text:
The primary characteristic underlying the Natrum mur. pathology is introversion arising out of a feeling of great vulnerability to emotional injury. Natrum mur. patients are emotionally very sensitive; they experience the emotional pain of others, and feel that any form of rejection, ridicule, humiliation or grief would be personally intolerable. Consequently, they create a wall of invulnerability, become enclosed in their own worlds, and prefer to maintain control over their circumstances. They avoid being hurt at all costs.
People susceptible to developing the Natrum mur. type of pathology are emotionally sensitive and vulnerable, but quite clear and strong on mental and physical levels. Mentally, they have a high degree of objectivity and awareness, as well as a great sense of responsibility. For this reason, they are likely to be the sympathetic ear to which others turn when distressed. The emotional sensitivity and the sense of responsibility readily lead such people into fields of counseling, psychotherapy, the ministry etc. While listening sympathetically to someone else's suffering, such people maintain their objectivity and appear to be very strong. They internally absorb the pain of others, however, and they dwell on it later; particularly, they wonder "How would I react in such a situation? Would I be able to take it".
Throughout life, individuals with Natrum mur. tendencies experiences deeply all impressions of life, accumulating awareness and understanding beyond their age. They are strong and enjoy being presented with challenging circumstances, even those involving emotional risk. At first, they enjoy company and thrive on the nourishment of emotional contact with others. They enjoy receiving affection from others – indeed, they inwardly expect and demand it, even though they do not themselves express affection easily. They are so sensitive that they feel hurt by the slightest comment or gesture that might imply ridicule or rejection. Natrum mur. adolescents, for example are reluctant to date, for fear of rejection. Even imagined slights can cause suffering. After being hurt several times, they learn to become cautious. They will think twice before becoming involved in an emotional experience. They turn to introverted activities which are emotionally "safe", i.e. reading books (usually romantic fiction or things having practical value in human relations), listening to music, dwelling on ideas and fantasies.
They can become quite content in their isolation. They tend to be self-contained, desiring to solve problems by themselves without trusting help from other people. Gradually, they come to the point of not needing contact with the outside world. If someone intrudes upon their private, introverted world, they may feel resentful. Their primary concern in life becomes, "not to hurt and not to be hurt". The issue of emotional pain, in themselves or in others, would be the end of the world for them, they are completely incapable of knowingly inflicting pain on others. For this reason, they become very serious. They cannot make jokes that might inadvertently ridicule someone else. They may appear cold and overly objective to others because they are so intent on not revealing their own emotional vulnerability or creating injury to others. This, combined with the Natrum mur. senses of responsibility, results in guilt begin a strong motivating factor in the lives of such people. Physically, children with Natrum mur. tendencies are likely to be thin and delicate. It is common to see a fine, precise horizontal line dividing the lower eyelid in two. This line is commonly seen in young girls with hysterical personalities; other remedies showing this line include Asafoetida, Lilium tig., and Moschus. In addition, there may be a characteristic crack in the middle of the lower lip.
A Natrum mur. child is very sensitive to disharmony. If the parents fight the child may not react immediately but will suffer inside, perhaps even to the point of acquiring a physical ailment. These children are usually quite well-behaved; it is not necessary to severely discipline them because a mere glance conveying disapproval will suffice.
The hysterical tendency in Natrum mur. children is seen readily when they are severely reprimanded. They then react to an extreme degree, falling on the floor in a tantrum, kicking and screaming. Consolation or reassurance are of no avail, and may actually make them worse they will continue with the tantrum until they themselves decide to stop.
At an older age, the hysterical tendency shows itself in another way. Ordinarily, Natrum mur. people do not express emotion readily; they do not cry easily, for example, when suffering a grief. They may be quite serious in their demeanor. However, when nervous or under stress, they tend to laugh over serious matters, then to giggle hysterically; as this giggling becomes uncontrollable, it dissolves into hysterical weeping.
Adolescents of this type are likely to be quiet and withdrawn, but with a sense of responsibility and integrity. At a party, they tend to sit on the sidelines, enjoying themselves by watching others and imagining what they are experiencing. If they are attracted to someone, they will not be flirtatious or friendly. Indeed, they may appear to pay no attention at all, only watching the other out of the corner of the eye. They are liable to fantasize that the other person is likewise attracted and they may romantically blow the entire situation out of proportion. This is the reason why Kent states that a young girl who needs Natrum mur. will easily fall in love with a married man, or someone unattainable. This then causes intense anguish and grief, and the result is an even greater introversion. They develop intense emotional and sentimental attachments for people, but they don't show their feelings. A daughter may have a deep feeling for her father without anyone else realising it. Then the father dies. The daughter grieves silently, locking herself in her room and crying in her pillow. To the surprise of everyone around her who did not realize the depth of her affection, she becomes very introverted, desiring only to be alone with her books and her music. There is no moaning or crying in front of others – merely occasional sighing perhaps. This internal state continues until she finally breaks down. Then there is uncontrolled, hysterical sobbing with massive shaking of the body, spasms, and twitching. Such an outburst usually lasts just a short time, and she quickly regains control and composure.
The first stage of pathology in Natrum mur. appears on the physical level. There may be gastritis, arthritis, migraine headaches, canker sores, or herpes on the lower lip. As might be expected, such conditions are likely to occur after a period of introversion following a sever grief or humiliation.
Alternatively, the patient may become hysterically reactive to every influence in the environment – overly sensitive to noise, to light, to cigarette smoke, etc. In such patients, allergies and eczema are common.
Neurological disorders are also very common in Natrum mur. Neuralgias affecting the left eye or the left intercostal nerves, for example, are frequent. Multiple sclerosis often responds to Natrum mur; as well, when the totality of symptoms fits. Heart disease can occur, but it tends to manifest as arrhythmias and palpitations – which arise from the influence of the nervous system on the heart. It is during the earliest phases of pathology that some of the most well-known Natrum mur. keynotes are found. The patient has a strong desire for salt, and an aversion to slimy food and to fat, there is an aversion to chicken as well. Characteristically, there is an intolerance to heat, sensitivity to light, and aggravation (of headaches and skin particularly) from the sun.
These are true to varying degrees in all of the Natrums, but they are more or less equally expressed in Natrum mur. The Natrum mur. aggravations from the sun and light are not as marked as they are in Natrum sulph. and its aggravation from the sun is not as marked as in Natrum carb. The Natrum mur. patient may be sensitive to both heat and to cold, though usually more so to heat. It is less sensitive to heat than Natrum sulph., and also less sensitive to cold than Natrum carb.
A characteristic symptom of Natrum mur. is the inability to pass urine or stool in the presence of others. This arises from the fear of ridicule, resulting in a chronic tension of sphincter muscles which can be relaxed only in private.
As the emotional vulnerability becomes increasingly pathological the patient becomes depressed; This is a depression which is inconsolable, and may even become suicidal. Suppose, for example, a young man experiences a severe rejection or grief; he retires to his room and puts on the saddest music he can find. The music is not designed to alleviate the depression, but rather to add to it. He wallows in the depression. If one thing has gone wrong, he exaggerates everything out of all proportion. He allows no-one to help, he tries to solve the problem within himself. Eventually, when the depression begins to pass, he regains a more appropriate perspective on life, and music will at that point relieve the remnants of the depression. It is in this sense that music may be either aggravation or amelioration to Natrum mur., depending on the circumstances.
This kind of depression is a kind of hysterical reaction. Ordinarily, the Natrum mur patient is objective as long as control over the emotions is maintained; but when emotional control breaks down, the patient becomes irrational, and the emotional sphere rules everything.
As the pathology moves beyond the phase of depression, the patient begins to experience periodicity of physical symptoms and alternation of moods.
Physical complaints occur at predictable intervals and times. This is why Natrum mur. is often indicated in patients who have suffered from malaria in the past or who have been adversely affected by quinine drugs; it also can be useful in patients in whose family there has been malaria. Migraine attacks often seen in Natrum mur. patients tend to occur at fixed times, usually between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Asthmatic attacks, likewise, tend to occur between 5 and 7 p.m.
The moods swing from unreasonable depression to unreasonable exhilaration. As the patient's objectivity becomes interfered with, everything on the emotional level is carried to extremes.
By this stage, some of the characteristic physical symptoms may gradually disappear. As the pathology progresses to deeper levels, there may no longer be desire for salt, aversion to slimy or fatty foods aggravation from the sun, etc. The disappearance of these traits is directly proportional to the progressive deepening of the pathological state. Often it will be necessary for the homoeopath to inquire into such symptoms not only in the present, but also the past.
As the pathology begins to reach into the emotional level, the first fear that develops in claustrophobia. In early stages, Natrum mur. patients enjoy relative emotional freedom and resent any constrictions imposed by others. Later on, their own vulnerability causes them to close off. When they perceive the same kind of enclosure outside themselves (i.e. closed or narrow places) as they have created within, they become fearful.
Along with the claustrophobia, there occurs a rigidification of the emotional and mental planes. The patient develops fixed ideas; things are seen in terms of good or bad, right or wrong, correct or incorrect, practical or impractical.
Eventually, a hypochondriacal anxiety about health emerges, particularly in regard to heart disease. This hypochondriasis is related to the fastidiousness seen in Natrum mur. The patient is driven by a compulsive need to avoid contamination – always cleaning, washing hands, disinfecting everything. In Natrum mur. fastidiousness is specifically a fear of microbial contamination, and not so much the feeling of disgust seen in other remedies (Sulph, Puls, Merc, Phos, Mezereum). Also, in Natrum mur. anxiety about health is much less significant than hypochondriasis, which is more of an anxiety -compulsive attention to details about health.
Finally, even the compulsive control mechanisms break down completely, and the person openly expresses everything, which previously had been disallowed. They become shameless, exhibitionistic, speak in obscenities, etc; In the final stage, Natrum mur. patients do not usually lose mental control to the point of developing full-blown insanity, but shameless behavior may occur. Natrum mur. is such a deep-aching remedy, and it is so commonly indicated in our western world, that there are many other remedies to which it should be compared.
Ignatia, of course, is the closest of all remedies to Natrum mur. In many respects, they are virtually identical. For this reason, they often replace one another in particular cases. Generally, Ignatia acts more superficially and is more likely to be indicated in cases where patient's reactions are more superficial. Natrum mur. patients have greater strength, they can tolerate more emotional stress and more intense shocks without breaking down. In Ignatia, the person breaks down with relatively minor stress. In addition, the Ignatia pathology does not as readily affect the physical level. Thus. Ignatia is more indicated in emotional reactions appearing after ordinary griefs experienced in life, whereas Natrum mur. is more commonly indicated in instances of extraordinary stresses, particularly those causing breakdown on the physical level.
The Ignatia patient frequently feels constricted in the throat or in breathing, especially following an emotional shock. The characteristic Ignatia sighing is an attempt to relieve this sensation of constriction. Ignatia cries more easily and s more likely to cry during the homoeopathic interview than Natrum mur. Following a grief, the Ignatia patient is less likely to experience sleeplessness than Natrum mur.
Frequently, particularly when there are mostly physical symptoms, Phosphorus may be difficult to differentiate form Natrum mur. Physically, both look quite similar – thin, sensitive, even perhaps hyperthyroid. The main point of differentiation, of course, is whether the patient has a personality which is closed or open. The sensitive person who tends to be more withheld and evasive, who leans back in the chair while describing symptoms, is more likely to need Natrum mur. The Phosphorus patient, on the other hand, is very open and expressive of emotion, tending to lean forward and engage the interviewer in personal contact.
Lilium tig. is a highly hysterical remedy, as is Natrum mur. If a Lilium tig. patient experiences rejection or humiliation, however, there is an instantaneous, impulsive reaction; the Natrum mur. patient on the other hand, will suffer inside and wait quite a long time before finally breaking down into a hysterical reaction. Lilium tig. is also more likely to be malicious and cruel during such a reaction, whereas the Natrum mur. person would rather inflict suffering on himself than cause pain to anyone else.
Moschus is another hysterical remedy, but the differentiation is quite easy. This type of hysteria is designed for others to observe. It is manipulative, an attempt to emotionally blackmail others into a desired response. Natrum mur. would rather hide any reaction as much as possible.
Pulsatilla is sometimes confused with Natrum mur. Both are intolerant to heart aggravated in the sun, and averse to fat. Pulsatilla, however, is emotionally highly expressive, automatically giving affection. When a Pulsatilla patient cries (which occurs easily), it is a "sweet" gentle crying whereas the Natrum mur. weeping is a spasmodic, loud sobbing which shakes the whole body. Pulsatilla patients that are suffering will actively seek help from others and depend on them; Natrum mur. is more self-reliant, preferring to solve problems by themselves.
Lycopodium is a remedy which displays an outer shell created in reaction to an inner state, but internally it is, weak and cowardly. Natrum mur. is strong but emotionally vulnerable to being hurt. Sepia is closely related to Natrum mur. Particularly in children, they may be very difficult to tell apart. Sepia children are very sensitive, and much more excitable than Natrum mur. In their excitability, they can become flushed and hyperactive. In adulthood, it is as if the Sepia patient has been broken down by this excessive excitability, becoming fatigued, mentally dulled, and apathetic, Natrum mur. feels affection but does not express it easily; Sepia fundamentally has lost it. The Sepia patient is much more likely to be malicious and cruel, almost enjoying hurting others; this would be unthinkable for Natrum mur.


