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Francis of Assisi may never have set foot in Bethlehem, Nazareth or Jerusalem, but his name will be forever associated with the Holy Land. In 1342, Pope Clement VI, through two bulls, Gratias Agimus and Nuper Carissimae, assigned to Franciscans the care of the sacred places, a task they eagerly embraced.
In fact, Franciscans were in the Holy Land even before that. As with most things Franciscan, it all started with St. Francis. The Little Man of Assisi was determined to get to the Holy Land. He made three attempts. According to his biographer Thomas of Celano (The First Life of Saint Francis, chapter XX), the first try ended with his ship being blown off course to Dalmatia (now Croatia).
The second, an overland route, took him as far as Spain, where "God withstood him to his face, striking him with illness, and called him back from the journey which he had begun" (same source).
But the third attempt in 1219 got him to Egypt and the famous encounter with Malik al-Kamil, the Sultan of the Saracens. (Saracens was the term widely used in Europe for Muslims.) In Egypt, Francis made such an impression that he was remembered more than a century later.
A Desire for Martyrdom
Why did Francis want to go the Holy Land in the first place? Celano attributes it to "the desire to undergo martyrdom" and to "burning with divine love."
This was in the time of the Fifth Crusade. In 1095, at the Council of Clermont, Pope Urban II had called for help to restore access to the Christian sites. The Latin Church in Western Europe jumped at the chance.
Since 636, Palestine had been under Muslim control, but Muslims mostly had allowed Christians into their territory. Then in 1071, the Seljuk Turks decisively defeated the Byzantine army and cut off Christian access to Jerusalem. What followed was eight crusades over the next two centuries under the slogan "Deus vult" ("God wills it").
The motives for the Crusades were very mixed. They ranged from wanting to heal the split in the Catholic Church between the Eastern and Western Churches (1054) to the pope's promising remission of sins for fighting and/or dying in this struggle. The pope saw this as a way to rally the faith of Western Europe. And some motives for the Crusades, like securing trade routes, gaining glory in battle or achieving riches and power, were admittedly base.
The mixed legacy of the Crusades is still with us.
Francis' Pure Motives
By 1212, Francis had already learned that the way of the soldier was not for him. He had engaged in two disastrous attempts to fight for Assisi against Perugia and concluded that pacifism was the only option consistent with his reoriented life.
In The Earlier Rule (1221; the earliest one has been lost), Francis wrote a chapter (XVI) for any of his followers who would go to work among the Saracens. In it, he described two ways to work among the Muslims. The first is to refrain from arguments or disputes with them. The second is "to announce the Word of the Lord, when they see it pleases the Lord, in order that [unbelievers] may believe in almighty God, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. . . ."
Both of these respectful ways of interacting with Muslims were 180 degrees from the militant, faith-at-the-point-of-a-sword approach of the Crusaders.
It's interesting to note, as a footnote to the story of the Sultan points out, that Francis consistently referred to the Muslims as nonbelievers, while his biographer called them pagans.
Francis and the Sultan
No doubt it was a dramatic meeting: the skinny Francis dressed in his usual rags versus the Sultan arrayed in his silks.
Celano was one of the first to write down this well-told story of the medieval Church. The usually far-from-humble Celano prefaces his account (Chapter XX, The Life of Saint Francis) of Francis' encounter with the Sultan with this disclaimer: "Who is equal to the task of telling this story?" But he goes ahead to do just that:
"When Francis' third attempt to reach the Holy Land succeeded (after a probable stop at Acre in Israel), he arrived in Egypt. He took with him one companion and set out for the battle camp of the Sultan. The Crusader forces had squared off against the Sultan's men on the vast Nile delta near Damietta, Egypt. But before Francis could reach the Sultan, he was captured by soldiers, insulted and beaten, but was not afraid. . . .
"Although, by many, he was ill-treated with a hostile spirit and a harsh attitude, he [Francis] was received very graciously by the Sultan. The Sultan honored him as much as he could, offering him many gifts, trying to turn his mind to worldly riches. But when he saw that Francis resolutely scorned all these things like dung, the Sultan was overflowing with admiration and recognized him as a man unlike any other. He was moved by his words and listened to him very willingly.
"In all this, however, the Lord did not fulfill his [Francis'] desire [martyrdom], reserving for him the prerogative of a unique grace." (This last hints at the stigmata, which St. Francis received two years before his death.)
The story is corroborated by a chronicle of the Fifth Crusade given by Ernoud, a shield-bearer of Balian II of Ibelin, one of the great feudal lords of the Crusader states.
For any others who doubt that this encounter actually took place, there is the physical evidence of an ivory horn, given to Francis by the Sultan. It is now displayed in a small chapel off the Lower Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi, which the Conventual Franciscan friars maintain today.
And another medieval account of the encounter between Francis and the Sultan has the Sultan presenting him with a letter of safe conduct. Francis may have used this letter to go other places in the Holy Land, but we have no proof that he actually took advantage of the permission.
A new video of this exciting story is scheduled for release by Franciscan Media this month.
Current Franciscan Work in the Holy Land
It was Francis' failure to convert the Muslims that motivated the Pope in 1342 to confirm the Franciscans' mission in the Holy Land. Francis failed at conversion, but his respectful approach to the Sultan had garnered the respect of Muslims. The example of the friars working in the Holy Land after Francis' death continued to impress Muslims.
There is no agreed-upon definition of what countries or areas constitute "the Holy Land." At one time people equated it with Moses' Promised Land or Palestine, but it was always more.
According to Father Jeremy Harrington, O.F.M., commissary and guardian of the Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land in Washington, D.C., Franciscans now carry out their Custody of the Holy Land mandate by working in the following countries: Israel/Palestine Authority, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria and Egypt, as well as the islands of Cyprus and Rhodes.
Currently, some 300 friars work at 50 sanctuaries in these countries. Nearly every province of Franciscans has a group that supports this work. In a booklet entitled The Franciscan Presence in the Holy Land, Father Pierbattista Pizzaballa writes, "Protection of the Holy Places, welcoming pilgrims, aiding local Christians and dialogue with everyone have been and remain the reasons the Friars Minor passionately place their lives into the hands of the Lord every day, following His footsteps in the Land that was His own."
The latest year-end report describes the Franciscan Custody of the Holy Lands projects completed in 2010: construction of a surrounding wall at Ain Karem, which commemorates the birthplace of John the Baptist; renovation of the lighting system at St. Catherine's Church in Bethlehem, which adjoins the Grotto of the Nativity; final phase of the plan for improving the area for pilgrims at the Dominus Flevit Sanctuary (the church and gardens on the Mount of Olives that commemorates where Jesus wept over Jerusalem); designing a plan for restoring the Shrine of the Transfiguration at Mt. Tabor; construction of new sanitary facilities at Tabga's Primacy of Peter Shrine; and many others. Critical right now are efforts underway in Syria.
The Custody maintains primary and secondary schools that serve more than 10,000 students in Israel, Palestine, Jordan, Cyprus and Lebanon. It provides 360 university scholarships so that graduates will be prepared for jobs and can stay in the Holy Land. In addition, the Custody supports archaeological research through the Studium Biblicum Francescanum of Jerusalem. It provides scholarships to 30 students a year and helps the faculty.
The Franciscans also sponsor Magnificat, a school of music for young children through adults. Among the pupils and teachers are Jews, Muslims and Christians of all denominations. The Franciscans describe them as "united by a common passion for music and singing." All these educational efforts promote peace because the children and their parents get to know one another.
True to their people-oriented charism, the Franciscans maintain 25 parishes centered at these sites, and they work with needy local people. They have special projects for youth, families and craftsmen. Overall, the Custody has built more than 1,000 residential units.
The Franciscans are also involved with ecumenical activity and interreligious dialogue, sometimes formal, sometimes just by respectfully answering pilgrims' questions at the holy places.
To Continue St. Francis' Work
Franciscans who do this work consider it a great privilege. In a telephone interview last October, Father Jeremy listed four ways for others to join them in this work:
1) Contribute financially (see sidebar).
2) Pray for all the people of the Holy Land, especially right now those in Syria.
3) Go on pilgrimage to the Holy Land. A journey with a group should be safe enough. In Pope Benedict XVI's announcement of this year's Year of Faith, he encouraged people to walk in Jesus' footsteps in the Holy Land. A pilgrimage to the Holy Land goes to "the geographical point of union between God and men, between eternity and history," in the words of Pope John Paul II.
The Custody sponsors pilgrimages, as do many tour companies that advertise in The Official Catholic Directory (also known as the Kenedy Directory) or Catholic newspapers and magazines.
4) Sign up for a study tour. Pope John Paul II frequently referred to the Holy Land as "the fifth Gospel." Being familiar with this land, its history, its human and geographical features will enrich any understanding of the Scriptures. Study tours result in better homilies.
For more information on the Franciscan Custody of the Holy Land, check out the following websites: www.myFranciscan.org; www.custodia.org; or www.theholylandreview.org. For a taste of the Holy Land, visit the Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land in Washington, D.C., 1400 Quincy Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20017. The Franciscans there publish a small magazine called The Holy Land Review.
For other news of the Holy Land, consult the Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA), a U.S.-based pontifical association that publishes a magazine called One. That name reflects the vision that there is "one God, one world, one family and one Church." Founded in 1926, CNEWA supports the pastoral missions and institutions of Eastern Catholic Churches and provides humanitarian assistance to those in need.
To sign up to have a Mass at one of the shrines in the Holy Land, contact the Christian Information Centre, Omar Ibn el Qattab Square, P.O.B. 14308, 91142 Jerusalem, ISRAEL, e-mail: email@example.com.
St. Francis loved the Holy Land and risked his life to get there. Today, there are many ways to share in his love for the land of Jesus. TP
BARBARA BECKWITH is the retired managing editor of St. Anthony Messenger magazine. She has twice been on pilgrimage to the Holy Land, once with the Catholic Near East Welfare Association and once with an ecumenical group that tried to boost tourism for the millennium celebrations.
Copyright © 1996-2019 Our Sunday Visitor, Inc.


