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Friday July 2, 2004 11:58 am
Motorola Launches the A630 In Style
Posted by Andru Edwards - Categories: Smartphones
Motorola sure knows how to kick off a product release. Motorola launched the new A630 at the Hotel Gansevoort in New York City. In the midst of such celebrities as Russell Simmons, Molly Shannon, and Tyson Beckford, and Jacob the Jeweler, Motorola set the stage for a huge debut for their latest mobile phone. The A630 seems to be the perfect blend of a mobile phone and a Sidekick/Blackberry type of device. To read the press release and see more pictures of the celebs, click the link.
At an exclusive gathering of New York City's top trend-setters and influencers, Motorola Inc., a leader in wireless communications, unveiled its latest wireless creation - the model A630. Staged on the rooftop of the exclusive Hotel Gansevoort, celebrities and style leaders, including Drea de Matteo, Russell Simmons, Pat Field, Molly Shannon, Samantha Ronson and Jacob the Jeweler were among the first to witness the unveiling of the next "must have" mobile device from Motorola.
Following in the footsteps of the game-changing Motorola StarTAC and the company's revolutionary two-way pagers, the model A630 is yet another innovative new product from Motorola. Packaged in a unique, multi- functional design featuring a QWERTY keyboard hidden inside a sleek candy bar form, the Motorola A630 lets you call, text or email with style and ease.
From the outside, you see a fashionable, compact mobile handset. Once opened, the device reveals a full QWERTY keyboard that makes texting, email exchanges and Instant Messaging easy. The A630 does not stop there. For multi-media fun, the handset comes with an integrated camera with 4 x zoom, multi-media messaging for sending and sharing images, dedicated gaming keys and a vivid color display that offers portrait as well as landscape views. When its time to be productive, the A630 offers integrated Bluetooth wireless technology, an office quality speakerphone and email support including POP3, SMTP and Imap4. The Motorola A630's fusion of the mobile and messaging worlds without sacrificing weight, size or style makes it the ideal device for today's text-savvy trendsetting consumer.
"With the debut of the model A630, Motorola delivers a uniquely designed handset that stands apart from the pack, promising simplified voice and messaging communications supported by the latest technology," said James Burke, Sr. Director of Product Operations for Motorola, Inc. "With its clever combination of fun and function, the model A630 is sure to please style-conscious movers and shakers."
The Motorola A630 features include:
− Full QWERTY keyboard with 5-way navigation for easy messaging, fun gaming and more
− Integrated VGA camera with dedicated photo button for quick shoot and send power
− 220 x 176 pixel color landscape display capable of supporting up to 65,000 colors
− Built-in Bluetooth wireless technology
− Advanced messaging including Multi-Media Messaging Service (MMS), SMS, e-mail support (POP3, SMTP, Imap4) and multibranded IM (Instant Messaging)
− GSM tri-band capabilities
− J2ME downloading functionality
− Integrated hands-free speakerphone
− Polyphonic speaker for the ultimate sound and cool MP3 ringtones
Pricing and Availability
The Motorola A630 is expected at Cingular Wireless retail stores nationwide later this summer.
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The parents of a Sterling teenager who was shot to death by a neighbor early Sunday say they don't fault the man who killed their son.
Caleb Gordley, 16, was a three-sport athlete at Parkview High school and an aspiring rap artist.
After a night of partying, the teenager mistakenly entered the house two doors down from his own and was shot by the homeowner, who believed the boy was an intruder, according to a statement from Loudoun County Sheriff's Office.
"I want you to know, sir, I forgive you," said Jennea Gordley, Caleb's mother. "I understand this was an accident. I truly believe everything happens for a reason. My son, he's an angel."
Caleb's parents met with reporters Tuesday to provide their understanding of the incident and to remember their son.
"I love my son," said Shawn Gordley, surrounded by family outside their home. "I don't have many tears left. His mother and I are going to see his body for the first time today."
Caleb sneaked out of the house Saturday night to go to a party, his father said. After several hours of drinking, Caleb and friends walked back to the neighborhood. That's when the teen made a fateful mistake.
Caleb and a friend jumped a fence that runs behind his home and the neighbor's, his parents said, but instead of entering his home, Caleb climbed through an unlocked window and began walking up the neighbor's stairway. That man — a Loudoun County volunteer firefighter — shot and killed Caleb.
"Whether he gave a warning shot or yelled at him, I'm pretty sure Caleb thought it was me yelling at him," Shawn Gordley said. "He kept walking toward what he thought was his room because the houses are identical."
Shawn Gordley said he won't dwell on the neighbor's actions.
"You want answers but the more I looked for answers, the more it hurt," he said. "All the answers in the world aren't going to bring him back."
Caleb's family did have critical words for the Loudoun County's Sheriff's Office. They say they've been left in the dark and they are troubled they weren't allowed to see their son sooner.
"I feel like I was robbed of the opportunity of even identifying his body," said Jennea Gordley, who traveled from her home in Dayton, Ohio, after she got word of her son's death.
Loudoun County Sheriff Mike Chapman said he met with Mr. Gordley Tuesday.
"This is a tragedy all the way around," Chapman said.
The department is still fact-finding and does not want to release inaccurate information on the case, he said. The State Medical Examiner's Office in Manassas took custody of the body, but Chapman promised to conduct a review to find out whether things could have been handled differently.
"I'm in discussions with my investigative bureau right now to determine why there was not that opportunity in advance before the medical examiner, before the body was taken," he said.
Caleb's parents said they are planning to hold two celebrations of his life, one in Sterling and one in Ohio. They find consolation in the many tributes on social media sites and they have their son's music.
"I believe everything happens for a reason," said his mother. "My son was loved. He left us with so much music."
A relative has gathered up all of Caleb's lyrics and put them in a binder.
Finally, Caleb's parents also told reporters about the day their son was born after an emergency C-section. They said mother and son were in danger of death.
"We got 16 1/2 awesome years out of this young man," Shawn Gordley said. "We could have had none ... I will hold onto that. I will hold on to those 16 years."
But he said he and Caleb's 13-year-old sister will soon move out of the house he shares with a college friend. After what happened, he said he can't stay on Pullman Court.

