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The coherent structures in rivers and estuaries experiment (COHSTREX) is a four-year collaborative project that couples state-of-the-art remote sensing and in situ measurements with advanced numerical modeling to characterize coherent structures in river and estuarine flows. Coherent structures are generated in rivers and estuaries when the flow interacts with bathymetric and coastline features or when density stratification causes a gradient in surface properties. These coherent structures produce surface signatures that can be detected and quantified using remote sensing techniques. A second objective of this project is to determine the extent to which these remotely sensed signatures can be used to initialize and guide predictive models.
The study site selected for Year 1 and Year 2 field operations was the Snohomish River in Everett, WA shown in the photo above (click on the image for a larger, annotated view). Its annual mean flow of approximately 300 cubic meters per second is the third largest discharge into Puget Sound. The mouth of the river is defined by the city of Everett to the West (man-influenced) and Jetty Island to the East (natural). The river is dredged to a nominal depth of 5 m from the mouth at the south end of Jetty Island to approximately 12 km upstream, while the undredged depth is nominally 1-3 m. Thus the river profile is a compound channel, with the full 300 m width at Jetty Island containing the dredged channel of about 50 m width. The tidal forcing is strong, with the tidal range representing up to 2/3 of the river's mean depth. There is a bypass between the north end of Jetty Island and the mainland that connects to a mudflat area. During high tides, the river flow bifurcates between the main channel and this bypass, while at low tide very little flow occurs in the bypass. A sill extends from the north tip of Jetty Island to the southeast toward the opposite bank. The depth along this sill varies from 2 m to 5 m and terminates in a large scour hole in the middle of the channel with a depth of about 10 m.
This research is being conducted by a partnership of experts in remote sensing, numerical modeling, and estuarine dynamics from the University of Washington (Applied Physics Laboratory, Civil and Environmental Engineering, and Oceanography) and Stanford University (Environmental Fluid Mechanics Laboratory). The program is funded by a Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative (MURI) grant sponsored by the Office of Naval Research.


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A self-proclaimed 'obsessive' runner has completed more than 60 different running courses across London and has ranked them from least to most difficult.
Geoff Marshall started doing parkruns when he was unemployed and was looking for a way to get fit.
Parkrun is a free 5km run that takes place every Saturday morning at 9am in local parks across the UK and increasingly over the world.
According to Geoff, most people just run in their local park but he became more interested in becoming a "parkrun tourist".
He said: "When I started I was unemployed, so the best thing is that they are free.
"I would never join a running club, or pay to go parkrun. It creates a unique community atmosphere which is lovely.
"Many people just run at their local parkrun, but others, like myself, have become a little more obsessive about it, and are being parkrun 'tourists' and running at as many different venues as possible.
"At the moment, I'm just trying to get round all the London ones."
Of the 63 parkruns Geoff have completed, 47 are in the Greater London area and nine additional ones that are inside the M25 for a London+ list.
He also lists four more which are just outside the M25 area, which brings the total for Londoners to visit up to a total of 60.
Each run is graded from a rank of one to five on difficulty, with the flattest being ranked one and the hilliest ranked 5.
If you're looking to set a personal best, Geoff said his personal recommendation was the ultra-flat Burgess Park, although it can be busy and he recommends getting there early.
He said: "My favourite in South London is Burgess Park. It is also the fastest parkrun in London, very flat. I have run all 47, and it's the easiest one - no hills.
"It's two clockwise laps around a lake and then back again. It's almost totally flat, except for one small 'dip' that goes under a bridge - you do in once just after the start, and again just before the finish on the way back."
Another good option is the original parkrun in Bushy Park in Richmond, which is also very flat.
Geoff does warn that it's so popular with several hundred people taking part that it can sometimes take a while to even cross the starting line.
However if you're looking to challenge yourself with a difficult run, Croydon is the place to go.
The Lloyd Park run ranks as the most difficult on Geoff's entire list, being described as "horrendous" and "London's toughest course".
Geoff said: "It's even more horrendous to do when muddy after it's been raining. You have to climb through a rise of 44 metres all on muddy grass.
"The organisers are brilliant here setting up early with everything in order, and free drinks and sometimes cakes to snack on too.
"Yes, it's London's toughest course - but a very rewarding one once you've done it."
For more information on parkrun, you can visit their website at parkrun.org.uk
The full list of South London parkruns Geoff has completed, ranked by their difficulty.
