text:
The best girls lacrosse teams from Nassau and Suffolk Counties will converge for a chance to move further in the New York State tournament as MSGVarsity.com presents the Long Island girls lacrosse finals.
The action gets underway with the Class 'C' championships facing off as North Shore takes on Shoreham-Wading River at 12:00 p.m. from Dowling College.
READ: North Shore rallies, wins Class 'C' thriller
READ: Second half surge lifts SWR to Suffolk title
The best from Class B will then meet as eight-time Nassau Champion Garden City will face off against newcomer to the LIC, Eastport-South Manor. The opening draw control is slated for a scheduled 2:30 p.m. start.
READ: Eight is great - Bruno leads GC to Nassau title
READ: Eastport-South Manor claims first Suffolk County title
Class A caps off our triple header as Bay Shore will meet defending Nassau champion Farmingdale for the Long Island title at 5:00 p.m.
READ: Suffolk earns Class 'A' Suffolk title
READ: Lady Dalers queens of Nassau County
Join Carl Reuter and Joe Lombardi on the call as Long Island's best will be crowned only on MSGVarsity.com
Teams at a glance:
Record: 14-3?
Streak: Won 2?
MSG Varsity Tri-State Ranking: NR?
How they got here: Won vs. Seaford, 13-12 (Nassau Class 'C' semifinals); Won vs. Cold Spring Harbor, 14-13 (Nassau Class 'C' final)
Previous meetings: NA
Record: 14-3?
Streak: Won 4
How they got here: Received bye into finals as top seed; Won vs. Mt. Sinai, 11-7 (Suffolk Class 'C' final)
Previous meetings: NA
Record: 14-5?
Streak: Won 4
MSG Varsity Tri-State Ranking: 8 How they got here: Won vs. Mepham, 18-7 (Nassau Class 'B' first round); Won vs. Lynbrook, 18-2 (Nassau Class 'B' quarterfinals); Won vs. Long Beach, 17-5 (Nassau Class 'B' semifinals); Won vs. Wantagh, 14-12 (Nassau Class 'B' final)
Previous meetings: NA
Record: 15-3?
Streak: Won 5
How they got here: Won vs. East Hampton, 15-6 (Suffolk County Class 'B' quarterfinals); Won vs. Sayville, 8-7 (Suffolk County Class 'B' semifinals); Won vs. Hauppauge, 14-9 (Suffolk County Class 'B' finals)
Previous meetings: NA
Record: 17-1?
Streak: Won 5
MSG Varsity Tri-State Ranking: 3?
How they got here: Won vs. East Meadow, 20-2 (Suffolk Class 'A' quarterfinals); Won vs. Oceanside, 14-2 (Suffolk Class 'A' semifinals); Won vs. Massapequa, 15-7?
Previous meetings: Won 13-9 (2010 Long Island Class 'A' championship)
Record: 18-1?
Streak: Won 10?
How they got here: Won vs. Sachem East, 17-7 (Suffolk County Class 'A' quarterfinals); Won vs. West Islip 19-10 (Suffolk County Class 'A' semifinals); Won vs. Ward Melville, 11-5 (Suffolk County Class 'A' final)
Previous meetings: Loss 13-9 (2010 Long Island Class 'A' championship)