subset: commoncrawl


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|April 12th, 2011, 04:30 PM
Join Date: May 2008
Location: Cyprus
Posts: 92
The So-Called Leaf and Wineglass Border
As we have seen in the "Crivelli" rug thread, a 1519 painting shows what I presume to be the early depiction of the "leaf and calyx" (or "wineglass") border. I remember that Wendel Swan wrote a paper on the subject and here is what he said about it in an old discussion on Turkotek:
If you want to read the whole thread, you will learn that at the time there was a vigorous battle between Baluch-o-philes and the rest of the Rugdom but, for the sake of brevity, here are Wendel's words:
Posted by Wendel Swan on 07-16-2007 09:10 PM:
The problem perhaps is another one and it is contained in this phrase: the border " results from the process of halving this border or others similar to it".
Phrase that is better illustrated by this scan from Peter F. Stone (1)
As far as early surviving rugs, the 15th c. Batari-Crivelli fragment
seems to confirm Wendel's hypothesis. What about paintings?
In Pierre's database there are around 600 paintings. I say "around" considering that some are double, some others are cropped details and I do not want to count them.
The first one with the "leaf and calyx", in chronological order, is the 1519 painting of the Dutch Jacob Cornelisz van Oostsanen, already presented in the "Crivelli" thread:
The second one is the 1535 painting of "Jesus in the house of Marta" by Vasco Fernandes (c.1475-c.1542), better known as Grão Vasco, one of the main Portuguese Renaissance painters. For economy of server space, I'll present only the relevant detail of the image:
The Portuguese is a "double" border, like in the Batari-Crivelli.
The third one is a Portrait of a Young Nobleman, circa 1545 (LACMA, Los Angeles) Veneto-Lombard School:
The outer border seems to be a variation of the Caucasian "reciprocal" border of the Dutch painting.
The fourth and last is a 1540-1560 portrait of King Henry VIII by an unknown artist after Holbein (Petworth House).
That's all: four paintings, all situated in the first half of the 16th century, all from different countries - Netherlands, Portugal, Italy and England.
To find more borders like these in paintings, you'll have to wait until the 19th century with the "discovery" of Caucasian rugs in the West.
As for the origin of the "leaf and calyx" from cutting in half the "double" , or "primary" border, it's questionable: it could be the other way around too. Rather a matter of hen and egg, I'm afraid.
What the paintings show is only that in the first half of the 16th century the two borders coexisted happily.
|April 14th, 2011, 11:16 AM
Join Date: May 2008
Location: Cyprus
Posts: 92
I said about the Italian painting above that "the outer border seems to be a variation of the Caucasian 'reciprocal' border of the Dutch painting.
Its actually more close to the outer border of the Berlin rug:
Even the palette is the same.
|February 29th, 2012, 12:38 PM
Join Date: Oct 2009
Posts: 87
Hi Filiberto,
I have recently "met" two extant rugs which feature the «leaf and wineglass» border. Both are given as 15th century.
Anatolia, fragment, 15th century. Kirchheim
Konya, fragment from a rug covering Alaeddin's tomb. 15th century. TIAM.
I have no idea on what base these age guesstimates have been done, but the archaïc-looking motifs are not incompatible with such an old age, are they?
Thus, assuming the age has been correctly assessed, these «leaf and wineglass» borders would be older than the ones featured by Renaissance painters and roughly contemporary with the «double leaf and wineglass» or "Konya" border of the Crivelli rug.
These extant rugs seem to justify your doubts: The «single leaf and wineglass» motif does not necessarily derivate from the «double» one.
|February 29th, 2012, 02:55 PM
Join Date: May 2008
Location: Cyprus
Posts: 92
Hi Pierre,
Good work. In lack of a suitable wine-glass smiley Ill have to resort to this one:
|February 29th, 2012, 03:49 PM
Join Date: Oct 2009
Posts: 87
Hi Filiberto,
I am not aware of solid clues for the attribution of the «leaf and wineglass» border motif to Anatolia, more precisely to Konya.
But is there any strong reason against the hypothesis that the cradle of this motif was southern Caucasus and that the few older (15th century) extant rugs carrying it were also woven there?
a) As your research has shown Filiberto, after the first quarter of the sixteenth century and until the re-discovery of the Caucasus rugs by European collectors towards the end of the 18th century, European painters stopped using rugs featuring this border as studio props.
b) Extant rugs featuring the leaf and wineglass border, dated between the 16th and the 18th century are very seldom too.
c) Every lover of Caucasian rugs knows that this motif has been extremely popular for local weavers (especially so-called Kazak-, Gendje- and some Karabagh- or Armenian-carpets) during the past two centuries.
d) It is unlikely that the motif could have been imported in the Caucasus for base commercial reasons, since extant rugs dated from the 17th-18th century, thus largely pre-Kustar, already did feature this border motif.
FIG.1. «Karabagh» 17th century. Sarre.
FIG 2. « Kazak?» with blossom pattern, 17th century. Fritz Nagel catal. 286
FIG 3. «Kazak?» 17th-18th century. Kirchheim
(I take no responsibility, nor abuse, because of the proposed origins)
e) The fact that one of the extant 15th century rugs was found in a Konya mausoleum is not necessarily any proof that it was woven there, is it?
If all these extant and painted rugs were actually woven in southern Caucasus, the lack of painted evidence and / or of extant rug from the early 16th century to the 18th century could reasonably be explained by purely political reasons:
Trebizond (South-west of the Caucasus on the Black Sea) was an important port of call for ships of Venice and Genoa. Until the end of the Ilkanid domination (and of their Pax Mongolica) it was the main terminal of the Silk Road as well. If Caucasian rugs ever were shipped to Europe, it was probably through this commercial trading city populated mainly by Greeks, Armenian, Jews and Georgians.
After the fall of Constantinople to the Ottomans in 1453 this traffic was made increasingly difficult by the Sultan and his growing navy, until Trebizond fell too in 1462. Making these rugs scarce on European markets.
Best regards
|February 29th, 2012, 04:00 PM
Join Date: May 2008
Location: Cyprus
Posts: 92
Absolutely. As a Caucasomaniac, I couldnt have explained it better myself.
I henceforth name you Honorary Member of the Caucasomaniac Sect.
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BU SIDRA Owner, Manager, Shipyard
Maritime News
Rhenus-Arkon-Shipinvest Orders 4 Vessels
German shipping company Rhenus-Arkon-Shipinvest has placed orders for the first four environmentally-friendly vessels known as Hanse Eco Short Sea Coasters.The short sea bulkers are expected to be delivered during the second half of 2021, with the construction work scheduled to begin in February 2020.The vessels are based on the latest developments related to environmental protection, digitization and design.The 'Hanse Eco' fleet is the result of an initiative launched by Torsten Westphal, one of the founding members of Arkon Shipping.
Putting Palatka Back on the Map
Diverse and conveniently located, St. Johns Ship Building has quickly developed into a reliable partner for its many repeat customers. Today, and as a direct result, a lot more people know exactly where Palatka, Florida is located.On the St Johns River, just 60 miles south of Jacksonville, lies the sleepy town of Palatka, Florida. Founded as a trading post in 1821, its location on the highly navigable river made the area attractive to orange growers and timber men alike.In its heyday between 1875 and 1900, Palatka – "the gateway to Florida's interior" – was a tourist destination with several posh hotels having the capacity to host up to 6,000 guests.
Prepare Now for 40,000 Offshore Wind Jobs
The offshore wind industry in the United States is growing exponentially, with multiple projects in the development stages off of the Atlantic coast. The total megawatt capacity of U.S. offshore wind farms is anticipated to reach 22,000 by 2030 and 43,000 by 2050. To support this growth, U.S. Department of Energy reports estimate over 40,000 new jobs will be created by 2030.The new jobs anticipated to support the offshore wind industry include a wide range of types, including engineers, trade workers, surveyors, scientists, technicians, managers, and seafarers. Wind turbine technician has been one of the fastest growing occupations in the United States in recent years.
Exceptional Growth in LNG Trade, Says Awilco
The exceptional growth in LNG trade recorded in the first half of the 2019 continued in Q3, says Awilco LNG Group, the Norwegian based fully integrated pure play LNG transportation provider.According to Fearnleys LNG total LNG trade is up about 13 % in the first nine months of the year vs last year. In line with normal seasonal patterns gas prices inched upwards in Q3 but remained historically low due to increased production and muted demand in the Far East.Due to a relatively mild winter reducing gas demand for power generation and higher nuclear power generation in Japan and South Korea, LNG imports decreased by 8 and 9 % y-o-y Jan-Sept respectively
MRS '19 Wraps Up @ SUNY Maritime
"The decrease in state spending on higher education is what keeps me awake at night" is how RADM Michael Alfultis, President, SUNY Maritime College, neatly summarized the biggest challenge he faces as the leader of one of the U.S.' leading maritime universities. "With a small student body (about 1700), the numbers simply don't work," noting that while state funding 15 years ago covered two-thirds of the college's operating expenses, that percentage hovers at or below 30% today.The 10th Annual Maritime Risk Symposium closed yesterday at the Maritime College State University of New York feature a panel of three presidents of leading U.S.


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Apartment Katharina
up to 4 guests
3 rooms
2 bedrooms
2 bathrooms
Distance to centre 750 m
Distance to ski / mountain lift 750 m
Proximity to public transport 120 m
Baby cot
Non smoking
Accommodation alert
3-room apartment 60 m2, on the ground floor. Cosy furnishings: entrance hall. 2 double bedrooms, each room with shower/WC. Kitchen-/living room (oven, dishwasher, 4 ceramic glass hob hotplates, freezer) with dining nook and cable TV (flat screen). Facilities: safe, hair dryer. Internet (WiFi, free). Please note: apartment carpark side. Non-smokers only. Private entrance.House/Residence
St. Anton am Arlberg: Cosy apartment block "Katharina". 750 m from the centre, in a quiet, sunny position on a slope, 750 m from the skiing area. In the house: central heating system. Bread roll service. Parking (limited number of spaces) at the house, public parking 100 m extra. Grocery 800 m, restaurant 200 m, bus stop 120 m, railway station "St. Anton am Arlberg" 1 km, outdoor swimming pool 1 km, indoor swimming pool 1 km. Tennis 800 m, sports centre 1 km, walking paths from the house 200 m, cable car, gondola lift, ski rental 750 m, ski bus stop 120 m, ski school, cross country ski track 750 m. Please note: ski bus (free of charge). There are more similar properties for rent in this same residence. Ski depot available directly at the "Rendl" Bahn valley station (Jenewein sports shop).
Prior to your departure, you will receive the key collection information for your stay, along with your travel documents.
Show all apartments in this house/residence
Location DescriptionGeneral info
1'304 - 2'811 m a.s.l. >>St Anton, the cradle of alpine skiing has always been the international meeting place for ski society and winter sports enthusiasts of all countries: it is a true global village. In St Anton, village traditions mingle with unparalleled international atmosphere and an irresistible charm. The villages of Pettneu (5 km), Flirsch (12 km) and Strengen (20 km) are within a few kilometers east of St Anton, in the romantic valley of Stanzer. Chic, famous holiday village with 2'580 inhabitants, 100 km west from Innsbruck. In the resort: bar, disco, concerts, cinema. Indoor aquatic centre, fitness centre, sauna, solarium, massage. ARLBERG-well.com with indoor and outdoor pool, sauna, fitness centre, solarium, skating ring, massage, sportspark "arl.rock": multi-function sport center with boulder, climbing wall, bowling, tennis and squash courts.Summer
Concert of local bank, ARLBERG - Indoor and outdoor swimming pool, sauna, fitness centre, solarium, massages: sports centre, tennis, squash. International train station (Vienna- Zurich). Heated outdoor swimming pool. Tennis, golf course. Fishing. Paragliding, high rope course, total 6 mountain lifts and cableways. Hiking paths, mountain hikes, climbing. Mountain bike routes, bicycles and mountain bikes for hire. Children's playground.Winter
Ski-region Ski Arlberg, total of 87 lifts. Total 305 km ski runs, snow park. Ski school, children's ski school, ski kindergarten. Cross country ski tracks, high altidude pistes 1'800 m high, winter walking paths 80 km. Ski bus (free of charge). 440 km of downhill, of well prepared runs for everyone - as many challenges and off piste runs as you like. Calais 1066 km.
You can see the location of your accommodation here.
Check availability and book
Click on your desired arrival date in the calendar and select the duration of your stay using the drop down menu. It takes less than two minutes to make your reservation online.
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Customer reviews - Apartment Katharina
- Very good
- Overall rating 4.2/5
- Overall condition of the property
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overall result based on 13 reviews
additional costs (if required)


