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Group 32 Gate 1
Gate 1: Request for a Proposal
Work Proposal
Intro This part of the project involves disassembly, detailed analysis and reassembly of the chainsaw. The purpose of this assignment is to evaluate the progress of the project. After the disassembly, detailed analysis gives a practical knowledge on the working of the product . The functions, complexity, materials used for construction can be analyzed which provides a platform to try to improve the product's overall performance.
The initial steps for disassembly include the removal of the handles and plastic casing. This is done with the use of a #3 flat head screwdriver. Next, various parts will be removed from around the engine including the pull-cord mechanism and fuel tank. Doing this will require two adjustable wrenches and a #3 flat-head screwdriver. All that's left is a basic two-stroke engine. This will require hex-wrenches and possibly Phillips head screwdrivers of various sizes.
There will be a few challenges in disassembling our chainsaw. One of the challenges of disassembly is that we are working on a chainsaw that is roughly 25 years old. This is a factor because there is not too much information on the exact model. One very important piece of info is the gas to oil ratio needed. The gas-oil mixture results from the use of a two-stroke engine. If this mixture is not right the engine will be at risk of seizing due to a lack of oil, or produce excess smoke, and fill the muffler with oil sludge. Also, the age might create issues with removing screws or bolts that have rusted.
Working in a group has advantages by allowing a diverse knowledge and experience in different fields. Two of our group members have experience with CAD. One member has been working with CAD for 5 years. He has worked with 3 different programs and is currently working with a fourth. Most of the members have basic knowledge on how a chainsaw works. A couple of the members have knowledge about two-stroke engines and experience repairing them, one specifically has in depth knowledge of two-stroke engines and is very familiar and comfortable with disassembling and reassembling them. This still results in some shortcomings, as nobody has worked on a wiki before. A couple members have not disassembled complex object before, so extra care should be given to the organization of the disassembly and parts.
Management Proposal
Gantt Chart
Time and work management are an important factor in the success of this project. We will try to use our time efficiently, but some time will be left at the end of the project to finish if we get behind. For the workload we have decided to split the work on the wiki, report, research and disassembly in a way that maximizes project unity. Everyone will contribute to most major processes to allow for a better understanding of the project and a smooth flow of communication. Also, group meetings will ensure we stay on task.
Our main point of contact will be Cameron Borowiec. His phone number is (716)-515-8028, and his e-mail is email@example.com. He can be reached by phone at just about anytime of the day and any day of the week except for Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays between 3:00P.M. - 5:00P.M. due to lack of service in Knox Hall. During those times he can be contacted by e-mail. E-mail will most likely prove to be the best way of contact though due to his involvement in various clubs and activities.
Our back-up point of contact will be Andrew Koonce whose phone number is (518)-694-6695 and his e-mail is email@example.com. Andrew can be contacted almost as easily as Cameron. However, due to the involvement in multiple clubs, email is the best way to get a hold of him.
Our meetings places and times will vary, but seeing as our product can be taken from our lab it is safe to say that we won't be meeting there most of the time. Cameron or Scott will retrieve our product from the lab and keep it with them. They have an easy way of transporting the product to a convenient location. Tuesdays, Thursdays, and weekends will tend to be the best days to collaborate on our assignments, and Cameron's south campus apartment shall prove to be an excellent environment to meet in and work at. Minimally we plan to meet two times a week, increasing our meetings if we fall behind. We plan, as a whole, to meet together during times that are convenient for all of us, so as a group we can disassemble the product together. By splitting up the work evenly amongst us, we can ensure that no one is under worked. This will also help make sure the work will get done. We will assign three people to mainly work on the Wiki and keep it up to date with our information. Relocation of the chainsaw will occur only if we can find a convenient location for it where everyone can work on it.
The roles and responsibilities of each member will be somewhat equally divided. Because we are working in a group situation with members who have different schedules, it will be tough to say who's doing what until we start really working together and figure out each other's strengths and weaknesses. We plan to fall into a pattern, and strengthen are plan of action as we figure these things out. As each new task is presented to us we will decide as a group who has the right strengths and abilities to overcome the challenges of that specific obstacle.
Initial Product Assessment
- What is the intended use of the product?
The product is used to cut wood; specifically trees, logs and branches. Based on the size of the product; it is intended for home use to cut wood on a smaller scale. It can be used to cut branches/limbs in the yard or cut logs for firewood. It is ideal for a small scale and would be convenient. A commercial saw would be larger. Like many power tools, the chainsaw has a specific purpose and it is strongly recommended to use it for cutting wood only.
- How do you think the product works?
A chainsaw in the simplest form is a two-stroke engine geared with a chain that extends out of the main body. The two stroke engine, allows for two parts of the Otto cycle to occur simultaneously for a more consistent output of energy. The four steps in the Otto cycle are intake, compression, combustion, expansion (exhaust). The two stroke engine allows for the intake and exhaust steps to occur together. This allows power to be delivered every rotation.
Below is a flow chart that shows the energy transfers in the system.
- Is the product currently functioning?
Our product is currently not functioning, because there is no fuel or chain. Chainsaws require a certain gas/oil mixture that still needs to be researched or the engine will not work properly. This mixture is different for various chainsaws. Once we obtain the correct fuel mixture we might have more problems, resulting from the age. However, we will not be able to use the chainsaw for it's intended use because the chain has been removed. Our guess is that it was removed for safety issues, so we aren't worried about it. The chainsaw will still run normally without it.
- How complex is it?
Compared to newer chainsaws, the working and basic function has remained the same. The difference can be seen in the product quality, quality of materials used, features available etc. The different features that are available on chainsaw in the market today are heat sensors and safety switches. The engines are more fuel efficient and products are more ergonomically shaped for easier use.
- What materials are used in the project?
The main material used on the outside of the chainsaw is aluminum. It is used for the casing and the bulk of the components. Also, plastic is used in various places where aluminum is not needed.
Inside of the chainsaw, it can be assumed that there are more metals used for the engine and for the gears to drive the chain. This includes steel and Iron.
- If you had to use this product, would you be happy with it?
This chainsaw looks to be quite old so we are not sure we would be pleased using this product. Holding the chainsaw, the location of the grips makes it quite comfortable to use. There are basic labels on the body of it that an average person would be able to understand. If we were to use the product, we think it would be quite easy to do so.
The product requires regular maintenance. The chainsaw needs regular replacements of gas, oil and lubrication for the chain. The chain tension needs to be adjusted time to time for optimum performance. The air filter has to be cleaned regularly to ensure engine durability. The parts on the chainsaw are labeled which make it fast and easy to service it at home without any complex machine tools.
- What other alternatives to your product are there? How do these alternatives compare?
Due to the age of the product; the actual cost of the product could not be obtained. The chainsaws are priced based on brand value, functionality and intended use of the product (commercial or home use). The other tools used to cut wood are Alaskan mill, band saw and circular saw. The Alaskan mill is a two man saw and thus not very convenient. The band saw and circular saw are used to cut wooden boards and therefore cannot be used like a chainsaw to cut wood.
Thus a chainsaw is very helpful and convenient, one man tool which has many applications and advantages. The home use chainsaw cannot be used to cut huge trunks and other materials such as concrete or brick.
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The only brand new 5-star international hotel in Haikou city. Located at the entrance of Nandu River, with a splendid river view and sea view. Just 25 minutes drive to Haikou Meilan International Airport and 15 minutes drive to the CBD of Haikou. Adjacent to the Xinghaiwan Commercial Center with trendy shops and Xinbu Island International Yacht Club with 140 berths. After a busy conference, you could escape to watch a movie in the IMAX theater, or go shopping, even go on a yacht trip. 298 well appointed rooms and suites with modern facilities and private balcony, free Wi-Fi access in all guestrooms and public area. Diversity of restaurants and lounges including Chinese restaurant, Western restaurant, Japanese restaurant, lobby bar, V bar and wine and Cigar bar. Award-winning German chef with trendy cooking technique all in German way. 1170 sqm of comprehensive meeting space, 820 sqm pillar-less Grand Ballroom with 8.5 meters high ceiling, divisible into two separate rooms equipped with high-end audio-visual equipment and wireless internet access.
Bar and Beverages

subset: commoncrawl


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Longhorns vs. Sooners: Let the Trash Talk BeginOctober 5, 2008
Every October, thousands flock from all over Texas and Oklahoma to the Texas State Fair to see what is arguably the best rivalry in football.
I hear Michigan and Ohio State; USC and UCLA; Florida and Florida State, and many other games that are about way more than just football. But for the last 10 years, this is the only game that has had National Championship dreams tied to it every season.
This rivalry goes way beyond the Cotton Bowl in Dallas. Its about not just two schools, but two states that hate each other. Even before Oklahoma was admitted into the union and state lines were drawn at the Red River back in 1907, the Horns and Sooners were getting it on.
The first game was played in Austin in 1900, the series wasn't moved to it neutral site in Dallas until 1912, mainly for the purpose of recruiting high school players in the area.
Since moving to Dallas the rivalry has began to get "testy" to say the least. I don't think there is a team hated more in the state of Texas than Oklahoma. And when I say "hate", I mean "hate". I could only guess the situation in likewise up north about Texas. And not just the Longhorns, but the whole state.
Since Bob Stoops took over in Norman, the game has became a little more intense. Oklahoma has seemed to reap the benefits of big-game chokers like Chris Simms and the few years that OU has been down the Horns have kicked 'em to say the least.
I think this season is the first that there has been no real favorite. Both teams are undefeated, which is no surprise and not unusual.
Both quarterbacks are playing out of their minds. Sam Bradford has thrown for 18 touchdowns and only 30 incompletions, Colt McCoy 16 touchdowns with only 27 incompletions.
Both defenses are stacked, though Texas is a bit young and both offenses have been scoring in their sleep. Something's gotta give.
I look for this one to be another classic. Like Stoney Clark stopping James Allen at the goal line, or Roy Williams high jumping the entire UT offensive line to force a fumble in the end-zone. The tradition of the game ensure one thing the relationship between Texas and Oklahoma will always be a perfect example of love hate. The winner will be cheered by the loser for the rest of season for the sake of keeping up schedule strength but encouraged to lose when Texas Tech comes up on the schedule.


