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The Open Compute Project Foundation recently announced results from Facebook's attempts to build an efficient data center at the lowest possible cost. The foundation claims to have reduced the cost of building a data center by 24 percent and improved ongoing efficiency by 38 percent versus state-of-the-art data centers.
Those numbers are impressive, but don't expect to be able to deploy the foundation's technology in your data center just yet.
[ In the data center today, the action is in the private cloud. InfoWorld's experts take you through what you need to know to do it right in our "Private Cloud Deep Dive" PDF special report. | Follow the latest in open source developments and thinking with InfoWorld's Technology: Open Source newsletter. ]
Bringing deep data center engineering skills to the masses
By releasing Facebook's cost savings and, more important, the underlying hardware specifications for the motherboards, power supply, and chassis, the foundation hopes to bring efficiency and lower-cost data centers to companies that don't have the engineering depth of Facebook, Google, or Amazon.com.
Facebook deserves kudos for its work on the project. Getting together a board of directors that includes Andy Bechtolsheim from Arista Networks, Don Duet from Goldman Sachs, Mark Roenigk from Rackspace, and Jason Waxman from Intel couldn't have been easy. But the cost reduction and efficiency figures upward of 20 percent must have attracted attention from prospective board members and the long list of hardware, software, and institutional partners, including Dell, Intel, Huawei, Red Hat, Netflix, and North Carolina Sate University.
The Open Compute Project released its design specifications for servers and data center technology earlier this week. The servers themselves fit into a form factor that is slightly taller than a 1.5U standard server chassis. The servers can use either Intel or AMD motherboards. The version 2.0 Intel specification provides double the compute density as version 1.0 by using two Intel Core "Sandy Bridge" processors per board. The version 2.0 AMD specification also doubles the compute density with support for two AMD Opteron "Magny-Cours" or "Interlagos" processors per board.
Open Compute servers are housed in three adjoining 42U racks, dubbed "triplets." Each rack column contains 30 Open Compute Project servers, for a total of 90 servers per triplet. Additionally, each rack column has two tops of rack switches. A battery-pack rack cabinet sits between a pair of triplets to provide DC power in the event of loss of AC power.
A specification without a certification
At the Open Compute Project Summit this week, Andy Bechtolsheim said, "Open Compute Foundation is not a marketing org. There's nothing to sell here." But there is -- not by the foundation itself but by hardware vendors. And therein lies the problem.
It's critical for hardware vendors to quickly release Open Compute Project-certified hardware to capitalize on the interest generated by the Facebook data center effort. But there isn't a certification process for the hardware as yet. It's quite possible that the foundation's technology will get sold in products with varying degrees of adherence to its specifications.
As GigaOM reports, "when the effort launched in April, Dell and Hewlett-Packard both showed off servers that incorporated some of the elements of Open Compute." The term "some elements" should be worrisome both to the Open Compute Project and to potential buyers. Otherwise "Open Compute Project-based" hardware will proliferate without any standard comparison across offerings as vendors rush to take advantage of the project's buzz with existing inventory under a new marketing banner.
The first products are already here: Silicon Mechanics, a rack-mount server manufacturer and member of the Open Compute Project, announced an Open Compute triplet based on the specifications. The price of a 90-compute-node triplet with entry-level processors, RAM, and disk but no operating system or software starts at $287,755 and can grow to more than $2 million.
Until there's certification, buyer beware
I encourage you to read through the design specification and compare it to your current or future data center plans. However, until the Open Compute Project comes out with a certification process, I urge you to ask vendors which parts of the product align with the specifications and which parts do not. For now at least, it's "buyer beware" when it comes to products claiming to offer Open Compute Project-based products.
I should state: "The postings on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent IBM's positions, strategies, or opinions.
This article, "From Facebook's data center to yours: 'Open source' hardware," was originally published at InfoWorld.com. Read more of Savio Rodrigues's Open Sources blog and follow the latest developments in open source at InfoWorld.com. For the latest business technology news, follow InfoWorld.com on Twitter.


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VILLAGERS getting into gear for the Addingham Tour Festival as they prepare to welcome as many as 20,000 visitors a day on the Tour de France race weekend.
The Tour Addingham 2014 Committee – a group of local residents, organisations and businesses – has been planning for The Tour's arrival for several months - and gas come up with a variety of events for the festival.
National plant hire company Speedy Services has agreed to support the village in marking this major sporting event.
Entertainment is planned by village pubs, and the Committee felt other events could be held to increase the attractions of the village as a place to watch the Tour, and boost trade for local businesses.
Ideas included a Family Fun Food Court outside the Primary School, with food and drink stalls and children's fairground rides, and a major entertainment hub at the Hoffman -Wood sports field on the edge of the village, with large TV screen, music and other stage performances, food and drink marquees and local craft stalls.
The multi-use games area (MUGA) in the centre of the village is to be converted into a secure bicycle storage area.
Speedy Services are providing equipment for the Food Court and Festival Filed sites, including fencing, barriers, generators, lighting towers and a marquee.
In addition, Bradford Council has funded a television screen for the festival field, with further contributions from Addingham Parish Council. Local farmer Michael Flesher is providing straw bales to be used for seating at the site.
Continuing the trend of strong local support, Addingham Civic Society has offered funding for Addingham-branded Tour merchandise and village decorations, which will be appearing shortly.
Whilst the celebrations are expected to boost trade in local shops and pubs, a major objective of the Committee is for any surplus festival events may make to go into a Legacy Fund, to be used for the benefit of young people in the village as a legacy of The Tour.
Vice-chairman of The Tour Addingham 2014 Committee, Richard Hunter-Rowe, said: "We are extremely grateful to Speedy Services for their fantastic support, which means we can now take our ideas forward. I would also like to acknowledge the contribution from Bradford Council, who we have been working closely with, and not forgetting the support from within the village itself. It will now be possible to put on a real show for the arrival of The Tour, befitting the only place it's coming twice."
Mr. Hunter-Rowe said there were still opportunities to get involved with the village festival in any way. Contact him on 07876478380 or e-mail firstname.lastname@example.com for details.
Visit thetouraddingham.co.uk for full event information.

subset: commoncrawl


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using living materials
"We are delighted with our greenroof, our first. We see it from our back windows, as do our neighbors, reminding us all of our beautiful earthly surroundings as we conserve a precious community resource, the city's ground water. . Now we have birds and visually-pleasing succulents that not only give us pleasure but add to the apparent size of our backyard in a city setting. So it is a win-win situation and dc greenworks made it an educational and enjoyable experience."
-DC Green Roof Client
"dc greenworks is the coolest, hippest, non-profit in all of washington. Z and the rest of the guys are really fun to work with. I couldn't be a happier contractor. Thank you dcg!"
-Jennifer Tisch, Tisch Creative Worldwide
"Over the 5 or so years since the installation was completed, we have received additional support from dc greenworks, for recommendations on maintenance (which is minimal), and assistance with minor adjustments is the drainage system sand maintenance of the plants. We remain totally satisfied with this wonderful organization, which is doing so much environmental and community development work in the greater DC region. "
-Green Roof Client
"Our architects recommended dc greenworks to design and install the living roof. We are very pleased with the support we received from dc greenworks as we constructed the roof in preparation for the installation of the living component. The crew that did the actual installation were skilled, friendly, and professional, and we were totally satisfied with the final product. "
-Green Roof Client
"At Bread for the City, we had a dream of a project that would open an entirely new dimension within our community: a rooftop garden suited for growing food, gathering together, and developing a vision of a sustainable, supportive community. With dc greenworks' technical expertise, muscle, and gentle guidance, we were able to make this dream a reality. We encourage everyone to explore the possibilities up above us, with dc greenworks as their guide."


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DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - Daytona Beach police are looking for a man they say attacked a girl when her bicycle broke down on the sidewalk.
Police said the 15-year-old was attacked around 7:30 a.m. Friday morning on North Atlantic Avenue as she was riding her bike.
Police said the girl was riding her bike to school when she noticed it starting to break down.
Police said the girl had fallen off her bike and was approached by the man as she was laying on the ground.
Police said the man tried to sexually assault the girl as she was down on the ground. The girl then bit the man, allowing her to escape.
Police said they are looking for a man in his 50's, 5 ft. 10 in., 260 pounds, with thinning gray hair and a beard. He was wearing a red T-shirt and faded blue jeans.
Stay with Local 6 for more on this story.
Copyright 2013 by ClickOrlando.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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PHILADELPHIA - Duke Lacroix scored a pair of goals in Penn's 3-0 win over Dartmouth on Saturday night, pushing the Quakers into a three-way tie for first place in the Ivy League. On Monday, his efforts were rewarded with Ivy League, ECAC and Philadelphia Soccer Six Player of the Week awards.
The two goals were part of a five-point night for Lacroix as the junior factored in on all of the scoring plays in the Red and Blue's second Ivy win of 2013. He assisted on Alec Neumann's goal in the 15', before scoring twice in the second half to provide crucial insurancef for the Quakers. His first goal came after he picked up a loose ball following a Neumann shot, his second was via his first career penalty kick.
This is the third Philadelphia Soccer Six Player of the Week award for Lacroix and his first career Ivy League Player of the Week honor.
On Tuesday, Lacroix was honored as the College Soccer Madness Ivy League Player of the Week, joining Alec Neumann as Quakers to earn that honor in 2013.
Lacroix and the Quakers will take on Yale -- one of two teams tied with Penn for first place -- Saturday at Rhodes Field at 7:30 p.m.


