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CEO Of Nokia Says That Dual And Quad Core Phones Are "Not Useful"
I don't know about you guys, but I have noticed a significant performance boost since switching from my 1ghz single core Nexus One to my dual core 1.2ghz (1.8ghz with overclock :-D) HTC Sensation. Gaming wise, the extra power is pretty easy to see, and there's no denying that for specific applications, it sure does make a huge difference. But according to Nokia CEO Stephen Elop, dual core and quad core phones are simply a waste of battery and "not useful" to consumers.
That was the translation that Unwired View has from an intervew with Yangcheng Evening News (Chinese News Outlet). It's not really a suprise that Stephen feels that way, conisdering that Nokia's OS of choice (Windows Phone) doesn't truly support dual core devices. But what makes no sense to me is why the Windows Phone team are reportedly testing the dual core 1.5ghz Qualcomm MSM8960 CPU, and that a Windows dual core device will reportedly land later this year. Huh? And then yet again, WP7 unit boss Andy Lees explained that a mutli core phone was in the pipeline to compete with Android devices. So which one is it Stephen? If they aren't useful to customers, why are you working on one?
For me personally, this is a no brainer. Yes, dual core devices do tend to have battery drain, but then again, so did my single core Android phones. I get a day and a half with moderate usage out of my phone now before having to recharge my battery, so I'm not complaining. And I really see a difference when running graphic intensive games like Riptide or Deadspace. What I DO wish we would see more of is memory. Damn near every high end Android phone is still limited to 1 gig of RAM. 2 gigs of RAM would SURELY bring a nice performance boost, especially considering how Android allocates memory. The other thing that doesn't make headlines much is news on BETTER BATTERIES. Surely if we can get 4 processors into a phone (fun fact: my HTC Sensation specwise is more powerful in many ways than the computer I had in 2005), engineers can design better batteries. I read about new battery concepts all the time, but in the end for some reason, they never seem to become integrated into devices, and remain "concepts" for years and years.
Even Apple is on board the dual core bandwagon, although surprisingly they opted not to include a quad core processor in the new iPad. I think anyone who has ever used the orginal iPad and the iPad 2 will be quick to tell you that the dual core iPad 2 is a much faster device.
Not that I'm saying that it's ALL about the processor. But I think there is enough evidence to show that they do in fact make a difference.
What do you guys think? Does it actually make sense to have phones/tablets with dual and quad core processors, or is it simply a waste?
Picture credits: geekrevealed.com / somobile.co.uk / iphone5tipsblog.com
Source: Pocket Lint


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Only once in your life,
I truly believe,you find
someone who can completely
turn your world around…
Judge not, before you
judge yourself.Judge not,
If you're not ready for judgement.
"You may not be her first,her last,
or her only.She loved before,
she may love again.But if she
loves you now, what else matters?
She's not perfect, you aren't either,
and the two of you may never be perfect
together.But if she can make you laugh,
cause you to think twice and admit to
being human and making mistakes, hold
onto her and give her the most you can.
She may not be thinking about you every
second of the day, but she will give you
a part of her and she knows you can break
her heart. So don't hurt her, don't change her,
din't analyse and don't expect more than she can give.
Smile when she makes you happy,
let her know when she makes you mad,
and miss her when she's not there.
"When the race gets hard to run.
It means you just can't take the peace."
"The day you stop racing,
is the day you win the race."
"Who are you to judge the Life I live?
Iam not perfect and I dont have to be!
Before you start pointing fingers,
make sure your hands are clean."
"Love the Life you Live.
Live the Life you Love."
"If she is amazing she won't be easy.
If she's easy she won't be amazing.
If she's worth it, you wont give up.
If you give up, you're not worthy…
Truth is, everybody is going to hurt you;
you just gotta find the ones worth suffering for."
"Life is one big road with lots of signs,
So when you riding through the ruts, don't
complicate your mind, Flee from hate,
mischief and jealousy. Don't bury your thoughts,
put your vision to reality. Wake Up and Live!"
"One good thing about music,
when it hits you, you feel no pain"
"Some Will Hate You
Pretend They Love You
Now Then Behind They Try
To Eliminate You"
"You say you love rain, but you use an
Umbrella to walk under it.
You say you love sun, but you seek
shade when it is shining.
You say love wind, but when it comes
you close your window.
So that's why I'm scared when
you say You love me".
You just can't live in that negative way…
make way for the positive day.
"Don't gain the world and
lose your soul, wisdom is
better than silver or gold."
"Your worst enemy should be your best friend,
and your best friend your worst enemy."
Your life is worth much more than gold.
"I know I'm not perfect
and that I dont claim to be
so before you point your fingers
make sure your hands are clean."
Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery
None but ourselves can free our minds.
"In this bright future ,
you can't forget your past."
"The geatness of a man
is not in how much wealth
he acquires but in his integrity
and his ability to affect those
around him positively".
"You never know how strong you are,
until being strong is your only choice."
Get Up, Stand Up, Stand Up for Your Right.
Get Up, Stand Up, Don't Give Up The Fight.
Get Up, Stand Up, Life is Your Right
Don't Give Up The Fight.
When you smoke the herb,
It reveals you to yourself.
One Love,
One heart,
One destiny.
Money can't buy you life.
Herb is the healing of a nation,
alcohol is the destruction.
Overcome the devils with
a thing called love.
They say: only the fittest
of the fittest shall survive,
Stay alive!
The hungry mob is an angry mob.
"Live for yourself and
You will live in vain;
Live for others, and
you will live again."
The good times of today,
are the sad thoughts of tommorrow.
No Woman, No Cry…
Well me don't swim too tough, so
me don't go in the water too deep.
Two days before Bob Merley was supposed to Perform
He was shot. Two days latet he walked on the stage
and performed. And they asked him in an interview
Why didn't he rest. And he said "The people who are
trying to make the world worse never take a day off.
Why should I Light up the darkness".
If what you see by the eye doesn't please you,
then close your eyes and see from the heart,
Because the heart can see beauty and love
more than the eyes can ever wonder.
"There will never be no love at all."
Open your eyes and look within,
are you satisfied with the life
you are living? We know where we are
going, we know where we are from.
When one door is closed,
don't you know that
many more are open.
"My fear is my only courage"
No related posts.

subset: commoncrawl


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Tag Archives: Files
Free Tools to Convert Any File Format Online
Use These Free Tools for Conversions
There is no need to download any software when wanting to convert a PDF into a DOC or a FLAC into an MP3. You only need to go to the computer, open your browser, go to one of these sites mentioned below, and be done in a hurry.
When using apps on the web, you do not need to worry about malware being installed as it does with software. In addition, there is no need to uninstall or clean this stuff out of your computer.
Zamzar: Convert Anything to Anything
Zamzar is one of the most popular and oldest online conversion tools. More than 1200 different format conversions are supported. It is safe to convert video files, audio files, images, documents, and many more. Size needs to be below 100MB.
After a file is added, the extension is analyzed and file formats in which it could be converted to will be shown next.
Interface is easy to use, with an option for a notification to be sent by email, which can be a nice way to send a friend your file link. There is no need to sign up.
Cloud Convert: Convert Cloud Based Files
Zamzar has two limitations making it worth to look at Cloud Convert. You are able to convert up to 1GB of files when you sign up for a free account, and you are able to connect it to cloud storage such as Google Drive. OneDrive, Box and Dropbox to download and upload files automatically from them accounts.
Although Cloud Convert only supports 208 file formats rather than the 1200+ that Zamzar supports, majority of formats you regularly use, including video, audio, image, and office-suite formats. Compared to Zamzar's interface, it is more appealing and modern.
Small PDF: Convert To and From PDF
In many cases PDF files are not able to be edited, they need to be converted first for program use such as PowerPoint and Word. You cannot easily combine 2 PDF's into 1, or only take one page out. Special software is usually needed for these actions, however, Small PDF takes care of this need.
It is possible to also convert a PDF file into PDF, so you will be able to compress and reduce the size of the PDF. You are able to split and merge two separate PDF files using Small PDF. The user interface is the most simplest ever.
Google Docs: Convert Images to Text
Google Drive is the best tool to use online for converting images to text. Go to Google Drive, click "Settings" under the cog wheel icon, and check the box "Convert Uploads". This brings uploads to Google Docs. Upload a PDF or image to Google Drive, right-click, select Open With > Google Docs.
Very simple to convert files without having to download any software.
Resourceful Tips and Tricks for Windows
Utilizing Windows With These Tips
Microsoft Windows can amaze us with the amount of stuff you can do using this OS. There are some tricks many people are not aware of, or how to use them. Below are some of the more helpful tips and tricks for Windows, users will find handy.
Tip #1
When logging in, go straight to the desktop. The default setting when starting up your computer takes the user to the Start Screen. To change this, on the desktop toolbar, right-click>Properties>Navigation. Look for the box next to "When I sign in or close applications on a screen, go to the desktop instead of start" and check it. Hit apply, then close.
Tip #2
Run applications at all times as administrator. You most likely have already noticed, some programs need you to run as administrator in order to use them. Many older programs require this. To set this, right-click on the shortcut for the program>Properties>Shortcut>Advanced. Put a check in the box, Run as administrator and hit OK.
Tip #3
Tiles on the home screen can be customize. Right clicking on the tiles give you an option for resizing. You can move and group these tiles, as well by dragging them. Each group can be given a name by right clicking and select Name groups. Above each group you will see a space to enter each name.
Tip #4
Have your Windows apps update on your schedule. By default, updates are installed automatically without user consent. To prevent this, open Windows Store then the Setting Charm>Settings>App Updates. There is an option to disable or enable having apps updated automatically.