• Burgess Park – 1
• Bushy Park – 1
• Tooting Common - 1
• Beckenham Place – 2
• Bromley – 2
• Dartford – 2
• Dulwich Park – 2
• Kingston – 2
• Nonsuch - 2
• Old Deer Park – 2
• Orpington – 2
• Peckham Rye – 2
• Wimbledon Common - 2
• Bexley – 3
• Brockwell Park – 3
• Greenwich – 3
• Richmond Park - 3
• Riddlesdown - 3
• Roundshaw Downs - 3
• Crystal Palace – 4
• Hilly Fields – 4
• Lloyd Park – 5

subset: commoncrawl


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Kathmandu valley comprises of three cities; Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan (Lalitpur). Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal. Patan or Lalitpur is approximately 5 kilometers away from Kathmandu situated towards its south east and Bhaktapur is at 14 kilometers towards the east of it. Kathmandu valley is valued for its originality, its exclusiveness and its diverse culture. Kathmandu valley is among the oldest, historically and culturally significant place in the world. The daily lifestyle of the people, their diverse ethnicity, culture, the centuries old monuments, etc. make Kathmandu a very fascinating place for the tourists. Being a capital city, Kathmandu is a cultural, political, educational and economical hub of the nation. The city never sleeps. Despite being a very busy place, people cherish its beauty and uniqueness. Every place has its own history which contributes to its worthiness. The history of the city dates way back about 2000 years ago to the Vedic age. The city is dominated by temples and more temples. There are also age-old religious monuments, scriptures and practices. Religious and philosophical art is presented in some of its well-maintained art galleries. There are also historical museums, where artifacts from centuries ago are preserved and show-cased, a testament to the rich history of Nepal.
Kathmandu has a variety of Jatras annually which are worth being a part of. While planning a trip to Katmandu, make sure you attend one of these rituals as they are not only a source of entertainment but also show you a new dimension about the beliefs, values and practices of the people. Kathmandu although dominated by Hinduism followed by Buddhism and then other religions is exemplary to the world on religious tolerance. Having a rich culture and a welcoming attitude, people belonging to all sorts of religious beliefs have settled in the valley which makes it highly cosmopolitan.
Kathmandu valley is surrounded by high hills and consists of very fertile black soil. The town is positioned at a height of just about 1,400 meters, which is almost equal to 4,600 feet. It is formed in the bowl-shape and the valley is in a central location of Nepal which is enclosed by four chief mountains, called: Shivapuri, Phulchowki, Nagarjun and Chandragiri. Terrace farming is highly practised in the hills which adds a touch of beauty to the natural scenery of the place. The greenery of the place gives you a feeling of freshness as it cuts down on the pollution and increases the amount of oxygen in the air. The population count is about 1,081,845 (2011, Central Bureau of Statistics). Going a little farther from the center of the valley, the seven UNESCO World Heritage sites are located which only adds to the socio-cultural significance of the valley.
Being the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu does have the best and latest arrangements of communication and transportation. This place is also counted as the most urban areas in Nepal, so called as the metropolitan part of the country. Kathmandu valley being one of the most visited tourist destination of Nepal, contributes a bulk to the Nepalese economy. Nepali is the most spoken language of the city which is understood by everybody. Similarly, Kathmandu is dominated by people of Newari culture who often speak Newari language. English is also widely spoken and understood specially in the tousrist spots.
Kathmandu is a crowded city. However, there are all kinds of things for all kinds of people. Everyone can relate to and find something for them in every nook and corner of this city. Kathmandu is a heaven for shopaholics and gastronomists. Apart from shopping and trying out new cuisin, tourists can engage in lots of outdoor activies. Some of them are mentioned below.
The best thing to do in Kathmandu is to go hiking. The people looking for adventure should give it a try. There are many interesting hiking options in Kathmandu. The most popular of these are Nagarkot Hike, Chisapani Hike, Champadevi Hike, Nagarjuna Hike, Lakurevhanjyang Hike, Phulchowki Hike among others. For these hiking trips one can hire a local travel guide and get the best hiking experience.
Kathmandu is a paradise for food lovers. Due to the cultural diversity, there is diersity in the cuisins. You can entertain your taste-buds with the hot and spicy Chatpate to the sweet and savoury Kheer (rice pudding). To visit Nepal and not taste Mo:Mo is letting your trip go waste. You should also definitely try the Newari, Sherpa and Thakali cuisins among others. Whether you want the cheap street food or gourmet continental dishes; Karhmandu is your city.There are some awesome restaurants specially in the Thsmel and Jhamsikhel area serving amazing food that will make your taste-buds weep with joy. The best one to try although is the Nepali staple dish Dal Bhat Tarkari (lentils, rice and vegetables).
