text:
Sign up to our newsletter for a 5 year guarantee
From £0.42
From £2.04
From £6.96
From £10.19
Sops in Wine cider apple trees are an old variety that can also be used for cooking. The name comes from the wine-stained appearance of the ripe flesh. Also called Sops of Wine.
The fruit is on the large side and this tree is a reliable, heavy cropper.
The fruit will be ready to pick from early August through to October and do not store well.
Browse our full range of apple trees
Read our full terms and conditions here.
Delivery: The basic delivery charge for orders of bareroot plants is £6.50 + vat, which increases to £12.55 + vat if you add any pot-grown plants, standard trees or fruit trees to the order.
Because couriers sometimes experience delays, we schedule delivery by week, not by day. Therefore, please plan your planting day for the weekend at the end of the delivery week or for the week following delivery, at the earliest.
We will email you the day before your plants are due to arrive.
*Surcharges to the Highlands and Islands still apply.
Payment: We do not charge your card until we begin to prepare your order for packing.
Guarantee: If any plants die within a year, we will replace them. We only ask that you follow our planting & growing instructions and sent us clear photographs of the dead plants in situ, so we can help to make sure that the replacement plants succeed. You only pay for the delivery of the replacements.
Please note that our guarantee is void if there is a hosepipe ban in your area: your newly planted hedging must be watered in dry weather while it is establishing. The best way to water is very thoroughly every few days: at least once a week if there is no heavy rain.
Our nursery has been supplying container grown and bareroot hedging plants to gardeners, farmers and town planners since 1949. Our website started in 2003, so we do understand the concerns that you may have about buying hedging plants online. If any of your plants are damaged when they arrive or if you are otherwise not satisfied with your order after you inspect it, please repackage it and contact us. We will give you a refund or send replacements and send a courier to come and collect the unwanted plants.
You can order at any time and your plants will be delivered to you at the best time for planting.
We are a mail order plant nursery, specialising in hedging, trees, fruit, roses & shrubs. We deliver these plus a range of planting accessories across mainland UK
Safe & Secure Shopping
Copyright © 2020 Ashridge Trees Limited. All Rights Reserved.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
SPOJ is Sphere Online Judge, a automated programming contest website with lots of problems and solutions ranked.
Solution to TEST
TEST description: the input consists of one number per line, the
program should echo each number until
42 is reached, at
which point the program should exit.
main = mapM_ putStrLn . takeWhile (/="42") . lines =<< getContents
Solution to INTEST
INTEST description: the first line of input contains two numbers: n and k. The input then consists of n lines of numbers. The output of the program should be the count of the numbers which are divisible by k.
Prior to the installation of GHC 6.6.1, it was quite difficult, if not impossible, to pass this demonstration. This solution shows a simple, reasonably efficient manner of using the new ByteString library to achieve acceptable times.
import Data.List (unfoldr)
import qualified Data.ByteString.Char8 as SS
divisibleBy :: Int -> Int -> Bool
a `divisibleBy` n = a `rem` n == 0
readInt1 :: SS.ByteString -> Maybe (Int, SS.ByteString)
readInt1 cs = do
(n, cs') <- SS.readInt cs
return (n, SS.tail cs')
main = do
cs <- SS.getContents -- This is the only line of I/O
let n:k:ns = unfoldr readInt1 cs
count = length $ filter (`divisibleBy` k) ns
print count
Techniques for dealing with problems efficiently
This section accumulates some earned wisdom about writing Haskell programs which overcome some of the technical obstacles in SPOJ. These are not spoilers, hopefully, but useful tips in general about auxiliary issues.
SPOJ has finally installed the GHC version 6.6.1. This makes the new, alternative I/O module available: Data.ByteString. Hopefully, it will be possible to find solutions for many more problems -- which could not be solved efficiently in the past because of mundane issues like I/O.
Brief Details
ByteStrings come in two varieties: Strict (default), and Lazy. Strict ByteStrings, in brief, are implemented by a foreign pointer to a block of memory which is filled by low level operations. The ByteString data type points to this memory region and also contains two Ints which track relative position and length. This means that many operations on ByteStrings can re-use memory and merely manipulate the two Ints.
Data.ByteString.Lazy is a layer on top which provides the ByteString API, but now the data is only read in chunks of Strict ByteStrings when necessary.
Don Stewart and others have put a great deal of excellent work into the library to ensure that the high-level interface will be optimized into efficient code. However, it may behoove you to inspect the source code for yourself, which is quite accessible and available in the GHC repository under libraries/base/Data/.
For SPOJ purposes, the most common operation is reading some kind of list of Ints. The code for INTEST above demonstrates one simple way to take advantage of ByteString. Using a similar technique may suffice for many problems. However, there are more advanced possibilities which could offer improvements in some cases.
The module is normally imported qualified because it shares many names
with standard Prelude functions. I use the prefix
SS in
my examples, for Strict byteString.
Span and Break
span and
break functions available
from ByteString can be used to parse the occasional non-numeric value
in input. For example, the following code skips a line:
import qualified Data.ByteString.Char8 as SS
-- ...
skipLine cs = SS.span (== '\n') cs'
where (_, cs') = SS.break (== '\n') cs
The nice part about
span and
break is that
when it is found in the form
span (== c) for all
characters c, it is optimized down to a simple
Lazy ByteStrings
In general, I find that the Strict ByteStrings are more than adequate,
and sometimes more complicated usage does not result in better
performance. There are cases where Lazy ByteStrings do seem handle
better. You can use Lazy ByteStrings as a drop-in replacement for
Strict, mostly. But that does not generally confer any advantage.
The best part about Lazy ByteStrings is the function called
toChunks. This function provides an interface to the
lower-level portions which actually operate by reading chunks of data
into Strict ByteStrings acting as buffers. The chunks are kept in a
lazy list, so each chunk is only read on-demand. However, you are
getting the data as efficiently as the library deems possible.
Don Stewart Discusses Chunked ByteString Input
From time to time you may want to write an algorithm using Mutable Arrays in Haskell. While it may be tempting to jump right into arrays, you should consider that the Data.IntMap and Data.IntSet libraries are actually very fast and convenient. You may be surprised to find that they are more than sufficient. In fact, I would argue that unless you plan to use Unboxed Arrays, you should stick with these.
If you are set on using a mutable array, go ahead and read the wiki page Arrays for a summary of the choices available. I am going to assume that you know the basics as imparted on that page. In particular, I'll be talking about ST and IO arrays.
IO arrays are probably the easiest mutable arrays to use. They are fairly straightforward, but require you to stay in the IO monad. I made the mistake of avoiding IO arrays originally, but through some strange fluke, it turns out there are many cases where IO arrays still have the best performance.
ST arrays have the advantage that they can be easily constructed in
monadic code, but then returned to the functional world (without
invoking voodoo like
unsafePerformIO). However, ST
itself can make the resulting type expressions confusing. In fact, it
appears that you cannot type-annotate certain expressions in ST monadic
code without going outside Haskell'98.
Personally, I try to write my mutable array code monad-agnostic. This way I can compare IO array performance to ST array performance. However this can really make the type annotations confusing if you haven't seen it before!
After seeing a few examples, though, I think anyone can pick up on the pattern. The usage isn't that difficult, once you see how the types fit together.
Creating a mutable array
There is a set of functions defined to work with mutable arrays separate from those that work on immutable arrays. You will want to import Data.Array.{ST,IO} depending on what you use.
a <- newArray (1, 10) 0
newArray expects bounds to be supplied just like for
immutable arrays. The second argument is the initial value with which
to initialize all the elements. A simple example of usage:
runSTArray (newArray (1, 10) 0)
runSTArray function is an efficient helper function
which you use when you want to create an array in ST but return an
immutable array. It also happens to be a special case where
newArray doesn't need a type-annotation.
In general, you will have to supply some kind of type-annotation
newArray. Let's suppose you are using Unboxed
Arrays and want to write the same code.
runSTUArray (newArray (1, 10) 0)
But now GHC will spit at you an incomprehensible error message. Well it's not so bad actually, it says,
No instance for (MArray (STUArray s) t (ST s))
GHC has the wrong idea about our array. We need to inform it that our array is indexed by Ints and contains Ints.
runSTUArray (newArray (1,10) 0 :: ST s (STUArray s Int Int))
Remember the type of
newArray :: (MArray a e m, Ix i) => (i, i) -> e -> m (a i e)
The result must be in a monad. That monad is
ST s.
s is the type-variable which represents the "state" which
must remain contained within the monad. But the
needs to know about that "state." The type-signature expresses that
the monad and the array are sharing this "state."
At this point, you are pretty much ready to do anything with arrays.
I'll show you one more example which uses the more general function
runST (do
a <- newArray (1, 10) 1 :: ST s (STUArray s Int Int)
mapM_ (\ i -> do
x <- readArray a (i - 2)
y <- readArray a (i - 1)
writeArray a i (x + y))
[3 .. 10]
v <- readArray a 10
a' <- unsafeFreeze a
return (v, a' :: Array Int Int))
This code computes the first 10 Fibonacci numbers and returns a pair containing the 10th and array turned immutable. Two notes:
unsafeFreezeturns the array immutable in-place and therefore renders it unsafe to perform any mutations after the fact. If you don't change the array after
unsafeFreeze, it's perfectly fine.
runSTArrayuses this internally.
- Second, I had to put the type-annotation for
a'on the final line instead of the binding line. This is one of those little annoyances about
STwhich I mentioned earlier. The reason I did not say
a' <- unsafeFreeze a :: ST s (Array Int Int)is because GHC views this
sas being different from the one on the first line. Clearly, GHC can't allow you to mix "state" from different places. Of course, we know that's not happening, but without lexically scoped type variables, GHC can't discern.
Hopefully at this point you can see that it isn't difficult to
get mutable arrays, so long as you know how the type annotations
are supposed to go. IO arrays have simpler type annotations,
because the type-variable
s is not necessary.
So you can write the above example as:
a <- newArray (1, 10) 1 :: IO (IOUArray Int Int)
mapM_ (\ i -> do
x <- readArray a (i - 2)
y <- readArray a (i - 1)
writeArray a i (x + y))
[3 .. 10]
v <- readArray a 10
a' <- unsafeFreeze a :: IO (Array Int Int)
return (v, a')
Generalized mutable arrays
Mutable arrays are instances of the typeclass
MArray a e m is a multi-parameter type-class
a is the array-type,
e is the
element-type, and
m is the monad.
Garbage Collection


