text: CrimeStat III: A Spatial Statistics Program for the Analysis of Crime Incident Locations (Version 3.3) (ICPSR 2824) Principal Investigator(s): View help for Principal Investigator(s) Ned Levine, Ned Levine and Associates This is an external resource to which ICPSR links as a courtesy. These data are not available from ICPSR. Users should consult the data owners (via CrimeStat III: A Spatial Statistics Program for the Analysis of Crime Incident Locations (Version 3.3)) directly for details on obtaining these resources. Slide tabs to view more At A Glance Data & Documentation Variables Publications Export Metadata Staff Project Description Summary View help for Summary CrimeStat III is a spatial statistics program for the analysis of crime incident locations, developed by Ned Levine and Associates under the direction of Ned Levine, PhD, that was funded by grants from the National Institute of Justice (grants 1997-IJ-CX-0040, 1999-IJ-CX-0044, 2002-IJ-CX-0007, and 2005-IJ-CX-K037). The program is Windows-based and interfaces with most desktop GIS programs. The purpose is to provide supplemental statistical tools to aid law enforcement agencies and criminal justice researchers in their crime mapping efforts. CrimeStat is being used by many police departments around the country as well as by criminal justice and other researchers. The latest version is 3.3. The program inputs incident locations (e.g., robbery locations) in 'dbf', 'shp', ASCII or ODBC-compliant formats using either spherical or projected coordinates. It calculates various spatial statistics and writes graphical objects to ArcGIS, MapInfo, Surfer for Windows, and other GIS packages. CrimeStat is organized into five sections: Data Setup Primary file - this is a file of incident or point locations with X and Y coordinates. The coordinate system can be either spherical (lat/lon) or projected. Intensity and weight values are allowed. Each incident can have an associated time value. Secondary file - this is an associated file of incident or point locations with X and Y coordinates. The coordinate system has to be the same as the primary file. Intensity and weight values are allowed. The secondary file is used for comparison with the primary file in the risk-adjusted nearest neighbor clustering routine and the duel kernel interpolation. Reference file - this is a grid file that overlays the study area. Normally, it is a regular grid though irregular ones can be imported. CrimeStat can generate the grid if given the X and Y coordinates for the lower-left and upper-right corners. Measurement parameters - This page identifies the type of distance measurement (direct, indirect or network) to be used and specifies parameters for the area of the study region and the length of the street network. CrimeStat III has the ability to utilize a network for linking points. Each segment can be weighted by travel time, travel speed, travel cost or simple distance. This allows the interaction between points to be estimated more realistically. Spatial Description Spatial distribution - statistics for describing the spatial distribution of incidents, such as the mean center, center of minimum distance, standard deviational ellipse, the convex hull, or directional mean. Spatial autocorrelation - statistics for describing the amount of spatial autocorrelation between zones, including general spatial autocorrelation indices - Moran's I , Geary's C, and the Getis-Ord General G, and correlograms that calculate spatial autocorrelation for different distance separations - the Moran, Geary, Getis-Ord correlograms. Several of these routines can simulate confidence intervals with a Monte Carlo simulation. Distance analysis I - statistics for describing properties of distances between incidents including nearest neighbor analysis, linear nearest neighbor analysis, and Ripley's K statistic. There is also a routine that assigns the primary points to the secondary points, either on the basis of nearest neighbor or point-in-polygon, and then sums the results by the secondary point values. Distance analysis II - calculates matrices representing the distance between points for the primary file, for the distance between the primary and secondary points, and for the distance between either the primary or secondary file and the grid. 'Hot spot' analysis I - routines for conducting 'hot spot' analysis including the mode, the fuzzy mode, hierarchical nearest neighbor clustering, and risk-adjusted nearest neighbor hierarchical clustering. The hierarchical nearest neighbor hot spots can be output as ellipses or convex hulls. 'Hot spot' analysis II - more routines for conducting hot spot analysis including the Spatial and Temporal Analysis of Crime (STAC), K-means clustering, Anselin's local Moran, and the Getis-Ord local G statistics. The STAC and K-means hot spots can be output as ellipses or convex hulls. All of these routines can simulate confidence intervals with a Monte Carlo simulation. Spatial Modeling Interpolation I - a single-variable kernel density estimation routine for producing a surface or contour estimate of the density of incidents (e.g., burglaries) and a dual-variable kernel density estimation routine for comparing the density of incidents to the density of an underlying baseline (e.g., burglaries relative to the number of households). Interpolation II - a Head Bang routine for smoothing zonal data that can be applied to events (volumes), rates or can be used to create rates. In addition, there is an interpolated Head Bang routine for interpolating the smoothed Head Bang result to grid cells. Space-time analysis - a set of tools for analyzing clustering in time and in space. These include the Knox and Mantel indices, which look for the relationship between time and space, and the Correlated Walk Analysis module, which analyzes and predicts the behavior of a serial offender and a spatial-temporal moving average. Journey to crime analysis - a simple criminal justice method for estimating the likely location of a serial offender given the distribution of incidents and a model of travel distance. The routine allows the user to estimate a travel model with a calibration file and apply it to the serial events. It can be used to identify a likely location given the distribution of 'points' and assumptions about travel behavior. There is a routine for drawing lines between origins and destinations (crime trips). Bayesian journey to crime analysis - an advanced criminal justice method for estimating the likely location of a serial offender given the distribution of incidents, a model of travel distance, and an origin-destination matrix showing the relationship between where crimes were committed and where offenders lived. A diagnostics routine analyzes serial offenders for whom their residence is known and estimates which of several journey to crime estimates is most accurate. A selected method can be applied to identify a likely residence location of a single serial offender given the distribution of incidents, assumptions about travel behavior, and the origin of offenders who committed crimes in the same locations. Regression modeling - a module for analyzing a relationship between a dependent variable and one or more independent variables. The CrimeStat regression module includes both Ordinary Least Squares and Poisson-based regression models, estimated from Maximum Likelihood (MLE) or Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithms. The current version includes six different models including OLS, Poisson with Linear Dispersion Correction, Poisson-Gamma and a Poisson-Gamma-Conditional Autoregressive (CAR) spatial regression model. The module can handle very large datasets through a Block Sampling approach. There is also a module for applying estimated coefficients to a new dataset to make predictions. Crime Travel Demand Modeling Crime travel demand modeling is a new module in CrimeStat III. It is an application of travel demand modeling, widely used in transportation planning, to crime analysis. The analysis is done by zones. First, crime 'trips' are defined as a link between an offender residence/origin location and a crime location. The number of crimes originating in each zone is counted as is the number of crimes ending in each zone. Second, the model is run sequentially in four separate stages with multiple routine in each stage: Trip Generation - Separate models are produced that predict the number of crimes originating in each zone (origins) and the number of crimes ending in each zone (destinations). CrimeStat III uses a multivariate Poisson regression model, with stepwise options, to create the prediction. Trips from outside the study area (external trips) can be added to the origin model to account for travel from outside the region. Once the models are created, a balancing procedure ensures that the number of origins equals the number of destinations. Trip Distribution - Using the predicted number of crime trips originating in each zone and the predicted number of trips occurring in each zone, the second stage distributes trips from each zone to every other zone using a gravity model. There are routines for calculating the actual (observed) distribution from individual data, for estimating the prediction coefficients, and for applying the predicted coefficients to the predicted origins and destinations. Another routine allows a comparison of the predicted trip distribution with the observed trip distribution. Mode Split - The predicted number of trips for each zone-to-zone pair can be split into likely travel modes using an accessibility function that approximates the utility of one mode relative to the others. Network Assignment - Finally, the predicted trips from each zone to every other zone by travel mode are assigned to a likely route based on the shortest path algorithm. The output includes the likely routes taken for each origin-destination zone pair and the total volume of trips on network links. This step requires a travel network, one for each travel mode. There are additional utilities for calculating transit networks from station/stop locations and for testing for one-way streets. Options Parameters can be saved and re-loaded. Tab colors can be changed. Monte Carlo simulation data can be output. CrimeStat is accompanied by sample datasets and a manual that gives the background behind the statistics and examples. The manual also discusses applications of CrimeStat developed by other analysts and researchers. The program and sample data sets are in Windows-based zipped files that can be downloaded. The manual is a set of individual chapters in PDF files. They can be viewed online or downloaded. If downloading the PDF chapters separately, they should be saved into the same directory as the CrimeStat program. If the PDF file names are not renamed, they can be accessed directly from the program's help menu. CrimeStat Libraries The CrimeStat Libraries (version 1.0) are component objects that allow for the functions of CrimeStat to be programmed directly into custom software or systems. The CrimeStat Libraries include all of the routines that were developed through version 2.0 of the regular CrimeStat program, including spatial description, hot spot analysis, and kernel density interpolation routines. Additional spatial autocorrelation routines have been included. The libraries can input dbf, shape, and Ascii text files and can output to shape file, MIF/MID files, ASCII text files, and KML files. Citation View help for Citation Levine, Ned. CrimeStat III: A Spatial Statistics Program for the Analysis of Crime Incident Locations (Version 3.3). Ann Arbor, MI: Inter-university Consortium for Political and Social Research [distributor], 2007-03-29. https://doi.org/10.3886/ICPSR02824.v2 Export Citation: RIS (generic format for RefWorks, EndNote, etc.) EndNote Funding View help for Funding United States Department of Justice. Office of Justice Programs. National Institute of Justice (1997-IJ-CX-0040, 1999-IJ-CX-0044, 2002-IJ-CX-0007, 2005-IJ-CX-K037 ) Subject Terms View help for Subject Terms computer programs crime mapping crime statistics geographic information systems Scope of Project Data Collection Notes View help for Data Collection Notes The CrimeStat program and documentation are now available from the National Archive of Criminal Justice Data at CrimeStat . The program is the property of, and is copyrighted by, Ned Levine and Associates, intended for the use of law enforcement agencies, criminal justice researchers, and educators. It can be distributed freely for educational or research purposes, but cannot be resold. The name CrimeStat is a registered trademark of Ned Levine and Associates. The program must be cited correctly in any publication or report that uses results from the program. Programming was conducted by Ms. Haiyan Teng, Houston, Texas, Mr. Long Doan of Doan Associates, Falls Church, Virginia, and Mr. Cahill of Cahill Software, Ottawa, Ontario. CrimeStat is comprised of the CrimeStat Program (5 files), the General Sample Data Set (2 files), the Sample Data Set for the Journey to Crime Module (3 files), the Sample data sets for Bayesian Journey to Crime module (6 files), the Sample Data Set for Correlated Walk Analysis Routine (4 files), the Crime Travel Demand Tutorial (13 files), the Mode Split Accessibility Function worksheet in Excel (1 file), and the CrimeStat Manual (24 files). After all files have been downloaded and extracted, the user should have 58 files. The program must be cited correctly in any publication or report that uses results from the program. The author's suggested citation is: Ned Levine (2010). CrimeStat: A Spatial Statistics Program for the Analysis of Crime Incident Locations (v 3.3). Ned Levine and Associates, Houston, TX, and the National Institute of Justice, Washington, DC, July. Version(s) Original Release Date View help for Original Release Date 2005-03-16 Version History View help for Version History 2007-03-29 A new section was added to the Spatial Modeling section called "Bayesian Journey to crime analysis," which also includes sample datasets. The "Journey to crime modeling" section was also modified.


