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Peerings & Hearings
Occasional Musings on Arts in the City of Glass
To continue my musings on community, how and by whom it's built, this post features an interview with Rachel Rose, Vancouver Poet Laureate l(2014–2017). According to the City website, "The Poet Laureate is an honorary position," with a flexible term of two to three years, established by Vancouver City Council in December 2006 "to honour and celebrate the contribution of literature and poetry to life in Vancouver." The position is funded by a generous endowment established by philanthropist, professor, businessman, and philosopher, Dr. Yosef Wosk, OBC. The Poet Laureate Program is a partnership of the City of Vancouver, Vancouver Public Library, and The Vancouver Writers Fest.
Rachel Rose has tough acts to follow. Each of the previous poets laureate created a poetic legacy project. George McWhirter (2009–2011) edited the anthology Verse Map of Vancouver (Anvil Press, 2009), which included ~100 poets who spatialized Vancouver's verse geography. Brad Cran (2009–2011) organized the V125 poetry conference (October 2011), a gathering of 100 poets who published their first book after 1990. Evelyn Lau (2011–2014) met with aspiring poets in the community through a series of poet-in-residence consultations, bringing poetry into public spaces and discourse.
Rachel Rose is the fourth Poet Laureate of Vancouver. She is the author of the chapbook, Thirteen Ways of Looking at CanLit, (BookThug, 2015) and four collections of poetry: Giving My Body to Science (McGill-Queen's University Press, 1999), Notes on Arrival and Departure (McClelland & Stewart, 2005), Song and Spectacle (Harbour Publishing, 2012), and Marry & Burn (Harbour Publishing, 2015). Her non-fiction book, Gone to the Dogs: Riding Shotgun with K9 Cops, is forthcoming from St. Martin's Press/Thomas Dunne Books.
Rachel Rose and I met virtually to talk about her Poet Laureateship, its influences, inspiration, and challenges.
Jami Macarty: Hi Rachel. Thanks very much for being here. Let's dive into our conversation about Vancouver's Poet Laureate. From the website for the Poet Laureate of the City of Vancouver: "The importance of literature and literacy in Vancouver's cultural landscape was highlighted when City Council established the Poet Laureate Program in December 2006." Which aspects of literacy and literature and their intersections most draw your attention?
Rachel Rose: Literature and poetry invite us to use our imaginations to develop empathy, to understand and care about lives that are different from our own. Literature offers the potential for political, emotional, cultural, and spiritual engagement. For me personally, being a reader allows me access to the inner lives and outer circumstances of other people that I'd never be able to access in any other way. It is one of the best parts of being human.
"I wanted a project that would promote connection and the possibility of sustenance in our divided city. Simply, I needed a project that would nourish me and would offer nourishment."
JM: Can you describe the selection process for Poet Laureate (PL)? What did you have to do to be considered? What criteria did you fulfill?
RR: First, I am grateful to Yosef Wosk for his leadership and vision, in this and in so many other realms — as a writer, scholar, and founder of Simon Fraser University's Philosophers' Café, among other leadership roles.
Any established poet with deep roots in this city can apply; individuals can be nominated by others as well. There will be a public call for the fifth Poet Laureate of Vancouver in late 2016. The selection is made by a committee of staff from the City, the Vancouver Public Library, and The Vancouver Writers Fest.
JM: What does it mean to you to be Vancouver's fourth Poet Laureate?
RR: It was a surprise in some ways to be selected. I hesitated to apply, actually, because I feared it would mean the end of the solitude I find so necessary for my work, and because I thought others were more qualified for the position. But when I did put forth my application, I resolved that I would only propose a project that, if successful, would be a departure from anything I had done before and would allow me to immerse myself in new communities. I wanted a project that would promote connection and the possibility of sustenance in our divided city. Simply, I needed a project that would nourish me and would offer nourishment.
Some time before I submitted my application, I read some polls by Vancouver Foundation that showed the people of Vancouver believe alienation and disconnection are our most pressing social issues — not housing, not economics — but fractured communities, a sense of not belonging. That stayed with me.
We are a city of diverse cultures, belief systems, and economic backgrounds. There are many subjects and causes worthy of the attention of a Poet Laureate, though few that I could imagine would engage us all, poet or not. Food seemed like the right choice on so many levels. All of us break bread, or cook beans, or fry noodles. All of us carry memories of those foods that taste like home, whether it is the activist challenging the cruelties of conventional farming, the exile remembering the waft of spices on lost streets, or the child writing about the sockeye salmon she buys at Granville Island. Poetry inspired by food invites poets to write provocative work about the environment, class, immigration, and occupation, but it also allows us to celebrate our city's strengths in a way that brings us together. To sit down and eat together, to write about food memories, about feast days, and to share them in public, is an act of engagement. And food, as the most basic of necessities, is essential for our survival. It contains myriad possibilities in terms of engagement. As Mvskoke poet Joy Harjo writes in her poem Perhaps the World Ends Here, "The world begins at a kitchen table. No matter what, we must eat to live."
I envision collaborative acts of poetry and feasting taking part throughout the city, as poets go forth to celebrate in verse what chefs celebrate in food. I envision new poems and essays being written in homage to those who feed and sustain us.
JM: Can you say more about why you were surprised to be selected?
RR: I am a bit of an outsider in the poetry scene, both through temperament and necessity — having three kids and not being able to hang out at the cool literary events when I'm still getting up at six the next morning, or when I need to be at home cleaning out lunch kits and helping with homework.
Also, there are other poets who have given deeply to the community for far longer than I have, who seemed natural choices. But here I am!
JM: How's it going as you juggle the PL post's demands, along side those of your art-making and family life? Can you talk about particular challenges of the PL post?
RR: It's been a gift and a challenge, honestly. I'm inspired because I get to meet artists in other disciplines that I wouldn't have met. I get to read with them at City Hall, and hear them perform. That's wonderful. But I have to say no to some invitations when I would much prefer to say yes. I come up against my own limitations more than I would like.
This came up when choosing Poetry Ambassadors. There are of course the many fine and talented and generous poets I did not invite — or some I did who were too busy to take it on. There is always the anxiety of invitation, of making something collective, of choosing at all to engage, and then hoping others rise to the invitation. I made my decisions based on three factors: a dedication to poetry, a perceptible kindness, and a willingness to connect with others. And I suppose another factor was inviting those whose poetry communities, while having some overlap with my own, were not my own — I want our reach to be broad, and our areas of expertise to be myriad.
You ask about balancing the demands of poetry and writing and the Laureateship. I don't think of balance so much as triage. I do what most demands my attention at the moment, what cannot wait. What event is coming up, what deadline looms? I have three kids in three different public schools, and each school has scheduled their meet-the-teacher night for the same night, a night I'll be away for a writing project. The impossibility of it all is often overwhelming — even the small things, like attending a launch. I either hire a babysitter and pay $40 to get out the door, or my wife does it after a long day at work, or I don't go, and wonder how to convey my support and create community even though I am absent when I long to be present. We still get school notices delivered the day before requesting home-baked cakes for cake-walks as school fundraisers — and what does that presume about women and work? And how is it that dozens and dozens of cakes appear on those tables (none of which are baked by me)?
"I aim for the good enough community. I think the idea of community is fraught for many of us, just like the notion of family can be. And the literary community can be especially challenging, in part because writers bind their identities to their writing, and then must compete against each other for scarce resources."
JM: Can you trace the genesis of the idea to use poetry and food to "promote connection in our divided city"?
RR: Many factors influenced the birth of this preoccupation with food and sustenance. My mother was a doctor in rural areas in Canada and the U.S., and I accompanied her as she attended to patients from the time I was a baby. She treated a number of people in the U.S. who could not pay for medical care. I remember patients in the country giving her a bucket of honey or a young calf (which I fed, watered, and later ate) to pay for the medical care they'd received.
My stepfather was Executive Director of an organization in Washington State called Skagitonians to Preserve Farmland. This organization works with small farmers to ensure that they are able to preserve their way of life, to protect wildlife habitat, and to work with other farm to table organizations such as the Seattle Culinary Academy (at Seattle Central College) to connect urban chefs with the farmers who grow their food.
These were formative experiences about the value of food and community. More recently were my years working with refugee families from Burma through Immigrant Service Society of BC. My kids and I volunteered to help families arriving from refugee camps in Thailand adjust to a new life in B.C. We spent a lot of time in Surrey, where a number of families were resettled in a specific housing project. It was an experience that taught me a great deal about resilience and community. Every time we went, whether we were able to do something practical like drive people to the hospital, or help with employment paperwork, or even if we were just hanging out and visiting, we were fed. As soon as we walked in the door, someone started cooking for us — nearly every time, garlic and ginger fried in oil were sizzling in a pan within minutes of our arrival. There were so many differences in language and understanding, and certainly there were frustrations, but every time we made that long drive to Surrey we were welcomed to the table. I had stumbled upon an opportunity for all of us to be nourished by our connection.
So these are some of the seeds of activism around food and community that perhaps germinated only when I applied for this position.
JM: What are the motivating factors/ what thinking or ideas are behind your decision to have Poetry Ambassadors? How did you select the ambassadors?
RR: The decision to have the position be a collective one felt right to me. I really wanted to reach beyond the usual poetry circles, and I knew I couldn't do it alone. Even more than that, I wanted to reach beyond my own circle, and I also couldn't do that alone.