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PHOENIX - Damian Moss and Matt Whiteside received the calls Wednesday night.
Whiteside, who's bounced around pro ball since 1990, said he wasn't surprised at being promoted from Class AAA Richmond to the Braves. But pandemonium reigned in the Moss house. Damian and his wife, Emilie, had just returned from grocery shopping when he received the news from Richmond manager Carlos Tosca.
"It was pretty exciting," Moss said. "It was kind of crazy there for awhile. I think my wife was talking on three phones at once. I don't think it's really hit me yet. I'm still kind of in shock."
Moss, who's believed to be the first Australian to play for the Braves, has the Australian flag tattooed on his left biceps. But, he hasn't been home since 1998 because he's spent the last several winters rehabbing from "Tommy John surgery" performed on his left elbow in June 1998.
Moss, who ranked third in the International League with a 3.14 ERA last year, but also led the league in walks, focused on throwing strikes in his four starts this season. Working with Richmond pitching coach Guy Hansen, he concentrated on increasing his tempo, which improved his breaking pitches and his mechanics.
The improvement was striking. His strikeout-to-walk ratio improved from 123-106 last season to 30-7 this year. He averaged 5.9 walks per nine innings last year, but just 2.9 walks per nine innings this season.
"Maybe I was trying to be a little too fine last year," Moss said. "Now I'm trusting my stuff."
Manager Bobby Cox plans to use Moss and Whiteside in the bullpen, but that could change if Odalis Perez continues to pitch poorly as the fifth starter. Moss, who has appeared in 137 minor league games, 133 as a starter, could move into the rotation.
"The only time I've pitched out of the bullpen was in spring training," he said. "It will be something new. But the plus side is, guys haven't seen me yet."
Kevin Millwood left Wednesday's start with one out in the seventh with a sore left hip. After receiving heat and ultrasound treatment Thursday, he said the injury was better and he expected to make Tuesday's start against the Brewers.
"It's a little sore, but it feels better today that it did yesterday," he said. "It feels like it's an achy pain, but it's more aggravating than painful."
Millwood said he planned to take two days off from throwing, then test his hip Saturday.
Rico Brogna opened the season with an eight-game hitting streak (.423), but since then he's cooled off considerably.
He headed into Thursday night's opener of a four-game series against the Diamondbacks with just two hits in his last 19 at-bats, though he remains one of the team's best clutch hitters with a .462 average with runners in scoring position.
"I'd like to have a little more discipline in my pitch selection," he said. "But I wouldn't expect that hitting was going to be as easy for me as it was early in the season."
During the first weeks of the season, pitchers chose to work him on the inner half of the plate, testing his left wrist, which he broke last season. But he noticed the Astros used a different approach, varying location and changing speeds against him.
"Early on the tendency was to pitch me in hard and challenge my arm and see if it was healthy again," he said. "But the Astros moved the ball around on me and I chased them a little bit."
Brogna was just 2 for 12 in the three games against the Astros, though he knocked in three runs. He says he's going to change his strategy against the Diamondbacks.
"Even when you're doing well you still have to make adjustments," he said. "That, to me, is what hitting is all about at this level. The only time you worry is when you think your mechanics are messed up, but my mechanics are still good and consistent."
Check out the National League's home run leaders and five names down the list is Reggie Sanders. Yes, the same player who was so woeful at the plate last season the Braves traded for B.J. Surhoff to replace him in left field.
Sanders, who signed with the Diamondbacks as a free agent, has eight homers, three less than he hit with the Braves in 340 at-bats, and he's batting .353 with 19 RBI. He credits a winter workout program and diet for improving his condition, which he says has led to his fast start.
"It was such a fight for me at the plate last year, more so physically, and then it became mentally," he said. "I did a lot of strength training and agility work, and put on 15 pounds, most of it muscle. Now I'm in much better shape than I was last year."
© 2018. All Rights Reserved. | Contact Us


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Despite break-up rumors, Demi Lovato and Wilmer Valderrama's romantic connection doesn't show signs of stopping! Life & Style magazine reports that the Sonny With a Chance and That 70s Show stars were spotted being extra affectionate with one another at the Hollywood club Beacher's Madhouse last night.
Demi Lovato's Advice to Girls: "Never Need a Man"
The rumored couple is known for locking lips in public. Back in October, Lovato and Valderrama were caught kissing at the famous Halloween party in the Playboy mansion. Then in November, the December/January cover girl and the Venezuelan-Colombian actor were spotted dancing and hugging at Disney star Tiffany Thornton's wedding.
A source that witnessed Lovato and Valderrama at the club claims, "He kept making her laugh… Around 2 a.m., Demi grabbed Wilmer and hugged him." The source also says, "She kept her arms around him as they chatted with a friend. They definitely didn't seem to be over each another. They danced together to 50 Cent's "In Da Club," and she kept her arms around him the whole time…They were facing each other, mouthing the lyrics to one another, and looked to be having a great time."
Congrats to the lovebirds!


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Give Now
WFIU Public Radio
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Choose which station to support!
On this week's Artworks, Stone Belt's arts program, Adam Noble on stage combat, and the Bloomington Symphony plays Bryan Park.
What is RSS? RSS makes it possible to subscribe to a website's updates instead of visiting it by delivering new posts to your RSS reader automatically. Choose to receive some or all of the updates from Artworks:
Artworks is a weekly program that brings the local arts to radio. The program features local musicians, artists, and events around the state. Topics can range from art music to folk, painting to architecture, movies to theater, and everything in between.. Learn More »
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|Oracle FAQ
|Your Portal to the Oracle Knowledge Grid
Home -> Community -> Mailing Lists -> Oracle-L -> How to load text file into database table
I have a text file and need to load it into database table using sqlldr utility. Is there a way to load a text file? I know how to load csv file but not text file.
Date: Wed Aug 29 10:43:53 CDT 2001
Name: Paris By Night
Email: xyz_at_testing.com
Phone: 202-333-4444
Location: Washington, DC
Equipment needing to access: EMS, , , , , Reason: Not working
I want to above data into useraccount table which has following columns.
Thanks in advance,
Please see the official ORACLE-L FAQ: http://www.orafaq.com
Author: Nguyen, David M
INET: david.m.nguyen_at_xo.com
Fat City Network Services -- 858-538-5051 http://www.fatcity.com San Diego, California -- Mailing list and web hosting services ---------------------------------------------------------------------To REMOVE yourself from this mailing list, send an E-Mail message to: ListGuru_at_fatcity.com (note EXACT spelling of 'ListGuru') and in the message BODY, include a line containing: UNSUB ORACLE-L (or the name of mailing list you want to be removed from). You may also send the HELP command for other information (like subscribing). Received on Fri Sep 20 2002 - 10:53:30 CDT
Original text of this message


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Feel The Power....With Dualshock
The layout of PlayStation 2's Duals Shock 2 controller is nearly identical to that of the original PlayStation's Dual Shock controller, which is good news for most gamers. The main new feature is that, when the buttons are pushed, the controller can register how much pressure is being exerted. This adds a completely new dimension to sports, racing, fighting, and other games. Aside from the Start and Select buttons, all of the functions are analogue for greater control, a wider variety of operations, and a more compelling interactive experience. Two convex analogue thumb pads and two force-feedback solenoid rumblers round out the features. This controller is also compatible with all software that supports the original Dual Shock controller.
The DualShock 2 features analogue and digital control in addition to the patented vibration DualShock function. Games are now even more absorbing and easier to learn at the same time. Compatible with all PlayStation games in either digital or analogue mode, in addition to all PlayStation 2 games--it's the standard controller for PlayStation 2--the Dual Shock 2 delivers an even more instinctive, intuitive experience than ever before.
Condition: Brand New & Sealed
|Sony Playstation 2


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Talismanic Spiritual Gateways - The Consecration of the Books of the Arte
There are many false claims of talismanic consecration within occult publishing circles. Some are misleading, some are simply untrue. Very few devotees consecrate each and every single book individually, despite their claims. There is nothing worse than the dissapointment of handling a dead text that was supposed to be a consecrated - or even talismanic - work. This has prompted me to illuminate some of these terms and practices.
The method within Primal Craft of ensorcelling the books with the energy of their patrons - en-fleshing the bodies of the Gods and Spirits of the Arte - is also shared here.
For more info click Here


text: Module Name: src Committed By: wiz Date: Sat Feb 25 01:47:55 UTC 2006 Modified Files: src/doc: 3RDPARTY RESPONSIBLE Log Message: Remove assar, seeing that his account is suspended for ~2 years now. Note new ipsec-tools version. To generate a diff of this commit: cvs rdiff -r1.410 -r1.411 src/doc/3RDPARTY cvs rdiff -r1.62 -r1.63 src/doc/RESPONSIBLE Please note that diffs are not public domain; they are subject to the copyright notices on the relevant files.


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What does bo-tree mean?
Definitions for bo-tree
Here are all the possible meanings and translations of the word bo-tree.
Chambers 20th Century Dictionary
bō′-trē, n. the name given in Ceylon to the Pipal or Peepul of India (Ficus religiosa), held sacred by the Buddhists, and planted close by every temple. [Singh. bo, from Pali bodhi, perfect knowledge.]
The Nuttall Encyclopedia
a species of Ficus, sacred to the Buddhists as the tree under which Buddha sat when the light of life first dawned on him. See Buddha.
Chaldean Numerology
The numerical value of bo-tree in Chaldean Numerology is: 7
Pythagorean Numerology
The numerical value of bo-tree in Pythagorean Numerology is: 2
Sample Sentences & Example Usage
Every tree is an angel!
I thought it was the tree that fell.
As a twig is bent the tree inclines.
Friendship is like a sheltering tree.
From a fallen tree, all make kindling.
Images & Illustrations of bo-tree
Find a translation for the bo-tree definition in other languages:
Select another language:
Discuss these bo-tree definitions with the community:
Word of the Day
Would you like us to send you a FREE new word definition delivered to your inbox daily?
Use the citation below to add this definition to your bibliography:
"bo-tree." Definitions.net. STANDS4 LLC, 2018. Web. 18 Feb. 2018. <https://www.definitions.net/definition/bo-tree>.


