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Sugarloaf hosts first ever East Coast Pond Skimming Championship
CARRABASSETT VALLEY, ME - More than 50 skiers and snowboarders attempted to make it across a 60-foot man-made pond at Sugarloaf on Saturday, as the rest hosted the first ever East Coast Pond Skimming Championship.
Pumping water through its snowmaking system, Sugarloaf constructed a 60-foot long, 4-foot deep pond just above the Base Lodge, and hundreds of spectators turned out to watch 56 brave souls attempt to make it all the way across.
Many made it across the ponds unscathed, but most crashed (and splashed) into the frigid water, frequently drenching the crowd at the same time.
Click here to download high-resolution photos of today's pond skimming action.


text: So for the replacement personnel of Greg, I understand that your cards can't interrupt at all. Users just have to wait until other messages have past the wire, before receiving a very short message (that for example aborts the entire job). In short if some other person on the cluster is streaming a bit at some nodes, then you have a major latency problem. Vincent >From : Greg Lindahl To: Vincent Diepeveen On Fri, Aug 04, 2006 at 11:19:42AM +0100, Vincent Diepeveen wrote: > What is that time 'in between' for your specific card? Zero. That's the whole point of the message-rate benchmark, and a unique aspect of the interconnect that I designed. Now please stop emailing me personally, you know I find you extremely annoying. > So the time needed to *interrupt* the current long message. Our interconnect uses no interrupts. > The cruel reality of trying to scale 100% at a network is that you can't > make a special > thread to just nonstop check for a MPI message, like all you guys do for > your pingpong measurements. We do not ever use a special thread. > That is the REAL problem. The real problem is that you do not understand that you don't know everything. Now, as I said earlier, never email me personally. -- greg ----- Original Message ----- From: "Vincent Diepeveen" <diep at xs4all.nl> To: "Greg Lindahl" <greg.lindahl at qlogic.com> Sent: Friday, August 04, 2006 11:19 AM Subject: Re: [Beowulf] Correct networking solution for 16-core nodes > Yeah you meant it's 200 usec latency > > When 16 cores want all something from the card and that card is serving 16 > threads, > then 200 usec is probably the minimum latency when for example 1 long MPI > message > (say of about 200 MB) is arriving, until some other thread receives some > very short message "in between". > > What is that time 'in between' for your specific card? > > So the time needed to *interrupt* the current long message. > > The cruel reality of trying to scale 100% at a network is that you can't > make a special > thread to just nonstop check for a MPI message, like all you guys do for > your pingpong measurements. > > If you have 16 cores then you want to run 16 processes at 16 cores, a 17th > thread is already doing time division, a 18th thread is doing > i/o from and to the user. The 19th thread checks for MPI messages from > other nodes regurarly, > then if it's not in the runqueue, the OS already has a wakeup latency to > put a thread in the runqueue of 10 milliseconds. > > That is the REAL problem. > > You just can't dedicate a special thread to short messages if you want to > use all cores thanks to the runqueue latency. > > So the only solution for that is polling from the working processes > themselves. > > For non-embarrassingly parallel software that needs to poll for short > messages therefore the time needed > to do a single poll whether a tiny message is there, is very CRUCIAL. > > If it's a read from local RAM (local to that processor) taking 0.13 us > then that is in fact already slowing down the > program a small tad. > > Preferably most of such polls happen from the L2 which is a cycle or 13. > > It's quite interesting to know which card/implementation has the fastest > poll time here for processes that regurarly poll for short messages, > that includes overhead to check for overflow of the given protocol. > > If that's 0.5 us because you have to check for all kind of MPI overflow > then that sucks a lot. Such a card i throw away directly. > > Vincent > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "Greg Lindahl" <greg.lindahl at qlogic.com> > To: "Joachim Worringen" <joachim at dolphinics.com>; <beowulf at beowulf.org> > Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2006 10:07 PM > Subject: Re: [Beowulf] Correct networking solution for 16-core nodes > > >> On Thu, Aug 03, 2006 at 12:53:40PM -0700, Greg Lindahl wrote: >> >>> We have clearly stated that the Mellanox switch is around 200 usec per >>> hop. Myricom's number is also well known. >> >> Er, 200 micro seconds. Y'all know what I meant, right? :-) >> >> -- greg >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Beowulf mailing list, Beowulf at beowulf.org >> To change your subscription (digest mode or unsubscribe) visit >> http://www.beowulf.org/mailman/listinfo/beowulf >> >

subset: commoncrawl


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The Penn Museum has many examples of florals in its collection. In the literal sense, archaeobotanical samples collected at archaeological sites around the globe give us clues about the environments in which past societies lived and how humans interacted with plant life throughout history. In the figurative sense, depictions of flowers adorn the surfaces of material culture in our collection from all regions of the world, and in some cases, the object itself takes on the form of a flower. Floral imagery on cultural material reveals the importance that flowering plants have played in our daily lives, including their use as medicinal sources, food sources, natural dyes, pleasant aromas, and for which they are most commonly known: creating romantic gestures.
While your flowers may not yet be in bloom, take a moment to peek into our garden and you will find that flowers grow everywhere throughout our collections. From objects that decorate the spaces we inhabit—architecture, pottery, table ware, and wall hangings—to the items we use to decorate our own bodies—clothing, jewelry, bags, and shoes—flowers can be found blooming across painted surfaces, woven into textiles, and molded into bouquets. They symbolize rebirth and renewal, as well as remind us both of the fragility and beauty of life. Below is a sampling of floral imagery in our collection; we invite you to view how flowers have colored the lives of people throughout history, and afterward, to take the time to think about how flowers are incorporated into your own life—whether they are for relaxing, healing, smelling, eating, romancing, coloring, decorating, or any other way that we as humans have thought to use them.


