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NVIDIA Shield Tablet Review And Giveaway
It wasn't that long ago that NVIDIA released the Shield (read our review of it NVIDIA Shield Review And Giveaway Recently, we reviewed the Wikipad, which managed to make its way to market before NVIDIA's highly anticipated Shield. Ever since NVIDIA showcased the Shield at CES, I've found myself more and more fascinated by it. After... Read More ), a cool device with an attached screen that allowed you to play both Android and PC games. It had some drawbacks, namely being quite heavy and having a small display. To solve some of those problems, NVIDIA has released a full-size tablet version of the device – aptly named the NVIDIA Shield Tablet – and we've been playing around with one.
To keep it game focused, the company has also released a standalone controller that looks a lot like the one attached to the original Shield. We've been messing with that as well, and now it's time to get to the big question: is the Shield Tablet and its standalone controller worth picking up? That's just what we are going to answer today.
Best of all, we are giving away a $299 Shield tablet and a controller to one lucky reader! Keep reading this review to find out how you can enter the competition to take this device home for free.
Introducing the NVIDIA Shield Tablet
NVIDIA is a company on the forefront of graphics. Its GPU chipset for PC is always one of the most used, and the same is true in the mobile space, where its Tegra line consistently puts forth some of the best performance in a wide range of tablets and smartphones. It only stands to reason that NVIDIA would want to use the power of its processors in order to make its own tablets, and that's just what it did with the introduction of the Shield. Now, it's taking everything a step further with the Shield Tablet, a device that brings the gaming focus of the first Shield to a traditional tablet, rather than a clamshell design. With that in mind, NVIDIA has also released a standalone controller, thus allowing gamers to achieve a more traditional gameplay experience.
When NVIDIA calls this a gaming tablet, high-end specs are probably the first thing you think of, and as such, it's competing with the absolute elite on the Android tablet market. The two that best compare with it are the Nexus 7 and the Samsung Galaxy Tab S — two beefy devices. Price wise, the Nexus 7 costs $229 (but it comes with a smaller screen compare to the Shield Tablet's 8-inch), and the Samsung Galaxy Tab S costs $399. That puts NVIDIA's extremely high-end tablet in a really good place with its $299 price tag, as spec for spec, it's more powerful than both of its major competitors.
Unlike the original Shield, it's not just about gaming, as this eight-inch tablet comes packed with an almost stock version of Android, so it does everything you'd expect. It's not as thin and light as some other's on the market though, which could prove a hindrance to it being used as an everyday device.
As gamers, we love specs and numbers. Ever since the days of SEGA screaming in ads about "Blast Processing" we've been excited about the actual hardware that powers our games. With that in mind, let's take a look at just what's under the hood of the NVIDIA Shield Tablet:
- Processor: 2.2 GHz ARM Cortex A15 CPU
- Graphics Processor: NVIDIA Tegra K1 Kepler GPU
- Storage: 16 GB (32 GB model with LTE coming soon)
- Connectivity: WiFi, microUSB, Bluetooth 4.0
- Display: 8-inch, 1920 X 1080 full HD display
- Cameras: Front and rear 5MP cameras
- OS: Android KitKat
As you can see, this thing is a monster in the specs department, and it's reflected in the benchmarks too. The Shield Tablet literally maxes out every benchmarking tool you could ever imagine. On MobileXPRT full benchmark tool, it scores a whopping 310, which is over 20 percent higher than the more expensive Samsung Galaxy Tab S. It's really easy to be impressed with what NVIDIA has packed under the hood of this beast.
Of course, it's not just about numbers (though in this case, the numbers do carry some serious weights), as the tablet needs to feel nice in your hand, and look good. Does the Shield deliver on that, and even more importantly, does it deliver a quality gameplay experience with those specs?
