text:
Ask someone to name an open source servlet container and they'll likely mention Apache Tomcat in reply. Tomcat isn't alone in this world, though: we also have Jetty. Having another option for a servlet container is a plus, but Jetty's real claim to fame is that it is designed be embedded in other Java code. That is, the development team exposes Jetty as a set of JAR files such that you can instantiate and manipulate a servlet container in your own code, as an object. This opens up new possibilities for servlets and web apps.
Jetty is hardly a new face in the container crowd; it has been around in some form since 1998. It's released under the royalty-free, non-viral Apache 2.0 license, permitting free and commercial apps alike to incorporate it into their infrastructure.
In this article, I'll offer some ideas on why you'd want an embedded servlet container, explain the basics of Jetty's API, and show how to use its XML configuration to trim your Jetty-specific code to a minimum.
The sample code was tested under Jetty 5.1.10 and Sun's JDK 1.5.0_03.
Before you adopt Jetty, it's reasonable to ask yourself why you would want a servlet container embedded in your application in the first place. What caught my eye was the potential to expose servlet functionality from within another, preexisting app. That presents possibilities for several groups, including Java EE application server vendors, software testers, and vendors of custom software. Most Java developers fall into one of these categories.
First, consider the fringe case of creating your own Java EE application server. Per the spec, a full-blown app server must offer servlets, EJBs, and other functionality. Instead of creating a servlet container from scratch, you could leverage existing, tested components and incorporate Jetty. This is exactly what the teams behind Apache Geronimo, JBoss, and ObjectWeb JOnAS did to create their Java EE app servers.
Software testers can benefit from creating a container on demand, when having several predefined containers is not desirable or possible. For example, a colleague once wanted a means to drive the unit tests for his web services code. Given his scenario -- several developers plus some automated unit tests running in Cruise Control -- I demonstrated how he could use Jetty to instantiate servlet containers on the fly inside his unit test suites. No extra scripts, no leftover files, just code.
For those of you that sell Java EE apps as your products, why give your clients a WAR file, and add container-specific headaches to your support costs? Instead, give them proper applications with their own start, stop, and management functionality. Even hardware vendors can benefit: Jetty's small memory footprint -- 350Kb for a plain HTTP (non-servlet) service -- makes it an option for appliances. You could provide web-based control panels with the full power of Java web apps but without the weight of a separate container component.
Finally, I'd wager the most interesting uses of an embedded servlet container would be from people who aren't writing traditional, browser-based web applications at all. It's possible to leverage a Java EE-HTTP combination as the backbone of a client-server app. Consider an event-driven service such as the (fictitious) Message-Driven Bank that launches from a
main() method and waits for incoming requests, similar to a Unix-style daemon. It's only matter of time before someone wants that functionality exposed in a user-based fashion such as a GUI desktop app.
Creating your own infrastructure components -- here the protocol and socket communications code -- is often an unwelcome distraction from the task at hand, not to mention something else to debug later. Instead, you could use an embedded Jetty container to expose that business logic via HTTP, with minimal changes to the existing app. Toss in a Swing, SWT, or XUI GUI that packages requests as HTTP POST operations, REST, or even SOAP to complete the circuit. These may be less performant than a custom, domain-specific protocol; but for the time being you can leverage the existing, road-tested protocols and spare yourself the extra effort.
Hopefully those ideas whet your appetite to try an embedded servlet container. The sample program
Step1Driver demonstrates a simple Jetty-based service. It instantiates a servlet container, maps a servlet class to a Uniform Resource Identifier (URI), and invokes some URL calls against itself. I have sacrificed production quality for legibility.
Service object is the Jetty container itself. Instantiating such an object brings the container into existence:
Server service = new Server() ;
Thus far, the
Service object is akin to a hotel with no doors: no one can get in to use it, so it's of little value. The following line of code sets up the container to listen on the
localhost interface, port 7501.
service.addListener( "localhost:7501" ) ;
To listen on all available interfaces, omit the hostname ("
addListener( ":7501" )"). As its name would imply, you can call
addListener() multiple times to listen on different interfaces.
Notice that the sample code maintains a reference to the
Server object. This is required to shutdown the container later on.
Mapping web applications to the
Service is straightforward:
"/someContextPath" ,
) ;
This call will process a web app's web.xml deployment descriptor to map its filters and servlets, the same as any other container. The first argument is the name of the context path. All of this web app's servlets and JSPs will be available at URIs relative to this path. The second argument is the web app itself. This can be either a packed WAR file or a web app in exploded-directory format. Call
addWebApplication() again to map more web apps.
Note that Jetty doesn't require a full-blown, spec-compliant WAR file to deploy servlets, either. If you have written a custom application protocol that rides HTTP, you can load a single servlet that exposes your app to the network. There's no need to WAR up your otherwise non-web app just for the sake of HTTP-enabling it.
To map such a one-off servlet, create a context on the fly by calling
getContext() on the
Service object. The sample code does just this to create a context called
ServletHttpContext ctx = (ServletHttpContext)
service.getContext( "/embed" ) ;
The call to
getContext() creates the context if it doesn't already exist.
Next, call
addServlet() to map the servlet class to a URI:
"Simple" , // servlet name
"/TryThis/*" , // URI mapping pattern
"sample.SimpleServlet" // class name
) ;
The first parameter is a descriptive name for the servlet. The second is the mapped path, equivalent to the
<url-pattern> in a web.xml servlet mapping. This mapped path is relative to the context path, here
/embed. The "
/*" fragment means that this servlet will accept calls for
/embed/TryThis as well as anything that begins with that URI, such as
/embed/TryThis/123. This mapping style is useful when you have a single servlet that acts as an entry point to a greater system. Struts and Axis are examples of real-world apps that use such a servlet mapping.
Sometimes you want your context to be the root, or "
/," to better mimic plain HTTP services. Jetty supports this via the
Service.setRootWebapp() method:
) ;
The only argument is the path to a web app (WAR or directory).
The container is idle at this point. It hasn't even attempted to bind to its listener socket. Starting the container requires a single call:
service.start() ;
This method returns immediately because Jetty takes care of running the service in a separate thread.
main() is free to do whatever it likes while the container keeps running.
The remainder of the code is a set of URL calls to the embedded container. These calls confirm that the container is indeed running and that the servlet functions as expected.
Stopping the container is as straightforward as starting it:
service.stop() ;
Note the
catch() clause of the outer
try/catch block:
service.start() ;
// ... URL calls to mapped servlet ...
service.stop() ;
}catch( Throwable t ){
System.exit( 1 ) ;
The explicit call to
System.exit() ensures the container is shutdown in the event of an exception. The container would otherwise continue to run in its own thread and the app would never exit.
Keep in mind that Jetty web apps aren't limited to in-code access. Were I to remove the call to
service.stop() the container would run indefinitely and I could invoke the servlet via a browser. For example:
You don't have to take my word for it. The sample code is suitable for running as an Eclipse project. There is also a shell script for running the code from a Unix/Linux command line. In both cases, be sure to adjust the classpath to point to your Jetty install location.
While its API is straightforward and clean, the sample's direct calls to the Jetty API leave configuration -- port numbers, context paths, servlet class names -- buried in code. Jetty provides an XML-based configuration as an alternative, such that you can externalize all of this information and keep your code clean.
The XML configuration is based on Java's Reflection API. Classes in the
java.lang.reflect represent Java methods and classes, such that you can instantiate objects and invoke their methods based on their names and argument types. Behind the scenes, Jetty's XML config parser translates the XML elements and attributes into Reflection calls.
This excerpt from the
Step2Driver sample class is a revamped version of
Step1Driver. As far as configuration is concerned, there's just enough Jetty-related code to load the file.
URL serviceConfig = /* load XML file */ ;
// can use an InputStream or URL
XmlConfiguration serverFactory =
new XmlConfiguration( serviceConfig ) ;
Server service =
(Server) serverFactory.newInstance() ;
This admittedly doesn't save much code compared to the trivial example in
Step1Driver. Then again, this is as much code as
Step2Driver will ever need, even as you add more servlets or web apps. Directly calling methods on
Service and context objects is a case of diminishing returns as the configuration grows more complex.
Listing 1 is the XML file loaded by
Step2Driver. The toplevel
<Configure> element's
class attribute (marker 1) specifies which class to instantiate. Here it's a Jetty
Server object.
<!-- 1 -->
<Configure class="org.mortbay.jetty.Server">
<!-- 2 -->
<Call name="addListener">
<!-- 3 -->
<!-- 4 -->
<Set name="Host">
<!-- 5 -->
<Set name="Port">
<Call name="getContext">
call methods on the return value of
<!-- 6 -->
<Call name="addServlet">
<!-- servlet name -->
<!-- URL pattern -->
<!-- servlet class -->
The child
<Call> elements represent method invocations on the
Server object defined in the parent element. The call to
addListener(), at marker (2), itself has child
<Arg> elements that specify method arguments. Here I could have passed the string value for the listen address, but
addListener() is overloaded to take a
SocketListener object. For the sake of demonstration I call the
<New> element to instantiate a new
SocketListener at market (3). Markers 2 and 3 are the XML equivalent of calling
new SocketListener( ... )
) ;
in code.
To configure the
SocketListener itself, you could use a
<Call> element to invoke its
setHost() method. Since this method follows JavaBean naming and signature conventions, the sample code instead uses the
<Set> element (4) as a shortcut. Behind the scenes, Jetty prepends "
set" to the value of the
name attribute to determine the method name to invoke (here,
setHost()'s arguments aren't explicitly listed here. Instead, the
<SystemProperty> element (5) accepts the name of the system property from which to fetch the values, here
service.listen.host and
service.listen.port. In case these system properties are not defined, the
<SystemProperty> element also lets you specify a default value using the
default attribute. Together, markers 4 and 5 are the same as calling:
"service.listen.host" ,
) ;
Finally, note the
<Call> elements inside the
<Call> to
getContext() (6). The inner
<Call> is invoked on the value returned by the outer
<Call>. Here, then,
addServlet() is called on the context object returned by
server.getContext().addServlet( ... ) ;
Kudos to the Jetty team for taking the XML configuration one step farther: notice that all Jetty-specific calls in Listing 1 are element or attribute values, not names. This means the XML configuration can be used with any classes, even non-Jetty classes. Depending on how your app is written, you could configure it all through Jetty's XML config.
If you embrace Jetty's XML to configure your own apps, you could end up with a lot of boilerplate code to load the config file and launch your stand-alone apps. You can use Jetty's executable start.jar to load the file for you, saving you even more code.
For example, you can load the Jetty-based service from
Step2Driver using the following command line:
CLASSPATH= ...various Jetty JARs...
java \
-Djetty.class.path=${CLASSPATH} \
-jar <jetty install path>/start.jar \
Note that this call only loads the XML file to establish the container and listener. It, therefore, doesn't call the rest of the sample code that invokes the test URLs.
An embedded Jetty servlet container lets you web enable a Java app without having to package it as a formal web app. This opens up new possibilities for several disciplines, making Jetty a versatile addition to your toolbox.
There is certainly more to Jetty than I have written here. I encourage you to review the Jetty website for docs and sample code.
Return to ONJava.com.