As far as I know, I am the only Poet Laureate to create positions for Poetry Ambassadors. We are a loose collective of a dozen people, each doing what they feel called to do as schedules and interests permit. In any case, I wanted to share the spotlight for two reasons. The first is, I am not quite comfortable in the spotlight, and prefer to be a bit more in shadow — but I am lucky enough to know poets who thrive on stage. The second is to share the wealth. I knew that there would be many opportunities and possibilities that would come with this position, and I thought how lovely it would be to invite others to enjoy those opportunities to teach and give readings.
Did I say two reasons? Let me add a third: I wanted to create at least some of the kind of community for which I hungered in the very act of being Vancouver's Poet Laureate.
There are so many people who have really put poetry and community at the center of their lives, who are doing interesting work politically, who are innovators and skilled connectors. I chose people who weren't necessarily the biggest or best-known poets (though several have major profiles) but who were people I had seen in action in the community, whom I believed would do the good, hard work of outreach.
JM: What's your definition of community? What attributes does a healthy, "good" community have? What are the links between poetry/writing and community?
RR: I aim for the good enough community. I think the idea of community is fraught for many of us, just like the notion of family can be. And the literary community can be especially challenging, in part because writers bind their identities to their writing, and then must compete against each other for scarce resources.
I am not sure there is a writing community, really. We are a fractured, fractious bunch of talented people in overlapping communities that sometimes manage to support each other in tremendously important ways and other times are indifferent or worse.
The good enough literary community recognizes that people have various schools and aesthetic preferences, but others who don't share those preferences also have much to contribute. A good enough community finds strength in diversity. It is porous enough that outsiders and newcomers can easily find their way in, but solid enough that there is a real sense of camaraderie and support. Generosity and kindness make all the difference. There are many talented writers out there, but talent doesn't bind people together.
JM: Describe your PL post and its responsibilities — those named and those you assume. What's your vision?
RR: The named responsibilities are few — to advocate for poetry, to read at the Mayor's Arts Awards and for City Council every year, to complete my legacy project.
My assumed responsibilities are many, but really I suppose can be distilled to one — to connect with as many people as I can over my term, people for whom poetry has little or no daily importance or function, and to open this door, to issue an invitation to engage with poetry through the theme of food.
"Writing, too, is often isolating, invisible, not particularly valued (especially writing poetry). I wanted, simply, to praise those who nourish, to see it as political and valuable, as an act of creating ties, an act of love."
JM: Can you offer some examples of connections made and/or projects underway?
RR: I'll mention some projects involving the Poetry Ambassadors. Juliane Okot Bitek and I gave a workshop and offered individual writing consults at the Native Education College.
Ngwatilo Mawiyoo and I gave our first outdoor workshop on how to teach poetry to student teachers at the University of British Columbia (UBC), under the guidance of UBC professor Hartley Banack, who also taught us how to teach outside.
Elee Kraljii Gardiner, Renee Sarojini Saklikar, bee scientist Mark Winston, Thursdays Writing Collective and Hives for Humanity offered an informative reading event around poetry and food, which included honey tastings.
Elee Kraljii Gardiner worked with Thursdays Writing Collective, doing a full year on sustenance and nourishment, including readings and communal dinners.
There's the Fresh Local Poetry project that you, Jami, and Kevin Spenst collaboratively presented with Vancouver Park Board to offer free-ranging poetry to people visiting the summer Farmer's Markets. Plus, you lead Odes to Food, a community workshop, bringing together several organizations (Room Magazine, Pandora's Collective, and the International Centre of Arts and Technology) and 20 writers from across the city to write with food as the prompt.
Karen Shklanka and I did a workshop for seniors at the Weinberg Residence for Jewish seniors.
As well, I was delighted that the League of Canadian Poets made my Poet Laureate project the National Poetry Project for Canada for 2015. It was amazing to have that kind of sustained interest in poetry writing about food.
JM: What I appreciate about the projects mentioned above is their example of community — each is a site of new partnerships and collaborations forming with common intentions to educate, to inspire, to celebrate poetry and food. That's nourishing!
What's your notion of "nourish/ing"? What's your thinking behind that notion? Can you say more about why and it what ways is it important to you?
RR: Nourishing is often an invisible act, a (usually) female act of caregiving. I have fed my family of five countless meals over the years. These meals are bought, prepared, consumed, and then disappear. To provide good nourishment requires resources, whether we speak of a family or a community; it is honourable but sometimes fraught work.
Writing, too, is often isolating, invisible, not particularly valued (especially writing poetry). I wanted, simply, to praise those who nourish, to see it as political and valuable, as an act of creating ties, an act of love. Those who do the feeding, the caregiving, the domestic labour, are the backbone of the economy in important ways. When, in 1975, 90% of women in Iceland went on strike from their domestic duties, the country ground to a complete halt. That has never happened here. I wish it would.
"I am pleased to say that Anvil Press has just committed to publishing my legacy project poetry anthology, Sustenance … We will invite those public collaborations between poets and chefs, urban farmers, food bank workers, dumpling makers, beekeepers, and other locals engaged in nourishing our citizens."
JM: Let's turn our attention to a different notion of nourishing — your legacy project. Your PL message promises: "a book profiling the best of these collaborations." How will these collaborations be represented or "culminate" in a book? What can you say about the book project, the publisher, the vision?
RR: I am pleased to say that Anvil Press has just committed to publishing my legacy project poetry anthology, Sustenance. This anthology will be comprised of selections chosen by me and each of the Poetry Ambassadors. We will invite those public collaborations between poets and chefs, urban farmers, food bank workers, dumpling makers, beekeepers, and other locals engaged in nourishing our citizens.
The anthology will be deeply influenced by the aesthetics of each of the Poetry Ambassadors, as well as myself. Sustenance brings to the table some of Canada's best contemporary writers on the topic of food. Sustenance will be a literary anthology of the highest calibre, written by 150 of the finest poets and writers from Vancouver, B.C. and beyond (Canada, North America, and International) to commemorate Canada's 150th anniversary. Sustenance will celebrate all that is unique about Vancouver's literary and culinary scene. Each of these short pieces will shock, comfort, challenge, and illuminate our city's living history, seen through the lens of food — whether it is exile, hunger, food scarcity, bulimia, urban beekeeping, community gardening, foraging, feeding a baby, or the personal story of a celebrity chef.
Sustenance is also an urgent community response to the needs of individuals in our city. Profits from this book will provide both a symbolic and practical welcome to the refugees who will be arriving in B.C. over the coming months, and to low-income families in our astronomically expensive city. Writers will be donating their honoraria to the Farmers Market Nutrition Coupon Program.
Every $15.00 in sales profit — that is, every book sold — will provide a low-income or refugee family with fresh, locally grown produce for a week through these vouchers, and at the same time will support B.C. farmers, fishers, beekeepers, and gardeners. This gesture will be an offering to those who need support, and will also be a gesture of support to those farmers whose life work is to nourish us.
JM: Wow! This project elates my community-advocate's heart. I'm honored to be a part of a project of such substance. All the people involved — you, me, and the other writers/contributors, the refugee/low-income families, the farmers, etc. — at all levels will be nourished by the project. That's the truest expression of community. We've talked about how through the PL post you've served others. What about you? What have you learned so far/ how has your thinking been influenced as a result of your time as PL? How has the PL post influenced your writing?
RR: I chose food as my PL focus in part because I wanted something that could be joyful, that could be centred around eating together. As I learn more from activists and experts about food sustainability, I see that our very human, primary need for sustenance has been profoundly damaged by corporate greed — our oceans are overfished, and there is very little global stewardship of the oceans. On land, our farms are run like factories, with animal products and by-products, with peaches soaked in pesticides to the point where children are not supposed to eat more than one a day. It hurts.
Because of the work I am doing as Poet Laureate, I got my first backyard beehive. The first year, a global virus killed off all the bees. It is very different to read about bees being threatened and to see a dead and empty hive that recently had throbbed with sweet life.
The hive is back, and this year has been such a strong year that I even got to see a swarm of bees in the backyard cherry trees. All this has lead to poems about bees, about the work of the hive. Everything is connected. Without this work, I wouldn't have the sting — or the honey.
JM: Thank you for being here in this conversation with me, Rachel.
RR: Thank you, Jami, for inviting me to converse, and for your ongoing and thoughtful work to create a stronger literary community in Vancouver.
TO: Vincent Wong, fine art, commercial, and wedding photographer, Third Beach drummer, and all around terrific human being for his wonderful image of Vancouver being constructed.
TO: Vancouver Park Board for once again showing us how to build community. This time, it's their creative inquiry Words for Birds, bringing together language arts with the natural sciences as they search for an official City Bird with the help of its people.
TO: Word Vancouver for so generously bringing us — the City's writers and readers and listeners — together at the end of September (21–28) for a celebration of literacy — accessible and free to all.
The Festival's a wonderful example of community.
That's all for now, dear readers. Look for the next P & H blog in two months.
In the meantime, write to me, leave a comment. Tell me what you want more of and less of in this blog — and in your community — and what's just right. It's always good to know what's just right.
Be Nice. Make Art. Foster Community.


