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Aero Club
320 Jones Road, South Base, Bldg 320, (661) 275-AERO
Practical G1000 Class: Dec. 7, 8 a.m.-noon. Cost is $125. Hands-on G1000 operation to increase safety and situational awareness for every flight.
Full Time Flight Instructor Needed: The Edwards AFB Aero Club currently has a position open for a full-time flight instructor, CFI or CFII, starting salary $30 per hour on a one -ear contract with option for renewal. Aero Club is an FAA Part 141 Flight Training Center and Cessna affiliate, teaching the Cessna King curriculum. The instructor must be available weekdays, weekends and holidays. Send resumes to firstname.lastname@example.com.
Learn to Fly: The sky is the limit at the Edwards AFB Aero Club. Experience the thrill of piloting an aircraft. Your local Aero Club provides many stages of flight training, from your first introductory flight through solo, then on to private, commercial and instructors' ratings. The choice is yours. Whether your aim is recreational or a career path, your Aero Club will train you to the highest standard with safety always foremost.
Rentals: The Aero Club offers Cessna 172s and 182s for rent. Contact the Aero Club for reservations and costs.
Airman and Family Readiness
5 N. Seller Ave., Bldg. 3000, 277-0723
Bundles for Babies: Dec. 6, 10-11:30 a.m. at the A&FRC. The class provides important information about the financial impact a child makes on couples and provides resources and money-management tips. Layettes valued at more than $70 are provided to those attending, courtesy of Air Force Aid Society. The class is open to all service members and their spouses. For more information or to sign up, call Linda Crump at (661) 277-4662 or the front desk at (661) 277-0723.
Department of Labor Five-day Employment Workshop: Dec. 9-13, 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. The Transition Assistance Program workshop is required for all separating and retiring military members and their spouses are welcome and encouraged to attend. Sign up by calling Glenn Arola at (661) 277-8451 or the front desk at (661) 277-0723.
Heartlink: Dec. 10, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. This dynamic and entertaining class targets spouses who have been married to Air Force active duty members five years or less. The event provides information on protocol, finance (and how to read the Leave and Earning Statement – LES), acronyms, Edwards AFB and Air Force structure and more. For more information or to sign up, call Maricel Rusit at (661) 277-0230 or the front desk at (661) 277-0723.
First Term Officers' Briefing: Dec. 11, 10-11:30 a.m. This financial workshop is required for first term officers and discusses wise car-buying strategies, creating spending plans, budget analysis, debt management, and building and maintaining emergency funds. To sign up, call Linda Crump at 277-4662 or e-mail email@example.com.
Newcomers' Orientation: Dec. 12, 7:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Required for all active duty members and provides vital information regarding base resources and services, policies procedures, recreation opportunities and more. Spouses are encouraged to attend. For more information or to sign up, call (661) 277-0723 or (661) 277-0230.
Bundles for Babies: Dec. 6, 10-11:30 a.m., at the A&FRC. The class provides important information about the financial impact a child makes on couples and provides resources and money-management tips. Layettes, valued at more than $70 are provided to those attending, courtesy of Air Force Aid Society. The class is open to all service members and their spouses. For sign up or more information, call Linda Crump at (661) 277-4662 or the front desk at (661) 277-0723.
Department of Labor Five-day Employment Workshop: Dec .9-13, and Jan. 13-17, 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. The Transition Assistance Program workshop is required for all separating and retiring military members and their spouses are welcome and encouraged to attend. Sign up by calling Glenn Arola at (661) 277-8451 or the front desk at (661) 277-0723.
Hearts Apart: This is a support group and social network for families of deployed members and an opportunity to meet with leadership. Sign-up is required. For more information, call (661) 277-0230.
The PLAYpass deadline has been extended through Dec. 31, 2013. If your spouse is deployed or you are a single Airman returning from a deployment, then come to the A&FRC to get your PLAYpass and register! PLAYpass discount cards are used for various activities and programs on base for adults and children. For more information contact the A&FRC.
Military Family Life Consultant: A Military Family Life Consultant is on board at the A&FRC to help military members, spouses, family members, friends and staff members address issues such as relationships, deployment, parenting, stress, grief and many other issues. Consultations are free and anonymous – no records are kept. Call (661) 742-4733 for an appointment.
SBP/Casualty Assistance Office: The SBP and Casualty Assistance Office is now combined and located in Bldg. 3000, Room 215. Please note: Every retiring member, married or single, must make a valid election prior to retiring. See the SBP counselor for more details. Retired military survivor assistance is available at the A&FRC. For more information, call the SBP/Casualty Assistance office at (661) 277-3757. Help is available to file claims through various agencies: DFAS, V.A., SSA, OPM.
Sponsorship Training: Attention Sponsors and Unit Training Managers, first impressions are lasting impressions! This training is mandatory for all first time sponsors or those who haven't sponsored anyone for more than a year. There is a new online sponsorship training that replaces the classroom training. Access eSponsorship Application & Training at http://apps.mhf.dod.mil/esat. Training and resources can be found within this new comprehensive application. Certificate of completion must be turned-in to Tonya Eckles and/or your unit training manager for record keeping. For more information on this training or to get a few resources, contact Tonya Eckles at (661) 277-4709 or email email@example.com.
Spouse Employment/Volunteer Resources: The link to job search strategies and volunteer opportunities is through the Airman & Family Readiness Center. Individual consultation is also available by appointment to provide assistance with resumes and education opportunities. The A&FRC has established a distribution list that will allow job vacancies to be emailed to spouses as they become available. If you are interested in getting your email address added to this list, call Linda Crump at (661) 277-5433 or email email@example.com.
Air Force Aid Society: Air Force active duty/spouse (with power of attorney), retired, widow/widower with internet access and an email address will be able to apply for AFAS assistance using the new AFAS Online Application by registering and completing the application at https://my.afas.org/memberportal/Login/Login.aspx. Complete and submit the application to the Airman and Family Readiness Center or for more details, call 661 277-4662.
Volunteers Need to Register: All volunteers with Edwards AFB official organizations/units need to register with the A&FRC Volunteer Coordinator, Claudia Stover at (661) 277-4615. Organizations or agencies that need volunteers and folks looking for volunteer opportunities may also contact Stover to be included on a distribution list.
Arts and Crafts Center / Auto Hobby
200 Methusa Rd., (661) 275-ARTS / (661) 275-AUTO
Auto Hobby: Your Auto Hobby Center is new and improved! We now offer oil, oil filters, wiper blades and a variety of accessories – you can purchase these items to use yourself or Auto Hobby can do the work for you! We will match or beat any maintenance and repair prices (except for warranty work). We can also take care of special orders on parts.
Engraving: New and improved laser-engraver – the quality of our product will exceed your expectations! Our new machine can engrave on a variety of materials – glass, plastic, wood, metal, etc. We will match any price within the local AV community.
Smog Testing: Saturdays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost is $48.25.
FREE Wi-Fi! FREE Wi-Fi while waiting on car repairs or classes at the Arts and Crafts Center.
Need new tires? Let us price new tires for your vehicle. We offer very competitive prices as well as services in mounting and balancing. Come visit Auto Hobby at Bldg. 2440 or call (661) 275-AUTO (2886) and ask for Jesse.
Towing Service Available through Auto Hobby: Tuesday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Call Auto Hobby for more information.
Club Muroc
275 Doolittle Parkway, (661) 275-CLUB
Club Muroc is closed on Saturdays and Sundays except for special functions or events. Club closed on Mondays after lunch. Call (661) 275-CLUB to book a special function with our catering department.
Club Member Only Lunch Special: Every Tuesday, our highlighted entry of the day will be $4.12 for members.
Fogleman's Lounge
Opens at 4 p.m., Tuesday-Friday. Enjoy a nice lounge area and have fun with our PS3 and Wii game systems or just come in with your own computer and connect to our free Wi-Fi.
Boss 'N' Buddy Night: Every Wednesday, 4-8 p.m. Ten Wings for $6 for members, $8 for non-members
Evening Dining at Club Muroc
Home Town Buffet: Dec. 3-19, 4-8 p.m. Cost is $10.95 for adult members; $12.95 for adult non-members; $6 for children 6-12 years; and $2 for children under 6. Children's menu also available.
Club Members Early Bird Special: Dining room opens a 4 p.m. Members receive a $3 discount adult/$1 discount child off our normal buffet price from 4-5 p.m. This is a great opportunity to eat at the club and then go out and do your Holiday Shopping!
Watch for new evening dining menu for Tuesday–Thursday coming in January!
No evening dining on Fridays in December due to Holiday Parties. A short order menu available in Fogelman's Lounge.
New Year's Eve: Dec. 31, reservations required by 4 p.m., Dec. 27. Doors open at 8 p.m., DJ entertainment starts at 9 p.m. Heavy hors d'oeuvres, 9 p.m.-midnight. Breakfast after midnight: scrambled eggs, hash browns, sausage and toast. Champagne at midnight. Cost is $10 for members and guests, $20 for non-members (adults only).
Members Only Special
Birthday Month Coupon: Happy Birthday from Club Muroc! Stop by Club Muroc during your birthday month and we'll give you a coupon for a free meal! Offer valid for Edwards club members only. Pick up Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Education and Training
140 Methusa Ave., Bldg. 2453, (661) 277-2713
Complete Your CCAF Degree: The Education Center has CCAF advisers available to assist you with completion of your CCAF degree. Call (661) 277-2713, or stop by Bldg. 2435, 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Don't procrastinate, it's easier than you think!
Webster University, an ACBSP regionally accredited university, is looking for potential faculty to teach graduate-level finance or human resource courses at our Edwards AFB campus. Minimum qualifications include a master's degree in a related field (terminal degree preferred), professional experience, and preferably experience teaching at the graduate level. Applicants should send their resume/vita to firstname.lastname@example.com. For more information, call Karen Fudala at (661) 258-8501.
