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After seven months of development, (sorry it slipped, I was a bit busy with school) I'm proud to announce the release of version 1.3.0 of the Muon Suite.
The Muon Package Management Suite is a collection of package management applications that make package management easy on Debian-based systems, whether or not you know what "package management" means. Packages for Kubuntu 11.10 "Oneiric Ocelot" are available in the QApt PPA. Packages for the development version of Kubuntu 12.04 are available through the official repositories.
The focus of this release has been refining the various applications in the Muon Suite to be rock-solid. All reported crashes have been fixed, leaving zero crash reports open in the bug tracker. 😀 This being said, Muon Suite 1.3 is not without some very nifty new features, including a totally new Update Manager to replace the old updater that was just a stripped-down version of the Muon Package Manager, as well as some additional bling for the Muon Software Center.
I would like to also thank the KDE translation team for their awesome work this cycle. The Muon Suite is now over 70% translated in 29 different languages, making it accessible to a wide variety of users across the world. Thanks a bunch, kde-l10n!
What's New
Muon Update Manager
By far the biggest feature for 1.3, the Muon Update Manager has seen a rewrite. Before, the Muon Update Manager was really just a stripped down version of the Muon Package Manager, with the filters and package search removed. The new design for 1.3 was built with an update management workflow in mind, and is much more user-friendly and update-oriented.
Updates are split up into three sections: Application Updates for applications, System Updates for packages that aren't applications (libraries and other boring stuff.), and security updates for updates that fix vulnerabilities in the software on your computer. This segregation allows users to easily check out what's new with what they really care about (Changes in their applications), without having to wade through a bunch of library packages that they have no idea about in regards to what they are.
Clicking on an item will cause a changelog viewer to expand with a smooth animation to display all Debian changelog entries since the version currently installed. Updates that require the installation of new packages/removal of other packages are not selected by default, but can be selected separately (along with a dialog showing the required changes.)
During update installation, a progress bar shows download and installation progress. (Download speed is shown once APT has had enough time to make a sensible reading, it had not had time to make a sane estimate by the time I took the below screenshot.)
The updater also provides a warning about starting an update while not connected to power. If the power becomes disconnected at any point before during the update, the warning will show up.The warning animates in nicely and will go away on its own when the power is plugged back in.
All in all, I feel that the Muon Update Manager provides a very smooth, slick, and easy-to-use interface for managing updates. Additionally, the Muon Update Manager can now be launched manually from the "System" section of Kickoff/Simple KMenu.
Muon Software Center
- The package name has been added to the version string on the application details page.
- The Muon Software Center now warns you when removing an application will remove other packages.
- The screenshot viewer popup dialog has been replaced with an in-window overlay on the application details page. It has a blurred, transparent background and animates in and out nicely.
Muon Package Manager
Far from being neglected, the Muon Package Manager has received several new bugfixes and optimizations.
- Added a confirmation dialog when changes to a package require changes to other packages. This can be disabled from the Muon Package Manager's settings dialog, if so desired.
- Marking multiple packages at once has been made 3x faster than before.
- Issues where a package couldn't be unmarked for installation/upgrade since they were dependencies of another package marked for installation have been resolved.
Detailed changelogs for LibQApt and Muon including information about specific bugfixes can be found here and here, respectively.
The Future
At this point in Muon's release cycle, usually nothing has been done for the next version. This time, however, the Muon team has grown by one with the addition of Aleix Pol Gonzalez who is working on the Muon Suite as part of his job at Netrunner OS. As a consequence, git master already has some nifty new features that I will not spoil here, but will have addressed when Aleix or I (or both of us) blog about them in the near future. 8) Notwithstanding things that have already been done, here is what I personally wish to accomplish over the next six months:
- (Optional, I know some people would prefer not to have it) Support for the Ubuntu App Store.
- More (optional) data columns in the main view of the Muon Package Manager.
- An "In Progress" view for the Muon Software Center to show currently running/pending transactions
- Add a configuration GUI for whether or not to show confirmation dialogs (in case they were accidentally disabled)
Like I said, the list is a bit sparse, but that's because several neat new features have already been added for 1.4 in git master. 😉 Expect a blog about these in the near future. (Or go check out git master for yourself, this is FOSS after all. :P)
Geeky Stuff
If you're a developer developing a package management frontend using QApt, then QApt 1.3 will be a nice upgrade. There are some things that probably need to be said first, however. LibQApt 1.3 has now dropped legacy support for PolKit-Qt 0.98.x. Polkit-Qt 0.99 or greater is now required. Additionally, features of the new C++11 standard are utilized, and require GCC 4.6+ to compile. With that out of the way, here's an overview of what's new on the QApt front:
The new Changelog class provides a container for parsing Debian changelog files. Individual changelog entries (QApt::ChangelogEntry) can be pulled from the Changelog object, with each ChangelogEntry providing methods for version, date, and the text of the changelog entry. In the future, methods for returning bug and CVE links will also be available.
- Added Backend::markPackages() for marking multiple packages at once. It utilizes event compression, avoiding additional internal dependency checking or emitting packageChanged() signals until everything is marked. Increases the speed of marking multiple packages by 300% in Muon.
- Added Backend::setCompressEvents() function so that programs can utilize the event compression speed benefits in their own custom marking loops if they can't use Backend::markPackages().
- Added Backend::stateChanges() to provide lists of changed packages since a given CacheState. Useful for showing what changed after marking a package.
- Added QApt::Package::archives() function to return a list of archives that a package is available from. (E.g. oneiric, oneiric-updates, sid, etc)


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ClavAnother wrote:OK, this place has been screaming for a Jam With Tapes™ colossal thread.
If you need inspiration you can hear what everyone is doing and then post some yourself.
First up: Pipe Dreams featuring two tracks of Minimoog, two tracks of Prophet 10, a track of Fender Rhodes, and...
This is most excellent, sir. Most excellent, indeed. It reminds me of something, but I can't quite place it.
+++++AAAAAA track would listen again

subset: commoncrawl


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Ohio House Democrats stood in solidarity with their Michigan colleagues and friends by wearing red carnations to House session today. Ohio workers faced similar unsafe and unfair attacks on their right to collectively bargain, in Senate Bill 5, which was put to a voter referendum and passed with nearly 62 percent of the vote. State Reps. Teresa Fedor (D-Toledo) and Matt Szollosi (D- Toledo) released the following statement in support of Michigan workers' right to collectively bargain.
"Today and everyday we support our brothers and sisters in Michigan and across the nation whose rights are under attack. The ability to collectively bargain for safe working conditions and a decent wage is what has allowed America to build a strong middle class. Right to work is wrong, and we will continue to fight against these anti-working family policies," said Rep. Fedor.
"We proudly stand with workers, union and non-union, who are under attack today in Michigan. In their zeal to exact political vengeance against labor unions, Michigan's Republican legislators have lost sight of right and wrong. The right to work legislation will drive down wages for working families, and open the floodgates for out of state workers. It is a shame," Rep. Szollosi added.


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To start this off, here's an amazing buck we came across on Rougarou Bayou when testing non-typicals.
Please follow these rules in order to avoid posts being rejected (and further work for moderators).
- if you post a trophy shot of an animal, post the score and/or a link to the scoresheet
- do not make regular posts of pictures on behalf of other players, post your own trophies
These rules are in addition to the general forum Code of Conduct which applies to every post, in every thread.
Thank you for your time and cooperation.


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The only time in this process you will ever have to lift a finger is when you sign off on the final deal to sell your home for the amount you specified! So, if you are looking to sell your home fast in West Jordan, fill out the form and get a quote or call 1-800-SELL-NOW!
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We are highly experienced at selling homes fast in West Jordan, under tight schedules and try to bring about an efficient sale that is beneficial for all parties. It always feels difficult to take the first steps, but once you've given us a call on 1-800-SELL-NOW! our trained experts with years of experience under their belts will do their best to sell your home fast in West Jordan. You can also fill out the form and get a quote if you'd like to know how much we would be able to offer for your home. Take the first steps and we'll do our best to resolve this difficult chapter in your life.
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And finding one is much easier than it looks – if you are looking to sell house in West Jordan, it helps to start knocking on the doors of the experts. Sit back and let our team of experts take you through the whole process and find a home buyer that suits your needs and timeframe. To take the first step to act and sell your home, pick up the telephone and call 1-800-SELL-NOW – our courteous representatives are waiting for you. Next, take some time to fill out the form and get a quote. It's as simple as that! When in such an important period of transition, it helps to have a helping hand.
Real Market Experts is an esteemed, nationwide network of top real estate investment professionals who have worked tirelessly to build a brand that truly exemplifies the close relationships they develop and the amazing real estate opportunities they provide for their clients.