text:
Reading 'Go The F**k To Sleep' May Lead To Child Abuse And Racism*
from the *of-course-it-won't-but-don't-let-that-stop-you deptWe've detailed the viral sensation that is Adam Mansbach's Go the F**k to Sleep, including its pirate-ship ride into the national consciousness and its eventual explosion as an actual printed book (with attendant movie deal). And everyone who has a kid, or has had a kid, can see the humor behind the good-natured f-bombs and recognizes the frustration inherent in getting a child to, well, follow the title's advice.
Oh, wait. I was wrong. Apparently, not everyone can see the humor in a foul-mouthed "children's book". They just have to look really long and hard to find something to be offended about. Not only that, but they actually have to make a bunch of stuff up in order to turn this viral sensation into the worst thing since the last moral panic.
Take Jean Demarest, an attorney from Oregon:
Demarest told me that initially she thought the book was funny. That was before she read it. "Now I find it unsettling. I don't like violent language in association with children."Demarest may be disturbed by the book's language, but considering her line of work, it's understandable that she might be. My argument is not with her take on the book, as quoted.
She has good reason to be concerned about the message behind such a parody. Demarest was the prosecuting attorney in one of Oregon's most high-profile child murder cases. She understands the fear that far too many children endure because the lines of what's appropriate parenting have become blurred.
Nobody is suggesting that there's a connection between Adam Mansbach's book and child abuse or child neglect. Still, there's no denying the reason "Go the F*** to Sleep" should be kept out of reach of children is because of its violent language and because of the way it demeans children."
However, the author of this post, Karen Spears Zacharias, has decided to use Demarest as a lead-in to a bunch of her own conclusions, none of which were stated by a respected attorney who recently dealt with a child's murder.
Sure, "nobody's suggesting that there's a connection" between Go the F**k to Sleep and child abuse, but Zacharias wastes a whole lot of words not suggesting it. For instance, I could say, "I'm not suggesting that Zacharias has never enjoyed anything wholeheartedly in her life, but there's no denying the fact that this article is about as much fun as removing asbestos with your teeth." Now, I haven't actually suggested anything, but I've certainly shifted everyone's perception of Zacharias.
This is just the setup. To really not enjoy Go the F**k to Sleep, you have to use your IMAGINATION!
"Imagine if this were written about Jews, blacks, Muslims or Latinos," says Dr. David Arredondo. He is an expert on child development and founder of The Children's Program, in the San Francisco metropolitan area, which provides consultation and training for those working with troubled youths.HOLYFRICKINWHAAAA???? WHATTHEF***AREYOUTALKINGABOUTMAN?
It is hard to imagine this kind of humor being tolerated by any of the marginalized groups Arredondo cited. Consider the lines on page 3:
"The eagles who soar thru the sky are at rest
And the creatures who crawl, run and creep.
I know you are not thirsty. That's bulls**t.
Stop lying.
Lie the f*** down, my darling, and sleep."
Can you imagine??!!!
What if... and I want you to stay with me on this... What if... you're going to love this... what if someone wrote a book that said nothing derogatory towards anybody but instead parodied the wholesomeness of children's books by making it a profanity-laden plea directed at a wired-up child?
Imagine that! Imagine someone having a bit of laugh and finding out, much to his surprise, that the humor was universal!
Oh, but I see you have no imagination. Instead, what you have, Dr. Arrendondo, is the same thing that insurance fraud artists have: a desire to "play the victim." Without anyone, anywhere, ever having said anything about any race, creed, nationality, etc., you've managed to drag your issues into the middle of a viral sensation to somehow prove a point that didn't need to be made, and for that matter, a point that doesn't even really exist.
First of all, you marginalize every one of those groups yourself by referring to them as "marginalized." Then, you conjure up some sort of racist boogeyman who travels side-by-side with the F-word until everyone dies of culture shock.
Zacharias won't let it go, either. She continues to beat every last bit of enjoyment out of Mansbach's book with her ridiculous need to equate everything, no matter how unrelated, to whatever issue she's decided really needs to be dealt with:
For far too many kids, the obscenities found in Mansbach's book are a common, everyday household language. Swearing is how parents across the social, educational and economic strata express their disappointments or anxieties, their frustrations and outright anger at their children. Sometimes the biggest bully in the neighborhood lives in the same house you do. Sometimes it's your parent.She's right. It's not the least bit funny. Not when you've got an axe to grind and the space to do it. No one is "for" child abuse or neglect. No one really thinks that swearing at children is "good parenting." And certainly no one thinks that telling blacks, Latinos, etc. to "go the f**k to sleep" is acceptable. But here we are, being told something we all know, by people who have proven that anything can be twisted into an "issue" and that are obviously incapable of enjoying a good joke.
Perhaps the reason Mansbach's book resonates isn't so much because of the humor, but because of the truth behind it.
The violent language of "Go the F*** to Sleep" is not the least bit funny, when one considers how many neglected children fall asleep each night praying for a parent who'd care enough to hold them, nurture them and read to them.


text:
This topic contains posts that bring some light relief and humour to the Message Forum. You will find all sorts in here that may cheer you up :-) You can also post here about the online games and any tournaments you have set up or check out any quizzes we are running.
(c) 2000 - 2019 No More Panic


text:
Member Articles
7 habits of ineffective women
Stop doing these things and you may boost your career
by Kylie | 17424 views | 4 comments | Rate this now!Follow @Work_It_Mom
4 comments so far...
Great advice. I'm looking for the sound ones and you have it lady!
Flag as inappropriate Posted by Nancy on 2nd April 2008
love this - to the point and SO very accurate!! nice to see it blunt instead of all surrounded in flowery language - i am a huge fan of numbers/bullet points!!!
Flag as inappropriate Posted by Kate on 27th March 2008
Glad you appreciated this one, Diane. It would be nice to branch out and cover some more specifics, too. Look at different scenarios, and create a "best action to take" guide. I'll see what I can come up with!
Flag as inappropriate Posted by Kylie on 26th March 2008
Wow. I'm impressed. Frank - almost brutally so - and so concise. A nice summary of what makes for an ineffectual colleague. It seems like your excellent No.4 point - worry too much what others think - is the root cause of a lot of this stuff now I think about it... Great reading - thanks!
Flag as inappropriate Posted by Diane on 26th March 2008


text:
A forum about Atari 16/32 computers and their clones. This forum is in no way affiliated with Atari Interactive.
Moderators: Mug UK, moondog/.tSCc., [ProToS], lp, Moderator Team
mzry wrote:H
I even tried that resistor sdma mod people were recommending but then my Falcon didn't even turn on, so I removed it.
Just wondering if anyone has an idea
trecool wrote:I was talking about the DSP dedicated ram chips. Those three chips are located south of the DSP chip. Try to touch them with your fingertips when the problem occurs. If one is hotter than the others, pm me to send you a spare new one.
trecool wrote:I used these
http://www.ebay.com/itm/IDT-IDT71256SA1 ... 566b36e86c
and worked great.
mzry wrote:This is all probably related to the SCSI issues I've been having too. So there probably isn't an answer. I have exxos clock patch installed.
Rustynutt wrote:In github (I was a Source Forge user) Mikro has well documented most every popular clock patch.
I just installed the exxos clock patch on a stock Falcon. Past two weeks have been testing several SCSI devices, transferring between without issue at all.
In two other machines with multiple configurations have the Nemesis buffer for many years without issue as well.
Only DSP issue recently was testing with an Eagle Sonic installation that required the CPU to run at 16mHz.
Does the Phantom connect to any of thr GALs on the Falcon bus?
Users browsing this forum: No registered users and 2 guests


text:
Happy Mood Board Monday + OlioHop + Blog Hop
I hope you all had a wonderful weekend! I had a little weekend stay-cay at West Palm Beach. Great time with family and hugh bunch of old friends. Re-focused on what matters most. 🙂 It was relaxing . . . but back to reality . . .
Today we are Olio hopping and talking about organization and de-cluttering!!
I you have read my post recently, you might remember that I have started creating mood boards or as I call them decor idea boards. The site I have been using is called Olioboard and I love how easy it is to create mood boards in 2D and 3D effects. The look is really great because you can actually visualize how all the furniture pieces and other elements will look together. A lot of Interior Designers as well as design enthusiasts are using this site to create their boards. If you would like to to try it for yourself, it's pretty easy, all you have to do is sign up, that's it! Hop on over to their site to get started, and while your there check out on the community tab to see amazing boards, also weekly contest. Join the fun today!
Home Office Decorating Ideas
This board is more of a high-end look, but the idea is there to play with. The design style I chose for this board is contemporary with mid-century modern. The sparkle in the chandelier + lamp enhances glam look, while the curves in the Z Gallerie "Eddie" wing chair give it a feminine touch. Do you like? Let me know how I can help you with your decorating needs.
2D MoodBoard Board: Gender Neutral Home Office Decor Ideas | For Women and Men
Here are a some organizing tips to keep your home office
TIDY! TIDY! TIDY! including me "muah"
There are so many options when it comes to basic storage solutions, and now more then ever chic and stylish ones. So let's get started!
Organize areas by:
- Writing / computer desk: Having adequate space can help you keep your space neat and tidy. Not every home office is created equal. Some require ample writing and drawing space. A good average size desk to start with is 35 to 45 inches wide and 25 inches in depth, enough for computer and stationary.
- Storage boxes: I like to use pretty boxes, this is where you can add a touch of your personality. Tip: To keep the room from looking visually cluttered, use no more than three colors throughout the room.
- Desk accessories: This is where your daily stuff stays in order, incoming mail, notes, pencils + pens, etc.
- Bulletin Board: Here is one of my fav, keep your most important must-do notes at eye level. If it's starring at you, you probably won't forget!
- Trash/Recycling bin: Daily mail can be daunting! Sort out mail as it comes in, one less thing to think about when cleaning up at end of day.
I will be posting more about organizing throughout this week on my Facebook page, and Pinterest Board and Olioboard. Join in the convo!!
Here are 16 other talented bloggers that use Olioboard to create their mood boards. Hop on over to check out their post on organizing as well! Click on the links below:
- Chaotically Creative
- Dabble in Chic
- Design Magnific
- Go Simply Savvy
- Focal Point
- Frugal Finds
- HomeStyling 101
- Urban Eclectic Interiors
- Pinklet and C
- Push Interiors
- Seaside Interiors
- Selma Hammer Designs
- Wisteria Home
- Stacy Naquin Interiors
- I Heart Organizing
- White Linen Interiors (me)
Don't forget to join in the fun at Olioboard.com !! See you there and if you have any questions come back here and leave a comment
Thanks for stopping by!!
xo Ana
BTW Also Check out my Pinterest Pinboard on Let's Get Organized! for more organizing and de-cluttering ideas.


