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Free Ride
February 26, 2013
"We gotta do better, it's time to begin. You know all the answers must come from within…. Come on and take a free ride…."
From where I write, on the coast of California, I can look out and see dolphins swim gracefully through forests of ocean kelp. But I know that on the other side of the Pacific, it's a very different scenario. Ric O'Barry is in Japan monitoring the dolphin hunt in Taiji, famously exposed in the movie "The Cove." In picturesque Hatajiri Bay, the dolphins are being forced into a cove and trapped, then sold or slaughtered, in one of the worst drive-capture fisheries on the planet. Even though a horrified international public expressed outrage after seeing the brutality unleashed on these innocent sentient creatures in "The Cove," the drive continues there and in other parts of Japan. In fact the capture and export of cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises) is exploding around the world, as is the display industry that uses them.
Ric tweets real-time updates:
"Taiji: Update… 10 taken captive. Skiffs leave with pod family members and return empty, but take more… Still around 8 left fate unknown. Taiji: Bottlenose dolphin pod netted into cove, trainers reviewing for captivity, 15-20. Being pushed into shallows. #tweet4Dolphins 10:40 am 2013/02/05"
Millions of people pay to see these and other cetaceans at a marine park. They say they love these animals, but their money is what makes this practice profitable. The growing popularity of dolphin encounters, beluga interactions, and killer whales performing aerial acrobatics has fueled the market for trade in these wild species.
Even if the park has not obtained its animals from the wild, promoting this kind of entertainment stimulates sales and raises the value for cetaceans, often obtained through some form of drive fishery like the one each year in Taiji. Regardless of where they come from, their future in a marine park, "dolphinarium" or aquarium is grim. Life there bears little resemblance to the life they have evolved to live in the open ocean.
My renewed interest in this issue was sparked by a unique dive trip. Last October, I was invited to dive with my friend John Racanelli, CEO of the National Aquarium in Baltimore, in their Atlantic Coral Reef tank. I enjoyed my 15 minutes of fame feeding a hungry porcupine fish as kids waved and photographed me from the other side of the glass! After the tank dive, John and I jumped in the rehabilitation pool to swim with some of the recovering animals–a friendly Green Sea Turtle named Calypso missing a flipper (who loves back rubs), a shy Napoleon Wrasse needing time to acclimate, and a beautiful blind Zebra Shark that kept running into us.
Then, I met the dolphins.
Meeting Bailey at The National Aquarium
When I've encountered dolphins in the wild, they are very shy, very fast, and avoid human interaction; these bottlenose dolphins were different. Playful and social, they initiated a game of catch, throwing the ball at me repeatedly, and vocally complaining when I took a break. I adored them and felt that we had bonded over the couple hours of playtime. But this easy connection is why they are in so much demand. Dolphins and other cetaceans make great animals for entertainment. They can be trained to mimic human behaviors (dolphins and orcas do not wave to each other in the wild), and there is a feeling of an emotional bond between an animal and a human that is profound–even like love.
But just because it feels good, it doesn't make it right.
This particular family of dolphins at the National Aquarium was born in captivity and probably would not be able to survive in the wild should they be released. They have participated in a number of illuminating scientific studies, including cognitive studies being conducted by Dr. Dianna Reiss, a professor of psychology, and director of the dolphin research program at the National Aquarium.Through various experiments, Dr. Reiss has found that the dolphins recognize their reflection in a mirror and even use it for self-directed behavior. This suggests that dolphins have a self-awareness that previously had been attributed only to humans and apes!
"These are highly complex mammals with complex social lives, complex cognitive lives. And we know enough now to know that they are highly intelligent."–Dr. Reiss in an interview on NPR
What remains to be seen is how intelligent we will be in using this knowledge to make better decisions about their welfare.
John Racanelli is conflicted over keeping the dolphins at the National Aquarium, and we began a discussion about keeping dolphins and other cetaceans captive in general. A passionate ocean advocate, John has suspended the dolphin shows in exchange for a more interactive program where families can simply watch the dolphins in the amphitheater as they go about their day."You really can't make the dolphins do show after show after show. It's stressful, and it's not appropriate." Now, visitors can learn about the dolphins' natural behaviors, as well as how that species and whales live in nature. It seems to be a better experience for both the guests and the dolphins. Even so, he does not want to perpetuate the wild dolphin drives by encouraging the collection of cetaceans from the wild for any purpose, especially aquariums. John and his team are therefore considering what to do with their dolphins in the long term. He put it this way:"Any long-term needs should be driven by the welfare of the animal. We need to put them first." Which may mean not having them at all at the aquarium.
A few weeks ago, I attended the screening of a new film, "Blackfish," at the Sundance Film Festival. Directed by Gabriela Cowperthwaite, the film is about orcas in captivity and used for entertainment. It focused particularly on Tilikum, and what could have led to the death of his trainer Dawn Brancheau at Sea World in 2010. Watching the film, you witness Tilikum's capture in the wild, his separation from his family and placement in solitary confinement, his repeated injuries from other orcas' aggression, and food deprivation to force him to perform. It breaks your heart.
The killer whale Tilikum watches as SeaWorld Orlando trainers take a break during a training session. Photograph: Phelan M. Ebenhack/AP
If I had any internal debate about whether captive cetaceans provide a benefit to education and conservation that might outweigh their confined lifetimes, it vanished after I watched this film. I am very clear that in spite of their loving trainers, it is not OK to confine these majestic, intelligent, wild animals in tanks that are a micro-fraction of the size of their natural habitat for any reason other than short rehabilitation. Certainly not for a lifetime!
"I think the most amazing fact I learned was that they have a part of the brain that we don't have—a part that we can't even identify. This suggests that they sense, understand, and even feel more than we do. It still blows me away to think about it."—Gabriela Cowperthwaite
Despite misleading claims by SeaWorld to the contrary, scientists tell us a whale's lifespan in captivity is about half those in the wild. The dorsal fin collapse common among captive males orcas like Tillikum occurs in less than 1 percent of the wild population! Orcas continue to be bred in captivity, though there is a high mortality rate in orca calves. Those that survive are separated from their mothers at an early age to be shipped to other marine parks, though in the wild they bond for life, adding to the significant stress they already are under.
Orca mother and calf, Baja Photo Credit: Ralph Lee Hopkins/ iLCP
Scientists have learned a great deal from being able to study these animals in captivity, but perhaps the most important thing we've learned is that keeping them in these parks and aquariums is detrimental to their mental and physical health, shortens their life span, and often kills them.
As Naomi Rose, a senior scientist with Humane Society International, remarks, "Society has recast the image of these animals from 'killer whales' into 'sea pandas'. We admire the orcas' power and grace, yet we fail to see the irony of forcing them into straitjackets of concrete."
One would think this vast body of evidence showing the negative consequences of keeping these animals in captivity would halt the practice. Instead, it's growing.
"In 59 countries around the world, there are well over 2,000 dolphins held in unsuitably small tanks, a number of which have been captured from the wild from the now infamous Japanese coastal town of Taiji. There are currently seven countries that keep a total of 42 orcas (killer whales) in captivity – led by the U.S. which has 21. There are 161 beluga whales in captivity, 42 in Canada and 31 in the U.S. This figure increased temporarily by one last month (May) when a beluga calf was born at the Georgia Aquarium. It died five days after birth."–Earth Race Conservation, June 2012
Currently under review by the NMFS (part of NOAA) is an application from the Georgia Aquarium to import 18 wild captured Beluga Whales from Russia for distribution to several marine parks in the U.S. This would be the first permitted importation of wild-caught cetaceans to the U.S. since 1993. This controversial application has had thousands of written objections. Dozens of scientists and activists spoke out against this wildlife trafficking during a public hearing. Our outdated laws and loopholes in the Marine Mammal Protection Act allow this to go on, in spite of what we know about the toll it takes on the whales.
The Georgia Aquarium insists it needs the animals for research and education, as well as for breeding. Their website claims: "..the belugas at Georgia Aquarium have become ambassadors for all marine mammals; increasing scientific knowledge and helping Aquarium staffers promote education and conservation messages on behalf of the species". Opponents assert that this is no justification to inflict pain and suffering on these endangered sentient wild animals. According to The Dolphin Project, of the 71 Belugas that have been held in six aquariums (including the Georgia Aquarium), 34 have died. That is nearly half. And the captive breeding program has been a massive failure, with very few surviving offspring in the last five decades.
"I just want to make sure I got this right. The Georgia Aquarium has captured 18 beluga whales. They've got them in a holding pen. They want to put them in a truck, fly them over the ocean, and put them in their building in Georgia so they can teach the American public respect for nature."–Ric O'Barry, NOAA hearing, October 2012
Unfortunately for cetaceans, the wildlife display industry is a very profitable business, earning millions of dollars annually for the parks. Visitors pay $169.95 for the "Beluga and Friends" experience at the Georgia Aquarium, and $215 for "Dolphin Interaction" or "Beluga Interaction" at Sea World San Diego. For that fee, you get just 20 minutes with the animals. The Shedd Aquarium's "Beluga Proposal Experience" offers couples exclusive whale time " complete with a private poolside moment that is perfect for popping the question" for $450!
At Sea World Orlando, where Tilikum is still living out his life, a show called "Shamu Rocks" entertains people with "more flash—and certainly more splash—than a rock concert… amazing killer whale behavior set to sizzling rock and roll music, along with dazzling lighting effects and breathtaking multimedia elements."
Shamu Rocks Show, Sea World
What kind of natural behavior would a killer whale exhibit when surrounded by blasting music and flashing lights in a tiny chlorinated pool? Ironically, the show (which I watched with equal measure of horror and amazement on YouTube) opens with the 70's hit "Free Ride". For the audience, and especially the orcas, it's anything but.
With millions of visitors buying tickets to these shows, clearly this is big business, but only if people continue to support these unnatural forced performances.
So, what are the alternatives? Aquariums and marine parks have a great educational and conservation benefit, but they can serve these important roles without capturing cetaceans and forcing them to perform circus tricks. The Monterey Bay Aquarium, New England Aquarium and the Aquarium of the Pacific, for example, offer boat trips to see these great animals in their natural habitat instead of in pools. Marine parks and aquariums can provide a greater service if they teach respect for nature through their own behavior, which would mean retiring these exploitive wild animal shows, and ending the capture or breeding of cetaceans into lifelong confinement.
Technology has allowed us to study cetaceans in the wild like never before through satellite tagging, acoustic monitoring, photo identification, and even "blow–sampling." The University of Queensland, Georgetown University and the National Aquarium have now perfected getting DNA from a dolphin blow, instead of an invasive blood sample. This can be used in the wild for accurate genetic collection, negating the need for captive sampling. Dr. Ingrid Visser, known as"The Woman Who Swims with Killer Whales," has spent over a decade studying wild Orcas in New Zealand by getting in the ocean with them. Her science is giving us valuable and applicable knowledge of how to protect these animals in the ocean. There are many researchers around the world who study cetaceans in the wild; it is not necessary to keep adding to the population of confined animals to serve the scientific community.
Even if we start phasing out these display programs now, it is estimated that we would still have cetaceans alive in captivity for several decades. Captive animals that cannot successfully be returned to the wild (and many cannot) should be retired to larger ocean pens; there they could live out their life in relative comfort and care.
I don't believe that having these animals in captivity is a good way to educate the public about nature, or to inspire a pro-ocean ethic. There is nothing natural about orcas performing acrobatic tricks while accompanied by bright lights and loud rock and roll; to commercialize it this way sends the wrong message about respect and moral responsibility for protecting wilderness. People, especially children, can be more inspired through adventure and exploration than unnatural entertainment, and it will cost you–and the animals–a lot less. Take a trip on the Victoria Clipper out of Seattle to the San Juan Islands to see orcas in the real sea world, the ocean! Take a walk at Zuma beach in Malibu and you can see wild bottlenose dolphins and possibly even grey, humpback and blue whales! Let your children be splashed by an ocean wave, not the chlorinated pool water that imprisons Shamu.
These captive whales and dolphins did not choose to become the "ambassadors" of their species, but we can choose to be ambassadors of ours, by showing respect for these animals in the wild, and allowing them to be free.
Another tweet from Ric O'Barry comes in:
"Taiji: Sadly 11 have been taken captive. 7-8 more were not selected and have not been seen in quite some time… Cove is now becoming red. Hearing the remaining dolphin family thrashing very very hard. Nothing can prepare you for this insanity, I am crushed. #tweet4Dolphins 10:55 am 2013/02/05"
By Shari Sant Plummer, National Geographic Newswatch, Oceanviews
Environmental philanthropist and ocean activist Shari Sant Plummer is President of Code Blue Charitable Foundation, Secretary/Trustee of the Summit Charitable Foundation, Board member of the Sylvia Earle Alliance/Mission Blue, Vice President/Trustee of Seacology, Board Member of International League of Conservation Photographers, member of the Blue Ocean Film Festival Advisory Council, and member of the World Wildlife Fund's National Council and Marine Leadership Committee.
A graduate of NYU and former Design Director at Ralph Lauren in NY, Shari is now an avid diver and ocean activist, traveling extensively throughout the world and promoting ocean conservation and environmental awareness.
Lead Photo (c) Ralph Lee Hopkins/iLCP
4 thoughts on "Free Ride"
For dolphins, breathing is not a reflex, as it is for humans and other land mammals, but rather a voluntary movement. In other words, dolphins decide to breathe like we decide to walk. There is also a precaution taken in order to prevent the animal's being drowned while sleeping in water. While sleeping, the dolphin uses the right and left hemisphere of his brain in turn, at approximately 15-minute intervals. While one cerebral hemisphere sleeps, the dolphin uses the other to come to the surface for air.
Dolphins breathe using their lungs just like other mammals, which means they cannot breathe in the water like fish. For this reason, they routinely come up to the water's surface to breathe. On the top of their heads is a hole enabling them to do just that. The bodies of dolphins have such a perfect design that, when it dives into the water, this hole is automatically closed by a cap, thus preventing water from leaking into the dolphin's body. When the animal comes up to the water's surface, the cap then reopens.
The snout of the dolphin's beak is another design facilitating the movements of the animal through water. By means of this structure, the animal uses less energy in cutting through the water and swimming at higher speeds. Modern ships, too, make use of a bow like the dolphin's snout, hydrodynamically designed to increase the speed of ships just like dolphins.
In addition, dolphins can swim at such great speeds that they dazzle scientists. There is a smooth flow of water around the bodies of dolphins. Research carried out on the skin of dolphins has discovered the reason for this flow. The skin of a dolphin consists of three layers. The outer layer is thin and very elastic. The middle layer is mostly composed of connective tissue and it has appendages looking like a plastic brush which anchor the outer layer to the middle layer. The third, inner, layer consists of bundles of elastic fibers. Therefore, when turbulence begins to form in the water around the speedily swimming dolphin, the outer skin transmits the extreme pressure caused by this turbulence to the inner layers and they absorb it. Thus, the turbulence that was beginning to develop disappears before it was able to grow.
All of these structures, ones exclusive only to dolphins among all other animals, are clear evidence of an intelligent design. Allah has created dolphins, like all other creatures, with their body structures in conformity with their surroundings.
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Stage Four | Pink Vinyl
Incl. VAT, Excluding Shipping
More Information
This translucent pink variant is limited to 1000 copies and proceeds from the sale of this item will go to benefit Breast Cancer charities.
Track Listing:
- Flowers and You
- New Halloween
- Rapture
- Displacement
- Benediction
- Eight Seconds
- Palm Dreams
- Softer Spoken
- Posing Holy
- Water Damage
- Skyscraper

