text:
|Número de publicación
|Tipo de publicación
|Número de solicitud
|Fecha de publicación
|28 Oct 2008
|Fecha de presentación
|27 May 2005
|Fecha de prioridad
|27 May 2005
|También publicado como
|Número de publicación
|Akbar Ghahary, Yifang Zhao
|Cesionario original
|Safas Corporation
|Exportar cita
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Citas de patentes (11), Citada por (5), Clasificaciones (11), Eventos legales (3)
|Enlaces externos: USPTO, Cesión de USPTO, Espacenet
The present invention relates generally to a composition useful in forming synthetic surfaces simulating various natural stone substances such as field stone, granite, marble and the like, and more particularly, to a composition comprising organic resin materials capable of being sprayed onto horizontal and vertical solid surfaces which, when cured, simulate various natural substances such as granite.
Processes currently exist for forming synthetic materials and surfaces, which mimic the appearance of various natural substances such as stone, marble and the like. Such materials are commonly used in the manufacture of floor and other types of tiles, shower enclosures, countertops, sinks, architectural facings, ornamental objects, and generally for any other purpose that marble, stone or the like are used.
One such example is a process utilizing a laminated sheet of material marketed under the trademark FORMICA. Such material is formed in large sheets and then cut and applied to the desired surface by adhesive or the like. Such sheets can be manufactured in solid colors or in various patterns, some of which simulate various stone or other textured material.
Another example is a process for preparing a material, which is commonly referred to as "cultured marble". "Cultured marble" is formed by first creating a mold of a desired shape, spraying the internal mold surface with a gel coat and then filling the mold with a conventional casting resin. Pigments are added to the resin to give it the desired color or pattern. After the resins have set, the mold is removed with the surface facing the mold forming the outer surface of the finished product.
Although many of the prior art methods for creating synthetic surfaces simulating stone and the like are generally acceptable, there is a continuing effort to develop compositions which give rise to more uniform, smoother coatings as well as surfaces which more closely simulate the various natural materials such as polished field stone, marble or granite and the like. Accordingly, there is a continuing need and desire to improve upon existing methods.
Examples of suitable gel coatings may be found in U.S. Pat. No. 4,543,366, issued Sep. 24, 1985 to Smith, U.S. Pat. No. 5,028,459, issued Jul. 2, 1991 to Lathrop and U.S. Pat. No. 4,664,982, issued May 12, 1987 to Genovese, et al., the contents of each of which are herein incorporated by reference.
In order to obtain a simulated stone coating the resin matrix must contain solid fillers, which provide the stone appearance. Such stone fillers have densities which are much higher than the matrix resin density and thus tend to settle out and coatings do not provide the desired simulated stone appearance. Various approaches have been developed to address this problem. For example, Lathrop uses crushed stone aggregate having a density substantially greater than that of the gel coat. Thus, to get a three-dimensional display, multiple sequential layers of gel coat and matrix must be applied. The subject invention overcomes this problem by using particulates which are substantially equal in density with the matrix resin composition and by means of controlling the crosslinking reaction to prevent settling.
A similar problem was addressed in the context of cast molded granite-like artificial stone in U.S. Pat. No. 5,043,377, issued Aug. 27, 1991 to Nogi, et al. Nogi, et al. suspended cured thermoplastic chips containing a large proportion of filler within a thermoplastic resin casting composition and stated that chips and liquid matrix should be close to each other in specific gravity. However in spraying compositions more uniform results without settling are obtained by using thermosetting resins as matrix resins and controlling the rate of crosslinking and curing.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,476,895 issued to Akbar Ghahary discloses sprayable coating compositions based on the concept of using a thermosetting resin matrix and crosslinked resin granules containing inorganic fillers. The granules and the matrix have essentially the same density. Although such compositions are useful in spray applications they are extremely sensitive to variations in viscosity and frequently do not provide uniform thickness in allowing the coating to flow before it is sufficiently crosslinked to stay in place, this is particularly true when the coating composition is sprayed onto a vertical surface.
The subject invention provides a means of increasing the rate of polymerization of the matrix resin when sprayed at room temperatures without discoloring the matrix resin base such that more uniform simulated stone coatings are produced. The subject coating compositions can be sprayed, brushed, rolled or curtain walled directly onto a surface as a final over-spray or sprayed, or brushed rolled or curtain walled onto the inside surface of a mold and then backed with a substrate, such as fiberglass or resin.
The invention provides a composition of matter for forming a coating, with a surface that simulates polished stone, such as granite. The coating compositions comprise a crosslinkable liquid resin matrix, a particulate crosslinked resin filler, hereinafter also referred to as granules, and a polymerization accelerator system. The matrix resin and the granules have substantially the same density by which is meant that granules will not visibly settle during the spraying and curing steps as a result of gravity. The term particulate is intended to characterize the granules as being substantially immiscible in the matrix resin.
The coating compositions of the present invention can be sprayed on any solid substrate by contracting the coating composition with the substrate using commercially available spraying equipment. Obviously the coating compositions can be used in other methods of applying a coating such as by painting or casting even though designed for spray applications. This is in contrast to many prior art compositions, which may be suitable as casting resins, but fail to provide useful spraying compositions, which require much higher reaction rates in the crosslinking of the matrix resin. Furthermore in contrast to available coating compositions, the compositions of the present invention allow for spraying on vertical surfaces and yet give rise to uniform coatings on such surfaces.
The sprayable coating compositions of the present invention comprise a three-component system of a matrix resin, granules and an accelerator system, the key characteristic of which is that there is no visible settling of granules during the spraying and curing steps and that there is insubstantial flow of the coating during the spraying and curing steps to provide uniform thickness. Another key characteristic of the compositions of the present invention is that they can be sprayed and cured at room temperatures.
The preferred crosslinkable matrix resins are unsaturated polyester resins known in the industry as gel coat resins. They comprise in general a low molecular weight linear resin obtained by the condensation of a phthalic acid component with diols and also with an unsaturated component such as maleic anhydride to provide crosslinking properties. The polyester is dissolved normally in an aromatic monomer such as styrene, which acts as the crosslinking agent for the polyester resin when its polymerization is initiated. The polyester may be modified by adding other monomers in addition to styrene such as acrylic acids or acrylate esters to achieve specific properties. Also linear dicarboxylic acids, such as adipic acid or other aliphatic acid, may be added to the phthalic acid component to increase flexibility. Preferred unsaturated polyester resins are condensation products of isophthalic anhydride and neopentyl glycol (NPG) These resins are commercially available from a number of sources such as Reichhold, Ashland, Lilly Industries, Valspar and Polydine as gel coat resins. Another matrix resin that can be employed are acrylic resins based on such monomers as methyl methacrylate, ethyl acrylate suspended in the acrylate monomer known in the art as sirups. In order to crosslink the acrylic resin diunsaturated acrylate monomers are added to the sirup. Such diunsaturated monomers include glycidyl methacrylate and ethylene dimethacrylate ethylene glycol diacrylate, divinyl benzene, diallyl phthalate and allyl acrylate or methacrylate. The acrylate resins may further be modified to contain polyurethane resins in addition to or in place of the low molecular weight acrylic resin.
The polymerization of the sprayable matrix resin is usually initiated by the addition of free radical initiator and preferably a peroxy azo compound such as methyl ethyl ketone peroxide, t-butyl perbenzoate, and lauroyl peroxide 2,2′ azobisisobutyronitrile.
It is generally desirable to include inorganic filler or fillers in with the matrix resin, in part to provide particulate background color for the simulated stone appearance, and in part to achieve substantially equal density with the granules to be added. Another preferred additive in order to improve the sprayability and uniformity of the sprayed composition is a thixotropic agent such as fumed silica. Similarly other ingredients that increase oxidative stability, UV-light resistance fire retardency or temperature stability may also be added.
The second component, the granules, are mixed into the fluid matrix resin to form the sprayable composition and provide the simulated stone appearance of the composite. The term "granules" as used herein is to include the terms "chips" and "particulates" which are oftentimes referred to by those skilled in the art. Granules are obtained from the same resins as employed in the matrix resins. Thus unsaturated polyester and acrylic resins can be employed to form the granules. The resins are admixed with inorganic fillers, pigments and any other desirable additive to provide the simulated stone properties when admixed after crosslinking in particulate form with the matrix resin. The density of the granule resin can be adjusted by using combinations of fillers of varying densities. Although inorganic fillers are usually heavier than the resin and therefore add to the density of the granules, such increases can be offset by using lighter fillers such as glass microbubbles or fumed silica. The granules are formed by casting the resin into an open mold, crosslinking the resin and then pulverizing the resin to the desired particle size range between 10 and 200 U.S. Mesh size. Preferred average particle sizes are in the range of 200 to 500 microns. Although the granules provide a "granite-like" stone appearance, they do not significantly detract from the overall transparent characteristic of the gel coat. The preferred filler used in the formation of the granules is alumina trihydrate, which is generally used in concentrations of 10 to 60% by weight of the granule. Other usable fillers include alkaline earth metal carbonates and silicates such as calcium carbonate or limestone, talc, clays, gypsum, chalk or marble. Since natural stone has the appearance of containing different colored particles it is generally desirable to add a pigment to the granule resin such as titanium dioxide to obtain a white granule and carbon black to obtain a black granule.
The granules also preferably contain a thermoplastic resin component the presence of which adds to the interfacial bonding of the granules with the matrix resin. Such thermoplastic components are obtained by adding an excess of monomer above that which is required for cross-linking to form a thermoplastic component. Thus in the case of a unsaturated polyester resin an excess of styrene is provided such that in addition to the crosslinked polyester the granules also contain some thermoplastic polystyrene. The preparation of granules as used in the present invention has been described in the literature such as U.S. Pat. No. 5,476,895 which is hereby incorporated by reference.
