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|27th January 2012, 02:28 AM
diyAudio Member
Join Date: Jan 2012
Impedance matching speaker selector without resistors?
I'd like to build a speaker selector and control it from an arduino. The arduino will be controlled through rs-232 and/or TCP. I bought a cheap speaker selector from monoprice and opened it up. It was nothing more than a 5Ω resistor in series with 4 parallel DPDT switches to turn the speakers on and off. I don't like this design because of the power wasted across the resistor. It seems that the higher end units use transformers. Here's my question:
Using this page as a guide, Impedance Matching Transformers,
I get the following. My amp can deliver 100w into an 8Ω load. This is 28.3 volts. If I now use a 1:2 transformer and wire all 4 speakers in parallel (32Ω), my V will = 56.6. 32Ω at 56.6 V will be the full power of 100W that the amp can deliver. I can do something similar for 2 and 3 speakers but I will use a different ratio transformer. My question in this scenario is, can a speaker be damaged by a higher voltage, or is it only the net power that it cares about? I'm looking at this transformer, model 117K32: Hammond Mfg. - Sound Distribution and Speaker Matching Transformers - (117 - 119 Series) I think it will give me the flexibility to use one transformer for the circuit of 2,3, or 4 speakers. (none needed for one since they are 8Ω speakers)
I am very new to all of this.
|27th January 2012, 02:35 PM
diyAudio Member
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: Lakewood, Ohio
Higher voltage and higher power are intrinsically locked together. If you increase the voltage at the speaker terminals the power will increase. In fact the only way that you can control speaker power is through speaker voltage.
You might think about using a 70 Volt system.
|27th January 2012, 02:57 PM
diyAudio Member RIP
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: Brighton UK
You have to wire the speakers in parallel, and 4 8 ohms speakers are 2 ohms.
You need a 2:1 transformer to convert a 2ohm load to a 8 ohm amp load.
As each speaker will only get a quarter of the amplifiers output, its simply
easier to use say 4 x 25W amplifiers, than a 100W with the transformer.
(You can build one power supply for all the amplifiers.)
You can control digital volume controls for various levels for each speaker
and don't need high current switching relays to turn them on and off,
just mute the inputs. If you don't need volume control, simple FET
muting circuits on the inputs could be used for on/off only.
rgds, sreten.
|27th January 2012, 04:28 PM
diyAudio Member
Join Date: Jan 2012
So, it would work though? I already have the amp, so I'm not sure that getting 4 new 25w amps would be cheaper. The one I have is an Onkyo M-282, Onkyo M-282 - Premium Two-Channel Amplifier | Model Information | Onkyo USA Home Theater Products
The speakers I'm using are the Niles OS6.5's, Niles Audio Corporation
They are nice speakers so preserving the sound quality is important. What kind of 25w amps did you have in mind? Do these little guys sound like junk? 2x25W @ 4 Ohm TPA3123 Class-D Audio Amplifier Board 320-304
Thanks for your help. I'm a pretty serious DIY'er so I can handle this with no problem, but audio is still somewhat foreign to me.
Thanks for your help, I really appreciate it.
|27th January 2012, 04:33 PM
diyAudio Member
Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: Ottawa, Canada
You can still do what you want with a 1:2 transformer, but wired up the other way to deliver 1/2 the voltage (not 2x the voltage). Then it is safe to connect up to 4 loads. Keep in mind that with only 1 load connected, the amp will see a 32 Ohm load; with all 4 connected, it will see a 8 Ohm load. Due to the limited voltage at the transoformer output, the amp can only deliver (roughly) 25 W into a single speaker, even if it is the only one turned on at the time.
|27th January 2012, 04:59 PM
diyAudio Member
Join Date: Jan 2012
Doh! I totally know that, just a brain fart. The picture is a little more grim with that correction. Assuming the amp puts out 100w @ 8Ω, that would be 28.3V. Now run that the other way, 2:1 stepdown, I will end up with 2Ω, 100w (25 per speaker) but my voltage will only be 14.1V. I'm okay with the 25W per speaker. They are good down to 5W. What I'm not sure about is the 14.1V. The furthest speaker is about 200 feet away from the amp. Would this present a problem?
|28th January 2012, 12:47 AM
diyAudio Member
Join Date: Jan 2012
I think I should explain my system a bit. My main AVR has multi-zones. I'm running the zone 2, pre-amp out, to a 2-ch, 100w @ 8Ω amp, which will power 4 pairs of 8Ω speakers in my backyard. The speakers say, "Recommended Amplifier Power: 5W To 125W." The volume is controlled on the main AVR pre-amp, not on the amp itself. My end result needs to be the ability to turn on and off whichever pairs I choose so that I only have music in the backyard where I want it. If I can get by with the transformer method, I plan to use an auto-transformer with multi taps so that I can program the arduino to change the tap based on how many speakers are on, in order to keep the amp load at 8Ω. If there is a better way, I'm all for it.
|28th January 2012, 02:33 AM
diyAudio Member
Join Date: Jun 2011
Google '70V sound distribution system'.
If you read some of this stuff it will give you an understanding of distributed sound systems.
|28th January 2012, 03:09 AM
diyAudio Member
Join Date: Jan 2012
Thanks. I have read about them, but was trying to avoid having to use transformers at both ends. Since my runs are not as long as what most 70v systems are, I'm wondering if I can get by with the lower voltage. I did come across this device; MultiMatchit 300S
It seems to do what I'm looking to do and I don't see any magic in it. I suspect that it is what they use in this product, Audioplex Speaker Selectors - PT Series
I think this may be one of those try it and see if it works instances. I'm not in love with my amp so if it blows it blows. I'll post a BOM here before I buy my stuff so others can make suggestions on the components. Thanks for your help.
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subset: commoncrawl


text:
vanOert and I have been speaking. The previous Harmony thread had gotten a bit long in the tooth and our methods have evolved and grown over time. We will be taking the next few weeks to create this thread properly, including properly step by step instructions, featuring screen shots.
In addition to the general setup, we will have "How To"s for optional things such as sleep, advancedxml tips (SMSkeys), Hulu integration, and other perks. The idea will be to use a clean Win7 system, with as little extra software as possible. (my setup has no extras).
Thank you for your patience. Please post your suggestions in the Old Harmony Thread while we build this new one.
Basic Setup - Complete
Button Customizations - Complete
Keymap file - Complete
Advancedsettings.xml - Complete
Hulu Integration & Activity Switching - In Progress
Sleep & Wake Up - In Progress
Alternative Hardware - In Progress
Basic Setup
So, here's a guide to setting up Logitech Harmony for XBMC.
Italics indicate the hardware we used. We will have a post about alternative options further down.
PC Acer Revo 3610
Harmony Remote Harmony 880/890, Harmony 555, Harmony 650
IR RC6-capable receiver
[INDENT]The receiver
Any RC6 capable receiver. It will say it is Media Center Compatible
Let Ebay Be your Guide
Windows 7 Home Premium
XBMC installed and configured Dharma 10.x or Eden 11.0 Stable
The setup process
(1) Pin XBMC to your task bar so it can be launched with a WIN+# key.
if you press Win+1, it will launch the first item pinned, WIN+2, the second item, etc
(2)Plug the RC6-IR-Receiver into your XBMC.
You'll want a line of sight connection to your couch.
(3)Configuration of the Media Center profile
Start the setup for your Harmony Remote as usual and configure all of your devices except for the media center.
In the devices tab, click 'Add Device'
Select: Computer – Media Center PC – Microsoft – "Windows Media Center SE"
Add this as a device and name it XBMC (sw)
the SW identifies this as the Software, not the activity we will set up later
Now, repeat the 'Add Device' process, this time select:
Select: Computer – Media Center PC – Microsoft – "MCE Keyboard"
(You'll have to type in MCE Keyboard)
Add this device and name it MCE Keyboard (or whatever youd like to name it)
(4)Go to activities tab, then select 'Add Activity'
Go through the steps selecting:
Do not Automatically add an activity based on your device
When prompted, added a "Utility" type of Activity
Accept the only choice "Generic Activity"
Now, you need to add your devices. This depends on your configuration.
You'll have to select both XBMC(sw) and MCE Keyboard.
Obviously you'll need a TV, and you can also select a A/V-Receiver if you have one.
Continue through the input selection process.
(5) Now, go back to the activities tab and select 'Customize Buttons' on your generic activity.
You can now select an action for every remote button.
Our mapping layout is below
When finished, click "Done" in the lower right and synchronize the profile to your remote.
Change the activity name to XBMC.
(6)Setting up Power Buttons to start/end XBMC
Many people prefer to have XBMC start up and end when they're done watching and turn off the TV.
Click on the Devices Tab, and select Settings, under XBMC (sw).
- "Adjust Power Settings"
- "I want to turn off this device when it's not in use"
- "A button on the remote for On, and a different button for Off"
- "I don't have the original remote, but I know the command that is used:"
Select the WIN+# that you enabled above when pinning the shortcut to the start menu
- "I don't have the original remote, but I know the command that is used:"
Select ALT+F4. (A single option, not 2 different buttons)


text:
Cosplayer Blues
Costume Information
|Cost :
|£50 approx
|Time Taken :
|10 hours
|Made it because a group of friends wanted to go as Patapon to London MCM May 2011 and I wanted to join in.
Hardest part was sourcing the materials. It was made in an afternoon with some help from Dad and his power tools.
The eye was made by screwing two hoops together, trapping the black fabric between them (and further securing with spray contact adhesive).
White felt and black pupil were attached in the same way.
Banner pole was constructed out of a piece of dowel with a hook attached - the banner itself had an eye to slide over the hook. Banner cloth was attached to the support pole with contact adhesive.
Headdress was a black headband and three cardboard cut-out feathers tucked in and glued on.
This took me and my dad about an afternoon to construct.


