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Controversies on the use of jailhouse snitches have flared for ages within the criminal justice system, and the advent of DNA testing only adds to the concerns about convictions chalked up to such informants.
Last February, Bruce Godschalk was freed after spending 15 years in a Pennsylvania prison for rape. A jailhouse informant said Godschalk had confessed; DNA tests proved his innocence. Through the years, there have been many cases of snitches later recanting their testimony in jurisdictions across the United States. Others have shown improper alliances with police who rely on informants to gain confessions that would be impossible if officers themselves were questioning defendants.
After 13 death row inmates were exonerated in Illinois, state officials called for a moratorium on executions and created a bipartisan group to make proposals for sweeping reforms. A cornerstone of those recommendations was a ban on death sentences based on testimony of jailhouse snitches because of their continual lack of credibility.
As in Illinois, a commission was created in Ontario, Canada, to propose reforms after a jailhouse snitch was used to wrongly convict Guy Paul Morin of killing a child in 1992. Since 1998, a special panel, dubbed both the Rat Pack and the Fink Committee, rules on the validity of using inmate informants in cases.
In January, former Chicago police officer Steven Manning sued investigators who had allegedly fabricated a jailhouse confession for a snitch to use against him in his murder trial, which was later overturned.
Pressure on convicts to come up with confessions or key information on others intensified in the last decade, when tough-on-crime officials ended almost all other avenues for early release in the federal prison system. Basically it's snitch or serve a full sentence.
The cynicism over the federal rule to reward inmate informants crystallized in the 1996 obstruction of justice case against noted Atlanta defense attorney Robert Fierer. He and an associate were caught in a scheme to broker informants for convicts wanting out from under prison sentences.
Those who could afford to secretly pay as much as $25,000 were linked up with outside informants so the convicts could claim to the government that they had assisted in cases actually made by the informants, who got a cut of the fees for their participation.
"There are people in prison looking for any edge to get out and get their sentence reduced," explains Bill Dressel, president of the National Judicial College, the Reno-based U.S. training center for judges. "Why in the heck would somebody talk to a cellmate? You've got to shake your head about that."
Concerns about evidence credibility caused several states -- Texas is not among them -- to set up special hearings to determine the validity of jailhouse snitch testimony, or to at least issue special jury instructions for evaluating it. Appellate rulings have especially narrowed the police use of inmates to gain confessions from fellow convicts, says Dressel, a Colorado judge for 22 years.
"The problem is they perjure themselves. They get believed and people get hurt as a result -- innocent people," says Neil McCabe, a professor at South Texas College of Law. He says that defense attorneys have to be especially diligent to point out that "these people have a big incentive to manufacture evidence or shade the truth."
"The old saying about honor among thieves isn't true," McCabe says. "This is a very strong incentive for folks sitting in jail and doing nothing but time -- they aren't in jail because they are humanitarians wanting to do good for society."
However, McCabe says, the current conservative dominance within the judiciary and politics in Texas means it is unlikely there will be reforms in the use of snitches.
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"This kind of testimony is inherently suspect," says David Crump, a University of Houston law professor and former prosecutor. "People in prison are not real credible to begin with; and secondly, you are in effect promising them something in return."
Juries may tend to discount the testimony of a criminal, although the pressure can mount to use jailhouse informants in extremely heinous crimes that might not otherwise be brought to trial, Crump explains.
His courtroom experience convinced Crump that juries require a higher level of proof for lesser crimes. For especially abominable "blood and guts" offenses, the standard for evidence actually lessens, Crump says.
He says a good safeguard is the test of whether a jailhouse snitch's word can be corroborated by independent information -- especially if it leads to the recovery of a murder weapon or other undisclosed evidence. Otherwise, anybody with access to news accounts or public documents on a crime could concoct a story that another inmate has confessed.


text: About Passaic County Community College Passaic County Community College is a publicly supported two-year college offering associate in arts and associate in science degree programs that lead to transfer to four-year colleges. Offering associate in applied science degrees and certificates in career specializations, the College provides more than forty degree and certificate programs to over 5,000 students. Student activities, cultural programming, and intercollegiate athletics provide students with a variety of extracurricular experiences. PCCC's main campus is located in the lower portion of Passaic County, New Jersey, in the heart of one of the nation's historic industrial cities, Paterson. The campus serves an extremely diverse population. The central campus buildings include Academic Hall, Founders' Hall, Hamilton Hall, and the newly refurbished Hamilton Club building. Academic Hall contains classrooms, computer and science laboratories, and the Academic Resource Center; it is connected to Founders' Hall by a passageway that crosses over College Boulevard. Founders' Hall contains many administrative offices, gymnasium, and theater. Contact Current students: Please direct questions about your lessons, quizzes, assignments, and other course materials to your instructor or course administrator. You can use the course discussion areas for this purpose. If you have questions about accessing the online classroom, retrieving your lessons, changing your password, correcting your e-mail address, obtaining progress reports or completion letters, receiving an extension, or any other administrative tasks, visit our Help page. New or potential students: If you have questions about course content, prerequisites, requirements, follow-ups, or instructors, you'll find the information you need by locating the courses that interest you. Click the course title to review the course details. If you require any assistance with registration, please contact: Passaic County Community CollegeContinuing Education and Workforce DevelopmentLinda VegaMemorial HallM341Paterson, NJ 07505USPhone: firstname.lastname@example.com

subset: commoncrawl


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"My Parents Left Nigeria For London Bcos Of Biafra War" – Chiwetel Ejiofor
April 18, 2014 – "My Parents Left Nigeria For London Bcos Of Biafra War" – Chiwetel Ejiofor
British-Nigerian actor Chiwetel Ejiofor who recently travelled to Nigeria for the premiere of Half of a Yellow Sun disclosed that there is a common ground between his life experience and the movie.
He said: "The Biafra war was a seminal part of my upbringing. In fact, I'll say the Biafra war was the reason I was born in London and not Nigeria. It was as a result of the war that my parents left Nigeria. It was something I remember being talked about in my household. Years later, I spoke to my grandfather about my mother's side. He spoke about his experiences between 1960 and 1970."
In the movie, he experiences the Biafra war, which his life is tied to, while he proves true love in the time of war. He also said the movie caught his interest, so he was glad to star in a major role as Odenigbo.
The N10 million movie was shot in Tinapa in Calabar, and was directed by UK-based playwright, Biyi Bandele.


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CodePlexProject Hosting for Open Source Software
Last edited Nov 26, 2012 at 1:55 PM by denisstadler, version 9
Can you help me please ?
I install this solution in SharePoint 2010 foundation and my problem is the dynamic menu don't vis... (more)
Great solution. Very easy to install and use.


text:
Sadly you are demonstrating that you "don't know anything about Cloudera".
Top notch company, overwhelmingly dominant player in the emerging Hadoop market. The company has been managed very well through this growth - much credit goes to Mike Olsen and his team.
If they decide to IPO, I would expect Cloudera to be very successful - much like Splunk - and unlike Facebook (and may others).
The good news is that you'll know a lot about Cloudera soon enough.


text:
Release Date: 2010 |
JViney EMERITUS (2)Gorillas are a threatened species. Gorillaz might be joining them at this rate....SowingSeason STAFF (3.5)Like an electronically influenced hip-hop dream, The Fall progresses effortlessly to form ...Deviant. STAFF (2.5)A 43 minute promotional advertisement that money just can't buy...insomniac15 STAFF (3)A quick review of the new Gorillaz album, "The Fall", recorded quick exclusively on an iPa...
cometstail2 (3)"No one can deny the genius behind the album's lush, carefully crafted production or the...ModernGuilt (3.5)Damon Albarn and his musical misfits go on a road trip....
Album Rating: 3.0There's not much to this review, but then there's not much to the album either
Album Rating: 3.5 | Sound Offeh albums okay. some good songs, some bad. He should do one last Gorillaz album thats not like this and is more demon days/plastic beach hybrid
Album Rating: 2.0 | Sound Off
A mediocre offering from a band capable of so much more.
There's not much to this review, but then there's not much to the album either
Album Rating: 3.0I don't get it but ok
Sure, some will say that this is a gimmick, but if the music is good, it won't really matter.
Luckily the music is good. Kind of.
Luckily, the music is good.
Kind of.
I don't get it but ok
Album Rating: 3.0hahaha thanks, got it.
Good review POS
I used to love the singles off Demon Days when I around 12,
Album Rating: 3.0thanks but YOU DIDNT POS
ahaha, I forgot, sorry about that, just did
Album Rating: 3.0Decent review. Have a pos. That being said, the tone of this album sounds like a 2.0 at the very least (whereas you have it at a 3.0). I'm really just splitting hairs here though.
Album Rating: 3.0the tone of the review you mean?
yah, to be honest I went into this with the intention of giving it a 2.5 but I listened to the stream as I wrote and 'Amarillo' is so good I had to bump it up from 'average'
Nice review. Guessing I should just listen to that one song and ignore the rest of the album?
I was kind of shocked this was considered an album or LP or whatever; I don't doubt Albarn as a songwriter but this project even sounded like it'd be really unpolished and rough. Plastic Beach is still relatively new, too.
the perfect amount of zazz in this review for a pos. you're getting better every time brah
Album Rating: 3.0Yup, I meant to say tone of the review LOL - sorry!
Album Rating: 3.0no don't ignore the rest of the album. it's still good, as the rating suggests. who knows, you may like it more than I do. I could see it being enjoyable if you approach it the right way. Like don't expect anything big sounding or catchy, because there's nothing like that here.
thanks for the pos' my nigs
I really, really like Revolving Doors, the rest not so much. Pos'd.
Digging: Summoning - With Doom We Come
Bands: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z


