text:
|Publication number
|Publication type
|Application number
|Publication date
|Oct 31, 2006
|Filing date
|Nov 4, 2003
|Priority date
|Jun 6, 2001
|Fee status
|Also published as
|Publication number
|Jingsong Xia, Richard W. Citta, Scott M. LoPresto, Wenjun Zhang, Hangbin Song
|Original Assignee
|Micronas Semiconductors, Inc.
|Export Citation
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Patent Citations (99), Non-Patent Citations (5), Referenced by (5), Classifications (18), Legal Events (12)
|External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, Espacenet
This application is a continuation of Ser. No. 09/875,720 Jun. 6, 2001 U.S. Pat. No. 6,829,297.
Equalizers are an important element in many diverse digital information applications, such as voice, data, and video communications. These applications employ a variety of transmission media. Although the various media have differing transmission characteristics, none of them is perfect. That is, every medium induces variation into the transmitted signal, such as frequency-dependent phase and amplitude distortion, multipath reception, other kinds of ghosting, such as voice echoes, and Rayleigh fading. In addition to channel distortion, virtually every sort of transmission also suffers from noise, such as additive white gausian noise ("AWGN"). Equalizers are therefore used as acoustic echo cancelers (for example in full-duplex speakerphones), video deghosters (for example in digital television or digital cable transmissions), signal conditioners for wireless modems and telephony, and other such applications.
One important source of error is intersymbol interference ("ISI"). ISI occurs when pulsed information, such as an amplitude modulated digital transmission, is transmitted over an analog channel, such as, for example, a phone line or an aerial broadcast. The original signal begins as a reasonable approximation of a discrete time sequence, but the received signal is a continuous time signal. The shape of the impulse train is smeared or spread by the transmission into a differentiable signal whose peaks relate to the amplitudes of the original pulses. This signal is read by digital hardware, which periodically samples the received signal.
Each pulse produces a signal that typically approximates a sinc wave. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that a sinc wave is characterized by a series of peaks centered about a central peak, with the amplitude of the peaks monotonically decreasing as the distance from the central peak increases. Similarly, the sinc wave has a series of troughs having a monotonically decreasing amplitude with increasing distance from the central peak. Typically, the period of these peaks is on the order of the sampling rate of the receiving hardware. Therefore, the amplitude at one sampling point in the signal is affected not only by the amplitude of a pulse corresponding to that point in the transmitted signal, but by contributions from pulses corresponding to other bits in the transmission stream. In other words, the portion of a signal created to correspond to one symbol in the transmission stream tends to make unwanted contributions to the portion of the received signal corresponding to other symbols in the transmission stream.
This effect can theoretically be eliminated by proper shaping of the pulses, for example by generating pulses that have zero values at regular intervals corresponding to the sampling rate. However, this pulse shaping will be defeated by the channel distortion, which will smear or spread the pulses during transmission. Consequently, another means of error control is necessary. Most digital applications therefore employ equalization in order to filter out ISI and channel distortion.
Generally, two types of equalization are employed to achieve this goal: automatic synthesis and adaptation. In automatic synthesis methods, the equalizer typically compares a received time-domain reference signal to a stored copy of the undistorted training signal. By comparing the two, a time-domain error signal is determined that may be used to calculate the coefficient of an inverse function (filter). The formulation of this inverse function may be accomplished strictly in the time domain, as is done in Zero Forcing Equalization ("ZFE") and Least Mean Square ("LMS") systems. Other methods involve conversion of the received training signal to a spectral representation. A spectral inverse response can then be calculated to compensate for the channel distortion. This inverse spectrum is then converted back to a time-domain representation so that filter tap weights can be extracted.
In adaptive equalization the equalizer attempts to minimize an error signal based on the difference between the output of the equalizer and the estimate of the transmitted signal, which is generated by a "decision device." In other words, the equalizer filter outputs a sample, the decision device determines what value was most likely transmitted, and the adaptation logic attempts to keep the difference between the two small. The main idea is that the receiver takes advantage of the knowledge of the discrete levels possible in the transmitted pulses. When the decision device quantizes the equalizer output, it is essentially discarding received noise. A crucial distinction between adaptive and automatic synthesis equalization is that adaptive equalization does not require a training signal.
Error control coding generally falls into one of two major categories: convolutional coding and block coding (such as Reed-Solomon and Golay coding). At least one purpose of equalization is to permit the generation of a mathematical "filter" that is the inverse function of the channel distortion, so that the received signal can be converted back to something more closely approximating the transmitted signal. By encoding the data into additional symbols, additional information can be included in the transmitted signal that the decoder can use to improve the accuracy of the interpretation of the received signal. Of course, this additional accuracy is achieved either at the cost of the additional bandwidth necessary to transmit the additional characters, or of the additional energy necessary to transmit at a higher frequency.
A convolutional encoder comprises a K-stage shift register into which data is clocked. The value K is called the "constraint length" of the code. The shift register is tapped at various points according to the code polynomials chosen. Several tap sets are chosen according to the code rate. The code rate is expressed as a fraction. For example, a � rate convolutional encoder produces an output having exactly twice as many symbols as the input. Typically, the set of tapped data is summed modulo-2 (i.e., the XOR operation is applied) to create one of the encoded output symbols. For example, a simple K=3, � rate convolutional encoder might form one bit of the output by modulo-2-summing the first and third bits in the 3-stage shift register, and form another bit by modulo-2-summing all three bits.
A convolutional decoder typically works by generating hypotheses about the originally transmitted data, running those hypotheses through a copy of the appropriate convolutional encoder, and comparing the encoded results with the encoded signal (including noise) that was received. The decoder generates a "metric" for each hypothesis it considers. The "metric" is a numerical value corresponding to the degree of confidence the decoder has in the corresponding hypothesis. A decoder can be either serial or parallel—that is, it can pursue either one hypothesis at a time, or several.
One important advantage of convolutional encoding over block encoding is that convolutional decoders can easily use "soft decision" information. "Soft decision" information essentially means producing output that retains information about the metrics, rather than simply selecting one hypothesis as the "correct" answer. For an overly-simplistic example, if a single symbol is determined by the decoder to have an 80% likelihood of having been a "1" in the transmission signal, and only a 20% chance of having been a "0", a "hard decision" would simply return a value of 1 for that symbol. However, a "soft decision" would return a value of 0.8, or perhaps some other value corresponding to that distribution of probabilities, in order to permit other hardware downstream to make further decisions based on that degree of confidence.
Block coding, on the other hand, has a greater ability to handle larger data blocks, and a greater ability to handle burst errors.
The decision device 226 is typically a hard decision device, such as a slicer. For example, in an 8VSB system, the slicer can be a decision device based upon the received signal magnitude, with decision values of 0,�2, 4, and �6, in order to sort the input into symbols corresponding to the normalized signal values of �1, �3, �5, and �7. For another example, the slicer can be multi-dimensional, such as those used in quadrature amplitude modulation ("QAM") systems.
The controller 228 receives the input data and the output data and generates filter coefficients for both the FIR filter 222 and the decision feedback filter 224. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous methods suitable for generating these coefficients, including LMS and RLS algorithms.
Typically, the trellis decoder 350 uses a Viterbi algorithm to decode the signal encoded by the 8 VSB trellis encoder 400. Typically, the trellis decoder 350 has a large number of stages—most often 16 or 24. The decoded output 229 is de-interleaved by the de-interleaver 140, and then sent to the outer decoder 150.
It will be appreciated that the equalizer 120 cannot converge if the decision device 226 makes too many errors. For example, it is believed that if a slicer 226 has an error rate greater than about 0.1 the equalizer will not converge. Therefore, at start up, when there are large channel distortions, equalizer 120 cannot start to work. It has to use training signals, if available, to compensate for the channel distortion, or use a different type of algorithm, such as blind equalization, to converge. Using the training signals alone, or in combination with blind equalization may still not be sufficient to converge. Even if they are sufficient, it can be difficult to determine this fact, or at what point the compensation becomes acceptable. Furthermore, in blind equalization methods the feedback portion of the equalizer 120 is not based on decisions from the decision device 226, and therefore a much higher resolution is required. Consequently, hardware that is substantially more complex may be required.
Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that during operation of an equalizer 120 it is desirable to reduce the step size when the signal-to-noise ratio is lower. To achieve that end, a stop-and-go algorithm could be used to stop the DFE 224 when the signal-to-noise ratio falls below some threshold. However, it can be difficult to determine the signal-to-noise ratio from instant to instant during operation. Therefore, most systems employing such an algorithm improve performance only under certain circumstances, and at the cost of poorer performance under other conditions.
What is needed is an equalizer in which the step size is adjusted in relation to the error rate from the decision device. The present invention is directed towards meeting these needs, as well as providing other advantages over prior equalizers.
A first embodiment adaptive equalizer comprises: a decision device; a decision feedback equalizer coupled to the decision device; an FIR filter coupled to the decision device; and a trellis decoder coupled to the decision device, adapted to provide a reliability output and a decoded output. An error signal is generated by subtracting an output of the decision feedback equalizer from an output of the decision device, the error signal being used to update coefficients of the taps of the FIR filter and the decision feedback equalizer. A magnitude of the change to the coefficients is selected based at least in part the reliability output of the trellis decoder.
A second embodiment adaptive equalizer comprises: a slicer; a decision feedback equalizer coupled to the slicer; an FIR filter coupled to the decision device; and a Viterbi decoder coupled to the decision device, adapted to provide a eliability output and a decoded output. The Viterbi decoder determines the reliability output by generating a soft output from each decoding stage of the Viterbi decoder, each soft output being equal to the difference between an accumulated metric of a survive path and a deleted path for the decoding stage, the soft output of a final decoding stage being used as the reliability output. An error signal is generated by subtracting an output of the equalizer from an output of the decision device, the error signal being used to update coefficients of the taps of the FIR filter and the decision feedback equalizer. A magnitude of the change to the coefficients is selected based at least in part the reliability output of the trellis decoder.
A third embodiment adaptive equalizer comprises: a decision device; an FIR filter coupled to the decision device; a decision feedback equalizer coupled to the decision device; and a trellis decoder coupled to the decision device and adapted to produce a reliability output and a decoded output. The error signal is generated by subtracting a delayed output of the equalizer from an output of the trellis decoder. A magnitude of change in the coefficients is selected based at least in part upon the reliability output.
A fourth embodiment adaptive equalizer comprises: a slicer; an FIR filter coupled to the slicer; a DFE coupled to the slicer; a Viterbi decoder coupled to the decision device and adapted to produce a reliability output and a decoded output; and a mapper coupled to receive the decoded output of the Viterbi decoder and to generate a mapped and scaled output. The error signal is generated by delaying an output of the DFE by a number of cycles equal to a number of cylces the Viterbi decoder uses to generate the reliability output and subtracting the delayed output of the DFE from an output of the Viterbi decoder. A magnitude of change in the coefficients is selected based at least in part upon the reliability output and at least in part upon the error signal.