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For 50 years, Eleiko has been the leading brand in the sport of weightlifting. With 1000 world records broken using the Eleiko bar no other bar has such a good reputation. It is without a doubt THE WORLD'S MOST FAMOUS BAR.WEBSITE
Ann-Sofie Peterson
Member Since 5 years ago
Last Modified 5 years ago
65 Social Media Profiles


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I'd really like to start working with one of these, but PCB antenna design seems a bit daunting. I don't normally etch my own PCBs. Is there somewhere I can get a compatible antenna?
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Luke Schenn Philadelphia Flyers Signed Puck
$94.97with case
$69.98without case
Flyers Defenceman Luke Schenn personally hand-signed this Flyers Puck. Schenn is one of the more exciting young players in the league, and scouts say he'll only get better. This is a must have for any Flyers fan. This Autograph is Guaranteed Authentic and includes a Steiner Sports Certificate of Authenticity and accompanying tamper-evident Steiner Hologram. The Steiner Seal Means It's Real.


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Looking for a Borla Hush 3" catback exhaust system
I am selling or trading a Blitz NUR - Spec Series exhaust system. Excellent condition and will be chrome polished before shipped. Currently installed on an 02 wrx and was purchased less then a year ago.
It also includes an adjustable silencer for the tip. The exhaust is aggressive and powerful and makes driving the car a lot more fun! Below is a link to reviews http://www.i-club.com/reviews/showpr...oduct/99/cat/7
I live in north jersey and am asking 399 with free shipping or local pick-up. feel free to e-mail me or PM me, I will take pics or video upon request.


text:
The denim fabric is very versatile. Initially to be worn as a pair of jeans, it has evolved and has a lot of other end products now – a pair of shorts, jacket, dress, bags and mini skirts.
I have most of these denim items except for the mini skirts. I wasn't sure why, I guess I kept putting off buying one. Well, now is the time to get one. While browsing through the online shopping websites, I stumbled upon Resultly and saw their collection of denim mini skirts available. They have various styles and designs that you can choose from – washed out, torn-up, studded, pleated and so much more.
Because of the denim's versatility, you can pair it with almost anything that you have. You think I am kidding? I am not. It is safe to say that whatever you pair for your denim jeans can also be done with the denim mini skirt.
I have also seen another set of denim mini skirts from Gap's online store. The skirts are form fitting and if you have great legs, this will be the perfect piece for you. I know it is already a mini but I think you should pair it off with wedge sandals for a casual lunch or dinner. If it's a bit intimate, wear your pointed heels or strappy heels to give a contrast of casual but a bit formal. To make it dressier, wear a cute printed sleeveless top or a white collared shirt. If you opt for the latter, I would suggest adding up a bit of jewelry and you will be good to go.
Luckymag.com has an article that featured 9 different ways on how you can pair off your denim mini skirt and one of them was wearing denim with denim. I like that. It does not give out a vibe that it's way too casual since they are both of denim fabric. It actually looks chic.
Since the outfit only has one color, you can be colorful with your accessories like how the model paired her denims with a red belt and yellow bag. Another accessory that you can use to jazz up your mini skirt is leggings or stockings. I have seen a lot of women wearing this under their skirts and then pairing it off with their boots or pumps.
Now, why am I giving you tips when I should be searching for the perfect skirt for me?


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Thank You!! I know you'll enjoy Nate's rig also.
This is a discussion on Holster Heaven! Thanks Rhome! Thanks Nate!!! within the Defensive Carry Holsters & Carry Options forums, part of the Defensive Carry Discussions category; wow, they just keep on coming in! 2 holsters in 1 week! Got the UBGH on Tuesday and the Rhome holster today. The Rhome holster ...
wow, they just keep on coming in! 2 holsters in 1 week! Got the UBGH on Tuesday and the Rhome holster today.
The Rhome holster is the OWB one he calls PC, I had him add the sweat shield. It is comfortable and holds the gun close to the body.
The UBG Holster is the IWB one he calles Striker 2, I believe, and it is also very comfortable:
in the natural night
Both holsters are for my Sig 229.
Both makers were very easy to contact, prompt to reply to any questions about details and both were very fast in delivery time. In fact it only took two weeks since I contacted them to receive both holsters. You can't beat that for a custom holster!
Thanks again to both of you guys, good job!
hmmm...what else do I have coming?....
Thank You!! I know you'll enjoy Nate's rig also.
Politicians are like diapers, they should be changed often and for the same reason. ~ Robin Williams ~
Great looking holsters!
Train and train hard, you might not get a second chance to make a first impression!
I vote for Monica Lewinsky's Ex-Boyfriend's Wife for President.....Not!
Enjoy your new rigs...look well made!
Stay alert...stay safe!
Proverbs 27:12 says: The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and suffer for it.
Certified Glock Armorer
NRA Life Member
Thanks Sooner!! Nice Job Rhome.
www.ubgholsters.com short wait times. Use 'defensivecarry' as a coupon code for a discount to your order.
Man Sooner...nice holsters. Congrats.
2 rigs coming in one week. Now that's what I call a good week!
Great pics also. Much appreciated.
Nice looking holsters........Hmm, now I might have to order a holster for my Kimber.....
"Dont be afraid to go after what you want to do, and what you want to be. But don't be afraid to be willing to pay the price." - Lane Frost
great looking holsters
Talk about SWEET holsters...and love the color! great job to both the respective holster makers :)
Well, both makers are the best in their respective class! No arguing from me....and very nice leather...very nice!
Shoot well and god bless
If you choose not to decide, you still have made a choice..........Rush
Look great!
How long did your UBG holster take? I just ordered one this week. Hoping to see it in a couple weeks.
Nice looking rigs. Have you had a chance to use the IWB one much yet, and how does it fell? Looking for a good IWB for my P229.


text:
Bovis Says Home Sales Improving Quickly With Cameron Policy Help
Bovis Homes Group Plc (BVS), a U.K. homebuilder, said sales are improving faster than expected this year as government initiatives to boost homebuying start to have an effect.
Net reservations rose 26 percent in the 19 weeks to May 10, the Longfield, England-based company said today in a statement. That will result in a "material increase" in home completions in the second half, it said.
"Homebuyer sentiment has been improving," Chief Executive Officer David Ritchie said in the statement. "With the recently announced government initiatives, sales rates have increased ahead of management's expectations."
Prime Minister David Cameron is using homebuilding to help stimulate the economy, with the government in March announcing that it would offer an equity loan of as much as 20 percent of the value of a newly built home valued at 600,000 pounds ($913,000) or less. The Bank of England's Funding for Lending Scheme also eased home lending the government has tried to bolster housing by simplifying planning laws.
Visitors to Bovis's sales outlets has increased by 29 percent over last year, while selling prices and margins are also improving, the company said.
Bovis rose as much as 3 percent to 775.5 pence in London trading and was at 771 pence as of 8:17 a.m. The stock has climbed 33 percent this year, the fourth-most among U.K. homebuilders. The Bloomberg EMEA Home Builders Index has advanced 31 percent this year, led by Persimmon Plc (PSN) and Barratt Developments Plc (BDEV) with gains of 59 percent each.
To contact the reporter on this story: Jeffrey St.Onge in London at email@example.com
To contact the editor responsible for this story: Andrew Blackman at email@example.com