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The Los Angeles Dodgers are not afraid to spend money as they have shown over the last two seasons. Now, it looks like they might be poised to go on another spending spree this off-season. Rumors are already percolating that the Dodgers might be poised to make a run at Jacoby Ellsbury this off-season, a report reinforced by Buster Olney.
If the Dodgers do pursue Ellsbury that would mean that Don Mattingly will have to either be really creative in finding time for Ellsbury, Andre Ethier, Matt Kemp, Carl Crawford and Yasiel Puig or GM Ned Colletti will have to find a trade partner or two and move someone like Ethier or Kemp, or both.
Kemp is, when healthy, one of the best player in the game. However, his health has been something of an issue the last couple of years. His 2011 season was good enough for him to be runner up in the NL MVP race as he posted a .324/.399/.586 slash line with 39 homers, 126 RBI and 115 runs scored. In 2011, he appeared in only 106 games but posted a .303/.367/.538 line with 23 homers, 69 RBI and 74 runs scored. This past season Kemp appeared in only 73 games and hit just .270/.328/.395 with just six home runs, 33 RBI and 35 runs scored.
Kemp will turn 30 next September so he is still in his prime and any team acquiring him would be getting some of his best years, at least in theory. They will also be getting a player who is signed through 2019 after signing an eight-year, $160 million deal after signing the deal before the 2012 season. The question is will any team surrender a package of top prospects for a player who has been as injury prone as Kemp has been the last two years?
The Dodgers also have to take into consideration Ellsbury's injury history. Elssbury played in 134 games this year, 74 in 2012, 158 in 2011 and 18 in 2010. The Dodgers also have to take into consideration that Ellsbury's big year, which occurred in 2011, might have been a bit of an aberration. He slugged 32 home runs, the first and only time he surpassed double-digit homers in a season. His next highest home run total in his seven-year career has been nine which he reached in 2008 and 2013.
There is no doubt Ellsbury is a dynamic player. However, the size of the contract he is sure to get in this very thin free agent market coupled with his injury history makes him a huge risk. The Dodgers already have a dynamic, injury-prone player in Kemp. Why sign Ellsbury and then attempt to trade Kemp or someone else? It just doesn't make a lot of sense especially when you consider that Ellsbury will probably command a higher salary than Kemp is currently making. Ellsbury is also a year older than Kemp and much of Ellsbury's game is built on speed, one of the tools that tends to go earlier in a career.
Kemp is, hands down, the better player. He will make less money than Ellsbury, is a year younger, has shown more consistency, especially in the power department and is already engrained in the Dodger culture.
Yes, Kemp plays foolishly at times and can frustrate management and the fans at times. However, Kemp, when healthy, is the better player than Ellsbury when healthy. The Dodgers would be better off passing on Ellsbury and filling in the actual holes on the team like in the bullpen, middle infield and depth at the back end of the rotation.
Chris is a Senior Writer as well as the Hiring and Recruiting Manager for Rant sports. Follow Chris on Twitter and "Like" his page on Facebook.


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World-renowned thinker and scholar Thich Nhat Hanh, considered by many to be a "Living Buddah", explores the spiritual crossroads where the traditions of Christianity and Buddhism meet. Living Buddha, Living Christ reawakens our understanding of both religions and the connections between them.
The best-selling author of Creating True Peace, and one of the most beloved Buddhist teachers in the West, Vietnamese monk Thich Nhat Hanh has been part of a decades-long dialogue between the two greatest living contemplative traditions. In lucid, meditative prose, he explores the crossroads of compassion and holiness at which the two traditions meet, and reawakens our understanding of both. "On the altar in my hermitage," he says, "are images of Buddha and Jesus, and I touch both of them as my spiritual ancestors."
©2003 Thich Nhat Hanh (P)2003 Simon & Schuster
"if only it wasn't abridged it'd be a five"
The narration was fantastic
Hearing Thich Nhat Hanh's voice was a great introduction
The use of the bell/gong and other music was a nice addition
I was disappointed it was only an abridged version (which, my mistake, I didn't take note of when I bought it)
I will listen to this many times. There is music (gongs) to meditate to, the narration is calming and superbly rendered. I have yet to hear the entire storyline as it puts me into sleep so wonderfully but from what I've heard so far it's very informative historically and spiritually. I love it.
I found this very interesting and thought-provoking. I enjoyed many aha moments and will reflect on them. I highly recommend this to anyone of any faith...or no faith at all
"One of the best books ever written! ! 5 stars "
This is one of the best books ever written I must have listened to this book at least 10x. It was written with great wisdom and insight
"I love this book"
I've heard this book many time, I truly enjoyed the book as well as the narration.
"great listen"
great story had to make more than a few bookmarks to go back and rethink what has been said.
"a must listen"
All Christian and Buddhist brothers and sisters must listen/read! Based on true love for all!
"great content, ecumenical and peaceful message"
Content is likely to challenge a traditional Christian's worldview but in a healthy and (paradoxically) very Christian way.
"An exceptional book, beautifully read"
I've come back to this book again after some years, and with more life experience, and experience in my own spiritual life, am finding this work so profound, hopeful and beautiful.
"A book that deeply explores the connections between Christianity and Buddhism"
I strongly urge anyone who questions the validity of the exclusivity of their religion, or is adamant about it, to read this book. After reading this book I have not only a deeper understanding of Buddhism but also of my own Christian faith.
Report Inappropriate Content
If you find this review inappropriate and think it should be removed from our site, let us know. This report will be reviewed by Audible and we will take appropriate action.


text:
Most Recent
Preparing Your Living Room For Autumnal Chills And Reading Season
There are few greater pleasures in the world than a comfortable autumn evening with a steady fire, engaging novel and cup of piping hot tea.
Sending Your Student Off To College With An Assortment Of Eco Friendly Necessities
There may be no more environmentally-conscious place on earth than a college campus.
How to Allergy-Proof Your Home
First thing's first - start by identifying what you're allergic to. Dust, motes, mold, pet dander, and pollen are the most common household allergens, but it's not a bad idea to see an allergist to pinpoint what you're actually allergic to.
Planning Ahead For Thanksgiving And Christmas Parties In Your Apartment
An apartment space isn't usually ideal for giant gatherings.


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Corner of Jalan Bukit Bintang and Jalan Sultan Ismail
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia 55100
+603 2719 1333
TOURISM TAX NOTICE - Tourism Tax of RM10nett per room night will be imposed with effect from 1st September 2017 in compliance with the Tourism Act 2017.
Rate inclusive
Enjoy free nights for every 3 night booking under this offer. Rates will be updated after you have selected a room.
Book 21 days in advance to enjoy great discount.
Book 45 days in advance to enjoy great discount.


text:
Puma Sports Shoes at Rs.1799
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Get Puma Sports Shoes at Rs.1799. Club Myntra deal item of Rs.2399 with this Coupon to reduce the price to Rs.1799 Hurry!!! This Myntra deal won't last long. This deal is valid till 19th August 2013 only. Cash on delivery is also available.
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Here comes the groom! Gabrielle Union doesn't have to lift a finger when it comes to picking out favors and flowers for her upcoming nuptials. The reason? Fiance Dwyane Wade has taken the reins when it comes to their wedding plans!
"No, no. I'm doing wine tastings," Union said during an appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show Tuesday. "He's — secretly this is his princess moment. He has waited for this for a long time. He's been hoarding bridal magazines. He's very ready."
Indeed, the Miami Heat basketball player has been taking control of every detail, which has even surprised his bride-to-be. "Every aspect — aspects I didn't even know went into wedding planning — he is on," Union, 40, said. "To have a centerpiece or not have a centerpiece? He has very strong opinions. No centerpieces. Who cares? He does!"
The Think Like a Man Too actress and Wade, 31, first began dating in 2009 and announced their engagement via Instagram last December. The pair's nine-year age gap hasn't been an issue for them — that is, until Union realized what kind of songs Wade was adding to their ceremony playlist.
"The biggest is for music," the actress told DeGeneres on what they disagree on most. "I want the OG's to play at our wedding. He wants Young Jeezy. I'm like, 'Ooh Patti LaBelle!' And he's like, 'Ariana Grande.' It's night and day."
"He's very particular about the music and the guest list," she added. "I think people are thinking it's a lot bigger than it is. They'll find out when…"
"They aren't invited?" DeGeneres jumped in. "Exactly," Union said, laughing.
Watch the video above!
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text:
Proud to be an alum of this shop. Congratulations!
"An advanced city is not a place where the poor move about in cars, rather it's where even the rich use public transportation."
Enrique Penalosa
It is really fantastic to see momentum continuing to build on Robinson Street with this type of "tactical urbanism": small scale, affordable and achievable interventions with potential for large impacts on the quality of life in the neighborhood.
I also want to thank Mark Hill, graduate of VCU's Masters of Urban and Regional Planning program, for his work towards improving the streetscape of Robinson Street. The Robinson Street Association, the organization currently doing great things on Robinson Street, was a direct outgrowth of Mark's public engagement in final project as the inaugural recipient of the Glave & Holmes Architecture Fellowship, a partnership between VCU MURP program and Glave & Holmes. It is gratifying to see his project evolve into a self-sustaining initiative. Bravo!
Although Ned Oliver's article raises one of the perennial and most persistent topics of urban life, the discussion of parking in the Fan fails to address a fundamental question: "Why is free, municipality-provided automobile parking treated as an unalienable right?" Parking spaces in the public right-of-way are owned by…the public. Why does the individual homeowner have a greater right to the parking space in front of their house than any other taxpayer?
The real answer to the parking issue in the Fan (and elsewhere) is to allow the market to establish the value of the parking in the public realm. Here's a thought experiment: If you are a homeowner in the Fan, how much is it worth to you to have a parking space available for your use directly in front of your house at all times? What sort of fee would you be willing to pay to the City to have that space reserved? Ok, now imagine that same space reserved for your use somewhere on the same block or within a certain block radius. Would you be willing to pay the same amount? Probably not.
My point is that the parking spaces on the street have a real value that can be established along a continuum and when placed in the context of other choices in terms of real cost, interesting things start to happen. What sort of choices do we make as individuals and communities in this context? At what point does the value/cost of parking start to tip the scales toward public transportation? How about short-term pay-for-parking zones near Fan businesses that encourage customer access? Free parking is not a right and, for that matter, is not really "free" – the costs are borne by all. Let's allow the value of parking to establish its use.
For more on this topic, I recommend Donald Shoup's book The High Cost of Free Parking – the seminal text on how parking policy affects our physical environment in profound ways.
Andrew Moore, AIA
President, Board of Directors
Partnership for Smarter Growth
In the historical sense, a village was distinguished by contrast with its surroundings. The village was a relatively compact cluster of dwellings enveloped by agricultural land supporting the village and the wilderness beyond. And, the village was created perpetuated for sociability and defense.
In a similar fashion, West Broad Village stands as a contrasting anomaly within its surroundings – a walkable development within a car dominated landscape of use-segregated development, usually termed "suburban sprawl." As author Ed Slipek notes, West Broad Village does some things well, but reflecting Trip Pollard, let's avoid "celebrating such projects too soon." West Broad Village's highest achievement may be simply its contrast with and defense against the surrounding sprawl.
Make no mistake – West Broad Village is no refuge for "residents eager to ditch their cars." Residents are entirely dependent on cars to access the Village and to reach anywhere else. Who in their right mind would attempt to cross the multiple lanes of West Broad Street on foot to reach the Best Buy on the other side? (As an aside, I am always amused by the token inclusion of wheel-chair ramps at the "crosswalks" in this area of West Broad. Who are we kidding?) At best, West Broad Village provides a token pedestrian experience that again, is only validated by the contrast with the surrounding development.
Where West Broad Village really struggles is its connectivity. Like the villages of antiquity, it is surrounded by a wilderness of car dependency and thus is forever limited to an introspective sense of community. The possibility of mixed-income residents (along with the vitality of diversity) is also limited since the price of entry (aside from rents and property values) is car ownership. I am well aware of the challenges faced by those advancing public transportation in the Richmond Region and the staunch opposition in Henrico, but to be truly vibrant as a walkable community, alternatives to car ownership must exist. The article is mute on whether West Broad Village was designed with any kind of transit-readiness in mind or not, but the exclusion of any kind of planning is a missed opportunity.
Speaking of connectivity, how about the street grid so celebrated in New Urbanist circles? The last time I checked, you could not enter West Broad Village from Three Chopt Road, meaning that access was limited to West Broad Street and John Rolfe Parkway (navigating though shopping center parking lots), both typical suburban collector roads. This kind of limited access is a huge contributor to the traffic snarls prevalent on West Broad, meaning that in its planned state, West Broad Village increases the traffic as much as any other car-centric development in the area. Contrary to the assertions of many, opening up connections helps reduce overall traffic, not increase it. (Granted, opening up connections requires systemic thinking about the road grid to avoid problem "cut-throughs", but simply perpetuating the status quo is not the answer.)
Again, the highest praise that can be given to West Broad Village is that it provides a welcome contrast with the surrounding Short Pump, car-dominated nightmare. And for the villagers living there, it provides a taste of urban living in the context of sociability and defense. Maybe, someday, they will experience the real thing.
Of the potential locations identified in the article, the Grace Street location has the potential to complement the proposed GRTC Bus Rapid Transit line on Broad Street. The locations on Cary are too far away from Broad to comfortably walk and involve a serious uphill climb from Cary. Although the "serious concerns" raised by CenterStage are not listed in the article, if history proves to be a guide, the "concerns" are likely the spurious objections to urban life that always seem to accompany this debate.
It's a shame that the Main Street Station location has been sidelined as a candidate - another victim of "serious concerns," I suppose.
For the record, the parking at Main Street Station is clearly marked "Public Parking," with no restrictions. Please park there when visiting 17th Street.
The point is that the market's struggles are more complex than any single cause and certainly not lack of parking, nor the design of the market structure (though I would love to have some more detail on the functional shortcomings). It is entirely possible that the market doesn't work at that location for entirely plausible reasons. Perhaps the space should be used for other uses.
[Full disclosure: Andrew Moore directs the Urban Architecture Studio at Glave & Holmes Architecture, the firm responsible for designing the 17th Street Market structure. Although the market was designed before Andrew joined the firm, he was responsible for including the images on the firm's website.]