The third component of the sprayable compositions of the present invention is the accelerator, which allows the compositions to be sprayed with out running or thinning by accelerating the crosslinking of the matrix resin without color formation, particularly at room temperature spraying conditions. The accelerators of the present invention are at least a two component and preferably a three-component mixture comprising (a) an alkali metal carboxylate or calcium hydroxide or carboxylate, wherein the carboxylate has from 6 to 22 carbon atoms, (b) a hetero organic compound comprising either a di-nitrogen substituted amide, a tri-nitrogen substituted amine or a sulfur substituted mercaptan and (c) optionally a heavy metal compound selected from the class of copper, cobalt and zinc carboxylate where the carboxylate contains from 6 to 22 carbon atoms. Examples of suitable alkali metal carboxylates include sodium octoate, sodium benzoate sodium naphthenate, sodium laurate and sodium and potassium fatty acid carboxylates in general. Tertiary amide compounds include N,N′-dimetheylacetoacetamide, and N,N′ diethylacetoacetamide. Tertiary amines useful in the accelerator compositions include Dimethyl p-toluidine, diethylaniline, dimethylaniline, N,N-bis(2-hydroxyethyl)p-toluidine and N,N-bis-(2-hudroxypropopyl)toluidine. Mercaptans useful in the accelerator include glycol dimercaptoacetate, glycol dimercaptopropionate, Isooctyl 3-mercaptopropionate, pentaerythritol tetra-(3-mercaptopropionate) and trimethylolpropane tri-(3-mercaptopropionate). Each component is usually employed in the range of 0.1 to 5% by weight of the matrix resin. In the case of unsaturated polyester resins it is preferred to employ the identified substituted nitrogen compounds with alkali metal carboxylates whereas in the case of the acrylic resin it is preferred to employ the substituted mercaptans in combination with alkaline earth metal carboxylates. The accelerator of the present invention are necessary elements in the matrix resin composition to achieve desired coating properties but can also be employed optionally in the preparation of the granules.
The coating produced is generally a transparent or highly translucent coating having a sufficient amount of alumina trihydrate therein to mask the color of the object being coated. Such coatings tend to be more stable at temperatures at which conventional gel coats break down. This increased stability may be due to thermal conductivity and thermal dissipation provided by the alumina trihydrate. The subject coatings generally have higher impact strength than coatings currently available on the market. In testing done to date, the subject coatings have been shown to exhibit twice the impact strength and greater hardness than currently available coatings.
The subject composition of matter is normally mixed and then sprayed through a conventional spraying apparatus. Such spraying mechanisms are not described here in detail, but are commonly known to those skilled in the coating art. Alternatively, the composition may be brushed, rolled, curtain walled, or applied by other means.
The following examples show the preparation of granules useful in the coating compositions of the present invention
100 lbs. of white granule polyester composition was made with the following ingredients:
Commercially available isophthalate/
neopentyl glycol resin containing styrene
monomer(Reichhold 32168-20)
Filler - alumina trihydrate
Pigment - titanium dioxide
Light weight filler - 3M glass micro bubbles
Catalyst - "Triganox KSM"
The foregoing polyester composition was blended in a vacuum mixer, where air was removed. Material was then transferred to a closed metal mold and heated in an oven for one (1) hour at 300° F. The resulting cured crosslinked resin was removed from the mold and crushed to not larger than Ľ″ diameter in a granulator. Granulated material was then transferred to pulverizing machinery to create various particle sizes ultimately for suspension in Resin A. The pulverized material was then transferred to classification machinery to segregate the various sizes and eliminate particles not retained on U.S. Mesh 140. Particles finer than U.S. Mesh 140 can increase viscosity and alter color in the final sprayable surfacing material. Black granules were made by replacing the titanium dioxide with carbon black.
100 lbs of the following white acrylic resin granule was made from the following composition
Commercially available.
polymethylmetharylate sirup
containing MMA monomer (Degussa Corp)
Filler - alumina trihydrate
Pigment - titanium dioxide
Light weight filler - 3M glass
Catalyst - Experox 41-25
The acrylic composition was blended in a vacuum mixer, where air was removed. Material was then transferred to a closed metal mold and cured in an oven for one (1) hour at room temperature, and then postcured for 30 min at 212° F. The resulting crosslinked acrylic resin was then comminuted into granules following the procedure as set forth in Example A. Black acrylic resin granules were made by replacing the titanium dioxide with carbon black.
The following exemplify the sprayable coating compositions of the present invention:
Preparation of sprayable polyester coating material containing the following components by weight:
Commercially available crosslinkable isophthalic/
neopentyl glycol resin with styrene monomer
(Reichhold 32168-20).
"3M" micro glass bubbles.
Surface treated alumina trihydrate (ATH)
with an average particle size of 15
microns used for added surface hardening
properties and fire retardency.
50/50 blend of white and black granules as
prepared by the procedure OF Example A.
Sodium, octoate
cobalt octoate
*The ATH is preferably treated with a silane coupling agent to improve the contact between the matrix resin and the filler.
The components of the composition were combined with gentle agitation until the insoluble components were uniformly distributed in the matrix resin resulting in a composition having a viscosity of about 4,000 cps (No. 4 spindle). When combined with a peroxide initiator this composition will rapidly crosslink when sprayed on a hard surface.
Preparation of sprayable acrylic resin coating composition containing the following components by weight:
Methyl methacrylate resin (Degament 1004)
Acrylate urethane (Sartomer CN-991)
Butyl methacrylate
Methyl Methacrylate
Surface treated alumina trihydrate (ATH)
50/50 blend of white and black granules as prepared
by the procedure of Example B
Fumed silica
calcium octoate
Pentaerythritol tetra(3-mercaptopropionate)
Cobalt naphthenate
The components of the composition were combined with gentle agitation until the insoluble components were uniformly distributed in the matrix resin resulting in a composition having a viscosity of about 4,000 cps (No. 4 spindle). When combined with a peroxide initiator, "Eperox 41-25", a commercially available peroxide this composition will rapidly crosslink when sprayed on a hard surface.
Components of Sprayable Polyester Composition
weight %
Isophthalic NPG resin
Polyester resin
with styrene
Isophthalic NPG resin
Polyester resin
With Adipic acid/styrene
Methyl Methacrylate
Acrylic acid
Resin modifier
Aerosil 200
Fumed silica
Silquest A-174NT
Silane coupling agent
Viscosity adjust
Tinuvin 328
UV absorber
Tinuvin 292
Light stabilizer
alumina trihydrate
Filler -
50/50 mixture white and
and black - Example A
Accelerator GC04 Composition
weight %
Isopropanol solvent
Sodium Octoate solution (8% sodium)
Potassium naphthenate
Cobalt naphthenate solution (12% cobalt)
Copper naphthenate solution (8% cobalt)
The components of the composition were combined with gentle agitation until the insoluble components were uniformly distributed in the matrix resin resulting in a composition having a viscosity of about 4,000 cps (No. 4 spindle). When combined with a peroxide initiator, such as methyl ethyl ketone peroxide in a concentration of about 2%, this composition will rapidly crosslink when sprayed on a hard surface.
Preparation of a Sprayable Acrylic Resin Composition
Weight %
Degament 1004
Acrylic resin
Acrylate Urethane resin
Ethylenglycidyl dimethacrylate
Crosslinking monmer
Butyl methacrylate
Methyl Methacrylate
Aerosil 200
Fumed silica
coupling agent
Calcium hydroxide
Zinc octoate
Pentaerythritol Tetra-
alumina trihydrate
50/50 mixture white and
black Example A
The components of the composition were combined with gentle agitation until the insoluble components were uniformly distributed in the matrix resin resulting in a composition having a viscosity of about 4,000 cps (No. 4 spindle). When combined with a peroxide initiator, such as t-butyl monoperoxy maleate in a concentration of about 2%, this composition will rapidly crosslink when sprayed on a hard surface.
A prepared fiberglass mold was used to make a shower enclosure unit. The polyester spraying composition of Example I was combined with 1% by weight of MEK peroxide and sprayed using commercially available spraying equipment onto the surface of the mold to a thickness of 20 mil at room temperature. The sprayed coating rapidly crosslinked without any significant flow of the composition even on the vertical surfaces. The sprayed material was totally cured in 25 minutes at 75° F. Sprayed material was backed with fiberglass reinforced polyester and cured. The fabricated piece released from the mold within 2 hours had a magnificent surface with a gray granite appearance.
A pre-fabricated particleboard with 1.5″ bullnose shaped for a kitchen counter top with backsplash was made. The polyester composition of Example 1 was sprayed over the fabricated counter top making sure to cover all the horizontal and vertical surfaces and bullnosed edge. The sprayed piece completely cured within 20-30 minutes at 75.degree. F. The cured counter top had a textured finish which may be used as sprayed. However, to simulate the texture and look of high polished natural granite, the piece was sanded to a satin finish similar in appearance to a solid surface material such as DUPONT CORIAN and then polished to obtain a glossy surface. The difference between the hardness of. In addition, the specific gravity identity between the matrix and the granules created a three-dimensional look within a clear matrix.
A clear acrylic panel was prepared and vacuum formed to the shape of a bathtub. To the acrylic resin spraying composition of Example I 1% by weight of the composition of PMA catalyst for was added. The above-described coating material was then sprayed using commercially available spraying equipment vertically on its exterior surface. Coating on the panel was cured 25-30 minutes at 75° F. The coating adhered to the acrylic sheet permanently because the acrylic acid in the composition had chemical bonding effects with the acrylic substrate before it became a part of the cross-linking. A combination of fiberglass and resin was applied to the exterior to reinforce the tub. The interior bathtub finish looks like glass-covered granite.
The foregoing examples are deemed to be illustrative and are not to be interpreted as limiting.
|Patente citada
|Fecha de presentación
|Fecha de publicación
|18 Jun 1975
|18 Abr 1978
|E. I. Du Pont De Nemours And Company
|Simulated granite and its preparation
|5 May 1980
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|Ross Gilbert B
|Cultured onyx products and methods therefor
|7 Ago 1986
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|Mountain West Marble & Onyx, Inc.
|Process for forming simulated ornamental stone and product thereof
|20 Ago 1985
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|Mitsubishi Rayon Co., Ltd.
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|4 Ago 1986
|29 Mar 1988
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|29 Sep 1989
|27 Ago 1991
|Nippon Shokubai Kagaku Kogyo Company, Ltd.
|Granite-like artificial stone
|31 Jul 1989
|8 Oct 1991
|David Baskin
|Simulated stone
|2 Nov 1989
|14 Sep 1993
|Ralph Wilson Plastics Company
|Artificial stone compositions, process of producing the same, and apparatus employed in the production thereof
|16 Abr 1992
|15 Feb 1994
|Avonite, Inc.
|Filler and artificial stone made therewith
|29 Jul 1991
|24 May 1994
|Dainippon Ink And Chemicals, Inc.
|Artificial marble
|22 Abr 1993
|19 Dic 1995
|Safas Corporation
|Granite-like coating
|Patente citante
|Fecha de presentación
|Fecha de publicación
|6 Dic 2005
|6 Mar 2012
|Safas Corporation
|Fire resistant sprayable coating composition
|4 Sep 2014
|16 Feb 2016
|Safas Corporation
|Moldable engineered stone
|24 Oct 2013
|18 Oct 2016
|Kohler Co
|Engineered composite material and products produced therefrom
|13 Oct 2016
|16 May 2017
|Kohler Co.
|Method of making an engineered composite material and products produced therefrom
|6 Dic 2005
|7 Jun 2007
|Safas Corporation
|Fire resistant sprayable coating composition
|Clasificación de EE.UU.
|Clasificación internacional
|Clasificación cooperativa
|Clasificación europea
|11 Oct 2005
Owner name: SAFAS CORPORATION, NEW JERSEY
Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:GHAHARY, AKBAR;ZHAO, YIFANG;REEL/FRAME:017087/0289
Effective date: 20050613
|17 Abr 2012
|Fee payment
Year of fee payment: 4
|27 Abr 2016
|Fee payment
Year of fee payment: 8