For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, and alterations and modifications in the illustrated device, and further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein are herein contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates. In particular, although the invention is discussed in terms of an 8VSB system, it is contemplated that the invention can be used with other types of modulation coding, including, for example, QAM and offset-QAM.
In certain embodiments, the trellis decoder 350 is a Viterbi decoder. As is known in the art, a Viterbi decoder compares two possible state transitions at each bit and determines which is the more likely to correspond to the originally transmitted signal. In the equalizers 700 employing a Viterbi decoder 350, at each decoding stage the decoding output is coupled with a soft output corresponding to the difference between the accumulated metric of the survive path and the deleted path. When the decoder reaches the last decoding stage, the decoded output 229 is determined along with the final soft output, which is used as the reliability signal 717.
It will be appreciated that there are many possible soft decoding algorithms available for decoding a trellis encoded signal, and that any of these soft decoding algorithms can be used to generate a reliability signal 717. It will also be appreciated that the reliability signal can be generated from any stage in the trellis decoder, though, generally, the later the stage used, the fewer decoding errors that will remain, so the more precisely the reliability signal 717 will correspond to the decoding quality.
It will be appreciated that by giving a lower weight to an unreliable error signal 723, such as is experienced at start up, the DFE 224 in the equalizer 700 can converge (albeit more slowly) due to the smaller step size, which permits averaging over a larger number of symbols. Conversely, when the reliability is higher, the error signal will be weighted more heavily, permitting faster convergence.
It will also be appreciated that the benefits of adjusting the step size can permit these improvements without the need to stop the DFE 224 entirely during periods of low reliability. In other words, the variable step size is an alternative to a start-and-stop algorithm in which the DFE 224 need not be hard-switched. Thus, the DFE 224 always works with decisions from the decision device 226. The DFE 224 in the equalizer 700 can therefore use a lower resolution and simpler hardware than would be necessary in an equalizer 120 employing a stop-and-go algorithm.
In certain other embodiments, an equalizer 700 according to the present invention employs a stop-and-go algorithm triggered by the value of the reliability signal 717. In certain of these embodiments, the DFE 224 and FIR filter 222 update their coefficients when the reliability signal 717 corresponds to a value above a pre-selected threshold. Such alternative embodiments are well suited for coping with impulse noise and severe but instantaneous channel distortions, since they can prevent the coefficients from being updated when the decision error rate is high enough to cause divergence, yet require little additional hardware relative to prior adaptive equalizers. Furthermore, even at startup, the equalizer 700 will converge, since the error signal generated from unreliable symbols will be ignored.
It will be appreciated that some encoding schemes have multiple independent encoders running in parallel. For example, in the 8 VSB system, there are typically 12 encoders. Typically, trellis code intrasegment interleaving is used in such systems. This uses a corresponding number of identical trellis encoders and precoders operating on interleaved data symbols. In a system with 12 parallel encoders, for example, the code interleaving is accomplished by encoding the 0th, 12th, 24th . . . symbols as on group, the 1st, 13th, 25th . . . symbols as a second group, the 2nd, 14th, 26th . . . symbols as a third group, and so on for a total of 12 groups.
While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the preferred embodiment has been shown and described and that all changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the invention are desired to be protected.
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|U.S. Classification
|International Classification
|Cooperative Classification
|European Classification
|Nov 4, 2003
Owner name: LINX ELECTRONICS, INC., INDIANA
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Clothes, But No Cigar
Good morning and greetings, springtime fans. Well, March Madness got underway on Thursday, and it was the greatest opening day in 35 years, as there was major drama, wild upsets and fabulous finishes.
Then Friday started off with the Duke Blue Devils, picked in these pages last week by college guru Dr. Michael Schur and my son Jason to win it all, go flaming down in defeat to the Mercer Bears. It was upset city, baby, as brackets around the nation started crumbling.
Having surveyed the remaining field, despite their opening round loss, the good doctor still likes the Blue Devils to cut down the nets in Arlington.
So we have gone from a field of 64 teams down to the Sweet 16, which just happens to be the age of my ice cream scooping daughter Aimee, who performs her sundae-making, milk shaking, chocolate covered strawberry magic at Sweet Treats on Mission Street, when she's not hostessing or waitressing at the new "Your Place' restaurant next door.
At her tender age, she can work 48 hours a week, and she is going for the gold. Or should I say the green?
Now this is basically her first real job, and she's hit the ground sprinting. She's got that strong work ethic, as she believes in its inherent ability to strengthen her character. And buy clothes.
As she told me the other day, "Dad, those on top of the mountain didn't just fall there." Or as columnist Ann Landers once tweeted out, "Nobody has ever drowned in their own sweat."
Her new occupation struck a chord with me, as when I was her age, I took a summer job in the Garment Center in Manhattan, New York. As defined by the boys and girls at Wikipeda, "The Garment District is a dense concentration of fashion-related companies, home to the majority of New York's showrooms and major fashion labels." It's packed into an area less than one square mile, just down the road from the very seedy Times Square district. And with not a tree in sight.
This was back in the years before Mayor Rudy Guiliani rode in and cleaned up the area, and if you were looking for sex shops, adult theatres or a little companionship for an hour, Times Square was the place to be. Or as the welcome sign reads down at the Manhattan Visitors Center, "New York. New Jersey is our bitch."
As a child growing up in the aforementioned Garden State, I would take the bus into the Big Apple with my father. We'd hop off and head to the Greek barbershop on 42nd street, where he'd get a haircut and I was first introduced to the wonders of Playboy magazine. Of course, I only read the interviews.
Then we would head up the street to Tad's Steak House to dine on salad, garlic bread, baked potato and steak for just $1.29. Fantastic. Of course, the taste of that steak would ruminate through my digestive system for days, but it was worth it.
The Garment District is the center for fashion manufacturing and design in the U.S. For me, it was to be a lucrative adventure, as I was a young man on the loose on the mean streets of New York.
I thought I was being hired as a showroom model, but ended up working in the shipping department of a company called Judy Bee, a manufacturer of children's clothing. We were shipping out garments to all the major stores in the tri-state area, and I was responsible for making sure the right dresses got on the racks that the truckers came to pick up. It was interesting work, as I was the youngest person in the shipping department and certainly the only one with a possibility of one day landing on the Dean's List.
I would take the bus through the Lincoln Tunnel and be deposited at the New York Port Authority on 41st Street. From there it was just a short walk through the bustle and the hustlers to work. Most of my fellow workers were immigrants from throughout the hemisphere. It was a melting pot of working souls.
Sometimes we had to deliver our goods to trucking facilities, so we would take the racks down the freight elevator and hit the pavement of the Big Apple. It was wild scene, pushing racks of clothing by whizzing taxis through the streets of Manhattan. For me, this was a summer job. For everyone else, it was their pasts and their futures.
The man running the shipping department was an older gentlemen from the Caribbean named Danny, and a few weeks into my employment he suffered a heart attack. I guess there were limited replacement candidates available, as they offered me the opportunity to take over running the department at a very tender age.
I was thrilled at the time, because of two words. Overtime pay.
I then began working a fourteen hour day. My parents were traveling in Europe and neither of my brothers were around, so I was home alone with our golden retriever. I basically woke up, went to work, came home and then repeated the pattern, as the hours on my time card took on a life of their own.
One of the thrills was when the day shift ended, and I got to order out dinner from one of the many restaurants in the area. I was living large, and although Danny came back to work and ended my brief in foray into management, I look back upon that time with a smile. It was day to day grind, but the my spirits were high and my paychecks kept rising.
Now I didn't want to make it my life's work, and I turned down an invitation to go back again the next summer. It was a time of learning, yearning, but especially earning. Opportunity knocked on my door and I answered it. I knew if I hadn't, that it would be ringing my doorbell for years.
So for today's photo chronicles we are going back to the final morning of 2013. The clouds were positioned a little further to the east than normal, so I shot this sunrise along a different section of West Cliff Drive. The clouds did their job as they rotated from red to orange to tangerine. After the sun rose, I took the final shot from Bird Rock to take in the waves, the lighthouse and the sky, all in one final December scoop.
On to some late night humor. "President Obama released his March Madness bracket this morning, picking Michigan State to win the tournament. In response, Vladimir Putin started moving troops into Gonzaga. The Obama administration announced it is going to require colleges and vocational schools to demonstrate that they are properly preparing students for jobs after college. So don't be surprised if your chemistry class tomorrow is all about how to make a cappuccino." –Seth Meyers
"Vice President Biden said today that the U.S. is considering sending troops to the Baltic states bordering Russia. According to Biden, the Baltic states are the territories located just past Boardwalk and Park Place." –Seth Meyers "Some American cities go all out for St. Patrick's Day. In Chicago they dye the river green. In Boston everyone wears green. In Colorado, they smoke the green. Then someone tells them it's St. Patrick's Day." – Criag Ferguson
"St. Patrick's Day is a huge deal here in New York City. Two million people turned out today for the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade. It's the one parade where the horses are the ones that have to watch where they step. Lawmakers here in New York are considering a plan to bring slot machines to LaGuardia Airport. Of course there's always that other way to gamble at LaGuardia — checking a bag." – Jimmy Fallon
So that's our first post for spring 2014. We'll catch you perhaps rethinking your plans about entering the NBA draft and going back to college for another year. Aloha, mahalo and later, Jabari Parker and Andrew Wiggins fans.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
My Nonprofit Reviews
Review for Hospice Volunteers Of Waterville Area, Waterville, ME, USA
When my husband and son both died in 1988 there were NO bereavement support services available in Central Maine. My family got
through it but had there been a place to go like the Hospice Volunteers of Waterville Area Community Center the journey would have been
much less painful. That life experience coupled with my 20years nursing experience feeds my passion for the programs and services at
HVWA and led to my subsequent committment to make a difference for others who are dealing with a dying family member and the
aftermath of profound loss. I am proud of and believe strongly in the staff, board and volunteers at HVWA, as well as the many community
members, who pour their hearts, skills and vision into making sure that HVWA's programs and services continue to grow and prosper. I
encourage you to support HVWA - death touches us all in one way or another and when it touches you I promise you that the people and
services at Hospice Volunteers of Waterville Area will be a resource you will find invaluable! Dale Marie Clark, (Retired) Executive Director
More Feedback
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
Through volunteering and as a staff member I have been touched and grown personally and professionally. Time and time again I am inspired by the dedication of HVWA Volunteers and by the courage of the people served by the organization.
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Help HVWA secure financial security so the programs and services will continue to grow and prosper according to community needs.
Would you volunteer for this group again?
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Quite well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Did your volunteer experience have an effect on you? (teaching you a new skill, or introducing new friends, etc.)
Rewarding, valuable and life changing.
How did this volunteer experience make you feel?
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?


