text:
by Tim Rosenthal/Staff Writer
Head Coach: Dave Shyiak
2006-07 record: 13-21-3 (8-19-1 WCHA)
Key Returnees: Luke Beaverson D SR., Peter Cartwright F SR., Merit Waldrop F SR., Chris Tarkir F SR., Mat Robinson D JR., Jared Tuton F/D SO., Nils Backstrom D SO., Paul Crowder F SO., Josh Lunden F SO., Kevin Clark F SO.
Key Losses: Charlie Kronschnabel, Mark Smith, Justin Bourne, Nick Lowe, Chad Anderson, Nathan Lawson, Jay Beagle
Dave Shyiak's year of transition on the job resulted in a seven-win increase for the Seawolves last season, to 13.
"The program took a step forward," Shyiak said. "A lot of things took further growth. We went undefeated against North Dakota and we were the first team ever to win a playoff game at Mariucci Arena."
After losing 6-2 in the first game in the WCHA playoffs, the Seawolves managed to win a game at Minnesota in overtime (2-1) to force a game three. Although the team lost in the final game, Anchorage played its hearts out and showed that it was no roll-over for anyone for the future.
But now it's to see whether the Seawolves can built on that and become a week-in, week-out strong team — or at least above .500.
"I like the locker room," said Shyiak. "You need to bring your best game in order to compete in the WCHA."
Speaking of the 10-member class of 2011, Shyiak seemed pretty happy with the results, but he by-passed the usual coach-speak praise for a more realistic response.
"Everything is good on paper," Shyiak said. "The results will be determined at the end of the year. The numbers were very good, and as of right now I would give it a high 'B' rating."
This season the Seawolves will look to take another step forward.
"The WCHA is a tough league," said Shyiak. "Our goal is to get home-ice in the playoffs as well as capturing another Governor's Cup (Alaska vs. Alaska-Anchorage)."
Although the team seems young with 10 freshmen, do not be fooled by the veterans. They have experience from last year (or in some instances the last two) and can sneak in a victory or two against the likes of Minnesota or North Dakota.


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Exmouth College 'outrageous' uniform cost campaign claims victory
A mother who described the cost of school uniforms at a Devon school as "outrageous" is claiming victory in her campaign for cheaper alternatives.
Three items of Exmouth Community College uniform are only available to buy from the school shop at a cost of more than £50 for larger sizes.
Parent Liz Reynolds says she has been told by school governors that the current supplier's contract is being cut short.
The school is yet to comment.
Ms Reynolds, from Lympstone, paid more than £40 for a jumper, tie and sports shirt for her daughter Gabby, 11.
As well as the cost of the three branded items, Ms Reynolds said the quality was below standard and in some cases lasted just a couple of months.
'Start poking again'
Following her campaign to allow parents to shop around for uniform, the school's governors set up a working party to look into the issue.
"I've now been told that the supplier has been given 12 months' notice and local and other suppliers have been given the opportunity to put in a quote," Ms Reynolds said.
"It is absolutely 100% a victory. It's a shame it has taken so long, but it's excellent news."
The current contract is supposed to last until 2016.
Ms Reynolds, a single mother, said she had the support of over 200 parents.
She said she was also helped by schools minister David Laws saying earlier this year that schools in England will be told to end the practice of using a single uniform supplier.
"To be fair on governors, they did say that it was more to do with the Office of Fair Trading and the government guidelines that have sparked this change, but it all helps," she said.
The school, which had offered to help parents who were struggling with the cost of school uniforms, was contacted by the BBC, but has so far declined to comment.
Ms Reynolds added: "I will be keeping an eye on it and if after 12 months we are no where closer to getting this result then I will have to start poking people again."