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Not many people would be envious of you if you were living in a cave — but they might be a little envious if you stayed in this hotel, located in Tanzania and designed by WOW Architects. The hotel is comprised of two buildings and its overall design was inspired by geological processes that shape rock formations in nature. It is no surprise that we are fans of the greenery that spills out of the buildings' windows, but we also found the concept development of this project quite interesting. The architects were inspired by nature's way of creating hills or mounds, and how these hills are eventually inhabited by living things.
Dubbed the "House of Peace", the project is composed of a textured concrete that appears as if it were sculpted by the elements. When we first observed the set-back of the windows, we couldn't help but think that it does, in fact appear to be a giant rock formation with interior cavities that could be the contemporary interpretation of the cave. The concept, grounded in geological science, manifests itself into two "mounds" or buildings with flowing gardens that grow out from the windows of the building. In their diagrams (see below), the architects explain the design development as if it was a sculpting exercise backed by geological fact.
It begins when plate tectonics force mounds of land up, creating hills. The hills are then eroded by weather, creating texture and variation in the surface of the hills . Over time, sediments settle differently on the surface of the hills which creates what we know as stratification. During this time, seeds are deposited into nooks and crannies in the hills which allows green to grow all over the hills. Inspired by the power of the elements to sculpt the hills in the natural world, WOW architects have designed these buildings to mimic the random grooves and angles found in nature.
The orientation of the buildings was planned so that sunlight enters the interior courtyard in the center, providing a warm and inviting space for hotel guests to mingle. This layout also gives residents access to views of city, sea and harbor. The interior of the hotel is less accounted for, but we love the project's use of living green walls. An interior view shows a flight of stairs sheltered only by glass panels will certainly make guests feel as though they are walking up into the light.
Although we admit this is not the first building to show abundant green foliage spilling out from its sides, we're intrigued by the structure's geologically inspired design. There's something quite poignant about staying at a hotel that was inspired by the same natural processes that creates mountains and ridges. Here, guests can have a rather unique experience while they look out through their setback windows and verdant frame, and feel like they are staying in a very bright and well-lit cave with all the modern conveniences.
Tip via Abhishek Pandey