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"The Lucky Devil team attended the Santa Pod Racers Club dinner dance on Saturday 11th February and a great time was had by all. I think you will agree we all scrub up quite well! Usually when we are together we are a little less likely to look this good 🙂
Of course we had the ladies with us, and they all looked great, so we had to make the effort!
We were presented with our MSA British Drag Racing trophy for finishing third overall in 2011. Thanks to everyone for all the hard work and support and of course we now have to make sure we do better than 3rd place in 2012… I am sure we can."

subset: commoncrawl


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The 10-yr yield managed to close back above its 200 day moving average today. It looks as if the move below November's yield low was a one-day shake out. The more muted buying in the 5-yr and complete lack of confirmation from stocks makes that case seem pretty strong.
The flipside is that it is a holiday week. I would guess we will retrace some of the move next week giving a short entry


text: As a great fan of many sports, i am very happy that most sports are represented with a corps team. I was just wondering what other peoples views are on sports that can be played with a pint by one's side, such as snooker, pool and darts. Many argue that these aren't sports, yet are internationally recognised. Surely a team, or even a mere gathering of players on a regular occasion would have the same effects as other sports: Esprit de Corps, Socialising, Sense of competition etc, whilst also broadening the range, enabling those who may be bonk at other sports, to have a go?


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Haha, this video is so freakin COOL :D This guy is a genius. LOL what a crazy and funny video. If you dont like this clip then I just dont know if you have any sense of humor at all! Everyday Normal Crew is THE video on the internet right know I think. I must admit that I actually hate rap music, but when the song is this funny thats a different story. Haha, so I think you should watch this video right now - bitch.
billige reiser | billige flybilletter
Funny Hilarious Rap Video - LOL This Is COOL :D
Posted by boss at 1:07 PM 0 comments
Labels: funny video
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You need to become a Contributor to join the discussion - Find out how.
Ben Tossell@bentossell · Services for startups
Looks like a pinterest for buying products
Anselm Urban@anselm_urban · Christian, web designer and developer.
@bentossell There is already a Pinterest for buying products: https://fancy.com/
@bentossell Thanks, you nailed it head on! Though "Pinterest for Products" is more closer to what we are doing now. As we don't involve buying and selling activities. A key difference is that - Pinterest is about all the images on the Internet; whereas Spurlo is about inspiring products.
@anselm_urban @bentossell Thanks for the comment! Fancy's content is controlled by themselves and their sellers on board, users can't add their own content. For Spurlo, the content is purely from user and community.
@anselm_urban @bentossell Essentially Fancy is A seller; whereas Spurlo is an open platform and a community, we don't sell any products. We help user to discover, collect and curate instead.
spurlo.com is a tech startup leaning toward providing a platform for you to discover, collect, and curate inspiring consumer products from your favorite stores and brands across the web. It's where your interests, hobbies and product love are showcased. Our goal is to help curating a catalog of inspiring products across the web that would enable people discover creative ideas, pick up new hobbies, find their style and plan life's important projects.
Btw, we are running a giveaway now which ends on this Friday 1/22 11:59pm. Sign Up to Win a Yi Action Camera + One for a Friend! Details at http://www.spurlo.com/invite/join/


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Library Instruction Room Policy
The Woodward Library has two Library Instruction Rooms (LIR 209 and LIR 114) that serve as classrooms for the teaching of information literacy skills. The Library Instruction Room on the main floor of the library (LIR 209) also serves as a computer lab for APSU students, faculty and staff when it is not being used for classroom instruction.
- Only current APSU students, faculty and staff will be permitted to use the Library Instruction Rooms (LIRs).
- Information Literacy Instruction sessions will be scheduled based on the availability of a Library Instruction Room and a librarian to conduct the instruction.
- When classes are not scheduled, LIR 209 will function as a computer lab. Personal use of the computers is on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Instruction sessions may be scheduled during any of the library's normal operating hours. The number of sessions and the times will vary from week to week. When a session is in progress, only the students enrolled in the class and the instructor may be in the LIR. Library staff will clear LIR 209 15 minutes before a scheduled session.
- No university classes may be scheduled by the Registrar to meet in the LIRs. Occasional workshops and area school classes may be scheduled.
- Only software owned or licensed by Austin Peay State University will reside in the microcomputers maintained in the LIRs. Unauthorized files and applications will be removed. Faculty who desire additional software to be loaded on the PCs should contact the Systems Librarian who will consider the requests on a case-by-case basis.
- Authorized users are free to use personal copies of legally licensed software on the library PCs. Users, however, may not permanently store their programs and files on library PCs. They must save their work to their own storage devices. The making and/or the use of unauthorized copies of software, copies that are not legally licensed, on library PCs is strictly prohibited.
- The LIRs are primarily self-service facilities. Users are expected to know how to operate the equipment and how to use the software.
- The hardware, with the exception of routine printer maintenance, will be maintained by the Systems Librarian. Routine printer maintenance will be performed by the student assistants and designated library staff.
Revised Sep. 26, 2016


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Moderators: sandaltered, quad killer
nocents572 wrote:Here is the results from Saturdays race...
Bracket 1(fast class)
1. Todd Stockhoff
2. Damian Bowers
3. Justin Ball
4. Dave Robbins
Bracket 2(slow class)
1. Thomas Meyers
2. Butch Craiger
3. Jake Dare
4. Tracy Hicks
Pro ATV
1. Sherry Robinson
2. Blake cole
Congratulations to all the winners! We hope to see everyone back in July for our 2 day Franklin county fair race!
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ok so I've been pretty vacant as far as blogging goes. i'm back though!! i went camping at my parents cabin with my dad.
the doctors went well i guess. she didn't really say much at all! which is frustrating, but she gave me a note excusing me from work indefinitely. i'm sorry that it has taken me so long to realize that work has been a toxic environment for me. but at least i have that realization now. i heard something today: life is like juggling. most people can handle 3 balls fine, its when you throw that 4th ball in their that everything falls apart. i was trying to juggle way too much at one time. (a new house, a troubled relationship, a new puppy, work,my ED). i have just noticed SUCH an improvement in myself the past couple of days it is astronomical! its funny because with as much rest as i have gotten. coming down from this and surrendering is absolutely exhausting!!!!! i have been ready for bed at 9. and taking naps during the day. (i have NEVER been a napper). i just feel like i'm finally getting on track!
Friday, August 15, 2008
big catch up
Labels: back on track
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Refine your search
Porthmadog is a busy coastal town (population around 4,200) with a harbour, a good range of shops and attractions (including nearby Portmeirion) and no less than three narrow-gauge railways - the Ffestiniog (running to Blaenau Ffestiniog), the shorter Welsh Highland Heritage (with its excellent hands-on railway museum) and the similarly named but separate Welsh Highland (running all the way to Caernarfon).
Trains were not the only mode of transport in Porthmadog's history as an important hub based on the slate industry. The town's Maritime Museum tells the story of the town's rapid 19th-century growth into a thriving slate exporting and shipbuilding port for handsome three-masted schooners.
Porthmadog came into existence after The Cob sea wall was built in 1811 to reclaim a large proportion of the beach from the sea for agricultural use. The diversion of the river caused it to scour out a new natural harbour deep enough draught for small ocean-going sailing ships. The first public wharves were built in 1825 and slate was carted from Ffestiniog down to the quays by river boats for transfer to seagoing vessels.
In the second half of the 19th century Porthmadog was a flourishing port and slate was now transported to by tramways and the Ffestiniog Railway and by 1873 over 116,000 tons were exported in more than a thousand ships. Porthmadog's role as a commercial port, already reduced by the opening of the Aberystwyth and Welsh Coast Railway in 1867, was effectively ended by the First World War, when the lucrative German market for slate disappeared. The 19th century wharves still survive, but the slate warehouses have been replaced by holiday apartments, and the harbour is used by leisure yachts.
West on the A487 through Penrhyndeudraeth and straight on at the roundabout (signed for Porthmadog).
with charge
: 1 mile from Porthmadog station


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Good hello to you all
Here is a spot of fun for our younger readers, a fantastic colouring page.
Sets off a tweed three-piece with an exotic style and a degree of panache.
Any hip guys in the village may want to dazzle the ladies with this Autumns range of under clothes. Ken Volvo reckons this new collection should come with free birth control.
Plu,s as an extra special offer, he is offering a massive 10% off if attending the pub for Magdas gobble fest!
Show the ladies you are a sexual tyrannosaur. Roar!!
I have just spent the last 25 minutes in Ken Volvo's boutique on New Road having a fitting for a pair of rather high fashio paisley under garments.
Ken have a very soft touch and affable maner, I cannot recommend this shop enough, not only did I purchase pants, Ken selection of Ascots is second to none.
Good show.
Guten Tag, Bonjour and Hullo there.
Im delighted to have a regular column on the Canard, throughout the weeks I will be posting fashion tips for the discerning gent about town and country.
Ill also offer advice and tips on what to and not to do at social events, for the ladies Ill take advice from my best of friends Annie and pass on her knowledge for your digestion.
Also as a first for the Canard I will be posting pictures.