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© Mystic Seaport, Mystic, CT [1992.119.1]
Cape Verdeans were the first sub-Saharan Africans to immigrate voluntarily to the United States. As American sailors left the whaling industry when profits started to decline in the 1860s, ship captains hired sailors from Cape Verde to fill their places. Antoine DeSant was a whale ship's captain, a frigate pilot, and a gold miner in California. He was a wealthy businessman, well known in the sailing trade.

subset: commoncrawl


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User Reviews
MINOX ZX5i 2-10x50 BDC - Rifle Scope With An Excellent Value
Rocky Mountain Outdoors Writers & Photographers member Mike Hammond wrote the following review, who bought a MINOX ZX5i 2-10x50 BDC which was donated to RMOWP by MINOX for the auction at the Bryce Canyon Conference.
Not much can be added to the description or specifications that MINOX's ZX5i 2-10x50 BDC rifle scope development team included in the user guide for this scope.
The ZX5i, fitted with the Leupold Mark 4 base and rings made attaching this rifle scope to the Heckler-Koch 308 AR-15 style platform about as easy as you can get, making your friendly gunsmith's skills unnecessary to install the ZX5i scope to the rifle. After laser bore sighting the scope to the gun, it was time to head out the door, fire up the truck, make a stop for some ammunition and get to the gun range to finish the sighting-in process.
(Click on photo to read the full article on page 8 - 1.5 MB PDF)
Charlie Phillips testing the BN 7x50 DCM, MD 50 W and BL 15x56 for the Whale and Dolphin Conservation
When out at sea during the high season and using the wonderful white rubber coated 7 x 50 Marine DCM units (with their advanced active LED display for the like of compass bearing, altitude, atmospheric pressure and time) I can rest assured that if there is anything out on the wide blue yonder with a dorsal fin then these brilliant units with their very bright, clear and very sharp image, will find it. Ive had them with me on full day research surveys and everyone (scientists, boat skippers and crew) that I have let have a shot of them have raved about them and its been difficult sometimes getting them back again!
Click on photo to read more.
Pierre-Julien Deloche - MINOX APO HG 10x43 & MD 62 ED W
Hi, Im PJ Deloche. I live in the South-East of France and am a professional archer. Ive been in the French Navy for 14 years as a lookout and with the coast guard in the maritime rescue coordination centre. In both areas of activity, optics are always around my neck or on my shoulder.
My sport is archery which I have been practicing since 2005. I was ranked no. 1 in the world for almost two years from Oct. 2013 to June 2015. To reach this accomplishment, I won 36 international medals in 45 national team selections! Now Im a professional archer, competing in official tournaments around the world, designing new archery products, and advising brands in communication and marketing.
French Archery team member Dominique GENET relies on his MINOX APO HG 10x43 and MINOX MD 62 during competitions.
My name is Dominique Genet. I am French and have been practicing archery since 1988. I am a member of the French National Compound Archery team since 1996 and am regulary among the top 3 worldwide for several years now.
Archery is a sport of precision. Our arrows measure 5mm in diameter and must withstand the impacts at 50m making it imperative to have the right equipment. In addition, during our outdoor competitions, my equipment is subjected to hardships like rain, wind and sun, sometimes several days in a row.
Zeroing in with the MINOX ZA5 3-15x50 HD
It only took ten years, but I finally had my rifles shipped to California. My .270 had a good scope on it, but I wanted a great scope. When I spoke with the experts at MINOX, they recommended the ZA5 3-15x50 HD for what I was going to use it for. The HD glass has incredible clarity, even in low light conditions, and with the ballistic reticle, I can shoot out to 400 yards comfortably. I know on paper I can shoot out to 500 yards, but with a 34-37" drop I will stick to closer ranges with this weapon.


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Monday, May 11, 2009
Rimini Street, SAP, and the future of third-party maintenance
At last year's SAP SAPPHIRE conference, Rimini Street indicated its intention to expand into third-party maintenance for SAP customers. Now, right on schedule, at this year's SAPPHIRE event, Rimini Street is announcing the availability of its support services for SAP customers, building on its similar offerings for Oracle's J.D. Edwards, PeopleSoft, and Siebel customers. It's a good move for Rimini Street and hopefully provides further validation for the third-party maintenance model.
I spoke with Rimini Street's CEO, Seth Ravin this morning about the launch. Seth indicated that his firm already has several SAP customers on board, with strong interest from many others driven by SAP's increasing prices for its own maintenance program. SAP has since backtracked on its forced march to Enterprise Support, but its original stated intention to increase maintenance fees to 22% of original license cost appears to have been enough to start SAP customers looking for alternatives.
The mood is nowhere better evidenced than by the response of German SAP users. Until now, few competitors dared challenge SAP on its home turf. But that changed when 30 CIOs invited Rimini Street to present to them in Berlin, according to Ravin. Rimini Street already has several of them as early adopters of its SAP support services.
Spread Thin?
Seth assured me that his resources are adequate to support multiple ERP vendors. Each product is supported by a separate leader and dedicated resources. In the case of Rimini Street's SAP unit, the leader is Shawn du Plessis, a "16 year SAP veteran who has held leadership roles across more than 15 major SAP full life cycle implementations with global companies such as Nestle, Sebastian International and Siemens," according to Rimini Street's press release.
But the launch of its SAP offerings has forced Rimini Street to go global. It has put up a German version of its website, and it plans to hire local resources in Europe and the Far East, complementing its workforce that until now has been limited to North America. Contrary to the practice of SAP and Oracle, it does not believe in an offshore service delivery model.
Flexible Contract Options
Seth indicated that the phrase "flexible contract options" in his press release does not refer to tiered pricing options. Rather it indicates flexibility in the contracting period. Most customers sign up for a five year term, but others buy into ten or even 15 year periods. Others adopt shorter periods, for "gap coverage," while they migrate from one system to another. Flexibility refers to the ability to tailor the contract length to the actual need. I also note that Rimini Street provides support for customer modifications or extensions to the base system, something that goes beyond what SAP or Oracle offer to their own customers. Generally, modifying base code "voids the warranty" with SAP or Oracle, as so to speak.
Why Not More Third-Party Maintenance Providers?
Why haven't there been more players like Rimini Street rising up to meet the market demand for third-party maintenance? Seth believes there are significant barriers to entry. In the case of SAP or Oracle, a potential service provider has to be willing to take on two powerful multinational organizations. Existing business partners of SAP and Oracle, those that are best qualified to offer third-party maintenance, are reluctant to offer services that compete with the parties that they rely on for sales leads, training, product access, and general good will. Finally, it takes significant resources, including funding, to build a 24/7 support organization, much of which must be built before the first customer is brought on board.
My Take
I agree with Seth that the barriers to entry are significant, though not insurmountable. The Tier I enterprise software market is ripe for disruption by third-party maintenance providers. With SAP and Oracle realizing gross margins in the neighborhood of 90% on their maintenance business, the economics are simply too strong for third party maintenance providers not to rise up.
Rumor has it that there are smaller, niche players besides Rimini Street already offering third-party maintenance contracts "under the radar," on a case-by-case basis. But they are reluctant to publicize their offerings out of fear of incurring the wrath of their business partners. Oracle's lawsuit against SAP and its former TomorrowNow unit, which provided third-party maintenance for Oracle products, only heightened these fears.
As I've written before, it may take one or two antitrust lawsuits before larger service providers feel comfortable venturing into meeting this market need. Interestingly, today's Wall Street Journal notes that the U.S. Department of Justice plans to step up antitrust actions against illegal monopoly conduct. One can only hope that one of the first markets they explore is enterprise software maintenance and support.
Related posts
Rimini Street to provide third-party support for SAP
Legal basis for third-party ERP support industryby Frank Scavo, 5/11/2009 09:02:00 AM | permalink | e-mail this!
Read/post comments! (4)
Sunday, May 03, 2009
i2 doubles up on patent litigation, sues Oracle
i2 is in a litigious mood these days. In 2007, i2 sued SAP for infringement of seven U.S. patents awarded to i2 between 1998 and 2006. SAP settled that case in 2008 for $83.3 million.
Now a Spectator reader calls my attention to i2's lawsuit against Oracle for allegedly infringing on 11 of its supply chain management patents.
i2's civil complaint against Oracle is on i2's website. The complaint was filed in the US District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, the same court that i2 chose for its SAP litigation and one that is generally regarded as friendly to patent litigants.
i2's complaint against Oracle does not indicate which Oracle products i2 believes infringe on i2's intellectual property. The 11 i2 patents are listed below, and some of these appear to be the same patents that were the subject of i2's lawsuit against SAP:
I have no idea whether i2's case against Oracle has merit. But it's not a good sign that the only area where i2 appears to be growing these days is in patent litigation. My source notes that in the first quarter i2 layoffs hit sales, marketing, and services pretty hard. Layoffs may continue in Q2 and affect the R&D group as well. It would seem, therefore, that the one area where i2 is allocating additional budget and headcount is in the legal group.
- Extensible Model Network Representation System for Process Planning (two patents)
- Planning Coordination Systems for Coordinating Separate Factory Planning Systems and a Method of Operation
- System and Method for Allocating Manufactured Products to Sellers (two patents)
- Computer Security System
- System and Method for Remotely Monitoring and Managing Applications Across Multiple Domains
- Intelligent Order Promising
- Generating, Updating, and Managing Multi-Taxonomy Environments
- Value Chain Management
- Extreme Capacity Management in an Electronic Marketplace Environment
Update, May 4: Vinnie Mirchandani follows up with his view, which is pretty funny, about the state of software industry today. Must read his short post.
Related posts
i2 layoffs underway, March 2009
JDA calls off merger with i2
SAP: If you can't beat 'em, sue 'emby Frank Scavo, 5/03/2009 11:50:00 AM | permalink | e-mail this!
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MOD Consulting necesitaba un nuevo diseño de logotipo y lanzó un concurso de diseño en 99designs.
Un ganador ha sido elegido entre 103 diseños de 17 diseñadores freelance.
QThink is a high tech engineering design firm that specializes in the semiconductor industry. QThink was acquired by Rapid Bridge (see http://www.rapidbridge.com) in the Spring of 2010, but continues to maintain a separate brand identity. However, the original logo is not in keeping with the overall look and feel of Rapid Bridge and needs to be upgraded and refreshed.
visit: http://www.rapidbridge.com and/or http://www.qthink.com for more info on company
This is a corporate brand refresh for a high tech engineering design services firm. The target market is business executives and enginers. The logo must build off of its original design but be more refined, serious and project an image of quality.
As mentioned above, the current QThink logo is perceived as amateurish and in need of a refresh. We would like the logo to evolve to be more refined, serious and project an image of quality. Please note: this must be an evolution in the design and not a complete new look and feel.
Rapid Bridge would like to migrate the QThink design to be more in keeping with the look and feel of the Rapid Bridge logo. Both logos are attached for your reference.
We are looking for 3 variants of the logo:
1) QThink logo standalone
2) QThink logo with the words IC Designs incorporated
3) QThink logo with the phrase "A Rapid Bridge Company" underneath
Logos should be single color only. We intent to match the QThink logo to the Rapid Bridge color PMS 295. Please submit your design concepts in that shade of blue (or close to it) to aid Rapid Bridge management with the visualization and selection.
Rapid Bridge uses the font Univers Condensed in their company logo. This font should be used for the logo variant 3 which includes the phrase A Rapid Bridge Company.
Winning design must submit files in jpeg, gif, eps and ai files. Transparent backgrounds will be needed.
email with questions. I look forward to your submissions!
Descubre cómo funciona un concurso de diseño u obtén más información sobre nuestros servicios de diseño de logo.