Family Child Care
1208 W. Fitzgerald Blvd., Bldg 6457, (661) 275-4322
Extended Duty Care: The Air Force offers the Extended Duty Care Program to assist parents who need additional child care beyond their normal arrangements due to mission related requirements. Children must already be enrolled in the Child Development Center, the School Age Program or the Family Child Care Program to qualify. To enroll in this FREE Extended Duty Program or for more information, please contact the Family Child Care office at (661) 275-4322.
Returning Home Care: Members are authorized 16 hours of hourly care within 30 days of their return from deployment. Contact the Family Child Care Coordinator for more details on the program at (661) 275-4322.
Family Child Care is seeking dedicated people who love working with children! If you live on base and want to care for children in your home or you are a military dependent and live off base, you may be eligible to be a licensed or affiliated provider! Make a positive difference in the lives of children! Most materials and training are provided free of charge!
High Desert Lanes Bowling Center
205 Fitzgerald, Bldg. 5214, (661) 275-BOWL
Youth Glow-in-the-Dark Tournament: Dec. 14, 3 p.m. Registration begins Dec. 1. Entry fee is $10, and the tournament is open to ages 5-16. This will be singles tournament. The format will be 8-pin-no-tap. A family bowling package of unlimited bowling and shoe rental for your next 3 visits will be awarded to the top individuals from each age group. The age groups competing are, 5-6 years, 7-9 years, 10-12 years, and 13-16 years.
Unit functions: Daily, all hours, with reservations. Cost is $5 per person and includes three games and shoe rentals. Units may reserve lanes anytime during open bowl for parties, commander's call, team-building events.
Mondays Lunch & Bowl: 11 a.m.-2 p.m., $1.25 per game. Shoe rental, $1 per adult.
Thursdays Family Game Night: 3-7 p.m. $1.50 per game per person, $1 shoe rental. Glow in the dark bowling, fun for the whole family.
Friday Night Early Bird Special Unlimited Bowling: 2-6 p.m. Cost is $5 per person, bowl as many games as you want. Shoe rental: $1.75 for adults, and $1.50 for youth.
Friday Colored Head Pin, Glow In The Dark Bowling: 6-10 p.m. Cost is $2.25 per game. Shoe rental is $1.50 for adults, $1.75 for youths.
Saturdays Family Dollar Day: Noon-4 p.m. Cost is $1 per game, $1 shoe rental.
Saturday Glow-In-The-Dark Bowling : 6-10 p.m. Cost is $10 per person, shoe rental included.
Honor Guard
148 Methusa Ave., Bldg. 2462, (661) 275-BLUE
If you need to request the Blue Eagles Honor Guard for your ceremonies please email email@example.com, or call (661) 810-8039.
Information, Tickets and Travel
205 W. Popson Ave., Bldg. 2500, 275-TRIP
Coming Soon: Your ITT office will offer travel services for cruises, tours, hotel bookings and more! Our new travel agency can handle all of your vacation needs at great discounted prices and excellent service!
Knott's Berry Farm Military Tribute Days: Knott's Military, past and present, starts Nov. 4. Free admission for veterans or current serving military personnel and one guest with proper I.D. presented at turnstile plus purchase, directly from Knott's, up to six additional tickets for just $22 each until Nov. 27! Nov. 28-Jan. 5, 2014, up to six additional tickets can be purchased for only $27 each.
- Eligible person must be present. Dependent I.D.s will not be accepted
- Valid proof of military service with photo I.D. required. Eligible person must be present.
- Potential military that may inquire: Reserves and DOD (Department of Defense)
Tournament of Roses Parade: Jan. 1; depart the Oasis Community Center at 5 a.m., return at approximately 2 p.m. Tickets are $85 per person for all ages (reduced from last year), and includes grandstand seating and transportation. This popular tour sells out quickly, so reserve your seats today.
Mulligan Family Fun Center: All-day pass tickets are now available for $17 per person.
ITT Pricelist & Other Events: To see the current ITT price list for events, parks, hotels and discount information, visit www.95FSS.com. For the most up-to-date information, press the F5 key to refresh page.
5 W. Yeager Blvd., Bldg. 2665, (661) 275-BOOK
New Items: Visit the library every Tuesday to be the first one to borrow new released books, DVDs, Blu-ray, TV series, books on CD and more. We invite you to sign up for the Information Awareness Program, to receive a weekly email containing the complete list of new items. To enroll, email at email@example.com or call (661) 275-BOOK.
At the Library: Available for a loan period of two weeks; each item may be renewed at the library only, if there are no pending requests by other customers:
- Books
- Books and CD Sets
- MP3 (Playaway)
- Rosetta Stone CD-ROM (Spanish and Russian only)
Universal Class Now Available: Get access to Universal Class today! This program offers more than 500 online courses on a wide range of subjects/levels, available 24/7, instructor led, self-paced. Universal Class courses are informational and designed to enhance student knowledge, increase skills and stimulate interest in a subject. Visit the Library for more information.
New Resources in the Children's section: Playaway View, the first all-in-one video player of its kind, pre-loaded with multiple videos of the best educational programming, now available at the Main library. Try it out and select titles such as math, exploring space, U.S. history and more.
Children's Story Time: Every Wednesday and Friday at 10 a.m., base employees and community members volunteer their time to read stories and create a craft project designed for toddlers and preschool children.
Free Online Services
Learning Express: If you are taking tests for school, looking to get certified or licensed, or trying to improve your software skills, chances are LearningExpress Library has the resources you need. Self-paced courses and tutorials are available for anyone at any level, elementary school to adult education, in a wide variety of subject areas including: Microsoft Office Suite programs, Adobe applications, military and college test prep, civil service licensure prep, adult skills building, and resume writing. Additionally, LearningExpress is the only resource Air Force libraries provide that specifically helps with the U.S. Citizenship tests. Registration is available through the Ai ForceF Portal; afterwards, you'll be able to access your LearningExpress account from anywhere. For more information, contact the library at (661) 275-BOOK.
Zinio: A leading full-service distributor of digital magazines, the Zinio newsstand has thousands of top magazines from around the world. Browse the list of subscriptions AF libraries own (currently 642 popular titles including Newsweek, National Geographic and Parenting), select and read anywhere, anytime using your computer, smartphone or tablet. To take advantage of this wonderful service, visit the Base Library or call (661) 275-BOOK for more information.
Muroc Lake Golf Course
111 Crest Dr., (661) 275-PUTT
Get Golf Ready: Dec. 8, 11, 13, 16, 18 and 20, 3-4:30 p.m. Cost is $99 per person and includes nine-hours of instruction on the driving range, putting & chipping greens and on the golf course. Golf Instruction for beginners to include all aspects of the game and playing golf on the course. Golf clubs will be provided if needed. Limited to the first 10 players signed up. Sign up at the MLGC golf shop.
Christmas Classic Golf Tournament: Dec. 14, 7 a.m. showtime, 8 a.m. shotgun start. Cost is $35 per player and includes green fees and lunch following play. $10 cart fee (cars optional). Format: Two-person Best Ball Modified Stableford. Points are awarded for scores on each individual hole and the team with the most points wins the golf tournament. Limited to the first 72 teams signed up. Sign up by Dec. 11 at the MLGC golf shop.
Football Frenzy is back with NFL Sunday Ticket at Muroc Lake Golf Course Every Sunday beginning Sept. 8, 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Enjoy up to six games on our three brand new 60" Flat Screens! Visit Muroc Lake Golf Course during the week to enter your vote on which 6 games will be featured, then come out on Sunday with your family or friends to enjoy all the action! Get your FREE weekly Football Parlay Card – you could win $25 cash! Lots of other prizes and giveaways throughout the game. Club members can enter to win a trip to a regular season game and even a chance to win a trip to the Super Bowl! Food and beverage specials will be available throughout the day.
Didn't get enough football on Sunday? Join us at The Hangar (formerly known as Stripes Lounge inside the Oasis Community Center) for Monday Night Football on our huge 16-foot movie screen, every Monday beginning Sept. 9! Free popcorn, billiards, darts and Texas Hold 'em! We will also offer the free Football Parlay card with a $25 winner each week and prizes throughout the event. Club Members will get another chance to enter to win one of the trips to a regular season game or a trip to the Super Bowl. Domestic and import drafts, sodas, and snacks are available for purchase. Must be at least 18 years old to attend.
Annual Membership: Are you a frequent visitor to the Muroc Lake Golf Course? Save money by purchasing an annual membership. Memberships run from April 1 through March 31 but you can join now with these pro-rated rates:
E5 and above/Retirees/DOD Civlians: $250
Contractor/Civilian Guest: $316.64
*Prices pro-rated as of Aug. 1, 2013
Twilight Golf: Daily, 2:30 p.m.-sunset. Had a long day at work? Take a little time to relax and enjoy some golf! Our 'Twilight Special' is a great way to end the day, get a few holes in before dark and save money!
E1-E4; $4.50 green fees
E5-O3; $6.50 green fees
O4-above; $7.50 green fees
DOD, Contractors and guests; $8.50 green fees
Carts are $5.00 per person
Monday-Friday Special: 7 a.m.-1 p.m. $25 for 18 holes of golf, a cart and lunch.
Want to learn how to play golf: Come learn from our club pros, Ricky Lanning and Chelsea Orozco can teach you everything you will need to know at your convenience. From longer drives to make more putts and everything in between, our pros can bring you from amateur to pro!
Wi-Fi is now available at the Muroc Lake Golf Course Clubhouse.
Golf Pro Shop: Our pro shop offers special orders and yellow tag sales – stop by and check it out.