text: {} {} I just got this guitar used from GC for a steal, and I think this thing has been through hell. I just noticed these cracks too. I just wanted a guitar to noodle around with at home for the next 10+ years, will it still last me that long or should I return it? (Yes I know it's a guitar, but I'm a busy college student, and I trust ya'll. )

subset: commoncrawl


text: A pair of parties toasted the intersection of art and fashion, beginning with DiverseWorks' first-ever Fashion Fete, a hip fundraising event in which Neal Hamil models donned attire designed by local artists such as Elaine Bradford, and last year's Houston magazine Artists of the Year Sharon Engelstein and Aaron Parazette. Co-chairs Liz Gorman, Tiffany Halik and Alton LaDay cheered as looks from boutiques like Settlement Goods and Dryden Kreps also came down the catwalk. ... And at Laura Rathe Fine Art, an event benefiting Texas Children's Hospital had doctors working the runway in gorgeous LBDs. –Photos by Daniel Ortiz


text:
West Michigan Veterans Day Events
Today is Veterans Day, the day when we thank and honor those who have served our country. There are a number of events throughout the day in West Michigan. One of the highlights is tonight's Grand Rapids Veteran's Day Parade at 7:30.
What exactly is Veterans Day? VA.gov explains:
Many people confuse Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Both holidays were established to recognize and honor the men and women who have worn the uniform of the United States Armed Forces. But Memorial Day, which is observed on the last Monday in May, was originally set aside as a day for remembering and honoring military personnel who died in the service of their country, particularly those who died in battle or as a result of wounds sustained in battle.
While those who died are also remembered on Veterans Day, which is observed on November 11, Veterans Day is intended to thank and honor all those who served honorably in the military - in wartime or peacetime. In fact, Veterans Day is largely intended to thank living Veterans for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to our national security are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who served - not only those who died - have sacrificed and done their duty.
There are many ways to honor our veterans today.
The Grand Rapids Veterans Day Parade starts at 7:30 tonight on Division just north of Michigan. The parade will go down Division to Fulton, then take Fulton to Veterans Memorial Park for a ceremony.
WZZM has info on more West Michigan Veterans Day activities.


text:
May 14, 2010 6:38 pm
Your view is pragmatic, but it misses a longer perspective. Intranets evolved roughly 15 years ago. By means of comparison, the telephone began to be widely used around the turn of the last century – and it wasn't until 1927 that direct dialing via rotary switches became available. Who could have anticipated the global reach of billions of mobile devices and the changes they have brought – and those to come?
My point is that we stand at the infancy of intranets, so technology relics like file shares and email still are valuable in a tactical manner despite their shortcomings. Most organizations haven't established their intranets strategically, and like a child learning how to use it's skills and appendages, there will be many missteps and a lot of practice before they find a stride and add value.
May 14, 2010 7:17 pm
OK, so I'm from a small company in which 90% of the time we are all in the same building, so you could say we are the *least* to gain from an intranet (compared to, say, a big global geographically diverse enterprise). Yet our intranet is pretty invaluable. Could we live without it… yeah we could… but only in the same kind of way I could live without coffee.
So what does our intranet do then?
* Time tracking… all our billable time is tracked via a desktop app / web issue tracker and managed/reported via the intranet. ie. its how we get paid. Reports on time per project, cost overruns, what each employee has been working on etc.
* Quote generation. Our intranet has a system for us to generated structured documents (proposals, quotes, etc). Saves me wasting all day with MS Word and having is f%*k up by numbered bullet points every time I blink. I can base a new document on a previous one, it can do all the pagination, layout, cost calculations, etc… I just enter in the content… it gives me a PDF
* Summary dashboards of various systems, eg. commit logs of our source control system
* Calendaring system, with holiday time / sick day tracking, XMPP / SMS / email notification. Syndication to iCal.
* Issue tracking / ToDo lists. Both us and our clients and log issues, this all ties in with the time tracking system above.
* General document sharing (shared drive-type stuff), but with better metadata 😉
* Wikis for knowledge management on various free form technical areas.
So all of the above could be done with discrete tools, and yes we used to do similar with the likes of Roundup, BaseCamp, etc. but our Intranet has now evolved (over about 2-3 years) to be something that really is part of our business.
You mention your previous intranets have mostly been Sharepoint? I don't know what they did, but most sharepoint installations I've seen *are* basically shared drives, with very little actual value add on them.
May 15, 2010 12:19 pm
@ Andy – many thanks for you comment. I agree that in the context of the telephone as a communications device, Intranets are in their infancy but I think if you look at uptake and usage of email and IM as well as the massive growth of Facebook and the iphone in more recent years – the Intranet, as a concept, doesn't have much of an excuse for languishing at the bottom of the to do list. So would I turn these underperforming Intranets into something as popular as the Facebook approach? Absolutely not – from what I've been observing, a Facebook style Intranet would have a negative impact on productivity versus the relatively focused and undistracting environments of shared drives.
@ Matt – that's a good list of killer apps for an Intranet but I'm pretty sure looking through them you could achieve them with some thoughtful combinations of Windows SharePoint Services 'free' templates http://technet.microsoft.com/en-ca/windowsserver/sharepoint/bb407286.aspx – By the same thought process though, even basic Excel 2003 templates can be quite powerful and there are masses of more sophisticated 2007 versions that rival much of the SharePoint functionality I have used in the past. So – functionality, with the simple 'shared drive' UI can be perfectly adaquate for many scenarios.
May 16, 2010 8:35 pm
Well I could achieve many of them with thoughtful combinations of pencil, paper and a carrier pigeon, but that kind of misses the point. As I said, we used to use a number of discrete tools, but over time we integrated them together to form the internet we now how. Some of them we replaces with built-in functionality when that worked out better.
The thought of managing projects with a bunch of Excel spreadsheets accessed via a shared drive-like system, frankly, brings me out in cold sweats.
I guess what I'm trying to say is… if all you use your intranet for is a shared drive, then yes maybe a shared drive-type system would work better for you. But surely the value is in expanding beyond that to encompass actual business processes and procedures that otherwise would be more cumbersome and time consuming to do otherwise?
Michael permalinkMay 17, 2010 10:26 am
In my experience, Intranets often come about because the shared drives end up a mess and they give an easy way to link people to locations hidden about 30 levels down in the drives.
May 18, 2010 7:33 am
Hi Matt,
I've worked in an organisation similar to yours, where web technologies were central to what the business did on a day to day basis and technical literacy was very high.
I'm sure you'd agree though, from your experiences with implementing web solutions for clients, that cultural and business process change are often the biggest challenges these type of initiatives face.
When budgets are tight and focus on ROI is high the question of 'if it works, why try to fix it' gets bigger and bigger – and as I've outlined above I'm really struggling right now to justify putting valuable resources into an area that appears well catered for via other toolsets.
May 18, 2010 9:16 pm
James – you're absolutely correct to look at the question of return.I had more to say, and rather than a too-long comment, I posted a mini case study here: http://andyscherer.com/blog/2010/05/15/what-are-intranets-good-for
Crititcal take-away: 'Intranet-as-repository' has little to no added value. Intranets need to support business processes and reduce complexity and friction if they're going to achieve a return and add sustained value.
May 19, 2010 7:16 am
Andy – thanks for posting your experiences. You make a great point about providing a simplified layer to more complex ebusiness functionality and process. I am about to start pushing forward a similar type of initiative in my current role and I do see that as an opportunity to make the Intranet a useful and compelling destination that will draw people in on a daily basis.
However, as you say observe in your own case study, this initiative comes with a big price tag and therefore a far more complex ROI analysis and business justification. What that means is that we will not be spending in other areas right now so in the short term at least, our shared drive remains our primary internal UI, Excel/Office templates our process tools and email/IM our communications platform.
Many thanks for joining the conversation.


text:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter or margarine
- 3 very ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups self-rising flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted
- Lemon Curd (optional, see recipe)
How to Make It
Beat 1 cup sugar and butter at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy. Add mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla, beating well.
Combine flour and baking soda; add to banana mixture, beating until just combined. Stir in chopped pecans.
Pour into a greased and floured 8-inch loaf pan.
Bake at 350° for 1 hour or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan on a wire rack 10 minutes; remove from pan, and cool completely on wire rack. Serve with Lemon Curd, if desired.


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|10 Nov 2009
BSOD after waking from sleep due to drop in vcore
Hello all,
Glad to see a forum like this. Hope to learn alot.
So I have had my computer overclocked on XP 32 bit for a long time and the machine was perfectly stable.
Now I am running 7, and the machine is stable until I put it in sleep. In order for my oc to be stable I had to add +.125v to the default vcore value. So it is stable at 1.440v and that is how the machine starts up.
The problem only come about if I put the computer to sleep. When it wakes up from sleep the vcore is at 1.312v which causes the computer to bluescreen. (I'm sure it is the lack of voltage, because at a milder overclock it doesn't bluescreen it just isn't stable)
I've updated the bios to the latest one out there, have cool and quiet off. I really can't figure out why it is doing this.
I'd appreciate any help.
|My System Specs
|18 Nov 2009
Hi all, I figured it's been a week so I should probably bump this thread.
I haven't uploaded the dump file because it won't blue screen until I put it under heavy load(stress testing). I know the problem is quite simply too low vcore for an unlocked chip with this type of overclock.
I can't figure out why it drops to the stock vcore upon waking from sleep when everything else remains the same. There is the same CPU muliplier, the same everything except for the cpu voltage.
Any thoughts guys, I would really prefer to be able to sleep this thing instead of having to use hibernate.
|My System Specs
|Thread Tools
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System specs: - Windows 7 Ultimate x64 - PCChips P55G motherboard - Intel Q9400 quad-core - 4GB RAM - NVidia GeForce 9500GT - 500GB Seagate SATA - DVD reader/writer (ATA style) - DVD reader (ATA style)
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Product Description
- Made from 85% Polyurethane & 15% Nylon
- Fabric is Spot Clean
Lorado Faux Leather Fabric
The Lorado Fabric is a faux leather with a textured leather look. Use this fabric as a contrasting pattern at your lakeside cottage, rustic lodge, or log cabin or use it in your western ranch bunk house to coordinate with the western or southwestern motif. Can combine this futon cover with two Bolster pillows or two Accent Throw pillows (Oakley).
Full Futon Cover- 54" x 75"
Bolster Pillow- 8" Diameter x 21
Throw Accent Pillows: 16" Square
|Typically Ships Via
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|Free Curbside/Tailgate Shipping within the Contiguous 48 States
|Usually ships in 2 - 4 weeks


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Ohio bicycle route J??
I'm trying to find the exact roads for Ohio's bicycle route J in the northeast part of the state.
I know it enters Ohio on route 20 near Conneaut. I also pretty much know the route through Trumbull and Mahoning Counties. Anyone have any idea of the route on areas south, like Columbiana and Carroll Counties, or even further south?
Seems state of Ohio doesn't actually provide a map of their state bicycle routes, and it bugs me to have to pay Columbus Outdoor Pursuits for a map of what should be free information.
Steve Z
|All times are GMT -6. The time now is 12:41 AM.


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[WORLD CUP ROSTERS] Some coaches, like the USA's Bob Bradley and England's Fabio
Capello, named a 30-player provisional roster and will wait to see how training camp goes before cutting it down to 23 players for the World Cup. Others, like Brazil's Dunga, didn't waste his time and announced his 23. Then there was North Korea, mysterious as always, which has made no announcement.
The only thing known about North Korea is that it is taking three Japanese-born players, including J-League Kawasaki Frontale striker Jong Tae-Se, dubbed the "Asian Wayne Rooney."
Group A: South Africa | Mexico | France | Uruguay
Group B: Argentina | Nigeria | Greece | South Korea
Group C: USA | England | Slovenia | Algeria
Group D: Germany | Ghana | Serbia | Australia
Group E: Netherlands | Denmark | Cameroon | Japan
Group F: Italy | Paraguay | Slovakia | New Zealand
Group G: Brazil | Portugal | Ivory Coast | North Korea
Group H: Spain | Chile | Honduras | Switzerland


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THE AMANDA MCBROOM PROJECT to Play the Laurie Beechman, 3/8-16
The Amanda McBroom Project: 1 Great Songwriter, 4 Magical Nights, 30 Incredible Women! will play the Laurie Beechman Theatre, March 8, 9, 15, and 16 at 7pm.
The theatre is located at 407 W. 42 Street (Between 9 and 10 Avenues). Reservations: 212.695.6909. Music charge $20. Food/drink minimum $15.
On four magical nights, 30 incredible women will pay tribute to one great songwriter in The Amanda McBroom project, directed by Eric Michael Gillett, with musical direction by Jeff Cubeta. The Laurie Beechman Theatre will host a rotating cast of phenomenal theatrical and cabaret talent as they join together to sing the songs of Amanda McBroom in four unique evenings celebrating the career and music of one of the country's best-loved artists. From "The Rose" and "The Portrait" to "Ship in a Bottle" and "Erroll Flynn," Ms. McBroom's songs have thrilled audiences for decades. Now, hear them as never before, as well as little-known gems from her vast catalogue.
Performers include:
Karen Akers
Stacey Logan
Raissa Katona Bennett
Rosemary Loar
Erin Wegner Brooks
Kelly McDonald
Stephanie D'Abruzzo
Tanya Moberly
Juliana Davis
Carolyn Montgomery-Forant
Shana Farr
Marieann Meringolo
Terese Genecco
Marissa Mulder
Jillian Gottlieb
Christine Reisner
LaTanya Hall
Danielle Erin Rhodes
Elise Holman
Sarah Rice
Leah Jennings
Marta Sanders
Eva Kantor
Jennifer Sheehan
Valerie Lemon
Sonja Stuart
Adriane Lenox
KT Sullivan
Lorinda Lisitza
Melanie Vaughan
Amanda McBroom has been called "the greatest cabaret performer of her generation, an urban poet who writes like an angel and has a voice to match." Her name first came to the attention of the music public when Bette Midler's version of Amanda's song "The Rose" hit number one all over the world. But it was Amanda's performance of her own songs on the Golden Globes, the Grammy awards, and the Tonight Show that launched her career as a singer as well as a songwriter. Her songs have been recorded by the likes of Bette Midler, Barry Manilow, Judy Collins, Barbara Cook, Harry Belafonte, Betty Buckley, The Manhattan Transfer, and Donny Osmond.
Her love of and background in musical theater (she starred in the New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco and European productions of "Jacques Brel Is Alive and Well and Living in Paris," on Broadway in "Seesaw," and in "Sweeney Todd," "A Little Night Music" and "Mame") compelled her to create a musical based on her songs. "Heartbeats" made its debut in Los Angeles and the play has enjoyed over 15 regional Theater Productions around the U.S.
Now, the bright new production of the Amanda McBroom Project, created by Eric Michael Gillett, brings 30 leading ladies of both cabaret and theater to interpret her exquisite songs over a run of four nights. Each evening is uniquely structured and cast from this amazing ensemble of women. (Biographies of the cast will be handed out each evening.)
The show has been directed by Eric Michael Gillett, known as an actor, singer, and director. He has recently performed his own show, "Careless Rhapsody: The Lyrics of Lorenz Hart," at 54 Below to great acclaim. www.ericmichaelgillett.com
Musical director Jeff Cubeta is a vocalist, songwriter, and pianist. He has musical directed numerous shows for Eric Michael Gillett. Watch for the announcement of a solo show of all his original music. www.jeffcubeta.com