text:
Listen to White Zombie's 'Thunder Kiss '65′ Remixed by Korn's Jonathan Davis
Rob Zombie is set to release his 'Mondo Sex Head' remix album on Aug. 7, which will feature "shocking" remixes of Zombie classics by several electronic musicians. First up is Korn frontman Jonathan 'J-Devil' Davis' remix of the White Zombie classic 'Thunder Kiss '65,' which you can hear below.
Both in White Zombie and his solo project, Rob Zombie has been in the forefront of industrial metal for over 25 years. Now however, he's handing over the reigns to the newest breed of electronic musicians to see how they re-configure his music.
It's no secret that Korn frontman Jonathan Davis is leaning towards the direction of dubstep, as evidenced in Korn's latest album, 'The Path of Totality' and Davis' own DJ sets as 'J-Devil.' Davis lent his alter-ego to Rob Zombie for the 'Thunder Kiss '65′ remix, which showcases the spastic dubstep, "Whaa whaaa, woosh woosh, bwwahh, bwa-bwa-bwa-bwa-a-a-a"-type stuff.
Rob Zombie recently explained to Rolling Stone why he's releasing a remix album now. "I've made records like this in the past, but over the years it seems like the interest in this type of thing had waned … so I stopped for a while," says Zombie. "But recently I had been hearing how a bunch of the new DJs and mixers were using my stuff in their shows and mixes. So I figured the demand had returned. Everything old is new again, I guess. I let the remixers run wild. If I like it, I use it. If I don't, I skip it."
Rob Zombie's remix album 'Mondo Sex Head' will be released on Aug. 7. Check out J-Devil's dubstep-infused version of 'Thunder Kiss '65′ in the player below.


text:
F50P - Embedded Single Board Computer with QorIQ MPC8548
3U CompactPCI PlusIO
The F50P is a low-power PowerPC based embedded computer for industrial automation and railway transportation, featuring a PowerQUICC P3 processor. The SBC is compliant with the PICMG 2.30 standard and as such a perfect migration path from CompactPCI to CompactPCI Serial.
Main Features
- 32-bit CompactPCI and PICMG 2.30 PlusIO
- 8 HP or 12 HP with front I/O
- MPC8548 (or MPC8543), up to 1.5 GHz
- Up to 2 GB (ECC) DDR2 SDRAM
- Up to 128 KB FRAM, 2 MB SRAM
- Up to 16 GB SSD Flash
- Standard front I/O: 2 Gb Ethernet, 2 USB
- Standard rear I/O: 4 USB, 2 SATA
- FPGA for user-defined I/O functions (option)
- MENMON BIOS for PowerPC cards
- -40°C to +70°C (8 HP) (screened)
Technical Data
- 800 MHz up to 1.5 GHz
- Please see Standard Configurations for available standard versions.
- e500 PowerPC core with MMU and double-precision embedded scalar and vector floating-point APU
- Integrated Northbridge and Southbridge
- 2 x 32 KB L1 data and instruction cache, 512 KB / 256 KB L2 cache integrated in MPC8548/MPC8543
- Up to 2 GB SDRAM system memory
- Soldered
- DDR2 with or without ECC
- Up to 300 MHz memory bus frequency, depending on CPU
- Up to 16 GB soldered Flash disk (SSD solid state disk)
- Up to 32 MB additional DDR2 SDRAM, FPGA-controlled, e.g. for video data
- 16 MB boot Flash
- 2 MB non-volatile SRAM
- With GoldCap backup
- 128 KB non-volatile FRAM
- Serial EEPROM 4 kbits for factory settings
- Parallel IDE (PATA)
- Up to 16 GB soldered ATA Flash disk (SSD solid state disk)
- Serial ATA (SATA)
- Up to two ports via rear I/O J2
- Transfer rates up to 150 MB/s (1.5 Gbit/s)
- Via PCI-to-SATA bridge
- See interface configuration matrix showing possible I/O combinations (PDF)
- FPGA-controlled (optional)
- VGA connector prepared at front panel
- USB (host)
- Five USB 2.0 host ports
- One Type A connector at front panel
- Four ports via rear I/O J2
- OHCI and EHCI implementation
- Data rates up to 480 Mbit/s
- USB (client)
- One USB client port on Type A connector at front panel
- Via UART-to-USB converter
- Data rates up to 115.2 kbit/s
- 16-byte transmit/receive buffer
- Handshake lines: none
- Ethernet
- Up to three 10/100/1000Base-T Ethernet channels with MPC8548/E (two channels with MPC8543/E)
- Two RJ45 connectors at front panel
- Two front-panel LEDs for channels for LAN link, activity status and connection speed
- All three possible also via rear I/O J2 (Note: requires additional Ethernet transformers on rear I/O board or backplane.)
- See interface configuration matrix showing possible I/O combinations (PDF)
- User-defined I/O
- FPGA-controlled (optional)
- Up to 64 I/O lines
- Connection via rear I/O J2
- See interface configuration matrix showing possible I/O combinations (PDF)
- One USB 2.0 host (Type A)
- One USB client (Type A)
- Two Ethernet (RJ45)
- Four USB 2.0
- Up to three 1000Base-T Ethernet
- Up to two SATA
- Up to 64 I/O lines with optional FPGA
- Reduces Ethernet/SATA interfaces
- See interface configuration matrix showing possible I/O combinations (PDF)
- Standard version compatible with PICMG 2.30 CompactPCI PlusIO
- Two SATA
- Four USB 2.0
- The FPGA offers the possibility to add customized I/O functionality. See Options
- Standard: FPGA not assembled
- Real-time clock with GoldCap backup
- Temperature sensor, power supervision and watchdog
- Status LED at the front
- Reset button
- Compliance with CompactPCI Core Specification PICMG 2.0 R3.0
- System slot
- 32-bit/32-MHz PCIe-to-PCI bridge
- V(I/O): +3.3 V (+5 V tolerant)
- Board can be supplied with +5 V, +3.3 V and +12 V from backplane, all other voltages are generated on the board
- Backplane J1 connector used only for power supply
- +5 V (-3%/+5%), 800 mA approx.
- +3.3 V (-3%/+5%), 350 mA approx.
- ±12 V (-5%/+5%), 1 A approx.
- Dimensions: conforming to CompactPCI specification for 3U boards
- Front panel:
- 8 HP without FPGA
- 12 HP with FPGA
- Weight: 626 g
- Temperature range (operation):
- 0..+60°C (with 16 GB SSD Flash disk)
- Airflow: min. 1.0 m/s
- Conduction cooled variety F50C also available
- Temperature range (storage): -40..+85°C
- Relative humidity (operation): max. 95% non-condensing
- Relative humidity (storage): max. 95% non-condensing
- Altitude: -300 m to + 3,000 m
- Shock: 15 g, 11 ms
- Bump: 10 g, 16 ms
- Vibration (sinusoidal): 1 g, 10..150 Hz
- Linux
- VxWorks
- QNX (on request; support of the FPU is currently not provided by QNX)
- INTEGRITY (Green Hills Software) support available. Please contact Green Hills for further information.
- OS-9 (on request)
- For more information on supported operating system versions and drivers see Software.
- Several PowerQUICC III types with different clock frequencies
- MPC8548 or MPC8548E
- 1 GHz, 1.2 GHz, 1.33 GHz or 1.5 GHz
- MPC8543 or MPC8543E
- 800 MHz or 1 GHz
- System RAM
- 512 MB, 1 GB or 2 GB
- With or without ECC
- Flash Disk
- 2 GB, 4 GB, 8 GB or 16 GB
- Please note that the 16 GB Flash disk component only supports a temperature range of 0..+60°C!
- 0 KB or 128 KB
- Additional SDRAM
- 0 MB or 32 MB
- With optional FPGA
- See interface configuration matrix showing possible I/O combinations (PDF)
- VGA at front (with optional FPGA)
- Ethernet
- Up to two channels at front
- Up to three channels at rear
- Only two channels total with MPC8543
- Up to two channels at rear
- Up to 64 user-defined I/O lines
- With optional FPGA, see below
- Reduces number of Ethernet/SATA channels
- The optional onboard FPGA offers the possibility to implement customized I/O functionality.
- FPGA Altera Arria GX AGX35C
- 33,520 logic elements
- 1,348,416 total memory bits
- Connected to CPU via PCI Express x1 link
- Connection
- Available pin count: 64 pins
- Functions available via rear I/O J2 connector
- Please note that the FPGA expands the board's width by 4 HP, to 12 HP!
- You can find more information under 'FPGA Design'
- -40..+70°C on 8 HP with heat sink (without FPGA) for convection cooling
- Conduction cooled variety F50C also available, for -40..+85°C
Ordering Information
CompactPCI 19" 4U/84HP rack-mount enclosure for 3U cards (vertical), 4+4-slot 3U CompactPCI / CompactPCI Serial hybrid backplane, prepared for rear I/O, 250W power supply wide range 90..264VAC on rear, 1U fan tray with 2 fans included, 0..+60°CDetails
MEN delivers turn-key systems completely installed (hardware, operating system, accessories), wired and tested. Different rack sizes, power supplies and backplanes on request.
For details please contact your local sales representative.
CompactPCI PlusIO rear transition module 3U/80mm, 2 Ethernet, 4 USB, 4 SATA, 4 PCIe x1, -40°C..+85°C qualifiedDetails
General Linux BSP for A17, EM9, EM9A, EK9, F50C, F50P and XM50
VxWorks 6.4/6.5 BSP (MEN) for A17, EK9, EM9, EM9A, F50C, F50P and XM50
VxWorks 6.9 BSP (MEN) for A17, EK9, EM9, EM9A, F50C, F50P and XM50
This product is designed to work under the INTEGRITY RTOS from Green Hills Software. An INTEGRITY Board Support Package for this board is provided by Green Hills Software. For more information and product support please contact Green Hills Software (www.ghs.com).
MENMON (Firmware) for XM50, F50C and F50P (object code)
A Windows USB2UART driver from FTDI is available for XM50, XM51 and F50P/F50C Windows hosts.
More info & downloads


