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Creative Spaces, Vol. 3
Where you create can definitely inspire what you create, and this best-selling special issue is back again with even more room inspiration, storage and décor projects, and behind-the-scenes peeks at dozens of crafting spaces. We'll also show you how to get these inspiring looks with easy and inexpensive do-it-yourself approaches that are both beautiful and practical. No matter how your space is sized, Creative Spaces will help you make the most of what you have.
On sale 6/24/14; 132 pages; $14.99
See a sneak peek of this amazing issue by clicking on the cover below.
Online Resources
Pgs. 8 - 11: Paper Crafts & Scrapbooking
Die-cut vinyl: Sorella Designs www.sorellavinyl.com
Fold Down Craft Table: We R Memory Keepers www.weronthenet.com
Pgs. 14 - 19: Cathe Holden
Wings: Kirsten Goebel https://www.etsy.com/shop/KGSalvataggio
Pgs. 20 - 23: Kristi Jansen & Kelli Mullins
All tutorials: http://lollyjane.com/craft-room/
Pgs. 24 - 27: Beckie Farrant
Rolling Rack tutorial: http://www.infarrantlycreative.net/hidden-bookcase-door/
Pgs. 28 - 31: Haeley Giambalvo
Crepe Paper Flower tutorial: http://www.designimprovised.com/2012/10/diy-crepe-paper-flower-tutorial.html
Fabric-covered Bulletin Board tutorial: http://www.designimprovised.com/2013/09/inspiration-board.html
Upcycled Formula Containers tutorial: http://www.designimprovised.com/2013/01/decorative-storage-boxes.html
Chalkboard File Cabinet tutorial: http://www.designimprovised.com/2013/08/file-cabinet-makeover.html
Pgs. 32 -33: Tracie Stoll
All tutorials: http://cleverlyinspired.com/craft-room-2/
Pgs. 38 - 39: Lina Darnell
All tutorials: http://fancyfrugallife.com/old-headboard-to-craft-nook-my-new-craft-space/
Pgs. 40 -43: Lia Griffith
All tutorials: http://liagriffith.com/my-home-tour-office-studio-part-1/ and http://liagriffith.com/my-home-tour-office-studio-part-2/
Pgs. 44 -45: Jen Hadfield
Beaded Chandelier tutorial: http://tatertotsandjello.com/2013/04/how-to-make-a-diy-beaded-wood-chandelier.html
Pegboard Frames tutorial: http://tatertotsandjello.com/2013/04/pegboard-organizational-wall-and-200-to-cut-it-out-frames-giveaway.html
Pgs. 48 - 51: Jennifer McGuire
Room Decorator: Michele Nieter, Arbor Living Interiors https://www.facebook.com/arborlivinginteriors
Room Designer: Connie Hampton, Neal's Design Remodel http://neals.com/
Pg. 108: Folding Tool Caddy
Pg. 111: Cubby Organizer
Pg. 112: Dyed Storage Baskets
Using Dye on Wood and Wicker https://www.ritstudio.com/techniques/materials/wood-and-wicker-technique/
Pg. 121: Milk Bottle Rack
Using Dye on Wood and Wicker https://www.ritstudio.com/techniques/materials/wood-and-wicker-technique/
Pg. 130: Fabric liner pattern
Download JPG version of Cart Liner pattern
Download PDF version of Cart Liner pattern
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When inserting codes into the Blogger template, page element, or blog post, you may have seen error messages that the code could not be parsed, was not well-formed, was broken, or that the elements were not closed properly. These errors can be corrected if you understand the rules that must be adhered to in XHTML documents. Blogger templates use the XHTML 1.0 Strict Document Type. In this article, we shall explain some of the XHTML syntax or rules, so that you may troubleshoot and resolve the problems if these error messages should occur.
XML, HTML and XHTML
We shall keep this short. Just so as you understand what we said about document type, view the Page Source or Source of your Blogger blog. You should see this document type declaration at the very top:-
<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd">
The terms – XML, HTML and XHTML - refer to the markup language used to write the web pages. Many of us would have heard of HTML (Hypertext Markup Language), invented by Tim Berners-Lee, and used since the early days of internet. XML (Extensible Markup Language) is a meta-language, used to create other markup languages. The traditional HTML was later recast to use the rules of XML and that resulted in a new XML application, called XHTML (Extensible Hypertext Markup Language). Because XHTML rules are strict and unforgiving, not conforming to them when attempting to modify the template would result in error messages. So, what are these rules that Bloggers like us should take note of?
Basic Rules of XHTML
1. Codes to be in lowercase
Since XML is case sensitive, all the element keywords and attribute names used in XHTML should be in the lowercase. For example, the template code is not this:-
<TITLE>Tips for New Bloggers</TITLE>
but this:-
<title>Tips for New Bloggers</title>
If you have noticed, the elements and attribute names between the lesser than (<) and greater than (>) signs have to be in the lowercase. However, the value, which in this case is "Tips for New Bloggers", can be in the uppercase, lowercase, or mixed case.
2. Attribute values to be in quotation marks
All the attribute values have to be enclosed either in single or double quotation marks. The following examples are not accepted by XHTML:-

Text Link

Instead, they should be written as such:-

Text Link

3. Container elements must have closing tags
This is not correct:-

A paragraph.
In XHTML, there must be a closing tag with a forward slash (/) at the end:-

A paragraph.

Examples of the many non-empty elements that have opening and corresponding closing tags are:-

 ...

 ...

 ...

 ...

 ...

 ...

 ...

 ...

 ...
4. Standalone elements to be closed
Some of the elements are empty or standalone. They do not have associated closing tags. Common examples are:-
Nonetheless, in XHTML, these elements must be terminated or closed. There are two ways to do that. One way to terminate the element is to put a forward slash (/) at the end like this:-
The second way is to add a corresponding closing tag like this:-

 ...

 ...
<input> ... </input>
<frame> ... </frame>

 ...

<meta> ... </meta>
<link> ... </link>
5. Elements to be properly nested
This means that elements must be closed in the reverse order. For example, this code is not accepted in XHTML:-
<form>
 ... </form>

It is improperly nested because the form was created first followed by the table. To close them in the proper order, the table must be closed before the form, like this:-
<form>
 ...
</form>
6. Document to have only one root element
In the XHTML document, you will see that except for the document type declaration, all the codes are nested between  and . This is the root element and all other elements or sub elements are in between. The document structure will look like this:-
 ...
 ...
7. Attribute minimization is not allowed
In XHTML, all attributes should be in the form name="value". Even if the value is the same as the name, it cannot be minimized to one word. Hence, in our Add Text Box and Textarea article, the textarea code is not this:-
<textarea readonly>Hyperlink Code</textarea>
but this:-
<textarea readonly="readonly">Hyperlink Code</textarea>
XHTML Character Entities
Quite a number of readers had asked why they were unable to display HTML codes in their blog posts or why their codes were not well-parsed when inserted into the template. If you have noticed by now, the codes are wrapped in the lesser than (<) and greater than (>) signs. The moment these are posted, they will be interpreted as codes and will trigger an action by the browser. Should you want to display these as part of the text, use their character entities instead.
The next time you see an error message to the effect that the code is not well formed, not well parsed, not properly closed, etc., take a look at this guide, troubleshoot the problem and try out the possible solutions.
© Tips for New Bloggers

subset: commoncrawl


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Linking Learning to Work
Linking Learning to Work PDF
Linking Learning to Work Recording
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Linking Learning to Work
Despite high unemployment, many employers are finding it difficult to find the talent they need. Why? Because the skills of our workforce are not keeping pace with the demands of work. A study by Georgetown University estimates that by 2018, 63% of jobs in the U.S. will require at least some college. However, only 42% of adults aged 25-34 have attained a postsecondary degree.
In this webinar, you'll learn about this trend and how it impacts the skills you need. You'll also hear suggestions about steps you can take to develop your employees, creating greater employee satisfaction and retention while providing your company with the talent needed to grow.
Monster would like to thank Pamela Tate for presenting this webinar.
Presented by:
Pamela Tate
President and CEO, Council for Adult and Experiential Learning
Pamela leads CAEL, a nonprofit dedicated to meaningful learning, credentials, and work for every adult. CAEL works at all levels within the public and private sectors to enhance learning opportunities for adults around the world. As a presenter, Pamela is regularly sought out for her vision and insights into adult learning and workforce development and their vital relationship to the future of the economy.