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Friday, December 11, 2009
– The action adventure from the creators of Tenchu will be released in Q1 2010 on Windows PC –Eschborn near Frankfurt/Main, December 11th 2009:EuroVideo and bitComposer conclude an agreement for the exclusive distribution of the action adventure Ninja Blade for German speaking territories. This is the PC version of the successful title of the same name that was first released exclusively on the Microsoft Xbox 360. Ninja Blade was developed by the Japanese studio From Software, who were also responsible for creating several episodes of the internationally famous Tenchu series. The release of Ninja Blade is scheduled for Q1 2010 on Windows PC.
In Ninja Blade PC players assume the role of the contemporary Ninja, Ken, who has been assigned to a special unit to clean up Tokyo, which has been placed under quarantine due to a threat of destruction by parasites. The virtual Ninjas fight on the ground and in the air against the stunning backdrop of the vast metropolis of Tokyo in some sensational in-game battles against gigantic enemies. An arsenal of traditional and modern sword weapons is available to you for your mission, and special Ninja powers will get you out of apparently hopeless situations. With your help, the enemies' weak points, hidden information and secret routes will be revealed and you can launch massive special attacks that will leave the enemy reeling. Spectacularly staged cutscenes are seamlessly integrated into the gameplay to guarantee relentless non-stop action.
Ninja Blade will be released on PC-DVD-ROM for Windows with a recommended retail price of 24,99€.

subset: commoncrawl


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With great attention to detail, the plastic art forms are entirely hand-made of high-quality ceramic materials, produced according to the recipes of Pulvis Urns Arts' technologists. The various palette of colours is especially worked out by a team of artists and laboratory assistants, which aims at providing a high quality and aesthetics of the urns. This beautiful keepsake is a great addition to the large size urn.
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Apply glue evenly to the lid and tool within 8 minutes using a moistened sealant smoother, or finger. The glue may take longer (up to two days) to full tighten. Note that once sealed it will be hard to open the lid again, without damaging the urn. Please use with caution, keep away from kids and follow the instructions on the adhesive package.
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Pulvis Art Urns are far more than the traditional cremation urns for ashes. Our product's quality is proven, as we choose only the finest materials for creating the finest premium class urns for our customers and their loved ones.
The process of making a Pulvis Art Urn is elaborate and time-consuming, going through different phases - designing and sketching on paper, prototyping with soft clay and crafting a plastic mold, which is then used for the production of unglazed models, called "bisque". Our urns are fired at exactly 1200 degrees Celsius, giving them exquisite hardiness and resistance to atmospheric influences.The various palette of colours is especially worked out by a team of artists and laboratory assistants, which results in a unique glaze patterns and motifs.
All of this is made with a lot of passion, dedication and mostly honour to our customers and their loved ones, because we believe that art is the finest way to honour the memory of a loved one. We believe that you will find our products worthy of keeping the ashes of your loved one, and we hope that we can be helpful in this heart wrenching and difficult time.


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Don't be intimidated by today's publishing environment. The key is the same as it's always been: dream big and never give up.
The Writer
Digital Editions / Renewals / Gifts
38 articles found
Poetry's magic gone wild.
If you're on the path to publishing – a short story, perhaps – we wish you success, and we hope you consider our magazine a supporting partner.
Do you want to tell the story of your life?
Is there any story more fun to read – and to write – than a good crime story?
Do you identify with a certain genre? Or do you shun labels for your work?
There's something to be said for just sitting there.
This issue of The Writer includes a variety of voices from the world of writing, including our short story contest winner, Graydon Megan.
The writer Isak Dinesen said, "All sorrows can be borne if you put them in a story or tell a story about them."
I'm always on the lookout for work that makes me swoon with a finely tuned combination of intellect and emotion.


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A person familiar with the situation says former Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Cam Cameron is in talks with LSU coach Les Miles to run the Tigers' offense.
The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Friday because the deal was not yet complete. The person says LSU hopes to have an official announcement next week.
Cameron was fired by Ravens coach John Harbaugh after a Week 14 loss to the Washington Redskins. After some late-season struggles, Baltimore went on to win the Super Bowl with former Colts coach Jim Caldwell as offensive coordinator.
Greg Studrawa has been LSU's offensive coordinator the past two seasons. He is expected to be retained as offensive line coach.


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text: View My Research Profile Locations Main Hospital Washington, District of Columbia 20010 1-888-884-BEAR (2327) Languages Spoken English Arabic Departments Neonatology Board Certifications American Board of PediatricsAmerican Board of Pediatrics/Neonatal-PerinatalNational Provider ID: 1831396928 Disclosure This faculty member (or a member of their immediate family) has a working relationship (i.e. consulting, research, and/or educational services) with the companies listed below. These relations have been reported to the health system leadership and, when appropriate, management plans are in place to address potential conflicts. Outside Interests American Academy of Pediatrics


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They are our friends and allies who also are in this war against Terrorism! While we support, worry, and mourn our soldiers, our nations friends also do. May God bless all soldiers and families of any nation who are there with our troops in the war against terrorist.
A 3 minute video worth your time.
Sometimes we forget that the USA isn't the only one in the fight.
Sometimes we forget about those at home. This is a beautiful reminder of
You absolutely must see this video. It is taken from a British series where
a guy called Gareth Malone takes a group of people and turns them into a
choir. This time he's taken a group of military wives whose husbands are all
away in Afghanistan and turned them into a choir. Gareth looks about 16yrs
old but is actually in his mid-30s and a Choir master for the London
Symphony Orchestra, among other things.
They wrote a song based on excerpts from letters written by the couples
whilst apart and this is the beautiful result!


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South Florida anglers have much to be thankful for given the region's great offshore, inshore and freshwater fishing and the variety of species that can be caught.
In recent weeks, several captains have given back to others by sharing the thrills and enjoyment of fishing with people who wouldn't ordinarily get the opportunity to go offshore.
This past Saturday, Capt. Bouncer Smith took cystic fibrosis guest angler Sammy Abello fishing out of Fort Lauderdale on Bouncer's Dusky 33 in the Jeb Bush Florida Classic, which benefits the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
Abello, 15, caught, tagged and released his first sailfish and also caught six sharks. His mother and former...