Sandbagger Grill: Muroc Lake Golf Course
The Sandbagger offers a large variety of meal options from our breakfast menu, Angus beef hamburgers, sandwiches, focaccia's, Panini's and salads. Call for more information, reservations or special functions! Daily specials are served with a side of French fries or salad and small soda:
Monday and Tuesday: $6 lunch special; choices range from teriyaki chicken bowl, quesadillas, lasagna, pasta and more.
Wednesday: Build your own taco salad with the choice of homemade chicken or beef and a various selection of toppings (fries and salad are not available as a side with this meal); $8.25.
Thursday: Tri tip slow cooked and marinated in tequila, thinly sliced on toasted ciabatta bread, topped with Swiss cheese and sautÈed mushrooms; $8.95.
Friday: Nine-ounce fish fillet and chips, with a side of homemade tartar sauce and malt vinegar; $8.95.
Oasis Community Center
205 W. Popson Ave., (661) 275-CNTR
Edwards Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony Holiday Card Lane: Dec. 6, 5:30 p.m. at the BX parking lot. Enjoy holiday music, free cookies and hot chocolate, the judging of the Holiday Card Lane Contest and SNOW!
Fitness Classes available at the Oasis Community Center:
Zumba: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 7-7:55 p.m.
Monday and Wednesday, 10-10:55 a.m.
Cost is $3 per person, per class and there is a 25 percent discount if you purchase a 10-class punch card.
Monthly Instructional Classes: All classes are conducted at the Oasis Community Center. Call (661) 275-2687 for additional information. Use your PLAYpass here!
- Classical Guitar Lessons: Cost $28 per half hour lesson, per student. Call for available lesson days/times.
- Basic/Beginning Drum Lessons: Cost $28 per half hour lesson, per student. Call for available lesson days/times.
- Piano Lessons: Cost $28 per half hour lesson, per student. Call for available lesson days/times.
- Kinderfiddle (beginning violin): Cost $28 per half hour lesson, per student. Call for available lesson days/times.
- Karate Class: Monday and Wednesday, 5-7 p.m. Cost is $55 per month, per person, ages 7 and up.
- Hula Lessons: Thursdays, $20 per month for beginners, $25 per month for intermediate and advanced.
Outdoor Recreation
Kincheloe Ave., (661) 275-CAMP
Open Paintball/Airsoft: Dec. 7, 10 a.m.- 4p.m.
$40 Paintball package includes 500 rounds, air, and equipment rental and field fees
$35 Airsoft package Includes 2,000 rounds, equipment rental and field fees
$30 Package includes air, equipment rental and field fees
$15 Field fee
$5 All day air
Beginner thru Advanced is welcome. No reservation required, bring lunch and water.
Wall Climbing Certification Classes: Dec. 10, 5 p.m. at the Oasis Aquatic Center Climbing Wall. Cost is $15 and advanced registration is required. Bring a friend and get a 10 percent discount. Minimum of four participants, maximum of eight. Learn basic climbing techniques, skills & safety. You will be required to return at a later time to be tested on your training. Successful completion of the class and testing will grant you access to the wall and climbing equipment.
Ski/Snowboard Special: Pick up your ski/snowboarding gear after 3 p.m., that day is FREE! Ride the next day and return the third day, by normal drop off time (Noon or 1 pm on Sunday), all for a one-day charge. $20, gets you, your boots, board/skis, bindings, helmet and poles. Call ODR for more details.
Bluefins Swim Club: Tuesday and Thursday. 4:45-6:45 p.m., at the Oasis Indoor Pool. Cost is $70 per child (monthly fee). Improve your basics; work on progressive skills, stroke correction and refinement. Pre-test required for age 8 years and up.
Private Swimming Lessons: Cost is $10 for up to 30 minute lesson, $15 for up to a 45 minute lesson, and $20 for up to an hour, any age. Children learn safety, fundamental breathing and stroke techniques taught by American Red Cross certified Water Safety Instructors at Oasis Pool. Talk to our seasoned lifeguard staff about what you want to learn and let them help you accomplish your goals, today!
Pools Hours:
Oasis Aquatic Center
Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Lap Swim Only
Monday-Friday, 3-7 p.m. Open Swim
Closed Weekends and Holidays
Private Swimming Lessons: Cost is $10 for up to 30 minute lesson, $15 for up to 45 minute lesson, and $40 for up to an hour lesson, any age. You can learn how to swim or improve on what you already know. Come talk to our seasoned lifeguard staff about what you want to learn and let them help you accomplish your goals, today!
Horseback Riding Lessons: Variety of lessons offered. Call Outdoor Recreation for more information.
Cooking Equipment: We have oil less infrared cookers and traditional fryers for only $5 a day!
Stables: Did you know that Outdoor Recreation has riding stables where you can board your horse? For $25 a month with a $25 a month membership fee you can board your horse at Outdoor Recreations Riding Stables. Call Outdoor Recreation for more details.
Overnight Camping at Branch Park: Cost is $5 for a campsite for up to four people. Come and get a "wilderness experience" right here on base. This will be primitive camping (no potable water, no telephones, and no RVs).
Private Parties: Rod & Gun, Paintball, and other Outdoor Recreation activities are available for squadron functions and private parties. In addition to using our facilities, let us plan a trip for you! Interested in going somewhere with your squadron or a group of friends? Tell us and we'll do the legwork for you. Let us know how many people, where you want to go, and what your budget is and we'll do the rest!
Team Building: Does your office, element or group need some team building? Come talk to us! We have instructors and the facilities to make it a great afternoon/day for you and your staff. Prices vary depending on the activity and group size. Call us today and let's plan an event!
RV Storage: Numerous openings are available in RV Storage! Come over and park your equipment for our low prices and have access to them anytime you need! 20′ Active Duty and Retiree – $15; 20′ All Others – $20; 25′-30′ Active Duty and Retiree – $20; 25′-30′ All Others – $25; 35′-50′ Active Duty and Retiree – $25, 35′-50′ All Others – $30.
Rod & Gun
210 Adams Way, (661) 275-CAMP
December Special: E-4 and below receive first two rounds free and a free gun rental!
Rifle and Pistol Range: Dec. 14, 10 a.m-1 p.m. Open for Rod & Gun patrons. Pistol rentals are available at the Rod & Gun Club, Bldg. 210.
Big 50: Thursdays. The "Big 50" is an ATA Registered shoot in which each participant shoots 50 single. Targets, 50 double targets and 50 targets from their handicapped position.
Rosburg Fitness Center
210 W. Popson Ave., (661) 275-GYM1
Healthy Weight Class: Thursdays, noon-1:30 p.m. Call the HAWC for more information.
Tae Kwon Do: Cost: A children's monthly pass is $65, an adult monthly pass is $70, and a daily pss is $9 per day.
For more information, call Kumye Moore at (661) 860-9292.
Use your PLAYpass here!
Personal Trainers: Cost is $40 per hour session, $25 for a half-hour session. Call to schedule your appointment and start reaching those fitness goals. For appointments, call Jeff Walden at (210) 723-2052, Johnny Johnson at (660) 233-2141 or Lauren Brandin at (210) 723-2052.
Use your PLAYpass here!
Massage Therapy: Cost is $40 for 30 minutes, $70 for an hour, or $100 one and a half hours. Available 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, by appointment only. Couples massage is also offered. For more information and appointments, call Brittni Albrechti at (661) 317-2139. Use your PLAYpass here!
Lunchtime Disc Golf at Mojave Greens: Wednesdays, noon, Mojave Greens Disc Golf Course, Hole 1. Join us for a round of lunchtime golf. Players of all skill levels are invited to attend. Experienced golfers will be on hand to offer advice and work with beginners. Equipment will be available for loan. Take this opportunity to meet other disc golfers on base and challenge each other on the course!
Equipment Orientation Classes: Tuesday, 10-11 a.m., Wednesday, 4-5 p.m., and Thursday, 7-8 p.m. Not sure how to use equipment or what it does for you? Stop by the front desk and sign up for this one-hour class. We are here to help you get the most out of your fitness routine.
Teen Center
100 Kincheloe Ave., Bldg. 7211, (661) 275-8336
The All New and Improved "Find Rudolph:" Dec. 9-13, somewhere on Edwards AFB.
Monday- Friday, December 9 – 13The hunt is on! Who will be the lucky one to find Rudolph and win $100 cash? Rudolph is hidden somewhere on Edwards. Stop by Teen Center, Youth Center, School Age Center or CDC to receive a "Hunting" license to find Rudolph and pick up the daily clues that will eventually lead you to where Rudolph is hidden! The lucky winner will receive $100 CASH.
The search period will be for just five days instead of the normal 10 days (note the dates above). Any student who produces a good report card (A's & B's), progress report, or good test results (90 percent) will receive a bonus clue. If a family hunting for Rudolph does not have a school age child then they may produce evidence that they participated in a community service project or volunteer service in order to receive the bonus clue. In addition, a second bonus clue will be given to all members of the CDC, School Age Center, Teen Center and Youth Center. The bonus clues will not be given out past Dec. 10.
Teen Center Video Contest: Thanks to all those who voted for the Edwards Teen Center Tour video. Edwards amassed more than 1,000 votes and won second place in the voting which was worth $2000. What a great group effort to earn the teen center some badly needed money. The money will be spent on upgrades for the Teen Center. The sponsors of the video contests have already announced the next video contest which will be a holiday music video dedicated to deployed service members. The Edward's teens are already working on it and hope they can count on you for more votes. Watch for base wide emails and other announcements for more information.
Youth & Teen Sponsorship: Are you new to the area? Will you be PCS'ing soon? Wouldn't it be nice to have a friend to show your kids around base? The Air Force Youth Centers offer sponsorship for kids & teens so that every move is a seamless transition. For more information about Youth or Teen Sponsorship contact the Main Youth Center, (661) 275-5437.