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The Kilborn 200 Book Tour is in effect. I'm currently acting like a wanna-be writer, blogging at the Starbucks near the University of Cincinnati.
But, unlike those wanna-bes, I refuse to pay $20 to connect to the Internet. Shouldn't Wifi be free? Am I all alone in this belief?
So I'll write this now, and post it when I can connect without paying. This is, after all, a budget tour.
The Drop-In Book Tour on a Budget is an interesting beast. The goal is to meet as many booksellers and sign as many books as possible, using the least amount of time and money.
My publisher is partially sponsoring the tour, so in order to stretch their bucks I'm staying at the houses of peers and fans, eating at gas stations, and trying to only drive downwind.
So far, I've driven 742 miles, dropped in 47 bookstores, and only spent $92.
You may be asking: Joe, what's the point?
The point is threefold.
1. Signed books sell better than unsigned books, get displayed face-out, and are (usually) retained by bookstores rather than returned.
2. Meeting booksellers is good for your long term sales.
3. In self-promotion, doing something tends to be more effective than doing nothing.
If you're looking for signed copies of Afraid and my other titles, here are the bookstores where I've signed stock over the past few days:
Borders Oakbrook IL
Borders Wheaton IL
B&N Wheaton IL
B&N Naperville IL
Andersons Naperville IL
Borders Naperville IL
Waldenbooks Aurora IL
Waldenbooks Peru IL
Borders Geneva IL
B&N Geneva IL
Borders St. Charles IL
B&N Bloomingdale IL
B&N Schaumburg IL
Borders Schaumburg IL
B&N Old Orchard IL
Borders Skokie IL
Borders Evanston IL
Waldenbooks Lincolnwood IL
Borders Lincolnwood IL
B&N Skokie IL
Borders Crystal Lake IL
B&N Crystal Lake IL
Borders Algonquin IL
B&N West Dundee IL
Borders McHenry IL
B&N Merrilville IN
Borders Merrilville IN
B&N West Lafayette IN
Borders West Lafayette IN
B&N Greenwood IN
The Mystery Company Carmel IN
Borders Carmel IN
B&N Carmel IN
Borders Meridian Indy IN
Borders River Crossing Indy IN
Joseph-Beth Cincinnati OH
Borders Eastgate Cincy OH
Borders Colerain Cincy OH
B&N Waterstone Cincy OH
B&N Montogemry Cincy OH
Waldenbooks Cincy OH
B&N Newport KY
B&N Florence KY
Waldenbooks Dayton OH
B&N Beavercreek OH
Borders Dayton OH
B&N Miamisburg Dayton OH
Borders US 31 Indy IN
Borders Castleton Indy IN
B&N Indy IN
So that's 47 stores so far, 153 to go. I also didn't count the 14 stores in Illinois and Wisconsin that I visited with Barry Eisler a few weeks ago, because I'll be visiting them again.
Tomorrow, more of Kentucky.
Monday and Tuesday, Nashville and Atlanta.
Wednesday, Florida.
Some shout-outs to Jane Bretl and her terrific family, and the multi-talented James Daniel Ross (and Jennifer Ross) for putting up with my intrusive presence. Everyone reading this should click on their names and check out their most excellent sites.
See you on the road...
Saturday, April 18, 2009
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2017 Toyota Prius Four 1227
|4 Cyl.
|Sea Glass Pearl
|Black Softex
|Stock No.:
- Driver Seat
- Interior Trim -inc: Piano Black Instrument Panel Insert, Piano Black Door Panel Insert, Colored Console Insert and Chrome/Metal-Look Interior Accents
- Passenger Seat
- Pre-Collision System (pcs) and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (rcta)
- Engine: 1.8L 4-Cylinder DOHC 16V VVT-i -inc: aluminum block and head
- Transmission: Continuously Variable Automatic -inc: Electronically controlled
- Engine Auto Stop-Start Feature
- Front-Wheel Drive
- 4.11 Axle Ratio
- Battery w/Run Down Protection
- Hybrid Electric Motor
- Gas-Pressurized Shock Absorbers
- Front And Rear Anti-Roll Bars
- Electric Power-Assist Steering
- 11.3 Gal. Fuel Tank
- Single Stainless Steel Exhaust
- Strut Front Suspension w/Coil Springs
- Double Wishbone Rear Suspension w/Coil Springs
- Regenerative 4-Wheel Disc Brakes w/4-Wheel ABS, Front Vented Discs, Brake Assist and Hill Hold Control
- Wheels: 6.5J x 15" 5-Spoke Aluminum Alloy -inc: two-tone wheel covers
- Lithium Ion Traction Battery
- Tires: P195/65R15 AS
- Repair Kit Spare Tire
- Clearcoat Paint
- Body-Colored Front Bumper w/Black Bumper Insert
- Body-Colored Rear Bumper w/Black Rub Strip/Fascia Accent
- Black Side Windows Trim, Black Front Windshield Trim and Black Rear Window Trim
- Body-Colored Door Handles
- Body-Colored Power Heated Side Mirrors w/Manual Folding
- Fixed Rear Window w/Fixed Interval Wiper and Defroster
- Light Tinted Glass
- Rain Detecting Variable Intermittent Wipers
- Lip Spoiler
- Galvanized Steel/Aluminum Panels
- Black Grille
- Liftgate Rear Cargo Access
- Front License Plate Bracket
- Tailgate/Rear Door Lock Included w/Power Door Locks
- LED Brakelights
- Fully Automatic Projector Beam Led Low/High Beam Auto High-Beam Daytime Running Lights Preference Setting Headlamps w/Delay-Off
- Radio: Entune Premium Audio w/Navigation/App Suite -inc: the Entune Multimedia Bundle, 7 inch high resolution touch-screen w/split screen display, AM/FM CD player, 6 speakers, auxiliary audio jack, USB 2.0 port w/iPod connectivity and control, advanced voice recognition, hands-free phone capability, phone book access and music streaming via Bluetooth wireless technology, Siri Eyes Free, Entune App Suite (includes Destination Search, iHeartRadio, MovieTickets.com, OpenTable, Pandora, Facebook Places, Yelp and Slacker Radio; real-time info including traffic, weather, fuel prices, sports and stocks), HD Radio, HD predictive traffic and Doppler weather overlay, AM/FM cache radio, SiriusXM satellite radio w/3-month complimentary SiriusXM All Access trial and Gracenotes album cover art Access to Entune App Suite services is subscription free. See toyota.com/entune for details.
- Radio w/Clock, Speed Compensated Volume Control and Steering Wheel Controls
- Integrated Roof Antenna
- Heated Front Bucket Seats -inc: seatback pockets, 8-way adjustable driver's seat w/power lumbar support and 4-way adjustable front passenger seat
- 3 LCD Monitors In The Front
- 60-40 Folding Bench Front Facing Fold Forward Seatback Rear Seat
- Gauges -inc: Speedometer, Odometer, Traction Battery Level, Power/Regen, Trip Odometer and Trip Computer
- Manual Tilt/Telescoping Steering Column
- Power Rear Windows
- SofTex Leatherette Steering Wheel
- Rear Cupholder
- Front Cupholder
- Proximity Key For Doors And Push Button Start
- Remote Keyless Entry w/Integrated Key Transmitter, 2 Door Curb/Courtesy, Illuminated Entry, Illuminated Ignition Switch and Panic Button
- Remote Releases -Inc: Power Fuel
- Cruise Control w/Steering Wheel Controls
- Distance Pacing
- Automatic Air Conditioning
- HVAC -inc: Underseat Ducts
- Illuminated Glove Box
- Driver Foot Rest
- Full Cloth Headliner
- Urethane Gear Shift Knob
- SofTex Seat Trim -inc: w/contrast stitching
- Day-Night Rearview Mirror
- Driver And Passenger Visor Vanity Mirrors w/Driver And Passenger Illumination
- Full Floor Console w/Covered Storage, Mini Overhead Console w/Storage and 2 12V DC Power Outlets
- Front Map Lights
- Full Carpet Floor Covering
- Fade-To-Off Interior Lighting
- Carpet Floor Trim
- Cargo Area Concealed Storage
- Folding Cargo Cover
- Cargo Space Lights
- Lane Change Assist -inc: intelligent clearance sonar
- Garage Opener
- Driver And Passenger Door Bins
- Power 1st Row Windows w/Driver And Passenger 1-Touch Up/Down
- Delayed Accessory Power
- Power Door Locks w/Autolock Feature
- Systems Monitor
- Trip Computer
- Outside Temp Gauge
- Digital Display
- Front Center Armrest and Rear Center Armrest
- Manual Adjustable Front Head Restraints and Manual Adjustable Rear Head Restraints
- Engine Immobilizer
- 2 12V DC Power Outlets
- Seats w/Leatherette Back Material
- Air Filtration
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Side Impact Beams
- ABS And Driveline Traction Control
- Dual Stage Driver And Passenger Seat-Mounted Side Airbags
- Low Tire Pressure Warning
- Dual Stage Driver And Passenger Front Airbags
- Airbag Occupancy Sensor
- Driver Knee Airbag and Passenger Cushion Front Airbag
- Curtain 1st And 2nd Row Airbags
- Rear Child Safety Locks
- Outboard Front Lap And Shoulder Safety Belts -inc: Rear Center 3 Point, Height Adjusters and Pretensioners
- Back-Up Camera
- Convenience Package
- Federal Emissions
- Door Edge Guards
- Body Side Mouldings
- Advanced Technology Package
- Preferred Owner's Portfolio
- All Weather Floor Liners and Cargo Tray
- Prius Four Package
- Safety Plus Package
Please note that we attempt to publish accurate prices and data on our inventory, but on occasion, errors do happen. Our website is updated on an ongoing basis. However, there may be a delay between the time of sale of a vehicle and the time that the vehicle is deleted from our website inventory. Please contact us to verify the price, availability, and options for a vehicle that you have an interest in. Dealer fees excluded. The advertised price does not include $115 Documentation Processing Fee, $35 Electronic Filing Fee, and any other required fees. TAC AutoCare policy covers normal factory scheduled service for 2 years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first. See Toyota dealer for details and exclusions. Valid only in the continental U.S. and Alaska. MSRP may include dealer installed accessories on some models.
Truth in Lending Act Disclosure: 4.09% APR financing for 60 months with $18.46 for each $1,000 borrowed.


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Get the Flash Playerto see this player.
|Super Glam
Short review: It's definitely one of the best sites I've seen! The girls are absolutely stunning and they've made the site so easy to use and the new layout is very nice. They don't fall short on quality as they pull out all the stops and have the highest resolution pictures I've ever seen. Plus the videos are nice and clear and able to be downloaded with ease no matter what your connection speed is. The girls are featured in steamy solo masturbation or kinky girl on girl clips.
Content Amount: There are nearly 200 sets to view inside the site and they're all completely exclusive. They've got over 50 different models and feature them in many different scenerios. The girls are usually shown masturbating which gets a little tired after awhile.