subset: commoncrawl


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We all know there are a variety of languages we can choose from, and that those languages could benefit your development process through features like dynamic typing or closures. There are a lot of resources on specific features of certain languages and how they make programming easier, cooler, and so on. But since you will probably use scripting to implement only portions of your Java applications, the important questions that are often neglected are when and how to use scripting in your applications.
In this article, I'll try to explain some advanced concepts of the Scripting API and show how they could help you successfully use scripting in your Java applications.
The basic prerequisite for any scripting language to be used in JVM is to have an interpreter (aka an "engine") accessible from Java. There are two common ways to achieve this: implement the engine in Java or make a Java wrapper around a native language interpreter. The features of scripting engines vary a great deal (we will come back to this later), but there are a few that represent a core functionality of every interpreter. Every engine has to be able to provide a context for scripts' evaluation and obviously has to be able evaluate scripts.
In the simplest scenario, you will instantiate a scripting engine of some desired language in your Java application, bind some variables to provide the context to the engine, and at some point execute a script. Afterwards, you may also obtain some variable values from the engine context, as the values could be changed (or set) by the executed script.
There's an obvious need for a framework that abstracts various scripting engines and thus creates general scripting support for Java applications. The Scripting API (
javax.script) included in Java SE 6 serves just this purpose. It enables easy engine registration, instantiating engines through factory methods and sharing the context between them.
In this article, I want to focus on something else. Many of the script engines available today provide more features to developers than just simple script evaluation. One such feature is the ability to call standalone functions and object methods defined in the script. In some languages you can even implement whole Java interfaces in scripts and use them in Java as regular objects. As we will see, these features can have a great impact on how you use scripting in your applications--but first, we must see how the Scripting API supports these features.
One of the main design goals of the Scripting API was to be as generic as possible, so that a wide range of scripting engines could comply with it. For that reason, the
javax.script.ScriptEngine interface defines only the most basic operations of scripting engines: variable binding and script evaluation. All other advanced features that scripting engines could implement are encapsulated in separate interfaces, making it easy for developers to determine the characteristics of a certain engine and use it appropriately. This architecture also allows for the use of very simple engines through this API.
In the following example, I will demonstrate the
Invocable interface. First, let's create a simple script (all examples in this article will be implemented in JavaScript, so that the Rhino engine included in JDK 6 can be used to execute them):
function sayHello(name) { println("Hello " + name); }
This simple JavaScript example script, located in afunction.js file (and available in the Resources section at the end of this article), defines one function named
sayHello that prints text to standard output. Now let's see how to invoke this kind of function using the Scripting API.
package net.scriptinginjava.invocable; import java.io.FileReader; import javax.script.Invocable; import javax.script.ScriptEngine; import javax.script.ScriptEngineManager; public class InvocableTest { public static void main(String[] args) throws Exception { ScriptEngineManager factory = new ScriptEngineManager(); ScriptEngine engine = factory.getEngineByName("js"); if (engine instanceof Invocable) { engine .eval(new FileReader( "src/net/scriptinginjava/invocable/function.js")); ((Invocable) engine).invokeFunction("sayHello", "World"); } } }
This Java application instantiates the
ScriptEngineManager class, uses the instance to obtain a desired script engine, and evaluates a script with it.
The interesting part is the use of the
Invocableinterface. As you can see, if the engine implements the
Invocable interface, Java developers can use its
InvokeFunction method to call functions in previously evaluated scripts. This method accepts a function name as a first parameter and variable number of
Object arguments (varargs) that will be passed as function arguments. In this example, the
sayHello function is called and the
World argument is passed to it. As a result, the "Hello World" text is printed to standard output.
For object-oriented scripting languages, the same interface could be used to invoke methods on objects created in evaluated scripts. To demonstrate this feature, let's first create a suitable script (located in a method.js file):
function Hello() {} Hello.prototype.sayHello = function(value) { with (this) println("Hello " + value); } var hello = new Hello(); hello.sayHello("World1");
This script creates the
Hello class with a
sayHello prototype function. Afterwards, it instantiates a
hello variable and calls its method. As a result this scripts prints "Hello World1" on standard output.
Now let's take a look at the following Java code.
package net.scriptinginjava.invocable; import java.io.FileReader; import javax.script.Invocable; import javax.script.ScriptEngine; import javax.script.ScriptEngineManager; public class MethodTest { public static void main(String[] args) throws Exception { ScriptEngineManager factory = new ScriptEngineManager(); ScriptEngine engine = factory.getEngineByName("js"); if (engine instanceof Invocable) { engine .eval(new FileReader( "src/net/scriptinginjava/invocable/method.js")); ((Invocable) engine).invokeMethod(engine .get("hello"), "sayHello", "World2"); } } }
Again, the example looks much like previous Java program that evaluated the script and executed a function defined in it. The only difference is that this example uses the
invokeMethod method to call an object method. Remember the script we are using in this example: it instantiates a
hello object. As such, it can be obtained from engine's context with the
engine.get("hello")statement. That is exactly the first parameter that is passed to the
invokeMethod method; an object defined in an evaluated script whose method we want to call. Other arguments are the same as for the
invokeFunction method: the name of the method and variable number of objects to be passed as arguments to the method. In this example we called the
sayHellomethod and passed World2 as the only argument. Since the
sayHello method has been called twice (once from the script and once from the Java application), the application will print the following to standard output:
Hello World1 Hello World2
All examples shown above were nice and handy, but the real power of the
Invocable interface is the fact it can be used to implement Java interfaces with scripts (of course, in languages whose engines support this feature). I'll get back to the discussion on why this feature is important and how you can benefit from it in your Java projects, but first let's demonstrate it with a simple example.
Let's start by defining a simple Java interface:
package net.scriptinginjava.invocable; public interface Hello { public void sayHello(String name); public void time(); }
Now, remember our first JavaScript example used to demonstrate function calls with the Scripting API. It defines one function named
sayHello, which accepts one argument. Let's see how we can use this simple script to implement the interface defined above.
package net.scriptinginjava.invocable; import java.io.FileReader; import javax.script.Invocable; import javax.script.ScriptEngine; import javax.script.ScriptEngineManager; public class InterfaceTest { public static void main(String[] args) throws Exception { ScriptEngineManager factory = new ScriptEngineManager(); ScriptEngine engine = factory.getEngineByName("js"); if (engine instanceof Invocable) { engine .eval(new FileReader( "src/net/scriptinginjava/invocable/function.js")); Hello hello = ((Invocable)engine).getInterface(Hello.class); hello.sayHello("World"); //hello.time(); } } }
If you execute this Java application, you'll get "Hello World" text on your output, which mean that we managed to implement a interface with a three-line script.
Now let's elaborate this example a bit further. The first interesting thing to notice it that the Rhino engine (used in this example) allows you to implement interfaces by providing scripts that define a collection of functions implementing interface methods. Further, in order to successfully implement an interface, you don't have to provide functions for all methods, just those that you are planning to use. In this example, we provided an implementation for the
sayHello method and used it successfully from our Java application. You can experiment and uncomment the call to the
time method, in which case you will get an exception stating that the
time method is not implemented. Of course, if we now rewrite our script in the following manner:
function sayHello(name) { println("Hello " + name); } function time() { println(new Date()); }
and re-execute our Java application, we will get something like this
Hello World Wed Aug 29 2007 14:53:16 GMT+0200 (CEST)
Mechanisms for implementing Java interfaces vary from language to language and you should consult their documentation (or look at the Resources section for more reading on the topic) before trying to implement it with your scripting engine of choice. But one thing is common to all engines that support this feature: they enable easy and quick implementation of Java interfaces with suitable scripts.
Practical Usage
After this basic introduction to the Scripting API's
Invocable interface, it's time to see what kind of value it brings to the overall development process. Probably every Java developer is aware of the importance of interfaces and clean API designs. A design with interfaces approach to software development emphasizes separation of interfaces and their implementations and is one of the fundamental design techniques used in Java (and object-oriented programming in general).
In order to define a part of your application as a software component or service and expose it for use either locally in your application or remotely, you need to define a well-structured interface. The primarily task of this interface is to define all operations that a componentshould implement. The particular implementations of the interface is a topic of its own and it is usually hidden from the end user of the component. Of course, many implementations of the same interface are possible, usually differing with regards to the context in which the component is used. This certainly leads to a much cleaner application design and (as we will see in a moment) is a base for many widely used design patterns.
I'm sure that you have been aware of the aforementioned principles for years now, but the previous discussion is important in order to ask ourselves a crucial question: how does implementing Java interfaces with scripts and the
javax.script.Invocable interface enhance our development process? I don't want to debate here about dynamic typing, closures, runtime modifications, and all the other benefits that dynamic languages generally provide (you can find more on these topics in the Resources section). Here, I would like to talk about appropriate use of scripting in Java applications. As you've probably guessed, I think the
Invocable interface has a big role in that.
It easy to instantiate the script engine and evaluate scripts from certain points of your Java application. While this practice definitely has its place in development process, it is easy to break good object-oriented design with unstructured (or loosely structured) scripts. Your application most likely follow good object-oriented practices and follow many design patterns (IoC, for example), so you need a solution that will not break all the hard work that is put in to have a good overall application design. That is why the design with interfaces principle combined with interfaces implemented in scripts could lead to both good object-oriented designed software and rapid development with scripting languages.
Of course, another important question involved in all discussions related to scripting is performance. If we implement some or most of our interfaces with scripts written in JavaScript or Groovy, how will this affect the performance of the overall solution? Luckily, there are mechanisms and patterns that can help us out with this problem.
The ideal balance would be to have the flexibility of dynamic languages in the development phase, and pure Java performance in production. Fortunately, most of the scripting languages provide mechanisms that could be used to achieve this goal. The main one is the ability to compile your scripts to Java classes. After this process, you can use them to instantiate regular Java objects. Most of the "modern" script engines provide this functionality, but some of them (such as Groovy) go even a step further and define Ant tasks or Maven plugins that could be used in your build process.
Now that we have both a script in evaluable source and its compiled version in our project, it is much easier to achieve our original goal. There are many ways you can instantiate a specific implementation of an interface, depending on whether certain conditions are met in the application. The one that I will demonstrate here is the well-known Factory Method pattern.
In brief, it suggests that you should not instantiate your objects directly but to enclose this operation in a suitablefactory method and thus add more flexibility to the process. Let's say that we have a build environment in which our script that implements the
Hello interface is compiled to the
HelloImpl class. I will not dig into how this could be done in different environments, since it is beyond the scope of this article. Now look at the following Java example:
package net.scriptinginjava.invocable; import java.io.FileReader; import javax.script.Invocable; import javax.script.ScriptEngine; import javax.script.ScriptEngineManager; public class HelloFactory { private boolean debug = true; private ScriptEngine engine; public HelloFactory(boolean debug) { this.debug = debug; ScriptEngineManager factory = new ScriptEngineManager(); engine = factory.getEngineByName("js"); } public Hello getHello() throws Exception { if (debug) { System.out.println("scripted"); engine .eval(new FileReader( "src/net/scriptinginjava/invocable/interface.js")); return ((Invocable) engine) .getInterface(Hello.class); } else { System.out.println("compiled"); return new HelloImpl(); } } public static void main(String[] args) throws Exception { HelloFactory client = new HelloFactory(true); Hello hello = client.getHello(); hello.sayHello("World"); } }
This Java class represents a factory that is responsible for instantiating implementations of the
Hello interface. There are a few important things about this example. First, you can notice that this class has a
debug property that is used to determine whether it should evaluate a script or instantiate a compiled object. This property is set through the class' constructor and used in the
Now if you run this example, you will get the following result:
scripted Hello World
meaning that we instantiated an object by evaluating a script. You can try to change the value of the
debug parameter to
false and see what happens. It will now print the following:
compiled Hello World
With this technique we have achieved our goal of having a dynamic environment to develop in and a pure-Java performance solution in production. Of course, a
debug parameter is just a simple example and you will probably use a technique that is appropriate to your development environment (IoC framework, properties file configuration, etc.), but the main principle remains the same. You implement your interfaces with scripts and enjoy the flexibility of dynamic languages (such as the ability to modify your application at runtime). When finished, you compile your scripts and reconfigure the application to use the compiled implementation of the interfaces (a pure Java class).
The design pattern that I just described above is a base for many scripting-based designed patterns that could be used in Java applications. There are many "traditional" design patterns whose elements are suitable for implementation in scripts (but you can also find patterns specific to the scripting environment). I discuss some of these patterns in chapter 8 of my book, Scripting in Java.
When thinking about scripting languages in Java applications, two key questions come up: how it will affect software architecture and how will it affect performance. By keeping the design with interface principle as our focus and applying the simple patterns shown in this article, we can successfully tackle both of these questions. The rest is left to you to choose what language best suits your programming needs, but also when and how much you want to use scripting in your projects.
- Code samples
- More on scripting patterns
- Rhino, a JavaScript engine written in Java
- Groovy, a dynamic language for JVM
- Scripting Project, a collection of Scripting API engines


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D-Sub Connector Interface Modules
Automation Systems Interconnect, Inc. (ASI) is pleased to announce the release of a DIN rail mountable pluggable D-SUB connector interface module. This new product provides an easy, cost-effective means of interfacing between inputs/outputs and controllers used in industrial control and automation applications. The transition from a D-Subminiature to individual wires is simplified with this new, readily available interface module. An exclusive feature of the IMDS module is their availability with pluggable terminal blocks and either male (plug) or female (receptacle) D-SUB connectors.
These pluggable modules facilitate rapid system testing, shorter maintenance downtime and simplify construction when shipping sub-assemblies are required. In the standard 9 to 50 position D-SUB configurations, these modules will mount either on a DIN rail or directly on a panel. Another unique feature of the IMDS module is the addition of six component holes per circuit. The plated through holes allow users to easily modify modules by adding electronic components. The 26-12 AWG terminal blocks are clearly marked to eliminate wiring errors. Custom marking, custom circuits and special connectors are available upon request.
- pluggable terminal blocks
- facilitate rapid system testing
- six component holes per circuit


text:
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe plans to map out his economic growth strategy by June and place a strong emphasis on rejuvenating the manufacturing industry, a draft of the government's strategy says.
The government's economic revitalization headquarters will hold its first meeting Tuesday and start working on concrete measures to reinvigorate the economy in a bid to pull the country out of two decades of stagnation.
The three pillars of the plan are: more effectively targeting policies at sectors with growth potential, such as medical and energy; industrial rehabilitation; and sharpening international business competitiveness, according to a copy of the draft obtained by Kyodo News.
The new headquarters, which will be headed by Abe, is considering promoting deregulation and supporting research programs in a range of sectors.
Among its other goals, the draft said Abe's government, formed in late December, plans to facilitate corporate realignment and curb the electricity hikes being pursued due to the loss of nuclear power resulting from the public reaction to the meltdowns at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear plant in March 2011.
Economic and fiscal policy minister Akira Amari told reporters Sunday that the new growth strategy will be crafted by "collecting the wisdom of the government and the private sector."
Amari also said the regulation reform council under past governments led by the Liberal Democratic Party will be revived at an early date to work out deregulation measures.
Other measures under the draft include reducing corporate taxes and social security burdens to prevent Japanese companies from shifting operations overseas, as well as reviving the agriculture, fishery and tourism industries and local-level businesses.
Asia investment strategy
The government plans to set up a new private-public initiative to support overseas acquisitions by Japanese companies and promote infrastructure investment in Asia in a bid to energize the economy by capitalizing on global growth, a statement said Monday.
The statement, presented by the Finance Ministry at a meeting of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party's task force, also said expanding investment abroad could prompt Japanese companies to sell the yen and buy other currencies, making the foreign-exchange market less volatile.
Under the new system, the state-owned Japan Bank for International Cooperation will set a ¥200 billion credit line and provide financial support to companies, including small businesses, in tandem with the banks and investors. The central government will inject around ¥70 billion into JBIC.
The plan is expected to be incorporated into the emergency economic stimulus package scheduled to be endorsed by the Cabinet on Friday.
During the task force's meeting, the Finance Ministry also unveiled plans to lend about ¥100 billion to a fund to be set up by the government-owned Development Bank of Japan to strengthen corporate competitiveness.
In the supplementary budget for fiscal 2012, the ministry is slated to request around ¥30 billion to ease cash-flow problems at small- and medium-size businesses because the legislation allowing them to receive loan moratoriums will expire in March, ministry officials said.
The legislation, aimed at supporting smaller businesses squeezed by the credit crunch, has led financial institutions to grant moratoriums on loans worth around ¥80 trillion to 300,000 to 400,000 companies to date.