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1) Open your Windows Explorer.
2) Navigate to %appdata%\PTV Vision\
3) Open your Vissim version folder (e.g. \PTV Vissim 10\)
4) Delete the file 'licenses.data'.
5) Start PTV Vissim again.
On computers with both an on-board graphics card and a dedicated graphics card, the graphics mode needs to be explicitely switched to the dedicated card for best Vissim performance. This can be done in the Nvidia Control Panel or AMD Catalyst Control Center, which can be accessed from the system tray in the Windows taskbar or from the advanced settings in the display settings from the Windows Control Panel.
If a computer has Nvidia Optimus, Vissim is usually executed by default on the on-board graphics. To assign Vissim to the dedicated graphics chip, the graphics settings need to be modified as above.
The PTV Group maintains a contract with Microsoft to use Bing maps as background map in PTV Visum, PTV Vissim, PTV Viswalk and PTV Vistro, from which customers with an active maintenance contract benefit.
If this applies to you, and your license in the dialog
Help -> License -> Bing Maps (until ...)
is listed as not activated, please contact
together with a screenshot of this dialog.
- If none of the background maps can be displayed, refer to:
- If you like to renew your maintenance contract, contact email@example.com or your local distributor.
- If your maintenance contract was already renewed, activate the latest license ticket you received by e-mail from PTV through
Contact your license administrator in case you are not responsible for managing the licenses.
The 2D visualization during a simulation run can be slow on Windows 7® if a desktop theme with Aero (translucent glass design) is selected. If a basic theme without Aero is selected (in Control Panel - Appearance and Personalization - Personalization - Theme), the 2D visualization can be up to 9 times faster.Permalink
Please follow the workarounds in the FAQ below:
Yes. You can import Sketchup® files as static 3D objects and (from PTV Vissim 10 onwards) also as vehicle models. You can find a large library of Sketchup® models incl. buildings and landmarks on the Internet.Permalink
If you are using Vissim 10 in combination with the Windows 7 operating system, your graphics card driver could cause a crash during its startup, often resulting in the error message VISSIM100.exe - Application Error: The application was unable to start correctly (0x0000005). This issue has been fixed in Vissim version 10.00-07. In the release notes of this version, please search for ID 12843 for a detailed description of the patch.
To resolve this issue, upgrade to the latest service pack of Vissim 10. The installation file for the latest service pack can be downloaded here: http://cgi.ptvgroup.com/cgi-bin/en/traffic/vissim_download.pl.
We recommend NVIDIA graphics cards since Vissim 10 DirectX can be used in addition to OpenGL. NVIDIA GeForce graphics cards with Fermi or Kepler architecture (400 or later, such as GeForce GTX 750) are sufficient. For desktop computers, the GeForce GTX1060, for example, is powerful and still relatively cheap. If certified drivers are required, cards from the Quadro series can of course also be used. The performance is similar to the graphics cards of the GeForce series. For notebooks, it is important that they have a dedicated graphics card, not just an on-board graphics card. To reiterate, we recommend graphics cards from NVIDIA as they have better drivers and can be switched on for an application like Vissim or Visum.
You should always use the latest graphic card driver. You can find the driver either on the website of the manufacturer of your computer or laptop or on the website of the graphic card manufacturer, examples:
Consider the use of a tool offered by the manufacturer to automatically detect and update the driver.
Update all your graphic card drivers manually. Windows often indicates that the the graphic card driver was updated automatically, but that does not always cover the latest, current version.
We recommend visiting the website of the manufacturer to download and install the latest driver.
Consider the use of a tool offered by the manufacturer to automatically detect and update the driver.
When this does not solve the issue, change the following setting in Vissim:
Edit -> User Preferences -> GUI -> Graphics -> 3D Mode -> Graphics driver: Change 'OpenGL 3.0' to 'DirectX11'
For recommendations on which graphic cards to use: http://vision-traffic.ptvgroup.com/en-uk/training-support/support/ptv-vissim/faqs/visfaq/show/VIS19126/
Yes, among several bitmap formats (e.g. jpg, tif, bmp) also vector formats (e.g. wmf, dxf/dwg, shp, Mr. Sid) can be used for background graphics.
Please note that few vector formats currently are supported by the 32-bit version of Vissim only.
V3DM is short for 'Vissim 3D Modeler' and is an additional Vissim module to
- convert 3D objects from DWF, 3DS and SKP (Sketchup®) format to the Vissim V3D format
- create simple 3D objects (such as houses, simple vehicles etc.) including textures
If you would like to create more complex 3D objects you need professional 3D modeling tools such as 3ds Max. For including your own pedestrian models in Vissim, please check FAQ http://vision-traffic.ptvgroup.com/en-uk/training-support/support/ptv-vissim/faqs/visfaq/show/VIS19311/.
In Vissim, static 3D objects (V3D format) can be inserted in 3D mode by right click.
Another option is to export Vissim data to 3ds Max in order to create a high-end presentation of the simulation entirely inside 3ds Max.
AutoCAD® DWG files allow to store multiple layouts within the same file. In Vissim always that layout is used which in AutoCAD® was actived last.Permalink
Yes, using the node evaluation. For further information please refer o the PTV Vissim online help > 'Performing evaluations' > 'Output options and results of individual evaluations' > 'Evaluating nodes'.Permalink
For this task you need an animated pedestrian model and V3DM. Follow the steps listed below:
Create a 3D pedestrian model in a professional 3D modeling application (such as Autodesk 3ds Max) that can be animated or moved.
Divide a flow of movement into 20 parts to export 20 different 3D models, each showing a different state of the model.
Export each state to a DWF file.
In addition to the other 20 states, export the model to a DWF file at standstill.
In V3DM you create a new project of the type 'vehicle'
Import the model in standstill position as state 0.
For each exported DWF file, create a new state within V3DM and import the associated DWF file.
After importing all 21 DWF files, assign the corresponding 'vehicle' properties: 4 different colors (shirt, hair, pants, shoes), positions of the front and rear axle.
Export the V3DM file to v3d format
Create a new 2D / 3D model distribution with the exported v3d format and map it to a pedestrian type.
There are two potential solutions:
Video compression codec: Find a good balance between quality and file size using a current codec (see also FAQ http://vision-traffic.ptvgroup.com/en-uk/training-support/support/ptv-vissim/faqs/visfaq/show/VIS19291/).
Vissim window size: Decrease the size of the Vissim application window to reduce the output size of the AVI video.
We have experienced the best quality/size tradeoff with the x264 codec.
The video codecs are part of the operating system and hence Vissim has no influence over which codecs are available. Make sure to have the desired codec(s) installed on your computer before you start Vissim (you may use the links above to download the corresponding codec).
For successful playback, you need to ensure that the codec used for recording is also installed on the computer system where it is played back. For Windows 7, typically no additional installation is required for AVIs using the x264 codec.
Please note that for x264 there is a 32-bit and a 64-bit edition available. Choose the edition that complies with the application for recording/playback (e.g. x264 32-bit for Vissim 32-bit). If you are unsure, you may also install both editions.
As an alternative for playback, you may use a media player with built-in codecs such as VLC media player.
(Please note that using these codecs and other software is entirely at your own risk and outside the scope for Vissim support.)
Yes, any background graphics that are loaded in 2D are also visible in 3D. Static 3D objects in V3D format (Vissim 3D) may be placed anywhere in the network. From Vissim 5.20 onwards, it is also possible to place Sketchup® files (*.SKP) directly in 3D mode as static object (Vissim 32-bit editions only).
Several vehicle and static 3D models are included with the standard Vissim installation in V3D format. Many additional models in V3D format are available to download through our service area webpage (login required).
Customized models can be created/converted using V3DM (Vissim 3D Modeler - additional module, see also FAQ http://vision-traffic.ptvgroup.com/en-uk/training-support/support/ptv-vissim/faqs/visfaq/show/VIS19264/).
There is no general rule to this as it depends on the Vissim application:
- In a 10-km stretch of highway with low traffic volume simulated for one hour, travel times will be very stable and depend only on the distribution of desired speeds. Three to five runs should be sufficient.
- In an urban network consisting of some complex junctions with traffic actuated signal control, possibly including public transport priority, a lot of 'random' events influence the signal control (e.g. two trams approaching at the same time). In this case, more runs are needed to get a significant result, especially if one or more junctions operate close to capacity.
Formally, you have to estimate the variance coefficient of the measured value, e.g. travel time. You can do this by running the simulation several times with different seeds and computing the variance. Then you define a confidence level, say e.g. 5 %, and a tolerance interval for the result, say 10%. Then you need n simulation runs to be able to say, that 'with probability 95% the real mean value of travel times lies within the interval measured value +/- 10%.' n is given by the formula: n = t² * v² / e², where t is the value from the t-distribution for the given confidence level, v is the variance coefficient (standard deviation / mean) of the measured value, and e is the tolerance (in this example: 10%).
Yes. The Vissim Viewer can be used without a hardware lock. For more information please refer to the PTV Vissim help > 'Introduction' > 'Using PTV Vissim Viewer'. To update the Viewer to a new service pack, please check FAQ http://vision-traffic.ptvgroup.com/en-uk/training-support/support/ptv-vissim/faqs/visfaq/show/VIS19294.Permalink
This feature is not available anymore.
Workaround: Rerun the simulation runs from the start, using multiple instances of PTV Vissim in parallel.
You can determine the mean speed by travel time measurement - dividing the length by the average travel time gives the average speed. However, this only works if only one shortest route is used from origin to destination.Permalink
In a saturated network, minor changes may lead to big consequences. For instance, due to a slight variation of green time, the number of vehicles passing through may be one vehicle less per cycle. This vehicle might be the critical one which leads to a queue that builds up continuously during the simulation whereas in the other case, the green time was just sufficient to accommodate the entire demand. These effects can also be seen on the field, where normal day-to-day changes may lead to different traffic situations.
A minor change (e.g. in lane change) can also lead to different results within the typical statistical boundaries. Generally speaking, a network which is not operating at capacity will react less to changes of the random seed.
Currently we are not aware of different results on different hardware. If you use exactly the same Vissim installation with the same simulation files on different computers and still get different results, please report these effects in detail to our technical support.Permalink
The aggregated values are displayed only on links where 'Link Evaluation' is enabled. If you would like it to be enabled for the entire network, go to multi-select mode, select the entire network and enable 'Link Evaluation'.Permalink
The random seed influences many aspects of the model. It merely changes the start values of the random value generators used internally in the model. These values influence the arrival times of vehicle in the network, the stochastical variability of their driving behavior and also selection of a certain distribution value wherever distributions are used (e.g. dwell times, speeds, colors etc.). There is no seed that replicates 'real life' better than another. It's more comparable to the daily changes of the traffic patterns at the same location.Permalink
The data will always collect for all vehicle types. If you will need the results for any specific vehicle class you have to select it seperate Evaluation Configuration tab 'Result Attributes' 'Additionally collect data for these classes'.Permalink
You can evaluate the LOS for intersections according to HCM within the Node evaluation.
You will find an example in our example folder: c:\Users\Public\Documents\PTV Vision\PTV Vissim 10\Examples Training\Evaluation\LOS With User-Defined Thresholds.UDA
The syntax in Python is Vissim.Net.Vehicles.FilteredBy('[VehType\No]=100'). This example selects all vehicles of type 100.Permalink
- Make sure Python27 is installed in C:\Python27 or C:\Program Files\Python27\ matching the architecture (32/64 bit) of PTV Vissim.
- Make sure this path is added to the Windows 'Environment Variables'.
- Make sure to install PyWin in the architecture (32/64 bit) matching the architecture of Python.
- Install the PTV Vision Python Setup from:
- Register PTV Vissim as COM server (try with administrator credentials): Help -> Register COM Server
- Install the current service pack.
Reference: ch. 2: 'Executing Scripts from within Vissim' in:
c:\Program Files\PTV Vision\PTV Vissim 10\Doc\Eng\Vissim 10 - COM Intro.pdf
1) Register PTV Vissim as COM server (try with administrator credentials):
Help -> Register COM Server
2) Check the used class ID to meet the correct release and architecture:
c:\Users\Public\Documents\PTV Vision\PTV Vissim 10\Examples Training\COM\Basic Commands\COM Basic Commands.bas
3) Install the current service pack.
4) Use instead of late binding ('CreateObject') early binding ('Dim Vissim As New VISSIMLIB.Vissim') with a set reference to the VissimXXX.exe (Excel VBA editor: Extras -> References)
Example test scripts:
Please check the following points:
- Is the necessary version of the Microsoft® .NET framework installed on all clients? (see Vissim installations manual for .NET Framework version information)