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LAS VEGAS -- Technology applied to upgrading the customer experience was very evident at the National Automatic Merchandising Association's 2013 OneShow in late April here. The microelectronics revolution that has transformed the inner workings of vending equipment over the past three decades now is making its way to the user interface and the point-of-sale display. Examples include the following:
A new company called Air Vend is rolling out its touchscreen solution for vending machines, designed to enhance the user experience and support cashless and mobile payment acceptance.
It is wirelessly connected to AV Live, a cloud-based system that delivers real-time sales data, machine alerts, inventory tracking and additional information to the operator. It presently is connected through MDB, but the company said it plans to introduce a DEX connector in the near future. Air Vend also said it is working to meet NAMA vending data interchange standards in order to ensure interoperability.
PHOTOS | Left: Presiding at formal introduction of the Air Vend touchscreen customer interface and Web-based software are Yan Wang (l.), Walteq, and Lance Ellsworth of Air Vend. Center: Geoffrey Dunkle, Isis, and Larry Clarkston, Coke, demonstrate Isis Wallet mobile cashless payment system on a Coke machine. Isis-equipped Coca-Cola venders are now being field-tested in Texas. Right: Epoch series is the topic as the company's Tom Hutchison describes user-friendly features of Slim Gem model to Lisa Burchard and Lorenazana Luna (r.), Advance Office & Janatorial Supplies (Las Vegas).
Simple over-the-air software updates permit the latest innovations from Air Vend, such as advertising, loyalty programs, promotions and new cashless payment methods, to flow to the machines, as they become available.
The company has assembled its own product database containing thousands of items with their nutritional labels and product images that can be displayed on the touchscreen display as a solution to help operators meet pending federal nutritional-labeling requirements.
The latest innovation from Automated Merchandising Systems is its Epoch series, which updates all of AMS's most popular venders with eye-catching styling and enhanced features.
Epoch styling is highlighted by a slightly contoured machine front, finished in silver-gray. A point-of-sale card frame enables operators to display information (such as company name) and to post promotional materials.
Additionally, the keys on the Epoch series's backlit all-numeric selector pad are black with white numerals, and each key is ringed with white for enhanced legibility. The brighter edging around the hopper and coin return further enhance the new look.
Epoch's new look and enhancements are available on AMS's AD-One line, a series of vending machines that complies with the recently revised Americans with Disabilities Act requirements.
The only non-ADA-compliant Epoch models are the vandal-resistant Outsider and the WideGem and SlimGem uninsulated machines. All others have hoppers within the specified ADA height range, but still can accommodate six trays.
With the exception of the small-footprint SlimGem, AMS machines are available in 35" and 39" widths, and are 72" high x 35" deep. SlimGem is only 28.5" wide and 29.5" deep.
Coca-Cola Co. is reporting an enthusiastic response to and wide participation in its mobile payment pilot that lets consumers buy drinks and earn My Coke Rewards loyalty points with a simple tap of their phones. The pilot began in Oct. 2012 in Austin, TX, where Coca-Cola is testing 200 machines outfitted with small screens and contactless readers that accept Isis mobile payments.
Smartphone users can download the Isis Mobile Wallet app, created through a joint venture between Isis, AT&T and Verizon Wireless, and securely add debit, credit and loyalty cards, coupons and more, which they can use to pay for purchases at participating stores -- and vending machines.
A My Coke Rewards membership with 30 points comes preloaded in the Isis Mobile Wallet. Consumers can enjoy their first beverage -- and every 10th drink after that -- for free. The points they earn can eventually be redeemed online for merchandise and special offers.
PHOTOS | Left: Tom Murn (r.), Answer Group (Farmingdale, NY), checks out Media technology on new Merchant glassfront merchandiser as Crane's Tony Buonanno does the honors. Center: Sean Brady (l.), Sealed Air Corp., and Jose Iribarren, Jofemar, show off attractive commissary-prepared meals vacuum-sealed in Cryovac packages for effortless reheating, and new Jofemar venders designed to present them to best advantage. Right: Admiring production model of Mondelez Diji-Touch, from left, are Mark Marciano, Diji-Touch; Carl Gerfo and Alan Dubs, Vendrite Vending (Whitestone, NY); and Dave McClain, Mondelez.
The new Media line took center stage in the Crane Merchandising Systems exhibit, as the latest options for the modular system made their debut (see VT, May). Media venders are designed to meet the needs of large and small operators by accommodating conventional or touchscreen interfaces, telemetry and a wide range of payment systems, including cashless transactions, all with "plug-and-play" installation when the need arises. Media technology is available on Crane's Merchant glassfront line, and soon will be an option for BevMax cold drink and new Voce specialty hot drink venders, too.
Fastcorp showed its popular Evolution variable-temperature robotic merchandiser in "Lunch Box" styling, which helps operators attract the attention of patrons looking for menu items they perceive as healthier than average. The ADA-compliant Evolution vender, which uses Fastcorp's novel vacuum-pickup delivery system, can be set to maintain an internal temperature between -25°F. and 65°F.; the Lunch Box styling treatment features a stylized Food Pyramid illustration on the rear face of the cabinet, behind the vacuum pickup assembly, and eye-catching melon graphics on the lower front panel. It can be set up with 12, 16 or 20 cardholders to identify selections. Like all Fastcorp temperature-controlled machines, Evolution holds products in a base-mounted cooler with robotically controlled lid for maximum efficiency in maintaining temperature. It features guaranteed-product delivery by means of a vacuum pickup assembly. This can handle products weighing as much as 4 lbs., and delivers them gently.
Jofemar's focus this spring is its new partnership with Sealed Air Corp.'s Cryovac division. The two companies teamed up to develop a system that makes it easy for operators to vend upscale, visually appealing commissary-prepared meals by using Cryovac's latest heat-and-serve packaging technology and Jofemar's machines.
Cryovac's vacuum-skin package, which seals tight to the food, is a key feature for vending applications because it attractively displays the product and prevents it from moving or settling. It also allows for vertical display and high-product visibility in glassfront machines. Additionally, CryoÂvac's new Simple Steps material provides steam-assisted cooking, is self-venting and eliminates the need for package perforation when reheating.
Jofemar is encouraging operators to incorporate Cryovac's packaging technology in their commissary operations and merchandise the products through its four newest machines.
Jofemar's latest equipment offering in the U.S. market is its Multiplus Gourmet, which features a built-in microwave oven that heats refrigerated foods and dispenses them warm and ready to eat. Heating time is programmable for each individual product for optimal taste and texture. A large, back-lit front advertising panel showcases items on the machine menu.
The company's glassfront ES-Plus dispenses refrigerated meals that consumers can heat in a separate microwave oven. It features Jofemar's Smart Vend elevator dispensing technology that delivers product to the consumer at hand level, minimizing the chance of damage. Its EasyFlex conveyor delivery system adjusts to accommodate various product sizes.
The company's Menu Master elevator-equipped vender also merchandises and dispenses refrigerated meals and accommodates a wide range of package sizes, and its closed-front Icefood machine stores and dispenses meals in a frozen state.
The production version of the Diji-Touch system from Mondelez was in action at the company's exhibit at OneShow after exhaustive testing over several years. The machine is fitted with a large touchscreen display that can serve multiple purposes, from displaying animated 3D images of products to supporting promotions and showcasing paid advertising. The touch interface allows patrons to rotate the high-resolution product images to display all six faces of the package, including ingredient and nutrition statements.
The machine is equipped for telemetry and cashless payment acceptance, and allows each product to be priced individually. Patrons can make multiple purchases in a single transaction by use of a digital "shopping cart" of the sort made familiar by commercial websites.
Product displays are programmable, allowing great flexibility in merchandising. It is possible, for example, to group items by category or occasion (such as breakfast products) -- and reposition the groups throughout the day, perhaps moving a group to the top of the display during the daypart for which it's most appropriate. Diji-Touch supports multilingual customer prompts, such as English and Spanish, French and English or English and Chinese.
A key to the Diji-Touch concept is advertising support that reduces the cost of the system and provides an additional revenue stream. Operators commit to stocking and displaying 18 Mondelez brands in order to qualify. The operator-subscriber manages machines through a secure website that provides access to real-time audit, inventory and status information, as well as tools to program the machine's functions and display.
The company reports that plans call for 300 Diji-Touch machines in the field by the end of this year, and 3,300 by the end of 2014.
A demonstration version of a Royal Vendors
cold-drink machine with large touchscreen display front powered by the new Iris platform from InOne Technology and Coin Acceptors attracted attention in the Royal Vendors booth. Iris builds on the success of Coinco's Arrow, an integrated solution for adding cashless payment acceptance and telemetry to a vending machine. Iris combines these Arrow capabilities with optional support for video displays, including touchscreens.
PHOTOS | Left: From left, Royal Vendors' Chuck Crockett reviews RVV video front with Ben and Joe Douglas, Douglas Distributing (Indianapolis). Vending machine is controlled by new InOne/Coinco Iris system. Center: Régis Le Bras (l.), IntuiÂSense, describes interactive video front with gesture recognition on V21 packaged cold drink vender for Philipe and Bertrand Descourdy and Michou LaCroix, CafCaf (Boucherville, QC, Canada). Right: Gary Partridge (r.), Seaga, details latest additions to popular Seaga Infinity glassfront vender line to Walter Rosenthal, Doctor Recommended Retail (Freehold, NJ). The series now includes Xtreme indoor-outdoor models.
The Iris system includes three readers: for magnetic-stripe cards only, mag-stripe and contactless cards, or both card types plus cash. It also supports the Iris Connect module, a small vending telemeter that handles credit and debit card transactions and enables two-tier (cash and card) pricing, and Iris Vision, free Web-based software that can provide machine malfunction and sold-out alerts, as well as real-time inventory information. Also available are Iris Window, a full-color touchscreen customer interface available in 4.3" and 7" sizes adaptable to a very wide range of machines.
Rounding out the system is Iris Media, which can work with Iris Vision and Iris Window to enrich consumer interaction with the machine as well as providing round-the-clock data monitoring.
The latest Royal Vision vender, RVV 500 Plus, is an Energy Star 3 and ADA-compliant glassfront cold beverage machine designed to accommodate a range of package types and sizes without the need for shims or kits, and featuring redesigned shelves that can be removed easily to facilitate cleaning. Its refrigeration system can be serviced without removing the bottom shelf. It is available with standard white or optional black interior finish, standard LED lighting, embedded energy management capability and optional product delivery validation.
Also on display in the Royal Vendors exhibit was the RVCFH-027 Vision Cooler, which features a slide-out refrigeration module to facilitate service and a built-in health timer to protect perishable products. It's offered in standard 6-shelf and optional 5-shelf configurations, and is finding favor with micromarket operators.
SandenVendo showed its new Interactive V21, fitted with a large interactive LED monitor that can display product information and graphics, nutrition labels and advertising. The one on display at OneShow allowed the patron to control it by gestures. This is done through an interface based on Microsoft's Kinect for Windows, which allows the customer to browse packaged cold drinks by hand gestures, then touch to select a product. It also can deliver interactive games, e.g. displaying a realistic baseball pitcher who throws three balls through the strike zone, challenging the customer to hit them with a virtual bat.
The Kinect interface was developed by IntuiSense (Gémenos, France), which has deployed Kinect-controlled vending machines in Europe; the company's founder, Régis Le Bras, was on hand to discuss the system with showgoers. The Interactive V21 presents a programming interface on the screen when the door is open, facilitating service and updates in the field. It can accept new program material from a USB flash memory drive, and also is remotely reprogrammable. The software uses html5 Web architecture for straightforward adaptation and remote access.
V21 is SandenVendo's flagship design, available in a range of sizes and styles including curved and flat fronts, with and without live display. It is fully compliant with the MDB protocol and DEX data transfer standard, and compatible with wireless telemetry and a variety of payment systems. The 72" and 79" models are available with optional CO2 refrigeration systems. All are ADA compliant, UL listed and Energy Star qualified, and meet or exceed the Department of Energy's 2012 requirements.
The new Seaga Infinity line and the Saeco specialty coffee equipment represented in the U.S. by Seaga were on display at OneShow. Configurable for snacks, cold drinks and/or food, Infinity made its debut earlier this spring (see VT, April). It incorporates mix-and-match trays for easy setup to meet specific location requirements, including a new large-capacity tray for 12-fl.oz. cans. Standard features include dual coils, LED product illumination, the Vigilant positive vend detection system and built-in scrolling price displays. Common components are used across all Infinity models, reducing parts inventory complexity. The venders are supplied with inline ground fault circuit interrupters.
Infinity machines are engineered for seamless integration with a wide range of payment systems and remote monitoring technology. Lockout and timed vending functions, as well as "meal deal" and "jackpot" promotions can be programmed. Options include Seaga's Smartware management information system to speed machine reprogramming and data transfer, as well as a media screen that can display advertising and promotional offers.
The new Infinity Xtreme outdoor design is finished with an ultraviolet-resistant coating. A reinforced cabinet features a locking T-handle cover and triple-efficiency glass. Infinity machines, including the Xtreme variants, are offered in two versions, snack and combo, each of which is available in 4-wide (35") and 5-wide (39") size.
The Saeco coffee equipment line includes the famous Italian manufacturer's vending series, now consisting of the countertop Phedra and Rubino machines and free-standing Cristallo and Atlante models. All provide genuine espresso brewing and wide selectivity, and are the products of Saeco's 25 years of vending innovation. Seaga also represents Saeco's automatic espresso machines for foodservice, including the Idea and Aroma lines.
Showgoers got their first look at the novel Sweet Amanda's Sweet 16 high-tech, high-impact refrigerated machine. Described as a mini automated candy store, it's designed for high-traffic public locations. The machine, built into a horizontal cabinet with bright, eye-catching graphics, vends bite-size candies from vertical bulk-loaded cylindrical bins, as well as novelty merchandise from dispensers mounted at the ends. It can dispense as many as 16 different types of candy, delivered in resealable cups, along with six selections of oversized capsuled products.
PHOTOS | Left: Steven and Robert Bruck (r.) show off merchandise dispensed by Sweet 16 vender: 16 selections of candy, delivered in lidded cups, as well as apparel and toys in large capsules. Refrigeration keeps candy cool. Center: Jim Groeschl, Groeschl Distributing (Richfield, WI) gets an update on U-Select-It Alpine Elevator refrigerated vender from USI's Heidi Chico. ADA-compliant machine uses elevator to deliver food. Right: VendoMax founders Rob Creswell (l.) and Mark Hixson show off an SVK cold drink machine. It's a trailer (the wheels are retracted here) with an array of photoelectric cells mounted to a horizontal panel above the body.
Patrons use the machine's touchscreen interface to choose from candies that can range in shape and size from wrapped Hershey Kisses and Starburst pieces to M&M's and Skittles. Candy is dispensed from the sealed, sanitary tubular bins onto a horizontal conveyor-belt (visible through a window), which then pours the selections into a Sweet Amanda's-branded cup -- providing an entertaining experience for the customer.
The Sweet 16 can hold 800 lbs. of candy, enough to fill about 700 cups. It is modular, so it can be modified to offer only eight selections. Sweet Amanda's capsule system enables operators to complement the bulk candy menu with everything from bagged candies and snacks to T-shirts, electronics and stuffed animals, packaged in large capsules.
Fourth-generation New York-area vending operators Steven and Robert Bruck founded the company. They reported that they have placed 20 "Sweet 16" machines in the field, and that public sites like shopping malls, airports, college campuses and amusement parks have proven to be ideal locations for them.
In the spotlight at the U-Select-It exhibit was the Alpine 5000 Elevator, a temperature-controlled multiproduct machine that can accommodate refrigerated food items, packaged cold beverages, candy and snacks. The ADA-compliant machine features first-in, first-out loading, and its elevator delivery system provides gentle handling for items such as platters, submarine sandwiches, soups and salads, along with carbonated beverages.
The versatile vender incorporates LED product lighting, a "low-E" (high thermal barrier) triple-pane Argon-filled front panel window and thick insulation foamed with zero ozone-depletion potential. The "eco-friendly" refrigeration system and the high-efficiency illumination minimize energy consumption; according to USI, the Alpine 5000 Elevator consumes less than 5.7 kilowatt-hours per day at an ambient temperature of 75°F. and relative humidity of 45%. The cabinet interior and refrigeration system are designed to provide balanced airflow.
Options available for the machine include the iCart touchscreen interface with 7" full-color LCD screen; a patented high-capacity tray that displays "live" product and holds as many as 150 12-fl.oz. cans; and a versatile steel beverage tray that can accommodate as many as 60 canned or bottled beverages arranged for 9- or 10-select delivery (depending on package widths). The standard pushbutton selector is an illuminated keypad with Braille-embossed keycaps.
The USI Alpine 5000 Elevator is MDB and DEX compliant, supports free and "combo" vend modes, offers flexible space-to-selection settings, permits time-of-day discounting and time-of-day shutdown modes, offers programmable coupon and token values as well as programmable point-of-sale messages, and can support a "talker" device for sight-impaired operators. The door is formed with a standard peripheral opening to accommodate additional payment for point-of-sale systems, and the MDB circuitry supports all industry-standard payment systems including cash and coin, as well as credit and debit cards. Each selection can be priced between 0¢ and $655.35.
Newcomer VendoMax has taken the wraps off two different versions of what it's billing as the world's first completely sustainable solar-powered beverage vending machines.
There are two of these. The "grid-free" SVK machine is a trailer that can be towed to any location where vending is desired, without the need for an electrical connection. It's styled to look like a giant soda can on its side, and can be installed in almost any outdoor environment, from fairs through concerts to sporting events. Top-mounted solar panels power the machine, which can accommodate up to 1,300 packaged cold drinks. The venders can be remotely raised and lowered, and feature hideaway wheels for safe and easy relocating. A backup battery provides electricity when the sun is not shining.
VendoMax's second "green" vending solution is the Solar Z, a solar-powered, 16-foot modular covered enclosure that can accommodate a traditional beverage vending machine and provide seating space, too. Solar panels perched atop the unit provide the power; again, an internal battery is provided to keep the machine running when the sun goes down.
Vendors Exchange International was marketing retrofittable state-of-the-art fronts for classic snack machines including the Automatic Products 113 and National Vendors 147 in its exhibit at OneShow. Slated for full production this summer is the Vendors Exchange Revision Door SE, which combines modern styling with LED product illumination, support for the company's MIND (Make Informed Nutrition Decisions) touchscreen information display system and more.
Next in the queue is the companion VE Discover, which incorporates a 10.4" touchscreen user interface (the Revision offers a numeric keypad), as well as LED cabinet lighting, speakers, cellular modem and WiFi support. VE Discover optionally is available with a barcode reader -- which, among other things, allows it to emulate a micromarket checkout terminal -- and a camera. It's scheduled to start rolling off the assembly line this fall.
At the top of the line is the VE Connect door, fitted with a 46" 1080p high-definition video display that presents animatable product images in brilliant color, and which can support many other uses ranging from information display and advertising to games and social interaction. It integrates a camera, a QR code reader for promotion uses and customer-engagement programs.
PHOTO: Aviel Dafna of Vendors Exchange International (left) demonstrates VE Discover vending-micromarket hybrid system to Scott Stern, Pepstern Natural Brands (Centennial, CO) during NAMA's OneShow. It integrates micromarket scanning and customer support with vending machine controller for consolidated audit and analysis.
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Sunday Scrambles
November 22, 2015 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Sunday Scrambles is a gathering of players of all levels on Sunday mornings to enjoy a casual morning of court tennis. Players will rotate on and off court over the course of 3 hours, and will be treated to fun times and a light breakfast (provided by the players themselves!)
Starting Sunday September 27th, every Sunday until February 7th (unless a tournament or event is being hosted) from 9am to 12pm
Free for full active members
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All players must sign up in Pro Shop for each Sunday, and are required to bring a food or drink item with them. When you sign up you will select the food or drink you would like to bring!