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Getting Started
Taking a Systems Approach
Establishing Accurate Farm Zones
Fine-Tuning Management Zones
Mastering the Drainage Connection
Varying Planting Populations
Selecting the Right Hybrids
Adjusting Nitrogen Inputs
Calibrating Your Yield Monitor
Unleashing Drones
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Tackling Weak Links
Harnessing the Power of Sensors
Safeguarding Your Data
Case Study: Scattered Acres Farm
Case Study: Joe Sullivan
Evaluating Investment Returns
By: Darrell Smith, Farm Journal Media
In many areas, the words "drainage" and "tile" are synonymous. But for farmers such as Leon Wendte—a retired soil conservationist who farms with his brother Roy in south-central Illinois near Altamont—tiling doesn't work on their Cisne soil.
Although highly productive and flat as a table top, the topsoil sits 18" above a virtually impenetrable claypan.
Until now, the only way to drain such soil was with shallow surface ditches, installed every year with a rotary ditcher. The operator had to guess, or remember from prior experience, where to run the ditches to carry water off the field. That's almost impossible when land slopes only 1" to 3" per 100'.
Drawing upon his engineering and precision farming technology experience, Wendte designed "precision surface drainage" to place drainage channels exactly where needed. He uses topographic maps created from RTK planting files, a laser control (like tiling contractors use) and a pull-behind rotary ditching machine.
A third Wendte brother, Keith, created topographic maps of the family fields with contour intervals as low as 1.2". Superimposed on an aerial photo, the contour lines reveal where drainage ditches should be placed.
"It costs several hundred dollars for a tiling contractor to survey and map an 80-acre field," Wendte says. "Keith mapped dozens of fields in a few days using Case IH AFS desktop software."
Following major drainage paths on the topographic maps, Wendte lays out A-B lines in each field. Identifying wet areas from scouting, field history, aerial photos and yield maps, he runs laterals from wet areas to main ditches that carry water off the field.
RTK auto-guidance steers Wendte's tractor parallel to his A-B lines, the laser controls the grade and the ditching machine cuts a shallow, 5'-wide, flat-bottomed ditch. Successive passes shape the sides so the ditch can be crossed smoothly.
Wet no more. "Before this technology, we had to make a ditch 3" or 4" deep with a small-diameter circular bottom to get water off the field," Wendte says. "They were rough to farm over. Installed at random, they often were not in exactly the right place, and they did not have a uniform positive slope, so water still stood in pockets in the field. The channels were so small, we had to remake the ditches every year."
The contour maps showed Wendte why surface drainage had been frustrating for so long. "We never got swales drained properly because we never were able to put ditches in exactly the right place," he says. "In land this flat, you can't do it by looking at the ground. Even if you're only a few feet off with a ditch, you'll still have standing water."
Wendte's ditching machine, which can also be used to build waterways, cost about $50,000. It is designed for use with a 325-hp tractor, although Wendte pulls his with a 275-hp tractor.
His other out-of-pocket cost was $20,000 for the laser grade control and automatic tractor hydraulic hookup. He already had RTK auto-guidance and software for making topographic maps from as-planted maps. "On our acreage, the investment should pay for itself in about three to five years from higher yields resulting from better drainage," he says.


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Road Conditions for Remote Trailheads – date posted Apr 12, 2010
Thunder River access (Apr-12-10): Hikers can drive to within about 5 miles of the Bill Hall and Thunder River trailheads. The road is not drivable past the intersection of Forest Roads 425 and 427 (per Fredonia Field Office, North Kaibab District).
The big story of the day is the huge snowpack on the North Rim and the effects this will have on access to backcountry roads and trailheads this spring. Much depends on unpredictable factors such as daytime high temperatures and the potential for additional precipitation. In general, North Rim hikers can assume vehicle access along dirt roads to remote trailheads will open later than usual this year and that travel along the upper few miles of canyon trails may be snow covered or icy for the next several weeks.
Vehicle access along Forest Road 328 to the South Bass trailhead has become pretty reasonable for a competent high clearance backcountry vehicle, although all it would take is additional snow or rain to make this road difficult for even the best 4-wheel drive.
The Swamp Ridge Road to the North Bass trailhead, famous for deep drifts and downed trees across the road, might not open until late May or even early June. Forest Road 610 to the upper Nankoweap trailhead may open a little sooner, but not much. Forest Road 22 and 425 to the trailheads at Monument Point and Indian Hollow may open by sometime in late April or early May, but at this time all we can do is guess.
Hikers considering traveling dirt roads to remote trailheads should contact the North Kaibab Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest at 928-643-7395, the Tusayan Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest on the South Rim at 928-635-4061 or the Backcountry Information Center for current conditions.
It is not uncommon for trees to fall and block access to remote trailheads. When you encounter a road blocked by fallen trees, what should you do?
- Report the location and diameter of the tree to Grand Canyon park dispatch (928-638-7805) as soon as possible. The park will assign staff to clear the road.
- If an appropriate (not blocking the road and not damaging vegetation) place to park is available, park your vehicle and continue to the trailhead on foot.
- Do not drive off-road attempting to bypass the obstacle, doing so can cause resource damage.


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Whatever Happened to Mara Wilson From 'Matilda' and 'Mrs. Doubtfire'?
Then: The world fell in love with Mara Wilson when she stormed the big screen in 'Mrs. Doubtfire,' 'Miracle on 34th Street' and 'A Simple Wish,' all before age 11. But she is probably most known for her starring role in the movie adaption of Roald Dahl's 'Matilda.' So what did happen to this once famous child star?
Now: Wilson completely left show business when her child stardom ended (because she was no longer a child) and pursued higher learning at New York University. After graduation, she focused her attention on playwriting and her blog Mara Wilson Writes Stuff. If you like reading pieces by a celebrity who enjoys poking fun at her Hollywood-driven past as a "lisping little girl," then you should follow her on Twitter.


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Audra McDonald Hosts Broadcast of the New York Philharmonic Opening Gala Tonight, 9/27
Tune in to PBS tonight, September 27, 2012, at 8 p.m.* for Live From Lincoln Center's telecast of the New York Philharmonic's Opening Gala conducted by Music Director Alan Gilbert. The program will feature world famous violinist Itzhak Perlman performing personal favorites including Williams' Theme from Schindler's List and Massenet's "Meditation from Tha?s, as well as works by Sarasate, Tchaikovsky and Rimsky-Korsakov. The broadcast, which features extended artist profiles, will also include Respighi's celebrated Fountains of Rome and Pines of Rome.
Itzhak Perlman is the reigning virtuoso of the violin as well as an eminent conductor and educator. In January 2009 he performed at the Inauguration of President Barack Obama. In December 2003 he received a Kennedy Center Honor celebrating his contributions to the cultural and educational life of the country. In October 2012 Mr. Perlman will play recitals in Peru, Brazil, and Argentina with pianist and frequent collaborator Rohan De Silva. Other highlights of his 2012–13 season include the release of his new album, Eternal Echoes, on Sony Classical. He will perform in cities across North America, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Montreal, Kansas City, Sarasota, Houston, Las Vegas, and Seattle. Mr. Perlman has won four Emmy and fifteen Grammy Awards. He performed at the 2006 Academy Awards and at The Juilliard School's Centennial gala, telecast nationally on Live From Lincoln Center. One of Mr. Perlman's proudest achievements is his collaboration with John Williams on the music for Steven Spielberg's Schindler's List, for which he performed the violin solos. Mr. Perlman was music advisor of the St. Louis Symphony (2002–04) and principal guest conductor of the Detroit Symphony (2001–05). He has conducted the New York Philharmonic, Philadelphia Orchestra, Los Angeles Philharmonic, St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, and the Boston, Chicago, National, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Pittsburgh, Seattle, Montreal, Atlanta, and Toronto symphony orchestras as well as at the Ravinia and OK Mozart festivals. Internationally, Mr. Perlman has conducted the Berlin Philharmonic, Amsterdam's Royal Concertgebouw, London Philharmonic, English Chamber, and Israel Philharmonic orchestras. Each summer Itzhak Perlman participates in the Perlman Music Program, and he holds the Dorothy Richard Starling Foundation Chair at The Juilliard School. In May 2005 he received an honorary doctorate and a centennial medal at Juilliard's 100th commencement ceremony.
Alan Gilbert began his tenure as Music Director of the New York Philharmonic in September 2009, launching what New York Magazine called "a fresh future for the Philharmonic." The first native New Yorker in the post, he has introduced the positions of The Marie-Josée Kravis Composer-in-Residence and The Mary and James G. Wallach Artist-in-Residence, an annual multi-week festival, and CONTACT!, the new-music series, and he has sought to make the Orchestra a point of civic pride for the city and country. In 2012–13, Alan Gilbert conducts world premieres; presides over a cycle of Brahms's complete symphonies and concertos; continues The Nielsen Project, the multi-year initiative to perform and record Nielsen's symphonies and concertos; and leads the EUROPE / SPRING 2013 tour. The season concludes with June Journey: Gilbert's Playlist, four programs showcasing themes he has introduced, including the season finale: a theatrical reimagining of Stravinsky ballets with director/designer Doug Fitch and New York City Ballet Principal Dancer Sara Mearns. Last season's highlights included tours of Europe and California, several world premieres, Mahler symphonies, and Philharmonic 360, the Philharmonic and Park Avenue Armory's acclaimed spatial-music program featuring Stockhausen's Gruppen, about which The New York Times said: "Those who think classical music needs some shaking up routinely challenge music directors at major orchestras to think outside the box. That is precisely what Alan Gilbert did." Mr. Gilbert is Director of Conducting and Orchestral Studies and holds the William Schuman Chair in Musical Studies at The Juilliard School. Conductor Laureate of the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra and Principal Guest Conductor of Hamburg's NDR Symphony Orchestra, he regularly conducts leading orchestras around the world. He made his acclaimed Metropolitan Opera debut conducting John Adams's Doctor Atomic in 2008, the DVD of which received a Grammy Award. His recordings have received top honors from the Chicago Tribune and Gramophone magazine. In May 2010 Mr. Gilbert received an Honorary Doctor of Music degree from The Curtis Institute of Music and in December 2011, Columbia University's Ditson Conductor's Award for his "exceptional commitment to the performance of works by American composers and to contemporary music."
Founded in 1842, the New York Philharmonic is one of the oldest orchestras in the world. Since its inception, it has played a leading role in American musical life, reaching out to audiences with touring that began in 1882; recordings beginning in 1917; and radio broadcasts since 1922, now represented by The New York Philharmonic This Week, syndicated nationally 52 weeks a year.
Live From Lincoln Center is in its 37h broadcast season. The series has received 13 Emmy Awards, most recently for the broadcast of New York City Opera's Madama Butterfly. Live From Lincoln Center has made the world's greatest artists on Lincoln Center's renowned stages accessible to home viewers in virtually every corner of the United States.