Kathmandu is a great place to shop specially for antique stuff and to collect souvenirs from your trip to Nepal. You can shop anything and everything in Kathmandu. Whether it is the simple I LOVE NEPAL T-shirt or the golden gleaming Buddha statue, you cannot resist yourself. How can you not by the softest pure Pashmina Shawl (Cashmere scarf) for your mom or that Mandala painting for your living room? How about those organic tea leaves or that gasp-inducing Khukuri Rum? The shopaholic in you wouldn't mind burning a hole in your pocket when you roam the streets of Thamel because shopping in Kathmandu is simply irresistable.
Exploring the scenic beauty is what you want? Kathmandu valley is the place you are looking for. Kathmandu has world's most exotic scenic beauty and the best way to explore this scenic beauty is by mountain flight. Mountain flight is one of the best ways to get a glimpse of the beautiful mountains of Kathmandu valley. If you do not have enough time to trek on the famous peaks, this is the best way to explore them. Any decent travelling agency could get you to experience mountain flight in the valley.
Kathmandu is a chaotic city always rushing and full of adventure. But with adventure you must have time for meditation to relax your mind and think better. To escape from the chaos of Kathmandu and to meditate so that you can gain inner peace, one must visit Kopan monastery. It can surely a great place to visit. This place also offers different kind of courses on Buddhist meditation and yoga to give you a complete and pleasurable spiritual insight. Want to escape from the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu? This might be the best place and it will be worth the climb if you like trekking. It takes just 2 hours from Thamel.
Every nook and corner of Patan screams the rich history it carries. Patan is one of the three royal cities in the valley, others being Kathmandu and Bhaktapur. Patan is the center for lover of traditional arts. Whether it is the intricate wood carving in the windows of centuries old houses or the ancient stone inscriptures which have witnessed history, the artist inside you will dance with joy. There are innumerable Buddhist and Hindu temples in the area with more than 1200 monuments. You should definitely visit the Patan Durbar Square which also contains Krishna Mandir (temple made only from stones), Museum and the palace of Kumari (living goddess). Similarly, you may also want to visit Mangal bazar as well as Jhamsikhel (for awesome food).
Bhaktapur is situated at the height of about 401m from the ground level. The place has two names, Bhaktapur and Bhadgaon which literally means the City of Devotees. It is one of the ancient cities of the world. It is a tourist attraction because the ancient culture and monuments are so well peserved that it takes people back in time and let them relive the era. The place is fascinating because it has properly maintained paved roads, houses made out of red brick and mud and a traditional way of life which still somehow reflects the medieval times. One must visit the 'Bhaktapur Durbar Square' which has a unique Golden Gate and an astonishingly beautiful Palace of Fifty-Five windows among other monuments. The durbar square perfectly shows the era of the reign of Malla Dynasty which was dominated by art and architecture. One would also be very interested in the Changunarayan Temple, constructed during the reign of Mandev, the first historical king of Nepal. The reign of Kings from and after the period of Mandev is well documented in the inscriptures of Changunarayan Temple, one of the oldest temples in the world.
The most important place to visit on your trip to Katmandu is the Hindu temple of Lord Pashupatinath which is situated at the bank of the holy Baghmati River. it is said that the visit to Katthmandu is incomplete without visiting pashupatinath Temple. The temple has a busy market which is dominated by religious stalls that sell marigolds, conch shells, incense, rudraksha beads, prasad (offerings)etc. These are sold there in abundance as the victors need them to worship the deities. Although non-Hindus are not allowed to visit inside the main temple, however tousrists still visit the temple premises to experience that serenity which they wouldn't get anywhere. The temple is always crowded, specially during major festivals. Millions of people visit the temple every year. It has become a symbol of faith to all the Nepalese.
Nagarkot is one of the best hill stations of Nepal. One can view the Himalayan range and that too from their window or a balcony in their hotel room. Nagarkot is only a 32km drive from central Kathmandu. This hill station provides quality hotels; primarily located in such a manner that they all face the Himalayan range so one can enjoy the scenic beauty of the Himalayas. You will be awed by the hills covered with Rhododenrons, the national flower of Nepal. Nagarkot is famous as a place for retreat. Many high level diplomatic dealings have taken place amidst the peaceful environment of Nagarkot. So, if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu, Nagarkot is the best palce to visit.