Let's get down to the nitty gritty, which is the design of the tablet itself. In a world where the main selling point of a device is how thin and light it is, NVIDIA threw all of that out the window and went with a device that's a tad heavier and thicker in order to pack it with as much power as possible. The Shield Tablet weighs a total of 13.7 oz, which is a full 3.7 oz heavier than the Samsung Tab S 8.4, and you can definitely feel that difference when holding the device. The depth difference is pretty substantial, with the Shield Tablet measuring 0.36 inches and Samsung's offering coming in at only 0.26 inches. While .10 inches doesn't sound like a lot, relative to the total size, it's a large percentage.
The Shield Tablet also has a larger than average bezel, but that seems to be done in service of giving you a little bit more to hold on to while playing games. Still, it goes further towards making the device larger than any of its competitors. If you are using the Shield Tablet primarily to play games, the size won't be a big factor, but for portability, every little bit adds up.
The speakers on this device are quite impressive, and most importantly, they are front-facing, which means you can actually hear the output while playing games, listening to music, and watching movies and TV. They offer solid sound, and there's even dual bass ports that make things bump a little bit harder.
From a pure aesthetics perspective, the Shield tablet is beautiful. It features a grippy plastic texture, with "Shield" written on the back in big beautiful letters. The screen is quite nice looking, but it does give off a pretty serious amount of glare, which is something to keep in mind if you're going to be playing outside a lot.
One drawback of the device is that it has no built-in stand. Playing games with a controller means you can't hold the tablet, so you need to set it somewhere in an upright position. NVIDIA offers a cover that also doubles as a stand, but it's another accessory you need to buy to really make use of the device. Unfortunately, it was completely backordered when we got the controller, so we were forced to review the Shield Tablet without it.
All in all, this is a really well-designed piece of hardware. It's a beautiful tablet and although it's a little heavier than most modern devices, it makes up for it in power.
It seems like every time I review something with a controller, I hate it, or at least have some serious problems with it. Whether it's the GameStick GameStick Review and Giveaway We have the GameStick and its controller in our hands, and we've had some time to explore the games available, and of course, play them. Read More , and its revolting rectangular shape, or the OUYA OUYA Review And Giveaway When the OUYA was first announced and funded on Kickstarter, the Internet was positively buzzing over the possibilities for this tiny Android-based console. Kickstarter backers began receiving their consoles months ago, and early reports were... Read More and its controller that is just bad in every way; it seems like companies just can't follow in the footsteps of the Xbox 360. Well NVIDIA did, because the Shield Wireless Controller is extremely similar to the Xbox 360, except the fact that it has parallel joysticks that are more in line with Sony's design.
You'll find the standard array of buttons – four shoulder, four face, two joysticks, and a d-pad. Aside from that, you'll find a tap-sensitive center, back and start button. On the very bottom of the controller is are plus and minus buttons, perfect for controlling volume without having to interrupt your gameplay.
The best way to sum up the controller is just to call it great. The buttons feel nice, the joysticks have just the right amount of stiffness, and the d-pad is precise. It's a little on the heavy side, much like the original Shield, but that also makes it feel solid and well-built. NVIDIA is a company that gets gaming, and it delivered an awesome controller with its knowledge of what gamers are looking for. At $60 for the controller, it's priced right along with controllers for current generation game consoles, so it doesn't feel like you're spending too much on it.
Playing Android Games
You're not going to find a standard Android game that you can't play well on the NVIDIA Shield Tablet. If you just want to use it as a touchscreen gaming device, it will do the job. And it will play everything you throw at it beautifully, but that's not what really makes this device special. It's the ability to play Android games without feeling like you're playing a game built for a mobile device that makes this beast stand out.
To start with, you can jump over to the Shield Hub and download all kinds of games specifically made to be played with a controller. Some are games you won't expect to find like Valve's incredibly popular Portal, and others that you're used to seeing on traditional game consoles and PCs. Many of those games are good, and they alone make the device worth a look.