text: On Mon, Oct 18, 2010 at 13:11, David MacQuigg <email@example.com> wrote: > I'm working on some Python examples to present to freshman students interested > science and engineering. One of the more powerful examples is image processing > using FFTs and spatial filters. The examples I have from a graduate class in > astronomy use lambda functions in a way which freshmen will find confusing. > > Here is part of the example code: > <pre> > from numpy import exp, indices # numpy package from scipy.org > img0 = imread('Lena.pgm') # a 200 by 200 greyscale image > shape = img0.shape # (200, 200) > > def gauss(i,j,sigma,shape): # a 2D gaussian function > x = -1.0 + 2.0*i/shape[0] > y = -1.0 + 2.0*j/shape[1] > ans = exp(-(x*x+y*y)/(2*sigma*sigma)) > return ans > > def gaussianfilter(sigma,shape): > iray, jray = indices(shape) # indices for a 200 x 200 array > filter = (lambda i,j: gauss(i,j,sigma,shape))(iray, jray) > return filter > > filter = gaussianfilter(0.1,shape) > > This use of lambda is confusing. The reason to use lambda syntax is that it > saves having to provide a name for a simple one-line function. Here, we are > giving the lambda a name "filter", so there is no savings, just convoluted code, > which is contrary to the spirit of Python. > > Let's try to "unconvolute" the gaussianfilter function. > > def gaussianfilter01(sigma, shape): > iray,jray = indices(shape) > def filter(i, j): > return gauss(i,j,sigma,shape)(iray, jray) > return filter > </pre> > This doesn't work!! The problem is that the original function returns a numpy > array, and here we get just an ordinary function. It seems that numpy is doing > something special with the lambda syntax. Not at all. The first version is calling the lambda inside the gaussianfilter() function for some weird reason. Check the parentheses. Your version defines the function (incorrectly, as it happens), but does not call it. The least-confusing version is this: def gaussianfilter(sigma, shape): iray,jray = indices(shape) filter = gauss(iray, jray, sigma, shape) return filter -- Robert Kern "I have come to believe that the whole world is an enigma, a harmless enigma that is made terrible by our own mad attempt to interpret it as though it had an underlying truth." -- Umberto Eco


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NORCROSS - Fresh off a big region win against Norcross, North Gwinnett offensive lineman Mitch Hyatt was candid in discussing his battle against Norcross defensive end Lorenzo Carter, his recent visit to UGA, and his future plans on the recruiting trail.
"I didn't know what to expect going in. He's changed a lot from last year to this year. This year, I've gotten a lot better, so I didn't know what to expect, and he really came out hard," Hyatt said of his match-up with Carter. "I knew it was going to be a long day."
The star junior matched up with Carter almost all night. Carter won the majority of the battles in the first half while Hyatt appeared to rebound with a strong second half.
The clash of the five-stars came less than a week after Hyatt's visit to Georgia, a visit where he saw the Bulldogs take down the South Carolina Gamecocks in a tightly contested ballgame.
"It was a good experience," Hyatt said of his time in Athens. "They had a great atmosphere. It was a great game. It was an awesome, awesome time to be there."
While top programs across the country are vying for his services, the 2015 blue chipper made it clear that nothing is set in stone going forward.
He did, however, mention the possibility of another trip to one school that is considered the front-runner for his services.
"I might be going back to Clemson. I might be hitting a few other spots; I'm not really too sure where. We'll have to see."


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by Christopher Freeburn | July 11, 2013 9:31 am
[1]With smartphones with ever more dazzling features coming onto the market almost every day, consumers often feel stifled by the long periods most wireless carriers make them wait until they can upgrade their phones.
The nation's fourth largest carrier has a plan to change that[2]. T-Mobile (TMUS[3]) is introducing a "Jump" plan that will allow subscribers to upgrade their devices twice a year, so long as they pay a $10 monthly fee. Under the new plan, remaining installment payments on customers' existing phones will be waived. Subscribers will also get insurance to replace missing or damaged phones, the Associated Press notes.
T-Mobile's new plan builds on its "uncarrier" plans, introduced earlier this year. Under those plans, subscribers are not subject to two-year contracts[4] and pay back the price of their smartphones with monthly installments.
The company ran into some trouble with the plans when the attorney general of Washington state claimed that advertising for the plans failed to make clear that subscribers who dropped their service plans would have to pay the remaining balance on their mobile devices. T-Mobile subsequently offered refunds[5].
Last month, the nation's second largest wireless carrier, AT&T (T[6]) said it was extending the time subscribers had to wait to upgrade their phones from 20 months to 24 months[7].
Shares of T-Mobile rose modestly in Thursday morning trading.
Source URL: https://investorplace.com/2013/07/jump-t-mobile-unveils-twice-yearly-upgrades/
Short URL: http://invstplc.com/1fp3LX8
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So remember when I worried about pulling into Detroit in my Korean import? Well, I should have worried about Lordstown, OH.
Actually, no one gave me a hard time. But this is definitely GM country. Ken Jakubec worked at the Lordstown plant for more than 36 years. He retired just too early to get one of those big buyout packages, but told me he has no regrets. Now he's happy coordinating this weekly classic car show at the Quaker Steak and Lube in Austintown.
Locals are all revved up about the new Chevrolet Cruze, coming in 2010.
As drivers shift to more fuel-efficient cars, the Lordstown plant has already added a third shift to pump out the Chevy Cobalt and Pontiac G5. And local realtors like Leon Turek hope the extra workers will help jump start the economy in nearby Youngstown, where the foreclosure rate is among the highest in the country.
So tomorrow, it's on to the original Motor City, Detroit.
But in just a few days now...meet me in St. Louis?


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text: L.S., Much has already been said about strictness, but what I haven't seen discussed sofar, and what am missing in the Haskell Report, is a description of the strictness of parameters of functions and operators. It is often important to know the strictness to prevent space leaks and even for the correctness of a program. A description of strictness in the Haskell' report would not only enable more reliable design of Haskell programs, but also prevent difference in strictness between the compilers/interpreters. -- Best regards, Henk-Jan van Tuyl -- http://members.chello.nl/hjgtuyl -- Using Opera's revolutionary e-mail client: https://secure.bmtmicro.com/opera/buy-opera.html?AID=789433


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WPC calls for stronger governance rules for large private firms after BHS
The Work and Pensions Committee (WPC) has urged the government to introduce new extra duties on big private companies and directors to prevent another BHS failure.
It wants private companies with large defined benefit (DB) pension schemes to be subject to corporate governance rules that currently only apply to public listed companies. Also, it said company directors...
Latest stories
Is investment consultancy too powerful and uncompetitive?
As the CMA gathers evidence for its investigation into investment consultants and fiduciary managers, Stephanie Baxter asks if there is a systemic problem in the industry
UUK proposes axing future accrual in USS
Universities UK (UUK) has proposed ending future accrual of defined benefit (DB) promises and transferring members to the existing defined contribution (DC) plan.
PPF to mirror scheme rules for bridging pensions, DWP plans
The bridging pension anomaly faced by the Pension Protection Fund (PPF) will be removed under plans unveiled by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
LCP expands investment team with partner hire
Zuhair Mohammed has been appointed as a partner at Lane Clark & Peacock (LCP) to expand its investment team.