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Publishing world news is big business nowadays, using the New Yorker theme for your WordPress blog will allow you to compete with the professionals with ease.
As with all of our themes, almost every element is managed via a built-in control panel, giving you the ability to modify various area's of the theme without touching any code.
The homepage and every sidebar is fully widgetised giving you true drag n' drop capabilities using any of the 7 custom-coded widgets along with all of the standard default WordPress widgets.
The theme supports other features such as WordPress Thumbnails, WordPress Menus, Nested Comments, Gravatars, Google Analytics and Feedburner.
The theme code validates as CSS Level 2.1 and XHTML 1.0 Transitional, and is fully-tested on all major modern browsers including Firefox, Internet Explorer 7/8/9, Opera, Safari and Chrome.


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LITTLE ROCK -- A federal judge denied the University of Arkansas' final request to dismiss former basketball coach Nolan Richardson's lawsuit against it Monday.
The denial clears the way for Richardson's non-jury trial against the university, its leaders and the Razorback Foundation to begin at 9 a.m. Wednesday in front of U.S. District Judge William R. Wilson Jr.
"The parties have submitted a groundslide-load of documents in support of their respective positions," Wilson wrote. "A thorough review of all of them at this late date has been difficult, but, we are where we are, and the motions must be decided."
Richardson wants Wilson to declare that the university punished him for exercising his freedom of speech and subjected him to racial discrimination - including retaliation for imposing limitations on future employment.
Arkansas officials said Richardson was fired because he showed a lack of faith in his program.
The university filed an original request for summary judgment in April 2003 and a second request on March 18, adding the issue of qualified immunity. The plaintiffs filed their response on April 27.
Wilson wrote Monday that the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals cautions that summary judgment should be granted seldomly in employment discrimination cases because they are inherently fact-based.
In the ruling, Wilson said there were material facts left to dispute. Those are whether Richardson was fired for statements he made after the Kentucky basketball game or for comments he made over a period of time regarding his position as assistant athletic director, treatment of other black coaches and other race matters.
"In other words, are the reasons given for his termination the real reasons?" Wilson wrote.
The university claims Richardson was fired for the statements made after the Kentucky game. Richardson claims he made similar statements in 1995 and was not terminated. He also disputes the university's position that a press conference "only triggered consideration of termination, and that the decision to terminate him did not come until after his press conference."
Wilson emphasized that denying summary judgment does not go to the merits of the case.
"It is simply an initial decision that must be made when a party seeks a summary dismissal of the case without the other party getting 'his day in court,"' Wilson wrote.
Richardson seeks reinstatement as Arkansas' coach, lost wages and damages for harm to his reputation, mental and emotional stress, and legal fees. However, Richardson has said he wouldn't return if Chancellor John A. White and athletic director Frank Broyles still had their jobs.
Richardson's base salary was $1.03 million and his firing called for a buyout of $500,000 a year until 2008. He currently receives a monthly check for $41,667.
The Razorback Foundation, the fund-raising arm of the university's athletic department, covered the buyout and has countersued. It claims Richardson violated the terms of the buyout by suing - and wants to have the money returned.
Richardson was fired on March 1, 2002, after coaching Arkansas for 17 years, leading the Razorbacks to 389 wins, three Final Fours and the 1994 national title.
© 2018. All Rights Reserved. | Contact Us


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A most eccentric character
Of all the known extrasolar planets, HD 80606b — in both the technical and the colloquial sense — is the most eccentric. This world has at least five times the mass of Jupiter, and it circles its parent star on an extremely elongated 111.4 day orbit:
Today (as seen from Earth!) HD 80606b is still near the far point of its orbit, at a distance of about 0.85 AU from the central star. The temperature in the upper atmospheric layers of the night-side has possibly dipped low enough so that torrential rains and violent thunderstorms are rumbling across its vast billowing horizons. During the rest of December and through most of January, the planet will fall in almost the full distance to the star, eventually swooping within 6 stellar radii as it whips through periastron. On January 26th, at the moment of closest approach, the temperature at the cloud tops will exceed 1000 Kelvin. The auroral displays will be dramatic beyond compare, and indeed, during the days to either side of periastron passage, it might be worth tuning in to the planet on the decameter band.
The discovery of the planet and its orbital solution were announced by the Geneva Observatory Planet Search Team in an April 04, 2001 ESO press release, and the radial velocities have since been made publicly available (right on!) at the CDS repository (see Naef et al 2001). You can therefore use the systemic console to fit this system and examine how radial velocity curves behave for extremely eccentric orbits.
The star HD 80606 is accompanied by a visual binary companion, HD 80607. The projected separation of the two stars is 2000 AU (fifty times the Sun-Pluto distance). When the HD 80606 b travels through the segment of its orbit that lies between the two stars, the night-side cloud tops of the planet are lit by the distant binary companion to ambient brightness that is very similar to a fully moonlit night on Earth. The two stars have similar masses, sizes, and temperatures to the Sun, but, like many of hosts of short-period massive planets, they are enriched in "metals" (gold, chromium, iron, carbon, oxygen, etc. etc.) by a factor of more than two relative to the solar value.
How did the planet get into its weird orbit?
Wu and Murray (2003) have suggested that HD 80606b's extreme eccentricity is the result of a three-body interaction known as the "Kozai effect" between the planet and the two stars.


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At least 26 persons, including 10 terrorists have been killed when heavily armed militants attacked the Jinnah International Airport's old terminal in Pakistan's financial capital Karachi. Fire illuminates the sky above Karachi airport terminal. Gunmen stormed the airport terminal used for VIPs and cargo in Pakistan's largest city on Sunday night. (AP)
The terrorists were cornered and killed after they attacked the old airport terminal building late last night, posing as Airport Security Force (ASF) personnel. A Pakistani soldier takes position at Jinnah International Airport . (AP)
No one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack on the Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, named after the founder of Pakistan. Pakistani security troops rush to Karachi airport terminal following attacks. (AP)
The airport attack began late Sunday and continued on into the dawn hours of Monday in Karachi, a sprawling port city on Pakistan's southern coast, although officials said all the passengers had been evacuated. Pakistani troops arrive at Jinnah International Airport. (AP)
During the course of the attack, heavy gunfire and multiple explosions could be heard coming from the terminal, used for VIP flights and cargo, as militants and security forces battled for control. Pakistani commandos get ready to enter Karachi airport terminal. (AP)
A major fire rose from the airport, illuminating the night sky in an orange glow as the silhouettes of jets could be seen. Reporters stand outside Karachi airport terminal building where security forces were engaged ina gun fight with attackers on Sunday night, June 8, 2014, in Pakistan. (AP)
Pakistani police commandos help an injured colleague at Jinnah International Airport. (AP)
After storming into the airport grounds, gunmen took shelter in two sections of the airport, said senior police officials. Pakistan army troops arrive at Karachi airport. (AP)
Volunteers look at dead bodies of people killed during an attack by unknown gunmen on Jinnah International Airport, Sunday night, June 8, 2014, in Karachi. (AP)


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About Me
I'm a food and travel writer, editor, content strategist, copywriter, television host, and producer. My bylines include The Washington Post, Gourmet.com, Bon Appétit, Martha Stewart Living, New York Magazine, Epicurious, InStyle, Men's Health, Grub Street, MyRecipes, and The Food Network. (A few clips are HERE!)
I have been a Food Features Editor for Yahoo Food, staff Food Writer at Time Out New York, Senior Research Editor at Martha Stewart Weddings, Contributing Editor at CHOW.com, and book editor for Da Capo Press. The weekly videos I hosted and co-produced for CHOW.com on NY1 received an International Association of Culinary Professionals nomination for best Televised Culinary Series.
Follow me on Instagram, or get in touch by commenting on a post. (All comments are screened.) Thanks for stopping by!
Tag Archives: bali
ebullient at borobudur
Borobudur monument in Java, Indonesia In Bali, everybody looks good walking down the beach in their flowing sarongs. In Bali, the ocean crashes an appropriate distance away (not too close, and none too fiercely), and the sand looks like it's … Continue reading
Posted in adventure Tagged bali, borobudur, java Leave a comment


