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How do I manually register my SPA400 with the SPA9000?
Related Information
This article is one in a series to assist in the setup, troubleshooting, and maintenance of Cisco Small Business products.
In order to set-up the SPA400 manually, complete these steps:
1) Understand How the SPA400 Interacts with the SPA9000
2) Configure the SPA400
3) Access the Web-Based Setup Page
4) Configure the SPA400 with the Associated SPA9000 Settings
5) Configure the SPA9000 to Register the SPA400
Understand How the SPA400 Interacts with the SPA9000
The SPA400 provides the SPA9000 access to the PSTN by connecting the FXO ports to analog lines. There are specific Line settings on the SPA9000 that are configured to recognize an SPA400 as a service enabling calls from an IP Phone on a LVS network to be routed out to the PSTN and vice versa. The SPA400 sets up and tears down calls between the PSTN and IP Phones offering seamless telephone service with Linksys VoIP equipment.
Configure the SPA400
The SPA400 and the SPA9000 have corresponding fields that must be properly configured for a successful installation. If the SPA9000 Setup Wizard is not used, the SPA400 can alternatively be configured using the web-based setup page. In order to access the Web-Based Setup Page, launch a browser application and enter the IP address of the SPA400. By default, the SPA400 is configured to Obtain an IP Address via DHCP. Running the SPA9000 Setup Wizard will automatically detect the IP Address of the SPA400 to simplify installation.
Access the Web-Based Setup Page
Upon entering the IP Address of the SPA400 on the address bar, a password request page will appear. Use the default User Name "Admin" and leave the Password field blank (no password) in order to log in. Click OK in order to access the web-based setup page. Using a password to access the SPA400 prevents unauthorized users from changing the settings of the device. Click Administration > Management in order to enter a new password.
Configure the SPA400 with the Associated SPA9000 Settings
The following section provides the principal steps to configure a SPA400 on a LVS network with a SPA9000. This example configuration assumes that a SPA9000 will be configured to access the PSTN only and therefore the SPA400 is configured in Line 1 on the SPA9000. However, if a VoIP Service Provider is also to be defined, then an SPA400 can be configured in any of the available Lines (1-4) tabs in the SPA9000 configuration utility.
Note: A complete listing of all SPA400 menu items can be found towards the end of this guide. It provides additional information on the SPA400 parameters and settings using the web-based configuration utility.
From the SPA400 web-based setup page, click Setup, and select the SPA9000 Interface menu item.
User ID:
Enter the User ID of the SPA9000 in the User ID field. The User ID setting must be identical to the User ID configured in the associated field in the Line # on the SPA9000.
Discover Automatically:
The Discover Automatically radio button enables the SPA400 to learn the IP address and the UDP port of the SPA9000 the from the SIP Registration packets sent by SPA9000.
Discover Automatically:
The Discover Automatically radio button enables the SPA400 to learn the IP address and the UDP port of the SPA9000 the from the SIP Registration packets sent by SPA9000.
Static Address:
It is preferred that the SPA400 is configured with a static IP address. Enter the IP address and the UDP port of the SPA9000 in order to enable the SPA400 to listen for the SIP Registration request from the SPA9000. If the SPA9000 obtains an IP address from a DHCP server, it is preferred that the Discover automatically option is selected in order to avoid registration failure due to SPA9000 IP addresses changes.
Figure 1 and Figure 2 reflect the web-based setup page for the SPA400 and SPA9000. In the configuration example below, the SPA400 is listed as the Line 1 service, permitting PSTN access for the SPA9000. The two User ID fields are referenced below with the identical "SPA9000" User ID entered on each configuration utility.
Click Save Settings at the bottom of the page, and then the Restart on the SPA400 web-based setup page. The SPA400 device will reboot. After configuring the SPA400, continue configuring the SPA9000. For instructions, complete the steps in the next section.
Configure the SPA9000 to Register the SPA400
There are three setting that must be configured on the SPA9000 to complete the SPA400 installation. Select the appropriate Line tab from the SPA9000 configuration utility (Line 1 is used in the example in Figure 2). From this configuration page, these fields must match the settings entered in the SPA400 configuration:
SIP Settings: SIP Port = 5060 (SPA400 Port)
Subscriber Information: User ID = SPA9000 (SPA400 User ID)
Proxy and Registration: Proxy = 192.168.15.107 (SPA400 IP Address)
Click Submit All Changes then the SPA9000 will reboot. This means the SPA9000 is now configured to access the PSTN allowing calls to be routed to and from the analog line(s) connected to the SPA400.


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By selecting House Budget Chairman Paul Ryan (Wis.), Mitt Romney made the least risky, risky pick he could have made to be his partner on the national ticket.
The former Massachusetts governor promoted the most well-respected fiscal mind among Capitol Hill Republicans - and the author of one of the most controversial budget proposals in recent history.
In his remarks in Norfolk, Va., this morning, Romney portrayed Ryan as a thoughtful wonk not afraid to make tough decisions.
"In a city that's far too often characterized by pettiness and personal attacks, Paul Ryan is the exception. He doesn't demonize his opponents," Romney said in front of the USS Wisconsin. "There are people in the other party who might disagree with Paul Ryan. I don't know anyone who doesn't respect his character and judgment."
Conservatives, including Ryan's House colleagues, hailed his addition to the ticket - a symbolic choice of two economic experts who might be able to correct the country's financial woes. But Congressional Democrats salivated at the selection of Ryan, who has become their political bogeymen this cycle with his proposed changes to entitlement programs.
You could almost hear the delight from Chicago, too.
"The architect of the radical Republican House budget, Ryan, like Romney, proposed an additional $250,000 tax cut for millionaires and deep cuts in education from Head Start to college aid," Obama campaign manager Jim Messina said, adding the popular Democratic refrain that the Ryan plan "would end Medicare as we know it."
House Republicans approved the Ryan budget twice in the past two years. But the legislation proved to be a nonstarter with Senate Democrats - except as kindling on the campaign trail. The plan would transition Medicare into a voucher-like system by 2022, repeal Obama's signature health care law and slash all other discretionary spending to 12 percent of the gross domestic product in 2010, then 6 percent in 2022 and 3 percent by 2050.
But Ryan didn't say much about his budget proposal specifics in his first moments on the national ticket. He praised Romney for his leadership in the 2002 Olympics, as governor of Massachusetts and at Bain Capital.
The Wisconsin wunderkind also leveled his first critique at the president on the ticket.
"President Obama, and too many like him in Washington, have refused to make difficult decisions because they are more worried about their next election than they are about the next generation," Ryan said. "We might have been able to get away with that before, but not now. We're in a different, and dangerous, moment. We're running out of time - and we can't afford four more years of this."
A clean-cut 42-year-old, Ryan marks the first time a sitting House Member has been selected for the national ticket in nearly 30 years. Rep. Jason Chaffetz (Utah) started texting fellow House Republicans about the pick late last night.
"They were thrilled," said Chaffetz, a vocal Romney supporter. "People who know Paul Ryan, know he's the real deal. We know Paul. We've interacted with him. We've seen his leadership and his work product."
Ryan's fellow Republicans painted the duo - coined by the campaign as "American's Comeback Team" - as truth-tellers not afraid to confront the reality of the economic situation.
But Ryan's national campaign experience is minimal - at least as a candidate. His political expertise comes from his time on Capitol Hill, as well his time on the campaign trail promoting his budget plan.
A former Capitol Hill aide, Ryan moved home to Janesville, Wis., before running for an open House seat in 1998. Ryan dominated his first Republican primary that year, winning with 81 percent of the vote. He defeated his Democratic opponent in a landslide, 57 percent to 43 percent, in a heavily targeted race.
The Wisconsin Republican has easily won re-election ever since, never pulling in less than 63 percent of the vote in his competitive district. Any Democratic attempts to challenge have sputtered.
Romney's short list for his No. 2 on the ticket reportedly included four names: Ryan, former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, Ohio Sen. Rob Portman and Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell. But NBC News, which first broke the news of the Ryan pick, reported Romney's comfort with Ryan was unmatched.
Meredith Shiner contributed to this report.

subset: commoncrawl


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Isolrubin BK - Crash Injury Trauma lustmord10
"Crash Injury Trauma" is a shocking and disturbing album, unflinching and relentless in its fascination with violent car accidents. Tires skid and horns blare, followed by the sickening sounds of crashing metal and shattering glass, screams, sirens and heart-pounding bass. It's a cruel, sadistic and horrifying tour de force in the ambient and power electronics genre. B. Lustmord released "Crash Injury Trauma" in 1993, as a side project, under the pseudonym Isolrubin BK. Following "Heresy" and "The Monstrous Soul", and preceding "The Place Where The Black Stars Hang", the album was recorded during what is now considered a pivotal period in the British artist's career. Out of print for nearly a decade, this new 2009 edition has been remastered from the ground up, and is presented in completely redesigned packaging.


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- YEAR AND PLACE OF ORIGIN: 2009, Poland
- HEAD OFFICE: Kraków, Poland
- SPECIALTY: equipment and tourist cookware, especially for camping
ROCKLAND – was established in 2009 and introduced to the market in spring 2011 as the original Raven distribution company's brand. Among its products are found high quality camping equipment and tourist accessories suitable for everyone. In case of prices, Rockland doesn't compete with the other brands distributed by RAVEN. Nevertheless, it contends with the other producers belonging to medium and low price segment. Currently, the brand is sold in more than 150 shops in Poland and since 2014 its products have been exported in the foreign markets; mostly to the Eastern European countries. Rockland offer is being gradually developed and new products are introduced into it.
More information: http://rockland.com.pl.