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The Monster Pro Power FlexLamp is a Gooseneck LED lamp that connects to all Monster Power® units with an XLR connector for brighter, long-lasting workspace illumination.
Use it in the studio or on the stage. Also great for custom installations.
Its flexible gooseneck lets you adjust it to fit any situation or space, whether it's a studio rack or part of a custom installation. Detach it and take it with you, or keep in your workspace for a light source that lasts longer and shines brighter than ordinary incandescent bulbs. So whether you're on tour, in the studio or need to light up a custom install rack or workspace, choose the flexibility, convenience and long-lasting power of Monster Power FlexLamp.
Monster Pro Power FlexLamp Features
* Compatible with any Monster Pro or CI Power unit with XLR output. If you own a different brand of electronic component, check your manuals for compatibility with this product.
** Independent testing shows that LEDs typically have a higher lumen/watt rating than ordinary incandescent lamps (affecting brightness). The lifespan for LED is generally up to 100,000 hours; incandescent lamps are generally in a range of 1,000-10,000 hrs.
What started as a simple string and pedal sales catalog has grown exponentially over the past thirty years. The early days were a time where catalogs didn't have much of a presence in the industry, but what began as a college dorm room operation grew rapidly. In 1986 we moved to a full product offering and 64-page catalog, which over the years has grown to 162 pages. Join the AMS family and get your free catalog now!
Copyright © 1996-2017 American Musical Supply, Inc. All rights reserved. American Musical Supply reserves the right to correct pricing and/or product specifications in the event of typographical errors found in our print catalog or on our website. If a product is listed at an incorrect price due to such errors or because of inaccurate information received from a supplier, American Musical Supply shall have the right to refuse or cancel any orders placed, whether or not the order has been confirmed and your credit card charged. If your credit card has already been charged for the purchase and your order is canceled, American Musical Supply will issue a credit to your credit card account in the amount of the charge.


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Who will speak for Death?
Keith Schmitz of Grassroots Northshore is organizing a debate on the death penalty on October 11th. The death penalty is actually on the ballot this November.
So far E. Michael McCann and Sachin Chheda are speaking against the death penalty, Marquette Professor John McAdams is speaking for it. They're looking for one more defender of Old Sparky out there to complete the debate, but so far they have not had any luck with the legislative sponsors.
So if you're a prosecutor or an elected official or just plain familiar with all the reasons to kill someone, give Keith a call.


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Editor: It is so heartening to read editorials in The St. Augustine Record from people who still believe in their Constitutional right to express themselves. Thank you, Edward Hencinski, for your thoughtful and factual letter of Feb. 10, and the dignity with which it was written.
In this less than ideal world, those in the Bush administration who laud the cause of "freedom," might try to understand that with freedom comes the responsibility to be truthful, fair and respectful of alliances which took decades to form. 1. Our pre-emptive attack on another sovereign state violated the spirit of cooperation with which the United Nations was formed after two devastating World Wars. 2. The misnamed Patriot Act is an affront to the core values Americans hold dear. Government for and by the people now means "with our permission."
Does our current administration think the American people are too free? Is speaking in opposition to their ideas too much freedom?
The coupling of faith and patriotism with their agenda has divided our country. There is no way to argue with faith, an individual belief that belies reason. It is our duty as citizens to bestow our trust upon government officials who act on our behalf and as our voice. If I am living in this country, but not a Christian, how confident should I be that the voice of our president speaks for me? History and reason guided our founding fathers to design this democracy with separation of church and state. While the administration is encouraging that separation in a deeply traditional and religious Iraq, it uses "faith" as a theme when convenient with their ongoing war on a women's right to choose, and efforts to fund faith-based initiatives with tax dollars. It is not enough that our current laws give 501c(3) status (tax exempt) to churches and charities. Which faiths should benefit from this generosity? All faiths, or just some?
George W. Bush and his administration have failed this country. With the power of the Oval Office comes the responsibility to be honest with congress, the American people, and the world politic to hold yourself and your administration to high moral standards and ethical behavior. The game that is played regarding spending of tax dollars, giving one set of numbers to Congress and finding a different number after approval, both on the cost of war and cost for the Medicare prescription drug plan. How do we deal with these deceptions? Who are these people?
We have growing numbers of poor, homeless and unemployed, at the same time we enable multinational corporations to export jobs in this country and to continue their exploitation of poor nations where living wages, health care, and unions are nonexistent.
Thank you St. Augustine Record for the opportunity to speak our minds as citizens and we should cherish that right. It may soon be gone with Patriot Act II, III and IV.
© 2017. All Rights Reserved. Contact Us


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what do you think of a seating or sharing charge in a restaurant?
many places charge if one member of a party doesn't want to order anything but still sits at the table and has water (with ice lemon and sweet n low), eats bread and butter, unrolls a roll up and sticks his fork into his friends' dinners or puts some on a sideplate.
Is it reasonable for a restaurant to charge for this?
I think yes it is. Especially if the seating charge includes a soup or salad.