text:
And it barely was reported:
Pakistan agreed Wednesday to normalize trading relations with India, a move that may help give a boost to moribund talks aimed at improving relations between the hostile South Asian neighbors.
Here is more.
And it barely was reported:
Pakistan agreed Wednesday to normalize trading relations with India, a move that may help give a boost to moribund talks aimed at improving relations between the hostile South Asian neighbors.
Here is more.
Great news indeed, because countries that trade together don't go to war. See, e.g., WW1.
I think they must trade together and each have a McDonalds franchise for there to be peace!
saudi arabia has mcdonalds and trades a lot of oil with the US, doesn't seem to make saudi citizens particularly pro-american.
Trade, a McDonald's, and perhaps a common enemy, like Wal-Mart.
Trade is likely to enrich both countries and make them less likely to go to war. Surely that is a good thing by most peoples standards.
True, but let's not get too excited: http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/article2595119.ece
No, this is the best news of the day:
Great news!
Saw a great presentation from Shikha Dalmia a while back about the lifting of cultural embargoes, and how Indian pop culture is spreading to Pakistan.
Is the resultant trade going to be predominantly unidirectional? What are Pakistan's production strengths? Another incongruous snippet from the WSJ article is that Pakistan is relying on a "negative list" to ban the imports of items of strategic importance. Does is make sense to ban the imports of such items? Thought the US etc. had an export ban on these.
As an aside , the photo of the Indian border soldier makes an interesting contrast with those of the American soldiers typically flashed by media. The technological difference in soldier protection and accouterment is glaringly obvious.
I though the glorious theory of comparative advantage shows that Pakistan should export something even if it's not particularly good at producing anything.
My fear is Pakistan reacting with broad anti-dumping tariffs pretty soon after the flood of cheap Indian goods.
But should Pakistan also be a producer of cheap goods? Maybe even cheaper then Indian. Any way the idea of strategic imports isn't really nonsense, suppose Pakistan, for military purposes, wants to remain self-sufficient in steel production (this is just a hypothetical example) then it would make sense to not allow imported Tata Steel that would force Pakistani steel mills to close. Also many of the most successful industrialized countries of Asia reached that point by protected certain industries they wanted to grow.
Pakistan exports a lot. About 6% of GDP.
Google is a friend.
Banning import of items of strategic importance makes sense if you don't want to become dependent on the imports.
China does something like this with wheat (more precisely, it keeps the price high enough that domestic production satisfies demand).
So the US bans are about making sure the enemies don't get your cool stuff, while the Pakistan bans are about not depending on imports for basic survival. See also Japan and the UK in World War II.
high prices are good because?. words like 'strategic' importance are used by self important know nothings
How does price floor maintenance without import controls work to sustain domestic production? If it's cheaper to produce wheat elsewhere wouldn't it get imported?
Wouldn't the Chinese just put a tariff on imported wheat to make sure it's not cheaper? It's not nonsensical to protect certain domestic industries, the free trade models really don't take into account the real-world power relationships that exist between countries and the fact that certain goods (agricultural produce) are way more important then other goods (iPads). Of course there's always the danger of this line of argument being exploited to protected non-essential industries.
"As an aside , the photo of the Indian border soldier makes an interesting contrast with those of the American soldiers typically flashed by media. The technological difference in soldier protection and accouterment is glaringly obvious."
That's because American soldiers are wimps, of course. 🙂
Since when did you start believing in what Pakistan agrees to do!?
Russia, China want India, Pakistan to become SCO members shortly – Russia & India Report:
Russia and China would like to seek India and Pakistan among the members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), the Foreign Ministry said on Monday, October 31, after a meeting between Deputy Foreign Minister Alexei Borodavkin and his Chinese counterpart Cheng Guoping. "The sides called for accelerated SCO enlargement in keeping with the decisions of the Council of the SCO Heads of State made in Astana in June," the ministry said, referring to admission of India and Pakistan as members and Afghanistan as an observer, and granting of the status of dialogue partner to Turkey. The diplomats "'coordinated the positions of the sides on further improvement of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation's activities in the light of preparations for a meeting of the Council of Heads of Government in St. Petersburg on November 7 and the SCO summit in China in the summer of 2012."
Other under-reported news: Mexico is a failing state.
What is so great about this news? One bomb blast in India and things will go back to square one.
At the very least, that part of the world must not be too shook up by the fragiliy of the European Union. Of course historically we could have concerns about that too!
My inner Machiavelan is skeptical…
"normalize" meaning what? what is normal for India-Pakistan eh?
This normalization of trade should happen quietly for it to work.
It was properly reported and commented upon … in the South Asian media. Tyler, I am glad that you remind people there are actual international news unlike the useless noise that makes it into the TV news, but the low level of informedness about all things foreign sits uneasily with an ever-more-integrated world.
Nobody noticed the NYT article.? The more things change…
If trade opens up, full blown between these two rivals, then peace will resume. Peace comes best through non-hostile trading and much more good can come from peace with trading than with just simple peace and cease fire. Ending the ongoing cold war in that area between these two large rival powers, Pakistan and India, trade will not only blossom between those two, but also through their neighbors. Much debt and human suffering have always been apart of that area and an increase in the standard of living within both countries and the surrounding countries.
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Should We Take a Multivitamin?
About one in three Americans take a multivitamin. Is that helpful, harmful, or just a harmless waste of money? In 2011, the Iowa Women's Health Study reported that multivitamin use was associated with a higher risk of total mortality, meaning that women who took a multivitamin appeared to be paying to live shorter lives. But this was just an observational study—researchers didn't split women up into two groups and put half on multivitamins to see who lived longer. All they did was follow a large population of women over time, and found that those that happened to be taking multivitamins were more likely to die. But maybe they were taking multivitamins because they were sick. The researchers didn't find any evidence of that, but ideally we'd have a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled trial, where thousands were followed for over a decade, with half given a multivitamin and half a placebo. That's what we got the following year in 2012. The Harvard Physicians' Study II. And after a decade, the researchers found no effect on heart attack, stroke, or mortality.
The accompanying editorial concluded that multivitamins are a distraction from effective cardiovascular disease prevention. The message needs to remain simple and focused: heart disease can be largely prevented by healthy lifestyle changes.
The researchers did, however, find that for men with a history of cancer, the multivitamin appeared to be protective against getting cancer again, though there was no significant difference in cancer mortality or cancer protection in those who've never had cancer before. Still, that's pretty exciting. It is just one study, though. Ideally we'd have maybe 20 of these placebo-controlled trials and then compile all the results together. That's what we got in 2013—a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials that analyzed twenty-one trials and more than 90,000 individuals. The analysis found no influence on mortality either way. Some found more cancer mortality, some found less cancer mortality, but all in all it was a wash.
And that was heralded as good news. After the Iowa Women's Health Study came out we were worried multivitamins could be harming millions of people, but instead they don't appear to have much effect either way. The accompanying editorial asked whether meta-analyses trump observational studies. The Iowa Women's Health Study followed tens of thousands of women for nearly 20 years. What if we put all the studies together, the big observational studies along with the experimental trials? And that's what we got in December 2013. The review for the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force found that multivitamins appear to offer no consistent evidence of benefit for heart disease, cancer, or living longer.
But aren't vitamins and minerals good for us? One explanation for this result could be that our bodies are so complex that the effects of supplementing with only one or two components is generally ineffective or actually does harm. Maybe we should get our nutrients in the way nature intended.
The accompanying editorial to the December 2013 review concluded that enough is enough. We should stop wasting our money on vitamin and mineral supplements. Americans spend billions on vitamin and mineral supplements. A better investment in health would be eating more fruits and vegetables. Imagine if instead we spent those billions on healthy food?
With the exception of vitamins D and B12 (Vitamin Supplements Worth Taking), we should strive to get our nutrients from produce, not pills.
In health,
Michael Greger, M.D.
PS: If you haven't yet, you can subscribe to my free videos here and watch my live year-in-review presentations Uprooting the Leading Causes of Death, More Than an Apple a Day, and From Table to Able.
One in a Thousand: Ending the Heart Disease Epidemic
Vitamin D from Mushrooms, Sun, or Supplements?
Vitamin B12 Necessary for Arterial Health


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Keyword research is as important as anything else when you decide to work on SEO of your website. You can easily spend thousands of bucks in SEO and not get proper return on investment unless you know what exactly your audience is and what keywords they will be searching for.
Therefore, you'll have to find the highly relevant keywords in your niche that have the less competition and reasonable good search volume. Without proper keyword research, SEO will not lead you to the way of success.
SKG Technologies have several year's experience in doing research and finding the keywords that will give you big returns on small investment.Contact us to know the good keywords that you should target on your website.


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Dear Laura and Emily,
It's a chilly, blustery day here in Denver with blowing snow. Brrrr. I'm finding every excuse to stand in front of the oven all day, and so far I've made a batch of granola and a loaf of banana bread. Before I try my hand at baking whole wheat bread (from the 100 Days of Real Food Cookbook), I'm going to whip up a batch of my Dad's meatballs. These are among my ultimate cold weather comfort foods.
My father, who has lived many lives, did some geology field work in Denver one summer in the late 1960s. His neighbor was a family member of someone who owned an Italian restaurant, and this was their meatball recipe. It's now been handed down through our family – quite the heirloom!
You know those restaurant meatballs that are dry and dense? The ones that are just a bland combination of ground beef, bread crubs and oregano? These are NOT those meatballs. These are incredibly flavorful and light – almost fluffy. If a meatball can be fluffy …
The secret? It's hard to say, exactly, but it could be the sage sausage. In case you're wondering where to find sage sausage, it's usually in the refrigerated case near the bacon and comes in 1 lb. tubes. This recipe only calls for 1/2 lb., so I always freeze the other half for my next batch of meatballs.
Like most meatball recipes, it's as simple as combining all ingredients in a bowl – I mix with my hands – rolling them into balls, and sauteing.
I make them about 1-1.5 inches in diameter, cook over medium heat, and flip them gently with a fork to brown on all sides.
Once they're browned, cover them with spaghetti sauce (homemade or from a jar) and a little water. Cover, simmer, and then devour!
- 1 lb. ground beef (I use 93% lean)
- 1/2 lb. pork sage sausage
- 1 c. bread crumbs
- 2/3 c. milk (or a little less)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 tsp. onion salt (or onion powder)
- 1/2 tsp. garlic salt
- 4 Tbsp. grated parmesan (heaping tablespoons!)
- 1-2 Tbsp. olive oil
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl. Mix with your hands or a fork.
- Roll into balls about 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs.
- Brown meatballs on all sides, turning gently.
- When browned, cover with spaghetti sauce and 1/4 c. water.
- Cover and simmer 20 minutes until cooked through.
And because I can't write an entire post about balls without thinking of this, here ya go:


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I started Catholic Sense Media as a place to talk about books. To review books, really, from a Catholic perspective.
Along the way I've discovered that, like the books I review, I have a lot to say. Both about the books themselves, and how they pertain to our lives. To that end, I've decided to move the book reviews over to Epiphanies Of Beauty.
Won't you join me over there? We can chat about beauty wherever it might be found – books, life, pictures.
I hope to see you there!
In the meantime, pardon the dust.