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Saturday, December 31, 2011
Some Words of Encouragement
This is a big step and I am so excited for John. I also know how scary it can be to go to a repository for the first time. Here's are some tips to make the adventure a little smoother.
1) Take Care of Practical Matters
One of the quickest and easiest ways to smooth the road to your first repository is to handle the practical matters first. Go to the archive or repository website and determine their address, phone number and hours of operation. Next print out a mapquest with directions to the location. Even if you have a gps, the mapquest will act a backup in case there are any road closures or your gps stops working. Before you go, call the archive to make sure they will be open the day you will be arriving.
2) Check the Catalog
The archive should have either an online catalog or guidance documents of their collections on their website. Check these to make sure they have the records you are looking for. If you still aren't sure after viewing the website, send the archivists an email and ask. Better to find out before driving for any length of time.
3) Check for Restrictions
Some archives have restrictions on what you can bring into the research area and what you can copy or photograph. Some places will have lockers where you will need to store your personal items. Bring quarters in case the lockers require them. Also bring dollar bills in small denominations. There's nothing worse than only having a $20 bill and the copy machine only takes up to $5 bills. There will likely be a change machine but who really wants $20 in quarters! Toss a few pencils in with your pens. Pens are not allowed in some places.
If anyone has any other suggestions for a first timer please share them here. Also, if anyone has first hand experience with the Maine Historical Society, I'm sure John would appreciate hearing your tips.
Good luck, John! I'm sure you're going to have a great experience.
Photo Credit: Photo by Stephen Cummings and used under the creative commons license.
13 comments:
I always find a librarian/staffer when I arrive. I let them know it is my first time to the library/courthouse/etc and ask for any tips. Most will be happy to show you where everything is and how to request materials.ReplyDelete
I like to make that personal connection so that a new place is not so intimidating.
I would check to see if there are lockers and can you pack and bring a lunch to store there. Is there anywhere nearby to eat or are you better off bringing a sandwich from home!ReplyDelete
I started before the Internet was in existence so I did the exact opposite of your friend - all that was available were microfilms and libraries and archives. Such a treat to have other options at our fingertips but there is so much that can't be found online just waiting for an offline dig and delve!
That first time is always a bit scary but he'll be surprised at what wonderful finds he can make in person:). Congrats to him for taking this important step!!ReplyDelete
Sierra's comments about making a personal connection is such a good one - the first time I went to our Provincial Archives, it was definitely challenging, so I smiled and asked the 'gatekeeper' on the public side of the guarded doorway, to "lead me by the hand so I don't make terrible mistakes!" And she and the guard were so helpful - I took notes of what I needed to know, and luckily had lots of change for copies. So exciting to be in a space where everyone there is researching for a purpose!! Wonderful experience, every time I go.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousDecember 31, 2011 at 5:34 PM
I remember before my first trip trying to find some advice like this. I know it will be very helpful. I could only add that a strategy to try when time permits is to purchase those white gloves (I buy them on EBay) and take a set in my bag, so I have my own, in the right size, if I need to wear them. One other thought is to bring a flash drive in case there's a computer where you could download pdf's or photos of microfilm pages - this is much cheaper and more convenient than paying for printouts.ReplyDelete
One other piece of advice is to remember these staff are busy and have their own work to do - so meet any objections (oh I don't know if I can get those volumes for you TODAY) with sympathy and complete agreement. Once they know you're kind and cooperative they usually manage to get whatever you need.
In Australia, some of the smaller town societies ask that you ring and make an appointment, so that they can be sure to have a volunteer on hand who can help you, especially if you have discussed your needs in advance.ReplyDelete
Other larger Societies, that have reciprocal rights ie, being a member of one, means you don't have to pay a fee at the other, request that you bring a letter of introduction from your local Society
NOTE: Many Australian local history and genealogical societies charge a daily fee to non-members for using their resources
Being a member of the Genealogical Society of Victoria, meant that I could use the facilities at the Society of Genealogists in Sydney, NSW. However, when I turned up unannounced, without my Letter of Introduction, I was left on my own to muddle through without any guidance what-so-ever - so know the rules - at least here, downunder!
I make sure that I have a list of clearly defined goals in addition to my list of documents/books from the online catalog that I want to look up. I have GOOD - Genealogy "Ooh, Shiny" Disorder! If I don't have a clearly defined path I get too excited over all of the great new-to-me resources at the repository. Also, make sure you have a copy of your tree, especially the branches that you don't think you are going to research. I have yet to have a trip where I didn't accidentally stumble on something that would be useful for another person or area on my tree. Being able to identify it will help you notice and note these surprise finds for future research trips.ReplyDelete
Just a few things that a newbie has learned recently! :)
My tip would be to have a clear goal about what information you are looking for and to draw up a list including names, dates and places (even if you are taking your entire family database on a laptop etc.).ReplyDelete
When visiting archives & genealogical libraries I often see people turn up "to do their family history" with only a vague idea of what it is they are looking for. They mostly go away empty-handed, not because the information isn't there but because they don't know what records to look in.
It's also difficult for staff to help if the person doesn't know what it is they are looking for!
Remember to pack a lunch or snack so that your blood sugar doesn't drop while you're busy finding records. You don't want to have to quit early because of your stomach.ReplyDelete
I envy John's wonderful new adventure in original records. Whenever I visit an archive/repository, I'm always deeply moved by being able to touch a record that my ancestors also touched. Have a great time, John!ReplyDelete
Good tips, Marian! I especially encourage calling or writing ahead so you know what the local protocols are. And if you do find a worker in the repository who is especially helpful:(1) thank them; (2) thank their boss; (3) don't take undue advantage!ReplyDelete
- AnonymousJanuary 2, 2012 at 9:23 AM
Great tips. I used to regularly sit for so long that my feet went to sleep and my neck locked up. Take regular breaks, walk about, drink some water, and don't forget to eat lunch! Oh, and enjoy yourself :-)ReplyDelete
When in doubt about something, email or call the library or archive so you are informed before arrival. Also find out if they need/prefer to pull materials before your arrival. If you are looking at a lot of materials this may be helpful.ReplyDelete
Also search for and read blog posts about the places you want to visit. You may learn some useful tips and sometimes things to avoid doing.