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News Archives from 2009
- Kill DTP problems before they start Have you ever worked for hours and hours only to have your Adobe, Quark or Microsoft file crap out due to some unknown bogyman? If you use Adobe CS4, QuarkXPress 8, and Microsoft Office, Insider Software's Smasher will be a smart addition to your arsenal of DTP tools
- Adobe Photoshop File Recovery The worst nightmare of the graphic artist and photographer is having a photo file or Photoshop file refuse to open -- or the entire card refuses to open -- or the card appears to be empty. It happens to a lot of people. Disk Doctors' Photo Recovery software now has enhanced support for recovering Adobe Photoshop files.
- Client Folder Maker Any business where computers are used in the production of client work must have competent tracking, and archiving of those client work work files. Here's one of particular note for DTPers, movie production or web designers
- Apple blocking Push Notifications? Careful: if you're using a so-called "hacktivated" iPhone then many apps you purchase may not work. You call support, or inquire in forums, etc., but the fault may not be the app -- but Apple's 'push' servers actually blocking your querry. PoweryBase has tracking data ...
- Toys with AUGMENTED REALITY You knew it was coming -- it was only a question of time. Mattel has demonstrated a new line of action figures based on the upcoming epic action-adventure film, "Avatar", that will include virtual reality linked through immersive technologies.
- Barcodes for QuarkXPress and Adobe InDesign Chartbot Barcodes is the only Quark / InDesign barcode package that lets users generate 1D, 2D and postal barcodes directly within their favourite variable-data extended technology module without using barcode fonts.
- iPhone Barcode Scanner (Free) There are so many uses for a barcode scanner in today's world, if you're an iPhone user, take a serious look at the Cyclops -- simply click the scan button, take a picture of the barcode, and Cyclops does the rest.
- Clipart for Pages and iWork Jumsoft has expanded its selection of Pages Clipart images designed to illustrate presentations, invitations, Web pages, posters, newsletters, and a variety of other documents.
- Free Comics Keynote Theme For those Keynote users out there, here's a free Keynote theme that will put your presentation in the Comics. While not necessarily recommended for all topics, this new theme sports numerous cool features, and will captivate your audience
- WebShot Accurate Web Capture For years we've wanted a good, accurate means of capturing pages from the web. A screen grab gives us a single big-mapped graphic. Printing to PDF gives us some text and some graphics, but they are impossible to break apart. But that may all be changing.
- Employee Monitoring for Mac In today's economy, employers are becoming more and more sensitive to the productivity of their employees. To some, it seems like an invastion of privacy. But the bottom line of a business depends on making every minute count.
- 4 Ways to Edit the Read-only PDF files China's Gerry Jingrong provides some ideas for working with read-only Adobe Acrobat PDF files -- what do you do when you need to edit or revise an un-editable PDF file?
- Taking payment Online Do you sell anything on your web site? Sanjou Gokhool takes a brief look at options available for taking payment online - PayPal, Merchant, Accounts, credit card processing, Verisign and other ecommerce transactions
- Give'er the Juicz You lifted off from Dulles three hours ago, you're somewhere over Utah -- your laptop is dead, and your presentation is not done yet. Sound familiar? Do you travel with your MacBook? Do you dread snooping around for a power outlet -- then digging out the cables and charger? Don't you wish you didn't have to be tethered to a wall outlet and had another five hours? Well, here'ya go ...
- EOS Digital Rebel Companion Learn how to take pro-quality shots with your Canon EOS Digital Rebel T1i/500 and get your digital photography questions answered -- it's the Canon EOS Digital Rebel T1i/500D field guide with expert author Ben Long
- Architectural Photography Adrian Schulz shows you the finer points of Architectural Photography -- Composition, Capture, and Digital Image Processing and how architects are discovering exciting new opportunities to present and market their work.
- MacBook Air External Battery/Charger Remember the days when we had all kinds of schemes to get from one coast to the other on a single laptop battery charge? Then, with more powerful Laptops, we resorted to taking along an extra battery. QuickerTek's extended life battery changes all that for the MacBook Air
- Continues ...
... continues on the next page!


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Getty Images
When Pro Football Talk co-host Erik Kuselias asked this week whether I agree with Falcons coach Mike Smith's decision to play his starters despite having the No. 1 seed locked up, I provided an unequivocal response.
"Yes, if it works."
And it's not working.
Apart from the fact that the Falcons are losing the game, they may have lost defensive end John Abraham. He suffered a left leg injury early in the fourth quarter of Sunday's regular-season finale against the Buccaneers.
Abraham has left the playing area on a cart.


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Meme Contest?
Post epic memes and I will judge them
1=Not even a meme
10=The best meme I have seen
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Post epic memes and I will judge them
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For me I can't wait to be done my piano sonata but I also am excited to compose a concerto for piano and orchestra!
For those who don't know Polyrhythm is the simultaneous use of two or more conflicting rhythms e.g. triplets at the same time as duplets
What instrument do you all play? I play piano and I trying to learn ukulele. And I'd love to learn cello! It is such a cool instrument!!!!
I was working on a score on the software when it closed unexpectedly.
because of that I lost my score of more than 100 (!) measures.
I tried but I couldn't find him again.
does sombody know a solution?
Hey guys!! :D How are you? ♥ I would like to share my first score with you :D https://musescore.com/user/28725539/scores/5470048 I hope you like it! :3
Have a great day!! Kisses from Argentina! ♥
What are we doing here?
Lol Patrick
I will update this weekly
1 Member
1 Discussion
Group is created today! Woohoo! *confetti and stuff falls from sky*
8 Members
2 Discussions
Eek! I forgot to do this yesterday. The group is already dying, so uhh… :o
@Jaybird1 is one of the first truly active members, I told him I would give him a shoutout here, so here you go :P
14 Members
3 Discussions
I haven't updated this in a while, this group is blowing up now...
22 Members
5 Discussions
Holy cow, this group is blowing up. 8 members in 4 days, wow...
30 Members
4 Discussions
Hmm...Starting to die again...
35 Members
5 Discussions
Welp...I was wrong...
41 Members
7 Discussions
I was very wrong, this group is really blowing up, welp
47 Members
7 Discussions
Again, welp
55 Members
8 Discussions
So I had to kick a member (Indy500) for spamming a link to an unsecure website. Sorry, but spam for no purpose is not tolerated.
Hey All,
I've realized that I'm never one, partly because my cousins keep me moving! (THX, Burggraafs! :D). So I thought I'd select some new admins. I'll only select a few, so let me know ASAP.
15/05/19: I'll only be selecting a few more, so respond ASAP.
17/05/19: I won't be selecting any more. If you totally forgot to reply, please message me and I'll see what I can do! Thank you!!!!
i am working on a piano sonata
Mine is my rondo for a sonata collab
I am your group owner @IsaacBannon and i am happy that u don't want to tear out my throat! Pls feel free to do absolutely anything on this groupchat! *suicides*
Hey all,
I was wondering if any of you knew of easy ukulele songs. I was looking here, but there wasn't much. I would appreciate if you could help me out!!!
Thanks sooo much!!!!
Congrats on earning your Eagle Scout! It is a high honor! Introduce yourself here. Things like: what was your Eagle Project? What were some of your favorite merit badges? Did you receive your Order of the Arrow award? Have a great time.
Please give a listen to this link:
What do you think about it?
Hi, I'm Jonathan, I'm 15 years old and I'm doing classical music. I hope you like my fantasy in D minor.
Put your New Year's resolutions (if you do that) and what presents you get!
I hope for this group to get to about 50 members by 2020!
If you have anybody that you would like to invite, please list their names here, or if you would rather make a new discussions for it, it's all your choice!
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
Hey, all,
I got a suggestion about maybe finding a new name. And I have no ideas. So, if you have an idea and what we could do for a name. Please let me know. I'd like this to be a group project!


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Oral Testimony of Kenneth Apfel Commissioner of Social Security
Hearing before The Senate Democratic Task Force on Social Security
September 13, 1999
Good afternoon, Mr. Chairman and Members of the Task Force. Thank you for inviting me to discuss Social Security's role in the economic status of older women and proposals to eliminate the retirement earnings test or RET. I would like to commend the Chairman and the members of the Task Force for the important work you have done to further the National discussion on Social Security reform and solvency.
The program's solvency is particularly essential in improving retirement income adequacy for elderly women. Most importantly, I am convinced that the President's framework for reform will lead to solvency.
As you know, the President's framework provides the following keys to Social Security solvency:
- locking away the entire Social Security surplus each and every year;
- transferring interest savings on the federal debt to Social Security;
- investing no more than a maximum of 15 percent of the transferred amounts in the private sector to achieve higher returns for Social Security.
We have an historic window of opportunity to meet the challenge facing Social Security - and we must act now to guarantee that the most important social welfare program of the 20th century is preserved and strengthened for the 21st century.
The President is also proposing Universal Savings Accounts or "USA's," a progressive, voluntary retirement savings plan to supplement Social Security and other retirement income. Lower and moderate-income participants - who find it most difficult to save -- would receive automatic contribution credits deposited directly into their USA accounts to help them get started saving for retirement. This would be particularly advantageous for women, who often don't have pensions or savings to augment Social Security benefits.
In fact, as far as older women, it is impossible for me to imagine a government program with a greater positive impact. These are not faceless people, but our sisters, our mothers, our grandmothers and our great grandmothers. Their retirement security often depends on Social Security.
While more than 40 percent of all older Americans are kept out of poverty because of Social Security, I agree with the President that when even one older American faces poverty, we cannot rest easy. His statement, "We should reduce poverty among elderly women who are nearly twice as likely to be poor as our other seniors," goes to the heart of the matter before us today. We must make sure that when we look at Social Security reform and poverty, we do better for female senior citizens not worse.
As you'll remember, SSA has done an analysis showing the distributional effects of various Social Security solvency options by gender and income. We are continuing to work further in this area.
In December 1998:
- 19 million women aged 65 and older received benefits compared to 13 million men 65 and older;
- 36 percent of these women are protected on the basis of their own earnings in Social Security covered employment;
- 28 percent of aged women beneficiaries are dually entitled to higher benefits as a spouse or widow;
- 6.8 million aged women receive benefits only on the basis of another worker's earnings; and
- almost three-quarters of Social Security beneficiaries aged 85 and older are women because, on the average, women live longer than men do.
But these benefits only tell part of the story. For nonmarried aged women beneficiaries, which includes divorced women, widowed women and women who never married, the facts are astonishing.
For them, Social Security:
- is the major source of income for 76 percent;
- contributes 90 percent of income for about 41 percent; and
- is the only source of income for 25 percent.
Other important aspects of Social Security that help older women are the automatic cost-of-living adjustments and the progressive benefit formula. The latter is particularly germane since women on average earn less than men, due to wage differentials and shorter careers.
I also agree with the President that we should not drain resources from Social Security in the name of saving it. In particular, some of the carve-out proposals would lead to a loss of the progressive nature of the Social Security benefit formula.
Also, while the current program provides inflation-protected benefits for life, individual accounts may not have this same guarantee, plus women could end up with smaller accounts because of their lower earnings and tendency to invest more conservatively. And finally, individual accounts would not provide supplemental protection for dependents.
Now I will discuss the Retirement Earning Test which has been part of the Social Security System since the beginning. Eliminating the RET would give older Americans greater freedom to work while receiving their Social Security benefits - which are meant to be supplemented by pensions, savings and other forms of income.
On balance, the positive effects of eliminating the RET above the full benefit retirement age outweigh the potential negative ones. The choice is less clear regarding elimination of the RET below the NRA. The decision to retire early, while based on short-term needs or considerations, would have the long-term effect of reducing these individuals' monthly Social Security benefits.
It should be noted that the survivors of workers who retire before full benefit retirement age also get permanently reduced benefits due to the worker's decision to retire early.
The Administration and Congress have worked together successfully to create a prosperous economy for our country - a situation we might not have predicted only a few short years ago. I believe the next step is to strengthen and protect the Social Security system for future generations of Americans.
I will be happy to answer any questions you may have.