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© 2007 MLB Advanced Media, L.P. All rights reserved.
Phillies, Rockies set for pivotal Game 2
Recent history doesn't bode well for home team losing opener
By Jim Molony / MLB.com
PHILADELPHIA -- Officially, it is Game 2 of the best-of-five National League Division Series, but unofficially, Thursday's meeting is a must-win game for Philadelphia. It's a must-win for the Phillies not only because home-field advantage has now switched to Colorado by virtue of the Rockies' 4-2 victory in Game 1, but because historically a team losing Game 1 of a Division Series at home with its ace going usually doesn't make it to the next round. And of course, no team wants to be down 0-2 in a best-of-five before hitting the road. By losing Wednesday at Citizens Bank Park with All-Star left-hander Cole Hamels on the mound, the Phillies suddenly find themselves in a predicament faced by several teams in recent years, and the track record is not encouraging from a Philadelphia standpoint. In recent Division Series history, losing at home with your ace has been the kiss of death for playoff teams: Last year, St. Louis and Chris Carpenter beat San Diego ace Jake Peavy at PETCO Park in Game 1 of the NLDS. The Cardinals advanced and went on to win the World Series. Oakland and Barry Zito surprised Johan Santana at the Metrodome in Game 1 of their ALDS last season. The Twins were swept in three games. In the NLDS two years ago, Houston and Andy Pettitte beat Tim Hudson and the Braves at Turner Field in Game 1. A year earlier, the Astros surprised 15-game winner Jaret Wright in a Game 1 win at Turner Field. The Astros went on to the next round each year. Now the Phillies will see if they can come back in a short series after losing at home with their best pitcher. At least they can take some comfort in the knowledge that they have been a very resilient team this season. "No doubt at all, we're going to put this game behind us, learn from our mistakes and come out [Thursday] ready to go," second baseman Chase Utley said. "Everyone knows we've had a big up-and-down year; the thing that's stayed the same is our attitude and our positivity. And we're going to continue with that." Thursday's matchup will feature a pair of rookie starters: Colorado's Franklin Morales and Philadelphia's Kyle Kendrick. "We've had confidence in him all year long and there's no reason not to be confident in him going into [Thursday's] game," Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins said of his teammate. Colorado manager Clint Hurdle has his team in an enviable position, but realizes it is still just one game.
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"But I would think it would beat the heck out of losing Game 1, and from there, I mean, our focus from start till now has just been, you know what we're going to do tomorrow, we're going to show up and get ready to win a game tomorrow," Hurdle said after Wednesday's victory. "That's what we're going to do. Obviously, this is a venue that provides some challenges. But we've come in here a couple different times and held our own. Our team plays with a lot of confidence and they play with a slow heartbeat, so I don't expect it to be much different tomorrow."Rollins said the Phillies, too, are looking forward to Game 2. "We've got another chance," Rollins said. "No one was surprised, no one felt overpowered, we just didn't come up with the big hits, so we're looking forward to [Thursday]." The National League's two best offenses combined for just six runs and 10 hits in the series opener. Don't expect the low scoring to continue. "Game 1, somebody has to win, somebody has to lose; this time it was us," Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard said. "But it's not a slow start. You know one game, if the series was over, it would be horrible, but if we win the next three, we won't be having to talk about this one anymore." First pitch is scheduled for 3:07 p.m. ET.
Jim Molony is a writer for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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As you've seen, the Man Cave is chock-full of gadgets and pleasantries. Not only do we have a giant TV with surround sound, but we're also throwing in the top-of-the-line video game systems to blow your mind. Kick back on that comforter and take a look at some of the best games the Nintendo Wii has to offer.
While not the most powerful video game system on the market, the Nintendo Wii is leading the console wars with impressive sales numbers. The Wii's killer feature is its motion sensing controllers which set it apart from the competition.
Competitors like Sony and Microsoft took notice and have released their own interactive accessories, but it may be too little too late- the announcement of the Wii's successor will be revealed at E3 (Electronic Entertainment Expo) this coming June.
Super Smash Bros. Brawl
At first glance we could tell Smash Bros. was something special. The concept is simple: take characters from the most popular Nintendo video game franchises and pit them against each other in a no-holds barred death match.
The third installment in the popular series, Super Smash Bros. Brawl, introduces even more characters to the fracas including players from non-Nintendo franchises like Sonic the Hedgehog and Solid Snake. The gameplay is fast and furious, with diverse characters that will fit any players profile. Check it out, if you haven't already.
Donkey Kong Country Returns
Many of us who grew up in the 90's have fond memories of the original Donkey Kong Country for the SNES. So when Nintendo announced this long-awaited sequel, we were a bit hesitant. Too often companies try to re-hash childhood classics hoping to make a quick buck selling to nostalgic adults.
Fortunately, Nintendo isn't one of those companies. They spared no expense recreating the look the feel of the original Donkey Kong while updating the graphics and incorporating the Wii's unique motion controls. Donkey Kong Country Returns reminds us that DK is back and better than ever, but make no mistake, this game is just as difficult as the original. Be prepared to replay a few levels. Lucky for us, they're all a blast.
Mad World
The Nintendo Wii is often criticized for lacking mature, serious titles. Mad World is a prime example of why those criticisms are groundless. With a color scheme consisting of three colors (black, white and red) Mad World is chock full of dismembered limbs, uncensored F-bombs and severed heads.
Underneath the gratuitous violence is a well designed adventure title with solid game play mechanics. Made by the same studio that produced such classics as Viewtiful Joe and Okami, Mad World will surely impress while simultaneously silencing those who would chastise the Wii for being too 'childish.'
New Super Mario Bros.
With classic gameplay and a nostalgic presentation, Nintendo's latest entry into the Mario Bros. franchise is worth picking up. New Super Mario Bros. Wii features four player simultaneously co-op game play, this title will be a big hit if you've got enough friends and enough Wii-motes to take advantage of it.
Classic items like the mushroom are back, while others have a new twist like the ice flower. The only real criticism we have is that it's over all too quickly. Fortunately, like past Mario titles, this game has loads of replay potential.
Warioware: Smooth Moves
Featuring some of the most bizarre gameplay we've ever seen, Warioware is (somehow) one of the most entertaining titles we've played. The game itself is made up of a series of mini-games which are presented back-to-back in a frantic and frenetic fashion.
Warioware makes excellent use of Wii's motion controls, and we found its highly stylized format simultaneously hilarious and bizarre. Fortunately there are an equal number of parts which will have you rolling with laughter.
You Don't Know Jack
We promise this isn't a shameless plug. You Don't Know Jack is a classic trivia franchise that we remember playing on our PCs back in the day. We'd all but forgotten about this classic till we saw the Wii edition released. Witty writing and a polished presentation have helped this franchise survive all these years, and this latest version is just as sharp as its predecessors.
Hosted by the smarmy Cookie Masterson, each episode of this game is made up of 10 questions, two rounds, plenty of screws and the infamous 'Wrong Answer of the Game'. We don't feel like explaining all that so you'll have to trust us – this game is worth buying.
Mario Kart
Every iteration of the Mario Kart franchise has been a huge hit and Mario Kart Wii is no exception. Featuring the same classic kart racing we love, this newest entry features more weapons, more characters and new stages.
Somehow, in spite of the excellent new stages, the feature we loved most was the inclusion of select classic stages from older generations of Mario Kart. That's right folks, you'll still be able to trounce your friends at Waluigi Stadium once again. On top of everything, Nintendo has integrated online play, so you can kick butt against opponents all over the world.
Nintendo Wii is indeed and officially established itself in the gaming world scene. For adult and young fans alike, it offers an equal fun factor that is usually hard to be matched by other gaming consoles. It is known that Nintendo Wii can be quite expensive; the main Wii console is not the only one that is expensive, but its game discs as well.


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Kuroda feels butterflies before home opener
After long wait, Yankees excited to christen Stadium for 2012
By Bryan Hoch / MLB.com
"A lot of people, a lot of cars and a lot of Japanese restaurants," Kuroda quipped.
That suggests Kuroda understands the microscope he will face on Friday as he heads to the center of Yankee Stadium, tapped to serve as the starter for the home opener against the Angels.
The mound in the Bronx can be the friendliest place in the city or the loneliest, depending on what the scoreboard says, and Kuroda admits feeling some nerves as he prepares to slip the pinstripes on for a regular-season game.
"Rather than being excited, I'm more worried about how I'm going to perform," Kuroda said through an interpreter.
"Since I've never pitched at Yankee Stadium, I'm a little bit preoccupied. But I try to do my best and have the best outing possible."
Kuroda, 37, is no stranger to pressure situations, which was one factor in why the Yankees coveted his services for years before they finally were able to land him with a one-year, $10 million contract in January.
Compared to the transition Kuroda needed to make in 2008, coming to the Los Angeles Dodgers from Japan's Hiroshima Carp, the hurler believes that stacking up against the American League's lineups will be less dramatic. Pitching in Yankee Stadium's homer-friendly conditions also doesn't faze the perennial innings-eater.
"I try not to have that get to me," Kuroda said. "I signed with the Yankees, and that was all part of the package."
The very early returns, coming off Kuroda's solid spring, weren't great -- but then again, little went right for the Yankees as a whole in their season-opening series against the Rays at Tropicana Field. Kuroda took a loss in New York's second game of the season, allowing six runs (four earned) in 5 2/3 innings, and he hopes for better results as the Yanks play the first of 81 contests this year along 161st Street.
"It's definitely an honor," Kuroda said. "Because of that, I really have to do the best I can. I think I will."
After Wednesday's 6-4 extra-inning victory over the Orioles in Baltimore, Nick Swisher mentioned how it had been strange to open the season in such close proximity to George M. Steinbrenner Field. Earlier in the day, captain Derek Jeter offered similar thoughts.
"Opening the season in Tampa seemed kind of weird, almost like we were still in Spring Training because we never left," Jeter said. "We're looking forward to it. It's been a while since we've been there."
Jeter would never make an excuse about not being ready to play winning ball, but the point was understandable. For all the pomp and celebration of the spring, trotting out guest instructors from Yogi Berra to Ron Guidry to Goose Gossage (and, briefly, Andy Pettitte), the games simply didn't count.
Perhaps the Yankees felt some residual effect of that until they got out from underneath the Trop's rings of catwalks and the oatmeal-colored roof. That won't be the case on Friday.
"I can't wait," manager Joe Girardi said. "It seems like we've been gone forever. I think we're all anxious to get back and play at home, in front of our home crowd. We're fortunate. Wherever we travel, we still have a lot of fans, but home is still home."
As they enter Yankee Stadium, a ballpark that does not bear The Boss' name but wears his fingerprints and ideals deeply, there can be no mistake of the expectations. There is history to be honored, no matter how recent the successes, as proved by the invitation extended to Jorge Posada to throw a ceremonial first pitch just months following his retirement.
But there is a future to be considered as well, looking no further ahead than October and a schedule that will have been simple eyewash if it doesn't end with the Yanks celebrating in a pile somewhere. It's time to start moving in that direction.
"It just never seems like the season officially gets under way until you have the home opener," Jeter said. "That's how I've always felt. It's special. It's fun. It's a great atmosphere. It's something that we all look forward to. We usually get at least a couple of Opening Days over the course of a season, but it just doesn't feel like it gets under way until we get the one at home."
Kuroda is not the only newcomer suiting up in white for the first time in the Bronx. The Yankees figure to have designated hitter Raul Ibanez, who was on the losing end of the Yanks' last World Series victory and joked, "If you can't beat them, join 'em," in their lineup against the Angels' Ervin Santana.
Rookie David Phelps, a relief revelation thus far with five strikeouts in three perfect innings, is also getting his first taste of the festivities after coming up through New York's farm system. Catcher Chris Stewart, relievers Clay Rapada and Cory Wade are also new to the Yankees' Opening Day scene.
"It will be good when you see those boys seeing the Stadium, seeing the Stadium packed, the noise and everything that comes with New York," closer Mariano Rivera said. "It's wonderful. We have a lot of guys that will see that for the first time."
Lining up on the first-base line and doffing a cap bearing the interlocking "NY" should be old hat by now for a player like Rivera, whose first home opener saw Pettitte beating the Royals through a driving snowstorm back in 1996.
The weather is expected to be much nicer at game time on Friday -- sunny and temperatures in the high 50s or low 60s -- but the game's greatest closer expects that the memories come flooding back all the same.
"I always look at the home opener like it's my first one," Rivera said. "I love it, I enjoy it, I love the game and I love to compete. This one will be just like the others; just go in there and have a good time."
Bryan Hoch is a reporter for MLB.com. Follow him on Twitter @bryanhoch and read his MLBlog, Bombers Beat. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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ACCPI Sends Open Letter to UCI President McQuaid
The Association of Italian Professional Cyclists, the ACCPI, is an Italian association founded in order to defend and improve the rights of pro cyclists.
The association's President Amedeo Colombo and Association Secretary and former world champion Gianni Bugno yesterday sent an open letter to the President of the UCI Pat McQuaid. In the letter Colombo and Bugno call for more severe punishment of pro cyclists who test non-negative for doping. Testing non-negative should lead to a lifelong ban from cycling for the rider in more serious cases. The ACCPI also find that one of the main ways to combat doping is to expose those who encourage the cyclists to use the substances. Any rider who decides to cooperate with the authorities on exposing their suppliers should be offered the chance to race again after shorter bans, writes Colombo and Bugno.
Roadcycling.com is publishing their letter below.
23rd October 2008
Dear Mr McQuaid,
A few days ago your statement regarding the opportunity to implement severer sanctions for doping appeared in the press.
To this end, we in our role of an association with more than 250 professional Italian cyclists would like to inform you that we are regrettably convinced that the way to combat doping is not just tougher sanctions but indeed lifetime bans i.e. expulsion.
The situation has now become so serious that only with extreme measures can we have any hope of giving credibility back to our beloved sport and – even more importantly for us – to our cyclists.
The positive tests of Riccò, Sella, Piepoli, Schumacher, and Kohl are damaging, even more so because they are winning cyclists. Their conduct fuels the fires of those who unjustly sustain that the only way to win cycling races nowadays is by means of doping.
This is why the UCI needs to act to eradicate every possible illegal temptation from the movement, and thereby send out the message that anybody who wilfully cheats is out of the game for good.
The main reason why we demand this action is to protect the cyclists who race in full compliance of the rules and who – we firmly believe – make up the majority of the group.
However punishing the riders is simply not enough! If doping exists, it is mainly due to the fact that there are people out there encouraging the cyclists to take these illegal measures.
So we need to unmask "the pushers and the doping scientists". And the only way we can do this is to encourage the cyclists to really and effectively cooperate with the sporting authorities and with the police and legal systems.
The WADA 2009 Code agrees with our hopes, but we believe that the UCI can and must support these measures even further. On the one hand by instituting sanctions to expel cyclists that are found guilty of using prohibited substances or prohibited methods in the future, and on the other hand by offering them the chance to return to racing after shorter bans if they provide evidence that they no longer have any connection with those who encouraged or helped them to use prohibited substances or methods.
Mr President, if you decide to promote this initiative, you can be assured of our full support.
Kind regards.
Amedeo Colombo, President of the ACCPI
Gianni Bugno, Secretary of the ACCPI