text:
Legendary. Insightful. Uncompromising. Candid. Uncensored. Mr. October and Hoot Gibson unfortunately never faced each other on the field. But now, in Sixty Feet, Six Inches, these two legends open up in fascinating detail about the game they love and how it was, is, and should be played. Their one-of-a-kind insider stories recall a who's who of baseball nobility, including Willie Mays, Alex Rodriguez, Hank Aaron, Albert Pujols, Billy Martin, and Joe Torre. This is an unforgettable baseball history by two of its most influential superstars.
©2009 Bob Gibson; (P)2009 Random House
"If you want to understand baseball's game inside the game between the pitcher and the hitter, this is it. Two of the greats have written a classic." (Willie Mays)
This is the first time I've ever just stopped listening to a book and deleted it. I'm a die hard baseball fan but this is just a mish mash of self serving drivel from clearly 2 of the most talented, but self absorbed athletes of out time...don't waste your credits on this one !!
"Great book for any baseball fan"
This book has great back and forth with two of the best players at their positions. Also some very sad parts that both of these players had to go through on their rise to the top. The racism both had to deal with, I grew up 5 miles from where Reggie did and to hear what he had to go through with the same little league I went threw.
Report Inappropriate Content
If you find this review inappropriate and think it should be removed from our site, let us know. This report will be reviewed by Audible and we will take appropriate action.