Super Sitters Course: Cost is $40 for course and registration, at Youth Center (Bldg. 5210). Super Sitters courses are held every so often when at least six students are on the list. The classes are taught in two, four-hour segments, location and times will vary on availability. The course is open for youth and teens ages 11-18. Once registered, student will be notified of the next available course.
Keystone Club: Tuesdays, 4:15 p.m. The Keystone Club is a leadership group for high school students to learn and practice leadership skills through the management of community service projects and fund raising activities.
Youth Programs
24 Lathrop Dr., (661) 275-5437
4-H Music Club: Dec. 11, 3:30-5 p.m. Learn basic music skills. See Mr. Chris for details and to sign up.
4-H Photography Club: Dec. 4, 3:30-5 p.m. Learn basic photography skills. See Ms. Sarah for details. See Ms. Heather to sign up.
The All New and Improved "Find Rudolph:" Dec. 9-13, somewhere on Edwards AFB.
Monday- Friday, December 9 – 13The hunt is on! Who will be the lucky one to find Rudolph and win $100 cash? Rudolph is hidden somewhere on Edwards. Stop by Teen Center, Youth Center, School Age Center or CDC to receive a "Hunting" license to find Rudolph and pick up the daily clues that will eventually lead you to where Rudolph is hidden! The lucky winner will receive $100 CASH.
The search period will be for just five days instead of the normal 10 days (note the dates above). Any student who produces a good report card (A's & B's), progress report, or good test results (90 percent) will receive a bonus clue. If a family hunting for Rudolph does not have a school age child then they may produce evidence that they participated in a community service project or volunteer service in order to receive the bonus clue. In addition, a second bonus clue will be given to all members of the CDC, School Age Center, Teen Center and Youth Center. The bonus clues will not be given out past Dec. 10.
Creative Kids Art: Daily, 3-5 p.m. Join us in the art area as we create all types of cool arts and crafts. No cost!
Boys & Girls Club Power Hour/Project Learn – Join today: Monday-Thursday, 2:45-4 p.m. Power Hour: making minutes count helps club members (ages 6-12) become successful in school by providing homework help/ tutoring while encouraging members to become self-directed learners. See Ms. Jasmine for details and to sign up.
Torch Club: Tuesdays, 3:30-4:30 p.m., in the Torch Room. Torch clubs are charter, small-group leadership and service clubs for boys and girls ages 9-12. It is a powerful vehicle through which club staff can help meet the special character development needs of younger adolescents at a critical stage in their development. See Mr. Andrew for details.
Youth & Teen Centers Memberships: For about a dollar a day, you could have peace of mind knowing that your son or daughter is in a safe environment – an environment that fosters development in many different areas and offers constant supervision, tutoring and fun! Did you know that the most dangerous time for youth, especially teens, are between the hours of 3 pm and 6 pm? The Youth and Teen Centers offer social opportunities and structured programming from affiliated agencies such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the 4-H Club. For more information about youth & teen memberships, contact the main youth center at (661) 275-5437.
Youth & Teen Sponsorship: Are you new to the area? Will you be PCS'ing soon? Wouldn't it be nice to have a friend to show your kids around base? The Air Force Youth Centers offer sponsorship for kids & teens so that every move is a seamless transition. For more information about Youth or Teen Sponsorship contact the Main Youth Center, (661) 275-5437.
Super Sitters Course: Cost is $40 for course and registration, at Youth Center (Bldg. 5210). Super Sitters courses are held every so often when at least six students are on the list. The classes are taught in two, four-hour segments, location and times will vary on availability. The course is open for youth and teens ages 11-18. Once registered, student will be notified of the next available course.
Toddler Learning Center: Toddler classes at the Creative Arts Center (JZ) for ages 1-4 (older siblings are welcome). Are you looking for a class that you & your toddler can share in? If so this is the class for you! TLC is a Mom, Pop & Tot class that allows families to learn while playing! Classes are filling fast. For more information, call Youth Programs at (661) 275-KIDS or Ms. Amy (325) 829-5101.
Youth Sports
Contact Emil Graves, (661) 277-8961
Calling all 3 and 4 year olds: Smart Start Basketball registration begins Dec. 9. Cost is $35 per child. Smart Start Basketball season startsJan. 15.
Basketball Coaches: Youth Sports & Fitness is looking for highly motivated volunteers to coach basketball this year. The season starts in January. Register at the Youth Center.
FitFactor Fridays, 3:15-5 p.m. Join us in the Gym! Be Active and Eat Healthy to reach the FitFactor Levels and Earn Prizes! You can find more information at www.afgetfit.com.


text:
Comic 116
Link: Comic 116
Translations: http://www.beaverandsteve.com/wiki/images/8/8f/Finnishflag.png Finnish, http://www.beaverandsteve.com/wiki/images/5/52/Frenchflag.png French, http://www.beaverandsteve.com/wiki/images/5/57/Polishflag.png Polish, http://www.beaverandsteve.com/wiki/images/0/04/Danishflag.png Danish, http://www.beaverandsteve.com/wiki/images/7/79/Italianflag.gif Italian
Title: Panda-monium - part 3
Date: October 10, 2005
Summary: Beaver and Steve locate the panda's nest and the majestic Queen
Cast: Beaver, Steve, Queen Panda
Onomatopoeias used: "MEW", "PULSATE!"
Number of panels: 6
Panel 1
Beaver: "Now, where could the nest be?"
Panel 2
Steve: "Is that it next to the fridge?"
The nest towers next to the fridge.
Beaver: "You could be right Steve, let's check it out"
Panel 3
Beaver sticks his head inside the entrance to the nest.
Beaver: "Wow - It's huge in here!"
Steve: "Are you sure about this Beaver?"
Panel 4
Beaver: "This place is amazing! We're so lucky, to be able to see this marvel of nature!"
Steve: "It smells funny"
Panel 5
Beaver: "This is it - The Queens chamber!"
Steve: "Perhaps we should come back another time?"
Panel 6
The Queen Panda MEW's and PULSATE!'s.
Beaver: "There she is... Majestic!"
Steve: "Or you know, we could just move house..."
Fun Facts
Panda nests are bigger than fridges
Panda nests smell funny
Queen Pandas are majestic
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subset: commoncrawl


text:
Now we're email buddies!
You have chosen to receive our #NAMED_LISTS# newsletters at #EMAIL_ADDRESS#. You will receive an e-mail shortly confirming your subscription. So excited to have you!
Refinery 29
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Is it just us, or does going outside this week feel exactly like walking directly into a brick wall of heat? And, even though we're inclined to shade our skin from the sun's blaring rays, throwing on anything more than a wispy tank sounds downright uncomfortable — even with the AC cranked up.
Because a so-thin camisole is just about the only appropriate option, we rounded up a dozen that are cute enough to go solo. From a silky, lace-trimmed style to a mesh-paneled pick that's perfect for work and play, click through to get your hands on the must-have shirt of the summer. The best part? You can keep these picks on call as soon as layering weather comes back around.


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30 CFR 780.11 - Operation plan: General requirements.
Each application shall contain a description of the mining operations proposed to be conducted during the life of the mine within the proposed permit area, including, at a minimum, the following:
(a) A narrative description of the type and method of coal mining procedures and proposed engineering techniques, anticipated annual and total production of coal, by tonnage, and the major equipment to be used for all aspects of those operations; and
(b) A narrative explaining the construction, modification, use, maintenance, and removal of the following facilities (unless retention of such facilities is necessary for postmining land use as specified in § 816.133):
(4) Spoil, coal processing waste, and non-coal waste removal, handling, storage, transportation, and disposal areas and structures;
[44 FR 15357, Mar. 13, 1979, as amended at 45 FR 51550, Aug. 4, 1980]
Title 30 published on 2014-07-01.
The following are only the Rules published in the Federal Register after the published date of Title 30.
For a complete list of all Rules, Proposed Rules, and Notices view the Rulemaking tab.
Title 30 published on 2014-07-01
The following are ALL rules, proposed rules, and notices (chronologically) published in the Federal Register relating to 30 CFR Part 780 after this date.


text:
Make imagination your destination! Disney On Ice presents Passport to Adventure takes audiences on a fun-filled tour to four exciting destinations filled with favourite Disney friends. Join Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse on a journey into the magical worlds of Disney's The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Peter Pan and Lilo & Stitch. Discover Ariel and Sebastian's enchanting undersea kingdom; visit the Pride Lands with Simba and Nala; soar through starry skies with Peter Pan and his sassy fairy friend Tinker Bell; and say "aloha" to fun with Lilo and Stitch. You'll be captivated by the music, beauty and laughter in a journey so magical, you'll never want to go home.
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text:
Plumerias Discussion Forum
| Plumerias (or Frangipanis as they're sometimes called) are wonderful tropical plants, often grown indoors in temperate climates. Their fragrance ranges from sweet to citrusy, and their blooms are beautiful to behold.
Looking for a source of plants? Try the Watchdog's list of
Plumeria vendors.
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text:
Charlie Sykes: Sykes Writes
A New Low for Union Thuggishness
...so low, in fact, that the editor of the Beloit Daily News called them out on it.
I happened to see a Facebook post put up by Mark Finnegan. Mark and his family run Finnegan's RV, but he and his brother John are best known in recent years for the outstanding VetsRoll program. The project has taken hundreds of World War II and Korea Era veterans, all expenses paid, to Washington to view the war memorials and receive the honors they so richly deserve. It's one of the best and most selfless efforts in our area, which is why the Finnegans received last year's Beloit Daily News Laurence A. Raymer Headliner Award.
Mark was an invited guest at the Republicans' Lincoln Day Dinner. He wasn't there to be political. As Mark noted, "I go to great lengths to remain politically neutral." He was there strictly to tell the group about the VetsRoll program.