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Although women are grateful for this relatively simple and reliable form of contraception, most of them readily admit that they don't know much about how oral contraceptives actually work.
When you take oral contraceptives, the hormone thins out the lining of the uterus making it unable to host egg implantation. The mucus in the cervix thickens, making it tough for sperm to swim through.
So Many Choices
Most birth control pills contain 2 hormones, estrogen and progestin. Pills that contain both estrogen and progesterone are called combined contraceptives. There is also another type of pill that contains progestin-only, called the mini-pill.
Progestin-Only Pill
Progestin-only birth control pills are a popular choice for many nursing and non-nursing women immediately postpartum. This method is less effective than combination pills. However, it is often recommended after delivering your baby because combination pills increase your risk of developing blood clots.
They may also reduce the risk of triggering migraine headaches compared to pills with estrogen.
Combination Oral Contraceptive Pills
The same kind of estrogen is in all low dose combination pills. The exact dose of estrogen may have an impact on the kind of side effects you experience.
If you have a history of blood clots, or have high blood pressure , your doctor may advise that you take the progestin-only pill. Also, many organizations are concerned that combined oral contraception may suppress milk production, so they do not recommend them in breastfeeding women. Currently, there is not enough evidence to show that birth control pills affect how much milk your body makes.
Monophasic vs. Triphasic
Within the family of estrogen-containing pills, there are 2 main types: monophasic and triphasic. As the names suggest, monophasic pills provide the same level of hormones throughout the pill cycle. Triphasic pills also induce a steady state of hormones, but at 3 different levels during the cycle. The 2 types are equally effective for pregnancy prevention.
Fewer Side Effects Today
There are fewer side effects now than there used to be because oral contraceptives today contain a much lower level of estrogen. Lower hormone levels usually mean fewer side effects, but side effects do still occur.
Negative Side Effects
The most common complaint is about breakthrough bleeding. If you are new to the pill or have recently switched types, you should give your body 3 months to adjust.
Some women believe that they will gain weight when taking the pill, but a study reported that the pill has no major effect on weight.
Other possible side effects include headaches (especially migraines), nausea, breast tenderness, and bloating. If the negative side effects last for more than 3 months, talk to your doctor and consider changing brands.
Positive Side Effects
Many people experience positive side effects. For example, particular types of the pill may improve acne. Also, use of the pill mat decrease a woman's risk for subsequent ovarian cancer and endometrial cancer.
Your Period on the Pill
Depending on which kind of birth control pill your doctor prescribes, you could have a pack of 21 pills, 28, or even 90.
If there are 21 pills in the pack, take 1 pill at the same time each day for 21 days. After 7 days of not taking a pill, start a new pack. You will have your period during the break.
If your pack has 28 pills, take 1 pill at the same time each day for 28 days. Since the last 7 pills do not contain hormones, this will be when you will have your period.
Another option is to have 28 pills, but with the final 4 pills being inactive (without hormones). With this kind of pill, your period may be shorter and lighter.
Some pills come in packages of 90 pills (also called continuous-dosing or extended-use). The first 83 pills contain hormones, but the last 7 do not. You will have your period during the 7 days with no hormones every 3 months.
There are also packs with 365 pills. Women take 1 pill a day for a year. Over time, bleeding may become lighter and may even stop.
Oops, I Skipped a Day…
Taking a week off after 3 weeks of active hormones is part of a normal pill cycle, but skipping days in the middle of the 3 weeks is not a good idea. It could increase your risk for pregnancy.
If you do miss a pill, take it that day as soon as you remember. Or double up (take 2 pills) if you do not remember until the next day. You should use another method of contraception if you forget to take 2 or more pills. Call your doctor or nurse and ask for advice. Complete directions for what to do are also included in the instructions that come with your birth control pills.
Talk to Your Doctor
You cannot get birth control pills without a prescription, so you have to see a doctor at some point. Be open with your doctor so that you can make the best decision possible about birth control. Women with certain conditions should not take oral contraceptive. Talk to your doctor about any medications you take, as well as any over-the-counter or herbal medications or supplements.
If you experience problems and side effects, speak up. There may be something out there that's better for you.
- Reviewer: Michael Woods, MD
- Review Date: 03/2016 -
- Update Date: 03/16/2016 -


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Editorial: Newtown school massacre leaves an imperative for action
Even in a nation largely inured to gun violence, Friday's massacre of 20 small children in their Connecticut elementary school was so unspeakable, it broke hearts and begged for change.
OPPOSING VIEW:Eliminate 'gun-free zone' regulations
Wiping away tears as he addressed the American people from the White House, President Obama called for "meaningful action to prevent more tragedies like this, regardless of the politics." He might have added: If this horrific event isn't enough to spur that action, then nothing will.
The nation has, as the president said, endured far too many such horrors. In the past two years alone, a dozen people were killed at a Batman movie in Colorado, six were gunned down outside a Sikh temple in Wisconsin, and six were slain in the Arizona shooting spree that left Rep. Gabrielle Giffords gravely wounded.
And, now, Sandy Hook Elementary joins Virginia Tech and Columbine as a school that is also a synonym for tragedy.
The details and motives were still sketchy late Friday, but the pattern was achingly familiar. Hatred and anger. A lone, deranged gunman. A rifle or handgun, easily obtained and capable of firing round after round in quick succession.
If only the country could be certain that the Sandy Hook massacre, the second worst mass shooting in its history, would produce needed change, that might be some small comfort. But the nation has been here before, going around in circles in the people-kill-people, guns-kill-people argument. The fact is, people with guns kill people, and more must be done to separate the most disturbed individuals from the deadliest weapons.
Americans are fiercely devoted to the right to keep and bear arms, and the Supreme Court has upheld that right. Hundreds of millions of guns are in circulation, and no one is going to take them away. But a willing Congress and president could do a lot. Americans do support bans on assault weapons and large-capacity magazines. And there is no legitimate reason for the loophole that lets some people evade background checks when they buy guns at gun shows.
There are also ways to isolate and help those among us with delusional, threatening or violent behavior, even though only a tiny fraction will become killers. Laws in most states allow authorities, or even friends and family, to ask a judge to have someone like that treated. There are databases designed to keep deranged people from buying guns, but they only work if they are maintained and updated.
America is grieving this weekend. As the president said, every parent will hug his or her children a little tighter. Nothing can truly comfort the parents in Newtown who can no longer do that. But the country can take steps, however imperfect, to make it more difficult for another Newtown to occur. After Friday, that is a moral imperative.