text:
[vc_row css_animation="" row_type="row" use_row_as_full_screen_section="no" type="grid" angled_section="no" text_align="left" background_image_as_pattern="without_pattern"][vc_column][vc_column_text]
[su_menu name="top_menu" class="menutopcustom"]
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation="" row_type="row" use_row_as_full_screen_section="no" type="grid" angled_section="no" text_align="left" background_image_as_pattern="without_pattern" padding_top="70″][vc_column][vc_column_text]
at Kingaroy
Chiropractic, like all professions, has its own unique terminology and vocabulary – words that have specific meaning for chiropractors.
The Vertebral Subluxation
Chiropractors examine the spine for structural misalignments and musculo skeletal problems we call Vertebral Subluxations. The chiropractors role is to determine whether these vertebral subluxations are present and if they are contributing to symptoms or interfering with the patient's spinal function.
The Adjustment
An adjustment is performed by a chiropractor to reduce the discomfort of the Vertebral Subluxation and to improve the function of the spinal segment. In our practices we use a variety of Chiropractic Techniques to perform the adjustment. There are many factors that determine which chiropractic technique is used for the patient's presenting condition including; the age of the patient, the severity of the condition, type of condition, and the chiropractor's skill or expertise.
We use a variety of examination procedures to understand your presenting complaint and determine if chiropractic can help you. These include the following:
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation="" row_type="row" use_row_as_full_screen_section="no" type="grid" angled_section="no" text_align="left" background_image_as_pattern="without_pattern"][vc_column width="1/2″][vc_separator type="normal" color="#6c3f2d"][vc_column_text]
Thompson Technique
A neurological technique that is specific, low force and uses specialty engineered 'drop piece' tables. Is an effective technique for all patient types
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_separator type="normal" color="#6c3f2d"][vc_column_text]
Gonstead Technique
A tried and tested manual technique that utilizes x-ray and motion analysis to accurately determine the vertebral subluxation and the required correction.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_separator type="normal" color="#6c3f2d"][vc_column_text]
Diversified Technique
An original manual chiropractic technique.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_separator type="normal" color="#6c3f2d"][vc_column_text]
Sacro-Occipital Technique
A low force technique that is appropriate for acute patients, the elderly, neurological conditions (e.g. sciatica, disc), and as a maintenance technique.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_separator type="normal" color="#6c3f2d"][vc_column_text]
Massage Therapy
Massage is an adjunctive therapy that we utilize in our practices. There are several types of massage techniques that our therapists use depending on the presenting complaint of the patient. These vary from relaxation and remedial to deep tissue massage.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_separator type="normal" color="#6c3f2d"][vc_column_text]
Surface-electromyography and Thermography (sEMG)
Our practices are equipped with state of the art sEMG which scans the spinal regions for surface temperature changes and muscular activity. These graphs give us further information about inflammation and muscular imbalances associated with the patients condition.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_separator type="normal" color="#6c3f2d"][/vc_column][vc_column width="1/2″][vc_separator type="normal" color="#6c3f2d"][vc_column_text]
Activator Technique
Low force technique that uses an 'instrument' to perform the adjustment.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_separator type="normal" color="#6c3f2d"][vc_column_text]
Motion Palpation
We segmentally examine the patient's spine, looking for tenderness, restricted movement, swelling, muscle spasm and any possible malformation or pathology.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_separator type="normal" color="#6c3f2d"][vc_column_text]
Posture Pro
Using digital photographs and the 'Posture-Pro' software program we are able to gain valuable postural information and give advice about the patients condition.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_separator type="normal" color="#6c3f2d"][vc_column_text]
X-ray Analysis
X-ray analysis gives our chiropractors an internal image of the spine to thoroughly understand the structure, mechanics and an awareness of any congenital anomalies or pathologies. We typically use weight bearing images so we can analyze alignment, angles and curvature of the spine.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_separator type="normal" color="#6c3f2d"][vc_column_text]
We also use some variations of techniques like Chiropractic Bio-physics, Neuro-emotional technique and Applied Kinesiology.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_separator type="normal" color="#6c3f2d"][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row]


text:
Talk about a breakfast muffin.
I recently came across a blog and it was love at first site, Framed Cooks. I swear, everything featured on this blog is amazing and the pictures are fantastic. I immediately added it to my google reader feed and stared just about every other post to go on my "Must Bake/Cook" list. Immediately these french toast muffins jumped out at me. I love french toast and it just seemed the perfect beginning of Fall recipe. These were definitely best warm out of the oven, but were still quite tasty the next day. I think they would be for brunch, or for Thanksgiving morning when family is in town and you just don't have time to whip up french toast to order :)
French Toast Muffins
French Toast Topping
3 tablespoons milk
1 egg, slightly beaten
6 slices cinnamon bread, crusts trimmed, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
1 cup milk
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 egg, slightly beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups flour
3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 tablespoons sugar
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Combine all the french toast topping ingredients in a medium bow and set aside. Combine 1 cup milk, melted butter, 1 egg, and vanilla extract in another medium bowl. Combine all remaining muffins ingredients in a large bowl. Stir milk mixture into flour mixture just until mixed.
Spoon batter into a greased or lined 12 cup muffin pan. Soon French toast topping evenly over batter; press down slightly. Baked 20-25 minuted or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Immediately brush muffins with maple syrup. Combine sugar and cinnamon in small bowl. Sprinkle over glazed muffins. Cool 5 minutes; remove from pan. Serve warm.


text:
1 cup flour
1/3 cup milk
1 tablespoon butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
spices (for topping)
shown here:
kosher salt
cracked pepper
poppy seed
caraway seed
celery seed
Preheat oven to 450. In a food processor or with a pastry cutter or with a mixer combine the flour, salt and butter until a coarse meal forms. Slowly stream in the milk. Mix until a slightly sticky dough forms. Add additional milk 1 teaspoon at a time if mixture is too dry. Roll out on a floured surface to a 1/8 inch thick rectangle. Cut out using cookie cutters or slice into squares. You cannot reroll the dough, so think carefully before you cut. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet and sprinkle with salt or spices. Press the spices/salt down into the surface of the cracker. Make indentations with the tines of a fork over each cracker. Bake 20 minutes or until just starting to brown. Remove a wire rack and cool. Store in a air tight container.
Yield: about 20 crackers, depending on size.


text:
Bookopedia – Run by authors for authors
Have you written a Book ?
Are you writing a Book ?
Are You Looking To Publish a printed version or
an e book ?
Then we can help
Take a look at the broad range of options now available and see how we can help.
Within this website you will find a wealth of information and advice. Some of it from determined authors who have achieved their goal of publication. Others, who have recently decided that to write is their chosen path. This is a great reference point for established or new authors. Your writing career starts here
Writers / Authors Cardiff
new writers, authors uk, writers uk, travel writers, novel writers, john brown, lierary agents, book publishers, print on demand publishers , e books, north of Watford gap, publish my book, sell my boo, promote your book, sell your book, bookopedia, reverse cv , fleming and brown, urlinks co uk, return to oz, john brown, can you write, authors needed, list your book, free help for writers, agency lists, publishers list.
Ingrid Little did it with
Miss Pink - so can you !


text:
Bangkok is a sprawling metropolis and the capital of Thailand. Although overcrowded, you will never feel lost in this traveller-friendly city. A full wallet isn't necessary for a trip to Bangkok because it is an ideal destination for those on a budget. Everywhere you go, you are greeted with smiles and a warm feeling. Bangkok is also a good place to starting point for accessing Thailand's famous beach resorts.
{{"New %s account".replace('%s', data.sAgencyName)}}Why it's valuable to create an account?
You will be able to:
Back to loginBack to loginMore
- Manage your orders history
- Save company's details and reuse it on the next purchase
- Save passenger's details and reuse it on the next purchase
- Buy your tickets faster and easier
- Get your personal travel deals (available in your account only, which means no email spam)
Do not have an account?Back to login
Useful for business!


text:
WASHINGTON — The US Air Force has grounded over half of its F-16D Fighting Falcons, the service's Air Combat Command (ACC) announced Tuesday.
The initial damage, described in a Pentagon release as "canopy sill longeron cracks found between the front and rear pilot seats," was discovered after a routine post-flight inspection on one of the jets. The discovery of cracks led to a fleet-wide inspection order.
Of the 157 F-16Ds in the fleet, 82 were found to have cracks and have been ordered to stand down. The remaining 75 have been cleared to resume normal activities. The Air Force is working with Lockheed Martin engineers to discover the cause of the cracks and what repair options there are.
The other 812 F-16 jets, which include a number of different variants, are not impacted by the inspections.
The F-16 recently celebrated its 40th year of production, but Lockheed officials see the market for the jet as relatively stable, particularly as older models are upgraded.
Top Air Force generals, including ACC commander Mike Hostage, have said they must keep an eye on the wear and tear on the F-16s. That tradeoff is part of the reason the Air Force decided to fund an F-16 service-life extension program (SLEP) over the combat avionics programmed extension suite (CAPES) program in its FY 2015 budget request.
"Honestly, I wish I had enough money to both refurbish my legacy fleet and continue to keep the replenishment on track because what I would like to have is the 1,763 F-35 fleet and then whatever residual legacy fleet I still have would still be tactically capable and be aerodynamically capable," Hostage said in January. "In other words, there is SLEP and CAPE."
"If I could only do one, [SLEP] is the one I would do because I would still have something to fly; it is just going to be tactically nonviable sooner because I did not do the CAPE," Hostage said. "If I do the CAPE only and do not do the SLEP, then it becomes unsafe to fly long before it becomes tactically nonviable.
"So, if I am going to do one or the other, I would do SLEP first. I can fly with lesser capability, but I have just become that much more dependent even sooner on a strong fifth [generation] fleet."