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These Inspirational Places poems are examples of Inspirational poems about Places. These are the best examples of Inspirational Places poems written by international PoetrySoup poets
If you don't find the poem you want here, try our incredible, super duper, all-knowing, advanced poem search engine.
Tradition and dress
A nations finesse
Symbolic in style
By a country mile
The drone of the pipes
Tartan clad
Bonnie on the girls
Proud on the lads
Highland dancers
In kilted skirts
Grooms at weddings
Kilt and dirk
But our Tartan and Pipes
Go back many years
Led soldiers into battles
See the enemy fear
After Culloden
Both were banned
A country naked
At the English hand
Our clans of many
In colours so grand
Woven by weavers
Our women's hands
All over the world
Scots are spread
Taking their Tartans
Of green, blue and red
It's a welcome reminder
To the kin of their past
Never forgotten
Designed to last
This plaid of cloth
History enriched
Scottish pride
In every stitch
And like our pipes
From centuries past
This Scottish of Scots
Are here to last
Copyright © James Fraser | Year Posted 2009
My hands and feet are numb
for I am cold and I have no
home to give me warmth.
A home and warmth are two
things I search for that is why
people call me a bum.
I have not eaten but I have
prayed and my prayers have
not yet been answer for I have
not eaten in days.
So I'll just lay in my place of
sleep and pray once more as I
search for warmth, for I have
found my home, The streets.
Copyright © THE POET 174 | Year Posted 2008
The lake was still sleeping
a light mist rose above,
a weathered dock could be seen,
its aged wood; full of memories.
The air crisp, breeze light,
trees majestic; watching all.
Squirrels busy scampering,
as a flock of geese soared above.
Way over yonder
clear across the still lake,
shining brightly were yellow shutters,
on our cabin; our special place.
We had toiled the garden
planted yellow roses with great care,
we had painted the old wood shutters,
yellow paint; speckled our hair.
The roof we re-shingled,
one painstaking nail at a time,
we even counted the ouches;
when our hammers got out of line.
With nothing but smiles
on our weary, aching bodies,
we held hands, and went running,
into the still of the lake; giggling.
We swam out to the dock,
it was a race; he won,
my hand he took laughing;
as he quickly scooped me up.
Our toes dangled playfully
sending ripples in the lake,
as we gazed at our cabin;
yellow shutters; fresh with paint.
The trees swayed slightly
as if nodding with approval,
for our cabin by the lake,
was our private sacred jewel.
As we cuddled together
warmth filled our souls,
for our bright yellow shutters,
symbolized, our love's blossoming growth.
It was on this very dock,
air crisp, breeze light,
when he gave me a yellow rose;
and asked me to be his wife.
Copyright © Lynn Marie | Year Posted 2006
Tea Leaves On The Bosphorus
Seated at a table by the stirring water,
My eyes absorb the shore of Asia.
Minerets and aged worn stone
Stand haphazardly along the banks.
Istanbul is a lady with secrets
She'll lure you with her unrevealed virgin beauty,
Then seduce you with her ancient lovers.
Grilled sardines filled my charger
Fish pulled from the strait just minutes before,
Lay garnished with parsley and mint .
Red pickled turnips and warm flat bread
Are the implements that help feed me
And scoop up the humus,
Turkish nourishment for my soul.
The empty plates are cleared by a handsome waiter
With dubious intentions I feared,
But I was flattered none the less.
A bowl of yogurt was placed before me,
And my admirer arrived with a comb of honey.
He held it high above the creamy cloud and let the heavy ochre
languidly pour atop the milky whiteness of delight.
After his seduction,he left me alone to my pleasure
As I lapped at the sweet and sour heavenly temptation,
that parted my lips and elevated my being.
As I recovered from my rapture, two eyes caught mine.
The heathen that destroyed my diet approached the table uninvited.
He pulled up a chair and sat down across from me.
In his hands, a cup.
He offered to tell me my future.
White, small, as fragile as an eggshell with the top lopped off.
Within was a dark tea with floating leaves.
In a chivalrous attempt at English conversation,
He handed me the libation and the offer to read the remains.
I, alone in a man's world, unmarried, and of a certain age,
Did not need encouragement and I accepted his offer.
I drained the tea in one gulp and returned it to his hands.
He placed the cup in one palm , then turned it upside down,
Allowing the remaining fluid to drip out around the cup and onto the table.
Once the cup was upright again he studied the leaves, then he spoke.
His voice was soft, at times , unintelligible
His reading was honest, and truthful, and painful.
His prophecy, amusing, and entertaining
His vision and it's accuracy were astounding.
Fifteen years later, the leaves delivered on their promise.
Long fluid lines inside the cup foretold of a marriage,
To a man who would cross a sea to find me.
Two shorter drippings were the children that now delight me.
The tea ring that he was able to complete around the cup ,
Was the warmth of a love that would soon envelop me.
Tea, anyone?
Copyright © Brenda Atry | Year Posted 2011
Feeling like a lodger
In my own home
Thankful for my music
And my new found roam
Families and communities
They are just so hard to find
But in April 2009
I found the most precious kind
I found the name amusing
So the button i clicked on to see
The layout was very inviting
Like an open door should be
For in a matter of minutes
On first uploading a poem
This Highlander was content
He had found a welcome home
So many lovely writers
Poets who share their bless
No longer this Scotsman is
The Man in the Wilderness
The sands on the beach
Are like the colour of her hair
As i sit by the ocean
All i can do is stare
The blue of the ocean water
Can never match her eyes
Despite our natures wishes
All she can do is try
The blue skies above her
Carpet her ceiling surround
Her posture of delight
In plentiful abound
Her body is slight and tanned
A joyous site to see
This blond beach lady in the sun
Gracing the land of the free
Some people are voices
On the edge of rocks
With steep slopes and cliffs.
Some people are echoes
At the bottom of walls
Carved by rushing waters.
Copyright © Leon Stacey | Year Posted 2007
Chilly late October;
early morning fog banks
the roadside, cloaks
a trickling bayou...
in the thickets of dense trees,
the wispy tufts
top man-high
goldenrod, Queen Anne's lace,
dried-out thistle stalks...
A school bus, solitary,
yellow, slowly passes
on skinny black asphalt
where wet spots reflect
the newly risen sun.
Only rustles of high,
green cane fields and
intermittent bird songs
interrupt pervasive quiet...
Timelessness, and solace --
calming, soothing --
a Louisiana bayou:
Bayou Sale.
Copyright © Leo Larry Amadore | Year Posted 2012
Amidst these inlets and islands
Lies a land of a patriot nation
Where clans decree their might
Together in mixed relation
From the Lowlands to the Highlands
Family names of a forgotten past
Deliver us to their present
For these surnames are here to last
Sunrises and sunsets have so greeted
Many a morn and an eve has been seen
To be born into such a nation
Through their eyes, you see just your dream
For to be born on the land of the heather
Through Glens of bracken and fern's
Birthed into one of their clans
Your first breath you have duly earned
Amidst these inlets and islands
Lies a land of a patriot nation
Where clans decree their might
Welcome to Alba, the ultimate creation
Copyright © James Fraser | Year Posted 2011
I am the
Scot's thistle
The emblem of my
proud country it has
been our valiant
pride for so
many years
The thistle has been the national emblem of Scotland
since the reign of Alexander III (1249 - 1286) and was
used on silver coins issued by James III in 1470.
According to the legend, an invading Norse army was
attempting to sneak up at night upon a Scots army
encampment. During this operation one barefoot Norseman
had the misfortune to step upon a Scots Thistle,
causing him to cry out in pain, thus alerting Scots
to the presence of the Norse invaders.
My entry into Deborah Guzzi's " Oh, what a Shape I'm in! " contest.
Not easy doing the above, i nearly went cross eyed.
< Cascading lakes and streams
The loon stands out it seems
Minnesota's state bird
I know it must sound absurd
Adopted in nineteen sixty one
Wails and yodels heard under the sun
Black and white bearing red eyes
Wingspans five feet can make one cry
Body lengths up to three feet
Yet clumsy on lands and moss peat
They are high speed flyers
And great underwater divers
They can dive up to ninety feet
In pursuit of fish they want to eat
They are even on our license plates
An critical habitat drawn on metal slates
Twelve thousand of these unique birds
God that has to be a lot of turds
But for now I'll enjoy it's captured views
Of this beautiful loon and it's most colorful hues
Written By Katherine Stella
Entry For Mini - Blog Beautiful Bird Contest
By Constance ~ A Rambling Poet
Copyright © Katherine Stella | Year Posted 2010
The greatest holiday gift I ever received
Goes back so many, many years
Before my life became turmoiled
And before my tears for fears
I was a child like many out there
Torn, strewn and split of kin
Mother and father in differences
Confused at seven, wearing their same skin
For I was one of the lucky ones
To a Highland Estate I would go
It's on the west coast of Scotland
Where my holidays desired me so
Secretly I internally smiled
For a whisper of where I was heading
To live with a movie star hero
No longer my life was in dreading
We were picked up by a man so fine
His manners were an absolute joy
Regimental he was in his approach
To me, just a seven year old boy
We travelled through the village of Plockton
Crystal clear waters edged to it's shore
I knew from this very moment
Being here ebbed previous family sores
On entering his house I was in awe
Movie pictures came to my view
They were images of James Bond
At seven I was totally through
A voice called to me
Hey James! sit down and I'll tell you me
Still in circles in walking awe
This is what he told thee
My name is Patrick Dalzel Job
In the Second World War I served
But this recognition I bestow
Humbles me to it's deserve
This honour that's been given
Was blessed by a colleague in war
What desired Ian Fleming to be so striven
Possibly, what we were fighting for
We served on the same destroyer
Fighting to make the future free
His tribute, in his novels I became
James Bond, it's incredibly me
Not many seven year olds have stayed with James Bond.
This seven year old Scot's boy has, maybe I learnt?
Copyright © James Fraser | Year Posted 2012
Wood Fairies There Often Play
Deep in that far wooded glen
was a place made for men
Was not so easily found
complete with Nature sound
Comfort for man and beast
just a mile northeast
Great to rest my soul there
peacefulness makes me aware
Wood fairies there often play
stacking rocks in my way
A test to see me step aside
watching from where they hide
Daring to find resting sleep
my soul they try to keep
No malice,just a loving desire
to share their eternal fire
Each visit I must bid adieu
with a, "so sad to leave you"
My friends of the wooded glen
thanks for allowing me in
Always this is the sweet reply
see you in the by and by
You are most welcomed any time
our uniting is most sublime
Each Spring my trek begins
to again see my little friends
As I slowly walk my way in
I marvel at this far wooded glen
Robert J. Lindley, 05-23-2015
Copyright © Robert Lindley | Year Posted 2015
Together the Owl and the PusyCat were married
Then again sailed out over the deep blue seas
Searching forever for the great Land of Nod,
To the place where they could find true peace.
True peace, true peace… Where they could find true peace.
The love that twined forever within their hearts
They sought throughout all the wonderous lands
Going to the place where they would live in peace,
A place where true peace, rules and lives in the hearts of the land.
The land, the land… Where true peace lives in the heart of the land.
Alas, the love of the heart, though truly not easy to find…
Is easier to find than the love of peace, found throughout the land.
So it's said they will continue to sail, until that day comes true,
And when they land for the final time, will be up to me and you.
Me and you, me and you… That day will be up to me and you.
Copyright © Carol Eastman | Year Posted 2012
Highlander so tall,
Dwarfs warriors in battle;
Brave heart of Scotland.
So much I wanted to say. So much I wanted to shout.
It was like being trapped behind bars without a way
to get out.
My mind going wild with all these questions of why.
The only way to escape was to fall asleep or to cry.
What did I do so bad that made me have to pay?
My friends, my dreams, and my life was swepped away.
I know I can do it! I try and I try.
Nothing seems to get better. I sometimes wish
I would Die.
Starved for attention. I wanna talk to the world.
I just miss being loved. Miss the warmth of a girl.
Snickers and stairs is what my life has become.
I'm treated like I'm a kid, like I'm sick, or I'm dumb.
One day to the next. Life becomes work just to be alive.
I thank god for my blessings. I thank god I survived.
I finally see some improvement. More hope tickles
my brain.
It was worth all the time, all the tears, all the pain.
I awake with a smile and new hope to move on.
I did it! I did it! All those hard times are gone!
Copyright © Travis Flasnick | Year Posted 2009
Tree of Life, stands in
A place completely free of
Water, and survives
This unique tree stands alone in the desert, about 2 kilometres (1.2 mi) from the Jebel
Dukhan, the highest point in Bahrain. It is considered a Natural Wonder.
Copyright © James Fraser | Year Posted 2010
In 1296
Under Edward the first
Our destiny was stolen
My country cursed
In 1328
There were talks of it's return
For six more centuries
We would wait and yearn
On Christmas day
In 1950
Four Scottish students
Decided to shift thee
A plot was in motion
To take back our stone
Return it to Scotland
For it should never have roamed
From West Minster Abbey
Our stone was retaken
Returned back up north
To a country forsaken
They returned to the church
This great stone of the Scots
To Arbroath Abbey
From a time so fraught
The police in London
Were informed of it's location
It was eventually returned
To the original thieving nation
In 1996
In a symbolic response
To the dissatisfaction of Scots
Our political taunts
For on November the 15th
We met on our border
Our eyes transfixed
Of red sandstone
With iron rings
For upon who sits
A new monarch it brings
This block of stone
And where it lies
It's in Edinburgh castle
Where our proud saltire flies
Back home
Where it was meant to be
Historical Scotland's
Stone of Destiny
Stolen by Scotland's children for the future of Scotland's children.
There is talk of it's return south of the border for the next coronation?
I very much doubt us Scot's will tolerate this request.
Vacation fun time
God creates for all to see
Beautiful mountains
Copyright © Kathy Gillet | Year Posted 2007
Twin limestone tors thrust up through valley floor
Like islands or icebergs in a calm flat sea
Deep green save where shear rock can hold no spore
To spawn in fecund niche a vine or tree
Midday and all is calm untroubled and still
In tangible heat, all movement paused, restricted
No hint of ought that might disturb our will
A landscape placid, as in a painting depicted
But look to the sky the seeds of change are sown
There, signs portend a transformation near
Those innocent clouds mere cumuli have grown
To cumulonimbus extending t'ward stratosphere
And therein is enormous might enclosed
The energy stored, that soon must be released
Unleashing force of primal power unopposed
The laws of Nature never to be breached
Now lightning flickers o'er distant mountain peaks
Faint thunder echoes round steep valley walls
The breeze accelerates and chills to speak
A warning of the fast approaching squall
Is it charge in the air that has swallows energised
To move from circling low between tree and house
Their flight plans now are recklessly revised
To helical soaring t'ward the threatening clouds
A steady light drum roll on roofs - sound train
Starts gently then in crescendo ends the prelude
Announcing clear the now impending rain
Prodigious splashes transformed to a deluge
The waves of rain traverse our panorama
Gauze curtains drawn by cosmic stage hand's might
Relentlessly recasting features to those of dark drama
As familiar scenes are shrouded, obscured from sight
Now random electric arcs flare the bleak vision scanned
A cacophony of thunder dominates all sound
An awesome confusion and darkness is on the land
All visible anchors cast off into shadow spellbound
But in this world each cycle must be ended
Perhaps the reverse of events that had us unmoored
And soon the terrible drama is played out and expended
Peace, light and order are gradually restored
Known reference points can once again be seen
The twin rocky peaks firm and clear through the rain-washed air
Residual cloud makes fine-spun white wraps for hills now green
And we're reassured by prospects familiar and fair
Now is this chronicle an allegorical tale
Of human life that can't be guaranteed free of strife
And would we then choose bland existence without travail
Or rather confront the magnificent tempests of life
Copyright © Geoffrey Brewer | Year Posted 2017
The wind did stir the thought in kind wanting - for if she knew my soul, just a spark
of it, I would be a rich man...
So long this ribbon of love that flows over the rocks of age and distant torment...
The gate keepers sit alone watching, waiting for the violators who dare not call
mundane theirs...
It is those shackles which bind misguided dreams that which make fertile ground for
the barkers at the door, for what else does one need to grey the vision and dull
You carry the scent of the well-traveled said the withered old man - I too know your
pain, that which comes from never knowing home - those of us who seek blindly
that which the world cannot give - home is not a place but a thought in time and
nothing more than a stop to rest your ambition...
Cry only for only those who cannot hear you, for it is selfish to do otherwise and
seek home in the gentle embraces of those that know you...
Be kind to those who would bite you, for in doing so it will bring light to a dark path...
Always rejoice in life - it pisses them off and helps them to see the tragic flaw of
their diluted beliefs...
Copyright © Robert Sellers | Year Posted 2011
I shall live and die
By my own accord
Only my God may judge me
To him I've proved my worth
I am still here fighting
It matters not what for
On my ship of righteousness
Headed for waters unexplored
The clear night sky will darken
And the clouds seem ominous
I take heed to the sure signs
From them I won't digress
They are in the way of my dreams
And hopes that fill my sails
Like the wind from my heaven
Keeps my skin tough as nails
Evil comes to tempt me
I am not immune
Sometimes I play the hero
Other times I'm just a fool
Either way the choice is mine
I make it with my free will
For that's the gift he gave me
And for what I fight for still
The government is coming
To bring a chaos they call order
The line has been drawn
Between two sides there is a border
I feel myself being torn
To choose a fate in stone
Let this be a lesson
Why I wander on my own
Minds can be controlled
I see it every day
The weak wills fall like dominos
That lie littering my way
An obstacle before me
I iron will it to the end
And when the devil comes
to dance with me
I have already started to transcend
into everything around
I am the universal man
my true form I shall disguise
I am hiding it from this great Satan
they say will come for my demise
I know he will find me
maybe he already has
in a long gone nightmare
that my soul he stole at last
if I remember correctly
I can't say I recall
ever escaping his grip
or did it ever touch me
at all?
Copyright © Bj Fard | Year Posted 2012
Scotland, rich in pride
Braw mountainous scenery
Stands proud and salutes
Saltire shares the wind
Tartan Highlanders kilted
Kingdom of the clans
I sit and pause, looking at the sky blue ceiling above me. White vapour cotton wool clouds
gently float like water lilies on an upside down pond. My humble seat, an igneous rock
from the Devonian period. A glaciation past has moulded this comfort to rest this weary
climber. I am in fortunate delight as this skyscraper of old can turn nasty with nature.
These marvels can unite and lure unsuspected hikers, and draw them into a weather world
they have never known. The gulley's and faces of this quite wonderful Munro hide
challenges and dangers for all who dare climb. Many have been lost as they become
disorientated, as natures weather closes in.
The ascent route to the summit on a day like today is quite wonderful. The beauty of the
glens, with their sporadic mix of andesite and basaltic lava mountains, rival many a range
on our fine planet. Many colours explode on the surrounding canvas. Greens and beige's,
greys mingling with red granite masses. Screes are in evidence, a sign of the range ageing
as natures seasons take their toll. Plant life carpets the slopes, where grasses of sorts
mingle with the purple and white heather. Ferns from a prehistoric age fan out catching
the breeze, like Sea´ ferns´ in the ocean.
As i climbed, at various intervals i would close my eyes and listen to the calls of the
wild. The sporadic bleating of sheep, as if echoing through the glens. Crows and their
hooded cousins fly sorties looking for carrion of such. Suddenly they scatter, as royalty
makes a welcomed appearance. As majestic as the King of the mountains can be, a Golden
Eagle glides on the thermals. His subjects looking on from a distance, for fear of
angering him. Rabbits, lizards and even sheep and lambs, bow down in whatever chambers of
safety allows them. As graceful as he arrived, he leaves. Slowly but slowly, the lookouts
of the species declare their haven a safe zone.
This climb has certainly given me a thirst, as the thinned mountain air leaves me tired.
Nearby a small stream offers a weary climber a much needed tonic. This pure fresh
translucent chemical substance quenches my crave, with a gentle splash over my sun beaten
face, i feel refreshed to a point.
There is an island
In the Pacific ocean
Surrounded by blues
In various motions
The blue of the water
Reflects from the sky
Turquoise and dark
Either makes me sigh
With mountains of lush green
In sloping canvas
Varieties aplenty
Trees and grasses
Species so different
Grace this land
Where they have thrived for years
As it has never been manned
Golden beaches
Glitter her coast
Where the blue waves caress
Its where i sigh the most
Coconut palm trees
Figs, berries and roots
In glorious harvest
Natures fine fruits
Please close your eyes
And join me there
As you open your eyes
All you can do is stare
Where is this island
Do you all want to hear
Its in the Pacific Ocean
Oh how i wish i was near
One of the most positive writes i have witnessed to date
Was written today and well worth the wait
An awesome Quatrain, by this Devonshire poet
If you have read her past writes, you would certainly know it
What we see in our world now, is what she wants us to see
Dinosaur remains are an example to me
This beautiful planet will gladly reveal
As she shares her histories, our mysteries reveal
If we let her breathe, sigh and flourish
She may be more giving, as we help her re-nourish
And this write will be remembered for its visionary
And her mysteries will be our history
Inspired by " Stunning Revelations from Ancient Maps "
By Carolyn Devonshire
Along a forest path that few can see,
Just as the sun is setting in the West,
With owls and ancient oaks for company,
I wander in my solitary quest.
In shadowed dusk the world is at her best --
When lacy lichen clings to cooling stone --
The feathered robin turns toward her nest,
And in the stillness I am all alone.
There is within these woods an ancient tree
Whose roots provide a peaceful place to rest;
Like gentle fingers, they encircle me
When by my thoughts I am too much oppressed.
Then I am of a sudden joy possessed,
Which I claim quickly for my very own;
I feel the love of Life within my breast,
And in the stillness I am all alone.
And in that place, I ponder silently --
Admire the tiny toadstools neatly dressed
In spots and colors, sitting quietly,
And cannot help but by them be impressed.
The rights of others they do not contest,
Nor under worthless burdens grieve or groan;
I understand their tiny lives are blest,
And in the stillness I am all alone.
So when dark doubts and fears have reached a crest,
And deep despair has pierced me to the bone,
I find that path and grant my heart's request;
And in the stillness I am all alone.
Copyright © M. Teresa Blaylock | Year Posted 2006
Fingers crossed,
My mind still hoping,
Day by day,
I rest on the hill sloping.
Looking at the sun,
Mesmerized by the beauty,
Rays blinding the scene I look on.
The sun is setting,
My mind is wondering;
Although sometimes forgetting,
Though life seems like its plundering.
Birds wisp by,
Flying across the purple-pink sky.
Oceans in the distance,
Beauty beyond existence.
It's a sunset wonder,
A masterpiece of splendor.
Exquisiteness unsurpassed,
The sky, life, and scenery coming together at long last.
Copyright © BRITTANY MOON | Year Posted 2009
I went to Georgia without my bonjo in my hand
I knew it would be great after I landed and took a stand
I told them my name and they asked, "What's your fame?"
I reached for my muse and turned it loose like a goose
They straightened their ties and said "O' me, O' my!"
"We made a mistake about this poetic rhyming guy!"
Someone handed me a bonjo and they all joined the tango
My muse had its way and we had a wonderful stay
As we departed for home they started to sing,
"Hurry back poet, may your muse give you wings!"
Copyright © Joseph Spence Sr | Year Posted 2007
White blossoms of the Mountain Laurel
Contrasted to the waxy green leaves
Nestled under trees along the creek
Showing some of the beauty of spring
Snuggled on a blanket close to the edge
Enjoying the music that nature makes
Chirping of birds, no no not a word said
Rustle of leaves, buzz, buzzing of bees
Babbble of creek, splash of the deer's feet
Joy, oh, joy for the outdoor cheer
Wishing that we could share this time
This time of the year
Copyright © Sara Kendrick | Year Posted 2009