text:
Markets Hub: Headline Risk? What's Headline Risk?
The market has been on auto-pilot the past few weeks, and seeing how it handled the Dec. 31 fiscal-cliff thing, it's hard to imagine today's debt-ceiling vote in Congress will knock the market off-kilter, either.
But apart from IBM, which is single-handedly holding the Dow in the green, the market's looking a bit ruddy today. If the House vote goes awry (it's not expected to), markets may drop quickly. Jonathan Cheng reports on Markets Hub.
The bottom line for the markets right now, however, is that there's nothing out there getting in the way of a market that just keeps rising, and a Congress that suddenly doesn't seem to have the stomach for a big, drag-down fight isn't going to offer any resistance.
For more MarketBeat and other streaming markets coverage from The Wall Street Journal, point your mobile browser to wsj.com/marketspulse.


text: I am looking for a suggestion for a Cell phone with a full keyboard for minor texting. I do not want an advanced smartphone as the phone will be used for basic conversation use and 20-30 texts per month. For the carrier, I do not want a data plan for internet use. I currently use Tracfone for pay-as-you-go service and have a basic motorola cell phone where you need to multi key for different letters. Any suggestions will be appreciated in this time of financial belt-tightening.


text:
Textpattern CMS support forum
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- Topics: Active | Unanswered
#1 2006-01-13 21:29:31
[archived] bab_newsletter: Newsletter Manager for Textpattern
UPDATE Nov. 1, 2006:
Notice: Unless there is interest enough to update NM, the successor to this project is Postmaster, found here.
Thanks,– Ben
Version 0.3 remains a TEST for now — please don't move over to this until we've: 1) tested it more thoroughly, 2) resolved any bugs, 3) refined the table structure and the language control and etc.
Get the plugin here: http://www.benbruce.com/txp/bab_newsletter_v_0.3d.txt
This latest upgrade ["v_0.3d"] fixes two bugs: the broken bab_subscribe issue and the multiple "Install Tables" links.
UPGRADING: Before you do anything, copy your list of email addresses somewhere. Then you should "Drop" the table called "txp_subscribers" from your database, using either the Database Manager plugin, phpMyAdmin or some other mysql tool. You can leave your txp_nlprefs database alone. When you click on the "newsletter" tab, you will see the "Install Tables" link. Click this link to install the new "txp_subscribers" table — the script will leave your "txp_nlprefs" table alone.
See the help documentation for more [I'm a copy editor, so please post any mistakes in the doc in here as well].
Please note that this is a solution for smaller lists. Sencer says, "Depending on the host and configuration, it's possible that it starts making trouble when reaching 50-100 adresses … keep this in mind with regards to people's expectations." Bumping this up is a priority, but if you need something more robust, try this. Bulk mail capability is coming — I've already emailed over 4,000 emails at a time with this plugin.
Please use this forum thread to post bugs, modifications and requests. I don't have tons of time so if anyone can help anyone else out, please do, and we'll edit this top post with new versions as they come along.
There is also a new plugin, the Email-on-Post Manager.
- fixed the fix — the "prefix" fix from earlier wasn't completely implemented and left bab_subscribe broken. This should be resolved.
- Fixed the "Install Tables" bit.
- fixed the database table "prefix" issue [from – jw -: this affects only those who added a prefix to their tables. Please test this fix when you have a moment].
- fixed a small error that had some email programs missing some of the mime instructions [thanks, ma_smith].
- added the ability to insert more than one email address at a time in the admin area [separated by a comma followed by a space].
- changed the structure of txp_subscribers table in order to prepare for future requests [subscriber preferences, etc].
- Fixed bab_subscribe issue [thanks – jw -]
- Added – jw -'s
- Added form control
- Added "Add email" function in Admin [one at a time for now]
- Streamlined Admin area
- More.
- Fixed the character issue;
- Satisfied those who hate "zip";
- Implemented text and HTML emails that gracefully degrade to text;
- Fixed the "privs" issue;
- Added some language control and more.
- Fixed a security risk that Sencer emailed about
- fixed the character issue.
This is my first post — figured I better come to the introductions bearing a plugin.
The Newsletter Manager adds a newsletter admin to your TXP admin [a new tab under "content"], and adds several new tags for use on the Web site.
It features:
- Easy installation.
- A Dashboard, for a quick overview of your Preferences and Statistics.
- Preferences: Admin Email, Signature, Unsubscribe Address, and Archive Section.
- A Test Mail button as well as a Mail to Subscribers button.
- An optional Unsubscribe Link at the bottom of each email.
- HTML and Text emails
- A customizable Subscribe form, which you can place anywhere on your Web site.
- An unsubscribe tag you can place on a customized "Goodbye" Web page.
- Extensive help documentation.
Enjoy!– Ben
Last edited by benbruce (2006-11-02 01:15:14)
#2 2006-01-13 22:18:13
- soulship
- Member
- From: Always Sunny Charleston
- Registered: 2004-04-30
- Posts: 669
- Website
Re: [archived] bab_newsletter: Newsletter Manager for Textpattern
Can't wait to try this out. I am currently running php lists on 2 sites and it's way too bloated for what we need. Does this use dada mail? Saw it on your site.
#3 2006-01-13 22:22:49
Re: [archived] bab_newsletter: Newsletter Manager for Textpattern
Are you kidding? This sounds like a super-plugin! Will try it in a few days when I have enough time. And welcome to Textpattern.
Last edited by skoggy (2006-01-13 22:25:18)
#4 2006-01-13 22:35:50
Re: [archived] bab_newsletter: Newsletter Manager for Textpattern
Skoggy, thanks for the welcome.
Soulship, it's not based on Dada Mail — DM is written in Perl, but it's an awesome script and I use it because I need some of the special features it's got.
This was written in response to folks asking for newsletter script that asks for less investment than, say, PHPlist, and that plugs right into their TXP installation.
Last edited by benbruce (2006-01-14 07:52:50)
#5 2006-01-13 23:00:44
Re: [archived] bab_newsletter: Newsletter Manager for Textpattern
One thing. Couldn´t help testing it :)
Language "control", have you thought about that? Or do I have to hardcode the messages myself (like You've successfully subscribed and the title of subscription form)?
Or maybe use a form to write messages once submitted.
Edit: While testing I also noticed that swedish characters like å ä ö becomes ? in newsletter.
Edit 2: Besides that everything seems to work right out of the box.
Wonderful plugin!
Last edited by skoggy (2006-01-13 23:20:47)
#6 2006-01-13 23:29:05
Re: [archived] bab_newsletter: Newsletter Manager for Textpattern
For now, it's hardcoded. I didn't think about that. But that's definitely something that should be customizable — I wanted to make it so that on the frontend, it can look how you want. That can be added to the Preferences down the road.
We'll work out the Swedish character issue too.
#7 2006-01-13 23:50:32
Re: [archived] bab_newsletter: Newsletter Manager for Textpattern
Thanks. I won´t push you, noticed that you don´t have tons of time and I know what that means.
edit: Like your music too :)
Last edited by skoggy (2006-01-14 00:08:51)
#8 2006-01-14 01:03:06
Re: [archived] bab_newsletter: Newsletter Manager for Textpattern
I'm working on the character issue. I think I've got it worked out but it needs a little wrestling to make all the moving parts work correctly.– Ben
#9 2006-01-14 02:34:00
- mrdale
- Moderator
- From: Walla Walla
- Registered: 2004-11-19
- Posts: 2,198
- Website
Re: [archived] bab_newsletter: Newsletter Manager for Textpattern
Helluva first post, great work. I've been setting about using phplist myself. And this looks like it'll be a whole lot easier.
Q:Can you do html or multi-part mime emails with this plugin?
Last edited by mrdale (2006-01-14 02:38:22)
#10 2006-01-14 07:57:01
Re: [archived] bab_newsletter: Newsletter Manager for Textpattern
Skoggy, I think I fixed the character issue — haven't had time to test. Let me know if that did the trick.
mrdale, HTML emails and MIME are on the to do list.– Ben


