text:
|Publication number
|Publication type
|Application number
|Publication date
|Apr 5, 2011
|Filing date
|Oct 21, 2005
|Priority date
|Oct 21, 2005
|Fee status
|Also published as
|Publication number
|Garett W. Gould, Gregory S. McLaurin
|Original Assignee
|General Motors Llc
|Export Citation
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Patent Citations (55), Non-Patent Citations (6), Referenced by (30), Classifications (10), Legal Events (12)
|External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, Espacenet
The invention generally relates to vehicle diagnostics and, more specifically, to diagnostic testing and reporting of operating conditions or servicing needs of a vehicle.
Automobiles often include self-diagnostic capabilities to detect problems that affect engine performance, emissions, braking, and other computer controlled or monitored vehicle systems. For example, when a vehicle control module associated with a vehicle system, circuit, or component detects a fault or sensor reading outside an acceptable predefined range, the control module may generate an alphanumeric diagnostic trouble code that identifies the fault and that may be saved as diagnostic data to memory in a vehicle computer. When certain diagnostic trouble codes are received by the vehicle computer, the computer will illuminate a warning indicator light within the vehicle, such as the widely used malfunction indicator light (MIL), better known as the "Check Engine" light, which provides a general indication that there is a problem with the vehicle. But such indicator lights may provide little or no value to a vehicle driver in determining the potential seriousness of any given problem and no directions or assistance are given on how to remedy the potential problem. Some vehicles are equipped to perform a diagnostic check and then display trouble codes, but this information is also of limited usefulness to a driver who is not familiar with the meaning of such codes. Another existing system provides a textual display instead of trouble codes and while this provides additional information to the vehicle driver, it requires the driver to divert his or her visual attention to the textual display and can be limited in its ability to assist the driver in taking remedial action to fix the problem.
In other existing vehicle diagnostic implementations, diagnostic information may be extracted from the vehicle computer by a service technician. For example, the service technician can place the vehicle computer into a diagnostic mode by grounding certain terminals on a diagnostic connector of the onboard computer, thereby causing the "Check Engine" light or other indicator lights to blink or otherwise display the specific fault code associated with the potential problem. In another example, a service technician may plug an electronic diagnostic scan tool into the diagnostic connector of the onboard computer to access and read fault codes in detail. In either case, the diagnostic trouble codes may be extracted but must be completed by a service technician using only a direct, physical connection to the vehicle.
More recently, other methods have been developed to provide remote analysis and communication with the vehicle and its diagnostic system using a live advisor. Such services are available for vehicles equipped with a factory-supplied, built-in cellular or other wireless communication system. Using this service, limited diagnostic information is supplied to the live advisor who can them give the vehicle user a recommendation as to how soon they need to take their vehicle in for servicing. This system can also be used to automatically communicate with a central call center in the event that the vehicle system detects certain events, such as a deployment of the vehicle airbags or other safety system.
In accordance with one aspect of the invention, there is provided a diagnostic test and reporting method for a vehicle having an onboard diagnostic system and a telematics unit that communicates with the diagnostic system. The method includes the steps of:
(a) receiving a request for a vehicle diagnostic test from a vehicle user through a user interface of the telematics unit;
(b) obtaining diagnostic status information from the diagnostic system in response to the request;
(c) accessing a pre-recorded voice message associated with the diagnostic status information; and
(d) playing the pre-recorded voice message for the vehicle user.
If desired, the method can also include the following additional steps:
(e) performing a vehicle diagnostic check of various vehicle conditions and generating diagnostic data resulting from the diagnostic check;
(f) accessing a second pre-recorded voice message associated with the diagnostic data, the second voice message containing one or more instructions concerning corrective action to be taken by the vehicle user; and
(g) playing the second pre-recorded voice message for the vehicle user.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided a diagnostic test and reporting method for a vehicle having an onboard diagnostic system, an instrument panel display containing at least one warning light or other visual indicator connected to the diagnostic system to provide a visual warning to a vehicle user, and a telematics unit that communicates with the diagnostic system and enables voice communication between the vehicle user and a live advisor via a wireless connection. The method includes the steps of:
(a) receiving a request for a vehicle diagnostic test from the vehicle user through a user interface of the telematics unit;
(b) determining whether a visual warning is present on the instrument panel display and, if so, accessing and playing a pre-recorded voice message that provides information concerning the visual warning;
(c) performing a vehicle diagnostic check of various vehicle conditions and generating diagnostic data resulting from the diagnostic check;
(d) accessing and playing a second pre-recorded voice message associated with the diagnostic data, the second voice message containing one or more instructions concerning corrective action to be taken by the vehicle user; and
(e) providing the vehicle user with an option to communicate with the live advisor via voice communication over the wireless connection.
Preferred exemplary embodiments of the invention will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the appended drawings, wherein like designations denote like elements, and wherein:
As seen in
Motor vehicle 110 is depicted in the illustrated embodiment as a typical passenger sedan, and it will be appreciated that other mobile vehicles such as marine vehicles, aircraft, and other automobiles (e.g., vans, gas and diesel trucks, etc.) can be used without departing from the scope of the invention. Located within vehicle 110 are various electronic modules that include a telematics unit 120 connected by way of a on-board vehicle network 112 to one or more vehicle system modules (VSMs) 130. As will be described in greater detail, telematics unit 120 provides communication and interactivity with the driver and with various remote locations including web server 160, call center 170, and service center 180. The VSMs 130 provide various on-board vehicle diagnostic, monitoring, control, and reporting functions. For example, one VSM 130 can be used for controlling engine operation (e.g., fuel injection and ignition timing), while another VSM 130 can be a safety system that handles monitoring and deployment of air bags or other SIR safety systems on the vehicle. In the embodiment of
In facilitating interactions among the various communication and electronic modules, vehicle communication network 112 uses any suitable network communication approaches, such as controller-area network (CAN), ISO Standard 9141, ISO Standard 11898 for high-speed applications, ISO Standard 11519 for lower speed applications, SAE Standard JI 850 for high-speed and lower speed applications, and/or the like.
Telematics unit 120 can be implemented in various ways, but in the illustrated embodiment includes a processor 121, a communications device 122 for wireless communication to and from the vehicle via one or more antennas 123, a digital memory 124 which stores programs 125 and a database 126, one or more pushbutton switches 127 and a microphone 128 for user input to the telematics unit, and one or more speakers 129 for providing voice messages and other audible information and/or feedback to the vehicle user. Processor 121 can be implemented in various ways known to those skilled in the art, such as by a microprocessor or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). Processor 121 executes one or more computer programs 125 to carry out its various functions of monitoring and processing data and communicating with the vehicle system modules 130, vehicle user, and remote locations.
Communications device 122 provides wireless communication via cellular (e.g., CDMA, GSM), satellite, or other wireless path, and includes the ability to provide for both voice and data communications. This allows data communication with at least the web server 160, as well as voice and, if desired, data communication with the call center 170 and service center 180.
Memory 124 can any digital storage device that provides computer-readable storage of data and programs for use by processor 121. This includes volatile and/or non-volatile memory storage and can be implemented as one or more separate physical devices.
Programs 125 include one or more computer programs that are executed by processor 121 to carry out the various functions of telematics unit 120. The database 126 includes storage of the voice messages and associated diagnostic trouble codes or other diagnostic information, as will be described below. This database can be stored as database tables that enable lookups to be performed on the data stored in the database, and this can be done using known indexing techniques and/or database queries, or by straight serial searching through the tables. These and other database storage and lookup techniques are known to those skilled in the art.