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Casa Morita
Time Out says
It's a good thing Casa Morita's menu is so brief – the potent cocktails don't do much for your reading comprehension. Like the food, they're tasty and remarkably cheap (just £5 for a smoky mezcal margarita). The bargain prices suit the setting, even if this is no longer any old indoor market thanks to the arrival of a plethora of interesting eateries over the past few years. Taco appetisers used good, chewy corn tortillas; the version with chicken mole was a little dry, but it packed a decent chocolate hit. Cochinita pibil, a Yucatán peninsula speciality of pulled pork, gave subtle notes of orange juice and achiote, and was painter's-palette colourful, with pink marinated onions, sweetcorn-studded rice and adobe brown refried beans. Enchiladas suizas were, thankfully, not too creamy, and enlivened by a slop of tangy green tomatillo salsa. Service can be market-trader curt, and there aren't any toilets attached to the restaurant (though there are some in the market). Do finish with the chocolate cake: laced with morita and árbol chillis, it's a zingy dream for just £3.75.
9 Market Row
|Cross street:
|Brixton Market
|Tube: Brixton tube/rail
|Do you own this business?
Users say (25)
Average User Rating
3 / 5
Rating Breakdown
- 5 star:7
- 4 star:5
- 3 star:2
- 2 star:4
- 1 star:7
Worst meal I've had this year. Asked to have the bill half way through the set menu 1 and they only offered a measly 10% discount. Servers were obviously overstretched which led to bad service throughout (forgotten orders, not being aware of what dishes they were bringing to us, cold food etc) but food was truly worse than the sub-par stuff that I cook at home.
Authentic Mexican fare, lethal cocktails and friendly service.
Love the food here! Everything tastes so good and it's great value for the quality.
Some of the best Mexican food I've eaten in London. Real Mexican food, not the trashy tex mex some of these reviewers are obviously used to. Wonderful in its simplicity and authenticity. Their mole sauce is second to none.
Avoid only if you, like the reviewers above, usually eat in Taco Bell and Macdonalds
This was possibly the worst Mexican food I have ever eaten. I'm not even sure they know where Mexico is on a map. I ordered a Tostada which was made up of mainly a hard lettuce core... it mostly tasted sour.... really terrible experience, the waitress was clueless, she even forgot 3 dishes, by the time we'd eaten the disgusting food, we gave up waiting, paid and left. Don't eat here.
Disappointing. Huevos rancheros - ask for a spoon if you are prepared to eat it. It was drowning is tomato sauce/soup instead of the tomato salsa as promised on the menu. Apparently it's their most popular dish....just goes to show the British will put up with poor over priced food. We returned our dishes without tasting them because I refuse to pay for disappointing food now. Casa Morita may have been good once and I am sure it probably was, but our experience - very poor quality. Sorry guys.
Dreadful. This was my worst experience in a restaurant or cafe for a long time. This food was about as Mexican as beans on toast. The food lacked flavour and substance. Clearly the people running get the place have never seen or eaten good Mexican food. The previous reviewer is spot on about the soup. Our Heuvos Rancheros were served as a soup - we sent it back. All three dishes were extremely poor. How anyone can think this place is good is beyond me.
My friend and I ate at Casa morita tonight expecting authentic mexican - as it says on their menu. We ordered 2 mains which were burtios with feta tomatillo and refried beans. All of which were in soup form. The service was also bad. We spent £45 for baby food and one drink each. I would not recommend this resturant to any one. All the food i saw served to other customers was also pureed. I didn't know mexican food was like soup. The picture on their website didnt look anything like what we were served. Brixton village maybe getting a reputation for being a great place to eat, but I think all the professional reveiwers should go there again and re- evaluate. Its their opinions that encourage people to go there. The service was terrible. The waitress was half asleep and didn't give a shit. Unfortunately the 20 somethings of brixton are all conned by these sorts of places.
I was initially worried when my quesadilla showed up with cheddar cheese in it, but the mole was very well prepared and delicious. The Sopa Azteca was also lovely with a nice amount of heat -- had to take my coat off even though we were sitting outside -- and the feta they used was an acceptable substitute for cotija. Not sure if they always have problems getting authentic cheeses, but if they had the meal would have easily been 5 stars.
I don't usually write reviews but feel Timeout's two-star rating is a bit unfair so felt compelled to write this: Visited Casa Morita with friends. We all thought that the food was great, especially the chicken mole tacos (which go very well with the dark Negra Modelo beer. Cosy place, though in the freezing temperatures of last night the shop frontage couldn't quite keep out the cold. Would definitely visit again.
We went to this restaurant on a recommendation to get a quick pre-theatre bit. Was a bit tentative based on these reviews - but we had a brilliant experience. The staff were very attentive and friendly. The margheritas packed a real punch and the food was tasty, spicy and very more-ish! Overall a lively and caring atmosphere - we'll definitely be back!
Wow, for the price the portions were small and lacking in any flavour at all. Even the chili sauce couldnt add any excitement. No issues with the service and the wine was fine but overall i'd say it's one to avoid.
This is definitely in my top 3 of Brixton Market with Honest Burger and Franco Manca. The food is excellent. Get a few tacos to share for a starter and then move onto the chicken enchiladas for a main. They are sloppy and delicious. My girlfriend had the Alambre tacos, which are all cheesy and meaty, but that's what it said it would be on the menu Time Out!! It's definitely one of the richer options, so go for something else if your looking for the tangy-salsa-filled mexican dishes. The light Mexican beers are refreshing, but the Margheritas are the best, although I'm yet to be brave enough to go for the chilli Mezqal ones yet. RECOMMENDED
Utter, oily, tasteless rubbish. So many better places around here!
Visited this place when it had nt been open very long-made another visit on Sunday. It was good on my first visit, it is now very very very! good. The place has really got into its stride-they have built a frontage to keep the biting wind at bay-so its one of the cosiest eateries in the market,and they have more specials on the menu I spotted Albondigas after 7pm I ate the Enchiladas Suizas-which were delicious and managed a good sized bowl of Sopa Azteca. Their spicing which I felt was a little tentative on my first visit (maybe guaging their customers palates?) is now full blown Mexican and all the better for it-and those lovely little bowls of something hot they put on the tables to dip your tortillas in seriously warms the tongue! First Class!
Most authentic Mexican food in London. Particularly rate the quesadillas!
For all that brixton village has to offer give this a miss. Staff maybe friendly but this does not override the fact that the food is average and the portions small. 1.30 for a tiny glass of overcooked navhos was a joke even if they were needed for the smooth tangy spicy guac. Margaritas were tasty but too small for a fiver especially when you see what you get next door. All in all average Mexican in London, if your in brixton then queues for honest burger, the brick box, French and grace or francamanca and get you pennies worth and hear good to go with. Also FYI its not byo
this looked a good place on passing-what a let down!Friendly smiles,great-so you wait all expectant-Need a magnifying glass to see the portions,bring your own table top grill to warm up the food,This is kit form tex-mex,dismal unappetising and pricey. Good points; fun decor,free glasses water,nice if useless staff and you can always go shopping in the market for avocados and meaty things and spices to rustle up your own take on Mexico!.
This place is great. Time Out should really employ some critics that know about food and not kids who feel they need to be controversial to stand out. This review is another example of lazy reporting and such destain for anything South of the river that it's almost laughable. However, if they keep people who think like like this away from Brixton then i may have underestimated their brilliance.
Great atmosphere, friendly service, tasty food... absurdly small portions and dramatically overpriced.
sorry forgot to add star rating...4 stars
Been down twice now, and both myself and my girlfriend love the food and the atmosphere. The service is laid back though very efficient, and very friendly. We don't mind grabbing our own cutlery if they're busy, we're just happy to see so many people enjoying the food and happy they are busy! Both of us being from North America, we have very much missed real Mexican food and this is truly up to scratch. The best we've had in London and will return as often as we can.
Been here once and would not go again. The taste is not really the problem, although still not amazing. But the portion size was miniscule. £5 for a tiny taco with a thin spread of refried beans, some lettuce and a bit of guacamole?
I went to "Casa Morita" with my Catalan/Spanish girlfriend and her mother, for lunch on a Sunday. The service was very slow (we had to ask to be served after we sat for more than 15 minutes at the table) but very friendly.
My girlfriend and her mum chose the "Taco Mix Meal" for £9.50 and they both chose Taco de Mole con Pollo, Taco de Cochinita Pibil, and Quesadilla con Chorizo. Fillings were generous - but not very tasty. Portions were small. The added lettuce stripes came without any dressing whatsoever - so bring your rabbit.
I chose the Chilaquiles with Chorizo for £7.50 (see photo). This was a rather small portion consisting of 2 small fried eggs, one tablespoon of chorizo filling, two table spoons of beans, one small fried tortilla swimming in tomato water - hence soggy and not crispy. One(!) ring of fresh onion, some chilli sauce, and some sour cream. No fresh cheese to be seen. Not very tasty - better add some salt. All in all rather average but certainly overpriced.
The joke of the day was the Guacamole side dish for £3 (see photo), barely more than a table spoon and so uninteresting that we did not even finish it.
So - I find this place irrelevant and overpriced - and I am surprised about all the enthusiastic comments. Did I come on the wrong day, maybe? In any case, I won't come again. But I wouldn't say "don't go". Just be prepared to get very average food at a relatively high price.
And last but not least, the three of us were wondering if it is a coincidence that the name "Casa Morita" sounds so similar to the well-known, fabulous "Morito" on Exmouth Market.
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[Illinois]: Running Average
This tool implements a running average of a noise series.
Version 1.2b - published on 06 Aug 2014
doi:10.4231/D35X25D44 cite this
This tool is closed source.
Published on
Perception is not a function of bottom-up sensory input alone, but involves an interaction between bottom-up signals from the sensory organs and top-down signals from higher brain regions. Top-down connection in higher cortical figures may carry signals indicating the features that higher centers "anticipate" will be present in the bottom-up sensory signals arriving from lower centers. An interaction with Bottom-up/Top-down processes is clearly at work in the higher cortical processes and models the Predictor Corrector System Mechanisms using expectations as predictors and visual observations as the corrector. The input is a noise simulated by the Gaussian Distribution while the running average is the output from the mean of the input when it is offset. When the true average approaches the real value, then your correction weight decreases.
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Anastasio, Thomas J. Tutorial on Neural Systems Modeling. Sunderland: Sinauer Associates, 2010. Print.
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8317 De Soto Avenue
Canoga Park, CA 91304
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Northridge, CA 91324
20041 Roscoe Blvd.
Winnetka, CA 91306
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Canoga Park, CA 91304
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Tire Size: P225/75R15
Serv. Desc: 102S
Sidewall: OWL
Max Load: N/A
Warranty (mi.) 50,000
2 out of 5Submitted by Kerry in Mississippi on 12/29/2016(2001 Jeep Cherokee Sport)
Worst tires I have ever had in wet conditions, not much better in dry. Only have 36,000 miles on them and they are unsafe at any speed on a wet surface. Maybe could get another 5,000 miles out of them, but it's winter and wouldn't take the chance.
1 out of 5Submitted by Firestone in Pennsylvania on 7/17/2016(2010 Ford F-150 XLT 4x4 Super Crew Cab)
These have to be the worst tire on the market. The wear is horrid. I got 20,000 miles on this tire before they were bald.
3.3 out of 5Submitted by phil in New York on 12/25/2015(2008 Dodge Ram 1500 SLT 4x4 Quad Cab Short Bed)
Rotated every 6,000. Great tire the first year. They hate the slush, front end slides in the corners. They hydroplane. Now have 36k on them wore out and need to replace. But dry roads they are a great tire no noise. Wish they would last longer than 36,000 miles or plug up in the slush at slow speeds.
5 out of 5Submitted by James in Tennessee on 3/27/2015(2000 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LS 4x4)
Love these tires. Quiet ride and good off road traction. Very good snow and ice traction.
4.3 out of 5Submitted by Jeff in Wisconsin on 3/23/2015(1999 Jeep Cherokee Sport)
I had these tires for around 20,000 miles. They were at about 50% wear as indicated by a tread gauge. I took a trip out west and on the way back, my rear passenger side tire had a sidewall blowout - neat circular pattern where the tread meets the sidewall there's a groove; that's where it let loose. Fortunately the damage to my Jeep was a bent quarter panel, but it may have been worse if it was a front tire. Up until then they were great tires and I was happy with them. They seemed a bit stiffer than the old Wranglers that came with the Jeep originally, but they did well overall.
5 out of 5Submitted by Randall in Colorado on 2/26/2015(2006 Dodge Ram 1500 ST 4x2 Reg. Cab)
I couldn't be more pleased with these tires. They did what they were supposed to do. I have 75,000 on them right now and am ready to get some new ones.
5 out of 5Submitted by Victor in Illinois on 2/20/2015(2000 Dodge Ram 1500 Laramie 4x2)
Great tires for any season. Being a southern Illinois resident, this is highly important...have since traded to a 4x4 Jeep. I still love these tires.
5 out of 5Submitted by Scott in Iowa on 2/11/2015(2005 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4x2)
I needed some tires that would help me get around in the winter in particular. My 2wd truck was sliding all over. The techs I saw suggested the Firestone's, and I am fully satisfied with the increased traction, road feel, and great looks of these tires. I will put them on my Suburban when it is time for new tires.
4.3 out of 5Submitted by Jason in Iowa on 1/6/2015(2003 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 LT)