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Travel tip #1: Learn to love jet lag
Almost ten hours flight from the UK and eight hours behind in time, jet lag is an inevitable part of any trip to Vancouver from Britain. After two days of 4.30am wake-ups, I decided that as an alternative to lying in bed, furious and unable to sleep, I'd try and turn this bitter lemon of an experience into lemonade instead.
Getting up and heading out before the sun has poked its head above the horizon always brings back memories of childhood holidays. We'd set off in the dark, bundled in our pajamas into the back of the car, sleepy and confused. The journey's motion would inevitably lull us back to sleep again and waking on the back seat, far from home, seemed like one of the most exciting feelings in the world. This time I decided to spare any of my insomniac new neighbours my pajamas. Instead I dressed in layers to stay warm in the chill of the night and headed out into the dark, my excited dog at my heels.
I'd Googled late night/early morning cafes and there was a 24-hour bagel place just ten minutes walk away. Siegel's make Montreal-style bagels, which are boiled and then baked in a wood-burning oven, to make satisfyingly chewy-on-the-inside and crisp-on-the-outside bagels. Coming from the UK, where I'd be lucky to find perhaps 5 different varieties of bagel, to discover a great 24-hour place that had 21 different kinds had me gurgling with delight. I went for the Rosemary and Rock Salt breakfast bagel special: eggs and cheese with coffee – just $4.75 – bargain.
I stowed my freshly-made and wrapped breakfast in my bag. Freddie and I trotted down to the beach, me to feast on my bagel (just as good as I'd hoped), him to sniff out all those exciting new smells. Slowly the sun appeared and I watched it rise, the rays twinkling on the high-rises, turning Vancouver into the golden glittering city of my dreams. There I was, on a sandy beach, sitting on a driftwood log, full of hot coffee and eggy-cheesy herb-y fresh bagels, watching dazzling nature meet stunning architecture to create something new and wonderful.
This wasn't suffering from jet lag, this was a precious moment that I'd never have experienced without it. I vowed next time I couldn't sleep, I'd do the same; not waste time fuming at my lack of shuteye, but seek out something to make me feel lucky to be alive. Preferably with a decent bagel to hand…


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When I want to cook something that makes me feel warm and happy inside, I always think of casseroles. Nothing says comfort food to me like a casserole does, especially when I've been freezing my rumpadump off outside for one reason or another.
It's a total bonus that almost all casseroles I make have cheese inside. Oh, how I love that melted cheesy goodness, and this Spicy Chicken Spaghetti recipe is full of liquid gold.
I found it on the Kraft Recipes site, and I couldn't resist making it (with a couple twists, of course). It uses VELVEETA Cheese, and while I tend to use shredded cheese in my recipes, VELVEETA is perfect for those where I want the creamiest of creaminess.
Get your spaghetti cooking and then start on the sauce. Cut the cheese into cubes to make it easier to melt into a sauce and put into a skillet.
Add the rest of the ingredients to the cheese, then cook and stir until everything is all blended and smooth.
Combine the sauce and your cooked pasta into a lightly greased casserole dish. Bake for about 30 to 35 minutes or until heated through and enjoy!
The creamy cheese, spicy tomatoes and smoky bacon balance each other beautifully. This is a recipe I'll be making over and over.
VELVEETA Spicy Chicken Spaghetti with Bacon
Prep Time: 25 minutes • Cook time: 1 hour •Serves: 10
¾ lb. spaghetti, uncooked
1 can (12 oz.) premium chunk white chicken
¾ lb. (12 oz.) VELVEETA, cut into ½-inch cubes
1 can (10-3/4 oz.) 98%-fat-free condensed cream of chicken soup
1 can (10 oz.) RO*TEL Diced Tomatoes & Habaneros, undrained (for a little less spice use RO*TEL Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies)
5 slices OSCAR MAYER Bacon, cooked and crumbled
⅓ cup milk (if you like a slightly thinner sauce, add a little more milk)
Cilantro for garnish (optional)
PREHEAT oven to 350˚F.
COOK spaghetti according to package directions, omitting salt. While pasta is cooking, add remaining ingredients to a skillet; cook and stir over med. high heat until VELVEETA is completely melted and mixture is well blended.
DRAIN spaghetti, rinse with cold water, and drain again. Add to chicken mixture and gently combine ingredients. Spread in a 13×9-inch pan sprayed with cooking spray.
BAKE 30 to 35 minutes or until heated through. Sprinkle with a little chopped cilantro.
ADAPTED from this Kraft recipe.
For more VELVEETA inspiration or ideas for Thanksgiving recipes, you may want to visit the Kraft Recipes site.
For more recipes and ideas, visit my blog at www.anutinanutshell.com.
Meat lovers will rejoice when they see this chicken and pasta bake on the table. Because yes—yes that is bacon swirled into the cheesy deliciousness.
Total Time
Article by Kraft TasteMaker Liz Mays. For more recipes and ideas, visit her blog at Lizventures.
Please keep in mind that the bloggers opinions, advice and recipes are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Kraft Foods.
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LIMA, Peru (AP) — Peru's police chief says agents have arrested a top Colombian drug trafficker and gangster who entered Peru in late January with a false passport.
Gen. Raul Salazar says Jacinto Nicolas Fuentes German, alias Don Leo, was arrested Wednesday in the affluent seaside Lima district of Miraflores with the help of Colombian police.
Salazar identified Fuentes as head of the Urabenos criminal gang in Colombia's Bajo Cauca region, which is a traditional stronghold of far-right paramilitaries.
After the illegal Colombian militias disbanded in the middle of the last decade, many of their members formed drug-trafficking bands of which the Urabenos is among the most prominent. Urabenos has battled other criminal gangs for control of drug trafficking routes out of Colombia, which is the top exporter of U.S.-bound cocaine.


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PITTSBURGH (AP) — The public couldn't avoid Luke Ravenstahl when he became the youngest mayor of a major U.S. city nearly seven years ago, even appearing on "Late Night with David Letterman."
Now a 33-year-old lame duck, Ravenstahl governs bunker-style and is rarely seen since a federal grand jury probe claimed his hand-picked police chief and now appears to be focusing on Ravenstahl himself.
For weeks, mayoral staffers — including three police bodyguards and a personal secretary — have been summoned to the seventh-floor grand jury room in the federal courthouse just a few blocks down brick-paved Grant Street from Ravenstahl's office. Witnesses or their attorneys have confirmed testimony about two main subjects:
— Whether Ravenstahl used or sanctioned a slush fund that led to the police chief's resignation and indictment.
— Whether the mayor instructed bodyguards to delete the actual times of day they worked from time cards, presumably to keep reporters from documenting the single mayor's nightlife that, otherwise, is chronicled only by rumors or cellphone pictures posted on gossipy blogs.
"The question becomes at what point does doing something like that — even if it would be inappropriate, even if it would be outside the parameters of the mayor's authorized security details — at what point does it become criminal?" said Bruce Antkowiak, a former federal prosecutor in Pittsburgh, now a law professor at nearby St. Vincent College.
Ravenstahl was 26 when, as city council president, he automatically succeeded Mayor Bob O'Connor, who died of brain cancer in September 2006. Ravenstahl enjoyed a honeymoon as Pittsburgh's youngest mayor, with even detractors hoping the cash-strapped city would reap the benefits of youthful energy rather than the ravages of immaturity.
Ravenstahl has balanced six straight budgets and raised the city's bond rating from junk status to its highest level in a decade. He also wooed the 2009 Group of 20 economic summit to Pittsburgh and benefited from other resurgences, such as a resurrected marathon.
But his tenure has also been marked by peevish behavior and scandal.
Ravenstahl divorced his high school sweetheart in 2011, explaining she was uncomfortable in the political limelight. Then, as the grand jury gathered steam this year, Ravenstahl first defended Nate Harper, the police chief, then demanded his resignation. In the same few weeks, Ravenstahl also announced he was running for another four-year term before abruptly quitting the race March 1.
Ravenstahl sounded more relieved than forlorn when he cited the "grueling demands" and collateral family damage as reasons for leaving office at year's end.
Since then, Ravenstahl rarely makes public appearances. When he has shown up, Ravenstahl has generally cut and run if reporters' questions veer to the investigation.
In general, the mayor has denied wrongdoing and questioned the motives of at least one former bodyguard, retired detective Fred Crawford, who testified before the grand jury in mid-June.
Defense attorney Robert Steward said Crawford testified mostly about the time-card issue and predicted the investigation will show taxpayers' dollars were "wasted so the mayor could have a designated driver ... while he went out to bars."
Ravenstahl's attorney, Charles Porter Jr., contends even if that happened and the guards were told not to specify what hours they worked — only how many — it's not a crime.
"So is it OK for the president to golf with Tiger Woods — and I'm guessing they had a beverage afterward?" Porter said. "How is that different than the mayor going out, even if he chooses to go out at a later time of the day and the taxpayers are paying for it, because we've decided it's OK to safeguard our officials when they're in public?"
Porter also dismissed questions about Ravenstahl's connection to the slush fund that ended Harper's career, saying "I don't have any concern there."
Harper's attorneys have said he will plead guilty this year to wrongly diverting fees that bars and nightclubs pay when hiring city officers for off-duty security work into a slush fund used to make some police-related purchases off the city's books. Harper is also charged with spending more than $30,000 from the fund on personal matters.
"I'm hard-pressed to understand how any of this is worthy of a federal criminal prosecution" of Ravenstahl, Porter said.
U.S. Attorney David Hickton won't comment or even confirm the grand jury investigation, let alone say whether Ravenstahl is a "target" — someone prosecutors expect to arrest — or merely a "subject" — someone whose actions are being questioned and who may or may not become a target.
A recent U.S. Supreme Court case could make it even harder to fasten a bull's-eye on Ravenstahl.
In a 2010 case involving former Enron CEO Jeffrey Skilling, the high court ruled that "honest services fraud" — a crime experts say seems to be in play with the grand jury — could be prosecuted only in cases involving bribes or kickbacks.
In other words, public officials like Ravenstahl can be prosecuted for peddling their influence, but not just for misusing taxpayer-funded resources like bodyguards.
"You have to make a distinction between things like the mayor having his office painted in an elaborate color of paint that would have cost more than the government-issue kind of paint," Antkowiak said, exaggerating to make the point.
"You may take him to task for that in the press, but you don't take it before the grand jury."
Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.
Pittsburgh mayor's profile wanes with feds' probe
PITTSBURGH (AP) — The public couldn't avoid Luke Ravenstahl when he became the youngest mayor of a major U.S. city nearly seven years ago, even appearing on "Late Night with David Letterman."