The pushbutton 127 enables user-activation of one or more functions of the telematics unit 120. This switch 127 can be a typical OnStar� switch located within the vehicle in reach of the driver. In addition to being used in a conventional fashion for voice communication with a live advisor at the call center 170, the switch 127 can be used to initiate the diagnostic checking and reporting method discussed below in connection with
The speaker 129 can be one or more dedicated speakers or can be one or more of the same speakers used by the vehicle radio or other infotainment system (not shown). The speaker 129 is used to supply audible voice messages from the telematics unit to the vehicle occupants using either stored audio files or synthesized speech. The speaker can also be used along with the microphone 128 for providing the driver with voice communication to the call center 170, service center 180, or for other general purpose telephony services.
Although depicted in
Wireless carrier system 140 can be a cellular and/or satellite wireless communication system used to transmit voice and data between the vehicle 110 and various remote locations such as shown in
The web server 160 can be implemented using one or more computer servers located either at an independent remote location or, for example, at the call center 170. A typical server is shown in
Call center 170 can be one or more locations staffed by one or more live advisors 176 who handle calls from vehicle drivers and/or who monitor for various vehicle conditions such as an airbag deployment. The call center can include one or more servers 172 that include the necessary communication capabilities with network 150, data storage 174, and a LAN 178 for connecting these components together along with the computer(s) used by the live advisors 176. If desired, the web server 160 can be integrated into call center 170 rather than utilizing two separate systems. Suitable call center facilities are known and currently in use to provide remote live assistance in connection with in-vehicle safety and security systems. Apart from using live advisors, the advisor 176 can be implemented as an automaton or a program running on a computer operatively disposed to respond to subscriber requests.
Service center 180 can be a vehicle service center such as a dealership where vehicle maintenance and repair is carried out. The service center is connected by way of communication network 150 with the vehicle 110 so that the driver can initiate a telephone call with a technician or service scheduler at the service center.
Referring now to
In the illustrated embodiment, database 126 includes vehicle diagnostic status information, diagnostic data, and associated voice messages for playback via one or more speakers within the vehicle. As will be disclosed below in connection with the method of
The voice messages can be pre-recorded digital audio files that are stored on board the vehicle, with each voice message being associated with at least some of the diagnostic status information and/or diagnostic data. For example, where the diagnostic status information represents the two-state status of the Check Engine light 194 (on or off), a first set of pre-recorded voice messages stored in the database can be associated with the two possible statuses so that the appropriate first voice message can be played to the driver via the speaker 129 to provide information about the Check Engine light—e.g., what it means when the light is on. Additional information concerning the underlying cause of the light being illuminated can be included as a part of this voice message or can be provided from a supplemental pre-recorded voice message. Thus, in addition to one or more pre-recorded voice messages concerning the status of the instrument panel warning light(s), the database 126 of the illustrated embodiment includes a number of additional pre-recorded voice messages each related to one or more of the diagnostic trouble codes. This second set of (supplemental) voice messages can be used to provide more specific information as well as instructional messages concerning corrective action to be taken by the driver to address the identified fault or other undesired vehicle condition.
In the disclosed embodiment, the database 126 contains at least one table that relates the diagnostic status information and diagnostic data to the various voice messages. This can be done using standard OBD-II trouble codes that are listed in the table along with associated voice message (audio) files. The voice message files can then be stored separately within the memory 124. Thus, telematics unit 120 can play relevant voice messages over the speaker 129 by using one or more diagnostic trouble codes from the diagnostic system 132 to lookup the voice message file associated with that trouble code, and then accesses and plays that voice message from the memory 124. Each trouble code may have one or more of its own separate voice message or some related trouble codes can all share the same voice message (by identifying the same voice message filename in the table), and the system can include a default voice message shared by multiple trouble codes when, for example, the only instruction desired is to tell the driver that the vehicle needs to be taken into a dealership for servicing. As indicated in
When stored as audio files, the voice messages can be stored in any suitable form, such as .wav, .mp3, or other encoded or unencoded formats. The voice messages need not be limited to pre-recorded audio, but can instead by stored, for example, as text or phonetic components that are then used by a synthesized speech processor to produce the audible voice message. Circuitry and techniques for implementing the voice messages as synthesized speech is known to those skilled in the art.
Diagnostic system 132 preferably comprises an OBD-II compliant system which performs a diagnostic check of various vehicle sensors that monitor such things as fuel and air metering, ignition system operation, emissions, vehicle speed and idle control, vehicle computer operation, and the transmission. The diagnostic system 132 is operable to perform the diagnostic check and return one or more diagnostic trouble codes that are sent to the telematics unit 120 and/or stored as diagnostic data 138 for later retrieval by the telematics unit or by a technician via a scanner, or remotely by a diagnostic advisor or even the web server via the antenna 123.
Within the telematics unit 120, the program 125 is operable to receive driver input via user interface 190 (i.e., by way of switch 127 and/or microphone 128). The program 125 can initiate a vehicle diagnostic test by sending a command to the diagnostic system 132 either directly or via the network 112. The program also controls the playback of voice messages to the driver via speaker 129. Using program 125, the telematics unit can receive vehicle diagnostic data (e.g., trouble codes) and/or other information from diagnostic system 132, and the unit 120 handles the transmission of such information to call center 170. The program 125 can also receive data from other vehicle system modules, such as GPS data from an on-board GPS receiver or safety system deployment information from a SIR system controller, and handles transmission of this other data to call center 170 as well.
At step 210, a vehicle user interacts with the user interface of the telematics unit 120, preferably by depressing user interface pushbutton 127 to begin a session in which the driver can input voice commands that are interpreted by the telematics unit 120 while operating in a speech recognition mode. Using the speaker 129, the system can acknowledge the pushbutton activation by playing a sound or providing a verbal request for a command from the driver.
At step 215, the telematics unit 120 preferably receives voice input, or further pushbutton input, to request vehicle diagnosis. For example, the telematics unit 120 may receive a voice instruction such as "Check my vehicle" from the driver via the user interface microphone 128.
At step 220, the telematics unit 120 checks for existing diagnostic status information such as by determining if there is an indicator light presently activated. As described above, this can be done by accessing the diagnostic status information which can be previously stored data provided for use by telematics unit 120 or can be a diagnostic trouble code either provided to the telematics unit or stored in the diagnostic system 132. Alternatively, this information can be obtained from an instrument panel display module that controls the various indicators and gauges on the instrument panel 192.
Then, at step 225, the system accesses and plays a pre-recorded informational voice message. The selection of this first voice message is based on whether or not the indicator light is presently activated. Where the Check Engine light is not illuminated, the voice message may simply state that fact by reporting, for example, that "Your vehicle systems have not recently reported any problems." Where there is currently a reported problem, the associated voice message can either be a general message confirming that there is a reported problem or can be a more specific message dependent on the particular diagnostic trouble code being reported. Thus, for example, if DTC P0440 is being reported, the voice message may be: "Your check engine light is currently illuminated. The system that is intended to assure that vehicle emissions are at acceptable levels is reporting a problem and vehicle service is required." The message can also identify the particular trouble code being reported.
To carry out these steps, the processor 121 of the telematics unit 120 can first determine the particular trouble code being reported, and then access the database 126 to look up the associated voice message which it then obtains and plays via speaker 129. This is preferably accomplished within the vehicle 110 using program 125, but may be accomplished off-vehicle as well such as where the database 126 is located remotely at web server 160.