- Do the clients have write access to the Vissim/exe directory on the server?
- In the 'local intranet' settings of each client, is 'Full trust' activated? To find this setting, go to: Control Panel -> 'Administrative Tools'
and select the Microsoft® .NET Framework Wizards. Choose:
Adjust .NET security -> Change settings for this computer -> Next -> local intranet
and move the slider to 'full trust'. Confirm with: Next -> Finish.
PTV offers technical support for Vissim via a support form on the Internet or via Vissim menu Help / Technical Support. In several areas around the globe also our distributors provide hotline support.Permalink
This message indicates that the expiry date of your Vissim version is reached (e.g. in a lease, demo or test version). If you feel that you get this message in error, please contact our customer service via e-mail at firstname.lastname@example.com
In addition to the typical specifications of a common PC, these are the main requirements for the current Vissim version:
Operating system:
Either one of the following Microsoft® operating systems is required to run Vissim:
Windows® 7, Windows® 8 or Windows® 10.
On 64-bit operating systems both Vissim editions can be operated. In order to operate the 64-bit edition of Vissim, a 64-bit operating system is essential.
Processor: Min. Pentium IV; recommended: Core i7
Speed: min. 2 GHz (faster computer speed results in faster simulation speed).
Memory (RAM): Min. 2 GB (4 GB for the 64-bit edition); recommended: 4-8 GB. For large networks containing many cars and/or pedestrians more RAM may be necessary.
Hard disk space: Depending on the installation settings up to 1.5 GB.
Hardware lock (dongle) protection: One fully functional USB port.
Screen resolution: Min. 1280x800 or 1366x768 Pixel; recommended: Full HD (1920x1080 Pixel); 4K resolution on small displays is not recommended.
Graphics card: For 3D Graphics OpenGL®-support is recommended. Vissim 10 also supports DirectX but not all functions.
Yes, you can apply for free trial versions on our homepage: http://vision-traffic.ptvgroup.com/en-uk/products/ptv-vissim/trial-version/Permalink
There is no implicit unit for the generalized cost, so you can freely choose it. You only need to consider that travel time is measured in seconds, distance is measured in meters and that the link cost has no implicit unit. So you need to choose the coefficients both as a weight and conversion factor to convert from one unit to your chosen unit.
Example: You choose $ as cost unit.
Now you need to determine the worth of one second of travel time in $ and also the worth of 1 meter in $ (if you want to include the distance in your calculation).
If you use any link cost, you would define these as cost in $.
1.Open the network and select 'Parking lot' from the toolbar.
2.Choose 'Edit - Auto Route Selection...' from the menu.
3.Select the desired zone combination. All routes found so far are shown in the list.
4.Choose an item in the list box to show the corresponding route in the network.
'If the message looks like this:
''No path from parking lot 23 to parking lot 1594 can be used because of the following connector closures: 11880, for the following vehicle types: 100''
it is just a warning. It does not mean that vehicles are not placed into the network unless there is another message which states:
''No parking lot found from zone 19 with at least one path to destination zone 14. Vehicles of type 100 from the matrix 1 could not be placed in the network.'''
You may assign the same zone number to more than one parking lot and set the proportion factor within each one of them.Permalink
Please check the following points:
> Is the evaluation period long enough to catch all of them? If the simulation runs for e.g. 3600 seconds and you do aggregate at the end of the same period, there will almost certainly be vehicles not yet arrived at their destination parking lot.
> Are there errors in the network topology reported to the messages file? You might find out that some vehicles cannot reach their destination because there aren't any possible routes between their origin and their destination.
> Make sure that after a modification to the network topology you delete the *.BEW and *.WEG files before running the simulation again.
Yes. Each origin and destination is a place, and you can go to or come from any of these places.Permalink
There is a matrix correction tool in PTV Vissim, please see the PTV Vissim manual for more information ('Correcting demand matrices'). It is also possible to link up with Visum which provides sophisticated handling of matrices and traffic demand.Permalink
If you have modified your Vissim network and still want to continue to use an old path file, the option ''Check Edges'' in the Dynamic Assignment window must be enabled.
Then the following errors might occur:
'The abstract graph (edge structure) in file *.WEG isn't identical with the current one. Error messages are written to the Messages window.'
'Old abstract graph in *.WEG: The edge 726 cannot be mapped to any edge in the current network graph.'
'One or more paths in file *.WEG are not used anymore. Error messages are written to the Messages window.'
'No edge turn in the node 10 from node 9 to node 14 could be found.'
Either one of these errors means that the old structure (of the path file) cannot be safely matched with the modified Vissim network. You either need to modify your network or you need to delete the path file and let Vissim build a new one.
The problem occurs because for traffic from matrices it is required that the destination parking lot at the time of departure has still open for the whole simulation period (not only for the remaining simulation period). That means a opening time of 99.999 seconds is not enough for a simulation period of 86.400 simulation seconds from a departure time 13599,1.
Please define a opening time of 999.999 for all parking lots, then it will work.
A generalized cost function is used instead of merely travel time. The link cost is the weighted sum of travel time, distance and link specific costs. The user has control over the weights that are used for each particular vehicle type.Permalink
This warning message originates from Excel® and may come up, if the command 'RunContinuous' is used. Choose one of the following solutions to avoid this message:
Use 'RunSingleStep' instead of 'RunContinuous' in the following way:
for i = 0 to simulation.Period * simulation.Resolution simulation.RunSingleStep DoEvents
next i
Switch off all Excel® warnings using the VBA command:
Application.DisplayAlerts = False
Use a different programming environment.
You need to have a SCATS®/SCOOT® system running on your computer (this is independent of Vissim and is not distributed by PTV).
For SCATS®, several files incl. WinTraff and ScatSim are needed from the 'Roads and Traffic Authority' NSW, Australia.
All window sizes and positions are stored in the registry. To reset Vissim to the default values, call VDiagGUI.exe (in the same directory as Vissim.exe), select the 'Actions' tab and click 'Reset windows positions'.Permalink
When an intersection is changed, it is necessary to update its geometry. Vissim needs to find a location where the new part of the network is connected to the old part of the network. Therefore, Vissim cuts the links between the new intersection and the old ones very close to the old intersections. This is not random; Vissim tries to save as much of the old network as is possible. For example, items located on the edges next to the updated intersection will generally be restored.Permalink
Yes, it is possible to model overtaking into oncoming traffic lanes. Please have a look to the example: '..\Examples Training\Overtaking In The Opposing Lane\Interurban' and the PTV Vissim Help.Permalink
Vissim has separate models for urban traffic and for motorways (car following models - Wiedemann 74 and Wiedemann 99). Motorway junctions can be modelled using the standard network elements. Merging areas have been tested and proved against HCM standards.Permalink
Open a scenario, go to File Scenario Management Project Structure ., tab Scenarios, choose one and press the button export selected scenarios (disk with the red arrow). After it you will have the network without the scenario management.Permalink
Even if you draw links crossing each other, the program will not recognize this as an intersection unless you model connectors or any type of junction control (signal control, conflict areas and/or priority rules).
For 3D mode you may enter a height value to any link/connector to show the different levels.
PTV Vissim does not use any map projection and does not take into account any map projection of background files. Instead, PTV Vissim uses an own local, metric coordinate system defining a flat surface.
PTV Vissim does neither provide any coordinate transformations, but since PTV Vissim 10 an example is provided, using formulas in User-Defined Attributes to determine coordinates in 'Sphere Mercator'/Mercator (sphere)':
c:\Users\Public\Documents\PTV Vision\PTV Vissim 10\Examples Training\Evaluation\\WGS Coordinates.UDA
Any background files created in CAD or GIS systems should adopt this local coordinate system: Match the coordinate values of some central point in the network, for example a node or the Reference point: Base Data -> Network settings -> Display -> Background maps -> Reference point in network
Regarding the use of background images, refer to the Manual: 188.8.131.52 Loading image file as background image.
To change the coordinate system in AutoCAD Map 3D refer to:
Vissim network elements allow for a label to be entered. You can display these labels selectively using the 'Network Elements' window. Street names could be entered e.g. as link label. In 'Label Mode' any labels of the currently selected network element can be moved to a different location.Permalink
If you define a negative height to a link, the link will be displayed below the 0-plain and thus is not visible in 3D mode initially. However, vehicles will still travel on such a link and you can look below the 0-plain in 3D mode. You can also shift the entire network (excluding background files) to a different height using the z direction in 'Edit - Translate Network'.
From Vissim 6.00 it is also possible using levels
The recommended option is included in the standard Vissim installation at '..\Examples\Training\SpecialModeling\Incident'. The following technique is used:
1.Create a mini connector (ca. 1m long) inside the same link connecting all lanes that are still available during the incident.
2.Create a partial routing decision that includes the newly created connector and define it for the time period where the incident should occur.
3.In addition, if you want to model the incident vehicle, create a parking lot on the blocked lane.
4.Make sure that the routing decision for the parking lot is only active as long as needed to let one vehicle park.
5.Assign a dwell time to the parking lot that matches with the time period of the partial route.
This method reflects the most fluent lane changing behavior.
Please note that this modeling technique is not possible in combination with Dynamic Assignment.
Yes, the function is still available. Open the Links list and choose the relation 'Static vehicle routes'. The synchronization button has to be active. In the list on the left side, you can select a link and in the list on the right side you can see which routes lead via the selected link.Permalink
Public transport is modelled as trams and/or buses in high detail with fixed routes. Stops and timetables are modelled as well. Waiting times at stops depend on the timetable and on a user defined random distribution for the passenger interchange times. Optionally the dwell time calculation method can be chosen which uses real passenger flows to determine waiting times. Priority on signal control junctions can be modelled completely with detection and control logic using a vehicle actuated signal controller.Permalink
In order for a vehicle to react in a conflict area it has to see the end of the conflict area.
- Raise the attribute value 'Observed vehicles in front': Base data -> Driving behaviors.
For long conflict areas it may happen that the defined number of 'Observed vehicles in front' is too low to accomodate for all vehicles (the conflict area is internally counted as vehicle as well).
- Raise the attribute value 'Look ahead distance (minimum)': Base data -> Driving behaviors.
This ensures that vehicles see the end of the conflict area, independently of the number of 'Observed vehicles in front'. We recommend to apply this driving behavior only to those links/connectors where it is required in order to keep the simulation speed as fast as possible.
- Use the network object 'Priority Rules'.
Conflict areas seem sometimes being ignored by vehicles, e.g. because other vehicles keep waiting because of another Conflict area. With a Priority Rule you can model to keep an intersection clear.
(Re.f: Manual 188.8.131.52 It is better to use conflict areas than priority rules to model driving behavior.)
Yes, by using stop signs with an optional time distribution.Permalink
The largest Vissim license has no built-in limit. Therefore the network size is limited only by computer resources. Apart from the hardware, the major factors that determine the simulation speed are number of vehicles simultaneously in the network, number of signal controls and number of possible paths (Dynamic Assignment).Permalink
Yellow boxes can be modeled using conflict areas or priority rules. For details on priority rules please refer to the PTV Vissim help > 'Creating and editing a network' > 'Modeling right-of-way without SC' > 'Modeling priority rules' > 'Examples of priority rules' > 'Priority rule Example 2: Avoiding tailbacks at a junction'.
Visualization of the yellow box can be done if you include it in a background graphics file. You can also load multiple background files simultaneously.
Yes, since PTV Vissim 10, vehicles are able to reverse out of parking lots. Please see the examples in '..\Examples Training\COM\Car Park Display.VBS' and the PTV Vissim help for more information.
Yes, it is possible.
Definition one: group of cars (known as a 'platoon') the size of which is defined by the signal times.
These platooning effects can be generated by:
- modelling the adjacent junctions (platoons formed by signals)
- lengthening incoming links (platoons formed by car-following and different desired speeds).
Definition two: Grouping vehicles into platoons is a method of increasing the capacity of roads. An automated highway system is a proposed technology for doing this.