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Price from
Island hop around the wildlife-rich waters of the Galapagos
As we fly from Quito to the Galapagos Islands, located in the equatorial water of the Pacific Ocean, we suddenly find ourselves in a very different world. As we board our vessel, the M.Y Grand Queen Beatriz and follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin, we start to encounter nature at its finest. This is indeed the Galapagos journey with something for everyone.
- Start
- Quito, Ecuador
- Finish
- Quito, Ecuador
- Destination
- Ecuador
- Style
- Peregrine
- Theme
- Adventure Cruising, Wildlife
- Code
- Physical rating
- Trip rating
- 20 reviews
- Ages
- Min 15
- Group size
- Min 1, Max 16
Why you'll love this trip
As you board your vessel, M.Y Grand Queen Beatriz, and follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin, you will encounter nature at its finest.
Explore the islands from on deck, on foot and in the water, no doubt with your eyes open for your next unique sight.
This is indeed the Galapagos journey with something for everyone.
Is this trip right for you?
Although we don't ask travellers to complete a Physical Participation Form for this trip, we do ask that you read through the trip notes carefully to ensure that this trip is right for you. You'll need to feel comfortable with the included activities and with moving about the boat. The cabins and communal areas of the boat are spread over four decks, and the steps between the decks are steep.
You will be entering and exiting a Zodiac boat (panga) during wet and dry landings and when returning from snorkelling. Although the waters we sail are usually calm, there are times when the sea can get rough and choppy. Steady sea legs (and a sturdy stomach) are needed when walking around the boat during bad weather. Rain or shine, your trusty crew will always be on hand to assist you.
A typical yacht/boat for sixteen travellers is equipped with eight cabins each with ensuites. They are designed to maximise living area space, so sleeping quarters can be a bit cramped. That being said, the adventure and exhilaration of an authentic Galapagos trip more than makes up for any discomfort.
While at sea and when exploring the islands, you may be exposed to the sun for large parts of the day. It's important to use sun protection and drink plenty of water.
Please note that while there is an itinerary in place, some changes may occur due to the weather or because of direction from the local authorities. This can happen with little notice so please be prepared for potential modifications to the route or activities. A sense of humour and flexibility will ensure you have a fun, relaxing trip through this beautiful part of the world no matter what happens.
All of our Galapagos tours begin and end in Quito which is located approximately 2850 metres above sea level so you may experience some altitude sickness.
Grand Queen Beatriz
Experience the 'Enchanted Islands' in our new custom-built yacht, the Grand Queen Beatriz.
A welcome meeting will be held in the evening at either 5pm or 6 pm when you meet others travelling with you on your cruise to the Galapagos Islands. Please check with hotel reception or check the reception notice boards for the time and place of the meeting for your trip. As today is an arrival day, you can arrive at any time as there are no activities planned until this important meeting.
If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive in time, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).
Quito sits at high altitude under the towering Pichincha volcano. It is a beautiful city, arguably one of the most beautiful in South America. The city stretches along the valley and is surrounded by the Andes. The Old Town of Quito is awash with history, with more than 30 churches to explore, and a number of fascinating museums. La Compania de Jesus is considered to be the most beautiful and ornate churches in the Americas. The city's oldest street, Calle La Ronda, is well worth exploring.
As this trip spends very little time in Quito, we recommend you spend a few extra days before or after your trip to experience all the city has to offer. You may even wish to explore further beyond the city and visit Otavalo, Cotopaxi, the Cloud Forest or the Equatorial Monument.
- Hotel Le Parc, Quito (1 night)
Meals IncludedThere are no meals included on this day.
Special InformationQuito is located at 2850 metres above sea level. At this altitude you may experience some of the milder effects of altitude sickness, such as dizziness, insomnia and a shortness of breath. If so, we recommend you avoid any strenuous activity. Please see the "Medical & Health Information" section for more details.
A US$20 per person transit card is payable on departure at Quito Airport and a US$100 per person national park entry fee is payable on arrival on the islands. Please have cash on hand for these transactions as credit cards are not accepted.
The flight to the Galapagos will make one stop in Guayaquil to pick up other passengers. (Total flight time is about 3.5 hours).
On arrival in the Galapagos, you will be met in the arrival hall of the airport (look out for 'Grand Queen Beatriz' signs) by a transfer guide and transferred to our motor yacht - 'M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz', anchored on the other side of Santa Cruz Island. Our transfer guide will take you on an airport public bus for a short distance (5 minute drive) to where you board a public ferry across the Itabaca Channel. The ferry crossing takes only 7 minutes. (Please note that all public transportation costs are included). Once you reach Santa Cruz Island, you board a private bus for a 45-minute drive to Puerto Ayora, the main port of the island. Here, there will be two dinghies to transport you and your fellow travellers to the 'M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz'. Once on board, cabins will be assigned and there will be a welcome briefing and safety drill. You will then get to meet our crew members and get to know your naturalist guide while enjoying a delicious lunch.
Your first stop in the afternoon is Santa Cruz, the second largest island in the Galapagos. The small town of Puerto Ayora is the economic centre of the archipelago, and home to the Charles Darwin Research Station. As well as undertaking vital conservation work, the station also makes for interesting exploration and offers the best opportunities for close encounters with giant tortoises. You will also observe baby tortoises and land iguanas.
Estimated travel time/distance:
Puerto Ayora to Isla Santa Fe: 2 hours (16 nautical miles)
- M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz (1 night)
Included Activities
- Isla Santa Cruz - Charles Darwin Research Station (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Special InformationToday is predominately a long travel day with an early morning start. Your first activity on the islands will not commence until after lunch.
The airline we use to and from the Galapagos islands will provide a small snack but because it is such a long travel day we recommend that you carry your own snacks as well. The snacks they do provide are not gluten free, so if you require a gluten free diet, please ensure you carry your own. Please also keep in mind that the Galapagos has strict quarantine regulations in regards to bringing food onto the islands with many fruits and vegetables being on the restricted list. There will be time after check-in and before departure to buy snacks.
A small island, Plaza Sur is nonetheless a place of great beauty, where you will get close to sea lions and on to trails past one of the Galapagos' largest land iguana populations, resting amid cacti and volcanic landscapes coloured bright red and green by sesuvium. The island's rugged southern cliffs are an excellent place to spot tropicbirds and swallow-tailed gulls, as well as the 'Gentlemen's Club', a gathering of male sea lions either too young or too old to be beachmasters!
Estimated travel time/distance:
Isla Santa Fe to Isla South Plaza: 2 hours (16 nautical miles)
South Plaza to Espanola Island (Punta Suarez): 7 hours (60 nautical miles)
- M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz (1 night)
Included Activities
- Isla Plaza Sur - Walk (2 hours) - Dry Landing
- Isla Santa Fe - Panga ride (45 mins)
- Isla Santa Fe - Walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Trails from the golden beaches, where sea lions bathe and marine iguanas make their way towards the water, will lead you right through the middle of booby colonies, and Galapagos doves and mockingbirds are also often seen. You will also visit the beautiful white sandy beaches at Bahia Gardner, which are great places for swimming and relaxing. The rocks off the coast provide excellent snorkelling opportunities, with reef sharks, turtles and many species of tropical fish, including surgeon and angelfish, often seen. The small white-tipped reef sharks are also often spotted resting under the rocks.
You will also pay a visit to Punta Suarez, one of the most attractive locations in the Galapagos and home to large and varied wildlife population - a walk along its trails will take you to a cliff top viewpoint, where you'll gain a magical panorama. Boobies line the rocky shoreline beneath you, while frigate birds may be seen overhead; nearby enormous male sea lions can be seen lounging and albatross use the cliffs as their 'runway', helping become airborne by the southeast winds that blow across this part of the island.
If you're lucky you'll see the elaborate courtship rituals performed by albatrosses before the female chooses her lifelong mate!
Stop at Bahia Gardner (Gardner Bay), which is considered by many as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Galapagos Islands and full of sea lions and hood mockingbirds. Enjoy the beach and do some snorkelling which could be great for playing with sea lion pups and lots of fish. The rocks off the coast provide excellent snorkelling opportunities, with reef sharks, turtles and many species of tropical fish, including surgeon and angelfish, often seen. The small white-tipped reef sharks are also often spotted resting under the rocks.
Estimated travel time/distance:
Punta Suarez to Bahia Gardener: 1 hour (7 nautical miles)
Bahia Gardener to Punta Pitt (Isla San Cristobal): 7 hours (50 nautical miles)
- M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz (1 night)
Included Activities
- Isla Espanola - Punta Suarez - Walk (3 hours) - Dry Landing
- Isla Espanola - Bahia Gardener - Snorkel (1 hour)
- Isla Espanola - Bahia Gardener - Walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
On a 'panga' ride you can observe the three varieties of boobies nesting in the Galapagos and enjoy a snorkel from the beach.
Close by you will pass through Leon Dormido (Kicker Rock), the magnificent basalt remains of a crater in the middle of the sea, the shape resembles a sleeping lion. The rock rises 150 metres above the surface and is divided into two parts by a narrow channel. You cruise through the channel with nesting seabirds on either side of the boat, tropic birds overhead, marine iguanas in the water and many sea lions present including many resting on the rocks. Snorkelling gives us the opportunity to see Galapagos sharks, and possibly a hammerhead shark among sea turtles and an incredible biodiversity of invertebrates on the rock wall.
You will also visit Isla Lobos, a tiny island almost touching San Cristobál Island. This is the perfect time to witness the always friendly sea lions as they play in the calm shallow waters here. Blue-footed boobies, frigate birds and marine iguanas are also easily seen.
Estimated travel time/distance:
Punta Pitt to Kicker Rock (Isla San Cristobal): 2.5 hours (27 nautical miles)
Kicker Rock to Isla Lobos: 1 hour (7 nautical miles)
Isla Lobos to Puerto Baquerizo (Isla San Cristobal): 1 hour (5 nautical miles)
- M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz (1 night)
Included Activities
- Isla San Cristobal - Punta Pitt - Walk (2 hours) - Wet Landing
- Isla San Cristobal - Isla Lobos - Walk (1 hour) - Dry Landing
- Isla San Cristobal - Kicker Rock - Snorkelling (45 minutes)
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Visit San Cristobal Interpretation Center in the morning. This centre brings the history and geography of the archipelago to life, from its volcanic origins to the present day. The human history exhibit offers an insight into the discovery and colonisation of the Galapagos, and the reality of the problems the islands face today is also explored.
You will then head to the airport for our flight back to Quito. As you will be leaving the boat this morning, please remember that if you have enjoyed the services provided by your guide and crew, a tip would be very much appreciated by them. As a guideline we recommend each passenger consider US$15 per day for the crew and US$10 per day for your guide. You can leave tips in envelopes that are placed in your cabin on the last day of your journey.
Upon arrival in Quito Airport you will be transferred back to your hotel for an overnight stay.
- Hotel Le Parc, Quito (1 night)
Included Activities
- Isla San Cristobal - Interpretation Center Visit (1 hour) - Dry Landing
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Special InformationToday is predominately a long travel day with an early morning start. There will be a short morning activity before our mid-morning flight back to the mainland. The flight back to Quito is not due to arrive until late afternoon getting back to the hotel in time for an optional final group dinner. **
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Special InformationAll travel times/distances and activity durations are approximate only and subject to change.
Meals6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners
TransportMinibus, Boat, Plane, Zodiac
AccommodationHotel (2 nights), Overnight boat (4 nights)
Included Activities
- Isla Santa Cruz - Charles Darwin Research Station (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
- Isla Plaza Sur - Walk (2 hours) - Dry Landing
- Isla Santa Fe - Panga ride (45 mins)
- Isla Santa Fe - Walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing
- Isla Espanola - Punta Suarez - Walk (3 hours) - Dry Landing
- Isla Espanola - Bahia Gardener - Snorkel (1 hour)
- Isla Espanola - Bahia Gardener - Walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing
- Isla San Cristobal - Punta Pitt - Walk (2 hours) - Wet Landing
- Isla San Cristobal - Isla Lobos - Walk (1 hour) - Dry Landing
- Isla San Cristobal - Kicker Rock - Snorkelling (45 minutes)
- Isla San Cristobal - Interpretation Center Visit (1 hour) - Dry Landing
Dates & availability
Trip search is unavailable.
There are currently no scheduled departures on our Galapagos Explorer: Southern Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz) trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.
Jump to a departure month
Important notes
Your group will be a mixture of Peregrine booked passengers and other international like-minded travellers from our sister company Intrepid Travel.
Before checking in for the flight from Quito to the Galapagos, there is a US$20 transit fee that needs to be paid. On arrival in the islands you must pay the US$100 national park fee to enter Galapagos National Park. If your voyage visits Isabela Island, there is also a US$10 fee to be paid on arrival at the island.
When booking, please make sure that your name is spelt correctly, and that you book using the name in your passport (particularly if you are recently married). If you are issued a new passport with a different number between the time that you book and the time you travel, please take both the old and new passports with you.
Should you have a special diet requirement (for example vegetarian, celiac, vegan, severe food allergies) it's essential that you inform us or your agent of the specific details at least 10 days prior to departure, in order to make sure the chef on board the boat or on the island can request the necessary food supplies.
The minimum age on this trip is 15. Please note that triple cabins are not available. If travelling with a child, the child will need to share with one of the adults, and the other adult will share with another adult passenger, or pay a single supplement.
Please note that from June to August the water is rougher than usual. Consequently travel times will be longer than usual. If you suffer from seasickness you may want to reconsider travelling during this period.
We do not offer diving as a part of our Galapagos program and due to our internal safety policy our leaders are specifically prohibited from recommending or assisting with booking this activity.
Essential trip information
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.View Essential Trip Information


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What Do You Get?
- Vector Logo
- Business Card (3.5×2)
- Letterhead (DIN A4)
- Compact Dics (Regular CD/DVD Size)
- Compact Dics Cover
- Envelope C5 (DIN C5)
- Envelope 23 X 11.5
- Compliment Card (Half DIN A5)
- Corporate folder (A3)
- Fully Editable
Font used in all package its: Neuropolitical
I'm ready for freelancer work.If u need any custom design please feel free to contact me in my personal e-mail.
You can buy the logo here: Buy Here
NOTE: If u want to use the logo in stationery it's included,if u want to use it in other application (website, application etc) you can buy it in the link in details.