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Residents of Naples, Lee & Collier County know the value hiring South Florida's industry-leading door and window installation service. Whether it's residential or commercial property, installation or renovation, Prestige Windows & Doors is proud to offer Naples, Lee & Collier County hurricane impact resistant windows and doors with prices, quality and professionalism that are second to none.
Living in South Florida means living in the hurricane capital of America. Year after year, the gust and debris from hurricanes wreak much damage that could have been prevented with hurricane impact windows and doors. For years, Prestige has helped Naples, Lee & Collier County protect its homes and businesses. Our variety of products and partners means you're sure to find the right windows and doors without sacrificing style or design.
Since our humble beginnings in Miami, Prestige has continued to service all the window and door needs of Naples, Lee & Collier County residents and businesses. Working closely with Coral Gables and surrounding communities for so many years, we've established valuable relationships that keep us up to date on city codes and allow us to obtain permits timely and efficiently.
The projects we've completed speak not only to the quality of our craftsmanship, but also to the dedication of our work ethic. Our licensed and insured installation team works hard to leave your home both secure and revitalized. With estimates and 100% financing, there's no reason to go without the finest hurricane windows and doors that South Florida has to offer.
Reach out to us and we will do our best to send one of our qualified representatives to meet with you for a free consultation. You will be able to get a better grasp as to what to expect for the project you are interested in commencing. For hurricane impact windows and doors in Naples, Lee & Collier County, call 866-466-5094 today!


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There comes a time when an investor just has to "tip their cap" to certain market events. This is once they realize that something truly remarkable has happened – this is whether or not the result is favorable. Aside from helping us become better investors, it affirms that we think as "grown-ups." This is where I've arrived with Samsung.
Even though I'm an unabashed cheerleader of Apple, when assessing Samsung's ascent to the top of the Smartphone market, I have no choice but to give the South Korean giant its due credit. Though a lot has been made about Samsung's recent dominance, many do not fully understand how this has happened. Likewise, there are very few who believe it will continue.
Although I am bullish Apple, I'm not so quick to dismiss Samsung's ability to maintain its current lead. On the other hand, how Apple chooses to respond has a lot to do with Samsung's next move. Complicating matters is the fact that other players such as Microsoft, Research in Motion and Nokia are now looking to recapture market share. How much they are able to steal from Apple and Samsung remains to be seen. But as it stands right now, it's a two team race. Who will win?
It's Class Warfare
You can draw your own conclusions about what has been said in the courts with the ongoing patent litigation between the two bitter rivals, but Samsung still had to execute its business. Samsung figured out what Research in Motion, Microsoft and Nokia was not able to understand - if you were not going to win in Apple's market, you had to create your own.
To that end, Samsung separated the classes and moved up the rankings by executing two basic economic factors – cost and variety. Samsung proved that it understood Apple's ecosystem better than other rivals. It also appreciated the fact that it was never going to attract Apple loyalists to buy Samsung phones. It's like someone driving a BMW for years and expect a company such as Honda to try to win that customer over - It's not likely to happen.
So Samsung decided to market to those who were only looking for Honda's price tag and offering them all the trimmings. Essentially Samsung created a showroom where phones of all types with "Apple-like features" could appeal to a population that did not have "Apple-like money." Samsung created a market where even those "choosy" customers could find a phone with a feature that they absolutely had to have - even better, and it cost less.
Still, Samsung was ready to drop its prices lower at a moment's notice if it felt it had to, whereas Apple kept its price point the same. Again, this is because Apple operates with the mindset that BMWs sell themselves. It's hard to fault Apple for this stance – particularly as it is growing revenues year-over-year at an average rate of 30%.
As with BMW, it can be said that Apple targets an "affluent" consumer base, the same population that helps Apple maintain its incredibly high margins. Still, given the speed at which Samsung has now stolen the top spot in device sales, it is safe to say that their strategy has worked to perfection – much better than Apple expected. But on the other hand, does Apple really care?
Why Apple Won't Respond or Should It?
One of the reasons that continue to set Apple apart from other tech companies is its incredibly high margin leverage. Apple makes a lot of money from each device it sells. Should its pride supersede what is best for its business? This issue is not even worth debating. Samsung is now #1 in device sales – so what! If Apple wants to regain the top spot all it has to do is drop the price of its phones and tablets and watch all of the "Samsung enthusiasts" rush into Apple stores.
Though its margins would decline, it would still be the world's most valuable company. But I don't see why investors would want this. It should be noted that Apple also attracts a smarter base of investors. Likewise, Apple have suppliers all over the world fighting for its business, and it has no interest in entering Samsung's low-end market. What's the benefit of being the best selling device if it results in little to no earnings per share? After all, both Motorola and then Nokia once held the #1 ranking. Where are they now?
Bottom line
Apple sets trends it does not follow them. Some will proclaim that Apple has already started responding to Samsung with its recent launch of the iPad mini – I disagree. That the iPad mini carries a $329 price tag, which is over 60% higher than the $199 price of Amazon's Kindle Fire and Google's Nexus 7 should indicate where Apple's mentality is. Then again there are always those who wish to compare a Honda to a BMW 3 series - then perhaps. Warren Buffett said "Price is what you pay, value is what you get." In that instance, comparisons are not always apples-to-apples.
More on Forbes:


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The Lonely Island (Feat. T-Pain) - I'm On A Boat [SNL Comedy]
The new single from The Lonely Island's debut album "INCREDIBAD" In stores this Tuesday! (2/10/09) The Lonely Island is Andy Samberg, Akiva Schaffer & Jorma Taccone. (C) Universal Republic
Please click the "Report" button below if the video on this page is not working properly.
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Organizers of a prestigious pro bicycle race from San Jose to the Mount Diablo summit on May 13 are looking for hundreds of volunteers to help with the third stage of the Amgen Tour of California.
People willing to work as course marshals, hospitality workers, media helpers and other jobs are invited to apply online at www.amgentourofcalifornia.com/footer/volunteer.
Mt. Diablo State Park and the Mt. Diablo Intepretative Association are helping coordinate volunteers for the mountain section.
The 108.5-mile leg starts at 10:45 a.m. May 13 at Lake Cunningham Regional Park in eastern San Jose and finishes at the Mount Diablo summit. It is the only Bay Area part of the race from March 11 to 18.
For information about the race or to purchase VIP tickets to watch the finish from a summit viewing area, visit amgentourofcalifornia.com.
Contact Denis Cuff at 925-943-8267 or email@example.com. Follow him at Twitter.com/deniscuff


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Finding a Veterinarian through CareCredit
Did you know that CareCredit now provides assistance in connecting pet owners with local veterinarians? CareCredit, the company that offers healthcare financing for myriad treatments and surgeries, recently added the new Doctor Locator feature to its company website. The Doctor Locator feature allows you to search for a veterinarian in your area, whether in a specific city, zip code, or state.
Your search for a local veterinarian is over! Once you access the Doctor Locator Veterinary page, you can choose from a variety of pet care treatments or types of animal physicians. You can then narrow your search through your state, and finally either by city name or zip code. The Doctor Locator then provides detailed results of local veterinarians, based on your search limitations and specifications.
For assistance in finding a local veterinarian Pet Care specialist through CareCredits Doctor Locator feature, ask your Portland healthcare professional or visit CareCredit's national list of Veterinarians.
Invitation provided by CareCredit®, a GE Money Company. © AskAMerchant.com