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Neighbors: News, notes from North Beaches
Jim worked at the North Beach Camp Resort precinct and Elaine worked at the Church of Christ precinct during the general election Tuesday. It is always good to see neighbors and friends we haven't seen for a while.
Neighbors: West Augustine notes
Warm welcome to baby Dillon Joshua, son of Melody and Bryan Ott! This first child weighed in at 7 pounds and 5 ounces, at 6:08 p.m., Nov. 2.
Benefit concert for The Regalos Festival
The Biscuit Boys will appear in concert tonight in a special arts fund-raiser at The Casa Monica Hotel.
Local has a vision for photography, painting
The "Spirited Visions" of artist/photographer Carl Miller will be on display throughout November.
The works of Heade
Significant works of 19th-century artist Martin Johnson Heade go on display at 3 p.m. Sunday at the St. Augustine Historical Society's Page Edwards Jr. Gallery, 271 Charlotte St.
Life in a Nutshell: The making of a newfangled superhero
From the farthest reaches of the hardware store comes a new superhero so cheap to make, you could practically buy him with food stamps.
Column of the Day: Study: Local television news wasn't changed
NEW YORK (AP) -- The content of local television news changed little after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks even as the story touched the lives of most viewers, a study released Thursday found.
Book Review: Stories feature strong voice that grows over time
Ellen Gilchrist begins her new collection of short stories with a precocious little girl from Mississippi, and then grows from there -- both figuratively and literally.
A look at what's going on at the art galleries in St. Augustine
Avenue Books and Gallery: Kathleen Mulholland is teaching watercolor classes with an emphasis on technique, composition and color theory. Call 829-9744.
Book Review: The peaks and valleys of Napa run wild with history
"The Far Side of Eden: New Money, Old Land, and the Battle for Napa Valley" (Houghton Mifflin, 365 pages, $28) by James Conaway.
Movie Review: Eminem wins by a mile with his crossover performance
Stardom is the closest thing to sainthood in this secular society. And it's fascinating to watch Eminem finesse his own in "8 Mile." He doesn't do a thing wrong, and he does a lot of things right.
Movie Review: 'Femme Fatale' takes audiences on a thrill-filled movie experience
There are several moments in "Femme Fatale," the playful, voluptuous thriller by Brian De Palma, when you might feel the urge to laugh out loud, or hoot derisively, or even throw something at the screen.
People: Questions arise about celebrity engagement
NEW YORK (AP) -- Are they or aren't they? Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck won't say, but it sure looks like they're engaged.
Controversial speaker to appear at Flagler
Controversial, witty, no-holds-barred political analyst and attorney Ann Coulter -- dubbed "the Abbie Hoffman of the Right" for her commentaries on the Washington scene -- will speak at Flagler College Nov. 12 at 7 p.m. as part of the Forum on Government and Public Policy.
Show us the Money
Money isn't king for everybody, and he's okay with that. "I sold an awful lot of records in the '70s and '80s," rocker Eddie Money told The Record on Tuesday. "But now, I'm not going to have a nervous breakdown like Mariah Carey if my record doesn't go into the top ten."
String ensembles come to St. Augustine
The Budapest Strings, "one of Europe's foremost ensembles in the international world of music," The London Times, will appear on the stage of the Flagler College Auditorium on Nov. 15 at 8 p.m..
School district grad rates better than state's
Dropout rates have decreased and graduation rates have increased for the St. Johns County School District, leaving schools here well ahead of the state average, according to recently released 2001-2002 results from the Florida Department of Education.
Drive to motivate
Each weekday, the majority of students at Bartram Trail High School are bound to wander near Wayne Jenkins' office. Some step through his door to chat. Others come seeking solace from the stress of taking college-level courses.
Junior Service League promises dining in high style
An elegant evening of dining and dancing is promised Saturday, when the Junior Service League hosts its annual progressive dinner.
Final Bear cooking class set
Chef Julie Shepler demonstrates how easy it is to throw an elegant, yet simple, Manhattan-style cocktail party in the final "Celebrate the Flavors of America" cooking class of 2002 on Saturday at 1 p.m. Proceeds from the classes benefit The Bear Foundation, a North Florida non-profit program working for the welfare and protection of abandoned, feral and homeless cats and kittens.
Savory Sage: Fresh fruit is best bought in season
There is nothing like the taste of fresh fruit. The best time to purchase fresh fruit is when they are in season. Not only are they more tasty, but plentiful and cheaper too. Here's a handy list of when fresh fruits are available at the market:
Great way to spend a Sunday
Keats Parker and two friends came to the 18th annual Great Chowder Debate Sunday because "my parents told me this is a good place to come and eat."
Study suggests garlic, shallots, onions may fight prostate cancer
WASHINGTON -- Men in China have the lowest rate of prostate cancer in the world, and a diet rich in garlic, shallots and onions may be one of the reasons.
Once more on the Texas Caviar recipe, please
Dear Heloise: I clipped the column containing the recipe for Texas Caviar and made it for last Christmas Eve. My entire family enjoyed it with our tamales.
Recipe Finder: Grape-Nuts pudding
The Grape-Nuts Pudding recipe that Helen R. Maxwell of College Place, Wash., requested drew more than 60 responses. Most were very similar.
Does West Nile require mosquitoes?
Ever since the West Nile virus first reached the United States in 1999, health authorities have assured an anxious public that they could not get sick from contact with dead or dying birds -- only from the bite of mosquitoes that carry the virus from birds to people.
'Bipolar Child' book updated
Dr. Demitri Papolos and his wife, Janice, have updated their landmark book "The Bipolar Child" (Broadway Books, $26), which a few years ago set the stage for a shift in how manic-depression in children is diagnosed and treated.
FDA approves easy-to-use 20-minute HIV test
WASHINGTON -- People will soon be able to learn before leaving the doctor's office if they're infected with the AIDS virus.
Study: Small amounts of alcohol can affect brain processes
WASHINGTON -- Even a single drink of alcohol is enough to impair someone's ability to reason quickly and detect errors, according to a study that electronically monitored brain waves in volunteers given drinks.
Investigators look for source of plague bacteria
NEW YORK (AP) -- Disease investigators tried Thursday to track down the source of bubonic plague bacteria that apparently caused a New Mexico couple to become sick while visiting New York City.
Study: Drug does not cut death rates
CHICAGO (AP) -- A promising anti-clotting drug does not improve hospitalized heart attack patients' chances of surviving a year when it is added to the standard treatment, a study found.
Dr. Donohue: A split aorta is a major emergency
DEAR DR. DONOHUE: I read what you wrote about aortic aneurysms, but I don't recall you ever mentioning a dissecting aorta.
Health Briefs
Support group to meet
Bush urged to replace Pitt with someone trusted
WASHINGTON -- The Senate's top Republican urged President Bush on Wednesday to appoint someone who has "the confidence of the American people, the markets" to succeed Harvey Pitt, the embattled SEC chairman who resigned on Election Day.
Investigators blame stress, culture of military life for Fort Bragg killings
FORT BRAGG, N.C. -- Five killings this summer involving couples at Fort Bragg were probably due to existing marital problems and the stress of separation while soldiers are away on duty, Army investigators said Thursday.
Pakistani facing execution next week in CIA attack says he discourages retribution
RICHMOND, Va. (AP) -- A day after the government warned that the execution of a Pakistani could result in attacks against Americans, the condemned man said he does not support any retaliation by his fellow Muslims.
U.S. shrimp fishermen, hurt by imports, putting boats up for sale
DULAC, La. -- A weather-beaten, sea-gnarled Clarence "Weasel" Fitch -- shrimper by trade -- pops quarters into a video poker machine in Wayne's Cafe to get through a good working day. Right now, poker is less risky than shrimping, he says.
In state after state, cautious voters strike down ambitious ballot measures
In state after state, voters shot down ambitious proposals that grass-roots activists and reform movements had labored to place on the ballot. The voters' mood, one expert said Wednesday, favored caution and the status quo.
Two decades old, Vietnam memorial draws thousands to hear names on its wall
WASHINGTON -- The Vietnam Veterans Memorial has helped heal a wartorn nation and inspired tributes to other victims of tragedy.
Congressional control gives deficit, other budget problems to GOP
WASHINGTON -- Triumphant Republicans will control Congress' budget and economic agenda next year, but something else comes with it: Stewardship of reborn federal deficits and the ailing economy, plus the lion's share of the blame if anything goes wrong.
Victory bittersweet for Minnesota's senator-elect
ST. PAUL, Minn. -- Former Vice President Walter F. Mondale came out of retirement for just one week before quietly and humbly returning Wednesday, ushered back by a respectful and even somber Senator-elect Norm Coleman, a 53-year-old Republican who has been down many times in his political life only to rise again.
For the holidays, targeted e-mail are all the rage
NEW YORK -- This holiday, the war among retailers to win consumers' attention isn't just being played out on selling floors and Web sites. It's heating up in shoppers' e-mail inboxes.
Cholesterol-busters show promise in treating MS
California scientists say a statin drug already used by millions of heart patients to lower harmful cholesterol levels has improved and even reversed some of the debilitating symptoms of multiple sclerosis in mice.
Consumers give retailers much-needed October boost
NEW YORK (AP) -- The arrival of cold weather sent consumers on a buying spree in October, giving retailers some hope that the holiday season might be better than expected.
Sniper suspects charged in Va. shooting of FBI analyst
FAIRFAX, Va. -- Sniper suspect John Allen Muhammad and 17-year-old John Lee Malvo were charged Wednesday in the Oct. 14 slaying of an FBI analyst in Fairfax County, police said.
Midterm sweeps: GOP retakes Senate, widens House lead
WASHINGTON -- President Bush and his party savored sweeping midterm election victories Wednesday and began sketching an agenda for a new, Republican-controlled Congress. Minority House Democrats jockeyed for position in the event Rep. Richard Gephardt steps down as party leader.
Federal Reserve to lower rates by half-point
WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Federal Reserve, worried about the sputtering economy, cut a key interest rate by a half-point on Wednesday, marking its first rate reduction this year.
President Bush says Cheney would be 2004 running mate
WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush and Vice President Cheney agree: If the president runs for re-election, he should keep Cheney on the ticket.
Pentagon set to inoculate U.S. troops against smallpox
WASHINGTON -- The Pentagon has completed its plan for vaccinating U.S. troops against smallpox, and is awaiting White House approval before giving the first shots, a senior defense official said Wednesday.
Duke to remove gargoyles modeled after donors
DURHAM, N.C. (AP) -- The gargoyles perched atop the doors to Duke University's new Gothic dormitory were meant to surprise and honor two wealthy donors.
Actress Ryder found guilty in shoplifting case
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. -- Actress Winona Ryder was convicted Wednesday of stealing $5,500 worth of high-fashion merchandise from Saks Fifth Avenue last year.
Child killed, mother wounded in shooting outside school
LIBERTY, Mo. (AP) -- A man waiting in a parking lot outside his son's school shot the fourth-grader to death and wounded the boy's mother Thursday after a domestic dispute, police said.
Bush charts course for GOP rule
WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush, charting an agenda for the new Republican Congress, said Thursday that homeland security comes first and an economic-recovery plan with new tax cuts will wait until next year.
Mental illness is latest death penalty issue at Supreme Court
WASHINGTON -- In blocking the execution of a Texas killer, the Supreme Court revealed interest in a new area of capital punishment: the mentally ill.
Reeling Democrats divided over new House leader after Gephardt steps down
WASHINGTON -- Two House veterans, Reps. Nancy Pelosi and Martin Frost, jumped into a race for Democratic leader on Thursday, and the jabbing began at once over the future of a party reeling from midterm election losses.
Nebraska company recalls meat that may contain E. coli
WASHINGTON (AP) -- A Nebraska meat company is recalling 110,000 pounds of ground beef distributed nationwide that may be contaminated with E. coli, the Agriculture Department said Thursday.
Police connect sniper suspects to slaying in Atlanta
ATLANTA -- Ballistics tests on a handgun connect the two Washington-area sniper suspects to yet another slaying -- that of a man shot outside an Atlanta liquor store in September, police said Thursday.
U.S. enters agreement with Italy to inspect cargo
WASHINGTON (AP) -- U.S. inspectors, trying to prevent smuggling of nuclear and other deadly weapons, will screen cargo containers destined for the United States before they leave two ports in Italy, the U.S. Customs Service said Thursday.
Nease volleyball team to face top-ranked Bishop Moore in regional semi
There's no sidestepping or dancing on the fence about it -- Nease's volleyball team is young. The Panthers will be asked to grow up quickly Saturday.
Federal Reserve by half-point
WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Federal Reserve, worried about the sputtering economy, cut a key interest rate by a half-point on Wednesday, marking its first rate reduction this year.
Pentagon set to inoculate U.S. troops against smallpox
WASHINGTON -- The Pentagon has completed its plan for vaccinating U.S. troops against smallpox, and is awaiting White House approval before giving the first shots, a senior defense official said Wednesday.
Today in History
Today is Friday, Nov. 8, the 312th day of 2002. There are 53 days left in the year.
Post-election: City plans its future
St. Augustine residents are probably wondering, "What happens now?"
For The Record
The Anastasia Mosquito Control District of St. Johns County monthly meeting will be held on Thursday, Nov. 14, at 4 p.m. in the District Office, 500 Old Beach Road.
Will your car pass window tint test?
A free window tint check will be offered from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday by the St. Augustine Police Department.
School district grad rates better than state's
Dropout rates have decreased and graduation rates have increased for the St. Johns County School District, leaving schools here well ahead of the state average, according to recently released 2001-2002 results from the Florida Department of Education.
Sniper suspects charged in Va. shooting of FBI analyst
FAIRFAX, Va. -- Sniper suspect John Allen Muhammad and 17-year-old John Lee Malvo were charged Wednesday in the Oct. 14 slaying of an FBI analyst in Fairfax County, police said.
It's looking a lot like that time of year: tax bills!
Tax collector Dennis W. Hollingsworth announces he has completed the mailing of 91,370 tax bills to St. Johns County property owners. This mailing includes bills for real estate, tangible personal property and non ad-valorem assessments.
School Board winners face learning curve
In 12 days, three new faces will take their places on the St. Johns County School Board, leaving two veterans to teach the newcomers about the intricacies of being board members.
Neighbors: News, notes from North Beaches
Jim worked at the North Beach Camp Resort precinct and Elaine worked at the Church of Christ precinct during the general election Tuesday. It is always good to see neighbors and friends we haven't seen for a while.
SAHS to get Footloose
A cast of 50 performers will be featured today through Saturday in the St. Augustine High School production of "Footloose."
3 Bartram students arrested
For the second time in just over a year, students from Bartram Trail High School have been arrested in connection with making a bomb threat.
Teen severely injured in moped crash on U.S. 1
A 16-year-old St. Augustine boy was seriously injured Thursday afternoon after his moped was hit by a car on U.S. 1.
Actress Ryder found guilty in shoplifting case
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. -- Actress Winona Ryder was convicted Wednesday of stealing $5,500 worth of high-fashion merchandise from Saks Fifth Avenue last year.
Drive to motivate
Each weekday, the majority of students at Bartram Trail High School are bound to wander near Wayne Jenkins' office. Some step through his door to chat. Others come seeking solace from the stress of taking college-level courses.
Police Report: Semi clips pedestrian; man sent to hospital with minor injuries
The following was compiled from police reports collected from the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office (SJCSO), St. Augustine Police Department (SAPD) and St. Augustine Beach Police Department (SABPD).
Tidal wave of change on Beach Commission
The political upheaval in St. Augustine Beach in Tuesday's general election forecasts a changing environment in the growing coastal town.
Police Report: Jail Log
The following was compiled from police reports collected from the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office (SJCSO), St. Augustine Police Department (SAPD) and St. Augustine Beach Police Department (SABPD).
Eugene A. Carroll
Eugene A. Carroll, 88, of St. Augustine, died Nov. 6, 2002, at Mariner Health Care. He was a native of Princeton, N.J. and a resident of St. Augustine for the past 25 years. He retired from the U.S. Air Force as a Chief Warrant Officer 4 after 30 years of service, He served at several embassies in South America and in England. Mr. Carroll was a member of the Knights of Columbus, the Elks, DAV, VFW, American Legion, and Corpus Christi Catholic Church where he was an active volunteer.
Gordon Manson Shoolman
Gordon Manson Shoolman, 78, of St. Augustine, died Nov. 6, 2002, at his home. He was a native of Rochester, N.Y. and had resided in St. Augustine for the past 9 years. He was a retired LtCmdr U.S. Navy and a retired high school guidance counselor. He was a member of the Retired Officers Association and the St. Augustine Officers Club. He was of the Unitarian faith.
Rubye L.Crawford Blalock
Rubye L.Crawford Blalock Rubye Lorene Crawford Blalock, 77 of St. Augustine, went to be with the Lord on Nov. 5, 2002, around 10:15 a.m. at St. Vincent's Medical Center. She was born August 29, 1925 in Clarendon, Texas, in Donley County, daughter of the late George Henry Crawford and Willie Myrtle Miles Crawford. She was married to the late Earl F. Blalock. Rubye was a dedicated Christian to her church as well as her community. She was a member of McDowell Baptist Church, and an active member of the church choir. She was also a member of the Women of the Moose Club, where she held many honors. She was a retired inspector, having worked for Lui-M and also for Levi Strauss. Rubye was very talented in arts and crafts. She won many awards for her coocheting abilities.
Betty Jo Schenck
Betty Jo Schenck, 57, of St. Augustine, died Nov. 6, 2002, at Flagler Hospital. She was born in Norfolk, Va., and had resided in St. Augustine since 2000, moving here from Gainesville.
Robert Patterson
Robert Patterson, 62, of St. Augustine, died Nov. 6, 2002, at his home. He was a native of Bristol, Va., and had resided here for the past 21 years. He was a Welder by trade.
David Kearse
David Kearse, 46, of Jacksonville, Fla., died, Nov. 3, 2002 in Jacksonville.
Roger A. Blatter
Roger A. Blatter, 75, of Covington, Ga., died Nov. 5, 2002 at Rockdale Hospital. He was born on June 9, 1927 in New York City, N.Y., to the late Rudolf and Jane Orcutt Blatter.
Hazel Lillian Murray
Hazel Lillian Murray, 83, of St. Augustine, died Nov. 6, 2002, at Mariner Health Care Center. She was a native of West KIeansburg, N.J., and had resided in St. Augustine for the past 12 years. She was a homemaker and a member for 55 years of the Lady Auxiliary in New Jersey and the New Jersey State Auxiliary. she was of the Catholic faith.
Editorial: Around Florida
It's a triangle of back-scratching geometry only the First Family could pull off: President Bush signs into law a federal requirement that forces states to rely on standardized testing to measure school achievement. Gov. Jeb Bush makes standardized testing a centerpiece of Florida's A-Plus plan, a scheme that turns students into cash cows for their schools if they perform well on the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test. And Youngest Brother Neil Bush peddles computer software designed to help students study for the FCAT, at $30 per student.
Letter: St. Augustine Protect what is truly historic
Editor: As elected officials and citizens look at how best to handle the delicate subject of preservation, restoration and private ownership, I think the lessons learned in the 1960s and 1970s through today should be seriously considered.
Letter: Well done
Editor: I believe that you and the staff of the Record should be commended for the outstanding job that you have done educating the public on the stance of the candidates and issues of both the primary and general elections.
Editorial: Around the nation
The question of where to try the two people charged in last month's sniper attacks has produced some interesting legal maneuvering among various jurisdictions.
Letter: Did you know Tommy Grossmann?
Editor: I cannot sleep. The memory of gathered friends and family mourning for the loss of a great friend, a brother, and a father keeps me awake.
Letter: There are good people
Editor: On Oct. 25, a Friday afternoon, when I turned off West King Street on Four Mile Road, I heard a noise my tire hit something and went flat. A 6-inch drill bit was in my tire. It was ruined. I had to buy a new tire.
Perspective: Midterm election gives boost to Bush
WASHINGTON -- Call it affirmation or reaffirmation, the midterm election has given a powerful boost to President Bush, the conservative agenda and the long-term prospects of the Republican Party.
Letter: Lies, lies and more lies?
Editor: In 1964 President Lyndon Johnson ordered U.S. bombers to "retaliate" for an alleged North Vietnamese torpedo attack that he knew never occurred.
Perspective: Raising children in dangerous times
Those of us around Washington, especially parents, now breathe easier. Despite other shoes still waiting to drop in our mental closets -- renewed terrorism, war, economic uncertainties --we are tempted to try to return to "life as normal." But before we -- and the rest of the country -- put the terrifying sniper episode behind us and try to block out the last few weeks, a few lessons should be learned, by parents everywhere and by the nation as a whole.
National Brief: Emerges from bankruptcy
NEW YORK -- Beliefnet.com, an interfaith Internet site, said it has emerged from the Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection it sought last April, and that October was its first month with a net gain in operating cash flow.
Building an orphanage in Haiti
It all began in 1994, and thanks to the efforts of Shay and Peter Fontana, The Hope for Haiti continues and the aid and support to the people there is growing.
Muslims cautious about charity work as Ramadan begins
FORT WORTH, Texas -- When the month-long Ramadan celebration takes place this year, Saleem Akhtar will be fasting, praying and setting aside some of his savings to help the needy.
National Brief: Hold-out bishop
TORONTO -- All but one of the Anglican Church of Canada's 30 bishops have apparently agreed to prevent blessings of same-sex unions until a national synod in 2004.
National Brief: Guilty of defrauding
MIAMI -- A Florida businessman was convicted of bilking mostly elderly members of his Jehovah's Witness congregation.
Several Veterans Day salutes planned throughout the county Monday
Special Veterans Day programs are planned in this area to salute the men and women who fought in all wars. At Ponte Vedra Valley Cemetery, the service beings at 10:30 a.m. Featured speaker will be Brig. Gen. Jack Quinn, U.S. Army, retired.
VeggieTales may have a moral message
The children's movie "Jonah -- The VeggieTales Movie" is ostensibly a retelling of the Old Testament story about a reluctant prophet, with a moral message of mercy, compassion and forgiveness.
National Brief: Farrakhan in Mississippi
TCHULA, Miss. -- Nation of Islam Leader Louis Farrakhan told about 1,000 people at a Sunday church dedication that American blacks should unite, regardless of religion.
Operation Rescue founder to be St. Andrew's Church guest
Randall Terry, founder of Operation Rescue, will be speaker Sunday at 10 a.m. at St. Andrew's Church, 2615 U.S. 1 South (6/10's of a mile south of Wal-Mart and next to the Kia Dealership).
Holiday Corner
The holidays are coming, and it's time for boutiques, fairs, festivals and lots more.
National Brief: Policy defended
NEW YORK (AP) -- A lawyer for New York City warned a federal appeals court Monday that churches would move permanently into public schools if a Bronx church wins its eight-year fight to rent a middle school near Yankee Stadium for services.
National Brief: $26.5 million expansion
LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- With membership and attendance booming since a move to new quarters four years ago, Kentucky's largest church is planning a $26.5 million project to add buildings.
Vatican offers virtual visits to timeless treasures
After centuries of limited access, the Vatican Apostolic Library is now offering the public "virtual visits" via the Internet to parts of its vast repository of some of the world's rarest books, documents, prints, engravings, maps and coins.
Local Religion Notes
Pilgrim Community Church United Church of Christ will be celebrating Crop Walk Sunday. Along with other churches in St. Johns County, Pilgrim Community Church will be sending walkers to the Crop Walk later in the afternoon.
Show will be on the sideline
JACKSONVILLE -- Steve Spurrier and Tom Coughlin want so badly for the next game to be about their players and their teams.
Baker leaving as Giants manager
SAN FRANCISCO -- Not even a World Series trip was enough to patch up the problems between San Francisco manager Dusty Baker and Giants owner Peter Magowan.
Spurned by Spurrier, Lockett gets new chance with Jags
JACKSONVILLE-- Four weeks ago, Kevin Lockett was a starting wide receiver for the Washington Redskins.
Royals coach accepts apology of teen who attacked him
CHICAGO (AP) -- Kansas City Royals coach Tom Gamboa said he accepts the apology of a 15-year-old fan who attacked him on the field during a game and hopes the boy learns from his "tragic mistake."
Fun in the Florida sun
For the Flagler College men's basketball team, it all comes down to defense.
Heinz, Augustin to get starts at Georgia Tech
TALLAHASSEE (AP) -- Florida State guard Matt Heinz will replace injured three-year starter Montrae Holland in the lineup Saturday at Georgia Tech.
Indians slugger Thome meets with Phillies
PHILADELPHIA -- Jim Thome walked into Philadelphia's clubhouse and saw a Phillies jersey with his name and No. 25 hanging in one of the lockers.
Martinez will return to Mariners
SEATTLE (AP) -- Edgar Martinez will end his career with the Seattle Mariners, and both sides couldn't be happier.
Thomas tries to keep cool as Dolphins slump
DAVIE -- The annual swoon came early this year for the Miami Dolphins, testing their resiliency and Zach Thomas' patience.
Tampa bids for men's, women's Final Fours
TAMPA (AP) -- The University of South Florida is trying to bring another NCAA Final Four basketball tournament to the Tampa Bay area.
Basketball: Philadelphia nicks Clippers in OT; Wizards beat Cavs
NEW YORK -- Lee Nailon scored 10 of his 20 points in the fourth quarter Wednesday night as the New York Knicks beat Sacramento 95-88, handing the Kings their first three-game losing streak in two seasons.
Another Don King heavyweight extravaganza
NEW YORK (AP) -- For his next extravaganza, Don King is offering four fighters for a series that might lead the survivor to the man he calls the emperor of boxing -- WBC heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis.
'Noles on the road against upstart Georgia Tech
TALLAHASSEE -- Florida State's game at Georgia Tech on Saturday marks the 10th anniversary of what many Seminole followers consider the school's greatest comeback.
Pierce leads Celtics past cold-shooting Kobe and Lakers
BOSTON -- Paul Pierce scored 28 points, including a 3-pointer with 1:54 left in overtime that gave the Celtics the lead for good, and Boston beat the depleted Los Angeles Lakers 98-95 Thursday night.
Dokic, Maleeva advance in WTA Championships
LOS ANGELES (AP) -- Eighth-seeded Jelena Dokic defeated Anastasia Myskina of Russia 6-3, 6-4 in just over an hour in front of a few hundred people at the WTA Championships on Thursday.
Knicks' wreckage gives Nailon chance to shine
NEW YORK -- The tattoo on his belly reads "Still I Rise." The one on his left arm declares "Me Against The World."
Zito edges Martinez for AL Cy Young Award
NEW YORK -- Now Barry Zito can stare at a Cy Young Award every day.
Devils win 1-0, stop Flyers' six-game winning streak
PHILADELPHIA -- Jamie Langenbrunner scored with 7:43 left and the New Jersey Devils snapped the Philadelphia Flyers' six-game winning streak with a 1-0 victory on Thursday night in the first meeting of the season between the Atlantic Division rivals.
Big in Japan: 'Godzilla' plans to take his show on the road
TOKYO -- Godzilla. The nickname is perfect for Hideki Matsui. The Japanese slugger has enormous arms and a monstrous swing that will make him a coveted free agent when he begins shopping his services to major league teams this offseason.
Menendez seeking fourth victory of year
As the football season comes to an end, Menendez may not have met its goal of making the playoffs. However, the Falcons can do something they weren't able to do last year: win four games.
Quite a catch for Nease
One of the main goals for the Nease football team this year is to make sure its new passing offense would catch on.
More people watching NFL games this season
NEW YORK -- The highest scoring in 35 years. More overtime games. A new team in a big market. Whatever the reason, the NFL is a TV hit halfway through the season.
Hockey: Panthers nip Penguins
SUNRISE -- Valeri Bure scored at 2:19 of overtime as the Florida Panthers overcame a late goal by Mario Lemieux to beat the Pittsburgh Penguins 4-3 on Wednesday night.
Cubs expected to make a bid to lure Dusty Baker
CHICAGO -- If Dusty Baker needs an enormous challenge after his successful 10-year run in San Francisco, the Chicago Cubs can certainly provide it.
Fishing Column: Trout catches, and pogies in November
The rains were briefly intense Tuesday morning. By afternoon the outgoing tide reflected the angry runoff as the Intracoastal Waterway looked like liquid chocolate. Until this point the ICW had been pretty clear.
Column: They weren't arguing about Plato ...
At least they avoided the "philosophical differences" excuse. Credit Dusty Baker and San Francisco Giants owner Peter Magowan with having that much sense -- but not much more.
UF's new motto: WTG
GAINESVILLE -- Florida has rarely been known as a team that needs to watch the scoreboard, and coach Ron Zook wants to keep it that way.
Final four college football unbeatens take to the road
College football's final four unbeatens hit the road Saturday, and don't be surprised if there's another wave of upsets.
Scioscia, La Russa get managerial honors
NEW YORK -- Mike Scioscia was surrounded by screaming youngsters once again Wednesday. Only this time, they weren't his Anaheim Angels, they were fifth-graders on a field trip to a botanical garden.
Lucas likely to start against Jets
DAVIE -- Miami Dolphins quarterback Ray Lucas, nursing a bruised throwing shoulder, took half the snap in practice Thursday and will likely start Sunday against the New York Jets, coach Dave Wannstedt said.
Pappas sets the offense in motion
Joanna Pappas has undergone a pretty impressive transformation in a year.
Bartram gets tune-up before playoff game
Bartram is in. However, there is still work ahead for the Bears. The football team has clinched a wild card berth in the Class 3A playoffs starting Nov. 15, but still has a date with Englewood tonight at 7:30.
Michigan bans itself from postseason for one year
ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- Michigan punished its men's basketball program Thursday, imposing a postseason ban for 2003 and forfeiting all victories from six seasons because of a scandal involving a former booster.
Column: Hard to get relief from Hill's ankle
A murmur raced through TD Waterhouse Centre. Dan Rather stopped reciting election results to report the story to an anxious nation. Helen DeVos reached for the smelling salts to revive her husband.
UF gets $3 million gift for biodiversity institute
GAINESVILLE (AP) -- The University of Florida has received a $3 million gift to create an institute to study the diversity of animals and plants plus the environment.
Miami prosecutor will offer deal to Rilya's caseworker
MIAMI (AP) -- A prosecutor told a judge Thursday that a deal will be offered to a social worker assigned to monitor Rilya Wilson on misconduct charges unrelated to her work on the missing foster child's case.
Mediation begins in Panhandle youths' murder case
PENSACOLA (AP) -- Closed-door mediation began Thursday in an effort to settle the case of two teenage brothers whose convictions for killing their father were thrown out last month.
Government seeks immunity from manatee death suits
WASHINGTON -- The Bush administration wants to immunize the government from lawsuits for the next five years when endangered Florida manatees are unintentionally injured or killed from collisions with government watercraft, docks, boat ramps and marinas.
House race in recount, Broward had glitch
TALLAHASSEE (AP) -- A north Florida House race went to an automatic machine recount Thursday, with Democratic Rep. Perry McGriff trailing Republican challenger Larry Cretul by 33 votes.
Big Tobacco appeals record $145 billion smokers award
MIAMI -- A record $145 billion verdict awarded sick Florida smokers should be thrown out because it would bankrupt the nation's biggest cigarette makers, tobacco industry attorneys told an appellate court Wednesday.
Re-elected Bush confronts class sizes
MIAMI -- Florida Gov. Jeb Bush had little time to enjoy his easy re-election victory before admitting Wednesday he does not know how the state will pay for a class size amendment he opposed as being too costly.
INS appeals bond issued to Haitians
MIAMI (AP) -- U.S. immigration officials appealed a ruling granting bond to some detained Haitians, arguing their release could threaten national security by prompting a mass exodus from the impoverished nation.
Early voting, big spending help keep election smooth
MIAMI (AP) -- Miami-Dade and Broward counties' first well-run statewide election in two years emphasized early voting and a smaller role for election supervisors, and it's likely to stay that way, officials said Wednesday.
U.S., France agree on resolution as President Bush pushes for vote
UNITED NATIONS -- The United States and France reached agreement Thursday on a new Security Council resolution on Iraq, removing a key hurdle toward passage of the U.S.-drafted plan for tough new weapons inspections.
Man arrested in Netherlands a suspected terrorist recruit
AMSTERDAM, Netherlands (AP) -- Dutch police have arrested a Muslim man suspected of preparing a suicide attack, officials said Thursday.
Chinese communists expected to pick new generation of leaders
BEIJING -- Preparing for a landmark congress that is expected to install a new generation of leaders, China's communist party pledged Thursday to modernize its ideology to keep pace with a fast-changing, increasingly capitalist society.
Turkish leader refuses to OK U.S. use of bases
ANKARA, Turkey -- The leader of Turkey's winning party refused Wednesday to commit to allowing U.S. warplanes to use Turkish bases in any war with Iraq and declined to say whether his country's close military ties with Israel will be maintained.
Japan to kill about 400 whales in Antarctic expedition
TOKYO (AP) -- Japan is launching a five-month expedition to kill about 400 whales in Antarctic waters, the government said Thursday, an announcement likely to draw fire from nations opposed to whale hunting, including the United States.
Explosion near Bucharest school injures four students
BUCHAREST, Romania -- An explosive device went off Wednesday near the high school attended by the prime minister's son, injuring four students.
Police say suspect admits using van in bombing
JAKARTA, Indonesia -- In the first major break in the inquiry into the Bali nightclub bombings, Indonesia's police chief said Thursday that a suspect in custody has admitted to taking part in the attack that killed nearly 200 people.
Gibraltar votes on sovereignty question
GIBRALTAR (AP) -- Residents of Gibraltar voted Thursday on whether Britain should share the colony with Spain, a referendum that carries no legal weight but has considerable political punch.
Kuwaitis back attack to topple Saddam despite Arab opposition
KUWAIT CITY -- While millions of Arabs decry the U.S. military presence in the Middle East and Washington's desire to attack Iraq, many Kuwaitis wouldn't have it any other way -- the country is an island of support for America.
Plane crashes close to Luxembourg airport; at least 17 dead
LUXEMBOURG (AP) -- A twin-engine plane crashed in fog as it approached Luxembourg's airport Wednesday, killing nearly 17 people and seriously injuring five others aboard, police said.
Reformist scholar sentenced to death in Iran
TEHRAN, Iran (AP) -- In the latest setback for reformists in Iran, a hard-line court has sentenced to death a prominent scholar and close ally of President Mohammad Khatami for insulting Islam's prophet, his lawyer said Thursday.
Court overturns British, Dutch group's spy-related convictions
KALAMATA, Greece -- An appeals court overturned espionage-related convictions on Wednesday for British and Dutch plane spotters whose case pitted military security rules against the hobby of watching aircraft.
DNA finally identifies child killed in Titanic sinking
TORONTO -- Nearly a century ago, Canadian sailors buried an unidentified infant who died on the Titanic and, touched by the tragedy, called him the Unknown Child -- a symbol of all the children who were lost when the luxury liner sank.
Train fire kills 12 in France
NANCY, France -- A fire on an overnight train in eastern France filled a sleeping car with deadly smoke Wednesday, killing 12 people -- including five Americans from the same family -- and driving panicked passengers to smash windows and jump to safety.
U.S. submits revamped resolution on Iraq
UNITED NATIONS -- The United States took a final revision of its Iraq resolution to the Security Council on Wednesday in hopes of winning approval after eight weeks of tumultuous negotiations with wary allies concerned it could trigger a new war against Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein.
Swaziland's king defends marriage custom
MBABANE, Swaziland -- Swaziland's king has defended a custom that allows him to take as many brides as he likes and said a woman who asked the courts to prevent him from marrying her daughter had been badly advised.
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text:
Sheridan Fire-Rescue is in the news again this week, this time with word of responding to a house fire at 959 Burton just after 7:30 Saturday morning.
Fire Marshall Brian Songer gives us the details.
The owner of the home, Ed Foltz, sustained no injuries. In fact, Fire Marshal Songer says that because of preventative measures Mr. Foltz had taken prior to the fire, a lot went right.
Preliminary reports suggest that an unattended candle may be the cause of the fire, but Songer says investigators were still on scene into Saturday afternoon to rule out other possible causes. Foul play is not suspected at this time.
Songer says that while fire damage was contained to the room of origin, heavy smoke damage was found throughout the home.