text:
OTTAWA -- The New Democrats are accusing the Tories of playing partisan politics with a bill that would give the world's poorest countries easier access to Canadian generic drugs.
But Industry Minister Christian Paradis said Tuesday private-member's bill C-398 wouldn't accomplish what it sets out to do.
"We are all for the virtue but this bill is not the vehicle to get there," he said, rhyming off a series of initiatives Ottawa has implemented to provide health care and drugs to developing nations.
Paradis added Canada would contravene World trade Organization rules if it passed the bill - something advocacy and legal groups say isn't true.
NDP MP Helene Laverdiere - the bill's sponsor - is now doing last-minute lobbying before parliamentarians vote Wednesday on whether to send it to committee.
"This bill will save lives, this bill will save children - there is a moral imperative to this bill," she said.
In 2004, The House passed Canada's Access to Medicine Regime, which was intended to improve access to Canadian generic drugs for treating diseases such as HIV and AIDS and tuberculosis in Africa and other poor regions.
Generic drug companies claim red tape is preventing them from shipping more drugs under the regime. Only two batches have been shipped overseas since 2004.
Laverdiere's private-member's bill aims to cut some of that red tape.
A similar bill went to the Senate in 2011 but died on the order paper when the federal election was called. A number of Tory MPs who supported that version of the legislation appear poised to vote against it this time.