text:
2009 Solar Decathlon house arrives on Illinois campus
ECE News
Laurel Bollinger, ECE ILLINOIS
Story Highlights
- Illinois' Solar Decathalon team received delivery of the Gable House from Homeway Homes.
- Homeway has spent the last two years collaborating with the Illinois team.
- Illinois' team has until October to put the finishing touches on the house before competition.
After working for the last year and a half, the students involved with the 2009 Solar Decathlon finally received the most important part of the project: the house.
The Illinois team worked with Homeway Homes, a company in Goodfield, Ill., on the design and construction of the house, which was named Gable Home. The house was delivered on Monday, June 15, at its site by the Turner Hall greenhouses on Dorner Drive, south of the ACES Library.
Architecture students on the Gable Home team were there to help set up the site and unload the house. Senior architecture major Ryan Abendroth said that this moment had been a long time coming. "It feels pretty good. It's kind of a relief to have it here," said Abendroth. "We've been working on it for about a year and a half now. So it will be great to get it in place."
However, now that the house is on site there is no time to relax with plenty of work ahead of the team. "We have to do all the siding and roofing, putting in all the appliances and fixtures," Abendroth said. "We need to do all the interior work so even though we have a good few months to do it, it'll be hard to get it all done."
Fellow architecture student Philip Dimick shared in Abendroth's excitement. "It feels good because a lot of people have spent a lot of time on this project so we're happy that we can start finishing it," said Dimick.
Dimick also said that the team has already seen their hard work pay off. "We've been among the few groups participating in the Decathlon that have had all the plans approved and one of only three groups out of 20 that submitted everything on June 2nd on time," said Dimick.
Commercial and Multi-Family Sales Consultant for Homeway Homes Steven J. Venden spent the last two years collaborating with the Illinois team, helping to design this project and was also very happy to have it completed and delivered to the students. "We are very proud of the work we did in collaboration with the University and the students and faculty involved," said Venden.
Venden said that Homeway Homes works on projects similar in design to this house every year, but this particular model had its own differences that complicated and prolonged the process. "Homeway Homes sets over 250 modules per year so this type of set is very common," said Venden. "The shape of this passive house created a few variations which we were able to handle."
Now that the home is delivered the student teams have until October to finish and make sure that the house will meet all the requirements of the Decathlon. As ECE Associate Professor Patrick Lyle Chapman, the principal investigator for the Gable Home project, said, "The delivery of the house marks the end of a long, interdisciplinary design and engineering phase. It marks a new phase of testing and verification leading up to the competition."
About the Solar Decathlon
Sponsored by the Department of Energy, the Solar Decathlon brings together teams from colleges and universities to design, build, and operate solar-powered houses. Among the focuses of the competition are the attractiveness, effectiveness, and energy-efficiency of the completed houses. And among the goals are educating the participants about the benefits of energy efficiency, renewable energy, and green technologies; raising awareness among the public regarding these technologies; and fostering collaboration among students of differing academic disciplines.
For more information on the Illinois Solar Decathlon team, visit www.solardecathlon.illinois.edu.