text: School breakfast-lunch bill passes Senate; heads for House By Eric Eyre March 29, 2013 Story Share CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- West Virginia lawmakers heard stories of children going hungry.At recent meetings, they heard about hungry Randolph County students licking their cafeteria trays after Superstorm Sandy struck, about a Berkeley County elementary school student who wanted an extra meal to bring home to his brother and the time an Oak Hill boy hugged a bag of apples he received at school to bring home.On Friday, legislators took the next step in a plan to fight childhood hunger in West Virginia. State senators voted 34-0 to approve a bill (SB633) to make free breakfasts and lunches available to every student in public schools, pre-kindergarten through the 12th grade. West Virginia would become the first state in the nation to enact such a program."There's no reason any child should go hungry. None," said Senate Majority Leader John Unger, D-Berkeley, who heads a select committee investigating childhood poverty issues in West Virginia.The bill would establish nonprofit foundations that would raise money to help pay for free meals for all public school students. Now, only low-income children get free and discounted lunches and breakfasts at school.At meetings in Oak Hill and Beckley, the Senate select committee heard from middle-income parents who said they struggle to pay their children's monthly school lunch bills.Senators also learned that many low-income children aren't taking advantage of free breakfast and lunch programs. About 55 percent of children qualify for free- and reduced-price school meals, but only one of every three students eats breakfast at school in West Virginia.The Senate bill encourages schools to offer "grab-and-go" breakfasts, and to allow students to eat breakfast in class or after first period.The nonprofit foundations established under the bill must use donations strictly to fund meals. None of the money could be spent on administrative or personnel costs. Businesses and individuals would donate to the nonprofit funds overseen by the Department of Education and county school boards. On Friday, Unger dismissed criticism that the Feed to Achieve program would provide meals to children of wealthy parents."Parents who can still pay should pay," Unger said. "They also can donate to the program."Unger said schools already provide children with free textbooks and free bus rides to school, so it makes sense for school to offer free meals, as well."This bill is to ensure no child is going hungry in West Virginia," Unger said.The program would take effect in fall 2015, starting in elementary schools and expanding into middle and high schools as additional funds become available.Unger predicts that the universal school-meal program will drive more federal dollars into West Virginia. The federal government reimburses the state for every school breakfast and lunch served. The bill's supporters say students who eat nutritious meals get better grades and higher test scores -- and cause fewer discipline problems."We can have the best schools, the best teachers . . . but if the child is hungry, then student achievement won't occur," Unger said. "This is about making sure every child is ready to learn."The bill now moves to the House of Delegates.Reach Eric Eyre at firstname.lastname@example.com or 304-348-4869. Story Share Story Share Trending Now 1 Deer in 8 WV counties found dead from EHD 2 Judge gives water crisis settlement preliminary approval 3 Plans for all-ages venue rise in old bakery building 4 Body found in Kanawha River, near South Charleston 5 City of Milton tries to revive Morris Memorial property Things to do Saturday, March 30, 2013 Previous Story Bluefield woman slain over kids' fight, police say Next Story

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Get TV the way Maryland likes it, with Xfinity
Everyone in Maryland can find a package with Xfinity that includes digital cable channels, On Demand choices, and plenty of DVR packages. If you're looking for Maryland sports, Xfinity has local channels to cover your favorite sports teams so you never miss a game. If you're not a sports fan, don't worry; Xfinity TV deals, offers, and specials include your favorite TV shows and movies too.


text:
These sermons are in the popular mp3 format. Simply click the name of the sermon you would like to download, and a window will ask you if you would like to open the file or save it.
You will need an mp3 player loaded on your computer. There are many free and/or inexpensive players available online. Here are a few...
Worship Service Times
Sunday: Bible Study 9:30 am, Worship 10:25 am and 5:00 pm


text:
WHAT AN AGE we live in. Progress in the automotive world tends to occur in hundreds of incremental steps and only the occasional leap forward, and so it's easy to lose sight of just how far things have come. And this Cayenne Diesel S is the perfect method with which to demonstrate.
The second generation Cayenne was the coming of age for Porsche's SUV, answering the critics of the original car and earning respect even from those who saw such a vehicle as going against the sporting ethos of the brand. But the Cayenne has never been an ordinary SUV; it has always had proper Porsche genes running through it and with the latest model looking sharper and driving even better it makes unquestionable sense as a more practical proposition for people who have to have the Porsche shield on the front of their car.
However you might wonder if there is any need for another engine option in the Cayenne. For a car that is more than likely going to be bought by the lucky few, it already offers a remarkably broad spread of powerplants. There's the 'entry-level' V6 petrol, the V8 petrol in two outputs, the bonkers V8 turbos that also come in two outputs, the hybrid petrol and the existing diesel. There's nothing wrong with the diesel offering either; it offers up 405lb.ft of torque and as a result can manage 0-62mph in 7.6 seconds, 137mph flat out and deliver 39.2mpg combined.
But the Porsche engineers seem to think that's not enough and as a result have introduced the Diesel S. Just as with the petrol models, the 'S' might as well stand for significant – instead of the V6 oil burner, the Diesel S gets a new eight-cylinder twin turbo unit that Porsche claims is a unique offering in the segment. Better still are the numbers it produces; with 382bhp it is a whisker behind the V8 petrol but it is the torque output that really slackens the jaw. A mammoth 626lb.ft of torque is available from just 2,000rpm, almost a whole 100lb.ft than the truly insane petrol Turbo S.
With that much motive force under the bonnet it's no wonder the Cayenne Diesel S is a rapid machine. It blasts to 62mph in a borderline absurd 5.7 seconds – 0.2 seconds faster than the V8 petrol Cayenne S – and can hit 156mph. It's hard to put these numbers out of your mind when you slide behind the wheel, but this is a diesel underneath it all and so is far less intimidating than you might expect.
Climb aboard and the familiar Cayenne cabin greets you with clear and logical displays. You get the proper SUV driving position so the view out is excellent, yet there's still a sportscar feel; you are high up but surrounded by the cabin, and it certainly doesn't feel top-heavy or ungainly. The driving position is superb and you grasp a proper Porsche steering wheel with a relatively thin rim, all of which helps to get you in the mood.
Fire up the Diesel S and it sounds a lot more V8 than diesel. There's an appealing throb coming from the exhaust, blip the throttle and it grows to a proper sporty sound. Select drive on the automatic transmission and the massive wave of torque makes pulling away as easy it could possibly be; this is a car that could be driven without ever using more than a tiny squeeze of the accelerator.
It's such a flexible unit that ordinary driving is utterly effortless, and with adjustable suspension that can be tweaked for maximum comfort the Cayenne Diesel S is a thoroughly relaxing car to drive. Big distances can be covered with ease with plenty of space for passengers and luggage. The 100-litre fuel tank may cost a bit to fill, but allows a theoretical range of over 700 miles.
But it would take a particularly dedicated individual to drive that far and not exploit the performance, so tempting is the amount of acceleration on offer. Regardless of speed or gear, apply a firm right foot to the accelerator and the Diesel S urges forward with no discernible effort, with the eight-speed automatic transmission marshalling all the forces superbly well whether you shift yourself or leave it to your own devices.
And it behaves just as a Porsche should when you arrive at a challenging bend. Of course this is not a lightweight car but the way it behaves when pressed is remarkable. It responds accurately to the driver's demands, with good feedback through the steering, impressive balance and generally more composure than a car of this size should be capable of.
In many ways this is the most convincing car Porsche offers. Not only does it deliver a generous slice of driving fun, it also brings comfort, practicality and even respectable economy into the equation. It's still a Porsche so it's no giveaway, but once on your driveway you'd be hard-pressed to find something as universally capable.
Porsche Cayenne Diesel S, £58,243
Engine: 4.2-litre diesel unit producing 382bhp and 626lb.ft of torque
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic driving all four wheels
Performance: Top speed 156mph, 0-62mph in 5.7 seconds
Economy: 34mpg combined
Emissions: 218g/km of CO2


text:
Here are 10 Things You Need to Know as you start your Thursday:
1. CONGRESS TO GET MEMOS ON TARGETING AMERICANS. Obama told the Justice Department to turn over classified documents describing the administration's rationale for drone strikes against U.S. citizens working with al-Qaida.
2. CIA SECRETS MAY BE SECRET NO MORE. Senators at Brennan's confirmation hearing today are likely to delve into drones, covert bases and interrogation techniques.
3. VILLAGES WIPED OUT FROM SOUTH PACIFIC TSUNAMI. At least nine bodies, including a child's, were found in the sodden wreckage on the Solomon Islands, and five villages were decimated.
4. YAWNS GREET PLAN TO END SATURDAY MAIL DELIVERY. "It's not like anyone writes letters anymore," says James Valentine, an antiques shop owner in Toledo, Ohio.
5. AUTOPSY SCHEDULED FOR ALABAMA BUNKER SUSPECT. Authorities found no other explosives in the bunker where Jimmy Lee Dykes held a 5-year-old hostage.
6. GEARING UP FOR FIGHT OVER BOY SCOUTS' GAY BAN. The organization delayed its decision whether to throw out its policy excluding gays until May.
7. HOW A MEXICAN WOMAN AVOIDED HARM IN ACAPULCO ATTACK. The masked men who raped six Spanish tourists in a beach house spared her because of her nationality.
8. NORTHEAST BRACES FOR BIG BLIZZARD. The snow will start Friday morning and could dump up to 2 feet of snow in New England, which has seen mostly bare ground.
9. SALE PRICE OF A BASEBALL CARD FOUND AT A YARD SALE. The 148-year-old card of the Brooklyn Atlantics amateur baseball club sold at a Maine auction for $92,000.
10. WHAT NEW JERSEY GOVERNOR'S SAID TO DOC WHO WARNED ABOUT HIS WEIGHT. "Shut up," Chris Christie told ex-White House physician Connie Mariano, who said she worried he would die in office.