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November 10, 2012
Good Time to Be a 14-year-old Developer
Michael Carney, Pando Daily
AP Photo
These young whippersnapper developers have it made. With each passing day, it seems the barriers to creating and distributing a successful mobile app drop a little further. The latest remarkable story is that of 14-year-old Jonah Rubin, who learned Objective-C programming in a few months this summer and published his first iOS game to rave reviews. Rubin's impressive story spent most of last weekend atop the Hacker News message board garnering 390 points to date and spiking downloads of his game Cheese Miners by 9,000 percent.
TAGGED: video games


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Mel (Stiller) has a wife, Nancy (Arquette), an as yet unnamed baby, and a 'psychic need' to track down his biological parents. An adoption agency provides him with information so efficiently that he readily agrees to let research psychologist Tina (Leoni) witness the reunion. Besides, she's an attractive ex-dancer and he and Nancy aren't exactly back up to speed in the bedroom. Unfortunately, there's been a mix-up in the records, and the next 'father' he checks out isn't legitimate either; so the threesome - plus baby - work their way across the country, picking up a couple of gay federal agents en route. Writer/director Russell's follow-up to the incest comedy Spanking the Monkey confirms his gift for acute mischief-making. The neurotic frenzy threatens to annoy, but Russell's edgy, abbreviated style generates farcical comic friction without sacrificing character. When, early on, that icon of wholesomeness Mary Tyler Moore flashes her support bra, it's clear that, henceforth, nothing's sacred. It must be excruciatingly embarrassing to be related to this film-maker, but he's fast becoming a favourite son to the rest of us.
Release details
|92 mins
Cast and crew
|David O Russell
|David O Russell
|Patricia Arquette
Lily Tomlin
Téa Leoni
George Segal
Alan Alda
Mary Tyler Moore
Ben Stiller
Average User Rating
2.5 / 5
Rating Breakdown
- 5 star:0
- 4 star:0
- 3 star:1
- 2 star:0
- 1 star:0
1 person listening
Well worth seeing!
Show More


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Swans clinch Eder deal
Swansea have announced the signing of Portugal striker Eder for an undisclosed fee.
The 27-year-old will move to the Liberty Stadium from Braga.
He has agreed a three-year deal with the Barclays Premier League club, and will enhance the Swans' attacking firepower alongside the likes of Bafetimbi Gomis and recent signing Andre Ayew.
Eder becomes Swansea boss Garry Monk's fourth signing of the summer after Ayew, Franck Tabanou and Kristoffer Nordfeldt.
He scored 10 goals in 29 appearances last season as Braga secured a top-four domestic league finish, and played in all three of Portugal's 2014 World Cup games in Brazil.
He moved into top-flight Portuguese football with Academica in 2008, helping them to Portuguese Cup success, before joining Braga four years later, while he has also won 18 international caps.
"I am very happy to have signed with Swansea," Eder told the club's official website.
"It's a big club, and I believe I can progress as a footballer here.
"The Premier League will be a step up for me, but I've played in the European competitions and also for my country, so I've experienced different levels of the game.
"Hopefully, my team-mates will help me develop and settle in quickly at the club. I can't wait to meet all of them when I report for pre-season training.
"Swansea are a solid club who have big ambitions - last season confirmed that - and it's great for me to be a part of it."
Monk, meanwhile, said: "Eder is the type of striker we've been looking for. He has excellent attributes - strong, quick and technically sound with the ball.
"He has a good pedigree and is a full international with Portugal.
"He fits our profile in terms of the players we've signed in the last two seasons because he's young, hungry and eager to prove himself in the Premier League.
"He has the characteristics we are looking for, and will certainly add competition to the striking department."
Press Association


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This Week In Photography Books: Rosalind Fox Solomon
I know a photographer who won't tell people he/she is Jewish. It's a secret. He/she worries for his/her safety, if the information ever got out.
I still remember the fantasy of Barack Obama's inaugural days as President, when people spoke of a post-racial society. It would be funny, if it weren't so sad. How ridiculous that idea seems, in retrospect.
There is, and has always been, the other. People who don't look like you, talk like you, or copulate like you. People who worship a deity with a different name.
They're not like us.
Me, I admit …read more
Via: A Photo Editor


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Traffic Rider + Mod – a wonderful and exciting game "for motorcyclists in traffic" for Android
regular version + Version mode with infinite money individually
tested completely offline by running
a special offer to introduce for the first time
Traffic Rider – riding in traffic and beautiful new game from Soner Kara maker of popular games Traffic Racer for Android saw a few minutes ago that the latest Android version on Google Play. We still, as always, decided for the first time Members friendly games Motorcycling it before you introduce exciting games! If you are a car enthusiast will undoubtedly play Traffic Racer know, a compact with a unique design for all users around the world that could attract to himself! Traffic Rider really no need to compliment the images suggests that well-designed and detailed with a wonderful game face! Team SK Games in graphic design all set to play rock and created a dynamic world that had seen less mobile game! More than twenty different motorcycle classes are designed to carefully control the angle can be the first person on the road, resulting in an endless game! Animation software and, of course, the first person angle Traffic Rider, a sense of speed as you pass well. The climate is a dynamic game, and Team SK Games cycle of day and night in the game implemented until the drive motors have a sense closer to reality!
Some of the features Motorcycling Traffic Rider Android game:
First-person camera angle to instill excitement
20 different types of engines to choose from
Varied environments with day and night cycles
Various modes such as professional with 40 missions
Support Lydrbvrd with 30 different achievements.
Unique design with superb sound
Support for 17 languages
Free Download Link
Traffic Rider is a mission, each must follow certain goal. For example, you earn a certain score, or check a single wheel to determine the speed at which you get to play! Although missions are not very deep, and the road is a road game without maze and a long, Traffic Rider graphic detail is very good for a long time can be your first choice for entertainment. This well-made motorcycle game for iOS and Android platform released the Android version for the first time in SOFDL you can see!


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Nancy Grace Speaks on Fart-Gate: It Wasn't Me!by Free Britney at . Comments
Finally. After days of speculation, Nancy Grace herself is weighing in on the Dancing With the Stars fart controversy. Confronted by TMZ at dinner last night, she admitted that gas was passed ... but pinned it on her partner, Tristan MacManus!
"If you listen really closely to that clip," she said, "it has an Irish accent."
Good one, Nance. But we're not buying it for a second. As the old saying goes ... she who smelt it, dealt it. The one who denied it, supplied it. Owned.
Or maybe you're wrong. Watch the clip and decide for yourself ...
Who let one rip on Dancing With the Stars?


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TEA monitor identifies reasons for poor performance from MISD's English language learners
Published 4:13 pm, Thursday, September 12, 2013
The lack of a basic educational foundation and the unwillingness of district administrators to speak up about problems are two reasons English Language Learners in Midland ISD have failed to meet state performance levels for nearly a decade, according to a monitor appointed by the Texas Education Agency.
On a whole, MISD's bilingual and limited-English proficient students perform below standards on state-mandated tests, and TEA issued the label of "accredited-warned" on March 15.
Education Consultant Fred Liner was appointed to evaluate and monitor MISD's program and make recommendations to improve the program. He started working with MISD in June and presented his first quarterly report to trustees at Monday's meeting.
While "the vast majority of things that need to be done are already being addressed by MISD staff," Liner identified two additional problems — the Midland mindset and native Midland ELL students — with the district's program that have been reported to TEA.
At one time there was a tacit Midland mindset that there wasn't a problem at all and that if the poor-performance of ELL students was ignored, it might go away, Liner said, noting "it festered internally for years."
Liner said many of the conversations he had with administrators, teachers and trustees indicated people were afraid to speak up and address a problem because of the administrative structure.
"It appears the mindset was 'We don't want to bring up anything that might make us look bad.' ... I'm wondering if that was a contributor to the lack of success of previous improvement plans," said Liner, who told trustees that MISD has continuously had some of the best developed improvement plans, but the district has failed to act on them. "They were developed, presented and forgotten," Liner said.
Liner did indicate he believes there has been a cultural shift and district employees are now more willing to speak up and address a problem head-on even if it isn't positive news.
The second barrier contributing to poor student performance was because of a lack of a basic educational foundation in ELLs who have been in the district from kindergarten or first grade, Liner said.
"I think the problem from what everyone's said, it's not the language acquisition, it's the basic education foundation of your English language learners," Liner said, noting that if children don't know how to decode and encode words in their native language, it's much harder for them to learn to do so in English.
"The kids that already have that skill in their native language ... and if they've got that foundational understanding how that works, they can transition to English fairly quickly," Liner said.
Liner recommends MISD develop a process or system to measure student progress, or lack thereof, that would be separate from the annual state accountability ratings.
"If we expect the state to do this, it's too infrequent and doesn't give an accurate indication," Liner said, noting data needs to be regularly shared with trustees and made public for monitoring purposes in a format that is easily readable.
Liner said the district should "let the data do the talking" because it is non-emotional and gives "unbiased exposure of problem areas."
Though he does not know what the system to measure student progress will look like, Liner did indicate it might be extensive enough it requires the district to add an additional position.
Liner will issue his first report to TEA by the end of the month and will report on progress of improvement and program implementation at regular intervals.
"Your staff has a good plan, but you have to make sure they execute it," Liner told trustees. "It didn't happen in the past."