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The death toll from flooding across eastern and central Europe rose to at least 87 last night, with tens of thousands of people forced to flee the rising waters. Rescue operations were under way in the Czech Republic, Germany, Russia and Romania, as muddy, stinking floodwater lapped through historic town and city centres.
Politicians and environmentalists called for tougher action to curb global warming, but meteorologists in different parts of the continent were at odds over the cause of the extreme weather.
Rainfall, which in some areas was the highest since records began, had by yesterday morning swollen to bursting point in two big river systems in central Europe, the Danube and the Elbe.
Three people were found dead in Austria, where a 53-year-old man was killed when his truck carrying gravel to repair flood-damaged roads careered into a ditch, and police found two dead men in a car that was believed to have been swept away at the weekend.
The rising waters also threatened the annual Salzburg festival. The river Salzach came close to overflowing its banks and inundating the winding, cobbled streets of Mozart's birthplace.
"The main area affected was upper and lower Austria and Salzburg and in parts of these regions we had rainfall the like of which we have never measured before since records began, over 100 years ago," said Elisabeth Koch of the Austrian centre for meteorology and geophysics.
Her words were echoed at Germany's weather service, which reported that 317 litres (84 gallons) of rain had fallen at a monitoring station in the hills near the Czech border in the 24 hours to yesterday morning - the highest readings since it began records in 1870.
Floodwaters churning over riverbanks south of Dresden drowned a 71-year-old man and burst a dam, setting off a cascade of mud and water that swept away two adults and a child who were still missing last night. Officials said four other people had been reported missing in other parts of south-eastern Germany. Up to 10,000 people were being evacuated, some by boat and helicopter.
In Dresden the fire brigade pumped water out the Semper opera house. A hospital with 620 patients was evacuated overnight and officials were ready to clear another if the Elbe rose further.
In Russia, where floodwaters claimed at least 58 lives at the weekend, up to 4,000 tourists were reported trapped in Shirokaya Balka, a village on the Black sea.
Flooding and strong winds have killed at least seven people in Romania, while torrential rains in Switzerland caused a series of small landslides on Monday.
Speaking during a visit to the flooded Bavarian university town of Passau, Germany's interior minister, Otto Schily, said the floods showed the need for a redoubling of efforts to protect the environment. The environment minister, Jürgen Trittin, said: "If we don't want this development to get worse, then we must continue with the consistent reduction of environmentally harmful greenhouse gases."
Their remarks came less than two weeks before the start of the earth summit in Johannesburg and amid signs of growing impatience in Europe over Washington's rejection of moves to restrain global warming. Gallus Cadonau, the managing director of the Swiss Greina Foundation for the preservation of Alpine rivers and streams, yesterday called for a punitive tariff on US imports to force to cooperation on greenhouse gas emissions. "This definitely has to do with global warming. We must change something now," he said.
The German weather service said: "We are seeing the first indications of climate change. In the last 10 years, the summers have been both very much warmer and very much wetter, which is the origin of the high humidity in the atmosphere."
But the met office in London said: "Computer models [of climate change] suggest extreme rainfall events are most likely in winter. Summers are predicted to be become drier over many parts of Europe."
Danica Leskova of the Slovak Hydrometeorological Institute also warned against jumping to conclusions: "Our memory is too short. Our regular and scientific observations did not begin long enough ago to make such self-assured deductions."
World under water
· The Philippines At least 14 people died and more than 400 were evacuated as heavy rains this week triggered mudslides
· Iran After two days of heavy rain, river banks burst, leaving 35 people dead in the north of the country
· India The north of the country has been hit by torrential rain and landslides, killing 49 people. Floods hit Bihar state, in the east, and several provinces in the north-east, killing 250
· Nepal At least 422 people have been killed, scores are missing and thousands have been left homeless by landslides after weeks of torrential monsoon rains
· Bangladesh Floods and related diseases have killed nearly 80 people in the past month and left thousands without homes
· China A landslide in the south-west of the country killed seven people, and left more than 30 missing yesterday. Heavy rains have killed about 900 people in China this year
The following correction was printed in the Guardian's Corrections and Clarifications column, Friday August 16 2002
Our reference to the rainfall at a weather station in Germany, was confusing as published. We said the station had reported that 317 litres (84 gallons) had fallen. That should have been litres per square metre. The conversion was into US gallons, and was roughly correct. In imperial gallons it would have been about 70.


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Motorola to Release the Droid Razr Fighter?
Motorola is reportedly planning to release a new handset in the Droid Razr line that is now being called the Droid Razr Fighter.
Pictures of this new Razr recently surfaced on a Chinese language forum. The device, being called the Droid Razr Fighter, features a 4.6-inch 720p display similar to the screens featured on HTC's One and the 4.65-inch Galaxy Nexus.
The device that appears in the image also does not have physical capacitive buttons. This allows for Motorola to give it a larger screen.
It also features a smaller bezel. This Droid Razr Fighter could be the next-generation Razr smartphone to be released sometime this year. It is likely to launch on Verizon and be an LTE device as well as feature Google's latest operating system Android 4.0, Ice Cream Sandwich.
Its predecessor, the Motorola Droid Razr should receive the ICS update in the coming months. The upgrades are slated to begin rolling out overseas between the months of April and June.
Motorola is still in the "evaluation and planning" phase with ICS upgrades for the Droid Razr in the U.S. It should launch in the states sometime in the summer.
The Droid Razr was listed as one of the first devices to receive Android 4.0 ever since its launch at the end of last year. It currently comes with Android 2.3, Gingerbread pre-installed. It was also voted as CNET's top smartphone of 2011.
The handset debuted as the "world's thinnest smartphone" being just 7.1mm thick. Whether Motorola will retain that title with this new Razr Fighter model is unclear at the moment.
However, the next Razr smartphone will have to go up against some harsh competitors including the Samsung Galaxy S3 and the new iPhone that are set to launch in the coming months.


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We take a look at some more product from the Undercover Fall/Winter 2009 Collection. In the accessories department the Japanese brand presents a really nice large size backpack, as well as some leather/wool gloves and a winter boot with several velcro straps. Furthermore we like a lot the down vest and down jacket of the season, both featuring an interesting material mix and great details on the upper. The product is now available from The Corner.
More views of the Undercover Fall/Winter 2009 Collection follow after the jump.


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"Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep."
Scott Adams
"Being self-aware is not the absence of mistakes, but the ability to learn and correct them."
"Art is what passion looks like."
Angel Nevaeh
"The Origin Of Innovation and Entrepreneurship Is A Creative Mindset"
Michael Harris
"Changes and new interests, characterize the time periods a head of us unknowingly."
"Don't waste your time trying to please the world when that's something God himself can't even accomplish."
Andrew Haddad
"Martial artist designated to follow disciplines rather than fighting in combat"
Palitha Ariyarathna
Quotes Daddy offers a number of tools for developers and bloggers to integrate quotes into their site including customizable widgets, embeddable quotes and API.
Over 1,000,000 famous quotes and user quotes that you can save to your favorites, share with friends and add to your site, blog or social network.


text: YouTube [ The Best of Mr. T on Twitter By Emerald Catron 02/06/2013 | TheFW Mr. T is back with a new show on BBC Three, and because it's 2013 and all media must infiltrate all forms of social media, he is also now on Twitter... Read More Category: Funny Tags: best of, mr. t, twitter Send to a friend! Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Pin it! Reddit This! Share on Tumblr!


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Jennifer L. Jacobson is the founder of Jacobson Communication.
When it comes to preparing for South by Southwest, there's a lot that attending companies can learn from the zombie apocalypse.
Surviving the environment
1. The days are long. The nights are longer.
If you're looking for a work-vacation, you've come to the wrong place. A typical company day at SXSW starts around 6:00am and ends at 3:00am.
2. Carry reliable weapons
If your cell phone is on the fritz or your laptop is unable to hold more than a 1-hour charge, upgrade. If you rely on it, it has to work. It's also a good idea to carry a charger with you, just in case.
3. Take sleep where and when you can
Remember: SXSW (and the zombie apocalypse) is a marathon, not a sprint. You have to make your energy last, so be sure to budget time for sleep.
4. Carry or secure your possessions
There's no safe place to "set something down" during the zombie apocalypse or SXSW and it's a long, crowded way from the show floor to your hotel room. Bring an appropriate bag to carry everything. There are sometimes rentable lockers near the registration area. If you can't use a locker, lock your valuables up at the booth.
Your Personal Health
5. You will become infected
Everyone gets sick at SXSW. It's a cluster of contagion, so be prepared. Bring your cold medicine and include some flexibility in your team's schedule.
6. Comfortable shoes are a must
Whether you're running from zombies or walking the endless show floors and sidewalks in Austin, comfortable shoes are a must. No heels or painful shoes allowed.
7. If you drink, you still have to function
While water is a necessity to surviving SXSW or the zombie apocalypse, alcohol is not: especially if you have to function. If you're going to drink at SXSW, only have a little, and only when you can relax out of the public eye. You're representing your company—even when you're not at the booth. Make sure your team also understands this.
Your zombie apocalypse team
8. Only go with people you trust
Your SXSW company team should be a tight-knit group that trusts each other. This is not the place to bring loose cannons.
9. The best teams have a plan
Staying current and connected is key to survival. Know what each team member is doing throughout the show, review daily, and make sure you team has everyone's contact information.
10. Frantic activity does not equal survival
SXSW is an easy place to stay busy, whether going to late-night parties, film screenings, or running from one thing to the next…but you need to stay focused. Have a goal for every event you go to. It's not enough to collect 50 business cards. You have to connect with real people—hopefully, the right people, and it has to mean something.
Jennifer L. Jacobson is the founder of Jacobson Communication and a Silicon Valley leader known for helping great companies, organizations, and ideas get the attention they deserve. Her past guest posts at VentureBeat include "5 reasons your startup is failing at PR" and "10 PR mistakes you need to resolve in 2014."
She is also a social media expert and author, known for her book, 42 Rules of Social Media for Small Business.