text:
I am unable to add One Ordinary Day in One Extraordinary Life or One Day in
the Life of Ivan Denisovich by Alexander Isaevich Solzhenitsyn to my reading
life from the internet search on the reading list page. That seems strange to me. How can I do
that? Thank you.
- Carolyn.
[question emailed and posted by admin]


text:
Low friction reciprocating piston assembly
Reference Number: N 01-02
Inventors: Rao, Vemulapalli D. N.; Kabat, Daniel M.; Yeager, David A.
Owner: NISTAC
USPTO Link:5239955
Invention Summary
In a first aspect of this invention, a new piston construction is provided with a coating of solid film lubricant (SFL) comprising graphite and molybdenum disulfide in a resin, the construction having one or more of the following features: (i) inducing operation of the lubrication film around the piston to be in the hydrodynamic regime by selectively undercutting the piston skirt broad surface to define oil supply reservoirs and by adjusting the piston-bore wall gap to promote the hydrodynamic regime; (ii) attracting an oil film to fill the adjusted gap by selecting the resin with special characteristics; and (iii) increasing the operating temperature of the solid film lubricant by combining boron nitride and molybdenum disulfide in selected proportions.
More particularly, the low-friction piston construction for use in an oil-fed cylinder bore wall, comprises: (a) means providing a piston crown extending across substantially the entire cross-section of the cylinder bore for sliding movement therein; (b) a circumferentially extending skirt wall depending from the crown; and (c) reciprocating force transmitting means connected to the interior of at least one of said skirt wall and crown, said skirt wall having portions thereof relieved in a radially inward direction, at least the unrelieved portions of the skirt wall having a solid film lubricant coating on its exterior thereof consisting of graphite, molybdenum disulfide, boron nitride, and epoxy resin, said resin comprising a polymer base that provides a supply of at least one of water vapor and hydrocarbon to the graphite component and attracts an oil film thereto.
Another aspect of this invention is a method of making a low-friction piston for use in an oil-fed cylinder bore wall, comprising: (a) providing a cylindrical piston body with a crown, side walls depending from said crown, and structure for supporting at least said crown about a diametrically extending pin axis, said side walls having portions, on opposite sides of said pin axis, conforming to the shape of said bore wall but defining a radial gap therebetween; (b) undercutting the exterior surface of said side walls to define radially exposed lands for sliding along said bore wall; (c) introducing a predetermined pattern of asperities into said lands; (d) uniformly spraying a solid film lubricant coating onto the lands, such coating comprising solid lubricants and a supporting resin, said resin comprising a polymer base that provides a ready supply of at least one of water vapor and hydrocarbon to the solid lubricants and is effective to attract oil film thereto; (e) forming shallow pockets at the mouth of said asperities; and (f) polishing the exposed solid film lubricant crystals to further reduce the height of the coating at said asperities.
Yet still another aspect of this invention is a method of using a low-friction piston in an oil-fed cylinder bore of a reciprocating assembly, said assembly having a central axis of reciprocation, comprising: (a) providing a low-friction piston comprised of a cylindrical body with a crown, depending side walls, and structure for supporting at least said crown about a diametrically extending pin axis, the side walls having portions on opposite sides of said pin axis to conform to the shape of the bore wall but defining a radial gap therebetween, the side walls being relieved on the exterior surface thereof to define radially exposed lands for sliding movement along the bore wall, said lands having a predetermined pattern of asperities therein, and a solid film lubricant coating on said lands, said coating consisting of solid lubricants and a supporting resin, the resin being a polymer base providing a ready supply of at least one of water vapor and hydrocarbon to the solid lubricants and is effective to attract an oil film thereto; (b) mounting the piston on a connecting rod having a pin connecting one end of said rod to said piston for articulating reciprocating movement within said bore, said rod exerting a force on said piston side walls nonaligned with said axis; (c) operating said reciprocating assembly to transfer a portion of said solid film lubricant coating to the cylinder bore wall at least at regions of piston slap, said transferred coating possessing microasperities for trapping oil to retain an oil film during reciprocation in a thickness that produces a lambda of six or greater; and (d) providing reservoirs of oil adjacent said retained oil films for replenishing oil in such films during each reciprocation of said piston.


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Description: Try Martha Stewart's Punches for your next paper project, whether it is a card, invitation, scrapbook page or another creation. Embroidery Large Double Punch creates a cutout 10 petal flower with punched crescents and dots. In order to create intricate details inside punched shapes, double punches do not completely remove your shape from the paper. Once you are done punching, pop your shape out and enjoy the details! Punch size approximately 1 7/8 inches.
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*Identity theft insurance is underwritten by insurance company subsidiaries or affiliates of Chartis Inc. The description herein is a summary and intended for informational purposes only and does not include all terms, conditions and exclusions of the policies described. Please refer to the actual policies for terms, conditions, and exclusions of coverage. Coverage may not be available in all jurisdictions. View Summary of Benefits.


text:
And, of course, the fine print:
Get free shipping on your next order when you spend over $100. The discount will be automatically applied to your purchase; no promo code required. The subtotal of your purchase must be $100.01 or greater after any promotional discounts have been applied. Additional fees such as tax or shipping and handling do not apply toward your minimum subtotal requirement of $100.01. Offer applies to standard shipping only. Certain items that require additional shipping and handling are excluded from this promotion and do not apply towards your $100.01 subtotal minimum. Offer subject to change.
Add the beauty of mother nature to your world with this botanical vintage 18' x 24" world map. These eco-friendly, limited edition maps are signed and numbered. They are printed on heavyweight 100% recycled stock with water-based inks. They're made in the U.S.A. and fit standard size frames. Frame not included. Map is rolled up and shipped in a sturdy tube.
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text:
Williamstown is a "compact rural community" in the former Township of Charlottenburgh, now in the Municipality of South Glengarry, in Glengarry County, Ontario, Canada.
Charlottenburgh and Lancaster were two of the original eight "Royal Townships" established along the Saint Lawrence River in Upper Canada in the 1780s. This area was first settled by United Empire Loyalists. The development of this area was encouraged by Sir John Johnson, a wealthy landowner loyal to Britain, who was forced to abandon his land holdings in New York State during the American Revolution.
From the late 18th century to the early 19th century, the area was almost entirely settled by Scottish emigrants from all over the Scottish Highlands due to the Highland Clearances. Specifically, the Inverness-shire area of Scotland. Canadian Gaelic / Scottish Gaelic had been spoken in Glengarry County since its first settlement in 1784.
Johnson built a house in Williamstown near the end of the 18th century, The Manor House, which is now a Canadian National Historic Site. A grist mill and saw mill, now gone, were also built on the same location. Williamstown also contains the oldest log house in Ontario which was built in 1784. Occupants over the years have included the Reverend John Bethune (1751–1815), the great-great-grandfather of Doctor Norman Bethune, and David Thompson, Canadian explorer.
Some of the main partners of the North West Company, including Hugh McGillis, lived in this area.
The Glengarry Celtic Music Hall of Fame is located in Williamstown.
Williamstown is also home to Canada's oldest continuing annual fair, which celebrated its bicentennial in 2012. It is also quite possibly North America's oldest annual fair although this distinction has yet to be authenticated.
The Nor'Westers and Loyalist Museum is also located in Williamstown.
South Glengarry is the location of four National Historic Sites of Canada: the Bethune-Thompson House, the Glengarry Cairn, the Sir John Johnson House, and the ruins of St. Raphael's Roman Catholic Church.
St. Raphael's Catholic Church was built commencing 1821 under the authority of Alexander Macdonell later Bishop of Regiopolis (now Kingston, Ontario). This is one of the oldest churches in what was then the colony of Upper Canada. In late 1970, the church interiors, roof and tower were destroyed by fire, but the ruins were preserved. In 1973, a smaller church with the same name was built, attached to the ruins .
Research Tips
The primary source for basic documents (vital statistics, land records, wills) for people who lived in the Province of Ontario is the Archives of Ontario, 134 Ian Macdonald Blvd, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M7A 2C5.
Early Records
Civil registration did not begin in the province until 1869. Before then there may be church records of baptisms and burials. For the most part these are still held by the denomination who recorded them. Copies of marriage records made pre-1869 had to be sent by individual clergymen to the registrar of the county in which the marriage took place. These marriage records are available through Ontario Archives, on micorfilm through LDS libraries, and on paid and unpaid websites, but because they were copied at the registrars' offices, they cannot be considered a primary source.
Vital Records after 1869
Birth, marriage and death registrations are not open to the public until a specific number of years after the event occurred. Births to 1915 are now available [October 2014]; dates for marriages and deaths are later. Birth and death registration was not universally carried out in the early years after its adoption. Deaths were more apt to be reported than births for several years. The more rural the area, the less likely it would be that these happenings were reported to the authorities.
Land Records and Wills
Information on how to access land records and wills is best sought on the Archives of Ontario website. An ancestor's land holding might be found on Canadian County Atlas Digital Project if he was in occupancy circa 1878.
Association for the Preservation of Ontario Land Registry Office Documents (APOLROD). A list of Land Registry Offices for all Counties of Ontario.
The original censuses are in the hands of Library and Archives Canada, known to Canadians as "LAC". Copies of original microfilms are online at the LAC website for all censuses up to 1911. Each census database is preceded with an explanation of the geographical area covered, the amount of material retained (some census division material has been lost), the questions on the census form, and whether there is a name index. Census divisions were redrawn as the population increased and more land was inhabited. The 1921 census is only available through Ancestry.ca, but it is free-to-view.
Hard-to-Find Places
E-books, Books and Newspapers
Some websites with more local information on Glengarry County


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Avery Print-On Dividers
Avery Print-On Dividers let you create a lasting impression for your business. Perfect for client proposals, service menus or presentations, simply print them and then they're ready to use.
- No Pro's Here
- More Hours To Go
Best Uses
- Where Did I Buy Them
This review is from Avery Print-On Dividers:
Been searching for hours for 'printable divider tabs' 17 pages in, found items that might work. All were labeled 8.5x11. Then found a description for another that said for 'for wide format', 9x11.
Now I wondered what the difference is. I would have assumed that the 8.5x11 ones needed a wide format and were just labeled to know that they were to be used to divide normal USA sized 8.5x11, but then watched a video that wasnt helpful, but said to remove the yellow plastic, no further explanation. I am confused now.
- None
- Instructions Are Useless
- Useless Instructions
Best Uses
- None
This review is from Avery Print-On Dividers:
What did I like? NOTHING!
What could we improve? Simple instructions that WORK! A demo video that actually demonstates how to use the product. I will take it back simply because I can't figure out how to use it!