Apart from using OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes, the diagnostic data more generally may include any numbers, letters, alpha-numerics, symbols, other numeric or qualitative values, and/or analog or digital quantities that serve as input for computer processing and that may be assigned some meaning. The diagnostic data may have been generated by a certain condition somewhere within the vehicle 110, such as by a malfunction of, or low-limit or high-limit warnings associated with, a component, sub-system, or system of the vehicle. One example of a condition may be a low coolant condition that causes a coolant level sensor to send a low-limit signal to an engine control module. The engine control module may associate the low-limit signal with a fault code or warning code and store the code or may simply store the signal directly as data. Alternatively, the engine control module may simply store the signal reading as the diagnostic data. Various other conditions may include high mileage between oil change warning signals and/or associated codes, exhaust emissions faults, or the like. The diagnostic data may also include an absence of fault codes, warnings, or the like. In such a case, diagnostic information may also be associated or correlated with such data or lack thereof, wherein such diagnostic information may be a stored message indicating that all vehicle systems and components are functioning properly.
The first voice message given at step 225 may include raw diagnostic data which has been recorded, classified, organized, related, or interpreted within a framework so that meaning emerges from the raw diagnostic data. More specifically, the voice message may include general or detailed explanations of what the diagnostic data mean, as well as the severity of the diagnostic data. An example of the initial voice message may be that given above for code P0440, and this voice message can be specific to that code or can be used for multiple codes (e.g., P0440-P0455).
After giving the driver an initial report of the known diagnostic status of the vehicle, the system then informs the user that a more complete diagnostic check will begin. This is shown at step 230. For example, the system might playback for the driver a pre-recorded audio message that states: "OnStar will now run a GM Goodwrench Diagnostics Probe on your vehicle." Then, at step 235, the telematics unit 120 sends a command to the diagnostic module 132 to begin the diagnostic check. This diagnostic check can be a standard routine programmed into the diagnostic system 132 that checks each vehicle system module (VSM) 130 or individual sensor that provides diagnostic information and returns the results to the telematics unit in the form of one or more trouble codes. Alternatively, the telematics unit itself can be programmed to probe one or more of the VSMs 130 and/or sensors to obtain the diagnostic data. Thus, rather than waiting for VSMs to carry out predetermined diagnostic routines according to predetermined schedules or frequencies, either the diagnostic system 132 or the telematics unit 120 can actively probe the VSMs, sensors, or the like to run vehicle performance or condition diagnostics. If all systems, circuits, and components probed are operating satisfactorily, then no diagnostic trouble codes or associated diagnostic information are returned in response to the probe. If however, a vehicle system, circuit, or component is experiencing a problem or out of range condition, then the telematics unit 120 will receive one or more trouble codes from the control module or sensor associated with the system, circuit, or component.
It is contemplated that the diagnostic operations may be active or passive. The operations may be passive in that they simply receive signals from modules, sensors, or the like, under current vehicle operating conditions, or may be active in that the diagnostic operations instruct the vehicle to operate in some predetermined fashion and then receive signals from the various modules, sensors, or the like. In any case, the diagnostic operations yield updated diagnostic data that is used to determine the second voice message to be accessed and played to the driver.
At step 240, the received diagnostic trouble code(s), if any, are stored, preferably to the memory 124 of the telematics unit 120, but may be stored in the diagnostic system 132 or in any other suitable memory of the vehicle 110.
Using the received trouble code(s), the system at step 245 then looks up a second voice message from the database 126 and plays it for the driver via speaker 129. This second voice message can provide more detailed information and preferably at least provides the driver with instructions for taking corrective action to address the detected problem. In lieu of a lookup based on the trouble code, the selection of a particular second, instructional voice message may also be determined using the diagnostic fault codes as input to a diagnosis algorithm, wherein the algorithm is designed to determine one or more courses of corrective action. Then, the results of that algorithm are used to select among a number of stored voice messages.
As an example of a possible instructional message for trouble code P0440, the voice message might state: "The powertrain system has detected an emissions system malfunction. If your vehicle has been refueled recently, check the fuel cap for proper installation. Turn to tighten the cap until you hear two clicks. If the check engine light remains on after starting and driving your vehicle seven more times, then your vehicle requires servicing."
At step 250, the vehicle user is given the option of being connected with a live advisor at the call center 170 or with a service center 180. This is again done using a voice message that requests a user response preferably in the form of a voice command. The vehicle user may wish to obtain further information concerning the reported problem and discuss potential corrective action with the live advisor 176. For this purpose, the telematics unit 120 can automatically supply the trouble codes or other diagnostic data to the live advisor 176 via the wireless carrier system 140 and network 150. This allows the live advisor to access additional stored information concerning the reported trouble code. Similarly, this information can be supplied to the service center 180 to aid in determining corrective action or in scheduling for service. Alternatively, the vehicle user may wish to find the nearest service center 180 to have a service technician check out the vehicle. For this purpose, if the vehicle is supplied with GPS capability then this information can be automatically obtained by the live advisor 176 or web server 160 and used to identify one or more nearby service centers and provide directions to such locations.
At step 255, it is determined what option the vehicle user has selected. If the vehicle user has opted to forego the opportunity to speak with a service center representative or a call center advisor, then the method terminates at step 260. If the vehicle user opts to speak with a service center representative, then the method proceeds to auxiliary step 265 wherein another routine may be invoked to place a call from the vehicle to a nearby service center. The auxiliary step 265 may include providing directions to the nearby service center using the previously described GPS capabilities of the system 100. Finally, if the vehicle user opts to speak with a call center advisor, then the method proceeds to auxiliary step 270 wherein another routine may be invoked to place a call from the vehicle to the call center 170.
Apart from the diagnostic and reporting method of
By using this method of using multi-tiered voice messages to provide not only information concerning a vehicle problem, but also corrective action based on the particular problem detected, the method provides an improved level of diagnostic reporting in a manner that minimizes the diversion of the driver's attention away from the road. The method further achieves this in a manner that reduces the reliance on live advisors which provides a plurality of advantages; namely, that it provides more standardized, reliable information to the driver while reducing the burden on call center personnel as well as reducing the amount of air-time used on the wireless carrier system, thereby providing a cost savings.
It is to be understood that the foregoing description is not a description of the invention itself, but of one or more preferred exemplary embodiments of the invention. The invention is not limited to the particular embodiment(s) disclosed herein, but rather is defined solely by the claims below. Furthermore, the statements contained in the foregoing description relate to particular embodiments and are not to be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention or on the definition of terms used in the claims, except where a term or phrase is expressly defined above. Various other embodiments and various changes and modifications to the disclosed embodiment(s) will become apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, where two or more independent trouble codes are reported, the system can playback multiple voice messages sequentially. Also, rather than utilizing the first and second voice messages for a two-tiered reporting approach, the system can instead perform the more comprehensive diagnostic check upon initial request by the driver and then playback the appropriate instructional voice message without using the more generic first voice message. All such other embodiments, changes, and modifications are intended to come within the scope of the appended claims.
As used in this specification and claims, the terms "for example" and "such as," and the verbs "comprising," "having," "including," and their other verb forms, when used in conjunction with a listing of one or more components or other items, are each to be construed as open-ended, meaning that that the listing is not to be considered as excluding other, additional components or items. Other terms are to be construed using their broadest reasonable meaning unless they are used in a context that requires a different interpretation.
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|U.S. Classification
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|Nov 1, 2005
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text:
Estel's Happy Childhood
by Erestor
Disclaimer: I do not own anything pertaining to The Lord of the Rings. This parody is not intended as some cruel blow against Young!Estel fanfics, but as an amusing break from the average one. Enjoy!