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The strong current whisked us back to Bagheera none too soon. Just as we arrived on board and the frigate birds came home to roost, a storm began to brew. In no time we were surrounded by flashes of lightning. By contrast to our day in paradise, we experienced a horrific night, with Bagheera tossing violently in the heavy squalls, bucking furiously at the constraints of anchor and chain while teeming rain hammered the deck. Andy bounced through the forward hatch like a Jack-in-a-box, checking our position to make sure we were holding fast and in no danger from other boats. Their anchor lights at times were completely obscured by the rain.
There was a tense moment as a boat drifted past us. A man staggered on deck, shouting at us hysterically, "You are dragging! You are dragging! Check your anchor quickly. I don't want you running into me." The vessel soon disappeared astern.
Good anchors and rodes are essential insurance for a safe boat and successful cruising. Lack of confidence and worry over the set of the anchor are not only guaranteed to spoil the next day's cruising and sightseeing, they will also cause disenchantment with the cruising lifestyle.
Anchors Long-distance cruisers generally carry a minimum of three anchorsat least one main, everyday anchor that is carried at the bow and used in normal conditions, a storm anchor, and a kedge, or lighter anchor for maneuvering. When choosing anchors, keep in mind that all types have their strengths and weaknesses and that no single anchor yet devised is good in all bottoms and in all conditions.
There are dozens of patented anchors available that have their merits. Virtually all cruisers, however, stick to proven anchors that have stood the test of time. The Bruce anchor and CQR plow, both of which achieve their holding power with broad penetrating flukes, are overwhelmingly the most popular main anchors used by offshore cruisers. We carry one of each on our 40-foot, 17,000-pound Bagheeraa 45-pound CQR and a 33-pound Bruce.
The Bruce is known for setting quickly and remaining buried when the boat turns with the current or wind. It also holds well if a short scope is necessary and has proved a strong anchor by use on North Sea oil rigs. An occasional problem can occur if a rock or other object gets caught in its 'scoop,' preventing penetration.
The genuine CQR also performs well in many bottom types, digs deeper the harder the pull, and continues to hold if the boat turns.
The Delta is gathering many enthusiasts and seems to combine the best attributes of the Bruce and CQR.
The Danforth and other fluke-style anchors such as the Fortress are comparatively light and hold well in a soft bottom of mud or sand with a straight pull, which happens to be the weakest point of both the Bruce and the CQR. Where these conditions are the norm, fluke style anchors can be used as a main anchor, which is why they are so popular in North America. But they are not good in rock, coral, or sea grass. They may also fail to re-bury if the boat turns, or reset if the anchor has dragged. They are particularly prone to damage if force is required to dislodge them from the bottom and can even be distorted by a change in direction of pull. Because they are relatively light, and therefore easy to set from a dinghy, they are popular and effective as kedges. They are also the anchor of choice to attach in series to a main anchor, for vastly increased holding power.
Anchor Size Seasoned sailors always choose a larger size of anchor, including shackles, swivels, chain, and anchor windlasses than is recommended for the size of the boat, particularly if the boat has high windage or 'sails' at anchor. But keep in mind that you may have to pull the anchor up by hand before going too far for your everyday anchor. Marine stores and manufacturers have reference tables to help choose a size, usually based on boat length, displacement, or freeboard. A Bruce, a CQR, or a Delta that is oversized for your boat will also be effective as a storm anchor.
Anchor Rodes These should be all chain, or a combination of rope and chain. On our Bruce main anchor we have 300 feet of 5/16-inch, high-test chain. Our storm rode is 80 feet of 3/8-inch BBB chain and 300 feet of octoplait rope. We carry additional lengths of rope and chain in case it is needed. Although ideal scope using chain and rope is generally considered to be 7:1 in normal conditions, in storm conditions we would put out as much scope as possible considering the size of anchorage, vicinity of other boats, wind direction, tide height, and currents.
When anchors are set, a 1/2-inch nylon strop clipped onto the chain about 6 feet down from the bow roller and fastened to a bow cleat is commonly used. This takes the load, reduces jerking of the chain, and minimizes noise. A rubber-snubber may also be used on this strop to increase its elasticity. For a storm anchor, a heavy chain combined with good quality nylon rode eases the shock loads, but the rope must be kept clear of coral and the bow fairlead to guard against chafe.
We found many bottoms in the Mediterranean littered with ancient chains and old wrecks. With such foul conditions it is prudent to attach an anchor buoy to the crown of the main anchor to locate and retrieve it if it is lost or stuck. A plastic bleach bottle works well.
Bow Rollers Cruisers commonly have two bow rollers and ideally have a self-stowing system for the rode and an anchor locker or chain pipe, which can be sealed when underway. Both the Bruce and CQR anchors stow well on bow rollers, but must always be lashed or pinned securely on passages. Many cruisers also have a system for a stern anchor, particularly useful in the Mediterranean as it allows one to Med Moor bow-in.
|"Our electric windlass not only saves our backs in deep anchorages, it also takes Andy aloft in the bosun's chair to complete regular rig inspectionshe is not light enough to pull up the mast! "
Either manual or electric windlasses are almost essential in the many areas where anchoring depths regularly exceed 30 feet. Manual models are powerful but very slow, and electric windlasses are becoming increasingly popular. We changed to an all chain-rode aboard Bagheera to cruise the Pacific, and were fortunate that on arrival in Fiji in 1987 after the second military coup, we met a chandler who was happy to sell his stock at bargain prices. Thus we became the proud owners of a Maxwell electric windlass, although we had to wait until Australia to find chain to fit the gypsy. The correct combination of anchor size, chain, and windlass is importantmost cruiser tend to err on the heavy side.
When buying an electric windlass consider the advantages of the vertical varieties over the horizontal. Although the horizontal ones are easy to install, the vertical designs are more efficient as more of the chain is in contact with gypsy. They can also take leads from different angles and have the motor below deck where it is protected from the elements and is less likely to corrode. Always purchase a unit that has a capstan or drum for rope as well as the chain gypsy so that it can be used as a power winch.
Our electric windlass not only saves our backs in deep anchorages, it also takes Andy aloft in the bosun's chair to complete regular rig inspectionshe is not lightweight to pull up the mast! It is also used to hoist the inflatable dinghy on deck whether for security at night or for stowing before passages. Most significant of all, the electric windlass makes it no chore to shift anchorages at a whim when conditions change. Previously the heavy work involved with the manual windlass made us reluctant to move except when absolutely necessary.
Dinghy Anchor A small anchor is needed for the dinghy. Small folding grapnels, Bruces, or Fishermen anchors are commonly used.
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Life in the Wasteland.
More often than not we hear about world pollution without really getting to witness what the horror really looks like. If you haven't thought twice about your carbon footprint and consumption take a look at these brutal photographs presented by GigaPica. See where your waste really goes and the effects it has on the health and welfare of poorer nations and the way it is truly destroying our natural resources.
via LOUDreams


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You can classify bids into five major categories, including competitive bid, design/build, negotiated work, time and material (fixed fee) and unit pricing. No matter which method you choose, an accurate bid always includes labor cost including burden (fringes), material cost, sales tax, subcontract and rental expenses, direct job expenses and overhead.
Competitive bid. You can use this type of bid for private, public or government projects. Two types of competitive bids exist: selected and prequalified. With the selected bid, only selected contractors meeting specific criteria receive invitations to bid.
A prequalified bid requires you to demonstrate your ability to complete the project with qualifications such as bonding capacity, previous experience or financial capacity.
Design/build. In a design/build project, the client gives you a general floor layout without much detail and expects you to design and construct the electrical wiring according to written specifications.
Negotiated work. In this type of work, a limited number of contractors negotiate the bid price. These projects often come with a flexible budget but tight schedule.
Time and material (T&M) proposal. Sometimes called fixed fee, time and material pricing is necessary when existing conditions make it difficult for you to provide a fixed dollar amount bid. You base this bid on a given rate per hour for labor (including benefits, overheads and profit) with the material billed separately at an agreed markup. Many electrical professionals also use this method to price change orders.
Unit pricing. Some customers award jobs to contractors on a unit-price basis, where the unit price includes material and labor costs. This is often the case when the customer is not quite sure of the required quantities of specific items. By having a unit price, the customer knows in advance what it will cost to perform specific tasks.
The unit price must include the labor cost, labor burden, material cost, sales tax, direct cost, overhead and profit. You also must update the value of each unit regularly to accurately reflect costs. Since this doesn't always happen, profits on unit-price estimates tend to decrease on each succeeding bid. This is because material and labor costs typically increase before the unit prices are repriced.
As in any estimating scenario, you can't anticipate all expenses in advance. However, experienced estimators accept a satisfactory margin of error. As with anything in life, the more experience you gain, the more accurate and confident you become. With increased experience and practice, you'll more quickly complete an accurate estimate.
Mike Holt is president of Mike Holt Enterprises Inc., Tamarac, Fla.