Tip #5
Default printer can be changed according to your location. To set this feature search Devices and Printers, and open the window. On the printer you want to use as your default, right-click and set it as such. Next, click on any printer in the window and select Manage default printers available on your toolbar. Look for and check, Change my default printer when I change networks. From the dropdown Select printer and Select network, click Add for each one. Continue doing this until you have added all the networks you plan connecting to. If you decide you want to use only one printer, select Always use the same printer as my default printer.
Tip #6
Each screen can be scaled independently by customizing the settings. On your desktop, right-click and choose Screen Resolution. Next, select Make text and other items larger or smaller. Set to the size you desire.
Tip #7
Smart files allows you to view and edit OneDrive files while offline. While you are still connected to the internet right-click on the folders or files you want to use offline and select the option Make Available Offline.
Using these tips and tricks can give you a better experience while using Windows.
Free Up Space on Hard Drive or SSD
Space is Essential for a Computer
Even with the large amount of space we have on our hard drives, they tend to fill up quickly. There are options of upgraded disk space by replacing your hard drive, or using an external drive. Before we resort to those measures, you can free up space on your current hard drive or SSD.
Run Disk Cleanup
Using Windows 8, right-click on the screens bottom left corner. Now select control panel. Find on the bottom, Administrative Tools, and select Free up disk space. If you have two or more drives, Dick Cleanup will ask you to select which drive you want cleaned. Disk Cleanup now scans how much space on your disk drive you can save. After scan is complete, a dialog box will appear showing how much space you can save at the top of the box. The choices for cleanup include recycle bin, temporary internet files, offline webpages, and more. Now select Clean up system files, toward the bottom of the dialog box. Everything that is selected will now be cleaned.
Uninstall Application No Longer Wanted
Again, open control panel. Under Programs, select uninstall programs. Check all the programs, and select uninstall on ones that you no longer need or use. Before doing this, make sure you know what each program controls before uninstalling.
Remove Window Store Apps Not Needed or Wanted
Windows 8 comes with many Window store apps already installed, and you can download many, as well. Some people do not use many of these apps, or they no longer want them. These can be deleted. Pointing your mouse upward from right hand lower corner, or swipe inward from the right of screen, select settings. Now select Change PC settings, PC and devices, Disk space, then App sizes. This will give you a list of store apps installed. Select each one you want removed, and hit uninstall. Keep in mind, this only uninstalls them from the user account. You can empty your recycle bin on this page, as well.
Clean Browser Cache
No matter what browser you use, cleaning their cache can free up space. Most times temporary files at approximately one gig, are saved. You should do this occasionally, or when space is desperately needed.
Copy Music, Photos, Videos
If there is music, photos, or videos on your PC that you want to keep, consider copying them to DVD, USB Drive, or an external storage. This can free up plenty of needed space.
External Drives
If you still need room after following these steps, external drives can give a lot of space easily. These come in several types, and sizes. Very simple to use and install.
There are many ways to clean up space, or even get more space on the PC that you're using. Which you choose to go with depends on the needs and wants you have, and which you feel is the best choice to go with. All of them have pros and cons when it comes to additional storage space for your PC.
What is a Hard Drive?
Want to know what a hard drive is? A hard drive, hard disk drive and HDD are all one in the same thing. A hard drive is the permanent storage center of your computer system. This is where your operating system, music, pictures and any other data that you save to your computer is stored. This is not to be confused with system memory (RAM) which is erased when the computer looses power.
Hard Drive Types
The general public mainly uses two types of computer hard drives, a 3.5 inch desktop drive and a 2.5 inch laptop hard drive. As of right now the 3.5 inch hard drive can have up to 4 TB of storage space and the 2.5 inch can have a maximum of 2 TB storage space. These hard drives can come in a variety of speeds but for the most part you will see 5,400 rpm and 7,200 rpm. The faster the speed the faster the files and programs are found on your computers hard drive.
Hard Drive Usage
You use your hard drive every time you save something to your computer. When you install something like a game on your computer it takes up space on your hard drive. If you download movies, this can especially take up a lot of valuable space on your hard drive. The more you download, install and save on your computer the more space you take up. This is why it a good practice to keep your system free of unwanted files and programs.
If you are having trouble with your hard drive read "How to Fix Hard Drive Errors". For more information on Hard Drive care and the longevity of your Hard Drive take a look at "Hard Drive Life Expectancy".
Hard Drive Life Expectancy
How Long Do Computer Hard Drives Last?
The industry standard average hard drive life expectancy is from three to five years. That doesn't mean your hard drive cannot fail sooner or last longer, it's just an average estimation of use. A hard drive can last you ten years or two years depending on its use and care. The storage and physical characteristics of a hard drive have nothing to do with its life expectancy. Laptops are more susceptible to hard drive failure due to bumps, drops, and general jarring. Hard drive failure is a common issue in computers today. This is why backing up your files is so important.
Hard Drive Care
The more you move your hard drive the more you increase the risk of it failing. When moving your computer, handle it with care. Bumping your computer may be the breaking point for your hard drive. Dust and overheating often cause hard drive failure.
Hard Drive Failure Symptoms
Symptoms of a failing hard drive can vary widely between hard drives. The hard drive may blue screen on boot or randomly throughout start-up process. Some hard drives may even blue screen randomly during use. Other hard drives could present a loss of data slowly. The worst instance is complete hard drive failure. Most of the time when this occurs your system will display an error message of "no boot device detected".
Recovering From Hard Drive Failure
Unfortunately, there is no way to repair a hard drive once it has crashed. The only real solution for hard drive failure is preventative maintenance. Backing up your files is your first line of defense. The second line of defense is knowledge. Knowing that your hard drive may be having an issue can save you from permanent data loss. If you do find yourself in a situation where you need data recovery, IQ Computer Services offers Data Recovery Service that can help.
How To Back Up PC Using Windows
In this time where your entire life is stored on your computer, a backup can save all that you hold dear. Whether it be movies, photos, documents, school work, tax or business records, if you don't backup your files you risk losing them forever. A computer virus could cripple your everyday life by making your computer unusable. Fortunately, Microsoft included a built-in application without having to purchase another program. I am going to tell you step by step how to create a system backup in Windows 7 to protect yourself from disaster. Other Windows operating systems versions vary.
Backup Using Windows 7
- First, pick a storage device – external hard drive, CD, DVD, or flash drive (Windows 7 Professional, Ultimate, and Enterprise offers a network drive backup feature)
- Ensure your chosen media is ready for use
- Now click Start
- Click Control Panel
- Select System and Security
- Click Backup and Restore
- Now choose Set up Backup
- Click the media selected for backup and click Next
- Select Let Windows Choose (recommended)
- Click Next
- You can schedule automatic backups or just simply disable
- Click Save Settings and Exit
- Finally click Backup Now
Depending on how much data you are backing up, this process can take from a few minutes to a few hours. It is really worth the wait for the piece of mind knowing that when the worst happens and the computer crashes the files you backup are still safe and ready for a system restore. Even those who are buying a new PC can take advantage of backing up their old computer and moving things easily to the new PC.
How Often Should I Back Up My Files?
Backing up your PC is not something you should do once in a while. You should complete back ups regularly to ensure your important files, and memories are safe. You never know when something like hard drive failure could happen and your computer just doesn't start-up the next morning.


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This virtual space of real estate was first set-up in 2002, right after completing my undergraduate degree in religious studies, finalizing my beliefs in apocatastasis as the true intention of the gospel of Christ, and then thinking about starting up a Christian club. Apocatastais.org was a short lived club but now a long running hobby site of mine, to be a network to other informational sites and also host some valuable content right here as well. The Blog and Twitter aspect were added 2010 to generate more attention but also for me to add more frequent updates. Most of the content comes from other sources in which I reference and list in links. I hope you enjoy your findings. Feel free to email or post a comment in the Blog or Twitter page.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2010 Blog
Christ in us
The Christian believes in an invite of God into their soul, a metaphysical joining and change in composition. I have read and heard many positions on how this effects thinking patterns, habits, character, the mind and how fast these changes could occur. From my experience, this metaphysical invite does not result in a completed make-over of the mind. Most would concur that salvation has a process, "fear and trembling", "he who began a good work in you will continue it onto completion". I'm thinking about how our beliefs in Christ's identity, his purpose, God's plan, can effect the transformation of our mind. Do we have beliefs that slow down our salvation of the mind? I think yes. What if we believe that God is a failure? What if we believe that he sent his son to die on a cross for the sins of the world, but that he will still lose many of his creation to an eternal hell? I think this misunderstanding causes many Christians and non-believers to have an ill-opinion of God. In our journey of salvation through Christ, this theosis, we make progress as God's plan and Christ's identity become further apparent to us. God saves all. The redemption plan has no victorious enemies. Christ's sacrifice is 100% effective.


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Chronic pain is defined as pain experienced three months after the original injury is considered healed. Here are the top therapies for chronic pain (both in terms of amount accessed and evidence-based effectiveness):
* Anodyne pharmaceuticals (painkillers): Vicodin, Oxycontin, muscle relaxers, etc.
* Biofeedback: by observing a bodily rhythm or signaling via computer imaging, the patient impacts their experience. A simple type of this is breathing patterns adjusted by looking at a monitor displaying one's blood pressure.
* Meditation: Mindfulness meditation has in particular been shown to decrease one's perception of pain.
* Hypnosis: Many methods and styles are available to change one's psychological responses.
* Tai chi: Chinese meditative energy movement styles which are often found to help with many chronic disease concerns (such as its effect on patients living with heart failure) .
* Awareness, concentration and expectation: patients perceived less pain if told the pain would end soon, were concentrating on a mental task or while concentrating on a picture of a loved one.
Thank you for reading, please email me any time!


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Get a healthy boost with Iconic drinks! + GIVEAWAY
So what's in the bottle?