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If you are looking for a gay and lesbian running clubs around New York, you can choose from the following four gay and lesbian clubs in NewYork.
These running club for lesbians, gay men and gay-friendly people. These running club dedicate themselves serving the greater New York area gay and lesbian community, Buffalo NY gay and lesbian community, Rochester New York Gay Community and Albany New York Gay and lesbian community.
New York City Gay and lesbian Running club
Buffalo New York Gay & Lesbian Running club
See Buffalo Front Runners/front walkers
Albany New York Gay & Lesbian Running Club
see Albany front runners & walkers, sorry I couldn't find a link
Rochester Gay & Lesbian Runners club
See Rochester front runners and front walkers


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August 2012
URL: http://www.kingcorn.org/news/timeless/EarHusks.html
Short Husks & Exposed Ears
R.L. (Bob) Nielsen
Agronomy Dept., Purdue Univ.
West Lafayette, IN 47907-2054
Email address: rnielsen
at purdue.edu
eriods of severe stress can do all sorts of strange things to crops. One oddity that has been reported by a number of folks this year is often described as "ears outgrowing their husks." The phenomenon is the result of stunted husk leaf development combined with fairly normal ear (cob) elongation.
The primary symptom is that the ears elongate beyond the end of the stunted husk leaves, resulting in exposed kernels that are subject to insects, birds, and weathering effects. Kernels damaged by these factors are subject to fungal infection and the development of ear molds. If high percentages of ears are thus affected, then overall grain quality can be compromised to the point that grain buyers may discount or "dock" their prices accordingly.
The development of stunted husk leaves and exposed ears seems to be related to combination of severe stress before or during pollination that is then relieved in the initial weeks following pollination. The most common combination of conditions that results in this oddity is severe heat and drought stress that is then relieved by cooler temperatures and rainfall.
The stunting of the husk leaves is akin to that which can occur in the whole plant when subjected to lengthy periods of heat and drought stress. The potential for husk leaf expansion and elongation seems to be permanently restricted while the ear (cob) is able to continue elongation upon relief of the stress.
While the combination of heat/drought stress relieved by cooler temperatures/rainfall seems to be the common thread among reports of ears outgrowing their husk leaves, other combinations of severe stress followed by sudden relief may also result in the stunting of husk leaves.
The photos to the right illustrate an example of stunted husk leaves from an area of a field in eastern Indiana in 2011 that was particularly drought-stricken compared to other, less stressed areas of the field. This field had also experienced severe root lodging about 10 days prior to pollination, which likely added additional stress on the developing ears for a period of time. Husk leaves of affected plants were about 2/3 the length of the ear itself and about half that of the husk leaves of the "normal" ears. Ear (cob) lengths of the "normal" and "stressed" ears were relatively similar; though kernel number and size were smaller on the "stressed" ears.
The ears below are from a field in northeast Indiana that experienced severe drought in 2012 that stunted husk leaves and cob length, but late rains were sufficient to allow the stunted ears to still elongate beyond the even more stunted husk leaves.


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What is Social media marketing? Social media marketing refers to the process of gaining traffic or attention through social media sites. Social media itself is a catch-all term for sites that may provide radically different social actions. For instance, Twitter is a social site designed to let people share short messages or "updates" with others. Facebook, in contrast is a full-blown social networking site that allows for sharing updates, photos, joining events and a variety of other activities.
Social media often feeds into the discovery of new content such as news stories, and "discovery" is a search activity. Social media can also help build links that in turn support into SEO efforts. Many people also perform searches at social media sites instead of using traditional search engines such as Google, Bing, and Yahoo to find information on local businesses.
Social Media isn't a fad, it's a fundamental shift in the way we communicate.
So how do we use social media to our advantage?
Start by creating brand awareness – Use social networking to inform prospective customers of your companies products and services.
Use it As A Word of Mouth Marketing Tool – The strength of social network sites is their ability to spread information quickly to a vast group of people. You have your own customers recommending you to their friends and family. You get an inherited trust of your brand through this recommendation.
Build Relationships – Social networking can help form long lasting relationships – either personal or professional by making the process of connecting easier. It provides an easy way got you to connect with your target customer and continue to engage those customers.
Establish Credibility – You can build your personal or company's credibility by good use of social networking services. For example, you can establish yourself as an expert in your field by answering discussion questions, posting tips and articles. Also you have your own customers recommending you to their friends and family. You get an inherited trust of your brand through this recommendation.
Communicate With Customers – Use this median to engage your customers. Modern social networking is permission based meaning that your customers gave you their permission to contact them by becoming "fans" or agreeing to be in your network. Since your customers have given their permission and because the form of the contact is less intrusive than older communication vehicles, your customers tend to be more open to your communications and more likely to respond to them.
We could go on and on about the benefits of Social Media Marketing, but we believe the results will speak for themselves. By using a properly implemented Social Media campaign you will be able to generate a BUZZ about your company; it's products and services. Your customers will be talking about YOU and promoting your business for you.
A1 Computers And Service will help you to design, implement and maintain your Social Media Marketing Campaign.
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The Election Commission of India has announced schedule for Bye-Elections to fill the Casual Vacancies in Parliamentary Constituency / Assembly Constituencies in different states. Five Assembly constituencies (Banswada, Tiruchirapalli West, Indira Nagar, Khadakwasala, Daraunda) and one Lok Sabha Constituency (Hisar) are going for polls on 13th October 2011. The model code of conduct will come into force immediately after the release of the notification.
1) Haryana: Hisar PC (Parliamentary Constituency)
2) Tamil Nadu: Tiruchirappalli (West) - Assembly Constituency
3) Andhra Pradesh: Banswada Assembly Constituency
4) Puducherry: Indira Nagar Assembly Constituency (AC)
5) Maharashtra: Khadakwasala Assembly Constituency
6) Bihar: Daraunda Assembly Constituency
Following is the schedule of polls and results:
1) Issue of Notification: 19th September 2011 (Monday)
2) Last date for filing Nominations: 26th September 2011 (Monday)
3) Scrutiny of Nominations: 27th September 2011 (Tuesday)
4) Last date for withdrawal of Candidatures / nominations: 29th September 2011 (Thursday)
5) Date of Poll: 13th October 2011 (Thursday)
6) Counting of Votes / Poll Results: 17th October 2011 (Monday).
The TRS will field Pocharam Srinivasa Reddy as its candidate in Banswada Assembly segment. Srinivasa Reddy was the sitting MLA when he resigned to the TDP and Assembly Membership and joined in the TRS Party. Congress and TDP will also announce their candidates in due course of time. The TDP is likely to field Badya Nayak or former MLA Gangadhar. YSR Congress Party may not contest in this election. If the YSR Congress decided to contest, it may field Bajireddy Goverdhan as its candidate. Goverdhan was former MLA of Banswada.


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Solvent weld, use for drain-waste-vent applications, or with pressure fittings for pressure pipe applications. Lightweight, high-impact resistant, and corrosion-proof, resistant to all waste system liquids and gases. PSI ratings at 73° Fahrenheit range from 180 (6 in pipe) to 330 (1-1/2 in pipe) depending on ID size. Meets ASTM-D1785.
|1-1/2 in


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Enchanted Review
I'm a tabletop gamer (mostly Pathfinder and D&D), in addition to writing, editing, developing, and publishing games, so I can't help looking at fiction from that perspective as I read. I've previously read and enjoyed the witches series (The Mist-Torn Witches, Witches in Red, Witches with the Enemy, and To Kill a Kettle Witch) by Barb Hendee and Dhampir by Barb and J.C. Hendee. The setting is what I enjoy best about the books, which are all set in the same world—that of the Noble Dead (http://www.nobledead.org/)—which is a bleak, dark, medieval atmosphere where feudal lords make life tough on others, vampires feed on the average peasant in the late hours of the evening, and people fear to travel anywhere after sunset. These books, especially Dhampir and the wonderful The Dead Seekers, a new Noble Dead series, show you what it would be to live in a world like that of the long-running game world variations of Ravenloft—a world infested with the undead, most of whom rule various territories of humans.
So, that atmosphere continues to excite me with the new book focusing on ghost hunters. Yet, what I find refreshing is that the authors do not get bogged down in the world of their fiction: the world remains backdrop to character-driven stories, as I believe it should be. I happen to be one of the readers who believes the setting should not overshadow the story, and that authors absolutely do not have to spend pages and pages providing world and landscape description. If you like that in your fiction, you'll not find it here. However, if you want intriguing stories and stimulating characters set in a dark world that posits the existence of the undead in a medieval setting, then the Hendees are absolutely your kind of authors!
In The Dead Seekers, the reader is introduced to Mari Kaleja, one of the Móndyalítko, a gypsy folk. At the age of 10, a dark being and controller of spirits killed her family in the Wicker Wood. Since then, she's been seeking out the one called the Dead's Man, whom she believes murdered her family with his pet spirits in the forest, to gain her revenge.
The Dead's Man turns out to be Tris Vishal, a baronet who was born dead. Ever since he was a child, he has seen into the spirit world, and he knows he has a dark half in the spirit realm who wants to kill him and take his place. Tris has spent long years away from his baron father, having left home after his mother's death to a strange sickness. He, instead, earns his living by legitimately ridding villages and towns of vengeful spirits.
Tris and Mari meet when she saves him from several bandits while he is on his way to remove a troubling spirit of a young girl in another village. She travels with him, seeking to be certain he is the man she seeks, and before long, she is working with him as his translator and following him where the removal of ghosts leads him. Along the way, she uncovers his secrets—and he hers, of course. They are later joined by an interesting alchemist who helped train Tris in his ghost-removing career.
I was simply enthralled by the first part of the book, which really introduces you to the characters, and the pace was fast. The book slowed some when the characters sought the spirit who had created their village ghost in a nearby city's guard barracks. The pace relaxed because this half of the book centers more on a mystery of the identity and nature of the haunting spirit and its motivations. I eagerly followed the mystery to its conclusion, and was satisfied with the ending.
I absolutely recommend the book to those who like high fantasy with a touch of darkness to it. You won't be disappointed.
This review copy was received for free via Net Galley. However, the reviewer will be buying a print and electronic copy for her own library.
— Reviewed by Christina
About the Book
In the New York Times bestselling Noble Dead saga, Barb and J.C. Hendee created an engrossing mix of "intrigue, epic fantasy, and horror."* Now, they present a bold new series set in the same world, where the destinies of two hunters shaped by the shadows of their pasts are about to collide…
In the dark reaches of the eastern continent, Tris Vishal travels from village to village, using his power to put unsettled spirits to rest. He works alone, having learned that letting people close only leads to more death. Still, he finds himself accepting the help of the Móndyalítko woman who saves his life—a woman whose gifts are as much a burden as his own.
Mari Kaleja thirsted for vengeance since the night her family was taken from her. She has searched far and wide for the one she thinks responsible, known only as "The Dead's Man." But before she can kill him, she has to be sure. Mari hopes traveling with Tris will confirm her suspicions. But as they embark on a hunt where the living are just as dangerous as the dead, she learns the risks of keeping your enemy close…
Because it's no longer clear who is predator and who is prey.
— Book description from Amazon.com
About the Authors
Barb and J. C. Hendee are the New York Times bestselling authors of the Novels of the Noble Dead, including The Night Voice, First and Last Sorcerer, and A Wind in the Night. Barb's short fiction has appeared in numerous genre magazines and anthologies. She is the author of the Vampire Memories and Mist-Torn Witches series. J.C.'s poetry, nonfiction, and short fiction have also appeared in many genre magazines.
Essential Info
Title: The Dead Seekers
Author: Barb and J.C. Hendee
Publisher: Penguin
Cost: $13.99 (ebook)
Length: 332 pages
Release Date: January 3, 2017
Purchase Link: CLICK HERE
Links to Other Works Mentioned in the Review
The Mist-Torn Witches: https://www.amazon.com/Mist-Torn-Witches-Book-ebook/dp/B009UZ8U3K/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1483055654&sr=1-3
Witches in Red: https://www.amazon.com/Witches-Red-Novel-Mist-Torn-Book-ebook/dp/B00FX7LYP0/ref=sr_1_2?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1483055654&sr=1-2
Witches with the Enemy: https://www.amazon.com/Witches-Enemy-Novel-Mist-Torn-Book-ebook/dp/B00O2BS67W/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1483055654&sr=1-1
To Kill A Kettle Witch: https://www.amazon.com/Kettle-Witch-Novel-Mist-Torn-Witches-ebook/dp/B013Q70AK8/ref=sr_1_4?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1483055654&sr=1-4
Dhampir: https://www.amazon.com/Dhampir-Noble-Dead-Barb-Hendee-ebook/dp/B002D9ZMJA/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1483055828&sr=1-1&keywords=dhampir