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Make a cracking frameset option if it was available on its own, I'd certainly be tempted.
Giant's new TCR SL 2 is £1,250 of well specced aluminium loveliness, with a delightful ride character and all the potential to stand a few upgrades over the years. Yes, it's not carbon, but at this price I think you're better off with aluminium. And this isn't any ordinary aluminium frame: Giant have poured all their knowhow into producing a feathery light 1,050g frame. That's light enough to give many carbon frames a bloody nose.
The 1,050g aluminium frame
Aluminium is a great material for making bicycle frames from: it's strong, stiff and light. It's cheaper than more exotic materials too, the reason it's the default choice for all entry-level bikes. With carbon the jewel in most cyclist's eye these days, many people are too quick to overlook aluminium, and it's become pigeon holed as an entry-level material choice.
Which is a shame because this TCR SL shows that aluminium can offer a ride that rivals that of carbon. Bicycle manufacturers have had a lot longer to fettle and hone aluminium. This is Giant's most advanced aluminium frame. I mentioned its weight, 1,050g for a medium (55.5cm top tube), at the top of the review, and that's impressive regardless of the material. There's a lot of carbon on the market that is heavier.
It's made from their own Aluxx SL Ultralight-Edition alloy. There's loads of manipulation of the tube profiles, no tube is free from some hydroformed shaping. The head tube has a bulged top section which braces a box section top tube. It gets very slim where it meets the aero seat tube, and the down tube is simply massive. We're not sure of the benefits of an aero seat tube and post on a bike of this price, but Giant do have a track record of fitting aero posts to bikes over the years. An upshot of the design is you don't have to worry about eyeing up the straightness of the saddle. A two-bolt clamp secures the post in the frame.
A PressFit bottom bracket shell allows the downtube to be this large, and also sees a pair of shapely chainstays - large at the BB shell and skinny at the dropouts. The seat tube is a magnificent example of tube manipulation: it starts off box section at the bottom bracket shell, then flows into an aero shaped section via a cutaway around the rear wheel. The down tube is a rounded square shape, and the rear stays are slender. A mount for the front mech is riveted to the seat tube.
You get a carbon fibre fork, including the steerer tube, with Giant's Overdrive headtube standard, the same as most tapered designs with a 1 1/8in top bearing race and 1.5 in lower bearing.
Cables are routed externally, so it's very easy to maintain the cables and fit new ones when they need replacing. The rear brake cable runs below the top tube and the gear cables below the down tube. There are in-line barrel adjusters for easy on the move adjustment.
Build kit
This is where it gets interesting. With less money wrapped up in the frame, you get much more for your money. This is the £1,249 entry-level bike of the two bike range. That gets you a Shimano 105 groupset, with a non-series R565 compact 50/34 chainset. Shifting is excellent, smooth and crisp. It's every bit as good as Ultegra and Dura-Ace, just a little heavier. There's a 12-28 cassette which will help you spin up any climb or mountain ascent. The brake calipers are also non-series R561 units. They worked well - strong and confident braking performance - as per more expensive Shimano brakes. The brake blocks are non-cartridge style.
Giant supply most of the finishing kit from their own portfolio. That includes the P-R2 wheels. They have sealed bearing hubs with DT Swiss Competition spokes (24 front, 28 rear) and wrapped with their own P-SL1 23mm front and rear specific tyres. They proved a tough and sturdy set of wheels, with reasonably good stiffness when piling on the pace and throwing the bike through the bends. They're a bit on the weighty side and you notice that when initially getting up to speed, but once there they roll along nicely. With the money you save over not buying a carbon bike, you can put that money towards a nice lightweight set of wheels for the summer - this bike would fly with some fast aero wheels.
All of the Giant finishing kit, the stem, bars, taper, seatpost and saddle all worked flawlessly. The saddle clamp is a two-bolt design and is easy to setup. The saddle mimics a Fizik Arione with a long flat shape. No bad thing, and it was very comfortable on long rides, with firm padding. The handlebars were a good shape with a nice reach and drop. Even the bar tape felt nice between gloved hands.
As I've come to expect from Giant, the bike is exceedingly well finished. Its appearance is first class, with a good paint finish, smart decals and even colour coded parts that really lift it head and shoulders over many of the bikes at this price. It looks a fast bike as well, I can just picture it with a set of 50mm deep-section carbon wheels.
On the roadcc scales the bike is 8.35kg (18.4lbs). It's only a couple of kilos over the UCI's weight limit, and is lighter than some carbon fibre bikes I've tested in the past year. Not bad considering the price really.
Ride and handling
Any notion that an aluminium frame necessarily means a harsh ride is rooted in cycling magazine reviews from the 90s. It just isn't the case anymore. Giant have been able to shape the profiles and manipulate the tube thicknesses to the extent that the ride quality is phenomenally good. At times you wouldn't even think you were riding aluminium.
Compared to carbon, because most people buying a bike at this price might be tempted to choose it, the TCR SL offers an exemplary ride that in my opinion is every bit as nice as many carbon bikes I've ridden. And there's a fair handful of cheap carbon bikes that I would say offer an inferior ride quality to the TCR SL.
It's a fast and sprightly ride, and once up to speed zips along with vigour. The heavy wheels blight the initial acceleration a little, but that's only a problem if you're sprinting out of every corner. It climbs with gusto, and the stiffness of the frame shines when you're stamping on the pedals and pushing hard for the summit.
Giant have some impressive figures for the stiffness when they tested it, and it's nearly very close to their carbon frame. That shows when you get animated and show the cranks some wattage. It snaps and leaps down the road, launches out of corners and changes direction with accuracy. This would make a fantastic race bike, because it has all the ingredients you want in a racing bike: stiffness and second nature handling.
To ride the Giant is wonderfully smooth and rolls over the cracked surfaces of my regular training loops with impressive manners. What it doesn't do is smother the vibrations caused by rough roads - there's a nice amount of feedback. This feedback through the frame never pushed over into uncomfortable or harsh territory. The aero-shaped seat tube and post undoubtedly contribute to the frame's stiffness but didn't overly impact on the ride comfort.
As well as showing how good aluminium is these days, the TCR SL also goes to show just how good bikes have become at this price range. Yes, it's easy to spend serious cash on top-end bikes, where they just seem to be getting ever more expensive. Cast your eye lower down the ranges and it's not hard to see that affordable bikes are, well even more affordable. Better specced, better frames, better value for money than ever before.
Giant have built an incredibly good frame here. It's a great frame regardless of the price, it's just a shame that Giant don't feel there's the demand to go above the £1,749 price of the top model. This frame dressed in some lighter components and some fast wheels would be an exciting prospect for racing cyclists.
Unless you really really must have carbon, the Giant is worth a serious look. You won't be disappointed, it's a stunning bike to ride and a lot of fun, and is more fulfilling than a lower specced cheap carbon bike.
A high quality frame and fork with a mechanically sound drivetrain, decent finishing kit and a very smart overall finish makes the TCR SL a standout bike. Don't be afraid of aluminium, this bike rides better than many carbon fibre bikes I've ridden.
If you're thinking of buying this product using a cashback deal why not use the road.cc Top Cashback page and get some top cashback while helping to support your favourite independent cycling website
road.cc test report
Make and model: Giant TCR SL 2
Size tested: M/L
About the bike
State the frame and fork material and method of construction. List the components used to build up the bike.
Aluxx SL Ultralight-Edition aluminium frame
Advanced grade composite fork with carbon composite steerer
Vector Composite seatpost
Shimano 105 20 speed shifters and derailleurs
Shimano R565 34/50 chainset with press fit bottom bracket
Giant PR2 rims with sealed cartridge hubs
Tell us what the bike is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about the bike?
For sharp handling and surefire lightweight performance, it's hard to beat the feel of a lightweight aluminium road frame. The all-new TCR SL has Giant's unrivaled alloy engineering prowess in its bones. Crafted from top-end ALUXX SL Ultralight-Edition aluminium with proven design features including Giant's OverDrive tapered steerer tube, it's light, fast and ready to race.
Frame and fork
Tell us about the build quality and finish of the frame and fork?
The finish is first class.
Tell us about the materials used in the frame and fork?
The aluminium frame is just 1,050g for a size medium, very impressive.
Tell us about the geometry of the frame and fork?
The geometry is fairly regular and produced crisp handling with no surprises.
How was the bike in terms of height and reach? How did it compare to other bikes of the same stated size?
It was perfect.
Riding the bike
Was the bike comfortable to ride? Tell us how you felt about the ride quality.
Any idea that aluminium is uncomfortable and harsh is nonsense, it's so smooth.
Did the bike feel stiff in the right places? Did any part of the bike feel too stiff or too flexible?
Yes. When you put the power down the frame displays impressive stiffness.
How did the bike transfer power? Did it feel efficient?
Very well.
Was there any toe-clip overlap with the front wheel? If so, was it a problem?
How would you describe the steering? Was it lively, neutral or unresponsive? Neutral and well balanced
Tell us some more about the handling. How did the bike feel overall? Did it do particular things well or badly?
The bike handled with authority and was fun to ride. Quick and responsive.
Which components had the most effect (good or bad) on the bike's comfort? would you recommend any changes?
The Shimano 105 groupset was flawless and Giant's branded kit worked well. Impressed with the saddle and the shape of the bars.
Which components had the most effect (good or bad) on the bike's efficiency? would you recommend any changes?
The wheels numbed the acceleration a little. Lighter wheels would be a good summer upgrade.
The drivetrain
Wheels and tyres
Tell us some more about the wheels and tyres.Did they work well in the conditions you encountered? Would you change the wheels or tyres? If so, what for?
My first experience with Giant's own wheel and tyre system, and I was impressed with both. Weight aside, the wheels proved flex free and strong. The tyres proved fast rolling and resisted punctures during the test period.
Tell us some more about the controls. Any particularly good or bad components? How would the controls work for larger or smaller riders?
While there's no branded finishing kit, Giant's own label bars, stem, post and saddle all provided top performance and comfort.
Anything else you want to say about the componentry? Comment on any other components (good or bad)
Would have been nice to see a complete Shimano 105 groupset.
Your summary
Did you enjoy riding the bike? Yes.
Would you consider buying the bike? Yes.
Would you recommend the bike to a friend? Yes.
About the tester
Age: 31 Height: 180 Weight: 67
I usually ride: My best bike is:
I've been riding for: 10-20 years I ride: Every day I would class myself as: Expert
I regularly do the following types of riding: road racing, time trialling, cyclo cross, commuting, touring, mtb,
David has worked on the road.cc tech team since July 2012. Previously he was editor of Bikemagic.com and before that staff writer at RCUK. He's a seasoned cyclist of all disciplines, from road to mountain biking, touring to cyclo-cross, he only wishes he had time to ride them all. He's mildly competitive, though he'll never admit it, and is a frequent road racer but is too lazy to do really well. He currently resides in the Cotswolds.
10 comments
Enjoying the current resurgence of aluminium frames, metal makes a lot more sense for amateur riders if you ask me. Carbon has its advantages but demand is mainly driven by the marketing departments - it's fine for the pro's who get an instant replacement every time they ding their carbon frames but I wouldn't particularly want to spend upwards of a grand on a bike that could be written-off by a single shunt.
Ironically I do actually ride a carbon frame right now, a Focus Cayo bought back in the heady days when half-decent carbon frames could be had with Mavic and full Ultegra for less than a grand. It's been a great bike but if and when its time comes, I will think hard about aluminium for the reasons aforementioned.
Without straying into cloud cuckooland (see that new S-Works Allez) or Pegoretti, this is probably the most compelling alu bike I've seen for quite a while. Well done, Giant - sounds and looks like a lovely bit of kit.
Liked the look of this bike also, but the TCR SL 1 looks even better so bought that. I am no serious cyclist but I love this bike. Had Cannondale CAAD10 Dura ace last summer and I much prefer the Giant. Front end feels much better and inspires bags of confidence. Rear end probably a bit stiffer.
After the soggy winter we have just had, I decided to support a lbs instead of the net and that limits my choice of new bikes due to where I live. Also most new carbon bikes of about 2 grand are 105, often with groupset substitutions, to get full ultegra (except cassette) with this frameset for £1750 seemed a good deal. Looks much better than in the pictures. Brilliant bike. This toy could even be a keeper.
Been mulling over a Caad 8 105 for £840 or the Giant for £800, i have Caad9 cx bike, so i have gone for the Giant as i've never owned a Giant road bike and at the discounted price if we don't get on i can move her on with less of a kick to my wallet
Been mulling over a Caad 8 105 for £840 or the Giant for £800, i have Caad9 cx bike, so i have gone for the Giant as i've never owned a Giant road bike and at the discounted price if we don't get on i can move her on with less of a kick to my wallet
amazing bike, sheer class, and so stiff and light