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CORRECTION: The original version of this story only had the contribution from Connecticut Light & Power toward the small ZREC program. When including United Illuminating's contribution, the program has $2.6 million available this year. CL&P alone has received 296 proposals for the large and medium ZREC programs.
Up to 150 small businesses could receive help installing renewable power systems this year when the state utilities open a $2.6 million program on a first-come, first-served basis.
Electric utilities Connecticut Light & Power of Berlin and United Illuminating of New Haven will unveil a new zero emissions renewable energy credit program later this year for businesses and other organizations to install smaller power systems, such as solar panels and wind turbines.
"It is really up to the developers to determine who is the best fit for a system," said Christie Bradway, CL&P manager of renewable power contracts.
The small-tier ZREC program spins out of the utilities' overwhelmingly popular medium- and large-tier ZREC program, where owners of renewable power systems are paid for every megawatthour of electricity produced. The Connecticut General Assembly created the ZREC program in 2011, and all of the credits paid come from contracts with utilities that use ratepayer money.
"This is a fantastic opportunity for small business," said Ed Steins, northeast regional director for renewable installer SolarCity. "These are all good opportunities for businesses to take advantage of these programs."
The large- and medium-business programs launched in May, but the small business program won't start until later this year. The amount of the large- and medium-business credits was determined by competitive bid on July 17, to ensure that proposals were competitive on costs. The amount of the small business credits will be determined by the average price of the medium-business credit plus 10 percent, so CL&P and UI can't launch the small program until regulators approve the medium-business program.
CL&P received 296 proposals for the large and medium ZRECs, and on July 17 tentatively selected 84 proposals representing 28 megawatts of renewable generation installed in the utilities' services areas. Because the proposals have not been signed into contracts yet, CL&P and UI are not disclosing the names of the awardees, the types of generation, or the prices of the credits until the deals are submitted for regulatory revenue.
Once the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority signs off on the contracts — and approves the medium-business credit amount — then CL&P and UI will launch the small business program for renewable systems of 100 kilowatts or smaller.
"We expect that the small tranche to be every bit as popular as the medium and large tranches," said Paul Michaud, president of the Renewable Energy & Efficiency Business Association, and counsel at Hartford law firm Murtha Cullina. "Developers have been parsing all sizes of projects, and they will be ready to submit their proposals as soon as that tranche opens."
All three tiers of the program will run new solicitations annually for the next six years. CL&P and UI will spend $1 billion over the life of the contracts for the ZREC program and its sister LREC program for low emissions renewable energy credits.
A 100-kilowatt renewable energy system still is fairly large as most residential roof solar installations are between five and 10 kilowatts.
"That is a fairly decent size commercial system," Bradway said.
Businesses such as manufacturers, distributors, grocery stores or any company with high electricity usage are good fits for the small-tier program, Steins said.
"We will see prices go down next year, so this is a chance to get the best price for ZRECs," Steins said.
Businesses can either purchase their renewable system outright or through a power-purchase agreement with the developer, where the business pays off the cost of the installation by buying electricity directly from the installer, who retains ownership of the system.
The exact number of projects selected for this year's small-tier ZREC program won't be determined until after PURA approves the credit amount. Even then, the quantity will be set by the size of the projects that are approved for the program; and since it is first-come, first-served, larger projects could eat up all the available $2.1 million rather quickly.
"It is another reason to go for this immediately," Steins said.
In anticipation of growth in the renewable industry, the Industrial Management & Training Institute in Waterbury launched a new program for electricians to become installers of solar photovoltaic systems.
"We felt it was probably going to be the next big growth for electricians," IMTI President Janice Shannon said.
The first IMTI solar installers class graduated on July 20, with several companies in attendance. One graduate already has been hired, and more hiring is expected as the industry benefits from Connecticut's ZREC programs, Shannon said.
"This is going to be the next big growth sector," Shannon said.


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This Sunday we have a wonderful opportunity to break bread and enjoy a thanksgiving meal together. After that, the fun really begins. We will move into the auditorium and begin working on our Christmas Box Outreach project. I urge you as individuals and families today to begin with prayer for each family that receives a box that they would be open to God's call and see Christmas, maybe for the first time, though His eyes.
Christmas is more than an event. It's a chapter in a story that began long ago and is not yet complete. Your life is part of the story, but it's ultimately not your story.
I know God's will for your life. I'm not kidding. Whether young, old, rich, poor, black, white, God has commanded all of us to do something.
Whether you're single or married, parenting young children is hard work. I say that as the father of two little boys. Caring for them is an unbelievable privilege, but they have an uncanny knack for drawing impatience and anger out of my heart that I didn't even know was in there.
In June of 1775, the Continental Congress issued the following proclamation, requesting a day of fasting and prayer. "This Congress, therefore, considering the present critical, alarming, and calamitous state of these Colonies, do earnestly recommend that, Thursday, the twentieth day of July next, be observed by the inhabitants of all the English Colonies on this Continent, as a day of publick humiliation, fasting and prayer; that we may, with united hearts and voices, unfeignedly confess and de...


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Bay Area Artist Berner Wants In On JTF's Smoke-A-Thon Live From Kush Farm & Canibus Club [User Submitted]
Publicist reports "berner shows off weed, hash, weed food and his own blunt,the berner.THEY DONT WANA SEE ME IM IN THE FUCKIN WEED BIBLE!!!! www.myspace.com/berner415
Please click the "Report" button below if the video on this page is not working properly.
Comments will only be displayed by verified emails. No Spamming or Racism.


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YumSugar's 2010 February Must Haves
Yum's February Must Haves
Yum's February Must Haves
Can you believe it's already February?! It's a short month that's jam packed with activities and celebrations: the Super Bowl, Valentine's Day, Chinese New Year, Mardi Gras, the Winter Olympics, the South Beach Food and Wine Festival — we're overwhelmed just thinking of all the cooking, eating, and partying that's to come! Luckily there are a few treats that will help us get through the next 28 days. Here are the items we can't live without.
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Imagine magazine portfolio now available on Google
Imagine Publishing's 'Content is King' strategic took a seismic leap forward today with the news that the company's portfolio of 19 technology magazines have launched on Google Play for Android smartphones and tablets.
Google's pioneering Google Play magazines service and rival to Apple Newsstand went live in the USA in March 2012, and from today it is available in the UK as an update on all Android devices running Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) and above.
Google Play Magazines can be browsed on a desktop PC, or via an Android mobile app, with issues stored in the Cloud and synchronised across multiple devices. Single issues of magazines or bookazines can be purchased easily, and new subscribers get a free 14-day or 30-day trial which can be cancelled at any time.
The Imagine portfolio is particularly suited to mobile devices and it includes popular worldwide magazine brands such as iCreate, How It Works, games™, Retro Gamer, Photoshop® Creative, Digital Photographer, Android Magazine and SciFiNow. Soon to follow on Google Play will be Imagine's globally successful bookazine range.
Imagine's stable of titles cover a wide range of technology topics that are now for the first time available direct from Google Play Magazines, and readers can also browse the complete Imagine inventory on the digital editions portal GreatDigitalMags.com. Today's announcement represents yet another leap forward for Imagine's internationalisation and digitisation strategy.
"Google Play Magazines is the most exciting thing to happen to digital publishing since the launch of Apple's Newsstand last year," said Group Managing Director Damian Butt. "For the first time, Imagine Publishing's magazines and bookazines are available to purchase worldwide 24/7 on every updated Android smartphone and tablet – that's hundreds of millions of new potential readers of Imagine's high quality content."
Imagine's Group Creative Director Mark Kendrick said: "Imagine has always been keen to push the envelope of digital publishing, so we are really excited with today's announcement of our partnership with Google. Imagine magazines will look better and read better than ever on Google Play as all our titles will be displayed in beautiful high resolution. And with the Magazine app's built in Text View option, Imagine magazines and bookazines have never been more accessible to a massively growing worldwide readership. It's a truly ground-breaking opportunity, and one that Imagine intends to build on," Kendrick added.
Imagine Publishing is one of the UK's fastest-growing multimedia content publishers. Formed in May 2005, it now publishes 19 regular print magazines, 50 digital apps, over 240 bookazines, 29 websites and thousands of articles every month in the technology, videogames, photography and knowledge/science markets. An Imagine magazine is purchased every ten seconds.
Android and Google Play are trademarks of Google Inc
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State setting scene as Holmes murder trial begins in New London
The murder trial of Evan J. Holmes got underway in New London Superior Court Monday with crime scene photos and testimony from first responders.
Holmes, 22, of New London, is accused of breaking into an apartment at 252 Montauk Ave. in the early morning hours of Nov. 12, 2011, and fatally shooting 25-year-old Jorge "Loco" Rosa in his bed.
Holmes has pleaded not guilty to murder, felony murder, first-degree burglary, home invasion, conspiracy to commit first-degree burglary and criminal possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.
He opted for a trial rather than accept a plea deal involving a lengthy prison sentence and appeared before the jury of 12 regular members and four alternates wearing a black suit and freshly shorn hair. His family members sat behind him in the courtroom, while Rosa's family and friends filled a few rows of benches on the other side.
Before the trial began, defense attorney William T. Koch Jr. asked Judge Barbara Bailey Jongbloed to sever the firearms charge from the rest of the information and try it separately so that the jury would not be prejudiced with the knowledge that Holmes was a previously convicted felon. Just nine days before the shooting, Holmes had been released after serving an 18-month prison sentence for shooting another man in the foot. The judge agreed to sever the charge and hear it separately if Holmes is found guilty.
Prosecutor Paul J. Narducci notified the judge that the state intends to seek an enhanced sentence for Holmes, based on the prior conviction, if he is convicted. Narducci then called as his first witness New London police Lt. Lawrence Keating, who was the street supervisor in charge of the midnight shift when the shooting occurred. Keating testified that he responded briefly to a disturbance outside the WildStyle Motorcycle Club on South Water Street about 3:30 a.m. The participants were dispersing as he arrived, and Keating left.
About 45 minutes later, Keating said he was dispatched to 252 Montauk Ave. for a report of shots fired. Arriving at the scene, Keating said Patrolman Benjamin Burbank told him he had seen somebody in the third-floor window. Keating said he looked up and nobody was there.
Keating said he and Burbank entered the multifamily home through a side entrance and noticed that the doorway leading to the third floor was damaged. Entering the apartment, Keating said he could smell marijuana and gunpowder.
Rosa was lying on the floor of the back bedroom, which overlooks the street, gasping for breath, according to Keating. His clothing was bloody and he did not respond when Keating asked who shot him. There were bullet casings on the bed and blood spatters on the wall and a dresser.
"I tried to get a dying declaration from him of who did this to him," Keating testified.
There was no response, he said.
The prosecutor used a projector to show the jury a photograph of Rosa lying on the bedroom floor, sending some of his survivors out of the courtroom in tears and others grasping for tissues. Rosa was pronounced dead at the scene, leaving behind a close-knit family and a 6-year-old daughter.
The state was expected to continue calling other first responders to the witness stand throughout the day. When the trial resumes Tuesday, the prosecutor is expected to call to the witness stand Gabriela Gonzalez, who was in bed with Holmes when he was shot. Gonzalez testified at a previous hearing in the case that she woke up to see Holmes, her former boyfriend, and Davion Smith standing at the foot of the bed with guns and that Holmes shot Rosa.
Gonzalez said she had broken up with Holmes while he was incarcerated.
Smith, who has also pleaded not guilty to murder and home invasion charges, is incarcerated while his case is pending.
Jurors to take two versions of Rosa homicide into deliberations
Woman testifies that murder defendant Holmes told her, 'I shot somebody'
Girlfriend of New London homicide victim testifies at murder trial
Watch Live: New London vs. Bacon Acadmey in ECC girls' basketball final
Highlights: ECC girls basketball final NL 54, Bacon Academy 40
Fitch's Amara Robinson: from broken back to all-state cheerleader
2Wives, No Anchor owner faces federal narcotics, money laundering charges
State budget shows winners and losers for local cities and towns