I have been pleased with the Firestones. They ride very well down the highway and that is where I do most of my driving. They do well when I am hauling my boat and hold up well on the boat ramp. The only draw back is that they slip easily on snowy streets. I know any tire will slide on ice but these seem to spin very easily on snow covered streets. Having said that, the snow covered streets really account for a small fraction of my driving so I would buy Firestone Destination A/Ts again.
4.85 out of 5Submitted by Ryun in Missouri on 12/30/2014(2006 Nissan Titan LE 5.6L King/Crew Cab)
These tires allowed my tires to do things a 2wd truck shouldn't be able to do. They have done very well hauling my boat on and offroad for a little over 10,000 miles and still look new.
4.7 out of 5Submitted by joseph in Florida on 11/9/2014(2004 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4x2 Ext. Cab)
Great Tires!
5 out of 5Submitted by Carl in New Jersey on 10/10/2014(2008 GMC Sierra 1500 WT 4x2)
I up-sized the tires that were original equipment on my GMC Sierra. These tires ride nice, have excellent traction in snow and they handle well in dry and wet conditions. I have recommended these tires to other friends and they have been equally satisfied.
5 out of 5Submitted by Mike in Georgia on 8/18/2014(2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 HD LS Base)
Great tires. I bought two sets of these tires for my truck and my suburban. I get an alignment, rotation, and balance done to get more miles out of them.
5 out of 5Submitted by Mike in Georgia on 8/18/2014(2001 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 LS 4x2)
These are great tires. Have bought a set for my suburban and my Silverado. I get way more miles out of all my tires because I have them aligned and rotated.
4.85 out of 5Submitted by Rex in Pennsylvania on 8/1/2014(2008 Chevrolet Trucks Silverado 1500 LT w/Z71 Pkg.)
Overall, it's a very good tire. Well worth the money. No highway noise and the snow traction up here in the hills was excellent. It would have been nice to get more than 38,000 miles out of the set, but you can't have everything.
4.85 out of 5Submitted by Bruce in Maryland on 7/23/2014(2003 GMC Trucks Sierra 1500 SLT 4x4)
I am extremely pleased with the Firestone Destination tires. I have driven in heavy snow, on the beach, through heavy rains and dry road surfaces without cause for worry or concern. I am currently pricing out for a new set as they are finally needing to be replaced.
5 out of 5Submitted by Tim in Pennsylvania on 6/25/2014(2007 Toyota Trucks Tundra 4x4 Double Cab)
Great tire. Handles well in all circumstances. Pleased with tread wear. Best tire (out of 3 others) that I have had on my Toyota Tundra.
4.15 out of 5Submitted by jim in Georgia on 6/9/2014(1999 Jeep Trucks Wrangler Sport)
Great performance and look.
5 out of 5Submitted by ron in Maryland on 6/4/2014(2005 Toyota Trucks Tacoma 4x4 Access Cab)
2nd set on my truck, love them. Great tire!!
4.85 out of 5Submitted by isaac in Washington on 4/21/2014(2006 Chevrolet Trucks Colorado Z71 2LT/3LT 4x2/4x4 Crew Cab)
Awesome tires. I am on my second set now. My first set still had good tread at 60k miles. Awesome off road and super quiet on the road. Hands down, best tires I've ever bought.
5 out of 5Submitted by Matthew in Mississippi on 4/9/2014(2007 Toyota Trucks FJ Cruiser 4x4 (17 Inch Option))
Great tires. They look great, smooth ride.
4.15 out of 5Submitted by Brad in Michigan on 3/27/2014(2008 Chevrolet Trucks Silverado 1500 LT w/Z71 Pkg.)
Good tire except in snow and ice.
4 out of 5Submitted by Jeremy in Florida on 3/19/2014(2012 Jeep Trucks Wrangler Sport)
Great tires, handle well on and off road for an all terrain tire.
4.45 out of 5Submitted by Shawn in Missouri on 2/21/2014(2004 Chevrolet Trucks Colorado Z71 LS)
I bought a pair of these to replace the rear tires on my Colorado. Wet traction is great, snow traction not so much, but that's typical for most light trucks. The back end felt considerably "loose" for about the first 1000 miles. Now that they're broken in, I have no complaints.
4.7 out of 5Submitted by Tim in Indiana on 1/31/2014(1998 Ford Trucks Explorer XLT)
My Explorer rides like a new truck with these tires. They're smooth and quiet on the highway, and they have impressive grip on snow and ice.
4.85 out of 5Submitted by Justin in New Jersey on 1/25/2014(2008 GMC Trucks Sierra 1500 4x4 Crew Cab Short Box (SLE/SLT) Z71 Pkg.)
Good tires. I bought these to fill out my wheel wells a little bit and they look great on my truck. No issues with driving on them either.
5 out of 5Submitted by Carlos in Georgia on 1/23/2014(2010 Jeep Trucks Wrangler Unlimited Sport)
I purchased an all new set of 5 in September to replace my previous Factor SR/A. I like these tires. So far they have been extremely responsive, especially in the previous rainy months of winter. There is still a lot of ample tread and even tread wear. The problem I had with my previous SR/A was the frequent lose in tire pressure. Definitely no longer a problem with these. They definitely hold air through the bumps in the road. Would definitely recommend these, if you want a reliable, quality made tire that is quiet at high speeds and responsive in all conditions.
4.15 out of 5Submitted by bill in New Jersey on 1/17/2014(2002 Ford Trucks F-250 Super Duty 4x4 Super Cab)
Good wearing tire.
4.7 out of 5Submitted by George in Delaware on 1/1/2014(2001 Mitsubishi Trucks Montero Sport XS Base)
These tires were more aggressive than OEM Bridgestones and I was afraid they would be noisy. Pleasantly surprised by the quiet ride they provided and the MUCH better balancing. The tires have worked great in all conditions.
4.15 out of 5Submitted by David in Kentucky on 12/11/2013(2011 GMC Trucks Sierra 1500 SLE Z71)
Great Tire
4.55 out of 5Submitted by gina in Tennessee on 11/25/2013(2001 Nissan Trucks Xterra XE 4x2 4 Cyl.)
5 out of 5Submitted by Andy in Colorado on 11/19/2013(2008 Chevrolet Trucks Suburban 1500 LT 4x4)
Great tire! Love it.
4 out of 5Submitted by Mike in New York on 10/26/2013(2004 Dodge Trucks Ram 1500 Laramie Quad Cab)
When new, they are great truck tires. Now they have some miles and they do not work as well.
5 out of 5Submitted by Mike in Iowa on 10/16/2013(2008 Nissan Trucks Frontier SE V6 4x2/4x4 Crew Cab)
No problems with these tires at all. Either on the road or off road, they performed great.
2.3 out of 5Submitted by George in New Jersey on 10/16/2013(2004 Ford Trucks F-150 XLT 4x4 Super Crew Cab)
Tires were very good for the first 10,000 miles but developed a vibration at speeds over 45 MPH and will no longer hold a balance. Worst tires I ever owned.
1.8 out of 5Submitted by Chris in Pennsylvania on 6/16/2013(2008 Ford Trucks F-150 STX 4x4)
I put these tires on in June and they were good when brand new on wet and dry roads. When they wore some and the snow came in December and January they were lousy and they wear out faster than other tires I've had. I'd never buy them again.
3.6 out of 5Submitted by Terry in Alberta on 4/4/2012(2001 GMC Trucks Yukon XL 1500 4x4)
Worked great for summer months, can't comment for winter as I change rims/tires to Blizzaks. Worked great for general every day driving, and pulling 27 foot holiday trailer.
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text:
One of history's most enduring love stories. Many people believe that Prokofiev's Romeo and Juliet is the greatest ballet score ever written.
Passionate choreography for Romeo and Juliet shows The Mariinsky Ballet at its dramatic finest.
The ballet has become a true classic of the 20th-century ballet repertory.
With its emotional choreography and Prokofiev's famous score, this moving tale of star-crossed lovers that is sure to stay with you long after you leave the Mariinsky Theatre.
Romeo and Juliet isĀtheĀmost famous ballet byĀProkofiev andĀtheĀmost everĀpopularĀballet aboutĀlove. This choreographic version ofĀtheĀtragedy byĀShakespeare was firstĀseen onĀtheĀMariinskyĀTheatreĀstage inĀ1940. ItĀhadĀbeenĀstaged byĀLeonid Lavrovsky, who closely worked withĀProkofiev onĀthisĀproduction. ThisĀis anĀamazingly touching andĀthrillingĀperformance. The Daily Telegraph: "From the present day point of view, the production has many positive qualities: the clearly defined storyline; the elegant, refined dance, the lyrical duets; the sets by Pyotr Williams, the faded grandeur of which precisely conveys the atmosphere of Renaissance Italy. Here, too, absolute faith and self-giving from the two lovers, from the very depths of their souls, is essential. It is this that is brought to the ballet by the soloists of the Mariinsky Ballet Company. They are stunning; they are of those dancers who, it would appear, know instinctively that they are born for the stage"
Romeo and Juliet is a ballet by Sergei Prokofiev based on ShakespeareÆs Romeo and Juliet. Music from the ballet was extracted by Prokofiev as three suites for orchestra and as a piano work.
The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet is a tragedy by William Shakespeare concerning two young "star-crossed lovers" and the role played by their tragic suicides in ending a long-running family feud. It is one of the most famous of ShakespeareÆs plays, one of his earliest theatrical triumphs, and is thought to be the most archetypal love story of the Renaissance and indeed the history of Western culture.
Several ballet adaptations of the story have been made, the first written in the 18th century. The best-known feature music by Sergei ProkofievĀand a variety of choreographers have used this music. The first version featuring ProkofievÆs music was performed in 1938.
Verona. A morning. City still sleeping. Only Romeo is not sleeping. He wanders along empty streets submersed in dreams of love.ĀStep-by-step revive streets, there are early passers - by. Servants go out of an inn , clean desktops.ĀTybald, nephew of the Capulets comes out. He is the searcher for adventures and fighter, he only waits for a case to battle to the hated Montagues. He sees Benvolio, nephew of Motagues. The case was presented. The combat starts. On a noise run out people from the houses of the Montagues and Capulets. The combat inflames. City is waken up. Strokes of an alarm are heard.ĀYoung nobleman, Paris, are coming to Montagues to ask Juliet to be his wife. But the master of the house doesnÆt even notice him, he hurries to join the fighters.ĀThere is a duke of a Verona on the scene . He commands to lay down arms. The duke declares, that from this time, the one who will conceive combat with weapons in arms, will be executed. The people go away, satisfied by the order of the duke.ĀRoom of Juliet. She is cheerful, she teases the Benefactress, throws in her cushions, hides from her. The cheerful games are stopped by the mother of Juliet. She strictly orders to stop playing. Then the mother takes her by an arm and they approach to a mirror. Juliet is an adult.ĀDancing party in the palace of the Capulets. All nobles of Verona are gathered there. On a dancing party there are singers, musicians, girl friends of Juliet and Paris with his page. Cheerfully laughing, passes Mercutio.ĀBallroom in the house of the Capulets. Behind desktops the visitors talk ceremonially. The dances start. Everyone ask Juliet to dance. Her dance is full of purity, charm, and poetry. There is Romeo in a hall. He is unable to tear his eyes off her. Romeo approaches to Juliet and speaks to her about the feelings. The mask rolls off from his face. Juliet is charmed by beauty and nobleness of his face. She is already in love. But this scene is seen by Tybald. He recognizes Romeo. When the dancing party was terminated, the Benefactress informs Juliet, that Romeo ¢ Montagues, their enemy.ĀBut it will not stop Juliet. Under a cover of darkness they meet in a garden.ĀThey speak about their love, vow fidelity.
Juliet is unable to suffer even a brief separation from him. She sends the Benefactress to find Romeo and to give him the letter. The Benefactress and accompanying her servant appear in the center of a carnival. Everyone dances tarantella, sings, having fun. In crowd she finds Romeo and gives him the letter: Juliet agrees to become his wife.ĀIn cell of Laurence Romeo tells him about their love and asks to marry them. Laurence is touched by purity of feelings of the beloved. He agrees. Juliet enters, and Laurence blesses their union.ĀThe carnival rustles and sparkles on the squares of Verona. Among turbulent fun the friends of Romeo - Mercutio and Benvolio. There is a Tybald. He has noted Mercutio. The combat was knotted. Romeo comes, he attempts to stop the fighters. When Romeo removes a sword of Mercutio to prevent bloodshed, Tybald puts Mercutio a mortal blow. Romeo is in grief. He does not remember himself. He takes a sword of Mercutio and kills Tybald.ĀThe Capulets are craved with revenge. Benvolio helps Romeo to hide.
Romeo gets to the bedroom his young wife. He wishes to see her before the departure. He has to live Verona.ĀMorning. JulietÆs parents and the benefactress enter her bedroom. They tell her a terrible message - day of her wedding with Paris is assigned already. Juliet cries. But their will is unshakable.ĀIn despair Juliet runs to Laurence. He knows how to help to business: there is a drug, which will load Juliet in dream similar to the death. Only Romeo will know the truth, he will secretly come to city and will steal her from a crypt and will take away to a secure place. Juliet agrees with pleasure.ĀShe returns home and pretends, that obeys the will of the parents. And, having remained one, drinks the drug. In the morning Juliet is found "dead" in the bedroom.ĀAutumn night in Mantuya. Romeo is told about JulietÆs death. He rushes to Verona.ĀHe sees a funeral cortege, and in the open coffin - his beloved. Under a cover of night he enters the family crypt, says goodbye to Juliet and drinks the poison. Having woken up, Juliet sees a breathless body of Romeo, blinded by grief; she kills herself with his dagger.ĀThe death of both children makes the inconsolable parents to conclude an everlasting peace and in memory of two fine creatures to stop the war.Ā
Ruling house of Verona
Prince Escalus: Prince of VeronaĀCount Paris: Kin of Prince Escalus; desires to marry Juliet.ĀMercutio: Another kinsman of Prince Escalus and friend of Romeo. His name derives from Mercury.
Lord Capulet: Patriarch of the house of Capulet.ĀLady Capulet: Matriarch of the house of Capulet; wishes Juliet to marry Paris.ĀJuliet: Thirteen-year-old daughter of the Capulets; the female protagonist.ĀTybalt: Cousin of Juliet; nephew of Lady Capulet; angry and pugnacious. His nickname of "the Prince of Cats" may refer to the quarrelsome and vicious character of Tybalt the Cat in the fable cycle Reynard the Fox, which would have been well-known to Shakespeare's audience.
Capulet Servants
Nurse: Juliet's personal attendant and confidante: a comic figure who took care of little Juliet ever since she was an infant.ĀPeter: Capulet servant, assistant of the nurse.ĀSampson: Capulet servant; eager to fight the Montagues.ĀGregory: Capulet servant.
Montague: Head of the house of Montague.ĀLady Montague: Wife of Lord MontagueĀRomeo: Son of the Montagues; the male protagonist.ĀBenvolio: Cousin of Romeo. His name means "good-will".
Montague Servants
Abram: Montague servant.ĀBalthasar: Romeo's personal servant.
Friar Lawrence: a Franciscan friar and Romeo's confidant; he marries Romeo and Juliet. He makes potions from herbs.ĀFriar John: Another friar sent by Friar Lawrence to tell Romeo that Juliet awaits him; fails in this mission.ĀApothecary: Druggist who reluctantly sells Romeo the poison.ĀChorus, who gives the opening prologue and one other speech, both in the form of a Shakespearean sonnet.