text:
Below are poems written by poet
Heather Lewis. Click the Next or Previous links below the poem to navigate between poems. Remember, Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth. Thank you.
List of ALL
Lewis poems
Heather Lewis
The poem(s) are below...
When I gave you my love,
I gave it my all.
When I gave you my heart,
I was afraid of the fall.
Now as the clouds
Pass me by,
Knowing my fate,
I understand why.
The climb I made
Was worth this landing
The thing I neglected
Was Preparing.
When I hit the bottom
Shattered pieces of me
Scattered across,
As far as I could see.
I lay here broken,
Trying to heal.
So truly thankful
That I can feel.
And now here I am,
And there goes my life.
But for what we had,
Baby...I'd fall twice.
Copyright © Heather Lewis | Year Posted 2010


text:
How many pounds in a day?
A 12,000-pound killer whale might eat as much as 16,000 pounds of herring per month. In a month with 30 days, how many pounds of herring a killer whale would eat in a day? Round answer to the nearest hundred pounds.
A.) 900 lbs B.) 16,000 lbs C.) 500 lbs D.) 400lbs E.) 800 lbs
Tutor Answer
Brown University
1271 Tutors
California Institute of Technology
2131 Tutors
Carnegie Mellon University
982 Tutors
Columbia University
1256 Tutors
Dartmouth University
2113 Tutors
Emory University
2279 Tutors
Harvard University
599 Tutors
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
2319 Tutors
New York University
1645 Tutors
Notre Dam University
1911 Tutors
Oklahoma University
2122 Tutors
Pennsylvania State University
932 Tutors
Princeton University
1211 Tutors
Stanford University
983 Tutors
University of California
1282 Tutors
Oxford University
123 Tutors
Yale University
2325 Tutors