text:
Slania's relief presence piques Giants' interest
By Andrew Owens / MLB.com
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Giants selected Notre Dame reliever Dan Slania in the fifth round of the First-Year Player Draft on Friday.
Slania saved 13 games and posted a 1.21 ERA in 59 1/3 innings while striking out 43 compared to just 11 walks for the Fighting Irish. College relievers are often in high demand because of the well-founded belief they can impact a big league staff quickly. Slania was on teams' radars as a result, and a solid junior season certainly didn't hurt his stock.
The big right-hander has been extremely effective closing games for the Fighting Irish, and he's more than just a pure power guy blowing college hitters away. Yes, Slania can run his fastball up into the mid-90s. And his sharp slider acts as a strikeout pitch. But he has really good feel for a changeup that has good fade and deception.
With a three-pitch mix and pretty good command, the Giants might be tempted to give Slania a chance to start.
Giants use first Day 2 pick on pitching
SAN FRANCISCO -- After drafting a pair of infielders Thursday, the Giants made Chase Johnson their first pitching selection when they took him off the board with their third-round pick (No. 101 overall) of the First-Year Player Draft on Friday.
Johnson, who just completed his junior year at Cal Poly, is a big right-hander who threw well in the Cape Cod League last summer after serving as the school's closer his sophomore season. But Johnson was used sparingly in 2013, as he yielded the closer's role to Reed Reilly.
He posted a 2.31 ERA in 15 appearances this season. Johnson has good stuff. He has a fastball that can reach 93 mph and has good sink to it, to go along with a slider and a changeup that both have the chance to be Major League average.
Johnson's issue has been command, but he's generally around the strike zone. And scouts believe the Giants could have a solid setup-type reliever if they can help him improve his command.
After skipping a round, SF tabs hitter in fourth round
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Giants opted for pitching in the third round of the First-Year Player Draft, but quickly returned to their trend of selecting a position player with their fourth-round selection on Friday.
San Francisco selected Stanford first baseman Bryan Ragira with the 132nd overall selection. Ragira and teammate Austin Wilson formed one of the better offensive duos in the Pac-12 this season.
Even with Ragira's inconsistent junior season, he hit .320 with eight home runs and 42 RBIs after starring as one of the West Coast's more consistent hitters in his first two years.
He has some serious raw power, though it hasn't always shown up in games, perhaps because of the Stanford approach to hitting.
The Giants likely think some of that power will come once Ragira is a professional, as he did hit nine home runs with wood bats in the Cape Cod League last season, which equaled his total from his freshman and sophomore years at Stanford.
Giants bite on relief pitching in Round 6
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Giants drafted another pitcher in the sixth round with their selection of UCLA's Nick Vander Tuig on Friday.
Vander Tuig was an intriguing prospect in high school, but he underwent Tommy John surgery in 2009 and missed his senior year. He re-established himself at UCLA, where he was a right-handed reliever as a freshman before moving into the rotation last year. He started 16 games in 2013 for UCLA, going 11-4 with a 2.51 ERA. He struck out 77 and walked just 17 in 107 2/3 innings pitched.
Vander Tuig commands four pitches well. His fastball sits in the low 90s, and his best pitch is his straight changeup, which has the potential to be a plus offering. His breaking balls are still developing, giving him a chance to be a solid back-of-the rotation starter.
If starting doesn't work out, Vander Tuig should find a role in a Major League bullpen, because he has previous experience as a reliever.
Bednar becomes Giants' second shortstop pick
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Giants selected their second shortstop of the Draft with their seventh-round pick, Brandon Bednar of Florida Gulf Coast University, on Friday.
Florida Gulf Coast has produced some high-profile pitching prospects in recent years, but Bednar marked the first Eagles position player to be drafted in the first 25 rounds.
Bednar is a solid fielder who can play anywhere in the infield. He has a strong arm and is good enough defensively to handle shortstop. Bednar's plus speed could help him run down balls in the outfield and make him a fit as a super-utility player.
His future role will depend on his bat, which is not as advanced as his glove. Bednar has a quick line-drive swing, allowing him to make a lot of contact.
Like Christian Arroyo -- the Giants' first-round pick on Thursday -- San Francisco again opted for versatility with its Draft pick, as the club continues to stock up on middle infielders.
Horan is Giants' first outfield Draft pick
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Giants grabbed an outfielder off the Draft board for the first time with their eighth-round selection, Tyler Horan, on Friday.
Horan had a big year leading up to the First-Year Player Draft that included leading the Cape Cod League in homers last summer. Power has never been an issue for him, because he has good bat speed and generates good loft.
The 22-year-old hit well during his junior season at Virginia Tech, but many scouts question how much Horan will hit in pro ball due to a good amount of swing and miss in his game.
This past season, Horan batted .342 with 11 home runs and 50 RBIs in 257 at-bats. However, he struck out 38 times while walking just 18 times.
Horan is a below-average runner and can handle left field, but he will never be anything better than average there.
Snelten first lefty Giants select in Draft
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Giants used their ninth-round pick in the First-Year Player Draft to secure a power arm of the left-handed variety in Minnesota's Donald Snelten on Friday.
Pitching behind Dodgers second-rounder Tom Windle in the Minnesota Golden Gophers' rotation, Snelten made it worthwhile for scouts to stick around to see him pitch. His fastball sits in the low 90s, and he regularly touches 94 mph.
In 10 appearances (eight starts) in 2013, Snelten went 5-2 with a 2.18 ERA. He struck out 42 and walked just 19 in 58 2/3 innings pitched to form a powerful duo atop the Gophers' rotation. His curveball and changeup both need work, but with some improvement, he could have a solid Major League arsenal. He attacks hitters and has good poise on the mound.
Snelten is more athletic than his 6-foot-6, 215-pound frame might suggest. He profiles as a starter as a professional. Snelten missed the first month of the season with an elbow injury, but he has been healthy since returning in March.
Giants finish Day 2 of Draft with fifth pitcher
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Giants concluded Day 2 of the First-Year Player Draft by selecting their fifth pitching prospect of the day, Tyler Rogers, on Friday.
The right-handed Austin Peay product starred out of the Governors' bullpen in 2013, notching 23 saves while going 7-2 with a 1.63 ERA. His strikeout-to-walk ratio wasn't spectacular, as the senior struck out 41 while issuing 27 free passes in 49 2/3 innings. He went 14 outings without allowing a run to begin the season. Rogers transferred to Austin Peay as a junior and earned the closer's role with a 2.26 ERA in his inaugural season with the Governors.
He ranked third among National Junior College Athletic Association pitchers with 13 saves as a sophomore at Garden City Community College prior to his transfer.
In the Pipeline
The Giants put an emphasis on power arms and the left side of the infield in the first two days of the 2013 First-Year Player Draft. After surprising some experts by selecting shortstop Christian Arroyo in the first round, San Francisco also picked up third baseman Ryder Jones with its second pick.
While the specific selections might have turned some heads, the organizational approach did not. The Giants have several solid young arms in the early stages of their Minor League careers. San Francisco bolstered its reserves with a haul of five hard-throwing pitchers on the Draft's second day. College relievers -- of whom the Giants nabbed five Friday -- are often on the fast track to the Major Leagues and tend to help the big league club sooner rather than later.
Andrew Owens is an associate reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