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momma to 8 yr old dd. Furmom to our menagerie: 2 , 1, 2 , 2 , and 1 silly rabbit.
Originally Posted by Emilie
it is barbaric to have to ASK at all to go to the bathroom. Absolutely ridiculous
Originally Posted by AmyB
The note should stick with the facts without blaming or demanding an appology:
Dear Mrs C,
When my son peed his pants at recess on Tuesday he felt extremely embarassed and uncomfortable. According to him, when children are outside of the school building at recess toilet facilities are not available. This seems like an unacceptable situation. I would like to talk to you in order to find out what the school is planning to do to make sure that children have access to the potty whenever they need it during the day.
DSs Mom
Originally Posted by fyoosh
I swear, though, if he is at a school when he is older and they won't let him go inside, I will tell him to do exactly the same thing he does now! I would rather him get in trouble for peeing outside than get a bladder infection from holding it too long or peeing himself. Serves the school right!
Originally Posted by CookieMonsterMommy
and she said "Well, he didn't knock long enough the 1st time, and to be honest, I think he waited till the very last second" (still didn't answer my question)
-it wasn't a big deal"
The teachers don't have keys! They themselves have to knock on the door to enter the building after recess. I asked what would happen if a child got hurt or there was an emergency and she said they'd use the walkie talkie to have the nurse come out to the child or open the door for the children.
I asked her what we could do to prevent this from happening in the future, to either my son or other children. She says....ready for this?
"Maybe, since he was homeschooled until now he just needs to get used to the routines and customs of being in a class a little better" : This is the same woman who, 3 days ago, told me my son was getting along nicely, is a pleasure, is fully oriented,
She told me that any child walking by the hallway knows to open the door when another child or teacher knocks. : So all someone has to do to gain easy access into the building is knock on a door?!? This is in the kindergarten wing, mind you--so it's not like they'd have the sense to not let an unknown person in the door. When I asked if this was very safe or logical, she just said "Well, it's what all the teachers here are accustomed to"
So, yeah, I'll be talking with someone higher up, because this really is more of a safety issue than I 1st considered, and the teacher was not helpful at all.
Any advice/support? my exDP, who is angrier than I, cursing like a sailor when I called and told him what happened. He wants to go down to the school and demand a meeting with basically everyone and the policy changed NOW. I love it when his daddy instincts kick it.
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Westchester, NY, USA < change city >
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The Inn at Longshore
260 South Compo Road
Westport, Connecticut 06880, USA
Ceremony Sites, Reception S...
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Beautiful location, great food and super accomodating. The minute that my husband...
Hamilton Park Hotel
175 Park Avenue
Florham Park, NJ 07932, United States of America
Hotels/Accommodations, Rest...
2 ratings, 2 reviews, 22 weddings
Very accomodating and clean. Very close to the reception with a free shuttle
Hyatt Regency Greenwich
1800 East Putnam Avenue
Old Greenwich, CT 06870, USA
Reception Sites, Hotels/Acc...
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All of our guests raved about the hotel. It's by far the nicest hotel in our area...
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Woodbury, NY 11797, USA
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The Fox Hollow was AMAZING!!!! The outside was beautiful covered with all the lig...
Castle On The Hudson
400 Benedict Ave
Tarrytown, NY 10591, US
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The Castle, the food, the service, our coordinator...everything down to our maitr...
The Ritz-carlton, Westch...
Three Renaissance Square
White Plains, NY, United States
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We booked a suite at the Ritz for the bride and the mothers to have hair and make...
Hilton Rye Town
669 Westchester Ave
Port Chester, NY 10573, US
2 ratings, 0 reviews, 5 weddings
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80 West Red Oak Lane
West Harrison, NY 10604, USA
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The hotel was conveniently located to all of our wedding activities, and large en...
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White Plains, NY 10601, US
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This hotel was really convenient for our guests, as it is near many of the great ...
Sheraton Tarrytown Hotel
600 White Plains Rd
Tarrytown, NY, USA
4 ratings, 4 reviews, 31 weddings
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text:
The .exe extension on a filename indicates an executable file. Executable files may, in some cases, harm your computer. Therefore, please read below to decide for yourself whether the hpwuschd2.exe on your computer is a Trojan that you should remove, or whether it is a file belonging to the Windows operating system or to a trusted application.
The process known as hpwuSchd Application or Hewlett-Packard Product Assistant or hpwuSchd or HP Update or HP Product Assistant
belongs to software hpwuSchd Application or hp digital imaging - hp all-in-one series or hp digital imaging or HP Software Update Application or Hewlett-Packard hpwuSchd or HP Update or HP Image Zone Express or Adobe Flash Player (version 10 ActiveX)
by Hewlett-Packard (www.hp.com) or Hewlett-Packard Co (www.hp.com) or Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P (www.hp.com) or Hewlett-Packard Company (www.hp.com).
Description: Hpwuschd2.exe is not essential for Windows and will often cause problems. The hpwuschd2.exe file is located in a subfolder of "C:\Program Files" or sometimes in a subfolder of the user's "Documents" folder (common is C:\Program Files\Hewlett-Packard\HP Software Update\).
Known file sizes on Windows 10/8/7/XP are 49,152 bytes (60% of all occurrences), 49,208 bytes and 9 more variants.
The file is not a Windows core file. The program has no visible window. The application starts upon Windows startup (see Registry key: MACHINE\Run). The program can be uninstalled in the Control Panel. Therefore the technical security rating is 31% dangerous, however you should also read the user reviews.
Recommended: Identify hpwuschd2.exe related errors
External information from Paul Collins:
There are different files with the same name:
Important: Some malware camouflages itself as hpwuschd2.exe, particularly when located in the C:\Windows or C:\Windows\System32 folder, for example Trojan-Downloader.Win32.Small.khr (detected by Kaspersky), and TrojanDownloader:Win32/Unruy.C (detected by Microsoft). Therefore, you should check the hpwuschd2.exe process on your PC to see if it is a threat. We recommend Security Task Manager for verifying your computer's security. This was one of the Top Download Picks of The Washington Post and PC World.
Summary: Average user rating of hpwuschd2.exe: based on 45 votes with 9 reviews. 18 users think hpwuschd2.exe is essential for Windows or an installed application. 4 users think it's probably harmless. 13 users think it's neither essential nor dangerous. 7 users suspect danger. 3 users think hpwuschd2.exe is dangerous and recommend removing it. 9 users don't grade hpwuschd2.exe ("not sure about it").
A clean and tidy computer is the key requirement for avoiding problems with hpwuschd2. This means running a scan for malware, cleaning your hard drive using 1cleanmgr and 2sfc /scannow, 3uninstalling programs that you no longer need, checking for Autostart programs (using 4msconfig) and enabling Windows' 5Automatic Update. Always remember to perform periodic backups, or at least to set restore points.
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To me, this has been a pivotal year for me as regards literature. It's probably the first year that I've read more than 100 significant works of prose, and it's a great feeling that I finished reading 140 at the end of the year.
I'm writing this note as a reminder to myself of what I deemed the best books I have read over the course of this year, as well as a sort of instructive write-up of sorts to those who may be interested in reading books that I (among others) highly esteem. Here goes.
10. Persuasion – Jane Austen
I don't like to read romances for the most part. It's not that I'm a cynic regarding love; it's just that I don't like escaping from my failures in love into fantasies. That's probably the reason why I read classics for the most part. Rather than being entertained, I like reading for the sake of edification. I like to combine observation with reflection, and I like learning, and that's why I read.
Persuasion is Jane Austen at her most mature, though. Anne Elliot is no longer youthful: she toes the line of spinsterhood, and yet she still waited for the only person she loved. It was, of course, her fault that she was persuaded against her heart, but I totally understand: in the final analysis, love is not the only thing that keeps us alive. There are so many factors and intricacies involved in living that romance is merely an aspect. Anne, being a pragmatic person, simply silences herself while paying the dues for her repudiation of Wentworth.
She is intelligent, forbearing, and patient. She watches her tongue. I like her, because I'm reminded of myself by her.
Aside from that, though, it's really Wentworth's letter that sealed the deal. It's probably among the sweetest, most loving words I've read from the entirety of literature: 'I am half-agony, half-hope. I have loved none but you.'
9. The Art of Clear Thinking – Rudolf Flesch
This was a zeitgeist, a history book, and a tome that taught one how to be more organized with thought. It had some fun tests in it, and was a joy to read.
8. How You Can Be a Better Student – Rudolf Flesch
This was a book that gauged one's intelligence in most mental aspects. Not only that, it also helped one boost his vocabulary, and write better. I made friends with this book, but it was also very helpful to me in the aspect of more efficient studying.
7. Gone with the Wind – Margaret Mitchell
I read this novel over the course of two days.
I'd say this wasn't even a romance novel, because Scarlett wasn't really effusive with love. Despite her demeanor, though, to see her struggle through the Civil War from destruction to rebuilding and then to failure once more was really breathtaking. I lost sleep over this novel because it was just that exciting to read.
The ending was also very apt. Scarlett deserved every bit of what Rhett did to her. I can't remember most of the details, but the panoramic breadth and the color of the novel is more than enough for its price of admission.
6. Some Do Not and No More Parades – Ford Madox Ford
I'm glad I first watched the mini-series. It made understanding the first two novels of Parade's End a lot easier.
I really like this novel because its protagonist, Christopher Tietjens, is essentially 'the last gentleman.' Even though he was cuckolded by his wife, cheated by her lover, and left hanging by his friend, he persisted to being upright and proper even as his world fell around him. Although he finally capitulated with his love for Miss Wannop after his wife took everything that could be taken from him, he still remained a true gentleman, and the Last Tory.
The two novels are both complex and beautiful, and beautifully represent the decline and fall of conservative values as modernism loomed. Great work.
5. The Bridge over the River Kwai – Pierre Boulle
In a certain battle, the Japanese defeated the British and brutally treated them as prisoners-of-war. However, as the Japanese require a bridge across Burma to transport supplies, they needed the help of the POWs to build the bridge. Despite abuses, Col. Nicholson staunchly opposes being made to work as if they were privates, and refers to the Hague Convention for their rights in war. Eventually, the Japanese leader capitulates, and a bridge of wood was made with speed and efficiency.
The bridge, however, has to be destroyed, and eventually allegiances are questioned. Should pride be placed above duty? Should honor be placed above work? These are questions that the book posits and offers no answers to. All there remains is a pithy, well-written tragedy.
4. The Mansion – William Faulkner
'But you can me'
When Faulkner writes a love story, it becomes a classic.
Liberal Arts and The Mansion have a similar age-difference in their love stories. But unlike Liberal Arts, however, The Mansion features vicarious love. Because Gavin Stevens, the protagonist, could not love the mother as she wouldn't allow it, he takes care of the beautiful, energetic child instead and tries to lead her toward the right way. Her name is Linda Snopes: her father is one of the most devious representatives of the Snopes family, the American representation of Faulkner for uncompromising avarice. Stevens tries to give her books, direct her to become a more educated, more knowledgeable lady, and she slowly gets to appreciate all that he had done and was doing for her. But he could not love her the way she needed to be loved, and he could not give what she wished for.
This is a love story and a thriller at the same time, and is the final novel of the Snopes trilogy. It's proof that a 'lesser' Faulkner work is probably most other writers' masterpieces.
3. The Idiot – Fyodor Dostoevsky
'If Jesus Christ were placed in the 19th century, would he have the same fate?', Dostoevsky asks.
He answers with a resounding yes. The Idiot features a sweet, angelic prince in Myshkin who comes into fortune after some coincidences. Two women fall in love with him: the first is someone totally virtuous, and the second is 'a fallen woman.' The fallen woman cannot accept love from him, so she ruins herself; the virtuous lady could not understand that his love for the fallen woman is different from his interest in her, so she runs away.
Ultimately, he retreats into his own shell, still full of goodness, but never returning to the world.
The novel is a great reflection of the evil that man possesses, and the goodness that man can no longer have. Revelatory and prophetic, The Idiot is one of Dostoevsky's greatest novels, and arguably one of the greatest novels ever.
2. The Violent Bear it Away – Flannery O'Connor
Before I graduated from my clerkship, I strongly reacted when one of the consultants told me that she did not know who Flannery O'Connor was. In our graduation party, the novel was used to identify me. I unhesitatingly grouped this novel into one of my all-time favorites – and it remains to be so.
Nearly a year removed from reading the novel the very first time, I'm still thoroughly impressed. O'Connor tackled the question of faith through her grotesques, and although I may have misunderstood some of its parts (it's a highly complex novel), just reading about the reality that one never really can run away from God was a great catharsis of sorts for me. No matter how much Francis Tarwater tries to run from God, he is nevertheless still drawn toward him. Indeed, only those violent with the love of God can carry the Church away from its demons. It's a dark, difficult work, but it's made me reassess my faith and actions towards God.
1. The Glass Bead Game – Hermann Hesse
I thought nothing could beat The Violent Bear It Away. I was so sure.
Then I read The Glass Bead Game. I don't think both works could be compared to one another, but I saw myself in the struggles of Joseph Knecht. To become the Master of the Game, he had to sacrifice everything else except knowledge: he was intelligent, diligent, and responsible, and that was the reason why he had reached the highest possible post in Castalia. Even then, however, it wasn't enough. Or rather, it wasn't right.
Eventually Joseph realized that hiding in the high tower of one's intelligence was no better than those people who hid in caves just to escape the light. Both were equally wrong, and equally contemptible. Knowledge and wisdom in a human being remains to be nevertheless steeped in the real world. One cannot live without being in society, and one cannot escape society. In the end, he still wanted out of their cabal of intelligence because he argued that life isn't lived inside a glass bead.
I realized that he was right. I pursued intelligence and knowledge so much that I had ignored and was insensitive to the needs of other people. Before, people were mere stepping stones to the build-up of my intelligence. Feelings were insignificant. While I had changed for the better even before the book, The Glass Bead Game elucidated what should be done: wisdom is useless in solitude.
I agree, and that's why The Glass Bead Game is my best book of 2013.
Happy New Year, everyone!


