in a NEMP. There is one other grid in this country and its separate from that main grid, and that is the Texas grid. I studied this years ago, pre-2000. Our grid for us Texans, is separate, plus we sell power we dont need to Mexico so there is a physical line connection to Mexico. If Texas is outside the region limit of destruction, its grid should still work. If it is inside the destruction region, it will be fried just as the other parts of the main grid that is in the damaged zone.
This NEMP regional destruction is limited by the distance from ground zero where it went off (guess I should say it is sky zero instead of ground zero), how strong it is, and how high it is. According to scientists, a NEMP attack on the east coast will not destroy all the way to the west coast (and north/south would be included in that). If a country, such as North Korea, exploded such a weapon, the closest coast to them to hit us is the west coast so the electrical destruction would die out before it got to the east coast.
The worst area to explode one is over central USA. One report used Kansas as the worst location to affect more of the country. I didnt read it would cover the entire US but it would also depend on the strength and height of the nuclear blast to determine the limit of destruction from over Kansas. However, that being the middle of the country, the electric grid going down in the middle of the country, could possibly prevent the west and east coast part of the grid from functioning.
If such an NEMP attack happened here, remember it is regional and that means the rest of the worlds power would keep working. Our capability to repair damage would increase rapidly if the rest of the world was operational.
Here is the link to the Commission report (a pdf file you can save on your computer if you want.)
Faraday Cage:
I recall this was covered by the scientists and they discounted the value of them for either situation. In a solar flare situation, it likely wouldnt be needed if the devices werent plugged in and the pulse is in the electric grid. Lovers of Faraday Cages will likely dispute this reasoning because they have them or love them or make them for sale. If you feel safer having your devices in a Faraday Cage right this minute, use it.
Recall the car/truck test of magnetic pulses doing no damage, or just nuisance malfunction to cars/trucks even if they were running. If they are not destroyed with all the electronic components they have, why would smaller devices with less electronic parts in them be affected?
If you have a Faraday Cage or want one, use it to be on the safe side to make yourself feel better. You should have your devices in there now as we might not know when a NEMP attack would happen. We should have notice before a solar flare gets here.
There is no doubt a solar flare hitting earth is different in result that a nuclear electromagnetic pulse attack.
And hundreds and hundreds of commercial and private aircraft.
So every pump, motor, fan, switchgear, relay, control system, instrument, etc is that was making gasoline is going to be fried, and you still think we will be making gasoline in any significant quantity even a year later?
The chemical plants where I worked were full of them, even on small motors. They paid for themselves in power savings, control, and motor sizing.
I would estimate more than 90% of the pumps and fans in chemical plants, pipeline pump/compressor stations and refineries do not have VFD's.
They're wasting a lot of power.
I have no idea how long it would take to get a gasoline plant on line, I'm saying it would be a priority.
Cost estimates to harden the grid are $300-$500 million. Chump change. Obama is spending $100 mil on his grand America Sucks tour part three.
The West is also separated from the East. All have multiple DC link electrical connections.
forget every, what's our ability to mass produce small transformers here? I mean they are everywhere so I'm guessing we have a fair amount of ability to produce them, but I have no idea how long it would take to replace a large percentage of the existing ones.
this is why having the large and midsize ones may not do people much good if their neighborhood ones can't be replaced.
the cars and trucks may still work, but the electric gas pumps (on grid power) won't.
It depends on the application. When you have a cooling fan bank of 20 fans, they turn on/off each individual fan.
Smaller banks, say 2~4 may have one VFD, switchable between more than one fan.
Motors can have a much lower efficiency outside their rated design point. It is be more cost effective in some cases to break up the service into multiple pumps. This also helps in a N+1 type redundancy that allows individual motor/service to be taken out of service while doing maintenance and keeping production up.
Most refinery service is designed for a specific flow rate. No only the pumps, but the separators, piping, reactors, etc all run at a set, non-varying rate for many services. There is not a need to vary, but a need to design the proper size head vs flow in the impeller and it runs there for a decade.
Like most industries, we meet current demand with some flexibility. But while the industry might produce ~5% of the current inventory on a yearly basis, they don't have the equipment, materials or labor for an order of magnitude increase. What industry does?
this is why having the large and midsize ones may not do people much good if their neighborhood ones cant be replaced.
And reality is a lot more than transformers will need replacing.
Can you point me to a decent technical evaluation that makes such a claim? I don't believe that amount would make any significant difference.
But how are we going to protect electricity production from Obama policies?
If you have an EMP event over the Eastern side of Houston (ship channel), that fries nearly every electrical device connected to the power grid, we wouldn't be near restored for years.
And I copied and snagged the report, for future use...
oh definitely there will be other things besides transformers that need replacing no question. I'm just trying to get an idea of how the timeframe of how long it'd take us to replace most of the transformers working at this moment. I didn't even think we had much capacity for the midsize or larger ones because prior discussions stated we get those mostly from overseas now.
"the cars and trucks may still work, but the electric gas pumps (on grid power) wont."