text:
There was quite a bit of talent on hand during the Sooners' summer camp a few weekends ago. Some of that talent were defensive backs from different classes like Steven Parker, a 2014 prospect out of Jenks, Okla. who already holds a Sooner offer. Another one was Desmond Cain, 2015 prospect out of Delray Beach (Fla.) American Heritage School who seems destined to receive a Sooner off at some point down the road.
Oklahoma defensive coordinator/secondary coach, Mike Stoops was showing quite a bit of attention in both Parker and Cain during the camp. For the 2013 class though, the defensive back who was in attendance that had Stoops attention as well was Dakota Austin out of Lancaster, Texas. Stoops was working quite a bit with Austin on certain coverage techniques and displayed how passionate he is about the game which the 5-foot-11 and 167-pound corner liked.
NOTE: Make sure to expand the video by selecting the arrows in the lower right-hand corner for full high-definition resolution.
Video By: Eddie Radosevich
"We were just playing some off-techniques," Austin said. "He is real enthusiastic about what he does and that was making the camp more interesting. He is real passionate about it."
The Lancaster product gets the impression that Stoops wants to offer but has to get everyone on the staff on board as well.
"Well, from him I can tell he wants to offer but they got to come together as a coaching staff I guess," he stated.
Austin has plans to visit Nebraska, Kansas State, Oklahoma State and Texas Tech in the near future. At this time though Oklahoma and LSU, who has also been showing Austin interest are the two programs that have his attention. With an offer either team could be the team to beat.
Austin talked about what it is about each program that he likes.
Oklahoma - "I just like the tradition," Austin replied.
LSU - "That's just what kind of player I am; just a rugged kind of defensive back," he said.
Austin wasn't the only prospect from Lancaster in attendance. 2014 wide receiver prospect, Nick Alexander was also there as well and impressed the coaches enough to pick up an offer.
"He got better," he began. "I've known Nick since I was in eighth-grade. He's gotten a lot better. He has come a long way and I am proud of him. He's gotten a lot better."
There probably isn't any argument who the flashiest looking player at the camp was with it most likely being Austin who was sporting a San Diego Chargers helmet with a dark shield. What is funny about it all though is that the helmet still actually fits Austin from when he first wore it.
"That was actually my little league helmet," he replied.
Austin talked about returning to Norman at some point and it could be for the Notre Dame game during the season. Coach Stoops and the Sooners may decide to offer Austin by then but at this time have done everything but offer the talented prospect.
"As much interest (Oklahoma has shown) without an offer, they have done everything but offer," Austin stated.
From what the SoonerScoop staff saw at the camp out of Austin, it wouldn't be a surprise to hear of him receiving an offer in the near future.


text:
Byers, Bills, Bottle and Ptarmigan Peaks
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The two lower peaks in the foreground are Bottle Peak (left) and Ptarmigan Peak (right). The two higher peaks in the background are Byers Peak (left) and Bills Peak (right). As seen from Sheep Mountain on June 7 2009.
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Ptarmigan Peak (Mountain/Rock)
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text:
Some here may know about my top-secret Bikeweek camping location... no, I'm still not telling you about it.
However..... I've discovered a very nice camping spot for about 50 people, 15 minutes from the Speedway and very undiscovered by the madding crowd. As in, no one knows about it. This place is so much nicer than Holiday Park it's not funny.
Access is paved, so non-adventure bike riders are welcome. Yet there's some nice Florida sugar sand just around the corner.
In the heart of beautiful Florida coastal nature, there are decent amenties but no shower.
The other tradeoff is no alchohol, however, my reconaissance assures me that it's one of those "be discrete and there won't be a problem" deals.
The last compromise is a locked gate at night, with a combination lock so that guests can enter and exit.
This event, if it happens, will not be a boisterous party and I expect that we will be fully out of earshot of the noisy bikes. It's more about escape from all that while remaining convenient to Bikeweek events, so you can easily get your fix. It won't be a huge catered affair, either... and we'll need some volunteers to pull it all off.
Just curious as to how many folks might be interested in this.


text:
Begin a fitness program using library resources: Number 44 in a series of uses for your library card.
If you are ready to begin a fitness program, the use of library resources as well as consulting with your family physician should be a primary step.
Most people want a program that improves muscle tone and includes weight (fat) loss benefits. For some folks, it begins with regular walking and taking the stairs instead of the elevator.Others want to ramp it up with weight training, running, racket sports and high intensity training. Wherever you belong on the scale, you can probably benefit by taking home books, magazines and videos from the library. Add to your knowledge base while you build your endurance!
Great River Regional Library has subscriptions to Bicycling, Runner's World, Shape, and Women's Health among other magazines containing useful fitness information. We purchase fitness books such as 20 Years Younger: Look younger, feel younger, be younger! by Bob Greene, and No-risk Abs: A safe workout program for core strength by Blandine Calais-Germain. You can learn Warrior Yoga, Yoga For The Rest Of Us, and how to get Ripped In 30, all from library DVDs.
This doesn't even scratch the surface. Check the catalog. Check the Dewey 613 numbers on the non-fiction shelves for fitness books. Start your new body today!


text:
It was bold: a paunchy, 50-something Adam Ant grinding out crunchy guitar rock versions of much of his early work in his first Orange County performance in almost 30 years. It was surprisingly hard. It was intense. And most importantly, it was as close to his punk roots as the often breathless Ant could muster.
Long gone was guitarist and collaborator Marco Pirroni, and with him, any last vestige of the punk rock spaghetti Western motifs that set Adam and the Ants musically apart from just about everybody except Bow Wow Wow in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Even with duel drummers very thunderously back as part of the five-piece backing band, it was not the Ants but it was sweaty and sincere. Ant, on the final night of a U.S. tour that hopes to be the beginning of his comeback, would not sleep walk through a greatest hits show. He was clearly driving this the other way.
If you had gone to the trouble of buying a ticket and standing on the City National Grove of Anaheim's chairless, sold-out floor Oct. 20 for a couple of hours, you were almost certainly a serious fan from the Reagan/Thatcher era and this was for you.
Much of the 29-song set burned feverishly off the Ants' first three albums: Dirk Wears White Sox, Kings of the Wild Frontier and Prince Charming. And as a special gift to many of the graying, longtime fans, several B-sides from that era – most famously "Beat My Guest" and "Christian D'or" – also made the set.
On one hand, it has been a very long time since he's had anything to promote, so the remastered Ants albums from a decade ago were enough reason to go back to this material. And if the '80s are coming back in the sounds of a lot of younger acts, then a second look at Ant music is overdue. On the other, Ant seems to have finally gotten the bipolar condition that dogged him much of the last 20 years under control and is looking forward again. A new album is due late this year and one of the tracks, "Vince Taylor," found its way into the middle of the set as well.
Ant included solo material as well, touching on every album including the forgettable Manners & Physique from 1990, but mostly his focus remained on presenting a picture of himself as an artist who, despite everything, hadn't gone soft.
Yet it was another show diminished by the Grove's tricky acoustics. Maybe it was the heavy low end Ant's band was dealing that seemed to bury too much of the sound in soupy distortion, regardless, it wasn't the band's fault.
Nobody yet knows if the upcoming album, comically titled Adam Ant is the Blueblack Hussar in Marrying the Gunner's Daughter, will be the career resurrection it's intended to be, but if this hard, loud and sweaty performance was any indication, he will not be going away quietly.


text:
Update Pack 3 was released as the "latest" update pack today. If you're not using Linux Mint Debian, please ignore this post.
In Update Pack 3, two drastic changes occur:
- There's a brand new kernel 3.0
The Security and Multimedia repositories are now part of the Update Pack itself.
Changing your repositories
The first thing you need to do is to change your Multimedia and Security repositories. Edit your APT sources by typing the following command:
Code: Select all
gksu gedit /etc/apt/sources.list
Within this file, replace the following:
- Replace security.debian.org with debian.linuxmint.com/latest/security
Replace debian-multimedia.org with debian.linuxmint.com/latest/multimedia
Code: Select all
deb http://packages.linuxmint.com/ debian main upstream import
deb http://debian.linuxmint.com/latest testing main contrib non-free
deb http://debian.linuxmint.com/latest/security testing/updates main contrib non-free
deb http://debian.linuxmint.com/latest/multimedia testing main non-free
Save and close the file.
At the time of writing this blog post, the latest version of mintupdate-debian is 1.0.4. From this version onwards the Update Manager is able to check your APT sources and tell you if they are properly configured.
- Click on the "Update Pack Info" button
Make sure "Your system configuration" shows up as green and doesn't show any warnings or errors
If you see a warning or an error, follow the instructions given and repeat the process until they're gone.
During the update you'll be asked a few things. One is quite important.. the new kernel will ask you where to install Grub. Answer with the location of your current Grub menu (which on most systems is "/dev/sda").
There has been a lot of questions concerning errors with the gstreamer packages. Something like
Code: Select all
Errors were encountered while processing:
E: Sub-process /usr/bin/dpkg returned an error code (1)
In that case, copy the package name, example, /var/cache/apt/archives/gstreamer0.10-plugins-bad_0.10.22-3_amd64.deb
Issue this command
Code: Select all
sudo dpkg -i --force-overwrite /var/cache/apt/archives/gstreamer0.10-plugins-bad_0.10.22-3_amd64.deb
Credit to zerozero from his answer for this -> viewtopic.php?f=141&t=67502&p=459740#p459733


text:
MELBOURNE Heart coach John Aloisi wants his A-League players to follow Western Sydney Wanderers' example, saying if they believe they can score regularly, they eventually will.
The Heart left AAMI Park on Saturday night frustrated and distraught after being the better side against Melbourne Victory, but losing 2-1 to an injury-time Archie Thompson goal.
Despite the Heart having several gilt-edged chances in the opening 45 minutes, they were unable to take advantage, and then went a goal down midway through the second half.
But a superb headed equaliser from Fred eight minutes from time appeared to give the Heart at least a point, and they looked more likely to net a winner until Thompson swooped deep in stoppage time.
Yet Aloisi remains confident his team will put it together if they keep playing like they did against the Victory.
He used the example of the Wanderers, who had only scored eight goals in 11 games before the floodgates opened with a 6-1 thumping of second-placed Adelaide United last Friday night.
"We're actually not too bad, but we're not winning the games we should win - that's been the story of our season so far,'' Aloisi said.
"It's not like we're not working on finishing in training. We keep on making sure the players believe - keep on making those opportunities and they will go in.
"We just need to make sure the players keep their confidence.
"Look at Western Sydney. They created a lot of opportunities in the past games, but they kept on believing those opportunities would go in.
"It's going to happen for us.''
Now eighth, the Heart next play Wellington Phoenix away on Thursday in a crucial match to re-ignite their finals hopes.
But they will be without centre-backs Simon Colosimo and Patrick Gerhardt.
Both received yellow cards against the Victory to exceed their limit, and earn automatic one-match bans.
Aloisi flagged youngster David Vrankovic and Irishman Steven Gray, who is yet to make his A-League debut for the Heart, as their likely replacements.
Originally published as Heart look to Wanderers as example


text:
Does this mean I can end the candlelight vigil thread?
we all know it was Marc Bolan that lured Borgo back, either that or the japanese fisherlady
This proves the old theory, if you want to fish for Borgo, snapper makes the best bait.
Welcome back, Sensei.
Mangia Mangia!!!
Welcome Back!!
Borgo, firstly welcome back.
Second, can you play offensive line?
Please cc: Mike Tannenbaum on your reply.


