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Department of the Army Historical Summary: FY 1979
Intelligence, Automation, and Communications
The commander and his staff, at any level, may be compared to the human brain. The staff resembles the cognitive, analytical part of the brain; the commander, the decision making part. Neither staff nor commander can function effectively without the timely receipt and transmission of information. Intelligence collectors and analysts receive, process, and communicate vital information to the staff. After conferring with his staff, the commander communicates command and control decisions to his fighting forces. Along with the intelligence network, telecommunications is an important part of an Army unit.
Since the early 1960's, the Department of Defense has gradually increased its interest in strategic military intelligence. The Army correspondingly has expanded its efforts in the area of tactical intelligence. Following publication of the Intelligence Organization and Stationing Study in 1975, the Army decentralized its intelligence structure to provide more tactical intelligence support directly to subordinates, especially to commanders in the field.
In 1976 Congress directed the separation of tactical intelligence functions from the National Foreign Intelligence Program (NFIP). This assured accelerated development of intelligence systems better suited to the needs of the tactical commanders. The Department of Defense responded in fiscal year 1979 by removing the tactical aspects of cryptology and electronic warfare from the NFIP. While placing the director of the National Security Agency (NSA) in charge of the new Tactical Cryptological Program, the Department of Defense drafted proposals to integrate the functions of electronic warfare and tactical intelligence into units providing direct support to theater echelons and below. The Army subsequently submitted copies of the proposals to the German Army for their consideration and emulation to create greater interoperability between the ground forces of the two powers.
During implementation of the Intelligence Organization and Stationing Study (IOSS), the Army encountered problems with strategic materiel developed by NSA. The much more rapid NSA
materiel and development cycle was inconsistent with the Army's life cycle model which allowed the lead time necessary for programming adequate personnel and training support. A December 1978 Memorandum of Understanding addressed the problems and established procedures which aligned the materiel acquisition policies and mission requirements of both agencies. The Intelligence and Security Command (INSCOM) is preparing a pamphlet that will describe the responsibilities of the NSA system acquisition and logistic managers and will explain INSCOM and other Army major command relationships and participation in the development, fielding, and life cycle support for NSA-developed items.
National intelligence agencies also collaborated with Army intelligence in meeting the intelligence needs of tactical commanders whose units would deploy in the initial stages of a crisis without benefit of maps, weather data, target area intelligence, and other information: After meeting with representatives from the Air Force and national intelligence agencies, the Army Assistant Chief of Staff for Intelligence (ACSI), in July 1979, distributed procedures for crisis management to all CONUS units for testing in December. Crisis management and reorganization of tactical intelligence support was also a concern for the U.S. Army Special Security Group (USASSG) Headquarters where the staff identified key actions to be taken and functions to be continued during the eve or outbreak of war.
Upon establishment of the U.S. Army Western Command (WESTCOM) in March 1979, the Special Security Office (SSO), Hawaii, an element of USASSG's Special Security Command, FORSCOM, was redesignated the Special Security Command, WESTCOM. This was in keeping with the Army policy of providing SSO support directly to major commands. In a related development, the USASSG decentralized responsibility for contractor support to individual SSO's. The new contractor support program began on 1 January 1979 and involved twenty-five SSO's and four Special Security Commands.
Developments in tactical intelligence readiness training since 1976 also reflected the Army's emphasis on responsive tactical intelligence support. In early 1979 ACSI established Project REDTRAIN to produce better qualified intelligence personnel and more adequate intelligence information for operational planning. INSCOM administers the program and conducts readiness training at national and unit levels for members of the active Army, the Army Reserve, and the National Guard. Pleased with the quality of reservists trained at the three Intelligence Training
Army Area Schools, the U.S. Army Forces Command (FORSCOM) cancelled plans to consolidate the schools in a year-round reserve component training operation at the U.S. Army Intelligence School, Fort Huachuca, Arizona.
Army intelligence reviewed intelligence training programs, expanding the successful while curtailing or eliminating marginal programs. The Opposing Force Program (OPFOR) conducted by FORSCOM, with support from TRADOC and the Department of the Army, proved to be highly successful. Having helped every division to field a company-size or larger unit to play the role of the enemy in training exercises, FORSCOM sought to establish opposing force detachments at the brigade level, and two battalion opposing force detachments were established at the U.S. Army National Training Center, Fort Irwin, California. Overseas, U.S. Army, Europe, fielded a detachment-size opposing force unit and provided opposing force training at the 7th Army Training Center. The Eighth Army in Korea planned a similar, but more modest program. Meanwhile, FORSCOM enhanced the realism of training by providing updated manuals on enemy tactics and by obtaining enemy weapons.
The warrant officer terrain analysis technician program, established in early 1979, will begin in 1980. The program will train warrant officers in terrain analysis and in the evaluation of the impact of weather upon the terrain and weapons systems. Billets were authorized for new warrant officers for terrain detachments at corps and division levels, the Defense Mapping School, and the Engineer School. The Army also planned to reclassify thirty-five active and ten reserve spaces for the new military occupational specialty and to train twelve new warrant officers annually for the next three fiscal years at the Defense Mapping School.
In contrast, the meteorological observer program came under considerable criticism. During the previous two fiscal years, the Army Audit Agency charged that the program was poorly managed and recommended that the Army phase out meteorological observers and transfer their functions to civilians. A special task force from the office of the Vice Chief of Staff concurred with that recommendation but the U.S. Army Development and Readiness Command dissented and proposed that meteorological specialists be replaced by artillery ballistic meteorological observers. The Deputy Chief of Staff for Research, Development, and Acquisition is to consider both proposals and forward a recommendation to the Vice Chief of Staff.
The Army System for Standard Intelligence Support Ter-
minals (ASSIST) was established in 1973 to improve Army intelligence data handling systems by standardizing both computer hardware and software, internetting computers, providing access to national intelligence data bases, and achieving compatibility between Army and Department of Defense computerized command and control systems. During the past year, receipt of various types of computer software—programs, program languages, graphics—at several ASSIST sites permitted additional access to computer systems of the Defense Intelligence Agency. Computer software from the Army Standard Plotter System enhanced the flexibility and capability of the graphic display of intelligence data. ASSIST participants also received new computers, terminals with a graphics capability, and other equipment designed to enhance computer capability.
To provide automated intelligence data to commanders on the move, the Army has acquired the initial series of mobile computer complexes of the Intelligence Information Subsystem.
Each complex consists of commercial data processing equipment mounted on five-ton Army trucks capable of moving with support units to field locations to provide rapid automated intelligence support. The complexes are of two types: mobile intelligence centers and mobile remote intelligence terminals. Each center includes data base storage and communications switching capabilities. The terminals provide intelligence analysts at support echelons with facilities that permit ready access, not only to the mobile intelligence center, but through them to data bases and other analysts in Europe and in the U.S. The Army delivered the first of the new mobile computer complexes to U.S. Army, Europe, in June 1979.
Despite technological breakthroughs in intelligence collection and strong criticism from Congress during the turbulent years of civil rights and antiwar activism, Human Resources Intelligence (HUMINT) continued to play a crucial role in the Army intelligence program. Congressional criticism was derived from public concern that Army intelligence agents had exceeded the limit of constitutionality when assisting police and national intelligence agencies to conduct surveillance of U.S. civilians. Members of Congress, the Office of Management and Budget, the Department of Defense, and the Director of Central Intelligence continue to scrutinize HUMINT. However, adherence to restrictions and pursuit of justifiable missions has enabled HUMINT to respond to this criticism, and has obtained approximately the same resources this fiscal year as it did in the previous two. To counteract the erosive effects of inflation, Army intelligence is
preparing a long-range master plan to conserve and more fully employ its limited human resources over the next five years. During the year, HUMINT satisfied most of the tactical intelligence requirements commanders imposed. However, the lack of adequately trained linguists may limit tactical intelligence support in the future. Emergency funding of certain language programs, such as intermediate and advanced language training for the 66th Military Intelligence Group in USAREUR averted any immediate crisis, and a comprehensive long-range plan for overseas language training to meet future needs is being devised.
The exchange of military officer students and military attaches is practiced among nations enjoying normal diplomatic relations. To a limited extent, such programs permit the participants to scrutinize each other's decision making capability. This fiscal year, the Army trained ninety student officers in foreign area programs in twenty-three countries. Although political events forced the Army to terminate overseas training in El Salvador, Nicaragua, Taiwan, and Iran, the Army established two new schools for China area studies in Singapore and Hong Kong. The Foreign Liaison Directorate of the Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff for Intelligence (OACSI) continued to provide contact between the Army and foreign military attaches. During the year, the directorate accredited 558 foreign national personnel, including attaches from the People's Republic of China and Somalia, to conduct business directly with the Army but withdrew accreditation of the attaches from Taiwan and Iran.
Whether generated by computers, agents, analysts, students, or military attaches, the staggering amount of intelligence information produced requires the protection of an elaborate classification system. In the past, however, users often evaded their responsibility to classify such information or failed to declassify items no longer requiring protection. This resulted in far too much information being denied unnecessarily to people without a security clearance.
In order to protect vital defense information while making other information available to the public, the President issued Executive Order 12065. It replaces Executive Order 11652 and makes obsolete the Advanced Declassification Schedule, the General Declassification Schedule, and all markings related thereto. Executive Order 12065 also made changes regarding the authority, criteria, and duration for classification.
Within the Army, Executive Order 12065 permits the delegation of authority to classify TOP SECRET, SECRET, or CONFIDENTIAL only to those subordinate officials with a frequent
need to exercise such authority. The Secretary of the Army alone delegates authority to classify TOP SECRET, but the Assistant Chief of Staff for Intelligence may delegate authority concerning the classification of SECRET or CONFIDENTIAL. The executive order further stipulates that such delegation will be held to an absolute minimum and will not be given to persons who merely reproduce, extract, or summarize classified information.
The executive order provides specific guidance on the types of information requiring classification in the interest of national security: (1) military plans, weapons, or operations; (2) information provided by foreign governments pursuant to written joint agreements requiring confidentiality; (3) intelligence activities, sources, or methods; (4) foreign relations or activities of the U.S.; (5) scientific, technological, or economic matters relating to national security; and (6) U.S. government programs for safeguarding nuclear materials or facilities.
Perhaps the most significant provision of the executive order is the duration of classification. At the time of classification for SECRET or CONFIDENTIAL, a date is designated, being no more than six years later for automatic declassification. TOP SECRET material may be classified for more than six years, but no more than twenty, and information provided by foreign governments may be protected for up to thirty years.
The Army significantly improved its support of field commanders during the current fiscal year by redistributing tactical intelligence specialists and computer systems to the lowest echelons and by augmenting successful tactical intelligence training programs. At the same time, the Army implemented a policy of maximum disclosure with regard to programs and information no longer requiring protection. Continued emphasis will be placed on improved tactical intelligence support and security measures.
Automation and Communications
In recent years the Army's telecommunications structure experienced a metamorphosis paralleling that of the Army's intelligence organization. While some of the responsibility for strategic telecommunications passed from the Army to the Department of Defense (DOD), the Army retained and strengthened its role in tactical telecommunications. During fiscal year 1979, the Army continued participation in three DOD-sponsored programs: the Joint Tactical Communications Program (TRI-TAC), the Joint Tactical Information Distribution System (JTIDS), and the Joint Interoperability of Tactical Command and Control System
(JINTACCS). These programs are designed to modernize communications equipment for more compatibility with that of our allies and to develop standards for the interoperability of tactical command and control systems.
Under the TRI-TAC program, each service is developing items of telecommunications equipment to be used by all the services in the 1980's. The Department of Defense tasked the Army with the responsibility of developing several key items: automatic switches, digital group multiplexers, net radio interface units, mobile subscriber equipment, modular record traffic terminals, and short-range wide-band radios.
At the heart of the TRI-TAC system, automatic switches make possible the speedy and reliable transmission of tactical command and control messages, data, and voice communications. Private contractors continued to develop and test the AN/TTC-39 circuit switch for interoperability with other TRI-TAC equipment. Meanwhile, the Army tested and evaluated the AN/TYC-39 message switch. Preliminary results indicated satisfactory performance.
To provide large capacity radio systems with several channels of communication on the same frequency, the Army designed and built prototypes of digital group multiplex equipment and two related assemblages, the AN/TRC-173 and the AN/TRC-174. Testing and evaluation of all three items has begun.
Army commanders control tactical forces primarily by means of combat net radios. Under the Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio Subsystem (SINCGARS), the Army evolved a secure, jam-resistant family of VHF-FM radios suitable for joint use and compatible with the radios of the NATO ground forces. To permit wire subscribers to communicate through a switchboard to radio subscribers, the Army also developed a basic net radio interface analog device. Following satisfactory testing at the Joint Test Facility, Fort Huachuca, Arizona, the Army distributed the new devices to selected units for field testing.
The Vice Chief of Staff designated mobile subscriber equipment as a major program in 1977. In February 1978 the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations and Plans formed a special task force to outline initial program data requirements and ways of harmonizing the new equipment with that of the United Kingdom and the Federal Republic of Germany. An agreement in principle has been signed between the United States and the Federal Republic of Germany to examine the possible cooperative development and production of mobile subscriber equipment.
The modular record traffic terminal and the short-range
wide-band radio are other key items still in development and testing. During fiscal year 1979, the Army continued to test and evaluate two components of the modular record traffic terminal that had been produced the previous year—the single subscriber terminal and the modular tactical communications center. At the same time, ITT engineers successfully modified the AN/GRC-144 radio for short-range wide-band capability.
In testifying before the House Appropriations Hearings in April 1979, the Assistant Secretary of Defense, Communications, Command, Control, and Intelligence, Dr. Gerald P. Dineen, emphasized the necessity for security to parallel the breakthroughs in communications technology:
With increasing reliance on rapid high-capacity communications to support command decision-making and precision force control, it is more than ever critical that we protect our systems against unauthorized access and exploitation by hostile intelligence activities and communications deception.
By providing voice security for tactical radio nets down to the battalion level, the new Vinson cryptographic devices met a portion of the need outlined by Dr. Dineen. The Army has distributed initial production models of this new device to U.S. Army, Europe. During exercise CONSTANT ENFORCER last summer, V Corps reported that use of the device was "extremely successful" and that the equipment was "fully accepted and appreciated" by commanders at all levels.
Like TRI-TAC, the Joint Tactical Information Distribution System (JTIDS) represented another interservice tactical communications program. Through JTIDS, the Department of Defense sought establishment of a communications loop system with air, ship, and ground terminals. Charged with responsibility for ground terminals, the Army continued to provide research and develop funds for a manpack-size terminal capable of distributing secure high speed digital and voice communications to the tactical commander during combat.
In 1979, the Department of Defense authorized the development of a cross between JTIDS and the Position Location and Reporting System (PLRS) to provide an Army Data Distribution System (ADDS). The PLRS portion of the system would offer such capabilities as location and navigation information, unique identification, and digital data message exchange. PLRS equipment includes master units for use in vans and portable units that can be employed in manpacks, in land vehicles, or on board aircraft.
Under the auspices of the Tactical Air Control Systems/
Tactical Air Defense Systems (TACS/TADS), a joint program in which the Navy acted as executive agent for the JCS, the Army worked on the AN/TSQ-73, a command and control system for missiles, commonly known as "Missile Minder." The Army corrected deficiencies in radar used in conjunction with the Missile Minders and implemented procedures for combined use of the system with the Air Force. After deploying the Missile Minders to Europe in September 1979, the Army immediately began distributing them to CONUS units. In two field exercises involving the AN/TSQ-73's, the 11th Air Defense Group, Fort Bliss, Texas, successfully exchanged information with a compatible Air Force system.
The third interservice program bore the acronym JINTACCS (Joint Interoperability of Tactical Command and Control System). Interoperability has become a key word in recent years because systems that are incompatible could result in a loss of command and control, especially for the tactical commanders. Within the TRI-TAC, JTIDS, and TACS/TADS programs, the Army emphasized the development of new equipment for common usage between the services. In JINTACCS, the Army, acting as the Joint Chiefs of Staff's executive agent, coordinated the efforts of the services, NSA and DIA, in developing the standards required to achieve the interoperability of tactical command and control systems.
In 1979 the Army published various JINTACCS Technical Interface Design Plans (TIDP's) for air and amphibious operations and continued work on other TIDP's for operations control and fire support. Compatibility and interoperability testing in the area of general intelligence began at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, where a test center had been established. In related activities, JINTACCS was expanded to include support for centralized, coordinated U.S. involvement in NATO interoperability efforts.
At the strategic level of military telecommunications, the Department of Defense established the National Military Command System with lines of communication running from Washington to unified and specified command posts around the world. At the nation's capital, the Army established the Washington Area Wide-band System to connect several local Defense Communications System user terminals. With facilities leased from Western Union, the Washington Area Wide-band System provides users high data transmission rates capable of combining several voice channels into one. Operational since early 1979, the system will enroll new users as additional terminal facilities become available.
U.S. Army, Europe, contributed to three DOD-sponsored telecommunications programs: the European Telephone System, the Defense Communications System, and the Defense Satellite Communications System. Designed to handle USAREUR's routine message traffic and to alert combat forces for deployment, the European Telephone System depended upon obsolete switching equipment to provide reliable voice communications. In a memorandum signed with the German Ministry of Post and Telecommunications in November 1978, the Army agreed to purchase twenty-two electronic digital telephone switches to modernize the European Telephone System.
The Army also began conversion of the Defense Communication System's mainline transmission network in Europe from an obsolete analog formation to a modern, all-encrypted, high speed digital mode. To be completed in four stages by 1986, the mainline system, known as the Digital European Backbone, will extend from northern Italy through Germany, Belgium, and the United Kingdom. In each country the Army will link up the mainline system with the tributary tactical communications links of USAREUR's subordinate commands.
Superhigh frequency satellites comprise the Defense Satellite Communications System (DSCS). Designed primarily for strategic communications, the satellites also satisfy many tactical requirements of U.S. and allied ground forces. In June 1979 the Department of Defense approved plans for the Defense Satellite Communications System to augment second generation satellites already in orbit with the more powerful and sophisticated third generation models. A third generation DSCS prototype was launched in June and plans call for launching another in early 1980. A series of production line satellites will take permanent orbits later.
The Army took several steps to construct or renovate satellite ground stations and related subsystems. It constructed three additional gateway stations; began procurement of medium satellite terminals (AN/GSC-39) to replace the outmoded AN/TSC-54's and AN/MSC-46's; developed a computerized and automated subsystem for controlling satellites in orbit; deployed twenty-three digital communications subsystems; and contracted for antijamming equipment. The Army also coordinated with the ground forces of NATO for interoperable use of the satellite system. Agreements reached should be validated by the JCS in early 1980 and implemented shortly thereafter.
In the Ground Mobile Forces Program, the Department of Defense employed ultrahigh frequency satellites to provide all
services with fleet broadcast, ship-to-shore, and shore-to-ship tactical communications. In early 1978 the Department of Defense began substituting the Fleet Satellite Communications System (FLTSATCOM) for the outmoded satellites of the Gap Filler program in operation since 1976. Launching of FLTSATCOM satellites will continue through the early 1980's.
Tactical application of communications satellites involved development of ground terminals. In November 1978 the Army began production of specially designed ground terminals capable of linking satellites directly to ground units, yet portable enough to be carried by vehicle or manpack under the highly fluid conditions of combat. The Army scheduled distribution of the new terminals to brigade and higher echelons of the Army, Marine Corps, and Air Force to begin in 1981. In anticipation of receiving the new ground terminals and other advanced telecommunications equipment, USAREUR began work on the Nuclear Forces Communications Support Improvement Plan to integrate the new technology with command and control of U.S. and NATO ground troops. Concurrent with the production of satellite ground terminals, the NAVSTAR Global Positioning System moved from the design phase to full scale engineering development. Under NAVSTAR twenty-four satellites will provide worldwide position and navigation information to a three-dimensional accuracy of less than ten meters.
In recognition of the close interrelationship between the technologies of communications and automation, the Army, in October 1978, created the Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff for Automation and Communications (ACSAC). The new office produced the Study of Management-Automation and Communications, generating new regulations and a new model life cycle for the management of the Army's automated data handling processes.
The Study of Management also recommended consolidation of technology and automation organizations throughout the Army, a recommendation that meshed with the national policy of saving manpower and cutting costs to fight inflation. During the past two fiscal years, the Army consolidated the facilities of the Defense Special Security Communications System with those of the General Services Telecommunications Centers at twenty sites worldwide and plan to consolidate at least twenty-five additional sites for a combined savings of nearly 100 military personnel spaces and up to $2.5 million annually.
The Secretary of Defense directed similar consolidation at
the joint level. Within the Pentagon, the message centers of the JCS and the Navy will join the combined message center of the Army and the Air Force in late 1979 at a total savings of $2.4 million.
The main computer system of the Pentagon became operational in January 1979. When fully completed, the system will permit reception and transmission of messages between the Army and the Air Force Telecommunications Center and the Marine Corps and Navy Personnel Telecommunications Center in the Arlington Annex. The main computer system will further provide message storage and retrieval for the JCS Message Centers of both the Pentagon and Fort Ritchie. However, manpower shortages and delays in equipment delivery have postponed completion of the main computer system from April 1981 until March 1982.
In 1979, the Army continued development of several computer-oriented management information systems. These systems supply the data required for solution of the highly complex problems inherent in force structuring. The Army adopted a new technique for documentation of the Vertical Force Development Management Information System (VFDMIS), designed to enhance its capability to meet both wartime and peacetime management requirements. This technique, called structured analysis, was the third to be tested by the VFDMIS development team. The two previous methods had failed to produce the desired results. Flow charts produced by structured analysis will define force management functions and processes and will provide a graphic representation of their interdependence. By the end of fiscal year 1979, the U.S. Army Communications Command had completed the communications engineering design plan for the communications network, an important step in the preparation of the first test of VFDMIS, scheduled for the second quarter of fiscal year 1981.
At Headquarters, Department of the Army, work continued on the Force Development Integrated Management System (FORDIMS), which, like VFDMIS, is designed to provide data to support force structuring, as well as information pertinent to manpower management. By the close of fiscal year 1979, two of the three subsystems of FORDIMS—Program Budget and Force Structure—were approximately 50 percent completed (the third is the Authorization Subsystem). The goal is to have FORDIMS fully functional by the second quarter of fiscal year 1981.
When VFDMIS and FORDIMS become operational, they
will, in addition to their primary function, provide a source of information for the Structure and Composition System (SACS), which supplies lists of personnel and equipment requirements for current and planned units of the Army. These lists are used in planning acquisition and distribution of equipment and in personnel procurement, training, and distribution. In a one-year study completed in August 1979, General Research Corporation investigated the feasibility of putting into an online configuration all or part of SACS. The recommendations made (including those on accuracy and timeliness) of the data input and output of the system will be used to improve SACS's ultimate performance.
The Army Authorization Documents System (TAADS) continued to expand during the year. This system supplies data on organization, personnel, and equipment to support units in performance of their assigned missions. The Vertical TAADS (VTAADS), providing documentation for major commands and agencies, was extended to the U.S. Military Academy, Western Command, and to the U.S. Army Computer Systems Command, bringing the total to fifteen commands using VTAADS. In addition to the original extension plan for the Installation TAADS (ITAADS) which is completed, one additional site, the Harry Diamond Laboratory, was added. This brought the number of ITAADS users to forty-eight. The Army is considering the extension of VTAADS to Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) and the extension of ITAADS to four sites within U.S. Army, Europe—the Seventh Army and the U.S. Army Communications Command activities in CONUS, Europe, Japan, and Korea. Korea is the first expansion of ITAADS overseas.
Other aspects of the Army's progress in the area of automation information are covered elsewhere, particularly in Chapters 3, 9, and 10.
During the past year, the familiar themes of innovation, security, interoperability, and consolidation again prevailed in the related fields of communications and automation. Cognizant of the Army's primary role in enhancing the tactical commanders' command and control, Army staff, Army field agencies, and private contractors joined to develop or distribute a variety of devices that enhanced communications and greater compatibility with the systems of other services without sacrificing necessary security. The Army also participated in several DOD-sponsored strategic programs by installing systems or components for use above the theater level. In many cases strategic programs conferred immediate benefits to tactical commanders. To cut the
costs of modernizing both tactical and strategic systems, the Army consolidated its computers and message centers at scores of sites throughout the world and with those of other services at the Pentagon.
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Posts Tagged 'portrait'
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Board of Rabbis' Hanukkah party at L.A. City Hall: "Bigger and better than ever"
Local rabbis, cantors, Los Angeles City Council members, community members and many others came together and celebrated Hanukkah early this year at Los Angeles City Hall.
Approximately 125 people turned out for the Board of Rabbis of Southern California's third annual Hanukkah celebration at City Hall, taking place on the afternoon of Tuesday, December 13.
"This was bigger and better than ever," said Rabbi Mark Diamond, executive vice president of the Board of Rabbis.
For the past three years, the Board of Rabbis, a transdenominational organization with over 300 rabbis as members, has held a free and open-to-the-public Hanukkah party at City Hall as a way to bring together the intrafaith Jewish community and local leaders both Jewish and non-Jewish. The party is held with the Office of Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa.
This year's one-hour event took place in the City Hall rotunda room. A Menorah, with nine light bulbs, stood on the stage and an even bigger Christmas tree – not apart of the celebration – decorated the center of the room. Villarigosa was not in attendance, as he is in China.
Rabbis and local officials delivered speeches one at a time while taking turns lighting candles on the menorah (well, actually, twisting a bulb on the menorah). Attendees enjoyed live music – courtesy of OurSpace, Temple Aliyah's special needs children's and young adult choir and Temple Beth Hillel's choir – and free sufganiyot and Coffee Bean coffee.
City council members couldn't participate to the full extent that the event organizers had hoped, as council was in session at the same time of the party and voting on an issue – much like a minyan, city council votes require ten members, and since there were only 11 city council members present on the day of the party, one at a time came out to the party in the rotunda room and either lit a candle or briefly danced.
"It was a great little festival to kick off Hanukkah, said Councilmember Tom LaBonge, speaking after the party in an interview.
"I came to dance and said, 'Happy Hanuukah to everyone,'" he said.
Watch post-party video interviews with attendees:
City Council President Eric Garcetti lit one of the candles at the party; City Attorney Carmen Trutanich, City Controller Wendy Gruel, Assemblymember Mike Feuer were among the attendees.
Councilmembers Paul Koretz, Paul Krekorian, Jose Huizar and Bill Rosendahl and Jan Perry dropped by as well, as did Andrew Cushnir, executive vice president of the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles and David Siegel, Israel's consul general for the southwestern United States.
Appointed to the position of consul general at the end this past summer, the event was Siegel's first Hanukkah celebration at City Hall.
Participating clergy included Rabbi Judith HaLevy (Malibu Jewish Center and Synagogue), Rabbi Sarah Hronsky (Temple Beth Hillel), Rabbi Joshua Hoffman (Valley Beth Shalom), Rabbi Gilbert Kollin (Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center), Rabbi Sarah Bassin (NewGround, a Jewish-Muslim bridge-building organization); and Cantors Marcelo Gindlin and Mike Stein.
In addition to music and food, the event featured plenty of expressions of solidarity.
"One of the best things that this event brings out is the ability of [L.A.] City Council to speak and to share their thoughts, and they all share their affiliation and their appreciation for the Jewish community," Hoffman said. "They all talk about the underlying values that Hanukkah is all about and they really attach them to what the mission of the city is and the work that they do."
Hanukkah doesn't start until December 20, but the Board of Rabbis held the party early to accommodate the vacation schedules of city council members.
Diamond said that he and other clergy used to take issue with a Hanukkah celebration in a public space, but he no longer feels that way. "I think it's a wonderful reflection of the joy of Hanukkah," he said.
Hronsky, who served as master of ceremonies and co-chaired the event with Hoffman, emphasized the diverse crowd the event attracts, "To have all of these communities join together to celebrate freedom of religions as well as the dedication of the temple is a beautiful thing," she said.
"Truly a gift," she added. Perhaps it was the perfect one for Hanukkah.