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Photo of Melanie Baskind courtesy of Gil Tablot.
The Harvard women's lacrosse team steps out of Ancient Eight play for two non-conference home contests this weekend. The Crimson hosts New Hampshire Friday night under the lights and welcomes nationally ranked Virginia Sunday afternoon.
Follow from home
Live video and audio will be streamed on GoCrimson.com Friday and Sunday. Matt Patton and Jimmy Looney of Harvard's WHRB will provided audio Friday, while Kathryn Tylander '07 will have the call for Harvard's game against Virginia. Live statistics will also be available at game time. Click on the links above for more details.
Scouting the Crimson
Harvard is 3-3 on the season and has won two in a row entering the weekend. Ten Crimson players have found the back of the net for a team that averages 13.2 goals per game. Danielle Tetreault paces the offense with 17 goals and three assists for 20 points. Jennifer VanderMeulen (17g), Jess Halpern (12g) and Melanie Baskind (11g, 2a), have been scoring threats for the Crimson, which leads the Ivy League and is 21st in the nation in scoring offense.
Micaela Cyr leads the team and is second in the Ivy League in draw controls with 21, while Baskind leads the team with 10 ground balls. Ellen Gleason paces the Crimson with six caused turnovers. Kerry Clark has made 36 saves in the cage and sports a 10.83 goals-against average.
Last Time Out
Harvard scored early and often in a 19-3 win over Yale last Saturday. Danielle Tetreault and Jennifer VanderMeulen each had five points on four goals and an assists in the win. It was the most lopsided win in series history and the most goals Harvard has scored against the Yale since 1985.
Melanie Baskind, Jess Halpern, Chelsey Newman and Tyler Petropulos scored two goals apiece, while Jenn Leffew, Nina Kucharczyk and Kasey Uhlenhuth added tallies in Harvard's highest scoring output of the season.
The Crimson scored the first three goals of the game and then increased its advantage to 7-1 seven minutes into the game. The Crimson led 10-3 at the half and scored nine straight goals in the second. The Harvard defense shut down the Bulldogs, not allowing a goal in the final 36 minutes and 47 seconds.
Scouting the Wildcats
New Hampshire enters Friday night's game with a 5-4 record and has won four of its last six contests. The Wildcats fell last Saturday on the road to league rival UMBC, 10-8.
Five Wildcats have scored in double figures with Kate Keagins leading the way with 16 goals and eight assists. Ilana Cohen (15g, 6a), Amber Casiano (12g, 7a) and Jenny Simpson (12g, 2a) are also scoring threats. Keagins also leads the team in ground balls with 26 and caused turnovers with 22. Casiano and Ally Stager have a team-best 13 draw controls. Kathleen O'Keefe has started seven games for the Wildcats and owns a 9.38 goals-against average. She has 35 saves to her credit.
Series History
Friday's game will break an 18-18 tie in a series that dates back to 1975. Harvard won last year's battle, 11-10 in double overtime, knocking of a then-nationally ranked Wildcat team. It was the second straight extra session game between the two schools, as Harvard fell in overtime, 11-9, in the last home outing. The Crimson won a series long seven games in a row from 1992-98.
Scouting the Cavaliers
Sunday's game against the Crimson is the third game in five days for No. 8 Virginia. The Cavaliers play Wednesday at Old Dominion and Saturday at Boston College before facing off against the Crimson in Cambridge. Virginia entered the week with a 5-4 overall record.
The Cavaliers, led by Charlie Finnegan's 27 tallies, average 11.89 goals per game. Ainsley Baker and Josie Owen have both scored 20 goals this season as well, while Julie Gardner has 14 assists to her credit. Owen paces the team in draw controls with 26, while Kim Kolarik has a team-best 23 ground balls. Kolarik owns a 5-4 record in the net with 69 saves to her credit and a 11.03 goals against average.
Series History
Virginia has won all four meeting with the Crimson, including a 14-9 victory in Charlottesville last April. The Crimson trailed by one at the half, but couldn't keep tempo with the then-No.4 Cavaliers.
National Rankings
The Harvard women are ranked 20th in the nation by Synapse Sports, formerly womenslacrosse.com, and are receiving votes in the IWLCA poll for the fourth week in a row.
Against the Rest
The Crimson leads the Ivy League and is 18th in the nation in draw controls (13.5 per game), Harvard is the most accurate team in the league, converting on 53.4 percent of its shots this season. The Crimson also has the league's highest scoring offense, which ranks 21st in the nation.
Individually, Danielle Tetreault and Jennifer VanderMeulen lead the league and are 34th the nation in goals per game (2.83) and Micaela Cyr is 10th in the country in draw controls with 4.2 per contest.
Scoring Streak
Jennifer VanderMeulen has scored in every game of her career, 21 straight contests for the Crimson. She has 11 games with three or more goals and 10 games with four or more scores.
Around the League
Yale hosts Colgate and Penn welcomes Maryland in non-conference action Friday night. Princeton travels to Cornell and Brown takes on Dartmouth at home Saturday. Penn travels to Columbia and Yale visit Georgetown Sunday.
O' Captain, My Captain
Senior Sam McMahon and juniors Melanie Baskind and Tyler Petropulos were elected captains for the 2011 season. It's the fifth time in program history three players have been selected to lead the team and only the second since 1999.
Multi Sports Stars
Several Harvard players also moonlight on fall sports teams. Melanie Baskind is a member of the women's soccer team. She was the Ivy League Rookie of the Year in 2008 and has earned second-team (2009) and first-team (2010) All-Ivy League honors as well. She was an ESPN The Magazine Academic All-America second team selection last fall.
Sophomore Nina Kucharczyk and freshmen Mariah Pewarski and Morgan Powell suit up for the field hockey team as well.
Tough Road Ahead
Boston College, Penn and Stanford were first of several nationally ranked teams on the Crimson's docket this spring. Six teams on Harvard's schedule appear in this week's IWLCA Division I poll: No. 4 Penn (March 12), No. 7 Virginia (April 3), No. 7 Stanford, No. 12 Princeton (April 16), No. 18 Dartmouth (April 29) and No. 19 Boston College (March 17).
Home Sweet Home
Harvard is 2-1 at home this season and 2-0 at Harvard Stadium. The Crimson's remaining three home games will be played at Harvard Stadium.
Up Next
After a four-game homestand, the Crimson travels to Brown for the first of four consecutive games away from Cambridge.


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Hey guys,
I've been having a lot of problems with using the ICC editor on my computer. I run ICC 2001, but don't have the proper version as it was never available in Tassie, nor was 2002. Anyway, just wondering if anybody has made an updated database on their computer that they could maybe send to me?
Would really help guys as the editor does not want to work properly... i'm getting desperate!


text:
Sweden Makes It Illegal To Take Photos In 'Private Environments' Without Permission
from the how-will-that-work? dept
Here on Techdirt we've had stories about how the ubiquity of digital cameras is changing the way we look at public events and art. But as has also become clear, the ability to take photos of more or less everything we see brings with it certain problems -- especially if what we see are police. So it was perhaps inevitable that the politicians would start to get involved, in order to "solve" some of those problems. Here's a rather extreme example from Sweden, as reported by TechHive:
Sweden's parliament has voted in favor of a law that bans taking pictures and filming in a private environment without first getting permission from people in attendance. Critics say the law is too ambiguous.
Well, that may be true, but it's hard to see how exactly this is going to work if you want to take a picture in a very crowded room, say -- how exactly are you supposed to get everyone that might be in a photo, to agree? Does it have to be in writing so that you can prove it? And what about if it's not a room, but still a "private environment"? Come to think of it, what exactly is that, anyway? From the article:
The Swedish Committee on Justice said the law, which goes into effect July 1, is needed since photographs or movies secretly shot in private settings can seriously violate an individual's privacy, and protection has been inadequate.
The law doesn't specify what constitutes consent or define a private environment. For example, what happens if a journalist invites a business executive to a reception in the journalist's home and secretly photographs the executive committing a criminal act, asked Maria Ferm, member of parliament for the Green Party, during the debate.
That underlines how this is likely to be used: to stop revelations of wrong-doing by public figures in private places. At least the new legislation is aware that this is an issue:
An exception from criminal liability is made if the act is justifiable in view of its purpose and other circumstances, and that provision includes journalistic work, according to the committee.
But until the exact limits of that provision are defined, along with what "justifiable" means, it seems inevitable that the new law will have a chilling effect on investigative journalism in Sweden. That's rather ironic, since you might expect that the abundance of digital cameras today would lead to the rich and powerful being caught out and called to account more often, not less.
Follow me @glynmoody on Twitter or identi.ca, and on Google+
Filed Under: photographs, privacy, private environments, sweden


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In a recent report published by The Diplomat, Bangkok-based Spanish freelance journalist Ana Salva discussed how the reproductive rights of Cambodian women are forgotten by the court.
Pheng Pong-Rasy of DC-Cam's genocide education project, said the new website will launch next week and is intended to be a free resource that Cambodians will be able to access from their smartphones to learn about their collective past.
"Man or Monster? The Trial of a Khmer Rouge Torturer", is a study not just of Comrade Duch, the notorious chief of the S-21 Security Center in Phnom Penh, thousands were tortured and starved to death, but of why people resort to extreme violence.
"I want journalists to know if journalists write stories that people don't want to believe, stick to your gut. If you are confident and you keep showing through your research and reporting that you were right, just stick to your gut."