text:
ABOUT 1,000 people joined a community event on an Oxford estate arranged to coincide with a resident's 100th birthday.
The annual Barton Bash is usually held in either August or November, but organisers made the decision to bring it forward to celebrate Dorothy Pearce's centenary on Saturday.
And the heavy downpours did not stop the crowds pouring to the Neighbourhood Centre, in Underhill Circus, for the free event, which organisers say attracted hundreds of people. The day included judo demonstrations, dancing, face-painting.
Barton Community Association secretary Sue Holden said: "Because of the weather we did have our apprehensions, but it was absolutely brilliant."
Visitors also sang Happy Birthday to Ms Pearce, below at the bash. The centenarian, of Stowford Road, has lived in Oxford since the 1940s.
She said she was surprised the event had been moved for her, adding: "Everyone was so jolly and happy. I enjoyed it very much. I did not know they were doing this just for me. My family have come up from Wales and it was really nice seeing them all. I haven't seen many of them for a long time."
Mrs Holden said: "Dorothy is still an active volunteer with us and we had to acknowledge her. It is in honour and celebration of Dorothy."
Our top stories:
- Helicopters land on school field to launch Oxford Poppy Appeal
- WESTGATE: Major clothing brand announces it will open store
- Veterans remember soldiers who died at Battle of Passchendaele
- American-style restaurant chain wants to open at the new Westgate Centre
- New faces around the county council cabinet table
- Oxfordshire detective is a contestant on Channel 4 survival show The Island with Bear Grylls


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ADELAIDE ACCOMMODATION - The Wright
House, Adelaide City
Confirmation within 24hr
From $209 per night {{quote.pricing.message}} Total {{quote.pricing.price | format:'currency':'short'}} for
Min 5 - 7 nights stay
This 2 bedroom 1 king & 1 queen or 4 singles, 2 ensuite bathroom property is located on Wright Street in the City of Adelaide.
The open plan living area comprising kitchen, dinning and lounge is fitted out with leather sofas, LCD TV and home theatre system, a full sized modern kitchen with European appliances, and dining table seating 6.
Adjacent to the downstairs living area is an additional toilet and separate laundry.
The property is secure, with a gated front courtyard leading to the front door and rear lockable roller door. Other features include ducted air-conditioning and a second floor balcony off the master bedroom.
Inner City location around the corner from the Central Market and Victoria Square
The property is located on the Western side of the Adelaide CBD, within walking distance to all of the CBD's shopping and tourist attractions, as well as the City's public transport. Well located for Adelaide Airport, or a short drive or tram ride to popular and vibrant Glenelg Beach.
The property is situated just a stones throw from Adelaide's famous Central Market the largest undercover produce market in the southern hemisphere, where you can experience the international flavours and vibrancy of South Australia's multicultural community.
Bordering the Central Market is Gouger Street, where you can experiences Adelaide dining at its best, encompassing a vast of international cuisines and award winning restaurants. If you're after a more laid back atmosphere, or just a quick bite to eat, visit the authentic Asian eateries of Chinatown, located adjacent to the Central Market.
Whether it be theater, food or fashion, or just visiting family or friends, The Wright is perfectly situated and furnished to make your stay in Adelaide as enjoyable as possible.
About the property
Two storey property
2 bedrooms both with ensuite bathrooms
Additional toilet downstairs
Split system air-conditioning 1 unit in each upstairs bedroom, and 1 unit down stairs
Portacot & high chair by prior arrangement
CD player, DVD player, TV
Wireless broadband Internet access by prior arrangement - fee applies
Full kitchen
Washing machine
Bed & bath linen supplied no beach towels
1 secure undercover off-street car park
No smoking inside the property
No pets
We accept MasterCard, VISA and AMEX fees applicable. We also accept bank-to-bank transfers. "For your added security, this property is only managed in Australia and we never request payments be made to overseas bank accounts"
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Prices listed based on 2 adults. Property has 4 beds and can sleep a maximum 6 people.
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text:
The 50-something Chandu Chhada is not your regular Page Three celebrity. And the India-born, Hong Kong-based architect and interior designer is seldom in the news.
But he's among hospitality industry's most sought-after designers having created and renovated at least 70 premium hotel properties.
"I am an artist," declares Chhada, who found Chhada, Siembieda & Associates with American partner Don Siembieda in the 80s. Today the company handles projects worth $200 million per annum.
While Chhada made the Raj splendour fashionable by revamping Delhi's Imperial Hotel two years ago, it's the four-year-old Ananda Spa & Resorts in Tehri Garhwal that he sees as a fulfillment of a 20-year-old dream.
"It has been a project of the heart. For years, I had wanted to set up a spa in India and checked out many places in the country before settling on Tehri Garhwal," says Chhada who personally supervised the Ananda Spa project in 1999.
And now, says the hotel designer, Ananda need no longer be only in the Himalayas.Ā Plans are afoot to set up two similar resorts -- one each in Mauritius and Thailand.
"We have already located a one kilometre-long fine beach property in Mauritius. It will be a $60-80 million project and will be called Ananda Maurice. It will be ready in 2005," informs Chhada, who owns a minority stake in Ananda Resort & Spa.
The other spa is expected to come up in Phuket, Thailand, as part of the $600-million Royal Phuket Marina township project, which will also have a club house, yacht house, five-star villas, apartments and restaurants spread over five acres of land.
Chhada's firm has bagged the designing contract for the entire Marina project.
However, Thailand's Ananda Spa will be run by Delhi-based Indian Hotels & Health Resorts promoted by hoteliers G K Khanna and sons Ashok and Rajeev, Ghanshyam Sheth and Parmeshwar Godrej.
With offices in Hong Kong, Mauritius and Australia and projects spanning from Vietnam to Germany, Chhada's hands are currently full. Last fortnight, he was in the capital to oversee the renovation of Kanishka Hotel.
The government sold off the ITDC property to Delhi-based Eros Group in a Rs 106-crore (Rs 1.06 billion) deal last year. From Delhi he flew off to Beijing to "hand over" The Palace Beijing, a Peninsula group hotel to the builders.
He has also been commissioned to design the interiors of a 260-room ITC Maurya in Parel, Mumbai.
Clearly, despite investing 30 years in the hotel design industry, Chandu Chhada shows no signs of slowing down.
In the past, he worked on several prestigious hotel projects like Four Seasons in New York, Kahala Hilton in Hawaii, the Regent Hong Kong and The Windsor in Melbourne, among others.
Besides executing five Oberoi properties -- four in India and one in Bali, Chhada has undertaken five Hilton International projects and an equal number of The Regent properties in Asia and Australia.
"If Indian can be known for IT, it can be known for interior planning too," says Chhada, an architecture graduate from Academy of Architecture in Mumbai, who first landed a job as interior designer at Dale Keller & Associates in Hong Kong after his graduation in the 70s.