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Brian Weisberg necesitaba un nuevo diseño de otro y lanzó un concurso de diseño en 99designs.
Un ganador ha sido elegido entre 43 diseños de 9 diseñadores freelance.
We are bringing group buying to the Nordics. Think Groupon, but in Norwegian. Our name is Kuppong... the word "Kupp" means a great deal (lit. a coup) and "kupong" means coupon. We think it's clever.
We need a great design to help explain our business to new customers.
We are targeting consumers, including students, parents, singles, seniors. Everyone.
Our target audience is probably not computer savvy, so we need a clean design.
We need a graphic to explain our business model. The graphic should have a lighthearted feel to it. Cartoon-like graphics are good, but not required. Our logo (attached below) has cutesy coupon-like characters and simple colors. It's best to work with these as inspiration.
Our business model is just like Groupon's. Below are the simple steps that explain how we work. Please research Groupon's business model and feel free to make changes if needed. (Note: Write everything in English... we'll translate it later.)
Step 1: We negotiate a great deal with Norway's best businesses
Step 2: Each day, we send you one deal by e-mail, but there's a catch...
Step 3: The deal is only active if enough people buy, so share it with your friends
Step 4: Enjoy your deal ("coup") and wait for tomorrow's deal
The graphic should end with a box to submit your e-mail address and include your four-digit postal code.
This will be the main focus of our front page. There should be subtle links at the top of the page to:
- See example deals
- See today's deals
- Log in to manage your account
Please ask if you have any questions!


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Wayne Rooney's brace against Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League moves him closer to becoming Manchester United's all-time highest goalscorer with just 49 goals remaining to equal Sir Bobby Charlton at the top.
Rooney's 200th goal in a United shirt brings to memory United's top point-men and this article aims to pay tribute to the legends who lit-up the Theatre of Dreams at different times.
1. Sir Bobby Charlton (249 goals)
Sir Bobby featured for United from 1956 to 1973 making a total 758 appearance for the Red Devils. The former England player is regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of all time and remains United's leading all-time goalscorer - having scored 249 goals in all competitions for the Red Devils.
2. Denis Law (237 goals)
Nicknamed The King and The Lawman by supporters, Law is best known for the eleven years that he spent at United - from 1962 to 1973 - where he scored 237 goals in 404 apprearances - second only to Sir Bobby Charlton in the club's goalscoring charts.
The former Scottish striker also holds a United record for scoring 46 competitive goals in a single season.
3. Jack Rowley (211 goals)
Rowley featured for Manchester United from 1937 to 1955. The English striker was nicknamed "The Gunner" because of his prolific and explosive goal-scoring abilities, scoring 211 goals in 424 appearances for United.
4. Wayne Rooney (200 goals)
Wonder-boy Rooney hit a brace against Bayern Leverkusen to take his tally to 200 for United. The England striker - who was signed from Everton in 2004 - is on his way to becoming a United legend if only he could show some more commitment at Old Trafford.
That not withstanding, scoring 200 goals in 406 appearances for the Red Devils is no mean feat and Rooney sure deserves lots of accolades.
5. Dennis Viollet (179)
Dennis Viollet is jointly tied with George Best in the number five position of United's top goalscorers.
The England international came through the junior ranks at United becoming a striker for the Busby Babes of the 1950s with lightning quick pace. He was a survivor of the Munich air disaster. Dennis scored 179 goals in 293 games for United.
5. George Best (179 goals)
Georgie is undoubtedly on of the greatest player to ever wear the United jersey. The Northern Irish winger was signed by United in 1963 at the age of 15 and went on to star 470 times for the Red Devils scoring 179 goals.
In 1968 Best won the European Cup with United, and was named the European Footballer of the Year and FWA Footballer of the Year. He unexpectedly quit United in 1974 at the age of 27.
7. Joe Spence (168 goals)
Mr Soccer as he was then known, Spence starred for United between 1919 and 1933 and netted 168 times for the Red Devils.
Spence was one of United's few true stars between the wars and his wing play made "Give it to Joe" the most commonly heard terrace chant during his 14 years at Old Trafford. His first season brought 14 goals in 32 First Division games, and in his best season at the club, 1927-28 season, he scored 24 goals; 22 in the league and two in the FA Cup. However, United were relegated to the Second Division twice during his 14 years there
7. Ryan Giggs (168 goals)
Juventus legend Alessandro Del Piero once told Italian media that Giggs was one of his two favourite players , and gave the following memorable quote: "This is embarrassing to say but I have cried twice in my life watching a football player; the first one was Roberto Baggio and the second was Ryan Giggs."
Giggs started a memorable career at United as a 17-year-old and is just 55 games short of completing a millennium of appearances for United. His emergence and the arrival of Eric Cantona heralded the dominance of United in the Premier League.
The former Wales international is tied in seventh position with Joe Spence with 168 goals in 945 appearances and could still increase his tally this season.
9. Mark Hughes (163 goals)
The former Wales international also appeared for Barcelona and Bayern Munich. But it was at United that he made his mark scoring 163 goals in 467 games.
10. Paul Scholes (155 goals)
Scholesy is arguably one of the greatest midfielders of his generation. The former England international wasn't only great at distributing passes and initiating tackles, he was also a prolific goalscorer especially with his lethal shot.
Scholes wraps up the list of United's ten leading goalscorers having notched 155 goals in 718 appearances - the third highest number of appearances by any player for the club - during his lengthy career which ran from 1994 to the end of the 2012/2013 season.
Write for GiveMeSport! Sign-up to the GMS Writing Academy here: https://gms.to/130seMa
DISCLAIMER: This article has been written by a member of the GiveMeSport Writing Academy and does not represent the views of GiveMeSport.com or SportsNewMedia. The views and opinions expressed are solely that of the author credited at the top of this article. GiveMeSport.com and SportsNewMedia do not take any responsibility for the content of its contributors.


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The Haines Farmers Market is a community organization dedicated to providing a place for growers, chefs, and artisans to sell locally grown produce, homemade cuisine, and locally made products to the Southeast Alaska Community. We strive to increase food security, improve the Haines community's nutrition options, and to assist area producers and artisans with sustainable business opportunities. The Haines Farmers Market offers a space for social gathering around food and the arts to enhance the quality of life in the Chilkat Valley and support a vibrant community with pride in our home of Haines, Alaska.
Back to All Events
Earlier Event: July 22Farmers Market
Later Event: August 5Farmers Market


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Fraserway RV is Canada's favourite RV dealer & premiere RV renter. With locations in Vancouver (Delta), Abbotsford, Kamloops, Prince George, Whitehorse, Lacombe County, Leduc, Edmonton, Calgary (Airdrie), Toronto (Cookstown) and Halifax (Bedford), we certainly have a lot in-store for you. We're here to help base camp your outdoor adventures; from Tent Trailers to Travel Trailers, Fifth Wheels to Toy Haulers, Class C motorhomes to Class A motor coaches, we've got you covered. And our RV Rentals, RV Sales, RV Parts and RV Service departments exist to serve you better.
Find out what makes us more than just another RV company; more than just product and price, more than just great selection and trusted RV brands, more than just a knowledgeable and friendly staff. We are a first-rate customer value experience, and proud to be a part of the pleasant surprise Canada holds for you.
So come explore Canada with us; from the east coast to the west coast, from the south to the north, and everywhere in between.
Fraserway RV, the place for everything RV since 1969.


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Aug. 2: The headlining showdown presents a clear choice between fans of '90s Lollapalooza nostalgia (a reunited Nine Inch Nails, who appeared at the first Lolla in '91) and more recent arena rock (the Killers).
A wild card sandwiched between those two bands is Lana Del Rey, whose intriguing, smoky singles were undercut by a disastrous performance on "Saturday Night Live" last year.
The Perry's lineup includes a strong undercard with Flux Pavilion and Modestep. Jessie Ware and Emeli Sande, two U.K. neo-soul stars trying to make a bigger impression in America, also perform. Swedish dance-pop duo Icona Pop is sure to draw a big crowd with its early afternoon slot, and Thievery Corporation could very well prove to be a late-afternoon highlight with its globetrotting version of electronica. Rising Chicago MC Chance the Rapper gets a closing slot on the BMI stage, right before the headliners. The rock is in relatively short supply, but Queens of the Stone Age will make up for it.
The verdict: A mini-history of dance, industrial and electronic music, with Nine Inch Nails and New Order representing the pioneers and the adventurers, while Crystal Castles, Hot Chip, Flux Pavilion and Icona Pop bring the new wave.
Aug. 3: The one-two punch of suspendered folk-rockers the Lumineers and Mumford & Sons will keep plenty of fans down at the South end of Grant Park as the day winds down. But the Postal Service reunion is the rarer event, a likely last chance to see Jimmy Tamborello and Death Cab for Cutie's Ben Gibbard reprise songs from their 10-year-old million-selling debut, along with vocalist Jenny Lewis.
The cruelest overlap of the festival just might be acclaimed MC Kendrick Lamar going up against agit-rappers Death Grips in the early evening. On a slow-starting day, soul singer Charles Bradley is a must-see at 2:45 p.m. The National is sure to be road-testing new tunes from its forthcoming studio album, "Trouble Will Find Me." Expect a massive dance party to shake loose when Baauer breaks out the ridiculously addictive "Harlem Shake" – but then do you really want to see Baauer kill an hour performing the rest of its "repertoire"?
The verdict: Despite a few must-sees – Kendrick, Bradley, Death Grips, the National – this is the softest lineup of the weekend.
Aug. 4: The headlining faceoff again presents a clear choice between a revered veteran (the Cure) and an exuberant (relative) newcomer (Phoenix). The dance crowd is likely to flock to Perry's for Skrillex side project Dog Blood and the global dance party hosted by Major Lazer.
Bawdy Southern rapper 2 Chainz will provide an antidote to the somber beauty of Beach House and the studied quirkiness of Vampire Weekend. But some of the most intriguing music will arrive at the crack of noon or soon after, with co-ed bands Guards and Wild Belle, Chicago scruffs the Orwells, rough-and-ready Brits Palma Violets, rising rapper Angel Haze, Prince favorite Lianne La Havas, and metal adventurers Baroness.
The verdict: If festivals are about discovering great new bands, make sure to get an early start on Day 3.
Chicago Tribune report