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To view other Member Spotlights, click here
Click photo for larger image
CEO of ReGIS Inc. and Representative Director, Chairman of The Open Group Japan
Q: How long have you been involved with The Open Group?
As part of my role, I am also the advisor to Allen Brown, CEO of The Open Group, and was given the honorable title of The Open Group Ambassador in 2008.
Q: Why did you become a member and what does your involvement look like?
Q: How has membership in The Open Group benefited you, your organization and the industry at large?
On behalf of ReGIS, I am able to provide more strategic leadership to my clients based on what I've learned from my Open Group membership.
With regard to the IT industry at large, The Open Group leads the industry in driving optimization of IT ownership cost and effective usage for end users.
Q: What contributions to The Open Group are you most proud of?
Twelve years ago, The Open Group only had seven local hardware vendors plus a few end-user organizations as members. In accordance to the software and service direction of The Open Group, I introduced end user organizations, IT solution vendors, academy and government organization such as IPA, Kyoto University, Kyushu University, Aoyama university, NTT, Mitsubishi (IT Solution), Toyota, Nissan, and NRI among others, to The Open Group – significantly grow our Japanese membership numbers.
Just a year ago, there were no Japanese members with prestigious platinum memberships, but with my help Fujitsu Global Solutions Unit decided to join as gold member. I was also able to influence the Japanese automobile industry and get Toyota and Nissan to join The Open Group. What's most impressive is that this activity took place against the heavy wave of economic stagnation that resulted in the lowest growth rate for the Japanese economy in 20 years.
These days, I'm investing more resources in raising awareness on the importance of open IT skills for enterprise architecture and shifting strategies from B2B to B2C and waiting for springtime to return to our economy.
Q: Why is it important for other organizations to join The Open Group?
Q: What are your hobbies?
Q: What book are you currently reading?
Q: Any last thoughts?
Why did they all discuss the same topics and how has the discussion endured over time?
Philosophy is to find happiness for human beings. Nowadays, we are living in the most convenient Internet-era with instant global communications which allows The Open Group to discuss enterprise architecture in open ways on a global scale. We should consider ourselves very fortunate for this.
Enterprise architecture is a philosophy and set of practices that make organizations, and in turn society, happy. The questions that remain are if philosophy achieved its goal? For how many years has philosophy been discussed? And in how many years can we discuss architecture?
About Jack Fujieda
Junkyo (Jack) Fujieda, the founder and CEO of ReGIS (Research Environment of Global Information Society) Inc., a global research and consulting firm, leads all activities related to The Open Group in Japan. Since 1998, Jack has covered academia, media, government research relationships, membership programs, and, most importantly, promoting the value of open standards certification, and proactively projecting The Open Group brand. Jack achieves this through technical forums that promote and educate executives about The Open Group's activities. Japanese end-users and vendors benefit from these proactive activities, both in the Japanese forums and The Open Group's global conferences and forums.
Prior to his involvement with The Open Group, Jack Fujieda worked for 23 years at IBM, as systems engineer, product manager, SE manager, sales manager, branch manager, and director of the complex systems division, covering finance, transportation, media, public sectors, distribution and retail industry in the field. Half of Jack's IBM career was in systems and as industry marketing director at IBM's Japan headquarters
After IBM, Jack joined CSK as Board member and launched the first commercial UNIX® in Japan in 1985. And, as SVP of CSK group, he sponsored DCE and joined The Open Group as a member.
Jack Fujieda holds a Bachelor of Art degree from Kyoto University. He is a certified TOGAF architect and also lectures on open systems and IT venture management as visiting professor at Kyoto University, the Graduate School of Shinshu University, and Tokyo Denki University. Jack is also the president of CRM Association in Japan.


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Your little one will love snuggling up to these Comfy Cozies. Great for nap time, playtime or nursery decor, they are made of soft, short pile plush and have a blanket body with a soft pillow head. Full satin undersides gives baby something comforting to touch.
Available In:
All Baby Gund plush toys are specially designed with baby in mind. All eyes and accents are sewn in to prevent baby from being able to remove them. Comfy cozy is surface washable, and a special "Teddy Bear Bath" is also available to help spot clean your child's well-loved friends.
Measures 24" long.


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Regency Home
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Cries of London - CherriesIMPORTANT NOTICE DO NOT ASK ME FOR THE VALUE - Here's why - I get about six gazillion emails each year asking me for the 'value' of these prints. Don't be such idiots! For This is a PRINT! There are a billion copies of it. It is unlikely to have a very high value at all - and you are unlikely to have an 'original print'. If you really want to know then take it in to a dealer - don't ask for a value from someone on the internet. I have published these for the sheer joy of sharing them with the 7 people in the world who apparently have not seen them - the other 5,999,999,993 apparently have and only want to know their value. If you have a genuine query about the history or the era then contact me otherwise If you are one of the morons out there who seem to think I have put up this site simply to provide you with a free appraisal service - you risk getting a very scathing message back from me.
Milk Maids | Primroses | Turnips/Carrots
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E-mail me | Join the Regency Ring | Back to the Regency collection
Although each call was probably quite individual this is one of them;
Although each call was probably quite individual this is one of them;
Return to Regency Collection