text:
Every parent knows it is important to start the school year with their children feeling confident and healthy. We participate yearly in the "Back to School" shopping rituals — buying pencils, computers, clothing and other supplies, but this year Lavera wanted to promote the idea of sending children to school feeling good about their skin and hair — and most importantly, feeling healthy.
Studies have shown that up to 60% of what you put on your skin (face, body and hair) goes DIRECTLY INTO YOUR BLOODSTREAM in just a matter of seconds. What goes into YOUR bloodstream can accumulate in the body and affect organ function, hormonal activity, etc. It is paramount to know what you are putting on your skin!
When you order lunch, you don't say, "I'd like a side of formaldehyde with that please". If you won't ingest it, why would you want to put chemicals on your skin? Topically applied parabens, sulfates, petrochemicals, synthetic sunscreen ingredients artificial colors and man-made fragrances can be absorbed and build up to levels that impact the health of your children. They irritate the skin, cause breakouts and many are known or suspected to be carcinogenic.
Toxins accumulate in the body over time with repeated use. In time this "pollution" can manifest itself in our children in the form of apathy, depression, poor grades and concentration problems (link for this?). In the worst cases, they may lead to Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (blog link) asthma and even cancer. Parabens, for example, may influence breast cancer and is known to affect the development of fetuses. The growing correlations between our health and the toxins in the food and skin/hair care we use is impossible to ignore.
So why, as parents, would we buy our children the $3.99 chemical lipgloss from the local drugstore and a pop-tart for breakfast? As consumers we know to read the labels. We know to eat organic. We know better than to buy products made with toxins. So what to do?
Start them off right!
We now know the benefits of eating organic foods and using organic cleaning products. Even the slow moving, cost-conscious school systems have taken a leaning toward organic food, natural cleaning products and to introducing less toxins into student environments. The natural extension of this is to replace our children's skin and hair care products with more natural and effective alternatives.
Self-confidence comes from feeling and looking your best. This is an especially powerful force in the lives of teenagers. Acne, eczema, dry and chemically damaged hair contribute to poor self-esteem — which directly correlates with poor grades and social participation in teenagers.
Many of these skin conditions are caused or made worse by undiagnosed reactions to various chemical additives in skin and hair care products. Lavera's founder and owner, Thomas Haase originally developed the Lavera brand to treat his own severe childhood dermatitis. He often had terrible reactions to various pharmaceutical products and synthetic ingredients. These irritations plagued him throughout his school years and inspired him to create a better choice made from natural ingredients for sensitive skin.
Healthy habits, healthy choices
Lavera (which means "the truth") was founded in 1987, and represents a philosophy and commitment to the purest organic ingredients and the absence of synthetic preservatives, additives, petroleum-based ingredients, emulsifiers, colors and fragrances. In order to assure skin tolerance, human volunteers test the products with dermatologist supervision — no animal testing is performed.
Lavera's organic beauty products effectively work in harmony with your skin's natural functions to make you look and feel your absolute best. And they work! Consumers in Europe have bought into organics — Lavera holds 1/5th of all natural skincare sales in Europe and is increasing in popularity here in the U.S. as consumers are learning that what you put on your body can be just as harmful as what you put in your body.


text:
No Categories
Since 1999, WagWag Enterprises has provided top level training and behavioral counseling to dogs and their families in the greater Denver area.
Utilizing positive reinforcement techniques, Lisa has worked with cities to write current laws regarding dogs, served on the board for the South Platte Valley Humane Society, and has provided seminars to veterinary professionals, rescue groups, and daycares.
Learn more


text:
Victoria Goldsmith
Victoria joined Northern Ballet in 2003. Born in Leicestershire she trained as a Northern Ballet Associate before taking up full-time training at Central School of Ballet. She has previously performed with Ballet Central. Victoria worked with Wayne McGregor on his piece Ossein as part of the Northern Ballet 40th Anniversary Gala. She was also part of a new Tindall Creation that was linked with Linder Sterling which was performed in Paris and more recently the Hepworth Gallery, Wakefield.
Victoria retired from the stage in June 2018 and joined the faculty of the Academy of Northern Ballet in August 2018.
Learn more about Victoria
Favourite roles
Milady de Winter, The Three Musketeers; Lady Capulet, Romeo & Juliet; Gertrude, Hamlet; Puck, A Midsummer Night's Dream; Odilia, Swan Lake; Angels in the Architecture; Dracula's Bride, Dracula; Marquise de Merteuil, Dangerous Liaisons; Myrtle, The Great Gatsby.
Career highlights
Selected to appear on the Dracula poster; Performing Young Cathy in Wuthering Heights in 2002 whilst still at Central School of Ballet. Working with Wayne McGregor and performing his piece Ossein, at Northern Ballet's 40th Anniversary Gala. Being part of a Tindall Creation that was linked with Linder Sterling's exhibition in a piece that was performed at MOMA in Paris.
Where were you born and raised?
I was born in Leicestershire and grew up in a little village called Ibstock.
Where did you do your dance training?
In Ibstock I went to a local school named Tindles during which time I was also one of the first students on the Northern Ballet Associates programme which started in 1998.
When did you join Northern Ballet?
2003. I was also fortunate enough to work with the Company in 2002 in Wuthering Heights which was an amazing opportunity.
What made you want to be a dancer?
I have always enjoyed performing on stage whether acting in Annie and Sound of Music or dancing in regional and national competitions. Through the fun and hard work I knew it was always something I wanted to do as a career.
What would be your dream role to dance and why?
I have always wanted to perform Cathy in Wuthering Heights. She's such a strong complex character who gives everything she has and has such a feisty personality. To dance alongside such a wonderful score would be amazing!
If you could adapt one work into a ballet what would it be?
I couldn't say one scenario/story. I have always found The Crucible an interesting plot. Even though it would be hard and a little 'taboo' in theatre. Macbeth would be great too. I just love the darker and more dramatic stories for dance.
Who are your artistic influences or heroes?
The drama of Moira Shearer (also because she's a fellow red head!) Oh and of course the performance and style of Bernadette Peters – she's a legend!
Describe your perfect Sunday morning...
Getting up late! Then chilling out with my husband on the sofa, maybe an afternoon nap after a Bond film and then cooking a nice beef joint or roast chicken for tea – divine!
What was the first album you bought and what was the last album you bought?
My first album was a tape – that's showing my age! I think it was Kylie's I Should Be So Lucky. My last was on CD - Alice Cooper's Greatest Hits! Awesome!
What would be your luxury item on a desert island?
My husband - he's luxury!
What are you favourite places in Yorkshire?
The Cow and Calf in Ilkley where my husband and I got married. Brontë falls are really picturesque. Anywhere that there's a gorgeous Yorkshire hillside view – I love the outdoors!


text:
полиэстер провода
Polyest Wire is an important variety in synthetic fibers, which is the name of polyester fiber trade. It is the fiber polymer based on pure terephthalic acid (PTA) or dimethyl terephthalate (DMT) and ethylene glycol (EG) as raw materials by esterification or ester exchange and polycondensation reaction — polyethylene terephthalate (PET).It means it is fibers made by spinning and post-treatment. Moreover, Ningbo Judin Special Monofilament Co., Ltd uses high quality raw materials from world famous suppliers in order to produce stronger products, such as DuPont (the USA), Honeywell (the USA), Mitsubishi (Japan), Basf (Germany) and CPCC (China).
According to Polyest Wire, you can cut a ray of artificial silk to do the test, pulling hard, then relaxing and finding the embroidery line will not shrink. In addition, after pulling the polyester silk, once relaxed, it will return to the original length. By this way, it sometimes leads to wrinkles. So in line tension adjustment aspect, it needs more accurately.
There are two important strategies of Polyest Wire:
DTY Draw texturing yarn is also known as polyester low elastic yarn. It is a kind of finished yarn in a machine for continuous or simultaneous stretching and deformation .
FDY Fully drawn yarn has nothing to do with production process, but widely circulated. It is a one-step process code of spinning craftwork, which can use low-speed spinning, high-speed stretch winding. These two processes are completed in a spinning stretch joint machine. This production line production costs low, and the finished products have stable quality , less hair loss, dyeing uniformity.


text:
William Mueller, MathWorks
Stuart Kozola, MathWorks
Learn how Econometrics Toolbox can be used to create better time-series models and forecasts. In this webinar, we will introduce new capabilities with the R2011a release of Econometrics Toolbox that include cointegration tests and vector-error-correcting (VEC).
Short examples will be used to illustrate the new features followed with an applied case study in pairs trading.
About the Presenters:
Stuart Kozola is a product manager at MathWorks and focuses on MATLAB® and add-on products for computational finance.
William Mueller is a developer at MathWorks and focuses on computational finance products, including Econometrics Toolbox™.
View example code from this webinar here:
Recorded: 17 Jan 2013


text:
To work with us, potential partners need to meet these guidelines:
Social Issue:
- National in scope and of critical importance to the American public.
- Non-commercial, non-denominational, non-partisan, and not solely designed to influence legislation.
- Call to action is clear, single-minded and offers a solution to the problem.
- Individual actions can collectively make a substantial impact.
- Clearly defined campaign objective.
- The issue should be of sufficient seriousness to warrant donations of space and time by the media.
- Advertising and communications can make a measurable impact.
Potential Partners:
- National nonprofit organization/501c3 or federal agency with proven issue expertise.
- Clear mission and approach to solving the issue.
- Able to deliver on the promise of the campaign with fulfillment:
- Additional resources (website, toll-free number, collateral materials) where consumers can get more information and get engaged.
- Network of local chapters, affiliates or other ties throughout the country where information can readily be disseminated to the media and/or public.
- Committed to the issue for a minimum of three years.
- Partners need to have funding identified and/or in hand to begin the application process. We rely on the generosity of our ad agency and media partners, but have certain hard costs associated with creating our national communications programs for which sponsoring organizations are responsible.
If you would like to learn more about our application process, please contact email@example.com.