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Investigators need help identifying dead body
Wed, 08 May 2013 13:21:46 GMT —
The Grand Traverse County Sheriff's Office is trying to figure out the identity of a body found Tuesday.
Two horseback riders discovered what looked like a body while riding in a field near Farm Lane, in what police are calling "section 31" of East Bay Township. The man, described by authorities as a white male, between the ages of 25 and 35-years-old was found face down, and with an article of clothing covering his face.
Emergency responders confirmed the subject was deceased and began an investigation into the identity of the subject and cause of death.
"Once we're able to identify the body, which I'm confident we will be able to do in the near future, then we'll be able to contact people who knew this individual, who knew what his habits were, what he may have been involved in, who he hangs around," said Capt. Randy Fewless of the Grand Traverse County Sheriff's Department. "We'll be able to conduct a very extensive investigation to find out what occurred, how it occurred, why it occurred, those types of things."
The subject is described as being 5'11" in height and weighs 164 pounds. He has short dark hair with brown/hazel eyes and is clean shaven.
He was also described as wearing black shoes, dark pants and a dark colored sweatshirt. He had a black backpack as well.
The body was taken to Grand Rapids for an autopsy, which showed no signs of trauma. Officials are still waiting for toxicology results to determine the cause of death.
The man's finger prints are being examined down state, and authorities hope to have him identified sometime this evening.
Anyone who has information about the possible identity of the person or is aware of a friend or family member who has not been seen for the past two to three days, please contact the Sheriffâ??s Office at 231-995-5002.


text:
Chase Utley played in his first official rehab game on Tuesday night, batting third as the designated hitter for the Clearwater Threshers. Utley went 1-4 with a single in his final at bat of the day. Chase said he felt "really good" running the bases, but added that he did feel a bit of discomfort in the knee while at the plate at times.
A reporter for the Trentonian covered the Single-A game.
"A few at-bats I felt comfortable, a few I haven't," Utley said after the game. "But that's probably standard at this point."
Utley making progress is fantastic to hear because the Phillies offense could absolutely use his bat these days.
>>Chase Utley returns to the field in rehab start in Clearwater [Trentonian]


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COUNCIL leaders are set to make a stand against the Chief Constable's decision to routinely deploy a number of armed police officers on day-to-day duties.
The officials will meet at the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (Cosla) at the end of next month.
Highland Council's leader Jimmy Gray has confirmed he will raise the issue, seeking pan-Scotland support for Highland's call for a fundamental review of the Chief Constable's decision.
Loading article content
Sir Stephen House issued a standing firearms authority for 275 officers across Scotland, who must wear side-arms whenever they are on duty.
However, local concerns have been raised over the appearance of armed officers in inappropriate settings, from shops to a charity event.
One senior local government figure, who wishes to remain anonymous until the council leaders have had a chance to vote, told the Herald: "I would be absolutely gobsmacked if Jimmy Gray does not get support for this.
"I think every local politician from every party has serious concerns about this issue. It is a blanket solution to what used to be a matter for local political decision-making."
Mr Gray, a Labour councillor who was formerly the Provost of Inverness, said other council leaders had already brought up the matter with him.
He said: "They have been just as concerned as we have in the Highland Council at armed police officers becoming a permanent feature in the policing of Scotland.
"They are wondering where it came from and, like us, are completely unaware of any discussion of the issue. We are all wondering what has happened to policing with consent as the guiding principle."
Sir Stephen and the Scottish Government have insisted that it was "an operational decision" to issue the standing authority and therefore could not be subject to political interference.
But Mr Gray said he agreed with Professor Alan Miller, chair of the Scottish Human Rights Commission, who said this week that this was not simply an operational matter for the Chief Constable alone to decide.
Mr Gray said there was no legal definition of what the "operational independence" of the police means.
"It was a term which has been around since 1960s," he said. "It is for when a decision has to be taken about how police should react to a given situation there and then. It clearly does not refer to a decision to change the pattern of policing."
He continued: "If operational freedom means the Chief Constable can arm 10 officers in the Highlands, does it mean he can arm them all if he so chooses? Would that still be an operational matter?"
But in a letter to the Inverness Courier, retired senior police officer John Darcy, who was firearms tactical commander with Northern Constabulary from 2003 to 2013, had a different perspective.
He said there were many legally held firearms in an area like the Highlands. He said: "Though infrequent, there have been many occasions when an individual, legally in possession, has undergone a life-changing event, sometimes exacerbated by alcohol and drugs, and intimated they are about to harm themselves or others."
Meanwhile, those of a violent nature, again possibly influenced by drink or drugs, could be brandishing bladed weapons, often in a domestic setting, and an unarmed response would not be appropriate. Organised crime gangs had also long targeted the Highlands for the sale of drugs.
"The situations described are predominantly spontaneous and as such require an immediate armed response," he said. "It was often frustrating to have to deploy unarmed officers between the public and danger, while waiting for a response-trained team to be ... ready for deployment."


text: Hi Eric, In the past , I've done things like ###### normdist = lambda x: numpy.random.normal(0,x) vecnormal = numpy.vectorize(normdist) stdev = numpy.array([1.1,1.2,1.0,2.2]) result = vecnormal(stdev) ###### This works fine for up to 10k elements for stdev for some reason. Any larger then that and i get a Bus error on my PPC mac and a segfault on my x86 linux box. I'm running numpy 0.9.7.2325 on both machines. Perhaps for larger inputs, you could break up your loop into smaller vectorized chunks. Regards, John On Wed, Apr 05, 2006 at 03:32:06PM +0200, Eric Emsellem wrote: > Hi, > > I am trying to optimize a code where I derive random numbers many times > and having an array of values for the stdev parameter. > > I wish to have an efficient way of doing something like: > ################## > stdev = array([1.1,1.2,1.0,2.2]) > result = numpy.zeros(stdev.shape, Float) > for i in range(len(stdev)) : > result[i] = numpy.random.normal(0, stdev[i]) > ################## > > In my case, stdev can in fact be an array of a few millions floats... > so I really need to optimize things. > > Any hint on how to code this efficiently ? > > And in general, where could I find tips for optimizing a code where I > unfortunately have too many loops such as "for i in range(Nbody) : " > with Nbody being > 10^6 ? > > thanks! > Eric > > > ------------------------------------------------------- > This SF.Net email is sponsored by xPML, a groundbreaking scripting language > that extends applications into web and mobile media. Attend the live webcast > and join the prime developer group breaking into this new coding territory! > http://sel.as-us.falkag.net/sel?cmd=lnk&kid=110944&bid=241720&dat=121642 > _______________________________________________ > Numpy-discussion mailing list > Numpy-discussion at lists.sourceforge.net > https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/numpy-discussion -- If liberty and equality, as is thought by some are chiefly to be found in democracy, they will be best attained when all persons alike share in the government to the utmost. -- Aristotle, Politics


text:
As night is to day, fear is necessary. It is actually the same emotion as love, just the other extreme. There is only a problem when fear controls you; the same can be said for love. There is nothing wrong with fear, it's all in how you use it. To me, standing boldly between both fear and love is optimal.
– Nicholas Payton


text:
About this book
Bill Bowen's memoir deals with many of the most important events and years in Arkansas history in the twentieth century. Bowen was born and raised in Altheimer, in the Arkansas Delta, a section of the country that was among the most impoverished in the nation during the Depression. His adolescence was shaped by the Depression, and as a young adult he enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II, and served in the U.S. Naval Reserve until 1963. After the war, Bowen became a tax attorney.
He used his unique skills to refine the legal aspects of investment banking in Arkansas and became so proficient at it that he moved into the banking field to serve first as president then board chairman of one of Arkansas's largest banks. Legal and banking experience led naturally to politics, and he became chief of staff for Gov. Bill Clinton. After Clinton announced his candidacy for president, it became Bowen's task to protect the interests and programs of Governor Clinton in the face of intense pressure from then Lt. Gov. Jim Guy Tucker to become de facto governor. Even in retirement he continued to lead an energetic, productive life as he prepared himself for yet another career, this one in education, serving two years as dean of the University of Arkansas, Little Rock, Law School, which now bears his name.
About the author
Bill Bowen currently lives in Little Rock, Arkansas.
"I can honestly say that I could not have run for or become president of the United States if it weren't for Bill Bowen's selflessness and dedication to public service. . . . I have some experience with the process of writing an autobiography, and it is not a simple task. Bill, as usual, has done a great job."
—Bill Clinton, from the Foreword
"This is an important first hand account of the inner workings of Arkansas's executive office during a crucial time . . . a good autobiography of one of Arkansas's leading figures."
—Bobby Roberts, director of the Central Arkansas Library System
"Bill Bowen's insights into political and economic issues provide explanations of key events that to date have been lacking in the public area."
—C. Fred Williams, author of Arkansas: Independent and Proud, An Illustrated History and co-editor of A Documentary History of Arkansas