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Topic: Hello to Many Wonderful People
Been reading your posts for a over month now and have found a wealth of information and inspiration. My Dad is 82 ,was diagnosed with CC in Sept 07. As caretaker won't say I experienced all of the pain, hope, courage and heartbreak that so many have endured, but definitely can identify with the roller coaster ride no one wanted a ticket for.
Prior to his CC, "Stan the Man" already had Macular Degeneration, mild Alzh, stroke in Feb 07, plus inoperable heart blockages found in April. He developed jaundice, fatigue, itching, weight loss in late Aug 07 . Doctor's said operating was out due to his heart so he had his bile drained for 3 days then had one metal stent put in. We all agreed to do whatever pallative measures were possible and let God decide the rest.
After the proceedures it was a rough road but he got back. He NEVER talks about his cancer. Be it denial or whatever ,it works for him. When the doctor sat him down for the big "C" discussion in the hospital, he listened patiently then asked if he could eat his dinner promising to pay attention. By statistics he should of been gone long due to heart failure, now with CC, life expectancy is months. He isn't getting any form of treatment., still walks 1/2 to 1 mi a day. No pain yet, and has gained back 1/2 the weight he lost.
Be it dementia or CC my father will hit up the sweets on the sneak. I have found cookie containers strewn about like a troop of rats raided the kitchen. I had to set him down and reinstate how too much sugar makes him ill and dizzy, and with my heart problems I can't be lifting him off the floor or I could be at the Pearly Gates before him. SHORTLY AFTER THE LECTURE STANLEY CAME OUT OF HIS ROOM AND DECLARED LOUDLY, "IF SOMETHING HAPPENED TO YOU.......I'D REALLY BE SCREWED."
Sometimes it's not how you look at it, it's how you don't look at it .....that makes all the difference..
I did tell Dad I visit this site, how I get great advice and solved the mystery of sugar craving. Thank you all for sharing your emotions and medical insights. I probably will not be posting often, but I for sure will be reading. He will be 83 Dec 10th, tough old bird. Mean sometimes too, I've learned not to look at that side.
Prayers for All, Kath


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Upstairs Deck
My old deck was rotting out, so I decided to re-build it using Trek Decking Materials also I added a Sunsetter Awning to the old decking. In order to close the awning I needed to "extend" the deck by 18" all around. My Ryobi tools were a life saver in getting the old deck boards and railing up. I put those down several years ago using 3" screws (countersunk), they didn't come up easily! The new deck has been an ongoing project, and as you can see, I am not finished with it. After getting the old deck boards and railing out of way, I reinforced the truss boards to accommodate the Trek Decking, which is very heavy.
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Private Dining at The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast
Think of the impression an invitation to a private dining occasion in the Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast makes.
Your guests know they are in for a very special day or evening in the perfect location. With terrific food. And great wine. Topped with excellent service.
For parties of up to 20, wow them in our glass walled boardroom suspended above the lobby. If you've got up to 50 guests coming, we'll section off part of our stunning restaurant or you can make use of our Assembly Room on the 9th floor with dramatic views over the city.
Just call us and we'll take care of absolutely everything.
Except your speech
Private Dining Menu
Click here for further details on our Murder Mystery packages


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50" USA Stacked Stars Balloons
Makeyour presence known at the convention! Maybe you can even block one of the bazillion cameras that are filming every moment. These are festive and a great way to show that you are united for a better America this election season.
Celebrate your party's nominee for president in style! These poppers are perfect for setting off as the balloons come streaming down and the music is rocking. I know if I were there I would be shotting these off like a mad woman.Tags: america, celebrations, American, election, confetti, usa, patriotic, 4TH OF JULY, PatriotismAdded 9 Years Ago from Partyamerica


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"That Sweepstakes Gal"
Cindy Sykora, who has won dozens of sweepstakes and prizes, will share her tips and tricks on Saturday, June 23: 11am, at the Melrose Park Public Library. Please call the Reference Desk (708-343-3391 x2) for reservations. All audience members will be eligible to win Bakers Square Gift Cards in our own Mini-Sweepstakes!


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Leather Water Bottle Carabiner Group Craft Kits — 25-Pack$49.99Leather fob can be tooled for personalization, and then stitched with waxed thread. Wear it on a belt or clip it to a backpack, then use it to carry any standard water bottle on hikes and outings. Included key ring lets you clip on additional gadgets. Made in the USA. Drop-shipped from New Albany, Indiana; please allow 7-10 days for delivery. Learn More
Leather Rounders — 50-Pack$44.99Leather rounds designed for custom logo. Add your own tooled design and stain. Each measures 3" diameter. Made in the USA. Learn More
Leather Name Tag Kit$9.99Get your name out there with these leather name tags. Put your name on the paper insert and decorate the lower portion with leather stamps, dyes, and/or paint (not included). Hang on shirt button. Each tag measures 3 1/2" wide x 3 3/4". Four nametags per package. WARNING: Choking hazard. Small parts. Not for children under 3 years. Learn More
Leather Mini TeePee Group Craft Kits — 25-Pack$39.99Great as banquet table decorations or gifts. Each kit includes precut parts and instructions. May be used toward fulfilling requirements 1 and 2A of the Indian Lore merit badge. Made in the USA. Drop-shipped from New Albany, Indiana; please allow 3 weeks for delivery. Learn More


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New York Pendant Silver
Designed exclusively for Wink, small rhodium plate over sterling silver pendant with 16" chain. We love New York!
"Modern", "Untitled" And "Artstar" These tongue-in-cheek acrylic word pendants were made exclusively for the Tate Modern by Cult jewellery label Tatty Devine. exclusively for Tate. Each acrylic piece is made at Tatty Devine's ... "Modern", "Untitled" And "Artstar" These tongue-in-cheek acrylic word pendants were made exclusively for the Tate Modern by Cult jewellery label Tatty Devine. exclusively for Tate. Each acrylic piece is made at Tatty Devine's London studio.Tags: necklaces, tatty devine, art jewelry, Cool Jewelry, novelty jewelry, conceptual jewelry, modern necklaces, tate modern, word pendantsAdded 7 Years Ago from Tate
Made from a real rulerAdded 8 Years Ago from Fractalspin
These are interesting. From far away they just look like thin strand bracelets, but up close you can tell that they look coiled. Cool gift for someone that likes to play the piano.Tags: fashion, gifts, music, pianos, unusual, jewelry, bracelets, unique gifts, Cool JewelryAdded 8 Years Ago from Vat19
This sterling silver lariat is so easy to wear. Just loop it once and adjust position of rectangles.Tags: designer jewelry, Cool JewelryAdded 8 Years Ago from Bigblackbag
For sushi lovers and those that like kitschTags: bracelets, sushi, kitsch, adorable!, Cool Jewelry, japanese cultureAdded 9 Years Ago from Shana Logic
I love her work and I've already have one red pair of these stylish earringsTags: fashion, gifts, accessories, style, jewelry, earrings, designer, designer jewelry, fashion jewelryAdded 9 Years Ago from Flickr
Nice chunky necklace.Added 9 Years Ago from Outfitadditions
Haha. This makes me laugh. A great "promise" ring, or somethign to give the one you love when you can't afford the real thing, or just something to buy yourself to honor your gloriousness. Made from sterling silver.
Cassette hanging around your neck? Good call. This is just a really rad pendant (or charm, if you will).
My 6th grade teacher would kill for this bracelet. How the heck could they ban "To Kill A Mockingbird"? This bracelet sure makes a beautiful thing out of a total disgrace.Tags: books, gifts, art, accessories, reading, classics, literature, jewelry, societyAdded 9 Years Ago from Carolynforsman
I love how fanciful this is. It feels like it stepped right out of a fairy tale or something.Tags: jewelry, necklaces, air, acorns, myspace, independent designers, leaves, gold jewelry, gold necklacesAdded 9 Years Ago from The Curiosity Shoppe
This necklace is both signified and signifier. I wear it and it wears me and it has meaning in my eyes and in yours. Its language is oppression and freedom. It is also black.Tags: humor, accessories, jewelry, necklaces, conceptual, black, words, funny, typographyAdded 9 Years Ago from Etsy
coolTags: jewelry, bracelets, air, Cool Jewelry, cool bracelets, Bracelet Jewelry, enamel jewelry, hermes bracelets, blue braceletAdded 9 Years Ago from Hermes
Tags: gifts, leather, bracelets, peace, cool gifts, Cool Jewelry, peace sign, cool bracelets, peace braceletAdded 9 Years Ago from Dogeared
cuteTags: jewelry, necklaces, air, peace, Cool Jewelry, peace necklaces, peace sign, sand peace pendants, cool peace necklaceAdded 9 Years Ago from A + R
It's hard not to love bows (if you're a girl). Bow + Ring + Gold + Inexpensive = MUST HAVE.Tags: jewelry, rings, gold, cute, gold rings, must-have, bows, Cool Jewelry, cool ringsAdded 10 Years Ago from ShopBop
Love Juicy Couture. Love cupcakes. Love the Juicy Couture Cupcake Necklace.Tags: fashion, jewelry, cupcakes, necklaces, Juicy Couture, birthdays, cool gifts, designer jewelry, Wish!Added 10 Years Ago from Nordstrom
Julia deVille make some of the most inventive jewellery I've ever seen. Have look a her site.Added 10 Years Ago from Juliadeville
Sweet and delicate, this exquisitely hand made rose ring will adorn your style with a distinctive flourish and a unique touch. One size only, Adjustable with open band.Tags: fashion, style, jewelry, rings, roses, rose, air, Cool Jewelry, fashion ringsAdded 10 Years Ago from Forzieri
Absolutely beautiful.
super cute ring, just yummy! comes in red too.Tags: fruit, green, jewelry, rings, Apple, air, jewlery, Cool Jewelry, green applesAdded 10 Years Ago from Bluecollardistro
Gotta throw in the matching earrings - they're amazing.
This reminds me of vintage Dior. Love it.
All I can say is AWESOME!Added 10 Years Ago from Genartpulse
Betsey makes fabulous jewelry!Tags: gifts, designer, necklaces, charms, cool gifts, Betsey Johnson, Cool Jewelry, designer necklace, betsey johnson necklaceAdded 10 Years Ago from Nordstrom
what a funny , silly ring...love it...kind of reminds me of another designed in the fifties by Georg Jensen...this one is made out of bronze
Carmen de Anguis Teal Floral NecklaceTags: jewelry, flowers, necklaces, floral, Pretty, Cool Jewelry, cool necklaces, flower pendants, floral necklaceAdded 10 Years Ago from Somethingsilver
Really nice jewellery that is unique and lots of once off designs. A group of young designers working out of the same shop.Added 10 Years Ago from Atworkgallery
26"+4" ball chain includedTags: music, jewelry, pendants, necklaces, air, Cool Jewelry, complete technique, indie pendants, black cassette pendantAdded 10 Years Ago from Boundlessny


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PHILADELPHIA - The Ivy League has announced its weekly awards for field hockey, and University of Pennsylvania freshman forward Jasmine Cole has been named Ivy League Rookie of the Week. This marks the second time Cole has been honored with the award, and she has also been named co-Ivy League Player of the Week once this season.
Cole's honor comes on the heels of Penn's 1-1 weekend. The Quakers lost their first Ivy League game at Columbia Friday night, despite a pair of goals from the freshman. On Sunday, she had a goal and two assists as Penn rolled past Appalachian State, 7-1.
Cole leads Penn, the Ivy League, and the nation in goals per game (16, 1.23) and points per game (35, 2.69).
In addition to Cole's honor, senior midfielder Julie Tahan was named to the Ivy League honor roll after scoring goals in both games last weekend. The Ivy League Player of the Week was Cornell's Marisa Siergiej.
At 10-3 overall, Penn has reached a double-digit win total for the first time since 2004. The Quakers are 3-1 in Ivy League play, alone in second place behind only Princeton (4-0). Penn hosts Yale this Saturday at 11:30 a.m. at Ellen Vagelos Field.