text:
|Publication number
|Publication type
|Application number
|Publication date
|18 Oct 2011
|Filing date
|8 Jun 2010
|Priority date
|5 Dec 2005
|Fee status
|Also published as
|Publication number
|Douglas A. Martin, Patrick E. Morford, Gregory P. Winters
|Original Assignee
|Coinstar, Inc.
|Export Citation
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Patent Citations (65), Non-Patent Citations (11), Referenced by (7), Classifications (18), Legal Events (12)
|External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, Espacenet
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/294,652 filed Dec. 5, 2005 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,748,619, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
The following disclosure relates generally to apparatuses and methods for dispensing wallet-sized cards and other items from kiosks and other structures.
There are various types of vending machines and kiosks for dispensing prepaid credit cards, debit cards, phone cards, and other types of cards to customers. Such machines typically include a user interface for selecting a card, a monetary input device (e.g., a credit card reader or bill acceptor) for receiving payment, and an outlet for dispensing the card to the customer. In use, the customer selects a desired card with the user interface and deposits the required funds via the bill acceptor or credit card reader. Once the machine has confirmed the funds, a card dispenser housed within the machine dispenses the desired card to the consumer via the card outlet.
As the card moves past the card reader 106, the card reader 106 reads information off a magnetic stripe on the card. The magnetic stripe can include one or more "tracks" of information. The information can include a unique code for associating the card with a particular account. For example, if the card is a prepaid credit card, then the code can be associated with a specific credit card account. Similarly, if the card is a prepaid phone card, then the code can be associated with a specific long-distance account. After moving past the card reader 106, the card conveyor 104 pushes the card through the card outlet 108 to be picked up by the user.
One shortcoming of the prior art card dispenser 100 is that it can only dispense a single type of card. As a result, additional card dispensers are required if more than one type of card is to be dispensed from a particular vending machine. Adding additional card dispensers, however, increases the cost, size, and weight of the vending machine. In addition, multiple card dispensers can increase the risk of card theft through the additional card outlets.
Another shortcoming of the prior art card dispenser 100 is that the card conveyor 104 removes cards from the bottom of the stack. This action can require substantial force when the card hopper 102 is full, and can lead to jams and other malfunctions during card dispensing. A further shortcoming of this design is that it is often difficult for the card reader 106 to read multiple card tracks in a single pass because of card misalignment and other factors. This leads to rejection of cards that would otherwise be usable if properly read.
Aspects of the present invention are directed to apparatuses and methods for dispensing prepaid credit cards, phone cards, gift cards, stored-value cards, and other similar items from kiosks and other structures. An apparatus for dispensing wallet-sized cards from a kiosk in accordance with one aspect of the invention includes at least a first hopper portion and a card transport assembly positioned relative to the first hopper portion. The first hopper portion can be configured to hold a first stack of cards including at least a first card positioned on a second card. The card transport assembly can be configured to lift the first card off the second card, move the first card away from the first hopper portion and release the first card toward a card outlet.
A method for dispensing at least first and second card types from an enclosure in accordance with another aspect of the invention includes placing a first plurality of cards at a first location within the enclosure, and placing a second plurality of cards at a second location within the enclosure. The first plurality of cards can include at least a first card of the first type positioned on a second card of the first type. Similarly, the second plurality of cards can include at least a third card of the second type positioned on a fourth card of the second type. In response to receiving a first request for a card of the first type, the method can further include lifting the first card off of the second card and transferring the first card toward a card outlet. In response to receiving a second request for a card of the second type, the method can additionally include lifting the third card off of the fourth card and transferring the third card toward the card outlet. In one embodiment, the method can further include moving the first card past a card reader after lifting the first card off the second card.
The following disclosure describes systems, apparatuses and methods for dispensing various types of cards (e.g., prepaid credit cards, debit cards, phone cards, etc.) and/or other items from vending machines, kiosks, and/or other structures. The systems, apparatuses and methods disclosed herein can include various features for reading information from, and for writing information to, various types of media. Such media can include, for example, magnetic media complying with one or more International Standards Organization (ISO) standards, memory chips embedded in integrated circuit (IC) cards, bar codes, radio frequency tags, optical media, etc. The systems, apparatuses and methods disclosed herein can also include various features described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/367,110, filed Feb. 14, 2003 and entitled "APPARATUSES AND METHODS FOR DISPENSING MAGNETIC CARDS, INTEGRATED CIRCUIT CARDS, AND OTHER SIMILAR ITEMS," which is incorporated into the present application in its entirety by reference.
Certain embodiments of the apparatuses and methods described herein are described in the context of computer-executable instructions performed by a general-purpose computer. In one embodiment, these computer-executable instructions can be stored on a computer-readable medium, such as a floppy disk or CD-ROM. In other embodiments, these instructions can be stored on a server computer system and accessed via a communications link or a computer network, such as an intranet, the Internet, or other computer network. Because the basic structures and functions related to computer-readable routines and corresponding implementations are known, they have not been shown or described in detail here to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the described embodiments.
Certain specific details are set forth in the following description and in
In the drawings, identical reference numbers identify identical or at least generally similar elements. To facilitate the discussion of any particular element, the most significant digit or digits in any reference number refers to the figure in which that element is first introduced. For example, element 210 is first introduced and discussed with reference to
In another aspect of this embodiment, the card dispensing apparatus 200 further includes a card transport assembly 210 carried by an upper portion of the chassis 220. The card transport assembly 210 includes a movable card carrier 214 having a selector head 212. As described in greater detail below, the card carrier 214 is configured to move back and forth along X and Y axes to position the selector head 212 over a desired card. Once in position, the card carrier 214 moves downwardly along a Z axis until the selector head 212 contacts the card. The selector head 212 then attaches itself to the card, and the card carrier 214 lifts the card out of the respective card hopper 232. The card carrier 214 then transfers the card to a release location 270 and drops it into a card outlet chute (not shown).
In a further aspect of this embodiment, the card dispensing apparatus 200 also includes a card reader 290 mounted toward a side portion of the chassis 220. As described in greater detail below, the card carrier 214 is configured to swipe individual cards through a slot 292 on the card reader 290 as it carries the cards toward the release location 270. In the illustrated embodiment, the card reader 290 includes a read head (not shown in detail) configured to read information off of the cards 234 (e.g., off of one or more tracks of a magnetic stripe, bar code, etc. on the card). In other embodiments, however, the card reader 290 can also include a write head configured to write information to the cards 234 (e.g., to a memory chip, magnetic stripe, etc. on the card) as the cards 234 pass through the slot 292. In one embodiment, the card reader 290 can be an ISO ANSI and AAMVA compatible Magstripe Swipe Card Reader (e.g., part number 21045034) from MagTek, Inc. of 20725 South Annalee Avenue, Carson, Calif. 90746. Such a device has bi-directional read capability and can read up to one million passes with ISO-conforming cards. In other embodiments, however, other types of suitable card readers known in the art can be used with the card dispensing apparatus 200. In a further embodiment, the card reader 290 can be omitted and the card dispensing apparatus 200 can be configured to dispense cards without reading them first.
In yet another aspect of this embodiment, the card transport assembly 210 and the card reader 290 are operatively connected to a controller 240 (shown schematically in
The processor 251 transmits control signals to, and exchanges data with, the controller 240 in response to signals received from a central computer 250 and/or one or more payment devices (e.g., a bill acceptor, coin counter, credit or debit card reader, etc.). In the illustrated embodiment, the central computer 250 controls the overall functions of the particular vending machine, kiosk, or other structure in which the card dispensing apparatus 200 is housed. In this regard, the central computer 250 can receive user instructions, such as card selections and/or payment choices, via a user interface 252 (shown schematically in
As those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, the present invention is not limited to the foregoing arrangement of processors and controllers. For example, in another embodiment, the card dispensing processor 251 can be omitted. In this embodiment, the central computer 250 can transmit control signals directly to, and exchange data directly with, the controller 240 for control of the card dispensing apparatus 200.
The guide block 318 is slideably supported in a track 324 that extends along a support member 326 in the X direction. A first lead screw 331 threadably engages the guide block 318 and is operably coupled to a second motor 322 b. The second motor 322 b is operably connected to the controller 240. Rotation of the first lead screw 331 in a first direction in response to signals from the controller 240 moves the guide block 318 (and, accordingly, the card carrier 214) in a first direction along the X axis. Conversely, rotation of the first lead screw 331 in the opposite direction moves the guide block 318 in the opposite direction along the X axis.
A second lead screw 332 a threadably engages a first lead nut 328 a attached toward one end of the support member 326. Similarly, a third lead screw 332 b threadably engages a second lead nut 328 b attached toward the opposite end of the support member 326. A third motor 322 c simultaneously drives both the second and third lead screws 332 by means of a timing belt 334. The third motor 322 c is operably connected to the controller 240. Rotation of the lead screws 332 in a first direction in response to signals from the controller 240 moves the support member 326 (and, accordingly, the card carrier 214) in a first direction along the Y axis. Conversely, rotation of the lead screws 332 in the opposite direction moves the support member 326 in the opposite direction along the Y axis.
In another aspect of this embodiment, the card transport assembly 210 can further include a system of sensors that signal the controller 240 when the selector head 212 is in a "home" position. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the card transport assembly 210 includes a first position sensor 302 a fixedly attached to the guide block 318, and a corresponding first sensor flag 304 a fixedly attached to the elongate rack 314. The first sensor 302 a can include a reflective infrared device that detects the presence of the first sensor flag 304 a when the selector head 212 is in the retracted position shown in
In other embodiments, other methods can be used to track the location of the selector head 212 relative to the chassis 220. For example, in one embodiment, the controller 240 can monitor rotations or "steps" of the individual motors 322 a, 322 b, and 322 c and use these to determine the location of the selector head 212. In yet other embodiments, contact sensors or limit switches, as opposed to infrared sensors, can be used to track selector head position. In still further embodiments, various combinations of the foregoing apparatuses and methods can be used for this purpose.
In another aspect of this embodiment, the suction cups 440 are also connected to a release valve 448 by a vent line 444 b. The release valve 448 works in conjunction with the check valve 446 to maintain vacuum in the suction cups 440 during card transport. When the card 234 arrives at the release location 270 (
In most instances, the suction cups 440 only pick up one card when they are evacuated. Occasionally, however, two or more cards are stuck together in a stack. When this occurs, the suction cups 440 may inadvertently pick up both cards. One way to overcome this problem in accordance with the present invention it to cycle the release valve 448 at a very high frequency after picking up a card. Cycling the release valve 448 in this manner while the pump 442 is on causes the vacuum pressure in the suction cup 440 to vary, which in turn causes the card to flex. This flexing tends to break any adhesion that may exist between the top card and any under card, causing the under card to drop back onto the card stack.
Another method for solving this problem in accordance with the present invention is to arrange the suction cups 440 on opposite sides of a raised portion 449 (e.g., a raised ridge, bump, etc.). As the suction cups 440 are evacuated, they draw the selected card inwardly, bending the card over the raised portion 449. This bend tends to break any adhesion that may exist between the top card and any under card, causing the under card to fall back into the card stack.
In another aspect of the embodiment, the selector head 212 further includes a depth probe 450 for controlling the position of the suction cups 440 relative to the card 234. When the selector head 212 is not holding the card 234, the depth probe 450 extends down below the suction cups 440. As the suction cups 440 move downwardly toward the card 234, the depth probe 450 contacts the card 234 and begins sliding upwardly along the Z axis. The depth probe 450 is operably coupled to a switch 452, which in turn is connected to the controller 240 (
Returning to
Referring now to
In one aspect of this embodiment, the drawer assembly 600 further includes a card chute 674 that leads to a card outlet 670. In operation, the card dispensing apparatus 200 retrieves a desired card 234 from one of the card hoppers 232, swipes the card through the card reader 290, moves the card to the release location 270, and drops the card into the chute 674 for transfer to the outlet 670.
As explained above, the card dispensing apparatus 200 has the capability of swiping a card through the card reader 290 multiple times if required to sufficiently read information off the card (and/or write information to the card). If, however, the card reader 290 is unable to sufficiently read a card (because, for example, the card was placed into the hopper 232 upside down) after a preset number swipes (e.g., three), then the card dispensing apparatus 200 releases the unread card into a reject bin 672 and retrieves a new card from the appropriate hopper. This feature prevents the card dispensing apparatus 200 from dispensing unusable cards to customers, and allows any upside down/backward cards to be reused.