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Ten months passed between the announcement of the Micro Four Thirds mirrorless interchangeable lens format and Olympus unveiling its first model. For much of this time Panasonic had been selling its DSLR-like G1 while all we'd see from Olympus was a design mock-up it admitted wasn't at that time feasible.
But in June 2009, Olympus finally revealed the camera responsible for our most-read preview ever – the E-P1. The company was able to do what very few of the current big players could – build on a history of compact photographers' cameras. And, in doing so, appeared to provide the camera we'd been asking manufacturers to make for many years – a small camera with a good level of photographic control and a large sensor (only Sigma had really tried this before).
The E-P1 managed to fit most of the company's excellent E-620 DSLR into a comparatively small, beautifully styled metal case in a way that appealed to far beyond the camera-geek demographic. It was not without its problems, however – the main one being its autofocus system that was rather sluggish when compared to Panasonic's G-series. Also its control system, inherited wholesale from the E-System Four Thirds DSLRs, didn't always perfectly translate to the way its buttons are laid out (The newer, simpler E-PL1 and firmware updated Panasonics make this more apparent than it was at the time of review).
Then, a little under five months later, (and just a few weeks after Epson announced a high-res viewfinder display), Olympus launched the E-P2. The only major difference is the addition of an accessory port at the back of the camera underneath the flash hot shoe mount. This may not sound like a big deal but it does allow users to address one of the criticisms we leveled at the E-P1 – the lack of viewfinder and the difficulty of shooting in bright light that this brings.
Olympus has also been working hard boosting the AF speed of the PEN series and this quick review is based on the latest version which promises the fastest focusing yet across the whole range (E-P1, E-P2 and E-PL1). However, while it has been designing its new lenses, specifically the 9-18mm wide angle and 14-150mm superzoom, with single, lightweight internal focus groups for fast focusing, the company has not redesigned its 14-42mm kit zoom to offer the same advantages.