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View Granger's online showroom. Toledo, Ohio's finest pre-owned vehicles.
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We are easily located at 329 1st Street, Toledo, Ohio 43605.
Granger's Automotive has been in the Auto Repair and Used Car Sales business since 1985 and is helping more and more customers daily. We offer some of the best Auto Prices in the city.
Come see why we have so many people looking to us for Auto Body work, and our Mechanical services. We sell Used Cars too, so if you are in the business to buy a Used Car call today!
Granger's Automotive is Toledo Ohio's source for Auto Service and Auto Repair. Have been in the Auto Repair, Auto Body, Tow Truck service and Used Car Dealership business for over 35 years. Granger's Automotive strives to be Toledo's #1 Auto Group and has made great strides at doing so! Our Towing Services come when you need your Automobile most. All you have to do is call our Tow Truck Guy @ 419-691-2962. Our Auto Body work is second to none as we have a proven track record and a growing auto body work family. Our Auto Mechanics are required to have the best Auto Service and Auto Repair certifications and we make sure our Auto Mechanics meet all our tests and tribulations before employment. Our Auto Service and Auto Repair departments always strive to produce quick diagnostics and relay that message to you so you can make a sound and cost effective decision. Come see why we have many awards for Auto Service and Auto Repair in Toledo's metropolitan area!


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How to Cut Your Stroke Risk in Half Naturally
By Michael A. Smith, MD
Nothing is more frightening then a sudden numbness or loss of function in an extremity. If this ever happens to you, please go to the ER immediately — it could be a stroke. The faster you seek help, the better your prognosis will be.
But how about increasing the odds of avoiding this sort of horrible medical emergency entirely? It turns out that fruits with white flesh may dramatically decrease the risk of stroke. Below, we'll take a look at the study that has revealed this exciting breakthrough.
Apples and Pears Prevent StrokesDutch researchers followed over 20,000 healthy people for 10 years and found that white flesh fruits — like apples and pears — significantly reduced the risk of stroke by 52%.1 The researchers believe it's the antioxidant quercetin that provides this dramatic risk reduction. As it turns out, white flesh fruits are loaded in quercetin.
In the 10 year period, 233 strokes were reported, with the incidence of stroke 52% lower in people who consumed the most white flesh fruits. The two types of fruits most consumed, not surprisingly, were apples and pears.
The researchers calculated that for every 25 gram per day increase in white flesh fruits, there was a 9% drop in overall stroke risk. This reduction in stroke was not linked to other fruits or vegetables, like leafy green vegetables or citrus fruits.
The authors were pretty confident with their results. As they reported, "We adjusted for potential [stroke] risk factors as well as for important food groups." But, of course, they are also calling for further studies to verify their results.
The takeaway here is that they concluded that a high intake of white fruits and vegetables could protect against stroke.
Quercetin Provides the Stroke Reducing BenefitQuercetin is an antioxidant found in white flesh fruits that's well-known to support cellular health and function. In cell culture studies, it has been shown to inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines,2,3 which may play a part in blood clotting and clogged arteries — which are the cause of most cases of stroke.
Rich sources of quercetin include the following:
- Apples
- Pears
- Grapefruit
- Bananas
- Onions
- Legumes
- Green & Black Tea
For this reason, adding a quercetin supplement to your diet will help you reach an optimal amount without having to overload on any single food source.
How much should you take? We typically suggest about 250 mg/day of a high quality quercetin supplement.
A Sample Stroke Prevention PyramidIf you're looking to lower your own risk of stroke by supplementing with nutrients, below is an example regimen to consider.
You can think of your supplement regimen as a pyramid with three levels: foundation, prevention and optimization. Keeping that in mind, here's an example of a supplement pyramid for stroke prevention:
- Foundation – high quality multivitamin, ubiquinol CoQ10 and omega-3 fats
- Prevention – quercetin, pomegranate, garlic
- Optimization – green tea, vinpocetine
A Quercetin-Boosting Recipe: Low-Fat Apple Brown BettyHere's a delicious recipe that can help add a healthy quercetin boost to your diet. The recipe below for a "Low-Fat Apple Brown Betty" comes courtesy of Maddie Ruud over at HubPages.com.4 Please note that we exchanged Splenda® for Truvia®, since we think it's a healthier option:
- 2 cups lightly packed fresh white bread cubes
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- ½ cup Truvia®
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 6 cooking apples, peeled and cored
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Spray 2-quart casserole dish with zero-calorie, fat-free nonstick cooking spray.
- Chop peeled, cored apples into slices or wedges. In small bowl, toss bread cubes with applesauce.
- In separate container, stir together sugar, nutmeg and cinnamon. Layer 1/3 of bread cubes in bottom of casserole dish, then cover with half the apples, and sprinkle with half the sugar mixture.
- Repeat layering.
- Mix water and lemon juice, pour over contents of casserole. Sprinkle remaining 1/3 of bread crumbs over top.
- Cover and bake 30 minutes, uncover and bake an additional 30 minutes (or until apples are tender). Serve warm with vanilla frozen yogurt or low-fat, slow-churned ice cream.
- Enjoy!
- Stroke. 2011; 42: 3190-3195 Published online before print September 15, 2011, doi: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.110.611152.
- Arch Pharm Res. 2008 Oct;31(10):1303-11.
- Neuroimmunomodulation. 2006;13(3):179-86.
- http://maddieruud.hubpages.com/hub/Apple-Desserts


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February 4, 2013
Jonathan and Roxanne Daley of Fairfax purchase a gift card from Wal-Mart to help restock Our Daily Bread's pantry shelves during a "Stuff the Bus" stop on Saturday, Feb. 3, at the Fairfax Wal-Mart.
Stories this photo appears in:
'Stuff the Bus' Campaign Helps Feed the Hungry
Donations continue to increase as campaign enters third year.
Local grocery stores were packed this weekend with shoppers stocking up on Super Bowl snacks for the annual football fan party. At the Wal-Mart in Fairfax, shoppers were greeted with colorful displays of chips, dips and other party favorites. They were also greeted by volunteers from Our Daily Bread (ODB), who were handing out flyers and encouraging shoppers to donate gift cards or specific items to restock ODB's pantry shelves. A Fairfax nonprofit for nearly 30 years, ODB provides food and other critical services to the working poor, the elderly and the disabled. More than half of ODB's clients are local children.
Use the comment form below to begin a discussion about this content.


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Rockies like what they see in Anderson
Left-handed starter progressing nicely through Minors
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- Tyler Anderson happily accepted the disruption of his travel plans.
Anderson, 23, a left-handed pitcher, was impressive enough at the low Class A level in 2012 -- his first year of pro ball -- that the Rockies called with a surprise invitation to Major League camp. He had to do some quick rearranging to arrive for Sunday's report date for pitchers and catchers. The Rockies said Saturday there is no formal plan for Sunday. Physicals will be Monday, and the first workout at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick will be Tuesday.
"I found out Tuesday afternoon," Anderson said. "I had been planning on getting there around Feb. 22 or 23 for Minor League camp. But they called me, wanted to make sure I was ready. I was in low A, and normally a guy at that level doesn't get invited to big league camp. It was a great honor, and I'm very excited."
The Rockies chose Anderson, a Las Vegas native out of the University of Oregon, in the first round of the 2011 First-Year Player Draft. Anderson didn't pitch immediately after the Draft, and last year he suffered a sports hernia before the season began. Anderson decided not to undergo surgery.
He proved the decision correct by going 12-3 with a 2.47 ERA in 120 innings over 20 starts for Asheville. He finished with 81 strikeouts against 28 walks, and held hitters to five home runs.
"The sports hernia didn't really affect me when I was pitching, and when you're pitching if there is pain you try not to pay attention to it," Anderson said. "When you have a bunch of guys behind you, it's your job to give 100 percent. It changed my routine; you can't lift as much or work out the same. It made it tough to prepare, but I still prepared."
After the season, the Rockies sent Anderson to Philadelphia sports hernia specialist Dr. William Meyers, who also performed the operation to remove scar tissue from Rockies star shortstop Troy Tulowitzki's left groin. Not only was the operation successful, but Anderson was able to work out this winter with Tulowitzki, who lives in Las Vegas.
"I would normally spend the offseason in Eugene because the University of Oregon has a great workout facility, but this time I was able to work out with Tulo for a few weeks, since he had a similar operation," Anderson said. "He works hard, and more than that he is a great guy who helped me out. He's very intelligent and always professional."
The Rockies see the same attributes in Anderson. He throws a cut fastball and a sinker, and those pitches run 88-92 mph. He also has a changeup and is developing a breaking ball. The way he mixes pitches and thinks through the game has some believing, with a good camp, he could skip the High A Modesto club and begin the year in Double-A Tulsa.
Having a first-round Draft pick starting pitcher move through the system quickly and succeed would be something that hasn't happened since the Rockies selected lefty Jeff Francis in 2002 and saw him grab a rotation spot by 2004.
Rockies player development director Jeff Bridich said he is less concerned with the level Anderson starts at than how well he progresses.
"I like his demeanor -- he's very responsible and takes his job very seriously," Bridich said. "He thinks and reasons well on the mound, and shows a fearlessness up there. He does a really nice job of pitching, not getting caught up in throwing hard. After not having a ton of work going into last year because of the injury, he ended up having a nice year.
"With the type of person and the type of preparer he is, he will very much be ready to go and push to get to the highest level he possibly can. For me, it's not where you start but how you finish. I don't have any predispositions."