subset: commoncrawl


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Heron Wiki Online
I've started using the Google-code wiki for the Heron documentation , and have written several topics over the weekend.
After spending so much time working on Heron, I sometimes forget that a language needs documentation! This weekend I started writing some basic topics in the free wiki I get from hosting on Google code-hosting (gosh I love that service!) describing the language features and syntax. Borrowing generously from Tim Peters's Zen of Python, I even wrote my own Zen of Heron.
While you can see all of the Wiki topics here, the table of contents is a more sane place to start.


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It's been a long time coming, but the Google Phone (Gphone) finally looks set to arrive this Christmas, with 50,000 units finding their way into the hands of developers. The handset will be made by smartphone specialist HTC, according to a report from market analysts UBS.
"These initial phones are not going to be for sale," Benjamin Scachter of UBS told CNN Money. "These are going to be available for developers only to understand how the software works."
Gphones on sales next year?
Schachter reckons that HTC won't be Google's only hardware partner for its new mobile operating system. He also believes it will tie up with other mobile phone companies like LG. He believes that the first Gphones will go on sale next year.
Speculation about the launch of a Gphone has been rife since the beginning of the year, when it looked like Google was trying to compete directly with the Apple iPhone. However no-one was really sure whether the Gphone would be a Google-branded hardware / software combo, or just a mobile phone OS that anyone could use. This still is not clear from the latest report.


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Mirror's Edge: DICE held off on pitching sequel to EA
Mirror's Edge went so many years without a sequel because DICE wasn't sure what it wanted to do – not because EA wouldn't fork over the money.
Contrary to conspiracy-happy fan theories of EA holding the much-requested game to hostage, peaking to DICE producer Patrick Bach told VideoGamer the developer itself wasn't ready.
"The interesting thing is that it's not about EA blocking DICE, it's about DICE not – imagine this: it's your own money. What do you want to bet on? You want to bet on something that you know will be great. You can't just bet on a name. You need to have like, what's the concept?" he said.
As EA's Patrick Söderlund mentioned recently, DICE spent a couple of years going through multiple iterations of ideas before even approaching EA with a pitch.
"Not until we knew what we wanted it to be and felt comfortable we then pitched it to EA. Then usually when we like it, everyone else likes it," Bach said, describing DICE as the "bad cop" in this scenario – which does have some up sides.
"Then again, we are the development studio with creative freedom, I would argue. We would not try to pitch something that we didn't believe in, and that takes time. Sometimes you want something but you don't really believe it will pan out that well."
The new Mirror's Edge doesn't have a release date or official title, and has been described as a reboot, although nobody's really sure whether it is a sequel, prequel or even in the same genre. Bach didn't let anything slip, although he did not that "the most important thing you can do is treat your IPs with respect". It's coming to PC, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One; it wouldn't have been possible on current-gen consoles, apparently.
Thanks, PCGamesN.