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The following article was written back in 1987 and was published in the IDS bulletin. It deals with the questions being asked pertaining to the color mutations being bred in the Diamond Doves. At the time of this writing the newest color available to US fanciers was the Yellow or Yellow Wing (Canada). Not much genetic work was done or was ongoing at this time. Check outJeff Downing's web site and purchase his book on Diamond Doves. It has some information on these mutations and the newer colors now being bred in these beautiful small doves.
Color Mutations in the Diamond Dove
by John Pire
1987 (rewritten 4/2001)
Over the past three years I have been asked many questions pertaining to the different colors being bred in the Diamond Doves. Since this specie was my preference of the many dove species, I was quite interested in the colors also. I made up a form and published it in the ADA, CDA and several major bird publications. The form asked for any information Diamond Dove (DD) fanciers were willing to share. Having read article son Ringneck genetics by Dr. Wilmer Miller in the dove associations bulletins I contacted him with the information I had compiled. I had compiled information on some twenty-six colors or patterns being described by the different fanciers who responded with information.
I sent Dr. Miller the information and asked him for his thoughts and comments. Dr. Miller was very helpful in answering the questions I had posed to him. He also enclosed some information he gave to his students at the Dept of Genetics at the Iowa State University. He also enclosed some charts, which could be followed for the testing of the color mutations. NOTE: these charts are assumptions and have not been proven; further testing and results accurately kept will accurately set these charts as to which color mutants are dominate and recessive.
Question: After reviewing the information on the different colors/patterns can you make any comments as to the inheritance of them?
Answer: More specific analysis would be possible if more detailed information was available. By more specific details I mean: the results of crosses of each mutant form with wild-type (Blue in DD) and those "F1" inter-mated (same single mutant involved) to yield an "F2" or else test crossed to the mutant parent if "F1" are blue or to the "blue" parent if "F1" are mutant type.
Question: Many of the colors and patterns may be variations of the same color or patterns, such as Yellow White Rump, Yellow White Tail; Cinnamon White Rump; Silver or Blue Big Spot could these be considered separate mutants?
Answer: To better understand the situation I need to make some comments to better handle this question. Twenty-six colors or pattern mutations is quite astounding. Many items need to be clarified, such as, are many of the colors that different from each other or are they just shade variations? Does each mutant breed "true" for that mutant for at least five generations? Are there shade or color variations within the same clutch? Many things have to be proven before a mutation can be considered a mutant type. I hope that the colors/patterns can be reduced to a few basic (single) mutations and their interactions to yield other colors or patterns. In Ringneck Doves (Streptopelia risoria) any of four (4) basic color mutants may interact to yield over twelve (12) color types. Example: Peach is a combination of Blond (fawn) with Rosy.
Question: In the quest to produce the "WHITE DIAMOND DOVE" many breeders' state that as they breed to obtain the "white" DD, the birds become "weaker". They show signs of poor flight or poor eyesight. Can you comment on why this might be occurring?
Answer: The TRUE WHITE DIAMOND DOVE probably awaits the proper mutation to occur. The near white that breeders are getting now is a combination of the mutants that lighten color. The combinations of related mutants often weaken the possessor phenotypically in pigeons, according to Dr. Hollander. Often, however, it could be that inbreeding is usual to get such combinations and that other deleterious genes combine to show their effects concomitantly, yielding so-called "inbreeding depression".
Questions: Could you show a simple chart or genetic layout to be used to analyze the different color mutants currently found in Diamond Doves?
Answer: You probably won't think it simple, especially since the "next step" depends on prior results. I've included my appendix 4 & 5 (Generalizations in Pedigree Analysis in Classical Genetics & How to Solve Breeding-Data Problems) that I give to my students. I also drew a couple of DIAGRAMS in which to follow. Since there has not been much research done on any of the colors, these diagrams are only SAMPLE RESULTS and not exactly what you will produce until you obtain results and apply them to the charts. To begin: to better analyze the mutants you must remember that the wild type (Blue) is very important in your analyses. Each description of the mutant should emphasize how they DIFFER from the wild type.
|Diamond Dove Color Table
|Diamond Dove Articles


text: Michal Brzozowski <rusolis at poczta.fm> writes: > Speaking about this, how to change the default behavior of the > buttons in Om2009? I know that both of them come as X events and can > be observed using xev, but the power button suspends the device even > if you're not running X, so its action is probably controlled by > power management. That's oeventsd, part of FSO. You can change the behaviour by editing rules.yaml. -- Be free, use free (http://www.gnu.org/philosophy/free-sw.html) software! mailto:fercerpav at gmail.com