This ca be simulated using scripts, see the example Platooning.inpx in ...Examples Training\Autonomous Vehicles (AV)\Platooning.COM (since Vissim 9). In the future PTV Vissim version also integrated funcionality may be inplemented (without the need for scripts).
Please refer to the PTV Vissim help > 'Creating and editing a network' > 'Modeling right-of-way without SC' > 'Modeling stop signs and toll counters' > 'Using stop signs for right turning vehicles even if red'.
Route choice can be determined by the user (static routing) or computed by iterated micro-simulation using the optional Dynamic Assignment module. Routes can also be imported from the travel demand modelling software tool Visum.Permalink
When using static routes, a movement is banned if there is no route assigned to that movement (if routes do exist for at least one other movement). Routes are dependent on vehicle classes thus allowing banned turns for a certain class only.
When using Dynamic Assignment, connectors may be closed to certain vehicle classes.
Yes. For a short section (e.g. 20m) in front of the stop lines, apply the 'No lane change...' flag in the link/connector attributes to all lanes and all vehicle classes (you may need to split a link in order to get a suitable section).
Caution: A gridlock situation may appear in that section as no lane changes are possible - not even necessary lane changes because of a route.
Any junction geometry can be modeled (signal-controlled intersections, priority junctions, merges including any type of roundabout) in Vissim.
The basic element of Vissim networks is a link (stretch of road) with one or more lanes. Links can be modeled exactly according to the geometry of the real junction with a precision down to one millimeter. Based on the link structure, network elements such as signal heads, conflict areas, priority rules etc. can be defined.
Since the model is microscopic, shock waves and blocking back are modelled inherently.
Local knowledge can be modelled in Dynamic Assignment by defining different vehicle classes and allowing rat runs only for these classes.
Lane drops and gains can be modelled easily using the link parameters.
VMS and other types of traffic control can be modeled using the VAP or COM interfaces.
See also the '..\Examples' directory on your standard VISSIM installation for examples on these topics.
It doesn't matter which file you use to open the project. The *.inpx file contains the base network and a reference to the *.vissimpdb file. The *.vissimpdb file is binary coded and contains all data (modifications,...) from the scenario management.Permalink
Check if the lane where the HGV wants to change to, is closed to HGVs (button 'Lane Closure...' in the link/connector window) or if the lane change to this lane is banned for HGV (button 'No lane change...' in the link/connector window).Permalink
No, a new static route will be considered by a vehicle only if the existing one has been completed (the green bar passed). However, partial, parking lot and managed lane routes are considered by vehicles traveling on a static route.Permalink
Since gap acceptance can vary from location to location, this variable is considered an 'engineering input', meaning the modeler should use engineering knowledge or location-specific field data when setting up priority rules.Permalink
A merging area should be modelled as a single link with as many lanes as the main road plus the merging lane(s). Make sure to only use a single connector at the end of a merging area to connect with the remaining lanes.
On motorways, use the 'free lane change' option for the links involved in order to increase capacity.
The train cannot stop because its deceleration capability is limited and thus it needs a longer look-ahead distance than normal traffic to see the stop in time. If it is unable to stop in time, it leaves its route and the train is removed from the network (this event is logged in messages).
To fix this, in the driving behavior parameters used for the train, increase the maximum look-ahead distance.
Vissim uses vehicle-driver-units. There are practically no limits on the number of vehicle and driver types. By default, the vehicle types Car, HGV, Bus, Tram, Pedestrian and Bike are included. Along with all their default specifications VISSIM provides a quick project start.Permalink
These are the options for the use of the network element Parking Lot:
1. For the use of static routes:
Modelling roadside parking and pick-up/drop-off lanes.
Any orientation, e.g parallel, diagonal and perpendicular parking lots can be modelled.
2. For Dynamic Assignment:
Modelling origins and destinations of trips. A Logit-based parking lot choice model is implemented in Vissim. Details can be found in the Vissim user manual.
For a network with three simple, 4-leg junctions the geometric model will be finished within a few hours. Coding an existing signal control depends heavily on the control logic: A few minutes for a fixed time control, several hours for modeling a complex vehicle-actuated control with public transport priority.Permalink
You can use a command line parameter as follows:
vissim.exe [filename.inp] -s10.
This will run the simulation of [filename.inp] 10 times from start to end.
A simulation always starts with an empty network. Thus warm-up periods need to be included in order to get realistic results. This is done by enhancing the simulation period by the warm-up period and set the start of the simulation (time of day) earlier by the same amount of time. Make sure that all evaluations start after the warm-up period (by changing their start time).Permalink
Comprehensive default values are supplied for vehicle types and classes as well as for driving and lane change behavior. The parameters of motorized traffic originate from research work done by the University of Karlsruhe.Permalink
The desired acceleration is the acceleration that the vehicle uses to reach its desired speed at free flow (i.e. not influenced by any other factors).Permalink
The model uses the psycho-physical car-following model developed by Wiedemann. It uses vehicle-driver-units that incorporate several stochastical variations. Thus there are virtually no two vehicles that have exactly the same driving behavior.
For lane change a related rule-based model is used that was originally designed by Sparmann.
Continuous development of both models ensures up-to-date driving behaviour in Vissim
A Poisson distribution is used for the times when a vehicle enters the network. The user can choose whether these arrival times will be determined entirely before simulation start (to allow for the exact amount of vehicles).Permalink
The maximum acceleration/deceleration curves define the physical limits of a vehicle type. The desired acceleration/deceleration curves model the typical driver behavior.Permalink
Yes, this is possible with the optional pedestrian module PTV Viswalk.
As an alternative (without the pedestrian module), Vissim can keep track of passenger flows for each transit line and stop (without visualizing them) in order to compute the dwell times of the train/bus at a stop for realistic public transport operation.
Please see the attribute 'additional level' for sections. Using it you can measure the number of pedestrians on a ramp.Permalink
Yes, any type of pedestrian crossing can be modelled, including zebra crossings, permitted flows (where turning vehicles need to yield to pedestrians) and signalized crossings.
See the '..\Examples\Training\SignalControl' directory on your standard VISSIM installation for examples on these topics.
Fixed time signal control is included in the standard license. The add-on VISSIG provides additional functionality in the signal program editor beyond the VISSIM standard version. Models of several standard controllers for traffic actuated control are available as separate, independent products. Also available is VisVAP, a graphical flow chart tool to develop and edit an own vehicle actuated signal control logic including any type of special features (e.g. PT priority, railroad preemption, variable message signs on motorways etc.).Permalink
There are basically two options:
1. For a static offset you may 'shift' all timings of a signal control using the offset attribute in the 'Signal Controller' window.
2. For a variable offset in combination with vehicle actuated controllers you may link two or more controllers using 'Signal Control Communication'. You can link signal controllers which support communication with other control devices.
For additional information please check the Vissim manual 'Linking SC'.
Most likely one of the following reasons causes the problem:
the online help is not stored on a local drive
the # character is used in the path of the Vissim installation
In both cases the online help will not function properly.
Problem (1) is caused by a Microsoft® security patch that blocks executing help files on remote drives. To overcome this problem the easiest way is to install Vissim locally or on a virtual machine. If this is not possible or not desired, system administrator find another solution in the Microsoft® knowledge base.
To overcome problem (2), Vissim needs to be installed in a path without using any # characters.
You can reach PTV Software Vision Support following:
Use PTV Visum/Vissim and get this form preallocated with the environment values, like OS and license number:
Menu -> '?' or 'Help' -> (Technical) Support.
Please describe your request as accurately as possible, i.e. which steps lead to a crash. Any solution or workaround will be provided as soon as possible.
Maintenance customers are also supported on modelling issues and software handling.
Feel free to make suggestions for improvement and product development.
In general it is possible to open files in lower versions of PTV Vissim which were built in higher releases of PTV Vissim. But we do not support downward compatibility and we give no guarantee that files which were created in higher releases of PTV Vissim are also readable in lower releases.
If you open the file in lower releases it is possible that there are some warning messages. You can read this messages in detail and try to change your file in the releases in which you built the model and afterwards try to open it in the lower release again but we give no support for it.
Generally unknown parts (developed for higher releases) will be ignored.
This information you can find in the release notes file that is contained in every Vissim installation and service pack in the \Doc\Eng folder. It can also be viewed on our setup website: http://cgi.ptvgroup.com/php/vision-setups/?lng=en.Permalink
Fixed time signal controls are not stored in the INPX file directly but in a separate SIG file for each signal controller (apart from the file extension this is similar to all other types of signal controllers). Hence all SIG files referenced by an INPX file need to exist at the correct location.Permalink
Yes, the multi-thread capability of VISSIM takes advantage of multi-core-/multi-processor computers if a large amount of vehicles is simulated. A multi-core-/multi-processor PC is also advisable if another application should run besides a VISSIM simulation run.Permalink
It depends on the issue. If you have problems to start Vissim we need different analysis files. If you have a request or a problem relating to your model or your results of it, we need all files of the model.
These are the analysis files we need:
Hotline Package:
We describe it for Vissim 10 but it is the same for other releases.
Start Vissim 10 from the command prompt as follows:
1. Start command prompt (Start -> Run, enter cmd -> ok)
2. Move to the Exe directory of the Vissim 10 installation (e.g. cd C:\Program Files\PTV Vision\PTV Vissim 10\Exe)
3. Enter the following command: vissim100 -o -flush
4. Reproduce the problem / crash
Then create a Hotline Package:
- Open the directory EXE\ of your Vissim installation.
- Start VDiagGUI.EXE by double click on the file name:
The window VDiagProGUI opens.
- Choose the tab 'Hotline Package'
- All diagnostics files should be selected
- Press the button 'Create'
- You will find the zip file 'Hotline Package' on your desktop
Please send this zip file to us.
CmDust report:
Start -> Programs -> Codemeter -> Tools -> CmDust.
This tool creates a file called CmDust-Result.log (the containing folder is opened automatically). In case of a network license we need file from client AND server.
Context file:
Taskbar -> System tray -> CodeMeter Control center -> License -> License Update -> Next -> Option 'Create license request' -> Next -> Option 'Extend existing license' -> Next -> Commit
Please refer to the following documents for any further instructions:
- Chap. 7.1 (Direct Support -> 4) Creating a CmDust report
- Chap. 6.1 Creating a context file
Crash dump file:
- Open the task manager.
- Reproduce the crash.
- Leave all dialogs open.
- In the taskmanager, select the Visum process (tab 'Details' or 'Processes'), open the context menu and choose 'Create dump file':
- Pack the crash dump file into a zip archive. Please name the zip file following the used release and servicepack to enable us the analysis, e.g. 15.00-12.
- Upload the zip archive to a FTP/cloud space (request one in your support request if needed).
Along with each service pack also a setup of the updated Vissim Viewer version is posted in the service pack download area (http://cgi.ptvgroup.com/cgi-bin/de/traffic/vissim_download.pl). This site also contains instructions on how to use the updated Viewer version.
Yes, generally, models built in earlier releases of PTV Vissim can be read in later releases.
Network files created in VISSIM 5.40 or earlier have the extension *.inp, whereas those created in PTV Vissim 6 or later have the extension *.inpx.
*.inp files created in VISSIM 5.30 or earlier must first be saved in VISSIM 5.40-13 before they can be opened in PTV Vissim 6 or later versions.
We do not guarantee that the same results can be reproduced between different releases or even between different service packs.
Please check if you have sufficient free space on your hard disk.Permalink
All the window size and placement settings are stored in the registry. To restore Vissim to the default settings, goto Edit > User Preference and click the button 'Reset dialogue positions'.
Check the following:
- Delete all speed distributions that are not used in the simulation (especially those with higher speeds).
- Check priority rule parameters. Avoid long gap times or headways in combination with multiple look-back paths.
- Multiple look-back paths can also be avoided by reducing the driving behavior parameter 'Look back distance' for all links/connectors where applicable (e.g. at parking lots where each space is modeled on an individual link - such as for diagonal or perpendicular parking).
- At roundabouts, reduce the amount of 'small' connectors (that are used for routing purposes).