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Freedom With Responsibility
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The Hundred Languages Of Children
Howard Gardner And Multiple Intelligences
21st Century Education Shifting Paradigms
Children And TV
The Importance Of Play
Connecting Children And Nature
Values and Principles of Reggio Emilia Approach
New York Times Article
Frequently Asked Questions About The Reggio Approach
Introduction to Conscious Discipline
I Love You Rituals
mission of the Pembroke Hill early childhood school is to provide
developmentally appropriate opportunities for children to grow cognitively,
socially, emotionally and physically to their maximum potential, in an
intentionally planned environment that fosters a sense of community and a
life-long love of learning.
We believe that every part of a
child's day at Pembroke Hill early childhood school is a learning opportunity.
The Pembroke Hill school day is filled with opportunities for our young students
to construct knowledge through exploring, investigating, questioning,
experimenting, reflecting, representing and interacting. Learning happens while
children are
The Pembroke Hill early childhood
school is influenced by the world-renowned Reggio Emilia philosophy of
education. At the heart of this philosophy is the image of each child as a
competent, capable and curious individual full of potential. Our teachers
honor this curiosity and natural desire to learn by encouraging their students
to wonder, ask questions, create hypotheses and search for answers.
Educational research backs the Reggio Emilia Approach belief that strong
relationships are critical to a child's brain development and learning. At
Pembroke Hill we know the safety and comfort of warm and receptive
student-teacher and student-student relationships are important for
learning. In every classroom teachers
create a strong sense of community that includes children, families, teachers
and campus staff.
The Reggio Emilia approach has a saying, "the environment is the third teacher." The Pembroke Hill early childhood school has embraced this belief by planning our environment with intent. All materials, routines and activities in each classroom have been purposefully selected to provide opportunities for children to grow, learn and develop.
In keeping with the Reggio Emilia emphasis on lifelong learning, Pembroke Hill early childhood teachers enjoy
many opportunities for professional development. These include: job imbedded
development, opportunities to mentor student teachers, tour schools, and attend
national and international conferences. Over the past year, we have worked with a math consultant in a school wide effort to align our mathematics curriculum, attended workshops at the Nelson Atkins Museum to bring depth to our arts program, visited a science lab and traveled to Tulsa to participate in a Reggio Emilia inspired conference. This summer, teachers will be attending a Reggio Emilia conference in Colorado and the Summer Institute on the Project Approach both led by internationally recognized educators.
Over the past ten years, early childhood teachers have traveled together
to Reggio-inspired schools in Missouri, Colorado, Minnesota and
Oklahoma, where they tour, attend conferences and collaborate. Teachers have individually
attended Reggio conferences throughout
United States. Last summer, two of our teachers traveled to Reggio Emilia, Italy, to participate in a week-long international study session.
Weekly meetings provide time
for teachers to collaborate and learn from one another. All staff meetings include a professional
development component, with a focus of study selected for the year. Furthermore we have had the opportunity for
nationally-recognized early childhood professionals on the project approach,
Reggio approach, 21st Century Education
and mathematics serve as consultants to our school.
At the heart of the Reggio
philosophy is the belief that children are strong, competent and born ready to
learn. The fundamental principles of the Reggio Emilia approach include:
The Reggio Emilia approach sees a child as a competent protagonist. Children are naturally curious, they are searching for meaning as they make connections from what they know and have experienced to the new and yet unexplored. Recognizing and following the children's interests allows classroom learning to become intrinsic. For example, when a preschool class showed interest in a particular tree at Loose Park the teachers took them to the tree throughout the school year. While visiting the tree, the children observed firsthand how it changed from summer, to fall, to winter, to spring. In the classroom and at the park, the children were given many opportunities to question and search for answers about the tree. The investigation included experiences which reinforced math skills, problem-solving and emergency literacy - all in relationship to their hands-on investigation of the tree.
Teachers As Researchers
The teacher's role within the Reggio
Emilia approach is complex. Working as co-teachers, the role of the teacher is
first and foremost to be that of a learner alongside the children. The teacher
is a teacher-researcher, a resource and guide as she/he lends expertise to
children (Edwards, 1993). Within such a teacher-researcher role, educators
carefully listen, observe and document children's work and the growth of
community in their classroom. Teachers are to provoke, co-construct, and
stimulate thinking and children's collaboration with peers. Teachers are
committed to reflection about their own teaching and learning.
Teacher role is to:
Consistent with
Howard Gardner's notion of schooling for multiple intelligences, the Reggio
Emilia approach utilizes the integration of the graphic arts as tools for
cognitive, linguistic and social development. Presentation of concepts and
hypotheses in multiple forms of representation -- print, art, construction,
drama, music, puppetry and shadow play -- are viewed as essential to children's
understanding of experience.
Collaborative group work, both large and small, is considered valuable and
necessary to advance cognitive development. Children are encouraged to
dialogue, critique, compare, negotiate, hypothesize and problem solve through
group work. Within the Reggio Emilia approach, multiple perspectives promote
both a sense of group membership and the uniqueness of self.
Documentation of children's work is viewed as an important tool in
understanding children's learning and their process of learning. Teachers use a
variety of media, including photographs, daily journals, videos and displays
to make the children's learning visible to the families. Our goal is give an
authentic picture of each child's development: socially/emotionally,
cognitively and physically.
We are a family centered program based on Loris Malaguzzi's vision of an
"education for children based on relationships." This vision focuses
on each child in relation to others and seeks to activate and support
children's reciprocal relationships with other children, family, teachers,
society and the environment. We promote an interactive community of inquiry
between children, teachers, parents, and school community.
We believe open communication is essential element in successful
communities. Families are kept informed with a Daily Journal, conferences, a
digital portfolio, and a detailed assessment of their child's development and
Encouraging high levels of family participation is another aspect of our
daily lives at Pembroke Hill early childhood school. Families take part and provide input
into the classroom activities through:
The Reggio Emilia philosophy stresses that education is based on
relationships. Research has established that 95 percent of the brain develops
in the first five years of life, and
children develop best in communities where they feel safe, happy and secure.
At Pembroke Hill we believe children and parents have the right to continuity
of relationships.
If your child is enrolled in our early years program, he/she will move up to
preschool with the entire class to a new teacher and classroom. Preschool teachers
"loop" with their students. This means that children in preschool will stay
together, in the same classroom, with the same teacher, for both preschool and prekindergarten.
We believe that the relationships children and families develop through
"looping" creates the optimal atmosphere for learning.
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Steve Ceccio
Home > People & Groups > Faculty > Steve Ceccio
Steve CeccioProfessor, Mechanical Engineering; Chair and Professor, Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering; ABS Professor
215 NAME (Naval Architecture & Marine Engineering)
2600 Draper
Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2145
Map It!
Phone: (734) 936-0433
Fax: (734) 647-3170
Ph.D., Mechanical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, 1990
M.S., Mechanical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, 1986
B.S., Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, 1985
Research Interests
Fluid mechanics with emphasis on experimental methods, multiphase flows, high Reynolds number flows, cavitation and bubbly flows, optical flow measurement methods, electrical and radiation based tomography.
Major Funding Sources
Office of Naval Research; United States Department of Energy; National Institue of Standards and Technology; Air Force Office of Scientific Research
Honors and Awards
Fellow, American Physical Society, 2009
Fellow, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, 2005
Young Scientist & Engineering Award - Defense Programs, U.S. Department of Energy, 1996
Excellence in Teaching Award, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics, The University of Michigan, 1994
Francis J. Cole Fellowship, 1988-1989
ARCS Fellowship, 1986-1988
Special Institute Fellowship, California Institute of Technology, 1985-1986
In the News...
2016 - Four ME faculty received named professorships
See ME Course Information for more information about our courses offered and teaching histories.