In another aspect of this embodiment, the kiosk 710 includes a display screen 713 positioned proximate to the user interface 252. The user interface 252 includes user selection buttons 714 and a keypad 711. The display screen 713 can display various user instructions and prompts explaining how to purchase cards and/or perform other functions with the kiosk 710. The user selection buttons 714 can include, for example, various options for responding to the prompts and selecting a desired type of card or a desired method of payment. Similarly, the keypad 711 can allow the user to input various alphanumeric information, such as account numbers and/or monetary values, related to the card purchase transaction.
In a further aspect of this embodiment, the kiosk 710 also includes a coin input region or tray 715 configured to receive a plurality of coins from a user for counting. In one embodiment, the user can elect to receive a redeemable voucher via an outlet 716 for a value related to the total amount of coins counted. In another embodiment, the user can elect to pay for a card (such as a prepaid credit card or phone card) with coins as an alternative to paying for the card with a credit card via the card reader 622 or with paper currency via the bill acceptor 620.
In another aspect of this embodiment, a user desiring to purchase a card from the kiosk 710 may do so by first reading the card purchase instructions and prompts displayed on the display screen 713. (Alternatively, the instructions can be provided on the front or side of the kiosk 710 along with product advertising and/or other graphics.) By using the selection buttons 714 and/or the keypad 711 to respond to the prompts, the user can select a particular type of card (e.g., a credit card, debit card, phone card, etc.) and a particular card value. In one embodiment, the available card values (e.g., the amount of money or long-distance minutes associated with a card) may be predefined such that the user must choose from a limited number of options. In other embodiments, the value may be variable such that the user may be able to specify a card value. In either embodiment, the user then enters payment (e.g., via the coin input tray 715, the card reader 622, and/or the bill acceptor 620) sufficient to cover the cost of the selected card. Once the kiosk 710 confirms receipt of payment, the card dispensing apparatus 200 dispenses the desired card of the desired value to the user via the card outlet 670.
As mentioned above, in one embodiment, the kiosk 710 can be networked via the central computer 250 (
In decision block 804, the routine 800 determines if payment for the card has been received from the user or otherwise confirmed. If payment has not been received, then in decision block 806 the routine 800 determines if the transaction should be terminated. In one embodiment, the routine 800 can elect to terminate the transaction based on the amount of time that has elapsed without receiving payment from the user. In other embodiments, termination can be based on other factors, such as user termination input or lack of a user response to an appropriate prompt. If, however, the routine 800 determines that the transaction should not be terminated, then the routine 800 continues to wait for user payment and/or it can reprompt the user for payment. Once the routine 800 confirms that payment has been received, the routine proceeds to block 808 and signals the card dispensing processor 251 to issue the selected card to the user.
In block 908, the routine 900 sets a counter i=1. Next, in block 910, the routine 900 moves the card carrier 214 past the card reader 290 (or card reader/writer 290) to swipe the selected card through the reader. In decision block 912, the routine 900 determines if the card was sufficiently read (or written to) by the card reader 290. If so, then the routine 900 proceeds to block 914 and moves the card carrier 214 to the release location 270 (
Returning to decision block 912, if the card was not sufficiently read (or written to) by the card reader 290, then the routine 900 proceeds to decision block 920 and determines if i=η. Here, η can be a preselected number of times that a given card will be swiped through the card reader 290 before being rejected. In one embodiment, for example, η can be three. In other embodiments, η can have other values (e.g., 2, 4, 6, 10, etc.) depending on other factors. If i does not equal η at decision block 920, then the routine 900 proceeds to block 922 and increments i by one. Next, the routine 900 returns to block 910 and repeats. If i does equal η at decision block 920, then the routine 900 proceeds to block 924 and moves the card carrier 214 to the card reject location. In block 926, the routine 900 releases the unread card into the reject bin 672. From here, the routine 900 returns to block 902 and repeats until the desired card has been dropped into the outlet chute.
The foregoing description of embodiments of the invention is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise embodiments disclosed. While specific embodiments of, and examples for, the invention are described herein for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the invention, as those of ordinary skill in the relevant art will recognize. For example, although certain functions may be described in the present disclosure in a particular order, in alternate embodiments these functions can be performed in a different order or substantially concurrently, without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. In addition, the teachings of the present disclosure can be applied to other systems, not only the representative card vending systems described herein. Further, various aspects of the invention described herein can be combined to provide yet other embodiments.
All of the references cited herein are incorporated in their entireties by reference. Accordingly, aspects of the invention can be modified, if necessary or desirable, to employ the systems, functions, and concepts of the cited references to provide yet further embodiments of the invention. These and other changes can be made to the invention in light of the above-detailed description. In general, the terms used in the following claims should not be construed to limit the invention to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification, unless the above-detailed description explicitly defines such terms. Accordingly, the actual scope of the invention encompasses the disclosed embodiments and all equivalent ways of practicing or implementing the invention under the claims.
Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words "comprise," "comprising," and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of "including, but not limited to." Words using the singular or plural number also include the plural or singular number respectively. Additionally, the words "herein," "above," "below," and words of similar import, when used in this application, shall refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular portions of this application. When the claims use the word "or" in reference to a list of two or more items, that word covers all of the following interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list.
While certain aspects of the invention are presented below in certain claim forms, the inventors contemplate the various aspects of the invention in any number of claim forms. Accordingly, the inventors reserve the right to add claims after filing the application to pursue such additional claim forms for other aspects of the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is not limited, except by the appended claims.
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|System and method for dispensing of a receipt reflecting prepaid phone services
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|Electronic Data Systems Corporation
|System for purchase of prepaid telephone services
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|Shuffle Master, Inc
|Card shuffler with card rank and value reading capability
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|Automated usage-independent and location-independent agent-based incentive method and system for customer retention
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|Martin Douglas A.
|Apparatuses and methods for dispensing magnetic cards, integrated circuit cards, and other similar items
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|Martin Douglas A.
|Apparatuses and methods for dispensing magnetic cards, integrated circuit cards, and other similar items
|5 Dec 2005
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|Bml Medrecordsalert Llc
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|7 Oct 1999
|Datacard Corporation
|Virtual multihopper card feeder
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|Sheehan, Michael, "Marriage of Convenience," 3 pages http://www.kioskbusiness.com/NovDec01/articles/article4.html [accessed May 16, 2003].
|Tranax Technologies, Inc., "Card Dispenser," 2007, 1 page, , [internet accessed on Aug. 11, 2009].
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|U.S. Classification
|235/381, 221/92
|International Classification
|Cooperative Classification
|European Classification
|26 Jul 2011
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text:
- After you have SHSH blobs saved locally on your computer (using TinyUmbrella or redsn0w), follow these steps to stitch a "Custom IPSW with blobs" using redsn0w (compatible with Mac and Windows) and then restore with it via iTunes. If you have an iPhone, this method will preserve your device's baseband.
- - Open the the latest version of redsn0w.
- - If your device is an iPhone, first create a NO_BB ("no baseband") custom IPSW using redsn0w and then follow the rest of these steps. (To do this, open redsn0w, click "Extras", click "Custom IPSW", and give it a normal IPSW for your device.) If your device is an iPad or iPod touch, ignore this step.
- - Click "Extras".
- - Click "SHSH blobs" and then click "Stitch".
- - Locate the IPSW for the version of iOS you want to downgrade or upgrade to. If your device is an iPhone, select the NO_BB custom IPSW you made earlier. (You can also make a custom IPSW using sn0wbreeze if you prefer; see below for links.) If your device is an iPad or iPod touch, you can use a stock IPSW from Apple.
- - Click "Local" and select the saved SHSH blobs you saved in your computer earlier, or click "Cydia" to use SHSH blobs saved on Cydia's servers. If one of these options gives you problems, try the other option.
- - redsn0w will now begin creating your signed IPSW. It will be saved in the same location the stock IPSW was located.
- - Enter Pwned DFU mode with redsn0w or iREB. (In redsn0w, go back to the Extras menu and click "Pwned DFU".)
- - Open iTunes and hold down the "Shift" key (on Windows) or "Option" key (on Mac) and click on Restore.
- - Navigate to your signed custom IPSW and select it.
- - The rest will be a normal restore process. You should now have successfully restored your device to the iOS version you wanted.
Stitching a custom IPSW with blobs
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text:
As a young girl, Rachel Brown kept a secret she wished she could share. If she said it out loud, it might not come true. Somebody might tell her she couldn't do it, and that could have been the end of the dream for the shy 10-year-old growing up in New York City. Instead, she wrote it down in her journal: "I want to be a singer."
A little more than a decade later, Rachel Brown is living her dream and then some as she prepares to release her second EP, The Band. A recipient of the prestigious ASCAP Foundation Robert Allen Award for Songwriting as well as the Songwriter's Hall of Fame Abe Olman Award for Excellence in Songwriting, Brown has blossomed into a one-of-a-kind artist, developing a distinctive sound that blends elements of her roots (Ethiopian, Bermudian, and Southern) with a childhood spent listening to soul greats like Sam Cooke and Smokey Robinson, as well as other Motown, R&B, and 90's pop and hip hop. It's a blend that's earned her praise and attention from Perez Hilton to the New York Post and a legion of devoted fans.
"I took a gap year before I started college," explains Brown. "I bought a guitar and Guitar For Dummies and started teaching myself, and that's really when I started writing my own songs and fell in love with it."
She studied filmmaking at Harvard College, but continued to develop her passion for music in her spare time, performing at open mic nights and building up her confidence to perform at larger events and eventually headline her own shows.
"School was hard and a lot of the workload was stuff you didn't want to be doing," Brown remembers with a laugh. "Music was a really great way to release frustration. It was therapeutic, the perfect place for me to pour out whatever anxiety I was facing."
One of Brown's early songs, an infectious charmer called "Bumblebee," helped launch her career when she released it on her 2012 debut EP. The track was soon licensed for a diamond ring commercial, which Jay Leno featured in a monologue on The Tonight Show. Jaden Smith tweeted that it was his new favorite song, and it prompted Glamour to hail her "sensually soulful vocals" and led DailyCandy to declare that "the hype is justified."
Brown was handpicked for a 13-month residency at New York's famed Darby supper club, where her audiences regularly included celebrities from Jay Z and Beyoncé to Robert DeNiro and Martin Scorcese to Michael Jordan and Patrick Ewing. She performed at Lincoln Center for the triumphant Alvin Ailey opening night gala and took the stage at Leonardo DiCaprio's birthday party. Meanwhile, her career had already taken off in Bermuda, where she opened a stadium performance for Mary J. Blige and Robin Thicke and performed at the Bermuda Music Festival, which ultimately led her on a path to befriending Wyclef Jean.
"I went to a charity event about a week after I graduated from college that he was being honored at," remembers Brown. "He'd seen my performance video from the festival, and an hour before his performance he asked if I would go onstage and sing with him. We went up on the fly and did a duet of 'Redemption Song.' To have just graduated a week earlier and be excited and terrified about jumping into music, and then have somebody like that, whose music I admire and respect so much, take a gamble on me, it made me believe that I could do this. Since then he's been really supportive and sometimes he'll crash my shows or invite me on stage at his."
Though it's only been a few short years since then, The Band showcases Brown's incredible growth as both a writer and a performer, most obviously embodied by—as the title would suggest—the expansion of her band to eight ecstatic pieces. Fronted by Brown singing and playing guitar/ukulele, the group also features electric guitar, bass, drums, percussion, sax, trumpet, and kora, a 21-stringed West African instrument that dates back centuries.
"Since I released that first EP, my band doubled in size, The Darby happened, the whole energy changed," says Brown. "For the new EP, I wanted to capture the band playing live together all in one room in an old-school kind of way."
The approach is evident from the opening moments of the EP, which kicks off with "You Got Me," a rhythmic, lilting ear-worm that finds Brown's alternately soaring and intimate vocals coasting on top of a charismatic groove.
"I really think about how the band is going to perform it live when I write now," says Brown. "I wanted it to be something fun and playful with the horns."
"Not Over You" is another example of Brown's newfound vision as a writer and frontwoman for such a large band, with its soulful, classic R&B feel.
"I wrote the song on tour and I knew exactly how I wanted every instrument to sound in the studio," says Brown. "I love collaborating with the band on arrangements, but it was nice to come in with something fully formed. Everybody pours themselves all in on that song."
"Speechless" is an enchanting, coy tune with back-up vocals inspired by the Wailers, while "Last Call" features the kora prominently in its wistful arrangement, and "Parallel Universe" finds solace in imagining that relationships that don't work out in this world find happier endings in an alternate reality. The EP's most unexpected moment, though, comes in the form of "I Wanna Dance With Somebody," a new take on the Whitney Houston classic.
"Whenever I listen to the lyrics of 'I Wanna Dance With Somebody,' it's actually a really sad and heartbreaking song, so I wanted to play it that way," says Brown. "It's one of the few songs where the feeling can be totally switched and the lyrics still work perfectly."
The result is a touching, poignant moment on the EP that traverses the full emotional spectrum of love and loss with extraordinary grace and agility. With the release of The Band, Brown is set to bring her remarkable live show to larger audiences than ever before. A secret this good is meant to be shared with the world.