130 calories
220 mg sodium
3g sugar
20g protein
Lactose free
Soy free
All natural
200% vitamin B12
250% vitamin D
Green tea extract
They pack a lot into one little bottle! I was amazed when I read through the ingredients list-even green tea is included!
As far as the taste goes, I like pure vanilla bean-it tastes exactly like vanilla ice cream though so prepared to be addicted! I usually don't drink milk, or almond milk even, because I don't like the taste but these are lactose and soy free with no weird milky taste at all.
So did this make a difference? Definitely! I take half a multi-vitamin everyday but it's nice to know that if I'm feeling tired or run down, these will give me a definite boost and help me get through the day. Two weeks back I was struggling with a pretty severe vitamin B12 deficiency, where I couldn't focus on anything or get out of bed even. But these have 200% of a daily serving of vitamin B12 so I reached for one of these yesterday when I was feeling a little fatigued in the afternoon.
That's a really big reason why I love these so much-I can get a boost of energy from the vitamins and green tea extract without choosing a soda or coffee, which is way worse to drink. I'm really happy with these and I wish they were sold in stores around me! You can click here to see where they're available around you.
And now onto the giveaway!
I'd love to know what you think-interested in picking up an Iconic drink? Let me know in the comments below.
Thanks for reading, beautiful
Kelly xoxo


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In The Box
Panasonic Li-ion Battery Pack
Panasonic Battery Charger
Panasonic Body Cap
Panasonic USB Connection Cable
Panasonic Shoulder Strap
Panasonic CD-ROM
8GB Memory Card
Panasonic Case
Product Features
Building on the success of the award winning Lumix G3, the Panasonic Lumix G5K pushes portability and performance even further. Ideal for the photographer wanting more creative potential or a companion on the road when a DSLR is just too cumbersome - the G5K is an exceptional blend of imaging power and versatility, that still a breeze to use. Rugged, lightweight construction will keep it in one piece no matter where your travels take you, while interchangeable lenses mean you always equipped to take the shots you want. Highlights: Pansonic powerful 16.05 megapixel live MOS sensor uses pixel mix technology to suppress noise for crisp, beautiful shots. Coupled with the cutting-edge Venus engine and advanced signal processing, you?l enjoy sharper results time and again. Light speed autofocus enables quick focusing on fast moving action. Great for capturing sporting action, you guaranteed more accuracy - even at lower f settings. When one picture isn enough, six-frame-per-second burst shooting will tell the whole story. The included 14-42mm lens is a flexible starting point for any photographer. Capable of a handy 3x optical zoom to get you closer to the action, it can still pull off detailed macro shot, detailed landscapes and intimate portraits. Record 1080p Full HD in the popular AVCHD and MP4 formats at the touch of a button. The stereo microphone is equipped with Dolby Digital Stereo Creator to record more lifelike audio. Home videos are guaranteed to be rock-solid with full time autofocus and one touch tracking autofocus. Intelligent design touches. Eye sensor autofocus begins focusing when you put your eye to the electronic viewfinder for razor-sharp spur of the moment shots. The function lever and rear dial add a new dimension to setups and make adjustment simple. The large, bright 3-inch touchscreen allows for quick reviews of snaps and footage, easy setups and area sensitive autofocus. It even flips out and articulates so you can get into just the right position for those difficult pictures. Pansonic creative control is back and better than ever. Now with 14 filter options, including the ability the adjust them to suit your style, you can add your own unique slant to any picture. Scene Guide will get beginners right up to speed on the possibilities of an interchangeable lens camera with 23 professional sample pictures to take your cue from.
Easy Setup 23 Scene Selector Guide
14 Automatic Creative Filter Effects
Interchangeable lens options
Full HD 1080/60p
Reviews & Awards
One of the newest compact system cameras (DSLM) cameras from Panasonic, the LUMIX G5 features a newly integrated 16.05-megapixel Live MOS sensor and redesigned Venus Engine to render clear, crisp images in both photo and video recording. Featuring a compact, light-weight body with built-in flash, the LUMIX G5 boasts ultra-high mobility while offering users a powerful camera performance which achieves spectacular image quality, realizing true-to-life photo details through excellent resolution, image rendering and color production.
16.05-megapixel Digital Live MOS Sensor
Portrays Detailed, Lifelike Images
The 16.05-megapixel Live MOS Sensor features Panasonic's original pixel mix technology. The current process is designed exclusively for the digital Live MOS sensor to minimize the noise generation. The fine wiring around the photodiode realizes high aperture ratio, which results in high resolution and excellent S/N ratio while high performance transistor encourages high speed signal processing.
Venus Engine
Greater Beauty, Higher Speed, and less Power Consumption
The Venus Engine for DMC-G5 features exceptionally advanced signal processing capabilities to render clear, crisp images in both photo and video recording. Also, the 4 CPUs excels in processing large amount of digital signals at high speed for these advanced noise reduction system, 1,920 x 1,080 full HD progressive video recording and high speed burst shooting.
HDR (High Dynamic Range)
Rich Gradation and wide Contrast Range
Several still images consecutively shot at different exposure levels are overlaid to produce a single composite picture without whiteout (over-exposure) or blackout (under-exposure).


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Join thousands of alumnae, parents, friends, students, faculty
and staff who make SFHS a philanthropic priority. Your generosity
supports our outstanding programs and facilities and provides
tuition assistance to more than 30 percent of our families. We
couldn't do what we do without you!
Whether you are looking for educational, enrichment, or sports
programs this summer, St. Francis Catholic High School has it
At St. Francis, education extends beyond the classroom walls as
our students are encouraged to develop their talents and discover
their passions in every area of their lives. Whether they are in
the science lab, on the playing field, in the studio, or on a
service trip, our students encounter countless opportunities for
growth in academic and extracurricular programs.
The Athletic Department mission commits us to the total education
of young women by providing a comprehensive, fair and equitable
athletic program for the school community in a caring, supportive
environment. We strive to enrich the mental, physical and
moral development of all students by integrating athletics into
the school's educational program.
It's about artistic expression. There is an arts concert,
event, play or art exhibition every month during the school year.
Our performance students consistently receive special and
statewide recognition at regional theatre and music festivals,
visual artists take high honors at county and state competitions
and St. Francis dancers perform in concert, special events,
competitions and liturgies.
All members of the community are encouraged to share their gifts
in order to enrich the greater community. Liturgies, prayer
services, retreats, community events and service projects are the
result of people sharing their gifts and talents.
St. Francis High School is committed to preparing all of its
students for life-long learning. The school provides a strong
college-preparatory academic environment.
Choosing a high school — your home away from home for four
years — is a big decision. The faculty, staff, and students
of St. Francis Catholic High School share your enthusiasm
about your future, in high school and beyond.
At St. Francis you can explore a rich world of academic and
extracurricular possibilities, make real connections with a
diverse group of young women, and experience
the freedom to be your true self.
2009, 2010, 2011, 2013
We are very excited to announce that St. Francis Catholic High
School has partnered with FinalForms, an online forms and data
management service. FinalForms allows you to complete and sign
athletic participation forms for your students. The most exciting
news is that FinalForms saves data from season-to-season and
year-to-year, meaning that you will never need to enter the same
information twice! FinalForms also pre-populates information
wherever possible, for each of your students, saving you time.
LODI, Calif. – The St. Francis varsity lacrosse team was named
the Sac-Joaquin Section Academic Team Champion for the 2018
spring campaign.
"We are a well-rounded group of people," said Head Coach Julia
Southard about her team. "The best athletes are good at other
things and this show these girls are working hard in the
classroom. I am really proud of this achievement."
The Troubadours posted a combined 3.389 grade point average to
edge Oak Ridge (3.354) for the sport title. St. Francis lost to
Oak Ridge in the SVL playoffs and North Coast Section playoffs.
EL DORADO HILLS, Calif. – The Oak Ridge lacrosse team, the No. 2
seed in the North Coast Section playoffs and ninth-ranked team in
the nation, defeated St. Francis 17-6 in a first-round game
Tuesday night.
"Today we showed what type of team we were and we can compete at
this level," said senior Juliette Vielhauer.
The Troubadours opened a 4-1 lead on the Trojans, who had
eliminated the team from the Sacramento Valley Lacrosse league
playoffs last week.
RANCHO MURIETA, Calif. – The St. Francis junior varsity team
celebrated their record-breaking season with their awards dinner
on May 6. The team finished with an 11-3 overall mark, the most
wins by the JV program in school history. The team finished the
season with an 8-6 win over Davis, a team that defeated St.
Francis 15-4 earlier in the season.
EL DORADO HILLS, Calif. – Junior Jade Borg and freshman Maggie
Price each had two goals but St. Francis lost in the semifinals
of the Sacramento Valley Lacrosse League playoffs 12-6 to top
seed Oak Ridge on Tuesday night.
"I coached a team that believed they could win the game," said
Head Coach Julia Southard. "They were an inspired group led by
our seniors. It was a fun game to watch and be part of. Our kids
truly feel they can compete with any team in our league."
Libby Price has been a four-year member of the program and
two-year letter winner for the Troubies. She will be attending
Boise State in the fall and is undecided on her major. She has
played with her sister this year for the first time on the
varsity team. She has two dogs, Hank and Cricket.
Tonight is your final regular season home game. What are
your thoughts?
"I am little nervous but I feel we will be able to pull through
to do our absolute best. It is sad it is our last official home
game. It is weird being a senior."
Bauman Has Scored 21 Goals This Season
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Less than 10 months ago, sophomore Gabby
Bauman was diagnosed with a cavernoma in her brain. While she had
successful surgery, she temporarily lost the use of her left arm
and needed to relearn how to walk. Today you could never tell
things were so scary just a few months ago after watching her
have a successful season of lacrosse.
RANCHO MURIETA, Calif. – The St. Francis lacrosse team had five
players score two or more goals in a 20-4 victory over Rio
Americano Tuesday night.