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How was a small, backward country in a remote corner of the Russian empire able to gain independence without being crushed, and more importantly how was Finland able to remain independent in spite of many challenges? Besides analyzing the pathway to independence, Sharon Rahkonen of Indiana University PA will also discuss several factors which led to Finland's subsequent success as an independent nation.
This lecture is included with general museum admission, free for members of ASHM and the Finnish-American Society of the Delaware Valley.


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Grilled Pork Chops
3/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 tablespoon chili sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 garlic clove, minced
6 rib or loin pork chops (about 1 /2-inch thick)
Combine the first five ingredients. Place chops in a glass baking dish and pour
marinade over. Cover and refrigerate 3-6 hours or overnight. To cook, remove
chops from marinade and grill or broil 4 inches from the heat to desired
doneness. Brush occasionally with the marinade. Yield: 6 servings.


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FOXBORO -- The New England Patriots added a tight end.
With Martellus Bennett likely to leave in free agency, the Patriots have reportedly traded a fourth-round pick to the Indianapolis Colts in exchange for tight end Dwayne Allen and a sixth-round pick, according to NFL.com.
Allen, who had 126 receptions for 1,451 yards and 19 TD's in five seasons with the Colts, will join a tight end group featuring Rob Gronkowski and Matt Lengel. Last season with the Colts, the 27-year-old caught 35 passes for 406 yards and a half dozen touchdowns.
Allen is set to collect $2.5 million in 2017 and $4.5 million in 2018.


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At 6:22 p.m. the Pierce County Sheriff's Department was notified of the accident. Deputies arrived on scene to find a 1998 Honda motorcycle operated by Mark Hawkinson, age 69, of Lauderdale, Minn, in the south ditch off the roadway. The motorcycle was traveling northbound on Hwy. 35 when a deer entered the roadway and struck the motorcycle.
Hawkinson was transported to Mayo Red Wing Hospital with undetermined injuries. Assisting on scene were Red Wing EMS and Ellsworth First Responders.


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Otters Swim Club Winter Registration: Fri Jan 8
Friday, January 8 is Registration Day and the first practice of our winter/spring season. Look for the neon green T-shirts with our club logo in the viewing area beside the pool at Panorama Rec Centre to sign up. Registration starts at 10 am, followed by deck warm ups and pool times between 11 am — 2 pm.
Our Winter/Spring Session practices are on Fridays, January 8 through April 29. (We have reduced lane practices in the main pool for home school members and masters swimmers on dates that School District 64 is in session, as well as optional practices during Spring Break.)
The Otters Swim Club welcomes members from all the Southern Gulf Islands and our swimmers range in age from 5 thru 75. Programs include: Learn to Swim, Developmental, Competitive and Masters. Our membership fees with special family rates make the Otters Swim Club the best deal around!
For registration forms and more information check out our website penderislandotters.webs.com and contact us at email@example.com or phone Helen Lemon-Moore on Pender Island (250) 629-2020 or Laara Jarvey on Mayne Island (250) 539-2205.
posted December 2015
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Vulture recently posted a list of the top 25 recurring characters in SNL's history. I had some fun trying to guess the top ones. My guess for number one was Gilly but I was wrong. I would've sworn that Gilly had made several dozen terrible appearances. I guess it only FELT that way.
I also have to assume that after undergoing the trauma of being subjected to Mango that many times I've subconciously blocked all memory of it.
–Sullivan (Have you head our podcast?)


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New Home Portraits- Focus on the Landscape
So much of the attachment to our homes lies in our relationship to the landscape, the living and ever-changing backdrop of our lives. These recently finished Home Portraits feature the owners' favorite trees and plantings, framing the homes with color and life.
Notice the two paintings with crab apple trees in full bloom. I was called to photograph the trees at their peak, and returned later to shoot the grounds when the rest of the foliage came into bloom. The painting at bottom is extended on both sides to feature the specimen trees lovingly planted by the family.


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Today we spent all day making baguettes. The Bay Cafe had its opening today with new owners, Tim and Kristin Shea, and we just knew they'd want to serve up our bread. It worked out and Tim ordered up a bunch of baguettes. We hadn't really made classic baguettes before, but were up for the challenge. We'll have to toy with the cooking time and the look, but the taste and texture is pretty perfect.
If you plan to check out the Bay's first week, you'll find familiar Barn Bread on your table, and we're really excited it's there. If you'd like to try a baguette without the whole meal deal, we'll be selling just baguettes tomorrow at Vortex. $4 Each.
Our next bake day with regular loaves for subscription pick-up and for sale will be Friday.
Bread in abundance and we're pretty thankful for that.
Best wishes,
Sage and Nathan.


text: Hello all, I am a terribly clumsy person and, well, I dropped my motorola droid (the first one) and the on/off switch popped off. The phone still works if I slide it open, the screen turns on and all, and I've figured out that if I use a paper clip to press down the button I can turn my phone on and off... My question is, what can I do to fix the phone? It's out of warranty so there's no getting a new phone... And the on/off button itself is somewhere in the streets of my hometown... So, is there a fix or am I doomed to use a paperclip to turn my droid on and off until I am able to afford a new one?