He brought three others with him: "I had three honored guests with me, a WWII veteran who arrived by himself, plus an 87-year-old (I believe) WWII Navy WAVE (female veteran) and my own 86-year-old mother, a 'Rosie-the-Riveter' during WWII."
I SHOULD NOTE here that Mark did not seek out the newspapers' attention. He posted on Facebook; I saw it; I contacted him. This is a story that needs telling.
Mark said as they arrived he saw a crowd of "boisterous" protesters, "with a few even laying down on the ground in front of the doors to disrupt guests from entering. As I escorted my WAVE guest through the crowd, we were met with an onslaught of profanity, boos, taunting and a childish, obnoxious guy with a bullhorn."
From that point, it got worse.
"After I guided her safely inside, I went back out to meet my arriving mother and to escort her through this intimidating group. Someone in the group recognized who I was and immediately the crowd began a chant of 'Boycott Finnegans' RV Center!' ... I met my mother and convinced her that these people were simply expressing their 'rights' and that she would be safe. She somewhat reluctantly agreed to walk in. ... As we tried to walk through the group again, these people (not kids, mostly in their 40s to 60s) continued to focus their boycott chant on our family name and business of 43 years, crowding, screaming and booing not only me, but my beloved 86-year-old mother. The moron with the bullhorn walked beside us while leading the 'Boycott Finnegans' chant with that thing only about 12 inches from my ear and that of my mother's."
Mark notes that, on behalf of VetsRoll, he has spoken to and received enthusiastic support from various unions in several communities. He points out that VetsRoll supporters come from all walks of life, with the full diversity of political opinions.
But because he dared show up at this gathering — not as a political advocate, but to represent VetsRoll — he and his elderly guests were abused.
REGULAR READERS of the Beloit Daily News know I am about as close to an absolutist as you will find on the First Amendment. It goes beyond a free press. The First Amendment guarantees the people's right to speak freely and in defiance of political authority. It protects people who choose to dissent as a group, or, as the Amendment itself reads: "peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."
The Constitution even protects the obnoxious, the rude, the loudmouth louts who seem hell-bent to offend.
And I would stand in defense of that constitutional right until the sky falls.
But I would hasten to add a few thoughts:
• First, the Finnegans are wonderful people making wonderful things happen for a group of Americans deserving honor and respect. Mark, his mom and the others did not deserve such mistreatment. What's that word the protesters like so much? Oh, yes — "Shame!"
• The more obnoxious and repellent protesters act out in public, the better Walker's chances of surviving a recall become. Offending people is not a very good vote-getting strategy.
• Backlash is all but assured. If I were advising the governor, I'd put him out there with this crowd early and often. Bad behavior drives votes to the other side.
This site uses Facebook comments to make it easier for you to contribute. If you see a comment you would like to flag for spam or abuse, click the "x" in the upper right of it. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use.


text:
Should You be Screened for Lung Cancer?
CT Screening Saves Lives. Screening is a test used to detect lung cancer before any symptoms appear. New research has provided hope in the fight against lung cancer. Results of the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) released in August, 2011, showed that screening with low-dose spiral computed tomography (CT) scans versus standard chest X-rays reduced lung cancer deaths among older heavy smokers by 20 percent. Improved detection at earlier stages, when lung cancer is more easily treated, is key to increased survival.
Here are some questions to help you decide if CT screening is right for you.
Am I a candidate for lung cancer screening? Yes, if you are:
- a current or former smoker
- and in the age group from 55 to 74 years
- and with a smoking history of at least 30 pack-years (this means 1 pack a day for 30 years, 2 packs a day for 15 years, etc.)
However, the best way to prevent lung cancer is to never smoke or stop smoking now. If you are still smoking, talk to your doctor about ways to help you quit smoking or call the Illinois Tobacco Quitline at 1-800-QUIT YES (1-800-784-8937).
Should I get a CT scan to screen for lung cancer? Discuss your complete health history with your own doctor and ask for a clear explanation about the possible benefits and risk. Screening for lung cancer with low dose CT scans may save your life, yet there are some risks and not everyone should be screened.
Chest X-rays rays should never be used for lung cancer screening.
What happens if I choose to get a CT scan for lung cancer? There is some radiation risk with a CT scan and you may need to have additional tests and procedures. You should go to a hospital or screening center that has a team of experts who will clearly explain the procedure to you. The team should tell you about all the risks and benefits of the screening; what the results can mean and how they will follow up with you after the initial screening.
What does it cost to have a CT scan for lung cancer? The cost is usually $300 to $500. Health insurance companies and Medicare may not cover the cost for a CT scan to screen for lung cancer at this time. Be sure to check with your insurance plan to see what is covered. Ask your doctor and the facility doing the CT scan to carefully and clearly explain all costs that you may possibly have and not just the cost of the CT scan alone.
What do the results mean? "Suspicious" means that the CT scan found something abnormal. This could mean lung cancer or some other serious condition. You may need to have additional procedures to find out exactly what is abnormal. If you do have lung cancer or some other serious condition, your doctor and the team of experts should discuss all possible treatment options with you.
"Negative" means that there were no abnormal findings on this CT scan. This does not mean you absolutely do not have lung cancer or that you will never get lung cancer. Your doctor should discuss when and if you should be tested again.
Where can I get more information about lung cancer and lung cancer screening? Contact the American Lung Association to find out more. The Lung HelpLine is staffed by registered nurses and respiratory therapists, and offers free counseling and support to callers seeking information about lung cancer. They can help you find a CT Screening Resource for you or your family member. Simply call 1-800-586-4872, Option 2.
Download Frequently Asked Questions
Physicians: Download Frequently Asked Questions


text:
Alert! Popular Weight Loss Pill Causes Death and Severely Sickens Many [VIDEO]
Watch TV for any length of time and sooner or later you're bound to see an infomercial about weight loss supplement pills. The obesity epidemic here in the U.S. has given rise to weight loss companies looking to cash in on desperate people looking for a shortcut to shed pounds


text:
Mini Travel Guide : Bali
27 September 2013
Categories : Travelings - Sightseeing
Where to go? What to do there? Kuta Kuta might be over-crowded. But I just can't stop going there over and over again. I used to swim a lot there, waiting for the sun to set. There's also a time when I found myself building a sand castle with my lil cousin. And I also did surfing several times. But still I can't always stand on the board. Need a lot more practice for that. You can take a surfing lesson class at Odysseys Surfing School. I took my first course for...
Tag : Kuta Beach, Dreamland, Ubud, Ubud Monkey Forest, Eat, Pray, Love and Escape in Ubud, Scrumptious Fresh Seafood any style at Jimbaran Beach


text: Sociology overview faculty program organizations after graduation Each of the department's five concentrations provides rigorous sociological training with emphasis on the skills needed to prepare for careers after graduation. Human services concentration – work in direct-assistance organizations or for graduate study in applied sociology, clinical sociology or social work Research and – an academic career such as teaching and doing research in sociology. Students with a concentration in research and theory also may go on to do graduate study in either Ph.D. or applied master's programs in sociology or professional education in fields such as business, public health and urban planning. Criminology and criminal justice – any area of the criminal justice system or for graduate work in law or criminology Education concentrations – teaching careers Anthropology – cross-cultural interactions and understanding, a tool that is useful in any career


text:
|Publication number
|Publication type
|Application number
|Publication date
|Feb 1, 2007
|Filing date
|Oct 4, 2006
|Priority date
|Mar 5, 2001
|Also published as
|Publication number
|Geoffrey Rhoads, Neil Lofgren, Philip Patterson
|Original Assignee
|Rhoads Geoffrey B, Lofgren Neil E, Patterson Philip R
|Export Citation
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Referenced by (13), Classifications (11), Legal Events (6)
|External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, Espacenet
This patent application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/423,834, filed Apr. 25, 2003 (published as US 2004-0008866 A1). The 10/423,834 application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 60/376,720, filed Apr. 29, 2002 and 60/383,474, filed May 23, 2002. The Ser. No. 10/423,834 application is also a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/800,093, filed Mar. 5, 2001 (published as US 2002-0124171 A1). The Ser. No. 10/423,834 application is also a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/002,954, filed Oct. 23, 2001 (published as US 2002-0122564 A1), which is a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/800,093, filed Mar. 5, 2001. The Ser. No. 10/002,954 application also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 60/284,163, filed Apr. 16, 2001 and 60/284,776, filed Apr. 18, 2001. The Ser. No. 10/423,834 application is also a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/100,233 (published as US 2002-0154144 A1), filed Jun. 5, 2002, and a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/858,336, filed May 15, 2001 (published as US 2002-0124024 A1). The 10/100,233 application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/284,776. The Ser. No. 10/423,834 application is also related to Ser. No. 09/833,013 (published as US 2002-0147910 A1), PCT application PCT/US02/06858 (published as WO 02/071685) and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/423,489 (published as US 2004-0046774 A1). Each of these patent documents is hereby incorporated by reference.
The present invention relates to image management and processing, and is particularly illustrated in the context of management of satellite and other aerial imagery.
Acquisition of aerial imagery traces its history back to the Wright brothers, and is now commonly performed from satellite and space shuttle platforms, in addition to aircraft.
While the earliest aerial imagery relied on conventional film technology, a variety of electronic sensors are now more commonly used. Some collect image data corresponding to specific visible, UV or IR frequency spectra (e.g., the MultiSpectral Scanner and Thematic Mapper used by the Landsat satellites). Others use wide band sensors. Still others use radar or laser systems (sometimes stereo) to sense topological features in three dimensions. Other types of image collection rely on electro-optical panchromatic (grayscale), multi-spectral (less than 20 bands) and hyper-spectral (20 bands or more). Some satellites can even collect ribbon imagery (e.g., a raster-like, 1-dimensional terrestrial representation, which is pieced together with other such adjacent ribbons).