text:
Top Stories
Band Spotlight
California thrash upstarts Warbringer have returned to settle the score and cement their long term legacy fully with sixth album Weapons of Tomorrow. "Firepower Kills" probably ought to open all their future shows, just a complete stage setter for chaos. "Crushed Beneath The Tracks" and "Power Unsurpassed" in particular show this band would have ruled 1988 with ease and contain maximum neck injuring/ fist pumping potential (along with notable Slayer-worthy wraith shrieking). I am not 100% on the semi-thin snare sound but it hardly distracts the band's performances are all monstrous on this bad boy. Exodus, Annihilator fans or of course fans of more new school speed thrash bands should get all over this one. \m/
Featured StreamsMore MR Interviews
Cro-Mags: In The Beginning
Editor Rating
User's Rating
Protest The Hero: Palimpsest
Editor Rating
User's Rating
In The Company of Serpents: Lux
Editor Rating
User's Rating
Trivium: What The Dead Men Say
Editor Rating
User's Rating
Testament: Titans Of Creation
Editor Rating
User's Rating
Metal Heads
Top Contributors1.
Morgan Y Evans - Walking Bombs
- Kingston
- Posts:
- 2482
- Reviews:
- 192
- Comments:
- 22
- Adairsville
- Posts:
- 786
- Reviews:
- 23
- Comments:
- 0
Rotten Sound release dates for "Grind Over Europe Tour 2012"
Posted by SeanB on Tuesday, January 24, 2012 at 8:45 AM (PST)
More On: Grindcore, Tour, Rotten Sound, Relapse Records
Leave A Comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
(217) 280 4520
Shalom Transcription the largest online transcription company provides transcription services globally.
Audio, Video and Interview transcription services offered in all the languages.
Audio transcription services provided by TUS assure you of a 98% consistent accuracy and 100% money-back guarantee.
If you are not satisfied with the accuracy we will process your full refund.
In an ever evolving competition in business with time constraints we stand out as the experts who can help by providing high quality audio transcripts.
Audio transcription services are not a one-size-fits-all scenario; it requires expertise and a truly specialized approach that only TUS can offer.
Professional audio transcription is our priority and we aim to create long-term relationships with our clients.
We only employ trained professionals to work on your files. The professionals transcribe and forward it to one of our proof-readers.
The professional proof-reader will verify the accuracy and format appropriately. Then we will email the completed project to you.
We understand that our clients value their privacy, particularly when it comes to personal or confidential business documents. Therefore,
we take all possible precautions to ensure the safety and security of all client audio files. We also offer NDAs (nondisclosure agreements), upon request.
Affordable Audio Transcription is a one stop transcribing service for your business, organization and academic needs.
We do not charge based on the hours it takes to transcribe. We only charge per recorded audio minute and the price is very nominal when compared to our competitors.
Our affordable audio transcription rates start from $0.65/min which is the lowest in the industry.
Transcription Services are offered in English, Arabic, Cantonese, Mandarin, German, French, Portuguese and many more...
Upload audio/video files for No-obligation quote
Precise & cheap transcription by our dedicated team.
We assure 98% accuracy in all our transactions.
Our service is backed with 100% money back guarantee.
We offer 5 minutes free trial for new customers.
Get free no obligation quote to your email.
We are available round the clock to process your request.
Upload audio or video files to receive a "No-obligation Quote" via e-mail.
We can accept payment through credit, debit card and PayPal.
We deliver the proof read transcription to your e-mail.
Upload your audio and video files from the following link We will send you NO OBLIGATION QUOTE in an hour to your e-mail
You may need an estimate to get approval from your manager or to forecast your budget. Call us at (217) 280 4520 or shoot an email to support [at] shalomtranscription [dot] com or contact our chat team.