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Apache, as you know, is the most popular web server in use today. Since it is historically easily installed, easily configured and very flexible, it's not difficult to see why. Many of the easily configured options that are possible with Apache, however, are not exploited to their fullest. Most of Apache's various server configuration options are switched off by default, and although this makes the server much more secure, it also means that a default installation will not take advantage of many of the things that make Apache what it is. The httpd.conf file, Apache's main configuration file, actually says in section 2: "Note that from this point forward you must specifically allow particular features to be enabled…"
Error messages are certainly a pertinent example of this; Apache can very quickly and easily be set to display almost anything you want, from simple text (yuk) to custom HTML pages or even PHP and Perl scripts. It's all too common, however, to see the very plain, default error messages that are displayed when the server encounters the standard set of errors, such as the all too familiar 404 or "Page not found" error response. These default pages are ugly, sometimes confusing, very often nothing like the rest of site and almost always detrimental to user experience. There's no excuse for sticking with these default error pages, especially when it really is so very easy to use alternatives of your own devising.
Anyone reading this is going to be using Apache, if not in production, then at the very least as a development tool, but the browser you use for testing can also have an impact on your work. With the default set up of Apache, if you use Mozilla to try to access a page that does not exist you will see the default Apache server 404 error page, but if you use MS IE5+ you won't see the default Apache 404. Instead, you'll see the default Internet Explorer 404 page. This is Microsoft's so called "friendly error message" which overrides the Apache defaults. The reason for this is that the Apache defaults are all less than 512 bytes.
This overriding featuring of IE can be switched off using the "show friendly error messages" setting in the Tools -> Internet options dialogue, although by default it is set to on, so bear in mind that most people will have this set if they are using IE (which a large number of Internet users are). This isn't overly important but should be taken into consideration; to overcome this setting automatically, you need to ensure that the pages you wish to use as error pages are larger than 512 bytes. This isn't too difficult to achieve, but if you aren't seeing what you should be seeing when creating and testing your error documents, it would be wise to check the file size of your error pages or disable this feature in IE.
{mospagebreak title=Creating a custom error page}
Configuring Apache to serve customized error pages is extremely easy; there is a section of the httpd.conf file devoted to this. It takes just one directive per error to achieve. If you open the conf file and scroll right down to almost the very bottom of section two, you'll see the section you need to edit:
By default, these directives are commented out, but all you need to do is un-comment each directive and then change the path to point to your own error page:
ErrorDocument 404 /errordocs/404error.html
Quite simply, this statement is broken down into the directive name, the error code and the path to the document you wish to use. You could substitute this last part simply for text enclosed within double-quotes to specify the text to be displayed on the page, but this is hardly an improvement on the default messages themselves. Also, this path could alternatively be the path to a script. As you can see, I've put my error documents into a separate folder in my site's directory structure.
So, very quickly and easily then, you can simply create a series of your own error documents, to cater for the most common server error codes and add the required directive to the conf file. In addition to enhancing the user experience by giving a more pleasant error response, you can also introduce consistency across your site by using CSS to make the pages look like the regular pages of your site. You should also make sure that the pages fit in with other policies in effect on your site; if you pride yourself on your adherence to the accessibility guidelines, for example, you need to ensure that your site map and a help page are linked to from the error pages and that any other applicable guidelines are satisfied. This is common sense anyway, and if you want to provide better error handling from a user's perspective, you'll probably want to link to different parts of your site anyway to prevent the error pages from being dead end pages with the user given no choice but to reach for the Back button.
For some different examples of custom error pages, you can view both extremes; at Google for example, the custom error pages simply contain a Google logo and a very brief message. They aren't overly helpful, but they are consistent with the overall design of the site. Ebay, on the other hand, provides a very large and highly customized error page, with many links and tons of information.
{mospagebreak title=Internationalized error pages}
You needn't stop there however; if you scroll down through the conf file just a little more, you'll see a section covering "internationalized error messages" which work on a system of master error pages, containing standard error messages in many different languages, repeated throughout the file:
At run time, when an error occurs, the error page is constructed using server-side includes to build the page from several template html files (bottom, top and spacer), and content-negotiation to grab the actual text for the error message in the preferred language.
If you go to the error page directory in the Apache program folder, which is C:Program FilesApache GroupApache2error on a default Windows installation, you can see all of the internationalized error pages, and within this folder is also the include folder containing the header, footer and spacer pages.
To switch this feature on, you need to copy everything from the Apache error directory to a directory in your sites hierarchy, then uncomment out the block of lines beginning with the Alias directory and ending with the ErrorDocument 506 directive. Finally, the Alias directive needs to be changed so that it shows the path to the directory you have just created; you also need to update the Directory container to show the same path. Don't forget that the Windows standard backslashes need to be changed to forward slashes before the paths will be accepted by Apache.
When you try this, make sure that you comment out any of the ErrorDocument directives used previously. Also, note that when this is configured correctly and works, you don't need to worry about whether or not the internationalized error messages will be shown in Internet Explorer – they will, even with the "show friendly error messages" preference set because the server-generated page is greater than 512 bytes.
{mospagebreak title=Maintaining and updating error pages}
You are now faced with the same problem that we initially set out to fix: bland and generally unhelpful error response documents. However, the fact that the server-generated page makes use of included html pages means that you have a centralized method of maintaining and updating these error pages to fit in with your site's design, making them much easier to customize and manage. If you look at one of the include pages in a text editor, you'll see a special section there that defines some very basic styles. This is where you can add your own style rules in order to customize the look of the error page.
The 404 response is probably going to be the most common error result that is going to be seen by visitors to your site. Sometimes, this is going to be because they've misspelled a URL or clicked on a link to a resource that no longer exists, but very often, it can be the result of site reorganization, or pages being moved from one directory to another within your site's internal structure. Client redirection is extremely easy to configure; you simply use the Redirect directive, the name of the old directory and the URL of where requests to the old directory are redirected to:
Redirect /olddir/ http://localhost/newdir/
This will only be effective when there are no longer any pages in the olddir directory however, as any request for a page within that directory will be redirected to the newdir, so a request for www.mysite.co.uk/2005/quarter1.html where 2005 is set in the place of olddir will automatically be redirected to www.mysite.co.uk/2006/quarter1.html when http://mysite.co.uk/2006/ is set as the newdir. If just an individual page has been moved, you can simply add a directive specifically for the page that has moved:
Redirect /olddir/movedpage.html
You can even use the Redirect directive in conjunction with your customized error pages by making use of the status argument, which comes directly after the directive name. The status can be an error code or one of several keywords. If, for example, a page has been removed from your site rather than just moved, you can add the following directive to your conf file to let visitors know:
Redirect 404 /olddir/deletedpage.html
This will generate the HTTP_GONE.html.var error response when internationalized error messages have been configured.
Apache has many other directives that can be used to deal with ever more complex redirection issues, but these are beyond the scope of this article. You've seen how easy it is to configure your own set of custom error response pages, and how to enable customized error responses that can be displayed in a variety of languages depending on the preferences of requesting clients. Additionally, you've learned how to redirect browsers when requesting pages that have moved or been removed so you can try to minimize the number of times your custom error pages need to be displayed.


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Mountain Properties for Horse People
Mountain Homes for Horses is a valuable resource for people who own and love horses along Denver's Front Range in the mountain communities of Golden, Evergreen, Conifer, Morrison, Indian Hills, Pine and Bailey.
From real estate information for the next time you are thinking of buying or selling, to trail ride ideas, horse related local businesses, horse event calendars, and equine blogs and photo tours, THERE IS ONLY 1 RESOURCE for all things horse - MtnHomes4Horses.com!
If you are looking for a place to go where people understand your love for horses and the horsey lifestyle, come to MtnHomes4Horses.com, after all, We Speak Horse. Read More...


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Grade A Egg Scale
The Grade "A" Egg Scale is a solid steel scale for small farm or home use. It is designed to be accurate for weighing your chicken eggs as well as attractive. Its vintage design will make an excellent addition to your home/kitchen decor. Weighs egg sizes: Peewee through X-Large eggs in both grams and ounces. A great gift for farmers and collectors!
iPC Series Portable Bench Scale
iPC Series Portable Bench Scale Offering a sleek design, simple operation, and pinpoint accuracy, the iPC delivers convenient 4-button operation and optional dual displays. These features simplify processes for users and offer highly visible weight read-outs for customers. Perfect wherever quick, accurate weighments are needed, the iPC excels in applications such as bakeries, restaurants, and mailrooms. The iPC is NTEP certified and operates on either batteries or AC adapter, providing the versatility for use at remote locations such as farmers markets and roadside stands. Applications: Bakery, deli, and specialty food stores Farmers market and roadside stands Restaurants Mailrooms
Yamato Scale
A user friendly scale with a digital display for a maximum capacity of 2 lbs. 3.4 oz (35.4 oz) or 1000 grams. Switch between grams and ounces or tare the weight by a simple touch of a button. Platform dimensions are 5" L x 4 3/16" W x 1" H. Adapter capability, battery operated 9V (not included), includes instructions and a 30-day manufacturer warranty. No automatic shut off. Readability of 1 gm/1.4 oz.
OHAUS CS200 Scale
The CS200 Ohaus Electronic scale is an excellent scale with total portability in a durable, easy to clean housing. Easy to use with small animals or weighing food. The CS200 offers 200 grams weighing capacity with 0.1 gram precision. Avian breeders need to weigh their baby birds during the weaning process and to weigh the eggs during artificial incubation. The CS200 is battery powered with 3 alkaline AA batteries, and auto shut off.
BenchMark Series Bench Scales
From shipping and receiving to food and chemical processing, Rice Lake Weighing Systems_ line of bench scales withstands punishment and still provides the accuracy you need.Our BenchMark¸ Series includes NTEP-certified, stainless steel, and shock-absorbing models for light- to high-capacity applications. The SL series has a unique and rugged LifeGuard¸ platform suspension, protecting the load cell from damage incurred by shock and excessive loads. Ideal for food processing environments, the 304 stainless steel construction is easily maintained. LOAD CELL, NTEP - CERTIFIED:SL Series: RL1042-N5 encapsulated single-pointCW-80B Series: RL1380 encapsulated stainless steel single-point load cellRATED OUTPUT:0.91 mV/V (0.6 mV/V on 2 lb capacity)OUTPUT IMPEDANCE:350 ohmsMAXIMUM OVERLOAD:200%OVERLOAD PROTECTION:Shock-absorbing spiderCABLE LENGTH:10_ (3 m) 6-wire shielded COMPENSATED TEMPERATURE RANGE:14_F to 104_F (-10_C to 40_C) SAFE TEMPERATURE RANGE:-22_F to 158_F (-30_C to 70_C) WEIGHT:10" x 10" base: 13 lb (5.9 kg)12" x 12" base: 14 lb (6.4 kg)APPROVALS:SL Series: NTEP-certified per H-44, Class III, 5000d,CC #95-072A2, Measurement Canada approved, AM-5082CW-80B Series: NTEP-certified per H-44, Class III, 3000d, CC #96-107; Measurement Canada approved, AM-5156 WARRANTY:2-year limited warranty
Po Box 8651 Deerfield Beach, Florida 33443 United States
© 2019 EggBoxes.com. All rights reserved worldwide.