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Here's Lady GaGa at the 52nd Annual Grammy Awards Sunday night where she pushed the boundaries of sexual perception or whatever the hell you call the outcome of eating a bucket of acid then wearing Superman's crystal computer as a hat. Which also explains why her vagina looks like a pale Marlon Brando circa 1978.
JOR-EL: Kal-El, down here. Down here, Kal-El.
SUPERMAN: Yeah, dad? Aw, Jesus.
JOR-EL: Haha! Made you look!
Photos: Getty


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Flames NewsFlames Home > Field Hockey Home > News
Krulock Garners NorPac East Offensive Player of the Week Award
Liberty Lady Flames field hockey sophomore forward Ashlee Krulock has been named the NorPac East Division Offensive Player of the Week, as announced today by the conference.
This marks the first conference weekly award for Krulock in her career. Liberty has now earned five weekly awards this season. Helen Doolittle was tabbed Defensive Player of the Week last week, while Ann Jefferis has earned defensive honors twice (Sept. 3 and Sept. 9). Natalie Barr was named Co-Offensive Player of the Week on Sept. 17.
Krulock posted a record-setting day for the Lady Flames in their lone contest last week. The sophomore matched a single-game program record with four goals in Liberty's 6-2 victory against Davidson on Saturday. Krulock equaled Barr's single-game goal mark from Oct. 19, 2012 against Appalachian State. The win improved the Lady Flames' overall record to 6-4 this season and 1-0 in conference play.
Krulock tallied a pair of markers in each half, increasing her team-leading goal total to nine for the season. The Hummelstown, Pa., native notched her four goals on just five shots. The sophomore has been the model of efficiency this season, scoring her nine goals on just 19 shots.
Krulock's four goals sets the single-game high in the NorPac this season and pulls her into a tie atop the conference with Longwood's Stacey de Grandhomme for most total goals this year.
Liberty returns to action with a midweek trip to Longwood on Wednesday for its first conference road test of the season. The Lady Flames and Lancers will get under way at 4:30 p.m. at the Athletics Complex.


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Starting as early as next week, a Flagler County Sheriff's deputy will be at all of the 5 elementary schools to provide added security in the wake of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting.
The move to get a deputy for the remainder of the school year will cost about $84,000 to $85,000. The sheriff's office will pay about 25 percent of the tab.
The plan will go until about the end of the school year, then the sheriff's office and school district will look into some alternatives, like using reserve deputies or hiring more people.
Some parents say it is a good idea, others say that the money could be used somewhere else.
Darla Ayodele works at the daycare at Bunnell Elementary, she said that she is relieved someone else will be keeping a close eye on her son.
"I'm glad that they're doing it," she said. "It makes you feel safe knowing that there is someone here."
Robert Turner, who also has a child at the elementary school, said he didn't see the need for it.
"I believe that they is such tight security as it is without a sheriff's deputy, that kind of issue would not happen here," he said.
Rob Kendall, with Bunnell Elementary told Local 6, "Our main goal is the safety of the kids and it means a lot to our community that we are all working together."
The addition comes after a mother paid $11,000 to add a deputy at her daughter's elementary school last month.
Meanwhile, in Osceola County, additional law enforcement will be added to all schools in the district through a school resource officer or through a shared plan.
Currently, all Osceola's middle, high, and K-8 schools have SROs on campus. In addition, several elementary schools share School Resource Officers.
The new plan expands the number of School Resource Officers by four so that all Osceola elementary schools can be part of the shared plan, increasing the presence of law enforcement on more campuses.
"Our local law enforcement agencies and the city and county governments have been instrumental in making this happen," said Superintendent Melba Luciano in a release. "Their assistance and tremendous support when it comes to our students' and staff's safety have been remarkable. We will continue to work collaboratively to ensure our children have safe places to learn and our employees have safe places to work."
The plan will be a collaboration with Osceola County Sheriff's Office, Osceola County Commission, Kissimmee Police Department, Kissimmee City Council and St. Cloud City Commission.
Copyright 2013 by ClickOrlando.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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Strategic Planning
Basic Values
To realize its vision, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville embraces and is guided by the following values:
- excellence in undergraduate education and graduate programs;
- liberal education as a basis for lifelong learning, growth, and professional development;
- the pursuit of knowledge and its practical application, and applied research
- ethical behavior
- students as the primary focus of university activities
- respect for individual differences and support for the development of all students, faculty, and staff
- people as the source of strength, reputation, and vitality
- learning and development which occur inside and outside the classroom; and
- service to the community, the state of Wisconsin, and society
The University of Wisconsin-Platteville provides associate, baccalaureate, and master's degree programs in a broad spectrum of disciplines including: science, technology, engineering, and mathematics; criminal justice; education; business; agriculture; and the liberal arts. We promote excellence by using a personal, hands-on approach to empower each student to become broader in perspective, intellectually more astute, ethically more responsible, and to contribute wisely as an accomplished professional and knowledgeable citizen in a diverse global community.
UW-Platteville will be recognized as the leading student-focused university for its success in achieving excellence, creating opportunities, and empowering each individual.
Strategic Plan: Strategic Plan in Action
Read about just a few of the recent examples of the ways in which the university is carrying out these strategic priorities. See the Strategic Plan in Action.