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Ignore the desert powder you've kicked onto your vintage mary janes and focus on placing perfect dabs of rich cherry red on those lips of yours. This post is all about marrying tomboy faded jeans and tees with girly high fashion accessories imported all the way from Milan.
{Mixing pastels with brilliant Spanish reds: (from left to right) Tom Ford Lipstick | a photo of my dad and his 1963 XKE Jaguar taken in 1965 | Prada 2012 shoes | Veneto Clutch & Crossbody}
I couldn't help but squeal with delight when I came across these photos of my dad taken in the early 60s in Tombstone, Arizona …did I mention he lived on Toughnut street? This picture below of him and a 1950 Buick was taken in 1960; a time and place where it was all about James Dean, cowboys, polished chrome, pegged pants, tees and white socks.
With so many carousel spins in fashion I open my arms willingly and lovingly to this amazing effortless vintage style. After all, there's a reason these are considered American classics:
{Tombstone Cherry Red: (from left to right) Adriano Goldschmied jeans | Little Red Riding Hood bag | Alessandra Ambrosio wearing MAC Ruby Woo lipstick from Posh Couture | Tom Ford eyewear | Stuart Weitzman nude pumps | my Uncle John sporting a white tee, pegged jeans and black frames, Dad in an awesome checkered shirt and always gorgeous, Aunt Pauline hanging out in southern Arizona taken in July of 64}
While European cars were known for their tight box styles; starting in the late 50s to the end of the 60s, huge cars with exaggerated fins and curves were uniquely American and I admire how Prada took these esthetics and redesigned them 50+ years later to retell the story in their own words.
I continue to have a love-hate relationship with fashion. Constantly chasing trends, seeing new ones emerge and others fade away; all the while knowing it's just a matter of time before they are recycled and resurfaced in their newly-shined splendor. But today will never happen again and tomorrow's developments and avant-garde ideas are just as necessary as the past's. What I love about art the most is the storytelling; the stage, its characters, their lines, costumes and how the story's meaning depends on when you experience it and who you are at the time. Art constantly changes and grows along with its audience.
We've all heard that fashion is an expression of who we are. Even the act of not caring about fashion is an expression in and of itself. Keeping this in mind, trends are very much an expression of who we are in society and a reflection of what's happening in current affairs. Back then women were expected to fulfill certain limited roles and their 'feminine' clothes expressed that. With all these ladylike pleasantries pushed to the side since then it's lovely to know that it's a delicious liberty to pull off head to toe traditional girliness without expecting to do so.
{Thornbill Dress by Karen Walker}
For those women who roll their eyes when they see these feminine outfits; I'm afraid they have most certainly missed that point. I can't help but think about a stylish friend of mine who recently moved in an adorable polka dot dress. Her hair tossed up in a pony tail, cheeks flushed, eyes matching her light prussian blue dress, she'd occasionally stop to take a swig from her Red Stripe beer while she was unloading the truck. She's a walking oxymoron right? Isn't that the whole point? We want to put people in boxes. It makes us feel safe that we can describe them in 100 words or less; however, I've rarely met someone I can describe in 100 words or less and if I have I probably didn't do a very good job getting to know them. In Prada's case, they reinvented this stereotype with a mischievous tongue-in-cheek undertone that I love!
{Prada 2012 Shoes | 1950s Cadillac | Miu Miu sunglasses | Prada 2012 handbag}