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Robinson Cano homered and drove in three runs to extend his recent tear, Hiroki Kuroda took a shutout into the eighth inning and New York beat the Cleveland Indians 7-1 on Monday night.
Robinson Cano and Hiroki Kuroda have both rebounded from slow starts, two big reasons the New York Yankees are on such a merry roll.
Cano homered and drove in three runs to extend his recent tear, Kuroda took a shutout into the eighth inning and New York beat the Cleveland Indians 7-1 on Monday night.
Nick Swisher and Dewayne Wise also went deep for the homer-happy Yankees, who opened a seven-game homestand against the top two teams in the AL Central with their third consecutive victory and 13th in 16 games. After winning an intense Subway Series across town against the Mets over the weekend, New York roughed up Josh Tomlin (3-5) early and breezed the rest of the way.
"Everything's just real chill right now," Swisher said. "Everything's just real mellow. We're having a good time."
Cano hit a tiebreaking homer in the eighth inning Sunday night at Citi Field and picked up right where he left off in this one. He smacked a two-run double in the first inning and a solo homer in the third to the short porch in right.
"It feels good. Everything is connecting," said Cano, who raised his batting average with runners in scoring position to .164.
After slumping early this season, Cano has hit six of his 17 homers in the last eight games while increasing his overall average to .302. Earlier in the day, the three-time All-Star moved ahead of Texas second baseman Ian Kinsler in fan balloting for the American League squad.
"You can hold him down for a while, but he's going to get hot," Yankees manager Joe Girardi said.
It was a painful night for catcher Carlos Santana and the Indians, who dropped their third in a row following a four-game winning streak. Despite wearing a protective guard, he drilled two foul balls off his right foot during a three-pitch span in the fourth, leaving him on the ground in anguish.
Later, he took a foul ball off his glove hand.
"It was a bad day, but I'll be all right," Santana said.
The scuffling Indians were held to one run for the third straight game, getting outscored 22-3 during that span, after managing a 2-0 victory Friday in Houston.
"Josh didn't have it and Kuroda did," Cleveland manager Manny Acta said. "From the get-go, you could tell Josh didn't have command of his pitches. ... Everything was up and this is the wrong place to pitch behind in the count, up in the zone. Wrong place, wrong team."
Wise added an RBI triple in a rare start and Cano made one of several fine defensive plays to back Kuroda (7-7), who improved to 4-1 with a 1.93 ERA in his last six starts.
The 37-year-old right-hander was rarely in trouble besides the fourth, when he walked the first two batters and still escaped unscathed. He easily handled a lineup loaded with nine left-handed bats, giving up five hits while walking two and striking out seven.
Kuroda was lifted after allowing a single and double to start the eighth, walking off to a warm ovation from the crowd of 42,290.
"It's a great feeling and I'm glad I was able to pitch as I did," Kuroda said through a translator. "The fans expect that."
Jason Kipnis hit a sacrifice fly off Clay Rapada. The effervescent Swisher jogged off the field with a big smile after all five balls in the inning were hit to him in right field, sending him sprinting to both his right and left as the roar from the crowd increased with each play.
"You can always debate whether winning causes fun or fun causes winning," Swisher said. "I feel like we have both of that right now, and when we come to the ballpark we feel we're going to be successful every single day. And it's just a great feeling to have right now."
Swisher followed Cano's homer with one of his own, an opposite-field drive that tucked into the left-field corner. Swisher also connected Sunday night, a three-run shot off a knuckleball from previously untouchable R.A. Dickey.
Wise, making his eighth start of the year, hit a long two-run shot in the second for his first homer with the Yankees. He played center field, where Curtis Granderson had started the first 71 games this season.
Granderson was the designated hitter, and third baseman Alex Rodriguez was given the night off.
"I was just happy to walk in today and see my name in the starting lineup. To be honest, I think the team was more happy than I was," Wise said. "I know my role. These guys in front of me have to play every day. I just need to stay ready."
The Bleacher Creatures chanted ex-Yankee Johnny Damon's name when he took his position in left field for Cleveland. Damon (2,750 hits) went 1 for 4 with a double. He said he'd like to reach 3,000 hits but isn't sure he'd try to hang on just to do it. He said bouncing from one team to another every year is getting difficult. ... Yankees SS Derek Jeter turns 38 on Tuesday. ... Yankees 1B Mark Teixeira was hit by a pitch on his right hand but remained in the game and said he's fine. ... The Yankees began their annual Hope Week by celebrating Flying Manes, a therapeutic horse-riding program for special-needs children. The team's weeklong charity and community initiative is in its fourth year and includes the organization's minor league affiliates for the first time this season.


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Q: Most microwavable popcorn comes with butter or salt and other things added. Can I pop plain popcorn kernels in a microwave?
— Maylynn Rosales, Las Vegas
A: Yes, it's a cinch to zap your way to this addictive snack. Here's how: Place 1/3 cup kernels (no oil needed) in a large microwave-safe bowl; cover with a microwave-safe plate and cook on High 2 to 3 minutes or until popping slows. Uncover (so your snack won't get soggy); season to taste. There are also gadgets specifically designed for popping in a microwave, if you prefer. See our popcorn poppers reviews.


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Partnership in Political Risk: Singapore Goes Global!
On February 22, MIGA partnered with the Singapore Management University (SMU) and International Enterprise Singapore (IE Singapore), to launch the most recent World Investment and Political Risk Report in Asia. The event, at SMU's downtown campus, focused on the key issues of sovereign and political risk and how foreign investors can mitigate them.
The latest World Investment and Political Risk report is the fourth in a series that we've recently launched in London and Washington, DC as well. There are some important nuggets on FDI trends and perceptions this year. The report notes that foreign investors, attracted by stronger economic growth in developing countries while mindful of risks, still remain optimistic about these destinations. Indeed the report findings, based on a survey conducted by the Economist Intelligence Unit for MIGA, show that over half of the survey's respondents plan to increase investment in developing countries in the next 12 months.
This sentiment dovetails with FDI data showing developing-countries continue to account for a substantial share of global FDI, both inbound and outbound. While global FDI into developing countries slowed from US$640bn in 2011 to US$600bn in 2012, FDI from new investors based in developing countries has risen significantly in recent years, reaching US$240bn in 2012, and is expected to have reached a record level in 2012.
Notably, about a quarter of developing countries' outward FDI currently goes into other developing countries ("South-South" investment).
The report points to an important factor that has positive implications not only for developing countries, but also for the global economy. That is: FDI into developing countries has remained a significant engine of growth even as the global economic picture has weakened.
World Investment and Political Risk also delves into the thorny issue of sovereign credit default and how this correlates with expropriation risk. As we've done every year, we have also examined trends in the political risk insurance industry in general. This year we found that, between 2008 and 2011, issuance of political risk insurance increased by 29 percent for Berne Union members, an increase that has exceeded that of FDI flows into developing countries over the same time period. Interestingly, this corresponds with an uptick in demand for MIGA guarantees, so our experience corroborates that finding.
In Singapore, speakers reiterated the report's themes: of optimism (especially in Asia), mixed with an appropriate amount of caution about the global economy and the tail risks which remain. Within this general picture, panelists and speakers noted that for Singapore, the story is especially bright. As a hub for many home-grown and international companies, Singapore is one of the largest sources of outbound FDI and long term debt flows from Asia.
And so, IE Singapore has smartly opened its first office in Africa in Johannesburg with the aim of supporting Singaporean investment on the continent. MIGA too has a new Asia Hub in Singapore that provides an ideal opportunity to partner with Singaporean investors and leverage IE Singapore's efforts to full effect. Finally, IE Singapore has recently launched their political risk insurance subsidy scheme to help Singapore-based companies expand overseas—and MIGA stands ready to partner with Singaporean companies to help them go global!


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DGS Publications
|Publication Date
|RI64 Results of Hydrogeologic Studies of the Cypress Swamp Formation, Delaware
|Andres, A.S., Howard, C.S.
|OFR43 Results of Trenching Investigations Along the New Castle Railroad Survey-1 Seismic Line, New Castle, Delaware
|McLaughlin, P.P., Baxter, S.J., Ramsey, K.W., McKenna, T.E., Strohmeier, S.A.
|OFR42 Catalog of Earthquakes in Delaware
|Baxter, S.J.
|RI62 The Cypress Swamp Formation, Delaware
|Andres, A.S., Howard, C.S.
|RI61 The Occurrence and Distribution of Several Agricultural Pesticides in Delaware's Shallow Ground Water
|Baxter, S.J., Blaier, S.C
|SP23 Earthquake Basics
|Baxter, S.J.
|RI54 Radiocarbon Dates from Delaware: A Compilation
|Baxter, S.J., Ramsey, K.W.
|OFR28 Potential for Ground-Water Recharge in the Coastal Plain of Northern New Castle County, Delaware
|Petty, S., Miller, W.D., Lanan, B.A.