text:
KSAM 101.7 / Ben Eldridge
by CMT News on Dec 31, 2012
Mike Auldridge, a Dobro master and founding member of the bluegrass group Seldom Scene, died from cancer Saturday (Dec. 29) at a hospice near his home in Silver Springs, Md. His death came one day…
Posted in Entertainment News
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text:
BERLIN – In the company of 320 educators and community leaders at the 22nd Worcester County Teacher of the Year Banquet in Ocean City, Grade 7 Integrated Language Arts Teacher Alison Giska of Snow Hill Middle School sprang from her chair, as she heard her name announced as the 2009 Worcester County Teacher of the Year.
"I am humbled," she announced at the podium, giving credit to her school's master teachers who helped guide her to teaching excellence.
Giska is in her fifth year at Snow Hill Middle School, having started her teaching career in Pennsylvania's Central Bucks School District before joining Worcester County Public Schools in 2004.
"When I came to Worcester County," Giska beamed, "everyone made me feel so welcome. I plan on teaching in Worcester County for a very long time."
Graduating Summa Cum Laude from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Giska earned a Bachelor of Science in Secondary English Education. She also holds a Master of Arts in Post-Secondary Education from Salisbury University and is currently pursuing National Board Certification.
Superintendent Dr. Jon Andes praised Giska for her steadfast commitment to her students and to the teaching profession.
"Learning requires the spark of a teacher," said Andes. "Alison has that spark and brings her very best to her students, everyday. She will serve as an excellent ambassador for all of our outstanding Worcester County teachers."
According to Giska, one of the sources of her success is found in her commitment to self-improvement.
"In a profession that demands growth and change, my greatest contribution in education is my unstoppable dedication to self-improvement," she said.
Keeping hope alive in the classroom is a message that Giska wishes to share with teachers throughout the county and state.
"A teacher's body language and conviction have the power to convince an apprehensive young audience that they can be successful and they can accomplish anything," said Giska. "Think of how many students forged a successful path in life because of the caring words of a single teacher. We hold more influence than we could ever imagine."
As the 2009 Worcester County Teacher of the Year, Giska has won gifts valued at approximately $4,000, including a new NCS Laptop Computer and an all-expense paid trip to an educational conference. As the county's 2009 Teacher of the Year, Giska will represent the school system and county at the state-level competition.


text: I know thats more than likely not what its called but cant think of the proper name at the moment! Was just wondering how much the jewellery costs for the pearl, does anybody know please? I would quite like dd to chose an oyster/pearl for me and to get a nice piece of jewellery for it (as an early christmas present!) and was wondering how much i am looking at. Also, what are the necklaces called that have a sort of cage thingy for the pearl to go in - im sure they have got a proper name but cant think of that either!! Thank you!


text:
BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Dallas Theological Seminary//NONSGML v1.0//EN BEGIN:VEVENT UID:db138eed-8b6f-4f44-a4da-dee2c6ba0520 DTSTART:20140224T143000Z DTEND:20140224T210000Z SUMMARY:Mission to the City DESCRIPTION;ENCODING=QUOTED-PRINTABLE:
The Church in North America today finds itself living in an increasingly post-Christian context. The Church is experiencing marginalization; it is losing its place of influence and privilege in the culture, especially in the major urban centers of our continent. This presents the Church with great challenges, but even greater opportunities. Explore with us how the Church can faithfully embrace its exilic nature and recover the original essence of discipleship. Together we can intentionally follow Jesus as compelling, Spirit-filled communities on a mission.
The link below takes you to a survey that will enable us to gather information that will benefit the Mission to the City event.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1yuGmTpgpk9fCuHLWWQ1QDUaC-t1rbiNN8g9MNjwpoww/editCATEGORIES:DTS END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR


text:
Hello, I would just like to introduce myself, My name is Random Bellhop and I've been a member of TowerOfTerror.org for the past 4 years, I signed up on this site forever ago and never really introduced myself. On a side note, TowerOfTerror.org's forum has seen some pretty low postings, It really used to be a forum where so many people were posting on one night, It was like a chatroom! Anyhow, If you could, Please head over and help us revive this forum. I hope to have good times on this site as well and hopefully meet some old friends.
Page 1 of 1
Greetings from the Hollywood Tower Hotel Random Bellhop has arrived
Posted 16 January 2010 - 09:46 AM
Vincent Price Approves
Hey, Catch me on The Fratellis Official Site
Hey, Catch me on The Fratellis Official Site
Posted 16 January 2010 - 08:09 PM
Welcome aboard, holmes! Yeah, we do need moar members and posts at the Tower; it's been quite boring recently because of the fact that few people have dared to check in recently.
"We love him, because he first loved us." - 1 John 4:19
Posted 17 January 2010 - 08:31 AM
A Fratellis fan, nice. Although I was always more of a Libertines fan....
Posted 22 January 2010 - 07:06 AM
"We'd like to dedicate this to our friends out there in that superstretch limo...."
"We'd like to dedicate this to our friends out there in that superstretch limo...."
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text: Richard Gasquet is 13-1 in 2013 and will meet 6 ft.5 in. Benoit Paire in the Montpellier final. This looks like a good opportunity for Gasquet to pick up another title against an opponent with alot less big-match experience. Gasquet brings with him the advantage of being a top French player for several years and probably a player Paire has looked up to in many respects. I'm giving Gasquet 4/1 to lift the trophy.