text:
Difference between revisions of "RPi Wheezy raspi-config 2012-06-18"
m (→The raspi-config)
|Line 11:
|Line 11:
change_pass Change password for 'pi' user
change_pass Change password for 'pi' user
change_locale Set locale
change_locale Set locale
change_timezone Set timezone
memory_split Change memory split
memory_split Change memory split
ssh Enable or disable ssh server
ssh Enable or disable ssh server
finish Finish config and don't start raspi-config at boot
finish Finish config and don't start raspi-config at boot
<Ok> <Exit>
<Ok> <Exit>
== Moving Around the Menu ==
== Moving Around the Menu ==
Revision as of 06:45, 29 June 2012
raspi-config was introduced with the advent of the Debian Wheezy image. It helps you configure your Pi. It is a work in progress so the number of menu items and the ease of use of those items will increase with time. If anyone feels willing and able to improve raspi-config then please contact Alex Bradbury [1].
- 1 The raspi-config
- 2 Moving Around the Menu
- 3 What raspi-config does
- 4 INFO - Information About This Tool
- 5 EXPAND-ROOTFS - Expand Root Partition to Fill SD Card
- 6 OVERSCAN - Change Overscan
- 7 CONFIGURE-KEYBOARD - Set keyboard layout
- 8 CHANGE_PASS - Change password for 'pi' user
- 9 CHANGE_LOCALE - Set locale
- 10 CHANGE_TIMEZONE - Set timezone
- 11 MEMORY_SPLIT - Change memory split
- 12 SSH - Enable or disable ssh server
- 13 FINISH - Finish config and don't start raspi-config at boot
- 14 After Exiting the Menu
The raspi-config
When you start your Pi for the first time using the Wheezy image you will be automatically logged in as pi with the password raspberry and the raspi-config menu will appear. It has the following entries:
info Information about this tool expand-rootfs Expand root partition to fill SD card overscan Change overscan configure-keyboard Set keyboard layout change_pass Change password for 'pi' user change_locale Set locale change_timezone Set timezone memory_split Change memory split ssh Enable or disable ssh server finish Finish config and don't start raspi-config at boot <Ok> <Exit>
Moving Around the Menu
At any point from within any of the menu or sub-menu options the Tab key will toggle about the selected entry and the options at the bottom inside angle brackets. There is an exception to this and that's with the change_locale option, ignore that exception for now it's covered later.
Some of the menu entries take quite a while to display.
What raspi-config does
Some entries modify the file /boot/config.txt. This file, out of the box, contains a number of commented out configuration entries; raspi-config adds entries at the end of this file. You can see what raspi-config has done to the file by viewing it on the Pi using Leafpad, and if you really mess things up you can edit the file from the SD card using Notepad on a Windows PC. More information on editing config.txt here [[2]]
Other entries modify Linux configuration files, some take effect immediately, others at the next boot.
INFO - Information About This Tool
This would be really helpful if it actually explained the options in the menu, hopefully at least it will provide a reference to this Wiki page.
It helpfully advises you may have difficulties if you have heavily customized your installation but as this is probably the first thing a rookie is going to see the likelihood of a heavily customized installation is small.
raspi-config appears automatically at first boot. You can run it at any time after that by typing sudo raspi-config (case sensitive) at the command line or in a terminal window. The sudo (do as superuser) is necessary because you will be changing files that you as user pi do not own, its Debian's way of providing a root login.
The lovely thing about the Pi is that if you mess up it will not be difficult to re-image; killing the install may require a re-image (check this).
EXPAND-ROOTFS - Expand Root Partition to Fill SD Card
This does what it says on the tin so if you have installed Wheezy on a 4GB or greater card use this option and AFTER REBOOT it will use all of the SD card. The Wheezy image takes nearly 2GB so if you are going to install additional software or large files its worth doing, however you don't need to do it on first boot. The downside of using all the card is that it takes much longer to backup the image.
OVERSCAN - Change Overscan
What would you like to do with overscan <Disable> <Enable>
Any changes will take effect after a reboot. If you change a setting and end up losing the left side of the screen you can easily edit /boot/config.txt on a PC to undo the changes.
Televisions do not usually display the whole of the picture, they Overscan and crop off a few percent of the image. This is to hide the data signals such as teletext which use the outer lines of the picture. Computers, including the Pi, use all the lines for real display so often the image displayed by computers on TV's is cropped.
To avoid losing the critical left column at first boot the clever Pi people have deliberately enabled Overscan and used negative Overscan to make the displayed image smaller, and to play safe much smaller. This means, depending on your monitor/TV, there may be black borders around the picture. LXDE will show the wrong resolution in its display information, and the display may be a bit fuzzy.
On some displays, particularly monitors, just disabling Overscan will make the picture fill the whole screen and correct the resolution. For other displays it may be necessary to fiddle with Overscan values, more information here [[3]].
CONFIGURE-KEYBOARD - Set keyboard layout
This is the setting for using different attached keyboards. Brands of keyboards are chosen first followed by other choices to set up nationality of keyboards etc.
The first list will probably fall to one of the generic 105 key keyboards but it's probably not a big deal if you can't find yours on the list, have fun remember you can always re-image if you're really stuck.
The next screen regards keyboard layout. If you are not using the first choice of English UK select Other and you will be faced with a long list of other national keyboards. Funnily enough this list includes English UK.
Next screen is actually quite well documented on the screen you're probably going to run with one of the top two choices. These are:
The default for the keyboard layout
No AltGr key
To be honest if this is your first setup and you get this wrong it's not going to break the bank and as I keep saying if in doubt re-image and start again.
Next screen; well if your using a standard keyboard then you probably don't have a compose key and if your new to computing as intended you're not likely to need one for a while so I would suggest choosing
No compose key
The next screen is a useful one and the on screen documentation is actually quite clear provided you know what is meant by "X server" so here's an outline:
When you have finished your install the last line of the start-up will tell you that you can run startx. Startx is the command to run the windows (like) screen where you use a mouse to select options.
This is the X server and to get back to command line (that's all the typed stuff) you can use [Ctrl][Alt][Backspace] all pressed at the same time to shut down this X server screen; you can always restart it by typing "startx". Always handy if you have a flaky mouse or are using a wireless mouse that eats batteries.
Of course this is pointless if you don't remember the key combination when the time comes!
CHANGE_PASS - Change password for 'pi' user
The default user for the Wheezy install is pi and the normal password is raspberry. Until you're familiar with the setup it's probably better to leave this password as it is at least till you are happy changing stuff. In addition you can re-run raspi-config to change it at any time.
To return to my mantra if you screw this up be prepared to re-image and lose any work you have done and programs installed (you did back up you-re data didn't you). With Linux and Unix forgotten passwords are a killer the Raspberry Pi is one of the simpler systems. Let's face it till you know what your looking at, the out of the box solution of pi and raspberry are probably all you will need.
CHANGE_LOCALE - Set locale
You can tell this was written by a computer engineer and not a human how about this as an alternative.
change_locale Tell the computer if you need non English characters.
Sheesh! a computer aimed at children and new users and then you expect them to know what locale means.
This menu option gives you a massive list of choices that look like they were written by one of the infinite monkeys of legend (goggle infinite monkeys Shakespeare if you don't understand this reference).
The default setting is
en_GB UTF-8 UTF-8
English, Great Britain and UTF-8 is a code related to showing all of the characters usually needed to show English letters and other symbols on the screen. If you are working in some other language than English then you will probably need to play around with this.
You can select multiple choices in the list the space bar toggles them on and off (this was the exception I mentioned earlier) and it's a long list. Basically if you want to work in more than one language then you will need to make other choices from this list based on the languages you intend to use.
If you are working in English only the default choice is probably the only one you will need.
CHANGE_TIMEZONE - Set timezone
This is where you setup your clock; now it's no big issue if it's wrong it just means the date and time assigned to files you create (automatically when you make them) will be out and its not hard to set this up.
The set up consists of two layers basically to make your selection easier to find.
First option screen think Continent; just to confuse things you have US and America because we all know USA is not part of America. Actually the US option just gives you a shorter list containing the US time zones that are included in the American list; they just made a shorter list under US for all those Good Old Boy American Citizens who don't know about American places outside of the USA. (flames imminent).
SystemV relies on you knowing what SystemV is (Think Unix and ignore it for now).
Most people know where they are in the world for time zone; for me it's Europe then London on the next screen but I've always been of the opinion that there should be ropes and lights around the M25 with signs saying "Danger hole in the world Keep Out" but then I'm not from London and the M25 was always the road to hell.
MEMORY_SPLIT - Change memory split
This allows you to choose how much of the RAM memory is set aside for the Broadcom Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) and how much for the operation of the main ARM processor.
Three choices 32MB for GPU, 64MB for GPU, 128MB for GPU. First time users should leave it at 64MB for the GPU. There is more information on when to use the different options here [[4]]. You can change it with raspi-config and it will take effect at the next reboot.
Now let's assume your really fresh to writing code, as in never done this before ever. You're not going to be writing really complex Artificial Intelligence type programs and your also unlikely to be running cutting edge real time first person shooter games not yet anyways. I like the idea of having 128 meg for graphics. As a new programmer your not likely to push graphics unless you want to do something with photos or live streaming (Watching Live TV on your Pi).
SSH - Enable or disable ssh server
NOTE: This is broken in Wheezy Beta. If you enter it by mistake press CTRL-C and sudo raspi-config to recover.
This change takes effect when???
This option enables or disables the ssh server, a program which sits quietly in the Pi looking for ssh connections from other computers. The default setting is on and there's little reason for a new user to change this unless your home network has hostile users or is open to the Internet.
ssh means 'secure shell'. It is a communication protocol which will allow you to log into the Pi from another computer on your network using a program like Putty to provide a command line interface in a terminal window.
Putty is free and available to download. It's free Open source and runs on both Windows,Linux. There are other things available for Mac's (I'm not really familiar enough but I believe there's an option in Xterm).
This option allows access to the Pi without a monitor attached to the Pi. OK it's easier if you have one but let's say you want to do some command line stuff and your partner/brother/sister whatever wants to use the TV for Corrie or suchlike. Its particularly useful for starting a VNC server on the Pi so you can use the Pi's desktop on another computer. More details here [5]
Using Putty or the like is pretty straightforward. You will need to know the IP address of the Pi, either by watching the startup output as it scrolls by, typing ifconfig at the Pi's command line or terminal window, or looking at your router. The IP address is dynamic and can change, particularly if you have not used the Pi for a day or so.
However if you are using everything from the box as is. That is to say you have your HDMI connected to a TV and a Keyboard and Mouse on the Pi and you have the menu running then I suggest you could disable ssh just to be on the safe side security wise(note just a suggestion).
FINISH - Finish config and don't start raspi-config at boot
If you select <Ok> from this option then on all future startups you won't get the raspi-config menu. If you choose <Exit> then the next time you start your going to get this menu again automatically.
After Exiting the Menu
OK let's assume you have happily worked your way through this and you selected OK for the final menu option.
You are going to get some gibberish about the Last Login (ignore this).
Then there's some info on finding further information on the included programs. As a new user for now even locating this stuff is probably a no-no.
Then you get the standard NO WARRANTY message it's just legalese for "your doing this at your own risk" that kind of goes without saying.
Then the key line.
Type 'startx' to launch graphical session
So, if at this point you type startx followed by hitting the Enter key you will be launched headlong into a windows style environment. When you have finished work logout using the red exit button (bottom right) and then type sudo halt at the command line. Wait until 'System Halted' is displayed before pulling the plug.
If on the other hand you want to play in the rarefied atmosphere of the command line environs then type away. You are in the home directory of the pi user; typing ls followed by [enter] will display its files and directories. There is a good linux cheatsheet here. When you have finished don't forget to type sudo halt and wait until 'System Halted' is displayed before pulling the plug.
Finally you may want to manually reboot just to allow all the configuration settings to take effect; type sudo reboot at the command line.
If you use just the command "reboot" your RaspberryPi will tell you that you must be super user so type sudo reboot
This should restart your Pi. Scrolling text should appear immediately and there will be a pause if you have chosen to resize your SD card.


text:
3 big changes ahead in downtown land deal
A plan to redevelop three properties downtown took another big step Tuesday.
The Polk County supervisors gave final approval Tuesday morning to part of a series of land transactions in downtown Des Moines.
The land deal involves Polk County, Wellmark, the YMCA and other business leaders.
Supervisor Angela Connolly called the deal a win, win for everyone. Supervisor Robert Brownell talked about how the deal shows the importance for public and private interests to work together.
Supervisors voted again unanimously in favor of the plan to trade the Convention Complex to Wellmark for $500,000 in exchange for Wellmark's building at 222 Fifth Ave.
Wellmark will then plan to sell the Plex to the YMCA of Greater Des Moines and donate another nearby property so the YMCA can create a new Y at the Plex location.
The moves then leave the YMCA's current location along the Des Moines River for redevelopment.
Polk County plans to use the building at 222 Fifth Ave. for its court offices and administration, which have been overcrowded for years.
The county attorney, clerk, juvenile and magistrate courts are expected to move into the building. It will also house the county attorney and clerks records, which have been stored in leased space.
The supervisors also voted to commit $1 million to the YMCA to help pay for the demolition costs for building along the Des Moines River after the YMCA moves to the new Plex location.