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SULLIVAN TWP. — Black River did it for the Patriot Athletic Conference, the rowdy crowd at Art Stevenson Field and the naysayers who proclaim it's tough to beat a team twice in one season.
Most of all, the Pirates did it for themselves as proof they belonged in the Division IV, Region 13 playoffs, becoming the first PAC team to win a postseason game since the league was instituted in 2005.
Final score: Pirates 49, Manchester 24 in a Saturday night no-doubter.
Those losses earlier in the year to Wellington and Firelands? They don't matter anymore because coach Al Young's team is the only one left standing.
"We proved that we can play in the playoffs," said running back/cornerback Jake Sexton, whose team will play top-seeded Girard next week at a site to be determined. "We proved that no matter how big the team is, how much people think they're going to beat us, we're the underdogs and we're going to come out and win at our home field."
Playing in its first playoff game since 2003, Black River (9-2) scored 42 of the game's final 54 points. The Pirates rushed for 447 yards — a
412-yard improvement over the first meeting — and played bend-but-don't-break defense against Manchester's vaunted passing attack.
Sophomore sensation Andrew Vaughn rushed 23 times for 236 yards and three touchdowns, while long-legged junior Austin Phillips added 13 carries for 148 yards and two scores as the Pirates abused the Panthers' 5-3 defense off-tackle and around end.
Linemen Terry Sas, Andrew Henschel, Doug Church, Barrett Schmitz and Austin Childs and tight end John Guilford were so dominating Black River didn't run up the gut until quarterback Dakota Kuntz scored untouched on a 9-yard TD run with 3:28 remaining.
"We just had to come out and hit them harder," Sas said. "Every play when you're dog tired, just override it."
Black River dominated the final 2 1⁄2 quarters in a game that featured a once-in-a-lifetime scenario.
Down 14-12 midway through the second quarter, Manchester (7-4) had first-and-10 on the Black River 15. Phillips sacked Nick Peyakov (22-of-51 passing, 298 yards), then the Panthers were called for holding and offensive pass interference on consecutive plays. Guilford sacked Peyakov to bring up fourth-and-51 from the Black River 44.
Peyakov lofted a booming punt, but Vaughn dropped the potential fair catch and the Panthers recovered at the 18.
Fortunately for the Pirates, they held firm, as Manchester receivers Greg Shoemaker (four receptions, 63 yards) and Mark Terry (four, 65) dropped would-be touchdown passes on third and fourth down to squander the threat.
A fired-up Black River then went on the march, running Vaughn seven times for 75 yards — including a nifty option from Kuntz on third-and-14 — and capping the drive with 1:01 left in the half when Vaughn went in from 9 yards.
"We watched film every day on these guys and we finally put it all together," Vaughn said. "We got our run game going."
While Vaughn took over the first half, Phillips did his damage when Black River needed the knockout blows in the second.
The rugged 6-foot-1, 185-pounder took his first carry of the second half
49 yards to set up his own 2-yard TD, putting Black River up 28-12. A 20-yarder later in the quarter paved the way for Vaughn to score from 49 yards out, and Phillips' 47-yard TD in which he showed surprising breakway speed was the dagger, as Black River had a 42-24 lead with 9:29 remaining in the game.
Sprinkle in 49 yards on just four carries from Sexton, who kicked off the scoring with a 31-yard counter, and Black River's Wing-T was firing on all cylinders.
"Not to sound arrogant, but we wanted to show people we deserved to win that first game," said Young, referring to a 29-28 decision over the Panthers in Week 3. "Obviously, it's very hard to beat Manchester. To beat them twice in one year is extra special."
While the offense was unstoppable, the defense made the proper adjustments to slow down Peyakov.
Running a four-man front for the first time all season, the Pirates put constant pressure on Peyakov, sacking him four times. Sexton also picked off a pass in Black River territory — it was just Peyakov's second interception of the season — and the Panthers' run game was non-existent with 87 yards on 29 attempts.
Peyakov converted third-and-11, fourth-and-12 and third-and-12 situations in the first half, leading to two Manchester TDs. The second half was a totally different story, as the Pirates held Manchester to just four more third- or fourth-down conversions.
Sexton and Donatius DeMarco each broke up two passes, while Guilford, Kuntz and Nick Morrow added one apiece.
"They can throw the ball real well, but our DBs started to pick up on what they were doing," Sexton said. "We came up with a game plan, and as the game went on we continued to stop their passing game."
Now, the Pirates are riding high with momentum. They showed the PAC can win a playoff game — the 7-year-old league is now 1-7 — and they showed they can throw in some new wrinkles. Most importantly, they showed they belonged.
"I can't even put it into words," Vaughn said. "Winning at home, all these fans come out to watch us play and they've got our backs. We just wanted to win for them, and we did it."
Albert Grindle at (330) 721-4043 or email@example.com.
Black River 49, Manchester 24
Manchester 12 0 6 6 — 24
Black River 7 14 14 14 — 49
B — Jake Sexton, 31 run (Alex Bacisin kick)
M — Greg Shoemaker, 12 pass from Nick Peyakov (kick failed)
M — Tyler Graves, 18 run (pass failed)
B — Andrew Vaughn, 36 run (Bacisin kick)
B — Vaughn, 1 run (Bacisin kick)
B — Austin Phillips, 2 run (Bacisin kick)
M — Peyakov, 1 run (pass failed)
B — Vaughn, 49 run (Bacisin kick)
M — Dallas Edwards, 22 pass from Peyakov (pass failed)
B — Phillips, 47 run (Bacisin kick)
B — Dakota Kuntz, 9 run (Bacisin kick)
Team statistics
First downs 21 16
— by rushing 6 14
— by passing 14 1
— by penalty 1 1
Yards rushing 87 447
Yards passing 298 31
Total offense 385 478
Passes att./comp. 51/22 4/1
Intercepted by 0 1
Fumbles/lost 0/0 0/0
Penalties/yards 4/30 6/56
Individual statistics
RUSHING — (M) Tyler Graves 16-75, Peyakov 13-12. (BR) Vaughn 23-236, Phillips 13-148, Sexton 4-49, Kuntz 2-14, Donatius DeMarco 1-0.
PASSING — (M) Peyakov 22-52-298-1-1. (BR) Kuntz 1-4-31-0-0.
RECEIVING — (M) Mark Terry 4-65, Shoemaker 4-63, Edwards 7-59, Graves 2-58, Chad Robertson 2-33, Cort Logan 3-20. (BR) Nick Morrow 1-31.


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My Really Bland 1997 TJ 4.0L Auto Build aka "Betty"
This thread is for me to document my experiences and ask some probably dumb questions about my 1997 TJ. I usually search a bunch first so I will try to reference other threads I find. I am a Jeep noob but not a forum noob. I am a former autocrosser, subaru guy, and I ride a Gas Gas on the weekends.
Betty's Mission Statement-
To provide a fun somewhat liveable daily driver that can do moderate wheeling. The general purpose is a road going tow and fun vehicle as I ride dirtbikes as my primary fun activity. Must be driveable for wifey as I leave it at home and take her car for long commutes.
The Jeep as I got her-
1997 TJ with 54,XXX miles on it
-Auto, which I pretty much had to have
-There is a throttle body spacer on it (have to check brand)
-Factory 3.07's (I think they are Dana 38's too?, I know they are open)
-Old Man Emu Budget Boost with 2k miles on it. Properly done with track bar mount moved and beefed up. Steering stabilizer as well
-JKS front sway endlinks with disconnects
-JKS 1.25" Body Lift
-JKS 1" Engine mount's
-32 x 11.5's and wheels with 2k miles on them
-Clean frame and underpinnings (hard as hell to find in the rust belt)
-Clean interior
-Hardtop in perfect shape
-Good soft top
-Bikini Top
-Stereo upgrades (5.25" conversion up front, sony deck, new sound bar speakers)
Planned Mods (already purchased)-
-RRC Rugged Ridge Rocker guards/steps (wife requested these plus the 5 mins I spent in the woods already made it clear the rockers are super vulnerable)
-H4 Headlight conversion (done)
-Other various crap like torx sets and a toolbag I can fill with Jeep specific tools (started)
If you are still reading, questions-
In terms of swapping gears I am having a hard time, reading through all the awesome FAQ's on here, determining exactly what I would need to swap my D30 and D35 to something other than the 3.07's.... help? kit links? Other?
I also have been told a 8.8 (maybe like this- JEEP AXLES D30, D35, FORD 8.8 ) wouldn't be a bad idea? How would I match up the D30 to that?
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This is an easy and simple dessert and a perfect way to use up any egg yolks. I have to really thank Big City Cooking for this recommendation. I had no idea that this existed until she suggested it to the ladies on the WC board. After our wonderful filet dinner, we needed the perfect little sweet treat. Eric used port for dinner, and I used it again for dessert. I served the Sabayon on top of a Sara Lee pound cake with strawberries & blueberries. Eric looked at me and asked "Is this Nutella?" I laughed because I had to explain it was a sweet port sauce using egg yolks.
Sabayon with Fruit
Adapted from Julia & Jaques Cooking at Home
1 pint fresh ripe strawberries
1 pint fresh blueberries
1 tablespoon sugar, plus more to taste
2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, plus more to taste
For the saboyan:
4 egg yolks
1/2 cup port wine (or sherry, or Madeira)
1/4 cup sugar, plus more to taste
Drops of freshly squeezed lemon juice
Preparing the strawberries:
About an hour before serving the dessert, rinse the blueberries and strawberries (stems on) and drain them on paper towels. Slice off the stems and halve or quarter the strawberries lengthwise, depending on size, into a bowl. Sprinkle over the sugar and the lemon juice; fold gently together to blend well. Taste a strawberry, add more sugar or lemon juice if needed, and set aside to macerate.
Whipping the sabayon:
If you want to serve the sabayon warm, make it at the last minute. If you want to glaze the sabayon under the broiler, or make it ahead of time to serve chilled, have ready a large bowl (larger than the one in which you whip the sauce) partly filled with ice cubes.
Whisk to blend the yolks, port, and sugar in the stainless-steel bowl. Rest the bowl in the saucepan over hot water. Whisk constantly for 4 to 5 minutes or more to cook the sauce, until it has the consistency of lightly whipped cream. Clear the bottom of the bowl constantly with the whisk so that the eggs do not scramble, and adjust the heat as needed. Taste the sauce — the sabayon should never get so hot that you can't stick your very clean finger in it — and whisk drops of lemon juice or more sugar if you want. When thick, foamy, and tripled in volume, remove from heat. It can be served hot as is, tepid, or cool.
Review: Simple, rich and beautiful...just how I love my desserts!