The quality of the imagery has also constantly improved. Some satellite systems are now capable of acquiring image and topological data having a resolution of less than a meter. Aircraft imagery, collected from lower altitudes, provides still greater resolution.
A huge quantity of aerial imagery is constantly being collected. Management and coordination of the resulting large data sets is a growing problem. Integrating the imagery with related information is also a problem.
In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, digital watermarking technology is employed to help manage such imagery and related information, among other benefits. In another aspect, a digital watermark conveys information that is used to register or align geographic information system (GIS) layers with a corresponding image location, perhaps after the image has been distorted.
The foregoing and additional features and advantages of the present invention will be even more readily apparent from the following detailed description with reference to the following figures.
For expository convenience, the following section focuses on satellite and aerial "imagery" to illustrate the principles of the invention. The principles of the invention, however, are equally applicable to other forms of captured aerial data and other topographic/mapping information. Accordingly, the term "image" should be used to encompass all such other data sets, and the term "pixel" should be construed to encompass component data from such other data sets.
When new aerial imagery is received, it is generally necessary to identify the precise piece of earth to which it corresponds. This operation, termed "georeferencing" or "geocoding," can be a convoluted art and science.
In many systems, the georeferencing begins with a master reference system (e.g., latitude and longitude) that takes into account the earth's known deformities from a sphere. Onto this reference system the position of the depicted region is inferred, e.g., by consideration of the satellite's position and orientation (ephemeris data), optical attributes of the satellite's imaging system (e.g., resolution, magnification, etc.), and models of the dispersion/refraction introduced by the earth's atmosphere.
In applications where precise accuracy is required, the foregoing, "ephemeris," position determination is refined by comparing features in an image with the placement of known features on the earth's surface (e.g., buildings and other man-placed objects, geological features, etc.) and compensating the georeference determination accordingly. Thus, for example, if the actual latitude and longitude of a building is known (e.g., by measurement from a ground survey—"ground truth"), and the corresponding latitude and longitude of that building as indicated in the georeferenced satellite imagery is different, the reference system applied to the satellite data can be altered to achieve a match. (Commonly, three or more such ground truth points are used so as to assure accurate correction.) Of course these processes can involve both manual and automated steps.
Regardless of the georeferencing techniques used, once determined, a digital watermark can be used to convey geo-coordinates (or other georeferencing information—hereafter both referred to as geo-coordinates). The geo-coordinates can be as simple as longitude and latitude, or can be more finely referenced, e.g., with a geovector as described in our related applications. The georeferencing may also include image scale and/or orientation. A digital watermark can include the geo-coordinates as a message or payload. Or the digital watermark can include an identifier or index that is used to access or interrogate a geo-coordinate database.
Digital watermarking is a process for modifying physical or electronic media to embed a machine-readable code into the media. The media may be modified such that the embedded code is imperceptible or nearly imperceptible to the user, yet may be detected through an automated detection process. Most commonly, digital watermarking is applied to media signals such as images, audio signals, and video signals. However, it may also be applied to other types of media objects, including documents (e.g., through line, word or character shifting), software, multi-dimensional graphics models, and surface textures of objects.
Digital watermarking systems typically include two primary components: an encoder that embeds the watermark in a host media signal, and a decoder that detects and reads the embedded watermark from a signal suspected of containing a watermark (a suspect signal). The encoder embeds a watermark by altering the host media signal. The reading component analyzes a suspect signal to detect whether a watermark is present. In applications where the watermark encodes information, the reader extracts this information from the detected watermark.
Several particular watermarking techniques have been developed. The reader is presumed to be familiar with the literature in this field. Particular techniques for embedding and detecting imperceptible watermarks in media signals are detailed in the assignee's U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/503,881 (now U.S. Pat. No. 6,614,914) and U.S. Pat. No. 6,122,403, which are each herein incorporated by reference. Of course, there are other suitable digital watermarking techniques that can be interchanged with some aspects of the present invention.
One inventive aspect of the present invention is to randomly or pseudo-randomly vary watermark identifiers used by a particular image capture device or watermarking embedder. Or a block of identifiers can be pseudo-randomly generated and then delivered to the watermark embedder. Varying the identifier will help prevent would be pirates from determining which identifiers originate from a particular node or embedding station.
Digital watermarking an aerial image offers a host of advantages. A watermark can be used to convey both static information and dynamic information. Examples of static information are the geo-coordinates of the image depicted in the image, the time and day the image was captured, and a source type indicator. The source type indicator can indicate the imaging source, e.g., governmental or commercial, the imaging sensor used to capture the image, or even the aerial image capture platform and characteristics, e.g., satellite, unmanned aircraft, etc. The source type indicator can be used to regulate access to the image. Of course the static information can be conveyed directly by a digital watermark or can be accessed via a data record associated with or pointed to by the digital watermark identifier. Examples of dynamic information are analyst reports, current weather conditions in the depicted area, notes, current news, video, audio, related images and information, etc.
In our related applications, identified-above, we disclose techniques by which a depicted location area is embedded with a digital watermark so as to unique identify that particular location of a map, image or photograph (e.g., to identify geocoordinates associated with a depicted area, building, road, lake, etc.). An image can be segmented into blocks (or areas). A digital watermark is embedded in each block (or area) to convey (or point to) information that identifies the respective block's center geo-location, boundaries, corners, or object coordinates, etc. A position within the image is determined by reading the digital watermark embedded within a corresponding block.
In some implementations, a block can be further segmented into sub-blocks. Each of the sub-blocks preferably includes the identifying information for its parent block. This sub-blocking technique can provide increased watermark detection robustness. Essentially, when taking an image as a whole, the digital watermark(s) varies from block to block within the image to accommodate the unique identifiers. The block (or area) size can be finely referenced, e.g., a digital watermark can be embedded to uniquely identify a block of pixels and even an area represented by a single pixel.
In other implementations, the image includes an embedded identifier, which is redundantly embedded throughout the image. The identifier links back to metadata, e.g., to uniquely identify the image or to point to related data.
In some implementations, a plurality of images is "quilted" together to form a mosaic or image composite. The each of the many images preferably retains their unique watermark(s). These watermarks can be used to identify or point to geospatial information. Or the watermark can point to a description file that identifies the geolocation(s) of the depicted area or image patch and/or provides additional information regarding the depicted area.
An inventive aspect of the present invention utilities multiple watermarks in an image to provide a user with geo-reference feedback. Consider the following example. A user pulls up an image on her computer for display on her computer monitor, e.g., perhaps with the aid of image handling or viewing software. The image has been segmented into blocks and the blocks are embedded with a digital watermark to convey (or point to) geocoordinates for the area depicted in the respective block. The segmentation is preferably imperceptible to the user. Each watermark conveys or points to geo-coordinate information that is associated with the block. A software plug-in (or a separate program) cooperates with the image handling software and mouse (or touch screen) to provide user feedback. As the user positions her mouse (e.g., as shown on-screen as a standard "arrow" or pointer), the user is presented with the geo-coordinates associated with the subject location. The presentation can take a myriad of forms ranging, e.g., from text, box-up boxes, graphics, etc. (From a more technical viewpoint, a mouse screen-location position is provided from the mouse (or mouse driver) to the operating system, and then to the image handling software. The image handling software coordinates the screen-location with the displayed image. A digital watermark corresponding to the pointed-to-area or block (i.e., the mouse screen-location position) is decoded to obtain geo-coordinate information, and the geo-coordinate information is presented, perhaps after accessing additional information from a database. As an alternative, each digital watermark (or a group of digital watermarks) within an image is decoded once the image is pulled up on a monitor. The watermark identifier or payloads are associated with a particular displayed area. Then, when a user selects or points to a particular area, the geo-coordinates can be displayed without first having to decode the digital watermark.
Instead of only presenting the user with geo-coordinates, the feedback can be significantly enhanced. Consider, for example, right-clicking the mouse while the cursor is pointed to a particular image location. The right click activates a pop-up window (or separate application, like a media player or Windows Explorer, Internet browser, etc.). The pop-up window provides news broadcasts, if available, audio/video clip, related text that is associated with the location pointed to by the mouse cursor. From another perspective, the digital watermark embedded in the image at the cursor location is decoded. The embedded watermark carries or points to a geolocation. Information associated with the geolocation (or watermark identifier) is identified, e.g., from a database or new source, and is then presented to the user via the window or media player.
(Of course, it should be appreciated that instead of a mouse cursor, a touch screen, touch pen, optical receptor screen (e.g., one activate by a laser pointer), etc. can be used instead of a mouse. Also, our use of the term "right click" is not limiting. Other conventional techniques of activating computer functionality can be suitably interchanged with a "right-click.").
High-resolution images are huge in terms of the digital bytes required to represent the image. Often, such large images are down-sampled in order to efficiently display or print image areas. Down sampling may reduce the image resolution but it also reduces the file or area byte size, making the down sampled image easier to handle. While down sampling provides a faster and perhaps easier way to handle images, it can complicate the watermark detection process. Accordingly, in one implementation, we embedded a digital watermark at different resolutions within the image. Varying the number of pixels used for embedding a watermark component can achieve this "multi-scale" watermark. For example, for a high-resolution scale, a low number of pixels (maybe even only one pixel) is used to convey the watermark component; yet for a lower-resolution scale, the same watermark component is conveyed over a higher number of pixels, like a 6�6 block of pixels, 12�12 block, 16�16 block, 20�20 block, 128�128 block of pixels, etc. Accordingly our watermark is detectable at multiple resolutions.
In another implementation, an embedded digital watermark includes an orientation component. The orientation component preferably provides a reference used to determine a baseline or reference scale for the image. Once reconciled, however, the reference component provides clues to determine the original resolution of the image.