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TRURO – For the third time in four years Brian MacLeod is champion of the U.S. Open blind golf championship.
MacLeod rallied from a one-shot deficit midway through the final round and cruised to a 15-stroke victory at the 36-hole event in Exeter, R.I. on Tuesday.
"I lost it last year, but got it back this year," a pleased MacLeod told the Truro Daily News on Thursday.
MacLeod, 55, also won the U.S. Open B1 blind title in 2011 and 2012.
MacLeod carded scores of 98 and 100 at the 6,406, par-72 layout at Exeter Country Club.
The Salmon River resident took a four-stroke lead into the final round, but shot 56 on the front side, while his playing competitor, Mario Tobia of Pennsylvania, had 51 for a one-stroke advantage at the turn.
MacLeod, however, regained his composure and had 44 on the inward nine holes to run away with victory.
"Once I got a few good holes under my belt and got a little more confidence, it kinda calmed me down," said MacLeod, who made two pars, six bogeys and one double-bogey during his final nine holes.
Kevin Lemmon coached MacLeod in Rhode Island.
MacLeod's win south of the border came two weeks after he captured the Canadian Open at Mountain Golf and Country Club.
MacLeod has won 65 of 96 blind golf events since he started playing in 1996. He will tee it up in tournaments in Kentucky, Italy and San Antonio, Tex., during the next two months to finish the season.
Meanwhile, Boyde Stewart of Upper Musquodoboit won the 36-hole Stableford championship this week in Rhode Island. He was coached by his wife Jackie.