"We took what we needed to do and put it all together," said
Vielhauer. "In the beginning, we could not make it work but at
the end we came together and figured it out."
Sophomore Grace Barger led the team with five goals and nine draw
controls, while junior Jade Borg tallied four scores to help in
the winning effort.
"We worked together really well especially coming off spring
break," said senior Rachel Wick.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Nine St. Francis Catholic High School
seniors representing seven different sports made commitments or
signed National Letters-of-Intent to play sports in college next
fall at a ceremony at the school today.
"It was what I have been waiting for," said senior Logan Kelly
from Rio Linda, who signed with Lewis & Clark College. "It was
exciting and I was so glad to get to sign with all the girls from
my class. It was a really neat ceremony and I am so grateful for
everyone who was a part of it."
RANCHO CORDOVA, Calif. – The St. Francis lacrosse team held on
for a 8-7 victory over Gunn of Palo Alto Saturday night to
improve to 4-2 on the season.
"Today was hard as a team because we were not able to finish our
shots," said sophomore Grace Barger. "A win is a win and we were
able to pull through for the victory. Looking forward we need to
start connecting our passes in the middle, not forcing it and
making our shots."
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Busy schedules are common on the St. Francis
campus. From homework to extracurricular activities to service,
the Troubadours keep their calendars filled. Sophomore Emma
Hollenbach took it to a new level on March 21st as she competed
in two sports on the same day. With her participation in cross
country in the fall, she is one of seven Troubadours to
compete/play in three sports this year.
Senior Goalie to Sign with Benedictine on April 11
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – St. Francis senior goalie Maggie Pinkston
will play at Division III Benedictine University outside Chicago
next fall.
"I am excited to play in college because of the team," said
Pinkston. "It was a different environment. They are there because
they want to be and love lacrosse. It made me super excited to go
Juliette Vielhauer is a four-year varsity player. She has scored
37 goals in 56 career games. She has been playing the game since
the fourth grade, enjoying the tough nature of the sport. She is
still awaiting college decisions but is hopeful to continue to
play the sport in some fashion in college.
Q&A with Senior Rachel Wick – Rachel Wick is in her
second season with the varsity team and fourth overall in the
program. Wick, who scored 18 goals last season, started playing
in the sixth grade with the Sacramento Stingers. She has two
brothers, Kyle and Taylor. Rachel's fun fact is she broke her arm
twice (2 and 4 years old). Both stories involve one of her
brothers and a stolen shoe and a pool tool. She hopes to continue
playing lacrosse in college in Southern California. She loves to
spend time with horses in her free time.
DAVIS, Calif. – The St. Francis lacrosse team got a pair of goals
by senior Rachel Wick and junior Jade Borg but fell on a late
comeback by the Blue Devils Thursday night.
"We are not playing as a team quite yet," said Head Coach Julia
Southard. "The season is long so we have time to make progress
but we are out there individually right now and that will not
work against a strong opponent."
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Recent graduate Sarah Brust '17 will play
lacrosse for Puget Sound this fall.
Brust, who will study exercise science, was contacted by the
Puget Sound coach after being accepted to the school. She had
reached out originally earlier in her career but had decided to
hang up her stick in college. As her high school career came to
end this spring, she started having doubts.
St. Francis went 10-7 on the season under Head Coach Julia
Southard, advancing to the North Coast Section playoffs. SF was
defeated by 17-3 in the first round by California.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The St. Francis lacrosse team is seeded 15th
in the North Coast Section bracket and will play at No. 2
California in the bracket released by the North Coast Section.
The game will take place at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 10 in San
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Twelve St. Francis seniors have committed to
play a sport in college during the spring signing period that
started Wednesday and were celebrated at a ceremony at the school
today. Overall, 17 St. Francis student-athletes from the Class of
2017 have made commitments or signed a National Letter-of-Intent
this year.
The Troubadours made commitments to schools including Duke and
Stanford and several California schools from American River
College to UC San Diego. The Troubies will travel as far as away
as New Hampshire to play softball at Saint Anselm.


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We have gathered many questions students/ potential students might have about studying at G2K into this one page, but if your question is not answered here, or you have follow up questions, get in touch!
Why should I choose to study at G2K?
G2K's comprehensive curriculum was developed by experienced international professionals in the fields of language research and teaching, and focuses on listening, speaking, pronunciation and culture throughout. Our teachers have been trained extensively in-house with our own curriculum and techniques, and receive ongoing professional development.
Could you tell me information about your classes or program? What do you offer?
G2K offers 3 main types of study, that we call full-time, part-time and evening. These run on different schedules and have slightly different curriculums. We also offer a 2 week survival language course called Kickstart Khmer. Fully up to date information about our programme and schedule is available on our website, but please do ask if you have any questions.
Does G2K only teach language, or will I learn about Khmer culture too?
Culture is an integral part of the curriculum at all levels due to the strong link with culture in the Khmer language, with increased emphasis as you progress through your studies.
Are there any out of class/ social activities for students?
Most full time Level's include at least one class trip, for example to a market or other cultural activity. Other social activities happen throughout the year, and students are encouraged to attend.
Could I observe a class in action?
Yes! Please get in touch and we can arrange this. Please detail your current Khmer language level/ experience so that we can arrange an appropriate level for you to observe.
Do you offer evening/ weekend classes?
Our evening class schedule will begin on 27 & 28 September. We currently have no plans to teach classes on weekends.
Do teachers use English or Khmer in the classroom? I am not a native English speaker – will I struggle in class?
The classroom language is Khmer. Our teachers work with native speakers of many different languages, and use tools and techniques in the classroom that generally do not require students to understand English. Some teaching materials use small amounts of written English, but have been developed in such a way that they should be easily understood regardless of your English proficiency. English is our main administrative language (along with Khmer), however we make every effort to support all students with study, admin or finance questions. G2K students are also quickly able to administer their studies in Khmer.
I found G2K online but I'm not in Cambodia, how do I know your school is legitimate?
G2K was created in 2014, and has been teaching constantly since. It is registered with the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Commerce, has appropriate policies and systems in place and also follows all laws and guidelines regarding financial practice and payment of taxes (which is less common in Cambodia). If you are unsure that the school is legitimate, please do get in touch, but we also recommend finding our Facebook page so that you may see our history, and interactions with students.
How do I register as a student?
You can visit in person, email or call us. We will ask you to complete a registration form – at the school or via email. Information regarding your deposit payment will also be sent with the form.
I have studied Khmer previously – can I join G2K?
We would be happy to welcome you as a student. G2K will assess your level and advise which class you should join. Assessments are available by appointment every Friday afternoon (except holidays), subject to availability. Please email email@example.com to make an appointment.
When will my class start?
We publish our schedules online and at our school. There are usually 8 intakes per year, with full time classes starting every 5-6 weeks and part time/ evening classes start every 10-11 weeks (depending on public holidays). Please ask at the school or email email@example.com if you have questions.
How many hours per day/ week will I study? Are there any differences in the curriculum for full/ part time/ evening?
Full time classes run Monday to Friday mornings from 8.30am – 12pm, including 2 short breaks.
Part time classes run 2 afternoons per week from 1.30pm and finish at either 3.45 or 5pm, including breaks – either on Monday/ Wednesday or Tuesday/ Thursday depending on your class.
Evening classes will start at 5.30/ 5.45pm and finish at 8pm, either on Monday/ Wednesday or Tuesday/ Thursday depending on your class.
Please get in touch if you have questions about which days your part time or evening class will run on.
How quickly can I complete my studies?
G2K normally runs 8 full time modules and 4 part time modules per year. It is possible to complete your full-time studies within 1 year, and part time in less than 2 years, although we do recommend taking a break part way through.
Who would I be studying with?
Our students are diverse in nationality and purpose in Cambodia, and while most work for NGO's, schools, and church/ mission organisations, others work for international agencies, private businesses or simply have a personal interest in learning Khmer.
How many students will be in my class? Do you have a maximum number?
G2K aims to offer you the best learning environment, and classes will have a maximum of 10 students. This allows for more personalised support and interaction within class.
Does G2K offer any Christian-specific content in the curriculum?
There is no Christian-specific content in Levels 1-8. For those at an advanced level (Level 7/8), we offer Christian Studies 1, 2 & 3 as additional study options ('electives'). We also offer Buddhism and Social Issues as course options, which are suitable for all advanced learners and do not contain Christian-specific topics. Not all electives run at the same time – get in touch for more information.
Does G2K have private tutors available?
Currently G2K does not offer private tutors.
How much do I have to study at home?
Home study is built into the curriculum, and varying levels of home work is issued throughout the week. Committing new language to memory requires practice, and we recommend all students use their new vocabulary as often as possible – whether with friends, neighbours, co-workers or at the market. We offer tools and support to help you do this. We also encourage all students to work with a 'language helper' to assist in using your learning in structured and 'real life' conversations. We can support students to find language helpers.
What do I need to bring to class?
Just yourself, a notebook and pen! On the first day of your studies with G2K we ask you to also bring your laptop, if you have one, so that we can install Khmer language fonts and ensure you can access our online resources. Many of our students find using a smart phone or recording device to record specific words or class sections helpful (short recordings only), but this is not required.
What resources do you provide to help my learning?
G2K will provide all classroom resources, and also has online wordlists, audio and other study materials available to support you in your studies.
How is my progress assessed?
Teachers assess progress on an ongoing basis, both informally and with tests. Also, students will be tested at the end of each module, and must pass before moving to the next level.
Are there breaks between modules?
There is usually a few days break between modules, often over a long weekend. The school does observe many Cambodian national holidays, which often allows for longer breaks within your existing module or between modules. For holiday dates, please see the schedules available at the school or email firstname.lastname@example.com for a copy.
Can I start full-time and change to part time later (or vice versa)?