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Key Dick Greco fundraiser David Straz throws support to Bob Buckhorn in Tampa mayor's race
TAMPA — David Straz Jr., a retired banker, influential philanthropist and a leading fundraiser for former Mayor Dick Greco, on Tuesday threw his support to Bob Buckhorn in the March 22 mayor's race runoff.
Straz, whose multimillion-dollar gift to the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center led the center to rename itself the David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts in 2009, announced his support at a news conference at Mise en Place restaurant near downtown Tampa.
Straz said he had "spent a good deal of time reflecting on what is truly best for Tampa" and decided to give Buckhorn his "highest recommendation."
"At this critical time for Tampa's future, I want to speak out and say simply, and with much conviction, that Bob Buckhorn is the most able to lead," said Straz, who also has served on the boards of Tampa General Hospital and the University of Tampa, where a residence hall is named for him.
Straz said he has known Buckhorn for many years, has watched his leadership skills grow and praised his "economic recovery plan, which is very well thought out."
"I'm certainly persuaded by the preparation and level of detail," Straz said. "However, most importantly, he has a clear vision and can articulate both broadly and specifically how he will lead our city."
Straz led Greco's fundraising efforts as co-finance chair and treasurer of his campaign, which brought in nearly $478,000. Greco often talked of recruiting him to help a Greco administration shape what is likely to be a tough city budget.
In a Buckhorn administration, Straz and Buckhorn said he would play a similar role. Already, he has agreed to chair Buckhorn's transition team if Buckhorn is elected.
"We fully expect to bring his expertise to bear on the problems that this community faces," Buckhorn said of Straz. "He has a wealth of knowledge in terms of helping us transition not only from an old economy to a new economy, but helping our city government run in a more efficient way."
Straz's announcement marks the third endorsement that Buckhorn has picked up from a former rival or a key supporter of a former rival since the March 1 election narrowed the field of candidates from five candidates to two — Buckhorn and former Hillsborough County Commissioner Rose Ferlita.
On Saturday, Tampa City Council chairman Thomas Scott endorsed Buckhorn, followed by former County Commissioner Ed Turanchik on Monday. Greco says he is not taking sides in the runoff.
Ferlita said she wasn't concerned about the endorsements in Buckhorn's favor.
"We've got a great deal of Greco supporters that are already in our camp," Ferlita said.
Ferlita said some endorsements of her own would be announced in the next two days.
"I think we're going to get a very big portion of people who were in other camps," Ferlita said. "So we're going to do fine."
At noon Tuesday, Ferlita and Buckhorn spoke to the Ybor City Chamber of Commerce at the Columbia Restaurant.
Ferlita emphasized her decades of experience in business and her family's roots in Ybor City. Buckhorn, in almost every response, said his campaign has a specific plan for making Tampa a city that is more attractive to businesses and families.
Buckhorn said this election will "decide whether this city aspires for greatness or settles for mediocrity," and he has the ability, temperament and vision required of a mayor.
Buckhorn said he would loosen the regulations that keep businesses away, and he would build a new economy that continues to attract young people, including, one day, he hopes, his two daughters.
When asked about light rail, Ferlita said she has been one of the few in local politics to support it, but as mayor she would do a better job of marketing the idea to voters with a greater focus on buses. Buckhorn said he already has met with St. Petersburg Mayor Bill Foster about ways to connect Tampa Bay because a regional mass transit system is needed to compete with other cities.
Ferlita, at times speaking in Spanish, said she has the passion and commitment to be mayor because Ybor City, and Tampa, is home. She said she would streamline the city's government to boost the local economy in the short term. Her experience in corporate and small businesses is key for being the next mayor of Tampa, Ferlita said.
"That's what it's going to come down to," Ferlita said. "Who do you feel, who do you trust that can take us where we need to go?"
Richard Danielson and Ileana Morales, Times staff writers


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Job Opportunities
Faculty Job Opportunities
Visiting Assistant Professor of Chemistry (Physical)
The Chemistry invites applications for a one-year visiting position in physical chemistry at the rank of assistant professor beginning July 1, 2013. Anticipated primary teaching responsibilities will be in junior level physical chemistry lecture and lab courses. The successful candidate may also have the opportunity to direct student research projects. Applicants must possess a Ph. D. in Physical Chemistry or a closely related field and be committed to undergraduate education, have an interest in teaching a diverse student population, and demonstrate excellence, or the potential for excellence, in teaching and research with undergraduates. Further information about the department can be found at http://academics.hamilton.edu/chemistry. Please submit curriculum vitae, unofficial undergraduate and graduate transcripts, statements describing teaching and research interests, and arrange for submission of three letters of recommendation to https://secure.interfolio.com/apply/21207. Questions may be directed to Ian Rosenstein, Chair, Chemistry Department, Hamilton College. Review of applications will begin on March 8 and continue until the position is filled.
Hamilton (www.hamilton.edu) is a residential liberal arts college located in upstate New York. Applicants with dual-career considerations can find other Hamilton and nearby academic job listings at www.upstatenyherc.org. Hamilton College is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer and is committed to diversity in all areas of the campus community. Hamilton provides domestic partner benefits. Candidates from underrepresented groups in higher education are especially encouraged to apply.
Please review Hamilton's Benefits Summary for more information.
Hamilton College is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity employer and encourages diversity in all areas of the campus community.Posted 02/08/2013


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Fairfax County Seeks Public's Input for FY 2010 Budget
Aug. 26, 2008
News Highlights
- 20 community dialogue sessions scheduled between September and November.
- Budget hotline established - 703-324-9400, TTY 711
- Comments welcome online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/budget.
More Information
Fairfax County residents will have an opportunity to provide their input on the Fiscal Year 2010 Budget (which runs from July 1, 2009, through June 30, 2010) to county leaders in a variety of ways this year. The county, in conjunction with Fairfax County Public Schools, has scheduled 20 community dialogue sessions, established a budget hotline and created an online budget feedback form.
Fairfax County is projecting a budget deficit of more than $400 million for FY 2010, which must be addressed through a combination of spending reductions and other strategies. A budget will be developed with an appropriate level of services that are both sustainable and acceptable to the community.
The input gathered from the public will be used as a key factor to help guide the development of criteria for making budget decisions, providing the public with greater opportunity to help shape the budget before County Executive Anthony H. Griffin presents his proposed budget to the Board of Supervisors in February. Residents will still have an opportunity to provide feedback in March and April to the board at the budget hearings as in previous years.
Residents are encouraged to:
- Call the budget hotline at 703-324-9400, TTY 711
- Submit comments online
- Attend one of the community dialogue sessions (registration required).
Fairfax County Office of Public Affairs
12000 Government Center Parkway, Suite 551
Fairfax, VA 22035-0065
Contact: Merni Fitzgerald, Director of Public Affairs
703-324-3187, TTY 711, Fax 703-324-2010
Media Pager: 703-324-NEWS (6397)
Fairfax County is committed to
nondiscrimination on the basis of disability in all county programs,
services and activities. To request this information in an alternate
format, call the Office of Public Affairs at 703-324-3187, TTY 711.


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A university lecturer from Cononley has become the first academic in the UK to be elected to the council of the Public Relations Consultants Association.
Robert Minton-Taylor – a senior lecturer at Leeds Business School, part of the metropolitan university – is also the only northern member of the council, which represents many of Europe's leading corporations.
He said: "My election will help integrate industry thinking and practice into the lecture theatre at Leeds to improve the employability skills of our students.
"I am also a strong advocate of developing robust internship policies to safeguard students as well as protecting the interests of employers."
The PRCA has more than 300 members across the world, including many of the UK's top consultancies.
Mr Minton-Taylor is a former director of public relations agency Burson-Marsteller and was global media relations manager for a Scandinavian shipping and logistics company.