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42,435 ways to enjoy music...
This product is currently not available for purchase
Ever since its arrival on the scene in 1983, the Les Paul Studio model has been a firm favorite with guitarists looking for Les Paul tone and performance in a down-to-business package that's light on frills, heavy on swagger and easy on the pocket. With the fast SlimTaper neck profile and P-90 pickups, the Les Paul Studio '60s Tribute Darkback is a powerful and surprisingly versatile performer
Product Ref: 23060
Like the most revered Les Paul Standards of all time, this Les Paul Studio '60s Tribute Darkback starts with the classic tonewood combination of a mahogany body with solid carved maple top. Together, these woods offer outstanding tonal depth and richness from the mahogany, with superb clarity and "snap" from the maple. In this model, the strategic placement of several tone chambers enhances resonance while also reducing the guitar's overall weight.
Even in this more affordable instrument from Gibson USA, the glued-in solid-mahogany neck is cut to the superior "quarter-sawn" grain orientation for greater strength and optimum resonance transfer between neck and body. A lack of body and fingerboard binding help to emphasize the no-nonsense approach of this Studio model, but a traditional pickguard and acrylic trapezoidal inlays in the guitar's Baked Maple fingerboard (a hard-wearing, heat-treated hardwood) keep it entirely in the Les Paul family, visually.
To equip the Les Paul Studio '60s Tribute Darkback with timeless tones, Gibson USA loads it with a pair of P-90s, Gibson's legendary, fat single-coil pickups made with genuine Alnico V magnets just like the originals. Offering thick, throaty tones in the neck position and plenty of snarl in the bridge, both pickups exhibit the characteristic slightly gritty bite and edge that has made the P-90 a favorite of blues and rock players for more than six decades.
They are wired through the traditional complement of three-way selector switch and an independent volume and tone control for each pickup, with a high-quality Orange Drop .022uF tone cap on each tone pot. A Tune-o-matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece help to ensure solid sustain and precise intonation, while vintage-style TonePros tuners maintain a traditional look while offering superbly smooth performance. Add it all up, and the Les Paul Studio '60s Tribute Darkback offers outstanding performance and a classic look at a great price.
Body & Bridge:
Pickups & Hardware:
The product price includes 6 years' warranty and 180 day money back guarantee.
However, the Gear4music extended warranty scheme provides an enhanced service, and is designed to offer a higher level of protection than many 'free' warranties offered by some retailers and manufacturers.
The highlights of this enhanced warranty service are:
Please note that this extended warranty is currently only available on products sold within the EU or EEA, and is subject to the terms and conditions as detailed on the extended warranty certificate provided.
For customers in outlying areas of the country, the price of the Extended Warranty may be marginally higher, due to the potential for higher collection and redelivery transport costs.
This enhanced warranty is in addition to the standard Gear4music and manufacturer warranty policies, and the Gear4music terms and conditions of trade. No statement or condition of sale contained within these terms affects or restricts your statutory rights as defined under the Consumer Contracts Regulation 2014.
Once the product is delivered, you have 180 days to decide that you definitely want to keep it. If you decide it is not suitable for any reason, you can return it back to us for replacement or full refund, including standard delivery charges.
All Products are new unless stated, and include a minimum of 2 years warranty.
Some items are only eligible for money back guarantee if they are returned to us unused and sealed in the original packaging, and in the case of software, unregistered. These items include:
We are unable to accept returns of any custom made items designed to work together as a unique package, such as computer system built to a customer's personal specifications. Exceptions may only be possible with prior agreement of the vendor, and may be subject to a cancellation fee.


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While parenting isn't always what you would call 'fun,' the job can lead to a few chuckles now and then. Between kids' bluntly honest remarks and their innocent understanding of the world, there's quite a few opportunities for some sarcasm and inside jokes. Check out these 25 hilarious tweets to get an idea of the embarrassment, comedy, and humor that comes along with being a parent.
1. We all have different approaches to parenting.
2. What a comforting bedtime routine.
3. Fingers crossed and hope to die.
4. Clearly she had boys.
5. There's a place for everyone on the field.
6. Well that escalated quickly.
7. You said it, not us.
8. Dissed by a toddler. It doesn't get better than that.
9. Ask for something more realistic … like a unicorn.
10. They can't be trusted.
11. The truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.
12. That's almost more effective than birth control.
13. Empty the bank accounts and grab your passport.
14. This one's going to Harvard.
15. It's basically a buffet.
16. We could all learn a few things from this genius.
17. Priorities people.
18. … and most definitely the new car.
19. Preaching to the choir.
20. Clearly, that's the problem here.
21. It's a hard lesson to learn.
22. They'll never know.
23. There's no comeback for that one.
24. We're not even going to answer that.
25. It sounds like a terrible world out there.
Can you think of a few times when your kids were brutally honest? Comment your stories below and remember to SHARE this post with your friends on Facebook!


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On Nov. 6, St. Mary's Food Bank Alliance distributed some of the more than 2,200 holiday food boxes earmarked for needy families of Arizona's wounded, deployed and active soldiers to make sure our nation's heroes will have all the trimmings for a traditional holiday meal, as well as extra food to fill their pantries.
The "Turkeys for Troops" program included turkey gift cards donated by the University of Phoenix, Arizona Heroes to Hometowns and other organizations. Each family arriving at the 52nd Armory also received a St. Mary's Holiday Food Box filled with canned pantry items, produce, breads, pastries and all the trimmings necessary for a traditional holiday meal.
• Beverly Stidham, (480) 898-7924 or firstname.lastname@example.com


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TomPalmer.com is at Kramers at a table that's next to "young-DC-powerbroker-wannabe couple." The woman, who is part of this couple, "managed to make roughly every fifth word a vulgarity." Palmer decides to say something: "I addressed her and told her that she had the most vulgar and filthy mouth I had been exposed to in probably at least a year" … While he delivers his admonishment the boyfriend/companion continued to stare at his plate. [Emphasis Added]
Actual explosion email. Wanderingclacla's Weblog. For those of you unaware of Wednesday's fireball by the "fake," made-for-TV explosion. Will it generate 911 calls?
The Artorialist. Just scroll through the entire blogging experience.
Ode to Ethelbert. Chicks Dig Poetry. A post about things that make this writer happy, and a round-up of four major book readings Wednesday night.
Bus wonk: New Circulator Routes don't make much sense, argues Rebuilding Place in the Urban Space


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Binoche: Don't call me a feminist
Juliette Binoche has revealed she is fed up of talking about the struggle older actresses face to get good parts.
The Chocolat star, 47, told The Guardian the debate about how difficult it is for mature women to land leading roles has "been there for ages".
She added: "It's boring! We're kind of feeding this thought in talking about it. If we talk about something else, people will think differently, and we'll change it.
"Because we're responsible, as women - journalist, actress, whoever - just to move on."
The French actress, who will appear in the play Mademoiselle Julie in London's Barbican next year, also said she doesn't consider herself a feminist.
"(I'm) aware of my feminine and masculine parts, sure. (But that term) just puts people in a stereotyped way of thinking," she added.
"I think creation and doing, being active, is more important than talking about it."


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Here at Review Centre we work hard to make sure we are the best place on the internet for honest, unbiased consumer reviews - we are grateful for your help in keeping us that way!
Written on: 07/02/2012
(1 review written)
Well priced, prompt delivery and item as expected. Would shop here again.


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US stocks finished a turbulent day mostly higher as the market bounced back from two straight days of big declines after the Fed set a likely timetable for reeling in its stimulus program. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 41.08 (0.28 percent) to 14,799.40. The broad-based S&P 500 added 4.24 (0.27 percent) to 1,592.43, while the tech-rich Nasdaq Composite Index fell 7.39 (0.22 percent) to 3,357.25. Indices in France, Germany and the UK all opened higher, but tumbled after US Treasury interest rates move sharply higher at midday. US stocks also swooned, but later recovered after several lurches up and down throughout the day. Markets have been on edge since Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke said Wednesday that the Fed planned to taper its bond-buying program later this year. \"The market is trying to regain a little bit, to find its floor and is trying to find if the current levels are what it wants to hold, or whether it wants to see additional legs lower,\" said David Levy, portfolio manager of Kenjol Capital Management. Wells Fargo (up 2.2 percent) and Dow member Procter & Gamble (up 2.9 percent) were among the large companies that posted gains. Dow member Hewlett Packard fell 2.3 percent. Software and cloud computing company Oracle announced it was doubling its dividend and initiating a $12 billion share repurchase program, but shares still sank 9.3 percent on flat quarterly revenues, with sales falling shy of expectations. Morgan Stanley dipped 1.0 percent after announcing that it received regulatory approval to acquire the remaining 35 percent interest in wealth management division Morgan Stanley Smith Barney Holdings from Citigroup for $4.7 billion. Citigroup dropped 2.2 percent. Pharmaceutical company Allergan fell 3.7 percent after Goldman Sachs downgraded the stock to \"neutral.\" Goldman cited valuation and better options within the sector, according to Forbes.com. Bond prices continued their lurch downward. The yield on the 10-year US Treasury rose to 2.51 percent from 2.42 percent Thursday, while the 30-year jumped to 3.57 percent from 3.51 percent. Bond prices move inversely to yields.
GMT 14:54 2017 Sunday ,19 NovemberBahrain Bourse daily trading performance
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GMT 06:51 2017 Friday ,17 NovemberBahrain Bourse daily trading performance
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GMT 15:05 2017 Wednesday ,15 NovemberBahrain Bourse daily trading performance
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GMT 19:56 2017 Tuesday ,14 NovemberBahrain Bourse daily trading performance