text:
No. Scanners are not created alike. There are mobile scanners, flatbed scanners, document scanners, and overhead scanners. I've used and reviewed a ton of these things over the years. There have been a few points that scanners have piled up like a big collection of old magazines.
So what scanner do you really need? Do you really even need a scanner at all? Here are a few scanners you might consider and why you would or wouldn't need one: Continue reading What Type of Scanner Do You Really Need? (It May Be Your Phone)


text:
Opening April 30, 2009, at Stolen Space, the maiden solo exhibition from Meryl Donoghue. Through large scale gylcee prints, Donoughue explores stories and events that hold sway over her. The result is a series of human animal hybrids arranged on black space. These are composed through pencil drawing and digital manipulation.
Once Upon A Lie… runs to May 10, 2009. StolenSpace, 91 Brick Lane, London E1.


text:
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This exploration of Europe takes in the best of France, Spain, Italy, Germany and Switzerland.
"We saw so much of Europe"
Simon from New Zealand
Our guests rate us91 91
Based on 193 independent user reviews
27 Days 11 Countries 26 Cities
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15 Days 1 Country 9 Cities
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From the spiritual hubs of the Vatican and Lourdes to the glitz and glamour of Monaco, Cannes and the Isle of Capri, explore Europe's man-made triumphs and feats of nature. Tune into the Mozart melodies of Austria, admire Gaudi's Art Nouveau fantasies in Barcelona and sun yourself in Sorrento, with visits to Munich, Vienna and Paris along the way.
Trip type: Discovery
Trip code: EGRE
26 hot buffet breakfast
7 dinners (including Be My Guest) with local wine
2 dinners
All transport shown.
What's Included
City tour in Paris, Madrid, Barcelona, Florence, Assisi, Pompeii, Capri, Rome, Vienna and Salzburg
Cruise to the Isle of Capri and along the River Rhine
Orientation of Bordeaux, Biarritz, Lourdes, Cannes, Monaco, Pisa, Sorrento, Venice, Munich, Lucerne, Heidelberg and Amsterdam
See the Somme Battlefields, and the Lorelei Rock in Rhine Valley
View the ancient sites of Rome
Visit the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Chartres Cathedral, St. Bernadette's Grotto in Lourdes, the Prado Museum in Madrid, the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence, St. Peter's Basilica in Rome and Vaduz the capital of Liechtenstein
What's Included
26 hot buffet breakfast
7 dinners
(including Be My Guest) with local wine
2 dinners
What's Included
Audio Headsets for flexible sightseeing
Daily breakfast and an average of 50% of evening meals
Luxury air-conditioned coach with WiFi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
The services of a Trafalgar Local Host if you stay at Trafalgar's recommended London hotel
Return ferry across the Channel from Dover to Calais
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
Hand-picked Insider Experiences
Optional Experiences and free time
All porterage and restaurant gratuities
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
An expert Travel Director and separate Driver
All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
London airport transfer service is available to purchase. Conditions apply.
VIP entry to many sights
Airport Transfers
Specific transfer information can be found on the airport transfers page
Great European
Day 1London – Paris (2 Nights) Day 1 - London – Paris (2 Nights)
The bright city lights of London behind us, we cross the English Channel by ferry from Dover to Calais, travelling across World War I battlefields where so many brave souls lost their lives. We catch a glimpse of the Canadian Memorial at Vimy Ridge before arriving in Paris. Join your Travel Director and travel companions for a Welcome Reception including dinner and drinks and an evening drive to embrace the energy of this vibrant city and get a taste of what you're about to see and experience.
Renaissance La Defense
Renaissance La Defense
Day 2Paris Sightseeing Day 2 - Paris Sightseeing
Ascend one of the world's man-made icons, peering through the intricate wrought iron lattice work from the second level of the Eiffel Tower to the grand Parisian boulevards and gardens below. Join a Local Specialist for a drive along the Champs-Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe before spending the rest of the day at leisure to discover the delights of the City of Light. Perhaps take the time to see the Mona Lisa at the Louvre, amble along the Seine admiring the exquisite work of street artists or or consider attending one of the city's famous colourful cabaret shows.
Day 3Paris – Chartres – Bordeaux Day 3 - Paris – Chartres – Bordeaux
Ornate French Gothic Art is celebrated during a visit to the exquisite Chartres Cathedral, renowned for its original stained glass windows and two contrasting spires. Meandering south through one of France's most renowned wine regions, we arrive in Bordeaux, the Port of the Moon celebrated for its centuries-old trading heritage and extraordinary architecture. Spend the evening exploring its historical centre or amble along the Garonne - the 18th century Place de la Bourse glittering across the river at night.
Novotel Centre
Novotel Centre
Day 4Bordeaux – Biarritz – Lourdes Day 4 - Bordeaux – Biarritz – Lourdes
This morning we delve into the heady days of la belle époque in the glitzy seaside resort of Biarritz, for centuries an elegant retreat for aristocrats and today a surfing Mecca. Meandering south through the snow-capped Pyrenees, we arrive in the quaint market town of Lourdes, an important site of Catholic pilgrimage. Marvel at the Byzantine-style Rosary Basilica, its interior reflecting the mysteries of the Rosary, and visit the healing shrine of St. Bernadette's Grotto.
Mercure Imperial
Mercure Imperial
Day 5Lourdes – Madrid (2 Nights) Day 5 - Lourdes – Madrid (2 Nights)
For now it's time to say au revoir France and a rousing hola to Spain. We cross the scenic Somosierra Pass to lively Madrid, the highest capital in Europe, where we will spend the next two nights exploring its unique Madrid Baroque façades and fiery sights and sounds.
Melia Castilla
Melia Castilla
Day 6Madrid Sightseeing Day 6 - Madrid Sightseeing
Join a Local Specialist for a morning sightseeing tour past the city's iconic landmarks. View the Royal Palace and Plaza de España paying homage to the Spanish literary great, Cervantes, and the beloved characters that featured in Don Quixote. Enjoy an included visit to the Prado Museum and admire the incredible works of Rubens, Goya and El Greco before spending the rest of the day at leisure. Take to the waters of Retiro Park, visit the Mercado de San Miguel to indulge in the delicious flavours of Spain or join an Optional Experience to the Imperial City of Toledo.
Day 7Madrid – Barcelona (2 Nights) Day 7 - Madrid – Barcelona (2 Nights)
Driving towards Catalonia and the shores of the Mediterranean, we pass Guadalajara and the Gorges of Jalon and Aragon en route to vibrant Barcelona, where we will spend the next two nights delving into the intoxicating charm of this cultural and artistic powerhouse.
Abba Sants
Abba Sants
Day 8Barcelona Sightseeing Day 8 - Barcelona Sightseeing
Join a Local Specialist today to delight in the whimsical world of Gaudi, whose characteristic Art Nouveau architecture is dotted throughout the city. See his as yet unfinished masterpiece La Sagrada Familia, before spending the rest of the day embracing the energy of Barcelona. Pay tribute to Columbus and his brave exploration of the New World, wander down to La Barcelonet a for some tasty tapas treats, or ramble up Las Ramblas watching street performers entertain crowds. This evening, opt to witness Spanish passion, power and drama unfold at an unforgettable foot-stomping Flamenco evening including a delicious Spanish buffet.
Day 9Barcelona – Perfumery Excursion – Cannes (2 Nights) Day 9 - Barcelona – Perfumery Excursion – Cannes (2 Nights)
From the rugged Costa Brava to the stylish shores of the French Riviera, we travel through the South of France, stopping to indulge in delicious fragrances during a guided visit to Fragonard Perfumery, before arriving in the glamorous town of Cannes, home to the annual Cannes Film Festival.
Montaigne & Spa
Montaigne & Spa
Day 10Cannes Day 10 - Cannes
Tread in the footsteps of showbiz royalty, enjoying a day at leisure in Cannes today. Wander along La Croisette against the backdrop of the Mediterranean and Estérel Hills, shop on Rue Meynadier or perhaps join an Optional Experience to the glamorous medieval hilltop town of St. Paul de Vence, renowned for its museums and galleries.
Day 11Cannes – Monaco – Pisa – Florence Day 11 - Cannes – Monaco – Pisa – Florence
Travel along the sophisticated Cote d'Azur to the Principality of Monaco, where you'll see the Royal Palace and cathedral where Princess Grace is buried. Cross into Italy and pass Genoa, the birthplace of Columbus, before arriving in Pisa to admire its Leaning Tower and Baptistery, the largest in Italy. This evening we arrive in the Renaissance city of Florence where we will spend the night.
Grand Mediterraneo
Grand Mediterraneo
Day 12Florence Sightseeing – Assisi Sightseeing Day 12 - Florence Sightseeing – Assisi Sightseeing
Join a Local Specialist for a guided walking tour of one of the cultural capitals of the world. Enjoy views of the marble Duomo, the Baptistery with its famous bronze doors, and the 400-year-old Ponte Vecchio bridge. Visit Piazza della Signoria, once the political hub of the city, and enjoy an included visit to the Academy of Fine Arts to see Michelangelo's statue of David. We depart Florence for the mystical city of Assisi later, to tread in the footsteps of St. Francis who was born and laid to rest in this hilltop town. Join a Local Specialist for a tour and visit the Basilica that bears the name of this beloved saint.
Casa Leonori
Casa Leonori
Day 13Assisi – Pompeii – Sorrento (2 Nights) Day 13 - Assisi – Pompeii – Sorrento (2 Nights)
Travelling south towards the deep blue waters of the Bay of Naples, we stop in Pompeii and join a Local Specialist to explore the tragic history of this ancient Roman settlement that was lost for centuries under ash after the 79AD eruption of Mount Vesuvius. The stylish seaside resort of Sorrento is our stop for the next two nights.
La Residenza
La Residenza
Day 14Excursion to the Isle Of Capri Day 14 - Excursion to the Isle Of Capri
Cross the waters of the bay to the beguiling Isle of Capri and explore its charming Piazzetta in the company of a Local Specialist who will take you on a guided tour of its charming Capri Town. We leave the beautiful people behind in Capri and return to Sorrento where we embrace la dolce vita with a local family who will share traditional flavours and their effervescent hospitality at an unforgettable Be My Guest dinner this evening.
Day 15Sorrento – Rome (2 Nights) Day 15 - Sorrento – Rome (2 Nights)
The grand boulevards and ancient history of Rome await as we travel north from Sorrento to the Eternal City, meandering through the gold and green countryside of Lazio.
Crowne Plaza St. Peter's
Crowne Plaza St. Peter's
Day 16Rome Sightseeing Day 16 - Rome Sightseeing
Join a Local Specialist to delve into the centre of Christianity - the Vatican City. Visit the magnificent St. Peter's Basilica, before crossing the Tiber for views of the mighty Colosseum and Circus Maximus, once home to exhilarating chariot races. The rest of the day is yours at leisure to explore history and culture that span almost two millennia. Sit on the Spanish Steps, shop up a storm on the Via del Corso or toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain to secure your speedy return to Rome.
Day 17Rome – Venice (2 Nights) Day 17 - Rome – Venice (2 Nights)
We meander over the scenic Apennine Mountains, past Bologna and Padua to Venice, the Queen of the Adriatic where we'll spend the next two nights at a superb hotel on Lido Island.
Viktoria Palace
Viktoria Palace
Day 18Venice Orientation Day 18 - Venice Orientation
Glide through the city's bustling canals by private launch, arriving at St. Mark's Square, the gateway to Venice. See St. Mark's Basilica, the ornate Doges Palace and Bridge of Sighs before enjoying a Cultural Insight into the centuries-old tradition of Venetian glassmaking. The rest of today is yours to enjoy the sights and sounds of this Byzantine treasure. Cross the Rialto bridge, enjoy the sun set over the Grand Canal with a Campari Spritz or ascend the Campanile for panoramic views of this island city.
Day 19Venice – Vienna (2 Nights) Day 19 - Venice – Vienna (2 Nights)
A scenic drive from Italy to Austria takes us through the Carnic Alps to the imperial capital of Vienna where we'll spend the next two nights exploring a city famous for its musical heritage and elegance.
Austria Trend Parkhotel Schonbrunn
Austria Trend Parkhotel Schonbrunn
Day 20Vienna Sightseeing Day 20 - Vienna Sightseeing
Join your Local Specialist this morning to explore the sights, including views of the famous Opera House, Stadtpark, Parliament, Imperial Boulevards and Hofburg Palace, once home to the powerful Habsburg Dynasty. Spend the rest of the day delving into Vienna's cosy coffee culture, visit the exquisite Schonbrunn Palace or discover the harmonies of the world's music capital - enjoying one of the city's many musical performances.
Day 21Vienna – Salzburg – Munich Day 21 - Vienna – Salzburg – Munich
Today we explore picturesque hilly landscapes and tales of the Von Trapp family on a sightseeing tour of Salzburg with a Local Specialist before we travel to the Bavarian capital of Munich, where we will spend the night.
Holiday Inn Leuchtenbergring
Holiday Inn Leuchtenbergring
Day 22Munich – Liechtenstein – Lucerne (2 Nights) Day 22 - Munich – Liechtenstein – Lucerne (2 Nights)
Munich's imposing Marienplatz and charming Glockenspiel take centre stage this morning during an orientation of the city. We leave Germany for Switzerland, stopping in the Liechtenstein fairy-tale capital of Vaduz. Our home for the next two nights is the medieval city of Lucerne with its picture-perfect lakeside setting against the backdrop of legendary mountains.
Grand Europe Authentic Accommodation
Grand Europe Authentic Accommodation
Day 23Lucerne Orientation Day 23 - Lucerne Orientation
Pay tribute to the brave Swiss Guards who lost their lives defending King Louis XVI in the French Revolution and see the famous mournful Lion Monument. Walk along the wooden Chapel Bridge and admire its decorative ceilings. Then spend the rest of the day meandering through charming cobblestone streets or join an Optional Experience to one of the surrounding peaks.
Day 24Lucerne – Heidelberg – Rhine Cruise – Boppard Day 24 - Lucerne – Heidelberg – Rhine Cruise – Boppard
View the ruins of Heidelberg Castle perched above the Neckar River and board a relaxing cruise down the mighty Rhine from St. Goar to Boppard - fantasy castles and hillside vineyards line your scenic journey.
Bellevue Rheinhotel
Bellevue Rheinhotel
Day 25Boppard – Cologne – Amsterdam (2 Nights) Day 25 - Boppard – Cologne – Amsterdam (2 Nights)
Admire the tall twin Gothic spires of the Cologne Cathedral this morning, before crossing into The Netherlands and on to the picturesque Dutch capital of Amsterdam where we spend the next two nights. Sit under the leafy canopy at Leidseplein indulging in Dutch beer and kroketten, meander along its romantic canals or bask in the warm glow and gezelligheid of one of the city's renowned brown cafés.
Corendon Vitality
Corendon Vitality
Day 26Amsterdam Orientation Day 26 - Amsterdam Orientation
Enjoy an orientation of Amsterdam and spend the rest of the day exploring the city's cobblestone lanes on foot, by bike or tram. Consider delving into the tragic story of Anne Frank, admire the works of Van Gogh or people-watch in Vondelpark. This evening enjoy a Farewell Dinner with your travelling companions on board a glass-top boat cruising through the city's picturesque canals lined with the gabled façades for which Amsterdam is so famous.
Day 27Amsterdam – London Day 27 - Amsterdam – London
Drive through the peaceful landscapes of Belgium and France to Calais and cross to England by ferry. See the famous White Cliffs of Dover en route to London, where your memorable journey through Europe comes to an end.
Authentic Accommodation
Grand Hotel Europe, Lucerne, Switzerland Taking you straight back to Switzerland's elegant past, this historic hotel is a landmark in Lucerne. Situated by the lake's glittering shores, you'll gain an insight into the city's history during a stay at this Authentic Accommodation.
Enjoy the elegance of yesteryear and sweeping lake vistas at the Grand Hotel Europe in Lucerne, where warm Swiss hospitality and a grand past spanning over a century guarantee an unforgettable stay
Be My Guest
Enjoy traditional Campania flavours and hearty Italian hospitality at a dinner with a local Sorrento family
Cultural Insight
The scents of France are yours to enjoy at Fragonard, a famous French perfumery that has been creating perfumes since the 1920s. Witness the exquisite craft of glassblowing on Giudecca Island, a delicate tradition that generations of Venetian craftsmen have perfected over the centuries
Hidden Treasure
Enjoy at least one surprise Hidden Treasure
Local Specialist
For included sightseeing in Paris, Madrid, Barcelona, Florence, Assisi, Pompeii, Capri, Rome, Vienna and Salzburg
Find out what makes Trafalgar different.
Because you looked at Great European
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What's Included
City tour in Paris, Madrid, Barcelona, Florence, Assisi, Pompeii, Capri, Rome, Vienna and Salzburg
Cruise to the Isle of Capri and along the River Rhine
Orientation of Bordeaux, Biarritz, Lourdes, Cannes, Monaco, Pisa, Sorrento, Venice, Munich, Lucerne, Heidelberg and Amsterdam
See the Somme Battlefields, and the Lorelei Rock in Rhine Valley
View the ancient sites of Rome
Visit the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Chartres Cathedral, St. Bernadette's Grotto in Lourdes, the Prado Museum in Madrid, the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence, St. Peter's Basilica in Rome and Vaduz the capital of Liechtenstein
What's Included
26 hot buffet breakfast
7 dinners
(including Be My Guest) with local wine
2 dinners
What's Included
Audio Headsets for flexible sightseeing
Daily breakfast and an average of 50% of evening meals
Luxury air-conditioned coach with WiFi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
The services of a Trafalgar Local Host if you stay at Trafalgar's recommended London hotel
Return ferry across the Channel from Dover to Calais
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
Hand-picked Insider Experiences
Optional Experiences and free time
All porterage and restaurant gratuities
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
An expert Travel Director and separate Driver
All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
London airport transfer service is available to purchase. Conditions apply.
VIP entry to many sights
Airport Transfers
Specific transfer information can be found on the airport transfers page
Why Trafalgar?
Simply AuthenticEnjoy
Enjoy the wonder of travel, crisscrossing the globe through the seasons. On effortless adventures in breathtaking new horizons, forge lifelong friendships and memories. Our lovingly crafted itineraries are a fascinating mosaic of cultures, flavours, festivals and local stories. We're with you all the way, guiding you and ensuring you experience the real thing: the sheer love of travel, entirely hassle-free.
Simply AuthenticLove... Travel
"Is simply the best way to position what our guests love to experience and what we love to deliver" - Gavin Tollman CEO
Simply AuthenticMeet
Meet warm-hearted locals and like-minded travellers. Along your journey of discovery, stop to share stories and flavours with local farmers, chefs and winemakers. Pause to admire the handicrafts and rich traditions of amazing artisans. Explore the essence of Europe through captivating accounts shared by expert historians and savvy local guides.
Simply AuthenticTaste
Travelling with your tastebuds, treating them to new flavours, spices and textures along the way. From the very first breakfast to the last nightcap, travelling through Europe indulges your palate, with every meal an opportunity to discover regional fare. Savour each new flavour, try the local tipple and take home fresh culinary inspiration. Let us share our love for food and hospitality with you.
Simply AuthenticUnwind
Once you've packed your suitcase, we take care of the rest, removing all your concerns so that you can be secure in the knowledge that an award-winning global company with an impeccable reputation has taken care of every little detail. We arrange everything you'll need along your journey - meals, accommodation and travel logistics, because we are with you all the way. Travel the world with peace of mind, knowing you're in the hands of Trafalgar.
Guest Service Rating from 193 Reviews
Service rating : Everybody was very experienced and very helpfulProduct : Coach was perfect, itinerary we were able to pick and choose. And the hotels were great
Service rating : Excellent service special Richard travel director.Product : Was very good coach and good hotels
Service rating : Our tour director MJ was efficient, organised,knowledgeable.and caring at both group level and personal level. Accommodation was of a high standard. The coach was modern ,kept clean , and the driver gave us confidence with his skill. The itinerary was well structured and
Highly recommend to family n friends
Great director good places everything under control
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Hi, my web is http://deliciosa-asia.com
If someone tries to buy anything, just some of the products are added to cart… sometimes things seem to be added, but when you try to checkout, there's nothing in the car… Sometimes, if you press "Upload cart", some new things appear. Cart prize doesn't seem to be working…
I've noticed, if I press "My cart" is always empty, but if I press "Checkout", sometimes it keeps something inside…
Please help! nobody can buy anything…
Hi ajolmo65,
You need to update your theme files as WooCommerce 2.0+ requires themes and plugins that interact with it to be updated.
You can download the most recent theme files from your downloads on themeforest and install them just like you did the first time.
All currently known bugs are post here for Abundance: https://kriesi.at/support/topic/ (Purchase code hidden if logged out)
The topic 'Woo commerce add to cart not working properly' is closed to new replies.