Another awesome feature is the ability to map custom controls to Android games that traditionally only support touchscreen, thus allowing you to play them with the controller. The process is incredibly easy, and it allows you to play a whole slew of Android games in a way you never thought you could. And even better, some popular games are already in NVIDIA's control mapping database, so once you boot them, it will automatically import optimal controls.
To make it really simple, I will just say that this is the best tablet for playing Android games on the market. Whether touchscreen or with the controller, you aren't going to find a better gameplay experience from a tablet. Yes, that includes those made by Apple as well.
Playing PC Games
All Android tablets can run Android games, and many can do it with a controller, but what really makes the Shield Tablet stand out is the ability to stream PC games, both from your own PC over a local network, and from the new NVIDIA Grid streaming service. That, along with the monstrous specs, are the main reasons to purchase this one, provided of course that streaming service actually works well.
A key thing to note about both of NVIDIA's game streaming services is that a strong connection is required in order for them to work. When playing games over a network, latency is always something to be concerned about, and when the entirety of the game is streaming, you need solid a solid Internet connection to make it happen. If you don't, you can still use the Shield Tablet to play games locally, but you'll be missing out on the streaming features.
So let's start with local streaming, which we talked about in our original Shield review NVIDIA Shield Review And Giveaway Recently, we reviewed the Wikipad, which managed to make its way to market before NVIDIA's highly anticipated Shield. Ever since NVIDIA showcased the Shield at CES, I've found myself more and more fascinated by it. After... Read More . Since then, the technology behind it has improved, and I actually found myself forgetting that I was streaming my games at all. While running Tomb Raider, I was thoroughly impressed with the visuals put forth on the Shield Tablet's screen, and latency appeared to be a non-issue. However, when I moved up a floor in my home, thus getting further from my router, the connection dropped repeatedly, so it's still not perfect. However, if you are close to your router, it's a very solid experience, and one that rivals playing it right on the PC itself.
There's also NVIDIA Grid, a service akin to OnLive that allows you to stream your games from NVIDIA's servers in San Jose, California, USA. I was testing the device from Connecticut, completely on the opposite side of the United States, and it still worked with only a bit of latency. For games like Street Fighter, it's not optimal, as timing and precision are required, but for games like Saint's Row 3 and The Witcher 2, it was not a terrible way to play. The service is still in beta, and it gives Shield owners free access to the games on offer, so it's hard to complain about any latency issues, and it will be interesting to see how it works once it's considered final.
Both of these features give the Shield a huge edge on all other gaming tablets on the market. The ability to escape from the realm of what we consider "mobile games" to play the same things we play on PC is quite impressive. Of course, you are limited to playing in places where WiFi is available, so for some users this could end up being more of a novelty. However, for those who want to play their games without being tied to a PC, these features are both really fantastic.
Console Mode
Whether playing Android or PC games, the console mode on the Shield is an awesome feature to have. It allows you to hook the device to the TV through an HDMI port and play games as you would a traditional game console. This means you could be playing your PC games from your home office on your living room TV using just the tablet and the Shield controller.
You can set it to turn off its own screen, close all apps, and just function as a console in 1080p, or you can simply mirror whatever is on the screen. However you do it, the games look fantastic blown up on the big screen, and for users who don't want to hook up a PC directly, this is a fantastic way to expand the games that can be played on the TV.
Other Tablet and Entertainment Functions
The Shield Tablet is an extremely powerful Android tablet, and as such, it is able to run all of your entertainment apps with ease. Whether it's watching Netflix or YouTube, you'll have no problem with the Shield.
There is one thing it does that other tablets don't — it doesn't involve consuming media, but rather, it involves broadcasting. Twitch streaming is integrated directly into the Shield Tablet, which allow gamers to broadcast their gameplay quickly and easily with just a few taps. You can also record locally, as you can see in the footage of us testing the tablet recorded in the video review above.