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As another school year comes to an end and temps start to really rise, it's hard not to want to do a little summer shopping. And, with these six fashion deals, you'll still have plenty left over for daily ice cream runs. Pretty sweet, huh?
Off Fifth: Take an extra 40 percent off, for a total savings of up to 70 percent, during the Saks Fifth Avenue Off Fifth summer sale, online and in stores now through June 3.
Old Navy: Enter the code ONSAVE NOW through May 28 online only to score 25 percent off regular items and 15 percent off sale items. Also, find select steals on shorts and T-shirts for the family while supplies last for a limited time.
Fresh Produce: The annual Fresh Produce Warehouse sale is underway. Through June 1, find $10 dresses and $5 tops and bottoms at 1 West Faltiron Crossing Drive, Broomfield (lower level entrance near California Pizza Kitchen). For more info, visit freshproduceclothes.com.
Nordstrom: Take up to 40 percent off styles for women and kids through June 1 during the retailer's half-yearly sale. Free shipping and returns.
Asos: Snag an extra 20 percent off everything at asos.com now through May 28, when you enter WEBEGRILLIN at checkout. (Hint: Combine it with summer styles already reduced 25 percent for major savings).
Banana Republic: Get 50 percent off select styles for men, women and petites, plus 40 percent off the rest of your purchase when you enter BRMORE at checkout at bananarepublic.com through May 28.
Lesley Kennedy writes for ShopAtHome.com. Email her at firstname.lastname@example.com and follow her on Instagram @shopathome.


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I create a form for enter data, and save them into DB.
I have a rather big problem, in my database there are two same fields with this charactristics:
1- title ; type: text ; collation: utf8_persian_ci
2- description ; type: text ; collation: utf8_persian_ci
my problem: in the first field when I enter a character in utf-8 such az a persian character آ when I submit it to save in DB it doesn't coorect work and save this character another form of top character into DB ا .
So what do IO do?
while second field work perfect with out any problem.


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Don't Worry: Dow 17,000 Isn't Out of Reach
The Dow Jones Industrials closed up almost 42 points on Friday, limiting the Dow's losses for the week to about 150 points. Yet, what's surprising about the stock market is how quickly investors have become pessimistic, with two straight triple-digit declines for the Dow making many people think that a correction is imminent, even though the two-day drop barely added up to 1%. By contrast, the Dow remains just 225 points below the 17,000 mark, and all it would take is a minor push forward for the stock market to eclipse that level and potentially send investors into a bullish frenzy all over again. Let's take a look at the inflection point that investors face right now.
The bull-bear tug of war
In past bull markets, the Dow Jones Industrials followed a relatively similar pattern. In the early stages of an emerging bull market, most ordinary investors were still shell-shocked from losses they had suffered during the preceding bear market. As a result, they were typically slow to get back into the market, often missing out on a huge share of the initial run-up in the Dow. Eventually, performance-chasing mainstream investors regained confidence in the market's ability to produce solid returns, and they therefore invested in the market. In some cases, the wholesale adoption of stock market investing by even novice investors provided a contrarian indicator for more sophisticated investors to back out of their stock positions, leaving the market vulnerable to a further pullback.
This time around, though, there's a new dynamic that's changing the supply-and-demand equation for stocks. During the financial crisis, even the largest companies suffered from liquidity problems. Goldman Sachs , General Electric , and Bank of America were just a few of the major companies that went to extraordinary lengths to get the financing they needed, tapping both private-sector funds and government sources provided by bailout legislation. That experience taught companies the value of cash, and in the ensuing recovery, cash has reigned as king, once again.
But as the economy has improved, many companies have too much cash, and they've been looking for ways to deploy it. One of the most common methods has been stock repurchase programs, which, in many cases, have reduced outstanding share counts of popular stocks, and left investors chasing fewer available shares. As it happens, company buybacks also have a checkered history of being ill-timed, as they usually come when businesses are flush with cash and, therefore, when stock prices are especially high.
The major question is whether individual investors will side with corporate buybacks or with institutional investors, which have been the primary owners of the shares that companies have bought back. If the Dow Jones Industrials and the broader stock market start to fall in earnest, then institutions could redouble their efforts, and eventually woo individuals to the bearish cause. But if the Dow keeps rising, underperforming institutional investors will feel even more pressure to get back into the market to avoid missing out even further -- and potentially feed a bull market to Dow 17,000 and beyond.
These stocks beat the big banks...
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The article Don't Worry: Dow 17,000 Isn't Out of Reach originally appeared on Fool.com.Dan Caplinger owns warrants on Bank of America and shares of General Electric. The Motley Fool recommends Bank of America and Goldman Sachs. The Motley Fool owns shares of Bank of America and General Electric Company. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Copyright © 1995 - 2014 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.


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Mauviel Hammered Copper Champagne Bucket
- Only at Williams Sonoma
- Exclusive
Easy, hassle-free returns online and in-store for eligible items.Learn More
Earn 5% Back in rewards4 plus free standard shipping3every day when you shop with your Williams Sonoma credit card at Williams Sonoma.Apply Now Learn More
- Summary
An elegant choice for entertaining, this vessel keeps two bottles of Champagne or wine chilling side by side.
- Hand-hammered copper body is polished to a gleaming finish.
- Lined with tin and fitted with a stainless-steel insert to hold two bottles upright.
- Decorative bronze handles.
- Crafted in France by family-owned Mauviel, famous for fine copper wares since 1830.
- Dimensions & More Info
- 10 1/2" x 6 3/4" x 8" high.
- 7-qt. cap.
- Made in France.
- Use & Care
- Hand-wash. Dry immediately with a soft cloth.
- Avoid using steel wool, steel scouring pads or harsh detergents.
- Copper will develop a rich patina over time. To keep the exterior looking new, use copper polish or a combination of lemon and salt.
- Shipping
Shipping Information
UPS can deliver most in-stock items within 3–5 business days. UPS is unable to deliver to P.O. boxes.
Shipping Rates
The shipping rate varies depending on your order total and shipping destination. View Shipping Options and Charges.
Next Day Delivery
For an additional charge of $26 per address, we can expedite delivery to most destinations. This service is not available for some oversize items, items shipped directly from the supplier (including perishable and custom-manufactured items), out-of-stock items and items to be shipped outside the contiguous 48 states.
Orders received by 9:00 p.m. ET Monday through Thursday will arrive the next business day; orders placed Friday through Sunday will arrive on the following Tuesday.
Return Policy
At Williams Sonoma, we take great pride in the quality and craftsmanship of our products. Attention to design, materials, safety and construction are our priority. Upon receipt, please inspect your purchase and notify us of any damage; we will arrange for a prompt replacement.
If within 30 days, you are dissatisfied for any reason, you may return your purchase for a refund of the merchandise value. An original receipt or gift receipt is required for all returns and exchanges. Returns with a gift receipt will be refunded in the form of a Merchandise Credit for the amount indicated on the gift receipt. Returns with original receipt will be refunded in the original form of payment, cash and check refunds over $100 will be issued as a company check (may take 14 business days from time of request).
For all cutlery returns (knife sets, single knives, cutting boards, knife sharpeners and knife storage), please contact us at 888.922.4108 to initiate the return.
We cannot accept returns on monogrammed, personalized, special-order items, custom upholstery, food, items shipped direct from the vendor or on items damaged through normal wear and tear. Final sale items ending in .97 or .99 cannot be returned.
Made to Order and Final Sale Furniture items are non-returnable and cannot be cancelled once the order is placed.
For returns of items purchased from your Williams Sonoma Gift Registry, we will gladly provide a refund or exchange for the merchandise within 90 days of your event or within 90 days of purchase, whichever date is later. View Full Returns Policy.
- More about Mauviel
In 1830, Ernest Mauviel established his namesake cookware company in Villedieu-les-Poêles in Normandy. The village had a long history of outstanding metalwork; the locals were considered experts in the craft. Today, much of the manufacturing is still done by hand using traditional processes passed down through generations of copper makers. True to France's rich culinary history, Mauviel 1830 is a favorite in professional kitchens, where copper's quick, even heat conductivity is essential for making delicate sauces and other French classics. Mauviel now also offers stainless-steel collections crafted with the same attention to detail as its traditional copper cookware.
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Rated 5 out of 5 by katep701 from Beautiful It looks beautiful on the website but it is even more beautiful in person. It is heavy and well made. I don't need a champagne bucket every day (darn!) but this is too beautiful to put in a cupboard. I've put it on an open shelf in my kitchen so I can look at it every day. Real copper with take on a natural patina. But I honestly love cleaning my copper usingthe Mauviel Copperbrill, sono problems there either.Date published: 2017-11-09Rated 5 out of 5 by Cajunbrew from The BEST wine chiller Unless you are fortunate enough to have been handed down a solid silver wine bucket, this Mauviel version is the very best you can own. Solid silver is the best conductor of heat or cold, but right next to it is copper. Copper, for instance, has 10 times greater conductivity than stainless steel. Put some ice cubes in the inset, a glass of water over it and ... voila! you are all set for the party. The inset, of course, keeps ice from getting underneath the bottles which usually gets in the way when you try to put the bottle back. As far as eye appeal, there is nothing in the market that can outshine this one either. Beware of imitations made of "decor" copper and stay away from dubious ones that just say "copper" without telling you that it is nothing but copper coated metal. My Mauviel chiller will be around long after I'm gone and it is warranted for life. It is pricey but, hey, you only live once.Date published: 2012-12-01