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Teen actress Chloe Grace Moretz turned to her "Carrie" co-star Julianne Moore for real life dating advice.
The 16-year-old admits she struggles to trust potential suitors due to her fame and fortune, and asked show business veteran Moore for advice on how to choose the right guys.
She tells Britain's InStyle magazine, "You think, 'Who's out to deceive me?' That's hard. Especially growing up and liking guys and, maybe, 'Do you want to be in a relationship? Is this person trying to be in my life because I'm famous?' You can't just like someone. They might be using you.
"I talk to Julianne (Moore) about it and she says, 'Look, just be careful. Trust your judgment but don't get in too deep sometimes.' Because, you know, when you're young, you fall in love and don't know it's happening."


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EU Data Protection Proposal Gets Stronger, But With Big Loopholes
from the one-step-forward,-one-step-back dept
One of the most important pieces of legislation wending its way through the European Parliament concerns data protection. Because of its potential impact on major US companies like Google and Facebook, this has become one of the most fought-over proposals in the history of the EU, with lobbyists apparently writing large chunks of suggested amendments more favorable to online services. And all of that was before Snowden's revelations about NSA spying in the EU made data protection an even more politically-sensitive area.
Against that background, a vote that took place yesterday in one of the main European Parliamentary committees, LIBE (handling legislation concerning civil liberties), was important for the indications it gave about the current mood there. Where before the concerted lobbying campaign seemed to have managed to water down the proposals, now the Snowden Effect was in evidence, as the committee beefed up privacy protection for the public. A post on the European Digital Rights (EDRI) blog wrote:
We applaud Parliamentarians for supporting -- and even improving -- several important and valuable elements of the original Commission proposal. We are particularly happy that the Committee chose to overturn the Commission's proposal to allow Member States the scope to exempt themselves from the rules on profiling.
Here are some of the key measures adopted, as explained by EurActiv:
The parliament's civil liberties committee has come up with nearly 4,000 amendments to the original plan, including increasing the fine to 5% of annual worldwide turnover or €100 million, whichever is greater.
However, that does not mean the current text is without serious problems, as EDRI emphasizes:
The changes also mean the replacement of the "right to be forgotten" with "the right of erasure", seen as a lesser obligation.
Parliament, in line with the Commission's proposals, also wants to impose strict rules on how data is shared or transferred to non-EU countries. For example, if the United States wants access to information held by Google or Yahoo! about a European citizen based in Europe, the firm would have to seek authorisation from a European data authority first.
That would establish an extra, EU-controlled gateway that might go some way to assuaging the profound concerns raised in Europe about U.S. data spying activities revealed via the leaks from former U.S. data analyst Edward Snowden.
we are shocked and disappointed that Parliamentarians voted to introduce massive loopholes that undermine the whole proposal.
Perhaps the biggest loophole concerns the concept of " legitimate interest" (pdf), which allows a company to use personal data provided it meets "the reasonable expectations of the data subject based on his or her relationship with the [company]". Of course, that is so vague as to be utterly useless -- what does "reasonable expectations" mean in this context? As the draft legislation stands, companies are essentially being given a free pass to do pretty much whatever like with the personal data they gather, despite all the other supposed safeguards.
And there's another serious issue, as noted by La Quadrature du Net:
The Members of the LIBE Committee also made the very disturbing choice of accept the secret tripartite negotiations requested by the rapporteur Jan Philipp Albrecht. The text will now be modified behind closed doors, between the European Commission, the European Parliament and the Council (ministers from the Member States). The latter could use untransparent negotiations to annihilate all the positive provisions of this Regulation, leading to a weak and dangerous final version of this legislation.
In other words, the good parts of the proposals could be watered down or even removed during the secret negotiations with the European Commission and the European Council (representing the EU nations, including data privacy-hostile ones like the UK), something we discussed here on Techdirt before. However, the lead MEP in this area, Jan Philipp Albrecht, insists that this is not an "undemocratic" way of proceeding. EurActive explains when those talks will take place:
Negotiations with EU member states and the European Commission on the law are to start later this year or early in 2014. EU leaders will discuss the issue at a summit in Brussels on Oct. 24-25 and could give some indication then of how quickly they want to proceed.
So it looks like the great EU Data Protection saga will continue to entertain us for a while, with yet more twists and turns, as opposing forces battle over the key issue of online privacy.
The aim is to have the legislation agreed before May, when the assembly breaks up and new European Parliament elections are held. However, EU officials are not convinced this is feasible.
Follow me @glynmoody on Twitter or identi.ca, and on Google+
Filed Under: data protection, eu, privacy


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HIGH POINT, N.C. --- Lees-McRae College freshman Marvyn Rieger (Frankfurt, Germany) has been named the Conference Carolinas Men's Soccer Player of the Week for the first time in his career, announced league officials Tuesday.
Rieger has played a pivotal role in Lees-McRae's (4-3, 2-0 CC) success this season, stepping straight into a starting role in the center of the back line and helping the Bobcats post three consecutive clean sheets. The Bobcats have allowed just seven goals this season, while entering the month of October riding a four-match winning streak.
A native of Frankfurt, Germany, Rieger led the Bobcats to a perfect 2-0 worksheet last week, pacing the back line to a pair of clean sheets while netting the winner against North Greenville with his first collegiate goal. The Bobcats combined to allow just two shots on frame for the week, extending their shutout streak to 293:52.
Lees-McRae returns to the pitch on Thursday when the Bobcats travel to Misenheimer, N.C. to take on Pfeiffer University in conference play at 4 p.m.


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Ever heard of "Fracking"..? I hadn't before yesterday.
In this video from The Daily Show, "Gasland" director Josh Fox talks with Jon Stewart about the toxic materials from hydraulic fracturing that are turning up in people's water supplies.
Vodpod videos no longer available.
The process is called hydraulic fracturing, or "Fracking".
It is a process of pumping more than a million gallons of water along with a mix of sand and fluids [pdf] deep into the Earth to break apart the rock below and free the gas locked inside it.
It's a technique that's been used for decades to extract oil and natural gas from shale, but it has seen a growth spurt in recent years, thanks to technological advances, like hydrofracking, that have made it more competitive economically.
This article from "Speakeasy" (WSJ) goes into more detail on this new documentary "Gasland":
The director of the experimental theater group the International WOW Company, Fox first became interested in the subject of natural gas after the Pennsylvania native was asked to lease his land for drilling. The inquiry led Fox to embark on a multi-state investigation of the natural gas companies, and their use of hydraulic fracturing, or fracking. The process involves pumping large amounts of water deep underground, fracturing rock to release natural gas.
When asked about the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, Fox says he sees definite parallels to the natural gas industry. "It's the same sort of situation in terms of the regulation atmosphere," he said in an interview with the Wall Street Journal. "We've seen natural gas blowouts all over the country, and people are abandoning their homes because the industry won't take responsibility for their actions." Fox added that oftentimes individuals who either invest in natural gas or middle-managers who work at natural gas companies are shocked by what they see in his film.
Fox's documentary has ruffled a few feathers and several natural gas-affiliated organizations are claiming that Fox has his facts wrong. But Fox says all the facts speak for themselves and can be looked up. "The natural gas industry's PR system is so great, many people believe that natural gas is a good solution to climate change," he said. "But it's a dirty polluting fossil just like the others."
The documentary film "Gasland" premieres on HBO this coming Monday. (Wish I got HBO..)
For more detailed on the process of "Fracking" (Hydraulic fracturing), go here.
NPR did an interview with director Josh Fox on this "Fracking" and his new film. Here's a segment of the discussion that caught my eye (the entire interview is quite interesting):
FLATOW: And the chemical they inject underground, the formula for that is secret…
Mr. FOX: Yeah, highly proprietary. Well, not everything is secret. Their – the fracking fluid is something – there are many different chemicals in the process that they use over time. At first, they thicken the fluid with gelants and then they turn it around and turn it into a liquid. And it's very, very – there's no friction at all. So they're injecting all these different chemicals down on the wellbore – about 596 that we know about – a lot of which are proprietary. We don't know the chemical compositions.
The industry is not releasing what those chemical compositions are. They're saying it's like the special formula for Coca-Cola. But this is, you know, being injected underground and left there by the millions of gallons. And we know that most of the stuff is toxic: carcinogens, neurotoxins, other – endocrine disruptors, things that are – can – that can really be very harmful in small, small quantities.
FLATOW: The FRAC Act, which is lying in committee in Congress, would force them to release all the information about what's actually in that…
Mr. FOX: Yeah. It would force the disclosure of the chemicals and reregulate the industry under the Safe Drinking Water Act. They were exempted from Safe Drinking Water Act in 2005 by the 2005 energy bill which was a baby of Dick Cheney and their energy taskforce. And, you know, in fact, hydraulic fracturing is exempted from most of our most basic environmental laws…
FLATOW: It shows it right there in the legislature?
Mr. FOX: In the 2005 energy bills, it says right there. Yes. This is the Halliburton loophole. It is the exemption for hydraulic fracturing to the Safe Drinking Water Act. But they're also exempt from the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, which controls storm water runoff and the Superfund Act. So they don't have – they're not liable to clean up their mess. And also, the Community Right to Know Provisions. I mean, the list goes on and on.
Seriously, read the entire interview. Cheney… Halliburton… Brother..
There was a discussion on "Fracking" on Democracy Now! Want more information?
An excellent graphic on the "Fracking" process from Pro Publica:
Try reading more in-depth at Huffington Post. This is a very good article on "Gasland" by Bill Chameides who is Dean of Duke's Nicholas School of the Environment. He talks lots of details and history on this drilling process for natural gas, and then ends with this:
For me one of the most compelling moments of the movie comes near the end. Josh [the director of the documentary] is in the office of an official from a state environmental protection agency asking him to do something to stop fracking in his backyard. Even though he will not allow drilling on his property, others likely will.
The official says there's nothing he can do — it's the price we have to pay to get the energy we need. When pressed further, the official gives Josh his business card. "Call me if you have any problems," he advises — in other words, the industry is going to be allowed to frack, but after the creek you live on is polluted and once your drinking water becomes unhealthy to drink, let us know and we'll be there for you. "And then what? Build me another creek in my backyard," asks Josh. The official shrugs his shoulders and walks out of the room.
This is a map showing where in the USA "Fracking has been and continues to be used:
Do we as the people who LIVE in this country have any say at all about what happens TO this country and our environment? Corporations seem hell-bent on destroying the land in their race to get wealthy (wealthier). They have bought and paid for our country's lawmakers in order to ensure their success and cover their asses, with no consideration to the land, water, air, or the people. They fight any attempt at rules and regulations. What can we do? Is this really the price we must pay for energy?
The timing couldn't be better for this film to come out. Perhaps we are really close to finally doing something to stop the wanton destruction of our environment, of our world. One can hope..