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The Green blog's interview with Rivertop Renewables founder Donald Kiely, and director of marketing Jason Kiely (also Don's son) revealed the potential power of glucaric acid as a renewable-based alternative chemical.
The company hopes to launch sample product applications of its low-cost glucaric acid next year, first as corrosion inhibitors as well as an alternative to phosphate in detergent cleaning products.
So what's the story behind Rivertop Renewables?
According to Don Kiely, who is a retired professor emeritus of chemistry at the University of Montana, he has been focusing on finding practical applications for carbohydrates for more than a decade. Low-cost production of glucaric acid is one of his patented technologies and he hopes to have it commercialized before he fully retires in two years.
Hence, Rivertop Renewables was formed in January 2008 with their first round of funding mostly from the founders themselves, friends/families, and a couple of angel investors.
The company said they just recently introduced themselves to the venture community and hope to close their second round of financing soon.
"We are getting good signs from advisors within the industry. We are a well-managed company, our technology is now well-positioned, and so we are hopeful to get a good traction early on even though there is of course a little trepidation on our part given the capital market situation out there," said Jason Kiely.
Rivertop is also currently seeking commercial partners both in the large-scale manufacturing of glucaric acid as well as companies that are interested in its application. Don Kiely said that they are already engaged in discussions with several chemical companies and hope to start a pilot plant of about 3 million pounds/year by 2010 using an existing infrastructure.
"2010 will be a big year for us as we are also targeting to get large amount of samples out for that year," said Don Kiely. "We've been in contact with 20 plus prospective customers and we believe that we can make our 2010 targets because of the effectiveness of the scalability of our glucaric acid process."
As noted in the blog's previous post, glucaric acid is a sugar-based acid created by oxidizing glucose which can be used as a building block chemical. The markets for glucaric acid and derivatives are said to be undeveloped as they are expensive and the supply has been limited, with most being use for research or as a health supplement ingredient.
According to the company, their glucaric acid process is a very simple chemical process, applicable to a variety of carbohydrates, does not rely on any particular microorganism to make the transformation, and if everything will go well, there will be no waste products involved because of a closed loop processing design.
Most of the glucose today comes from cornstarch but Don Kiely noted that their process can use biomass-based carbohydrate feedstock if they're available.
The company plans to first introduced glucaric acid-based corrosion inhibitors in road salt deicers, and in water heating and cooling systems as early as late 2010. According to Jason Kiely, there is still one more testing to be done with the application of glucaric-aid as a detergent builder.
Also under development are applications of glucaric acid as concrete admixture; as biodegradable polymer gel that can compete with polyacrylates in diapers; and as agricultural biodegradable hydrogel for cost-effective, time-release fertilizer.
[Photo of Tyler Smith, R&D director for Rivertop Renewables, working with a rotary evaporator]
addthis_pub = 'greenchicgeek';


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Stores »
I like the retro color palate of these sturdy, stoneware bowls. I especially like the smaller bowls.
What a heavenly delight. I love these ceramic bowls.
Oh hooo. Perfect for Halloween...and just whenever.
I mean, if it's cereal I'll give it a try but I can already tell it'll probably taste a little too mavericky.
Yes, its a real cereal in a limited 500 box run so act fast!
We are a community of shoppers sharing our best finds from across the web.
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text:
Salinas Teen Dies on Christmas Day After Being Hit By Car
SALINAS, Calif. - Salinas police said that 19-year-old Daisy Ramirez Martinez died Christmas Day, almost two weeks after she was hit by a car.
Daisy was in the crosswalk at North Main and Navajo when she was hit, said police. The driver has been identified as 46-year-old Maria Arcega.
This has been a deadly year in Salinas for traffic accidents -- this marks the 12th fatality in 2013. Salinas police said it is the most they have seen in a year. Over half of the fatalities involved a pedestrian, said police.