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OK-CENSUS-LOOKUP-L ArchivesArchiver > OK-CENSUS-LOOKUP > 2008-08 > 1218651716
From: "Nancy" <>
Subject: Re: [OK-CENSUS-LOOKUP] washita/custer county-Bird Keaton-1920 or1930census
Date: Wed, 13 Aug 2008 14:23:57 -0400
References: <firstname.lastname@example.com>
Could this be Bird and Martha in 1880 KY?
Name: Bird Keeton
Home in 1880: Glasgow Junction, Barren, Kentucky
Age: 48
Estimated Birth Year: abt 1832
Birthplace: Kentucky
Relation to Head of Household: Self (Head)
Spouse's Name: Martha
Father's birthplace: Kentucky
Mother's birthplace: Kentucky
Neighbors: View others on page
Marital Status: Married
Race: White
Gender: Male
Household Members: Name Age
Bird Keeton 48 KY KY KY
Martha Keeton 47 KY KY KY
James L. Smith 16 stepson TN TN KY
Wm. C. Keeton 12 son TN KY KY
Harland Keeton 10 son TN KY KY
Mattie L. Keeton 6 dau TN KY KY
----- Original Message -----
From: "Ambre Tull" <>
To: <>
Sent: Wednesday, August 13, 2008 10:19 AM
Subject: [OK-CENSUS-LOOKUP] washita/custer county-Bird Keaton-1920 or
> I am looking for Bird Keaton who is supposed to be on the 1920 or 1930
census in either Custer County or Washita County. His wife was Martha Lela
This thread:


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"Ask them to bring me something fat. And something fishy," says Xavier Rudd. The Aussie musician, who's famous for his live performances from the center of a setup bristling with everything from bongos, to a slide guitar, to an assortment of didgeridoos, isn't ordering lunch. Instead, he's focused on what he'll be riding later when he gets wet.
When Rudd's tour bus hissed to a stop in front of the House of Blues in San Diego minutes before, a mini armada of human support followed him down the steps. Roadies hustled gear. A tour manager directed him through the building with a cell phone strapped to her ear. Like most in Rudd's entourage, her mind was on the evening's show. "This looks like a good room," she said, commenting on the venue's main stage. But Rudd's thoughts seemed elsewhere, and after settling himself, legs folded, onto the carpet in a quiet corner of the building, he addressed what was on his mind. "Are there waves here today?" he asked, hopeful. He'd been on the road for weeks, promoting his new album White Moth, and it seemed the Bells Beach native was in need of a fix.
"Today's the one opportunity I'll have to surf for the next four months," he explained. And now, while patiently sitting through a series of interviews, his tour manager quietly chats on her cell to set up a session for him with a few acquaintances living nearby. The waves are miserable, but Rudd's clearly excited about getting in the water anyway, and recounts when, and how, his passion took hold.
"I reckon I was 5 or 6 when I started," he recalls. "My dad was a really good surfer, and by the time I was 10 he was dragging me out on some good days at Bells. I'd reckon they were solid, 6-foot days, and he'd tell me to wait on the shoulder. I'd see him coming through the barrel and he'd just scream at me to go. I'd drop in and he'd give me a hoot from behind—I've always loved it."
Growing up, Rudd spent much of his time in the water, but as he got older, he also began focusing on his budding interest in song. "I was fascinated by music," he says. "I taught myself to play different instruments and I'd write songs and melodies in my head."
Performing, however, was a deeply personal endeavor, and it wasn't until he met his wife Marcie—who encouraged him to take his talents public—that Rudd began to consider playing in front of a crowd. "She sort of pushed me to get it out there," he recalls. "So I started to, and when I did, people actually responded."
In the years that followed, Rudd built on that response, putting out multiple albums—one of which went platinum in Australia—and touring both at home and abroad. He also developed a wide fan following. "When people connect to my work," he says, "it makes me feel great. A lot of that stuff is really deep, and when I play something and people feel what I feel, and use it in important situations in their lives, like at weddings or funerals, that's so powerful. It means I can connect with them on an important level."
In addition to connecting him to his fans, Rudd's work has also tied him to some of the world's best surfers. Recently, he spent several days surfing with Taylor Knox after the World Tour stopped at Bells this spring. And during a show in Australia earlier in the year, none other than a guitar-strumming Kelly Slater joined him on stage. Apparently, Slater's musical affiliations extend beyond Pearl Jam. "He was a bit nervous," recalls Rudd. "He asked me what I wanted him to play and I was like, 'Dude, you're the eight-time world champion, you can play whatever you like.'"
But aside from occasionally surfing with his high-profile friends (during a break in his current tour, Rudd plans on meeting Knox for a few days in Barbados) these days, when Xavier's on the road, he says he doesn't get to spend nearly as much time in the water as he'd like. But then, he also says that his separation from surfing has only made his heart grow fonder. "I remember there'd be times I didn't surf that much when I was younger," he says. "Growing up, I took it for granted. But it's a sacred thing to me now because I only have a handful of opportunities. I have to make the most of them when I can."
And with that thought replanted in his mind, Rudd's back to inquiring about somehow scoring in San Diego, and asks his manager, again, about the dimensions of the fish she's tracking down to meet him.