Once upon a time, there lived a very cute, very small, and very lovable child called Aragorn. He was happy and content. His life was perfect... for about two years.
Things began to go wrong when his father got killed by orcs in a horrific, clever, and sneaky attack. Aragorn's father had not been expecting the attack, since it had been horrific, clever, and sneaky, but he fought bravely anyway, killing many orcs. Eventually the inevitable occurred, and he became riddled with arrows and dropped down DEAD.
Not only did Aragorn's father get killed by orcs, but his mother died as well, in a bizarre and unfortunate accident. As she sank to the ground, cradling her little baby in her arms, she had the strangest feeling that her life wasn't supposed to end this way. But end it did.
Aragorn was now a very cute, very small, and very lovable orphan. This enhanced his appeal.
It just so happened that at that moment, a handsome, charming, and friendly Elf was wandering through the woods with lots of time on his hands. The Elf was not only bored, but a prince of Mirkwood. His name was LEGOLAS. He was walking to Imladris for a holiday.
Strangely enough, nothing bad had happened to Legolas yet. Bad things generally happened to Legolas a good deal, especially when he tried to get to Imladris for a holiday. Thus, he was on the alert for DANGER.
Suddenly, Legolas heard a baby crying dolefully from somewhere in the shrubbery. "It must be a trap," he thought wisely. "I should avoid it."
However, the Valar were working overtime on this case. They loved helping poor little cute miserable sad orphans. So it was that Legolas decided that he might as well get wounded now to get it over with, and stuck his head into the clearing, waiting for an orc or something equally nasty to try to decapitate him.
"I see dead people," he thought. "How peculiar."
Sitting in the middle of the clearing, surrounded by the dead people, was Aragorn, wailing in an adorable fashion. Legolas thought, "Aww. How cute. It's a little baby mortal. I want to keep it."
He realized that it would take a lot of work to keep a mortal. Mortals were very demanding, and requiring lots of care and attention.
"I'll just take it to Imladris then," Legolas thought. "The Elves there will be better suited to provide for a mortal's many needs, since they won't have to spend half their time fighting off dangerous arachnids."
Legolas picked Aragorn up. Aragorn bit Legolas's finger. Legolas almost dropped Aragorn. Aragorn cooed happily.
The next few days made up for the lack of pain and suffering in the first part of Legolas's trip. Aragorn was EVIL. He bit everything in sight. However, Legolas was noble and SELF-SACRIFICING. He carried Aragorn all the way to Imladris.
Elladan and Elrohir, who also had way too much time on their hands, were playing tricks on people, because they were JUVENILE DELINQUENTS. Despite this, they were beloved by everyone.
Suddenly, someone dashed by.
"Did you see that?" asked Elrohir in his charming British accent.
"No," said Elladan, who not only had a charming British accent, but his head in a bucket.
"Well, I did," said Elrohir.
A cute little mortal galloped by, giggling happily. Legolas staggered after him, trying to catch the child before he fell over a WATERFALL.
Elladan and Elrohir were filled with feelings of foreboding. They looked at Legolas and the baby mortal curiously.
Aragorn decided to be SAD. He burst into tears. "Aaahhh! Want muffer," he said, sitting on the ground and sobbing his cute little heart out.
"Muffer?" asked the twins in unison.
"I think it's some kind of mortal plaything," said Legolas wisely.
"You Mirkwood Elves don't know anything," snapped Elladan, suddenly mean.
Legolas felt insulted by this racist attack.
"Obviously 'muffer' is some kind of nutritious food," continued Elladan. "And what are you doing with a baby anyway? You said nothing about a baby in your letter."
Elrond came out. He looked at Legolas, his sons, and the cute little child that was sitting on his doorstep. Elrond was WISE and SMART. He also had the GIFT OF FORESIGHT. "I saw this coming," he said grimly. "We must adopt this child and treat him as our very own."
"Coo," said Aragorn, little knowing what he was in for.
Every night, Aragorn had nightmares. This is understandable. Not only had his parents died, but he had been carried through the woods by an Elf who did not like him very much. He was also scared of Elladan and Elrohir. He was scared of storms. He was scared of his Elvish bed because it had a person carved at the head of it, and the person loomed over him at night. He was scared of the dark. He was scared of the big blue monster that lurked somewhere in the depths of his wardrobe.
All the Elves in Imladris felt VERY SORRY for Aragorn. They called him Estel. They tried to treat him nicely. They looked after him. Elladan and Elrohir loved him like a brother. Glorfindel told him scary stories at night, which he enjoyed.
Of course, now Estel had to worry about the balrog under his bed, but maybe it would protect him from the big blue monster. Maybe they would eat each other and not him.
Baby Estel began to grow.
By the time he was four, he was really SMART. He was also very angsty and sad all the time. It is amazing that he managed to be angsty at the age of four, but he managed it.
The only bad thing about Imladris was the large amount of EVIL ELVEN CHILDREN. They made fun of Estel. They pulled his ears. They climbed trees when he couldn't. They laughed at his sorrows. They called him names in High Elven Speech, which he didn't know very well. They said that he was JUST A PATHETIC ORPHAN.
"How did all these children appear?" Glorfindel wondered aloud one day. "No one has had children for hundreds of years."
The unlikelihood of the presence of Elven children did not matter, because Estel's little world came CRASHING DOWN. At the age of four, he was insecure and depressed. He had even more nightmares. For two years, his misery continued unabated.
One day, when he was six, Estel had a CLEVER PLAN. He would run away, and no one would find him. He chose the perfect day for it too, because it was stormy and dark, and very atmospheric.
Estel trotted off into the woods, sobbing hysterically for no reason. He accidentally ran into a TREE. This increased his sorrows. Then he fell over a large hill. He broke both his legs. Grimly, he crawled doggedly onwards.
Meanwhile, all the fairly stupid Elves were bumbling around Imladris saying things like, "Oh dear. It looks like rain" and "I wonder where Estel is" and "Have you seen my dentures?".
Elladan was getting accused of being an alarmist because he was saying things like, "Oh no! Estel is dying! Estel is dying!"
And forsooth, they were not afraid, for no one knew how truly he spoke. But so it was in later days, that they were to rue the evil fates that had blinded their eyes...
Enough of that.
Anyway, Estel was bleeding to death in the forest, because now he had cut his forehead on an inconvenient rock. He was delirious, and hurt, and sad, and angsty, and he was about to catch a COLD.
He sneezed.
The cold had arrived.
"I think," said Elrohir, "that perhaps since Estel is nowhere in Imladris, he may be outside."
"Do you really think so?" asked Glorfindel with interest. "That had occurred to me too."
Elrond said, "I think we should go out and look for Estel. He may be hurt."
Thunder CRASHED. The Elves were worried by the sinister atmosphere. They hurried outside to look for Estel.
"I feel so sad," said Estel plaintively. "I feel unloved and unworthy, even though I have been showered with love and affection for four years." He sobbed some more.
All the Elves of Imladris were now bumbling around outside in the rain, except for Erestor, because Erestor was cruel and uncaring, and had never liked Estel anyway.
Glorfindel, Elladan, Elrohir, Elrond, Lindir, and a lot of nameless and fairly stupid Elves charged around the woods, yelling Estel's name. They were very worried.
"I think something bad has happened to him," said Elladan wisely.
"Really?" asked Glorfindel, who was a secondary character in the story, but was still managing to get in a few clever lines. "That had occurred to me too."
Suddenly, Elrond heard someone SNEEZE. "I hear Estel!" he cried.
"That was me," said Lindir, sneezing again.