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Eight libraries participate in prelaunch of digital talking-book system
After years of research, testing, and planning; months of contract review and awards; and weeks of production and quality-assurance evaluations, the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS) has begun the prelaunch of its digital talking-book system.
"We are now able to place the digital talking books and players directly in the hands of several thousand of our patrons," said NLS director Frank Kurt Cylke.
At press time, 5,000 digital players and 17,500 books were ready to be delivered to 8 NLS network libraries, which will distribute them to a select group of their most active patrons. The prelaunch enables NLS and network library staff to evaluate players, cartridges, and mailing containers in real-world use. Patrons, libraries, and machine-lending agencies (MLAs) will provide input to an independent consultant, who will analyze the data to identify any issues to be resolved before mass production begins.
Libraries participating in the prelaunch are the Braille Institute Library Services, Los Angeles, California; the Florida Bureau of Braille and Talking Book Library Services, Daytona Beach; the Iowa Department for the Blind, Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, Des Moines; the Braille and Talking Book Library, Watertown, Massachusetts; Wolfner Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, Jefferson City, Missouri; the Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library, New York City; the Texas State Library and Archives Commission, Austin; and the Utah State Library Division, Program for the Blind and Disabled, Salt Lake City. JBI International (formerly Jewish Braille Institute) in New York City will also participate. Each of these NLS network libraries will receive 544 talking-book players—100 advanced and 444 standard models—and 37 copies of each of the 54 titles selected by the NLS Collection Development Section—a total of 1,998 talking-book cartridges. The libraries have predetermined the patrons who will participate.
MLAs and all other network libraries—regional and subregional—each receive one advanced and one standard player and two copies of each of the 54 titles.
The prelaunch is expected to last 10 weeks. Once it has been successfully completed, Shinano Kenshi Co., the Japan-based manufacturer of the digital talking-book players, will begin full production. The players will be produced at an initial rate of 26,000 per month for four months, and then at 20,000 players per month. The machines are slated to begin arriving at the MLAs in the summer of 2009.
As part of the prelaunch, a training contractor has designed a web site for NLS network library staff. The company was asked to create training modules to prepare library staff to use and explain the digital talking-book machines, download digital talking books and sign up patrons for NLS Braille and Audio Reading Download (BARD), and duplicate digital talking books at the local level.
The training materials, which will be accessible through the NLS Network Library Services web site, were designed for self-study. Library staff will be able to learn at their own pace and convenience how to use the digital talking-book cartridges and players and how to teach patrons. The site includes printable training tools, such as charts and guides, and a Power-Point presentation that can be used for group training or as a handout. A second training web site for patrons will be available on the NLS public web site following the prelaunch.
New scanner improves service to music patrons
As the NLS program undergoes a digital transformation, the Music Section is making strides in digitizing its collection of braille music scores. With the help of a sophisticated scanner it acquired in October 2008, the section has scanned nearly 50 braille music titles and made them available through Web-Braille.
The scanner, invented and manufactured by the Information Technology Center for the Disabled in Moscow, Russia, allows NLS to efficiently produce accurate digital copies of braille music scores.
"The beauty of the new scanner is that it identifies potential errors in the proofing stage. This eliminates the problems that often occur when staff compare scanned copies of braille to hard copies," said John Hanson, head of the Music Section.
To prepare a digital braille file, staff place the braille score face down on the scanner. The scanner photographs the page, reads the cells, and sends the information to a local personal computer. The scanned information appears on the monitor in three boxes. (See the graphic, which shows a page from Sixty Sonatas for Harpsichord by Domenico Scarlatti.) One box displays a picture of the actual scanned page, one contains an ASCII file, and another shows the page in SimBraille, a typeface composed of black circles that represent the dots in each braille cell. The scanner's software analyzes the SimBraille section and color codes any cells that are ambiguous or unreadable. A staff member can then compare what the scanner read with the photograph of the page and edit the ASCII file.
"The scanner tells you in advance where the problems are," said Hanson. "A regular scanner doesn't give you a true picture of the braille. It only gives you an interpretation, or what the scanner saw." The scanner also helps with preserving the collection. Of the more than 20,000 braille music scores NLS has acquired throughout the years, many have been in circulation since the 1920s. Years of storage and multiple readings have damaged some of the cells. The new scanner highlights those defective cells on the screen so that a staff member can correct the errors and preserve the score. Once the scores are scanned, the staff member saves them as ASCII files in a folder. At the end of each month these ASCII files are posted to the NLS Web-Braille site and then linked to the catalog records.
"Anyone who is looking for a piece of music—patron or librarian—can search the online catalog, click on the link at the bottom of the record, and download that braille score right to his or her computer," said Hanson. "And if a patron requests a braille score and we find a poor copy on the shelf, we can download the score and make a new copy to send to the patron."
Not only is the scanner accurate, but it also simplifies and expedites the process of preserving the braille scores. Prior to the acquisition of the new scanner, NLS staff would scan in a braille score and then compare the paper braille to what the scanner read—page by page, cell by cell.
"It was extremely time consuming," said Hanson. "The new scanner addresses the need for accuracy and speed in digitizing the braille music collection. The more electronic scores we have, the better we are able to preserve our collection and serve our patrons."
NLS celebrates Louis Braille bicentenary
January 4, 2009, marked the 200th anniversary of inventor Louis Braille's birth, and NLS, its cooperating network of libraries, and other organizations across the country and around the world are sponsoring a variety of celebratory activities throughout the year.
NLS, which began as a braille-lending library service in 1931, is planning to publish articles and a minibibliography, launch a web page, and conclude the year with an exhibition at the Library of Congress featuring braille books, tactile maps, braille games, jewelry, and slates and styluses.
Born in Coupvray, France, Louis Braille lost his sight at age 3 after an accident in his father's workshop. He learned to read raised letters at age 10 and invented a reading and writing system composed of raised six-dot cells at age 16. Braille went on to devise braille systems for music based on his alphabetic code and continued to invent more tools for blind people until his death at age 43.
Judith Dixon, NLS consumer relations officer, chaired a January 5, 2009, roundtable discussion at "Braille 1809–2009: Writing with Six Dots and Its Future," a conference held in Paris, France, organized by the International Committee for the Commemoration of the Bicentenary of Louis Braille's Birth (CINAL).
"This conference was certainly the largest and most exuberant celebration of Louis Braille's life and work that has ever taken place," said Dixon.
Speaking to an audience of more than 400 representatives from 46 countries, Dixon introduced the roundtable and discussed many braille technologies, including computerized braille translation, and multiple braille embossing methods and refreshable braille displays.
Other conference topics dealt with braille unification; braille in various languages; braille in developing countries; and whether braille competes with or enhances new technologies in the areas of scientific research, professional integration, and educational integration.
CINAL will hold a second conference in June 2009 near Braille's birthplace. Musicians Stevie Wonder and Andrea Bocelli will perform during a concluding concert.
(Photo caption): Poster designed by Judith Krimski for the National Braille Press to commemorate Braille's bicentenary.
BARD named "Website of the Year"
The second annual Blind Bargains Access Awards recognized the NLS digital download pilot as Website of the Year in 2008.
The awards, which recognize the achievements of companies and individuals in the assistive technology arena and beyond, were based entirely on submissions by visitors to BlindBargains.com, a leading online resource for blind and visually impaired people. A nomination period was held in early January 2008, followed by a voting round.
NLS BARD (Braille and Audio Reading Download) will be available to all eligible patrons of the NLS talking-book program later this year.
Murphey Keathley, Arkansas's first 10-Squared member
Murphey Keathley, the Arkansas Regional Library for the Blind's first Ten-Squared Club member, passed away February 22, 2009. She was 105 years old. Born June 11, 1903, Keathley did not start reading talking books until she was 99. But by 2009, she had read nearly 700 books. She became a member of the NLS Ten-Squared Club in 2005 at the age of 102. During a reception at the Arkansas Regional Library, Keathley received a plaque from then-NLS deputy director Michael Moodie.
Wisconsin patron wins gold medal
Kelley Becherer, an 18-year-old patron of the Wisconsin Regional Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, won a gold medal on September 15, 2008, at the Paralympic Games in Beijing.
Becherer, a senior at Sheboygan North High School, won the women's 50 meter freestyle. earned two bronze medals in other swimming events.
"The gold feels amazing," Becherer said. "All my hard work has gone into it."
Audio producers briefed on electronic delivery of talking books
During a December 3, 2008, meeting with audio producers, NLS staff updated representatives of the American Foundation for the Blind, the American Printing House for the Blind, Carolina Talking Books, Insight for the Blind, the National Audio Company, Potomac Talking Books, and Talking Book Publishers on various aspects of the analog-to-digital transition.
NLS deputy director Robert Fistick opened the meeting, noting, "It is an exciting time for NLS and libraries around the country." He thanked the audio producers for "raising the bar for our high-level products." Fistick also expressed regret upon the announcement that the American Foundation for the Blind will be closing its recording studio, stating that "the foundation has played a historic and leading role in the field of talking-book production."
Michael Martys, head of the NLS Automation Office, and Robert Norton, head of the Quality Assurance Section, explained the new web-based electronic delivery system for digital talking books, inaugurated on December 8, 2008. The system allows audio producers to send entire digital talking books to NLS via the Internet. Previously producers submitted digital talking books by mailing recordings containing all the components of the book. The electronic delivery system will reduce shipping costs and time, eliminate damage to compact disks during shipment, and enable NLS staff to run a series of automatic quality-assurance tests immediately upon receipt of a talking book.
Michael Katzmann, chief of the Materials Development Division, demonstrated different methods of duplicating book cartridges. The producers were shown duplication software programs that run on both the Linux and Microsoft Windows operating systems.
Following Katzmann's presentation, John Bryant, head of the Production Control Section, discussed production schedules and containers for digital talking-book cartridges.
"Overall the conference accomplished our goals," Bryant said. "The producers of NLS audiobooks and magazines received the latest information, plans, and requirements regarding the transition to digital audio. I think everyone left the meeting better prepared for the NLS move to digital audio materials."
The July–December 2008 issue of News failed to identify several new members of the 2008 Collection Development Advisory Group. The names are listed below, along with their affiliations. We apologize for the omissions.
Consumer organization representative
American Council of the Blind (ACB) Cindy Van Winkle Washington
Randy Pierce New Hampshire (Northern Region)
Lula M. Brooks Florida (Southern Region)
Donna Ryan Montana (Western Region)
Rachel Gould Braille and Talking Book Library Perkins School for the Blind Massachusetts (Children's/Young Adult)
René Perrance Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library (Midlands)
Carol A. Taylor Connecticut State Library Library for the Blind and Handicapped (Northern)
NLS names Stitzel head of Reference Section
NLS welcomed Dawn Stitzel as its new Reference Section head on February 18, 2009. "I am excited to be at NLS," Stitzel remarked. "I look forward to building on the past successes of the Reference Section and helping to provide the best possible service to our patrons."
Before coming to NLS, Stitzel served as the director of the Baltimore-based Jacobus tenBroek Library at the National Federation of the Blind, where she designed, implemented, and directed all of the programs in the library, focusing on reference services, distribution of literature about blindness, and collection development.
A native of Georgetown, Delaware, Stitzel earned a bachelor's degree in history from the University of Delaware at Newark, where she graduated Phi Beta Kappa. As an undergraduate she was selected as a Truman Scholar—a prestigious national award given to fewer than 75 students annually. She went on to earn a master's degree in international affairs from Drew University in Madison, New Jersey, and then taught English for two years as a U.S. Peace Corps volunteer in rural Thailand. Stitzel earned a second master's degree in American history from Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, and a third master's degree in library science from the University of Maryland in College Park.
For three years Stitzel worked as a reference librarian at the Office of Naval Intelligence (ONI) in Suitland, Maryland, where she served as the library's Internet project manager and coordinated the procurement and implementation of ONI's library automation system. worked for seven years at the U.S. Naval Institute in Annapolis, Maryland, first as manager of the Library and Photo Archive and then as deputy director of the History, Reference, and Preservation Division. While working at the Naval Institute, Stitzel designed a new library space and planned and oversaw the collection's move to a new facility.
The Program
The National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped of the Library of Congress publishes books and magazines in braille and in recorded form on discs and cassettes for readers who cannot hold, handle, or see well enough to read conventional print because of a temporary or permanent visual or physical handicap.
Through a national network of state and local libraries, the materials are loaned free to eligible readers in the United States and to U.S. citizens living abroad. Materials are sent to readers and returned by postage-free mail.
Books and Magazines
Readers may borrow all types of popular-interest books including bestsellers, classics, mysteries, westerns, poetry, history, biographies, religious literature, children's books, and foreign-language materials. Readers may also subscribe to more than seventy popular magazines in braille and recorded formats.
Special Equipment
Special equipment needed to play the discs and cassettes, which are recorded at slower than conventional speeds, is loaned indefinitely to readers. An amplifier with headphone is available for blind and physically handicapped readers who are also certified as hearing impaired. Other devices are provided to aid readers with mobility impairments in using playback machines.
You are eligible for the Library of Congress program if:
- You are legally blind--your vision in the better eye is 20/200 or less with correcting glasses, or your widest diameter of visual field is no greater than 20 degrees;
- You cannot see well enough or focus long enough to read standard print, although you wear glasses to correct your vision;
- You are unable to handle print books or turn pages because of a physical handicap; or
- You are certified by a medical doctor as having a reading disability, due to an organic dysfunction, which is of sufficient severity to prevent reading in a normal manner.
How to Apply
You may request an application by writing NLS or calling toll-free 1-800-424-9100, and your name will be referred to your cooperating library.
News is published quarterly by:National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
Library of Congress
Washington, DC 20542
All correspondence should be addressed to the attention of Publications and Media Section. To change address or cancel subscription, please enclose mailing label.
Editor: Ingrid Davitt
Writers: Lina Dutky, Yvonne French, Corriece Gwynn, Paula Higgins, Sabreen Madyun, and Wilson McBee.


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D'Arcy Norman/FlickrResearch from North Carolina State University shows biodegradable plastics can release methane while decomposing.
Bad news about "environmentally friendly" biodegradable plastics: They may not be so environmentally friendly after all.
According to research from North Carolina State University, biodegradable plastics can release large amounts of methane while decomposing. And methane is a potent greenhouse gas.
The study was funded by Procter & Gamble, a major manufacturer of plastic products.
"Everybody assumes that biodegradable is desirable. This study calls that into question," Morton Barlaz, one of the researchers who conducted the study, told the McClatchy-Tribune News Service.
Biodegradable plastics, or green plastics, are made from plant derivatives and take a just a few years to decompose.
Traditional plastics, made from petroleum byproducts, can take decades, centuries, even millennia to disappear.
Barlaz and his team say it's this difference in rate of decomposition that is part of the issue.
Here's why: Federal Trade Commission guidelines require that any product marked as compostable or biodegradable must decompose within "a reasonable short period of time" after disposal.
But other federal regulations don't require landfills with gas collection systems to collect methane gas until two years after the waste is buried. That means a quick-decomposing plastic in a landfill is going to release all of its methane into the atmosphere before it can be collected.
Therefore, a slower rate of decomposition may be better for the environment.
"If we want to maximize the environmental benefit of biodegradable products in landfills," Barlaz told ScienceDaily, a science news service, "we need to both expand methane collection at landfills and design these products to degrade more slowly."
James Levis, the primary author of the study, is adamant that traditional plastics are not better than biodegradable plastics in terms of their environmental impact.
He says the take-home message is that landfills need to do a better job collecting gas from decomposing garbage.
"One would need to study the entire life cycle of the material to know if it was better or worse than the alternatives," Levis said. "One should also look at other environmental factors … before making a final judgment."
The research appeared in the journal Environmental Science & Technology.