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Top Definition
A phrase meant to be used as a comparison for anything, with or without regard to the image itself. The phrase can be used in a comparison that makes sense to the literal meaning of the image--that is, there is a person named Clancy who has nuts (though "nuts" in itself can be interpreted as many things)--or in an abstraction.
It was raining harder than Clancy's nuts; The sky opened up like Clancy's nuts; I gotta pain that aches like Clancy's nuts; The man was as bald as Clancy's nuts; The woman had more shoes than Clancy's nuts; et al.
by Frank Cotolo November 08, 2006
The Urban Dictionary Mug
One side has the word, one side has the definition. Microwave and dishwasher safe. Lotsa space for your liquids.Buy the mug


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Steve Broker, who was accused of inappropriate conduct with female students, will not return to his classroom in August as part of a settlement reached Monday.
The Gilchrist County teacher of the year who was accused of inappropriate conduct with female students will not return to his classroom in August as part of a settlement reached Monday.
Steve Broker, who taught at Trenton Middle/High School for about 18 years and spent about 11 years teaching in Levy County before that, will remain on paid administrative leave until his accrued sick leave kicks in.
The settlement followed a two-day hearing on Broker's employment status, ending in the arrangement regarding paid leave and sick leave reached between Broker's attorney and the Gilchrist County School Board attorney.
The school board accepted the settlement in a 3-2 vote.
Broker has 117 sick days to use against the 196-day school year for teachers. The balance of paid leave will bring him to 30 years of employment as a teacher.
The cost to the school district will be about $54,000.
By remaining on paid leave, rather than resigning or being terminated, Broker will be allowed to receive his full benefits and retirement plan.
"I encourage everyone in the community to get on board with this action and move on," said Bill Andrews, the presiding officer in the hearing.
Broker was placed on paid administrative leave in March following allegations that he behaved inappropriately with a number of female students.
At the heart of the two-day hearing on Broker's employment status, which began Friday, was a discussion about what kind of physical contact is not appropriate between teachers and students.
Broker, who was an agricultural education teacher, volleyball coach and Future Farmers of America adviser at Trenton Middle/High School, maintained that driving female students to and from school and events, hugging them and giving one of them a back rub on an overnight school trip to Tampa were all parental actions that contained no sexual intent.
The second day of testimony in the case brought to the witness stand Broker's current and former students, other teachers and the mother of a female student who was frequently referred to in the case as one of Broker's favorites.
Austin Polk, a 16-year-old rising senior at Trenton High, said it was obvious to other students who Broker's favorites were because he would accommodate their requests.
He also said he often saw Broker pull female students toward him or let them sit on his lap, and that Broker would come up behind the girls and hug them "so close you couldn't even get a magazine between them."
On the witness stand Monday, Polk, who has been an active member of Future Farmers of America since sixth grade, said he would not return to the organization if Broker were still an adviser in the fall.
Having a 12-year-old sister in FFA who he's very protective of, "I couldn't handle myself being around what I've seen anymore," he said.
Polk's mother had instructed the sister to never let herself be alone with Broker.
"I don't care how good of a teacher you may be in the classroom, it does not make what he did OK," Polk said.
A student who did not consider herself one of Broker's favorites, but who said he made her uncomfortable, also spoke Monday.
Taylor Langford spent seven years in agriculture classes, FFA and the volleyball team at Trenton Middle/High, all of which put her in contact with Broker, she said.
Langford recalled Broker making inappropriate comments about girls' bodies during volleyball practice, and that he sometimes would tell sexual jokes that made her uncomfortable.
Another time, Langford said, Broker put his hands around her lower back while talking to her.
Before graduating in 2011, Langford said she'd been alone with other male teachers before, for tutoring or meetings. They always kept their distance and never made her feel uncomfortable.
But it was different with Broker, she said.
She would try to never be alone in a room with him, but if she had to, "I would find myself keeping a table between me and him," Langford said.
Witnesses called by Broker's attorney, Martin Powell, told a different story.
The allegations lacked context, they said. FFA advisers spent more time with students than regular subject teachers, they said, and naturally get closer to the students.
The first witness called by the defense was the mother of the female student who had received a back rub from Broker while on an overnight FFA field trip, and who often spent time alone with Broker outside of school events.
The mother said she knew about all of the outings and that she was glad Broker was able to comfort her daughter when she became ill on the overnight FFA trip.
She also denied Broker had rubbed her daughter's lower back, although he admitted to it in his deposition last month.
The back rub and the accusations that her daughter frequently sat on Broker's lap and that he touched her thighs, she said, were cruel stories made up by her daughter's classmates.
"It's devastated her," the mother said.
After the testimonies, School Board vice-chair Julie Thomas asked Broker if now, in hindsight, he would've done anything differently.
Broker said he probably should've listened to his dad 28 years ago. If you're going into education, his father told him, somebody is going to sue you.
In turn, he told his father that he wanted to teach children and to do the right thing.
"If somebody ever challenges that," Broker said, choking up, "I'll fight."
Before the board came to its decision, Thomas thanked Broker for being an exceptional teacher.
"Your performance in the classroom is [surpassed] by none," she said. "I believe a lot of what happened and what we discussed was truly parental."
But perception is reality, she said, and students, parents and teachers were made uncomfortable by Broker's behavior.
Board member Robert Clemons agreed.
Although Clemons said he didn't' believe there was sexual intent in Broker's actions, he said, "You have to take ownership for your actions."