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* Prices may differ from that shownMore Offers
Lancome Hypnose Doll Eyes mascara is designed to coat every single lash without weighing them down, for a wide-eyed look. It's priced at £22.50 and comes in 4 colour options.
My thoughts
I love the pretty design of this mascara tube. The addition of a rose design makes the chunky black plastic tube look much more elegant and expensive. The shape of the tube is well designed not only to look good but to be easy to grip and use.
The brush is what I would call a standard length, but there is a big difference in length of the bristles at the base and tip of the brush, making it much more conical than others. The brush picks up the mascara very evenly.
It's really easy to apply and goes on so smoothly and evenly, making my lashes look completely defined and separated with a lot of extra length. It doesn't clump even slightly or stick my lashes together, even after a second or third coat.
It really does give a wide-eyed "doll" look, and it can be used in just one layer for daytime or pile on the layers for a stronger evening look. It lasts well without flaking, smudging or running, but it isn't waterproof (although I believe they now do a waterproof version also). It comes off easily when I want to remove it though.
It doesn't irritate my eyes at all and I do wear contact lenses and I'm fine with it.
Yes, I would very highly recommend this mascara, it's so hard to find a good mascara that doesn't clump, especially after you start layering it up, but this one really doesn't!
I absolutely love this mascara, but it can be tricky to get used to.
The mascara tube itself is a really nice shape which makes it really easy to hold onto and use. The brush is shaped like a wand, with one side being thicker than the other and tapering down to a pointy end. This is really clever because it allows you to reach into all the difficult places such as corners and bottom lashes.
The mascara itself is really thick, much thicker than any other. This is great because it gives your lashes a gorgeous eye opening look with the very first coat (other mascaras require several coats). But, if you're not prepared for this and you put too much on you could end up with eyelashes that stick together!
I normally use the black mascara and it is a really striking colour. There are a range of colours including a sparkly one. At around £22 this is quite an expensive mascara, but I think it's worth it.
Oh Hypnose, you have let me down this time!
Lancome Hypnose has been my favourite mascara for years. It is a bit of a treat as it is quite pricey and I tend to just keep it for nights out and special ocassions rather than for every day, so that it will last a bit longer, but I do love it so. It doesn't clump, it lasts for ages and it makes my lashes look amazing. I have previously tried a different version of it (can't remember the exact name) which basically included a bit of sparkle but I decided the sparkle wasn't worth the extra couple of quid and went back to the bog standard one.
I was then bought this 'Doll Eyes' version as a gift and was really looking forward to using it. As it was a gift I don't know the exact price but they are usually about £19 from Lancome counters which can be found in larger Boots stores and many department stores. The tube is a kind of curvy shape and is black with a faint pretty flowery pattern on (the Lancome logo type flowers). The brush is of the bristly kind, rather than a plasticky one, which I generally prefer and it starts out thickish and tapers towards the end, which is great for getting those corner lashes. The one I use is black, though it is available in different colours, and it is a very nice dark pigmented black, not greyish like some can be. So far, so good.
The problem began when I started to apply the mascara to my eagerly waiting lashes........it clumped, and clogged, then clumped some more.........on the first use! I m essed about with it for so long that some of my lashes ended up just stick / clumped together and it didn't look great at all. I decided maybe it was somehow user error but then next time I tried it, and the time after that, it just did the same. I hated it and felt really annoyed that such an expensive product could let me down so much! It just looked like any old cheap mascara, not speical like my normal Hypnose.
The moral of the story is, stick with what you know and love, don't go trading it in for a newer model!
This is not a cheap mascara, I paid £22 for the So Black colour (this was the only one available so I think it is the only shade they do) which is as you would expect a deep black colour. It comes in a nice sleek black container which is housed in a silver coloured box. There is a grey rose on the black contoured tube and it is a chunky design and quite substantial, it looks very sleek and almost sexy looking and I like the way that it is designed.
My eyes can be a little sensitive at times and I found this to be very gentle when applying it and I had no reaction at all to it. The brush is nice and easy to grip and applying the mascara is very smooth indeed. It has a surprising floral smell to it which is unusual and I initially worried that this would irritate my eyes but that was not the case. I was impressed with how evenly the mascara distributed itself over the brush and this was reflected in the even coating that covered my eye lashes. You can tell that this is a good quality product, the colour is nice and rich while there is absolutely no clumping of the eye lashes and after use they look full bodied and even.
It is long lasting and certainly adds length and body to my eye lashes and the nice dark colour gives them a really clear definition. Despite the dark colour it is not an over powering look that you are left with, instead there is a nice amount of colour and a classy finish to the overall look of my eyes when I wear this. It adds some nice body to my lashes without making them look too heavy and it does add some length and curl as well.
The only real downside is the fact that it is not exactly cheap and you are restricted with regards to the available colour.
I purchased this mascara from the Lancome counter at a department store after a recommendation from a friend. The packaging is attractive and has the signature Lancome flowers. The formula itself is thick without being too gloopy, and it covers every lash beautifully. I personally am a fan of the heavy mascara look (hence dolls eyes), and the mascara achieved this look without being to clumpy. The brush is a great shape, and the sides allow excellent coverage right in to the corner of your eyes. It is now my favourite mascara! The price is a little hefty for some, but you really do get what you pay for, and the compliments I've received whilst wearing it make up for the price! If I was pressed to find a negative I would say it dried out faster than other mascaras that I have owned. Oh yeah, and if that isn't enough, apparently this is the Duchess of York's favourite mascara too...
The Doll Eyes Mascara claims to give you real "dolls' eyes. The formula is not heavy for the lashes and adds volume, lift and long eyelashes that are beautiful individually separated. It comes with a convenient cone-shaped brush to even reach the lashes at the inner corner of the eye for the ultimate wide-eyed look "sixties" look.
Admittedly, the formula smells delicious. Compared with my YSL Faux Cils mascara, which has a very chemical smell, this was a real surprise. The mascara formula is in my opinion too "wet" giving you spots if you accidentally blink your eye. Of course mascara that's too dry is not good but I found this really annoying. Moreover a possible second layer is disastrous for separate lashes since they will clump together.
The cone-shaped brush is very convenient to work with and indeed you can easily reach any (awkward) eyelash - even in your peripheral vision. With one layer it looks beautiful but when applying multiple layers the lashes will clump.
In my opinion it is indeed good mascara, but not good enough for a second time to buy. I find it slightly too pricey with a price tag for 17,99 pounds. A little bit too much for me. Three stars I'm giving this mascara.
=== The Product ===
Lancôme Hypnose Doll Eyes Mascara is the newest edition to the Lancôme Mascara range. It retails at £20.50 and can be found at Lancôme counters in department stores or the Lancôme website, as well as various online retailers. It's currently only available in one shade, which is named 'So Black!'.
=== How I Came to Own It ===
I'm lucky enough to be a member of the Boots.com Product Testing Panel and regularly receive new products to test in return for posting a review on their website. This was one of the first few products I received and was not something I would ever have bought myself.
When it comes to mascaras my preference is for a pretty natural look. I can't stand the false lash effect and absolutely despise the disgusting, several coats too many spidery look that seems to be the fashion, so I tend to stick to my old faithful Max Factor Masterpiece mascara, which gives me perfectly defined lashes every time. I wouldn't have chosen Lancôme's Doll Eyes as it sounded like it was designed for a more built-up, dramatic look than I go for, as well as being considerably more expensive than my usual, but of course I was keen to give it a fair trial.
=== The Packaging ===
The mascara comes in a shiny silver box which may be deemed unnecessary by some, but it does contain more information about the product than could be put on the mascara tube itself, so serves a purpose.
The mascara tube is made of thick black plastic decorated with a pretty rose design in grey, and the name of the product in silver on the lid. The tube is much thicker and chunkier than any other I've used and it does have a really high quality feel about it. There's a curvy hourglass type shape to the tube which makes it easy to grip, whilst the lid tapers almost to a point at the top.
=== The Claims ===
Lancôme claim that this mascara is 'the secret behind doll lashes'. The new I-conic brush 'provides an extremely smooth and clean application, thickening lashes without weighing them down.', resulting in a 'volumised, extended and full lash fringe for a doll lash effect'.
The cone-shaped brush is designed to ensure you get the 'ideal load on each lash, even in the inner corner of the eye', whilst the exclusive 'Fibershine' formula, enriched with nylon powders, 'offers perfect load and beautiful curve for seductive fanned out lashes'.
=== Suitability & Directions ===
The packaging states that this product has been opthalmologically tested and is suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.
I think everyone develops their own method for applying mascara, but the directions for this one are quite specific, reading as follows:
'1)Place the brush on the centre of the lash fringe. Let the brush glide over the lashes from root to tip in a zigzag movement
2)Use the tip of the brush to catch the small lashes in the inner corner of the eyes
3)Intensify the outer corner of the eyes using the largest part of the brush to open the eyes
4)Apply on lower lashes'
=== In Practise ===
The first thing I noticed on opening the tube was the strong scent, which really took me by surprise. It's very highly perfumed with a kind of vague, non-specific floral scent, which is not really what I would expect from a mascara. Whilst I'm sure this is probably more pleasant than the usual mascara scent (I've never actually noticed how any other mascara smells, since it's not an important factor for something that goes on my eyelashes!), I couldn't help but wonder how such a highly fragranced product could be suitable for sensitive eyes.
The brush is a proper cone shape which tapers from about 1cm diameter at the base to about 3mm at the end. The first thing that really struck me when looking at the brush was that apart from a blob of mascara at the pointy end it looked completely clean. The mascara is so evenly loaded on the brush that it doesn't look like it has any on at all. The blob on the end sticks out from the brush rather than being on the bristles, so it's easily removed either by wiping it on the top of the tube or a tissue.
The tube is easy to hold and grip which makes it really easy to apply. The mascara goes on really smoothly and evenly, coating each lash perfectly without any sign of clumping or lashes sticking together. I found that I needed to do several strokes over each section of my lashes to get them all looking the same length, and each stroke I did seemed to give them a bit more of a lift. I've found that it is essential to use the larger end of the brush for the outer corner of the eyes as the thin end doesn't give them any length or volume and leaves them looking sparse and short compared to the rest of the lashes.
It dries fairly quickly but not so quickly that blinking straight after application doesn't lightly coat my bottom lashes. I never apply mascara to my bottom lashes as it closes the eyes and makes them appear smaller and I favour a more wide-eyed look, but it's nice to have the slight bit of colour to them that blinking after application creates.
I don't suffer from sensitive eyes but I do wear contact lenses and I found my eyes started to feel a little uncomfortable shortly after applying this. I've never had this problem with any other mascara so I can only assume the fragrance is to blame. Although they do feel uncomfortable it's not a bad enough feeling to make me remove the mascara and after a while I do get used to it and don't notice it anymore.
=== The Results ===
I was actually quite surprised by the results this mascara gave me. I was expecting it would be a very bold, dramatic look, but actually it gives me great definition without looking over the top or fake. The black colour is quite intense but it doesn't look too harsh against my pale skin and blonde hair, accentuating rather than overpowering.
It lengthens well, making my lashes much more noticeable and fluttery, and giving a wide-eyed look with not a single clump to be seen. It really does give perfect definition and separation of the lashes, giving a very neat, polished look. I don't feel it thickens my lashes to any extent on the first coat but as every lash is perfectly coated and defined I really don't think it needs to. The result is a naturally defined, wide-eyed effect which is perfect for a daytime look.
If you do want a more dramatic look you can easily build up the layers, adding length and volume and lifting the lashes into more of a curl with each coat. I've found that even after 3 coats there is still no clumping and my lashes remain perfectly defined. Once you get past the first coat the look does obviously start to get more fake, but although it's not a look I go for it still does look much better than any other mascara I've used . There's no horrible spidery look, it doesn't look really dry, and it has a slight sheen to it which stops it from looking as fake and dirty as most mascaras do when you start piling on the layers.
I have a bad habit of rubbing my eyes a lot and remarkably I've not had any smudging with this, though it does sometimes start to flake a little after a while and I find myself having to brush tiny black marks from under my eyes. Despite this my lashes stay looking as perfect as when I first applied it for the whole day or night, and even though it's not waterproof it passes the tear test with flying colours. When I do want to remove it, it comes off easily with face wipes or my usual cleanser, no need for a specialist product, and it removes completely so I'm not left with black marks under my eyes the next morning.
=== The Conclusion ===
I've been surprised by how much I like this mascara. It definitely opens up my eyes and gives a great, defined look which can be tailored for day or night. If it was a bit cheaper or I was a bit richer I'd definitely buy it again, and I'd happily recommend it to anyone with that kind of money to spare, but would advise contact lens wearers and anyone with sensitive eyes to err on the side of caution.
Lancome Hypnose Doll Eyes Mascara / Doll-Eyed Effect Mascara / Watch lashes turn into a doll-eyed look with Lancome?s Hypnose Doll Eyes / Evenly coats lashes without weighing them down / a must-have mascara to create beautiful lashes that look extended and lifted / Sweep on using our cone shaped brush and watch your eyes transform into a dazzling wide-eyed look / Extended and lifted lash look / wide eyed look / doll eyes effect / Our unique cone shaped brush ensures the ideal load with each application / even in the inner corner of the eyes / Apply your mascara from the base of your lashes working through to the tips / in zigzag movements / for maximum coverage /


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Premier League: Rickie Lambert never considered leaving Southampton
Southampton striker Rickie Lambert insists he never considered leaving St Mary's in a bid to realise his England dream.
Last Updated: 19/08/13 10:50am
The well-travelled 31-year-old was handed his international bow in the Wembley friendly with Scotland last Wednesday and stepped off the bench in the second half to head home the winner with his very first touch.
Lambert, who then netted a last-minute penalty to secure victory over West Brom on Saturday, joined the Saints from Bristol Rovers in a £1million deal in 2009 and believes his current home gives him the ideal platform to showcase his abilities.
The former Macclesfield, Stockport and Rochdale man said: "I knew that it would mean a lot to the Southampton fans and the club to see one of their own involved with England. They've always backed me.
"I always thought my best chance of playing for England was with Southampton.
"I played in 38 games in the Premier League. I don't think there are too may England-qualified strikers who get that opportunity.
"But I'd never have thought about leaving Southampton to enhance my England prospects."