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[Date Index]
[Thread Index]
[Author Index]
Re: Integrate: Assumptions in double integral
Note that I have made the substitutions {i*wa->I*wa, iwb->I*wb} and used
square brackets for Exp.
*Yes*, shame on me. I did not write my example in Mathematica-syntax ;-)
>Also, your variables of integration were in the
>opposite order.
This has been the problem! I have overlooked the integral order in the Help
Again, thank you for your support.
Yours Gernot


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The development of dental ceramics established new paradigms in aesthetic dentistry. Nowadays, indirect porcelain veneers can provide extremely satisfactory results,1-3 increasing long-term durability;4,5 this treatment modality may be considered the primary choice for aesthetic enhancements for anterior teeth. However, due to the higher cost and time demands associated with indirect procedures, the use of direct composite resins may prove more suitable for some patients.
As an alternative to indirect lab-fabricated restorations, direct resin composite veneers can also promote quite good aesthetic outcomes at lower costs and can be done with a very conservative clinical technique.6,7 Modern composite resins have distinct advantages owing to the high number of shades (with varied translucency and opacity). These composite systems are now designed to be used employing a layering technique, providing very satisfactory aesthetic results8 with acceptable long-term durability.9-11
The main difficulty with the direct composite resin veneer technique is the dependence on the ability (knowledge, skills, and experience) of the individual clinician in recreating the proper and natural tooth morphology,11 and in selecting the correct shades.
The purpose of this article is to outline a detailed restorative technique, involving the clinical fabrication of 4 direct microhybrid composite resin veneers, which was done to provide the patient with a minimally invasive aesthetic solution for a compromised smile.
A 50-year-old female patient was dissatisfied with her smile and was referred to our dental clinic for an aesthetic solution (Figure 1). She presented with color change in maxillary incisors associated to small discrepancies in shape and positioning. Upon examination, it was also observed that some old and discolored composite restorations were in need of replacement. The treatment of choice would be to place 4 direct resin composite veneers. Compared to a more traditional approach using lab-fabricated all-ceramic veneers, this treatment choice would be a more conservative approach with a lower cost for the patient.
|Figure 1. Initial preoperative smile photo. The color and shape alterations associated with the unsatisfactory existing composite resin restorations in the maxillary central and lateral incisors can be observed.
Clinical Protocol
Before isolating the maxillary arch, the initial shade was taken of the (hydrated) teeth, and VITA A3.5 (Vident) was selected. A rubber dam was then applied, and the involved teeth (Nos. 7 to 10) were prepared at a depth of 0.8 mm on the labial surface. Care was taken to create anatomic preparations that followed the natural mesio-distal and cervico-incisal convexities (Figure 2). Next, the enamel surfaces were etched with 37% phosphoric acid gel (DENTSPLY Caulk) for 20 seconds, rinsed thoroughly, and then slightly dried with absorbent paper. A primer and adhesive (Adper Scotchbond Multi-Purpose [3M ESPE]) were applied with a microbrush (Blue Star 2 [Microdont]), per manufacturer's directions, and then light cured for 20 seconds. (Figure 3).
|Figures 2a and 2b. Maxillary central and lateral incisors were prepared at a depth of 0.8 mm on the labial surface to receive 4 direct microhybrid composite resin veneers. (a) Sample of tooth preparation (labial view). (b) Lateral view showing the cervico-incisal convexity kept with the anatomical preparations.
|Figures 3a to 3c. (a) The teeth conditioning was performed with 37% phosphoric acid (DENTSPLY Caulk) for 20 seconds, (b) followed by the
application of primer, and (c) adhesive (Adper Scotchbond Multi-Purpose Plus [3M ESPE]), then light cured for 20 seconds.
|Figures 4a and 4b. (a) Resin composite application started with a white opaque increment (Vit-l-escence [Ultradent Products]) selected to mask the underlying multi-colored tooth structure. (b) After that, increments of A3.5 were applied degrading from cervical to incisal third. The final layer consisted of a thin and uniform increment of Pearl Neutral.
The first layer of microhybrid composite used was a White Opaque (WO) (Vit-l-escence [Ultradent Products]). This layer was applied to mask the color alteration of the underlying substrate. After that, an increment of A3.5 was inserted with higher volume in the cervical area, decreasing in the thickness as it was layered toward the incisal edge. Finally, a thin increment of Pearl Neutral (P-2) was applied uniformly on the labial surface (Figure 4).
The next appointment, one week later, consisted of completing the final finishing and polishing steps. Detailed shape adjustment was accomplished with ultrafine diamond finishing burs (Ultrafine Diamond Burs No. 4137 [KG Sorensen]) and abrasive discs (Sof-Lex Pop-On [3M ESPE]) (Figure 5). The last step was to impart a final luster and gloss, using a polishing paste (Diamond Polishing Paste [Ultradent Products]).
|Figures 5a and 5b. After one week, the detailed finishing and polishing was done using (a) ultrafine diamond burs (Ultrafine Diamond Burs No. 4137 [KG Sorensen]) and (b) abrasive contouring and finishing discs (Sof-Lex Pop-On [3M ESPE]); followed by imparting the final luster and desired surface gloss with a polishing paste (Diamond Polishing Paste [Ultradent Products]).
|Figures 6a and 6b. Close-up pictures of
(a) before and (b) after placement of the direct composite veneers. Natural color and shape were restored.
The difference between before and after treatment can be observed in the close-up photo in Figure 6. The patient was extremely pleased with the aesthetic results provided with this minimally invasive treatment choice (Figures 7 and 8).
|Figure 7. Lateral view of patient's smile. (Note the natural luster/gloss on central incisors provided by following the proper polishing protocol for a microhybrid composite.)
|Figure 8. Final smile. The direct composite resin veneers provided a harmonious smile, and the patient was very satisfied.
Despite the recent developments and significant improvements made with all-ceramic materials, direct resin composite veneers still have relevant indications in aesthetic dentistry, especially when a very conservative approach is desired.9-11 In addition to this, the lower cost and, furthermore, the possibility of easily and affordably carrying out any future repairs that may become necessary, makes it easier for the clinician and the patient.
In the case report described, the dental substrate presented a great degree of color variation, which could have affected the color of the final restoration. To reduce this interference, a WO resin composite was used before any other resin increment. After that, A3.5 was selected to give some color to the restoration. This increment was applied with a higher volume in cervical third, decreasing to incisal third to simulate the degrading pattern of natural teeth. After that, a resin composite with more translucent properties was selected (P-2) to mimic natural enamel. The final color was A2, due to the combination of WO and A3.5. When treating younger patients, especially those who may have been whitening their teeth, A3.5 must be avoided, and A1 or A2 resin composites should be selected as the second increment in order to determine a final color at A1 or even lighter.
Finishing and polishing are also important steps that always should be done after at least 24 hours, so the resin composite is completely polymerized and any initial hygroscopic expansion has taken place.12,13 If this time is not respected, the resin composite will become brittle, and the final surface polishing will not be adequate. Abrasive discs are excellent choices to correct and refine the incisal embrasures that are smaller between central incisors, and for increasing between lateral and central incisors. Ultrafine diamond burs are also indicated to finish the labial surface, determining the flat surface of central incisors, and to properly position the proximal edges. For polishing, a diamond polishing paste is applied with a small felt wheel to provide the final gloss for the restoration (Diamond Excel [FGM]).
Direct veneers with microhybrid resin composites are a lower cost, conservative approach that can still achieve high levels of success in aesthetic dentistry.
- Rotoli BT, Lima DA, Pini NP, et al. Porcelain veneers as an alternative for esthetic treatment: clinical report. Oper Dent. 2013;38:459-466.
- de Andrade OS, Ferreira LA, Hirata R, et al. Esthetic and functional rehabilitation of crowded mandibular anterior teeth using ceramic veneers: a case report. Quintessence Int. 2012;43:661-670.
- Pini NP, Aguiar FH, Lima DA, et al. Advances in dental veneers: materials, applications, and techniques. Clin Cosmet Investig Dent. 2012;4:9-16.
- Beier US, Kapferer I, Dumfahrt H. Clinical long-term evaluation and failure characteristics of 1,335 all-ceramic restorations. Int J Prosthodont. 2012;25:70-78.
- Beier US, Kapferer I, Burtscher D, et al. Clinical performance of porcelain laminate veneers for up to 20 years. Int J Prosthodont. 2012;25:79-85.
- Pontons-Melo JC, Furuse AY, Mondelli J. A direct composite resin stratification technique for restoration of the smile. Quintessence Int. 2011;42:205-211.
- Prieto LT, Araujo CT, de Oliveira DC, et al. Minimally invasive cosmetic dentistry: smile reconstruction using direct resin bonding. Gen Dent. 2014;62:e28-e31.
- Fahl N Jr. Achieving ultimate anterior esthetics with a new microhybrid composite. Compend Contin Educ Dent Suppl. 2000;26:4-13.
- Frese C, Schiller P, Staehle HJ, et al. Recontouring teeth and closing diastemas with direct composite buildups: a 5-year follow-up. J Dent. 2013;41:979-985.
- Al-Khayatt AS, Ray-Chaudhuri A, Poyser NJ, et al. Direct composite restorations for the worn mandibular anterior dentition: a 7-year follow-up of a prospective randomised controlled split-mouth clinical trial. J Oral Rehabil. 2013;40:389-401.
- Gresnigt MM, Kalk W, Ozcan M. Randomized controlled split-mouth clinical trial of direct laminate veneers with two micro-hybrid resin composites. J Dent. 2012;40:766-775.
- Feilzer AJ, de Gee AJ, Davidson CL. Relaxation of polymerization contraction shear stress by hygroscopic expansion. J Dent Res. 1990;69:36-39.
- Versluis A, Tantbirojn D, Lee MS, et al. Can hygroscopic expansion compensate polymerization shrinkage? Part I. Deformation of restored teeth. Dent Mater. 2011;27:126-133.
Disclosure: The authors report no disclosures.