text:
From PR News Wire:
STATE COLLEGE, Pa., June 26, 2013 -- /PRNewswire/ -- Eclipse Resources I, LP ("Eclipse Resources") announced today that it has acquired The Oxford Oil Company, LLC, with approximately 184,000 net acres in Ohio and 13.8 Bcfe of proved developed producing reserves. The Oxford Oil Company, LLC ("Oxford") was subsequently renamed to Eclipse Resources � Ohio, LLC and will remain a wholly owned subsidiary of Eclipse Resources. In conjunction with the acquisition, the company has completed a private offering of $300 million of senior unsecured notes with the ability to sell an additional $100 million over the next twelve months to the note acquirers.
Prior to the acquisition, Eclipse Resources owned approximately 41,000 net acres in Belmont, Guernsey, Monroe and Noble Counties in Ohio where the largest wells in the Utica Shale play have been reported to date. With the acquisition of Oxford, Eclipse Resources now owns approximately 90,000 net acres in these core Utica Shale counties, as well as in Harrison County, Ohio. Eclipse Resources has recently completed drilling a Utica Shale well in Monroe County with very encouraging results, and has participated in five wells in Noble County that have shown strong initial production rates and high liquids yields. The company is currently running one rig in the play, and is participating, on a non-operated basis, in operations of three additional rigs in the play.
Benjamin W. Hulburt, President and CEO of Eclipse Resources, commented, "We are extremely excited to have completed this very significant acquisition, making Eclipse Resources one of the largest acreage owners in the "core" of the Utica Shale play in southeastern Ohio. We plan to grow our operated, Utica focused rig count to up to five horizontal rigs running in the play between now and year-end 2014. We are planning a very active drilling program in Harrison, Guernsey, Noble, Belmont and Monroe Counties commencing immediately and continuing for the next several years. Concurrently, we will look to opportunistically add leases to enhance our already attractive, contiguous acreage base. While we plan to take a cautious approach to the oil window portion of the Utica Shale play, our 135,000 net acres in that portion of the fairway offer Eclipse tremendous additional upside should the industry prove the economic viability of extracting oil from the Utica Shale. With the additional equity capital that has been invested in Eclipse Resources from our partner, EnCap Investments, and through our unsecured notes offering, we are very well positioned to develop our assets and expect to realize very significant growth in the near future." Mr. Hulburt added, "We are pleased to have over 50 new Oxford employees join the Eclipse team and expect to continue to utilize their talents as we grow our business. With the acquisition, Eclipse now has an established operational center in Zanesville, Ohio. We look forward to expanding our activities in that location and continuing to add drilling, completion and production personnel."
Eclipse Resources also announced today that Marty L. Byrd will join Eclipse Resources effective July 1st as Vice President � Land. Mr. Byrd brings over 30-years of land experience to the company and was most recently the Vice President, Land, Eastern Division � Appalachian Basin for Chesapeake Energy Corporation where he managed and coordinated the land activities that resulted in the establishment of over 600 horizontal well units and 400 horizontal wells with a 26-rig drilling program in the Marcellus Shale.
Mr. Hulburt commented, "We couldn't be more pleased to have a gentleman of Marty's caliber and experience join the Eclipse Resources team. Marty's invaluable experience in managing one of the largest land departments and drilling programs in the entire Appalachian Basin will assist Eclipse Resources greatly as we significantly scale up our drilling activities in the Utica Shale."
RBC Richardson Barr acted as financial advisor to Oxford Oil on the transaction. Jefferies LLC acted as exclusive placement agent to Eclipse Resources for the senior notes transaction, which was placed with funds and accounts, including those managed by GSO Capital Partners LP and Magnetar Capital.
About Eclipse Resources
Eclipse Resources is a State College, Pennsylvania based oil and gas company focused on the acquisition, exploration and development of unconventional oil and natural gas properties in the Appalachian Basin, including the Utica Shale, Marcellus Shale and Upper Devonian Shales. Founded in 2011 in partnership with EnCap Investments, Eclipse Resources follows the success of the management team's proven track record in building successful oil and gas enterprises. For more information, please visit www.eclipseresources.com.
About EnCap Investments
Since 1988, EnCap has been the leading provider of private equity to the independent sector of the U.S. oil & gas industry. The firm has raised 17 institutional oil and gas investment funds totaling approximately $18 billion and currently manages capital on behalf of over 300 U.S. and International investors. EnCap professionals represent more than 250 years of experience in the energy finance and investment business and have established a reputation as an innovative, "value-added" source of private capital to the independent sector. EnCap has a proven track record having successfully invested with over 200 upstream and midstream oil & gas companies. For more information, please visit www.encapinvestments.com.
SOURCE Eclipse Resources
Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/2013/06/26/5526187/eclipse-resources-acquires-the.html#storylink=cpy


text:
Picking a "best hockey player in the world" is a fool's errand. We anoint an Alex Ovechkin, who seems determined to prove us wrong. We back one or another Penguin, when's it not even clear which is the best on his own team. We even, for a feverish couple of weeks, decide on Claude Giroux; whoops. But you can't ever really go wrong picking Pavel Datsyuk, who at times looks like he's playing a completely different sport.
In the first period of Detroit's 2-0 loss at San Jose, Datsyuk broke Logan Couture's ankles. Just straight up shattered them, injuring HP Pavilion spectators with flying bone fragments. Ground them into dust, to bake into his bread. You don't tug on Superman's cape, not even as he's skating past your crumpled heap.
H/t to, um, Logan Couture:


text:
…sighMonday, July 30th, 2007
I'm still searching for the words to share my feelings with you. I am most definitely standing at a crossroads and the winds of change are blowing but, beyond that, I am at a loss for words. When the time is right, I'm sure they will come. When the time is right, I will share my journey with you all. I know the blessings will be abundant. When the time is right.


text:
You don't have any saved vehicles!
Look for this link on your favorites:
Once you've saved some vehicles, you can view them here at any time.
Here at iAUTOHAUS we are committed to the well-being of everyone!
1. At Home Vehicle Delivery.
2. Dealership Visit By Appointment ONLY!
3. Pick-Up & Delivery of Service Vehicles.
4. Dealership & Vehicle Sanitizing.
We are OPEN for Business & here to Help!
Recent Arrival! iAUTOHAUS family owned and operated since 1980! Our main priority is focused around "YOU" and providing the utmost buying experience. Thank you for viewing this exceptional 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK350 4MATIC!
Polar White/Black MB-Tex interior.
This Certified Mercedes-Benz has the following options:
*Low Miles, Only 49,782!
*Becker Map Pilot Navigation (Pre-Wiring)
*Burl Walnut Interior Trim
*Dual Zone Climate Control
*Bluetooth Connectivity
*USB Connectivity
*LED Daytime Running Lamps
*19" Alloy Wheels
Welcome to iAUTOHAUS, where our number one goal is customer satisfaction! With a 25,000 square foot indoor showroom, buying a vehicle is relaxing, enjoyable, and memorable.
iAUTOHAUS is committed to providing our clients with the following; fair market value pricing, low-mileage Carfax certified vehicles, 150 multi-point inspection through our Bosch Authorized Service Center, by one of our highly trained Master technicians.
For your peace of mind, each Certified vehicle comes with a 1-month/1,000 mile warranty. We Offer Affordable Nationwide And Worldwide Shipping. Looking to sell your vehicle? We are interested! Please visit http://www.iautohaus.com/we-buy-cars/ for further information. iAUTOHAUS 1876 E. Broadway Road Tempe, AZ 85282 480.317.0777 x 1 As ranking top ten specialized automotive dealers through The Best of Arizona Business for 2015 & 2016, iAUTOHAUS is your one and only premier European automotive source in the state of Arizona! Thank you and welcome to the iAUTOHAUS family.
Vehicle pricing includes all offers and incentives. Tax, Title, Administration Fees and Tags not included in vehicle prices shown and must be paid by the purchaser. While great effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information on this site, errors do occur so please verify information with a customer service rep. This is easily done by calling us at 855.681.8311 or by visiting us at the dealership. Click here for complete PURCHASE and DISCLAIMER details. Vehicles may or may not include owners manuals or second set of keys. Please refer to vehicle images to see if the vehicle has owner manuals or a second set of keys, or ask your sales professional.
**With approved credit. Terms may vary. Monthly payments are only estimates derived from the vehicle price with a 72 month term, 4.9% interest and 20% downpayment.
*Safety Recall Information*
*Some vehicles may be subject to manufacturer safety recalls. See if there are any open safety recalls for this vehicle. This does not include non-safety recalls. Recently announced safety recalls may not yet be posted and there may be a delay between the time a repair is made and before it is reported or posted to the website. Before purchasing, be sure to ask the dealer for an up-to-date status on any recalls.*
*Number of views in last 30 days
† Based on 2015 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.
You don't have any saved vehicles!
Look for this link on your favorites:
Once you've saved some vehicles, you can view them here at any time.
480-317-0777Call Now
1876 E. Broadway Rd • Tempe, AZ 85282Get Directions
Sales: Closed
Service: Closed
Phone: 480-317-0777http://maps.google.com/?q=1876%20E.%20BROADWAY%20RD%2C%20TEMPE%2C%20AZ%2085282


text:
As the More is More Mom®, I'm all about…….more birthday celebrations! While this year I may be celebrating the 15th anniversary of my 29th birthday, Tuesday, my Nick turned 19! It's so weird. It really seems like it's been about 5 minutes since we brought him home from the hospital, and now, all the sudden he's fairly well grown up and celebrating his first birthday away at college; without us.
When I was little, my mom always made a big fat deal out of our birthdays; so naturally, I am of the belief that birthdays should be celebrated like it's Mardi Gras. Over the years, we've had some pretty rockin' parties for Nick. All sports all the time has, of course, been a recurring theme. Amongst my favorites, however, was Nick's 5th grade party. It's not easy to come up with an idea that isn't so "been there done that". I stumbled across the Chicago Bulls/White Sox Training Academy (which is pretty stinking painful for those of us diehard Cub's fans). Their deal at the time was you rented the Chicago Bulls replica basketball court, equipped with a working scoreboard, buzzer and referee, at $150 for an hour. The number of invitees was unlimited, so, since more of everything is always better, we included a total of 20 kids to help us celebrate.
Rather than waste our precious hour picking teams, we sent out two invitations; one requesting the recipients wear a white t-shirt, and the other requesting the recipients wear a blue t-shirt. When the boys arrived, all they had to do sit on the bench, shouting, "Put me in coach; I'm ready to play!" After the game, we went out for pizza, and as a party favor, gave each of the boys a mini basketball. It was awesome!
Over the years, we've celebrated with several golf outings, but last years was my favorite. We surprised Nick with a huge breakfast in our home (yummy scrambled eggs, bacon and chocolate chip pancakes) with a dozen of his closest friends; pals he's collected from Pre-school to high school. After breakfast, the boys headed over to one of Nick's favorite courses to play 18 on his 18th. He had the very best day!
This year was certainly an adjustment. I wanted Nick to feel that even though he's away, his birthday is still a day of celebration, but how could I make a small, but thoughtful gesture? Of course there were presents, but I also packed a few packages of Hershey's Drops and made one of his all time favorite family desserts; chewy bars. To create a feeling of festivity, I packed crazy straws, party blowers, water guns and silly string. I hope he and his new friends are racing up and down the dorm room halls having fun and acting silly. That's exactly what a 19 year old should be doing.
More birthday celebrations, more fabulous festivities, more family traditions, more missing Nick on his 19th birthday…..
To schedule and Interior Design appointment, a Life Style consultation or a speaking engagement, please email me at firstname.lastname@example.com