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Six days before the Dirty German I was sitting in the baggage claim area of Terminal E in the Philadelphia International Airport, waiting for a man I'd never met before. He'd be wearing glasses and a hat. Travelers started filing in and crowding the baggage carrousel, and it quickly became difficult to see faces and heads. A pair of Green Silences walked past and stopped a few feet away. I looked up – glasses and a hat.
When Kynan told me he'd be coming to town, my first instinct was to take him to my trails at Valley Forge and run him up and down Mt. Misery a couple times, kind of like how a three year-old shows off his toys when company comes over. Unfortunately, we really didn't have time for a run, and besides, I suspect he's got way cooler toys out west. So instead I did what I do whenever I pick up any spectacled Loopster at the airport. I took him out for the best burger on planet Earth.
This worked out well for a couple of reasons. One, I can't tell you how much I was looking forward to another burger at the Village Whiskey. Two, it's easier to have a conversation over drinks and pickled beets than it is over rocks and roots, and I had two very specific questions for Kynan:
1. How do you run a 50K?
2. What exactly do you do for a living?
I got right to it and asked about his work before we were out of the airport; all I knew was that he traveled around the country climbing tall towers and looking cool. It turns out there's more to it than that, but how can you beat climbing towers and looking cool? We were in the car by then and, probably just to be polite, he asked me what I did for a living. I tried to make it sound as exciting and sexy as I could, but noticed him nodding off around 30 seconds into my response. I couldn't fault him. A few years ago, I literally bored Mrs. B to tears while I was thinking aloud about reserve funding securitizations. She sobbed.
I whisked him through old timey Philadelphia, past Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. We both sheepishly admitted our love for the movie National Treasure, and I explained the Liberty Bell: "It's basically just like every other old bell you've got lying around." He didn't press for specifics.
We arrived:
Kynan ordered whiskey that smelled like a campfire and I ordered a Victory Hop Devil that smelled like summertime. We ate pickled beets, fries atop short ribs beneath cheddar cheese, and burgers so delicious that Kynan closed his eyes and giggled. We talked about my 50K. I was using most of my brain to comprehend the deliciousness of the Village Whiskey, but whatever neurons were left took mental notes; the guy knows his way around an ultra.
An hour and a half later, I dropped him off in the middle of a service road at the Philadelphia Airport and we made plans to go for a run whenever I made it out to California, which, as it happens, will be next weekend. Although a last-minute selfie was thwarted by an oncoming vehicle, the evening was a success.
A few days later, I was having trouble wrapping my head around 50K. What is it? It's not a marathon, which was fortunate because these are my mileage totals for the four weeks leading up to the race:
0 (I took two weeks off after the Gettysburg Marathon.)
That's no way to prepare for a marathon. I decided to embrace that notion and treated the night before just like any other Saturday night. I didn't do any special prep and stayed up a little later than I should have. I finally fell asleep and woke up five hours later, oblivious to what was in store. I put on a pair of brand new trail shoes – Saucony Peregrine 2s – with nine whole miles on them. It's not a marathon, remember? I'm allowed to wear brand new shoes.
I drank my coffee and remember thinking, "As long as I get to Pennypack Park, the rest will work itself out." My stress needle was at zero. My bagel was perfectly toasted.
It was a gorgeous morning for a race – 50 degrees, sunny and not a drop of humidity. I picked up my stuff, pinned my number on and walked around a little. There was a discernible vibe to the scene, kind of like a great, bearded family reunion. A barefoot giant stomped by with his unleashed dog. I glanced down as he passed, wondering how a foot that big could only have five toes on it. Next door, in an adjacent slice of reality, a man behind a hibachi was selling grilled cheese sandwiches and Reba t-shirts.
Enter Lady Capulet, stage left. Lady Capulet is chipper and wearing an old, faded Eagles sweatshirt and shoes with holes in them; Mr. Bacon can see her socks when she wiggles her toes. Lady Capulet will go on to finish the 25K as the 4th overall female and first in her age group, her lightweight footwear the primary cause.
Enter Butch Britton, stage… right in front of Capulet and Bacon, whatever that's called. Butch speaks for several minutes without taking a single breath and regales the Loopsters with tales of his torn rotator cuff. He cannot lift his right arm above a certain height and has recently dropped down from the 50M event to the 50K.
Enter Crank-O-Rama, stage left. Corc has spent the last ten minutes getting "in the zone" and approaches the Loop contingent wearing a fluorescent yellow top whose intensity rivals that of the Earth's sun. She warns all who will listen of a thigh-deep water crossing about 10 miles in. Mr. Bacon is concerned.
All smile while a photograph is taken.
By now the 8:00 start time had come and gone and I looked around for some indication that the race was about to start. A flimsy pole with a START flag was stuck in the grass nearby but it was unclear which way the race pointed. Clumps of chatty runners were scattered around facing every direction and no one seemed at all anxious or confused. Does anyone know where, and when, we're supposed to run? I can't be the only one who wants to know.
Finally, a German man started shouting unintelligible instructions into a toy megaphone. He may have been speaking English; he may have been speaking German. It was anybody's guess. He did, however, shout "GO!" at some point and we all started jogging across the grass. The race was on!
After crossing a big, wide-open field, we turned onto a road and then right onto the trails. It wasn't single track right away, but it was tight. My plan was to run this super easy; I thought of it as a morning jog in the woods as opposed to a race. The only reason I looked at my watch at all in the first few miles was to make sure I wasn't running too fast. After a few leisurely miles and getting totally bored with this "morning jog in the woods" crap, I needed a goal. I couldn't think far enough ahead to target a finishing time, but decided that if every split started with an 8, I'd be happy.
The course wasn't bad. There were some tough climbs, but there were also were stretches of flat, comfy trail that ran for miles. There were a few paved sections, which I thought I would hate but didn't mind at all. Kynan's advice was still tucked away in the back of my brain; this was easy.
As I approached the aid station around Mile 11, I'd finished my hand-held and needed a refill. For some reason, I couldn't wait to do this. At dinner, I'd asked Kynan, "So, at an aid station, I can just hand them my bottle and they'll fill it up for me?"
"Yup." he replied.
And he was right. I grinned like a weirdo while the volunteer topped off my bottle and I grabbed a handful of Peanut M&Ms out of a little plastic bowl to pass the time. When one considers man's greatest inventions, several items spring to mind: the printing press, the internal combustion engine, transistors. There is a nearly endless list of worthy candidates. The Peanut M&M trumps them all.
I took off on an M&M high, with a smile on my face and a bottle full of Gatorade. A few steps later, I coughed and nearly choked on a peanut scrap that was rattling around in my mouth. I stopped for a second to breathe and it struck me that I still had 20 miles to go. Wait. How could that be? I'd been running forever! I soberly started up again and took inventory – I actually didn't feel great.
My calves were starting to get tired – trail running always kills my calves – and I had a gnawing, dull pain in my lower abdominals. (I've been dealing with this lower abdominal pain for a few months and have seen my running doc a couple times for it. I recently had an MRI and am going back in tomorrow for my diagnosis.) Worse than any of that, though, was the realization that I still had so much race to run. So this is what a 50K is.
The course was two 25K loops; the last few miles of each were the toughest. There were rocky hills, a section of loopy, tight curves and a stream crossing, which I managed to tiptoe through without getting too wet. Somewhere in here, I was running down a gentle slope and caught my toe on an invisible root. My stomach leapt into my chest and my head, which had surged well in front of my center of mass, got that fluttery feeling you get right before you smash into the ground. My arms were at my sides; I was going down face-first.
I don't know how I kept my feet under me. I assumed I had fallen, but somehow was still running. My heart was pounding and I decided to dial it down a notch. I looked at my watch – 14.5 miles. Will this loop never end??
Then it ended! I coasted into the start area at 2:15 and 14.9 Garmin miles, and handed my bottle off to be refilled. I immediately saw Corc, who had finished the 25K about 10 minutes earlier, and started running through scenarios in my head, none of which ended with a happy 50K finish. I decided that my pain was a 5 on a 1-10 scale and remember telling myself that I'd only quit if I was in "agonizing" pain at the half. A 5 isn't agonizing, but the thought of starting that loop again almost made me sick. I decided to stop.
"Going back out?!" Corc asked with a big smile.
"Sure am!" I blurted out.
And before I knew it I was running out over that big grassy field again, leaving for, if I was lucky, another two-and-a-half hours on the trails. It was the most nonsensical thing my brain has ever told my body to do.
The second half was much less crowded than the first half; in fact, it was downright deserted. Once I got back into the woods, I couldn't see another runner. I knew I wasn't lost, because I'd see a trail marker every now and then, so I just chugged along. My pace was slipping and I decided that for the second loop, I'd be happy to see every split start with a 9. I finished Miles 16, 17 and 18 without seeing a soul.
I had completely finished my bottle of warm, frothy Gatorade and was getting tired as I approached the aid station at 18.5. I heard Kynan's voice in my head: "Ask for ice at the aid stations. Put it in your water bottle and drink frequently while you run. It will keep your core cool so you don't overheat."
"Do you have any ice?" I asked.
"We do! You're the first person who's asked for it!" The volunteers were great; they seemed so sincerely happy to help. While a guy filled my bottle halfway with ice, and then all the way with Gatorade, I downed a couple cups of water and a fistful of Peanut M&Ms. I thanked everyone and headed back out.
Miles 19 and 20. Still all alone.
I passed loneliness somewhere during Mile 21 and was well on my way to madness when a guy came out of nowhere and zipped past me. "Hi!" he said. "You look good. Nice work!" And then he was gone. Although I couldn't understand how someone who had been so far behind me had enough energy to pass me so authoritatively after over three hours of running, I was thrilled to see another human. I suddenly felt less like digging a hole and climbing in.
I had finished my hand-held by the time I arrived at the aid station at Mile 23. I was hot and exhausted. "Do you have any ice?" I asked.
"No, sorry. We don't" he replied.
"Oh…" I said, utterly crestfallen.
"Wait!" a woman exclaimed from the far end of the aid station. "I brought some ice from home! This is genuine Berks County ice, right here!" She said genuine like this: "gen-you-ine" and I could have kissed her. She scooped some ice into my bottle and while a guy filled it with Gatorade, I grabbed a teeny PB&J sandwich and… a couple Peanut M&Ms. I coaxed my creaky legs back into a shuffly jog, and waved goodbye to the lady who that morning before she left the house thought to fill a little cooler with ice from her freezer.
This is where I started to fall apart. A little girl jumped out of the woods at me and I recoiled in surprise before I realized that there was no little girl at all. A few steps later, I was certain I saw meaty snake with the girth of a fire hose slide across the trail in front of me. I was losing my mind. I was desperately thirsty and was dismayed to see that my bottle was already half-empty. I'd only run a mile since the aid station. This was rock bottom. I was tired, completely alone and still had another hour left to run. An hour! "What have you done to me?!" my brain screamed at my brain.
I stopped to walk and catch my breath. "This is not like a marathon," I almost said out loud. "Marathons make sense."
Kynan said that at some point, it would really suck. "When that happens," he said, "remember that you get to do this. Most people can't do something like this," he continued. "They're all at home, sitting on the couch." I closed my eyes and thought of a man sitting on the couch. This isn't working. I envisioned him eating breakfast and relaxing in the comfort of his home. Stop, this isn't what he meant. Maybe he was eating bacon and pancakes and drinking coffee. My god, what I wouldn't give to be at home right now watching TV and drinking coffee.
Starting at Mile 24, or at least what my Garmin called Mile 24, I began to let myself take walk breaks. I told myself that I had to run until the next mile beeped, and then I could walk for a minute. I'd usually look down at my watch around 0.20 miles in and spend the next 0.80 miles fantasizing about that next glorious walk break. My water bottle was bone dry and when I tried to calculate how far it was to the final aid station, I almost passed out.
In spite of everything, I made it to the last aid station at Mile 27. I filled up on ice and Gatorade, but couldn't even stomach the thought of eating food. I'm sure I looked like death, and I blurted out to no one in particular, "This is the first time I've ever done this."
"You're running the 50K, right?" a volunteer asked. I nodded. "You're doing great, man! I think you're in 16th place."
16th place? That's not bad! I can do this. I left the aid station with a spring in my step (kind of) and began the slow march to the finish. I was running with a couple other guys now and would stick with them for the rest of the race. The three of us endured the next few miles of rocks and roots, vast clouds of tiny bugs and subsequent coughing fits, muddy puddles and mountain bikers who wouldn't yield to us on the single track. My legs were absolutely beat.
We were getting close. I passed a guy and got passed right back a quarter mile later. He pushed ahead and I never saw him again. I came up behind a different guy and surged ahead of him on a hill. I decided not to walk again at that point; I was not going to let him pass me back. My calves were on fire. I was expecting to come out of the woods at any moment – I knew I was close – but around every turn was just more woods. I looked down at my Garmin: 29.51 Miles. Aaagh! You're useless!
And then I was out. I was on a paved trail and then back on the grass. I could see the finish line ahead and it still felt so far away. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw someone taking my picture.
It was Corc!
I charged across the line in 4:48:43 (9:15s), good for 18th overall and 10th in my age group. Tenth! Nine of the seventeen people who beat me were M 30-39. Oh well. I averaged 8:46 miles for the first half and 9:48 miles for the second half, so: mission accomplished.
Enter Corc, stage left. After finishing the 25K, Corc went home, showered and then returned to watch Mr. Bacon finish. She is wearing civilian clothes and has a teeny dog in tow. To the surprise of all in the vicinity, she cleans up nice. Bacon, usually a reserved and stoic figure, is genuinely touched by the fact that she came back to cheer and gives her a big, I-just-ran-for-five-hours, hug. He does not cry.
Sorry this was so long. As Blaise Pascal once said, "I have not had the time to make it shorter."


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Voters in California and North Dakota rejected two ballot initiatives that were opposed by agriculture groups.
Californians rejected Proposition 37, that would have mandated genetically modified foods (GM) to be labeled as such, and North Dakota voters rejected Measure 5, the proposal that that would have created a felony penalty for malicious cruelty to a dog, cat or horse.
Proposition 37 was defeated 53 percent to 47 percent, and Measure 5 was defeated 67 percent to 33 percent.
Opposition to Prop 37 came from a host of companies and individuals – many from outside the state – who injected $46 million into defeating the initiative. Those supporting the measure raised $9.2 million.
Supporters of Prop 37 relied on social media and a strong grass-roots campaign in an effort to sway voters to adopt the nation's first GMO food labeling law. The state-wide battle was a high-profile fight because it pitted businesses against businesses. Big natural-food companies, celebrity chefs and several organic farmers supported Prop 37, while a variety of traditional farmers and chemical, seed and processed-food firms opposed the measure.
Proposition 37 gained significant exposure outside California, with many new-age food writers and celebrities supporting the measure. People such as The New York Times' Mark Bittman urged Californians to vote for Prop 37, saying, "even if there were a way to guarantee that food produced with GMO ingredients is not directly bad for you, it remains clear that such food is in general bad for all of us, based on the collateral damage from producing it."
But such arguments lost steam when local California writers such as The Los Angeles Times Alexandra Le Tellier questioned the science behind some anti-GMO research. "Is it (research) credible?" she asked. "Or is it science for the sake of fulfilling an agenda?" After noting that much of the criticism of GMO foods centered around pesticides, Le Tellier asked, "If the problem is the pesticides, then why isn't the Proposition 37 labeling initiative about that?"
Supporters of the measure argued that consumers have a right to know what's in their food and that information should be made available on labels. About 60 countries around the world already require such labels, proponents stressed.
Opponents countered that labeling foods would cost families hundreds of dollars a year in higher grocery bills. They also accused the initiative of sowing fear that genetically engineered foods are unsafe.
In North Dakota, veterinarians, animal shelters and others who care for and about animals had found them-selves on opposing sides over Measure 5, which would not have applied to production agriculture or to lawful activities of hunters, trappers, licensed veterinarians or scientific researchers, or to people acting in defense of life or property.
North Dakota and South Dakota are the only states without a felony animal abuse penalty.
"We're pleased that the North Dakota voters took a closer look at this, and we want to continue now to further the work on animal protection and do it the right way," Jason Schmidt, a rancher in Kidder County and chairman of North Dakota Animal Stewards, which op-posed Measure 5, told Forum Communications.
Both sides spent heavily to sway voters on Measure 5, with campaign finance reports filed with the North Dakota secretary of state's office totaling well more than $1 million by last week.
Much of the funding for the measure came from the Humane Society of the United States, which opponents sought to discredit as a radical organization.