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After the shootings of "No Problem" were completed and actress Sushmita Sen proved her skills, director Anees Bazmee said that he enjoyed greatly working with the actress, and he does not understand why she will not be participating in the activities of promoting his future project, a laugh riot. A photo shoot started a couple of days ago, and only Rahul Nanda came to participate. Sushmita did not make an appearance, and the director still does not know why. Sashmita is now absent from all posters and promotional photos for the film.
"No problem" is going to hit the theatres by the end of this week, and the actress did not participate at any press meeting, interview or media event for the film. Bazmee claims that the actress is a big star and has all rights to take part in the events related to "No Problem". He does not know if she had a problem with somebody, but he really felt great working with her and promised he will try to sign her in as many movies as he can.


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Ricky & Randy Smith
Martial Arts Background:
(Click on underlined text for more information)
Over forty years of martial art experience.
8th Degree Black Belts/American Open Style Karate/Grandmaster Jerry Piddington.
8th Degree Black Belts/American Jee Do Kwan Karate/Grandmaster Dave Adams.
5th Degree Black Belts/American Karate Systems/Grandmaster Joe Lewis.
5th Degree Black Belts/Okinawan Shuri-ryu Karate-do/Hanshi John Pachivas.
2nd Degree Black Belt/Shurite Ju-jitsu/Shihan Troy Price.
Ranked 10th in the world & 3rd in U.S.A. in Kickboxing/NKA/1977.
World Tag Team Kickboxing Champions/NKA/1977 & 1978.
Members of undefeated kickboxing team - The Charlotte Warhawks.
Featured in Karate Illustrated Magazine/June 1977.
Inducted into World Martial Arts Hall of Fame/Instructors of the Year/1994.
Kata Grand Champion/World Martial Arts Hall of Fame Championships/1994.
Seventeen Kata Tomoe Warrior Award presented by Hanshi Piddington/1997.
Pinnacle Tomoe Warrior Award presented by Hanshi Piddington (1 of only 6), highest honor in the AKANA/2000
Founders of SideKick Karate & SideKick MMA franchise with schools presently located in China Grove, Salisbury, and Concord.
Promoted Living Legends Hall of Fame & Celebrity Roast honoring Hanshi Piddington along with the greatest fighters and martial artist of our era such as Howard Jackson, Joe Lewis, Jeff Smith, Don Wilson, & Bob Wall/2003.
Founders of American Open Karate System.
Creators of Get Started in Karate instructional video series.
Authors of three volumes of American Open Karate Illustrated Training Manuals from White Belt to 2nd Degree Black Belt/endorsed by A.K.A.N.A.
Charitable Activities:
Founders of Double Impact Ministries involved in nationwide youth outreach.
Founders of Double Impact Karate Team - Kicking Drugs Out of America, actively involved in the N.C. School System.
Founders and promoters of Bushido Warrior Sparring Tournament as fundraiser for Godstock since 2004 raising over $100,000.00.
Founders and promoters of China Grove 5K Challenge as fundraiser for YMCA Youth Camp since 2000.
Angel With A Kick - a Dave Adams Film starring Thomas La Puppet and Ricky & Randy Smith.
The Quest - A Universal Picture starring Jean-Claude Van Damme and Roger Moore. Ricky was a stuntman and portrayed a pirate.
Bloodsport II: The Next Kumite - An FM Entertainment Production starring Pat Morita (Mr. Miyagi) and Daniel Bernhardt. Ricky portrayed a fighter in The Kumite.
The Russian Godfather - A Hollywood Star Entertainment Production starring Jeff Conway. Ricky and Randy were stuntmen and portrayed bodyguards.
Side Kick Karate 2012 | Design Credits: AWebsiteToGo.com


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SAG awards to finally let red-carpet fashion shine
By Alexandria Sage
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - The lack of Hollywood awards shows this year due to the screenwriters' strike leaves not only spotlight-craving stars in the lurch but means a lot of designer gowns hanging unworn and unloved in closets.
The good news for fashionistas is that the red-carpet glamour parade outside the Screen Actors Guild Awards on Sunday will bring stars such as Angelina Jolie and Cate Blanchett back into the spotlight.
After the Golden Globe Awards were scaled down to a news conference -- and with the fate of the Oscars still unknown -- the SAG awards may be this year's only chance for Hollywood to reign over the fashion world.
"This town is eager to show up. This town is eager to dress up, and they're going to," said Hal Rubenstein, fashion director for InStyle magazine. "It's got to matter more because there's been nothing to look at."
The strike by Hollywood writers, now in its 12th week, has crippled the local economy, halting TV production, delaying movies and putting people out of work. While other awards shows were canceled, SAG received a waiver from the striking Writers Guild of America.
Designers like Los Angeles-based Kevan Hall, whose gowns appear regularly on stars such as Felicity Huffman, Katherine Heigl and Vanessa Williams, have felt the impact of the strike.
Hall said he chose not to design any one-of-a-kind couture gowns exclusively for one actress. Instead, any gown of his will come from his existing collection.
"From the very beginning, no one was clear as to what would happen. It made it difficult as to whether we wanted to commit to making and creating these gowns that would not be worn." Continued...


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Reports in London claim BCFC are interested in bringing back former academy product.
Yes please
no thanks
All these ex players linked....who next? Wade Elliott?
How many midfielders do we need??
Smells like agent talk, former club is an easy link to make
I think thats it, weve been linked to everyone now.
All these ex players linked....who next? Wade Elliott?
Injury prone but he'd be great as the deep lying midfielder who gets the ball of the centre backs and starts the moves.
10x the player Gleeson is, gerrim in.
Would rather have your man from Granada.
What's happening, is he not bothering now?
All these ex players linked....who next? Wade Elliott?
Good call, we could maybe tempt him with a player coach roll ?, I reckon he's got one more comeback in him, should be well rested, get him in.
Or maybe everyone's favourite....Olly Lee
Mentally a bit unstable by all accounts,
'Injuries' are all in his head - shame really because a few years back he bagged 7-8 goals for Cardiff in the Prem and you'd hope he'd kick on.
earning 40k a week doesn't make you a robot.
Not for me ...
Maybe a gee up to get the Karin lad ???
. It'll give me something to moan aboutQuote
All these ex players linked....who next? Wade Elliott?
I think his younger brother is touting himself about again. Stealing a living off his Fathers name, think I read somewhere he's striker who's managed about 4 goals in 5 seasons.
Perhaps we could get him in
Really? I'd much rather Mutch.
It looks like the Slovenian chap isn't coming.
No ta
The Jordon Mutch of a year or two ago is exactly the type of player we need. Demands the ball of the back four, starts moves but also gets from box to box and chips in with his fair share of goals.
God knows how far away he is from that in terms of fitness etc.
Too many doubts for me.
Reece Brown has more potential in this role.
Fingers crossed for this one. A good ball player with an eye for goal. Looked a top player for Cardiff. Gerrim in!
Hmmmmmm, I could take him or leave him if im honest. If we are being honest, he hasn't set the world alight.
He wouldn't come back anyway
Good player at championship level
glove wearing fanny
get him in
Blues are interested in signing their former playmaker Jordon Mutch, with Reading also interested, according to the Croydon Advertiser .
Shouldn't we be getting these rumours in December and actually signing these people now?
Who's that? She don't look very well.
Wouldn't do,Amy winehouse en it ?


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Find Hotels in Doorwerth
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Whidbey Island Real Estate Information
Updates, news and information about Whidbey Island Real Estate.
Updates, news and information about Whidbey Island Real Estate.
September is upon us and if you want to sell your home before the year's end, there are a few things you should know!
Get a Great Agent - Oddly enough, I happen to know one, so can help you with this step. Call me for the inside scoop! However, if you DO want to shop around, keep in mind that you need a real estate agent who is highly visible if you truly want to sell your home. I would encourage that you ensure that your agent is a Realtor, a member of the National Association of Realtors.
Marketing is not just done with signs, classified advertising and open houses anymore. Nowadays you need someone well-versed in social media, listing syndication, and internet marketing. In fact, if you have a Facebook page, you can even post your home for sale to your profile to gain as much exposure as possible. Combine those technical details with THE most informed agent in your town, and you are sure to have a winning combination.
Do your research and ASK why you should choose to be represented by the agent you interview – and make sure you like the answer.
Know Your Pricing & Price to Sell - Your real estate agent should be able to advise you on this, but if you are in a hurry, don't be afraid to ask a little less. Listing at 10% below your "wish" price could get more offers in record time and actually increase your sale price to what you would have originally hoped to list at. You'll also waste less time having to negotiate counter offers from buyers who think they can "talk you down." Also, when considering offers, remember to take the one most likely to lead to a sale (your real estate agent should advise you on this, as well).
Curb Appeal - Make your home beautiful on the outside and on the inside. It is much easier to sell a home quickly if it looks well-maintained and CLEAN. Do not scrimp on gardening or maintenance at this time. Your home for sale needs to be in tip-top shape!
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