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There are a number of ways the easiest is to download one of the 20a/20b build you want to flash. Then flash the zip file and after that is done DO not reboot yet. Next flash the kernel you want and reboot. I've attached the 18a kernel all I did was borrow a zip from Demetris' kernel and then replace the kernel he had in the file with the 18a kernel, so his script might say GPE-ish kernel but it will flash the 18a kernel (I forget what it says). When you reboot you should notice the better gamma setting. The version number of the kernel will stay the same LG was sneaky like that.
Stock LG Leaked Build KOT49I.V50018a + BusyBox + Root
for LG G Pad 8.3 V500 ONLY!
Android 4.4.2 KitKat
Use this at your own risk. I have personally flashed and tested this build on my own device successfully.
I am not responsible for any damage or data loss encountered due whatever reason.
Please ensure that you make a full backup of your system before flashing anything.
Mirror (please use main download link above when possible):
LG-V500_KOT49I.V50018a_Stock-BB-Rooted.zip (hosted on id10terror.net)
73ddd78d135a0cd64e562913b001fa42 LG-V500_KOT49I.V50018a_Stock-BB-Rooted.zip
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@Chainfire - for SuperSU and install script
@jazzruby - BusyBox install script
@Tomsgt - for his cool install tuturial video
I have already installed the drivers for LG on my laptop but still no luck
I have rooted my V500 tablet.
Running STOCK LG G Pad 4.4.2
Androi Version: 4.4.2
Kernel Version: 3.4.0
Build Number: KOT49I.V50020d
Software Version: V50020d
It seems like all theTWRP available online is for users coming from 4.2.2. I alt ready have stock 4.4.2 but I want to install CM11 but no way to install recovery ?
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Certain Light
- Artist: Danny Barca
- Format: CD
- Release Date: 1/16/2007
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A native of the San Francisco Bay Area, Danny Barca has been writing songs since he got his first guitar at the age of 14. His musical meanderings have taken him through many styles- Folk, Jazz, Rock, Latin, Classical, Broadway, etc. As a singer, instrumentalist, and composer. He recently made the decision to leave the dance music behind and focus on writing and performing all original songs. This is his true passion, and the songs come from this wide background of styles. These songs speak of the beauty of the human spirit, the sometimes humerous twists and turns of life, and our eternal connection to the divine. As many of his songs speak of Spiritual themes, he has been performing a lot at New Thought churches, though he often performs at folk festivals and other more secular venues. He has produced 2 CDs to date; 'No Separation' and 'A Certain Light.'


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ST. LOUIS (KMOX)-While he admits it was prompted by editorials critical of a plan to cut state aid for the blind, a Missouri lawmaker says his proposal to repeal tax breaks for newspapers, is not retaliation against a critical press.
Kansas City Republican Ryan Silvey tells KMOX, "I would say retaliation is probably a bit strong, but in reaction to is probably accurate."
Silvey says that since papers have been calling for ending corporate welfare, it should start with them, "I'm not saying that we're taking a stab against the media for a stand they took, we're simply following their advice."
He says this is not a case of government trying to bully the press, "One medium has a tax exemption to the exclusion of all others, and if we remove that it's somehow an attack on freedom of the press? That's just ridiculous.
"It's not retaliation because there are people on the radio who have not necessarily been supportive, there are people on the TV who have not necessarily been supportive and obviously we're not proactively going after them. It's not like we're trying to impose a new tax on the media."
The House budget proposal would take $28 million from medical services for nearly 3,000 blind Missourians and shift it to higher education. The revenue raised by revoking the exemptions for newspapers on things like paper and ink, would raise about $4 million dollars a year, which would go toward the aid for the blind program.
Publishers say the loss of the tax breaks would have a significant impact on them. Silvey says it's not the taxpayers job to prop them up, and if newspapers can't transform with the times, "They need to fall by the wayside as many industries have done before."
Silvey's bill passed out of the Tax Reform Committee committee on a 7-5 vote.


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Artist description:
I drew a Chibi in some type of dream background lol it took me foooorrreeever to get it drawn because my wacom tablet was messing up pretty bad
Flash Draw Created Jan 15, 2010 470 x 338px Unless noted Copyright 2010 De Angel.
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5/5 and faved :D
Awww~so cute..I like it very much 5/5+fav
OMG Adorable1
cute :3
Aww!~ 3 super cute.


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Mr Bourke had paddocks ploughed and was ready to plant winter crops if only the season would break. This week, it started to rain.
It blessed him with 150mm that soaked pastures, flooded creeks and gave a pleasing green tinge to dusty paddocks that had borne the brown taint of drought.
"It's terrific. We planted rye-grass before the rain and it worked out," he said.
While the statewide rain caused minor flooding and millions of dollars in damage to roads, farmers weren't complaining.
Vegetable harvesting and planting in the Lockyer and Fassifern valleys west of Brisbane would be delayed slightly but boosted long-term, while the state's $300 million grain plantings would be beefed up.
Almost two months' worth of drinking water supplies have flowed into southeast Queensland dams, with water grid storages climbing to 89.6 per cent, up 3.2 per cent in 24 hours.
The swollen Bremer River broke its banks at Ipswich but did not enter any premises.
Scenic Rim Regional Council Mayor John Brent said the rain would put millions of dollars into the district.
"We were in serious trouble until this," he said.
He said the harvest of sweetcorn and beans in the Lockyer and Fassifern valleys would be thrown out but no one was complaining.
Ipswich Mayor Paul Pisasale said the rain was a boon.
"We really needed it. It's fantastic but now we'd like it to stop," he said. "The trouble with Mother Nature is you can't just turn her on and off."
Queensland Farmers Federation chief executive Dan Galligan said it was the biggest rain event in a year but still may not be enough for many farmers.
"One rain event does not break a drought," he said.
Meanwhile, Mr Bourke now happily faces a dairy farmer's most welcome complaint – mud churned up around the milking sheds.
Originally published as And a hard rain's falling at last


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I have a nice set of SPD shoes that have old cleats on them. I have a new set of SPDs and cleats. Naturally I'd like to put the new cleats on. Can I shift them? Can I buggery. I've left them soaking in WD40 but I dont hold out hope - anyone got any oldschool tips? I can see me buying new shoes or drilling them out at this rate.
Bike Forum
Removing cleats that haven't moved for a decade
drill them out
Out of interest what shoes are these that have lasted ten years? I've never had more then 3 years out a pair.
I had this problem - once I'd destroyed the socket in the cleat bolts I had to resort to drilling them out. It worked pretty well, I now lubricate my cleat bolts and clean my shoes properly to stop it happening again.
If you haven't completely destroyed yours, try getting a longer lever arm on your Allen key.
Note, don't try picking up your drilled out bolt too fast, it gets damn hot!
Cant remember the exact model, but they're shimano's all-leather, gore lined, neoprene ankled (DH?) boots. Still going strong, but dont get a vast amount of use to be fair, just average.
Much akin to these, but imagine a red and black pair from around the turn of the millenium.
Yep drill and Molegrips required....pretty easy really
assuming you can get the plate out from inside the shoe - drilling the heads off the bolts will be fairly easy.
ive got a pair of boots that the plate doesnt come out. If thats the case and the threaded part of the bolt remains stuck, a really small easyout may do it or use the 2nd holes? buy new booties
I'll investigate in greater depth later, not sure it has removable plates or spare holes - only time will tell!
use a small cooks blow torch just on the bolt head, shifted mine on some old lakes
Re-install with a dab of copper slip.
With those style of shimanos you can usually lift the foot bed and there will be a slot over the cleat plate which you can lift (prod from underside with screwdriver if necessary) and replace the plate.
I used WD40 then an Impact Driver on mine of a similar age.
Came straight out!
I drilled out the bolts on mine when this happened to me. I put the nice new cleats on and then next ride out I ripped the sole right off the shoe - my shoes hadn't survived 15 years being unused very well
Top tip.
Tighten the bolt first to break the rust and then you should be able to undo the bolt without mashing the head.
bigyinn - how does tightening it differ from undoing it (assuming any exposed threaded tip isnt rusted/causing the problem)? Surely you're just as likely to damage the head, if not more?
sound like SH-D100's to me.
cracking boots, but not gore-lined?
Because you wont damage the bolt contact faces needed to undo the bolt. And because it now moves you wont damage the contact faces undoing it if that makes sense?
The key thing is to break the rust seal.
Try using a dot punch and a hammer and tap the bolt in an anti-clockwise direction. Failing that drill the middle of the bolt with a small hole and use a stud extractor to screw it out. (I think you can get them small enough)
smiffy - thats the ones, not gore lined, my mistake. Great boots, always dry warm feet.
bigyinn - didn't work on both boots unfortunately, certainly did on the first though it didnt damage the "do" faces any more than would have been usable on the "undo" faces, enough force was needed on the second boot that the whole socket went circular in one go before the rust seal broke. Got it in the lab to drill out as we speak!
WD40 isn't really for this job. You need Plusgas.
I managed same by using a hacksaw to put a decent slot across the bolt heads and then using a BIG screwdriver to shift bolts. Worked twice for me. Copperslip new ones.
I don't see how getting to plate in shoe helps? Surely there is sole material between the plate and cleat, otherwise what stops em just falling off the boot?
But what do I know?
Topic Closed
This topic has been closed to new replies.