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The outstanding D.J. Short said this on Twitter today: "If there was a second Wild Card, the Mets would only be five games back. #idontknowwhatthismeans"
It is fairly tantalizing to consider this in retrospect- if you could simply move the future extra playoff spot back into 2011, and keep Carlos Beltran and Francisco Rodriguez going forward forward, the resulting alchemy would mean the Mets could find themselves in a pseudo-playoff race as we speak.
But absent a time machine, it means something very different, I think. Take a look at the last ten years to get a sense of what I mean.
Year # of wins, Wild Card # of wins, Second Wild Card
2010 91, Atlanta 90, San Diego
2009 92, Colorado 88, San Francisco
2008 90, Milwaukee 89, New York
2007 89, Colorado 89, San Diego (Colorado actually at 90 after playoff, but with two spots, both get in- Mets sixth in NL at 88)
2006 88, Los Angeles 85, Philadelphia
2005 89, Houston 88, Philadelphia
2004 92, Houston 91, San Francisco
2003 91, Florida 87, Houston
2002 95, San Francisco 92, Los Angeles
2001 93, St. Louis 90, San Francisco
What do we see here? Over the past ten years, the wild card has averaged 91 wins. Had the second wild card existed, that team would have averaged 88.9 wins per game- effectively, 89 wins.
Had the average fifth playoff team averaged more in the neighborhood of say, 82-84 wins, that could change the nature of building a baseball team. After all, you'd be talking about a fundamentally different goal. With the dice-roll nature of the playoffs, simply creating a consistently mediocre team that can back into the playoffs and get some postseason revenue regularly would make some sense.
But building a team geared to win a consistent 89 games is pretty much the same thing as creating one geared to win a consistent 91 games. And for what it's worth, this year's Mets are on pace to win 80.4 games. Even if they'd kept Carlos Beltran and Francisco Rodriguez, it is hard to imagine they'd have been good enough to contend for that mythical fifth wild card spot. More importantly, building a team like the 2011 Mets- filled with dead money, bad contracts, and a whole lot of hope- isn't a sustainable model, even in a new, more inclusive playoff system.


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rooibos vanilla teaRooibos, colloquially known as Red Tea, is an herbal plant that grows in South Africa. Rooibos is a flavorful alternative to tea for those seeking to minimize caffeine intake. Our 'Rooibos Vanilla' is a top-grade organic version, flavored with natural vanilla.
Steep at 212° for 5 minutes.
1642 reviews
5 recent reviews
meet the farmer
Niklaas Jakobus Slinger - Clanwilliam, South Africa
Q How long have you been growing tea?
A"32 years. I started working as a laborer on a neighboring Rooibos Farm and for the past 14 years I have been growing Rooibos on my own farm."
Q What got you started in the tea industry?
A"I grew up on a Rooibos Farm. After I left home, I worked on different farms producing a wide variety of agricultural products, but my love for Rooibos and the area in which I grew up brought me back home. Since I was a small boy, I dreamed about owning my own Rooibos Farm and 14 years ago my dream came true with the help of my previous employer who helped me to loan money to purchase my own Rooibos farm."
Q Can you describe a typical day out in the field? How many hours would that be?
A"During Harvesting season (January - April), I leave home at 05:00 in the morning to turn the Rooibos fermentation heaps on the drying yard. I then go to the fields and start harvesting the Rooibos. At 10:00 I return to the drying yard to open the fermentation heaps and spread the Rooibos thin and evenly to dry. I then continue harvesting till we break for lunch at 12:30. After lunch (14:00) I take the harvested Rooibos to the drying yard for further processing. After cutting and bruising the tea is put into fermentation heaps around 18:00. After that we collect the dried Rooibos from the drying yard. My day ends at around 19:30. A typical working day is around 13 hours during harvesting season."
Q What is your favorite part of growing tea? What inspires you to keep going?
A"Although we experience extreme weather conditions (temperatures in excess of 40°C) during this time of the year, harvesting is still my favorite as we can then see the reward for all our hard work and effort."
Q Conversely, what is the hardest part of your job?
A"As a Rooibos farmer you work in extreme weather conditions. Planting takes place during winter when it is cold and often raining. It is very labor intensive and tremendously strenuous on one's back."
Q How has tea farming changed over the years?
A"It has become more challenging as a result of higher input costs. In recent years mechanization started playing a bigger part in the industry although the bulk of Rooibos is still planted and harvested by hand. International standards and food safety requirements meant that we need a lot of certifications and as a result, paperwork plays a more important role."
Q What do you think makes your tea more unique or better than others?
A"The area in which I farm and the fact that I am personally involved from harvesting to processing."
Q What makes the difference between a successful and unsuccessful harvest?
A"Soil preparation, good plant material, rainfall, pest- and weed control and the ability to make a good quality Rooibos. Obviously price also plays a major role in the income that we generate."
Q Do you exchange growing secrets with other local farmers?
A"Yes, I supply them with information when needed."
Q Are there any tips you can give on how to best brew your tea?
A"Yes. Even though it is time consuming, the best way is still to let the Rooibos brew in a pot on the stove throughout the day."
Q What is your favorite tea to drink & why?
A"Definitely Rooibos as it is great tasting and also completely pure and natural. The fact that it is naturally caffeine free and rich in antioxidants is an added bonus."
Q If you had any advice to give western tea drinkers, what would it be?
A"Consume more Rooibos as it is good for you and your support also makes a difference in our lives!"
Q What does this project & contribution mean to you?
A"It makes me proud to be part of this project and to be able to inform people more about Rooibos and a typical day in the life of a Rooibos farmer."
Q What would be the main benefit of receiving this donation?
A"The money will be very welcome as I have already identified the need for a new rotavator to better aerate the fermentation heaps in order to make an even better quality Rooibos. At the moment it is all done by hand."
fresh from the gardenTo ensure the best quality and value, we import our teas directly from the countries in which they are grown, working closely with the farmers who tender them.
Our Roots Campaign connects our customers with the rich stories and the farmers behind some of our most popular teas.


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You exercise your body to stay physically in shape, so why shouldn't you exercise your brain to stay mentally fit? With these daily exercises you will learn how to flex your mind, improve your creativity and boost your memory. As with any exercise, repetition is necessary for you to see improvement, so pick your favorite exercises from our daily suggestions and repeat them as desired. Try to do some mentalrobics every single day!
The link method is a simple way to remember a list of items in order.
Suppose you have to do a few chores such as drop off the kids at school, go to the bank, and then do some grocery shopping. Try linking these items together in a little story: "I'm going to drop the kids off at the bank because they can crawl through the slot in the teller window and pick out the groceries from inside the vault."
The more unusual the story, the more likely you are to remember it!
With practice, it's possible to quickly remember at least a dozen items using this method, and it also gives you a chance to stretch your creativity by thinking up crazy stories.
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Jmbullman wrote:I have noticed when u heal to tip backstroke when u are finishing with a stone if the swarf is too bad and u are making say a 8-10 degree bevel unless u wash off the swarf u can dull AND scratch the surface if u get alot of build up while finishing so I always rinse the stone before I do that finish stroke. Just a thought. Jmbullman
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Aaron Tveit & Daniel Sunjata Tease New Series GRACELAND
Broadway regulars Aaron Tveit and Daniel Sunjata are lending their leading man looks and compelling charisma to the small screen in a new TV project on USA from the creator of WHITE COLLAR that traces the lives of three undercover agents in Los Angeles, GRACELAND.
Tveit and Sunjata are both quite busy these days, with Tveit starring in the hit stage-to-screen adaptation of LES MISERABLES and Sunjata in an extended character arc on NBC's musical drama series SMASH.
In these behind-the-scenes interviews, Tveit and Sunjata - along with creator Jeff Easton and co-star Vanessa Ferlito - open up about the challenges in performing their new roles, what we can expect from the series as well as the experience of the shooting the pilot, which is set to premiere this Summer on USA.
"It's a true story about real people living a lie," says creator Jeff Eastin, summing it up.
Tveit says of the series, "It's intense. It's unexpected."
He describes his character, Mike, as being "the new guy in the house" and "there's always more going on than you think with Mike."
Sunjata describes his character, Briggs, as "the senior resident of the house." He says, "There are always layers to what is going on with Briggs."
He concludes, "The great thing about GRACELAND is that you meet these characters initially, you see what they seem to be on the surface, and, then, as the show progresses, you find out much more."
Additionally, I have received a copy of the pilot and will be reviewing it soon on this site, so stay tuned to BroadwayWorld for further GRACELAND coverage.
For more on GRACELAND visit the official Facebook page here.
Check out the four promotional interviews below.
Photo Credits: USA Network.
Related Articles
From This Author Pat Cerasaro