That is absolutely true, and we will be stuck in place when our gasoline tank is empty (got water/food) but when the grid is finally fixed, the cars and trucks won't be dead pieces of junk and that is a big advantage.
Also, if it's an EMP attack, hopefully, part of the US will still work and maybe there will be a refining plant in that section.
You are missing the point that it takes a heck of a lot more than restoring the grid to restoring the gasoline supply.
"If you have an EMP event over the Eastern side of Houston (ship channel), that fries nearly every electrical device connected to the power grid, we wouldnt be near restored for years."
That is true. I know the ship channel area.
I'm looking at it out my office window.
My point, if your truck burns to the ground, replacing the engine doesn't replace a functioning truck.
Oh, wow, that's the first time Commander Riker awarded me an applause. I am honored.
That is an interesting map.
Well then, we can all be thankful for ethanol.
Any information in your research on the transmission of such an event through the DC ties?
I'll be thankful I now own a horse.
you didn't need to clarify, i understand the point.
.......................do you believe that the various us companies here have the ability and capacity to replace a large number of large andmid-size transformers within a couplemonths if we have a major emp incident?..............
But first they will need to replace all their equipment that runs on electricity, all their computers and test equipment, all their communications gear, the equipment from their suppliers, the trucks or trains that will carry the transformers to the site, and arrange somehow to get their starving workforce to the plant, maybe on horse drawn buggys.
"You are missing the point that it takes a heck of a lot more than restoring the grid to restoring the gasoline supply."
I'm not missing the point - I should have stated that sentence to include the refining plants repairs:
"when the grid is finally fixed and refining plants repaired, the cars and trucks wont be dead pieces of junk"
I lived around NASA in the Clear Lake area for over sixteen years and a family member worked in the Texas City refining business. I truly do know how vital that area is to refining oil.
I think those urging their congressmen to do something about this don't understand.
you are assuming nothing nexessary for repairs will be working. that's not a good assumption. far too little will probably not be working, but some of everything probably will.
Probably right. But having extra units around to be swapped in, when needed, that does save time in this one area, as you say it can take a long time to build large transformers, so if that part isn't one extra problem to solve then, they can focus on the rest of the problems that will certainly need fixing.
With a VFD you can do the same job with a smaller motor simply because it doesn't have to be sized for startup loads.
Motors can have a much lower efficiency outside their rated design point.
Precisely my point. The power factor losses for which a capacitor is meant to compensate are only an estimate of load. A VFD can adjust for same much more accurately in real time.
Honestly, if such an event occurs, that in a major portion of the US destroyed nearly every non-hardened electrical device, we would have a lot bigger problems than gasoline.
Picture the Eastern seaboard without a working refrigerator, microwave, oven and stove. Now add in every grocery store unable to refrigerate, sell, or order food. And all restaurants cannot function.
Now add none of the water pumps work.
Would it really be much different than a Zombie Apocalypse at that point?
Good, you're the number one man to single handedly save all those plants when you know an EMP is coming or North Korea calls you that those plants are soon to be toast. :o)
BTW, with costs for electricity as high as they are in California, we have much more incentive to invest in even small power savings than in Texas for example.
"Any information in your research on the transmission of such an event through the DC ties?"
Explain to me what you mean by that.
That didn't make any sense to me. And I've sized a lot of motors for process applications.
Pumps develop most of their load under mass flow. Fans develop most of their load as they come up to full speed. A VFD can adjust for same much more accurately in real time.
In a throttling type application, with a varying process, that is quite true. But in steady state applications, the pump/motor are select for 100% run speed and a VFD would only add losses at that point. That is why efficient applications that do vary, and come up to full speed for long times include VFD bypasses.
It would surely be a Zombie Apocalypse. Add to that the death of most people in hospitals.
That is one of the reasons why I am a prepper. My standard of living will still go on if power goes down here.
One surge protector, no.
Having a surge protector on each house's incoming line, that would primarily guard against lightning surge, wouldn't hurt.
Ercot is not electrically isolated from the other grids. The ties are AC-DC-AC so that the systems are not synchronized and stability of one system doesn't affect the other.
But the electrical connections are constant through the DC ties. The switches are not left open, they are kept closed to help stabilize power flow through an asynchronous connection. At different times of the day, power may flow one way or another, but the legal requirements require a balance of flow to/from, I think averaged over 24 hours.
I'll be loading the guns and ammo on my horse and headed to the Lake.
Good Luck!
"Ill be loading the guns and ammo on my horse and headed to the Lake. Good Luck!"
Hmm, that could be Lake Houston, Conroe Lake, or Lake Livingston, maybe.
I'll lock my front door, and we can get in touch afterward.
Farther travel. Our future retirement will be on Toledo Bend. It is rather isolated, and not connected to the grid. Of course today, there is darn little there to connect.
Well if Barry gets his way we won't need protection. As far as I know candles are impervious to EMP. :-)
"Can you point me to a decent technical evaluation that makes such a claim? I don't believe that amount would make any significant difference."
Just Google it. This issue has been fairly widely reported. There are several studies and article about it readily available online.
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