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Find Our Latest Video Reviews on YouTube!
If you want to stay on top of all of our video reviews of the latest tech, be sure to check out and subscribe to the Gear Live YouTube channel, hosted by Andru Edwards! It's free!
Rage: Mutant Bash TV review
Posted by Patrick Lambert Categories: Games, iPad Apps, Reviews, $0.99, $1.99,
After a high hype and anticipation level, iD Software's Rage game called Mutant Bash TV finally hit the App Store this week. The creators of the original Doom and Quake games showcased the full Rage for consoles many times in the past, and promised to provide a graphically rich companion for the iPhone. Now that the game is out, is it worthy of all that wait?
First, the game is available in two different versions. Yet, unlike most apps, they aren't limited to iPhone and iPad. Both apps are universal, with the difference being the quality of textures. Rage, at $0.99, has regular graphics, while Rage HD, at $1.99, has high definition graphics, and is aimed at iPhone 4 and the iPad. This is a fairly large app, weighing in at over 700 MB, so it may take a while to download.
Click to continue reading Rage: Mutant Bash TV review
The Smurf's Village review
Posted by Patrick Lambert Categories: Games, iPad Apps, Reviews, Free Apps,
This week Capcom, the popular publisher behind Street Fighter IV and Resident Evil 4, has released their latest title: The Smurf's Village. This title follows the tried and true model of Farmville and the countless other similar games out there. It's a free game, where the player has to build his or her town and maintain it. You build farms and plant various food types, build houses, and other various buildings. Then you have to harvest your crops, and level up as you get coins and experience. You can also use real life money to speed things up, as usual.
Click to continue reading The Smurf's Village review
Read More | Capcom
My Kingdom for iPhone review
Posted by Patrick Lambert Categories: Games, Reviews, Free Apps,
Chillingo, the publisher of Angry Birds and Cut the Rope, recently released My Kingdom. This MMORPG features a vast fantasy world where players can build settlements, trade, socialize, and compete. This is similar to most other games of this type out there. The innovative part however is that this world is based on your current location in the real world. For example, if you're in New York, the part of the virtual world you see around you will correspond to your physical location.
Click to continue reading My Kingdom for iPhone review
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WackyLands Boss review
Posted by Patrick Lambert Categories: Games, Reviews, Electronic Arts, $0.99,
Last week Chillingo, the publisher behind many popular iPhone games that was recently acquired by Electronic Arts, released yet another game for $0.99 on the App Store. The setting behind WackyLands Boss is quite unusual. Instead of playing a hero, or controlling an army, going after a boss monster, you are the boss. You get to create, customize and equip your own boss, and then go after hordes of heroes.
Click to continue reading WackyLands Boss review
UFO on Tape for iPhone is awesome
Posted by Andru Edwards - Categories: Games, $0.99,
We've been enjoying the heck out of UFO on Tape, a new game released for the iPhone and iPod touch. If you've ever dreamed about catching a UFO on film, this game pretty much lets you feel like a hero in that sense—except when your girlfriend starts berating you when the flying saucer goes out of frame! Definitely a fun time though, and it has Game Center support built-in as well. All that for just $0.99. We recommend it.
Read More | UFO on Tape
Geometry Wars Touch for iPhone and iPad $.99 for limited time
Posted by Andru Edwards - Categories: Games, Sales, $0.99,
Want to pick up a great game for 99 cents that's universal (meaning, for one price you get an iPhone version and iPad version!)? For a limited time, Geometry Wars Touch is availble for a penny shy of a buck on the App Store. If you've played this one on the Xbox 360, then you know how great Geometry Wars is. For a dollar, you can't really go wrong here.
Read More | Geometry Wars Touch
Sale: Tons of EA iPhone games for $0.99
Posted by Andru Edwards - Categories: Games, Sales, Electronic Arts, $0.99,
A note to all you iPhone and iPod touch gamers out there—Electronic Arts is currently running a massive sale on their most popular games for the iOS platform. Each title is selling for $0.99 for 48 hours only. We've got the full list of titles that are included in the sale below, but if you want a recommendation, Need for Speed Shift is one of the best driving games available, so 99 cents for that one is a no brainer. Here are all the rest—just click the links to see more info on each:
- COMMAND & CONQUER™ RED ALERT (was $6.99)
- FIFA 10 (was $4.99)
- MADDEN NFL 10 (was $6.99)
- Need for Speed Shift (was $6.99)
- Need For Speed Undercover (was $4.99)
- SimCity (was $2.99)
- Dragon's Lair (was $4.99)
- JEWEL QUEST MYSTERIES: CURSE OF THE EMERALD TEAR (was $2.99)
- Trivial Pursuit (was $4.99)
- NBA Live (was $2.99)
- Tiger Woods PGA TOUR (was $2.99)
- BATTLESHIP (was $1.99)
- CONNECT 4 (was $2.99)
- Surviving High School (was $2.99)
- THE GAME OF LIFE Classic Edition (was $1.99)
- CLUE (was $1.99)
- YAHTZEE Adventures (was $2.99)
Let us know if you pick any up, or if you recommend some over the others!
180 for iPhone free today only
Posted by Andru Edwards - Categories: Games, Sales, Videos, Free Apps,
The guys over at Headcase Games have made their addictive iPhone and iPod touch game, known simply as 180, free for today. 180 is a simple-yet-addictive puzzle game, and it doesn't get much better than free. If you miss it today, you'll have to pay a couple of bucks for the app starting tomorrow.
Read More | 180 for iPhone
Street Fighter IV hits App Store, you want this game!
Posted by Andru Edwards - Categories: Games, $9.99,
We've been playing Street Fighter IV for iPhone and iPod touch this morning, and we must say, CAPCOM looks to have a serious hit on their hands with this one. The game exudes polish, and shows exactly what an enthusiastic iPhone OS game developer can do with graphics and play mechanics on the iPhone. If you are a fan of fighting games, or Street Fighter in particular, this is one you are going to want to grab!
Read More | App Store: Street Fighter IV
Street Fighter IV hits iPhone and iPod touch in March!
Posted by Andru Edwards - Categories: Games,
Okay, Capcom, you've definitely got our attention with the announcement that Street Fighter IV will be coming to the iPhone and iPod touch sometime next month. In fact, we are sure that iPhone gamers in general are pretty stoked to see the amount of time that Capcom put into this game in order to make it feel as close to the console versions as possible on a small touchscreen device. Truth be told, all the character models, stage backgrounds, super combos, hyper combos, and all the rest are here in full (well, if by full we mean they are all there, just scaled down.) Currently, we have both Ryu and Ken confirmed, and while Capcom isn't giving too many more hints for now, they have said that the roster will feature a mix of older characters and the newer Street Fighter IV characters.
Control is done with an on-screen joystick on the left, and four attack buttons (two punch, two kick) on the right. You also get local multiplayer over Bluetooth, which is awesome. We will definitely be keeping our eyes on this one, and will get more information to you as soon as we have it!
Read More | IGN
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Seq - Artist - Song Title - Album - Country - Label - Cat no
1 - Tafiychuk Family - Pasture One - Carpathian Mountain Music - Ukraine - Koka - 034CD-10
2 - Picaflor de Los Andes - Carrito de Pasajaras (Traveller's cart) - Huaynos & Huaylas: The Real Music of Peru - Peru - Globestyle - CDORBD 064
3 - Aynur - Ahmedo - Keçe Kurdan - Turkey (Kurdistan) - Kalan - CD 293
4 - Bill Monroe & the Bluegrass Boys - Mule Skinner Blues - Going Back to Old Kentucky - USA - Indigo - IGOCD2535
5 - Zainidin Imanaliev - Kűidűm Chock (I Burn, I Smoulder like Charcoal) - Tengir-Too: Mountain Music of Kyrgystan - Kyrgystan - Aga Khan Trust - SFW-CD 40520
6 - Yungchen Lhamo - Ngak Pai Metog - Yungchen Lhamo - Tibet - Real World - CDRW72
7 - Huun Huur Tu - Oske Cherde - Best - Live - Tuva - Jaro - 4236-2
Is there any link between the music from countries in mountainous regions? This programme was inspired by a whim, after listening to an album of traditional music from the Carpathian Mountain of Ukraine, which reminded me of various other records, herewith strung together. Only at the end did the sound seem to change entirely, with the dense and intense throat singing of Tuva. Otherwise, there was lots of space and air, pretty much what you might expect.
Tafiychuk Family
The album of Carpathian Mountain Music arrived in a package of traditional Ukraine music sent from Poland at least two years ago. Much of it defeated my tolerance but on returning to this one, I was reminded how attractive the playing is.
Picaflor de Los Andes
For many of us whose interest in music from the rest of the world fits into the time frame of what has come to be known as world music, David Byrne opened the door to Peruvian music with his compilation of African-influenced songs, Soul of Peru. Soon afterwards, Ben Mandelson expanded our horizons further with the provocatively title Real Music of Peru, hinting at the pre-African influences of the village music of the mountains, collectively known as Huaynos & Huaylas (pronounced, approximately, waynoes and why-las). Wild saxophones and ecstatic singing stick in the head years after the album was last listened to..
Aynur is a traditional singer from the Kurdish region of Turkey, who captured my heart as a guest performing live at the WOMEX trade fair in Seville 2006. She has made other records since her debut, but Keçe Kurdan (Kurdish Girl) remains the one to recommend.
Bill Monroe and the Bluegrass Boys
In the United States, mountain music implies the banjos and fiddles of bluegrass music from the Appalachian, pioneered by Bill Monroe and the Bluegrass Boys, with a few yodels thrown in.
Zainidin Imanaliev
Of the last three artists, all from countries on different slopes of the Himalayas, Zainidin Imanaliev feels closest to what Westerners think of as the blues, but when I asked Zainidin if he had ever heard the blues as a young men, he angrily retorted that the only music he was allowed to hear on the radio back then was whatever was being peddled by the Communist regime in Moscow.
Yungchen Lhamo
Yungchen Lhamo is a Tibetan singer whose career has been boosted by the Peter Gabriel's Real World label. On 'Ngak Pai Metog', she sang all the voices, assembled by producer Hector Zazou as a backing group to accompany her lead vocal.
Huun Huur Tu
Finally, the powerful sound of Huun Huur Tu, the group which has become the bet-known of the many exponents of what the West refers to as throat singing. In Tuva, this is simply how people sing.
Many thanks to the forum contributors for their suggestions for this programme.