text:
Tesla Reaches Profitability For the First Time
Tesla Motors had reached a really important milestone in Q1 2013 — for the first time in the company's ten-year long history, it turned a profit.
Tesla's GAAP profit for the quarter was $11 million; sales were $562 million, up 83% from last quarter.
The company sold 4,900 vehicles in Q1. It expects to sell more than 15,000 vehicles per year in the U.S. and more than 30,000 vehicles per year globally.
The ride to profitability was a bumpy one for Tesla. Until very recently, the company CEO Elon Musk had to fend off critics claiming the company is a "loser". He won't have to do that for at least another three months.
Just want to say thanks to customers & investors that took a chance on Tesla through the long, dark night. We wouldn't be here without you.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 8, 2013
As far as Tesla's immediate plans go, the company wants to open some 30 service locations in total and 15 more stores and galleries (half of them in Europe and Asia) in 2013. The production of company's third car, Model X, is scheduled to start in 2014.
On the topic of possible mergers or acquisitions go, Musk recently said the company would be interested in an acquisition by a player outside of the automotive sector, with a very large cash position. It's an obvious hint at Apple, but who knows — Apple is not the only tech company with an extremely large mound of cash.
Image courtesy of Tesla


text:
A White Christmas For Real: Tyler Perry Preps "A Madea Christmas" With Larry The Cable Guy And Chad Michael Murray
It's 2013, and just when you thought you were safe, news breaks that Madea will be back for another year of foolery. *sighs*
Tyler Perry has announced his new project, A Madea Christmas. The movie will hit theaters on December 13 of this year, and per the usual, Perry will continue to write, direct, and star as crazy Mabel "Madea" Simmons. This is not out of the ordinary. But it seems by the casting that Perry wants to continue to diversify the people in his projects as opposed to just continuing to cast black people and appealing solely to the black audience (particularly, black women). It all started changing with Madea's Witness Protection, and it continues with A Madea Christmas. According to Shadow and Act, the cast will include everyone from the comical Larry The Cable Guy ("Git-R-Done!"), former One Tree Hill star, Chad Michael Murray, Kathy Najimy from throwback Hocus Pocus and Sister Act fame, and actor Eric Lively, who is the brother of former Gossip Girl star Blake Lively. If it helps, actress Tika Sumpter will also reportedly be part of the cast according to Shadow and Act…so that's one if you were keeping count. This is a big contrast from the stage play cast, which featured Cheryl Pepsi Riley and a bevvy of other black stars. But hey, this movie is in the early stages, so things could change.
As for the plot of the movie, Madea helps a friend visit her daughter in the country for the holidays, but when they get there, the run into some very "interesting" people and scenarios that we're sure Madea will cuss out and pull a gun on for sh**s and giggles. As the synopsis says, "As the small, rural town prepares for its annual Christmas Carnival, new secrets are revealed and old relationships are tested while Madea dishes her own brand of Christmas Spirit to all."
But of course. Would you check out the movie based on the story and the cast so far? While I'm all for Tyler trying to do what he can do to reach the mainstream audience and that mainstream money, it's going to be hard with these same 'ol, same 'ol storylines. And the last thing he wants to do is start alienating the audience who has gone out of their way to spend their hard-earned money on his films. I'm all for mixing it up, but hopefully he can do so more evenly. Just saying…


text:
Found 1 Last Fleshwrought! Sunday September 02, 2012
While reorganizing the "warehouse" (under my bed), I found a straggling Fleshwrought record that is now back up on the site.
I dropped the prices on Altered Beast and Counting Hallways.
For Altered Beast I have 4 slightly flawed Birthday Cake variations too. I describe the flaw on each one, so make sure to be specific about which one you want if you order one. This is your last chance to get one of the mega-wild, mega-limited screenprint editions!
- Brewster


text:
WBUR News
Support the news
Mass General To Open Cancer Center In Northampton
Massachusetts General Hospital is due to open a cancer treatment center at Cooley Dickinson Hospital in Northampton by next year.
The center will give cancer patients in western Massachusetts access to clinical trials, genetic screening and other advanced oncology treatments.
Cooley Dickinson says it's raised $2.4 million of the $5 million required for the project.
Officials of the two hospitals say the center will provide access to clinical trials headed by Mass General. Patients also will get the latest Mass General chemotherapy and radiation therapy treatment protocols and access to genetic screening and counseling.
The expansion of cancer services comes one year after the Northampton hospital signed an affiliation agreement with the Boston-based Massachusetts General.
Support the news


text:
How quickly they grow up!
Tonight is the first chance for Dodger fans to see 21-year-old Nathan Eovaldi pitch at home, following his first big league victory this week in Arizona. Fittingly, it comes on the same day that the Dodgers signed their first-round pick, Chris Reed, out of Stanford University.
It's amazing how quickly these things happen. Nathan signed just three short years ago in 2008 and already he's here and having an impact. Dee Gordon, selected just seven rounds ahead of Eovaldi, is also making his mark in the big leagues already. And then there's Clayton Kershaw, who is already an All-Star and Cy Young candidate at age 23.
We meet many of these kids on their first visits to Dodger Stadium shortly after they sign, and it's really cool to watch them progress through the minors. I can still remember Chad Billingsley showing up here in 2003, wide-eyed and ready to start a pro career and he's already been in the big leagues now for six seasons.
Of course, some of our youngest players are here now because of injuries or other circumstances, but it's still incredible to see how quickly they turn into Major League players. That obviously comes with hard work from the player development staff, which is responsible for getting them ready once the scouts go out and identify their talent level as amateurs.
It's a unique process that you don't really see in football or basketball because there aren't really minor leagues the way we have it. But for those who see Chris Reed at tonight's game, be sure to track his progress through the minors. Hopefully he'll get here as quickly as some of his recent fellow draftees.
14 Comments
Other circumstances, you mean like having a low life piece of crap for an owner that can't afford to run the team properly. That's the other circumstances that you mention? Or is it having an incompetent management staff that can't evaluate real talent and keeps signing old guys past their primes?
Didn't want you to feel too loney here all by yourself, dodgerdawg.
I certainly agree with your assessment of the incompetent and stinking ownership and management. Let's see what kind of attendance impact the BOYCOTT can have this weekend.
** I meant "lonely" of course. Must have had James on my mind when I wrote the above.
I get it bear, I get it. 🙂 See you on the outside. 🙂
Hi Everybody,
Get a load of that Astro lineup featuring names like,J.B. Shuck, Jose Altuve, J.D. Martinez, Jimmy Paredes. must be just out of kindergarden (lol)
It's amazing how well the pitchers dominate the hitters. What a contest. Sort of looked like the battle of the feeblest.
But we showed them.
10 more wins and we avoid the monsterous 3 digit losses.
Hello Joe/OBF,
If you are still up, come say hello to the ITD posters at http://outsidethedodgers.wordpress.com/2011/08/12/moody-blues-days-of-future-passed/ You are featured in this post. There is also a link to the ITD Tour photos from June 2009.
Congrats to Nathan and Chris Reed!!
Having the youngsters coming up soon isn't because they are such excellent players as much as Ned has done a horrible job with off season moves & Conte just failing in all areas from diagnosing injuries, reading players physicals from potential free agents, and rehab treatments.
I'm sure they are good players with tons of potential but they are being fast tracked due to the state of the big club.
They are playing well thus far tonight and it's nice to see them putting some pressure on the D by bunting and getting runners over and in.
"The opposite of love is not hate, it's indifference" – Elie Wiesel.
I'm at the game enjoy the game from section RE11…let's go DODERS v
Well, Josh how is it going to feel not only having the lowest quality ownership but also one of the lowest rated blog sites in MLB?


text:
Cee-Lo Green 'lays it down' with new television show on Fuse
Cee-Lo Green wasn't exactly looking to become a television star -- until the opportunity was handed to him.When the cable network Fuse went to the Gnarls Barkley rapper-singer with the idea for a new music show, "Lay It Down," he couldn't turn away.
"It's more than me wanting to do this, it's someone wanted me to do it, which was very flattering and a compliment in the fact that I was asked to be a part of it," Green said. "That was gratifying for me."
In the interview- and performance-based show, set to premiere in October, Green will act as host -- and sometimes collaborator -- as he puts artists such as Lil Jon, Ludacris, T-Pain, N.E.R.D., Janelle Monáe and Public Enemy in the hot seat to break down their biggest hits and discuss the inspiration behind specific verses and beats. It's a setting reminiscent, says Green, of a "modernized midnight television special."
He said he hopes the show will provide fans an inside look at and artist's creative process and offer little-known details behind some of the hits. For instance, Public Enemy's "Yo! Bum Rush the Show" was written in the back of a U-Haul truck by Flavor Flav.
"I think this was an opportunity for everyone to be intimate about their own process, approach or formula, but true art isn't exposed in its entirety. I believe it's an opportunity to express a bit and reveal a bit but still maintain some mystique," Green said.
Sal LoCurto, senior vice president of programming at Fuse, said adding shows such as Green's to the network's programming block only further sets it apart from other music networks such as BET, VH1 and MTV -- all of which have turned their attention to reality television.
"We are the only music channel. [BET, VH1 and MTV are] past tense. They're not really music channels," LoCurto said. "I always say it's kinda like rooting for the Dodgers and expecting to see Sandy Koufax pitch. It's a bygone era."
Jason Hervey, executive producer of the show, said Green was targeted because of his vast career, be it from his days as a member of Goodie Mob to his solo career to being one half of Gnarls Barkley.
"He can connect to the artist and the subject really on any level, and there is such a knowledge and a passion for music and his fellow performer," Harvey said. "I think there's an admiration, you know, and there's a point of view that really is unrivaled unless you've walked in the many different shoes within the musical career that he has."
With production on the first season of the show wrapped, Green is back to focusing on his upcoming solo album, "Lady Killer," as well as a new Goodie Mob album -- his first with the group since 1999's "World Party."
-- Gerrick D. Kennedy


text:
The European Union will consider whether to impose absolute caps on banker bonuses and restrict them to between three and five times salary, including stock options, though the U.K. is not expected to support such a measure.
Reuters reported Sunday that an EU official said the measure was to be discussed on Monday at a meeting of EU diplomats and lawmakers, as well as a proposal to limit only the cash bonus bankers receive to no more than their salary.
Britain's Finance Minister George Osborne, who has been outspoken in his efforts to preserve the London's financial primacy in Europe, is expected to oppose the measure and has already said he would fight any bonus caps proposed by Brussels.
Substantial progress on limiting the pay of bankers has not been made despite the fallout from the financial meltdown of 2008-2009. Despite the crisis and a wave of subsequent financial misdeeds, from LIBOR rigging to massive losses in risky trades, opposition from banks has alleged that such limits would cost them their most talented staff.
The proposal to be discussed Monday would apply an automatic cap of three times salary to bonuses, although an official was quoted saying, "Shareholders could decide to go for five times." Another official said in the report, "There should be a final push so that there is a political agreement at the meeting of finance ministers on December 4." He added that changes to any cap were still possible.
While present EU rules already compel banks to defer up to half the bonus for at least three years, and the EU's restrictions on bank pay are already tighter than the guidelines from the G20, some countries, such as Germany, want to tighten them still more. The European Parliament is in favor of restricting all the elements of a bonus to total no more than a banker's basic salary.