Chovar is a tiny village in Katmandu but it is worth visiting as it has some interesting places that could amuse you. Chovar is located at 6km from Kathmandu and positioned comparatively at a higher altitude. The area itself is attractive, with a twist of old streets neighboring a well-known temple of Aadinath (the first Lord) and Manjushree Park. Chovar supply a large quantity of cement to Kathmandu and other parts of Nepal. It is simply beautiful. You can release all your stress and simply relax listening to the chirping of the birds and inhaling the fresh air amidst the greenery.
Kathmandu is as mesmerising at the night as it is in the day. Most of the people think that visiting Nepal is just observing the beautiful nature and the culture of Nepalese people, well that's not all of it. Tourists ca equally enjoy partying in Nepal with exotic and fun night clubs and discos.
Tourists from all over the world have great many options in Kathmandu for spending their evening in an enjoyable way. Tourists can watch classical dramas at the theatre, go to the local art exhibition, wine and dine at local restaurants enjoying classical and pop music, go clubbing, etc. They can also try their luck at rummy, blackjack or poker at great casinos in the city or just watch a movie and shop at the malls.
After an exciting day of exploring exotic sites of Kathmandu valley, the evenings are to enjoy the music and drink your tiredness. There are numerous clubs, bars, discos and pubs in Kathmandu to bring to the people the colors of life. These are the best places to relax after the exhausting day. You would specially want to check out Thamel area if you want to experience the nightlife in Kathmandu.
Nepalese love to watch movies whether it is a Nepali movie, a Hindi movie or an English movie. New cinema halls and multiplexes are mushrooming in the Kathmandu valley. Tourists need not worry of missing the latest in the Star Wars series when they are in Nepal as Kathmandu has quite a handful of multiplexes and cinema hall. The most famous are the QFX Jai Nepali, QFX Kumari and the Big Cinema. You can also go to a theatre to see a live act of the classical dramas. So just book a ticket and grab a bucket of popcorn, you next couple of are are going to be entertainin.
Casinos are considered the best place to unwind in the whole wide world. Kathmandu also offers good casinos for the people seeking to relax and enjoy their time in Nepal. Kathmandu offers the tourists the exciting action packed casinos which are open 24/7 for fun and many games players want to play. For casinos, you would want to go to the five stars hotels.
After a tiring day, you just want to relax listening to the soothing music. Having your dinner while watching folk dances and live music is certainly a bliss and would be a good end to your adventerous day. Any decent resturant in Kathmandu Valley has the provision of live cultural music and folk dance. It is not only a good way to spend your evening but also a good way to get acquainted with the culture and tradition of the local people.
Local artistic culture:
To say Kathmandu valley is ethnically and culturally rich is an understatement. Whether it be worshipping the only living goddesses in the world (Kumari) or climbing more than 300 steps to reach Swyambhunath, you are bound to get a huge cultural shock but in a good way. Temple of a Hindu goddess inside a Buddhist stupa of Swyambhunath as well as existence of Mosques near the Narayanhiti palace which once bleonged to Hindu King only shows us how culturally tolerant Nepalese are specially in a world where wars are erupting in the name of Religion. The Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan Durbar squares, Pashupatinath area, Swyambhunath, etc are the not-to-be missed cultural sites of the valley. It may look strange to see people worshipping stones and trees, and marrying a fruit (Bel-vivah), but the strength of Nepal definitely lies in the unity of these diversities.
Kathmandu is famous for its festivals around the globe. Their different and diverse festivities in Kathmandu attract thousands of tourists around the world. Most of these festivals originated from the Malla era. Then these festivals and cultures transformed majorly over the passing of time giving these festivities urban and modern touch with historic basis. Both the Hindus and Buddhists the major ethnic groups have their festivals celebrated on a large scale in Kathmandu Valley.
Tihar festival is one the most famous festival in Kathmandu and a major part of a population takes part in this festival. It is one the festivals which shouldn't be missed at any cost specially by the people who are keen to learn about different ethnic groups and who explore new cultures.
The artistic constructions have now turn out to be places of devotion in the daily life of the people, and as a consequence a schedule is upheld to note the festivals in every twelve months, which is very well interconnected with the per diem life of the people. According to the people of Nepal there are 133 festivals in Nepal which are celebrated throughout the year by the people of Nepal.