Digital watermarks form the backbone in an image distribution system (
A watermark provides a persistent identifier that is used to manage requests for imagery, as well as tracking and managing the distribution of such images to consumers 1-5. Consumers 1-5 may include government agencies, news and media, corporations, foreign entities, etc., etc. If desired, every action (or a subset of actions) that is carried out on the image can be reported to the data center for logging. For example, if an image is copied to a disk, such action is reported to the data center. Or if the image is cropped, scaled or printed, such is reported and recorded in the data center—thus creating an audit trail for the image. The audit trail can include user or device information as well. The image can be tracked via the identifier even as it is widely distributed. From a system level, a security software module monitors images for a watermark embedded therein. The software module preferably resides on each client system (e.g., computer terminal) in a closed network. Once detected, a watermark is decoded to obtain its identifier. The identifier is reported to a registry or data center, along with the particular action which triggered the decoding (e.g., printing, storing to disk, editing, etc.).
The digital watermark also simplifies license compliance and reporting. With reference to
Our watermarks can be used in even more robust settings. Consider the system shown in
The digitally watermarked source data (e.g., the captured image) is stored in a registry. The act of storing the source data in the registry preferably triggers a searching process. (Alternatively, an automatic schedule or manual input triggers the searching process.) One objective of the searching is to find information that is related to the source data, e.g., via geolocation or depicted subject matter. The types of information are limitless, and can include related images, notes, reports, data, history, news from a broadcast, geographic information system (GIS) layers and libraries, audio or video, imagery in libraries, geo-calibration data, periodicals and current or archived newspapers, current or historical weather, governmental and cultural information, consumer demographics, etc., etc. Searching can be facilitated in a number of ways. For example, the search may include searching for information associated with the source data's watermark identifier. The value of this searching method is particularly evident when the watermark identifier is associated with a geolocation. In alternative searching implementations the searching includes using the depicted geocoordinates as searching criteria. In other implementations the searching is facilitated by key words associated with depicted areas, associated political regions, associated cultures, depicted structures and/or other information depicted in the source data. The key words can be carried by a digital watermark. The searching becomes fully automated, since a digital watermark decoder can retrieve the key words from a watermark, and then communicate the key words to a search engine associated with specific data libraries. Or suppose, for example, that the source data depicts the Washington Monument. The key word search may involve searching databases, news sources, the internet, etc. for information related to the "Washington monument." Or if the source data depicts Boise, Id., a key word search may include the terms "Boise" and/or "Idaho." (Of course, the search can include alternative techniques such as topic searching, directed searching, etc., etc.). The related data, once identified, is associated in the data registry according to the unique identifier. Of course, instead of duplicating the related data, the data repository can include links to or addresses of the related data. Enhanced searching methods, such as those disclosed in assignee's U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 09/636,102 and 10/118,468 (published as US 2002-0188841 A1), can be implemented to populate the registry as well.
The search can also extend into image libraries. Previously captured images, identified via geo-location or other referencing identifiers, can be associated with the source data as "related imagery." This image-centric search is shown in
If the embedding is being carried out at ground stations, and not at the data registry, the registry can serve as a unique identifier repository, to help ensure that identifiers do not collide. A ground station can query the registry to obtain an appropriate identifier. Also consecutively assigned identifiers can be pseudo-randomly or randomly varied.
The registry (or perhaps a match filter, as discussed below, or a client software plug in) can also serve as a watchdog or audit tracker. A watchdog limits access to the source data and related data based on security clearance, environment (e.g., whether the requesting party is in a secure facility or out in the field) or device type. A digital watermark can convey environmental limitations or required security clearances that are associated with an image. The registry (or other module) compares the digital watermark information (e.g., indicating security clearance) with the requesting user's or computer terminal's information (e.g., the user's or terminal's security clearance). The image or information is conveyed to user or terminal only if the user's or terminal's clearance or environment is sufficient for the image or information.
An audit tracker serves to log movement and use of a watermarked image. The audit tracker can record access times, a person or terminal accessing the watermarked image, security levels associated with users or terminals accessing the watermarked image, printers at which the image is printed, whether the image is locally downloaded or emailed, etc. The tracking is facilitated with the digital watermark identifier. Once decoded, the identifier is used to access a log or data record. The log is populated with entries as the image is handled, printed, downloaded, etc. Software resident on a user terminal and/or network server can be used to facilitate such monitoring and tracking.
At some point in the registry process, the source data preferably undergoes a georeferencing (or photogrammetric) process (
A match filter is used in connection with the registry (
The match filter can optionally include (or cooperate with) an alert engine. The alert engine monitors the registry and sends out an alert (see
Another inventive feature is to allow for removal of an embedded digital watermark from a digital image. For example, there may be some image analysis that requires the original, unwatermarked image. In one implementation, the digital watermark includes a payload. The payload includes a network address or a pointer that points to an original, unwatermarked image. The original, unwatermarked image is obtained with the address or pointer. In another implementation, the digital watermark (or a registry record pointed to by the digital watermark) includes watermark-embedding details (e.g., watermark gain, watermark embedding protocol, tiling data, and/or perceptual masking, etc., etc.), which will allow a watermark remover module to remove the embedded digital watermark. The watermark is decoded to obtain the identifier. The identifier is then used to instruct the watermark embedding information to instruct the removal module in removing the digital watermark. In some alternative implementations, the registry (or other auditing module) records image manipulation, if any, which occur as the image is handled and analyzed. The manipulation data provides clues as to how the original data was manipulated; thus, allowing the manipulation to be reversed. The embedding information and, optionally, manipulation information, helps facilitate the near-perfect removal of the watermark. (In an alternative implementation, the watermark is embedded according to a predetermined rule or protocol, and the removal module removes the watermark according to the predetermined rule or protocol. In other cases we employ a so-called "reversible" watermarking technique, as, e.g., discussed in assignee's U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 10/319,404 (published as US 2003-0149879 A1), Ser. No. 10/319,380 (published as US 2003-0179900 A1), and PCT application no. PCT/US02/40162, published as WO 03/055130).
As indicated, the watermark(s) can identify the imaging system, the date/time of data acquisition, satellite ephemeris data, the identity of intervening systems through which the data passed, etc. One or more watermarks can stamp the image with unique identifiers used in subsequent management of the image data, or in management of meta data associated with the image.
Seal of Completeness
There are additional benefits in creating a georeferenced image registry system using digital watermarks. Consider the following. A classic notion in most industries is a "stamp" or "seal" or a similar concept to indicate that some object has successfully completed its appointed rounds. Call it branding, call it formality, or call it a soft form of "authenticity;" the historical momentum behind such a branding concept is huge. In one embodiment, to evidence that a given image has been properly georeferenced (under a chosen standard) and/or registered in a database, the image is digitally watermarked. The digital watermark provides a formalized "seal of approval." The digital watermark itself becomes a seal. In one embodiment, a watermark identifier is obtained from an online repository, which issues and tracks authentic identifiers. The repository can be queried to determine the date and time of issue. Or the identifier can be linked to a seal or company logo. Software and/or hardware are configured to routinely read embedded digital watermarks and display an appropriate brand logo, seal, or certification. The "seal" itself then becomes a functional element of a standardization process, serving many functions including permanent attachment to standardized and dynamic metadata.
Geographic Information System
Digital watermarking techniques can be advantageously combined with geographic information systems ("GIS"). GIS combines "layers" of information about a given geographic location to provide a better understanding of that location. What layers of information are combined depends on the purpose, such as finding the best location for a new store, analyzing environmental changes or damage, topology, looking at the acoustic impact to a given area, outlining roads or buildings, evaluating elevation, viewing similar crimes in a city to detect a pattern, and so on. GIS provides tools to query, analyze and map data corresponding to a given spatial location.
Most commonly, a GIS system includes a general-purpose computer executing GIS software. The GIS software provides functions and tools to store, analyze, and display (e.g., via a graphical user interface) information that is tied to a given geo-spatial location. For example, GIS software may include tools for entering, analyzing, queering and/or manipulating layer information such as roads, buildings, rail roads, shipping lanes, image scale, water resources, vegetation, demographics, land use, cities, city infrastructure, schools and hospitals, rivers or other water bodies, petroleum and natural resources, political lines, cultural information, geographic information, military installations, air lanes, country boundaries, etc., etc., for the given spatial area. The layers may be integrated with or displayed over a base map (perhaps another layer itself) or aerial image. In such cases the layers may be displayed over the image, e.g., as graphics or colors, lines or boxes, colored areas, arcs, lines, points, 3-D effects, images, etc., etc. In other cases the layers may be displayed separately or with only a portion or outline of the base map or image. As a simplified but illustrative example,
GIS software typically includes (or cooperates with) a database management system. The database helps maintain layer information. Most GIS systems include a graphical user interface (GUI) to display layer information, perhaps displayed over an image or base map. GIS layer information can be presented via the GUI in various formats. GIS software is available from, e.g., ESRI (e.g., ArcView), Erdas (e.g., Imagine), Sensor System (e.g., RemoteView), 3DI Geographic Technologies, Apic, RMSI, AutoDesk MapGuide, Mapinfo MapXtreme, ArcIMS (Internet Map Server) etc., etc. Further background information regarding GIS can be found with reference to, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,542,813 and 6,389,356; U.S. Published Patent Application Nos. 20030014185 and 20020145620 (such patent documents are herein incorporated by reference); and on the internet at, e.g., www.gis.org and www.gis.com.
GIS systems typically organize layer information using two primary techniques—raster data and vector data. Raster data provides storage, processing and display of spatial data. A depicted area is divided into rows and columns, which form a grid structure. Cells within this grid structure contain an attribute value as well as location co-ordinates. The spatial location of each cell is implicitly conveyed by the ordering of the grid, unlike a vector structure that stores topology explicitly Vector data includes lines and/or arcs, defined by beginning and end points, which meet at nodes. The locations of nodes and the topological structure are typically stored explicitly. Features are usually defined by their boundaries and curved lines are represented as a series of connecting arcs. A vector data example is a file including property boundaries for a housing subdivision.