text:
CINCINNATI, Oct. 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The E.W. Scripps Company (NYSE: SSP) will report third-quarter 2012 operating results before New York Stock Exchange trading begins on Friday, November 9. A telephone conference call with members of the company's senior management team will follow at 9 a.m. (Eastern).
Scripps will offer a live webcast of the conference call. To access the webcast, visit www.scripps.com and follow the "investor relations" link at the top of the page. The webcast link can be found under the "upcoming events" heading on the "investor relations" landing page.
To access the conference call by telephone, dial 1-800-230-1074 (U.S.) or 1-612-234-9959 (international) approximately 10 minutes before the start of the call. Investors and analysts will need the name of the call ("third quarter earnings report") to be granted access. Callers also will be asked to provide their name and company affiliation. The media and general public are granted access to the conference call on a listen-only basis.
A replay line will be open from 11 a.m. (Eastern) November 9 until 11:59 p.m. November 16. The domestic number to access the replay is 1-800-475-6701 and the international number is 1-320-365-3844. The access code for both numbers is 265275.
A replay of the conference call will be archived and available online for an extended period of time following the call. To access the audio replay, visit www.scripps.com approximately four hours after the call, choose "investor relations," then follow the "audio archives" link on the left side of the page.
About Scripps
Scripps (www.scripps.com) delivers quality journalism and creates valuable marketing environments through television stations, newspapers and a growing menu of digital products and services that now includes social games. Creative and mission-driven employees "give light so the people can find their own way" at 19 television stations in major U.S. markets and at newspapers in 13 markets.
SOURCE The E.W. Scripps Company


text:
Book flights from Brussels to Bangkok with Qatar Airways
Arriving in Bangkok
Book a flight to Bangkok with Qatar Airways and you'll arrive at one of the world's most exciting and popular destinations.
Not only a beloved destination by the adventurous travellers and 'backpackers,' but it's also a wonderful destination for the more discerning, luxury travellers.
Whether you're looking for ancient temples, bustling markets, lively nightlife or absolute luxury, you'll find it in Bangkok.
Tourist attractions
Many of the city's best known sights can be found in the historic centre within the Rattanakosin district.
The most spectacular attraction is the Grand Palace, which was once home to the King of Thailand and today offers visitors a rich mixture of history and architectural splendour.
Within the palace grounds you'll also discover Thailand's holiest temple, Wat Phra Kaew. Other highlights in Rattanakosin include the large reclining Buddha statue at Wat Pho and the Thai-European fusion of Wat Ratchabophit.
Other popular districts worth exploring during your trip to Bangkok include Siam Square for sheer high-end luxury shopping, and Silom for its bustling entertainment venues.
For a very different perspective on the city and a more relaxing way to see the sights, go for a cruise down the Phraya River.
Travel considerations
Flights to Bangkok with Qatar Airways land at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Visa restrictions for entry into the country will depend on your country of origin, length of stay and whether your trip is for business or pleasure.
Before you fly to Bangkok please check the visa and passport requirements.
Flying from Brussels
Modern, friendly and incredibly efficient, Brussels International Airport manages to pack a great deal into one terminal. The multi-storey complex is well laid out and easy to navigate, while every convenience has been included to make your check-in and departure as easy as possible.
Brussels International Airport offers flights and connections to all the major financial and business centres around the world, as well as an excellent public transport system that will take you from the heart of the city to the airport quickly and easily.
Transportation and parking
Bus stops are located outside the main entrance to the left, while the railway station is opposite the main entrance. There are a total of 12,000 parking spaces, 10,800 of which are within walking distance of the terminal building.
Special VIP, disabled and extra-secure parking services are available, as well as short, medium and long-term parking. Pick-up and drop-off areas are located around the terminal, with the 'Kiss and Fly' departure point located outside the terminal entrance.
Arriving at Brussels International Airport
Passengers flying with Qatar Airways will arrive at the main entrance to Brussels International Airport. Departures Halls 1 and 2 and all check-in facilities are located on Level 3. Travellers will also find a selection of shops, lounges and cafés on this main level, as well as connections to the various departure gates including Gates B01 to B40.
Facilities and amenities
A wide selection of outlets supply passengers with everything from fine perfumes and jewellery to wellness goods, luggage and leather goods. Shops are ranged around Pier A in the main terminal building.
A choice of cafés and refreshment shops are available, offering healthy smoothies to a more substantial pre-flight snack before you board. ATMs and a Bureau de Change are available for all international travellers to use.
Fly from the heart of Europe to exotic Thailand with Qatar Airways flights from Brussels to Bangkok. Whether your trip is for business or tourism, our 5-star service ensures that your journey is a pleasurable experience.
Enjoy your trip on board one of our state-of-the-art aircraft with extended legroom and friendly, attentive cabin crew, making sure your journey is comfortable and relaxing from start to finish.
The first thing that you notice about Bangkok is just how busy this extraordinary city is. The boom of the 'tiger economy' has led to Bangkok's fortunes prospering over the last couple of decades, making it attractive to businesses and tourists from all over the world. If a visit to Thailand is on your 'bucket list' of things to do, then let Qatar Airways take you there in style.
Essential facts about BangkokEnjoy a hassle-free journey with all the information you need to know before your trip
Visa information
Check visa and passport requirements before you fly.
Flight FAQ
To get the best price on your {Destination} flights, it is recommended that you book well in advance of your departure date, as booking early means you are likely to secure the flight you want with your preferred departure and arrival times.
From the moment you are welcomed on board by our friendly, professional crew to the moment you arrive in {Destination}, our unparalleled level of service and facilities will offer you an exceptional experience in the sky. Relax in reclining seats that have that all-important extra legroom, and choose your favourite dishes from a menu of delicious cuisine made from the finest ingredients. With thousands of in-flight entertainment options and a host of other services, we make sure your passenger experience is one that you will remember for all the right reasons.


text:
I found these two bikes in the MAKE Flickr pool:
The top photo shows a folding bike with an "electric push trailer" — a $75 e-bike conversion kit turned into an electrically-powered trailer. Neat idea!
The bottom photo shows a standard mountain bike that some maniac has hacked to run via gas engine.
What have you done to mod your bike this summer? Leave a comment.


text:
An American Brewer's Beer Tour of Belgium
Your ticket into the secret world of boozemaking.
In the world family of beer, Belgium is the crazy great uncle with wild ideas—the one who just might be a genius. The country has a deep brewing tradition, resulting in regional beers that often turn common knowledge upside down. In contrast to the strict beer purity laws of Germany, which required that beer only be brewed with water, malt, yeast and hops, Belgian ales utilize all manner of spices, local fruits, and wild indigenous yeasts. The result is a culture with a rich beer history and justifiable pride in the diversity of Belgian Ales.
Brewed in tiny regional breweries, massive factories, and in Trappist monasteries, the modern Belgian beer landscape includes craft industry old and new. Startup breweries are launching all the time, and creating new riffs on classic Belgian styles. The result is a beer world drawing on its own creative history, and using the traditional forms to make modern beers. American-style hops usage is creeping in, but the beers of Belgium tend to look inward for inspiration. Variations on blondes, browns and classic sours abound, each adding a modern twist to the form.
This was my second trip to Belgium, but my first as a brewer. I went looking for inspiration, to taste some of the best beers in the world in their native land, but also see what's new, what's developing, what direction Belgian beer is taking. In the slideshow you'll find a snapshot of my experiences: some of the amazing beers I was able to try and the people who are making them, plus some scenes from the barrel rooms of the greats. Tiny little Belgian breweries are making incredible beers for the local market, infusing small batches with passion and drive. These brews are meant to be enjoyed locally, just like my favorite American beers.
About the Author: Jesse Friedman is the cofounder and brewmaster of Almanac Beer Co., a San Francisco based brewery specializing in beers brewed in collaboration with local farms. He is still an average homebrewer and photographer.
All products linked here have been independently selected by our editors. We may earn a commission on purchases, as described in our affiliate policy.