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Beginning in late 1983, a team of engineers and scientists from NASA's Johnson Space Center (JSC), the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and Science Applications Incorporated jointly defined a Mars Sample Return (MSR) spacecraft and mission plan. Among their proposed follow-on study objectives for Fiscal Year 1985 was to define Mars sample quarantine methods and any associated risks. In addition, the team recognized the need to rapidly recover the Mars sample after its arrival at Earth.
JSC's Solar System Exploration Division contracted with Houston-based Eagle Engineering to examine these issues and provide "rough" cost estimates. In its study, performed between May and September 1985, Eagle explored 10 options for retrieving a Mars sample following its return to Earth's vicinity. In the process, the company presented an impromptu portrait of NASA's human spaceflight aspirations for the mid-1990s on the eve of the 28 January 1986 Challenger accident.
Eagle found that Direct Entry into Earth's atmosphere, with an estimated price tag of from $5.2 to $9.8 million, would be the simplest and cheapest Mars sample recovery option, but would also carry the greatest risk (one chance in 600,000) of contaminating the terrestrial environment with potentially "malignant" martian microbes. Eagle acknowledged, however, that its contamination risk estimates (which, it explained, were based on "limited data") were arbitrary.
In Direct Entry, a reentry capsule carrying the sealed Mars sample canister would intersect Earth's atmosphere over the Pacific Ocean near Hawaii traveling at upwards of 11 kilometers per second. An ablative coating would protect the capsule from reentry heating. Eagle noted that a shallow atmosphere-entry angle would subject the sample canister to a long heat pulse, a low deceleration load, and imprecise landing site targeting (and, therefore, possible delayed recovery), while a steep angle would yield a short heat pulse, a high deceleration load, and more precise targeting.
NASA would, 20 years after Eagle completed its study, rely on the Direct Entry option to complete two sample-return missions, neither of which collected planetary surface samples. For both missions, Lockheed Martin was the contractor and the large military testing & training area in the Great Salt Lake Desert of western Utah was the sample recovery site.
The Genesis spacecraft entered orbit around the Earth-Sun L1 point in late 2001, where it collected solar wind particles for 850 days. It flew past Earth and released its sample capsule on 8 September 2004. Because it contained delicate sample-capture collectors, it was meant to descend on a parachute and be snatched in midair by a helicopter. After a fiery passage through Earth's upper atmosphere, the Genesis capsule's parachute failed to open, so that it struck the ground moving at more than 310 kilometers per hour. Despite extensive damage and terrestrial contamination, scientists were able to extract and analyze many captured solar wind particles. The accident raised questions about Mars Sample Return safety.
The Stardust comet sample-return capsule was more successful. It separated from its spacecraft, and reentered Earth's atmosphere at a speed of 12.9 kilometers per second bearing a cargo of dust captured during Stardust's 2 January 2004 encounter with Comet Wild 2. The capsule parachuted to a comparatively gentle touchdown in pre-dawn darkness on 16 January 2006 (artist concept at top of post).
Eagle envisioned that, after slowing to subsonic speed, the Mars sample capsule would deploy a 5.5-meter-diameter parachute. A Defense Department transport aircraft - probably a C-130 - would snatch the descending capsule by the parachute in midair and winch it into its cargo hold, then would fly directly to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia, or to a newly constructed Planetary Sample Receiving Laboratory (PSRL) in a remote location. Eagle did not include the $14-million cost of the new lab in its cost estimates. The company assumed that the C-130 would be one of three similarly configured air-snatch planes in the recovery area, each of which would carry 11 aircrew on board.
Eagle's second option was Shuttle Recovery, which, the company estimated, would have only one chance in 100 million of releasing potentially harmful martian microbes into the terrestrial environment. A delta-winged Space Shuttle Orbiter would be prepositioned in Earth orbit in anticipation of the arrival of an Earth Return Vehicle (ERV) bearing the sample canister. The ERV would skim through Earth's upper atmosphere to use drag to slow down (that is, it would aerobrake) and enter an elliptical Earth orbit. It would then discard its protective aeroshell and fire a rocket motor at the apoapsis (high point) of its orbit to raise the periapsis (low point) of its orbit above the atmosphere and circularize its path around the Earth.
Eagle noted that the Shuttle Orbiter was incapable of climbing higher than about 500 kilometers above the Earth (in fact, it reached about 610 kilometers during STS-31, the Hubble Space Telescope deployment mission, in April 1990). If the ERV's orbit following the apoapsis burn was above the Shuttle altitude limit, then the Orbiter would need to deploy a teleoperated Orbital Maneuvering Vehicle (OMV). The OMV would match orbits with the ERV, dock with it, lower its orbit, and then separate.
After the Shuttle Orbiter rendezvoused with the ERV, the astronauts would capture it using their spacecraft's robot arm and place it inside a seven-ton biological containment/sample cooling container in the Orbiter's payload bay for return to Earth. The container would, Eagle wrote, be designed to survive intact a Shuttle accident during reentry and landing. A slightly cheaper but "significantly" more risk-fraught alternative would be for a spacewalking astronaut to extract the sample canister from the ERV and carry it into the two-deck Orbiter crew cabin for return to Earth.
Eagle placed the cost of the Shuttle return option at between $150 million and $173 million, of which $120 million would, in theory, pay for the Space Shuttle flight (in practice, Space Shuttle flights were considerable more expensive than this). The company also examined recovery of the sample from a high elliptical Earth orbit (the 1984 JSC/JPL/SAI design study proposed that the ERV capture into such an orbit). Eagle found that the Orbital Transfer Vehicle (OTV) required to reach such an orbit would boost their estimated cost by from $50 million to $100 million.
Eagle's third recovery option was Recovery to Space Station Structure. The company estimated that for this and all subsequent recovery options, the likelihood that harmful martian microbes could escape into Earth's environment would be less than one chance in 100 million. A Shuttle Orbiter would deliver to NASA's Space Station in 500-kilometer-high Earth orbit a biological containment/sample cooling container and three tons of propellants for a Station-based OMV. This would, the company noted, make use of about half the Shuttle's payload capacity, leaving the other half for additional Station-bound cargo unrelated to the sample recovery operation.
Spacewalking astronauts would attach the containment/cooling container to the Station's exterior. Some time after that, the ERV would aerobrake and maneuver into a circular orbit. The Station crew would then dispatch an OMV to recover it and bring it to the Station.
The Station's robot arm would transfer the ERV from the OMV to the containment/cooling container. A Shuttle mission to the Station would then collect the container for return to Earth, along with about half a payload bay of Earth-bound cargo unrelated to the sample recovery operation. Eagle placed the cost of this option at between $167 million and $193 million.
Option 4, Space Station Sample Repackaging, would see a Shuttle Orbiter deliver parts for modifying the Life Sciences Module (LSM) airlock that was expected to be part of the Space Station along with propellants for a Station-based OMV. Alternately, a Shuttle mission would detach the LSM from the Station and transport it to Earth for modification, after which a second Shuttle mission would return it to the Station.
The OMV would capture the ERV and deliver it to the LSM airlock, where astronauts would extract the sample canister and repackage it within a small biological containment/sample cooling container. The container would then be returned to Earth inside a Shuttle Orbiter crew cabin. The ERV would remain in quarantine inside the LSM airlock until scientists in the PRSL on Earth had analyzed the returned Mars sample and determined that it posed no threat. Eagle estimated that this option would cost between $302 million and $714 million.
Option 5, for which Eagle had little enthusiasm, was dubbed Minimal Sample Analysis at Space Station. It would closely resemble Option 4, except that a small sub-sample would removed from the sample canister in the LSM for "minimal" biological analysis. "There is some question," the company noted, "as to how much use a minimal analysis would be." Eagle placed the cost of this option at between $316 million and $749 million.
Eagle's Option 6, Small Sample Sterilized at Station and Sent to Earth, was also derived from its Option 4. Astronauts would remove a sub-sample and heat it enough to kill martian microbes while preserving evidence of their existence. A Shuttle Orbiter would then transport the sub-sample to Earth. The remainder of the sample (and, possibly, the Station crew) would remain in quarantine until scientists in the PSRL had checked out the sub-sample. Eagle placed this option's cost at between $316 million and $927 million.
After Option 6, Eagle's proposed sample-handling options became much more complex and expensive, adding significantly to the cost of returning a sample from Mars. Option 7, Separate Quarantine Module Attached to Station, would see a Shuttle Orbiter dock a specialized LSM-derived Quarantine Module (QM) to the Station. Eagle noted that the cost of "[d]edicated facilities. . .will seem more reasonable if a number of sample return missions are envisioned," and added that "[m]anned Mars missions might. . .use the [QM]" for quarantine of astronauts returning from Mars.No pressurized passageway would link the Station to the QM while it held a Mars sample. If the QM were considered to be a permanent module of the Space Station, then it might be connected to it by a pressurized tunnel when no Mars sample was present and put to non-sample-related uses. Alternately, the QM might be attached to the Station only when a sample was due to arrive from Mars. After the sample was placed in the QM, a Shuttle Orbiter would detach the module and transport it to Earth. Another Orbiter would return the empty QM to the Station when the next Mars sample was due to arrive in Earth orbit. Eagle estimated that Option 7 would cost between $605 million and $1.04 billion.
Antaeus Lab Module Attached to Station, Eagle's Option 8, took its name from the 1981 Antaeus report, which described a purpose-built Orbital Quarantine Facility (OQF) space station. The Antaeus module, which would be capable of supporting long-term detailed sample analysis on much the same scale as the Earth-based PRSL, would replace or augment the Station's LSM. If researchers working in the Antaeus module found that the Mars sample was safe, then it would be transported to Earth.
If, on the other hand, the sample were found to contain harmful martian microbes, then the Antaeus module would be detached and boosted into a 1270-kilometer-high long-term orbit using an OMV. In the event that harmful microbes escaped from the Antaeus module and contaminated the Space Station, then an OMV could boost the entire Station into a 650-kilometer-high orbit. Eagle estimated that orbit-raising maneuvers could extend the orbital lifetime of the Antaeus module or Station for long enough to permit NASA to develop a large rocket stage that could boost the contaminated Antaeus module or Station into interplanetary space.
Augmenting the Space Station with the Antaeus module would require perhaps eight Shuttle flights at an estimated cost of $120 million each, for a total of $960 million. The company placed the total cost of Option 8 at between $1.863 billion and $2.456 billion.
Eagle's Option 9, the 1/2 Quarantined Space Station, would be nearly identical to its Option 8, except that the Station modules that would support the scientists analyzing the sample in the Antaeus module would be isolated from the rest of the Station. This would be achieved by closing pressure hatches between the two halves of the Station and slightly reducing air pressure in the quarantined modules. Eagle expected that this option would cost the same as Option 8, though it added that "detailed study may show this option to have a somewhat higher cost."
Option 10, a Dedicated Antaeus Space Station identical to that described in the Antaeus report, would constitute a new (albeit small) independent space station in Earth orbit, making it the costliest of the 10 options. Eagle estimated that the Antaeus station would cost between $5.101 billion and $7.107 billion. This option would make unnecessary the PSRL on Earth since all quarantine and analysis would take place in Earth orbit. The company declared that Option 10 was "without a doubt the safest, biologically, of all the options," but added that "the price paid for this additional safety seems unreasonably high."
Having examined the 10 options, each more complex than the last, Eagle judged that Options 1, 2, and 3 would be adequate for Mars sample quarantine. The probability of a biological accident involving a Mars sample was simply too minute to justify the greater cost of Options 4 through 10.
The company then examined methods of Earth-orbital sample recovery. It assumed that, during Mars-Earth transfer, the sample would be preserved at cold Mars-like temperatures to maintain its scientific integrity. Earth orbit is, however, warmer than interplanetary space because Earth radiates heat. This would make difficult keeping the Mars sample cold for long periods in Earth orbit, so rapid recovery would be desirable.
Eagle also assumed that an ERV that employed rocket motors to slow itself so that Earth's gravity could capture it would end up in a high elliptical Earth orbit (700 kilometers by 40,000 kilometers or 700 kilometers by 70,000 kilometers, with orbital periods of 12 or 24 hours, respectively). This would have the advantage of placing it well away from the Earth's radiated heat through most of its orbit, but would also delay sample recovery.
For recovery from elliptical orbit, the planned OMV design would be inadequate, so Eagle invoked a new-design Orbital Transfer Vehicle (OTV) based on the Centaur upper stage. Recovery using an OTV based at the Station would be problematic because the Station's orbital plane would shift 6° per day relative to the ERV, forcing the OTV to burn a considerable quantity of propellant to match orbits with the ERV and return with it to the Station. Eagle found that the best-case recovery time for a sample in elliptical orbit would be equal to one orbital period (12 or 24 hours) plus about four hours, leading to totals of 16 or 28 hours.
A sample in a 500-kilometer circular orbit, on the other hand, would be subjected to more Earth-radiated heat, but could be recovered by a Shuttle Orbiter or an Orbiter- or Station-based OMV in as little as six hours. Providing the ERV with enough propellant to circularize its orbit at 500-kilometer altitude would, however, increase its mass by 2.5 times over the elliptical-orbit ERV. This would constitute "an unacceptable penalty," Eagle judged.
Planetary Sample Rapid Recovery and Handling, Report No. 85-105, Eagle Engineering, 20 September 1985.