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(If you want to read part 1 of my Spartan Beast experience, go here:
As I headed into the woods, I knew that I was racing the sun. Wherever the terrain allowed running, I ran. When there were too many rocks and roots, or where it was too steep, I just kept going at whatever pace I could manage. As I went into a run again, one guy commented that I was running a good pace. I replied that I was racing the sun, and he said, "Good idea" and ran with me. It turns out that he had become separated from his team, and the girl in front of us had lost her team too (they had quit). So we decided to become a team for awhile.


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Don't show me this again
The Best Restaurants in Henderson, NV
Sunset Station's premiere restaurants couple excellent food with outstanding value. Featuring some of the most popular, yet most affordable restaurants in Henderson, there's truly something on offer to please every palette. Whether you're in the mood for a fine dining experience, or just a casual night out, there's no reason to leave the property when hunger strikes.
In the mood for Mexican food? Don't head south of the border, because Cabo Mexican Restaurant serves up authentic Mexican favorites each night, with more than 130 distinct dishes. Backed up by a spectacular selection of margaritas, Cabo's menu is comprehensive, exceptionally tasty and supremely affordable, making this an excellent family friendly dining destination.
No Vegas trip is complete without a stop at the all-you-can-eat buffet, and no buffet does it better than the Feast Buffet. It's no wonder that the Feast Buffet was voted "Best Brunch" by readers of the Las Vegas Review-Journal. With an expansive menu featuring delectable cuisines from around the world, the Feast Buffet serves up something for everyone.
If it's 3 am and you've got a craving for a burger and fries, feel free to make your way to the Grand Café. Want dessert for breakfast, or breakfast for dessert? Get whatever you want, whenever you want it, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! When you're looking for a casual dining experience, you couldn't do any better than the Grand Café.
Seafood fans rejoice! With a fantastic selection of oysters and other fresh seafood delights, it's no wonder that our on-site Oyster Bar is so popular with the locals. Whether you want some fresh oysters, a seafood soup, or a spicy Cajun gumbo, we've got it all and more!
Pasta Cucina serves up some of the most authentic Italian cuisine in Las Vegas at exceptionally affordable prices. Suitable for both casual dining as well as fancier nights out, Pasta Cucina is the perfect stop for pasta, pizza, salads, steak and more.
For casual Mexican fare, head straight on over to Viva Salsa, where you'll find some of the best burritos and tacos in Henderson. Featuring the best sangria, tequila, mojitos and margaritas in town, Viva Salsa isn't just a dining destination, it's an entertainment experience!
When you want a quick bite for not a lot of bucks, Sunset Station can satisfy any appetite. Choose from:


text: Suit alleges that Chopper Shopper Fuel Rewards program infringes on patents owned by Excentus. Excentus Corp. has filed a patent and trademark infringement lawsuit against QuikTrip Corp., Midax, Inc. and several companies operating Price Chopper grocery stores. The suit, filed in the United States District Court for the Western District of Missouri for unspecified damages,


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Posted 6 years ago
(62 items)
I love these bottle vases by Klaus Breit for Wiesenthalhuette. I am not the only one. They made many of them in different colors, shapes and sizes. These ones are from 1966 and 1970, 11 and 12 cm high and very heavy 1 kilogram each.


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Serves 8
1 cup chocolate-hazelnut paste, such as Nutella
1/2 cup creme fraiche
1 tablespoon brandy or hazelnut liqueur
1 cup heavy cream
Whipped cream:
1 cup well-chilled heavy cream
2 tablespoons Frangelico (hazelnut-flavored liqueur)
1. Using an electric mixer, beat the chocolate-hazelnut paste, creme fraiche and brandy at low speed until smooth.
2. In another bowl, beat the heavy cream to firm peaks. Using a rubber spatula, fold the whipped cream into the chocolate-hazelnut mixture until no streaks remain. Spoon the mousse into ramekins and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.
3. For the whipped cream, using an electric mixer, beat the cream until it just holds soft peaks. Stir in Frangelico. Serve mousse topped with whipped cream.


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Topic: infection... hallucinations
has anybody experienced a similar situation:
right under the swelling of a painfull rib met an (internal) infection must have occurred, swelling under skin, hot and the area is red. It is treated by antibiotics.
But cause still unknown.
Since it is on the right hand side: how would an infection of the liver show up?
Don`t really know where to start investigating, got us all (including doctor) by surprise.
In the back of my mind is the thought about sepsis risk, is that a real threat?
Hallucinations: can be due to strong opiods but could limited kidney function (dark urine and low frequency) or the build-up of toxins (medication) in the liver contribute to it or worsen it?
I can`t leave him without supervision at the moment because he`s so confused that he might fall or something if left alone. Extremely difficult at night times where periods of agitation and drowsiness come and go.
Doctor was thinking to admit him to hospital this afternoon (due to the risk that I might not be able to cope with a 100kg man acting weird) but not yet made a decision.


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GameSpot reports the fighter will seek a rating under the country's new R18+ classification for games. Mortal Kombat was refused classification in the region when it launched two years ago and also lost a subsequent appeal.
Ninja Gaiden 3: Razor's Edge will be Australia's first game classified as R18+. Australia finally relaxed its censorship laws last year to allow games intended for those over the age of 15 to be sold in the country.


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James Harden scored 25 points and the Houston Rockets rolled to a 125-80 victory over the Utah Jazz on Monday night at EnergySolutions Arena.
Utah Jazz: Harden leads Rockets to 125-80 victory over Jazz
Randy Foye led the Jazz with 12 points and Al Jefferson added 10, but Utah had a six-game homecourt winning streak snapped.
Looking for the 10th win in the last 13 games, the Jazz started miserably.
Utah converted only two of its first 10 possessions and Houston made seven of its first nine shots while building a 15-6 lead.
Derrick Favors and Jefferson led the Jazz back and it was 22-22 with 1:22 left in the opening quarter. But the Rockets reeled off six quick points, including two after a turnover by Alec Burks with only six seconds left.
Leading 28-22, Houston extended its lead to 34-26 early in the second quarter on a pair of three-pointers by Carlos Delfino.
The Rockets eventually built a 55-34 lead with 1:25 left in the half before settling for an 18-point advantage.
Harden scored 18 points in the first half, including 12 in the final 6:45. Randy Foye topped Utah, which shot 35.7 percent, with 10.
Midway through the third quarter, the Rockets broke away with an 11-2 run, which gave them a 70-43 lead.
From there, Houston cruised to its fourth win in five games and pulled into a virtual tie for seventh place with Utah in the overall Western Conference standings.


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I have a new Frame by Frame video today on gay and lesbian identity in Hollywood cinema, past and present. You can access the video by clicking here, or on the image above; a transcript of my brief overview appears below.
"Hi. I'm Wheeler Winston Dixon, James Ryan Professor of Film Studies at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and this is Frame By Frame. And today I want to talk about gay and lesbian identities in Hollywood cinema, from the beginning to the present. Hollywood has never been a leader in this area. Gays and lesbians have always been marginalized in the cinema. Early portrayals of gay characters or lesbian characters in films were always stereotypical, and often deeply insulting. They were relegated to "pansy" roles or stereotypical "limp-wristed" roles, and these early films are very difficult to look at because they completely marginalize gays and lesbians as characters.
Interestingly, there were many gay people working in Hollywood during this period. Dorothy Arzner, the director… and George Cukor, of course, who was gay, and directed most of Gone With the Wind, until Clark Gable's homophobia forced him out of the production. But you had to wait a long time in Hollywood before gays and lesbians were sympathetically and realistically portrayed on the screen. Even in the 1960s, you had films like Midnight Cowboy, The Boys in the Band, The Killing of Sister George, and Cruising, one of the most infamous films of all time, directed by William Friedkin.
It's not until relatively recently that you have films like Sunday Bloody Sunday, which is the first real gay onscreen kiss, and Cabaret, which was a more direct look at the gay and lesbian lifestyle. An Early Frost, Parting Glances, My Beautiful Laundrette — these are films which basically treated homosexuality and lesbianism as part of the human experience. Billy's Hollywood Screen Kiss, Poison, Swoon, The Living End — these are all films that basically portray things in a more positive light. And, of course, the ascendency of pop artists like Andy Warhol, who brought gay concerns into the mainstream, is another factor in moving films forward in this area.
There's still a long way to go. American cinema is absolutely heterotopic. Gay-bashing jokes, unfortunately, still occur in too many comedies as a staple.This is something where Hollywood has a lot of catching up to do. It's just like the same thing that happens with racism. Homophobia and racism, unfortunately, are part of American cinema, and go hand in hand, and they have yet to be erased in terms of the way that Hollywood represents everyone equally on the screen."