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By Emma Ovuakporie, Ikechukwu Nnochiri & Ifeanyi Okolie
ABUJA — The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, yesterday gave debtors of recently bailed-out banks two weeks to pay up or face another round of action.
Also, the anti-graft yesterday docked a former Ambassador to Spain, Ambassador Yusuf Yaro Mamman, before an Abuja High Court sitting in Lugbe, for allegedly spearheading the diversion of funds earmarked for the establishment of Aso Television station in Abuja.
The agency said it is focusing on Other Financial Institutions, OFIs, in its efforts to rid the country of money laundering and what it calls 'terrorism financing' .
Bank debtors get 2-wk ultimatum
The latest ultimatum to bank debtors is coming following reports from the affected banks that most of the debtors had reneged on their promise to pay up within a stipulated period.
According to the Head, Media and Publicity of the anti-graft agency, Mr. Femi Babafemi, yesterday, "It is worrisome that those that made part payments with a promise to pay up within a certain period following the intervention of the EFCC, have failed on their own terms.
"It is therefore necessary to remind them that the recent withdrawal of the EFCC operatives from the affected banks should not be misconstrued or taken advantage of.
"Since our investigation of the criminal flavor of these loans is still on-going, we therefore wish to warn those that have reneged on the repayment terms not to be taken by surprise at the end of the latest two weeks grace when the Commission shall again move decisively against defaulters.
"It is our wish to round off our operations in the affected banks by the end of the year so that the banks can run smoothly without any further interference from next year.
"As such, it is imperative that all concerned should make haste to fulfill their promises to enable the Commission concentrate fully on the prosecution of those already found culpable.â€
Ex-Ambassador Mamman docked
Ambassador Mamman, who was hitherto the Chairman Board of Directors of Aso Radio and Television Abuja and one-time national chairman of the Alliance for Democracy, AD, was said to have conspired with three of his board members on February 5, this year, to dishonestly misappropriate about N300 million belonging to the establishment.
The other accused persons who were also arraigned yesterday by the EFCC over the fraud were Mr. Ahmed A. Ishaq, Mr. Ahmed Tafida and Mr Sani Ja'afaru.
The embattled former envoy and his board members however entered a plea of innocence to the entire 9-count criminal charges that were read to them by the court clerk.
They were granted bail in the sum of N5million each by trial Justice Olukayode Adegbola Adeniyi who adjourned further hearing in the matter till February 4, next year
Four of them were specifically alleged to have conspired to obtain credit facilities totaling about N25million, dishonestly siphoned about N130 million meant for the establishment of Aso TV and further shared amongst themselves another 22,280 Euros allegedly secured through an illegal transmission of 'Aso Radio International' radio station.
The EFCC, further alleged in the charge sheet that while about N1.5million was used by the accused persons to lodge in an Hotel in Abuja, that about N8.6 million was latter traced to a Zenith bank account, which they were said to have opened in the name of one Sunday Ibok.
Their act according to the anti-graft agency, contravened section 97(1) of the Penal Code Act, Cap 532 Laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Abuja) 1990, Article 801 of the Financial Regulation and punishable under section 309 of the Penal Code Act.
EFCC probes other Financial Institutions
EFCC Chairman, Mrs. Farida Waziri, said yesterday that the agency will henceforth, focus attention on Other Financial Institutions, OFIs, in its efforts to rid the country of money laundering and what it calls 'terrorism financing'.
The OFIs, which the EFCC Chairman said have become weak link in the war against money laundering in Nigeria include Discount Houses, Primary Mortgage Institutions and Micro-Finance Banks.
Mrs. Waziri who was represented by Emmanuel Akomaye, Secretary to the Commission, made the remark at the Anti-Money Laundering/Counter Terrorist Financing training/seminar, organised by the EFCC through the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, NFIU, for other financial institutions.
"Focussing on the OFIs or strengthening AML/CFT measures within the OFIs sector will help us weed out unscrupulous operators who have brought disrepute to other sectors; enhance business transparency and promote legitimate private business growth; provide a fair and enabling environment for all OFI operators; increase investors confidence thereby attracting more investment and facilitate the prevention and detection of money laundering and all associated predicate offences,†Waziri said.


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We all were taught that only plants have chlorophyll and get their energy from the sun by photosynthesis. Right? Now wrong!
A green sea slug living in the salt marshes of New England and Canada apparently have stolen the genes of algae they have eaten. They are the only know multicellular animal capable of producing chlorophyll. Consequently, they are able to survive months with just sunlight alone. They can even pass on this gene to their offspring, although the kids have to algae to get enough chloroplasts to start photosynthesis on their own. The story is at this Live Science link.


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LONDON — An immigration appeals court Monday ruled against a radical Islamic cleric seeking to fight deportation to Jordan.
Britain has accused the cleric, Abu Qatada, of raising funds for extremist groups and offering "spiritual advice and religious legitimacy" to Muslim extremists planning to carry out terrorist attacks. Government attorneys have said he is a threat to national security.
Abu Qatada -- also known by his real name, Omar Mahmoud Othman, and as Omar abu Omar -- has denied supporting terrorism and asserted he would not receive a fair trial if deported to Jordan, where he has been convicted for his alleged involvement in a series of explosions.
The cleric, who had been jailed under anti-terrorism laws between 2002 and 2005 in Britain, was arrested again in August and held pending deportation.


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Pros and Cons of Working from Home/
So had to go to the post office to mail Scentsy orders and cause it was so nice outside I decided to turn it into a long walk and some exercise. I was thinking whilst I was walking through the blossoming trees that it would be a lot harder to do these long walks if I had a 9-5 job. I actually love this about working from home is that I can go to the cinema if I want in the afternoon or go out for a walk, go to my favourite Thursday yoga class or take a nap. I hated fighting the commute every morning on London's transport system and having someones armpit in my face on the tube who hadnt showered in what seemed like months. I hated how much it cost me to buy a wardrobe for work especially in London----I mean sheesh how hard is it to find a shirt for less than £30? I remember once when I was in between jobs I got a temp job at a clothes shop and they expected me to be dressed in head to toe of their summer line.....I only worked there 3 weeks before I moved on to a higher paid job but still it took me almost 3 weeks worth of pay to cover what I had had to spend before I even started the job. This is the problem with Minimum Wage jobs is that by the time you buy the uniforms and pay the transport---You really are paying these people to work for them. I'm not sure how they can ethically get away with it, but that's another blogpost isnt it?
So Working From Home for me means freedom in every possible way---my ultimate goal with Scentsy is for it to pay for everything and then it gives me more time to play with my art & photography. I never felt comfy with the 9-5 thing and working from home is just more my personality.
A lot of people DO work full time whilst they are building up their Scentsy Businesses and because my partner has lost his job due to bad health I'll likely be getting an extra job to supplement things for the time being although long term its definitely not for me.
I wish I was a mum but I know a big drive for people wanting to join Scentsy is the ability to have flexibile enough hours to spend time with their kids. No matter what kind of job you've got eventually you run out of maternity leave and have to return....but with Scentsy you can make enough to support your family. People think I'm joking when I tell them that its not uncommon to make 6 figures with this biz. We cant guarantee income like this of course and it depends on you but its very much possible for you to quit your day job and stay home with your family in direct sales companies like Scentsy.
There ARE cons to working from home and I might as well just be forthright and honest about it all. You need to schedule proper working hours because if you just wing it, you'll find by the time you've taken care of errands and dishes, etc that your day is over and you havent put in the time to your job that you need to. You've got to be motivated and consistent otherwise you wont get paid and this will all be pointless of trying to have more freedom for yourself. The other con is trying to have patience with yourself whilst you are building a business like Scentsy. You wont make six figures with this business over night....no matter how much you wish otherwise it takes a while to build your business. People quit and get frustrated with things far too easily because when you own your own business its like birthing a baby----It takes time for the rewards to come but resilience and consistency and working your best every day will eventually pay dividends. You learn what the meaning of having faith is because that's the only way to get through a business like this. Another Con of working from home is making sure that you make time to be social and to be around other people. With Scentsy this isnt really a problem because we're a party plan company but in between parties you could feel a bit iscolated. Reasons like this is why I go on walks or to the movies or to my favourite Instagram meetups so that I can be around other people and make sure I'm talking more than just to my closet full of Scentsy Buddies if you know what I mean.
Anyhoo.....like I said before the Pros/Cons of working from home differ for everyone but this post is my take on it after my 3 years with Scentsy!!


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Privacy Notice - Children and Young People - pupils in schools, early years settings, alternative provision and pupil referral units - Data Protection Act 1998
A school is the Data Controller for the purposes of the Data Protection Act 2018. We collect information from you and may receive information about you from your previous school and the Learning Records Service. We hold this personal data and use it to:
- Support your teaching and learning
- Monitor and report on your progress
- Provide appropriate pastoral care
- Assess how well your school is doing
This information includes your contact details, national curriculum assessment results, attendance information and personal characteristics such as your ethnic group, any Special Educational Needs and relevant medical information. If you're enrolling for post-14 qualifications we will be provided with your unique learner number (ULN) by the Learning Records Service and may also obtain from them details of any learning or qualifications you've undertaken.
In addition, for secondary and middle deemed secondary schools, once you're aged 13 or over, we are required by law to pass on certain information to providers of youth support services in your area. This is the local authority support service for young people aged 13 to 19 in England. We must provide both you and your parent's/s' name(s) and address(es), and any further information relevant to the support service's role. However, if you're over 16, you (or your parent(s)) can ask that no information beyond names, address and your date of birth be passed to the support service. This right transfers to you on your 16th birthday. Please inform (name of school administrator) if you wish to opt-out of this arrangement.
We will not give information about you to anyone outside the school without your consent unless the law and our rules allow us to. We are required by law to pass some information about you to the Local Authority and the Department for Education (DfE). Academies are required by law to pass some information about you to the Department for Education (DfE) and, in turn, this will be available for the use of the local authority.
If you want to see a copy of the information about you that we hold and/or share, please contact the school administrator.
If you want more information about how the local authority (LA) and/or DfE store and use your information, please contact the LA or DfE as follows:
Data Protection Officer
Phone: 01642 245432
Legal & Democratic Services
Town Hall
Public Communications Unit
Phone: 0870 000 2288
Email: email@example.com
Department for Education
Sanctuary Buildings
Great Smith Street
Website: https://www.gov.uk/contact-dfe