When needs change we aim to support students to continue their studies, and it is technically possible to move from full-time to part-time, or vice versa (full modules only) as the curriculum is largely the same. However, it may not always be possible to accommodate students wishing to move if the class they wish to join is already full, or if for any reason is not running on the desired dates. If you know this may apply to you, let us know when you join, or as soon as possible, and we'll try to do all we can to help.
I'm returning home for a period/ planning a trip, can I take a break from studies?
Yes, however, it may not always be possible to accommodate students wishing to re-join if the class they wish to join is already full, or if for any reason is not running on the desired dates. If you know this may apply to you, let us know as soon as possible, and we'll try to do all we can to help.
I will need to take a short break in the middle of my module – should I still start it?
Yes, but please let us know as soon as possible so that we can work with you to find the best way to support you to complete your module.
How much does it cost to study at G2K?
Our fees vary depending on the amount of classroom hours your course contains. We publish our fees online and at our school, but please ask at the school or email email@example.com if you have questions.
Part-time classes are cheaper than full time – why is this?
The part-time curriculum has been adapted to allow students to study over less classroom hours, and the fees charged reflect this.
Do you require a deposit?
Our classes can fill up early, so to secure a place we request a non-refundable deposit of 30% payable in advance, with the remaining balance fully paid upon arrival for classes.
How can I pay for my classes? Do you accept credit cards?
G2K accepts cash and major international credit/ debit cards on site (not AmEx), or bank transfers if you are not yet in Cambodia. If you are in Cambodia, cash is preferred.
Please get in touch if you require details to send a bank transfer, however please be aware that only the amount received will be credited to your G2K account/s. Deductions by your bank or payment provider for fees or currency conversion may leave a balance, which we will request upon arrival for classes. To mitigate this, please ensure payments are sent in USD and all relevant fees are paid by the sender.
Are discounts available if I book multiple modules?
Yes. We offer a 10% discount when students pay for 4 modules at the same time. The 4 modules cannot be shared with another student, and are non-transferable. Further terms apply to this offer, and it is subject to change without notice – please ask for details.
Are discounts available if both I and my spouse/ child/ parent study at G2K? (Jan 2018 onwards)
Yes. In addition to multiple-module discounts per student, a further 5% discount is available for each family member when making payment at the same time. Further terms apply to this offer, and it is subject to change without notice – please ask for details.
I represent a company or organisation, can we also access discounts?
G2K is the language partner of choice for many different types of organisation in Cambodia, and we would be excited to talk with you about your needs also. Organisations paying for studies on behalf of students receive all normal discounts per student – multiple-module discounts, and also family discount where applicable.


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Posts Tagged 'LINQ to JSON'
jLinq in MongoDB (Oh snap!!)
My new project CSMongo, a Mongo driver for .NET, is now online! Check it out!
Yeah, you read that right – jLinq in MongoDB!
Lately I've been working on a Mongo database driver and I got to thinking — Since I can use Javascript with MongoDB then I wonder if I could use jLinq to write queries? As it turns out the answer is yes!
… and if you don't know what jLinq is… – jLinq is a javascript query language, similar to the LINQ project created by Microsoft, for JSON data which was designed to run within web pages using Javascript
Getting Started
I'm not really sure how you can get a Javascript library to load directly into MongoDB but for now I was simply copying and pasting the existing jLinq packed library into the command line and allowing it to evaluate the script — and that is it! You can use jLinq right away!
You should be aware though that you can't just evaluate results directly. You actually need to call the
toArray() function on each of them to see the results. So for example, your query would look something like…
jLinq.from(db.users.find().toArray()).startsWith("name", "h").select();
You don't need to actually do anything with the results since they are automatically displayed on the screen for you.
So far everything works. I could do standard queries, use the OR operator, reorder records, join different databases, perform comparisons against sub-properties — really everything I've tried has worked just the way I'd expect it to!
Granted, database and collection names are going to be different, here are some interesting queries you can try with your database.
//Selects records where the name starts with a, b or c (case-insensitive) jLinq.from(db.users.find().toArray()) .startsWith("name", "a") .or("b") .or("c") .select(); //selects users older than 50 and are administrators then orders them by their names jLinq.from(db.users.find().toArray()) .greater("age", 50) .is("admin") .orderBy("name") .select(); //performs a join against another database to get locations //and then queries the location to find users that live in 'texas' //and then selects only the name of the person and location jLinq.from(db.users.find().toArray()) .join(db.locations.find().toArray(), "location", "locationId", "id") .equals("location.name", "texas") .select(function(rec) { return { person: rec.name, location: rec.location.name }; });
More On jLinq
Unfortunately, it isn't possible to go over all of the cool stuff you can do with jLinq – but here are some screencasts and blog posts that you can read that might help you get started.
jLinq Project Page
Screencast 1 – Getting Started
Screencast 2 – Extending jLinq (Custom commands)
Screencast 3 – Modifying Live Data In A Query (Joins, Assignment)
Screencast 4 – jLinq 2.2.1 (Updates)
Anyways, for now I'm not sure how to integrate jLinq into Mongo queries but keep an eye for future blog posts as I find out more.
Double Whammy – jLinq Release And Screencast!
Now that you're all excited time for some disappointment – it is just a minor update to fix a few bugs and to add one new feature.
But instead of just blogging about it I've also done a new screencast to talk about the updates and new feature in this release.
- Dynamic Queries (using OR) – Before, if you used "OR" at the start of a query then you'd get an exception. jLinq would try and tag "||" at the start of your query which would cause the whole thing to collapse. Now, jLinq correctly handles this and prevents the error. In turn, writing dynamic queries just got a whole lot easier!.
- Range Comparisons With Dates – Version 2.2.0 introduced smarter comparisons by evaluating the types of values being passed in instead of expecting only one type. However, in the change, the range comparisons like
between, etc, would all incorrectly evaluate Dates as strings… bummer.
- Bitwise Flag Comparisons – jLinq 2.2.1 introduces a new query method called
haswhich performs bitwise flag comparisons on records. It even works with regular ol' numbers by converting them before performing the comparisons.
Anyways, go check out he new screen cast now and tell me what you think!
Bonus: CamStudio Icon
Last night while I was setting up CamStudio for this screencast I was looking at their UGLY icon they use for their program — I just couldn't stand it being in my beautiful RocketDock – so I designed a new one for them. If you're looking for an improved logo then you can download the PNG for the CamStudio icon.
jLinq Screencast #3 – Modifying Records During A Query
Sometimes when you get your records they aren't exactly what you we're needing, or sometimes some of the fields need to be formatted before they can be queried against. Fortunately, jLinq comes with that functionality built into it.
This screencast goes over several of the methods you have available to you that allow records to be formatted before they are selected.
each(delegate(record)): Performs a loop through each of the values in the array. This code can be used to modify records, create new properties or anything you need it to do.
attach(alias, delegate(record)): Performs the method passed in on each of the records in the array and attaches the result to the record using the alias provided.
join(records, alias, foreignKey, primaryKey): Joins two arrays together using the alias and the keys to match the values. Joins tend to be slow when using large arrays, so use caution.
If you have any recommendations or requests for the next screencast, please let me know and I'll see what I can do.
Side note: Never improvise on a screen cast – nothing like having to redo a screen cast twice because you say something that isn't true and then realize it while recording. 🙂


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Dallas fared well in Hispanic Magazine's Top 10 Cities for Hispanics. But then again, is it really a surprise? The magazine's determining factors included a checklist of items the city could mark off with ease, for the most part:
"Hispanics want cities with low unemployment, low crime rates, low average home costs and good schools. We seek places where Hispanic business owners can be supported with a Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, where Latinos sit on local government, where we can open a newspaper or turn on the television and radio and hear news from Latin America or even local news in Spanish, and also where Hispanic representation is more than a drop in the bucket."
While Dallas' unemployment rate is at 5.3 percent and higher than the national average, its apparent steadiness is interpreted as a positive sign. And it's no secret that Dallas' crime rate is tops in the nation. I guess there's got to be a balance somewhere and with a pretty decent representation in both media and at city hall, the city's largest minority finds a good fit here. And a certain rally showed the Hispanic population is not just a demographic but also a force, though Jim Schutze would take issue with that point.
If you like this story, consider signing up for our email newsletters.
You have successfully signed up for your selected newsletter(s) - please keep an eye on your mailbox, we're movin' in!
Incidentally, El Paso, Austin and San Antonio also made the list. --Rich Lopez


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One of the stars of USA network's new series, Fairly Legal is Michael Trucco. He's not only handsome and charming, but he's fun to talk to as well. On Thursday, he agreed to answer questions from many of us about his character on the show, how he originally got into acting and what may be ahead for his character on the show. This is the transcript of that conversation. Unfortunately, the phone line occasionally cut out, so there are some gaps in things in a couple of places.
Be sure to watch this week's episode of Fairly Legal when it airs on Thursday at 10/9c on USA>
Q: So, [let's] start at the beginning and find out how you got involved with the show and what drew you to the character.
Michael Trucco: Sure. I guess the process was a little over a year ago. I had just finished completing work on Battlestar Galactica. You know, that series came to an end. I was looking for work and for another show and to get into another project. I liked the idea of Fairly Legal being 180° turnaround. That's the complete departure from the tone of a show like Battlestar Galactica and that was attractive to me.
I think it's important for an actor to look for diversity in their roles and I like the idea of playing a human being, for one. I like the tone of the show, the light-hearted, the dramady so to speak and the character interests me. I'm a son of a police officer, and so the aspect of law and prosecution interests me greatly.
Q: You studied criminal justice in college, so is there anything from your studies that you can apply to your work on Fairly Legal?