text:
Panel recommends listing depression as a risk for heart disease
An extensive review of scientific literature indicates that depression should be added to the list of risk factors associated with heart disease. Others include obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and smoking.
A 12-person panel of experts that included Robert M. Carney, PhD, and Kenneth E. Freedland, PhD, both professors of psychiatry at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, made the recommendation to the American Heart Association (AHA).
Their findings are published online as a scientific statement in the journal Circulation.
The group sifted through hundreds of studies looking at the link between depression and heart problems. Most of the studies found that depression made people more likely to have a heart attack or die from heart disease.
"The findings didn't surprise us," said Carney. "Many studies have reported that depression predicts increased mortality, but it's rare to delve into this kind of research as deeply and as carefully as we have. Although we suspected we would find this link, having gone through all of these studies and conducted such a careful evaluation, we are more confident than ever that depression is a risk factor for mortality in people who have heart disease."
Carney and Freedland were chosen to be part of the expert panel because they have been studying depression's effects on heart disease for more than 25 years, first reporting in 1988 that depression predicts an increased risk of cardiac problems in patients with existing heart disease. Hundreds of studies have been conducted since then, and most have supported their initial observation.
Carney noted that when people lose weight, lower their blood pressure or quit smoking, their risk of heart disease is lowered. But so far, no studies have shown that treating depression lowers cardiac risk.
"Unfortunately, very few studies have looked at that question," Carney explained. "And only one study has included enough subjects to determine whether treating depression could lower the risk of having a heart attack or dying from heart disease. Treatment did not lower the risk of heart attack or death, but that was the first study of its kind. More clinical trials are needed to identify treatments that may improve heart health along with depression."
Part of the problem is that the available treatments don't work for everyone. Even the best therapies for depression lead to remission in only about one of every two depressed patients.
But Carney and Freedland are set to begin a new clinical trial to evaluate whether a different approach to treatment can be more successful in alleviating depression and lowering the risk of future cardiac events.
"We believe better depression treatments may improve survival," Carney said. "More effective treatments certainly will improve a patient's quality of life. More research will be needed, though, before we can say treating depression can improve heart health or survival in patients with heart disease."
What is known with certainty at this point, he said, is that not treating depression can have negative effects on health and quality of life.


text:
Patagonia Women's Mainstay Tank Top
Our lightweight tank in a classic pocket-tee silhouette, made from a 60% organic cotton/40% recycled polyester slub-knit jersey fabric.
- A go-to tank made of a 60% organic cotton/40% recycled polyester blend
- Sporty tank silhouette allows for comfort and movement in any activity
- Left-chest patch pocket
- Hip length
- 82 g (2.9 oz)
3.7-oz 60% organic cotton/40% recycled polyester slub-knit jersey
Organic Cotton
In 1996, with an increased awareness of the dangers of pesticide use and synthetic fertilizers in growing conventional cotton, we began the exclusive use of organically grown cotton in all of our cotton products.
The quality of organic cotton is equal to or better than conventionally grown cotton, yet organically grown methods support biodiversity and healthy ecosystems, improve the quality of soil and often use less water. Growing organically takes more time, requires more knowledge and skill, and, for now, costs more. But it's worth it.
To ensure we are buying cotton that is organic as defined by the USDA's National Organic Program, we require numerous certificates issued by an accredited third-party certification body for every step of the supply chain, from farm to factories.
Recycled Polyester
In 1993, we adopted fleece into our product line made from post consumer recycled (PCR) plastic soda bottles. We were the first outdoor clothing manufacturer to do so. PCR® clothing was a positive step towards a more sustainable system – one that uses fewer resources, discards less and better protects people's health.
Today, we're able to utilize more sources for recycled polyester and offer it on more garments such as Capilene® baselayers, shell jackets, board shorts, and fleece. We now recycle used soda bottles, unusable manufacturing waste, and worn out garments (including our own) into polyester fibers to produce many of our clothes.
Using recycled polyester lessens our dependence on petroleum as a raw material source, curbs discards and reduces toxic emissions from incinerators.
Do you own this product? Let us know what you think. Read Privacy Notice


text:
Download and install Norton Secure VPN
When you use an unsecure wireless connection, your Internet service provider (ISP) and websites can see sensitive details like your location, chats, and emails. You are vulnerable to cyber criminals who seek to monitor and steal your information. Norton Secure VPN creates a Virtual Private Network that encrypts your sensitive data. It lets you use a public network, like the Internet, in a secure way.
Join the discussion with other desktop users here Norton Community.
Join the discussion with other mobile users here Norton Community.
Related solutions
Help us improve this solution.
Thank you for helping to improve this experience.
What would you like to do now?
Browse for solutions, search the Norton Community, or Contact Us.
Operating System: Windows, macos, Android, iOS
Last modified: 02/20/2020


text:
Welcome to Playtime Toy Unboxing! Today we will be opening a brand new PRINCESS PEACH AMiiBO figure for the Nintendo Wii U game console. This amiibo works with MARIO PARTY 10, Mario Kart, and Super Mario 3d World. We really LOVE mario party 10 and we rated the game a 10/10 because the game is a blast and is easily accessible for ages 4 and up, AND it also comes with a Super Mario AMIIBO! We will be adding gameplay videos to our other channel if you are interested, which will be fully narrated with commentary! www.youtube.com/c/balloonloons We also post other videogame gameplay there as well such as Halo the Master Chief Collection and we will be adding much more very soon. Bowser crashes the latest Mario Party, the first installment of the series on the Wii U console. In the new Bowser Party Mini-games, play as Bowser himself and face off against up to four others playing as Mario and friends. Control Bowser using the buttons, motion controls and touch screen of the Wii U GamePad controller in different ways, and wreak havoc as Bowser in each mini-game while the other players strive to survive.
Grab the GamePad and play as Bowser for the first time in the series. In Bowser Party mini-games, one player gets to be the fire-breathing Bowser as he tries to burn, bonk or blast other players away. Up to four players use Wii Remote controllers to cooperate and survive as they confront the Bowser player, who is using the Wii U GamePad. It's four against one, and being a party pooper has never been so much fun.
Control Bowser in a variety of ways with the Wii U GamePad. In Bowser's Bad Breath, for example, the Bowser player moves the GamePad around to aim and shoot fireballs at the other players while they attempt to dodge them.
Colors and textures pop off the screen as the Mario Party series leaps into high definition for the first time.
Enjoy new mini-games in classic Mario Party style with up to four players.*
amiibo in Mario Party 10
Your amiibo becomes a game piece in the all-new amiibo Party mode! At least one read/write compatible amiibo is required in order to access this mode.
Read/Write compatibility with the following amiibo figures: Mario, Luigi, Peach, Toad, Yoshi, Bowser, Rosalina, Donkey Kong, and Wario
Game boards vary based on the amiibo used. On the Mario board, you might encounter an event where you use a Mushroom to suddenly grow or collect coins while defeating your rivals. On the Luigi board, you may have to suck up your rivals' stars and coins using the Poltergust.
Save items to your amiibo, then strategically choose one item to bring along each game. It might just be the key to victory.
Use each compatible amiibo once per day to get a bonus, such as a different base for your game piece!
Tap any other amiibo figure to the Wii U GamePad controller to play Scratch Bonus and win Mario Party points, letting you unlock in-game bonus content


text:
Four motorcyclists injured at Sydney's Eastern Creek raceway, two others die in separate NSW incidents
Four motorcyclists have been badly injured in a high-speed crash at Sydney's Eastern Creek raceway and two others have died in separate accidents.
Ambulance paramedics and a Careflight trauma doctor were called in to help medical teams at the track shortly after midday local time.
Two riders suffered leg injuries and all four have cuts and bruises.
The four men were participating in a club race day and had reached speeds of around 140 kilometres per hour.
One man was taken to Westmead Hospital by an ambulance helicopter where he is in a critical condition.
The other men were taken to either the Westmead or Liverpool hospitals.
In separate incidents, two other motorcyclists have died in crashes in New South Wales.
A search for a woman motorcyclist who went missing on a ride from Wyndham to Bombala has ended with the discovery of her body.
Police found the fatally injured woman and her bike down an embankment around three kilometres west of Wyndham, on NSW's far south coast, this morning.
Officers believe she lost control on a sharp bend but her companions did not realise she was missing until they reached Bombala last night.
Another motorcyclist died in a separate incident at Waterfall, south of Sydney.
Topics: motor-sports, road, accidents, eastern-creek-2766, waterfall-2233, sydney-2000, wyndham-2550