text:
Pacific Southwest, Region 9: Superfund
Serving Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, the Pacific Islands, and Tribal Nations
Koppers Co., Inc. (Oroville Plant)
State: California(CA)
County: Butte
City: Oroville
Congressional District: 02
Other Names: Koppers Company, Inc., Koppers Feather River Plant
Bulletin Board
On 10/13/17, this website will no longer be updated. Site information will be migrated to the new web page at: http://www.epa.gov/superfund/koppers .
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Description and History
NPL Listing History
NPL Status: Final
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
Deleted Date:
Since 1948 until March 15, 2001, the 205-acre Koppers Company, Inc. (Oroville Plant) site was used to conduct wood treating operations to prevent wood deterioration by insects or fungi. Koppers purchased the plant from the National Wood Treating Company in 1955 and closed the facility March 15, 2001. Chemical and waste water handling procedures and wood treatment and storage operations contaminated the soil and groundwater on and off site. Fires at the Koppers facility occurred in 1963 and 1987, causing increased contamination at the site. Groundwater, surface water, and soils on and off site were contaminated with pentachlorophenol (PCP) and other hazardous substances used in Koppers' wood treating activities. The contaminated groundwater was located beneath this site and off-property south of the Koppers site. In 1973, PCP was discovered in nearby residential wells that were used as a source of drinking water. In 1988, the Koppers Company, Inc. was bought by the parent company of Beazer East, Inc (BEI). BEI later sold the wood treating plants to Koppers Industries, Inc. (KII). After KII closed its wood treating operation in March 2001, KII resold the site back to BEI in November 2002. In November 2006, BEI sold all the 205 acre site (exclusive of parcel #1 containing the site's contaminated soils consolidated into two RCRA landfills) to Gold Line Express, Inc. of Woodland CA for development as an industrial park (see attached 49 lot parcel plan). In 2016 several of the parcels were sold to parties that do not have active plans for redevelopment. BEI remains the recognized potentially responsible party provided the new owner complies with the insitutional controls contained in the deed restrictions. Approximately 10,650 people live within a three mile radius of the site. These people also depend on groundwater as their source of drinking water. The nearest downgradient private water supply well is just off-property to the south, and there are numerous private water supply wells within three miles of the site. Contamination of groundwater from site-related chemicals is limited to on site property.
Contaminants and Risks
Contaminated Media
- Groundwater
- Surface Water
Groundwater on property, contains pentachlorophenol (PCP), dioxins, furans, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and heavy metals including copper, chromium, and arsenic. Potential health risk pathways include drinking contaminated groundwater, or dermal exposure via excavation of soil below five feet on site.
Who is Involved
This site is being addressed through Federal and potentially responsible parties' actions.
Investigation and Cleanup Activities
This site is being addressed in three stages: 1. the consolidation of contaminated soil in two corrective action management units which has been completed, 2) contain contaminated groundwater and restore the aquifer using pump and treat technology augmented by nutrient addition to enhance natural biological degradation of the groundwater contamination which is operating, and 3) monitor a technical impracticability waiver granted for a 4 acre on property area upgradient of the on-property pump and treat system.
Initial Actions
Initial Actions: An alternative water supply was provided by BEI to residents south of the site in areas of potential groundwater contamination since 1986. Between 1987 and 1988, the EPA directed the construction of a temporary chip seal cap over the contaminated soil in the process area. The cap functioned to stabilize the site and to prevent contact with contaminants after a fire spread hazardous substances. In 1994, the EPA directed BEI to build an on-site landfill for disposal of surface soils containing high levels of dioxins. The 15,000 cubic yard landfill Cell #1 was completed in 1995. Subsequent detailed investigations determined dioxin soil contamination was widespread preventing the planned soil remedies.
Cleanup Ongoing
Entire Site: The potentially responsible party for site contamination completed a study of the site in 1989. The EPA used the results of this study to select the following methods to address site contamination: removing and treating contaminated groundwater with a carbon adsorption process; treating the contaminated soil in place; capping the wood treating area; providing a permanent water supply to those residents with contaminated wells; and discharging treated groundwater to the aquifer. Two groundwater extraction and treatment systems were installed: one on-site (400 gpm system still operating) and one off-site (600 gpm system shutdown in Dec. 1995 when the plume retreated) using carbon absorption followed by recharge to the aquifer using injection wells. In 1989, the EPA selected three different treatment technologies to clean up approximately 335,000 cubic yards of contaminated soil. However, treatability tests conducted during the design phases showed that the selected technologies could not achieve cleanup goals for all contaminants. BEI initiated a focused feasibility study to evaluate other cleanup alternatives for soils in 1995. In August of 1996, a Record of Decision (ROD) Amendment #1 was issued changing the soil remedy to on-site landfilling of the remaining contaminated soils. ROD Amendment #1 changed the cleanup standard to industrial use and required deed restrictions to prohibit future residential development.
In September 23, 1999, the EPA issued a ROD Amendment #2 to modify the remedy to 1) provide for a Technical Impracticability Waiver due to Dense Non-Aqueous Liquid for 4 acres of the 200 acre site, 2) add enhanced in-situ bioremediation to the remedy, and 3) provide for Monitored Natural Attenuation (MNA) as a contingency remedy. A modification to the Consent Decree modification for ROD Amendments #1 and #2 was completed September 22, 2003. The land use covenant provision of the ROD restricting the site to industrial use and restricting access and use of groundwater under the site were recorded with the Butte County Recorder on November 12, 2003.
Koppers Industries, Inc. closed the wood treating facility in March 15, 2001 and completed its Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) closure under State of California oversight July 2002. Remediation of the area beneath the process area became accessible after the RCRA closure. Final soil remediation was completed in September 2002.
With soil remediation complete and groundwater contamination under control a Preliminary Closeout Report was issued September 4, 2003. To review this preliminary report double click on its title below under Site Documents and Report section. A Final Closure Report cannot be issued until the groundwater aquifer is restored to the cleanup levels specified in the ROD which will be some years in the future.
In 1982, the State issued two orders to Koppers to clean up contaminated soil and groundwater at the site. In 1986, the EPA and Koppers signed a Consent Order, which required the company to conduct a study into the nature and extent of contamination at the site. In December 1990, BEI signed a Consent Decree to perform the engineering design and cleanup activities at the site. An Explanation of Significant Differences was issued January of 1991 which limited soils cleanup to five feet unless a potential source to groundwater were found. In August of 1996, a ROD Amendment #1 was issued changing the soil remedy to an on-site landfill. In September 1999, a ROD amendment #2 was issued modifying the groundwater remedy to provide for 1) 4 acre Technical Impracticability Zone, 2) adding enhanced in-situ bioremediation to the remedy and 3) providing MNA as a contingency remedy.
Cleanup Results to Date
To prevent exposure to contaminated groundwater from domestic wells, city water was provided in 1986 to residents with potential for exposure and was paid for by BEI. As the off-property remediation progressed, there was no need for the alternative water supply program to continue.
The off-property pump and treatment facility was taken off-line in December of 1995 as the plume degraded and no contaminants were being removed by the extraction wells. In August 1998 a pilot in-situ bioremediation program to assist in PCP degradation was initiated and incorporated into the remedy September 1999. The program was initiated with the addition of two nutrients (diammonium phosphate) and oxygen (magnesium peroxide) to three wells and monitoring at five wells. In the first quarter 2004 nutrient addition was reduced to adding only magnesium peroxide. Contaminant concentrations in off-property groundwater fell below cleanup standards in 2007. As of June 2013, off-property groundwater is no longer being monitored.
The on-property pump and treatment facility is still in operation preventing contaminated groundwater from moving off-property. In April 1998 a pilot in-situ bioremediation program was initiated on-property to degrade PCP and incorporated into the remedy in September 1999. The program initially added two nutrients (diammonium phosphate) and oxygen (magnesium peroxide) to six wells and monitoring at five wells. The magnesium peroxide addition was stopped the first quarter 2004. The PCP concentrations in the on-property wells are continuing to decrease. The on-property pump and treat facility will continue to operate until the ROD cleanup standards are met and then will be held in reserve as long as the Technical Impracticability Waiver remains in effect.
March 8, 1999 BEI submitted a Final Evaluation of Technical Impracticability (TI) of Groundwater Restoration in the Former Creosote Pond and Cellon Blowdown Areas On-property. The TI waiver for the four acres was incorporated into the remedy with ROD Amendment #2 in September 1999. TI zone area and just downgradient is monitored for contaminant movement.
With the demolition of the wood treating facility in 2001 and 2002, boron was mobilized from the DriCon/CCA area and detected by monitoring well MW-8 above the action level. The downgradient on-property treatment plant does not treat for boron. MW-8 was converted to an extraction well to dilute the boron concentration to continue reinjection below the cleanup level. Boron readings are monitored at MW-8 and prior to reinjection for compliance with the ROD.
In 1987/88 a temporary chip seal cap was placed over the process area. In 1992, two concrete drip pads were installed in the process area to contain wood treating chemicals and prevent any further soil contamination. The cap and drip pads were demolished in 2002 as part of KII's facility closure. Two landfill cells were constructed for disposal of contaminated soils on site. Cell #1 (13,000 cubic yards) was completed in August 1995 as a Removal Action. Cell #2 (147,000 cubic yards capacity) was closed September 2002 with the completion of the soil remediation efforts for the site. 6,000 cubic yards of boron impacted soil was removed from the newly discovered Dri-Con/CCA source and placed in Cell #2 prior to its closure. With soil remediation complete and control of groundwater in place a Preliminary Closeout Report was issued for the site September 4, 2003. A land use covenant was recorded with the Butte County Recorder on November 12, 2003 restricting the site to industrial use and the access and use of groundwater under the site.
In November 2006, BEI sold all the 205 acre site exclusive of parcel #1 containing the site's contaminated soils consolidated into two RCRA landfills to Express, Inc. of Woodland CA for development as an industrial park (see attached 49 lot parcel plan).
The Fourth Five Year Review Report, completed in August 28, 2013, concluded that currently, all implemented remedies are found to be functioning as intended by the decision document and, therefore, are protective of human health and the environment.
Potentially Responsible Parties
Potentially responsible parties (PRPs) refers to companies that are potentially responsible for generating, transporting, or disposing of the hazardous waste found at the site.
As agreed to in the 1992 Consent Decree for the Koppers Site Remediation, Beazer East, Inc. is the PRP for the Koppers Site in Oroville.
Documents and Reports
Public Information Repositories
The public information repositories for the site are at the following locations:
Butte County Public Library,
1820 Mitchell Ave.,
Oroville, CA 95965
Meriam Library,
California State University at Chico,
Chico, CA 95929-0295
The most complete collection of documents is the official EPA site file, maintained at the following location:
Superfund Records Center
Mail Stop SFD-7C
95 Hawthorne Street, Room 403
San Francisco, CA 94105
(415) 820-4700
Enter main lobby of 75 Hawthorne street, go to 4th floor of South Wing Annex.
EPA Site Manager
Mail Code SFD
75 Hawthorne Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
EPA Community Involvement Coordinator
Mail Code SFD
75 Hawthorne Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
EPA Public Information Center
State Contact
RWQCB - Bill Bergmann
Sacramento, 95826-3200
PRP Contact
Jennifer Abrahams
Tetra Tech
Community Contact
Other Contacts
After Hours (Emergency Response)