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Most visitors to Dresden flock to its recently restored Frauenkirche, the famous Baroque Zwinger building and the Old Masters Gallery, but the historical Molkerei (creamery) is a wonder unto itself.
The Molkerei -- a must for any Dresden visitor
The inside of Dresden's Molkerei -- the German word for creamery -- is a kaleidoscope of color. Its walls, ceiling and floor are covered with thousands of tiles in all different hues.
So unique is the creamery that it's made a record as the "prettiest milk store in the world" in the Guinness Book of World Records. Dozens of angels and putti, animals and flowers are depicted on the hand-painted tiles, spread across thousands of square feet.
"Up to 1,000 visitors come every day," managing director Frank Zabel told German news agency DPA.
Survived World War II
The creamery was built 125 years ago by the Pfund Brothers. Even today, visitors can buy cheese and milk at the 4-meter-long (13 feet) counter. The fronts of the traditional "ice boxes" are still there too, but the original insides have been replaced with modern refrigerators.
The hand-painted tiles lure one into the shop
Leaving the village of Reinholdshain, Paul Gustav Leander Pfund went to Dresden in 1879 with his wife, six children and a herd of pigs. He started up the creamy business, which his brother Friedrich later joined. Paul developed new products and manufacturing methods, improved hygienic processes and accessed new markets. He was the first in Germany to produce condensed milk. He introduced pasteurization in 1900.
The two Pfund brothers had a flourishing business that included several stores, their own insurance company, company housing and a swimming pool, as well as a kindergarten. When Paul died in 1923, his children took over the business, which also remarkably withstood World War II and the massive destruction of Dresden.
Not succumbing to GDR deco
In 1972, the business became state-run in socialist East Germany, with the variety of products reduced to just three sorts of cheese and milk.
But Zabel told DPA that the creamery was spared of the typical GDR decorating style.
"People were able to stop plans to destroy the traditional tiles that were supposed to be replaced by plastic paneling," he said.
Molkerei Pfund has been called the "most beautiful creamery in the world"
After the fall of the Berlin wall in 1989, the business virtually disappeared. But, gaining inheritance rights, one of Paul's great-grandchildren restored the creamery to its former glory and founded the Dresdener Molkerei Gebrüder Pfund GmbH.
Zabel said that five percent of the old tiles had to be replaced; the rest were restored, with the store opening up in 1995. Now, cheese lovers can choose from 120 different sorts and wash it down with a glass of milk.
The building also houses a restaurant and gift shop, where visitors can buy tile replicas. But they may just have to elbow their way in: on some days, a slew of buses are lined up outside -- packed with tourists.
A court ruled Wednesday, Nov. 14, that Dresden could continue with plans to build a divisive bridge across the Elbe River, despite a threat to revoke the city's World Heritage status and concerns for a species of bat. (14.11.2007)
Cologne's majestic Gothic cathedral is Germany's most beloved tourist destination, according to a recent survey. Berlin, Dresden and the Neuschwanstein Castle also scored well. (10.08.2007)
What have you seen while visiting Dresden? Send us an e-mail. Please include your name and country in your reply.


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Ananya Tours Pvt. Ltd., is a Destination Management Company with headquarters at Delhi, India, and having representative presence in over 45 cities of India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka. Managed by a team of travel professionals, the company specializes in organizing travel and tour to India and includes all sort of tour types - culture, adventure, educational, wildlife and special interest tours. The team of professionals at Ananya is experienced and equipped to look after private tours, organized group movements and large incentive programs. Plan your trip, travel or tour to India with us.
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Location: Miami
Member since 2/22/2011
- 1 total post
- 1 review
Reviews & Stories
Eyelid Surgery - Coral Gables, FL
For all the obvious reasons AND I found a surgeon I trusted. my results are exactly what i expected, my look is natural, and i had no pain. READ MORE


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K'la Criswell reached home on a wild pitch and sealed Alma's rally to help complete the double-header sweep on Thursday at home.
Criswell drove in a run in the 10th and took third after a double by Brooke Hoffsommer (2 for 5). Three pitches later, Criswell (2 for 5) took home and ended the game with just one out 9-8.
Abbey Ostrander helped Alma with a two-out, three-run triple in the bottom of the ninth to give the Airedalettes one more chance.
The Airedalettes trailed 3-1 going into the bottom of the seventh with two outs. Lead-off hitter Shaylee Sevenstar (2 for 4) and Charley Wilbourn (3 for 5) each had RBI doubles to tie up the game 3-3 at the end of the regular innings.
Morrilton scored at the top of the eighth, and Alma responded with Alexys Criswell's RBI single to tie the game again.
The Lady Devil Dogs scored three runs off of three hits, two of which came with a pair of outs on the board.
Alma needed a two-out rally of their own in the bottom of the ninth. Ostrander rapped out her three-run triple to tie the game and send it to the 10th.
Morrilton scored a run at the top of the 10th, but it was a pair of runs to give Alma the win.
Alma had 12 hits and stranded 10 batters on base.
Reagan Nichols was able to keep the Airedalettes off-balance with 11 strikeouts.
Olivia Vinson grabbed the win with 10 innings of work with just five earned runs and seven strikeouts.
Alma 10, Morrilton 0
The Airedalettes pounded out another 12 hits and limited the Lady Devil Dogs to just two and grabbed the win in five innings.
Vinson pitched for just five frames to get the win with six strikeouts.
Alma's first three batters (Sevenstar, Wilbourn, Ostrander) had two hits each, and Hoffsommer and Alora Perry added two hits each.
Sevenstar had a two-run double in the fifth.


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Putin Calls U.S. Bluff As Pro-Russian Forces Seize Crimean Bases
- By John HudsonJohn Hudson is a senior reporter at Foreign Policy, where he covers diplomacy and national security issues in Washington. He has reported from several geopolitical hotspots, including Ukraine, Pakistan, Malaysia, China, and Georgia. Prior to joining FP, John covered politics and global affairs for the Atlantic magazine's news blog, the Atlantic Wire. In 2008, he covered the August war between Russia and Georgia from Tbilisi and the breakaway region of Abkhazia. He has appeared on CNN, MSNBC, BBC, C-SPAN, Fox News radio, Al Jazeera, and other broadcast outlets. He has been with the magazine since 2013.
- john.hudson
- @john_hudson
Masked Russian-speaking troops continued to seize Ukrainian facilities in the country's Crimean peninsula Wednesday in the face of repeated calls by the United States and European Union to de-escalate the crisis.
The bold troop offensives came two days after President Barack Obama vowed to "impose further sanctions" on Russia if it continues to interfere with Ukraine — a threat that has yet to be fulfilled. (Before Moscow's annexation of Crimea, the U.S. slapped asset freezes on seven Russian officials and suspended preparations for the G-8 Summit in Sochi this summer.)
The latest blow to Ukrainian sovereignty was the seizure of its naval headquarters in Sevastopol by militiamen on Wednesday. According to reports on the ground, the Russian-speaking militiamen wore helmets and uniforms with no identifying insignia. After several hundred of them stormed the naval base without resistance from Ukrainian soldiers, Crimean authorities arrested the Ukrainian navy commander, Rear Adm. Sergei Haiduk, and took control of the base.
According to Ukraine's Defense Ministry, the raid caused no injuries and was carried out by pro-Russian militiamen and Cossacks. Russian state media said Haiduk is currently being questioned by Crimean prosecutors.
The seizure occurred 24 hours after a gunfight between Ukrainian troops and a local militia at another military facility in Crimea resulted in the deaths of two men. In an effort to de-escalate the crisis and end future hostilities, Ukraine's acting Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk requested that his Vice Prime Minister Vitaliy Yarema and Defense Minister Ihor Tenyukh travel to Crimea. However, Crimean Prime Minister Sergei Aksyonov refused to allow them entry.
"They are not welcome in Crimea," he said Wednesday. "They will not be allowed to enter in Crimea. They will be sent back."
Russia's brazen seizure of Crimea in the region has rattled U.S. allies in Eastern Europe, a cohort Vice President Biden is trying to soothe with two consecutive days of meetings with the leaders of Poland, Lithuania, Estonia and Latvia.
"As long as Russia proceeds along this dark path, they will receive increasing political and economic isolation," Biden said in Vilnius, Lithuania on Wednesday, before his flight back to Washington that evening. "Russia cannot escape that the world is changing and rejecting outright their behavior … And that there is a price to pay for naked aggression."
What that price may be remains uncertain. The U.S. promised further sanctions of Russian officials on Monday after it imposed asset freezes on seven Russian officials, including Vladislav Surkov, Sergey Glazyev, Leonid Slutsky and Dmitry Rogozin. But Biden's trip to eastern Europe has only brought modest promises of "steadfast" support for allies such as Poland. Observers are skeptical that U.S. sanctions could ultimately do much to influence Russia given the paltry amount of annual trade between the two nations. European Union sanctions could deal a serious blow to the Russian economy, but it could destabilize Europe's as well.
On Monday, the EU unveiled a list of 21 Ukrainian and Russian officials targeted by sanctions, but has yet to impose further penalties on Russia. Germany's cabinet paved the way for signing the EU's trade deal with Ukraine on Wednesday by approving closer political relations with the country.
In Washington, where both houses of Congress are in recess, lawmakers have urged the administration to impose further sanctions on Russia and curb its stranglehold of Europe's energy market. "Putin is making the most of his energy grip over Ukraine," Rep. Ed Royce of California, the chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said Tuesday. "If we are serious about challenging Putin's aggression, the U.S. and our European allies should make an all out effort to break that grip."
Royce and other lawmakers, have suggested boosting exports of U.S. natural gas. But as Foreign Policy reported last week, that's easier said than done, as much of U.S. gas has already been snapped up by customers with long-term contracts.