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Jolie O'Dell at VentureBeat: Apple's press conference showed a brand unraveling
While today's Apple event unveiled a couple new improvements to an expected lineup of products, it also revealed a certain sloppiness that was absent from former, Steve Jobs-led launches.
[…] I think today's Apple event shows that perfectionism fraying a bit around the edges. The bad pun, the goofy logo, the weird product name — all of it pointed to a leadership that either didn't understand or didn't care about consistency in iconography.
Obviously O'Dell is right — Tim Cook is failing to hold Apple to the high standards that Steve Jobs set for the company. Steve Jobs's Apple never would have used an ambiguous product name like "The new iPad."
Steve Jobs's Apple never would have used a silly pun to announce a major new product.
And there's no way Steve Jobs's Apple ever would have used some weird special effects on the Apple logo.
Up until now I thought Tim Cook had done a pretty amazing job of taking over as CEO of the most successful company on the planet, but that VentureBeat article has really cast some seeds of doubt in my mind.


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Dropping CoursesPage address: http://www.mnsu.edu/campushub/payments/dropcourses/fall18/
Fall Semester 2018
Class(es) Dropped Through August 31, 2018
- For Fall Semester 2018, there is no financial penalty for students who drop and/or add courses through August 31, 2018, the fifth day of the semester.
- A 100% tuition/fee refund/credit is allowed for courses dropped through the fifth day of the semester or through one day after the first class session, whichever is later.
Class(es) Dropped After August 31, 2018
- Tuition/fee charges for courses dropped after August 31, 2018 will not be removed from your account, except as provided through an approved course exchange or tuition appeal, or as a result of an official withdrawal from the University.
- Course Exchange
- Course exchanges are handled through the Registration Help Center, WA132, 507-389-2252.
- Tuition Appeal
- A Tuition Refund Appeal form is available at the Campus Hub, SU117, and must be submitted to the Campus Hub when the courses are dropped.
- Documentation is required to substantiate your reason for an appeal.
- Official Withdrawal
- Course Exchange


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Envista needed a new wordpress theme design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 15 designs submitted by 4 freelance designers.
The Art Of Speaking
I am developing a series of training courses that explore the four topics of leadership, communication, teamwork and productivity. I am really passionate about what I do because I have seen what a difference good communication skills can make to a person's confidence, relationships, career prospects and influence.
Our values are that the training should be...
Enjoyable - Because this is what makes life worthwhile.
Reliable - Quality courses, delivered professionally every time.
Valuable - Our courses have immediate practical applications and will be recognised by employers as such.
We are a highly socially responsible organisation who donate a percentage of proceeds to charity and a percentage of places on our courses to aid individuals who are experiencing hardship or whom aspire to return to the workplace after a period of absence.
The training programme will be open to all, however my target audience will typically be aged 25-55, English speaking, professional people based in Europe and Australasia. Both male and female clients will be equally encouraged to join however the pricing will position the brand at the higher end of the socio-economic scale.
Clients will typically be motivated to improve their communication skills for one of these reasons.
- Taking on a management position for the first time.
- They want to improve their success with sales, dating or interviews.
- They have a speech to prepare for (weddings, award ceremonies etc).
- They would like to overcome social anxiety or low self-esteem.
- They would like to learn how to deliver entertaining presentations.
- They would like to improve the quality of communication in their relationships.
I am looking for a highly professional and elegant wordpress theme. It should be smart, easy on the eye and simple to navigate.
The essential features are as follows...
1. The theme should be compatible with BuddyPress.
2. The header at the top should feature one of the two logos provided with the project information.
3. All pages should feature a navigation menu and a menu of categories at the top, and a series of links to other key pages at the bottom.
4. There should be a visually appealing frontpage that presents highlights of recent feature articles.
5. Regular posts and pages should have either two, or three columns to allow for navigation and widgets in the sidebar.
6. Appropriate buttons etc should be included for Facebook Connect authentication, subscription via RSS and following on twitter.
7. Sidebar should include spaces for graphical adverts for upcoming programmes, testimonials and quotations.
The Navigation options are...
1. About The Programme
2. How It Works
3. Benefits To You
4. Find A Course
5. Explore Our Catalogue
6. Get Answers
7. Free Preview
8. Contact Us
The category options are...
1. Latest News
2. Lessons on Communication
3. Lessons on Leadership
4. Lessons on Productivity
5. Lessons on Teamwork
I shall look forward to answering any further questions that you might have for me.


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In Play Magazine
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Detroit Pistons President of Basketball Operations Joe Dumars announced today that the club has re-signed center Ben Wallace. Per team policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed.
Wallace appeared in 69 games (67 starts) last season averaging 5.5 points, a team-high 8.7 rebounds, 1.3 steals and a team-leading 1.2 blocks in 28.6 minutes per game. The 14-year NBA veteran became the 17th player in NBA history to record 2,000 career blocks [at New Jersey (2/2/10)]. At 6-foot-9, he is the shortest player in league history to reach the 2,000-block plateau. Wallace also recorded his 1,200th career steal [at Phoenix (11/22/09)] to become one of only four players (Hakeem Olajuwon, Robert Parish, David Robinson) in NBA history to record 2,000 career blocks and 1,200 career steals.
Wallace, 35, has NBA career averages of 6.2 points, 10.1 rebounds, 2.1 blocks and 30.7 minutes in 972 games (852 starts) with Washington, Orlando, Detroit, Chicago and Cleveland. During his first stint in Detroit (2000 to 2006) he was named NBA Defensive Player of the Year and an NBA All-Star four times. Wallace was an All-NBA Second Team selection three times (2003, 2004, 2006), All-NBA Third Team selection twice (2002 and 2005) and an NBA All-Defensive First Team selection five times (2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006). The Pistons have made the playoffs in five of the seven years Wallace has played in Detroit, winning Eastern Conference Championships in 2004 and 2005 and the NBA Championship in 2004. Wallace is the franchise's all-time leader in regular-season and playoff blocks (1,381 and 215, respectively) and ranks first among Pistons' all-time playoff leaders in rebounds (1,237). He holds franchise single-game records for blocks in a game (10 – twice), defensive rebounds in a quarter (10) and blocks in a quarter (6). During the 2006-07 season, he became just the fifth player in NBA history to record 100 blocks and 100 steals for seven consecutive seasons joining Hakeem Olajuwon (12 times), Julius Erving (seven times), Sam Lacey (seven times) and David Robinson (seven times). Wallace ranks fourth among active players in career blocks with 2,032 and led the NBA in blocks during the 2001-02 season (3.48 bpg).
Originally acquired by the Pistons along with Chucky Atkins in exchange for Grant Hill as part of a sign-and-trade deal with Orlando (8/3/00), Wallace signed with Chicago as a free agent on July 13, 2006. He was traded by Chicago to Cleveland as part of a three-team trade on February 21, 2008.


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Why Vista Looks Good After The MS08-067 RPC Bug
One of the lessons of the recent Windows RPC bug, the one that was fixed "out of band" a few weeks ago, didn't get enough attention. It's that Vista is so much more resilient than XP to the attack, and why. I believe that, on Vista, this vulnerability is almost impossible to exploit and nobody will try.
The vulnerability is triggered over a network connection, requiring no user interaction. Both Vista and XP, since Service Pack 2, come with a firewall that is turned on by default, and any firewall will block this attack. But if it were to get through the firewall, because the user had turned on file and print sharing, the vulnerability could be invoked. So far both operating systems are on fairly equal ground.
The attack is a stack bufffer overflow, meaning that data passed to the vulnerable code causes an error condition which is not properly handled by the code. This condition causes code passed by the attacker, as part of the data, to be executed. At the time, this data exists not in the portions of memory marked as code, but on the stack, which is a data area in memory.
It is to prevent such attacks that Microsoft introduced, in Windows XP SP2, DEP (Data Execution Prevention). This feature uses the ability of recent CPUs to prevent thr execution of code in areas of memory not specifically marked as code. Both AMD and Intel introduced this capability (NX for AMD and XD for Intel) around 2004 for high-end processors, and filled out their product lines with it after that. I think it's a safe assumption that almost all OEM Vista systems have DEP. less so for XP.
(Incidentally, by default only critical parts of Windows are protected by DEP, not applications. And an application would have to be specifically built, with a special linker switch, to opt in to DEP protection, and few have done this because bugs in the application might then cause the program to crash with dire security warnings. The latest versions of some important apps, including Adobe Flash and Acrobat and the upcoming Internet Explorer 8, opt in and should be much more secure as a result.)
There are ways, in theory, to get around DEP, not that any of the attacks on MS08-067 so far utilize them. Read about them in a paper entitled Bypassing Windows Hardware-enforced Data Execution Prevention on the site uninformed.org, a great hacker research site. As I said, this is a tricky workaround. While the research is not new, I'm not aware of any real-world attacks that use it. That's because attackers don't generally bother with a lot of hard work when they can get their job done with less, and perhaps there are enough very old systems around with no DEP protection.
If you read the paper you'll see that the way around DEP is to rely on the existance of certain standard code in Windows at certain addresses. In Windows XP this code is always there, making the attack reliable, but not on Vista. That's because Vista includes a second security mechanism called ASLR (Address Space Layout Randomization). ASLR loads portions of programs into different areas of memory randomly so that their addresses are not predictable. As with DEP, applications must opt in to ASLR with a special linker switch, and core parts of Windows Vista are opted in by default. The newest Flash and Acrobat also opt in, and IE8 will.
Also as with DEP, there are ways, at least in theory, around ASLR; they are not so much hacking as wild guessing. The attack is similar to, but not exactly the same as, an older UNIX attack called return-to-LIBC. The way it works is that the locations of the programs may be randomized, but there are only 256 locations, so it could make sense to guess. If an attempt fails, guess again with a different location (this is harder to do than it may sound, but let's assume you can for the moment. Vista only lets you fail 3 times and them it stops the process. So if your attack is sophisticated enough and you've gotten past all the other barriers, you might have a 3 in 256 chance of getting past ASLR.
Getting all of this to work together on a random machine is a long, long shot. I can imagine this kind of work being worthwhile for a high-value targeted attack, but even then it's hard to justify. Your odds of success with a social engineering attack, or to attack the network through less well-protected systems such as XP, are much better.
Even beyond these considerations, Vista opts in to Windows Automatic Updates by default not only to download the updates, but to apply them. It makes sense that by now a very high percentage of Vista users are protected against this attack by the patch as well.
When MS08-067 was released it was a shocker, the kind of vulnerability that, in the past, has led to widespread attacks. This hasn't happened so far for a number of reasons. But I'll wager that very few Vista systems anywhere in the world will be successfully attacked through this vulnerability, except maybe in hacker testing. It's all another reason why you're better off with Vista.