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Development (1.0pre2)
Tue, 18 Oct 2011 02:28:13 BST by pijulius
The development version of jCore. This should be only used for testings as you won't be able to automatically update from the Update Manager once the official release of this version is out!
Sat, 18 Jul 2009 15:10:40 BST by pijulius
These are the official releases of both server and client jCore systems. Releases usually contain new features and fixes, for updates, security/bug fixes please see the Updates folder.
Tue, 11 Jan 2011 03:42:29 GMT by pijulius
With translations you can have your website including the administration section translated to your language.
Sun, 29 Aug 2010 11:19:55 BST by pijulius
Older releases can be found here. Please note these releases are outdated and you shouldn't download them unless necessary.


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Cleaning Service RowlettOur trained teams of professional cleaning specialists will tackle dirt, dust and grime and leave your home shining. Cleaning Services Rowlett provide residential,commercial,packing and post construction services and always focus on cleaning for health. Our products and extensive industry experience give us a leg up when it comes to leaving your house cleaner, and healthier, than ever before. Our exclusive Residential Deep Cleaning System used by Greenly Maid house cleaners ensures the cleaning of virtually every surface, in every room of your home, on every visit. Post-Construction and Post Renovation cleaning is available for both residential and commercial customers and involves more intensive labor and detailing and will be more expensive. Our office cleaning services will provide your business with a worry-free and lucky way of maintaining a professional and friendly atmosphere day after day and our office cleaning services are always designed around your company's particular janitorial needs.
We offer regular, daily, weekly, bi-weekly (every-other-week), monthly, seasonal and one-time project cleans for your home. Give us a call at 972-922-0780 and request an estimate to begin service.
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Attentiveness to detail is paramount in our line of work. That's why your complete satisfaction
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Read what our customers are saying
Just a quick email to say that I cannot praise you and your team highly enough for the wonderful job you did cleaning our home after our daughter's wedding reception. You came out before the wedding to brighten up the house and afterwards did a deep clean that has left our home feeling wonderful. It has never looked, or felt. so good. Thank you, thank you. I recommend you unreservedly.
"Outstanding in all ways. They came in, we discussed what I wanted done, and HOW I wanted it done. This service is all about what the customer needs and wants, not what the maid needs and wants! I have tried a lot of cleaning services and some were good, but I've never had one this wonderful, industrious, helpful and considerate.


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Sociology Minor Requirements
The Sociology minor consists of SOC 101 and five electives, for a total of 18 credits. At least three of the five electives must be at the 300- or 400- level. The grades for all 18 credits must average a "C". SOC 219 (formerly SOC 310) does not count as an elective towards a minor. A minimum of 9 Sociology credits (other than SOC 101) must be taken at the University of Maine. No courses for the minor can be taken pass / fail.


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Mossberg's Mailbox
Calming Security Fears
There's no other major item most of us own that is as confusing, unpredictable and unreliable as our personal computers. Everybody has questions about them, and we aim to help.
Here are a few questions about computers I've received recently from people like you, and my answers. I have edited and restated the questions a bit, for readability. This week my mailbox contained questions about Internet security fears, red-eye elimination in photos and software availability for Macs.
If you have a question, send it to me at email@example.com, and I may select it to be answered here in Mossberg's Mailbox.
Are there any possible security dangers when a DSL modem is left on while the computer is turned off?
No, as long as it's the only computer connected to the modem. The modem only fetches data from the Internet when a computer program, like a Web browser or email software, requests it to do so. If the computer is off, no such requests can be made, so no data, safe or unsafe, is being received. Similarly, if the computer is on but the modem is off, the computer isn't connected to the Internet, and can't receive any data, normal or malicious.
However, I feel compelled to note that, if you allow your Internet usage to be totally ruled by security fears, you may miss out on a lot. One of the great benefits of always-on broadband services like DSL is that your email flows in continuously; upgrades (including security upgrades) can be downloaded automatically, day or night; and you can take advantage of remote backup and file-synchronization services that work in the middle of the night.
I have a new Sony camera and need help editing my photos to eliminate red eye. I have small grandchildren who always have red eyes in my pictures. What software can I use to get rid of it?
Almost every photo software program I have tested has a red-eye elimination feature, and most are adequate. You just have to get the hang of it. If you have a Windows PC, try Google's free Picasa program, or Adobe Photoshop Elements. On a Mac, you can use the built-in iPhoto software, or the Mac version of Photoshop Elements. You could also use a professional program like Photoshop, though that might be overkill.
I am thinking seriously that my next computer purchase will be an Apple. My question is: How prolific is the software that is written for Macs? I'm thinking of financial software like Quicken, but also the basic Office suite of products.
There are Mac versions of both Quicken and Microsoft Office. The latter can directly read and write to the same file formats as its Windows counterpart; the former cannot. Apple claims there are now thousands of software programs that run on the current Macs. So is there is a decent selection of software for general consumers.
However, there is vastly more software available for Windows, especially in certain categories like games, business software, databases and niche products for specific professions and hobbies. If you are likely to be satisfied with the main types of software — like office programs, Web browsers, email programs and multimedia players — you'll be fine with the Mac. But if you are interested in any of these other categories, or in generally having the greatest selection, stick with Windows.
* * *
Because of the volume of e-mail I receive, I can't routinely answer individual questions by e-mail, or consult on individual problems or purchasing decisions. I read all questions I receive and select three each week to answer in the column.
Write to Walter S. Mossberg at firstname.lastname@example.com


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Press goes light on Psaki's conflicting claims
President Barack Obama's traveling press corps failed to press spokeswoman Jen Psaki today on contradictory statements she made this week regarding the campaign's knowledge of details about former steelworker Joe Soptic, who appears in a controversial Priorities USA ad.
Amid mounting accusations that Psaki and other campaign representatives lied by initially claiming ignorance of Soptic's story — when, in fact, they had used Soptic's story in a two-minute campaign ad and conference call in May — reporters seemed content to let Psaki walk the story back without follow-up.
From today's readout of the press gaggle aboard Air Force One:
Q Jen, you said yesterday the campaign wasn't aware of Joe Soptic's background and it turns out there was a conference call about it. Is that still the case?
MS. PSAKI: Well, it's worth repeating, just so everybody is reminded, that we had nothing to do with the ad. We can't speak to what they were trying to convey by the ad or communicate. No one is denying that he was in a campaign — one of our campaign ads. He was on a conference call telling his story, which speaks to what many, many people in this country have gone through as there have been layoffs and they've had their benefits reduced.
In the reporters' defense, this was the last and final question of the gaggle. But it seemed a remarkably light line of inquiry given that, as of this report, Psaki has failed to clarify how the campaign "[didn't] have any knowledge of the story of the family" when it used it for their own ad and conference call just three months prior. One obvious question would be: "How is it possible to not have 'any knowledge' of Soptic's story three months after he appeared in an Obama campaign commercial and on an Obama campaign conference call?"
Some members of the media have accused the Obama campaign of not telling the truth. The RNC is accusing them of lying, in no uncertain terms.
"Over the past two days, multiple Obama spokespeople lied to the media about their involvement in despicable, false character attacks against Mitt Romney and they should be held to account for their lies," RNC Deputy Communications Director Tim Miller told POLITICO.