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Connie Hageman, a committee member of the Rush City Cadillac Dinner, displays a wooden plaque with the message, "Rush City Tiger Pride," during the live auction. Donated by Lee's Pro Shop, the item was sold to the high bidder for $185. Other goods that generated the most bids included an autographed Timberwolves basketball and a $150 gift card, T-shirt and sessions with trainer Jerry Lewis at Rush City Snap Fitness. Photos by Melanie M. Hedberg
Photos by Melanie M. Hedberg


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75 Bingo Balls – Angled to the Left
75 Bingo Balls for your casino, bingo or other type of gambling design. Each file is 1024×1024px and there are 75 images of each bingo ball. Realistic design with reflection. Also I included 5205×15743px composition file with all 75 balls in one place.


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This star rating is the opinion of the property owner only. A Self-Rated hotel has not been assessed by the AA or Visit Britain, whose official star ratings we use across LateRooms.com.
Serenity Hua Hin3 Self rated
53/9 Petchkasem Road, Soi Hua Hin 5/1 Prachuab Khirikhan, Hua Hin, 77110
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About the hotel
Elegance awaits you in the heart of Hua Hin Town at Serenity Hua Hin. With Thai modern architecture, friendly multilingual staff and spacious rooms make us the perfect choice for your vacation. Set only 350 meters from the large expanse of Hua Hin's finest white sand beach, it is ideal for sun seekers, ocean lovers and sunset admirers alike.
With room sizes starting at 38 square meters, Serenity Hua Hin provides three-storeyed building accommodation. From the luxuriously appointed rooms and spacious Premier Deluxe pool access to the resort's communal facilities and restaurant, each guest is treated to the finest in services and amenities. Take a dip in the 80 meters length swimming pool running alongside the building, dine in our Charisma restaurant facing to the pool, or keep in touch with friends back home thanks to free wi-fi throughout the resort.
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- Car parking available onsite, Valet Parking
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- Wi-Fi Available, Meeting Facilities, Wi-Fi Available In Public Areas, Wi-Fi Available In Rooms, Business Centre, Private dining services
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- Restaurant, Lounge Menu, Bar, Breakfast to go
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- Outdoor Pool, Fitness Centre, Massage, Jacuzzi, Mountain Bike Hire, [Channels] News, [Channels] Sky Sports, [Channels] Movies (Free), [Channels] Foreign (European), [Channels] Foreign (Other), [Channels] Music, [Channels] Childrens
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- Disabled Access Public Areas, Disabled Access Bedrooms, Disabled toilets on ground floor, Wheelchair Access, Wheelchair Access To Reception, Wheelchair Access To Restaurant, Wheelchair Access To Bar, Wheelchair Access To Leisure Facilities, Wheelchair Access To Disabled Car Parking Spaces
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Sleepy Snoogus: Empowering Cambodian Mothers
Every Sleepy Snoogu sale will contribute to an education fund for the wonderful women who make them.
For more great photos of the Sleepy Snoogus, follow us on Instagram.
You can find videos about our producers here.
Visit our www.cambodiaknits.com for more info!
Q: How is the employment your offer sustainable?
A: We offer a way for those in poor communities to make a living within their homes by providing paid training, supplying all materials to producers so they don't have to invest their own money in advance and traveling to the communities regularly to collect finished products and providing on-going training. By allowing producers to work from their own homes, we ensure that they can continue to receive income regardless of external factors such as transport costs or childcare needs. By focusing on creating high quality products, we aim to ensure that this provides a viable profession and source of income for the future.
Q: Do you provide any other benefits to your producers?
A: Although our producers work on a piece rate and are home-based we provide additional benefits for them such as an emergency medical fund, transportation for health emergencies, annual eye exams and free glasses, performance bonuses and maternity leave. We also give first priority to our home-based producers when full-time positions open at our headquarters and offer training courses in relevant topics such as personal financial management and health and hygiene. And from September, with your help, we will provide scholarships for children of our producers.
Q: Where do you ship?
A: We ship worldwide!
Q: What if I want something different?
A: We hope that our new line offers something for everyone. However, if you have any special requests – a product in a different colour or a specific animal for a special person – please contact us and we will see what we can do.
Q: Are your dolls child safe?
A: Safety is important in the making of our dolls, ensuring they are safe for young children. We have made sure to pay close attention to every step of the process, taking into careful consideration our targeted age range. Each doll is handcrafted with 80% cotton/20% milk fiber yarn, securely sewn together and stuffed with 100% new polyester fill


text: I want to make grey pixel near to black pixel to be darker. And grey pixel near white pixel become lighter. I also want to make green and red pixel become white. How can I do? Which technique would you prefer? I've tried for weeks but I cannot find an idea that depends upon near pixel and levels and color.


text:
A grandmother said she was "gobsmacked" after her employer donated £1,500 to a charity very close to her heart.
Vicky Strudwick, who works for TK Maxx, in Queensway, suggested to her boss the store might consider making a donation to the charity TOFS as part of its community fund.
The charity supports families of children born with tracheo-oesophageal fistula (TOF), a rare condition which affect one in every 3,500 babies.
Vicky's grandson Riley Johnston, 19 months, was born with the condition which meant his oesophagus was not attached to his stomach.
Born on New Year's Day 2013 – along with his twin brother Mason – the tot went through corrective surgery to close the gap when he was just one day old.
Then, at three months old, he took a turn for the worse and spent six months in hospital in Brighton where he had two further operations.
Riley's mum, Stacie Kennedy, said: "He had a bit of a bumpy start. His first year was quite awful. It's been a bit of an emotional year."
While it is hoped his oesophagus will grow as he gets older, at the moment Riley has to be connected to a food pump at night to make sure he gets all the nutrients he needs.
Vicky said: "He does eat normally to an extent but he struggles. He just takes a little bit at a time and sometimes it won't go down."
She added that, when Riley is older and his ability to eat has improved, he will still need to have plenty of water on standby when he eats in case he chokes.
Both Stacie and Vicky have offered their heartfelt thanks to TK Maxx and manager Faisal Ahmed.
Vicky said: "We do quite a bit for charity and the manager mentioned they would like to donate to local charities associated with children.
"I jumped at the chance and we both applied."
While hoping that perhaps a couple of hundred pounds might be allocated, Vicky and Stacie were delighted when TK Maxx gave £1,500 to the cause.
Stacie said: "It's amazing. It's going to help everything. It's not a well-known charity and we're really pleased and really thankful."
John Pearce, trustee and tresurer at TOFS, thanked TK Maxx for its donation.
Explaining the problems faced by children suffering tracheo-oesophageal fistula, he said: "The surgery is a treatment not a cure and people with this condition are generally left with all kinds of difficulties to manage for the rest of their lives, health wise.
"And that's what our support group exists to help with.
"We are a tiny charity and we operate UK nationwide but on only a few tens of thousands of pounds, so the amount of money that has been raised through TK Maxx in Crawley is very, very helpful to us indeed."
To find out more about TOFS, log on to www.tofs.org.uk