text: Director, KRBL the world's largest rice miller and largest basmati rice exporter from India selling India Gate Basmati Rice; first company to sustain a successful public-private partnership in Basmati contact farming and its R&D effort in seed multiplication and distribution programme; produces non-conventional energy using husk and wind in addition to generating value-added products. Member: Young Presidents' Organization; CII; ASSOCHAM; FICCI. Presented a paper to Nigerian key heads of state from agriculture and industry on Nigeria's path to rice self-sufficiency, with collaboration of KRBL; represented Indian rice industry, CII delegation to Malaysia for open market access for agriculture commodities from India.


text:
Grant Seekers
Greater Texas Foundation will consider making charitable contributions to organizations that operate in Texas and that are tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and which support or provide specific programs targeting education in furtherance of Greater Texas Foundation's exempt purposes, mission, and vision. In general, the foundation supports programs and/or services that increase rates of postsecondary enrollment and completion for all Texas students, with a particular focus on students who may encounter barriers to postsecondary success.
If you have questions about the grant process, please visit Our Strategy page or contact the foundation's grants manager directly.


text:
RANCHO SANTA FE —— Mimes, jugglers, unicyclists, the Eiffel Tower, glitz and glamour were part of the fun at the Annual Spring Fling for the Helen Woodward Animal Center, titled "An Evening in Paris" on June 4th at the Fairbanks Village Plaza. Starting 17 years ago as a neighborhood country-themed party called "Fairbanks Follies," this sold-out event with 450 guests has changed!
Seventeen area restaurants provided stations throughout the venue, offering such delicacies as Cajun-seared lamb chops, filet mignon, vichyssoise and chocolate lollipops shaped as the fleur de leis and the Eiffel Tower.
The plaza looked gorgeous in shades of black and pink, but itcouldn't outshine the beautiful couples attending. Auctionopportunities included a ride on the Goodyear blimp or a VIP daywith TV's Dr. Phil! MC's Daniel Plante and Bridget Naso keptfestivities moving, and guests ended their evening by dancing toArt Deco and the New Era.
Event Chairwoman Nancy Sackheim made a special mention of her more than 140 volunteers, including committee members Nedra Abramson, Geeta Antony, Amy Bennett, Maria Birchall, Deanna Bramble, Chris Breining, Kellie Burns, Leslie Cohen, Terri Davis, Lara Dean, Diane DeMarino, Tina Donaldson, Dawn Douglas, Jenny Edwards, Diane Eggleston, Marti Fallon, Pamela Faulkner, Fran Garfinkel, Kathy Henry, Judith Judy, Carrington Kingsley, Peggy Landon, Randi Leehan, Julia Maxwell, Kelly Nagel, Sabra Norris, Lynn Ortega, Rick Salpietra, Debra Saum, Simone Schmudde, Sarah Z. Sleeper, Brent Stringfield, Janet Terry, Karen Tracy, John Van Zante, Valerie Viterbi, Nancy Voorheis, Shandra Wilson, Lakshmi Wyatt, and Victoria Young.
Their efforts raised more than $200,000 for the Helen Woodward Animal Center, where people help animals and animals help people. Relying on charitable contributions, the center has grown immensely since it began in 1972. It now includes therapeutic horseback riding, pet encounter therapy, an equine hospital and a pet food delivery program for elderly or ill shut-ins.