text:
Welcome to the TTLG Forums.
Care to engage in a bit of off topic discussion with your fellow fans? Come on in!
31st Oct 2020 20:42
Help and info desk. Questions, comments, rants, raves, etc, about the websites and forums all go here.
Email notification not working
26th Oct 2020 13:32
Trouble with your PC hardware or software? Need help getting games running? Want to chat about the latest gadget? Step inside!
28th Oct 2020 22:36
31st Oct 2020 18:49
"Prepare to Post" in discussions about From Software's Demon Souls and Dark Souls games
18th Oct 2020 08:49
22nd Oct 2020 09:34
Fallout Series discussion. The best place to hide from the Enclave and Super Mutants.
21st Oct 2020 22:59
General discussion for Morrowind, Oblivion, Skyrim, and other Elder Scrolls titles including TES Online.
I love Skyrim but good lord, could they milk it any more?
20th Aug 2020 05:49
Discussion of the Deus Ex series including the latest episode Deus Ex: Human Revolution.
20th Oct 2020 15:05
General discussion of The Dark Project, The Metal Age, Deadly Shadows, and the Thief Universe as a whole.
T2Fix: An Unofficial Comprehensive Patch for Thief 2
31st Oct 2020 16:25
The fourth Thief game was released on Feb 25th. Join us here to discuss the game and its missions.
29th Oct 2020 00:14
Discussion Forum for Thief FMs. Stuck? Want to rave? Want to rant? Want to announce your latest release? This is the place.
ThiefPodcast - New Episode - Art Behind Thief f. Daniel Thron, Dominus&Skacky
31st Oct 2020 19:04
29th Oct 2020 08:29
Dark Engine level creation and design using DromEd.
do we know how to manipulate flow group in-game?
27th Oct 2020 09:45
Thief 3 Gold - Public beta test (TDS Spoilers ahead, obviously!)
3rd Aug 2020 03:40
My adventures in Underworld (Ascendant)
6th Nov 2019 06:21
14th Sep 2020 09:00
Flight Unlimited vs Microsoft Flight Simulator
31st Aug 2020 08:32
The one and only place on the web devoted to Terra Nova discussion. Join your fellow troopers in the nostalgia.
TNSFC general info and setup guide
22nd Oct 2020 12:34
Looking for an old thread that you know exists, but can't find it in the current forums? It might be hiding here in our Archives.
*** Stephen Russell - Petition & Poll ***
26th Mar 2014 15:50
There are currently 114 users online. 7 members and 107 guests
Most users ever online was 7,253, 23rd Nov 2018 at 05:18.
Welcome to our newest member, matt71490


text:
COMMUNITY: Living His Communion Together
Family Life
The love between Christ and his Church, between the Bridegroom and his Bride--and the fruitfulness that springs from that love--is experienced most personally within the first "cell of communion" at St. Jerome's: each parish family.
Resources for families:
Pope Francis on "the joy of Yes forever"
Pope Francis on families
Pope Francis speaks to children
Blessed John Paul II's Letter to Families
Do your relationships need some support?
Gabriel Project-Helping pregnant women in need
Isaiah's Promise, a support group for families who receive an unexpected or fatal diagnosis during pregnancy
Project Rachel-Hope & Healing


text:
I had a iPad 3 which I really liked except for the size. It always felt too big for me, so I have been looking for a smaller tablet for a while. I thought of getting the iPad Mini, but it was a little above my budget. Today I picked up a Nexus 7 at the local Office Depot. Originally I was going to purchase a 16 GB model, however they didn't have that model available. So I ended up getting the 32 GB model for a total of $264.99 (tax included), the second to last one they had in stock. I opened it up as soon as I got home and started to set it up. The first thing I noticed was it was heavier than I thought it would be. It feels good in my hands though, the weight is well distributed. I have the hands of an average American woman and I can hold it in portrait mode in the palm of one hand. Although I am not sure how long I would want to hold it that way, since my hand was open as far as it could be comfortably.
The set up was fairly straight forward, first it asked me what language I wanted. It then asked for my Google information and whether it could collect location information. The set up itself took a little while, I already have a Galaxy Nexus phone, so it had to download and than update all the applications. Once that was done I also had to download and install a system update. The tablet is now at 4.2.1 Jellybean.
When the setup was finished I started to place apps into folders and put them on to the screen. When I did that I noticed how small the folders were. They were phone size instead of tablet size. I am hoping the size is adjustable, that something I will have to explore. Right now having really small folders, just looks weird. I really like how widgets look and work on the Nexus 7. I watched a brief YouTube video and it looked and played great. Photos also look great on it. I haven't taken any pictures with it, so I can't comment on how well it takes photographs. I am use to either typing on a phone or a large tablet, so I will have to get use to typing on it. Text is crisp and easy to read on it. The battery life seems to be ok, it wasn't fully charged when I started to use it, so it is hard to judge.
I have only had the Nexus 7 less than a day now, but so far I am very happy with it. I like the way it feels in my hands and how smoothly it runs. If you are on the fence about getting a Nexus 7, I would recommend it.


text:
- Stocks To Watch
Everybody Hates Rayonier: Shares Fall 15% on Earnings Miss, Multiple Downgrades
- Order Reprints
- Print Article
Timber! Shares of Rayonier (RYN) are tumbling like a felled tree after the timber real-estate investment trust missed earnings forecasts this morning, leading to downgrades from at least three investment banks.
Rayonier reported a profit of 44 cents, below forecasts for a 46 cent profit, while revenue came in at $384.8 million, well below estimates for $422 million.
Deutsche Bank'sMark Wilde and team cut Rayonier from Hold to Sell. They explain why:
While recent commentary around RYN's timberland and real estate operations has been quite encouraging, outlook for its Cellulose Specialties business (accounts for 72% of segment EBIT) suggests significant downside risks ahead. RYN said recent contract negotiations suggest a drop in 2014 cellulose specialties (CS) prices and slower transition to CS. Beyond lower cashflows, a sharp price drop could dampen bullish "specialty chemicals" valuations that have been floated for the segment. Pick-up in timber & real estate markets may mitigate some downside pressure on stock, but they won't eliminate it.
Raymond James analyst Collin Mings and slashed their rating on Rayonier to Market Perform from Strong Buy:
We are lowering our rating on Rayonier to Market Perform from Strong Buy as we expect concerns over a slower-than-expected ramp in incremental specialty-grade dissolving pulp sales volumes and 2014 specialty-grade dissolving pulp price negotiations will prove to be a near-term headwind for RYN shares. Longer-term, we continue to believe its cellulose specialties expansion (CSE) project sets the foundation for significant cash flow (and dividend) growth. We remain attracted to the multi-year growth prospects of this business and the barriers-to-entry competitors face to gaining meaningful market share over a sustained period. However, commentary on yesterday's conference call made it clear that the timeline for Rayonier to realize the full benefits of this expansion project has been extended (potentially into 2017/2018 versus 2016/2017). As such, we believe it is prudent to step to the sidelines as we expect this will place a near-term overhang on RYN shares.
Bank of America Merrill Lynch also got into the act by downgrading Rayonier's shares to Neutral from Buy.
Shares of Rayonier have plunged 15% to $46.97 at 12.36 p.m., but its fall doesn't seem to have damaged other timber companies. Weyerhaeuser (WY) has gained 3.7% to $31.43 after it reported a profit of 27 cents today, beating estimates of 21 cents. Plum Creek Timber (PCL) is little changed at $49.47 and Boise Cascade (BCC) has risen 1.1% to $27.83.


text:
medieval castle wedding
Hidden by vegetation or in positions that dominate the valleys, medieval castles in Umbria and Tuscany can make your wedding dream come true.
Who among us has not dreamed of becoming the Queen or King of a castle for one day?
Medieval castles can recreate the perfect location for any type of wedding reception you have in mind, ensuring memorable photographs in private corners between the walls lit by the fire for traditional weddings.
A wedding in a castle can be ideal for a Medieval themed wedding, with guests and waiters in period costumes.
A Medieval castle is also the ideal wedding location for a stylish wedding reception.
The choice of two dominant colors, such as white and black, could provide the starting point for many details of your wedding, such as themed décor, flowers, candles menu's, wedding favors etc..
For any setting you want to recreate, it is necessary to study in detail menus, flowers, lighting, music, wedding cake to create a homogeneous and high-impact reception.
To achieve this, it's important to work together with an experienced and professional wedding planner, who can make sure that all the details for your wedding abroad are taken care of and ensure that bride and groom are the King and Queen of the castle that day.


text:
Welcome to our website! As we have the ability to list over one million items on our website (our selection changes all of the time), it is not feasible for a company our size to record and playback the descriptions on every item on our website. However, if you have a disability we are here to help you. Please call our disability services phone line at 512.658.7981 during regular business hours and one of our kind and friendly personal shoppers will help you navigate through our website, help conduct advanced searches, help you choose the item you are looking for with the specifications you are seeking, read you the specifications of any item and consult with you about the products themselves. There is no charge for the help of this personal shopper for anyone with a disability. Finally, your personal shopper will explain our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service, and help you place an order if you so desire.
Zephyr AINM80ASX
Regular Price $1,149.99
Our Price $999
You Save $150.99
Zephyr AINM80AWX
Regular Price $1,149.99
Our Price $999
You Save $150.99
Zephyr AK2100BB
Regular Price $679.99
Our Price $629
You Save $50.99
Zephyr AK2100BS
Regular Price $739.99
Our Price $679
You Save $60.99
Zephyr AK2100BW
Regular Price $679.99
Our Price $629
You Save $50.99
Zephyr AK2136BB
Regular Price $709.99
Our Price $659
You Save $50.99
Zephyr AK2136BS
Regular Price $759.99
Our Price $709
You Save $50.99
Zephyr AK2136BW
Regular Price $709.99
Our Price $659
You Save $50.99
Zephyr AK2142BS
Regular Price $829.99
Our Price $769
You Save $60.99
Zephyr AK2148BS
Regular Price $879.99
Our Price $809
You Save $70.99
Zephyr AK6542BS
Regular Price $529.99
Our Price $489
You Save $40.99
Zephyr AK7000BS
Regular Price $999.99
Our Price $899
You Save $100.99
Zephyr AK7036BS
Regular Price $1,049.99
Our Price $949
You Save $100.99
Zephyr AK7042BS
Regular Price $1,149.99
Our Price $1,049
You Save $100.99
Zephyr AK7048BS
Regular Price $1,349.99
Our Price $1,249
You Save $100.99
Zephyr AK7100AS
Regular Price $539.99
Our Price $499
You Save $40.99
Zephyr AK7100AS290
Regular Price $539.99
Our Price $499
You Save $40.99
Zephyr AK7100ASBF
Zephyr AK7136AS
Zephyr AK7136AS290
Zephyr AK7136ASBF
Regular Price $639.99
Our Price $599
You Save $40.99
Zephyr AK7500BS
Regular Price $1,199.99
Our Price $1,099
You Save $100.99
Zephyr AK7536BS
Regular Price $1,299.99
Our Price $1,199
You Save $100.99
Zephyr AK7542BS
Regular Price $1,399.99
Our Price $1,299
You Save $100.99
Zephyr AK7548BS
Regular Price $1,499.99
Our Price $1,399
You Save $100.99
Zephyr AK7554BS
Regular Price $1,699.99
Our Price $1,599
You Save $100.99
Zephyr AK7636AS
Regular Price $1,999.99
Our Price $1,899
You Save $100.99
Zephyr AK7642AS
Regular Price $2,099.99
Our Price $1,999
You Save $100.99
Zephyr AK7648AS
Regular Price $2,399.99
Our Price $2,199
You Save $200.99
Zephyr AK7654AS
Regular Price $2,499.99
Our Price $2,299
You Save $200.99
Zephyr AK7660AS
Regular Price $2,699.99
Our Price $2,499
You Save $200.99
Zephyr AK7836BS
Regular Price $1,999.99
Our Price $1,799
You Save $200.99
Zephyr AK7842BS
Regular Price $2,099.99
Our Price $1,899
You Save $200.99