"You idiot! Elves aren't supposed to sneeze!" yelled Elrond, whacking Lindir on the head for giving them all FALSE HOPE.
The Elves hurried onwards. Despite being cool and heroic, they could not find one miserable six-year old mortal child.
After they had all been scared and worried for about seven hours, and it was past midnight, and Estel was just about to breath his last...
...Elrohir said, "Maybe we should go home now."
Elrond said, "Nonsense. We're going to find him if it's the last thing we do."
Glorfindel said, "That had occurred to me too."
Elladan said, "I think I hear moaning."
They rounded a tree and saw Estel lying on the ground whimpering. He had two broken legs. He had a cold. He had a cut on his head.
"Oh no!" cried Elrond hysterically. "Dear Valar, no! A Elbereth! By Eru!" He dropped to his knees beside the wounded child. "Ai, ai! Good Ilúvatar! Ulmo's beard! Mandos Halls! Oh deary me!"
Elladan, Elrohir, and Glorfindel looked at Elrond nervously, slightly surprised by this incoherent string of blasphemy. In case you hadn't noticed, Elves are CHRONIC SWEARERS. Elrond was, apparently, one of the worst.
Estel chose this moment to wake up and see a vague form standing him. He screamed and passed out.
Elrond jumped backwards in surprise.
Elladan, Elrohir, and Glorfindel jumped backwards as well, falling over each other, sure that they were under attack.
The 'rescue' was a bit of a fiasco.
Fortunately, Estel lived to tell the tale. Except he didn't want to tell the tale. It was a bit embarrassing. At least he was alive.
When Estel turned fourteen, he went through a break-everything-in-sight phase. He felt awful. His voice also kept on going squeaky without warning.
"I'm breaking everything I see!" squeaked Estel, tripping over a doormat and breaking his nose. "Abnd dow by dose hurtz."
Elladan hauled him to the infirmary for medication.
Estel sat in a bed with his nose in plaster and thought miserable, unhappy thoughts. He was a FAILURE. He was a mortal. He broke everything in sight. His voice kept on going funny. He was sure Elladan and Elrohir hated him. Elrond probably hated him. Glorfindel probably hated him. Erestor did hate him, but he hated Erestor right back, because the Elf kept on trying to teach him history, and it wasn't working.
"I want to die!" wailed Estel.
"Don't worry," said Erestor. "That will happen eventually."
Oh yes, he was going to die. He was a mortal, after all. Estel felt even more depressed.
When Estel was twenty, he went out to have adventures. Adventures were fun. Elladan and Elrohir were always having adventures, and now Estel was old enough to do so. He was so excited.
Estel's adventures, however, seemed to be of a more painful nature than those of his 'brothers'. He kept on getting hurt. He was always falling off cliffs, or breaking ribs, or getting stuck in briar patches, or crashing parties... of orcs.
Estel was hobbling through the woods one day, thinking happy thoughts, and bleeding to death, when suddenly he encountered a grim Elf who was also hobbling through the woods bleeding to death. They looked at each other BLANKLY.
"You look familiar," gasped the Elf, collapsing in a heap.
"Do I?" panted Estel, collapsing on top of the Elf.
"Yes," wheezed the Elf, dragging himself out from underneath the human.
"That's nice," croaked Estel, pulling himself up again, using a handy tree branch for support.
"What's your name?" choked the Elf, bandaging his arm absentmindedly with a bit of his cloak.
"Estel," whimpered Estel, staggering against a tree. A branch fell on his head.
"Mine's Legolas," moaned the Elf, checking for broken bones.
"Nice name," grunted Estel, rubbing his head.
They looked at each other.
"Oh! You're that horrid little mortal baby that used my fingers for chew toys!" cried the Elf.
"And you're the Elf who I still have nightmares about!" squeaked Estel, reverting back to his teenager ways.
They glared at each other.
"I like your arrows though," said Estel after a pause.
"Do you really? I love your sword," said Legolas.
"Thanks," said Estel breezily.
"Let's go and kill some orcs," suggested Legolas with a homicidal glint in his eyes. He took a step forward and fell flat on his face.
"Sounds good," said Estel. "Just give me a second to splint my broken arm."
Thus a really strange and unusual FRIENDSHIP was formed.
However, Estel's life had been going too well. He had been too HAPPY of late. Elrond saw this, and was displeased. He decided to spring a little something on the man.
"Guess what," he said one day. "You aren't really Estel. Your name is Aragorn, and you are of Númenorean descent, and you're going to be King of Gondor someday."
"What?" shrieked Estel in panic. "This wasn't in my résumé!"
"Ha," said Elrond. "Enjoy your childhood while you can."
Estel/Aragorn felt really DEPRESSED, because his 'father' had been concealing his future from him. He went to his bedroom and collapsed into his bed and sobbed his little heart out.
Legolas happened to be in the vicinity, recovering from his most recent adventure. He sensed that something was WRONG, and went to find Estel.
"I'm not Estel!" wailed Estel hysterically. "I'm the King of Gondor!"
Legolas was not surprised. "I always knew you were made to do great things," he said nobly.
"I don't feel good," said Estel, rolling onto his back and staring at the ceiling. He felt a bit nauseous.
Legolas comforted his unhappy friend. They shared an angsty and touching moment.
A little while later, Estel was wandering around in the gardens when he saw a beauteous Elf-maid skipping merrily through the trees. They instantly fell in love.
"I am in love with your beauteous daughter," said Estel to Elrond.
Elrond suddenly turned EVIL. "I hate you!" he yelled. "Take the Ring of Barahir and leave this house and don't come back until you're the KING OF GONDOR!"
Elrond threw the Ring of Barahir at Estel's head.
Estel scowled. "All right then. I'm leaving!" he shouted.
Estel stomped outside and grabbed a horse. He jumped on. He looked back at the house with a threatening expression on his face. His childhood was over. It hadn't been that great anyway.
"I'll be back," he said.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
North Conway Holidays
North Conway Holiday Packages
Merrill Farm Inn is a quintessential New England inn. Its rustic and warm country charm has many of the hotel's repeat guests refer to the hotel as their \"Home away from Home.\" The resort...
At a glance
- Pool
- Gym
Nestled in North Conway, this outstanding mountain resort is a perfect place for a romantic weekend away, sun-filled holiday or family vacation. This fantastic property showcases stunning...
At a glance
- Restaurant
- Pool
- Bar
- Gym
- Cafe


text:
|Half Baths
|287 m²
|Property type
|Minimum Stay
|2 nights
This beautiful 4 bedroom 4.5 bath home is situated on our family-owned WORKING 78-acre horse farm which specializes in trail rides. This is a working farm and you will see farm equipment both sitting around and in use. Please be careful and supervise your children. The farm's equipment are not toys.
We are convenient to Indianapolis, Indianapolis International Airport, Childrens Musuem and other area attractions. Indianapolis is known for motor sports — Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Lucas Oil Raceway are easy to get to, yet far enough away to relax and enjoy yourself. You can also find out what is happening in our area during your stay by checking out the websites for Hendricks County Visitors Bureau or Visit Indy.
Although their are plenty of dining out options within 25 minutes of the home, the kitchen is fully stocked with all the cookware and utensils for you to use to make meals at home. There is a gas grille on our spacious, private back porch for the grill masters in your group to use or if you want to dine by our lake there is a gas grille in our lakeside shelter.
Spend your day and evening sitting on our wrap-around porch watching our horses and goats at the Ranch, you'll probably see our free range chickens, ducks and pot belly pigs roaming around the property. Your evenings could be complete with a bon fire either by the house or by the lake.