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Waterville Valley Police Department
Waterville Valley Police Department is responsible
for law enforcement in the Town of Waterville Valley.
The department provides 24-hours of coverage, 7-
days a week. All law enforcement and community
related activities are achieved by 5 full-time state
certified police officers and 6 part-time certified
Services include:
Criminal Investigations
Community Relations (Citizen's Public Safety
Academy, Fishing Derby, Special Olympics,
DARE, Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, Coffee
with a Cop, and others)
Building Checks and Security (Commercial and Residential)
Prosecution in Circuit Court
Training and Education
Assistance to other departments and area agencies. (Campton, Thornton,
Grafton County Sheriff, State Police, USFS, WVMSD)
Waterville Valley Police is dispatched through the
Grafton County Sheriff's Office
in Haverhill, NH. The
Waterville Valley Police file criminal misdemeanor
and violations through the
2nd Circuit – District
Division - Plymouth
. Felony level cases are referred
to the
Grafton County Attorney
for prosecution.
The Department of Public Safety is easily located at
14 TAC Lane off of Tripoli Road. If traveling into town
from Route 49, turn left onto Tripoli Road (Towards
the Ski Area), TAC Lane is the first right from the
intersection of Route 49 and Tripoli Road.
From Town, on Route 49 (Valley Road), take a right onto Tripoli Road and the
same as above.
Waterville Valley Public Safety uses
community based information.
Stay instantly informed of trusted, Waterville Valley specific public safety and
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Grafton County has instituted the
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ultra high-speed telephone communication service for emergency notifications.
This system allows us to telephone targeted areas of Grafton County in case of
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numbers per hour. It then delivers our recorded message to a live person or an
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It is important that all residents and business within the County subscribe to the
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Subscription is quick and easy, and your information will remain confidential
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
How do I request a Police Report?
Copies of police reports can be obtained by completing the "
Record Request Form
" and
submitting to the Department of Public Safety. The instructions are written on the form.
You will need to know the date and time of the incident, the case number or the names
of the involved person(s).
NO incident reports will be authorized for release if the case is still under investigation.
There is a processig fee for each incident record requested.
How do I appeal a Parking Ticket?
Please visit the
Parking Citation Appeal Page
and follow the instructions within
10-days of violation. You may also download and print the
Parking Ticket Appeal
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Complaints against members of the department or about department operations are taken
very seriously. To ensure prompt attention, to protect the public, members, and the town,
proper procedures must be followed. Please visit the
File a Complaint
page for instructions on
making a complaint against a member of the department.
How do I apply for a Concealed Pistol Permit?
Concealed Pistol permits are issued through the Police Department in the
community where you reside. The cost of the permit is $10.00 and is valid for
four years from the date of issue. In order for Waterville Valley residents to
obtain a pistol permit, an applicant must provide his/her driver's license with
Waterville Valley as the primary address, be at least 18 years of age, and have
a criminal record check free of felony convictions.
The Police Department will obtain a criminal record check on the individual, and
note any felony or violent crimes that may prevent the issuance of the permit.
Domestic violence related crimes or restraining orders may prevent the
issuance of a permit. Pistol Permit Applications Pistol permit applications can be
obtained at the Police Department or you may
print the form
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can be dropped off or mailed to the Police Department. The permit must be
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2011 Traffic
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Waterville Valley, NH Department of Public Safety
14 TAC Lane / P.O. Box 500
Waterville Valley, New Hampshire 03215
Office: 603-236-8809
Dispatch: 603-236-4732 or Duty Cell Phone: 603-254-6708
Fax: 603-236-2056
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text:
Marisa Miller in a bikini
Victoria's Secret Angel Marisa Miller did a little bikini photo-shoot action for the latest issue of Complex magazine. True, these might be a little airbrushed, but allow me to issue a rebuttal: BIKINI. That throbbing sensation is my insane debate skills roundhouse kicking you in the anus. You might want to put on ice that.
NOTE: Video of Marisa's photo shoot after the jump. If this doesn't fill you with child-like glee and cause you to throw dollar bills at the screen, Congratulations! You're dead inside.
Thanks to "Joe" who I'm convinced is really Santa Claus. (I want a pony.)
Photos: Complex


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Site created 12/15/97.
review added: 8/17/99
Edward Scissorhands
10th Anniversary Edition
- 1990 (2000) 20th Century Fox
review by Todd Doogan of
The Digital Bits
Film Rating: A
Disc Ratings (Video/Audio/Extras): B+/B+/B+
Specs and Features
105 mins, PG-13, letterboxed widescreen (1.85:1), 16x9 enhanced, THX-certified, single-sided, RSDL dual-layered (layer switch 56:52 in chapter 15), Amaray keep case packaging, audio commentary track with director Tim Burton, isolated score with audio commentary by Danny Elfman, featurette, soundbites, 2 theatrical trailers, 1 English TV spot, 2 Spanish TV spots, conceptual art, animated film-themed menu screens with music, scene access (24 chapters), language: English (DD 4.0 & 2.0) and French (DD 2.0), subtitles: English and Spanish, Closed Captioned
Kim: Hold me.
Edward: I can't.
Once upon a time, in a castle high above a small town, there lived an old Inventor. The Inventor made many curious things, mostly to help him cook and clean his castle. One day, the Inventor, while making a batch of cookies, realized that he was very lonely. He picked up a small heart shaped cookie and decided to place it in one of his creations. He would name it Edward.
Edward's job was to cut celery and he was very good at it. He would chop all day long, never once complaining. He loved the Inventor with all of his cookie heart. And the Inventor loved Edward. Slowly, the Inventor made slight alterations to Edward - eventually he looked just like a living, breathing boy. Except for two things. Both of Edward's hands were made of sharp things, things he could use to cut, chop and slice. Things that would help him to help the Inventor in his day to day chores. The Inventor loved Edward so much that he taught him how to talk, how to behave and how to appreciate the beautiful things in life. Edward, full of this new found creativity, would cut all the bushes in the yard into majestic animals, mythical creatures and playful children. He was very happy in his home.
One day, the Inventor decided to give Edward a present. He would replace the old hands with brand new ones - hands that were just as human as yours or mine. But something happened to the old Inventor. He went to sleep and didn't wake up. Edward was sad. His days, although still full of creativity, didn't compare to the old days when the Inventor would talk with him, touch him and love him. Over time, Edward grew more and more lonely. He stared down at the small town and watched the children play, and he too wanted to have fun. But Edward was too scared to go down there.
Time went by, and a friendly Avon lady named Peg came calling upon the castle. Edward watched her from the shadows and wanted to talk with her, but couldn't get the sounds out. He crawled up into the attic and tried to hide. But Peg found him in his hiding place, and she was surprised to find a boy who had scissors for hands. Being a nice lady, she felt there was only one thing to do - bring him home with her and make him part of her family.
Edward grew to love Peg's family. He loved Peg, who was always trying to help him take care of the many scars that danced on Edward's face. He loved Peg's husband Bill, who was a very good bowler, father and friend. He also loved Peg's son Kevin, who was proud of his new "brother" and took him to show and tell. But most of all, Edward loved Kim. Kim was beautiful and kind and she loved Edward back... but didn't realize it at first. Together they were a very happy family.
The small town Peg lived in was, at first, very curious about Edward. They wanted to know everything about him. As they grew to know him, they grew to realize he was very special. But the town was wrong about Edward. They thought he was special for his unique hands, not for the magic in his heart. The town took advantage of Edward, and certain bad people used Edward to do very bad things. Edward was confused by this... and so he ran away.
Edward Scissorhands
is Tim Burton's most personal (and in my opinion, purest) work. In a ways, it's autobiographical. Picture a young artist living in suburban Burbank, CA, hiding in his room and drawing the things that bump around in his mind. His only friend in life was Vincent Price, who played out his adventures on TV screens and movie houses down the street. There are many kids who share Edward's struggle. So Tim tapped into something and ended up creating a beautiful fable that combines his life,
and a little bit of
Beauty and the Beast
and gave film lovers a wonderful gift.
Edward Scissorhands
is one of my all-time favorite films and I'm so glad to finally have it on DVD.
Fox has presented us with a 10th anniversary edition of
and it's a pretty good present. First off, the video image is anamorphic and showcases the colors in the film boldly. The pastels of the town are wondrous, and the almost black and white nature of the Inventor's castle scenes are just as bold. Blacks are deep and free of artifacts and there is no noise to be found on this disc. There are a few hiccups in the print used (like a splash of print damage at 21:13, when Edward is marveling at Kim's room) and some uncharacteristic grain here and there. But, for the most part, it's a beautiful image. The transfer is also THX-certified, even though no mention is made of this on the packaging.
The sound is presented in both Dolby Digital 4.0 and 2.0 and neither is a very dynamic track. The 4.0 sound certainly isn't bad, but it's not all that thrilling either. The dialogue channel is up front and center and comes through nicely. Oddly, the menu screens are in full 5.1 and they are pretty spectacular, both visually and sound-wise.
Because it's a "special edition," Fox has laced this disc with a handful of extras. Tim Burton makes another appearance on a commentary track, and is just as evasive as his previous appearances. The track is pretty gappy and comes off as a edited interview, where Burton will answer questions without the full information. For example, when he talks about Vincent Price, he'll say something like, "Yeah, he blah, blah, blah." In other words, it's not a liner commentary. Still, his sense of humor does come through and he does shed some light on the origins, complications and filming of the film. So it's not a bad track at all. Elfman's track, however, is much better. Here we get what is essentially an unadvertised isolated score, with Elfman interjecting between music cues about where each cue comes from and how he came up with it. He also talks about his relationship with Burton, how he got into film scoring and other fun things. It's a nice look into the inner workings of this incredibly talented artist. You'll also find a featurette that shows just how far we've come since 1990 in terms of publicity material, a set of cast and crew soundbites (which look like the original material that made up the featurette) and full frame trailers and TV spots. It looks like someone found the electronic press kit for the film done back in 1990 and put it on the DVD. That's not a bad thing, but it's not all that original. The trailers are in pretty bad condition and look very old and videoesque. Also included are some conceptual art pieces, and after the build up of instructions (use you arrow keys to go forward and back and press enter to exit the gallery) you'll find 6 pieces of art. I wasn't expecting all that much, but after reading the instructions, I was pretty excited and was set-up for about 10 minutes of toggling. Oh, well. I'm not disappointed by the DVD, but I think I would have liked a little more. I'm sure everyone at Fox tried to find better material, so I'm not going to complain.
For what it is,
Edward Scissorhands
is a good disc. It's not the best and it's sort of a minor let down in terms of extras. But it's finally on DVD... and that's what counts. I'm sure a lot of you out there will be happy just with that. Is it a special edition that will win any awards? No. But it's won a special place in my heart. Now if only Buena Vista will get off its butt and give us
Ed Wood
so I can complete my Burton collection...
Todd Doogan
[email protected]
Site designed for 800 x 600 resolution, using 16M colors and .gif 89a animation.
© 1997-2015 The Digital Bits, Inc., All Rights Reserved.
[email protected]