M. Trucco: We're going a ways back there. I don't really retain much from the first couple semesters of my criminal justice studies. No, I would say it has more to do with growing up in an atmosphere of law, being in the household of a police officer that informs my role more than anything that I started to study in college. When you went to college, you take some very general classes and I never got into the specifics of criminal justice because I changed my major so early into the process. Once I discovered the theater at Santa Clara and once I got into the theater program, I never got into specific criminal justice studies. So, I would say that the majority of the experience I bring to the role really has everything to do with growing up the son of a police officer.
Q: What challenges you about playing this character?
M. Trucco: That's a good question. I think striking a balance between the character of Justin Patrick and Kate Reed is the challenge. We've sort of explored the unconventional side of the male character in Justin and in terms of this relationship between Kate and Justin, we're in the midst of a divorce when we pick up the series, as you know. They still have a relationship that would be considered friends with benefits, so there is definitely an aspect—these two end up in bed together several times and oftentimes, for the male, in a relationship, that arrangement seems to be okay. If it aint broke, don't fix it.
I think what's challenging here is that the writers of the show have given Justin the sort of moral perspective. He's not copacetic with this relationship. He doesn't like the way things stand. He wants some sort of resolve. I find that a unique perspective and one that is challenging in this character.
Q: We've certainly seen there's such great chemistry between you and Sarah Shahi. Did you find it was instant between the two of you or did you guys take a bit of time for it to gel?
M. Trucco: The chemistry between Sarah and I is something that we discovered on set. To use a term instantaneous is probably inaccurate. It was more something that you develop as the scenes go on, but it definitely developed in the pilot. You know, when you're thrown into a scene with somebody and you're half naked, there's not a lot of room for discussion. You just jump right in and sometimes the dynamic works between two actors and sometimes it doesn't. And Sarah and I were fortunate to discover that there was a good rapport. There was a lot of trust between the two of us.
The creators of the show are open to exploration in these characters and Sarah and I have a lot of fun working off each other. So, we were very lucky. The chemistry is something you just can't fabricate. It just is there between two actors or it's not and having never met Sarah before, we're very lucky to be able to jump into these roles and discover that there was a chemistry and I think it's working for the two characters and you'll see it continue throughout the entire series.
Q: We're used to seeing you as a speed junkie in most of your roles and in your life too. How is it playing this—I guess you have a lot of things going on, but it's certainly not a robot or driving a motorcycle or flying a plane and that kind of stuff. How is that different?
M. Trucco: Yes, no gun wielding car chases in this season so far. It's great. I said this earlier in an answer that I like the diversity of the roles, coming off a character like Anders in Battlestar Galactica and then jumping into something like Justin on Fairly Legal. It's 180° and I like that. I like the idea that I don't always want to get pigeonholed into playing that same character. Although I love the action roles and I love the hero, I just want to keep trying something new with each project. And, this was the one that presented itself to me and I'm happy to be here.
Q: You're in another fake San Francisco and you know having grown up in that area, how is that for you? Is that kind surreal?
M. Trucco: It's like the carrot dangling out in front of the horse. You know, we're so close to— I would love to shoot in San Francisco permanently. It would be such a joy to come back home full circle, but we did have the luxury—it's funny. I've been reading a few of the reviews prior to the pilot airing and they said, "You know with gratuitous use of CGI, the San Francisco background was put in," but in actually, we shot, I think, three or four days in San Francisco for the pilot. So, what you see, at least in the pilot—that was Sarah on the port at San Francisco on a boat and that was the Transamerica building and those were cable cars. There was a lot of production value that we brought to the pilot simply because we did have albeit a few days, but they got a lot of work out of those few days in San Francisco for the exteriors.
And, Vancouver is such a beautiful city, it doubles so well for San Francisco that I don't mind it all. I mean, I love Vancouver, don't get me wrong. Being there for two—four seasons of Battlestar, it had become a home to me. But, I think Vancouver doubles great for San Francisco. It would be fun. I hope that if we get continue on the series that there will be episodes in which we get to return to San Francisco for a couple of days just to shoot some more exteriors.
Q: How is Justin similar to Anders, or is he?
M. Trucco: They're both played by the same actor. No, there's a true line, I think, in just about every character that I play, there's a—at least I like to try to bring a fierce … of purpose and loyalty to the character. Whatever that characters arc or that characters intentions are, I like to bring a clear sense of purpose. I hope I was successful in doing that with the Anders character and we're so early on in the run with Fairly Legal, but I like the dichotomy of the character, of the Justin character, to Kate. Kate is a little bit more—flies off the handle at the speed of … kind of character and Justin represents the city of San Francisco and he takes an approach that is more pragmatic. He has a fierce sense of duty.
I think there is one episode in which we did get to share some screen time together. I was just saying that Baron is fun to work with because as a comedian, he has a great sense of timing and comic sensibility. So, you're on your toes with him all the time because you don't know what's going to come out of his mouth, but sometimes it's great. Sometimes it's not, but that's what's fun for the editors to—look through a lot of footage of different takes. I'm hoping that the two characters get a chance to get together more in the future.
Q: With regards to your most noted role, which was on Battlestar Galactica, the rabid fan-base that the show has, have you heard any feedback from BSG fans as to what they think of your new role and if they're enjoying it?
M. Trucco: You know, that's a good question because I haven't really checked and I haven't really taken the pulse of the audience, but that's just probably for lack of trying. I imagine there is some feedback. I haven't heard anything directly. I don't know if this is in the same genre. Clearly the shows are two different entities all together, so I don't know if the audience that were rabid fans of BSG would necessarily follow blindly into Fairly Legal, but I would like to think that they would come seeking, you know, come watch the show out of curiosity.
I know that in the correspondences I've had with fans say at a convention or through the Website or through e-mails and fan letters, they all say, "Looking forward to Fairly Legal." So, I think there is going to be a large portion of those fans coming to check us out, but I can't speak to it. I don't really know. Maybe no news is good news. I don't know.
Q: You seem to keep ending up back in Vancouver. Is this, do you think, partially intentional or is it just a coincidence every time?
M. Trucco: No, it's by request. I only take jobs in Vancouver. No, it is complete coincidence. It's not unknown that Vancouver is a huge destination for television film. It has been for many years. So, it just seems to be that I'm drawn to the show that shoots in Vancouver. I have to say, I like swore to myself in the last couple years that after Battlestar I would batten down the hatches and take only work in Los Angeles where I live, , simply to stay a little bit more grounded. And, the one city outside of Los Angeles that would be the exception to that rule was Vancouver simply because I have the history there being there so often and I just really like it there.
It's beautiful and it's an easy flight. We're on the same time zone as in Los Angeles, so it's not as taxing to travel back and forth, and I do travel a lot. I come back home almost every weekend or my wife comes up every other weekend to Vancouver. So, in that sense, we make it work. It's just a great city. It's a great country. They've been good to me and I have no problems being up there.
Q: What was it about this character that made you want to play him?
M. Trucco: I was looking for a departure from the character of Anders. I was looking for something to do that was going to be a polar opposite. Coming off a show that was so … in popular culture and was so identifiable as Battlestar Galactica and Anders , I think it was important to do something a little different just so I didn't get pigeonholed into one character-type. I have absolutely no disrespect to the character of Anders and the series and Battlestar, but just as an actor, you need to look for some diversity. I'll always hold that character dear in my heart. I just wanted to do something that was different, play a human being, play something contemporary and to have kind of a light tone to it. And this came along and it just felt like the right fit.
Q: You do have the slightly rabid fan-base behind you after all of those shows, did you feel like there was more pressure on you coming into this one because you knew that you were going to take on something different?
M. Trucco: Yes, that's probably fair to say that there is a certain amount of pressure to deliver your next role when you do have a fan-base as potent as the Battlestar Galactica family. There was certainly a lot of curiosity to all of us on that show on Battlestar—what are you going to do next? Where can we see you next? That was a question we got more often than not, "Loved the show. Where are you going to be next? Where are we going to see you? What are you going to turn up in?"
Before Fairly Legal presented itself to me, that question … moving in the back of my head. I don't know. Oftentimes, actors don't have the luxury of picking their part. You go from one project to the next and you hope that you find one that fits you and that you're suited for and then they see that you're fit for it. This one came along and—I don't know. It's so early in the run and it's so early in the season that I don't know what the feedback is and if it's going to be embraced by the fan-base, but I mean I'm hoping it will.
Q: What would be your ultimate dream role if you could pick anything?
M. Trucco: I've been asked that before and I think sometimes it changes. A few years ago, you ask me that question and it would have been easy, no brainer. I would have said Superman would have been my dream role. I think that was before all the talks and all the remakes and all the different versions that have been out since. It was—as a kid growing up for me, I grew up with the Christopher Reeve Superman and that was something that was just a dream role.
But now? I don't know. I think that has always been part of my DNA is the fact that my father was a police officer for my entire life growing up. And, before I pursued acting full-time, I had every intention of going into some form of law enforcement work. So I think … poetic to be able to get to play—I'm close to it in this role as Justin Patrick who's an assistant district attorney. There's definitely that aspect of law enforcement, but I think these days I would love to … the police uniform, play a beat cop, you know, on patrol, in the car, on a motorcycle, whatever the case may be. That would be great. I've never done that and I'd like to.
Q: What would you say about this show and your character though he seems like he could become hard to play for you. In any other legal show, this would be the hero. This would the lead, but you're not. How do you approach the character?
M. Trucco: Yes, that's interesting. Somebody else brought that up. Clearly, the show is centered on the character of Kate Reed, and you know that she's been dealing with … Kate Reed with the other characters and her assistant Leo and her stepmother and her ex-husband, who I play. So, there is a certain aspect of taking a second seat in playing Justin. I think, you have to reconcile with that as an actor. I don't think it hasn't presented any problems. You know, there are advantages. My workload is considerably less than Sarah's. That poor girl is in every shot of every scene of every day of every hour that we shoot. I definitely had a more cushy schedule than she did.