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Mystery circles on the seafloor have intrigued divers for decades, and scientists recently identified the culprit: a new species of pufferfish.
This tiny architect—which builds elaborate nests to woo females—has also captured the hearts of our readers, with more than 60 comments and 30,000 Facebook likes on our story about the phenomenon. So we wondered: What's a pufferfish?
It turns out there are 120 pufferfish species in the Tetraodontidae family. The fish live in warm, coastal waters around the world, and some even live in fresh water. They tend to have tapered, torpedo-shaped bodies with bulbous heads and large eyes.
Pufferfish have four large teeth that are fused together to form a beak-like structure. While some species of pufferfish use their beaks to scrape algae off rocks and coral, certain large species use their beaks to crack open crustaceans and shellfish.
They also come in a variety of colors and sizes, from the 1-inch-long (2.5-centimeter-long) pygmy puffer to the giant freshwater puffer, which can reach 2 feet (0.6 meter) in length.
Puffer Upper
Pufferfish are best known for their ability to "puff up" into a ball several times their normal size. Scientists think the fish developed this defense to compensate for their slow, clumsy swimming style.
A pufferfish might look like an easy meal to a predator, but if pursued, it will quickly fill its extremely elastic stomach with large amounts of water, making itself much bigger and nearly spherical in shape (below).
Most species are also covered with small spines that only stick out when they are inflated. A predator that doesn't heed the pufferfish's warning may be in danger of choking to death on the spiky, spherical fish. (Watch a video of pufferfish inflating to escape prey.)
But the pufferfish's defenses don't stop there: Many species are highly poisonous. Certain pufferfish contain the neurotoxin tetrodotoxin, mostly concentrated in the fish's liver, gonads, and skin. Although this potent toxin can kill some predators (including people), others, such as sharks, are able to withstand a pufferfish meal with no ill effects.
Dangerous Delicacy
Despite the risks of ingesting tetrodotoxin, pufferfish are a delicacy in many parts of the world.
In Japan, only trained and licensed chefs may prepare pufferfish, known as fugu. Young chefs spend years learning how to properly prepare fugu, making sure that it is free of the toxic liver, gonads, and skin. Even with these precautions, several people die each year after ingesting improperly prepared fugu dishes. (Watch a video about pufferfish as a delicacy.)
Symptoms of tetrodotoxin poisoning begin with numbness in the tongue and lips, followed by headache, dizziness, and vomiting. In the worst cases, sufferers experience rapid heart rate, decreased blood pressure, muscle paralysis, and respiratory distress. Death can occur within four to six hours. The toxin typically kills by paralyzing diaphragm muscles and causing respiratory failure.
Not all pufferfish are toxic, and some species are easier to prepare safely. To keep U.S. consumers safe, the Food and Drug Administration has teamed up with scientists at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History to create a library of pufferfish DNA. When a tetrodotoxin poisoning occurs, officials can use the library to identify the species of pufferfish that was consumed and determine whether it was illegally imported.
Zombie Fish
The pufferfish's tetrodotoxin is so powerful that some believe it even has the power to create real-life zombies.
In the 1980s, ethnobotanist Wade Davis—now a National Geographic Society Explorer in Residence—traveled to Haiti to investigate reports of zombification. During his research, Davis discovered that the voodoo sorcerers believed to be capable of turning people into zombies used homemade powders in their rituals. Davis collected and tested samples of zombie powders and discovered they contained pufferfish tetrodotoxin.
Pufferfish tetrodotoxin works in part by preventing neurons from firing. People who ingest the toxin and don't die within the first 24 hours typically survive, although they often fall into a coma-like state for several days. (Also see pictures of "nature's walking dead.")
Completely paralyzed but fully conscious, the victims are pronounced dead and buried. After a few days, the voodoo sorcerer returns and claims the body, which then seems to rise from the dead.
Tell us: What's your favorite thing about pufferfish?


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LS GM 5.3 Motor Long Sleeve T-Shirt
- Proudly printed to order in our state of the art USA facilities (No cheap iron-on decals!)
- Aggressive Thread established 2016
- Aggressive Thread strives for 100% customer satisfaction!
- 6.1 oz 100% preshrunk cotton. Sport Grey is 90% cotton, 10% polyester.
- Double-needle stitching, taped neck, and shoulders.
- Quarter-turned to eliminate center crease.
- Ultra tight knit surface.
Processing and Shipping Times:
Products are printed to order and can take up to 8 business days to produce. Most orders ship within 5 business daysPlease review the size chart prior to ordering
Every product is unique, just like your ride. If you're looking for a product that expresses your passion, LS GM 5.3 Motor Long Sleeve T-Shirt is perfect for truck and muscle car enthusiasts.


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Used to connect a Harman appliance to the Ultimate PelletPipe™ vent system. 4 3/8" overall length.
It is UL listed to standard UL641 as a Type L low temperature venting system. This venting system must be used with appliances requiring this venting standard. Commonly used for wood pellet burning appliances. Galvalume steel outer pipe with 300 series stainless inner pipe. 3" component pieces have 3.75" OD.
1" clearance to combustibles must be maintained when installed.


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(35 photos in total)
One comment
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Agricultural Outlook Seminars
Venue: Middletown
Location: Middletown, Virginia, United States
|Event Date/Time: Feb 01, 2008
|End Date/Time: Feb 01, 2008
Six outlook seminars have been planned for agricultually diverse locations around Virginia.
The seminars are designed to present timely, expert agricultural economic-outlook information so participants may make more informed decisions affecting the sustainability of the farming business.
The meetings are designed for producers, extension educators, and other agricultural influencers such as lenders, input dealers, and processors from Virginia and bordering states.
These mettings will utilize both on-site presenters and interactive, web-based video conferencing technology allowing experts from around the United States to make presentations.
The remote sessions will be totally interactive so that participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and/or make comments to the presenters for their consideration and response.


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The $10.2 million property at 9230 Blind Pass Road, on Siesta Key, is awash in superlatives
The property at 9230 Blind Pass Road, on Siesta Key, is awash in superlatives.
There's the view, for one, of the water — and little else. Even on a windless day, the main house — built in 1979 for Pasco Carter Jr. and his wife, Kathleen — is so close to the Gulf of Mexico that sometimes it is in the Gulf.
"It is like being on a cruise ship," said Brandy Coffey, of Keller Williams Luxury Homes International, who has listed the property for sale.
Then there's its location: the 8,000-square-foot home is the southernmost residence on the key. It also has the last sea wall to be approved on Siesta Key's beachfront — new homes do not qualify following a 2008 Sarasota County ordinance.
At $10.2 million, the price tag is not too diminutive, either.
But the three-house, Gulf-to-bayou complex with docks and guest houses has also been a lightning rod for controversy.
Carter helped fill in nearby Midnight Pass, generating litigation and the ire of boaters, fishermen and environmentalists alike that persists to this day.
The house was not always so close to the water. It was built at a distance, both from the shoreline and Midnight Pass itself. But then nature did what nature does — it changed things, and Midnight Pass, hundreds of feet to the south since the 1920s when it was created by storm surge, started to move.
That did not stop artist Syd Solomon from building a home there in 1970, nor Carters' construction the following year, just as the county was putting a Gulf Beach Setback Line into effect.
But by the early 1980s, Midnight Pass migrated northward, causing the Carters' pool to collapse.
To protect their houses, Carter and Solomon asked for, and received, permission from the county to fill in the pass in exchange for digging a new one a thousand feet to the south.
Nature, however, had other ideas. The manmade pass would not stay open, and, ultimately, Little Sarasota Bay was cut off from the Gulf.
As a result, boaters had to steer toward Big Pass or the Venice Jetties miles away to reach the Gulf. Fishermen and environmentalists, meanwhile, complained about deteriorating water quality without the constant flushing from tides.
The debate over opening the pass remains as constant as the tides. Since it was filled in, several expensive feasibility studies have been produced.
The pass has sparked protests, too, including at least one at midnight in which some folks showed up with shovels to dig a new pass.
The Midnight Pass Society went even further, and sued in 2011 to have the pass re-opened. On March 26, U.S. District Judge Elizabeth Kovachevich dismissed the suit filed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and Sarasota County. The society was given 14 days to file an amended complaint, but did not, federal court records show.
Sea wall squabble
Closing the pass has not been the only dispute 9230 Blind Pass Road has weathered.
In April 2003, the Sarasota County Commission voted to allow Douglas and Joanne Colkitt, the property's current owners, to construct a sea wall. The Colkitts declined to be interviewed for this story.
A month earlier, the western portion of the neighboring Solomon house was severely damaged by Gulf surge after the county had denied its owner permission to build a sea wall. The county demolished the Solomon house shortly thereafter.
Today, Michael Saunders & Co. agents Kim and Michael Ogilvie have the vacant lot listed for sale at $1.65 million. Kim Ogilvie notes a variance would be required to build a house on it, as the state Coastal Construction Control Line comes very close to the edge of the shell-and-sand Blind Pass Road.
In response to the Solomon razing, the Colkitts made necessary repairs and eventually moved to the Laurel Oak Country Club.
They use the Blind Pass property as a beach house. Several years ago, a third floor was added, and in 2008, the entire interior was remodeled. Today, the kitchen sports blond cabinets, the master bath has a spa tub, and the foyer an impressive iron chandelier.
Outside improvements did not have the same staying power, at first. The Colkitts' first sea wall failed during Hurricane Frances in 2004, according to a property disclosure statement, but a new one — made of steel and sunk to a depth of 15 feet — was constructed in 2010.
Coffey insists the sea wall and the main structure is strong enough to take the punishment of high-surf conditions.
"It is built like a parking garage," she said. "We are told it will be the last house standing, but there are no guarantees in anything. Anytime you buy a property on the Gulf of Mexico, you are going to have some concerns, especially being so close."
In bad weather, Coffey says, shutters are rolled down on the ground floor and water goes through the garage.
Insurance provides some level of protection against storm damage.
"You can get insurance as long as the perfume of the premium exceeds the stench of the risk," said Sarasota insurance broker Ed Valek.
Flood insurance premiums in high-risk zones are calculated on a case-by-case basis, said Kevin Dillon, Valek's flood-coverage expert.
The National Flood Insurance Program caps coverage at $250,000, but a premium cannot be quoted until the house is surveyed and an "elevation certificate" issued, he said.
When and how the house was built matters, too. Two houses next to each other in the same "V" — for velocity — zone could carry vastly different premiums, Dillon said, especially if one is an old house built on grade — "legally nonconforming" — and the other is a new house on pilings and has a floodable ground floor used only for parking or storage.
As for windstorm insurance, Citizens Property Insurance Corp.'s coverage is capped at $1 million, but its rates are relatively low for homes, even ones in V-zones, that score well on a wind-mitigation inspection.
Valek has one customer with an elevated 2007 house on the beach who pays $6,794 for his NFIP flood coverage and $7,000 for his Citizens homeowners insurance.
On the bayfront, the risk can be greater. "V-zone is V-zone," said Dillon. "A boat could get washed into your house and do a lot of damage."
By comparison, another of Valek's clients pays $24,000 for wind and flood insurance.
That risk must be balanced with the considerable benefits of living near the beach, said Sarasota attorney David Levin, an expert on waterfront property.
"Living on the beach in any capacity is not for the faint of heart," Levin says.
"If you understand the risks, and understand the probability of having a storm that would affect the property, and are willing to accept those risks, you have an absolutely wonderful, amazing property."