Feel like fishing? Grab your pole and take a short walk to our 3-acre stocked lake for some bluegill, crappie or bass. We currently have a canoe, boat and 2 paddle boats for your use at no extra charge. Bring your fly rod and head over to White Lick Creek and catch some small mouth bass. The home does not overlook our lake, but is on our property. Please be sure to check google maps if you are unsure of the walk.
Other options for fun while you are stay at The Cottage are playing basketball by the house or volleyball by the lake. Trail rides are what we specialize in so don't miss out on making more memories by riding one of our horses with a guide on our trails that meander through 50 acres of woods, fields and sometimes White Lick Creak. We offer 30 minute, 60 minute or 90 minute trail rides.
Having a family reunion or other event? Ask about renting our lake-side 'Outpost-Country Occasions' facility with more than 1,000 sq. ft. of meeting/event space with access for caterers should you so choose. There's even room for a tent.
We do have pets on the premises, cats, dogs, chickens, ducks, etc. All are friendly and none will be in the house.
Your stay includes the use of a two car garage with parking for another 10+ cars up to the largest vehicles, including a bus.
We are in Brownsburg about 12 miles west of Indianapolis. We have many dining and shopping options close by if you choose.
Family-friendly and family fun . . . you will discover the difference that family makes when you discover Natural Valley Ranch!
The home is located on 75 acres. We have trail for hiking or horseback rental. You may fish in our pond or White Lick Creek. Close to Indianapolis for museums, zoo, theater, sporting events etc.
• Indianapolis Museum of Art
• Indiana State Museum
• Eiteljorg Museum of American Indian and Western Art
• NCAA Hall of Champions
• Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Museum
• Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens
• White River State Park
• Victory Field - Home of Indianapolis Indians (Triple A affiliate of Pittsburg Pirates)
• Lucas Oil Stadium - Home of Indianapolis Colts
• Bankers Life Field House - Home of Indiana Pacers (NBA) and Indiana Fever (WNBA) and Indianapolis Ice (hockey)
• Nearby Universities: Butler University, Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI), Marian University
• Indiana Convention Center
• Numerous concerts are performed at Lucas Oil Stadium, Bankers Life Field House, White River State Park and Klipsch Music Center
• Performing Arts include: Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, Indianapolis Ballet, Indianapolis Opera
Looking for something a little more adventurous? We have numerous golf courses that are close by as well as a water park. Eagle Creek Park is just a short drive it's the largest municipal park in the state and one of the largest in the country. Eagle Creek Park has a zip line, kayaking, hiking and adventure tours.
|Rate Period
|Weekend Night
My Standard Rate
2 night minimum stay
|Property Damage Protection
|Pet Fee
|Tax Rate


text:
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Korean company LG is lauching a brand new curve screened 55 inches Marvel television in the market. LG TV has 55 inches (54.6-inch diagonal) Curved (model 55EA9800). OLED TV in South Korea TV began to take delivery starting from next month.
South Korea has more than 1,400 retail stores of this premium price of OLED TV started to take orders for South Korean currencies in its value is 15 million KRW. According to 7.37 million rupees the Indian currency.
Even though, LG made the world's first companies to market the curve screen TV is going to launch but LG TV Samsung 55 inch curve before the prototype had introduced it some hours from Samsung, LG ghoshna already.
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text:
Family Dog Helps Police Solve Burglary
Updated:DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. - A dog in DeKalb County may have helped police solve a string of burglaries. It all started when the animal tracked down several items stolen from a home on McGill Drive in Decatur early Sunday.
"Surprised. I was very surprised," said Robert Justice who trained his dog, Rudy, to sit, but not how to catch a crook.
Justice's family adopted Rudy after several burglaries in the area. Unfortunately, the night thieves busted through a window, Rudy was locked up in his cage.
A few hours after the crime, while walking on a trail behind the house, Rudy suddenly picked up a scent, according to Justice.
"He was pulling me and he was just sniffing constantly on the ground and there it was, my items," said Justice.
The family believes the thieves tried to hide the items in the woods until police left. That's because as Robert went to tell his mother what happened, the thieves came back.
The family said they saw the suspects loading up their stolen stuff and driving away. Robert's mother wrote down the license plate, and passed it along to police, Justice told Channel 2's Rebecca Lindstrom.
Officers arrested seven suspects about 20 minutes later at a fast food restaurant, according to Justice. Police are checking to see if other burglaries in the area are connected.


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Organized scientific research in veterinary medicine at IVRI is nearly three decades old when necessity was felt to take up research pertaining to clinical and surgical management of complex disease problems of livestock and to develop animal models for research in comparative medicine and allied disciplines. This led to, the creation of Division of Experimental Medicine and Surgery in 1975 with specialized laboratories and sections viz., laboratories of Therapeutic and Clinical Medicine, Radiodiagnosis, Radiotherapy, Anesthesia and Forensic science, Archives of Medicine and Surgery.
The ongoing scientific and technical advances in veterinary medicine and surgery paved the way to bifurcate the Divisions of Experimental Medicine and Surgery into two independent divisions. Thus the Division of Medicine was established in 1993 with the basic mandate to provide better health for improved livestock production through evaluation and development of quick diagnostic methods, safe and effective remedial and preventive measures against economically important diseases of livestock.
The Division takes active role in involved in various extension programmes of JD Extension Education, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), of the Institute and Institute Village Linkage Programme (IVLP), Ministerial Programs like Sansad Aadarsh Gram Yojna (SAGY) and Mera-Gaon-Mera-Gaurav (MGMG) program. Regular clinical camps are also organized to provide effective treatment to livestock and to bring about awareness amongst the farmers for better upkeep of their animals by adopting latest research findings.


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Renewable Fuels: The future of ethanol
Brewer at the Legislature: No on TIF expansion
More opinion
Fischers bill addresses on-farm fuel storage
Farm Bureau: Top 10 EPA regulations to modify or repeal
More Ag News
The Eisenhower Elementary school parent-teachers organization hill host a holiday boutique to raise money for an air conditioner in the library.
Get a picture taken with Santa, printed onsite for you to take home that night. Photos with Santa will be $5 each.
All the money raised from this event will benefit the Eisenhower Elementary PTO. The PTO is working to raise money for building improvements, including a scrolling sign for the outside of the school and air conditioning for the school library.
Please come out and support the Eisenhower Eagles.
A few more vendor spots are available. If interested, contact Jen Reinboth at 308-520-2078 for more details.
Flatrock Publishing, Inc.
1300 E 4th St., Suite F
North Platte, NE 69101


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Two years later in mid August, 1974, The Maxwell lawn and arbour was again set up for a wedding. This time though, there were two couples getting married under the climbing rose trellis. Again there was a red carpet laid down between the two sections of white wedding chairs on the lawn.
Again, the same flower girl and ring bearer walked down the aisle as Estelle played the Maxwells' upright piano on the patio. There was a minister for Kyle and Judy, and a priest stood aside behind the trellis, as he waited for his turn to marry Stuart and Joanie.
David stood beside Kyle as his best man, and Judy's sister Sylvia walked down the aisle in a beautiful long peach print floral gown. She was Judy's maid of honour. Judy wore her mother's wedding dress. It was a full skirted white satin gown with inlaid lace on the bodice and sleeves. It was very reminiscent of the early 1950's, when Judy's mother married her father.
The minster conducted the ceremony as Kyle and Judy said their vows. When they finished, The minister pronounced them man and wife. They kissed passionately, then walked back down the aisle of crossed swords held by their fellow officers.