text:
Bio & Incident Details
Age: 39
Tour: 7 years
Badge # 1423
Cause: Vehicular assault
Incident Date: 5/23/2003
Weapon: Automobile
Offender: Sentenced to 15 years
· Leave a Reflection
· Add to My Heroes
· Update this memorial
Deputy Sheriff David Wargo succumbed to severe head injuries sustained nine years earlier when he was dragged by a vehicle in a supermarket parking lot at the intersection of 83rd Avenue and Camelback Road.
Deputy Wargo was working an off duty detail at the supermarket when he encountered a man parking in a prohibited area and instructed him to move. The subject attempted to flee the scene while Deputy Wargo held onto the truck. The driver reached speeds of up to 50 mph before Deputy Wargo fell from the truck and struck his head on the pavement.
He suffered severe head injuries as a result and was left in a vegetative state until passing away nine years later.
The driver of the vehicle was convicted of several charges after the initial incident and sentenced to 15 years in prison.
Deputy Wargo had served with the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office for seven years. He is survived by his wife and three children.


text:
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603 Adcolor Dr.
Welcome to your next home away from home! We are nearby a variety of restaurants, .7 miles from Walmart and about 2.5 miles from the downtown area. We offer in our suites a full size kitchen (with all the necessities to start our guests out) as well as cozy queen size beds and a spacious living area to truly spread out and relax. Our amenities are endless as we have free internet access throughout the entire hotel, 24 hour business center as well as a 24 fitness center. We also have complimentary laundry facilities (guests love this feature as it saves them money) and an indoor pool. Our Candlewood Cupboard features snacks, drinks, and even breakfast items that can be purchased and even offer a manager reception on Wednesday evenings.
Let us make you feel truly at home at our Candlewood Suites hotel!


text:
© 2002-2017
Encyclopaedia Metallum
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While the history of Rainbow is well documented elsewhere, all you really need to know is that it was a band started by former Deep Purple guitarist, Ritchie Blackmore. Deep Purple routinely had Dio's original band, Elf, open up for them on their tours, and thus Blackmore was quite impressed and invited Dio to join him on this musical venture. The result was something similar to Deep Purple at the time, but still a little different.
On their first release Rainbow essentially combined 70's Rock, a little bit of blues, with a touch of early 70's Metal; something that would later be much more pronounced on their next two releases. Unfortunately, at least to some Metal fans, this is largely a 70's Rock release. But to me, that's not a bad thing, since I'm a casual fan of 70's Rock. The CD opens up with the now classic "Man On The Silver Mountain", which has an instantly memorable riff and is probably the most Metal (though 70's Metal) sounding song on here. The rest of the CD is actually quite varied. Not one song sounds the same and it seems that each track incorporates a fresh idea (like it or not, the 70's was a great time for song writing). The guitar work is an obvious highlight as each song is very guitar driven and Blackmore uses everything at his disposable from slide guitar to intermittent solos. Dio's vocals are in very fine form, he sounds pretty much like how he does now and his voice gives the band the unique atmosphere that only Dio can bring to a song. Dio's voice, combined with Blackmore's guitars, really helps carry songs like "The Temple Of The King" and "Sixteenth Century Greensleeves". Other song highlights include "Stil I'm Sad", which is a very cool instrumental that is a lot more upbeat than the other songs and features quality guitar playing and "Self Portrait", which is surprisingly doomy . Also of note is the bass work, which like most 70 bands, is quite upfront and can be heard perfectly. The lyrics tend to be quite poetic at times and this helps add to the overall appeal as well.
I don't really have any major gripes with this release, the actual music is very well performed and the music is very moody and engrossing. The only song that I'm not a huge fan of is "If You Don't Like Rock 'N Roll". This track is ok but it effectively sounds a little too dated and has an annoying piano in the forefront that is considered typical to early Rock music, but it's not my thing at all. The actual main problem, to many Metal fans, will be the fact that most of the songs are very laid back. Blackmore seemed to opt for a more mood and atmosphere heavy CD than one full with energy and oomph. I personally really like this approach and was very surprised the first time I heard this CD because I wasn't expecting much. Now keep in mind, I enjoy 70's music so chances are if you have absolutely no use for 70's Rock, then you won't like this release very much. However, if you're more like me and like 70's music, enjoy Dio's vocals, and like Blackmore's song writing and guitar work, then I highly recommend this even though Rainbow's other Dio releases are superior and more Metal.
Song Highlights: Everything except If You Don't Like Rock 'N Roll


text:
The Pew study found a 32 percent increase in governmental restrictions and public hostilities from 2006-09 in the 198 countries of the world. Among its finding, the survey showed religious restrictions:
-- increased 12 percent in 23 countries.
-- decreased 6 percent in 12 countries.
Matt 24.7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.8 All these are the beginning of sorrows.9 Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake.