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Holding a slim margin, Mentor's Aaron Wank won a bizarre, back-and-forth match with Madison's Ricky Simcic to help the Cardinals to a 42-21 dual match victory on Thursday.
Exchanging takedowns and reversals, the lead between Wank and Simcic (195 pounds) changed five times. The score ballooned to 18-16 in favor of Wank before the junior pulled of a pin in the third period.
The Cardinals were leading, 27-21 entering the match, and a pin by Simcic -- he had a couple chances -- would have tied the score. Instead, the Blue Streaks lost six of the final seven matches.
"(Wank) has been working hard this offseason and has shed some pounds recently," first-year Mentor coach Jim Capel said. "That was a huge win for us. It sealed the deal and took the pressure off of the next two guys, who haven't been back (from football) very long. "
It will take some time for the Cardinals, who advanced to the state semifinal round in football, to get into wrestling shape.
The win was Mentor's first victory over Madison in three tries and the first for Capel at the varsity level.
"Beating Madison was one of our goals for the beginning of the season," Capel said. "We've been a good dual meet team traditionally, and we've got a couple other big ones against Perry and Lake Catholic coming up."
Bonus points were the key. Mentor had one major decision, one tech fall and four pins.
Colin Kramer (113), a returning state qualifier, bested Corbin Post in the second match.
Austin Tomolentz (138) toyed with Kole Koranda in a 17-0 tech fall, and heavyweight Billy Hudson ended the dual by pinning Sam Dull in the first period.
"Mentor did a fine job of putting the match away and winning all the toss-up matches," Madison coach Ryan Wirtzberger. "And when they won, they got bonus points. That's what every dual meet comes down to. You can't expect to win a match when you need two pins at the end. That rarely works out."
The Blue Streaks were without Nick Montgomery and Jarrod Lasko, who combined to go 63-17 a season ago.
Madison got pins from Bo Ransom (145) and Drew Schiemann (180). Ransom, who was a state alternate last year, pinned Cory Smith just before a short intermission and tied the score at 15.
"I knew that it would come down to bonus points," Capel said. "At the break, when we were tied, I told them we need to get those majors, tech falls and pins, and we couldn't give up those points."
Mentor's Dillon Ashton (152) started the second half of the evening with a pin of Braden Jerome, sparking the Cardinals' rally to victory.
"I wouldn't say they ran out of gas -- I think they ran out of a little heart," Wirtzberger said. "The team is in shape, and you can tell especially with the lightweights. The bigs and the littles go through the same workout, so it comes down to heart.
"The more technique you learn and the better physical condition you're in, you should be able to build more confidence. We didn't have any kind of swagger."
Madison's Ryan Montgomery (126), edged Mark Molder in a 10-6 decision. Also winning were Mikey Kinney (106) and Jacob Steigner (120).
The Blue Streaks lost to Perry, 39-26, in their first dual of the season on Saturday and will look to get things straightened out at the Riverside Rumble beginning Friday.


text:
National News
New shooting in Copenhagen: 3 wounded, including 2 police
Posted February 14, 2015
Police say three people have been wounded, including two police officers, in a shooting in downtown Copenhagen.
Police said it wasn't immediately clear whether the incident was linked to an earlier shooting at a cultural center that killed one person and wounded two police officers.
In the latest shooting, Copenhagen police say one person was shot in the head while the two officers were shot in the arms and legs.
The suspect fled on foot.


text:
Telephone operator said to man. Sir we have huge progressed and aggendizement in our telephone line. Whereever you want you can keep the celerity communication.
Man: Really then dail the number of HEAVEN man said.
Telephone Operator: Why not sir, there you go and enjoy the talk
...> Hello how are you gentleman?
....> we are very happy here. Everyside is peace, cozy we have been enjoying here very much when have we kept the step in heaven.
.....> ohh really bye
Man. Now talk to anyone from the hell to me
....> how are you gentelmen?
....> oh uff outtt don't ask me gentleman there are bad circumstance. Everywhere people are trying to kill one another.
...>ok bye
Man said to operator: How much money should I give.
..> for talking in HEAVEN Fifty rupees and for talking in Hell five rupees.
..>because the hell call was local:D


text:
"Come early, and do come often, remembering that it is your Sanctuary." - Rosalie Edge
Peregrine Falcons are not migratory raptors
Are the Raptor Trivia questions too easy? Click here to take our Raptor Challenge.
Bald Eagle by Bill Moses
Sanctuary personnel record and maintain counts of migrating raptors each autumn and each spring, and also study ovenbird breeding success, survey nesting songbirds, winter birds and butterflies. In addition, staff, volunteers, and visitors play an important role by sharing their wildlife observations, which we record as Nature Notes. All sightings are entered into a database that shows trends over time.
If you photographed or witnessed a great wildlife sighting during your visit to Hawk Mountain, email us today.
You can see daily and monthly counts by visiting our Raptor Count page.
2016 Autumn Migration Count
2012 Spring Migration Count
2011 Autumn Migration Count
2011 Spring Migration Count
2010 Hamburg Christmas Bird Count
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary. All rights reserved.
Take in the views of the Mountain and the migration.
Visit us to learn more about migratory hawks, eagles and falcons and their special conservation needs.
Hawk Mountain scientists, interns, graduate students and research associates study raptors here and across the globe.
Join as a Member and enjoy year-round the spectacular views at Hawk Mountain.
Join friends like Joan Jacobs, an 18-year volunteer who helps us care and share the Sanctuary.
Hawk Mountain is the oldest and largest, member-supported raptor conservation organization in the world.


text:
Custom Hulgers
by Josh Rubin
on 03 June 2005
If you happened to miss the buzz a couple days ago, Pokia relaunched as Hulger and will be manufacturing old school corded cell phone headsets. Even better, they have Bluetooth and VoIP models in the works.
Right now they're auctioning a bunch of customized Hulgers that were in the Margin London show last February. The designs come from I-Saw, Junky Styling, New Future Graphic, Revolution or Death, and Supremebeing. The proceeds go to Oxfam.
DecalGirl iPhone Skins
by Josh Rubin
With over 150 different designs to chose from, DecalGirl's iPhone skins are pretty much guaranteed to set your iPhone apart from the ever-growing masses of users. High-res images and graphics are printed on quality vinyl adhesive that's...
Suissa: Enlighten
by Tim Yu
Suissa recently released their newest wood encased computer called Enlighten. A bit more abstract than their previous works, Enlighten is a smaller variety with the inner workings and circuits viewable through a front pane of glass. A cut polygon...
Suissa Computers
by Tim Yu
It's no secret that personal computers have taken center stage in people's increasingly digital lives. If the recent news from Apple and launches at the Consumer Electronics Tradshow (CES) are any indication, they're increasingly evolving...
iPod Slider
by Josh Rubin
This concept iPod design from Knutmo via Gizmodo is my favorite so far. The slider makes the device nice and compact while protecting the screen. This, to me, would be an elegant evolution-- not something overly complicated. Here are a bunch of other...
DLO Flip Clip
by Parker Hutchinson
DLO's Flip Clip is by far the most useful accessory we've seen for the iPod Shuffle. With all due respect to the pint-sized player, it's always looked a tad silly when worn as a pendant necklace. The Flip Clip provides a worthy alternative; true to...
Barouche Hotel Appliances
by Tim Yu
Barouche has a range of appliances and electronics with a retro-futuristic look that will soon be greeting you at boutique hotels around the world. You may have seen these before, but as an example of design that successfully serves a specific purpose...
Glow in the Dark iPod Wheel
by Josh Rubin
Lumitector makes iPod scroll wheel covers. Certainly more novelty than utility, the most fun model glows in the dark. It's a fun and easy little mod for those of you who are bored with the plain old pod. And it's available for the 4th Generation...
iAlbea Lux iPod Case
by Josh Rubin
Direct from Spain comes iAlbea, a luxurious white leather iPod case. Available for either the 3G or 4G model it even includes a removable gold clip. It's hand-made by Spanish artisans, so the quality should be just as good as the finish. 65...
iPod Cozies
by Josh Rubin
While these hand made iPod cozies from Chuckles Central are more on the cute than cool, I still think they're great. via Design Sponge
Kroo PSP Case
by Carol T Chung
Nothing is worse than a new toy getting scratched. Check out these Kroo PSP Cases. It has slots for memory sticks and a UMD disk, cut outs for easy access to the buttons, and a silken interior lining to cushion beloved new toy. via game girl advance...
Seeking Green Striped Headphones
by Josh Rubin
Our friend Rebecca picked up a pair of these fun green striped Zumreed headphones during her last trip to Tokyo. Unfortunately they were just destroyed in the hands of an adorable yet mischievous toddler. Anyway, I'm putting a call out to see...
Hulger PIP Base
by Josh Rubin
You may remember the retro-chic Hulger PIP that we covered back in November 2005, and you might have also caught their fresh new Penelope Base over in Spear-land the other day, but what you haven't seen is the PIP Base, the latest Hulgarisation...
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August 12, 2013 — Diversity in the workplace should not be limited to gender; rather, it should envelop all aspects of a person, including his or her race, culture, and national identity. Understanding these other dimensions of diversity—and how they can impact business and working relationships—is the goal of Catalyst's Global Issues Specialty Team (GIST).
Catalyst members—and many of our Award winners—are multinational companies with employees in hundreds of countries who often work on cross-cultural teams and across borders. This is why the GIST seeks to engage and include women and men from a diversity of cultures.
Why are we running the GIST series as we take a closer look at "Hot Jobs" this month? Because the people who land a company's "hot jobs" are those who can work effectively within different cultural and geographic contexts.
In the first blog in our three-part series on Catalyst's GIST, we've invited three cross-cultural experts to discuss challenges common to those who work across borders.
What are the biggest challenges that a business manager faces when working in another culture or country? What characteristics lead to success for those working in other cultures?
Andy Molinsky is an Associate Professor of Organizational Behavior at the Brandeis International Business School. He is the author of the book Global Dexterity: How to Adapt Your Behavior Across Cultures Without Losing Yourself in the Process (HBR Press, 2013).
You'd think that the biggest challenge managers would face when working in another country would be dealing with differences: in other words, how India is different from China and how China is different from the United States, and so on. And don't get me wrong: differences are clearly important. But it's not just differences themselves that people struggle with; it's the challenge of adapting their behavior in light of these differences.
Imagine, for example, being in a culture where you have to act much more assertively than you are used to. Simply knowing this is one thing, but being able to adapt and adjust your behavior is a much stiffer challenge—especially in a way that allows you to be effective and stay true to yourself at the same time.
The good news is that global dexterity is something you can definitely learn! I have studied, taught, and worked with hundreds of people who have developed this skill and really benefitted from it.
Cornelius N. Grove and Willa Z. Hallowell are the partners of GROVEWELL LLC.
The biggest challenge isn't within the other culture; it's within the manager. That challenge is to become conscious of, and to overcome, her assumption that "all people everywhere are similar," or "people are people," or "all humans really want the same things." This "assumption of similarity," as it is known, was formed in her home community beginning in earliest childhood and became part of the mindset she took into adult life and work. This assumption underlies the common belief that "cross-cultural differences" refers to superficial characteristics of etiquette, taste, and style. While this view isn't 100 percent wrong, it's highly misleading.
For example, in Latin cultures, work gets done but the key goal of interactions is a relationship that is distinctly harmonious; colleagues strive to be perceived by others as warmly caring or simpático. In United States culture, the key goal of interactions is getting work done efficiently; if harmony and caring also reign, that's great, but it's rarely a "must-have." With this in mind, imagine the misunderstandings that can arise when Latin and United States colleagues collaborate on a long-term basis.
This example demonstrates that the biggest challenges a business manager faces are not readily observable in the manner of etiquette, taste, and style. The biggest challenges are nuanced cross-cultural differences in core values, types of emotional expression, relationship patterns, what constitutes trust, etc. In the workplace, the key challenges are expectations about decision-making, problem-solving, initiative-taking, hierarchy, time-use, and what it means to be part of a team.
To help managers gain the ability to work abroad, they should overcome the assumption of similarity, then learn to clearly perceive the nuanced differences, strengthening managerial competencies such as increasing awareness of one's own feelings and becoming more responsive to those of others—feelings that are usually culturally shaped. Taking an inquiring stance towards ambiguity and learning to maintain a non-judgmental attitude while dealing with the differences are core competencies for all global business people.