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Headache Following a Head Injury
Headache after an injury
A headache is not unusual immediately following a blow to the head. The headaches may come and go but usually resolve within 4 weeks after the injury. As long as the headaches are getting better, they are not likely to represent a serious problem.
Headaches are classified as mild, moderate, or severe.
- Mild: A mild headache improves or goes away completely with home treatment, medicine, or rest. It may return when the medicine wears off.
- Moderate: A moderate headache improves with home treatment, medicine, or rest, but it never completely goes away. You are always aware that your headache is present.
- Severe: A severe headache is incapacitating. Home treatment, medicine, and rest do not relieve this headache.
An ongoing headache that is getting worse after a head injury may be caused by swelling or bleeding within or around the brain or between the brain and the covering of the brain ( subdural hematoma ). The bleeding may be rapid or slow. Symptoms may develop within minutes, hours, or occasionally weeks after the injury.
Falls occur more frequently in babies, older adults, and people with dementia or alcohol or drug abuse problems. Determining if the person has had a head injury may be difficult or delayed since he or she may not be able to tell you about the fall or injury. A subdural hematoma may develop immediately and cause obvious problems, but if the bleeding is slow, symptoms may not develop for days or even weeks.
A head injury may cause a small amount of bleeding within the skull that does not cause symptoms for days or even weeks after the injury. After a head injury, a small blood clot may form and draw fluid from the tissues around it, which makes the clot slowly get bigger. The increasing size of the clot causes a slow increase in the pressure within the skull and the surrounding brain tissue. Usually the first symptom of the increased pressure is a new, persistent, and increasingly severe headache. Confusion and sleepiness may also be present.
A persistent headache that is accompanied by other symptoms of a concussion , such as drowsiness and personality changes, is more serious. As the pressure increases around the brain, other symptoms may develop quickly, including dilation of a pupil or paralysis on one side of the body.
Current as of: March 20, 2017
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine


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Docent discusses Hockney exhibition
Fine-arts docent Jim Kohn is scheduled to present an illustrated lecture on "David Hockney: A Bigger Exhibition," the current display at the de Young Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 11 in the Program Room of the Los Altos main library, 13 S. San Antonio Road.
Many of the landscapes in the exhibition are of monumental proportions, including multicanvas oil paintings and large-scale digital movies shot with multiple cameras, some requiring as many as 18 monitors. "David Hockney," which runs through Jan. 20, is the largest exhibition in museum's history, featuring more than 300 works of art.
Los Altos residents Liz and Paul Nyberg, who visited the de Young last week, said they were "overwhelmed" by the exhibition. "He uses every art-producing tool there is – oils, watercolor, photography, videos," they said. "What is most startling, he creates drawings with his thumb on a cellphone – and those are up on the wall."
For more information on the exhibition, visit deyoung.famsf.org.
For more information on library programs, call 948-7683 or visit sccl.org.
Annual clothing drive supports Career Closet
Option 1 Staffing Services Inc., a Los Altos staffing agency, is partnering with Career Closet for its third annual women's clothing drive.
Option 1 Staffing is collecting gently used clothes, shoes, jewelry, handbags and accessories to donate to the nonprofit Career Closet, which enables women to re-enter the workplace with the clothing and accessories they need to make a good first impression and land the job they want.
Drop donations at Option 1 Staffing, 4410 El Camino Real, Suite 110, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.
For more information, call 941-5115.
Toys for Tots accepts donations
All Horizons Travel, owned by Maureen and Roy Jones, is serving as a collection station for the Marine Corps' Toys for Tots program during the holiday season.
Residents can drop off new, unwrapped toys for underserved children at the agency, 160 Main St. in Los Altos, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays through Dec. 17.
Roy Jones, a retired lieutenant colonel who served in the Marines, has been involved with the Toys for Tots program since 1953.
For more information, call 941-5810.
LAH seeks donations for public sculptures
The Los Altos Hills Art in Public Places Committee, headed by Karen Druker, the town's art curator, seeks donations from residents for a public sculpture program.
Among the targeted sites for sculpture installations are the town hall campus, Westwind Community Barn and Edith Park.
A book of photo examples of site-specific sculptures is available for residents' inspection at the Los Altos Hills Town Hall reception desk, 26379 W. Fremont Road.
Committee members will investigate group funding options so that all residents can participate in some level of giving, but they welcome donations at any level, including funding for an entire site.
For more information, call 941-8073 or 941-7222.
Kiwanis Club collects for Turkey Round Up
The Kiwanis Club of Los Altos, sponsor of the annual Pet Parade in May, seeks donations for its Annual Turkey Round Up.
Each year, club members purchase and deliver turkeys to the Ecumenical Hunger Program in East Palo Alto so that families that need assistance can have a traditional Thanksgiving dinner.
To donate, send a check to the Los Altos Kiwanis Club Foundation, PO Box 484, Los Altos 94023.
Local artists display work at History Museum
The Los Altos History Museum's contemporary art exhibition, "Los Altos – Moving Art Forward," runs through March 23 at 51 S. San Antonio Road.
The project celebrates local artists with a juried exhibition in painting, photography, sculpture and mixed media. The display complements the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art's off-site exhibition, "Project Los Altos: SFMOMA in Silicon Valley," scheduled to run through March at various venues across the city.
Museum hours are noon to 4 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays. Admission is free.
For more information, visit losaltoshistory.org.
Homestay program needs host families
The International Student Placements program at Foothill and De Anza colleges needs host families for international students.
The program has placed students with local families for more than 20 years. Host families are asked to provide a private or double bedroom and share meals and kitchen privileges.
The arrangements start in August and end in June. Hosts are paid between $825 and $1,000 per month in two installments. Families may include singles or couples with or without children, retirees or empty nesters.
'One Warm Scarf' campaign underway
Los Altos resident Sandy Goldstein has launched her annual "One Warm Scarf" campaign to provide accessories to the area's homeless residents. She collects used hats, gloves and scarves, and accepts donations of yarn.
To donate and for more information, call 968-2751.


text:
if (newPlanet->createPlanet(mCamera,"Baal",8,865365,1738400.0f,8492.0f,31,7.0f,0.25f,1,0.0f))
palaslet wrote:Alex,
Shouldn't the sunlight be more red shifted in the sunset?
actually it wouldn't be the camera it would be the point the light is hitting on the ground that is used to calculate the distance
so you just need to calculate the distance the light is traveling in the atmosphere to the sun and red shit the larger the distance.
ImpScary wrote:Any news? I really enjoy reading your updates, i am sure many others do too.
ultramedia wrote:Some should have no atmosphere as well
ultramedia wrote:that's realtime volumetric atmosphere on a planetary scale
Users browsing this forum: Exabot [Bot] and 9 guests


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A new contest from an ag equipment publication is combining farming with music in a parody contest.
Tune in to Fastline hopes to bring out the best pro-ag parody songs in a contest aimed at winning up to $500.
To enter, parody prodigies should record their original parody and submit the video to Fastline. The Peterson Farm Brothers – the group that put agricultural parodies on the map – will also be joining the judging panel to pick out the best.
Click here to learn more about the contest.
The Peterson trio shot to fame last year with their hit parody of LMFAO's "I'm Sexy and I Know It." Their parodies have since been viewed more than 23 million times on YouTube. Click here to listen to the group's latest hit, "Bale!"


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The owner of an amusement company was found not guilty Monday of charges that he manufactured and possessed slot machines.
The owner of an amusement company was found not guilty Monday of charges that he manufactured and possessed slot machines.
Greg Muse, 52, of New Bern, owner of Craven Music Company, was exonerated of 15 counts of manufacturing or selling slot machines and one count of possessing a slot machine.
Judge Walter Mills made the ruling on Monday based on three days of testimony during a trial that began with hearings in March.
�I am never trying to do anything outside the law,� Muse said after the ruling. �Over the years, I have tried to adapt my operation to be in compliance with the law. Nobody wants to fight the DA (district attorney), the police, the sheriff�s office. I have been in constant contact with them.�
Havelock police raided seven Havelock area businesses on Oct. 17, 2013, seizing 300 items of evidence that included 16 computerized gaming machines that they said were being operated in violation of state laws. Authorities said at the time that the raids were as a result of an 11-month investigation.
Subsequently, Muse, along with seven other people, mostly owners of convenience stores, a private club and pool hall, and a bingo establishment in which machines were located, were arrested and charged with possessing or operating slot machines.
At issue in the case was whether skill was required to operate the machines. Games of chance could be deemed illegal but a game in which skill is required could be determined to be legal. Also at issue was that the city of Havelock had issued licenses for $500 per machine for the operation of the machines in local businesses.
Muse�s case began March 21 and continued with testimony on April 24 and then on July 16. Muse, who was represented by attorneys Marc Chesnutt and Gary Clemmons, never took the stand in his own defense.
�I�m glad that the justice system served everyone in this matter well,� Chesnutt said.
Assistant District Attorney Robert McAfee argued for the state that the machines were games of chance. He presented evidence using video and testimony from undercover police officers as well as testimony from a police informant.
Neither McAfee nor anyone from the district attorney�s office could be reached for comment Monday.
Havelock Police Chief G. Wayne Cyrus said he had not had a chance to discuss the verdict with the district attorney�s office and didn�t know the reason behind the not guilty verdict.
Muse said Monday that the cost of his defense was high, though he did not provide a specific amount.
�It cost a very large amount to fight, but I don�t know how you put a dollar amount on the embarrassment to my family and to me and our business,� he said.
Muse said he went to Havelock City Hall on Monday to seek a refund of the $500 business license fee for the machines, but was denied.
�It�s kind of a railroad deal, especially since I paid the license days before they picked the machines up,� Muse said. �If these things are illegal, why are they continually issuing licenses? It�s been almost a year now that they have been shut down, and they don�t even want to consider giving a refund.�
Muse said he felt the other business owners and managers charged in the case should also be found not guilty.
�The locations that had our equipment, I feel confident that they�ll come up with the same outcome,� Muse said.
He said he had worked with authorities to guarantee his machines were legal.
�Everybody down here is wanting to get their equipment back and go back into business,� he said. �I don�t know what will happen with that. I hope we can get the machines, equipment and money, and everything back.�
Muse said he is still operating machines in other areas and doesn�t have a problem.
�I don�t know how they could label them as a slot machine. It seemed like a drastic move to me,� Muse said. �It�s just bad that a town would go to this extreme. It�s amazing that they look at this as a major crime.�
Muse, who is running for Craven County commissioner, said he hopes it doesn�t affect his candidacy.
�I�m starting my campaign tonight,� he said Monday. �A large, dark cloud is lifted with this verdict.�
Sun Journal staff writer Sue Book contributed to this report.