But, in terms of the character, you know, I don't really see it as a deficit or a disadvantage. I think we explore the stereotypes of male and female characters on its head in this show. And that could make a certain challenge in playing a character that is the male prosecuting attorney who would be the driving force behind the show and having to take a step down in the presence of Kate Reed. She sort of drives … you know.
Q: A lot of lawyers are vastly different in the courtroom than they are outside of it. So, I'm kind of curious, what do you think Justin's courtroom personality is like?
M. Trucco: Well, hopefully we'll get a chance to see it. I think Justin's at where he is for a reason and I would venture to say—based on what we know about the background between Justin and Kate, as characters, they're two type A personalities that are constantly butting heads—he's a bit tenacious in the courtroom. I have a feeling—what I bring to the character is that for Justin, unlike for Kate, for Justin, the law is black and white. There is right and wrong. There is yes and no. There are winners and losers just as long as I'm always the winner because as a prosecuting attorney, if I put you on trial, then you're guilty or else you wouldn't be there. So there is no ambiguity. There is no gray area, and I think that's that a facet that Justin brings to the courtroom. Absolute clarity, absolute purpose and you know, losing is not an option.
Q: In the show, you guys are a former married couple. Did you guys get together beforehand to create any sort of back story?
M. Trucco: No, we didn't—Sarah and I had not met. Well we met when I was testing for the role, Sarah was obviously cast in the project and then they were bringing people in for what they call chemistry reads to work opposite of Sarah and to see what the dynamic … work out. So, Sarah and I met briefly in that process. And then when we got to shooting, it was pretty much fly by the seat of our pants.
What we have discovered is that we created backstory throughout production, in the process of shooting. Instead of actually having time to do homework and sit down pre-production, we created our history during production. We tried to put little subtleties into certain scenes and certain times that wasn't—things that were necessarily on the page that I think translate well.
There's just certain times when there's a scene between Sarah and I, between Justin and Kate, in which there's a familiarity that only two people who have been together for a certain amount of time, particularly who have been married and living together, they do. In the way she might reach over and take a sip out of my coffee cup, we don't make a big issue out—there's certain characteristics, the familiarity, that we found during production in the midst of filming and I think that sort of informs our back story.
Q: Just in general, what's your advice to actors?
M. Trucco: My advice to actors, oh. Yes, get to a theater. That's my advice to actors. If you can, put some in any shape, form, put some work up on a stage. Whether it's in … study or monologue studies or actually it could be local theater or Equity … or even Equity Theatre, but do some work on a stage. Pick up a play. For me personally—was the most important thing in developing my craft was learning the stage. That would be my advice.
Q: What's the best reason to watch the show?
M. Trucco: I'll give you two words: Sarah Shahi. She's fantastic. She's brilliant in the part, full of energy, unpredictable, beautiful to look at and she anchors our show. This is going to put Sarah on the map because she's a star in the making.
Q: What's been your favorite scene so far in the show and why is it your favorite?
M. Trucco: Well, I without giving too much away, there's a scene between Sarah and myself, between Justin and Kate, in which the cute pretense is dropped. Oftentimes when you see these two characters on screen, there's a certain comedic air. There's a lightness to it, there's banter, there's sexual tension and we do have a scene in an upcoming episode in which all that pretense is dropped and the gloves are off. Justin lets her have it. It was a new aspect of the character to explore. There was no cute one-liner, no banter, nothing tongue-in-cheek. There is a scene where he just dresses her down and— It was pretty powerful to shoot that scene.
Q: Are we going to see flashbacks with Justin's relationship with Kate and Kate's father?
M. Trucco: You know, I can safely say it's not in the first season per se and I don't think we've actually done— No, we don't shoot flashbacks in the conventional sense of—we don't go back to see that. There's references to—clearly, to her father and her relationship with her father, our relationship together. And, I don't know if that's … that we're going to explore in the second season if we go again to, you know, to get a sense of where these characters got together, how they got together. But, in terms of the first season, no, we won't see any flashbacks.
Q: If you can cast one love interest for Justin, who would it be?
M. Trucco: Oh, wow. That's an incredibly loaded question. Well, I can answer that unequivocally, Sandra Hess, my wife and my best friend.
Q: How would you compare Justin to some of the other characters that you have played?
M. Trucco: How do I compare them? I haven't played anything like this before. Well, you referenced to Wishmaster 4 and the amazing Steven Verdel. I said this in another answer regarding an aspect of Justin is there's a sense of purpose and a sense of loyalty. I feel like that I kind of bring to all the characters that I have the pleasure of inhabiting and getting to live in. There's a sense of purpose … direction. In that sense, Justin reminds me of a few of the characters I've played in the past.
I mean, that applies to characters that … hero character or even evil, you know bad guys, roles that I've played. There was a character I played on Law & Order: SVU a couple of seasons ago that was just a horrible character, but there was sense of personal truth and purpose. Even for the bad guys, even for the ones that we might not find appealing. But, if you don't have any direction, you don't have any purpose, then you have an empty shell.
Q: Can we expect to see any of your musical talent featured on the show because I know you have a band? Can you talk about Simpleworld?
M. Trucco: I do, yes. No, we haven't really discovered or explored that possibility yet. That's interesting. You gave me some good—maybe I'll call the producer and see if I can work our music in.
Q: If you could write any storyline for your character and have anything happen, what would it be?
M. Trucco: Wow, well because the show is a law show and it centers mostly on mediation, but Justin's character is clearly a prosecutor, I think he does his best work in the courtroom. For me personally, I would love a shot at an episode in which we get to see Justin in his element. I would love to see a high-profile case in which Justin …my character is given the lead and given the rein to try in the courtroom. That would be—I'm not sure exactly what direction or storyline we take or what the case would be, but I'm hoping that we get a chance to see Justin do his thing on trial.
Q: You've already talked a good bit about Battlestar. Can you talk about working on Castle?
M. Trucco: Yes. Great experience. There was a warm aspect to that show and I was embraced very quickly by Nathan and Stana and Jon Huertas and Seamus Dever. A very comfortable atmosphere, extremely professional cast and crew and it was a real treat. It was a real pleasure to get to play on that show before we started shooting you know Fairly Legal. I've retained friendships with all of them, in fact, since then and even just in my short time there, the four episodes, what a blast. I would do it again in a heartbeat if I was given the opportunity.
Q: You talked a lot about Kate and Justin and their relationship. Do you feel like he wants to stay married or do you think they're not going to be able to do it? They seem to get along so well, at least half—
M. Trucco: Yes, I think there is no clarity yet in that and I think there's a certain irony that Justin in his job and his 9 to 5 and his work is all about clarity, black and white. No gray area. I think the irony here is that when it comes to his personal life, he can't—they can't make that judgment. They can't decide yes or no. I think that's what makes their relationship so complicated and that's what makes it love in general so difficult. These two, on paper, are not right for each other. They're butting heads all the time and they just discovered that they have a real tough time living with one another, but there's still a strong physical attraction, obviously, but there's also an emotional attraction. I wish I could answer that question and say you know with certainty they should be divorced or they should be together. I think Justin is trying to find some resolution. I would say that he's swaying towards a permanent separation, just for some clarity, but that isn't so easy. It's just not that black and white when it comes to love.
Q: Kate can't bring her mediating skills to that, huh?
M. Trucco: Well, that's just it, right? Whereas I show on my job, Justin's job, as black and white in his day job, the same for Kate. She is a mediator by day, but somehow can't seem to translate her professional skills into her personal relationship.
Q: How's it going wearing a suit all day long at work?
M. Trucco: Yes, man, it's different. Every day. A lot harder to get in and out of than I ever realized, you know. There's a lot involved, especially when you're wearing French cuffs and you've got to put on cufflinks and sometimes I wear a three piece and you've got the waist coat and then you've got a lot of buttons in that. Just a lot of buttons … and I'm not the best tie …. I'm a left-hander, so I never really made the best knots. I don't know if you can see, but they never look quite right.
Q: Yes, so you have to do it yourself, huh?
M. Trucco: Yes, you know. See, there's no quick changes. There's some days when we shoot three or four different scenes over the course of three or four different days in the script. So, you've got to keep changing from suit to suit to suit. This is day three, this is day one, this is day six, this is day two. So, you've got go in, you shoot a scene, you've got to go to the trailer, change suits and no quick changes for me.
Q: The roles that you have taken are usually opposite strong female characters. Are you attracted to roles that have strong female co-stars in them?
M. Trucco: I guess so. I think that has more to do with the people who create the shows and the state of entertainment more than … my input. Look … I just that's the formula for good drama, for good entertainment. I just seem to gravitate towards those roles. I like, I really like playing opposite actresses like Katee Sackhoff and now Sarah Shahi.
These are women who, in my opinion, may raise my game so to speak, you know. It's like you know the … who sports when—you play tennis with a professional tennis player, it's going to raise their game. If you ski with a professional skier, it's going to raise your game. I find myself doing my better—my best work when I'm working with people like Sarah and Katee. So, yes, I hope that I'll get a chance throughout my career to constantly be surrounded by strong leading women.
Q: Will we ever see a Battlestar Galactica wink on the show?
M. Trucco: Right, you know, that's funny. That's a good point. Baron and I didn't talk about that and I'm hoping at some point we could put a little reference last year I did work on that show Castle with Nathan Fillion and Nathan Fillion was so well known and so was …. And I think there have … opportunities for him on Castle. In certain scenes, there might be a prop in the background or something that in set dressing that is a reference or the set piece that came off of the … set.
Those things are fun. You don't want to overdo it. You also don't want to distract from the purpose of this show. It can be overdone and then it can become invasive. But, there's certainly a door open there with Baron's character, Leo because he is so to speak the target audience of a show like Battlestar Galactica. So, we kind of joked around it'd be fun to put an Anders action figure on his desk, something to that affect. We'll see.