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DİDEM ÜRER: Professor Dr. Mustafa Kamalak, the Chairman of the Saadet Party, said that, 'In principle, they weren't against the idea of the Presidential System'. However, he said they wouldn't agree to something in advance before they fully understand what the change will bring.
ADNAN OKTAR: I am kindly asking Master Kamalak, he should heed my words, this business [the presidential system] is not very normal. Master Kamalak loves me and I love him very much. So beware! He shouldn't even think about such a possibility. If that comes, the rest will follow. The presidential system will lead to federation, may Allah forbid, and that will only divide Turkey, nothing else.
Our Prime Minister has lots of powers, and if he wants, we can give him even more power. If there are problems, they can be solved. He should first cancel that regulation restricting his term to a maximum of three. That is very unnecessary. Why three, or five or whatever? As long as he can, as long as Allah gives him the power to do that, he should stay on as the prime minister.
It's very nice now, we have a President, a Prime Minister, it is a balanced system. The presidential system; Allah forbid, what if tomorrow a person comes up and says, 'Why don't we have a federal system'? And then things could completely take a turn for the worst. There is no need for that.
It is nice now, Turkey, as the main body, has to be strong. It won't hurt if Syria divides, they can divide if they want. It's ok if Iraq divides too, as long as Turkey is strong, as long as they are joined with Turkey. Then there would be no risk.
Because as long as the father is strong, he can easily guard and manage his children. He can show love and compassion, it doesn't matter if there are thirty different parts. What would it change?
Turkey has cities, but there is a very strong central system. If there are problems with democracy, let more democracy flourish. Let there be more democracy, let people be more protected, let there be more security. It is all very much desired, as long as Turkey is strong as one nation. (Adnan Oktar, May 25th, 2013: A9 TV)2013-06-04 19:30:35


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FAMOUS for donning bright red and blue Spider-Man costumes and striking Batman attire, Bournemouth Carnival Band is on the hunt for new recruits.
The marching band, which has performed at the Royal Albert Hall and the prestigious Jersey Battle of Flowers event as well as numerous carnivals in the UK, is looking for new members.
Men and women are needed who can play brass instruments including the trumpet, baritone, euphonium, trombone and sousaphone.
They would also like to hear from percussionists who can play the snare and bass drums as well as woodwind players.
Membership is normally limited to people over 16. The band's main aims are to assist raising funds for worthy causes, especially those which help children with special needs.
For more information about joining the band call Louis on 07549 239554 or Alan on 01202 594378 or visit their website at bcband.co.uk


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JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - A judge rules that Duval County Clerk of Courts Jim Fuller cannot seek a fourth term, which makes his Republican opponent the winner of a primary race that is already under way.
Retired Circuit Judge William Wilkes released his ruling Friday morning, three days after hearing arguments Tuesday morning in a lawsuit filed by the city of Jacksonville to enforce the two-term limit approved by Duval County voters in a 1992 referendum and block Fuller from another term.
"Jim Fuller is hereby directed to immediately withdraw his candidacy for Clerk of the Circuit and County Courts," Wilkes wrote in his order.
Fuller, who's been in office since 2001, had said his seat is not term-limited and was protected by the Florida Constitution, but said he would abide by the judge's decision and would not appeal.
Learning of the ruling Friday, Fuller said he was "disappointing in the way you go out, but other than that, I am OK and will go on and do other things."
Supervisor of Elections Jerry Holland said he was not surprised by the ruling and that removing Fuller from the ballot makes Ronnie Fussell the winner of the Republican primary without opposition, even though Fuller's name is on absentee ballots already distributed and six days of early voting are complete.
"Basically his name will be on the ballot with Mr Fussell ... but the race has been decided," Holland said. "Whichever way they vote, the outcome will still be the same."
COURT DOCUMENT: Judge's final judgement on City of Jacksonville vs. Jim Fuller
Fussell will face the winner of Tuesday's Democratic race for the post -- either Bill Hodges or Brenda Priestly Jackson -- along with two independent candidates in November's General Election. (Read Duval Clerk of Courts voter's guide)
Hodges released a statement applauding the judge's quick ruling in the case.
"I hope that we will be able to move forward knowing that we saved the taxpayers of Duval County the cost of holding a special election," Hodges said. "I always enjoyed working with Jim and his staff and thank him for his long service to the community."
The city cited a recent state Supreme Court ruling that reversed an earlier decision and upheld two-decade old term limits for elected officials in Duval County. Fuller claimed that because clerk of courts is a judicial officer, and term limits on city or county officials don't apply.
The term limits this ruling upheld will also apply to Holland, Sheriff John Rutherford and Property Appraiser Jim Overton, who will not be allowed to seek re-election at the end of their current terms.
Fuller said he was proud of what he accomplished in 12 years as clerk, especially making bringing the Duval County courts into the 21st century, with electronics in the courtroom and e-filing.
Ask if he would ever run for another public office, "I think my wife would say no," Fuller told Channel 4's Jim Piggott. "I will never say never on anything. Things come up that may change my mind, but right now we are continue to look around and see what is out there."
Copyright 2012 by News4Jax.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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Capt. Dan P Bowling, B-25 Pilot, MTO /WWII
1944 — Italy
Frank Bowling of New Orleans, LA moved around in variuos Western mining camps and towns looking for work. Frank eventually landed in AZ where he met his future wife, Florence "Flossie" Gallagher, a native of Bisbee, AZ They were married in 1910. Arizona was still a Territory !
Dan Bowling was born the 5th of six children (in Miami, AZ). Dan's family moved to Bisbee in Southern AZ soon after he was born where there was more opportunity for work. Dan and his family then remained in Bisbee for the duration of about 18 years. Immediately after graduating from the Bisbee High School, Dan went to visit relatives in San Piedro, in the harbor area of Los Angeles. Within a year, the entire family moved from Bisbee for much better opportunities in Southern California.
Dan continued to work at Bethlehem Steel until Oct. 1942. . . . Dan's Story is one of intense commitment, unbelievable obsticales and fierce determination in the face of all odds. His persistance and amazing durability eventually brought him through MANY trials by fire and indeed, he made it into the Army Air Corp. "A True Hero"


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Browse our stunning range of jewellery, choose from timeless pieces such as a diamond solitaire pendant or fashion led pieces from designers such as Michael Kors.


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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 25/3/2013 (1610 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
The opening minutes of the concert came late, very late for such an important date, but if this brought any stress to a superstar's life she kept it hidden behind a ferocious gaze. See, Rihanna's latest album is called Unapologetic, and so Rihanna did not apologize.
Instead, the 25-year-old megastar pursed her mulberry-painted lips to the crowd. They greeted her with a rolling cheer mixed with equal parts excitement and relief, and she smiled. "I just want everybody to say, 'f--k customs,'" Rihanna said, and the crowd kind of roared.
See, the trucks carrying the luxurious stage for Rihanna's Diamonds Tour were late, held up — the singer Tweeted earlier in the day — at the border. Because the stage was late, the show was late, and 13,000 people waited at the MTS Centre for almost 90 extra minutes for the feisty pop diva to take the stage.
Opener ASAP Rocky knocked out his set, and fans had a little hope, and then at 10:51 p.m. the lights finally went out. And there she was, clad in an embroidered Givenchy cloak and standing alone at the front of the stage, and she started to sing: a little intro, and then Phresh Out the Runway, and all the sauce and sass that tune could bring.
So it was on, then, it happened, just a little less as planned. "Right off the top, your energy is f---ing incredible," Rihanna said, after wrapping up Talk That Talk. "It's 11 o'clock at night… every last one of you showed up, and you stayed, you make this s—t possible. Thank you so much, I love you… Winnipeg's always so special to me. This next song is just for you."
It wasn't just for us, really — Pour It Up is a regular song on the tour — but the logistics of big pop spectacles don't lend themselves to spontaneity. Or to authenticity, and maybe it's the late night talking, but it seemed that fans who waited so long deserved better than to see her standing with her eyes closed, half-singing 2007 hit Umbrella while a vocal track shouldered most of the load.
It wasn't the only time that happened, though the singer battled laryngitis earlier this month and is likely still fighting to get her voice back to its top and sparkling form.
There was the way her hips, clad in a costume parade of leather and red stretch fabric and sometimes nothing at all, undulated to the beat. There were the jets of flame that exploded up from the faux-marble stage during the wrenching ballad What Now. She sang that song beautifully, sweat arcing down a brow contorted from the passion of it all.
There were many of these striking little moments. Robyn Rihanna Fenty is a powerful woman, and a born performer; she knows how to be seen.
Here's something interesting, though: for all the eye candy on the stage and on her wardrobe rack, for all the dancers twisting and thrusting around the edges of her spotlight, she came most alive in the closing minutes of the show, when she plunged down into the crowd during party-starter We Found Love. She stayed there deep into the throbbing beats of S&M.
There, in the heart and the heat and sweat of it all, she shimmied her hips and grinned. It was the first time in over 70 minutes that nothing in that smile seemed to hint that it was just for show. Surrounded by her fans, she looked the most exquisitely free.
That moment, it was worth waiting for.
As was this: after a hit-mix dance party to close the main set, Rihanna returned to the stage in a glittering silver outfit, and stood alone at the microphone. Her voice purred through a pretty and perfect rendition of Stay, and then she turned to the crowd and spoke to them again: still no apologies, but just a sweet farewell.
"I can't thank you enough for just staying here and making the show possible," she said, and her voice caught a little bit as the lights came up on 13,000 glowing faces. "I won't forget you for this. Thank you so much. You are a unique group of human beings. I love you."