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Encouraging leaders to do the right thing
"Spare the stick, spoil the child."
Rewarding the rewardable
That was the advice from proponents of the tough love approach to parenting that prevailed in Victorian times.
Plus ça change. Looking around the world today, encouraging leaders in fragile states to do the right thing, whatever that might be, is more about punishing them for erring in the performance of their governance duties than rewarding them for doing good.
There is a panoply of international sanctions to punish leaders who abuse human rights, undermine constitutionality or indulge in corruption. Some are regional, others global. Some are formal, others informal. Whatever their provenance or legal standing, the stick remains the instrument of choice.
Mechanisms to recognize or reward good leadership are few and far between. Yet leaders are human and, unless they are beyond redemption, they are more likely to respond to recognition and rewards than sanctions and reprimands.
The Nobel Peace Prize and the Ibrahim Prize are both strong incentives and could be emulated to acknowledge the contribution of leaders who consistently do well. Why not find ways, for example, to reward ministers who make a lasting impact on corruption or top brass in the military who reform the security sector peacefully?


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U.S. soybean farmers spend approximately $73 million annually to control stink bugs, according to a 2007 grower survey. And those figures don't include actual crop losses from the widespread, damaging pests.
Actual crop losses are difficult to determine accurately but remain significant, even after multiple insecticide applications.
Jim Heitholt, a crop physiologist with Texas A&M-Commerce and Texas AgriLife Research, coordinates a stink bug team that recently circulated a follow-up survey to see if grower observations have changed drastically since 2007.
The 2010 survey is a lean version of the 2007 survey and asks growers about stink bug spray practices, relative importance of pests, and recommendations for allocation of research dollars. Outcomes of the 2007 survey analysis included the $73 million annual control cost figure which was calculated based on growers claiming spray costs of $7.50 per acre per year.
The link to the 2010 survey is:
In addition to conducting the grower survey, Heitholt's team has been active for four years and has screened experimental lines for tolerance to stink bug.
"We started the process in late 2006 and early 2007," Heitholt said. "Prior to that, the United Soybean Board did not have a project specifically geared toward identifying stink bug tolerance. He said efforts were needed especially in the Mid-South, including the Upper Gulf Coast, Louisiana, and Arkansas.
USB funding
"We submitted a proposal to USB and were fortunate enough to receive funding," Heitholt said. The effort included looking at breeding lines from several programs, including lines developed by Glenn Buss at Virginia Tech that were derived from crosses involving Brazilian germplasm and elite Mid-Atlantic lines.
Heitholt said the screening identified several promising soybean lines for the Mid-South. "After testing 35 lines in three states for three years, four lines proved to have high yield, less stink bug populations, and less seed damage," he said.
Mo Way, Texas Extension entomologist in Beaumont, with funding from the Texas Soybean Board, "has been looking at stink bug control for years, both for tolerance and for sprays that would work." The 2007 survey clearly indicated that growers wanted new insecticides that were more effective on stink bug. Heitholt also said Roger Leonard and Jeff Davis at the LSU Ag Center are working on the project and have provided excellent data where stink bug infestations have been high.
Greenhouse screening
Allen Knutson, Texas A&M research entomologist and post-doctoral associate Manuel Campos have performed no-choice greenhouse screening for tolerant varieties. "Our project was to determine if several breeding lines had resistance to feeding on pods by green stink bugs," Knutson said. "We caged green stink bugs on soybean pods on plants in the greenhouse and allowed them to feed for four days. We removed the stink bugs and allowed the pods to mature."
"At maturity (harvest) we examined each seed for feeding punctures and also weighed the seed. Number of feeding punctures and seed weight was compared to seeds of the same variety not fed upon by stink bugs. Fifteen lines were evaluated and compared to the Brazilian line known to be resistant to stink bug.
"Three lines were resistant based upon a reduction in feeding punctures, and two lines were resistant based upon a reduction in seed weight loss (they lost the least amount of seed weight when fed upon by stink bugs). These no-choice studies were conducted at the Texas AgriLife Research and Extension Center in Dallas and the results were recently published in the Southwestern Entomologist.
In 2009, the team's efforts evolved from screening and identification of tolerant lines to breeding resistant varieties with decent yield. Pengyin Chen from the University of Arkansas and Heitholt crossed these four promising test lines with public varieties adapted to the Mid-South region. The team expects to have enough seed for small-scale field testing in 2011.
Manage expectations
Heitholt is concerned about growers' high expectations. "In the 2007 survey, a majority of growers indicated that their expectation for a variety claiming to be tolerant would mean that spraying would not be required," Heitholt said.
"Tolerant varieties might be able to withstand low stink bug infestations without insecticides but spraying will likely be needed in situations where stink bug populations are high. We hope the varieties will allow growers to reduce their number of spray applications, but we doubt the tolerant varieties will eliminate spraying completely. We need to get new lines out and see whether growers notice an improvement."
Heitholt said tolerance could be bred into transgenic lines, but "we hope to retain a few competitive conventional varieties for growers with alternative marketing strategies." The follow-up survey will collect responses through January 2011. Heitholt's contact information can be found on the last page of the survey.


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- 1 medium pumpkin 6-8 lbs, short and round works well
- 1 1/2 - 2 lbs. ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion chopped
- 1- 10 oz.can cream of chicken soup
- 2 Tblsp. brown sugar optional
- 3 Tblsp. soy sauce
- 1-4 oz. can mushrooms or sliced fresh mushrooms
- 1 1/2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
- 2-4 oz. cans sliced water chestnuts
- Wash and clean out pumpkin.
- Paint face on pumpkin with marker if desired.
- Brown beef and onion. Drain.
- Add soup, sugar, soy sauce and mushrooms. Simmer 10 minutes.
- Stir in rice and water chestnuts.
- Spoon into pumpkin. Replace top.
- Put pumpkin on a cookie sheet.
- Bake in center of oven at 350 degrees for 1-2 hours or until pumpkin is tender when
- pierced with a fork or sharp knife. Count on at least 1 1/2 hours baking time.
- Serve on a plate. You can either scoop out cooked pumpkin along with each serving of casserole or cut into wedges.
Terri's Notes
~ May never wash a casserole dish again. This was so fun and such a hit - fill it with
pork, chick or beef stews, cheeseburger casserole, a curry dish, the pumpkin is so mild that any of your favorites would work.
~ Sue's recipe called for rice, I used the quinoa.
~ Because of the pumpkin, the casserole within bakes slowly and is surrounded with moisture, so the time is pretty forgiving. It doesn't over bake easily and stays hot for a long time, making it a good dish to serve company.
Share this Recipe


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"Maybe later. I have to get this done," I respond.
He comes back five minutes later and I tell him, "Later means really later, okay?"
Christy calls him aside and says, "I'll help you. Daddy needs to work."
Something in the gentleness of her tone and the emphasis on the word "need" that pulls me from the office. I shut the laptop and put on my tennis shoes. It takes me a few minutes to adjust to the sun on my face and the cold air on my hands. But with every orange we snatch from the tree, I am forgetting about the website I need to develop or the videos I need to edit.
Brenna joins us. She picks thirteen oranges, but each time she counts, she stops at eleven. "I have eleven," she says to anyone willing to listen - to me, to Joel, to Micah, to the dog and to Micah's Papa Bear.
It feels like magic when the twirling machine converts each orange into juice. Joel is obsessed with technique and Micah is trying to figure out the mechanics, but Brenna is simply delighted to press down on each orange and watch the juice flow from the spout.
When I think about the skills I want my students to acquire, I often say things like, "think globally and act locally" or "recover a sense of the terrestrial reality around them." Or sometimes I talk of sustainability and organic learning and growth and . . . what I really mean is I want them to learn what it means to shut off the devices, walk outside and pick oranges or plant a garden or study a sunset.
I want my students to figure out what matters in life and then have the courage, patience and endurance to live accordingly. The greatest twenty-first century skill is simply this: to learn to live well.
Mumford and Sons say it best:
Where you invest your love, you invest your life.


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Tue, 27 January 2009
What's the G.I. Diet Clinic? (Glycemic Index) Rick Gallop with info. Then, guess which group is demanding a 6.5% pay hike during an economic downturn? Guess again. A big rock gets over-turned. BTW, how well does that school district rank?
Direct download: mickelson-2009-01-27.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:38am CST


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Public Group active 1 year, 2 months ago
Do you like to travel? This group is for you!Planning a trip? Check out GovLoop's Per Diem Calculator. Search by city or zip code and learn more about hotels, restaurants, events, and more, in cities across the country. We've even included links to Yelp reviews, to help you find the best places to stay, dine, or enjoy a night on the town.