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If you missed their original transmission, you can still watch these informative Makino Seminars and Webinars in their entirety just by clicking on the ones you're interested in.
Broken Tool detection: Good, Better, Best
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Recorded live at IMTS 2014, this TechCast provides detailed insights into the processing of a fracking block on the T1 5-axis horizontal machining. Learn about several key features of the machine, and...View Webinar
Sinker EDM techniques for High Speed, Low Electrode Wear and Fine Finish Machining
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Maximizing Machine Uptime and Reducing Service Costs with ProVis Remote Diagnostics
Never miss another deadline again. With the new ProVis remote diagnostics technology, machine service and support is as simple and efficient as having an actual Makino technical support specialist on-...View Webinar
IMTS Preview
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5-axis Automation
Automation will be essential for North American manufacturers to compete globally. Makino is introducing a simple, flexible robot system for 4 and 5 axis horizontal machining centers that can be inst...View Webinar
Effects of Thermal Changes in Die/Mold applications
Many machine tool manufacturers address the generation of heat during long machining operations in different ways. Some are far more effective than others. In this webinar you will learn about uniq...View Webinar
EDM Hole drilling. Oil versus Water
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Unattended Machining Techniques for Die/Mold applications
Unattended machining is essential to be competitive in the manufacturing of molds and dies. This webinar will focus on the enabling technologies and operational techniques to run with confidence unat...View Webinar
Machining a wide variety of materials and part sizes demands a new approach
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New Technology to reduce Wire EDM Part Cycle times while improving quality
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Tool Costs vs. Productivity in Hard Metals
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Why do Makino users have significantly lower perishable tool costs?
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Considerations for Large Part 5-Axis Machining
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Evolution of Wire EDM Technology
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A New Approach to Machining Small Production and Medical Parts.
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High-Performance Machining Center ROI: True Value Revealed
Developing an effective capital equipment investment justification and illustration of ROI can be a challenge for many shops. In this webinar, Makino will provide new information to help you prepare ...View Webinar
Trends in Automotive Part Production
Shorter lead times, compressed project schedules, Six-Sigma quality, increasing volumes, new designs, and reduced costs are just some of the topics which will be covered in this new webinar. As North...View Webinar
Die/Mold Process training class highlights
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7 Ways to Improve Vertical Machining Center Productivity in Job Shops
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Proper Tool selection for Die Mold Applications
This webinar will provide an overview of the latest tools for different die and mold materials and applications. Special emphasis will be placed on differences in accuracy, coatings and tool life. W...View Webinar
Cutting to Zero Stock
In this webinar you will learn about the elements required to take your mold to the spotting press directly from your milling machine with no bench work. This webinar will change the way you quote lea...View Webinar
Right sizing your 5 axis aluminum aerospace component machining
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Understanding the impact of Super Geometric Intelligence technology in Die/Mold applications
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A New Approach to Aerospace Blade and Vane Cooling Hole Machining
The need for a new EDM drilling process with advanced capabilities has grown substantially in the last few years due to new jet engine performance and fuel economy requirements. In this webinar you w...View Webinar
Unique Grinding Solutions for Blade and Vane Production
This webinar is focused on new technologies and new process methods for producing high temperature nickel alloy turbine blades and vanes. Using both real and simulated parts, Makino will demonstrate ...View Webinar
Large Part Machining
Large production parts and large dies and molds present numerous challenges to machine effectively due to the size, weight and range of features found on big work pieces. These elements test a machin...View Webinar
IMTS 2012 Preview
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New Control Technologies: Preparation for High Accuracy
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New 5-Axis Large Aerospace Aluminum Structural Machining Centers
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Micromachining/High Precision Capabilities From Makino (Part 2)
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Micromachining/High Precision Capabilities From Makino (Part 1)
Reducing Cycle Times In Difficult Sinker EDM Applications
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New Control Technologies (Part 2): VP Control - Improving Large Part Accuracy
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New Control Technologies (Part 1): Inertia Active Control – Optimize B Axis Index Times
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Get Rid of the Rust
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Investing In Your Future
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What's Hot and What's Not in Titanium
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Developing Statistically Capable Machining Processes
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Key Characteristics of a Production Oriented Vertical Machining Center
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Effective Utilization Of Your Wire EDM Work Zone
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Economic Overview of Automated Pallet Handling Systems (Part 2)
In the second part of this webinar on pallet handling systems, we will demonstrate via actual customers' experience and installations the economic benefits, technology advances and ROI associated with...View Webinar
Integrating Probing into Your Machine Tool
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Machined Surface Finishes to 10nm Ra
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How much is your outdated machinery costing you?
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Cutting Iron? Do you need 50 taper?
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Do You Need a Small Tabletop Machine to Make Small Parts?
Learn what technologies are required to make micro scale features with micron level tolerances every day. See what machine design principals and features are required to create these ultra precision a...View Webinar
Real Time Machine, Process Control and Data Management
MPmax is a new suite of software utilities for monitoring Makino machines, both milling and EDM. MPmax can help you achieve maximum productivity from your Makino machines through real time display of ...View Webinar
Invest in Titanium Machining
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Additive EDM Processes (HQSF) – Seeing Through the Murk
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Manufacturing Expansion Program, the next generation of HMC's
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ArcFree Technology and the new EDAF Series Sinker EDM
Introducing Makino's latest advancements in sinker EDM technology, the new EDAF2 and EDAF3 machines. These machines are new designs from the ground up, from hardware to software. Makino's new ArcFre...View Webinar
Manufacturing System Simulation
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Why User Friendly Controls are Critical to EDM Performance and Profit
You've decided to buy a new EDM machine for your shop, and no matter what your final decision is, your new machine will have a new control. A control that is different from the one your operators may...View Webinar
New F-Series VMCs, Quicker, More Accurate - the Even More Affordable Die Mold Solution
Technology evolution and advancements can provide significant benefits to the "end-user "of today's technologically advanced equipment. As Makino introduces the new F-Series Vertical Machining Centers...View Webinar
Rethinking Processes, Realigning Work Flow Milling and EDM
In a follow-up to the March 20, 2008 webinar, Hardmilling and Wire EDM Complimentary Processes, Tom Prebelich of Dynamic Plastics in Chesterfield, MI, explains how his shop has made major changes in o...View Webinar
Simple Automation
Automation of machining operations will be essential for North American manufacturers to compete globally. Where to begin is always the question, but let us show you where to end, with an automation s...View Webinar
Programming for Speed
Learn how Makino M-codes, control parameters and programming formats can work together to take out significant chunks of a part's cycle time. In a fast paced review of your machine's capabilities, we ...View Webinar
3 Dimensional Tool Compensation
This is an optional control feature that can help compensate for undersized tooling, as well as improve surface and tool to tool blending capabilities. We will discuss and demonstrate the machine and ...View Webinar
Opportunities in Aerospace Manufacturing
If you are currently an aerospace parts manufacturer, or considering diversification into this market, this webinar explores the necessary characteristics of a supplier, the unique qualities of aerosp...View Webinar
Faster Cutting of Carbide and Hardened Materials
Growing demands for machining of hardened materials, requiring exceptional submicron surface finishes will be reviewed in this webinar. See how progressive stamping dies, PCD tooling, motor cores and ...View Webinar
Professional 5 M Codes
This webinar is intended to aid a typical Makino user in understanding and implementing M codes in their current or future processes. We will explore a wide variety of applications using many M codes...View Webinar
Large Mold Manufacturing Part 3...Variable Geometry Technology
Learn how Makino has combined all the benefits of 2+3 machining for large mold manufacturing into one platform utilizing VG Technology. Rough, finish and angle machining all combined to eliminate the ...View Webinar
A new concept in simple automation for horizontal machining centers
Automation of machining operations will be essential for North American manufacturers to compete globally. Makino is introducing a simple, flexible robot system for 4 and 5 axis horizontal machining ...View Webinar
An economic overview of automated pallet handling systems (Part 1)
Many North American manufacturers have struggled in the face of global competition and uncertain economic times. In this webinar, we will explore the technological advantages and financial payback ass...View Webinar
Wire Consumption Rates Impact EDM Profitability
The single highest cost related to owning and operating a Wire EDM, is the wire consumed during production. In today's highly competitive market, every shop owner and operator should know how wire fee...View Webinar
Advanced Manufacturing and High-Precision Technology Expo Preview
The current economic situation holds both risk and opportunity. In this webinar, you will get a preview of the new and unique technologies, processes, and strategies that will be on display on the Adv...View Webinar
Non Contact Gauging in Production Applications
In this Webinar, Makino will discuss the production applications of two types of non-contact gauging inside machining centers. The first type is tool changeable non-contact bore gauging for the measur...View Webinar
Advanced Bore Processing and Closed Loop Boring Systems
Smart machining of precision bores utilizing in process gauging and real time diameter feedback to automatically control size. Closed-loop intelligent boring process designed for tight tolerance preci...View Webinar
Standard Precision Machine Technologies for Micromachining
Learn what it takes to achieve sub-micron accuracies in milling and EDM and how to choose the right tool for the micro job. Makino will discuss the V22 vertical machining center's ability stay accurat...View Webinar
Lower your costs by going horizontal
Planning to increase manufacturing capacity by adding another low cost VMC? Maybe it is time to evaluate how to achieve lower costs, increased profits, lean operation and reduced lead-times by switchi...View Webinar
New Economics of Titanium
More and more, modern day manufacturers are considering the use of titanium for their parts. View this Webinar to learn how Makino is working to improve the machining of titanium and change the econom...View Webinar
Mold Base and High Precision Plate Work
Makino will demonstrate how to achieve high precision plate and mold bases, using "off the shelf" tooling, eliminating the need for Jig Grinding. Several practical examples will be explored with suppo...View Webinar
Benefits of Tool Balancing in Production Applications
There are many factors to consider when weighing the benefits of properly balanced tools. Find out why tool balance can have a dramatic impact on your process.View Webinar
Manufacturing Solutions and Technology for Mexico