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Searching Availability...
Avoid the crowds and travel straight to the whales. These tours depart shortly after dinner time, in turn allowing you to view the whales with fewer boats, less people, and in a truly unique atmosphere while the sun is setting. Save time and money by going at the end of the day!
Included in the Tour:
Cameras (& protective casing), extra clothing, snacks, drinks, a smile, and a sense of adventure!
Please understand that when we view the wildlife and whales that we are guests in their home and must follow a strict set of viewing guidelines in order to respect their natural life processes. Yes the whales do get close due to their behaviour, but also can be far away in some instances.
Are you looking for a wildlife experience without the crowds? For the discerning traveler, we offer private charters, with the option of setting your own agenda. Contact us so that we may provide some suggestions and begin personalizing your West Coast experience today.
Yes! Our staff are always happy to arrange for our guests to utilize our shuttle or taxis after their trip. Eagle Wing will cover the cost of these transfers.
Yes. We pick up at all major hotels, bed & breakfasts, and hostels.
Usually 45–55 minutes prior to departure. We ask our guests to be at the dock for signing waivers and check-in 30 minutes prior to departure. Our office staff will arrange a pickup time that works for you.
Everywhere in the extended downtown Victoria core. If we are unable to send the shuttle to your location for any reason, we will provide a complimentary pickup service through a local taxi company.
Our van carries seven passengers. For larger parties, we can arrange taxis or a combination of our shuttle and taxis to transport your group.
Please mention at the time of booking when you speak to our friendly office staff that you would like a complimentary shuttle pickup. Alternatively, if you are staying at a major hotel, please ask the concierge to arrange a pickup on your behalf.
No, not every trip – but the odds are definitely in your favour. Victoria and the Pacific Northwest are becoming renowned globally for reliability in orca sightings (killer whales). If averaged over the entire season from May-October our success has been a staggering 90-95% (species specific – orca). If you calculate sightings without being species specific (that is, you count orca & grays, humpbacks and minke whales) our company's success is over 98%. This is one of the highest success rates in our industry. Over the past 5 years, humpback whales have been sighted very consistently May through October.
Yes, almost everyone can embark on a journey of a lifetime when 'conditions' are perfect (weather, distance to whales, a person's boating experience, etc.) We have taken guests ranging from 3 months to 90 years in age, pregnant women, and those with back/neck discomfort. In all cases such as these the decision is one that is made at the time of the departure with the best interest of the guest comfort in mind. But in general terms tours are not recommended for pregnant women and persons with serious neck and back problems or frail health. Our captain will make the final decision prior to departure.
Yes, all of our boats are equipped with scientific grade under water microphones that are dropped into the water when within the vicinity of whales. Their sounds are then amplified and broadcast over a surround sound system. The mysterious and beautiful calls of the southern resident orca are a highlight of any trip – if not one's lifetime. Because of this Eagle Wing has invested in top of the line hydrophone and broadcast equipment for your enjoyment and education.
Yes, there are washrooms on board Eaglewing, Goldwing, Serengeti & 4 Ever Wild.
Bring cameras, an extra memory card, extra clothing, water and perhaps something to snack on. Dry storage is available on-board all the boats to keep equipment extra safe on wet days. Feel free to bring additional protection for your camera equipment, i.e. dry bag or plastic bag. We also provide lots of extras in the way of protective clothing and equipment.
Eagle Wing Tours allow registered service dogs on our larger vessels Goldwing and 4 Ever Wild. On these vessels we have both a captain and at least one crew member, so we are able to look after all passengers' safety, both human and canine. This is at the captain's discretion based on weather and sea conditions at the time of the tour just as it would be for guests with any legal disability, back injuries, neck injuries or pregnant women, etc.
Eagle Wing customer experience agents are ready to assist by phone or you may reserve directly online by completing the secure reservations form. Advanced reservations are recommended so that you are assured a seat aboard one of our vessels. The peak whale watching season brings many people from all over the world who share the same desire, to see the (now endangered) Southern Resident killer whales in their own habitat.
Whale watching guidelines supported by US and Canadian authorities, top orca researchers and ourselves, members of the whale watching industry, stipulate that operators remain 100 metres from the whales in Canadian waters or 183 meters in USA waters. Exceptions are made for vessels with their engines turned off when whales have approached on their own inside these guidelines. This does not mean that we can park in their path, turn our engines off and wait for them to approach. It means that when whales change course and end up nearer than we judge leaves us room to back off, the thing to do is shut down and wait. It's a matter of professional pride that everyone respects these guidelines. Read more about 'Being Whale Wise' here.
This is a very intricate process which involves casting a very large 'spotting web' of information. This web includes: being a member of a professional association of over 30 companies that collectively share information, shore based informants, seaplane connections, sport and commercial fisherman, and constant communication with boats actively on the water.
A combination of our fast boat style, local knowledge, superior staff experience, and a bit of luck allows most of our customers a chance to see whales. If the whales are around we will know because of our joint affiliation with an extensive spotting network. We will travel great distances to show you both the Southern Resident Killer Whale Community and many more beautiful creatures. However, unpredictability is a part of our business. Our success at Eagle Wing Tours in sighting whales is an industry leading 98% from May – October. In the rare event that whales are not seen passengers are covered by our Guarantee program (lifetime pass to come back as many times as is necessary to show you whales).
We have four high performance boats and all offer a first class experience providing ample personal space, room to move about, a private marine washroom and stowage area for personal gear. Our 3 Open air boats are: 38′ Eaglewing carries 12 passengers (and 1 captain), 38′ Serengeti carries 12 passengers (and 1 captain), & the 60′ Goldwing carries 26 passengers (with 1 captain & 1 crew). Our NEW Open air covered catamaran 4 Ever Wild carries 50 passengers (with a min. 3 crew + Captain). All vessels offer unobstructed views of the wildlife providing unbelievable photographic opportunities.
Please remember to dress warmly and be prepared for all weather conditions. Keeping in mind that the ocean air will always be cool relative to what you may be experiencing on land in the harbour. I would suggest bringing a jacket/sweater (dress warmly!) on most days, keeping in mind that jackets are available if you don't have one, wear soft soled shoes NOT sandals (flip flops or bare feet are not suitable).
In general there is no best time of day for sighting success. Our vessel style has a greater range than our competitors, allowing us to confidently guarantee sightings 98% of the time. It boils down to what time best suits your schedule while you are here in Victoria. Sometimes it is windier in the late afternoon, yet the whales can be perhaps more playful in rougher water conditions. In late August/early September we do contend with fog as the sun rises, but it usually 'burns off' by late morning.
Yes, there are lots of parking options in either the Fisherman's Wharf pay parking lot or parking on the street. Or you can take a short walk from downtown along the harbour pathway, take a harbour ferry water taxi. FREE SHUTTLE to and from downtown hotels, bed & breakfasts or vacation rentals.
It's always a possibility, however, this is rarely a problem on our boats due to vessel design and resulting motion. In online reviews customers back up this claim. Our boats are very stable in comparison to our competitors' and you have an unobstructed view of the horizon, and plenty of fresh air all around the vessels. As a precaution for those that are susceptible to this ailment, we would recommend that you take your favorite motion sickness medicine at least 1 hour before your journey.
There are several departures throughout the day for your convenience and the rates vary according to the time of year and which vessel, please see rates & schedule.
Here are a few examples: Lighthouses, tidal rapids, active commercial shipping lanes with freighters and naval vessels, wind surfers, shallow water environments, secluded coves, rocky outcrops, channels of water carving a meandering path through the islands, diverse vegetation, snow-capped mountains, rain forest valleys, sunsets, estuaries and lagoons, ecological reserves, a defunct leper colony (!), buoys, tide lines, tall ships under sail, tide rips, feeding frenzies (birds), sea life on a scale exceeded only in the polar regions and much, much more!
We supply many items so that you remember the amazing experience, and not how uncomfortable you may be if you are not prepared. We offer complimentary usage of: sunglasses, 45 spf. sunscreen, toques (warm knit hats), binoculars, gloves, on-board wildlife identification cards and Transport Canada certified 'optional' waterproof flotation jackets (these are very warm 'bomber' style jackets with polar fleece lined pockets and hood in all sizes). We also offer wind and waterproof pants in all sizes including children's.
Located in Victoria BC, Canada, Eagle Wing Tours is a locally-owned and family-operated company offering an exclusive, educational, eco-friendly experience for the discerning traveller. Our marine-based guided expeditions explore the San Juan and Gulf Islands in search of killer whales and other marine wildlife. Eagle Wing Tours offers you a chance to bear witness to one of nature's most majestic and awe-inspiring creatures in one of the most impressive settings on earth: the Pacific Northwest. A treasure chest of diverse marine wildlife awaits you!
It's like travelling first class! The ride is dry, smooth and exhilarating! As you may know, Mother Nature can certainly kick it up a notch and when she does it is absolutely crucial that you are as comfortable as possible during your personalized whale watching experience. If you are not comfortable, your memories of the wildlife will most certainly be overshadowed by how (windblown, smashed around, wet, bruised) unhappy you were. Comfort is a prime directive at Eagle Wing. Simply stated: if you are not comfortable you will not enjoy yourself as much as you could have, and that is not acceptable with us. Trips are cancelled when sea conditions are unsafe or uncomfortable.
Providing a premium marine adventure means utilizing premium vessel design. As such, Eagle Wing uses two different versions of an 'offshore hull design' (scarab), and a high-performance twin-hull catamaran. These styles of vessels have been utilized all over the world for search and rescue operations, high-performance offshore racing, and military applications because of their unique ability to blend safety and comfort with stability and speed. We are the originators of these vessel styles within the whale watching industry. They are simply more comfortable, more exciting and safer, with the result being we see more and do more than our competitors!
Every tour really is an original experience. Much like purchasing an original piece of art, the experience is solely your own. Surprisingly, anticipation of the unknown and wondering just what will be discovered around each approaching point is where much of the magic comes from. Nature is forever changing and unveils a movement and rhythm that is captivating. Our captains remain wonderfully in tune with these rhythms and so can reliably provide thrills and 'once in a lifetime experiences' over and over. The wildlife around Victoria is spectacular, diverse, enchanting, and memorable. The possibilities are endless: orca, gray whales, humpback whales, minke whales, fin whale (rare), Dall's porpoise, harbour porpoise, seals & sealions, eagles, endless numbers of sea and shore birds for the ornithologists and sea stars, giant kelp and other intertidal delights for everyone.
Success rates for different species shift throughout the year. Southern Resident orca, especially J pod, are sighted reliably from May to October. K and L pod show up in late June and are observed quite regularly in our area from then until October as well. Transient orca are observed all year, though not as regularly as residents due the smaller traveling group sizes and the distance they travel looking for prey. Humpbacks have been observed regularly for the last several years, especially during high summer (late Aug.) through October. Gray whales are intermittent visitors as they stop off during their epic migration from Mexico to the Bering Sea. There appears to be a small resident gray whale population in the area as well. During the summer minke whales are located fairly nearby Victoria and we keep tabs on their movements, providing important information to researchers about this little-understood blue whale cousin. So, the best time of year for watching whales is when the sun is shining and you have the time to come out and join us!
We are located in one of the most beautiful places on earth – Victoria! Our floating office and whale interpretive centre is located at historic Fisherman's Wharf. We're easily spotted by the colourful mural of whales and wildlife covering our floating building – look for our lighthouse! We're close to the entrance ramp to the wharf, just take a right at the bottom by Barb's Fish & Chips. We're on the other side of Smoke & Anchor, across from Jackson's Ice Cream. Don't worry, whale watching builds a healthy appetite! Historic Fisherman's Wharf is located near the entrance to Victoria's Inner Harbour at 12 Erie Street, Pier #2.
The entire Salish Sea is our 'playground'. Our operating area stretches from Victoria, to Vancouver, to Seattle, and out to Port Renfrew (west coast Vancouver Island). Often the location of the whales is determined by the whales' prey availability (food), which is delicately intertwined and linked with the natural spawning cycles of this food source (in the case of the Southern Resident Killer Whales, salmon).
A talented collection of experienced Captains, marine biologists and their families make up the Eagle Wing team. All of them take their responsibility for your safety and enjoyment extremely seriously; sharing a passion for the west coast ecosystem while delivering a heartfelt wilderness experience is a profession few are privileged to enjoy. Canada holds professional captains and crew to a standard recognized as one of the highest world-wide. Your safety is assured aboard coast guard certified vessels that exceed all requirements for our area.
Pay a bit more, get a lot more! As passionate stewards of a world renowned marine environment we are motivated to provide our guests with more than just, "a look at the whales". We realize that most of our guests have traveled great distances at high cost to experience what we have the privilege of doing daily. We respect, and ultimately are grateful for this and so with every departure we go above and beyond – maximizing guest satisfaction, overall comfort, and delivering the "WOW" factor! The truth is, not all whale watching tours are created equal. Comfort aboard many competitors is sacrificed in order to 'get bums in seats'. Not at Eagle Wing; Our vessels offer walk-around comfort, accessible washrooms, and are designed to offer the smoothest ride possible. You will be offered waterproof jackets and pants if necessary, hats and gloves, supplied sunscreen, protective glasses and even binoculars. Every detail has been considered and taken care of.
The dedicated staff at Eagle Wing Tours are always happy to answer your questions.
Fill out our quick Request Booking Details form to send us your questions and you can expect a prompt response from a team member during business hours.
We have many answers to frequently asked questions available for your convenience in our Common Questions section.
Call our floating office located right on the dock at Fisherman's Wharf:
Toll Free 1-800-708-9488
Local 250-384-8008
Click on the "Live chat with us" on the bottom right hand corner of your computer screen :)


text: Today is January 1, 2011 and I just got back from a wonderful walk along the beach in San Clemente with my wife and 3 of my four children. The tide was low, excellent for finding these little gems of sea glass. Worn and battered and softened by the raging California rainstorms of the past couple weeks, sea glass has always been a perfect metaphor for God's work in my life. Even those worthless things discarded and now deemed useless are jewels in the eye of the Beholder.