text:
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text:
Well, then it might look something like this pic below, from a Brazilian 3D artist name Victor Hugo. The piece is called "What Are You Building, Stark?" and is, of course, referring to the first "Iron Man" movie, when reformed billionaire bad boy Tony Stark develops a conscience after his stint in a certain cave and returns home to create himself a suit of armor.
This is obviously a fan creation, but man, wouldn't it be cool if something awesome like this came out of the Marvel-Disney merger? Disney, as we all know, also has Pixar, and what would you get if you got the Pixar boys to take a spin on a Marvel character or two? I know Joss Whedon's "The Avenger" is going to blow the crap out of the house, but I wouldn't mind seeing a Pixar version of "The Avengers". The combination of limitless resources (after all, if you can imagine it, you can CG model it) and Marvel characters could be mind-blowing.
Here's what Hugo has to say:
The original idea was to reproduce one of the "Armor Wars" cover, but it looks that I've changed a little my mind during the project. This one was a awesome challenge, because I've never modeled a car and neither an Iron Man armor (ok, I didn't modeled exactly the movie armor, but something, ahn… "between"). Another good challenge was to give some tries on 3ds max Hair and Fur – and damn, it is quite impressive! =)
Impressive, indeed, my friend.
Here's a little of "what could be" in the future (click to enlarge):
Via : Joblo


text:
Hey guys,
Long time no chat. Been busy as all hell... and now I am going to give away 6 Battle Royale codes for the PlayStation Vita (note, these codes are not Cross-Buy).
Details are in the link below:
Played on the PlayStation 3, and loving it... apart from the fact the final fight is balls hard. Great party game, too. If you don't have it, get it... and for free, from me, I might add. :)


text: Writing is work. It takes a lot of contemplation, concentration, and out-and-out sweat. People tend to romanticize it, that somehow your work appears by benefit of some mystical external force. In reality, to be a writer, you have to sit down and write. It's work, and often it's hard work.


text:
Post-Musharraf Pakistan got off to an inauspicious start yesterday, after a meeting of the coalition government resulted in deadlock over the key issue of the judiciary, and Taliban militants demonstrated that their violent campaign would continue with a suicide bombing that killed at least 27.
Pervez Musharraf resigned as Pakistan's president on Monday in order to avoid impeachment following a series of crises, starting with the sacking in March 2007 of the country's chief justice.
The two main parties in the coalition government, Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League-N and the Pakistan People's Party, could not agree on reinstating judges fired by Musharraf in November. Sharif has made the restoration of the judiciary a central pillar of his policy.
The People's Party had previously said it was Musharraf who was preventing the judges' reinstatement and Sharif's party had pledged that it would happen "immediately" after the president was gone. But it is understood the two sides are at odds over the deposed chief justice, Iftikhar Chaudhry, an activist judge when in office who held the executive to account.
Many believe that Asif Zardari, the leader of the Pakistan People's party, is wary of having Chaudhry standing in judgment over his administration.
"The coalition has to address the issues and get on with it," said Talat Masood, a retired general who is now a political analyst. "With the disagreements, first on the president and then on the judges, they are making fools of themselves."
The judges' controversy has poisoned relations between the two main parties for months, with at least two deadlines for their restoration missed. Yesterday, the coalition said a further 72-hours was required, providing a new deadline of Friday. "We wanted to see it happen within 24 hours," said Ahsan Iqbal, a leader of Sharif's party. "Some of our partners had reservations over timing. I'm very hopeful. The country cannot afford break-up of the coalition."
The popular lawyers' movement, which has campaigned for the judges, said it "would not be very patient".
A suicide bombing outside the emergency ward of a hospital in Dera Ismail Khan, a town in the troubled North West Frontier province, killed at least 27 people, including two police officers, and injured 35. Pakistan's Taliban movement claimed responsibility, saying that military operations against them must stop.
"What we are seeing is no change in the Pakistan government policies after Musharraf," said a Taliban spokesman, Maulvi Umar. "We want the government to change its policies."
Meanwhile, Pakistan's army chief flew to Kabul to see Afghan and Nato commanders in a move that could improve strained military relations.
Gen Ashfaq Kayani attended a meeting of the Tripartite Commission, which is supposed to meet every six months but has not come together for over a year.
Afghan officials have openly accused sections of Pakistan's military of backing the Taliban and being behind the bombing of the Indian embassy in Kabul in July, allegations supported by the US.
A statement from the Pakistan army said the meeting "showed satisfaction at the existing level of cooperation".


text:
Slicing and Dicing refers to a way of segmenting, viewing and comprehending data in a database. Large blocks of data is cut into smaller segments and the process is repeated until the correct level of detail is achieved for proper analysis. Therefore slicing and dicing presents the data in new and diverse perspectives and provides a closer view of it for analysis. For example a report is showing annual performance of a particular product. If we want to view the quarterly performance, we can use slicing and dicing strategy to drill down to the quarterly level.
OLAP (Online Analytical Processing) is a computer process that enables user to select and extract data from different viewpoints. Slicing and Dicing term is generally used in OLAP databases that presents data to the end user in multidimensional cube format like a 3D spreadsheet (called an OLAP cube). The OLAP cube comprises numeric facts called measures which are categorized by dimensions.
Slicing refers to selecting a subset of the cube by choosing a single value for one of its dimension and creating a smaller cube with one less dimension.
In the above diagram, the slice is performed for dimension "time" using the variable "Q1" (criteria time). It generates a new cube with 2 dimensions. Thus slice operation produced a sliced OLAP cube by enabling the user to choose specific value for one of its dimension.
Dicing on the other hand generates a subcube by picking two or more values from multiple dimensions of the cube. The cube is rotated independent of its dimension.
In the above diagram, the dice operation is based on the following selection criteria involving all the three variables:
• Location = "Vancouver" or "Toronto"
• Time = "Q1" or "Q2"
• Item = " Modem" or "Mobile"
Thus dicing and slicing allows detailed analysis of data from different angles.
Hence, this concludes the definition of Slicing and Dicing along with its overview.
Browse the definition and meaning of more terms similar to Slicing and Dicing. The Management Dictionary covers over 7000 business concepts from 6 categories.
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text:
Creating a "from-scratch" MMO is one thing but to do so while simultaneously tying to a TV show is something that developers have nightmares about. Yet, Trion Worlds' Defiance is doing just that and, according to our hands on reporter, is ready to make good on all the promise that we expect. Check out our preview before heading to the comments.
"The reason why I've been excited about Defiance for so long is I like first person shooters, third person open world games and the communities that MMOs have. When Trion San Diego first decided to make Defiance, we asked ourselves, 'What does MMO mean to us?' and the answer was, 'a fun game in an online world where you can meet other people.' I feel like Defiance is really going to deliver on that and in a way that we haven't really had before. I mean, I can play this game on my big TV while sitting in my living room. That aspect is really exciting."
Read more of Neilie Johnson's Defiance: Twitch Gaming on a Massive Scale.


text:
" Artist: Cloven Hoof / Audio CD released 2002-07-01 at Heavy Metal "
* Prices may differ from that shown
Cloven Hoof were one of the more overlooked eighties heavy metal bands, and yet another to indulge in a comeback when the genre suddenly became cool again in recent years. Their 1988 album 'Dominator' is far from a classic of the genre, stilted by poor production and a tendency towards repetition, but with its catchy hooks and delightfully cheesy sci-fi subject matter, it's the perfect album to listen to if you're in the mood for eighties rock.
The shoddy sound quality really is surprising, especially when considering this was released the same year as Iron Maiden's (admittedly higher budget) 'Seventh Son of a Seventh Son,' one of the most over-polished metal albums of all time, and this weakens the effect to a severe extent. Only the high singing of Russ North is clearly audible at the forefront, and while he's no replacement for David Potter, his lighter style is entirely suited to the move towards sci-fi rather than hellish themes, even if he lacks a real sound of his own.
All of the songs are fairly similar and accessible, and more obviously influenced by bands of the early eighties, particularly Iron Maiden whose melodic guitar solo style gets a look-in with songs such as 'Reach for the Sky,' while 'Rising Up' features sections that can be traced directly to Maiden's early 'Killers' release. This isn't to say that the album's stuck in a time warp, however much that would suit the space age lyrics, as the instrumental performance often successfully predicts the upcoming boom in European power metal, it's just a shame you can't really hear it.
1. Rising Up
2. Nova Battlestar
3. Reach for the Sky
4. Warrior of the Wasteland
5. The Invaders
6. The Fugitive
7. Dominator
8. Road of Eagles
Disc #1 Tracklisting
1 Rising Up
2 Nova Battlestar
3 Reach For The Sky
4 Warrior Of The Wasteland
5 Invaders
6 Fugitive
7 Dominator
8 Road Of Eagles