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Going to a spa or beauty salon for the first time should be a relaxing and soothing experience. In the current economic climate, more professionals are living a lifestyle of work hard and play harder. As a long-time beauty blogger, I am all too familiar with the array of salon services on offer. Many of my readers ask me what they should and shouldnt do while in the chair. I have written this guide as a sort of companion for the first-time spa or beauty salon visitor; it comprises many salon secrets passed to me from my acquaintances in the industry.
Bikini Waxes
Do not shave between waxes as it leaves a nasty, irritable rash that can be further agitated by hot wax.
If youve neglected your bikini area for a while, resist the urge to trim it. Most beauticians would rather trim it themselves, as pubic hair should be at least 1cm long so it can be waxed.
Do exfoliate the bikini area in the morning before a wax; otherwise youll risk getting ingrown hairs.
Its absolutely fine to keep your own underwear on during a bikini wax, but if you can, be brave and dare to bare. It results in a much cleaner and accurate finish.
Treatments and Facials
Do inform your beautician if you are suffering from any kind of skin disease, if its contagious, you could risk spreading it.
If you do arrive straight from work and feel a bit sweaty, perhaps enquire whether there are any showering facilities.
If youre uncomfortable with having a male beautician treat you, its perfectly acceptable to say so, just make sure you give plenty of notice.
If the treatment isnt going the way you like it, do speak out. Its better to have a quick word than to endure it and complain about it afterwards.
Do resist the temptation to talk during a facial; it disrupts the process.
Do remember to book your facial 5 days in advance of a big event. If you havent left enough time, your skin may look flushed after a treatment.
Dont start texting or e-mailing during your treatment, it can be quite disruptive and rude.
Spray Tans
Exfoliate the evening before your spray tanning treatment; it produces a much more effective result.
When it comes to waxing and shaving before a spray tan, please ensure you leave 48 hours post-wax and 24 hours post-shave.
Beauticians are less concerned with body image than you may think; when they are applying the spray tan, they are not looking at your wobbly bits, theyre simply looking for areas they might have missed. Please dont be nervous, but if youre uncomfortable, simply try to make conversation about something else.
Moisturiser can act as a barrier to spray tan, so please dont apply it pre-treatment.
Do wear dark and loose clothing, as firstly you dont want to ruin your clothes and secondly you dont want to ruin your tan!
Manicures and Pedicures
Do inform your nail technician if you have anything wrong with your hands, its much better to be honest than to suffer in silence due to the chemicals involved.
Do thoroughly wash your hands before nail treatments, as you could be passing infections to the nail technician.
Dont worry about arriving at your appointment with chipped polish or long nails, its much better to let the nail technician handle it and see what shes working with.
Hopefully these words of advice have given you some food for thought. Are you a frequent flyer in salons and had any weird experiences? If so, let us know!
This guest post was written by Leyla, a blogger with significant experience writing on beauty, travel and health topics. She is currently working with Salons Direct to promote style and beauty issues.


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Didn't get enough co-op hunting action? The Den is an all-new Maneater level that puts you right in the middle of a den of ferocious hyenas, lions, and more. Join forces with a friend and see if you have what it takes to survive!
Click to create and send a link using your email application


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Tom Cruise Won't Sue Vanity Fair But Totally Could If He Wanted To
"Before we bring out our next model, there's something I've wanted to say for years… TCLTC, motherfuckers. Whoo!"
In case you needed more proof to back up the Vanity Fair story claiming the Church of Scientology held girlfriend auditions for Tom Cruise that eventually ended with a woman being forced to sell copies of Dianetics on the streets because she dared asked a man to politely repeat himself, his lawyer has reacted to the piece by literally calling it "boring" before moving on to "Oh, yeah, we could totally sue, we just don't feel like it." E! News reports:
Fields called out the writer of the piece, Maureen Orth, raising the possibility of legal action if she made the media rounds.
"Unless Maureen Orth keeps spewing this garbage on television, we probably won't sue them," the lawyer added. "But anyone associated with this sleazy story should be ashamed of themselves—not just for publishing lies, but also for being unoriginal, sloppy and dull."
Of course, Tom Cruise won't sue because to prove libel the accusations would have to be false which is kind of hard to prove when Nazanin Boniadi is walking around not locked in an engine room. Seriously, when you're done playing with something, put it back where it belongs. They teach you that in kindergarten.
Photos: Fame/Flynet, Getty, Pacific Coast News


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Cruise aficionados and other gawkers in the area will be able to watch the ship as it hugs the coast on a two-hour sail-by. For all parties interested, the schedule will be as follows:
Ryde and Gosport, 7:25 a.m.
Lee on Solent, 7:35 a.m.
Cowes, 7:50 a.m.
Calshot, 8:05 a.m.
Hamble, 8:15 a.m.
Royal Victoria Country Park & Weston Shore, 8:25 a.m.
Hythe, 8:35 a.m.
Mayflower Park, 9:15 a.m.
City Cruise Terminal, 9:30 a.m.
The ship will be docked in Southampton through Monday, December 10. Monday's actually the big day; Queen Victoria will be christened at a ceremony beginning at 3:30 p.m.
Godmother is The Duchess of Cornwall; she'll be joined by the Prince of Wales.
The ceremony will be covered live -- on large screens -- in Southampton's Mayflower Park.
Cruise Critic will be on hand both for the christening and the ship's inaugural sailing, a 10-night Christmas markets cruise departing on December 11 -- so stay tuned for our extensive coverage between now and the end of the year.
--by Dan Askin, Assistant Editor