text:
"Writing Is a Journey Using Language from Within"
When I met Habib Selmi for the first time in October 1982 he had already published one collection of short stories (1977). He told me he had just finished his second collection (1986) and was starting on a new project. "What's that?" I asked and he said: "Writing a novel." The next day, in Tontonville restaurant, Habib read me the opening chapter from his novel entitled Jabal al-'Anz (Goat Mountain).
Three years later, I met Habib in Café Cluny in Paris and he told me he had just finished Goat Mountain and sent it to be published in Beirut. Since then Habib Selmi has published five novels. His latest Ushaq Bayya (Bayya's Lovers) was highly acclaimed by Arab literary critics and was immediately translated into French and published by Actes Sud. Recently, when I was walking with Habib Selmi around Place de la Republique near his home I told him how much I admired and enjoyed his work. And we continued talking...
Habib, when did you start writing? How did you become a writer?
Habib Selmi: The first texts that I wrote were all short. I sent them in to a famous literary programme called "Literary Amateurs" at Tunisian Radio. The programme was supervised by a well-known, very well-respected poet by the name of Ahmad al-Lughmani, who played an important role in uncovering several literary talents in Tunisia. His programme was one of the most important on Tunisian Radio. Perhaps it was the most important on-air literary programme in Tunisia. Al-Lughmani invited me several times to participate in a discussion following the broadcast of my stories.
At the end of every month, financial prizes were given for the best stories and poems that had been broadcast on the programme that month. One of the winning stories would be selected for publication in the radio magazine. I recall winning the story prize several times, and three of my stories were published by the radio magazine.
You started out with the short story but then turned your attention to the novel.
Habib Selmi: My move from the short story to the novel was a natural one. I didn't plan it or force myself into it. I began to write at an early age at a time when most prose writers in Tunis wrote short stories. It was rare at the time to find a novelist who had published more than two novels. It was therefore natural that I should write short stories at first, particularly since there was more opportunity to publish short stories in newspapers and magazines, or to have them broadcast in cultural radio programmes, than to publish novels.
I think it is rare to find a novelist in the Arab world who has not written short stories. The short story is a literary genre and an art in its own right, and it has its own followers and well-known writers. Contrary to what some people think it is a difficult art, so only a few writers – such as Anton Chekhov, Yusef Idrees and Raymond Carver – have been successful at it.
When I wrote my first novel Jabal al-'Anz (Goat Mountain), I found that I was attracted to the art of the novel and I discovered its pleasures.
Your previous novel Hufar Dafi'aa (Warm Ditches) takes place in a miserable hotel in Paris and in your most recent novel, Ushaq Bayya, you confine all your protagonists to one place.
Habib Selmi: I confined all my protagonists to a small space throughout the novel because in general, I favour novels with few events and places. I believe that a novel is not a tale or a myth that is full of characters and events. The novel is not a sack full of occurrences and changes.
In Ushaq Bayya, the location, which is an old olive tree beneath which four old men sit every day awaiting death, never changes. At the heart of this is the story of the widow Bayya, who is loved and desired by some of the old men. But circumstances dictate that she marries an immigrant and stranger who carries her off to Germany, where he lives, and treats her badly, angering the old men.
I wrote Ushaq Bayya, which was published in 2002, between 1998 and 2000 – that is, in three years. I sent it to Dar al-Adab, and they quickly agreed to publish it. Of course, the way in which Ushaq Bayya has been welcomed has pleased me, as has its translation into French and its publication by Actes Sud in Paris. As for the quality of that translation, everyone who has read the novel has expressed admiration for it and for the great effort that the translator – the well-known Arabist Yves Gonzales Quijano – has made to convey in French the atmosphere and intricate nuances of the novel.
What was it that drew you to the world of the elderly?
Habib Selmi: I have been dreaming of writing this novel ever since I began to write. The idea has remained with me from the beginning. It found me, rather than me finding it. The reason is simple – contrary to what some people think. The world of old men is intimately linked to my childhood. I grew up in what is called the extended family. I grew up amongst a crowd of paternal uncles and aunts, maternal uncles and aunts, grandfathers and grandmothers. I used to see them and they used to see me every day because the houses in the neighbourhood are close together and open to everyone.
Cafés do not exist in the Tunisian countryside. There are shops where the young men go to play cards. But the old people meet every day – just like the old men in Ushaq Bayya – in the same place in one of the fields. That place is usually beneath a large olive tree, or something of that nature.
I remember that my father used to sit with those old men and used to order me to bring him a water jug for his ablutions before the evening prayer. This allowed me to penetrate the world of those old people and to spend a bit of time with them, listening to some of the tales and unique stories that they used to tell.
What do you think of the translations of your works into French and English? There is also a slightly less noticeable wave of translation of Arabic novels into world languages.
Habib Selmi: These translations are important to me because they allow me to have contact with readers belonging to a different cultural horizon, who read in a different way. I hope that they (my translated works), along with translations of other Arabic novels, contribute to presenting a positive image of Arab literature in the west.
It is true that there is a wave of translating the Arab novel in the west and that in itself is a good thing. It means that Arab literature, which remained unknown for many years in most western countries, has started to draw the attention of publishers and readers. I hope that the trend widens and develops so that the Arab novel comes to occupy its rightful place. I also hope that European readers become more interested in the Arab novel and that such interest does not remain restricted to certain cultural circles.
You live in Paris, but you haven't tried writing in French. What do you think of the idea of an Arab creative writer using another language?
Habib Selmi: I think that some Arab immigrants have tended to write in French because they do not have as good a command of Arabic as of French. Most of those writers are either the children of immigrants and were born in France, or they are Algerians and Moroccans who did not learn Arabic properly in their own countries.
Personally, I am not opposed to those who write in French or in English or even in Chinese. It is the right of every writer to choose whatever languages he or she pleases. And then, why should we ask of a writer who does not know Arabic or does not have a good command of it to write in it?
Unfortunately, some Francophone writers keep saying in the French media that Arabic is an "old", "authoritarian" and "religious" language. Some even go as far as criticising Arabic by describing it as "dead" and "completely incapable of expressing the concerns, issues and problems of the modern individual". All of this is categorically untrue.
The reason I do not write in French is because I love Arabic. The language through which I discovered the world, the language in which I dream, the language that inhabits the cells of my body, the language that runs in my blood is Arabic. I love French the way I love all the languages of the world, both "great" and "small". But I cannot allow it to take the place of Arabic.
Although I have a good command of French and it is the language I use in everyday life, it remains a foreign language when I write because writing does not entail a neutral and cold use of language. Writing is a journey using language from within to travel to one's deepest and farthest feelings, impressions, visions, ideas, apprehensions and dreams.
To what extent have you been influenced by the French novel, and the world novel in general? What are the sources that have influenced your experience? Is it the new French novel, or what?
Habib Selmi: Living in Paris, which remains one of the major cultural centres of the world, has enabled me to be informed about what is being written in the world. The translation movement in Paris is brisk, and much more significant than the translation movement in Arab countries. Moreover, Arabic translations cannot be relied on because most of them are inaccurate and are usually carried out through a second language (English or French in most cases).
I am not a fan of French literature. I have read works that are considered part of the new French novel, mostly by Samuel Beckett, Claude Simon and Nathalie Sarraute. I do not like the novelist Alain Robbe-Grillet, despite his efforts to define the basic features of the nouveau roman, the "new novel". I like some of the novels of Claude Simon, who has won the Nobel Prize for Literature.
Some French novels that do not belong to the nouveau roman genre have attracted my attention. They are numerous and belong to different tendencies and sensibilities. Despite this, I do not think that I am an admirer or enthusiast of French literature.
The writers who influenced me and informed my experience during the years when I was feeling my way forward were Dostoyevsky, Chekhov, Cervantes, Borges and Shakespeare. I developed a great admiration for what I read of Julio Cortazar, Raymond Carver and Italo Calvino.
There is a wave of novel-writing in the Arab world today. What do you think of it?
Habib Selmi: This novelistic upsurge in the Arab World is a good thing, of course. It shows that the Arab consciousness has changed because the world takes shape through the novel differently from the way in which it takes shape through poetry. The Arab novel, in my view, did not develop coincidentally, but as the result of the development of the Arab mentality, its closeness to the world and its perception of it.
Personally, that does not surprise me. The novel in the precise sense in which it is to be found in Milan Kundera's The Art of the Novel, is the art of the present and the future because it is capable of absorbing everything.
I cannot, in my view, speak of the Arab novel as though it were homogeneous because we would then inevitably fall into absolute judgements that are meaningless. There are important Arabic novels and the evidence for this is that they get some attention in the west when they are translated. Of course, I am referring to real novels, not those "things" that are called translations and are issued by unknown publishing houses.
My criticism of the Arab novel is that it overwhelmingly emphasises the social aspect. I understand and like the novel to be a novel of the self as it intersects with its surroundings.
What do you think of the novel in Tunisia? Can we speak of a "Tunisian novel"?
Habib Selmi: I think we can now speak of a "Tunisian novel" without falling into any exaggeration. In recent years, a large number of Tunisian novels have been published in Tunisia and abroad, and a considerable number of Tunisian novelists have three or four works to their names. There is a regular pattern of publication, there are distinctive and differing narrative worlds and there is a seriousness about writing which was previously only to be found amongst a small number of novelists in Tunisia.
Interview conducted by Samuel Shimon
© Qantara.de 2006
The full version of the interview was previously published in Banipal, an English-language magazine for contemporary Arab literature.
Samuel Shimon's "An Iraqi in Paris"
A Modern-Day Odysseus on the Way to Hollywood
Samuel Shimon, a London-based Iraqi author, has written a book that draws upon the rich traditions of Arab story-telling, but is also rich with allusions to classic European literature. Review by Fadhil al-Azzawi
Assia Djebar
The Clear but Fragile Force of Writing
Algerian novelist Assia Djebar is one of North-Africa's best-known and most widely acclaimed writers. In her books she explores the struggle for social emancipation and the Muslim woman's world in its complexities. A portrait of the writer by Gabriele Stiller-Kern
Arab Literature in Translation
Listen to What the Arab World Has to Say
In a world in which translations of literary works are getting more and more important for the understanding of other cultures, there are distinct gaps in most European book markets when it comes to know creative writing from other countries. This is particularly true for the literature of the Arab World, writes Peter Ripken