text:
30,000-square-foot store and job center is on North Tamiami Trail
Goodwill Manasota will open one of its largest stores in the region this morning on North Tamiami Trail, and the only one locally the nonprofit has built from the ground up.
The 30,000-square-foot thrift store and community and job placement center replaces another store nearby in Trail Plaza, which closed Sunday.
"Being involved in the North Trail community is really important to us," said Veronica Miller, vice president of the Goodwill Foundation.
The new store opening marks the second major change to the ailing North Tamiami Trail in the past year, an area long plagued by aging motels that contribute to drug and prostitution-related crime.
Goodwill marketing director Yen Reed said the nonprofit hopes the new store, which will employ more than 60, will spur further revitalization.
Significant change began last September, when a 34,000-square-foot Walmart Neighborhood Market debuted on the site of a shuttered Winn-Dixie grocery store.
Unlike other Walmart store formats, its neighborhood markets are smaller and offer food and pharmacy and beauty departments, similar to other supermarket chains such as Publix, Winn-Dixie and Sweetbay.
The North Trail store was the first Walmart Neighborhood Market to open in Sarasota.
"The people here really seem to embrace the new Walmart even though there was some hesitation at first," Reed said of the store, which was developed by Sarasota-based Jebco Ventures, which has proposed a Walmart market at Beneva and Bee Ridge roads, among other projects. "We hope they will embrace our new store, too."
While Goodwill represents the latest addition to the North Trail, it may not be the last improvement in the near future.
A proposed expansion to the University of South Florida's Sarasota campus would double the school's enrollment, to 10,000 students, and add a $25 million academic center. School officials also may develop retail shops and cafes nearby to further enhance the area.
Goodwill's desire to be part of the North Trail community has not always been shared by residents there, though.
Members of neighborhood associations near the Goodwill store, just south of the intersection at University Parkway, voiced concerns during early planning stages in late 2011. Neighbors feared the store's size would bring unwanted noise and traffic to the area.
"As the economy has worsened, less people are donating good quality items or are not donating at all, so how can Goodwill afford a new building?" questioned Chris Lisiecki, on the Herald-Tribune Media Group's Facebook page.
"I know they have raised their prices. In some cases their prices are the same as the item can be bought new at the Dollar Store or Walmart," Lisiecki added. "Are they trying to compete with them?"
Despite those concerns, dozens of people have strolled up to the store in the days leading up to Wednesday's opening to glimpse inside.
The larger store also will showcase a new look Goodwill hopes to spread to all of its 18 existing stores and seven job centers in Southwest Florida in coming years.
The nonprofit also plans to add to the number of job centers in coming years, Reed said.
A fresh green and blue paint design mark the walls inside the new building, and posters featuring local store employees and volunteers hang on the walls. An expansive donation driveway hangs along the south end of the building, while office space and computers line a separate room designated for Sarasota area residents looking for work. Goodwill Manasota helped place 413 local residents into new jobs in 2012, Reed said.
A new 5,000-square-foot community center will host free classes ranging in topics from arts and crafts and sign language to iPhone instructionals. All are open to the public.
The new store will employ 64 people full- and part-time. Fourteen positions were added to accommodate the store's larger size.
The retail store offers used clothing and shoes for men, women and children, household items and furniture, but also sells some unique items like wedding dresses, artwork and televisions, when available through donations.


text:
Merle Pertile's Photos:
More sample photos (if any) ↓
Less photos ↑
About Merle Pertile:
Being old hands at looking long and far for prospective Playmates to grace our gatefold, we're always gratified when we uncover a comely young miss close to home. Our January jeune fille, Merle Pertile, projected prettily on more than a score of Playboy's Penthouse television shows originating in Chicago before she left the Windy City for the Pacific Coast — specifically, Hollywood and the acting scene. Twenty-year-old Merle's professional pursuits have since borne further fruit with appearances on 77 Sunset Strip and The Tab Hunter Show, plus a hatboxful of mannequin chores ranging from fashion modeling to illuminating industrial films for outboard motors and auto mufflers.
Her particular outboard assets (38-22-34) can hardly be muffled the way they're arranged on her 5'5″, 112-pound frame. Since Merle, an enthusiastic outdoor-sports buff and California native (she was born in Whittier), returned to the West with her mother, she has replaced her Midwest-nurtured ice-skating addiction with a consuming passion for skin-diving. Much pleasured by such plebeian delights as nutburgers, she is conversely bugged by buglike compact cars, finds Cadillac and Continental convertibles (top down) much less claustrophobic. Titian-tressed Merle has her big blue eyes firmly focused on a film career, is busy studying acting in the hope of breaking the Hollywood sound-stage barrier. If and when Merle does soar to moviedom's heights, we'd like to think that Playboy's Penthouse provided her with a launching pad to success.


text:
Real spending on travel and tourism slowed in the third quarter of 2012, increasing at an annual rate of 0.6 percent after increasing 2.2 percent in the second quarter. The primary contributor to the slowdown was a downturn in all other transportation-related commodities, which includes motor vehicle fuel, travel arrangement and reservations services, and automotive renting and leasing.
Overall price growth in travel and tourism goods and services turned down, decreasing 0.9 percent in the third quarter of 2012 following a 1.1 percent increase in the second quarter. The third quarter decrease reflected downturns in passenger air transportation prices for both domestic and international flights and in traveler accommodations prices.
Employment in the travel and tourism industries increased 1.3 percent in the third quarter of 2012 after increasing 1.1 percent in the second quarter. The increase reflected an upturn in recreation and entertainment and an acceleration in food services and drinking places.
To learn more about travel and tourism spending read the full report.


text:
Day 133 without playing golf
There's unrest in the locker room at Doral. The course is set up for the super power hitters. And some players are reacting like they got sand kicked in their faces.
This excerpt from USA Today:
Exhibit A this week: Doral Resort and Spa's No. 18, a hole that used to epitomize the Blue Monster course and annually rank high on the PGA Tour's list of 50 toughest. With the tee box pushed way back, many players find the landing area unattainable where the water pinches the fairway at the point where the dogleg turns left.
"I just don't think it's fair," said Toms, who shot 6-under-par 66 and was two strokes behind first-round leader Tiger Woods and one behind Villegas. "Why do I have to hit into whatever that little fairway is and a third of the field can just hit it as hard as they want to?"
Joining Toms lament, Lee Janzen noted that this is a weekly issue on Tour. Again, USA Today:
Toms and Lee Janzen said Thursday that locker room chatter has increased on the issue of holes being big-hitter friendly. Janzen broke out his yardage book and showed 289 yards to the water's edge, meaning about a 305-yard carry to a landing area that's at least three times wider.
"Just another example," said Janzen, who opened with an even-par 72. "We see it week after week. The guys who hit it 290 -- and that's not chopped liver -- are getting penalized for not being able to hit it 320."
"Drive for show, putt for dough"? How about, "Drive to survive, putt to thrive"?
The Armchair Golfer


text:
HOUSTON - OK. So now that we've got that over with ...
The Vikings mercifully finished their preseason Thursday night at Reliant Stadium, left to stagger into the regular season with a 28-24 loss to the Texans.
Fourth-string quarterback McLeod-Bethel Thompson couldn't produce a fourth-quarter rally. And, well, thankfully the preseason wheezed to its death.
The Vikings' latest stumble exemplified the preseason in all its sloppy splendor.
Nothing proved more painful to watch than the second quarter, a stretch that, for the Vikings, was filled with missed opportunities, missed tackles and, of course, missed calls.
Take the second-and-8 throw made by quarterback Sage Rosenfels with 5 minutes left before halftime. Receiver Devin Aromashodu was running free up the right sideline with no defender within 8 yards. But instead of connecting on a 49-yard touchdown pass, Rosenfels threw a bomb that landed 4 yards out of bounds.
Two plays later, after a Chris Kluwe punt, the defense made its own inexcusable mistake, surrendering an 80-yard John Beck to DeVier Posey touchdown pass.
Posey went 70 yards after the catch, with safety Eric Frampton, linebacker Larry Dean and cornerback Chris Carr all missing chances to bring him down.
And yes, as usual, we had another round of replacement ref bewilderment.
There were 14 penalties in all, eight in the second quarter. The most confusing came when Rosenfels was hit by Houston linebacker Delano Johnson and fumbled. The officials flagged Johnson for unnecessary roughness for hitting Rosenfels in the head. But somehow, after a long stretch of confusion, they only rewarded the Vikings by moving the ball to the original line of scrimmage, 8 yards in front of where Rosenfels was hit.
Asked about the mishap and the lengthy chat he had with officials to get an explanation, Vikings coach Leslie Frazier could only stare at the floor.
"We talked about it for a long time," Frazier said. "We did. There were a few things we talked about for a long time."
Yep, if you were craving regular-season football, with meaningful results and starters playing most of the game and real refs (hopefully soon), Thursday's game did nothing but heighten that desire. Even the Twin Cities television broadcast added to the chaos, losing audio for a good portion of the first quarter.
Not surprisingly, the Vikings opted not to play any of their starters. Houston also deactivated 30 players, leaving the stage cleared for backups and players on the bubble.
The Vikings' defensive depth was exposed some. Houston rushed for 169 yards. Justin Forsett led the stampede with 114 yards on 13 attempts, including touchdowns of 3 and 5 yards.
No, it wasn't all ugly. Both Rosenfels and Bethel-Thompson connected on deep touchdown passes.
Rosenfels delivered his to Aromashodu, a 58-yarder late in the first half. Bethel-Thompson connected with rookie Jarius Wright on a 59-yard bomb with him basically left uncovered.
"I really couldn't tell you what coverage they were in," Wright said. "I think the corner and safety got confused. It looked like a Cover-2 look, but the corner never tried to get his hands on me and the safety never moved outside. So I just ran straight down the field."
As the Vikings search to find reliable depth in their receiving corps, Aromashodu and Wright combined for 11 catches and 211 yards.
Now the Vikings have business to take care of, needing to cut 22 players and assemble their 53-man roster Friday. All of that must be done by 8 p.m.
Heading into Thursday, the third running back job was open. Matt Asiata continued his solid showing with seven carries and 43 yards.
But then Jordan Todman served a reminder that he should not be discarded so easily. Todman had 114 yards on 10 attempts, including a nifty 76-yard scoring run in which he made a decisive cut, fought through contact and showcased his speed along the sideline.
"I really only had one game to give it my all and show what I had," Todman said. "But I hope I showed what I can do and what I can bring to this team. I feel like I took advantage of all my carries."
It's seems difficult to believe now that the Vikings will opt to prioritize the veteran experience of Lex Hilliard (seven carries, 33 yards on Thursday) in their backfield debate.
Plenty of roster decisions remain. So too do the myriad questions regarding how much progress this team can truly make in 2012.
At the very least, the preseason is finally over.