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Big Boss E - Bossalini [Trailer]
"TRAILER: Big Boss E from Mo City, TX gives a Sneak Peek of his next major music video "Bossalini"!!!!" - @BigBossEMusic
Please click the "Report" button below if the video on this page is not working properly.
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Chaz Bono and Jennifer Elia Call Off Their Engagement — What Went Wrong?
Longtime couple Chaz Bono and his fiancée, Jennifer Elia, engaged since earlier this year, have pulled the plug on their relationship.
The pair first got together before Chaz, 42, famously transitioned from female to male, and while Elia supported him through the ordeal and his stint on 'Dancing with the Stars,' friends say the relationship fell apart awhile back.
"Chaz has been living in the guest house for some time now," an insider said. "Both of them had been in therapy to try and save this relationship, but in the end, it became clear to both Chaz and Elia that this wasn't going to work."
The couple's publicist released a statement that said in part, "They leave this relationship with great love, respect and affection towards one another … No further amplification will be forthcoming and they ask that you respect their privacy at this time."


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How to Have an Epic Year
If you're like me you might have had a beautiful holiday but are now feeling a little cranky about all of the work involved to help you meet all of your New Year resolutions. I think because of the many changes in our society right now- it might be important to go back to the basics of living:
- Don't answer your emails before coffee. This is very important. Why? Because before coffee you might be tempted to fire off a bad email response to the stupid person on the other end. That is not beneficial to your well being, job, or relationships. Just trust me on this one.
- Looking for a job? Make looking for a job your new job and you will find a job. Pretty simple, huh? This is mainly directed to the 16-25 crowds of "well I interviewed but they never called me back" syndrome. You send a 'Thank You' note and YOU call back. Pretty 'epic', huh? Make sure you use the word 'epic' in every sentence, too! It is epic impressive.
- If you're a baby-boomer start putting money in your mattress for retirement. Banks can't be trusted. Apparently, baby boomers have been great spenders. Many have depended on their houses as retirement funds but now with properties not worth as much there is no equity to be had for awhile. To get Social Security full payout you will have to work till age 70. Don't believe me? Read the news. http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20101227/ap_on_bi_ge/us_retirement_crisis and (for the record) I love mature workers in places like McDonalds. The service is so much better and I am never missing any fries. Seriously.
Which reminds me…
- Believe everything you read on the internet, especially if you are having a debate about something. You most likely can win, because you probably can find anything to support a theory or debate in your favor, (because as you know) the internet is always correct. Don't worry about quoting reputable sources as they probably won't have the facts you need to win your point! Just quote the internet by saying "Well, I read it on the internet" case closed. You won and of course winning is the most important thing. Insert sarcasm <here>.
- Don't say "I am going on a diet". It's just a set up for failure. According to the Journal of Preventive Medicine "you need 150 minutes of moderate exercise to stay healthy". So walk your dog, if you do not have a dog, walk your kid, if you do not have either, borrow one or the other (go for the dog). It's a win-win situation.
- Most millionaires are frugal. Get as much free stuff as you can. Yeah, it's cool to 'recycle' and 'go green' blah, blah, and blah but the truth is sometimes hard to publicly admit; free stuff is good. If you get on free cycle and craigslist before you purchase any items and use coupons for food it can be like a great video game. Think of the person who takes your money as the enemy. Zap them with your coupons. It leaves more money for more important things – like building a bomb shelter.
- Date night is good. Don't let finances get in the way. If there isn't any room in the budget for date night (because your savings are under your mattress for retirement, remember?) you can always hit up the local free community meals. Check your local churches. It gives you a chance to get away, be appreciative of what you have, and meet new people in your neighborhood. It can be a breath of fresh air and produce unique opportunities to give back.
- Grow something (nothing illegal, of course). Particularly, replace one food item that you normally buy to something you can grow. If you have very little ground space you can grow vegetables in hanging planters. Lettuce is a good choice among many. Seeds are relatively inexpensive at the Dollar Store. If you absolutely cannot grow something then buy something from your local farmers market. At least you'll be supporting the local economy. Help your family become more self sufficient and help the environment.
I hope this unique list has helped de-crankify you to enjoy your family, enjoy nature, and make it an epic year. Humor and sarcasm always help!
Lisa Jachimowicz
Suquamish/Poulsbo, Washington
Designs of the Times -What Inspires You?
Design is everywhere. It can be in the food we eat, the art we buy or the Jewelry we wear. The Designs of the Times Blog is about the people, places and things that help us a enjoy the abundance of creativity all around us. Join us as we showcase the rich designs of our surroundings that make up this great area we call home- Kitsap County! We hope to bring inspiration, joy and creativity to all who read our Blog.


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When you use one, you no longer need to attach a temporary bag tag each time you fly domestically - just drop your bags and go. What's more, if you check-in online prior to arriving at the airport, you'll be able to go directly to the Bag Drop.
With a sleek design by Marc Newson, each tag contains world-first technology that synchronises your details on your boarding pass or Qantas card with your baggage.
Get yours today
Q Bag Tags can be purchased from the Qantas Shopping Rewards Store for A$18.74 or 3,260 Qantas Points.
Important information
- You must declare any dangerous goods you are carrying before you check-in.
- Q Bag Tags will not be replaced due to fair wear and tear.
- Under certain circumstances, Q Bag Tags which are faulty, lost or damaged may be replaced at Qantas' discretion. Replacement of Q Bag Tags is not guaranteed. To find out if you qualify for a replacement, please contact the Qantas Shopping Rewards Store, or Qantas Office - whichever is appropriate with full details.
Important information
Disclaimer: * Not available at Cloncurry, Moranbah, Hamilton Island, Mount Hotham, Gladstone or Geraldton.
Disclaimer: ~ You must be a Qantas Frequent Flyer member to earn and redeem Qantas Points. A joining fee may apply. The redemption of Qantas Points for Rewards is subject to the Qantas Frequent Flyer Terms and Conditions, Qantas Shopping Rewards Store Terms of Use, voucher Terms and Conditions and any other terms and conditions disclosed at the time of redemption. Visit the Qantas Shopping Rewards Store for details. Qantas Points values are correct as at 11 November 2019. The range of Rewards, Qantas Points required and the prices change from time to time and are available while stocks last.


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Community groups continue to work to keep UPMC South Side open as a hospital
January 13, 2009
Community efforts to save UPMC South Side had slowed down somewhat during the Holiday Season but were still ongoing.
The South Side Planning Forum at its December meeting established a "steering committee" with its first charge to work towards keeping the long-time health care facility in the South Side.
The committee includes: Hugh Brannan, chair of the Forum; Brady Lutsko; Tom Smith; and staff members of the South Side Local Development Co. Nancy Lardo was nominated to the committee but declined citing a conflict of interest. A new committee member to replace Ms. Lardo should be selected at the next Planning Forum meeting.
The Save Our South Side Hospital Committee (SOSSHC), organizers of a letter writing campaign targeted at UPMC Board of Directors Chairperson G. Nicholas Beckwith III and a protest rally held on Thanksgiving weekend, have also continued its efforts at keeping the hospital in South Side.
The SOSSHC requested in writing a meeting with Mr. Beckwith to discuss the planned closing of the hospital. In a letter dated December 19, 2008, he responded:
"Members of UPMC's senior management are meeting with elected officials and community representative to address concerns about the consolidation [of UPMC South Side and UPMC Mercy]. UPMC is committed to continuing to serve residents [in] the South Side neighborhoods through its wide range of programs, services and facilities.
"Although inpatient services will be moving to UPMC Mercy, UPMC plans to maintain urgent care, diagnostic services, and other outpatient services in the South Side for as long as patient demand can support these operations."
Also in December, Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell appeared on a PCN show taking calls from state residents. During the show the governor was questioned on what he knew about the closing of the hospital and if the state was involved. Mr. Rendell requested more information be forwarded to him for further review.
Responding by letter to the information forwarded to the governor was Stacy Mitchell, deputy secretary for quality assurance in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Health. Ms. Mitchell is responsible for ensuring appropriate quality standards are applied in Pennsylvania healthcare facilities, including hospitals.
"I understand the concerns that you and others have about the loss of inpatient heath care services in South Pittsburgh, however; each hospital or hospital system must assess the needs of the community that is served and the resources available to deliver health care services," she wrote.
"The Department of Health (Department) continues to work with hospitals and other providers to ensure that the services they offer are safe and effective. Each hospital or system must define the patients that they will serve, the nature of the health care they will provide and develop processes to monitor and improve their performance," she continued. "No agency, including the Department, has the authority to direct hospitals or other providers to continue to provide services."
Ms. Mitchell explained that UPMC South Side and UPMC Mercy have given the state the proper notice of their intent to merge the campuses under Mercy's license and provide in-patient services at Mercy. She also noted UPMC's stated intent to continue to provide out-patient services in South Side
She encouraged the SOSSHC to "continued to work with the leadership of UPMC to ensure that "they are aware of the health care needs of the community as they consider alternatives for health care delivery."
The Save Our South Side Hospital Committee will consider its next steps after attending Councilman Bruce Kraus' Town Meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 14, 7 p.m. at the South Side Market House, to discuss the councilman's meeting with UPMC president and CEO Jeffrey Romoff.
The South Side Planning Forum hospital steering committee plans to meet with UPMC officials as it gathers information and proceeds with trying to maintain health care at the South Side hospital.