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Master of Modern Marquetry
The ancient art of marquetry is revived by a gifted artisan.
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Silas Kopf, dressed in worn jeans and a work shirt, hovers over a cluttered work table and traces the contours of a tiny eye—no more than a quarter of an inch across—onto six pieces of wood veneer of various hues. In seconds, he cuts them out with a string saw, beveling them so they fit together perfectly. Cemented with a touch of glue, they will form the nucleus of a colorful parrot he's creating from dozens and dozens of wooden pieces. Along with another parrot, both set amid marquetry branches, it will eventually grace the front of a cabinet designed to hold oversize illustrated books about birds.
If you think marquetry is a dead art, a relic of the Renaissance, you haven't met Kopf. For more than 25 years, he has been turning out hand-cut marquetry marvels, some laced with humor, others as elegant as a classic commode, and still other trompe l'oeil tableaux so realistic they demand a double take. "I don't think anyone else in marquetry has his accuracy or range of colors," says Wendell Castle, the 80-year-old wood master who is known as the father of the art furniture movement.
The story continues on the following slides. Shown above is Kopf's "Cat Desk," where the shadows of the "open" desk play a trick on viewers.
Produced by Doris Athineos
"Morning Glory"
Kopf works his magic in a refurbished fire station in Easthampton, Massachusetts—a sprawling jumble of sawdust, wood samples, gum tape, masking tape, glue tubes, sponges, drills, saws, sanders, and a World War II-era veneer press. There he turns out marquetry-clad tables, cabinets, desks, clocks, chairs, Steinway pianos, and more. They are owned by museums, including the Peabody Essex in Salem, Massachusetts; the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston; and the Smithsonian Institution's Renwick Gallery, as well as by many well-heeled collectors.
Above, a flowery Steinway piano is transformed by "Morning Glory" marquetry.
"Floral Vase"
Each of his creations might be the centerpiece of a room or could serve as an accent. Either way, they seem destined to be conversation pieces. One fall-front cabinet masquerades as an aquarium. A coffee table offers marquetry magazines. A lectern is fronted with faces, and a cabinet intended to house a collection of baseball memorabilia is decked out with—what else?—a baseball and mitt. Says Kopf, "I want to make marquetry modern."
That wasn't his original goal. Kopf graduated from Princeton University with a degree in architecture. But this was in the '70s. Kopf let his hair grow long, and instead of designing buildings, he decided to seek a future in woodworking. "My parents were mortified," he says genially. (In unrelated developments, his parents came to approve, and he has long since shorn his hair.)
The woodworking world wasn't welcoming either. Attracted by the art nouveau furniture of Richard Newman, Kopf went to see him, hoping for a job. Instead, Newman suggested that he seek an apprenticeship with Castle. So, Kopf says, "I called him and said I'd do anything." Castle, seeing no woodworking skills on Kopf's résumé, turned him down. Undeterred, Kopf took a low-level job at a woodworking shop outside Rochester, New York, not far from Castle's studio, and phoned Castle every three months to tell him what he was learning. "After about a year, Wendell had an opening," Kopf recalls. Nowadays, Castle calls Kopf "a natural," and the two remain in contact.
Shown above is the "Floral Vase" cabinet. See details on the following slide.
"Floral Vase" Details
The marquetry light dawned in Castle's studio. "Successful people seemed to have a signature to their work," Kopf explains. Marquetry, which had been "a retiree's hobby for decades," looked like a good niche. Armed with a book, he started teaching himself. At first, he made simple jewelry boxes that sold at craft fairs. But within five years, "it was all furniture," he says.
Kopf's signature marquetry has trompe l'oeil detail, as on the "Floral Vase" cabinet.
His sights were raised again on a trip to Italy, where he viewed the work of Renaissance masters and fell in particular for a masterpiece of three-dimensional illusion and detail made by Fra Giovanni da Verona, circa 1500. It depicts a cupboard with four doors, each with 10 panels, and each opening at a different angle. Inside lie two stringed instruments, two flutes, and a scroll of sheet music. "Look at the way the broken lute strings spiral behind the sheet music," Kopf says, pointing to the piece in a book he has written called A Marquetry Odyssey.
The "Aquarium" cabinet (above) was recently purchased by the Fuller Craft Museum in Brockton, Massachusetts, where it's currently on view.
Kopf began to add more details to his works, making them more "painterly." To improve his skills, he used a National Endowment for the Arts fellowship to study marquetry techniques in Paris. There he found the work to be exquisite, but he felt French design was too weighted by the past. "My task was to extract what was interesting and turn it into my aesthetic," he says.
About half of Kopf's work sells through galleries, notably Gallery Henoch in New York, where a show last fall included a lottery for a $12,000 cognac cabinet. Kopf got that idea from 18th-century master David Roentgen, who used the ploy in 1768 for his work and that of his father. "They sold 24 pieces, and that created their careers," he says.
Kopf's "Bricolage" piece is a perfect example of his "fool-the-eye" marquetry.
"Parrot Escape"
Commissions make up the rest of Kopf's work. These pieces start with a conversation about the design. Kopf will then send drawings of his idea along with samples from his vast "wood library," which includes exotic species like Bocote, Narra, and Bubinga as well as mahoganies, many satinwoods, rosewoods, and more. Once a design is agreed upon, Kopf gets to work, generally using about a dozen different woods in each piece.
On average, Kopf completes about a dozen pieces each year. He never repeats his creations without some variations in the design. And he strives to be adventurous—up to a point. Years ago, he crafted a 6-foot-tall corner cabinet with 10 rows of rats running across the front. Blaming his "overconfidence" at the time, Kopf says "Life Is a Rat Race" eventually sold but at a deep discount. That hasn't happened since.
Long-legged "Parrots Escape" (above) is on view at the Museum of Art & Design in New York City through July.
"Argus" Cabinet
The eyes have it. "Argus," Kopf's corner cabinet, consists of 60 left and 60 right eyes. See this piece up close on the following slide
"Argus" Cabinet Detail
Each eye is made of 15 pieces—some no bigger than a grain of rice.
"Bad Hare Day"
Kopf's "Bad Hare Day" piece is playful in nature, its fine detail shown in the color and precision of the woodworking.
See the rest of this piece on the following slide.
"Bad Hare Day"
"Bad Hare Day" continues around the other side of the piece, following the rabbits' dramatic escape from the fox.
Kopf's "Garden" cabinet exemplifies his expert use of shadowing in his art.
Silas Kopf
Virtuoso craftsman Silas Kopf in his studio, which is a refurbished fire station in Easthampton, Massachusetts.
In "Jailbreak," the two doors are shaped like trapezoids, which contributes to the illusion.
For more tips from the pros on collecting classic pieces, see our presentation about modern-day portraiture.


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If you are visiting the website you might get some 404s, or notice that page and image links are a bit squiffy. I've just moved server and there are still a few glitches to iron out. Hopefully I'll have everything tidied up soon.
Sunday, November 29, 2015
A little bit broken
Posted by Alex Coles at 7:26 am
Labels: Wing-OPS website
2 comments:
- Elizabeth O'Neal said...
So far, so good! :-)
- 29/11/15 8:54 am
- Alex Coles said...
Good to know, Elizabeth. There were only a few links that were 100% broken, most were working even though they were technically pointing at the wrong place. The good news is that I've finally wrestled everything into submission!
- 29/11/15 11:22 am
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[Make sure you catch the audio below]
WASHINGTON — A Wall Street Journal editorial writer who has been closely involved with the paper's recent attacks on Elizabeth Warren is a former Goldman Sachs banker. The same editorial writer, Mary Kissel, is readying another piece critical of Warren and the new consumer agency, according to a source familiar with the coming article.
Like most major newspapers, the Journal does not disclose the authors of its editorials. Kissel recently appeared on the John Batchelor radio show as a representative of the Journal's editorial board do discuss Warren, and repeated the main arguments used in the editorials.


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by Gwyn Kaitis
Photography Courtesy of SAMA
The Society of American Mosaic Artists (SAMA) held its silent auction, the Mosaic Art Salon, during its 2011 annual conference in Austin, Texas. The event offered an unparalleled experience for people to see a large number of mosaic art in a range of materials and styles in one place and included outstanding work by Carol Shelkin, Kim Wozniak, Lynn Adamo, Jacqui Ridley, and Zeng Fang.
This article was originally published on page 52 of the September/October 2011 issue of Glass Art.


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The devil is not a character who appears obviously in any part of the Bible.
When was it that Satan/the devil began to terrify people who called themselves Christians, and why?
(correct me if I'm wrong with this statement)
God is in control and I believe that His will has always been done. So to say that He's never failed.
So, are some people are destined to go to hell?
I probably have this kind of thinking from some stories in the bible about God harden some people's...
In discussions I have had in the past over the acceptability of a Christian drinking alcohol I have heard that some 'dry' believers say that the wine in the Bible is not wine as we know it commonly today. It is actually grape juice.
I personally believe that the wine of Jesus' day is the wine t...
John 1 seems to indicate that Jesus was a separate god from the Father.
1 In [the] beginning the Word was, and the Word was with God, and the Word was a god.
2 This one was in [the] beginning with God.
3 All things came into existence through him, and apart from him not even one thi...
Recently, I posted a question that seems quite good and valid from a Jehovah Witness standpoint (Was Jesus a separate god?). It (almost) immediately got a -1 vote.
The question was worded, I believe, in a way that fits very strictly within the confines of what a good question would be for this ...
I'd like to request that everyone please tag your questions with the denomination you're asking about.
We have people getting angry over or downvoting questions that are asked from the perspective of a particular set of doctrines without mentioning which doctrines they're asking about.
On RPG....


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item: COOPER-03
**available in different color: Black, brown, Camel, khaki **
If you are a man distinct to be casual to semi-formal, this is a great shoes for you. It comes in 4 colors .
Great for men who wanted to project authority of style. Matte finish material.
Heel is approximately 1 inc. Synthetic outside, Comfort Rubber sole.