text:
Feebullet, My uncle emigrated to Oz in 85, doing very well he is too!
Back to the point, even though I'm a Carp angler in the UK I can see the reason why you hunt to kill. Carp and the ecology of Oz just don't mix, they spawn too successfully, invade and/or destroy the habitat of your native species and generally make bloody nuisances of themselves. Germany also have a catch and kill policy on Carp (might even be all coarse fish) which is generally ignored by anglers over there.
Carp aren't as big a problem in the UK yet, they've been in our waterways since about 1400, could be earlier. Originally stocked into land locked "stew ponds" for eating purposes. They've become fashionable as a recreational species in the last twenty or so years because they're easy to catch, readily available, to the point that land owners actually dig a hole in a spare field, fill it with Carp and charge "anglers" (I use the term loosely) about a quid an hour to fish for them.
I don't fish such places myself, preferring older, mature lakes and rivers for other species. I do however have the odd Carp session as much for the camping and relaxation as the actual fishing. They do pull well when hooked which is another bonus.
I take my hat off to the way that your nation is trying to preserve it's heritage and wish the Uk would take a stamp out of your book.
We have, off the top of my head, American signal crayfish which are destroying the native white crayfish, with, I believe, a parasite they host (I've just been reading another thread, it seems it's a disease or plague). They're also damaging coarse and game fish stocks by making a meal of their eggs.
Motherless minnows, Chinese mitten crabs, some alien form of shrimp, grey squirrels, coastal cormorants moving inland (that's another story altogether). There's plenty more that don't spring to mind and there seems to be very little being done about any of them. All of which are slowly but surely killing off our native species.
Sorry, I seem to be rambling