They went back to the patio to stand by the piano as the flower girl and ring bearer walked down the red carpet for Joanie and Stuart. Stuart's brother Sam stood up as his best man. A very pregnant Emily walked down the carpet to take her place as Joanie's matron of honour.
Joanie walked down the aisle toward Stuart in the her grandmother's wedding dress. It was the same dress that Emily had worn two years earlier at her wedding. The priest married them in a full catholic ceremony, then they were pronounced man and wife.
After kissing passionately, they walked down the aisle of crossed swords, just as Kyle and Judy had just done. The two couples walked side beside across the road to the Larson back lawn where the wedding tent was set up.
The two couples get settled at the head table. Emily had a little trouble getting comfortable on the small wedding chair. Joanie noticed it.
"Are you alright Em? you look flushed, uncomfortable. How's the baby? "
"Don't worry about me Jo Jo, I'm not due for another six weeks. . I had no idea I would be pregnant a year ago when we started planning your wedding. I can't imagine what the pictures will look like, I feel like a beached whale!"
"You look beautiful, as always, Em. I'm going to miss having you nearby. Stuart has to finish his forensics courses. Until he does, we have to live in that apartment in Ottawa. It's not so bad, but I'm used to all this!"
Joanie spread her arms wide to indicate the wide open space of her childhood home. Kyle's wedding party joined them.
David went to stand behind his wife's chair.
"How are you feeling, darling?"
"I'm fine, honey. This little guy is kicking,that's all. Mama Estelle says that you were over nine pounds when you were born.I'll bet anything this one is going to be over ten pounds!"
Mark Larson attended the double wedding ceremony, but as soon as it was over, Estelle left her place at the piano to take her husband back to their house across the road. He didn't stay for the reception in his own back yard, he had become too weak to stay out of bed for very long at a stretch. Every one knew what an effort he had made just to be at the ceremony. Joanie and Judy each kissed him affectionately on the cheek, and thanked him for coming to the wedding.


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The Government has committed to transform the Australian Small Business Commissioner into the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (the Ombudsman).
The Government has released for public consultation exposure draft legislation establishing the Ombudsman and outlining the role's functions and powers as a:
After initial consultation on a Discussion Paper, Treasury is now seeking comments on the exposure draft legislation to ensure that the Ombudsman provides effective services to small businesses and family enterprises.
Accompanying the exposure draft legislation are explanatory materials, outlining the main provisions of the exposure draft legislation and explaining the rationale behind them.
This consultation process has now been completed
Key Documents
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45 submissions were received for this consultation, including 7 confidential submissions.
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Telephone +61 2 6263 2111 or
1800 020 008 (Switchboard, 8.00 am to 5.30pm AEST)
Facsimile: + 61 2 6263 2869
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Merge Design + Interactive
600 W Van Buren
Chicago, IL
Posted: August 19 2015
Always be on the alert for potentially fraudulent job postings online - never send money to a potential employer.
DescriptionInterns will learn how wonderfully dynamic, chaotic, rewarding, challenging and funny the marketing and agency world can be. We bring interns in so they can get a clear picture of how things really work. They will work on real assignments, with real deliverables and real deadlines. The intern will interact with all of the employees in the company. They will work collaboratively with colleagues on projects. They will attend agency status meetings, and participate in agency events. We will expose them to client calls and meetings as appropriate, but would not put them in a lead or speaking role, unless warranted by special circumstance. But for the most part, they will feel like they are just as much of a part of the work environment as everyone else here. We are located in the West Loop, Chicago IL. We will work with the intern to provide a flexible schedule. Your time at Merge can be used toward school credit or real life experience. This is an unpaid internship.
ResponsibilitiesWe are looking for creative interns to help us develop compelling communications and programs for our agency and our agency's clients. Specific assignments will vary semester to semester depending on current client project load. We look for interns who will contribute to the culture and the product of the agency in a meaningful way. We want the sharpest and most interesting people around. We don't have a lot of expectations of them physically. We have roller chairs and concrete floors, so it's pretty easy to get around the space without much effort.
RequirementsMulti-tasking. Interns could have a number of projects on their plate at once. They will need to be able to efficiently jump from topic to topic to keep their deliverables on schedule. We would love for interns at Merge to be involved in the agency's ongoing social media program. Photography skills, creative writing and understanding of the dynamics of Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and Pinterest are helpful for these tasks. Our creative department works on Mac computers with Adobe products. Designers should be able to work fluently in InDesign and Photoshop. Experience in Keynote and PowerPoint is helpful but not necessary.
SkillsRequired - Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, Apple Macintosh, Adobe Acrobat Pro
Preferred - Microsoft PowerPoint, Keynote, Microsoft Outlook


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Jelica Todorovic, a businesswoman based out of Serbia, has a reputation for being a real professional. Professionalism is one of those hard to define terms that people know when they see it, and those who see Jelica Todorovic inevitably conclude that she is a consummate professional. Her professionalism has resulted in Jelica Todorovic experiencing wide-ranging success in the financial world, including consulting contracts with big name corporate clients and celebrity investors both in the Unite


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m i d d l e
{m i d d l e}
to beatrice:
the day ends and the moon comes along,
bright and beaming and beautiful
and i look up to see
you're half a world from me
but never so far that i cannot find you
when i need you
{i say i am the sun because the sun dies
every day so that moon may rise. how silly is that?}
to beatrice:
pick out the tables, pick out the chairs
and i promise you
we'll paint those walls together
{and i'll count the days
until then}
to beatrice:
what have you done?
you've made me brave
{there's nothing i'm afraid of
as long as you smile and nod}
to beatrice:
don't mistake this for a love letter;
if anything, it's a contract. a promise --
"i promise i'll see you again.
{for what is the day without the night?
or beginnings without endings?}
to beatrice:
there may come a time where i will regret this but --
i'm sure we'll be reborn
under a safer sun
and brighter moon
{let's build an empire;
just you. and me}
to beatrice:
i see you blinking at me
across the cosmos and i whisper:
"the stars are awfully beautiful tonight"
{gentle things have a fire inside.
know that you are gleaming and glittering and glorious}


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Release Date : 1990
Description :
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Free personalized radio that
plays the music you love
I Can't Stop (Luca Cassani Remix)
Features of This Trackheavy use of samples
house roots
four-on-the-floor beats
beats made for dancing
straight drum beats
extensive use of vocal samples
affected backup vocals
upbeat lyrics
subtle buildup/breakdown
an electric bass riff
percussion layers
layered electric guitar riffs
heavily effected synths
synth swoops
an electro-synthetic sonority
subtle use of noise effects
prevalent use of groove
and many other similarities identified in the Music Genome Project
These are just a few of the hundreds of attributes cataloged for this track by the Music Genome Project.show more
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The Social and Behavioral Sciences programs are designed for people with a passion for making a difference in the lives of others.
Whether you are on your way up the corporate ladder or just getting started, our business degree programs and certificates could help you prepare to take your business career to a higher level.
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Kaplan University offers over 180 degree and certificate programs all available to military, veterans, and spouses of active duty members. In addition, several programs have been developed to complement specific military occupations or programs established by the military.
The Kaplan University School of General Education courses support the academic, social, personal, and professional development of learners throughout their engagement with the University.