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A collection of scholarly works about individual liberty and free markets. A project of Liberty Fund, Inc.
In his magisterial history of the American Revolution, Bernhard Knollenberg remarks upon the problems facing the Continental Congress in September 1774:
One of the points particularly stressed in the writings in defense of liberty was that liberty, once enjoyed but lost, had commonly been lost because leaders of the people, who ought to have taken timely action to preserve it, had failed in their duty.
About this Quotation:
Unfortunately this book is no longer available online at the OLL website for reasons of copyright. Nevertheless, Knollenberg's 2 volume history of the American Revolution is a classic which is still available in book form from Liberty Fund.


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In the final week of Rhizome's Community Fundraising Campaign, we profile seven artists hand-picked by Rhizome to generously contribute artworks, ensuring you receive compelling thank you gifts at every donation level. Give now to receive one of these works.
Matthew Plummer-Fernandez is a London-based artist who combines scanning, 3D printing, and computational approaches to make remixed art objects. His 3D printed works expose the limitations of the technology and the glitches that occur when translating real objects into digital ones.
In his Digital Natives series, Plummer-Fernandez samples everyday household items, remixes them using his own software, and then 3D prints them using a z-corp printer with a color resin, in order to blur the line between the real and the digital. Once functional objects are rendered useless, but beautiful, in their new algorithmically abstracted forms. Laura Davidson reviews Plummer-Fernandez's work for Rhizome, noting he takes: "...a more creative approach to engineering... His work proposes new ways in how we discuss the process of making a crafted object. Algorithms and their parameters become a tool to be mastered in the same way a lathe or a chisel would be... The results are almost alchemic and magical."
For Rhizome's Community Fundraiser, Plummer-Fernadez has donated two limited edition pieces from the Digital Natives series, available at the $1,000 level. The designs were based on a scan of a typical yellow ceramic jug and transformed using the artist's software. These unique table sculptures will be printed in the color of your choice.
Images courtesy of the artist
You will also become a member of the Rhizome Council, a leadership council for significant supporters that brings you closer to Rhizome. As a member, you will be invited to special Council-only events including intimate studio visits with entrepreneurs and artists in New York City and abroad. You will also receive the limited edition tote bag by ReCode Project, and the 56 + 10 Broken Kindle Screens eBook by Sebatian Schiemg and Silivo Lorusso.


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Sex—touching, snuggling and everything else on the spectrum—is great for your relationship and happiness, but intimate time with your babe is also terrific for your physical health. Not only does that "loving feeling" get your heart rate up, it can burn some serious calories, too! Check out the calorie-burning profile of each romantic activity below (based on the body weight of a 150-lb woman) along with tips from experts on ramping things up to maximize the amount of calories burned.
Kissing: 68 calories per hour
Remember how, when you were first dating, you'd start locking lips and 30 minutes later you'd come up for air? See if you can get into that groove again, say experts. Not only is smooching a great way to show affection and improve your bond as a couple, it can also help you burn fat. "If the kissing is vigorous and involves some petting, it could be even closer to 90 calories burned in an hour," says Jaiya Kinzbach, a Los Angeles–based sexologist and the author of Red Hot Touch. Try her technique for turning kissing into an honest-to-goodness workout session: "Kiss in unusual positions," she recommends. "Have the guy on his back and do 'plank pose' or a push-up on top of him, coming down to kiss him and then pushing back up. Push-ups burn 171 calories in 30 minutes."
Undressing: 8+ calories total
You probably don't put much thought into undressing when you're getting intimate with your husband, but an Italian researcher looked into the matter and found that the mere act of taking one's clothes off burns about 8 to 10 calories. Even more fascinating, the researcher reportedly found that a man attempting to remove a bra with his mouth burns as many as 80 calories. While that may not be applicable to you, here's what is: By upping the energy you put into undressing, you can burn some extra calories. Don't just strip down in seconds, says Kinzbach; instead, "draw it out and make it part of your foreplay, while getting a great a workout going." Or undress to tease him, adds Gilda Carle, PhD, a psychotherapist and relationship expert. "Find your favorite silk scarf, and do a seductive dance with it," she says.
Photo by Getty.
Massaging: 80+ calories per hour
Who doesn't like a good rubdown from their partner? But if you're the giver, you get an additional benefit other than making your guy happy: burned calories. As it turns out, giving a good massage can get your heart rate up and kick your body into calorie-burning mode. But the way to ramp things up even more isn't to speed things up. Instead, consider going slower, recommends Kinzbach. "This may seem counterintuitive to burning calories," she says, "but going slower and deeper is not only more sensual, it works different muscles. I also recommend getting a massage table—it's better on your body, and standing to give a massage burns more calories."
Having Sex: 144+ calories per half-hour
You knew sex was a workout, but who knew that a half-hour romp in the hay with your guy could burn off the chocolate you nibbled on after dinner? The key for high-calorie-burning sex is making it hot and making it last, say experts. You can also add a little moaning and sighing, says Kinzbach, which can help you burn an extra 18 to 30 calories. And try a position change for a better workout. "If you are on top, try moving your hips like a belly dancer; this feels great and will give you a workout," she adds. "Also try a position where you squat on top of him and then bounce up and down. This is a great workout for your thighs and butt, and it can burn up to 207 calories in 30 minutes." Perhaps the best way to maximize calorie-burning during sex is to make sure you orgasm. Experts estimate that women who orgasm during sex burn more calories during lovemaking than those who don't.
Photo by Getty.
Giving Oral Sex: 100 calories per half-hour
Here's a stat you don't hear every day: Being on the giving end of oral sex may be just as effective as a quick stint on the elliptical machine. But if you want to take your calorie-burning to the next level, Kinzbach recommends this calorie-blasting technique: push-ups (yes, in the act!). "Also you can do a little yoga, suggests Kinzbach. "Try plank position into downward facing dog, and back into plank where you can lower down and do some oral stimulation." Tack on 71 extra calories blasted when you do push-ups, and 35 additional calories by mixing in some yoga.
Using Your Hands: 100 calories per hour
Of course, the old-fashioned hand job is a calorie burner, but you can zap an additional 50 calories per half-hour by taking things up a notch. "Get lots of stuff going at once," suggests Kinzbach. "Try really slow sensual strokes, and position yourself so that you can use your body as well." Rocking your body against his and varying the pressure and frequency can help, too, she adds.
Photo by Getty.
Romantic Dancing: 103 calories per half-hour
A little dirty dancing—even with your clothes on—can be a workout for you and your husband. Couples who take dance lessons (and practice in the privacy of their homes) can attest to this. Bonus: "It has been shown in scientific studies that right after an aerobic exercise, women become aroused and lubricated more easily," says Barbara Bartlik, MD, a New York–based psychiatrist and sex therapist. Slow dancing is fine, but you have to rev things up—and add in a few surprises—to get a real workout. "Add kissing, nibbling the neck and touch," suggests Kinzbach. And increase the pace, too!
Photo by Getty.
Making Out: 238 calories per half-hour
A sizzling clothes-on make-out session with the man you love may be the most intense caloric blaster yet. Why? Anticipation, says Dr. Carle, can get your heart rate going. "It gives way to heavy breathing, which gives way to a great calorie burn," she explains. But you can still maximize the workout by making it hotter and sweatier! "The hotter the room—think Bikram (a.k.a. "hot") yoga—and the sweatier the make-out session, the more calories you burn," adds Kinzbach. Also, try rolling around on the bed or changing your scenery. "Make it playful and erotic and you have a great combination for a pleasurable workout."
Originally posted 2015-08-20 20:34:10.
Tags: 8 Sexy Ways to Burn Calories, Giving Oral Sex: 100 calories per half-hour, Having Sex: 144 calories per half-hour, Kissing: 68 calories per hour, Making Out: 238 calories per half-hour, Massaging: 80 calories per hour, Romantic Dancing: 103 calories per half-hour, Undressing: 8 calories total, Using Your Hands: 100 calories per hour


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The Venetian Rose game is delicate artistry personified. The romantic at heart will appreciate the effort put in by NextGen to recreate the lovely city of Venice. Beautiful houses, elaborate architecture and flowing canals form the backdrop for this 5 reel 25 payline slot game. The difference is that it's a 19th century Venice, where the ladies and gentlemen had the most peculiar hairstyles, dressing and fashion sense.
Venetian Rose symbols
Not to make fun of that era, but you will appreciate the romantic notion and ideas that were seen during that time. Intricate masks, fans and opera glasses were part of the foreplay to have a romantic time with your partner. The happy couple were seen riding the expensive boats over the canals and playing cards to keep busy.
Game Features venetian-rose
Venetian Rose pays tribute to that bygone era, by visiting the slots world as a 5 reel 25 payline mobile and online slots game. More importantly, it has a simple gameplay and an easy interface, which makes it your game for playing while on the move.
Wilds: The Venetian beauty will drive the other symbol wild, by replacing them with her image. She commands a hefty prize of 3,000 coins for landing 5 of her symbol on the reels.
Scatters: The most important part of any masquerade ball, the mask is your saviour for the day. To find 3 or more of them on the reels mean you can play the 10 free spin games. The triple multiplier and the fact that the free spins can be re-triggered, is another silver lining in the free spins cloud.
To fund their extravagant lifestyle, they had the Gamble option to increase their winnings twofold or fourfold. A correct guess on the card colour or the card suit will get them these extra coins.
Min / Max Bet per spin (£/$/€): 0.01 – 2.0
Jackpots (£ / $ / €): 3,000 coins (base game)
Closing thoughts
Venetian Rose provides a quite detour to the old Venetian era. Despite its basic gameplay, it's the design and graphic that makes it a good slot game to play online or on your mobiles.