text:
Last weekend I had a great time at CocoaConf DC on my home turf of northern Virginia. In many ways CocoaConf is the antithesis of WWDC. Capped at 100 attendees, it's small where WWDC is enormous, and intimate where WWDC can be impersonal. It's a conference where you can meet (and spend time chatting with) every speaker and every attendee, if you put your mind to it. And really, although the sessions are the ostensible reason to attend conferences (the way we justify them to our bosses or to ourselves), for me at least it's the personal connections you make that are the real value. As developers we tend to spend most of our time isolated in our cubicles (and in some cases our homes), so it's doubly important to take the time to reach out to the like-minded individuals we encounter at conferences. CocoaConf is a great venue for that. And with 3 tracks of 30 sessions over 2 days (preceded by an optional full-day intensive tutorial), there's plenty of knowledge to be gained as well. A common theme I heard throughout last weekend was the "which of these sessions should I attend next? They all sound great" dilemma (trilemma?).
This time I presented two talks. I debuted a talk on custom container view controllers (using the iOS 5 containment API), which in addition to containment covered the iterative process of designing and refining the UI and API for a page-flipping control (demo app shown above). The slides are available here and the code (open source and attribution-only licensed) is up on GitHub.
My other talk, "Enter The Matrix", I gave for the second time. It's about using matrix transformations in Quartz drawing, UIKit animations, and CoreAnimation (with obligatory, gratuitous references to the Matrix movies). Since Chicago in March, I've significantly improved the accompanying sample app, completely revised the slides for fold and flip animations, and introduced a section on skew and perspective. The slides are available here (latest version here) and the code is on GitHub.
I think one new talk is the most I can manage per conference. A great deal of work goes into each presentation (code, slides, and speech). I like this picture of Saul Mora, Scott McAlister and me all preparing for our talks on the first day of the conference. We work on our presentations up until the last minute not because we're ill-prepared, but rather because we care.
One little touch that I really appreciated as a speaker: a MacBook power adapter installed on the presenter's table in each of the rooms. Sometimes, it's the attention to little details that really stand out.
I hear that CocoaConf may be back in DC next March. If so, I hope I can be a part of it again, either as speaker or attendee.