Names of some of the most famous and exotic festivals celebrated and observed in Kathmandu valley are listed below except for the ones stated above:
Bada Dashain, Mohani, Tihar, Swanti, Chhath, Maghe Sankranti, Naga Panchami, Janai Poornima, Pancha Dan, Teej, Rishi Panchami, Indra Jatra Yenya, Ghanta Karna, Buddha Jayanti, Sri Panchami, Maha Shivaratri, Phagu Poornima, Pahan Charhe, Ghodejatra, Chaite Dashain, Nava Varsha, Jana Baha Dyah Jatra and Matatirtha Aunsi.


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SOURCE: Amendola Communications
February 05, 2014 08:35 ET
Rapid Growth Spurs Need to Bring Additional Technology Marketing and PR Talent Into Award-Winning Health Care Communications Firm
Rapid Growth Spurs Need to Bring Additional Technology Marketing and PR Talent Into Award-Winning Health Care Communications Firm
SCOTTSDALE, AZ--(Marketwired - Feb 5, 2014) - Citing the rapid growth of its business due to current client expansion and new client wins, Amendola Communications (AC), a nationally recognized, award-winning health care, health care IT (HIT) and technology public relations and marketing agency, today announced the addition of two new members to its team. Ken Krause has joined the firm as Director of Content, and Joy DiNaro as Social Media Director.
An award-winning writer, Krause brings more than 30 years' experience in all facets of marketing communications, including public relations; print, broadcast and online advertising; direct marketing; point of sale; video; and all forms of marketing collateral. The last 17+ years of his career have focused on technology. Most recently he was VP of Content Services at Tech Image, one of the nation's top technology PR agencies. He also brings valuable client-side experience, including four years as Marketing Communications Manager at ASAP Software (now a part of Dell), one of the world's largest software resellers. Through the years, Krause has built an outstanding reputation with his clients for his creativity and ability to tell their complex stories in a way that is easily understood, helping them build credibility and shorten the sales cycle.
DiNaro also comes to AC from Tech Image, where as a Digital Media Relations Manager she was recognized for her creativity and determination in successfully bringing client stories to the media that mattered most to them. She also took the lead in many client social media efforts, including setting up and managing Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn accounts; building LinkedIn pages for companies as well as their top executives; developing social media strategies and advising clients on their execution; and helping clients manage their online reputations. DiNaro previously served as Interactive Brand Manager at NextMedia360, where she helped organizations enhance their traditional broadcast presence by showing them how to leverage the then-new world of online and social marketing.
"Content and social media are two of the hottest growth areas in marketing," said Jodi Amendola, CEO of Amendola Communications. "We are delighted to be able to add Ken's and Joy's expertise to our own. They are already making significant contributions to the team, and they bring a lot of energy to our clients. I'm certain they will be a valuable part of our future as we continue to grow."
AC develops and implements public relations, social media, branding and marketing programs for a diversified health care, HIT and technology client base. The firm provides extensive strategic counsel and helps clients -- ranging from startups to Fortune 50 companies -- achieve their business objectives.
Click here for photo of Joy DiNaro.
Click here for photo of Ken Krause.
About Amendola Communications
Amendola Communications is a full-service, national public relations, social media and marketing communications firm serving the health care, health care IT, pharmaceutical and high tech industries. AC's award-winning PR pros combine creativity, a strategic approach and tactical excellence to implement targeted programs that contribute to clients' bottom-line success. Their deep industry knowledge and long-standing media, blogger and analyst relationships enable them to position clients as thought leaders and differentiate them from the competition. For more information, contact Jodi Amendola at 480-6645-8412, ext. 11, email@example.com, visit www.acmarketingPR.com, follow us on Twitter and find us on Facebook.
Media Contact:Jodi Amendola
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U.S. Department of Labor regulations allow employers to ask employees requesting family medical leave to provide information about their health care provider, a description of the medical condition and prognosis, or other reason for the request, and the amount of leave requested. Requiring a physician's signed statement is also allowable.Continue Reading
Under the Family Medical Leave Act, the birth of a newborn, care of a newly placed foster or adopted child, care of a seriously ill spouse, child or parent, and one's own serious all illness entitle eligible employees to up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. The act was amended in federal fiscal year 2008 to expand eligibility to those caring for active-duty military personnel who were injured or taken ill while serving, providing 26 weeks of allowable leave in a 12-month period. An amendment in 2010 provides coverage for eligible employees caring for veterans whose illnesses or injuries meet certain requirements. Continuous leave, intermittent leave, or a reduced schedule are options available under the Family Medical Leave Act.
The Family Medical Leave Act provisions, per the Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division, apply to all public agencies and most employers in the private sector with 50 or more employees. Benefits are available to individuals who have been employed for 12 months, during which they worked at least 1250 hours.Learn more about HR