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Created soon after the 2001 attacks, 9/11 Day gives everyday people a positive way to remember and pay tribute to the victims…and to honor all those who rose up in response to the attacks. 9/11 Day is also a time to underscore the importance of working together in peace to improve our world. Each year, millions of people around the globe take time out on 9/11 to help others in need in any way they can.The 9/11 Day of Observance is led by the nonprofit organization MyGoodDeed which also led the campaign to secure official government recognition of September 11 as a Day of Service and Remembrance. Several nonprofit groups joined together to support the 9/11 Day of Observance.You, too, can join the worldwide observance by logging on to the 9/11 Day website and participating in the "I Will" campaign. "I Will" asks you to enter your own plans to "do a good deed" in your community. Your deed could be something as simple as pledging to treat everyone with extra kindness or as ambitious as volunteering your time to work at a soup kitchen. College of Public Service students and anyone interested in honoring the heroes of 9/11 can visit www.911day.org for more information.
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- Home
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Channel Enablement
Avnet's financial strength, global scale and supplier reach means Avnet has been able to invest extensively in tools and resources that enables Business Partners to gain a competitive advantage, improve performance and identify profitable business opportunities.
Avnet's channel enablement services (below) are designed to help Business Partners accelerate their success faster, with minimum cost:
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If you're tasked with gaining your business a competitive advantage, plus you want great customer service, then Avnet's knowledgeable experts, tools and resources are ready to help. To start accelerating your success, choose from one of the channel enablement services listed above.
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The Phelps Engine Museum is a collection of freelance
steam and gasoline model engines. Gas and steam powered boats, even a 1" scale Live Steam Railroad. The collection includes cars, outboard engines, tractors, snowmobiles,and many more old motorized goodies.
Currently we are a Virtual Museum. The Museums objects are housed in many locations through out the North East. Please enjoy the pictures and videos
Main Navigation
Home Page
Model Engines & Trains
RC Boats&Antique Boats
What's New ?
Classic Cars&Farm Tools
Antique Sleds,Offroad.
Ultralight & Iceboat
More Phelps Fun
Antique Engines
Phelps Engine Museum
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Geffen Newborn Super Absorbers | 3 Pack
$ 11.49
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Newborn Super Absorbers Geffen Absorbers are the only Universal Diaper Insert on the market made with our unique blend of 60% Hemp / 40% Organic Cotton fleece. The added hemp content allows for added strength, absorbency, durability & anti-mildew and anti-microbial properties. Our inserts are made to be compatible with all brands of cloth diapers.
5 layers of super absorbent, very soft 60% Hemp 40% organic cotton fleece.
- -Dimensions before washing: 5â€x9â€
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- -100% Organic Hemp/Cotton Blend
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General Product information
- You can expect hemp to shrink 10-15% – each item may shrink slightly differently
- Hemp may gain absorbency through up to 8-10 washes
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- Our hemp products do not contain any synthetic material, so they will not have a stay-dry wicking effect like polyester fleece
- Hemp can absorb many times its weight in liquid before feeling damp to the touch, making it a great choice to use right against skin


text:
As we reported last week, after decades in the all-white wilderness, decorated china has been making a gradual comeback. These beautifully patterned plates first emerged from designer names: Missoni led the way with its single-colour patterns, which have been flying off the shelves at Selfridges and the Conran Shop (Bianconero dinner plates, around £14). Jasper Conran's latest creation is a turquoise chinoiserie pattern for Wedgwood (dinner plates, £30). And Tord Boontje carried on the trend at the Milan Furniture Fair last month when he showed a new range for Authentics. In typically romantic style, the white plates are decorated with leaping deer and leafy trees in blue, red or white (available at Aram, the Design Museum Shop and Designers Guild in London, £30).
But my search for patterned plates with better price tags for ordinary people led me up and down the high street, and to the sad conclusion that they are hard to find. Poor designs and tacky transfers seem to rule - perhaps one reason why the white stuff has taken pride of place for so long. But Jeremy Garson - a man who's in my address book as "table setting guru" and who has been organising the perfect dinner party for a celebrity clientele for some years - has the answer.
Garson has recently started heading to charity shops before his big events and gathering up every retro patterned plate in the store at 10 pence a go. "It's like current fashion - that boho thing," he says. "You're saying, 'I'm cool, I'm relaxed'. The more you mix the patterns, the better it looks. Though I haven't been able to convince all my clients of the fact."
Garson maintains, however, that you can get away with almost anything if you provide people with proper napkins. "If you have a big napkin in cotton or linen, you immediately feel like you're about to eat proper food." But don't even think about a pattern - napkins only ever come in white.


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TP Ferro - Articles and news items
TP Ferro rolls out high speed maintenance operations with Infor
Rail industry news / 14 February 2013 /
Infor announced that TP Ferro has rolled out the Infor EAM to streamline all of its maintenance activities…
The Figueras-Perpignan High-Speed Line
Issue 5 2006, Past issues / 15 September 2006 /
Historically, the Pyrenees have acted as a natural barrier for the communications between France and Spain, concentrating them at both extremes of the mountain range, through the coastal plains. The increasing cross-border traffic flow has produced consequent traffic congestion. In 1992, the governments of France and Spain started detailed discussions in order to create a competitive rail link connection between both countries. Encouraged by the projected growth in traffic the governments signed an accord ('The Madrid Agreement') on 10 October 1995, with the intention of developing a double tracked, standard gauge, High-Speed Link through the Pyrenees linking Perpignan (France) with Figueras (Spain).


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By Value Guru, February 16, 2013 | More posts by Value Guru
Remember those resolutions you made last month? The trick to keeping up food-related resolutions past January is to not bore your taste buds or disappoint your budget. But how do you do that in a hurry? Plan ahead!
Take advantage of meal planning to avoid last minute decisions that'll cost you. Our seasonally inspired daily meal planner can help you cut back on spending and time without scrimping on flavor. You'll eat well easily, for less!
MONDAY: Veggie Monday
Start the week right with soup and sandwich perfection. Pick up Health Starts Here® Soups (download the coupon) and prepare smoked gouda and sliced-apple grilled cheese sandwiches on Health Starts Here® bread (download the coupon).
TUESDAY: Chili Out
Pick a chili that suits your time and budget and serve over tortilla chips with a sprinkle of Organic Shredded Mexican Blend cheese. Sliced organic navel oranges with honey and nuts make a sweet conclusion.
WEDNESDAY: Cook's Night Off
Make it easy on the chef with Whole Foods MarketTM frozen skillet meals and a salad with 365 Everyday Value® Organic Light Caesar Dressing and Croutons. Cheers to Harthill Farms wine* too!
THURSDAY: Steak and Potatoes
It's meat-and-potatoes night with a twist! Top baked potatoes with cooked top-sirloin strips, onion and bell pepper, and finish with cheese. Pour Tarima Monastrell wine* and then serve simple strawberries and cream or our special recipe for dessert.
FRIDAY: Fish Friday
Farm-raised Salmon with Sautéed Swiss Chard is a tasty way to bid adieu to the workweek. Pair with a whole grain of your choice (learn to cook them). Serve vanilla ice cream (download the coupon) with candied citrus peels if you've got 'em.
WEEKEND: Sunday Funday
Whether you're enjoying board games by the fireplace or snowball fights in the cold, treat your family with a selection of chips and dips and New King Ranch Casserole. Coconut water will quench everyone's thirst.
* It's a new year, but the old laws hold: some of our stores sell alcohol, some don't. Please see our list of stores that do sell alcohol or our list of stores that do not sell alcohol.
Hungry for more simple meal solutions? These six money-saving dishes give you the best tastes without time or money getting the best of you.
Let The Whole Deal value guide help you meet your fiscal and physical wellness goals with up to $53 in coupons, 18 Sure Deals, 10 new budget-friendly recipes and more than 50 money-saving tips.
What's your go-to dish this winter for saving time and money?
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