Q: About Castle, will we see Detective Tom Demming again?
M. Trucco: I would love to be able to answer that question. I don't know. It's not up to me. It's up to the powers that be. I'm certainly open to coming back and getting some closure. I felt like Demming and Beckett, you know, could have had a little more time to resolve what was going on between the two of them. So, I don't know. Anything's possible.
Q: Can you talk about how you got started in acting?
M. Trucco: Yes, you know, I don't want to bore you with mundane details. I got interested in it in high school, in theater particularly, but I grew up in a small town, you know medium size town in the Bay area called San Mateo, just south of San Francisco. I didn't think that as a kid in high school and grade school that acting wasn't something that made itself—wasn't presentable to me. I just figured that was something that happened to people in Los Angeles and New York. I didn't know what the path was. So, I went in college with the intention of being a criminal justice …. My father was a police officer and it's the reason that was going to also go into some form of law enforcement, but I went and discovered the theater program in college.
I auditioned for a play simply just to have some extracurricular activity in the meantime while I was studying. And, a long story short, the head of the theater department at the time at Santa Clara University sat me down in her office and talked me into taking a course for non-majors, which is going to be one semester called Acting for Non-Majors. Upon completing that course, she talked me into coming over to the theater department and actually changing my major and study with them and taking a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theater Arts.
From there, it was like a light went off in my head and it was such a moment of clarity that, I guess that's the whole purpose of college is the vocational purposes … you want to do with your life. That feeling of getting to study— You know, actually the first time to go to school for something you want to do and not just feeling in sense of obligation of having to go to school. But to actually get to study what you want to do and want to pursue for the rest of your life was an amazing feeling. I mean, look, that gets back again to it's a tough business, you know. Just because you study theater doesn't mean there's any degree certainty that you're going to get a career. So, I just—I don't know.
I went—I took the long, slow, hard road. I'm certainly not a Cinderella story on the paper. There's nothing great to write about overnight sensation. I started on the stage. I stayed in the area for a couple of years. I moved to Los Angeles because I started to get auditions for film and television in the San Francisco area and I kept hearing that, "You're doing great, kid, but we cast the part out of L.A." It was one of those situations where if you can't beat them, join them. I knew that if I was going to do this for real and forever, I had to position myself in the best way possible and that was to move down to Los Angeles and get myself in. And, I just started doing a lot of theater when I got—a lot of local theater and just kept plugging away.
Sooner or later, the right person saw me in the right show at the right time and somebody said, "Hey, I can represent you," and then from there, you just—one little part at a time. The next thing, you start building this house of cards and one level at a time. It just gets bigger and bigger and bigger and so flash forward to here we are today and I'm fortunate enough to be talking to you and discussing life on a series. So, it's good. It's all good.
Q: Do you plan to do theater again? Or, if you keep getting television roles, will you not?
M. Trucco: You know, I hope to, yes. I can't say when and where. There is something very appealing about getting back on stage at some point. It is the truest sense there is, you know. It's as raw as it gets. You get a character from start to finish. There are no second takes. The feedback is instantaneous and … it's a great place to be. It's a great place to learn your craft and I haven't been on stage in a while and I hope the opportunity presents itself at some point.
Q: You've directed an episode of Pensacola in the past. Do you ever consider like writing or directing for Fairly Legal?
M. Trucco: Yes, absolutely. And I hope that's a conversation that, you know, we could have should we go into another season or two. That's something I would definitely like to explore because that was a while ago and I had the opportunity to direct on Pensacola and I really, really enjoyed it and I had a lot of love and support from the cast and crew at the time. There's a lot of trust that goes in—along with that process from your fellow cast members and your crew members. I would love to do it again. And, I think, should we go again, I'm going to definitely have that conversation and hopefully bring that up.
Q: It seems like you can come into a series and only be on the show for a very short amount of time and create a huge impact with the characters that you create. And, I'm just wondering, is this easier or harder being on a show where you're here from the beginning, you get to create right from scratch your character and you're not kind of coming into something that's already on page two or three?
M. Trucco: Yes, that is true. This is a unique experience … actually start from the beginning because it is a trend I have of coming onto an already established product and being lucky enough to get to play characters that were definitely memorable— they were written so and they were big arcs on these particular shows. So, this is a little bit different for me to start from page one.
I hope I can carry that energy—that record through and establish a character that is memorable and that people want to see week after week. The result is to be determined. We're just getting out of the gates. We started last week, we air tonight, and we'll see. I'm as curious as you are.
Q: What are some of your favorite influences growing up that helped pave the way for your career in television and music?
M. Trucco: Oh, wow, that's a good question. I was a huge fan of film and television as a kid, almost detrimentally so, especially with television. I was a big TV watcher. I was fascinated by that business in general, by the ability to create—… for an hour at time when … two hours at a time in a movie theater. The ability to transport somebody into—taking you to a place … sitting there, living, sitting in a theater. So, it wasn't—I don't remember anything specific, you know.
I grew up in the heyday of the '70s and '80s of television when there was only three, then with Fox, four networks on television. So, it wasn't the kind of explosion of programming you have today, you know, with several hundred networks and all these great shows showing up on all these different networks. You know, there's so much diversity out there.
I'm trying to think of what shows—I was fascinated, I used to watch these marathons—they still have them—of The Twilight Zone, the original Rod Serling Twilight Zone and I think more than anything, those—that is what stuck with me, literally leave my jaw open as a kid, watching Twilight Zone. I watched a lot of television, but there's something about the impact that those shows made on me.
Q: How about music?
M. Trucco: I started picking up the guitar when I was about 13, 14 years old. Right around the time I was becoming familiar with— my biggest influence is, for me musically in terms of guitar, is The Edge from U2. It was right around the time of the war album, just after the boy album and I heard this sound coming from this guy's guitar. It was … analog delays and echo that he was using that—and the glassy sound of the Stratocaster and I was like—it blew me away. The first time I bought an electric and I was able to get the equipment to replicate that echo sound, that pretty much did it for me and that … the rest of the way I play guitar for the rest of my life.
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The Outdoor Classroom: Hands-On Learning
The Carpinteria Children's Project (CCP) has a clear mission: To make sure every child that enters Kindergarten enters happy, healthy, and ready to learn. Modeled in part after the Harlem Children's Zone made famous by Geoffrey Canada, CCP focuses on pre-K youth by providing support services for children and their families while pushing children to their fullest potential in a safe and loving environment.
CCP is a collaborative among a host of agencies including The Orfalea Foundations, The Hutton Foundation, The James S. Bower Foundation, the Carpinteria Unified School District, the Carpinteria Education Foundation, First 5 of Santa Barbara County, Santa Barbara's Community Action Commission (CAC), and a suite of other local organizations.
CAC, in addition to being a core member of CCP and its activities, also runs an innovative Head Start program out of the building. Here, site supervisor Betty Sanchez has pioneered outdoor classroom (OC) and other hands-on activities that in the past would challenge the conventional norm on what it means (and takes) to be an effective educator. Now, Betty's programs are highlighted as a model of effective teaching and nurturing.
"We started the Outdoor Classroom because our children are not in nature enough," said Betty in a recent interview. "Our kids may not
even have backyards…they stay inside their homes, play in parking lots. This is no way to learn."
As part of Outdoor Classroom activities, CAC's teachers are encouraged to take the kids outside as often and for as long as possible. "Anything we can teach indoors we can also teach in an outdoor setting," says Betty.
And this is evident. On the day of my visit, I happened upon a tub of toys, cups and other devices with which the kids could play with and measure water by volume. A bicycle track with tandem trikes encouraged kids to share, take turns and work together to complete a full lap. Large boulders and wood stumps were scattered throughout the yard, much like they would be scattered in the hills, so that kids could jump on, off or around them. Everywhere I looked, kids were talking, sharing, collaborating and learning.
"Nature is innate," says Betty. "This set up allows children to develop who they are. It's more than just playing in the mud. It's a lesson in life skills at a very early age."
Betty is part of a committee to approve outdoor education demonstration sites across the region, working in partnership with the Orfalea Foundation's Outdoor Classroom approach. Through CAC, Betty focuses on Santa Barbara County's south coast, encouraging other learning centers to consider Outdoor Classroom formats. Many, including some of CAC's other 22 Head Start sites across the county, are using Betty's example as they develop their own unique approaches to hands-on learning.
"You don't learn if you don't experiment," says Betty. "But this experiment is working."
CAC, collaborating with other like-minded agencies through CCP, strive to provide resources from which young and often less-advantaged children can grow and flourish. By the smiles and camaraderie that were observed upon my brief visit, it seems that the magic formula has been found.
To learn more about Outdoor Classroom project, click here.
Story and photos by Eric Cárdenas, LoaTree
5 Responses
No doubt about it, Ms. Betty Sanchez is a creative pioneer. This is not over stated, I know that the world is better place because of her efforts. This is only one example of her years of creativity and dedication. I have stories if you are interested! And even with this kind of personal spirit, resources are needed. The Orfalea Foundation really stepped up and inspired us all.


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The school day usually starts between 08:30 and 9:00. There is a short mid-morning break at about 10.30am and a lunchtime break at about 12 for up to one hour. Younger children will have a short afternoon break to play outside if the weather is good.
The afternoon session usually lasts until about 3.20 pm. Check start and finish times with the school.
A typical day in a secondary school will be different from that in a primary school and may start and finish earlier. There will be a morning and a lunchtime break.
Many schools run lunchtime or after school activities. These are activities such as sports, drama, art, dance, music and homework clubs. Some activities are free but you may have to pay for some. Your child's school will have details of clubs available or you can contact York Family Information Service to find out what is happening in your local area.


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with a mix of soft pastels and strong black & white themes to create a fresh, casual style
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August 12, 2019
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