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Oracle Database IO Read Wait Occurrence Mismath - Part 1
Only a fool would challenge the ascertain that the Oracle Database wait interface has not profoundly changed the terrain of Oracle performance tuning, performance optimizaton, analysis and diagnosis. But sometimes we push the Oracle Database wait interface too far and expect too much. In this blog entry I will demonstrate that using the wait interface to determine the number of non buffer cache reads (i.e., "physical" reads) can not be satisfactorily determined solely through the wait interface. But I will also provide a solution to this problem.
This also implies that based solely on Oracle's wait interface, determining the total physical IO read time can not be satisfactorily determined by simply multiplying the number of physical IO read related wait events occurrences by their respective average wait time. An alternative solution will be presented in a future blog entry.
From a broader performance perspective this is important because many Oracle performance diagnostic methods, tools, and products use Oracle's wait interface to determine the total IO read wait time which feeds into the total non-idle wait time. But as my research demonstrates and as strange as it seems, if you want the real total IO read wait time you must use information from both the classic instance activity views (i.e., v$[sess,sys]stat) and the wait interface views, or use a creative sampling strategy.
Expecting Too Much From the Wait Interface
One such example of expecting too much is using the wait interface to determine the number of non buffer cache reads. I typically call these non buffer cache reads "physical IO reads", "physical IO", or simply "PIO".
There are actually a number of physical read related wait events. In addition to the classic db file sequential read and db file scattered read, there is also direct path read, direct path read temp, db file parallel read, control file sequential read, and log file sequential read. There are others and I'm sure Oracle will add more, but these are ones that are likely related to significant amounts of time. For typical Oracle wait event descriptions, click here.
To hypothetically demonstrate this, suppose db file sequential read and db file scattered read waits occurred 1.2M times over a one hour period and there are no other physical IO read events occurring. We would expect to see the instance statistic (v$sysstat) physical read total IO requests to be 1.2M and tracing the processes at the OS level to also show 1.2M read system calls. While this can occur, as I will demonstrate below and you can check on your system, don't count on it!
This mismatch occurs because Oracle does not fully instrument its physical reads, which currently on Linux can be the implemented through the pread64 or readv system calls. In this blog entry I will demonstrate this mismatch and provide a script so you can demonstrate this on one of your own systems.
How Oracle Retrieves & Times Non Oracle Cache Reads
When a server process requires an Oracle block it checks the cache buffer chain structure to determine if the block currently resides in the buffer cache. If the block does not reside in the buffer cache the Oracle process must ask the operating system for the block. To ask for the block on a Linux system Oracle may issue a pread64 or a readv call. If Oracle instrumented the call, we can query details about the read call through Oracle's wait interface.
We can see an example of how Oracle both instruments the read call and actually makes the read call by operating system tracing a server process. Here is an example of tracing an active server process performing a physical multi block IO request.
$ strace -rp 14876
0.000027 gettimeofday({1290553854, 957524}, NULL) = 0
0.000028 pread64(13, "\6\242\0\0p\36\0\1..."..., 131072, 63832064) = 131072
0.000095 gettimeofday({1290553854, 957647}, NULL) = 0
Process 14876 detached
Shown above will provide the server process with the requested blocks and the related timing information. Oracle give this read the name db file scattered read with a wait time of just over 0.095ms. I provide much more detail about this process in my book, Oracle Performance Firefighting and also in my training course titled, Oracle Performance Firefighting.
If Oracle, for whatever reason, did not instrument the pread64 call, that is it did not issue the gettimeofday calls and record their time difference, the read call would obviously occur but we would not see its occurrence and the related timing information through Oracle's wait interface.
The Call Occurrence Mismatch
My experiments gathered IO read wait occurrences from three different sources; through Oracle's wait interface, Oracle's instance statistics views, and by operating system tracing an Oracle server process. Through Oracle's wait interface, the number of waits can be determined through the total_waits column in v$system_event and v$session_event. Through Oracle's instance statistics, the number of read calls (not the number of blocks) can be determined by referencing the statistic physical read total IO requests. On Linux, the number of read system calls can be determined by operating system tracing a process using strace, grep'ing for readv and pread64, and then counting their occurrences.
For my session level experiment I created a simple script that can be downloaded here. Here is an actual output file for a very small run; gathering only six, 30 second samples.
sample stracecnt sesstatcnt waitcnt
1 2215 2215 2215
2 4242 4238 4237
3 4285 4283 4276
4 4287 4287 4286
5 3528 3383 3397
6 2180 2180 2180
Sample is the sample number.
stracecnt is count of readv and pread64 systems calls gathered by running strace
sesstatcnt is the number of v$sesstat, physical read total IO requests
waitcnt is the sum of total_waits from v$session_event
Remember all the data is related to a single server process and the v$sesstat and v$session_event counts represent the deltas, that is, the difference between the ending value and the beginning value. If you're not on Linux, you may need to make some shell script modifications.
My conclusions where not taken from the above six 30 second samples. My conclusions are based on correspondence with some trusted colleagues and by running the script on my Oracle 11R2 Linux four CPU core system and collecting sixty samples at 900 seconds each for a single server process with a majority of direct path read wait occurrences and wait time. For each sample the server process issued around around 221K IO read calls. The average number read system calls (readv, pread64) was 221,286 and the average number of read calls recorded from Oracle's instance statistics view v$sesstat (physical read total IO requests) was 221,289. The average difference was only 3 calls, which could easily be accounted for by how I collected the data. You can see the actual experimental output here.
This experiment and correspondence with Gopal Kandhasamy (co-author of Oracle Wait Interface: A Practical Guide to Performance Diagnostics & Tuning), indicates Oracle's instance statistics views are a reliable source for IO read occurrences.
While it appears Oracle's instance activity views are a reliable sources for IO read call occurrences, is Oracle's wait interface also a reliable source for the number of IO read calls? On my test system the wait interface occurrences closely matched data from both the instance statistic view and from strace. However, looking at real production systems I tend to see something quite different. For example, I randomly picked three Oracle 10G Statspack/AWR reports at my disposal and this is what I found:
Ref: SG, Oracle 11.2
wait interface physical read related waits occurrences 1,082,064
instance statistic, physical read total IO requests 1,521,403
Event occurrences to instance statistic ratio: 0.71
Ref: BF, Oracle 10.2
wait interface physical read related waits occurrences 190,272
instance statistic, physical read total IO requests 230,383
Event occurrences to instance statistic ratio: 0.83
Ref: PROD25, Oracle 10.2
wait interface physical read related waits occurrences 156,563
instance statistic, physical read total IO requests 156,894
Event occurrences to instance statistic ratio: 1.00
I encourage you to do the same for one of your production systems.
Based on the three observations above, other observations from other systems, data from some of my colleagues, and correspondence with Gopal Kandhasamy (co-author of Oracle Wait Interface: A Practical Guide to Performance Diagnostics & Tuning) indicates Oracle's wait interface is not a reliable source for IO read occurrences.
What about timing information?
What I have presented above is specifically related to the number of occurrences, that is, the count. If this is not troubling enough, consider the fact that if the number of occurrences is low, then determining the total IO related read time will also be low. And therefore any method, analysis, script, tool, or product using wait interface occurrences will produce a low total wait time value. Stated plainly, for read IO related wait events, the column v$[session,system]_event.time_waited is likely under reported.
While the total IO read wait time appears to be under reported, the average wait time appears to be solid. When a read call is instrumented, Oracle of course records the time along with the occurrence providing the data required to calculate an average. Also, when comparing IO read wait time with operating system tools such as iostat and also with observing the read system call times, it appears Oracle does record the correct average wait time. I will be blogging about this in my "average" blog series.
It is more difficult to calculate the total IO read time waited than you might think. This difficultly exists because there are multiple read wait events and they don't all have an obvious instance statistic to easily determine their count. For quantitative Oracle performance analysis it is important to get a respectable total IO read time, so I am working on a solutions which, I plan to blog about soon. Stay tuned...
Concluding Thoughts
Oracle's done a great job instrumenting its kernel code. Such a great job in fact, that most performance analysts rely heavily on the data it provides. But the wait interface is limited when kernel developers limit its use. This blog entry demonstrates one such limit, specifically using the wait interface column total_waits to determine the number of IO read call occurrences.
After Posting Note: Please read Part 2 as it has additional details that bring some closure to this topic.
Thanks for reading!
If you have any questions or comments, feel free to email me directly at craig at orapub.com.
|Parsing Performance: Going Beyond Cursor Sharing Using Bind Variables
|Do Oracle Database LGWRs (10g, 11g, 12c) Always Sleep For The Full Three Seconds?
|Oracle Database Row versus Set Processing, Surprise!


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Himoto has created a another masterpiece. Built for off-road performance, this 1/10 scale Syclone buggy is stuffed with an upgraded .18 team infinity engine powering this buggy to take on just about any terrain.
The Syclone uses a sleek body that does not sacrifice function over form providing easy access for both starting and refueling. This body has been pre-fit and built using reinforced polymer for extra durability on the open road.
Underneath this functional cover is an adjustable two-speed transmission to maximize the speed and rpm output from the 0.18 racing engine, propelling this RC to speeds in excess of 50mph (90km/h).
The durable sports suspension and aluminum aircraft chassis make the Syclone incredible surefooted, while the oil filled, aluminum shocks smooth the bumps and jumps providing a cushioned landing from big air. Rugged off-road tires with special foam inserts feature an tread pattern that is perfect for driving on rough surfaces.
Right out of the box, the Syclone is ready; with its aggressive styling, powerful engine and suspension package for just about any terrain.
- Powerful .18 Team Infinity engine
- Super-lightweight 13.8g aluminum flywheel for quick acceleration
- Full-time 4WD provides excellent traction
- Metal disc brakes bring this buggy to a standstill
- Sturdy 2.5mm aluminum chassis for superior racing performance
- Adjustable oil-filled shocks can be tuned to any road surface
- 75cc Fuel tank for extended racing
- Front/rear umbrella gear differential and differential box with leak protection
- Capable of speeds up to 50mph
In Depth
- Type: Off-Road Buggy
- Power Type: Nitro
- Channel: 2
- Scale: 1/10
- Kit/RTR: Ready to Run
- Length: 15.75 in (400mm)
- Width: 9.84 in (250mm)
- Height: 6.29 in (160mm)
- Ground Clearance: 1 in (26mm)
- Drive type: 4WD
- Wheelbase: 10.8 in (275mm)
- Diameter of Wheel: Front: 3.38 x 1.25 in (86 X 32 mm) Rear:3.38 x 1.57 in (86 X 40 mm)
- Track: 5.9 in (150mm)
- Engine: 18 Team Infinity Engine
- Gear Ratio: 8;038;1
- Shocks: Oil Filled/Coilover Shocks
In the Box
- 1/10 4WD Syclone
- Trigger-Style Remote Control with high speed servos
- Instructions Manual
- Nitro Fuel
- Starter Kit
- 16 AA Batteries