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PANAMA CITY - Vice President Juan Carlos Varela pulled off a surprise victory in Panama's presidential election Sunday, thwarting an attempt by former ally President Ricardo Martinelli to extend his grip on power by electing a hand-picked successor.
Varela led with 39 percent of the votes, compared to 32 percent for Martinelli's choice, political newcomer Jose Domingo Arias. Juan Carlos Navarro, a former mayor of the capital, was running third in the seven-candidate field with more than 83 percent of the ballots counted. (AP)


text:
Just realized Aquaphor isn't supposed to be used with CDs! Ugh.
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April 30th, 2013, 05:47 AM
2nd time around :)
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: Ohio
Posts: 2,273
I LOVE this stuff though! I don't know why I thought it was ok to use with cloth diapers. Probably because it's not that thick white fishy smelling stuff like Desitin or something. Now my diapers are repelling and leaking all over the place. Thankfully, I've always used fleece liners with my prefolds so those are ok.
I read that stripping for ointment buildup is different than detergent buildup. Like I need to blue Dawn in the sink/tub and then scrub stay-dry parts of my pocket diapers. Is this right? Ugh! I hate stripping!!
I can go back to using coconut oil, but it doesn't seem to help to prevent/treat rashes nearly as well as Aquaphor.
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text:
Hanley looking to snap out of slump
Hanley looking to snap out of slump
SAN DIEGO -- Marlins third baseman Hanley Ramirez has driven in some key runs this season, including two without getting a hit on Thursday at San Francisco. But as Ramirez is closing in on 100 at-bats for the season, his batting average has dipped to .198 to go along with four home runs and 16 RBIs. "He's struggling," Marlins manager Ozzie Guillen said. "The thing about Hanley is, he's had a few big hits throughout the year. But he's struggling."
Ramirez is dealing with adjustments to his swing. He tends to raise his left leg a bit high, which Guillen says makes it difficult to sustain consistency. He's also tended to elevate his hands a little higher, too. Guillen says Ramirez reminds him of Harold Baines. "To me, one of my best friends has Hanley's approach at the plate -- Harold Baines," Guillen said of his former White Sox teammate. "When Harold Baines got cold, he was freezing. That's hard [with the leg kick] because so many things have to go perfect. But when he got hot, he was going to burn. I lived that with Harold Baines." Guillen says when he sees his son, Ozney, who plays college ball, raise his leg, he tells him to stop. "When I see that with my little one, Ozney, hitting like that, I say, 'You've got to change that,'" Guillen said. "That will drive you crazy, because everything has to be perfect to get the high kick going." A former National League batting champion, Ramirez is striving to gain the consistency that made him a three-time All-Star. "I don't think Hanley realizes how good he can be," Guillen said. "This kid has unbelievable potential. I don't expect him to hit .350, but I don't expect him to hit .200 either."


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The Met's summer encore series in local movie theaters starts up again at 7 p.m.on Wednesday, June 19, with Georges Bizet's Carmen. It's the tragic story of a naive soldier who abandons his childhood sweetheart for the gypsy Carmen, only to lose her to the glamorous toreador Escamillo. Broadcast in HD at Cedar Hills Crossing, Clackamas Town Center and Lloyd Center 10. Free tickets? Call Mary at 503-802-9405.
Posted on June 16, 2013


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Myriad Genetics Announces Deal with Sanofi
Myriad Genetics (Nasdaq: MYGN) announced today that Myriad RBM, a wholly owned subsidiary of Myriad Genetics, has entered into a research collaboration with Sanofi, a global and diversified healthcare leader, and Population Health Research Institute (PHRI) at Hamilton Health Sciences and McMaster University. Through this collaboration, Myriad RBM will perform protein biomarker research for the Outcome Reduction with Initial Glargine Intervention (ORIGIN) study, the world's longest and largest randomized clinical trial in pre- and early diabetes. The relationship between the biomarker results and clinical outcomes will be analyzed by investigators at PHRI.
As part of the agreement, Myriad RBM will analyze over 8,000 serum samples collected in the ORIGIN study using its DiscoveryMAP^® 250+ quantitative immunoassay panel. Sanofi conceived of the application of Myriad RBM's technology to ORIGIN with a goal of identifying biomarker profiles that may optimize treatment and improve patient care.
Funded by Sanofi and directed and managed by PHRI, ORIGIN is a unique, six-year landmark cardiovascular (CV) outcomes trial, that evaluated Lantus® (insulin glargine) versus standard care in over 12,500 individuals at high CV risk with pre-diabetes or early type 2 diabetes mellitus. Spanning 40 countries worldwide, it was the world's longest and largest randomized clinical trial of its type in this population.
Posted-In: News
© 2017 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.


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Atlantic 200
Atlantic 200
Treat your Aprilia Atlantic 200 to all the latest and greatest in aftermarket scooter parts and accessories. Choose luggage from SW-MOTECH, lighting by AdMore or DENALI and many more products engineered to enhance the functionality of your urban commuter. Shop with us before your next trip and discover what high-quality, bolt-on, innovatively designed and great looking scooter parts and accessories can do for your ride!
AdMore Lighting High Output LED Light Bar with Running, Brake and Progressive Amber Turn Signals$134.99
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Motorcycle Rider Essentials Kit$192.68 $149.99
SW-MOTECH Slipstream Tail Bag$174.95


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All quotes tagged Selected
(626 quotes found)
"Between ourselves and our real natures we interpose that wax figure of idealizations and selections which we call our character."
"It's been great to involve the American public in the celebration of this noteworthy birthday with the selection of the new ailment,"
"I've decided I will open the door to all books as potential Oprah's Book Club selections, ... I feel this will give the book club a whole new range of opportunities to explore the world through words."
"If scientists seriously think natural selection applies to humans, they haven't been in high school in a long time."
"Situation, which supports dutiful selection of one from equally bad multiple options, is not right justification of correction of any desired and beneficial result."
"The wieldy weight of any good message may be centered on the posters, but often people pick it up for using or sharing seeing and touching the creator's name inscribed on bottom corner."
"Often, it appears that the number of wrong selection or choices made by one in any form can be equated equal to the degree of one's fakeness & hypocrisy in life."
"The person who boasts about their charity, negates the charitable act altogether. And ultimately; leads to a selective charity. A type of charity in which the help given, is contingent on how it will appear to others."


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Papaya Banana & Buttermilk Cake
125g Butter, well softened
1 ripe Banana, mashed
200g mashed Papaya or Pawpaw flesh
3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1 1/2 cups Self Raising Flour
1/2 cup Buttermilk
1 teaspoon bicarb of soda
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
Place all ingredients in the bowl of your stand mixer.
Mix 30 seconds at low speed to combine. Scrape bowl down then mix for 1 minute at medium speed (if you don't have a stand mixer use a large bowl and electric beater or food processor).
Scrape batter into cake pan of your choice (I like to use my Tupperware Silicone Mould for all my cakes as it doesn't require greasing or lining with baking paper).
Bake 45 minutes at 180 deg C (or until a skewer comes out clean).
Serve warm with cream, or cold as a normal cake. Great for school lunches! Oh, and I never ice cakes as I find with children they always end up eating the icing and not the cake ;-)
I have created this recipe to take part in the #papayaOz promotion over at CRAP Mamma
Sunday, May 19, 2013
Recipe: Papaya Banana & Buttermilk Cake #papayaOz
Posted by Your Cheeky Monkey at 1:15 PM
4 comments:
- Jacqui Honeywood said...
Oh my gosh that looks divine!! Thanks for sharing your recipe and thanks for entering the comp. Good luck! Jac (CRAP Mamma) :-)
- May 19, 2013 at 1:22 PM
- Your Cheeky Monkey said...
Thanks Jac! xx
- May 19, 2013 at 1:30 PM
- Cate said...
Great idea about not icing!!
- June 2, 2013 at 1:30 AM
- Alicia - OneMotherHen said...
Cake looks fantastic. I haven't been icing cupcakes lately and the kids polish them off no worries too :)
- June 5, 2013 at 11:22 PM
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