text:
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Although designers and architects typically don't select the art for public projects, they do have a say. Here's how to ensure the artwork chosen for your next project complements your final design.
Although designers and architects typically don't select the art for public projects, they do have a say. Here's how to ensure the artwork chosen for your next project complements your final design.
After pouring your own blood, sweat and tears into a public interiors project, the last thing you want is a clashing art program to be stuck in the middle of it. But with more municipalities adopting requirements that a certain percentage of a project's budget be set aside for art, how can you ensure that the artwork chosen works with your aesthetic, instead of against it?
"Spaces must be designed from the beginning with art in mind," says Brian Malarkey, executive vice president of Kirksey Architecture. "This way, the art program is not an afterthought, but simply part of the design. Frankly, well-placed and thoughtful art selections can forgive modest finish selections, saving money in the long run."
sculpt a team for success
Many cities, including Austin, Texas, Sacramento, Calif., and Miami, Fla., have specifically appointed bodies tasked with managing art in public places, and the number is growing. These bodies may take the form of a committee, a panel or an advisory board, but they are all charged with selecting the artists and artworks for a particular location.
If you want to ensure that the artwork chosen for a project will complement your vision, don't neglect your place within these important groups.
"The architect was on the advisory panel that selected the artist and the interview team, so they were able to have a little bit of dialogue before the selection happened, so that they could compare what their ideas might be and how they might work together," says Meghan Turner, the city of Austin's art in public places administrator, of Austin's new Central Library project, which is currently in development.
"If you can do a little bit of investigation early on, that helps to ensure there's going to be a healthy fit," she adds. "Sometimes you don't get that luxury, but in this case it was really good because the interview provided a foundation on how to move forward during the artist's design-development process. The artwork for the new library could be developed in concert with how the rest of the facility developed."
Being part of the selection or advisory group doesn't mean that you get full reign, but it does allow you to give input to the artist as part of the team.
"Sometimes compromises need to be made," explains Shelly Willis, the Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission's art in public places director. "Sometimes the artists are asked to consider things that the panelists say and create a different design than what they originally presented. The panels have a lot of influence on the artists and it works really well."
paint a vivid picture
Unfortunately, architects and interior designers aren't always afforded the luxury of weighing in during the art selection process. If this is the case, you still need to make your vision known to those who are involved in the process.
"When architects aren't included, it is important for them to clearly communicate the architectural intent to the owner and/or members of the selection process," says Gary Machicek, a senior designer for Kirksey Architecture. "This will encourage members of the selection process to consider the significant relationship between art and architecture."
The best way to accomplish this, is to fully communicate a clear and engaging concept for the project's architectural or interior design through as many means as possible—that includes everything from traditional proposals to video and new media presentations. This allows people who may be involved in the art deliberations, but may not have design training, to fully understand the relationship between the various elements.
collaborate to create a masterpiece
The art selection may be out of your control, but bringing the artist into the design process early can help everyone understand how the final products will all fit together.
When asked to design the new B Terminal at the Sacramento International Airport in 2010, architects from Corgan Associates knew that they needed to work closely with the city's art selection committee.
Despite the fact that ground had already been broken by the time the selection process began, the design team worked directly with the chosen artists, including Lawrence Argent, Christian Moeller, Po Shu Wang and Louise Bertelsen to effectively incorporate their finished pieces into the terminal.
"Because it was a design-build, we were able to integrate all of the artwork into the design and construction of the airport," says Willis. "The architect served on every single panel, approved every single design and worked closely with the artists throughout the process."
Integrating large artworks into a space can be a challenge—you want the artwork to stand out and make a statement, but you don't want it to clash with the space or overshadow the entire user experience. Your input can help tie the artwork into a space in a mutually beneficial way.
"If you look at the airport, the artworks are very distinct," Willis notes. "Some of the sites are obvious—we knew that we wanted to do something large-scale and prominent as the centerpiece of the ticket hall. If that would stand on the ground or be suspended—that was the artist's job to tell everyone what that would be, but the architect really had a distinct idea of the prominent sites, so he was really involved in that."
fashion a functional statement piece
Of course, "art" isn't limited to a sculpture or painting—it can be any functional piece incorporated into a building project.
For example, the city of Austin's new recreation center includes a ventilation component in the front of the building's entryway. Artist Jill Bedgood created a piece called "Community Screen—Community Charms," which consisted of a screen wall of etched aluminum disks, each displaying an icon representing the various activities taking place in the rec center. This unique, unified wall provides an interesting visual aspect to the building and replaces what could have been a plain metal screen.
"When we first approach a project, we say 'if you had more money to make your design better, where would you put it?'" says Brandi Reddick, communications and artists manager, Art in Public Places, Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs. "For instance, a couple of years ago we were working with our new performing arts center and they had a terrazzo floor. The architect said to us 'we would like to have better terrazzo floors,' so we had an artist design the floor. We take where the budget has been cut and come back in with art money to enhance it."
Naturally, this project already required a floor (as buildings typically do), but because the Art in Public Places program brought in an artist to design it, the floor was turned into a showstopper. "You're going to have a floor anyway, so why not have a beautiful, artist-designed floor?" Reddick says.
In addition to the flooring, the performing arts center also skillfully incorporates hand-painted opera house curtains, an exterior plaza with a water feature that visually connects the center's two halls, an outdoor performance space on another exterior plaza, and a glass railing—all designed by different artists.
Close collaboration is paramount when it comes to functional art components, like the screen wall in the Austin rec center or the floor of Miami's new arts center.
"The design process for functional art involves more coordination because it relates directly to the operation of the building and potentially to building codes," Machicek explains. "Therefore, it is critical to have the artist involved early on, developing the functional components in concert with the building design, so the art can be finalized and installed at the appropriate time in the construction process."
In short, because architects and designs have a closer understanding of how a space should behave, it's important to get as involved in the art selection as possible. It may not always be possible, but it is definitely worth the effort.
"[Designers and architects] are able to say 'this is how the building is going to function, this is what my goals are, this is how the art can help reinforce my goals,' without dictating what the art would be, because that's what the artist does," Willis says. "It's critical for architects and designers to be involved in the process. They're the voice of the place—it's their vision and they need to be able to work with someone who is also connected to that vision. That becomes a real critical element in the success of a project."
Kylie Wroblaski is a former editor for BUILDINGS magazine, and has written previously about architecture and facilities management.


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This three-light pendant chandelier offers an updated take on classic chandelier form. It features a lustrous satin nickel finish with light glowing from within the large white alabaster glass bowl-shape shade. Complete a kitchen or dining room with this beautiful chandelier from the Milbury Collection by Possini Euro Design.
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We are pleased to offer 4 vintage black Americana place mats. The stitched figures on these mats are quite large measuring 5" tall. They are of young black boys and young black girls dressed in bright colored clothing. All the stitching is in great condition. There are some light stains but we have not tried to clean them. The place mats measure 11" tall - 16" wide. They are priced each so pick the ones you would like to buy.
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NC dealer with a wide variety of antique furniture,decorative and fine art,jewelry,art glass, silver


text: LEBANON -- Memorial services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 19 at West Hills Baptist Church in Lebanon for Mr. Slate, 59, of Mt. Juliet.Mr. Slate died Saturday, Jan. 15, 2011.Services will be conducted by Pastor Jonas Taylor.Survivors include: wife Connie Slate; daughters Elaina (Jermey) Gupton and Candace Slate; grandchildren Ethan Slate, Kaylee Lowe and Isaiah and Ana Gupton; and sister Carol Slate.Hermitage Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.


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Wahsega 4-H Center: Event Hosting
About Wahsega 4-H Center
Wahsega 4-H Center is one of five centers operated by the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. We provide environmental and outdoor education opportunities during the school year and camping experiences to youth during the summer. Our programs enable youth to acquire relevant knowledge, develop significant life skills and form the appropriate attitudes they need to make intelligent decisions, solve problems and be responsible citizens.
If you would like to make reservations to bring your group to Wahsega, just let us know. Thanks.
Travis Williams,
4-H Center Director


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Started by
Epistaxis, October 6, 2011
Posted October 6, 2011
New White Sox manager.
Interesting choice. Very smart guy, he isn't gonna fight Kenny every step of the way.
I hope he isn't a pussy though. To go from a guy like Ozzie, you need someone who is relatively outspoken and tough in the locker room.
Came out of nowhere as far as I know.
Heard Dave Martinez, heard Alomar Jr, a few other names.
Big surprise, will be interesting.
I was pulling for Martinez really hard.


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WASHINGTON (AP) -- Playoff expectations are back in Washington, just the way John Wall likes it.
The Wizards' last postseason trip came during the 2007-08 season, two years before the stumbling franchise selected Wall No. 1 overall in the 2010 draft.
The speedy point guard -- now with a max contract -- performed at a high level during the second half of last season. With Wall sidelined because of a knee injury, Washington started 5-28, but with him in the lineup, 24-25.
Factor in a deeper and largely healthy roster, and preseason projections have the Wizards in the Eastern Conference playoff mix.
"I feel like the pressure is a lot more," Wall said Friday at the team's media day. "I embrace it, I love pressure. There is nothing to hide from. You hide from it, you don't need to be playing.
Then again, considering the team's myriad of recent struggles -- 29 wins last season represented a five-year high -- there is also reason to tone down the postseason chatter.
Washington's top three returning scorers, Wall, Nene and Bradley Beal, missed a combined 80 games last season. Center Emeka Okafor is out indefinitely with herniated disk in his neck.
"I'm not (a) singer. I don't like to work with my mouth. I work with my action," Nene said. "I hope the team will work the same because when you say something, you don't know.
"There is still 82 games to play. If you say something before that happens, you need to prove, you need to own your words. We have a great team. We have a good team, a competitive team, but still must work hard to deserve that position."
On those rare nights Wall, Beal and the Brazilian big man played together, Washington finished 15-7. The backcourt of Wall and Beal was only on the court together for 25 games.
"Hopefully, we can play all 82 together. That's our main goal," Beal said. "When we're both on the floor, great things happen."
Washington, a top-10 defensive team last season under coach Randy Wittman, has more options capable of stepping in if another round of injuries takes place.
While Wall runs the attack and Nene roams the lane, Beal and Martell Webster provide perimeter shooting. The Wizards re-signed Webster and guard Garrett Temple this offseason.
The team bolstered its wing depth behind Beal, Webster and Trevor Ariza by drafting former Georgetown star Otto Porter with the No. 3 overall selection and acquiring second-round pick Glen Rice Jr. A pair of free agents, forward Al Harrington and point guard Eric Maynor, provide a veteran presence off the bench.
With those pieces, positive memories of last season's second-half close -- and the reality that others in the East are thinking lottery over postseason -- playoff talk is indeed back in Washington.
"That's more than reasonable," said Okafor, Washington's leading rebounder last season. "I think we should've been a playoff team last season. I think that if we just started with, had our roster, we would've been there.
"I think the offseason acquisitions we made this year makes us more solid. If we just pick up where we left off midseason, we'll be just fine, despite my absence."
If Okafor returns quickly and the team avoids other health concerns, the playoff talk will continue -- as long as the wins follow. But if it's more of the same?
"Then that's the biggest disappointment I think I would have since I've been in the NBA," Wall said. "I think it would be waste of a season."