In this webinar, Makino will provide an overview of the comprehensive manufacturing solutions available in Mexico. Relevant technologies, robust process solutions will be highlighted, local applicatio...View Webinar
Profitable machining strategies for machining deep pockets in Dies and Molds with over 10:1 length to diameter ratio tooling
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Unique 5 axis machining techniques for Mold Lifters, Inserts and Cavities
Both 3+2 and simultaneous 5 axis machining will be discussed using a unique pyramid fixture equipped to handle 4 parts simultaneously, which maximizes spindle utilization and minimizes the setup time ...View Webinar
PX5, modified P20, the high performance alternative
This webinar will introduce the mold shop to a new steel, PX5, from International Mold Steel, a modified P20. Makino will demonstrate and discuss the machine ability, material characteristics, physica...View Webinar
Faster burning, lower wire consumption with 0.012-inch wire
Trying to burn faster on a WEDM has always been a trade off--push the burn and risk accuracy and finish problems, or spend more money for larger diameter wire. New 0.012-inch diameter wire technologie...View Webinar
High Speed Machining of Aluminum Valve Bodies
In this webinar, Makino will demonstrate machining of transmission valve bodies with high performance PCD tooling. Aluminum with high silicon content is difficult to machine with carbide tooling. Usin...View Webinar
New Sinker EDM Technologies
In the past, making an electrode burn faster meant risky, aggressive burn settings by tweaking amperage and on-time settings, shortening off-times, or programming a higher servo value. New EDM technol...View Webinar
Cutting large parts with large tools, Apex Precision
In this webinar, Apex Precision will discuss how it uses horizontal machining centers to produce kanban quantities of large cast iron production parts utilizing custom fixtures and combination tooling...View Webinar
Selecting the right VMC can dramatically impact your die/mold shop profitability
Some shop owners focus only on the initial purchase price of a Vertical Machining Center and overlook critical performance issues that can increase operational costs. These performance issues - and th...View Webinar
New Titanium Booster Technology for Ram EDM
At the request of a top tier aerospace manufacturer, Makino has developed specific Titanium booster technology for its sinker EDM's. When it comes to machining extreme L:D ratios or rough and finish m...View Webinar
Utilizing Vision systems with machine automation
The use of vision systems with robot automation is expanding. Machine tending utilizing robots with vision systems for part pallet or basket loading and unloading will be discussed in this webinar. Pa...View Webinar
Extreme accuracies, blends and tooling matches on long cycle time die/mold parts
This webinar will examine various application examples of very tight tolerances, geometric feature blends and very accurate tooling matches - between different tools - on long cycle time, complex, 3D ...View Webinar
High quality, high precision production of ultra small holes by EDM
Discover a highly precise, and highly effective way of producing ultra fine holes utilizing the EDM process. This technology webinar will introduce an innovative, and highly accurate approach to produ...View Webinar
Multisensor Metrology for Micro-Manufacturing
Optical Gaging Products (OGP) will describe a range of sensor technologies that can be used for dimensional measurement of machined parts. Multisensor measuring machines use a combination of sensors, ...View Webinar
The Evolution of Lean
In this webinar, Mike MacKay of MacKay Manufacturing presents his Evolution of Lean Manufacturing. Mike's shop has implemented Makino's pallet handling system, the MMC2, and Mike will tell you how he'...View Webinar
Improving Wire EDM Performance, the New DUO Series
Hear from two Wire EDM shop owners about their experiences with Makino Wire EDMs, including the new DUO43. These operations are employing the unique Dual wire guide systems of the DUO series, one usin...View Webinar
Latest Advancements in Micromachining
This webinar, will outline the basic foundation and peripheral process principles that must be established to predictably create a finished "micro" level part on a consistent basis. The topics that wi...View Webinar
Achieving Jig Bore Accuracy on a Vertical Machining Center
Jig Grinding accuracies while achieving the speed of a vertical machining center will be discussed in this Webinar. Learn how Makino is applying?simplified cutting approaches with existing technology ...View Webinar
Hard-milling, Cutting Wet and Dry and Graphite - All on One Machine
In today's fast paced, competitive die/mold and precision tooling market, often different projects require different approaches and techniques. Some can be completed on a milling machine using hard-mi...View Webinar
New 5-Axis Machining Solutions From Makino
Aside from the traditional advantages of five-axis machining, learn how new levels of sustained dynamic accuracy are being achieved through technologies which improve thermal stabilization and maximiz...View Webinar
New Methods for Extrusion Die Manufacturing
Automated multiple-sided machining which eliminates the need for in-work processing will be discussed in this webinar. This presentation focuses on extrusion die manufacturing, offering process advant...View Webinar
New Aerospace Machining Solutions From Makino
Makino, the industry leader in aluminum airframe machining introduces a new manufacturing solution for parts up to 1.5 meters in length. Learn how the continued evolution of Makino's high speed machin...View Webinar
Maximizing Productivity in 3D Milling
Makino and Blum will demonstrate new "form control" techniques to show a freshly machined part's accuracy while still in the fixture, and graphically demonstrate and confirm the accuracy compared to t...View Webinar
Pro 5 Control Technologies
Learn about the next generation of Makino's control technology and how a highly integrated, user-friendly control system can improve your machining operations. See how this easy to use control provide...View Webinar
Plated Grinding Applications for Horizontal Machining Centers
In this webinar, Makino's Process Development engineers will provide guidelines for producing higher quality parts in fewer operations utilizing single layer abrasive plated grinding methods in a hori...View Webinar
3D Medical Implant Machining
Learn new techniques for reducing your time to market, improving your surface finish and final geometries on complex 3D parts and reducing your cycle times on difficult to machine materials. See case ...View Webinar
Choosing a Wire Guide System
Most EDM builders use one kind of wire guide system, but many want more options. Learn the advantages and disadvantages of Split V, Split C and Pico Precision wire guides, and how to choose the one be...View Webinar
Automated Die Mold Manufacturing
Learn how to streamline your die and mold manufacturing using advanced control technologies. See how these technologies can eliminate operator intervention and increase throughput. View Webinar
Hardmilling & Wire EDM Complimentary Processes
Learn how to combine hardmilling and wire EDM processes to reduce overall lead times. See examples of actual parts processed using both operations and learn about some of the practical limitations wit...View Webinar
Remote Machine Monitoring
Your shop is closed, but the machines are still running. See how you can monitor your shop's production from anywhere, as long as there is an internet connection.View Webinar
How To Get The Most Out Of Your Work Zone
Hear how Makino achieves greater productivity and high quality production by maximizing utilization of the entire workzone of a horizontal machining center. There are multiple elements to consider, fr...View Webinar
Unique Solutions for Shaped Fine Hole Machining
Learn about Makino's new solutions for machining shaped fine holes and how this process can benefit your manufacturing operations.View Webinar
2+3 Machining vs. 5 Axis for Die/Mold Part 2
In this second part of this series, actual cutting tests will be highlighted and demonstrated to compare 2+3 vs. 5 axis machining. Makino will discuss why 2+3 machining might be a better fit than full...View Webinar
Surface Wizard Wire EDM Technology
The latest advancement from Makino in Wire EDM control technology virtually eliminates witness lines in parts with variable and sudden changes in thickness or shape.View Webinar
Automated 5 Axis Machining
Automation and five-axis machining continues to gain popularity due to their favorable impact on productivity and manufacturing cost reduction. This seminar will illustrate how to combine both technol...View Webinar
EDM For Aerospace Part 2
This webinar, a follow-up to the July 26, 2007 webinar, will briefly review that presentation, and provide complete results of new testing by Makino and a NADCAP certified, independent laboratory. Jef...View Webinar
Part 4 of Tool Selection For High Performance Hardmilling
In Part 4 of the Tool Selection For High Performance Hardmilling we will discuss milling M4 62Hrc. This Webinar will be mainly focused on tooling and tool life. Feeds speeds and depth of cut as well ...View Webinar
Efficient Milling of 80 HRc Carbide
Learn about new methods to machine carbide blanks in the 80+HRc range. Carbide materials can now be efficiently machined utilizing new hardmilling processes on Makino vertical machining centers. Stand...View Webinar
Cylinder Fininishing in CGI - Helical Milling Part2
In this second part of our popular Compacted Graphite Iron seminar, Makino will discuss the results of further tooling and technique tests on an OEM V8 CGI engine block. See how Makino is leading the ...View Webinar
High Speed Deep Hole Drilling in Aluminum
In this webinar, Makino demonstrates new tooling and techniques for deep hole drilling in Aluminum. Understand the key manufacturing methods and what parameters work best to insure accuracy and improv...View Webinar
Tool Selection for High-Performance Hard Milling Part 3
In Part 3 of the Tool Selection For High Performance Hardmilling we will discuss milling S7 58Hrc. What is different from H13 50Hrc. Feeds speeds and depth of cut as well as Toolpath style will be dis...View Webinar
Back Burning Punches
Bill Paul, Senior RAM EDM Applications Engineer, will discuss how easy it is to back burn punches on a Makino RAM EDM. Learn the unique techniques that were used to produce straight, accurate punches ...View Webinar
FF/cam CAM Software
You can apply Makino's years of high speed machining experience to your manufacturing process with FF/cam. Scott Jedele, emSOLVE Business Manager, will discuss how you can leverage Makino's high-speed...View Webinar
Advanced EDM processes for Aerospace
The recast layer and Heat Affected Zone (HAZ) left on workpiece surfaces by the EDM process can be a problem in aerospace applications. Advancements in machine tool and generator design, along with sp...View Webinar
Think BIG Production Parts
Discover the latest technologies available for large workpiece part production. We will cover large machine design characteristics to enhance productivity, improve precision and speed up your ROI. Act...View Webinar
Tool selection for Hardmilling Part 2 of 4
In this webinar, Makino shares their industry-leading hardmilling machining techniques in S7 and H13. This is the second of a four part series that will discuss every aspect of machining 50+ HRc mater...View Webinar
Equipment ROI: Machining Cells and Management Systems
To maximize the efficiency of their equipment, many are considering machining cells and management systems. In this seminar, we will discuss the advantages and features of the Makino Machining Complex...View Webinar
Fixture Design for Automation
One of the primary ingredients of an automated system is an efficient, reliable fixture. In this Webinar, Makino will discuss what you should look for in production workholding for automated cells and...View Webinar
Buyer beware, are specifications really what they seem?
When buying a machining center, you're bombarded with specs. What do they really mean, and how do the inconsistent ways of measuring performance truly stack up?View Webinar
More Efficient Tool Management
Learn how to effectively manage tools to increase productivity by using logic, hardware, and software. See how your tool monitoring system can seamlessly select spare tools, handle broken tool issues,...View Webinar
Tool Selection for High-Performance Hardmilling
In this Webinar, Makino shares their industry-leading machining techniques with you. This is the first of a four part series that will discuss every aspect of machining from tooling, cutting condition...View Webinar
Flexible Aerospace Grinding, and the New G5 HMC
Discover newfound efficiencies in applications involving difficult-to-machine materials and extraordinary finish requirements. Real case studies will illustrate how this new 5-axis, multi-tasking mach...View Webinar
The Complete Solution: Turnkey Engineering Services
With more than two decades of successful installations, Makino has delivered more turnkey engineering solutions than any other OEM machine tool company. This Webinar will show you how focused, expert ...View Webinar
Improving Chip and Coolant Management
Chip and Coolant management can often play an important role in improving your manufacturing efficiencies. This Makino webinar will discuss methods to improve machine utilization, reduce maintenance a...View Webinar
Increasing Productivity with Preventive Maintenance