GIS layer information is registered, or correlated to, a corresponding spatial location on an image (or map). (Layer data may also undergo projection conversions, for example, that integrates a layer into a GIS. Projection is a mathematical technique used to transfer information from the Earth's three-dimensional curved surface to a two-dimensional medium such as a computer screen). We have found that digital watermarks can be used for GIS layer registration (or spatial alignment with an image). For example, a digital watermark may convey or identify an image position that should correspond with a particular raster cell (e.g., the first cell) or with a vector node (or beginning or ending point). Or a digital watermark can provide other orienting components to help align or register layer information onto or with a corresponding image. In some implementations, layer information (or a layer itself) is associated with a particular image via a digital watermark identifier. Returning to the
Now consider a situation where an image is manipulated or distorted. For example, the image is scaled, rotated and/or cropped. Any GIS layer information that was once registered is now likely out of alignment with respect to the manipulate image. An improvement is to use a digital watermark to effectively reregister the GIS layer information to the manipulated image. In a first implementation, we use a so-called orientation component carried by the digital watermark to determine the relative scale of the manipulated image (see, e.g., assignee's U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/503,881 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,122,403, which are each herein incorporated by reference for an ever further discussion of watermark-based orientation). Geo-coordinate information is retrieved from a watermarked (but manipulated) image block to identify the depicted image block location. Decoding several of such watermarked image blocks, and knowing the relative scale from the orientation component, can be used to help accurately reregister the layer information. In another implementation, at least one digital watermark component is analyzed to determine the scale of the manipulated image. The GIS layer information is adjusted accordingly. In still another implementation, decoded digital watermark information is used to identify a location(s) in the manipulated image, and GIS layer information corresponding to the location(s) is mapped (or projected) to the identified location(s). Accordingly, we use a digital watermark to reregister GIS layer information when an image is manipulated. In other implementations, the digital watermark decoder recognizes via the orientation component that an image includes some distortion. The image is realigned prior to GIS layer overlay. In other implementations the digital watermark will include a spatial position indicator. A GIS layer can be aligned with an image based on the position indicator. For example, if the image is cropped, and a particular GIS layer based its registration to the image on the image's left upper corner, the layer registration would be lost. However, if a digital watermark conveys a spatial position indicator, the layer can base its registration from the watermark position indicator. Sometimes a spatial position indicator will be the presence of a watermark in a given image region (e.g., a watermark is embedded in a region depicting a lake or road). Other times the spatial position indicator will be conveyed through a watermark payload, perhaps identifying the spatial position indicator as a distance from an image object. Of course other spatial position indicators can be conveyed via a digital watermark as well.
In another implementation, we provide a digital watermark decoding plug-in, which cooperates with a GIS software program. The plug-in searches an aerial image for a digital watermark embedded therein. The digital watermark includes an identifier. Once decoded from the digital watermark, the identifier is passed to the GIS software (or perhaps directly to a database), which accesses a GIS database including a plurality of information layers. A layer (or a set of layers) associated with the digital watermark is identified with the identifier. The layer (or set of layers) is provided to the GIS software for use with the image. If the watermark includes a registering component, the layer is aligned or registered with the image via the registry component.
Persistent Information Notation
One aspect of the present invention is a Persistent Information Notation (or "PIN") that is embedded in an image. We liken our PIN to an electronic sticky note. The PIN links the watermark to a registration database. Once decoded, the PIN is used to interrogate the registration database to locate, e.g., related metadata. Watermarked imagery is made available for display on an image analyst's computer workstation. During display, the analyst can access and append additional imagery and textual information relevant to the currently displayed scene—stored in the database—via the watermark embedded PIN. The watermark is preferably robust. For example, the PIN survives even if the watermarked imagery is printed and scanned back into digital form. The PIN can be used to gather disparate or disassociated image-related information (e.g., by storing them in a data record associated with the PIN), and append relevant information to the watermarked image or image chip for dissemination to downstream analysts (e.g., by storing the relevant information to be accessible via the PIN).
A PIN implemented with digital watermarking provides the capability to add identifying information and link dynamic information to an image and its derivative images in a robust fashion and with increased survivability.
Illustrative Scenario Involving a PIN
Upon initial analysis a first image analyst adds commentary to an image. The commentary resides in a database, which is linked to the image via an embedded watermark PIN. As the image continues in its lifecycle, a second analyst is provided an image chip (e.g., an image segment or a derivative from the image) corresponding to the image. The second analyst accesses related information, including the original image, via the embedded watermark PIN. The second analyst also appends and updates the annotations in the database record that is associated with the PIN. Next, a printed image is generated and passed to a third analyst for further hard copy exploitation. This printed image is not delivered with a complete set of notes. Using a scanner or input imaging device (e.g., a PC camera, digital camera, flatbed scanner, etc.), the third analyst reads the digital watermark (and PIN) from the image, and links to the database via PIN. (See, e.g., assignee's U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,324,573, 6,371,214, 6,286,036, 6,122,403 and 5,841,978 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/571,422, filed May 15, 2000, which are each herein incorporated by reference, for various linking techniques). Thus, the third analyst gains full knowledge of the image-relevant information that she is cleared to access. (In this regard, the analyst may need to present her security level credentials prior to image access. The PIN may include a required security clearance needed to access the related information. If the security level credentials match the PIN's security level, access is allowed). Finally, a fourth analyst wants to use the image and associated comments for producing a report. However, loss of image header information makes it impossible to determine the image source, location, or the age of the image. The fourth analyst decodes the watermark PIN in a digital copy of the image (e.g., perhaps through an automated process initiated via right-clicking on a displayed copy of the image). The PIN is used to link to the related information. The linked information is used to access the stored information. The stored, related information may include other image data relevant to the image; latitude and longitude of the source image; a list of other images and reports related to the source image. The report can now be generated.
Some conventional systems for accessing imagery and related information require that an image have "attached" to it some identifying information. In many situations the attached information is easily separated from the image; therefore, identification of the imagery, retrieval of its ancestors, and retrieval of related text information, is difficult or even impossible. Our techniques embed a digital watermark component in an image as a persistent image identifier and thus mitigate impact due to notation loss, change in file format, or loss of header data.
(We note that while we use the term "PIN" above to represent a persistent identifier, the term PIN can also be used to represent information stored in a database that is associated with a persistent identifier).
The foregoing are just exemplary implementations of the present invention. It will be recognized that there are a great number of variations on these basic themes. The foregoing illustrates but a few applications of the detailed technology. There are many others.
Some watermarks used in the foregoing embodiments can be "fragile." That is, they can be designed to be lost, or to degrade predictably, when the data set into which it is embedded is processed in some manner. Thus, for example, a fragile watermark may be designed so that if an image is JPEG compressed and then decompressed, the watermark is lost. Or if the image is printed, and subsequently scanned back into digital form, the watermark is corrupted in a foreseeable way. (Fragile watermark technology is disclosed, e.g., in application Ser. Nos. 09/234,780, 09/433,104 (now U.S. Pat. No. 6,636,615), Ser. No. 09/498,223 (now U.S. Pat. No. 6,574,350), Ser. Nos. 09/562,516, 09/567,405, 09/625,577 (now U.S. Pat. No. 6,788,800), and Ser. No. 09/645,779 (now U.S. Pat. No. 6,714,683). Each of these patent applications is herein incorporated by reference.) By such arrangements it is possible to infer how a data set has been processed by the attributes of a fragile watermark embedded in the original data set.
To provide a comprehensive disclosure without unduly lengthening this specification, applicants incorporate by reference, in their entireties, the disclosures of the above-cited U.S. patents and applications. The particular combinations of elements and features in the above-detailed embodiments are exemplary only; the interchanging and substitution of these teachings with other teachings in this application and the incorporated-by-reference patents/applications are contemplated.
There are many embodiments discussed herein which may benefit from the inclusion of two different watermarks. For example, a first watermark may include information evidencing (or pointing to) georeferencing information, while a second watermark includes a database identifier or location. The second watermark may alternatively include (or point toward) information pertaining to events, people or animals identified in the photograph, occasions, groups, institutions, copyright ownership, etc. Or an image may include both a robust watermark and a copy-tamper fragile watermark.
Also, while the presently preferred embodiments have focused on images, the present invention is not so limited. Indeed, audio and video can be embedded with geolocation information to identify the captured (or broadcast) location and, in the case of video, a location depicted in the video. The system shown in
Although not belabored, artisans will understand that the systems described above can be implemented using a variety of hardware and software systems. One embodiment employs a computer or server with a large disk library, and capable database software (such as is available from Microsoft, Oracle, etc.). The registration, watermarking, and other operations can be performed in accordance with software instructions stored in the disk library or on other storage media, and executed by a processor (or electronic processing circuitry) in the computer as needed. (Alternatively, dedicated hardware, or programmable logic circuits, can be employed for such operations).
In view of the wide variety of embodiments to which the principles and features discussed above can be applied, it should be apparent that the detailed embodiments are illustrative only and should not be taken as limiting the scope of the invention.
|Citing Patent
|Filing date
|Publication date
|Feb 24, 2006
|May 17, 2011
|Digimarc Corporation
|Geographic-based watermarking keys
|Feb 12, 2010
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|Digimarc Corporation
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|Systems, devices, methods for sensing and processing fishing related data
|U.S. Classification
|International Classification
|Cooperative Classification
|European Classification
|Nov 5, 2008
Owner name: DIGIMARC CORPORATION (FORMERLY DMRC CORPORATION),O
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In the attached video, the camera films the crowd from above. How is this achieved? What kind of equipment is the camera equipped with?
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As Jared said, probably not the most relevant question. But if I wanted to get a simmilar kind of shot I'd put a GoPro on a boom pole.