text:
Montgomery nostalgic in discussing Phils, baseball
PHILADELPHIA -- There was life before the Phillies for David Montgomery, but it seems that baseball was always in his blood. Montgomery, the general partner, president and chief executive officer of the Phillies, issued the opening remarks at the Society for American Baseball Research (SABR) 43 Convention on Thursday and spoke warmly about his life in the game.
Montgomery, kicking off the annual conference, welcomed out-of-town guests to his city and told the crowd of baseball fanatics that they could just jump in and correct him if he made any mistakes in chronology. But they never had a chance.
Starting in the 1950s and weaving his way to the present day, Montgomery told of being a young Phillies fan who grew up rooting and went on to work for his favorite team. And then he proceeded to tell the audience how the game has changed, both on the field and in the boardrooms.
One of the most striking ways, he said, is how the players prepare in the modern-day game.
"We're much more into nutrition. It's not the cheesesteaks and the offerings of Philadelphia night in and night out. We try to do that for the visiting team," he joked. "The reality is that the whole game preparation has changed. The emphasis is on weight rooms and training facilities, batting cages and video. ... All the players now -- Chase Utley would be an excellent example on our club -- they just can't get enough of video. They just want to see who they're facing that night, what's he throwing? 'Let me see my last 10 at-bats. Let me see when I had success against him two years ago. How did he get me out last time?' or whatever. Video rooms are literally within a stone's throw from the dugout now."
Despite that salute to technology, you'll get no argument about the golden age of baseball from Montgomery. He loved the National League in the '50s and 60s despite rarely getting to see the game on television, and he said he can still rattle off lineups for several teams from that era.
But information has changed the way people perceive the game for the better, and with the increased exposure has come unprecedented popularity. Montgomery, who began in ticket sales with the Phillies in 1971, can rattle off attendance-based statistics with the best of the sabermetricians.
"I reflect to how excited we were in 1971, when we drew 1,511,000 fans that first year at Veterans Stadium," he said. "Well, that doesn't sound like such a special number today, and everybody talks about the golden period of the 50's and 60's. In 1969, our next-to-last year at Connie Mack [Stadium], we drew 519,000 people. Put that in perspective. We're doing that well at [Triple-A] Lehigh Valley."
Attendance is up across the board. Philadelphia drew 3,000,000 fans to Veterans Stadium just once, but it has a chance to do it seven times in a row at Citizens Bank Park. That's a fact that both thrills and frightens Montgomery, because it means the Phillies have to find a way to do it again.
Working at play here, said Montgomery, is a dramatic tension: Television has enhanced the appeal of the game, but is also its greatest competitor in terms of getting people to the ballpark.
At home, fans have the newest replay angles and the opportunity to hear live interviews with players and the manager, and they have their choice of refreshments waiting for them without standing on line. The appeal of the game is still there, said Montgomery, but teams need to find a sweetener.
"Everybody's time is probably the most precious commodity," he said. "You worry about the commuting time. You worry about the time they're actually in the parking lot, because what you want to do is still have the ballpark experience be No. 1. ... A good example of the way people value time: In the 1970s through the mid-1980s, we'd always schedule three or four twi-night doubleheaders.
"Two for the price of one. What could be better? That's the way I thought. You spend not just 3 1/2 hours in a ballpark. You spend seven hours. The reality is that the appeal just doesn't exist [anymore]."
Another change for the Phillies? Everything is local. Montgomery said that the team's affiliates used to be scattered between the time zones, but now they're all easy to get to from Philadelphia. That makes sense for practical reasons, he said, but also in ways that affect the team's fanbase.
"For a club that used to have teams in Helena, Montana, and Bend, Oregon, and Oklahoma City -- you name it, we were spread all over the country -- it has sure made sense to us," said Montgomery. "For two reasons: From a business standpoint, we believe that if somebody sees Cody Asche, who just joined us last night, if they saw him play for both Reading and Lehigh Valley, they may have developed some affinity for him. Perhaps they're willing to come to Citizens Bank Park and see him here. Another business reason is the cost of transporting players. We can get players like Cody Asche here in hours as opposed to flying them from one coast to the other like we had to in the past."
Montgomery, who said his family got their first television in 1950, lovingly spoke of past Philadelphia venues and noticed a strange coincidence. The Phillies played in Connie Mack Stadium for 32 1/2 seasons and Veterans Stadium for 33, but he expects Citizens Bank Park to last longer.
And who's to say it won't? Citizens Bank Park has been around since 2004, and set a record with 81 sellouts in 2010, and it can count on a boost from the proximity of the stadiums for the 76ers, Flyers and Eagles. That sports complex, said Montgomery, is a point of pride for Philadelphia.
"I think it's one of the things that makes Philadelphia sports teams unique," he said. "All four teams are playing within the city, so that the revenue we do generate ... is flowing back to our city, as opposed to being spread around," he said. "We're all there within a three- or four-block area, and I've always felt that the benefit is if one team is doing well -- if the fan comes in February to see a hockey game or a basketball game and they enjoy the experience -- hopefully they'll be back to see us come summer."
Earlier in the day, Montgomery told an anecdote that illustrated his timeless zeal for the game. The longtime executive said that in 1971, the Phillies needed a stunt to hype Opening Day at Veterans Stadium, so they planned to drop a ball out of a helicopter to a catcher waiting below.
Anticipating disaster, Montgomery decided that a dry run was in order. So there they were, two days before the stunt, and Montgomery donned a glove and learned a valuable lesson.
"A word of advice," he said. "If you do this, make sure when they drop the ball they put a rotation on it. If they drop it without rotation, it's a 600 or 700 foot knuckleball. There's no way you can catch it."


text:
Wikipad Tablet Gets Back in the Game
Feb 8, 2013 10:44 AM PT
It could have been game over for Wikipad after a flaw in the initial production run of its gaming tablet forced a launch delay late last year. The company used the extra time, however, to rethink the Wikipad, and this week it said the revised version will debut this spring.
The new version will be smaller; instead of the previously shown 10-inch model, the company now plans to bring out a 7-inch version that promises to be more portable. It will also feature a friendlier $249 price tag. In addition to the new form factor, the new Wikipad will feature some key refinements to its dual-analog stick controller, ensuring that games are still a key component to this Android-based device.
The lower price point should help ease concerns that the Wikipad may have been too expensive given the price erosion in the tablet category.
"There was obviously that perception," Fraser Townley, president of sales at Wikipad, told TechNewsWorld. "We aren't living in a vacuum. The base understood the value and got what we were asking. Look, I can justify the price of a Ferrari. Yet it is still a fact that not everyone can afford one. So for us the price wasn't a misstep."
New Size, New Start
It wasn't just the price that had been at issue with the Wikipad. Last fall Apple did what Steve Jobs had vowed the company would never do, and that was release an iPad Mini. In a way, this gave the company time to reevaluate the device.
After determining that the Wikipad needed to undergo a redesign, the company tried to use the time wisely.
"We took the time to reevaluate and regroup," added Townley. "We listened to what was being said on social media, and that that was important, especially for a company of our size."
While the competition remains fierce in the tablet category, Wikipad has reaffirmed its commitment to gaming and it remains a machine built for that purpose. Its specs include a 16:10 aspect ratio widescreen HD 7-inch IPS screen, and 16 GB of memory with a micro SD slot to support an additional 32 GB of storage. Inside the ultralight and thin chassis, the Wikipad features an NVIDIA Tegra 3 quad-core mobile processor, which is optimized for cloud-based gaming.
Taking Control
Powered by Android 4.1 Jelly Bean, the tablet also offers a unique gamepad controller, and features entertainment and videogame content from partners and services including PlayStation Mobile, Big Fish Games, TegraZone, OnLive and Google Play.
"If you look at stats, and it is well documented that 67 percent of all tablet usage is gaming, then it suggests that the controller is something necessary for a robust gaming experience," said Townley. "We've seen some classic games coming to the (tablet) platform. They were still very playable, but they aren't as easy to play without a controller. To us, controller support is crucial."
With so many tablet and touch-centric games, including hits like Angry Birds and Temple Run, the question is whether a controller is really necessary.
"This device promises to be more of a bridge between mobile and PC than mobile and console," said Billy Pidgeon, senior analyst at Inside Network. "But a lot of people are still focused on the tablet being a console replacement."
"However, a tablet is still in its own context," Pidgeon told TechNewsWorld. "It is really more portable than most consoles, but it is really larger than mobile."
A bigger problem is that while developers are porting over titles for the tablets, the trend continues to be in creating games that take advantage of the touch interface. This could mean that games re-engineered for the tablet that still retain the controller interface could be the exception rather than the rule.
This "chicken and egg" scenario could in turn mean that content doesn't come until more devices support it, but the devices won't be developed without the content.
"That is a problem with any new piece of hardware," said Pidgeon. "It only makes sense to develop the software when there is a certain install base."
Tablet Market
Given that the tablet category isn't going anywhere but up, Wikipad could be well positioned even if it takes time for controller-supported content to arrive.
"We're still a full blown tablet," said Townley. "And gamers can still play traditional tablet games without a controller. Our goal is to let the gamer to decide what kind of game they want to play. That's what makes us different from the other tablets."
There could be one other issue, Pidgeon added.
"Wikipad is a terrible name. It just sounds so generic."