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[recipe here]
Oh, how I have been looking forward to this day! Delicious, crispy caramel shell, atop a sea of creamy goodness. Darling crème brulée, you are possibly the best non-chocolate dessert around. Mari, I thank you profusely for picking it for this week's TWD challenge :)
Honestly, I had no idea that making crème brulée would be so easy! The only really hard thing about it was that looong wait for the custards to chill before torching 'em. Three hours at least?! Intolerable. ;)
Confession: I didn't have any milk around... so I used all cream. (I know, who has cream but not milk?? Weirdo.) I didn't think it would really hurt anything (except maybe my arteries), so I went ahead with it.
My custard did take a much longer time to set up in the oven than the recipe said it would. I thought it was the lack of milk, but I read that a bunch of other bakers had the same issue. Anyway, it still ended up being yumtious!
I also cut the recipe down to 1/3 of the original, which turned out to be the exact right amount for four of these adorable, tiny ramekins I found at Whole Foods.
As some of you know, I had some issues getting my spankin' new blowtorch to work (btw, thanks again to Sula for the awesome gift!!) My words of advice for new blowtorch owners are:
- Do not attempt to fill it with the butane canister UPRIGHT. (Worst diagram ever!) They both need to be upside down, or the torch will just fill with air.
- When you are "bleeding" something, the thing you want to be bleeding is the AIR out of the TORCH.
- If it is not working, invest in some compressed air, and use it liberally to blast all surfaces (and innards) of the torch.
- Check out this website (click the Maintenance button and scroll down to Maintenance Guide) for more troubleshooting tips.
Anyway, I eventually got it working :)
The stop motion video is back! I thought it would be cool to relive the caramelization :)
And here is my favorite part:
Love it.
Thanks again for the pick, Mari. You rule! :) The recipe is over at Mari's blog, Mevrouw Cupcake. Also, don't forget to check out all of the other wonderful bakers at TWD! Note that the lovely ladies in charge are capping the group at the end of October, so it's now or never if you are thinking of joining us! :)


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Players of the Week - No. 9
Efraim scored three goals in the No. 8 RedHawks final two regular-season contests, including a pair in a 2-2 tie with top-ranked Lindsey Wilson (Ky.) on Oct. 29. The junior midfielder also netted a ball in a 2-0 blanking of Bethel (Tenn.) on Oct. 25 to help Martin Methodist clinch the No. 1 seed in the TranSouth Athletic Conference Tournament.
Hailing from Nevatim, Israel, Efraim's 1.21 goals per game average lists her ninth nationally and she is listed 13th in points per game (2.64) and 14th in total goals (17). This is the second time this season that Efraim has been honored as the National Offensive Player of the Week.
Smith anchored the 18th-ranked Warrior defense in their final regular season Golden State Athletic Conference matches. The Pleasanton, Calif., native, made nine saves in a 3-1 win over Fresno Pacific (Calif.) on Oct. 26. She followed with a two-save effort to claim her fourth shutout of her sophomore campaign as Westmont dealt No. 3 Point Loma Nazarene (Calif.) its first loss of the season, 2-0, on Oct. 29.
The final Players of the Week announcement will be on Nov. 8.
Offensive Nominees: Jenelle Masi, Daemen (N.Y.); Courtney Brinson, William Carey (Miss.); Nori Gedei, Park (Mo.); Geneva Gray, McPherson (Kan.); Acacia Johnson, Northwest (Wash.); Anna Ayers, Georgetown (Ky.); Jackie Acevedo, Southern Nazarene (Okla.); Breann Kinworthy, Missouri Valley; Ashley Correa, Westmont (Calif.); Molly Rockrohr, St. Ambrose (Iowa); Laura Luis, Texas at Brownsville; Ally Tamerius, Doane (Neb.); Abby Coburn, Carroll (Mont.); Helen Lynskey, Northwood (Fla.); Kaitlyn Hooper, Asbury (Ky.); Maegan Smith, Spring Arbor (Mich.); Sofie Jorgensen, Union (Ky.); Allison Doyle, Trinity Christian (Ill.); Mackenzy Hickner, Siena Heights (Mich.); Brittanie Perez, Holy Names (Calif.).
Defensive Nominees: Katrina Holm, Olivet Nazarene (Ill.); Emily Warren, Union (Tenn.); Morgan Anderson, Bellevue (Neb.); Ellen Ghirardi, Park (Mo.); Jordan Holmes, Northwest (Wash.); Taylor Mays, Ottawa (Kan.); Cathie Shaver, Georgetown (Ky.); Christa Rogers, Tennessee Wesleyan; Nicole Goad, Missouri Valley; Kelly Schroeder, St. Ambrose (Iowa); Kelsey Duley, Aquinas (Mich.); Monica Mendes, Texas at Brownsville; Caitlin Thorpe, Northwestern Oklahoma State; Rebecca Glisan, Hastings (Neb.); Lindsey Cesena, William Jessup (Calif.); Matilda Ojaniemi, Northwood (Fla.); Alyssa Curtis, Spring Arbor (Mich.); Kayla Richardson, Mountain State (W.Va.); Dayna Winter-Nolte, Westminster (Utah); Jessica Monarch, Faulkner (Ala.).
2011 Composite Award Winners (Offensive; Defensive)
Week 1: Mor Efraim, Martin Methodist (Tenn.); Caroline Mellard, Montreat (N.C.)
Week 2: Caitlin Stier, Bellevue (Neb.), Brooke Martin, LSU Shreveport
Week 3: Sara Hoffman, Judson (Ill.), Alyssa D'Egidio, Avila (Mo.)
Week 4: Jaime Tomaszewski, Aquinas (Mich.); Chelsea Gregg, Madonna (Mich.)
Week 5: Jackie Acevedo, Southern Nazarene (Okla.); Erica Wessels, Point Loma Nazarene (Calif.)
Week 6: Florence Dadson, Robert Morris (Ill.); Aubree Gallego, Texas Wesleyan
Week 7: Kelsey Christner, Grace (Ind.); Erin Frushon, Biola (Calif.)
Week 8: Jenna Steffensen, Judson (Ill.); Chelsea McMullin, Rogers State (Okla.)
Week 9: Mor Efraim, Martin Methodist (Tenn.); Lindsey Smith, Westmont (Calif.)


text: Former St. Louis Cardinals manager Tony La Russa is introduced before Game One of the World Series in 2011. La Russa will be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame on Sunday. Paul Sancya/AP hide caption toggle caption Paul Sancya/AP Sports 'No Easy Answer': Ex-Baseball Manager La Russa On Legacy, Steroids July 25, 2014 Tony La Russa, who won more games than any MLB manager in the past 60 years, will be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Links to steroids have kept notable players of his from getting that recognition. 'No Easy Answer': Ex-Baseball Manager La Russa On Legacy, Steroids Listen · 7:19 7:19 Toggle more options Download Embed Embed <iframe src="https://www.npr.org/player/embed/334891027/335156497" width="100%" height="290" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" title="NPR embedded audio player"> Transcript


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Lang Lang shows up, shows off and puts on a memorable evening in Colorado
It was the sort of moment classical fans wait all season for: to hear one of the most exciting musicians of an era perform one of the most popular compositions ever written.
And so Boettcher Concert Hall was full in force and anticipation as Lang Lang sat down to play Tchaikovsky's Piano Concerto No. 1 Friday night. The pianist is known for his precision and passion for the music, but also for unleashing an indulgent streak that can take an evening over the top.
What did he bring to Denver?
All of it. Lang Lang was on the attack, no doubt, but he didn't disrespect a concerto so familiar people can hum it. He did put on quite a show though; the 30-year-old knows how to bring drama to a stage.