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Chart Catalogues
CHS publishes over 940 paper charts, which are described in a series of four free chart catalogues for the Pacific Coast, Central Canada, Atlantic Coast and the Arctic. These catalogues are available from most CHS chart dealers or you can contact CHS directly for a free catalogue (email: firstname.lastname@example.com or phone (613) 998-4931) and we will mail one to you. Or, you can check out our online catalogues where you can view our catalogues in interactive format or download PDF versions of our hardcopy catalogues.Find a dealer
Chart catalogues
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found a new home!
Plenty of my friends are looking
for one too. Find a pet to adopt.
She was found as a stray by a kind woman, who took her in and gave her shelter and comfort during winter's brutal wrath. But alas, it was not meant to be a permanent home, and now Charlotte is here, waiting to find a that 'purr'fect forever family!
At just 1 year of age, Charlotte is still full of spunk and energy- she will amuse you as she plays with toys and investigates all curiousities in the home. But since she is past the kitten craziness of her younger counterparts, Charlotte won't keep you awake at night, climbing the walls etc.
Charlotte would definitely appreciate a loving lap to curl up in at night, and someone special to gently stroke her soft gray fur. For the right family, Charlotte will be a devoted companion. But that won't happen until someone walks in and says...
"I'd like to meet Charlotte!"
Charlotte, a Muskegon Domestic Shorthair cat was adopted! Here's how you can benefit by looking at adoption as an option to buying a Domestic Shorthair for sale in Muskegon, or seeking a Domestic Shorthair cat from a breeder in Muskegon.


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Sorry 'Harry Potter' Fans... Looks Like Daniel Radcliffe Is Taken
Daniel Radcliffe is a taken man!
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Sunday night, Daniel Radcliffe hit the red carpet at the Tony Awards with his girlfriend, Erin Darke.
The rumor is that the couple has been together for some, but are finally more public about the relationship.
They make a handsome couple!


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S1 Ep6: Season 1 | Ep 6: The Diabolical Plot
Video duration: 54:09Expires: 03/06/16Video has closed captioning.
President Lincoln's visit sets in motion a diabolical rebel plot and offers an opportunity to free James Sr. Dr. Foster uncovers a scheme to undermine him at the expense of his patients. Aurelia, recovered from her surgery, makes a bold decision. #MercyStreetPBS


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Click tags to the right to narrow your search. Unclick tags to remove.
Flying Hot— Ingrid flys into the friendly skies.
The Shower & After— You have just finished making love.
And Son Makes Three— Evening gets wild when father & son swap seats.
Please, separate your tags with comma: anal orgasm, oral sex.
Read the Literotica Story Tag FAQ for more information on these tags.


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Beijing Tours
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4 Day Guilin & Longsheng Tour from Beijing
Escape from the big city now! Throw yourself back to natural landscape and humble life in Guilin and Longsheng. Best travel time would be from Spring to Autumn
5 Day Chongqing & Yangtze Tour from Beijing
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3 Day Jiuzhai Valley Dream Tour from Beijing
Jiuzhaigou, noted for its wonderful scenery, is just a step away from Beijing. This 3-day tour gives you a wonderful glance at the paradise-like Jiuzhai Valley. Smart choice for expacts and stay-overs from Beijing.
4 Day Muslim Beijing Tour
This Muslim-friendly Beijing tour package is offered to Muslim travelers and families. Taking in Beijing's highlights and staying in Muslim-friendly hotel, you will have a great time in the wonderful capital.
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This 5-day Beijing Great Wall hiking tour stretches out on the oldest sections of the Great Wall. Our professional hiking guide will lead your way through 5 sections: Jiankou, Mutianyu, Gubeikou, Jinshanling and Simatai West.


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Flags Quiz - multiplayer
by: Mango Techno Apps • 44
All Android applications categories
by: Mango Techno Apps • 44
You will love learning new flags and that gives you visual memory workout in this multiplayer game.
You probably might know what your country flag looks like but are you aware of flags of other countries based on very interesting categories and their association on different parameters?
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from 44 reviews
Download Flags Quiz - multiplayer
Free - V2.0 - 7M
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To keep your home in good condition and well maintained, we plan some work in advance including:
- painting the outside
- replacing windows and external doors
- mending gates and fences
- upgrading paths and drives
- rewiring
- re-roofing and guttering
We will write to you with as much notice as we can if we plan to carry out work on your home. We will try to give you a choice of finish if possible.
Letting us in your home
You must let us in to your home to carry out repairs, inspections, or other work. All our staff and contractors should show you an identity card before asking to come in.
If they don't show you ID then you should not allow them in. If you have any concerns about the identity of an operative please call 0330 119 3000 (during office hours) and we can check whether the caller is genuine.
You must also let us in if we need to carry out work on a neighbouring home. If we need to come in, unless it is an emergency we usually give you at least 24 hours' notice and try to make an appointment at a mutually convenient time.
Page owner: Caroline Ottery. Last updated: 20/05/2015 20:51


text: Just wanted to bring to everyones attention that the classified ad for movie extras is possibly a scam. I am currently unemployed and thought I would call this number. The company name is talent6.com, check them out on google. They want you to pay $45.00 up front. Buyer beware, u never pay to get work. I hung up the phone. Never give out money up front for a promise of a job. There are many negative things about this company on the internet.


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From Greenwich Village to Guadalcanal in just over a year, David Zellmer would find piloting a B-24 bomber in the South Pacific a far cry from his life as a fledgling member of the Martha Graham Dance Company. He soon discovered the unimagined thrills of first flights and the astonishment of learning that an aerial spin was merely a vertical pirouette which one spotted on a barn thousands of feet below, instead of on a doorknob in Martha's studio. Reconstructed from letters home, this captivating account traces Zellmer's journey from New York to the islands of the South Pacific as the 13th Air Force battled to push back the Japanese invaders in 1943 and 1944.


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Emma is a typical school wallflower, Alexander is the new kid with a secret. Emma finds herself tangled up in Alexander's secret. Will she put herself in danger to save a guy she barely knows or wi...
Category: Drama - Rating: PG-13 - Genres: Angst,Drama,Romance - Warnings: [!!!] [V] [R] - Published: 2013-02-09 - Updated: 2013-02-13 - 1834 words
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By Stephanie Nano, Associated Press Writer
NEW YORK New research suggests that more people survive major heart attacks with fewer problems if doctors use a mini-vacuum to clear out an artery blockage instead of pushing it aside to restore blood flow.
The Dutch study is the largest to date to show that suctioning out the clot before implanting a stent has big benefits, and could lead to wider use in heart attack treatment. Previous smaller studies of various devices had mixed results.
"This study suggests that it is worth doing," said Dr. George Vetrovec, a heart disease expert at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond.
Most heart attacks occur when a buildup of plaque in a coronary artery ruptures, and a blood clot forms, blocking the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the heart. The preferred treatment is an angioplasty to quickly reopen the artery.
Doctors snake a tube through a blood vessel to the blocked artery and use a small balloon to compress the blockage and restore blood flow. A tiny metal-mesh stent is put in place to keep the artery open.
But sometimes the procedure causes bits of the clot or plaque to break off and plug the tinier vessels, restricting blood flow to the heart, said Dr. Felix Zijlstra, who led the study at University Medical Center Groningen in the Netherlands.
The artery is open "but still the blood doesn't go where you want it to go," he said.
They tried a different approach, suctioning the clot out before inserting the stent, and found that reduced debris and improved blood flow. The results are published in Thursday's New England Journal of Medicine.
For the study, doctors enrolled 1,071 patients who came to the hospital in 2005 or 2006 with a major heart attack and needed emergency angioplasty. Half received the conventional procedure; the other half had the blood clot suctioned out. Doctors threaded a small tube to the blockage and sucked out the clot with a syringe before putting in a stent.
"In daily practice, we say that we use the vacuum cleaner," said Zijlstra.
The heart attack was stopped in its tracks in 57% of the vacuum group and 44% of those getting regular care.
Using a dye, the researchers measured how much blood from the opened artery was saturating the heart tissue. In the conventional group, 26% of the patients had little or no blood reaching the heart tissue, compared to 17% of the patients who had the blockage removed.
Over the next 30 days, those with the poorest blood flow had higher death rates — 5% compared to 1% for the best flow group — and more serious complications.
Zijlstra said they are continuing to follow those patients, and the technique has been adopted at his hospital.
"I think there will be definitely others who will follow us very quickly. It's not very difficult to apply," he said.
The study was paid for by the Dutch medical center and Medtronic Inc., which makes the device used in the study. Other similar devices are available around the world.
Vetrovec, who wrote an accompanying editorial in the journal, said that the clot-removing technique is not routinely used in the U.S. It can take a bit longer to clear out the clot, he said, and guidelines recommend fast action on blocked arteries.
He said the study has "the potential to change practice," but noted that the heart attack death rate is already so low that this technique isn't likely to substantially change outcomes.
"We're sort of inching forward in terms of improvement," he said.
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