Without question, it's the best way to keep your machines up and running at peak performance. In this seminar, Makino will discuss the advantages of preventive maintenance, and the risks associated wi...View Webinar
Getting the Most Bang for the Buck with your Capital Equipment
Proper financing of your capital equipment can make a big difference for your bottom line. Chris Lyle of Makino's Capital Services will discuss how to get the most out of your capital equipment invest...View Webinar
2+3 Machining vs. 5-axis for Die/Mold
In this seminar, Makino will discuss why 2+3 machining might be a better fit than full 5-axis processing for your die/mold manufacturing operation. Learn about the superior programming capabilities, b...View Webinar
Machine Features that Reduce Part Variability in Production Operations
To produce parts quickly and accurately, without scrap, there are technologies that can easily be applied and meet 6-sigma requirements. Makino will share some of its experience with machine features ...View Webinar
High Speed Machining in Large Airframe Applications
Big is an understatement when it comes to many airframe machining applications today. Makino will discuss how its MAG series 5-axis horizontal machining centers have revolutionized the way large, alum...View Webinar
Weldless Molding Technologies
Can a mold really be made that creates no weld or knit lines? Absolutely. In this seminar, Makino will demonstrate weldless molding capabilities only possible with new, cutting edge technologies and t...View Webinar
Does High Pressure Coolant make a difference?
High-pressure coolant is an important tool to improve productivity and quality. See how companies are applying high-pressure coolant and understand how your bottom line can benefit.View Webinar
Tool Length Measurement for Die/Mold
Any manufacturing advantage could be the winning margin on a die/mold project. Since tool length measurement is a necessary and repetitive task, saving just a little time (and effort) can return major...View Webinar
Error-proofing Your Production Manufacturing Operation
Error-proofing your process can maximize throughput and speed up your entire operation. Let Makino show you how to eliminate common problems in production operations.View Webinar
The World's Most Accurate Sinker EDM
Need unbelievable positional accuracy and repeatability? In this seminar, Makino demonstrates the world's most accurate sinker EDM, the EDAC1, capable of accuracy and repeatability in the millionthsView Webinar
Milling 50 HRc in the Real World
Corey Greenwald, owner of Hard Milling Solutions, will discuss how his shop uses Makino technology and know-how to mill 50+ HRc molds that require little or no benching.View Webinar
Burning Past the Competition
Makino's H.E.A.T. (High-Energy Applied Technology) can boost your Wire EDM speed up to 40 percent, letting you burn past the competition.View Webinar
New Techniques for High-Mix, Low-Volume Production
Moving toward customized, just-in-time production? Let Makino show you what machining technologies and techniques will help your high-mix, low-volume manufacturing process.View Webinar
The proper processes and machining strategies are critical in micro-mold building and other miniature manufacturing industries. Learn about specific requirements and limitations in tool holding, progr...View Webinar
Large Mold Machining Part 2
Big molds bring unique concerns. Learn how the new V99 vertical machining center cuts large molds with extreme accuracy and precision.View Webinar
Large Mold Machining Part 1
Learn about new concepts such as simultaneous three-axis machining and slanted hole machining on very large mold parts. We'll also be discussing new techniques in setup reduction, cycle time reduction...View Webinar
New Advances in Titanium Milling
See the latest titanium machining advancements that can significantly lower your cost per part, including new methods for increased metal removal rates with extended tool life.View Webinar
Lean Cellular Automation - Makino J Series
To compete globally, you've got to be lean. A Makino Process Engineer Team Leader discusses the latest methods for lean cellular production and new techniques in two- and four-face machining in high p...View Webinar
CGI Machining
Compacted Graphite Iron is the future for applications requiring light weight and high strength, like diesel engines. Learn how Makino is leading the way in machining this difficult material.View Webinar
I'm Packing H.E.A.T.
High-Energy Applied Technology, H.E.A.T., smokes the Wire EDM competition, cutting parts 35 percent to 50 percent faster and holding tolerances of form and straightness to .0002" with one roughing pas...View Webinar
Latest in Horizontal Machining Centers
See how the latest advances in HMC technology from the industry's leader-Makino-can improve your machining operations, especially with large parts and difficult-to-machine materials.View Webinar
It's the ultimate tool in helping to reduce machining costs. A Makino Regional Manager shows how to apply the latest automation techniques to your operation -- whether you're a production unit, a job ...View Webinar
The Fine Art of Micro Hole Machining
This webinar opens the doors to processes, electrode requirements and dielectric needs of EDM machining fine holes down to 0.002 inches successfully. Presented by Bill Paul, Application Engineer at Ma...View Webinar
Smart Tools
Stan Weiderman, Process Development Engineer, examine eliminating the need for special purpose machinery. These unique tools can reduce cycle times, setups and costs while enhancing quality and throug...View Webinar
Ram EDM Lead Time Reduction
Jeff Kiszonas, EDM product manager, discusses how to reduce lead-time in the Ram EDM process.View Webinar
Grinding on Horizontal Machining Centers
A Makino Process Development Engineer discusses how Makino combined grinding and traditional machining center processes to create a significantly more productive grinding solution.View Webinar
Innovative Fixturing
Tim Jones, Makino's HMC Product Line Manager, and Bob Kuzner, Makino's Applications Engineer Team Leader, examine improving throughput, quality and process reliability with unique and innovative fixtu...View Webinar
5-Axis Aluminum Machining for Aerospace
Learn what technologies and techniques are needed to succeed in today's aerospace supply chain. Alan Hollatz, Makino's aerospace proposal engineer, discusses how manufacturers are using 5-axis machine...View Webinar
Lowering Your Cost of Machining
Makino 1-series horizontal machining centers have reduced machining costs for U.S. manufacturers. Explore real case studies with shops that have achieved it.View Webinar
Simple Steps to Lean Mold Manufacturing
You can't ignore lean anymore - pricing is too tight and the lead-times too short. In this seminar, Tim Jones, Makino's HMC Product Line Manager, discusses simple steps to get your mold shop lean.View Webinar
Achieve Superior Surface Finishes
Want to reduce or even eliminate hand-polishing of complex, intricate molds? John Bradford, Makino's EDM application team leader, discusses how to produce parts with a superior surface finish using Ma...View Webinar
Built for Die/Mold
Bill Howard, VMC product manager, outlines seven key elements required to create a machine tool truly built for the challenges of die and mold applications. To achieve superior finishes and high-defin...View Webinar
Hard Milling Solutions
Focuses on the latest techniques in high-speed machining of HRC 60 and harder materials for die or mold applications. Learn tips and tricks you can use to mill the toughest steels.View Webinar
Think Small: Micromachining and Milling
Lee Richmond, Micro Market Manager, presents the new machines from Makino that can be deployed today to achieve the part-replication speed and precision needed for cost-effective micromachining today.View Webinar
Competing Globally in the Mold Market
Bill Howard, VMC product manager, discusses the latest advancements in high-performance machining, tooling, and techniques, coupled with the volumetric accuracies made possible through today's advance...View Webinar
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Jeff Kiszonas, EDM product manager, discusses running a straighter part faster with Makino's unique BellyWIZARD technologies. Learn about all of Makino's advanced cutting technologies which enhance cy...View Webinar
Automation and Integration Machining to the Max
Tim Jones, horizontal machining center product manager, and Dave Walton, project engineer team leader for Integration services, discuss how to develop the most effective production solution to reduce ...View Webinar
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As you probably know, Microsoft has made quite a big fuss about the compliance features that they have incorporated into Exchange 2010 and extended further in Exchange 2013. It's fair to acknowledge the progress that has been made in this area through the addition of features such as archive mailboxes, retention policies and tags, litigation and retention hold, enhancements to the Recoverable Items folder (aka the "dumpster"), and the provision of a discovery search capability. All good stuff!
Of course, shipping features is one thing. Discovering (no pun intended) how those features work in production is quite another. No amount of testing exposes software to the slings and arrows of outrageous users and this is true of discovery searches.
For example, some time ago the Exchange blog described a limitation that exists in discovery searches that constrains a search on an Exchange 2010 server to a maximum of 25,000 mailboxes. It does not surprise me that such a limitation exists and 25,000 seems like a reasonable number of mailboxes to be able to search at any one time. After all, if you allowed searches to occur against a limitless number of mailboxes, you might end up in a situation where administrators made mistakes and launched such a search and brought a server to its knees by either exhausting available memory or exceeding available disk space on the drive that holds the database containing the discovery search mailbox. Each mailbox that must be searched absorbs some memory, CPU, and disk cycles on the server that hosts the mailbox and the server that hosts the discovery search mailbox and then there's the small matter of network bandwidth used to transport items that match the search criteria to the server that hosts the discovery search mailbox. Exchange 2013 takes a different approach to resource consumption for searches because it uses throttling instead. However, it's all very logical.
A small but important fact that might have escaped you is that discovery searches don't interrogate disconnected mailboxes. These are mailboxes that don't really belong to any user because they are not connected to an Active Directory user object and are usually the result of deleting or disabling a user mailbox, both actions that break the connection between Active Directory and the mailbox by removing the attributes in Active Directory that allow Exchange to know how to find the right mailbox for a user or by blowing away the Active Directory object. Mailboxes like this remain in a database until they age out and are removed by the Managed Folder Assistant. Typically, the retention period for disconnected mailboxes is 30 days.
The point here is that many companies have operational procedures to manage the data of employees after they leave. Often these processes involve mailboxes being deleted or disabled. The same process might be used for employees who resign, terminated, or leave for another reason (death or retirement). Different steps might be taken for employees who have significant responsibilities or who are closely connected to intellectual property. In any case, once you delete a mailbox and the mailbox moves into a disconnected state waiting for its final removal, the contents of that mailbox become invisible to discovery searches. This is true for the standard Exchange search functionality and might be different for other compliance software. It's certainly something to check.
Removing disconnected mailboxes from the scope of discovery searches is probably not a good thing in the eyes of the legal fraternity as it creates the uncomfortable scenario that items required by a discovery action that are strictly speaking under the control of and available to the company now cannot be found by a discovery search. Thus, the company might responsible to a discovery request with incorrect information and therefore expose itself to legal sanction, depending on the requirements of the jurisdiction under which the legal action is taken.
If you have bought into the compliance features of Exchange, it's a good thing to review the processes that are used to deal with information associated users who leave the company to ensure that your legal team is happy that it is able to respond to discovery requests in an appropriate manner. Some change might be required, such as keeping the Active Directory account for users who leave around for a longer period (for example, the email address can be changed, the mailbox hidden from the GAL, and blocked from receiving new email). In fact. Microsoft recently announced a similar solution for Office 365 deployments with "inactive mailboxes" where in-place holds (a feature of Exchange 2013) are used to keep mailboxes around after their users have departed.
All of this is another example of how the devil is in the detail of implementation of technology in real-world environments that reminds us once again that the pretty words of marketing spoken when new products are launched have to be interpreted in the cold light of day once you have installed the software.
Follow Tony @12Knocksinna