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Hidden Treasures Competition Instructions
Open the Science Archive query form, and start digging!
1. First challenge: selection of the images
You can restrict the search for a given object (for instance: Target Name = NGC 1313), or for an area around given coordinates. Select some (or all) instruments (for instance, FORS1). Select "On-the-sky exposures" to get actual data. You can further restrict the search for a given time range (the date format is DD MM YYYY, for instance from 15 12 2003 to 17 12 2003), and then click Search. You will get a long list of frames that you can retrieve.
If you followed this example, which is encoded as the default values for the entries in the form, you will have found the files that were used for this image of NGC 1313
You may also retrieve this example dataset just by hitting return on the form.
At a later stage, you will need to retrieve the biases and flat-fields. You can restrict the dates around the selected observations using the start and end night fields, and select the filter by typing its identifier in the "Filter" field. Use % as the wild-card character, eg %V% will retrieve all the filters containing "V".
2. Data retrieval
Once you have identified a series of frame that can constitute a hidden treasure, mark them (little box on the left), and click the "Request" button.
You will then be asked to log onto the ESO User Portal. If you don't have an account already, you will need to create one: follow the link "I would like to create a new account". This process is very quick, and of course all data provided are treated confidentially).
For the "Profile Category" entry, select "Amateur Astronomer" (unless another category fits you better).
For the "Media Type" entry, select FTP. You will receive an email with a link that activates your account.
Note that if you select another data retrieval method, you will not get the data. Also note that there is a 30GB limit for each request. If you really need more data, you will need to split the requests into several consecutive requests.
3. Second challenge: data processing
All the data are stored in FITS format. It is therefore critical that you know how to do the astronomical processing for these files, and that you have software than can do it. If you don't know about this file format or are not interested in finding out more, this competition is probably not for you.
The images all need to be de-biased and flat-fielded. It is then likely you will want to stack several images obtained through the same filter.
4. Third challenge: image combination
The subsequent processing to go from a FITS file to a standard graphics format can, for instance, be done with the ESA/ESO/NASA FITS Liberator or with Stiff and Photoshop or GIMP.
You can process the data in any way you want, and combine them as you wish. The end or intermediate results can be enhanced using any technique. The only thing that is strictly forbidden is to paint on the image. Only tiny cosmetic defects can be painted over, such as cosmic rays, bad pixels, satellite trails, etc.
5. Upload the result
Once you have produced an image you are pleased with, save the original file in your working format (for instance .psd for Photoshop, or .xcf for GIMP), and generate a moderately sized JPEG for submission. Keep the original – we shall request it if you are shortlisted for a prize.
First join the "ESO's Hidden Treasures" group in Flickr. If you don't have a Flickr account, create a free one on www.flickr.com
In the Group Pools, click "Join" link, then "Join this group".
You need to upload your image to the ESO Hidden Treasures group.
First, upload them on Flickr: click on "You" menu -> Upload photo and videos, then "Chose photos and videos". On next page, make sure you select "Public" in the privacy settings, and hit "upload" –this can take sometime. Write the relevant information in the caption of the image, and save.
Deadline: November 30, 2010


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On his makeup:
This should not be underrated. It's impossible to find any talent evaluator who isn't blown away by Harper's ability on the field, but it's equally difficult to find one who doesn't genuinely dislike the kid. One scout called him among the worst amateur players he's ever seen from a makeup standpoint, with top-of-the-scale arrogance, a disturbingly large sense of entitlement, and on-field behavior that includes taunting opponents. "He's just a bad, bad guy," said one front-office official. "He's basically the anti-Joe Mauer." How this plays into the negotiation or future evaluation is yet to be determined, as history has shown us that the bigger talent a player is, the more makeup issues teams will deal with. Bench players can't afford to be problems, but plenty of teams happily put up with difficult superstars.
UPDATE: THT has roundup of the reaction.
UPDATE #2: Deadspin.


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WSU Puyallup Ornamental Plant Pathology
Ornamental Plant Pathology
Welcome to the WSU Puyallup Ornamental Plant Pathology program. Our program conducts research relating to diseases of ornamental plants. Specifically, we focus on ornamental bulb crops, diseases and postharvest keepability of Christmas trees, and diseases of woody ornamental plants such as the invasive Phytophthora ramorum, the causal agent of sudden oak death and ramorum foliar blight. Please explore our website to learn more about our research and extension programs.
- Managing P. ramorum and other Phytophthoras in nurseries, gardens, and landscapes
- Monitoring streams for Phytophthora species
Job and internship opportunities
Contact: Gary Chastagner, 253-445-4528
WSU Puyallup Research & Extension Center
2606 West Pioneer, Puyallup, WA, 98371-4998 USA


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sitecreator needed a new coded website design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 12 designs submitted by 6 freelance designers.
We urgently require a simple and clean 6 page web template.
Please see this doc for guideline:
PS. You do not have to follow the layout illustrated in this document.
Content for design are found here:


text:
stms needed a new logo design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 29 designs submitted by 15 freelance designers.
For our website stms.nl we would like a new logo, reflecting the main objectives of our organization (medicine and science related to tennis). The logo should be clean and simple, with a 'swoosh'.
Society for Tennis Medicine and Science
The STMS (Society for Tennis Medicine and Science) is an international organization of sports medicine and science experts aiming to serve as an international forum for the generation and dissemination of knowledge of tennis medicine and science. We have a journal, Medicine and Science in Tennis, produced in co-operation with the International Tennis Federation (ITF), the Sony Ericsson WTA tour, and the ATP.
Find out how a design contest works or learn more about our logo design services.


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This chapter describes the various components that you must configure in order to use a relational aggregate collection mapping.
Note:To use a relational aggregate collection mapping with TopLink Workbench, you must use an amendment method (see Section 119.35, "Configuring Amendment Methods").
This chapter includes the following section:
For information on how to configure TopLink mappings options common to two or more mapping types, see Chapter 121, "Configuring a Mapping".
For information on how to create TopLink mappings, see Chapter 120, "Creating a Mapping".
Table 35-1 lists the configurable options for a relational aggregate collection mapping.
Table 35-1 lists the configurable options for a relational aggregate collection mapping.
Table 35-1 Configurable Options for Relational Aggregate Collection Mapping
|Oracle JDeveloper
|TopLink Workbench
Database field (see Section 28.3, "Configuring a Database Field")
Reference descriptor (see Section 28.4, "Configuring Reference Descriptor")
Container policy (see Section 121.14, "Configuring Container Policy")
Method or direct field access (see Section 121.6, "Configuring Method or Direct Field Accessing at the Mapping Level")
Read-only mapping (see Section 121.2, "Configuring Read-Only Mappings")
Batch reading (see Section 28.5, "Configuring Batch Reading")
Bidirectional relationship (see Section 121.18, "Configuring Bidirectional Relationship")
Query key order (see Section 28.6, "Configuring Query Key Order")
Table and field references (see Section 28.7, "Configuring Table and Field References (Foreign and Target Foreign Keys)")
Example 35-1 shows how to create an aggregate collection mapping and add it to a descriptor using Java code.
Example 35-1 Aggregate Collection Mapping
public void customize(ClassDescriptor descriptor) { AggregateCollectionMapping mapping = new AggregateCollectionMapping(); // configure mapping ... // add mapping to descriptor descriptor.addMapping(mapping); }
For more information, see the following:


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OCEAN CITY – The City Council learned this week it can't always get what it wants after enforcement of the town's new emergency salvia ban lacked the sharp teeth that they so outspokenly promised it would.
On Tuesday morning Salvia was deemed an illegal substance to sell or possess in Ocean City by way of the town's emergency ordinance that banned not only the product but the related paraphernalia.
In efforts to protect Ocean City's family friendly image, town officials were told by State's Attorney Joel Todd that if they wanted to rid the Boardwalk of the paraphernalia they had to ban the product.
With all the buildup and the political hype leading up to the passing of the new law on Monday night, including an emergency Police Commission meeting and a police sit down with Boardwalk merchants that were selling salvia, Tuesday's police enforcement of the new law left many people scratching their heads in anti-climactic wonderment.
Despite three stores being officially charged with possession of salvia, identified as Ocean Wave, #2 Dorchester Street, Unit 102; Ocean Beachwear, 1101 Atlantic Avenue (Boardwalk); and Rave, 16 North Baltimore Avenue, no paraphernalia was confiscated from the Boardwalk, and as of 1 p.m. on Tuesday afternoon, some of the devices were even included in various stores' outdoor displays.
"The most important thing is that we have removed all of the product from the streets", said police spokesperson Jessica King. "There is a gray area concerning the paraphernalia, and we are trying to address that in the early stages of this new law."
Officer Mike Levy of the OCPD said that several teams of detectives swept the Boardwalk on Tuesday and not only inspected the paraphernalia in the stores, but advised the store owners on what is legal under the new law and what is prohibited.
"Salvia is a no-brainer, and it's obviously illegal, but paraphernalia is a different issue and we have to define that," Levy said. "We are making every effort to be proactive and amicable with the businesses that were selling the product to help them understand the law as part of a partnership to not only enforce this law, but also help people understand the law."
State's Attorney Joel Todd, whose recommendation to the town concerning how the paraphernalia could be removed perhaps sparked that portion of the ordinance, stood behind the department's tactics in enforcing the new law this week.
"Enforcement is up to police and my guess is that they are targeting the salvia first and will deal with the much harder issue of paraphernalia second," said Todd. "As with anything, like if you get a speeding ticket, the police have the authority to charge you to the fullest extent of the law or merely give you a warning. In this case, the OCPD are solely in their rights to prioritize what they are going to do and how they enforce this new law."
The Dispatch obtained a few letters this week touching on both sides of the argument about how much proverbial water the town's new ordinance will hold.
First, the law offices of Coates, Coates & Coates, representing a group of small retail business owners including Cool Topics, sent a letter to City Manager Dennis Dare prior to the passing of the ordinance on Monday night claiming that the town's law will be preempted by state law and that the town must file a petition with the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and request that salvia be placed on the controlled dangerous substance list before enacting local legislation.
"In order for the Town of Ocean City to eliminate the sale and possession of salvia, they must follow the procedure already made available by the legislature," wrote attorney Cathi V. Coates. "The Town must file a petition with the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and request that salvia be added to the list of controlled dangerous substances pursuant to Criminal Law Article 5-202 and not by attempting to circumvent the procedure by enacting local legislation in the middle of the season."
However, a letter from Robert McDonald, Chief Counsel Opinions and Advice for the State Attorney General's office, poignantly states that he agreed with General Assembly counsel Dan Friedman's July 22 letter saying that the town may regulate the sale or possession of salvia within the town limits of Ocean City.
Still, the law, which Councilman Jim Hall called "one that we need to get some teeth into", has strict fines and possible imprisonment by way of misdemeanor rather than a municipal infraction charge.
Ocean City Police Captain Robert Bokinsky, who has dedicated a large portion of the last year to learning about salvia and its effects, said that some of the paraphernalia found in Boardwalk shops have historically been used for smoking flavored tobacco and is very difficult to prosecute.
"Just because it can be used for drug use, doesn't technically mean that it's being used for drugs," said Bokinsky. "I think we are going to have a tough time with the paraphernalia and it's a significant amount of work for something that carries essentially a $500 fine. We want to do everything that this law says, but we want to do it right."
Bokinsky said that the department was unsure about seizing the paraphernalia, noting that in the cases of the three stores who were charged with salvia possession, none of them had salvia on the store shelves for sale.
"The stores had the product packaged and were awaiting the salvia vendor to come and pick the product up for a rebate on Tuesday evening, according to reports that I was told," he said.
Still Bokinsky said that the enforcement of the new law would not come to a halt and will more than likely become more strict as the department gets comfortable with how to define the new law.
"We know that everyone is looking at us, and that the state is looking at us, and the easy thing would have been to go in there and just clear the shelves, but it wouldn't have been the right thing to do," said Bokinsky, "but the worst thing would have been to go in there like Elliot Ness. I assure you though, this isn't over yet."


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text:
Category Benefits
How to service your bikeHow to service your bike Close
Regular bike servicing fine tunes performance and protects the bike so it should last you for years. It's important these checks are done every 6 weeks and a service every six months.
Watch this how to video to find out how to service your bike, so you can keep on riding smoothly.Tools Work Stands


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An Inspiring Sight for All
My latest–and final–ABA Journal online column from the Court's 2009-10 term is now live:
Solicitor General Elena Kagan's first unabashedly straight answer of her confirmation hearings to become a Supreme Court justice came early in her 17 hours of questioning by the Senate Judiciary Committee this week. Ninety minutes into Kagan's interrogation, Sen. Herb Kohl, D-Wisc., asked her for her opinion on cameras in the Supreme Court.
"I think it would be a terrific thing to have cameras in the courtroom," said Kagan (Video). "When you see what happens there, it's an inspiring sight…It would be a great thing for the court and a great thing for the American people."
Twenty-four hours earlier, I was sitting inside the court witnessing its final session of the term. Like a dozen times before, I had sat through the night on the pavement outside to be among the few who would catch a glimpse of the inspiring sight to which Kagan, by virtue of her office, had a front row seat all this year.
But on Monday morning, I would have traded all of my own fond memories of new friends made and stories told over the past six months for the whole country to have seen the same moving scenes I saw.
Read the rest here.
4 Responses
Great article, Mike! Congrats!
This is a great article that made several compelling arguments for allowing cameras at the Supreme Court. I may never make it to the Court to see oral arguments or opinions delivered live, as may many other lawyers and regular citizens. It seems backwards that the hearings to confirm a justice to the Court are held so publicly, but after confirmation, the new justice is out of the public eye for the most part.
Some may argue that having live oral arguments would politicize or make the arguments delivered over-dramatically. However, having the opinions delivered live seems to be a reasonable solution — the public would get to see which justice delivered the majority opinion or minority opinion if there is one; the public could listen to any explanations a justice wishes to add to his or her opinion that they would otherwise be unaware of; and touching moments like what you witnessed could be witnessed by all, so people can realize that yes, these justices may disagree, but are respectful and human beings.
This was a wonderful piece — you have chosen the right career path and I wish you luck!
I agree that this is an eloquent article. The oral arguments and transcripts available over at Oyez.com are an amazing resource, one that underlines how even audio (with stills of those speaking) on C-SPAN is valuable here. Video, particularly of opinion days — which cry out for it — would be that much better. It is a shame only a small number saw this historical day. It is also rather unfair.


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Note: the examples in this tutorial are based on OAIOnline as it existed on July 2007. Additional visits and data have been added since then, so there may be differences in screen shots and data results, but the basic layout is the same.
This tutorial walks you through the variety of tools available for touring and understanding the clinical data.
Below is the home page or initial page for OAIOnline. On the home page, a summary of the new information regarding data releases can be found in the Data News section.


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Though the new Camry's styling is significantly different, the car is essentially the same size: Height, overall length and even the wheelbase are essentially unchanged. And the Camry's base powertrains — both four- and six-cylinder — are carryovers.
The base engine is still a 2.5- litre, though it is the upgraded 178-horsepower version that was previously only available on the SE. The V6 is the same 3.5L, still with 268 horses and probably still the most reliable engine on Earth.
That's not to say they perform or even feel the same. For one thing, the Camry has shed some weight — roughly 50 to 100 kilograms, depending on the trim — in its most recent transition, so that, despite the lack of a power bump, the 2012 Camry is just a tad quicker than the previous version.
It's also more frugal thanks to the weight decrease, a new six-speed automatic transmission and low-rolling-resistance brakes. According to Toyota Canada, the four-cylinder Camry is the most fuel efficient sedan in this segment, averaging 7.0 litres per 100 kilometres overall (it's officially rated at 8.2 L/100 km in the city and 5.6 on the highway).
Though the four-banger will be the most popular option, the Camry has two other powertrains available: the 3.5L V6 and the hybrid's combination of a 2.5L Atkinson-cycle four and an electric motor.
The hybrid gets a monumental 39% bump in fuel economy and it does so with a larger and more powerful (200-hp) 2.5L engine. And, if Transport Canada's 4.5-/4.9-L/100-km city/highway ratings are to be believed, the 2012 Camry Hybrid LE almost matches the previous-generation Prius for parsimony. Its overall 4.7 L/100 km is superior to the Kia/Hyundai/Ford hybrids, says Toyota Canada, and the upgraded 2012 version will also wax the Fusion and Sonata Hybrid in a drag race.
As staid and nondescript as the exterior may be, the cabin borders on the luxurious, even in the mid-priced SE model. No, there's no leather or high-powered stereo, but the decor is very well executed. The analogue gauges, the air conditioning/radio controls and even the steering wheel look like they were lifted from a Lexus.
The other big news for 2012 is that the Camry's pricing is reduced across the board. The base LE goes for $1,610 less than the 2011 ($23,700), while the top-of-the-line V6 XLE is $2,700 less at $33,700.