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Would you like to save as your currency permanently or for this visit only?
Carmelitas Church
Ferreira Borges Market
Fantastic central location for a lively city trip.
Nice hotel in the heart of Porto. Everything you need in your city trip are there. And I really had wifi in my room not like the other hotels promised.
The staff were the nices and most helpful I have ever encountered. They were veey friendly nd sop accomodating - when we awnted to book longer they had to put a lot of effort in to meet our request but were brilliant. I will definitely come back here! I travel extensively and the location, cleanliness etc were great, but the special staff make this Pensao the best
Really great value for money, rooms big and clean, very good location, helpful staff. Just a bit too noisy...
Fantastic central location for a lively city trip.
Good central location esay to get to from airport by bus Good internet connection Attic room slightly cramped no frills
its so central and good value for money. it can be noise at the week end friday night as a lot of youth hang out there. the bed sheets need to be changed daily and the breakfast should have more variety in terms of egg . cold cuts etc.
Nice hotel in the heart of Porto. Everything you need in your city trip are there. And I really had wifi in my room not like the other hotels promised.
Good location and price. Small rooms.
very nice and clean rooms.good location.
Excellent location, always open. Very pleasant and helpful staff. Plenty to eat and drink for breakfast. Comfortable bed and air con available. The room was too small for a tall friend travelling with us. The breakfast area is very small and we could not always get two tables together.
Good location, very comfortable, good sized, clean rooms and good value for money. No
The owners of the hotel were extremely helpful, giving us information about the cityand transportation. also, the hotel is in a great location, near a metro station
Welcoming and nice staff. Clean. Not so far from city center. It is okay for couple of days, if one doesn't look for luxury. Cold (no heating). No elevator.
Very friendly and helpful staff - a lot of good advices and interesting information about Porto. Standard good for this price. We had room at the back, so it was quiet.
The owners of the hotel were extremely helpful, giving us information about the cityand transportation. also, the hotel is in a great location, near a metro station
Welcoming and nice staff. Clean. Not so far from city center. It is okay for couple of days, if one doesn't look for luxury. Cold (no heating). No elevator.
Small family run hotel, close to the metro station (for those coming from the airport) in a 10-15 min distance to the city centre. Seemed to be a safe place, didn't have any problems by coming home late at night. The room wasn't that fancy, but clean and comfortable. Great price for value, excellent place to stay for those who are spending more time in the city, rather than in a hotel. Big thanks to the owners, their advices helped much more than any touristic book.
The staff is great and very helpful. They provided us with very detailed info/map about what to visit and are very friendly.
the room was quite spacy for 3 people. Beds were comfortable, room was quiet and clean, bathroom clean. Possibility to use kitchen and small diner. Great location, 5min walking form cathedral and Luis I bridge. Parking available. Very nice staff, speaking english very well. No AC.
The location is very close to all main city attractions, and next door there are couple of stores and café-bars, the view from the terrace on my 4 floor was terrific. The stuff was very friendly, even if not of them spoke English, everyone wanted to help. it was an odd situation when after first night the room was supposed to be cleaned, but when i came back, not much was done, but i found a cigarette butt in the toilet. and mind that there is a school in front of the hotel, so the first school bell rings at 9.
Great breakfast Was a bit out of town but still only 5eur to get anywhere
In a surprisingly good location. Pretty central to the main sites given the cheap price. Bathroom was very cramped. Directions were not clear.
Location, it is in the perfect center for walking to the river. You can have a full meal in the neighborhood where the hotel is located for about 5Euros! The hotel itself was terrible. A foul odor in the room, you had to almost get in the bathtub to close the bathroom door, the seat on the toilet was hanging off, no shampoo, bad lighting. Definitely a 1 star hotel worth about 20E a night.
it was very cheap and the location was good the bed was uncomfortable, and they had lost my booking but they were very pleasant
Good location. Not clean, very old and not confortable beds. Really there is no reall kitchen, only common fridge and microwave. Even hot water for the tea we had to make in the microwve...
the location they only spoke portugese. the window led to the kitchen, so you could not open it there was no airco or possibility to fresh air our room was in the middle of the kitchen/living room, so we woke all night due to doorbells, internet games, talks etc. however they were friendly and tried to help.
Stuffs of this Hostel was so kind.It was nice place for sightseeing.
receptionist was nice to us Poor location as it was noisy at night. No lift, only stairs. Quite a walk to city centre
This small guesthouse was excellent in so many ways. Fantastic location -- close to riverfront, numerous port wine cellars and tours, restaurants, and shops. Friendly, helpful staff made me feel at home the moment I walked in the door. Loved my room -- bright, nicely updated, very comfortable bed...and a big shower with space to move around, a real plus for larger people! Air conditioning was a welcome treat, and wifi worked like a charm. It all felt like luxury to me, but at a very reasonable price. Stairs were loud and I heard everyone going up and coming down, could have used some carpeting. Plenty of fresh clean towels, but I would like to have had a washcloth.


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PHILADELPHIA – The University of Pennsylvania field hockey team has gone to overtime each of its last two games, winning both of them. The Quakers hope to keep their winning ways going this Sunday, when they meet UMass-Lowell in a non-conference, neutral-site game at Yale University. Faceoff is scheduled for noon.
The Series with UMass-Lowell
The Quakers and the Riverhawks are meeting for the first time in field hockey.
The Riverhawks (1-11) are a new NCAA Division I program this year. When they play Penn on Sunday, it will mark their fourth straight game against an Ivy League opponent; they lost to Columbia (2-1) and Harvard (4-0), and will play Dartmouth on Friday night. Melissa Effertz leads UML with four goals, while Georgia Cowderoy has seven points (3g, 1a) and Jahna Driscoll has scored twice. In goal, Melanie Hopkins has played every minute and holds a 3.75 goals-against average and a .667 save percentage.
About Penn
*At 8-2, Penn is off to its best start since the 1995 team was also 8-2. If the Quakers beat UMass-Lowell, their 9-2 record after 11 games would be surpassed only by the 1988 Final Four team, which was 9-1-1 after 11 games en route to a 14-3-1 overall record.
*Penn is also 3-0 in Ivy League play for the first time since the 1995 team started league play 4-0.
*Last year the Quakers tied a program record for goals in a season, with 42. They are well on their way toward giving that mark a run this year, with 35 goals in their first 10 games.
*Penn defeated Rider 4-3 in overtime on Wednesday; to give you a sense of how big that was, consider that over the last three years the Broncs had not only beaten the Quakers three times, but they had also outscored them by a combined 18-4.
*Freshman forward Elise Tilton was named Ivy League Player of the Week on Tuesday, becoming the third Penn player to earn Ivy weekly honors in the last three weeks (Jasmine Cole two weeks ago, Carly Sokach last week).
*Tilton earned her honor by scoring twice in the final 10 minutes of Penn's 5-4 overtime win against Dartmouth; the goals erased a 4-2 deficit and got the Quakers to OT. They were her sixth and seventh goals of the season.
*In Wednesday's win over Rider, Jasmine Cole and Emily Corcoran both had two goals and an assist, while Tilton and Julie Tahan also had assists on the day.
*Penn has gone to overtime in two straight games, winning both. Corcoran has scored the winner in both of those contests.
*Cole leads Penn with 12 goals, while Corcoran -- who was on the Ivy honor roll Tuesday after her OT winner against the Big Green -- has 10 goals and five assists and is tied with Cole for the team lead with 25 points.
*Senior Sunny Stirewalt scored her first goal of 2013 last Sunday against Dartmouth, off a Corcoran feed; she also has two assists this season.
*Sokach earned her Ivy League Player of the Week honor after a 12-save shutout at Harvard on September 28.
*Sokach also had 12 saves in Wednesday's win at Rider, her fifth double-digit-save game this season. She also had 11 in a 2-1 loss at Bucknell; 12 in a 4-3 win against Cornell; and 11 in a loss to Lafayette.
*Sokach has a .760 save percentage and a 2.35 goals-against average for the season. In the last eight games, however, the save percentage is up slightly (.783) while the GAA is down a bit (2.20).
*Cole already has two hat tricks in her collegiate career; it took her four games to do it. The first one came at Saint Joseph's, and the second one came in her Ivy League debut against Cornell.
*With her assist in Wednesday's game at Rider, Tahan now has nine points (2g, 5a) and is tied with Corcoran for the team lead in assists.
*Sophomore Elizabeth Hitti scored the goal in Penn's 1-0 win at Harvard -- a nice homecoming for the Massachusetts resident -- and now has eight points on the season (3g, 2a).
*It has been nice to see junior Alex Iqbal get back onto the score sheet in recent games; she assisted Tilton's game-tying goal against Dartmouth, and also had an assist against Pacific. Iqbal was an All-Ivy performer as a freshman, but missed all of last year due to an injury.
*Tahan and Croddick were second-team All-Ivy players a year ago; both are back this season. Hitti, meanwhile, received honorable mention despite being a freshman.
*Tahan and Iqbal are this year's captains. In addition to Tahan, the other seniors are Stirewalt, Amelia Cohen and Katie Harrington.
Up Next...
Penn gets back into Ivy League play with a trip to Columbia on Friday night. The Quakers and the Lions will face off at 6 p.m. in New York City.


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"Game changer" is a term you hear often when people talk about how technology has changed their industry.
News that Verizon, Google and other companies turned over detailed user information to the government has heightened the debate over the pros and cons of Big Data.
While leaving the ethics discussion for another time and place, Scott Redick of San Francisco-based Heat Advertising, states in a recent Harvard Business Review blog post that data-rich practices offer brand managers an alluring promise of precision and predictability. Pull lever X, out will pop Y as a result. It's mostly all good — with the emphasis on mostly.
Analytics can certainly make the marketing profession more efficient, but they can also make brands less exciting and surprising, Redick warns.
"With all of this information at our disposal, we risk robbing brands of opportunities for serendipity — the delightful surprises that happen when we least expect them, attracting the attention of consumers. Pursuing innovations in Big Datais essential, but that doesn't mean we should ignore the element of surprise, because surprise is still probably the most powerful marketing tool of all."
Redick summarizes the marketing benefits of surprise:
Surprise is addictive. Scientific research at Emory and Baylor showed the reward pathways in the brain respond most strongly when an unpredictable element is introduced. "People are designed to crave the unexpected," says Read Montague, an associate professor of neuroscience at Baylor.
Surprise changes behavior. Unexpected events, in particular, drive learning. When developing an advertising campaign we are often too focused on the question of "What do we need to say?" Instead, we should focus on the question of "What expectations do our customers
and prospects hold, and how can we turn those on their head?"
Surprise is cheap. Rather than attempt to beat the competition with epic production budgets and media plans, marketers should think about how to cram surprising brand stories into the smallest space possible.
Surprise turbocharges emotions. The interesting thing about surprise is that it appears to amplify whatever you're feeling. When we're surprised and angry, we're outraged. Combine happiness with surprise, and you hit the upper register of the feeling-good scale.
This helps explain why Zappos goes to such lengths to deliver shoes before they are promised, and why the word "delight" is almost always preceded by the words "surprise and."
Surprise fuels passionate relationships. Marketers spend the bulk of their creative energy making themselves look attractive to potential customers. It's easy to forget you need to look sexy and charming to your current ones to keep the spark alive.
As CMOs push their staffs and agencies to be faster, cheaper and more accountable, they also need to push the brand organization to be more surprising, Redick states. Unfortunately, there doesn't appear to be much in the way of academic research or enterprise-grade software to make this happen. "It really comes down to a question of imagination and bravery," he says. "And, I suspect, it has something to do with being open to situations where you might be surprised yourself."