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The PSNI has said it plans to question witnesses to the killing by British soldiers of 14 Catholic civil rights marchers in Derry 40 years ago.
The interviews form part of a murder investigation announced by the PSNI in 2012 into the Bloody Sunday killings.
On 30 January 1972, British troops opened fire during an unauthorised march in the Bogside in Co Derry.
Soldiers killed 13 people and injured 14, one of whom died later. The victims were all unarmed Catholics.
A spokesperson for the PSNI said: "Preliminary work has begun into what will be a lengthy and complex investigation.
"For the investigation to be as comprehensive and effective as possible, police will be asking for public support in the form of witnesses who gave evidence to the Saville Inquiry now making statements to detectives."
That inquiry by High Court judge Lord Saville was the longest and most expensive in British legal history.
It concluded in 2010 that there was no justification for the shootings, prompting Prime Minister David Cameron to apologise for the killings.
Citing an unnamed source close to the police, the Sunday Times newspaper said up to 20 retired British soldiers could be arrested on suspicion of murder or attempted murder.
A spokesman for Britain's Ministry of Defence declined to comment.


text:
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Now that we are entering the second year of the second decade of the 21st century, what does one have to keep on the radar screen concerning the business and economics of agriculture? This is an extended column discussing some of the elements that will be keys to your success, regardless of ag industry or business.
The first key out of the chute is to think globally and act locally. This is essential to managing your business by bringing the complex world of global economics to your doorstep. Various sources of information can help you accomplish this, such as seminars, online resources through your computer or iPad, or just old-fashioned reading and face-to-face interaction.
Another element will be the economic and political fortunes of the BRICS nations – Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. According to theEconomist magazine, Russia and Brazil's GDP growth will slow to the mid-3% range. Russia, of course, may have political issues with leadership, and some think Brazil may be heading toward recession.
China and India, the two most populous nations of the world economy, are experiencing slowing growth due to reduced demand for exported consumer goods. China will change political leadership in October. A new Asian trade pact between Japan, China and other Asian nations bears watching as this area of the world forms a powerful global bloc economy. South Africa, the largest economy on the African continent, along with South America and Oceania are key southern hemisphere alliances formed with Asian nations to provide food, fiber and fuel to the growing population.
As I state in my seminars, follow the 8-5-3 rule to determine the BRICS nations' impact domestically. That is, if these nations' combined GDP growth is 8% or more, demand for grain and row-crop production will be robust. Be aware that the input costs with oil will be high, placing a premium on margin management by producers. A decline to 5% growth rate will reduce commodity prices by 20%. If these economies' growth rates are below 3%, denoting a recession, this could be the foreteller of a correction in commodity prices.
Domestically, expect slow to moderate growth of the U.S. economy between 1% and 2%. The headwinds of unemployment and housing, along with the political and regulatory uncertainty in a major election-year do not bode well for those industries linked or aligned with the domestic economy. A major black swan or unusual event in the form of political, economic, military or natural disaster, could lapse the U.S. economy into recession.
The European economies will continue to struggle in 2012, which may impact the strength of the dollar and demand for U.S. Treasuries. Do not be surprised if some of the European nations such as Greece and Italy have a credit crisis and are asked to leave the Euro alliance. If Europe goes into recession, this will impact China and Asian economies, which are linked to the recent success of grain and row crop agriculture in the upper Midwest.
The key for livestock will be continued demand for beef, pork, dairy and poultry, both domestically and internationally. Again, margin management should be the first priority for these industries while making every attempt to have an effective risk management program for output and input prices, which have skyrocketed in recent years.
Land values will continue to rise in areas tied to grain, row crops and rights to oil, gas, water and minerals. The key question will be how fast these farmland values and cash rents will ascend before the margin is driven from these assets. As agriculture makes the news as the shining star economically, it will draw traditional and nontraditional investors to purchase farmland.
What could cause a land value correction? A combination of global economic slowdown, increased interest rates, stronger returns from other investments such as stocks and bonds, possible trade sanctions or currency disruptions could result in a modest or moderate decline in land values.
In 2012, expect the continued acceleration and impact of the convergence of biotechnology, engineering and information technology. Those producers who have high-quality land, labor and capital resources can benefit by implementing new technology in a cost efficient manner to see profits rise. On the other hand, agriculture will be the industry of opportunity, as one size will not fit all. Local, natural and organic operations in some areas will benefit from highly skilled ag entrepreneurs who are attuned to the marketplace. Midsized farms and ranches are still viable, but will require prudent debt management and modest living withdrawals. Larger, more complex agricultural businesses will be dominant players in the marketplace. Some growing family businesses will fall into this category and be the domain for individuals who have the strong organizational and people skills of a CEO executive producer.
Keys for success in 2012
- You have to read if you are going to lead.
- Have a sound profit plan that allocates profits to the resources that provide the biggest return.
- Build a financial shock absorber of cash, liquidity and equity in case of unusual events.
- Finally, enjoy 2012 by establishing goals for business, family and personal life, with a key focus on balance.
Editor's note: Dave Kohl, Corn & Soybean Digest trends editor, is an ag economist specializing in business management and ag finance. He recently retired from Virginia Tech, but continues to conduct applied research and travel extensively in the U.S. and Canada, teaching ag and banking seminars and speaking to producer and agribusiness groups. He can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com.


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text:
Electronics Recycler Convicted for Illegal Exports to Developing Countries/
A trial by jury convicted Executive Recycling, formerly of Englewood, Colorado and two of its top executives in a Denver Federal Court this morning for illegally exporting hazardous waste electronics to developing countries. Executives Tor Olson and Brandon Richter were convicted of criminal charges for illegal export of hazardous waste, smuggling, obstruction of justice, and wire and mail fraud. Brandon Richter was the former owner and CEO of Executive, an electronics recycler that also had locations in Utah and Nebraska. Executive Recycling has since changed its name to Techcycle. The charges came after the Basel Action Network (BAN), a toxic trade watchdog organization, observed and photographed 20 seagoing containers leaving the Executive Recycling loading docks and tracked them overseas. BAN then gave the information to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Enforcement, the Government Accountability Office, and CBS News. Executive Recycling was then featured in a sting type investigation on CBS News' 60 Minutes in an episode entitled "The Wasteland" which followed one of Executive's containers to China with BAN's Executive Director Jim Puckett. Following that episode, EPA Enforcement and Homeland Security Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), indicted Executive Recycling on 16 criminal counts. BAN claims that the export activities of the company are still a very common practice in North America and most often companies get away with it.
"This conviction is very welcome, but sadly as we speak, there are many hundreds of other fake recyclers out there that are loading up Asian-bound containers full of our old toxic TVs and computers," said Puckett. "Every day about 100 containers of toxic e-waste arrive in the Port of Hong Kong alone. We hope this conviction sends a very strong message to business and the public that they should only use the most responsible recyclers."
To help the public make good choices for their electronic waste (e-waste), BAN joined forces with business leaders to create the e-Stewards Certification program. e-Stewards is the only electronic recycling certification program that ensures through annual audits that companies will never export hazardous wastes electronics to developing countries. Areas like Guiyu township in China have been seriously contaminated by toxic e-waste imports. Lead levels in the blood of children there are some of the highest in the world.
BAN also maintains that clear and strict legislation is needed to make such export activity explicitly illegal in the United States as it is in the rest of the world. According to BAN, prosecuting the Executive case was very difficult for the government as they were forced to make their case using fraud, smuggling, and other charges, as the environmental export laws we have are vague and ineffective. BAN has joined forces with the Electronics TakeBack Coalition, as well as the Coalition for American Electronics Recycling (CAER) in support of the bipartisan Responsible Electronics Recycling Act, which, if passed, will bring the US in compliance with international Basel Convention decisions forbidding export of hazardous electronic waste to developing countries.
"Executive Recycling was caught this time," Puckett said, "but it has been almost impossible for the government to prosecute this kind of very common activity due to a lack of appropriate legislation. If we can pass the Responsible Electronics Recycling Act in Congress we could put a quick halt to the horrors of criminal waste trafficking."


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SPRINGFIELD, MA--The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth's track and field team had several good performances on their first day of competition at the Eastern College Athletic Conference Championships at Springfield's Blake Track Thursday.
In the hammer, junior Krista Chauvin (Seekonk, MA/Seekonk HS/Stonehill) finished first at 176 feet, 10 inches. Junior Brett Croteau (Rehoboth, MA/Dighton-Rehoboth HS) was third in the javelin in 193 feet, 2 ½ inches. Despite not making the finals, freshman Laquaysia Anderson-Jenkins (Brighton, MA/Brighton HS) ran a personal best time of 12.35 seconds at 100 meters, which is the third fastest time in school history. And freshman Ashley Motta (Swansea, MA/Case HS) threw the javelin 97 feet, 10 ½ inches after her javelin did not pass inspection and she had to use an unfamiliar one.
"It was nice to see Krista continue her winning ways, and it was nice for Laquaysia to get a personal best in her last race of the season at 100 meters," said UMass Dartmouth Head Coach Steve Gardiner.
The meet will conclude Friday.


text: Mason Storm is a Latina MILF without peer. A big-titted bisexual Puerto Rican bombshell packed into a tiny 4'9 frame, Mason Storm is all kinds of awesome. From her nice round tits, made extra impressive by her tiny stature, all the way to her perfect Latina ass, she exudes sex appeal. What really sets her apart from the crowd, however, is her unique personality. A lover of pit-bulls, Wicca, and vampire books, she also loves to SCUBA and even has her spear fishing license! Her sex toy collection, belly dancing outfits, and sexy whip collection will all show you that this raven-haired hottie is also serious about sex! She takes on every scene she shoots with enthusiasm, and when you hear her start to talk dirty in Spanish, you'll have to agree that there's no one quite like Mason Storm.