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Do the math: Bill McKibben takes on Big Oil
The Gunther Report
Do the math: Bill McKibben takes on Big Oil
Most Americans own cars. Most cars run on gasoline.
Can we be persuaded to think of the oil industry as the enemy? What about the coal industry, which supplies more than a third of the electricity we use?
"Movements need enemies," declares Bill McKibben, the author, activist and leader of grassroots group 350.org. So earlier this month, with allies including the Sierra Club and Greenpeace, McKibben and 350.org began a 20-city, month-long coast-to-coast tour called Do the Math that targets the fossil fuel industry.
It's designed to invigorate the climate movement by calling upon colleges, foundations and governments to sell their stock in coal, oil and natural gas companies.
The campaign is modeled after the 1980s South Africa divestment campaign, which helped pressure the government to enter negotiations that eventually led to the end of apartheid. To underscore that point, South African Bishop Desmond Tutu will make appearances, on video, during the tour.
It's time to focus on the polluters, McKibben said last week by phone from Seattle, where the tour kicked off. "We've spent so much time focusing on our elected officials, and so little time focusing on the players behind them," he said.
"The fossil fuel industry is now the tobacco industry," he told me. "They are now a rogue force in our society."
Not surprisingly, the oil companies aren't happy about any of this. Rayola Dougher, a senior economic advisor at the American Petroleum Institute, told me that McKibben's attacks on U.S. oil companies, if they lead to higher carbon taxes or caps, would raise energy prices and risk American jobs, while doing little or nothing to curb greenhouse gas emissions. "Demonizing an industry is not a good starting point for dealing with a big and complex issue like this one," she said.
Photo of oil refinery provided by Paul Binet /Shutterstock
Interestingly, though, Dougher did not challenge the basic math behind McKibben's campaign. If fossil fuel companies burn all or even most of their known reserves of oil, coal and natural gas, he argues, the result will be an all-but-unlivable planet.
McKibben unveiled the math last summer in a must-read article in Rolling Stone magazine called Global Warming's Terrifying New Math. (It generated 122,000 Facebook "likes" and more than 5,000 comments). The argument is summed up this way in the FAQs on the 350.org website:
To grasp the seriousness of the climate crisis, you just need to do a little math. Fossil fuel corporations have five times more oil and coal and gas in known reserves than climate scientists think is safe to burn. We have to keep 80 percent of their fossil fuels underground to keep the earth in livable shape. Here are the three numbers you shouldn't forget:
2 degrees— Almost every government in the world has agreed that any warming above a 2°C (3.6°F) rise would be unsafe. We have already raised the temperature .8°C, and that has caused far more damage than most scientists expected. A third of summer sea ice in the Arctic is gone and the oceans are 30 percent more acidic. And since warm air holds more water vapor than cold, the climate dice are loaded for both devastating floods and drought.
565 gigatons — Scientists estimate that humans can pour roughly 565 more gigatons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and still have some reasonable hope of staying below two degrees. Computer models calculate that even if we stopped increasing CO2 levels now, the temperature would still rise another 0.8 degrees above the 0.8 we've already warmed, which means that we're already three-quarters of the way to the two degree target.
2,795 gigatons — The Carbon Tracker Initiative, a team of London financial analysts and environmentalists, estimates that proven coal, oil and gas reserves of the fossil-fuel companies, and the countries (think Venezuela or Kuwait) that act like fossil-fuel companies equals about 2,795 gigatons of CO2, or five times the amount we can release to maintain two degrees of warming.
If McKibben's math is right–and no one has challenged it, he told me–we will spend all of our "carbon budget" in roughly 18 years at our current rate of fossil fuel consumption of about 31 gigatons a year.
Because the fossil fuel companies are hell bent on discovering, extracting and selling as much oil, coal and gas as they can, the industry should be regarded as "Public Enemy Number One to the survival of our planetary civilization," McKibben wrote.
When we talked, I raised a couple of possible objections to his campaign. The first is a practical one–divestment probably won't work. To be sure, McKibben announced a small victory last week: An environmentally-oriented college in Maine named Unity College voted to sell the stocks of fossil fuel companies in its endowment, but its holdings amount to $13 million. By comparison, the endowment at Harvard, where McKibben went to school, was recently valued at about $30 billion. It's hard to imagine major institutions turning against the fossil fuel industry.
McKibben conceded as much, but added: "A good part of the reason to do this is not just to win divestment but to have the debate….but to convey this picture of the fossil fuel industry as an outlaw industry. Not an outlaw industry against the laws of the state — because they write those laws — but against the laws of physics."
A second objection, as noted earlier, is that most people who travel to the Do The Math rallies will get there by car.
That's because most people have no choice, McKibben said. "There's really no way for most of us to divest ourselves of fossil fuels in our daily life, completely," he said. "If there is no train, you can't take it."
A third objection came from Rayola Daugher, the oil-industry advocate, who says focusing on U.S. oil companies will do no good because most of the world's reserves are controlled by state-owned oil companies. (See chart below) You can't divest from the Saudi Arabian Oil Co. or PDVSA, which is owned by the government of Venezuela, because they don't issue stock.
"The template has to be broader," Daugher said. "He's totally out of touch with energy realities."
Of course, the American Petroleum Industry has fiercely opposed government regulation of greenhouse gas emissions – a sign that API is out of touch with environmental realities.
As it happens, McKibben and 350.org take a global approach to the climate crisis. On Nov. 10, they helped organize a day of action against coal in India and they are organizing young people in the Arab world as well.
McKibben and 350.org make three demands of the fossil fuel industry. First, companies should stop lobbying. Second, they should stop exploring for new hydrocarbons. Third, they need to transform themselves into energy companies and leave 80 percent of their reserves underground.
It's a tall order, to put it mildly, but McKibben is undeterred.
"The warmest year in America, the epic drought, the melting Arctic and the damage caused by Sandy are all fresh in our minds," he said. "I've never felt more hopeful. The movement is finally beginning to coalesce."
Your thoughts?


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- Feature Links
- Environmental Waste Services
- Locations
- C.M. Hinton Jr. Regional Landfill
C.M. Hinton Jr. Regional Landfill
Garland's C. M. Hinton, Jr. Regional Landfill opened in April 2002 and is designed for an approximate 50-year lifespan. The Hinton Landfill accepts municipal solid waste, construction, and demolition waste from residents, private waste haulers, and commercial businesses, taking in approximately 1,100 tons of garbage every day. Please note that only brick and masonry goods that are 100% clean and free of trash, wire, and/or rebar will be accepted free of charge at the landfill.
- Ammunition
- Any material determined by the Managing Director to have the potential of causing harm to the general health and welfare of human beings or the environment
- Chlorofluorocarbons (CFC) containing items, such as refrigerators and air conditioners;
- Closed drums
- Commercial loads of electronics, including televisions, office machines, and computer equipment
- Debris from nonhazardous chemical spills
- Devices that once contained petroleum-based compounds such as gasoline, fuel oil, hydraulic fluid, lubricants or other chemicals
- Friable asbestos
- Fuel tanks
- Hazardous waste, including paint, pesticides, fertilizer, pool chemicals, etc.
- High-pH and low-pH materials
- Infectious and/or hospital waste including any and all body parts and waste materials which have been in contact with said body parts, and are considered hazardous as defined by state and/or federal regulations. This includes, but is not limited to all "red bag" waste
- Large appliances such as stoves, dishwashers, refrigerators, air conditioners, etc.
- Lead acid batteries
- Liquids
- Motor oil, used oil filters
- Motor-driven vehicles
- Sandblast grit and non-liquid paint wastes
- Septic tank clean-out waste
- Spent filter media residue
- Tires
- Unsecured load
Need to dispose of hazardous waste? Visit the Dallas County Home Chemical Collection Center at 11234 Plano Road in Dallas or call 214-553-1765 for information.
Need to dispose of large household appliances? Visit Garland's Recycling Center's scrap metal collection area at 1426 Commerce Street.
Call the Hotline for questions and concerns related to Hinton Landfill operations at 972-205-3671.
You may also email the Landfill.
- Scavenging is prohibited.
- Residents must show a valid driver's license and/or current utility bill as proof of residency.
- Users of the landfill are admitted under the direction of the attendant on duty
- Incoming loads will be inspected on a random basis.
- Attendant on duty will determine prohibited articles.
- No smoking allowed in the landfill facility.
- Children under the age of 12 must remain inside the vehicle.
- Vehicles hauling waste to these sites must be enclosed or be covered with a tarpaulin, net, or other means to properly secure the load in order to prevent trash from blowing or falling from the vehicle. Improperly secured loads will assess a $20 surcharge and will be required to purchase a tarp for a fee of $10. Find out more information on tarping requirements (PDF).
- Only brick and masonry goods that are 100% clean and free of trash will be accepted free of charge at the landfill. Customers hauling all other loads of brick, concrete, and masonry goods will be charged per load.
For more information regarding these rules, contact the Hinton Landfill Scale House at 972-205-3670.
Garland and Sachse residents can use the Hinton Landfill at no cost for household waste they haul and unload themselves with proof of residency (current driver's license, and recent City utility bill). If you cannot supply proof of residency, you will be charged a non-refundable fee. There is a minimum charge of $10. The waste must come from the home in which the resident resides.
Rowlett residents will be allowed to dispose of debris, without charge, twice within a calendar year at the Hinton Landfill and Transfer Station in Garland by obtaining a
Landfill Pass from the City of Rowlett. Read about Rowlett's Landfill Pass Information (PDF).
Non-Garland residents, private waste haulers and customers with commercially generated waste will be charged a per-ton fee based on the weight of the load.
- Automatic Dump Trailers & Vehicles: $42 per ton
- Non-Automatic Vehicles: $57.75 per ton
A security deposit is required. There is a minimum charge of $10.
Payment Types Accepted:
- All major credit cards except American Express
- Cash
- Local checks. Bring a copy of the driver's license of the person who signed the check
The Hinton Landfill has different hours of operation during the week and weekends. Always allow yourself enough time to unload before the landfill closes.
Use of Scales
• Residential and commercial customers may utilize both inbound scales.
• All residents, commercial customers, and visitors must check in with scale attendant.
• One vehicle on the scale at a time.
• Commercial customers and non-Garland residents must provide license plate number to scale attendant.
Secure Loads
• All loads must be tarped to avoid a $20 surcharge.
• When paying by check - one check per load is required.
• Payments over the phone are not accepted.
• Every customer is required to provide payment at the time of dumping.
• No cellphone use on landfill property.
• The speed limit on landfill property is 20 mph.
• A greater reduction of speed is in effect when approaching the scale and leaving the landfill for safety and protection of scale.
• During inclement weather, please call 972-205-3670 as restrictions may apply.


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Forms Jobs
The Winston-Salem City Council and the Forsyth County Commissioners have passed revisions to zoning ordinances pertaining to single-family houses that have been converted into boarding or rooming houses, as well as single-family houses that are shared and occupied by more than four unrelated persons 18 years or older (and their children). The revisions apply only to certain residential zoning districts, and set deadlines for bringing these buildings into compliance, regardless of when they were converted or established.
The revisions required the owners of these buildings, both in Winston-Salem and in the unincorporated areas of Forsyth County, to register with the Winston-Salem Department of Community and Business Development between Jan. 1, 2008 and Jan 1, 2009.
See below for registration form and samples of filled-in forms.
Boarding and Rooming Houses
These rules do not apply to owners who have legally established their boarding house as a home occupation, as long as they have no more than three lodgers and have a home occupation permit from the Inspections Division.
Shared Single-Family Houses
Registering Your Property
1. You must turn in a signed and notarized registration form by Jan. 1, 2009. Forms are available at the bottom of this page or at the Winston-Salem Community and Business Development Department, 100 E. First St., Suite 423. Community and Business Development Department has been designated as the agency responsible for registration of the buildings covered under the new rules, both inside the city limits and in Forsyth County.
2. The registration form requires the following information:
3. Owners will have to turn in a floor plan drawing as a part of the registration application. Instructions on how to do this are below.
4. Sample registration forms and floor plan drawing are available below.
5. If you have questions about registering your property, call Neighborhood Services through City Link at 727-8000.
This page and FAQ as a printable file [pdf]
FAQ - Frequently-Asked Questions page
Sample filled-in registration form [pdf/1p]
Instructions for filling in the registration form [pdf/1p]
Sample filled-in floor plan schematic [pdf/1p] | see on a web page
Instructions for filling in the floor plan schematic [pdf/1p]
Registration form for Boarding/Rooming/Single-family shared housing [pdf/1p]
Note: fill this form in on your computer by using your Tab key from field to field. Then print, sign, notarize, and mail to:
Receive E-Mail Notification When New Information is Posted on this PageAs a member, enjoy the benefits of MyCityofWS, including your choice of newsletters, and notifications about events and site updates. Login and Manage Your Subscriptions Now.