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Parmesan Straws
These flaky, cheesy appetizers are the perfect addition to any occasion.
- Prep:
- Total Time:
- Yield: Makes 24
Source: Everyday Food, November 2008
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- All-purpose flour, for rolling
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (from a 17.3-ounce box), thawed
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In a small bowl, whisk together egg and 1 tablespoon water; set egg wash aside. In another small bowl, combine Parmesan, mustard powder, salt, and cayenne; set aside.
On a lightly floured work surface, roll out dough (still folded in thirds) to a 12-by-16-inch rectangle. With short side facing you, cut in half crosswise; brush one side of both halves with egg wash. Sprinkle one egg-washed half with cheese mixture. Sandwich halves together, egg-washed sides facing in; press lightly to adhere. Run a rolling pin over dough to seal.
With short side facing you, cut dough crosswise into 24 strips, each 8 inches long and 1/2 inch wide. Place strips, 1 inch apart, onto 2 baking sheets; twist strips, pressing down on ends to adhere them to sheets. Bake until cheese straws are puffed and golden, 8 to 10 minutes, rotating sheets halfway through.


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Authorized Retail Store
Authorized Dealer and Distributor
Official Service Center
Some parts of the Radikal E640 Build video above are based off builder's own opinions.
They are not necessary to perform during the actual build.
Starting a new class of helicopters by incorporating the use of blade sizes up to 640mm allows 700 class flight characteristics in a smaller, more affordable package.
By offering an electric helicopter at a slightly larger size than a 600 yet smaller than a 700, go ahead, push it to its limits. With increased strength, rigidity, and quality engineering, this is a 12S fire-breathing little monster.
For the best performance, Century Helicopter Products recommends Thunder Power batteries.


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McConnell Public Safety and Transportation Operations Center
The McConnell Public Safety and Transportation Operations Center (MPSTOC) is a model of multi-agency coordination and cooperation. The center is a partnership between Fairfax County and the commonwealth of Virginia that brings multiple agencies and functions together under on roof to enhance the effectiveness of:
- Public safety response.
- Improve traffic congestion management.
- Better manage the response to and recovery from major emergencies.
Tel: 571-350-2100; TTY 711
Address: 4890 Alliance Drive, Suite 2300, Fairfax, Va. 22030
Agencies Housed in the McConnell PSTOC
The Department of Public Safety Communications
(DPSC - the county's 9-1-1 Call Center), which receives and dispatches
all 9-1-1 emergency and nonemergency police, fire and rescue calls in
the county.
The Office of Emergency Management (OEM), which
oversees and activates the county's Emergency Operations Center during
emergency incidents. OEM is equipped to receive and transmit Homeland
Security and emergency information to state, regional and federal
The Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department and
Police Department have staff on the operations floor assisting with
specific fire and police dispatching.
The Police Department's Forensics
facility is housed in a separate building connected to the McConnell
Commonwealth of Virginia
The Virginia
Department of Transportation's (VDOT) Northern
Region Transportation Operations Center (TOC) and Signal System.
The TOC monitors traffic and incidents by using cameras and other
information-gathering mechanisms to better manage day-to-day traffic
flow and large incidents.
- The Virginia Department of State Police (VSP) Division 7 communications center, which receives and dispatches all #77 (interstate-related) calls for the Northern Virginia region. Dispatchers from Division 7 will move from their current location on Braddock Road in Fairfax.
Construction History of MPSTOC
A history of the construction of MPSTOC, from artist's renderings to completion.


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"From the very first conversations with Fujitsu, we felt there was a real commitment from them. We were very excited about the solution that they were proposing – and the added value that we could see from working directly with experts."
Andrew Szymanski, Network Manager, The Warren School
The Warren School in Chadwell Heath near Romford is a mixed community comprehensive for 11 to 18 year olds located in the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham. With almost 1,300 pupils it is larger than average and its dual Specialist Engineering and Specialist Sports College status reflects in part its historical proximity to the huge Ford production plant at Dagenham and West Ham United football club, whose training ground is just a stone's throw from the school gates.
The Warren School is striving to improve its performance, the GCSE and A level results of its pupils and to be a beacon of opportunity in a local community that has suffered from a range of social and economic difficulties in recent years. However the ambitions of its teaching staff and students were being thwarted by an old and unreliable IT infrastructure, legacy servers and limited storage capacity.
"When I joined the school in 2011, our IT infrastructure was about eight years old and predominantly consisted of Microsoft Server 2003 or Exchange 2003 servers," says Andrew Szymanski, Network Manager at The Warren School.
"It had served us well but it was reaching end of life. Basic steps such as logging in to the system were a daily problem and the difficulties impacted on everyone; teachers, students and administrators. When teachers brought in their own teaching software, it took us time to check, approve and distribute it to each of the PCs required and doing software upgrades on individual devices was a logistical nightmare.
"As the only full-time IT person I was constantly fire fighting problems and so there was no time to make any changes for the better. And in common with most schools these days our budget was very tight. At best, I thought some sort of an upgrade was about all we could consider," Szymanski recalls.
When new Business Manager Claire Hutley joined the school, she and Szymanski concluded that, for the school to achieve its objectives, it was vital that a vision and a strategy for IT be created, followed by a comprehensive solution specification to deliver the vision.
"We could have just fitted some quick fix products to overcome storage problems and then upgraded to Server 2008," says Szymanski, "but we knew that that was not a long-term solution. The problem with a simple server upgrade is that the IT is still limited and a couple of years later, we would have faced similar problems."
Hutley was equally determined that The Warren School deserved better. "Our students come from a neighborhood where there are fewer opportunities and more hurdles to overcome. For example access to a computer at home is not always possible, so our school has an even more important role to play in the education of our pupils.
Both Szymanski and Hutley knew that, given the shortage of internal resource and expertise, they needed to establish a partnership arrangement with a company that not only had the right technology at the right price, but could also help them realise their vision for the school.
"We chose Fujitsu because, from the very first conversations, we felt there was a real commitment from them. We were very excited about the solution that they were proposing – and the added value that we could see from working directly with experts."
The school selected two new Fujitsu PRIMERGY servers that will enable the transition from physical desktop computers to easily managed virtual desktops, providing a more flexible and future-proof way to manage IT in education.
In addition to replacing its legacy servers with Fujitsu servers, the school also selected the Fujitsu vShape 25 high-availability package, optimised to deliver up to 25 virtual machines (VMs). Using VMs enables the school to effectively move computers and resources around the school at the click of a button.
Fujitsu vShape will also enable The Warren School to offer staff and students remote access to files and applications, radically improving the way in which students complete and submit homework. In the medium term vShape will also enable staff and students to bring their own devices – such as tablets and laptops – to school and safely and securely connect to the school network.
"When we complete the move of our existing IT system to Fujitsu vShape in September 2013 it will enable us to do so much more than we previously thought possible. We're not only improving the way we work and teach but by enabling our staff and students to take advantage of the latest teaching resources, lessons are more stimulating and interactive and teachers and pupils are so much more motivated as a result," said Szymanski.
"Given our limitations, working in partnership with Fujitsu to move to vShape makes implementing the new technology incredibly simple."
The Warren School is already reaping twin benefits of its move to a partnership solution with Fujitsu. "We have moved from outdated physical desktop computers to a 21st century infrastructure with virtual desktops, more storage resources and a flexible, affordable way to manage our IT. Our new systems are robust, efficient, virtual and future-ready," says Szymanski.
Applications usually limited to computers in particular departments – such as an art and design package or piece of maths software – can be delivered instantly to anywhere in the school and provide a more flexible use of classrooms.
The school's legacy servers will be retained to run some old software applications, but the new equipment will yield cost savings and IT efficiencies, according to Szymanski. Staff and students will eventually enjoy remote access to files and applications, improving how students submit homework.
"Amongst other shortcomings, our old technology consumed a lot of power. The new consolidated infrastructure will consume less power, save us money and help us with our green initiatives."
The new infrastructure will also enable the school to initiate a 'bring your own device' (BYOD) programme for staff and students to be rolled out in 2014. With this in mind the school's wireless network is also being upgraded.
But for Hutley and Szymanski, of equal significance has been the ongoing commitment of Fujitsu to deliver a real partnership, with tangible added value.
"It is a real revolution for our school," says Hutley. "Fujitsu people have been coming into school working with us on the solution – and directly with our students too. We are planning to have speakers from Fujitsu to talk to students in groups and individually about technology and careers in IT.
"This is so important for our young people, to feel that investment, not just in money and equipment, but in time too. That personal commitment is very inspiring for our students who are often struggling against the odds without many role models.
"We hoped for a partnership that would deliver added value for us, but the reality is that we now have far more than that. Fujitsu has done a great job so far on all fronts and we look forward to a long relationship with them."
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May 21, 2007
Nationally Known Photographer to Hold Workshop at Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center
ATHENS, Texas—Famed photographer Wyman Meinzer will hold an unusual digital photography workshop at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center July 4, 2007.
Taking advantage of the fact that TFFC hosts one of the largest fireworks displays in East Texas each July 4, Meinzer will concentrate on how to take photographs of sunsets, fireworks and other subjects in low-light conditions. Class participants will be able to shoot fireworks photographs from a close vantage point and will also have the opportunity to photograph visitors fishing and picnicking prior to the fireworks show.
The class will run from approximately 3:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Registration fee of $195 covers all course costs; admission to TFFC; and watermelon, ice cream and hot dog feasts. Students must provide their own equipment.
Deadline for registration is June 20. Phone registration is available by calling (903) 676-2277, or a form may be downloaded from the TPWD Web site.
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