text:
FARMINGTON HILLS (WWJ) – Police say an Ann Arbor firefighter was changing a tire when he was struck and killed on I-696 in Farmington Hills Thursday morning.
Michigan State Police told Newsradio 950 WWJ the victim, a 41-year-old Bloomfield Township man, was trying to change a flat tire on a car parked on the shoulder of westbound I-696 near Farmington Road, when he was hit by a passing vehicle around 6:30 a.m.
The victim has been identified as Daniel Armitage, a father of three.
WWJ spoke with Ann Arbor Fire Chief Chuck Hubbard who said Armitage had been with the department for 16 years and was on his way to being promoted to lieutenant. He called Armitage's death a "huge, huge loss" for his fellow firefighters.
"We come to work on a daily basis knowing that that could be our last day, but when something happens off-duty like that you just don't plan for that. You don't even think about that," Hubbard said. "He's a young man, you know. His whole future was in front of him. It's just awful."
Trooper Mark Tinney said after the initial crash there was a second crash. He said Armitage was struck several times by passing cars.
"Probably after or at the same time, it looks like it was an accident caused by vehicles avoiding some of the debris, maybe avoiding what was going on, moved over to the left and this vehicle lost control trying to avoid another vehicle," said Tinney.
That vehicle struck the median wall, sending a man and two children to the hospital with minor injuries.
Dwayne Gillenn who works at a business just off the freeway said it was a gruesome scene. He was arriving to work when he heard the screeching of tires and rushed to the perimeter fence where he saw the carnage.
"It's a sight I'm never going to forget, I can tell you that," Gillenn told WWJ Newsradio 950's Ron Dewey. "I don't know if the person was talking on the phone or texting or just driving too fast, who knows those things you know, but I can tell you this, they shouldn't have been doing whatever they were doing."
Police are looking for the public's help in piecing together exactly what happened. As of Thursday afternoon, no one had been charged related to the incident.
"We need anybody who might have seen the accident or was in the area at the time to help us with some information. We need to talk to anybody who might have been involved, saw anything, or who might have run over something in the road, might have thought it was something else, we need to talk to them," said Tinney.
Anyone with information is asked to call Michigan State Police at (248) 584-5740.
Westbound I-696 past Northwestern Highway was closed for a few hours but has since reopened
For the latest from the roads, stay with WWJ Newsradio 950 during Traffic and Weather on the 8s, 24-hours a day. Check for recent traffic incidents now by visiting our Traffic Page.


text:
P. S. Duffy grew up in Baltimore, Maryland, and spent summers sailing in Nova Scotia. She is a science writer for the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, where she lives with her husband.
P. S. Duffy
When his beloved brother-in-law goes missing at the front in 1916, Angus defies his pacifist upbringing to join the war and find him. Assured a position as a cartographer in London, he is instead sent directly into the visceral shock of battle. Meanwhile, at home, his son Simon Peter must navigate escalating hostility in a fishing village torn by grief.


text:
TimeWeaver is interesting because it takes a non-linear and interactive approach to the communication of historical events, through a 'windowed hypertext', where page elements often serve as windows on related (and as yet unexplored) events, a feature that is designed to entice curiosity. The educational information provided by TimeWeaver is a product of the community that uses and contributes to it, and the numerous interconnections between the many documents are constantly changing and multiplying as more content is added. Because of the psuedo-random nature in which text and accompanying images are presented, no two visits to TimeWeaver are likely to be the same, and as more content is added, previous visitors will learn more on subsequent visits.
Other implementation points worthy of notice is the hierarchy enforced in
the codebase. All library and API code is kept in
../lib/timeweaver/, all
the templates are kept in
../templates/timeweaver/, and all the PHP page
scripts are kept in
/www/21w765/timeweaver/. This way, only the page
scripts are available over the web, but far more importantly, the
application lends itself to being modularized quite easily. The primary
modules are: admin, community, content and style. In version 2.0,
additional modules search and discussion will probably be added, and these
will easily plug-in to the existing framework. The primary benefit of
keeping the system modular of course, is management of complexity, improved
scalability, and fault tolerance. For the purposes of this pilot project
however, scalability and performance issues are not of great concern, and
fault tolerance (beyond the faculties provided by the Linux operating
system) is not really achieved without separation of modules into
separate computers. Managing complexity, however, has been an important
goal, as even this simple-looking project is over 5000 lines of code and 11
database tables (not including HTML or code from any of the pre-built modules such as Smarty).
Finally, the web server employed is Apache, and MultiViews are put to use
to enable abstract URLs - URLs where no document extension is required (the
server looks for the file based on a series of rules). Abstract URLs are
important here because they conceal the underlying implementation, and more
importantly won't break any bookmarks that users make should this
implementation be changed e.g. if a file changes from
.php to
.pl (a Perl
script). The firewall employed is Linux's iptables, and is essential to
ensuring the security of the server. Other minor details worth mentioning
include: a SHA-1 encrypted session identifier, sent either in a cookie or in
the URL (via URL rewriting), a denormalized data-modelling approach, and
the extensive use of views within the datamodel. The datamodel as it
currently stands has all the support necessary to provide a much broader
range of features than v1.0 currently does - this was a deliberate decision
so that we could easily expand the system to new features without having to
migrate data between databases.
The TimeWeaver team estimates that the system can support 50 concurrent users all submitting content or clicking links simultaneously, and that the database of content can scale from the hundreds of pieces of content (as it is now) into the hundreds of thousands of pieces of content, even without running out of disk storage space. However, should such a scaling occur, migration to a different hardware platform would be advisable.