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CHICO -- Students from Sierra View School this week received some lessons they might retain for the rest of their lives — how to sit by the edge of a creek and let their minds wander.
The excursion Thursday for 30 fourth-graders was to watch the spawning of spring-run chinook salmon, which are listed as threatened on the federal Endangered Species List.
The salmon made their way from the ocean, through the Delta, and up the river, reaching Butte Creek in March and April, where they stay in deep pools through the summer.
Recently the fish began to make "redds" at the bottom of the creek bed, where the females lay eggs fertilized by the males.
The student excursions are put on by Chico State University's Butte Creek Ecological Preserve's outdoor classroom program. Different classes meet at the creek from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with about 10 classes total.
Scott Huber, education and research coordinator, explained the students learn all about the salmon migration. By the time they reach the creek, the students know the fish are ready to spawn and reach the end of their life cycle.
It's exciting to see where the fish have made their redds: They clear away the algae to leave a white spot on the sand and gravel under the water. By this time, many salmon have already spawned and large areas of the creek bottom are white.
The students also have about an hour to explore along the edge of the water, looking for salamanders, crawdads and frogs.
They also are taught a song, and given instructions on the safe handling and release of creekside wildlife.
When the students first get off the bus, they are asked to spend 5-10 minutes in "quiet observation," to think of questions they want to ask.
"When they first see the giant shadows flitting around, some four feet away and breaking the surface," Huber said, there's a lot of "shouting and pointing."
The ecological reserve is 93 acres of land, about a mile south of the Honey Run Covered Bridge on Honey Run Road.
The dynamics of the creek change each year, and only a handful of fish are spawning on land near the reserve. This year, landowner John Bessolo has allowed the field trips to take place on his property, Huber said, which has worked out well for everyone.
Public viewing
Residents interested in seeing salmon spawn this year should get to Butte Creek soon, probably this weekend.
The Butte Creek Ecological Preserve, www.csuchico. edu/bcep/index.shtml, is up Honey Run Road, at the bottom of the Skyway. Travel 3.1 miles and see a sign and access gate on the road, across from 1211 Honey Run Road.
Another good place to view the spawning salmon is at the steel bridge.
To get there, go left at the fork in the road at the covered bridge, onto Centerville Road. Travel about 4 and a half to 5 miles to the next bridge.
Staff writer Heather Hacking can be reached at 896-7758, firstname.lastname@example.com, and followed on Twitter @HeatherHacking.


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She was a member of the Dardanelle First Assembly of God Church. She married Donald D. Ward Sr. on April 12, 1957 in El Centro.
They moved to his hometown of Clay Center, Kan., where they raised their three children.
In 1971, they started a business together, Wardcraft Homes, a manufacturer of homes.
After their divorce in 1978, Joyce took over as CEO and president of the company until she sold the business in 1987.
She then moved to Perryton, Texas, where she owned and operated All Star Video with her son, Doug, as manager.
She was also food manager of Jack and Jill for five years.
In 2006, she moved to Russellville to retire and be near her daughter.
When her kids were young she taught Sunday school at the United Methodist Church in Clay Center, was an active member of PTA and a Cub Scout den mother. Most of all, she was a loving mother and grandmother. She was well known to her family and friends as a camera bug and loved to display pictures of her family.
She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Vernon Cullum, Richard Cullum; two granddaughters, Shay Lyn Ward and Nicole Hopson.
Survivors include her three children, Donald J. Ward Jr and wife Peggy of Clay Center, Kan., Debra J. Hvarven of Dardanelle, Douglas W. Ward of Austin, Texas; one adopted daughter, Kathryn Tanner (Ward) of Yuma, Ariz.; two brothers, Jim Cullum and wife Carolyn of Grandview, Mo., Charles Cullum and wife Pat of Las Vegas, Nev.; four sisters, Thelma Cox of Lemon Grove, Calif., Harriet Roach of Yuma, Ariz., Alberta Gatlin of Pine Bush, N.Y., Madeline Cullum of Yuma, Ariz.; six grandchildren, Johney Jay Ward, Mandee Webb, Stacy Rich, Jeff Wells, Adam Ward, Ryder Ward; 11 great grandchildren and numerous other relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m., Wednesday, Nov. 7, 2012, at the Dardanelle First Assembly of God Church with Brother Eric Martin officiating.
Visitation will be held from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.
Burial will be conducted on Friday, Nov. 9, 2012 at Greenwood Cemetery in Clay Center, Kan.
Pallbearers will be Kevin McConnell, Matt Cook, Jimmy Estala, Chris Turic, Alan Robberson and Eric Martin.
Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home in Dardanelle.
Online Guest Book and Condolences at www.cornwellfuneralhomes.com.


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The Arkansas Tech Golden Suns sophomore started play on the 10th hole and turned in par scores on her first two holes of play, picking up a birdie on the par-3 12th hole to go to -1 for the round and claim the overall lead in early play.
Surtevall followed with a birdie on the par-4 13th hole to move to -2 for the round, but after pars on the next three holes scored a double bogey on the par-4 17th hole to bring her round score to even par.
A bogey on 18 pushed her to +1 for the back nine.
Surtevall bogied holes one and three to go to +3 for the round, but scored par on the fourth, fifth, and sixth holes to set up a birdie on the par-3 seventh to move to +2 for the round.
The sophomore scored par on the eighth and ninth holes to complete the round.
After the opening round, Surtevall sits seven strokes back of the individual pace set by Daniela Ortiz of Nova Southeastern, whose opening-round 67 (-5) gives her a four-stroke lead over second-place Nancy Vergara of Barry, who is the only other golfer in the event under par after her first-round 71 (-1).
Tournament play continues this morning in Daytona Beach, Fla.


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August 30, 2012 - submitted by Megan, United States of America
Q. Hello Oracle!
The Oracle replies:
I love The Goldrush - it just sounds like they're having fun. You can hear everyone joining in. Will & Jonny are very distinctive - and Chris of course but I'm not sure if Guy is singing on this track. I've never heard of it being performed live anywhere so there's no footage to point you towards - sorry.


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The Merchant of Dreams by Anne Lyle
Genre: Adult Historical Fantasy
Publisher: Angry Robot
Release date: December 18 2012
Pages: 528
This beautifully written story, the second in the series, was ultimately very frustrating for me to read, mostly due to the fact that I did not read The Alchemist of Souls first. I did not realize this was a second book when I requested it from NetGalley, otherwise I probably wouldn't have asked for it (and that is entirely my fault, I did not read the description carefully enough – lesson learned!). While it has vivid historical details and an abundance of atmosphere, it was hard for me to stay engaged with the characters and the story. Throughout the book are references to things that happened in the first book, events that aren't explained and went right over my head. As much as I tried to understand these references from the context of the story, I failed miserably and skimmed over the parts that were confusing, which added to the overall confusion, I'm afraid!
When the story begins, we are thrust into the lives of Mal Catlyn and his valet Coby Hendricks, who have discovered that the skraylings, mystical beings who now live among humans and are reincarnated over and over when they die, may have struck up an alliance with the city of Venice. This necessitates a journey to the famous city to try to fix the problem, which is where the story really became interesting for me. Lyle's setting is an alternate history Tudor England, complete with references to Shakespeare and Sir Walter Raleigh, among others. (Clearly, the title is a nod to Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice.) It's familiar enough for history buffs to recognize the time period, but with the addition of skraylings into the mix the story becomes a slightly off-kilter reconstruction of that era. Mal and his brother Sandy are interesting characters because a skrayling has been reborn and shares their bodies. (This is one of those story points that I'm still having a hard time grasping, but which I'm sure the first book explains.)
The story is filled with a fair amount of gender-bending and sexual ambiguity. Mal's valet Coby is actually a young woman who has been dressing as a boy in order to travel safely with Mal. But from what I can gather, Mal and Coby fell in love during The Alchemist of Souls and still have feelings for each other, albeit unresolved ones. Coby's disguise makes it nearly impossible for them to acknowledge their feelings in public or risk ridicule, or worse, prison. Then we have Ned, one of my favorite characters, who is Mal's staunch friend but is in love with him as well. Mal and Ned have been lovers in the past, which makes their present relationship even more confusing. Later when the characters arrive in Venice, yet another character is added to this odd mix, a skrayling named Olivia who represents a serious threat and must be dealt with, despite Mal being extremely attracted to her. It's interesting to see how all these relationships work themselves out, and Lyle takes her time resolving things, keeping the reader in suspense through most of the story. I found the author's inclusion of complicated relationships very Shakespearean, and I felt they added a sense of intrigue that felt just right.
The setting of Venice where much of the action takes place was gorgeously descriptive and I felt myself completely immersed in the Venetian culture that the author brings to life. Lyle describes the city as a contradiction, where the elite and wealthy live in splendor and attend masked parties, but around every corner is terrible squalor that is simply a part of everyday life. Men of all social standings urinate on the street, and even the women must find "piss pots" when they need to relieve themselves. I loved some of the historical details that the author sprinkled into her story, such as the invention of the wrist watch and the newfangled "post office" that had recently sprung up in Venice. I also loved the sea journey to Venice, a tense and exciting part of the story where there are dangers aplenty, including pirates.
The fantasy elements were subtle, and for me, my least favorite parts of the book, probably because of the confusion I admitted to earlier. I much preferred the wonderfully detailed history lesson that Lyle provided, and the intrigue among the characters, especially when they arrived in Venice. I would highly recommend this book for history buffs that would enjoy a fantasy element that doesn't overpower the story. Lyle's use of period-correct dialog, while a bit hard to read and understand at first, lent authenticity to the story.
The bottom line is this: read The Alchemist of Souls first. While this book is well-written and held many positives for me, my enjoyment was hindered by the fact that I felt like I was going in blind. With the back story of Book One firmly in place, The Merchant of Dreams will most likely enthrall any reader who loves history.
Many thanks to the publisher for supplying a review copy.
Find The Merchant of Dreams: Goodreads * Amazon * Barnes & Noble *


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