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Below is a screenshot from a movie. If you know which movie it is you have to continue the game by posting a new screenshot.
If no one can figure out the answer within 5 days, then give hints. This game is not funny if you choose random landscapes from French movies. Pick a movie there is a chance a user can figure out.
First screenshot: (movie from the 1990s)
Which movie?


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Cyclist uses long pole, video camera to remind Houston drivers to stay away
A Houston bicyclist is making a statement about safety by filming the often angry drivers who hit a pole he has sticking out three feet from the side of his bike.
While riding in the designated bike lanes of the Memorial area, Dan Morgan sought a way to prove that some motorists aren't following a law stating that cars should not come within three feet of a cyclist.
"The whole purpose of the flag was to demonstrate that we exist on the roads," Morgan said. "That flag could have been a person."
He's been met with anger from motorists who aren't acquainted with the law, as can be seen on the videos he's collected on his YouTube channel. Most people seen in the videos are angry about their own cars being damaged.
Words are usually exchanged at the closest stop sign or red light, with Morgan giving the motorist a short civics lesson.
"No one has hit me and then apologized," Morgan said.
In May 2013, Houston City Council approved changes to local driving laws to protect bicyclists, pedestrians and other vulnerable road users. The "safe passing" ordinance says motorists must give them three feet of space and, when possible, switch lanes to avoid close contact. The buffer zone increases to six feet for commercial vehicles.
Morgan said his flag was hit twice in two hours, proving that people are getting closer than two feet to him, and probably closer to other bike riders. Not all motorists hit the flag, as plenty can be seen passing him without incident or even changing lanes to get out his way.
The push for the law last year focused on bicyclists, but also applies to pedestrians, disabled travelers in wheelchairs, horseback riders, highway and utility workers, tow truck drivers and those on motorized bicycles and scooters.
He's collected the license plate numbers of the people who hit the flag and even handed over footage he's taken on a helmet cam to Houston police with the hope that tickets can issued. He said officials have told him that it's up to city prosecutors to figure out what to do with the information.
Morgan isn't as worried about the disgruntled motorists -- they usually just drive off -- as he is about the distracted ones that hit him and never know it.
A cycling advocate for Critical Mass Houston in the past year, Morgan has been riding recreationally and as a commuter for over 25 years. He can also be seen online in City Council video archives complaining about bike safety in Houston.
Morgan said he'd love bike riding to become more prevalent in Houston, but in watching some of his videos it's not hard to see how some would shy away from it.
He said he has heard from people at The Today Show this week about filming a segment with him, and the Karbach Brewing Co. has agreed to sponsor him, offering up a Karbach banner.
"We take a lot of pride in the local bike community and we sponsor monthly rides for our cycling friends," said Karbach spokesman David Graham. "A lot of people just don't know how to treat cyclists in the streets."
The banner will remind motorists about the three-foot rule on one side and advertise Karbach on the other. The banners are still being designed for Morgan, but should be ready in a week.
Executive director Michael Payne with BikeHouston, a nonprofit group representing cyclists, said he thinks what Morgan is doing is helping raise awareness among the public about the ordinance.
"We think it's very good and very important, and from BikeHouston's perspective the work he is doing is very useful," Payne said Thursday. Morgan is a member of the nonprofit's advisory board as well.
"This is helping police see that people are brazen enough to hit the flag, which is a form of road rage behavior and should be ticketed," Payne said.
Morgan plans to continue helping his fellow riders before his job takes him to Saudi Arabia for the next few years. He'd like to come back on vacation and see things have improved for everyone.
"Most drivers don't get in trouble until they kill someone," Morgan said.


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Pakistan's Sharif declares victory amid violence
- Sharif twice served as Pakistan%27s premier%2C was ousted in 1999 coup
- 29 people died in election-day attacks
- More than 150 were killed in pre-election incidents
KARACHI, Pakistan —Former Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif declared victory as unofficial, partial vote counts showed his party with an overwhelming lead following a historic election marred by violence Saturday, including a string of attacks that killed 29 people.
If his victory is confirmed, it would be a remarkable comeback for the 63-year-old Sharif, who has twice served as the country's premier but was toppled in a military coup in 1999. He spent years in exile before returning to the country in 2007. His party weathered a strong campaign by former cricket star Imran Khan that energized Pakistan's young people.
Sharif expressed a desire to work with all parties to solve the country's problems in a victory speech given to his supporters in the eastern city of Lahore as his lead in the national election became apparent based on unofficial, partial vote counts announced by local Pakistan state TV.
The results indicated Sharif's party has an overwhelming lead, but would fall short of winning a majority of the 272 directly elected national assembly seats, meaning he would have to put together a ruling coalition.
"I appeal to all to come sit with me at the table so that this nation can get rid of this curse of power cuts, inflation and unemployment," Sharif said.
Voters turned out in droves in the hope of pushing for a solution to the nation's woes in a historic election that marks the country's first democratic transition of power in its 66-year history, despite a string of terrorist attacks.
One attack targeted the office of the Awami National Party (ANP) on Saturday morning, killing at least 10 and wounding more than 30. In the town of Sorab in the southwestern province of Baluchistan, gunmen targeted people outside a polling station.
The violence comes following the deaths of more than 150 people in pre-election attacks including a suicide bombing, kidnappings and the slaying of the prosecutor investigating the death of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto.
STORY: Pakistani women cast votes in election
"There is violence in the country and some people are trying to see these elections fail, but we are hopeful," said Maleeha Kiyani, a 21-year-old political science student from Faisalabad, west of Lahore.
Dressed in green and standing in line at a polling station in Karachi's affluent Defence neighborhood, Ayesha Athar, 22, waited with her sister, Wersha, 23, to vote after polls were late to open.
"I think for the first time, we feel like this might be a free and fair election," Ayesha said. "But people are so pumped up, (officials) are going down the line and asking people not to leave before they vote."
In addition to Sharif's apparent lead, it also appeared that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Party (PTI), led by the charismatic former cricket star Imran Khan, could deprive the PML-N of crucial seats in the province of Punjab and of the majority the party needs in parliament to give Sharif hope of leading the country.
While Sharif has tried to bill himself as the candidate of experience, Khan appealed to voters' desire for change.
Rahila Aslam, 53, compared Saturday's elections with those in the 1970s, where people were voting for Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, father of Benazir Bhutto.
"I was too young to vote, but you could see the people's emotions — they were all voting for Bhutto. Now, I see the same emotions for Imran Khan," she said.
While leaders of other parties relied on online and television campaigning, reluctant to take part in rallies on the ground for fear of terrorists attacks, Sharif and Khan were able to meet with voters — a big advantage in a country with large rural areas where many do not have access to technology.
With the PML-N and the PTI taking much of the vote, the ruling Pakistan People's Party (PPP) could suffer defeat by coming in third. Politicians in the party, which came to power in 2007 on a wave of sympathy following the assassination of Benazir Bhutto, have widely been accused of corruption.
While voters said they hoped for change, analysts say the violence is unlikely to come to an end following the election.
"I doubt that the Taliban will accept a democratic system," said Siegried Wolf, a political scientist at the University of Heidelberg. "I'm afraid the current situation in Pakistan will continue as long as the Taliban has not established a political regime that corresponds with its social and political world views."
While campaigning, Sharif said he planned to end Pakistan's involvement in the U.S.-led war on terror — leaving some with fears that such a move could allow militants a greater reign over parts of the troubled country.
Athar Hussain, director of the Asia Research Center at the London School of Economics, said despite the anti-U.S. rhetoric that has sprung up in the elections, there would be no significant changes in the relationship between the two countries.
"The Pakistan army is heavily dependent on U.S. assistance and has also a relationship with the U.S., so I think any change in attitude would be marginal rather than substantial," he said. "(But) there's bound to be some change after the U.S. withdrawal in Afghanistan, that's bound to happen regardless of which government is in power."
The new prime minister will face challenges apart from those related to terrorism, Hussain said, including youth unemployment and a downturn in the economy.
"Probably to begin with the government would have a honeymoon period, but I don't think that would last too long because the economic policies … are not capable for dealing with Pakistan's main problem," he said.
For Pakistanis who risked their lives to go to the polling stations, there is still hope the new government will herald in a better and more peaceful age for the country.
"Earlier, it felt useless," said Humera Khan, a 40-year-old accountant voting for the first time. "This time it feels like people have united to change the system."
Contributor: Jennifer Collins in Berlin; The Associated Press


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(Video) Ballpark Figures: MLB Trade Reaction, Part 1
By Bloomberg Sports //
Ballpark Figures: MLB Trade Reaction, Part 1 — Bloomberg Television's Michele Steele and Bloomberg Sports Fantasy Analyst Rob Shaw discuss the latest deals in Major League Baseball. In the first of a five episode series, Shaw focuses on the fantasy value of Twins closer Matt Capps and what to make of Jon Rauch. Shaw tells us what joining the White Sox means for Edwin Jackson, and provides analysis on the latest Yankees trio Kerry Wood, Austin Kearns, and Lance Berkman. Finally, Shaw tells us that Rick Ankiel will likely never be an everyday player now that he joins the Braves. For more fantasy insight, visit us at BloombergSports.com and Twitter.com/Bloombergsports


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Maryland inmate gets 30 years for cellmate's murder
Vernon Lee Cowan, 44, killed cellmate Ricky Bailey, 51
A Maryland prison inmate is getting 30 years added to his sentence for killing his cellmate at the maximum-security North Branch Correctional Institution near Cumberland.
Vernon Lee Cowan, 44, was sentenced after pleading guilty Tuesday to second-degree murder in Allegany County Circuit Court. He had been charged with first-degree murder in the slaying of 51-year-old Ricky Bailey in February 2013.
Bailey died of blunt force injuries and wounds from a razor blade.
Prosecutors said Cowan killed Bailey because he wanted a single cell. The men had recently been assigned as cellmates.
Cowan had been serving a 60-year sentence for killing his girlfriend, Whitney Bass, in Waterbury, Conn., in 2008. He was transferred to Maryland under an interstate prisoner agreement.
Bailey was serving a life sentence for a Baltimore County rape.