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Maggie Kerkman
Fox News
April 8, 2010
- A d v e r t i s e m e n t
- {openx:49}
The man who's suspected of planting thirty-six bomb-like devices in and around mailboxes in East Texas may have had a beef with the US government. Investigators arrested 52-year old Larry Eugene North yesterday after they say they spotted him planting a device near a shopping center in Tyler. North had been under 24 hour surveillance for about a week. After police arrested North, they found a second explosive device inside North's van.
More than thirty different devices have been found since just the beginning of the year. Some of them were pipe-bombs. Others were Molotov cocktails. Some had been planted inside U.S. mail collection boxes. Others had been left outside businesses. No one was hurt by the devices. The big question that remains is why? Investigators aren't telling because the case is ongoing- but they offered some clues. First Assistant US Attorney Brit Featherstone said it was obvious North "…did not particularly care for the U.S. government" based on what he wrote on the explosive devices themselves. Featherstone also said North had been defrauded of money he had come into because of a lawsuit. Featherston said, "It's fair to say he was irritated with the individuals he thought were responsible for the loss of that money."


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John Deans learned a hard lesson about office politics: Be careful what you say about your boss. Particularly if you're a federal employee investigating possibly illegal fund diversions at Denver International Airport and your boss happens to be the godfather of DIA.
Last year Deans, a criminal investigator with the U.S. Department of Transportation, told another federal official that he suspected U.S. Attorney Henry Solano, DOT Inspector General Mary Schiavo and Secretary of Transportation Federico Pena--Denver's former mayor and DIA point man--of working together to persuade the Federal Aviation Administration to release $35 million to the City of Denver, despite Deans's ongoing probe into the diversion of federal airport funds to non-airport uses.
Less than a month after that conversation, Deans was taken off his much-hampered investigation and transferred to San Francisco. He was subsequently fired for alleged insubordination and improper conduct, and last January he was prohibited from giving a deposition in a civil lawsuit brought by DIA official Richard Boulware, who has made similar charges about the city's misuse of airport funds.
However, a recent report by the Office of Special Counsel, an independent federal agency that investigates claims of retaliation against whistleblowers, concludes that the DOT's allegations against Deans are "unsupportable." The scathing report charges that Deans was fired because he "uncovered and reported to his superiors information about possible diversions of funds from the Denver airports which had the potential to be politically embarrassing to high level government and community leaders."
The OSC has recommended that Deans be reinstated to his post in Denver. Deans, who could not be reached for comment, is on administrative leave while officials mull the OSC findings. But in an affidavit filed a few weeks ago in the Boulware lawsuit, Deans stated that although he was prepared to testify about illegal diversion of federal aviation funds at DIA during both the Pena and Wellington Webb administrations, he had been prevented from giving his deposition on the orders of U.S. Attorney Solano.
Solano, a friend and political ally of Pena's whose family lawyer is Pena's brother, Alfredo, denies having played any role in Deans's dismissal or in blocking his testimony. While he did ban Deans from working with his office based on concerns about Deans's "biases" and professional conduct, Solano says he "was a little surprised that Deans was removed." He adds that an assistant in his office prepared a motion on behalf of DOT to block Deans's deposition but that the motion was never filed. "The Department of Transportation makes the decision on whether he can testify about his work as a federal employee," he says.
Last summer Solano removed himself from two federal grand jury investigations of DIA to stem charges of potential conflicts of interest. An investigation by the Justice Department's Office of Professional Responsibility cleared him of any involvement in the transfer of Deans. But the OSC's review of the affair charges that Deans's ouster was triggered by questions he'd aired about Solano and his links to Pena.
A former FBI man who regularly received high ratings from his DOT superiors, Deans is no stranger to high-profile political tussles. In 1994, while in the midst of a public-corruption probe of Utah's state transportation department, he was indicted in connection with a convoluted federal wiretap case; all charges against him were dismissed by the judge for lack of evidence halfway through the trial. But even that bizarre episode was merely a prelude to the morass Deans found when he began asking questions about how federal aviation funds were being used in Denver.
According to the OSC report, the investigator's troubles began early in 1995, when City Attorney Dan Muse complained to Solano about Deans's inquiry into Denver's spending of airport money for attorneys and lobbyists. Muse apparently believed Deans was leaking information about the investigation to reporters. Deans denied being the source of the leaks, but he continued to run afoul of members of Solano's office on other matters.
In February 1995 Deans was asked not to interview employees of the mayor's office as part of his diversion probe, for fear of jeopardizing an airport investigation being conducted by Solano's office that focused on the Webb administration and contractor King Harris. Deans told OSC investigators that he complied with the request, but Solano charges that Deans continued to pursue the case in various ways. That month Solano flew to Washington to ask DOT Inspector General Schiavo for a special team of auditors and special agents to assist his investigation, but he "specifically asked that Deans not be appointed to the team," the OSC report states.
Shortly after Solano's meeting with Schiavo, the FAA released a payment of $35 million in airport funds to Denver. Deans found the timing odd. At a "youth coaches meeting," he discussed the payment with Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Johns, giving Johns the impression that he suspected Solano, Schiavo and Pena had, as the OSC report puts it, "somehow improperly conspired to persuade the FAA to release the funds."
Johns, who had clashed with Deans on other issues related to Deans's investigations, wrote a memo about the conversation and turned it over to his boss; Solano dispatched it, along with other memoranda concerning Deans's conduct, to Washington. That prompted a visit to Solano from Tod Zinser, the DOT's deputy assistant inspector general for investigations. Zinser instructed department auditors not to discuss issues of airport fund diversions with Deans. On March 20, 1995, at Zinser's request, Solano wrote a letter to Schiavo stating that his office would no longer work with Deans. That same day, Deans was notified that he was being reassigned to San Francisco. He was dismissed three months later.
In its review of the charges, the OSC found little evidence to support the "draconian" transfer and termination of Deans. "The timing of actions by Solano and Zinser is persuasive evidence" that Deans was removed not for legitimate reasons but for his whistleblower activities and for exercising his right to free speech, the report concludes.
Solano says he never discussed FAA funding with Schiavo (a Bush appointee, he points out) or Pena and was "troubled" by Deans's remark. "I was offended by it," he says. "There's never been a question about my honor, my integrity or my truthfulness and candor." But he describes the personal affront as the least of his disagreements with Deans.
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"An investigator should not be talking about such matters in a social context," he says. "When you couple that with some of the other incidents that took place, there was a pattern of problems."
Department of Transportation officials did not respond to requests for comment about the OSC findings. Although a federal personnel board has ordered Deans's temporary reinstatement in Denver, he still hasn't been put back on active duty, prompting the OSC to petition the board for immediate enforcement and possible penalties, including a request to withhold Zinser's salary if DOT fails to comply with the board's order.
To date, none of the numerous city, state and federal probes into DIA have uncovered any evidence of criminal wrongdoing with respect to diversion of airport funds. Three separate DOT inquiries into the city's handling of airport spending have resulted in minor disputes about proper use of airport monies, but otherwise the city has been given a relatively clean bill of health by the feds. Yet Boulware's suit continues to press the charges made by Deans and others that illegal diversions did occur, ranging from the fees paid to law firms and lobbyists to more than $400,000 set aside for planning the Gateway Project, a private development on land adjacent to DIA.
The Boulware suit is scheduled for trial next month. City officials are currently seeking to have it thrown out on technical grounds. If they are unsuccessful, then Deans may finally have an opportunity to tell what he knows where it might matter the most: in a courtroom.


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Maybe the Real Question Is Why Marry at All?
Instead of thinking up new, creative ways to marry people off, maybe we should be thinking about how to stop pressuring everyone to marry.
All at once, although apparently totally by chance, the Knesset agenda is filled with draft laws related to the need to find new...
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Voodoo Science : The Road from Foolishness to Fraud Paperback
by Robert L. (Professor of Physics, University of Maryland) Park
Science fascinates us by its power to surprise. Occasionally, unexpected results that appear to violate accepted laws of nature can herald revolutionary advances in human knowledge.
Many 'revolutionary' discoveries, turn out to be wrong, however, and even eminent scientists have had their careers tarnished, mistakenly thinking that they have made a great discovery.
This is pathological science, in which scientists are subject to self-delusion. And if scientists can sometimes fool themselves, how much easier it is to craft arguments deliberately intended to befuddle jurists with little or no scientific background.
This is junk science, typically consisting of theories of what could be so, with little supporting evidence to prove that it is so.
Sometimes there is no evidence at all. Ancient beliefs in demons and magic still sweep across the modern landscape, but they are now dressed in the language and symbols of science.
This is pseudoscience, which its practitioners may believe to be science, just as witches and faith healers may believe they can call forth supernatural powers.
What may begin as an honest error, has a way of evolving from self-delusion to fraud. As Robert Park points out, the line between foolishness and fraud is thin, and because it is not always easy to tell when that line is crossed, he uses the term voodoo science to cover them all: pathological science, junk science, pseudo-science, and fraudulent science.
His book is intended to help the reader recognize voodoo science and to understand the forces that conspire to keep it alive.
Scientists, Park observes, insist that the cure for voodoo science is to raise the level of scientific literacy.
But what is it that a scientifically literate society should know?
It is not specific knowledge of science that the public needs, Park argues, so much as a scientific world view - an understanding that we live in an orderly universe governed by natural laws that cannot be circumvented by magic or miracles.
- Format: Paperback
- Pages: 240 pages
- Publisher: Oxford University Press
- Publication Date: 21/03/2002
- Category: History of science
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