text: A while ago I have seen some panorama shots (I think there were black and white) of a, I think, established artists that played with fact that the lens of the panorama camera is rotating. He was making pictures of people (himself?) moving with the lense, so he appeared either at multiple places on the same image or he was creating one big motion-blurred silhouette of the person across the whole picture. What could the name of this artist be? I have seen the pictures somewhere in Germany (wich doesn't the the artist must be german). Thank you for your help!


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Cause for celebration?: Today's divorces can mean cake and eating it, too
Mormon Book Worm ----------, UTMay 30, 2014 2:50 p.m.
This was...disturbing. Next, let's just have a piñata at a funeral, shall we? (Sarcasm) I can just imagine what the children feel when this happens to them. What would the parents be doing at this "party"? Fighting? Sounds like "fun"! (More sarcasm)
Our society is messed up. It's that simple. Divorces should not be cause for celebration. It's just....disgusting. That's really all I can think right now.
The Caravan Moves On Enid, OKMay 29, 2014 11:36 a.m.
@ FT - salt lake city, UT - "While divorce is certainly painful and potentially permanently damaging to children it may be the best alternative. I've seen to many young LDS kids get married then have a terrible marriage. Because their church and culture put so much pressure on "eternal families" they treat marriage vows like a proposal to go to the high school prom."
How does the LDS church putting emphasis on the eternal nature/potential of families cause someone to treat a marriage proposal as unimportant, ie, "like a proposal to to the high school prom." Emphasizing the importance of marriage would do just that, emphasize the importance of the marriage relationship, NOT cause someone to treat it lightly. Sounds to me like you're throwing blame at the LDS church for no valid reason.
On a different note, I agree 100% with the general tone of these comments: hosting a party to celebrate selfishness on the part of one or both spouses (yes, selfishness is what ultimately causes divorce) is nothing to celebrate.
How far we have fallen as a culture.
How long, Lord, how long?...
ImaUteFan West Jordan, UTMay 28, 2014 11:37 p.m.
Just one more example of the tailspin our society is in.
How very sad.
Laura Ann Layton, UTMay 28, 2014 10:24 p.m.
When my parents divorced when I was eight years old, I was devastated. Hardly a thing to be proud of and have a party for. Just plain sad.
Kindred Mesa, AZMay 28, 2014 12:59 p.m.
This is so very sad I can't think of anything else to say. Perhaps grotesque would also be appropriate.
FT salt lake city, UTMay 28, 2014 12:48 p.m.
While divorce is certainly painful and potentially permanently damaging to children it may be the best alternative. I've seen to many young LDS kids get married then have a terrible marriage. Because their church and culture put so much pressure on "eternal families" they treat marriage vows like a proposal to go to the high school prom. Having a kid grow up in two healthy households is a much better alternative to many of the dysfunctional Utah households I have witnessed.
Shamal Happy Valley, UTMay 28, 2014 11:39 a.m.
Midwest Mom-
What a heartbreaking story. I don't have an agenda and certainly am not critiquing your experience.
It seams the example of sticking together for the kid's sake is more often used as a poor reason to prolong suffering rather than one to find a way back to each other or for working on your personal flaws that hurt the marriage. Your story makes my heart hurt.
I am not divorced and neither were my parents, but as I watch close friends deal with custody battles, I wonder if I could be man enough not to force my children to bounce between two different homes, schools and finding friends? Is that the right thing to do after the divorce? Does it really matter who's fault it was when you want the best for them? Perhaps their lives will be better with you than with your spouse. Heartbreak all around..
Side note: "Giving your daughter away" represents a fundamental change in the relationship and potentially a very painful one for a father (and mother). I do think that you're assigning a pretty narrow interpretation to the term.
Understands Math Lacey, WAMay 28, 2014 10:45 a.m.
But will bakers refuse to bake divorce cakes because they consider it a violation of their freedom of religion?
Kally Salt Lake City, UTMay 28, 2014 9:47 a.m.
My parents started having problems in their marriage pretty early on and tried many different things over the years to make it work - including several rounds of counseling and I think just about everything else. I first became aware of their problems when I was 4 or 5. They divorced when I was 15.
When they finally decided to give up and get a divorce, things at home actually improved. If I could have had a party to celebrate their divorce, I would have.
They were both able to find spouses who make them happy and the lives of us children improved drastically once we had parents and step-parents who were happy and able to focus on us instead of just constantly focusing on holding together a marriage that failed almost as soon as it began.
Sometimes staying together for the sake of the children does more harm to the children than splitting up.
PacificCreek Puyallup, WAMay 28, 2014 9:32 a.m.
This simply speaks to a culture of selfishness. Your Marriage, Kids, Family and everything else in the world is less important than YOU!! This attitude of selfishness probably leads to many of the behaviors that lead to divorce. I have heard true love defined as putting the needs of your spouse above yours. If both parties truly tried to do that divorce rates would likely plummet. Divorce unfortunately does happen but the consequences especially for children are far reaching. To go out and celebrate a divorce is just warped, Inviting your kids, even more so!!
Red San Antonia, TXMay 28, 2014 9:22 a.m.
We so quickly forget what we committed to when our lazy, selfishness gets in the way.
We need to stick together and keep the rest of the world from ripping our family apart.
Silly shortsighted parents who think they are entitled to "freedom" are really only trading one set of problems for a lot more.
To throw a party for this only shows how truly lame and twisted people are.
conservative scientist Lindon, UTMay 28, 2014 8:45 a.m.
The multiple ways that adults can be selfish at the expense of children are truly astounding.
Ranch Here, UTMay 28, 2014 7:33 a.m.
Wow, $25,000 for a divorce party? That's money down the drain for no real good reason (imo).
I kind of like the idea of the one with both partners cutting the lemon cake and such, especially if they have children and it lets the kids know that they'll still be involved in one another's lives and such, but the whole idea seems like just another stupid expense.
1.96 Standard Deviations OREM, UTMay 28, 2014 7:29 a.m.
Pathetic. A culture that celebrates divorce is not a good sign. Naturally, those who stand to profit from such a celebration are going to push this cultural poison and label it as a "freedom" event to make it sound like it is a good thing.
Bifftacular Spanish Fork, UtMay 28, 2014 7:28 a.m.
People who celebrate the tearing apart of a family are sick. Sure, if it is just the couple - no children, celebrate all you want. But if you have children, as you celebrate, your children are suffering in intense ways only they can understand. It makes me weep to think of the untold suffering of children because selfish adults only think of themselves.
Midwest Mom Soldiers Grove, WIMay 28, 2014 7:21 a.m.
Fathers "giving their daughters away" are leftovers from when women were property.
My parents divorced when I was young. I think if they had had a party I would have never wanted to party again. "Hard work and emotions over?" They've only just begun. I am in my fifties now, and the effects of my parents' split still hurt, from time to time.
Families are eternal. Hence, the destruction of broken families had eternal consequences. Can people "gird up their loins" and move on? Certainly. I am more aware of the casualties of divorce and have thus made my marriage a top priority. But I will never forget the day my parents split, nor the day he took us for a drive to let us know that he was giving up custody, because he couldn't afford child support. Being a kid in court. Having your birth certificate altered to show that a new man is now your father. Family research now show me to be a child born out of wedlock. Alienation from loved ones. Fear. Loss of trust. Depression. These are not things to celebrate. This article is in bad taste.