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Libyan pleads not guilty to terrorism charges
NEW YORK -- An alleged al-Qaida member who was snatched off the streets in Libya and interrogated for a week aboard an American warship pleaded not guilty Tuesday in a deadly 1998 bombing -- a case that has renewed the debate over how quickly terror suspects should be turned over to the U.S. courts.
Despite calls from Republicans in Congress to send him to Guantanamo Bay for indefinite interrogation, Abu Anas al-Libi became the latest alleged terrorist to face civilian prosecution in federal court in Manhattan, the scene of several such convictions.
Al-Libi, wearing a thick gray beard, looked frail and moved slowly as he was led into the heavily guarded courtroom in handcuffs. An attorney said he had come to court from a New York hospital, where he was treated for three days for hepatitis C and swollen limbs.
The 49-year-old al-Libi was captured by American commandos during an Oct. 5 military raid in Libya and questioned for a week aboard the USS San Antonio.
He was indicted more than a decade ago in the twin 1998 bombings at the U.S. embassies in Kenya and Tanzania that killed 224 people, including a dozen Americans. If convicted, he could get life behind bars.
Known as one of al-Qaida's early computer experts, al-Libi is accused of helping plan and conduct surveillance for the attacks. He is believed to have used an early-generation Apple computer to assemble surveillance photographs.
The defendant kept his hands folded on his lap as the judge read the charges in a courtroom secured by about a dozen deputy U.S. marshals. The judge ordered him detained after a federal prosecutor called him a "clear danger."
Al-Libi's family and former associates have denied he was ever a member of al-Qaida.
"The presumption of innocence is not a small technicality here," his court-appointed attorney, David Patton, said in email sent after the hearing. In a 150-page indictment, al-Libi "is mentioned in a mere three paragraphs relating to conduct in 1993 and 1994 and nothing since. ... There is no allegation that he had any connection to al-Qaida after 1994, and he is eager to move forward with the legal process in this case."
Al-Libi's lawyer also said the defendant goes by the name Nazih Abdul-Hamed al-Ruqai.
The prosecution in the United States is in keeping with a policy of bringing suspected al-Qaida sympathizers and operatives to civilian courts rather than military tribunals.
The civilian court prosecutions have continued before and after the Obama administration was forced to reverse its plans to prosecute 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and several others in federal court in Manhattan.
New York Republican Rep. Peter King, a member of the House Intelligence Committee, said Tuesday that it was a mistake to stop questioning al-Libi while he was in military custody.
"A lot of people say the federal courts can get these convictions," King said. "It's not the convictions I'm really worried about. The real issue is the intelligence. Once he gets a lawyer, he holds the cards."
He added: "Put it this way: Now he decides whether he will talk."
Other Republicans said al-Libi didn't face sufficient questioning aboard the Navy warship and want him sent to the U.S. prison at Guantanamo Bay.
Sen. Jim Inhofe of Oklahoma, the Armed Services Committee's top Republican, said providing al-Libi the same rights as Americans is "despicable" and gathering intelligence from him will be harder now.
Republican Rep. Bob Goodlatte of Virginia, House Judiciary Committee chairman, said the case "begs the question whether rushing foreign terrorists into U.S. courts is a strategy that is in the best interests of the United States."
Before the Sept. 11 attacks, several other major terrorism trials were held in New York, including those of blind Egyptian sheik Omar Abdel-Rahman and Ramzi Yousef, who was the architect of the 1993 World Trade Center bombing.
Just weeks before 9/11, four men were convicted in the embassy bombings and were sentenced to life in prison, two of them after a jury rejected the death penalty.
Associated Press writers Frank Eltman on Long Island and Eileen Sullivan in Washington contributed to this report.


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Archive for January, 2010
Design, Strategy and Execution
January 18, 2010 Leave a comment
Dr. Kaiser, of Taraneon Consulting, mentions in his brief bio that enterprises squander their opportunities due to the "failure to align processes, organisation and daily business to a common objective". How is alignment achieved? I contend that you can not manage alignment into a product, process or business. BMW does not manage alignment into its products. Alignment is the result of design. Once designed into a product, process or business then it must be managed.
Part of the challenge is every design become obsolete over time. A great process design in one decade is a competitive disadvantage in the next. Designs receive their relevance from the environments in which they exist and therefore as the environment changes the design either becomes more or less relevant. Typically in businesses, business model designs are out lived (IBM vs Microsoft, Sears vs Wal*Mart) and even Microsoft and Wal*Mart will fall by the wayside as the next generation of businesses designed to compete replace them.
Here is the rub as I see it. When I read the Bible I come to passages like "know thy self" or 'judge not lest ye be judged". I feel certain that is good advice but how does one actually go about doing those things. They are suggestions, not road maps. Pointing out that companies fail to align processes, organizations and daily business is good advice however one needs to have something tangible to use, some tool, to accomplish that goal. I have created exactly that tool.
I can document the design of a company's business model design in four to six weeks. Why is that important? Because without a visible design it is all words. And we know a picture is worth at least 1,000 words. Actually it is worth much more. Having a documented business model design allows you to see where alignment issues exist.
In my approach there are five components or sub-models within a business model. Being true to the design principal of Form Follows Function the first model is the Strategic Model. Here is where the 'Function' information exists for the remaining four models. The Strategic Model contains the Vision, Mission, Strategic Goals and Desired Strategies as well as information about the competitive environment. Essentially the Strategic Model creates the performance requirements for the entire enterprise.
Next, and it is a sequential process, comes the Product Model. This system is an Outside-In approach. The products and services, processes, organization and support functions are all driven from the outside. When speaking about the Product Model I look to the markets, customer segments, product groups, products/services and Value Proposition to determine if the Product Model is aligned to the Strategic Model. For brevity (which I may have already violated) I will not go deeper but know that it does go deeper in several different directions.
After the Product Model one looks to the Process Model. Does the business have the right processes in place to deliver on the promises made to the customers in the Product Model? Or one could ask: Is the Process Model aligned with the Product Model? Process performance specifications or requirements are not arbitrary. They should be obtained from two different sources. One is the Product Model, to ensure the products and services are competitive. And also, from the investors to ensure the Return on their investment is acceptable. Focusing only on the customer or investor is not healthy for the business.
At this point we have the Process Model designed to be aligned to the MarkeProduct Model and the Product Model designed to be aligned to the Strategic Model. We need people to execute the processes so the next model is the People Model. There are two different alignments that need to occur within this model. First a business needs people with the right skills, talents, knowledge and experience in order to execute the processes in place. So there needs to be alignment at that level. Another type of alignment is with roles and responsibilities back to processes. There can only be one person responsible for a process. If more than one person owns it then no one owns it. Therefore the People Model is color coded to align align back to the Process Model.
And finally we come to the Support Model. People need tools to execute the processes. People need strategic partners, suppliers, facilities,… in order to deliver to the customer what the customer requires. The Support Model needs to align with the other models in order to ensure performance.
All of that is to say that I have developed a system that allows the alignment of processes, organizations, daily business as well as strategies, products, and systems.
A business can not be defined by one component – ie processes. A business is a collection of many different entities and to Dr. Kaiser's point, those entities must be aligned as much as possible. That can be done in relatively few weeks.
One other point that should be made: Not all strategies can be executed. I believe strategies exist for one purpose only – for the attainment of a goal. However if the design of a business does not permit the strategy to be executed then that strategy is harmful. Strategies must work with design, they are not independent.
There are three keys to performance: Design, Strategy and Execution. Without all three a business will under perform.
Categories: Uncategorized


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Fra: H.C. Andersen Til: Charles Dickens
Sprog: engelsk.
Glorup in Flinen, 16 Juli 1850.
My dear and beloved Dickens!
You are so vividly in my thoughts that I often think I live in the same house with you, and therfore put off writing. This is a strange explanation, but such is the case. I was far up in Sweden last autumn when I recieved your letter, which I keep with every dear line from you, amongst my best remembrances. I have been in Dalecarlia, where no sound af roaring cannon was heard in that happy, politically sound Sweden.
The Dale-river ar as it is called Dal-Elv is more glorious than the Rhine, it is a transparent sea that glides through endless woody deserts. The roseate hues of eve at Midsummer blend together with those of morn, and here the wild swans dwell in the winter.
I have however been diligent since I returned to Copenhagen, as I have written two romantic-comedies for our popular theatre, the one entitIed: "More than pearls and gold," which is naturally a dear beloved wife. The other "Ole Lukøie", where the idea is that not money, but health and good humour are the best gifts in life. These two pieces have gained immense applause and filled that very large theatre; the one was performed twenty-three times. I am now writing my pictorial sketches from Sweden, which I will transmit to you in English. Many thanks for your matchless David Copperfield. Y our heart is in your pen! In another world I think that I shall he better able than in this, to express to you my admiration and affection.
In Mai I left Copenhagen and lived for some time in quiet woodland solitude with the old Danish poet Ingemann, I then visited the most picturesque part of Jutland, and am now for the fifth week on a visit to the old Count Moltke at Glorup.
My best regards to Mrs. Dickens and children! I long incredibly to see and speak with you! Now farewell and may God bless you all - for with my whole heart I remain
your friend and admirer
Hans Christian Andersen.
Charles Dickens Esq.