All in all, there isn't much to say about the Shield Table as an entertainment device. It does everything you'd expect from an Android tablet, though the extra weight does come into play, as it's not as portable as other small tablets. It all comes back to the fact that this device is built for performance, and if you only want a tablet to watch movies on, you might want to look elsewhere.
Wrapping Up
All in all, the $299 Shield Tablet is just a fantastic piece of hardware. NVIDIA has taken great strides to improve its game streaming technology, and that really makes this device quite a bit more usable than the original Shield. On top of that, NVIDIA has pushed the hardware to the absolute limit, packing an insane amount punch under the hood.
Throw in the additional purchase of a controller, and you have a really solid gaming device. If you want a tablet to use for gaming, this is absolutely the one to buy. However, if gaming is secondary, and you want the thinnest and lightest device you can get, you might want to look elsewhere, as this one is aimed at performance first.
MakeUseOf recommends: Buy it if gaming is your first priority.
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Oh my God! And I thought Deeks Lake was Heaven… This must be 7th Heaven then! :D
Wow! What a beautiful lake (Sphynx Glacier is in the background)!
I have hiked Garibaldi Lake twice in 2007 and it is hands down my favorite hiking destination so far. And I say "so far" because BC has taught me in the past year that you shouldn't put a limit on just how beautiful a place can be. I have had 3-4 different favorites throughout my 25 hikes or so in 2007 and I know that there's so much more to see, still.
An 18km, 6-8 hour hike — depending on your pace and how long you stand in awe at the beauty of the lake — might seem daunting for some, but let me reassure you that the 9km uphill hike is very gradual, being spread out over 810m of elevation (roughly under 100m of elevation gain for each kilometer; not that bad, eh?). I personally feel like this is an "easy, but long" hike, but I do live an active lifestyle. If you caught yourself saying "I'm out of shape" recently, it may be wise to refrain from doing this one as a first hike. EDIT: warning #2: if the idea of going up up up, no matter how gradual the ascent is scares you, don't do it. I have a couple of friends who disliked the hike because of that and one in particular compared it to "torture". lol I disagree with that statement, but hey, no two person is alike…
The trail is basically made up of switchbacks and has a soft feel to it, almost like walking on a carpet. Hiking purists might squeal at the monotony of the trail, but I didn't think it was all that bad myself. At least it's not some old gravel/logging road, like some other hiking trails tend to have, in some parts… There are a few streams here and there on this one and I find the douglas firs lining up the trail to be quite beautiful too. And 2/3 of the way up, things start to get really interesting!
Typical trail "incline" on the way to Garibaldi Lake
A little over 6km into the uphill hike is a fork in the trail that let's you choose whether to continue towards Garibaldi Lake via "Taylor Meadows" or "The Barrier." Taylor Meadows is a delicate area teeming with wildflowers — "in season" though (around early August I'd say, since I went there early July and late August and both times it didn't look like it was in full bloom) –, while the Barrier is an impressive volcanic area. This latter trail also has a couple more smaller lakes (the Lesser Garibaldi Lake and the Barrier Lake) along the way that are no match, though, for THE lake. Whichever path you choose on your way up, you can still come back down through the other one, as both are part of the same loop. I chose to go up towards Taylor Meadows both times myself (note: if anyone who has already done it has an opinion on which side to choose first, please leave a comment and tell us why going through the Barrier or Taylor Meadows first is better (sunlight, "traffic", etc.); thanks!).
Taylor Meadows
The Barrier
Aside from the majestic lake — which is pretty close by now –, another great thing about Garibaldi Provincial Park is the fact that there are still so many options to choose from once you make it to the top — or this top I should say… There is still some elevation gain to be made if you feel so inclined to do so. Fit hikers might actually come to the park for a 29km day hike to the Black Tusk or a 30km one to Panorama Ridge. But for the more casual hikers out there, if you're into camping, both Taylor Meadows and Garibaldi Lake have a number of sites where you can set up camp. The two extended hikes just mentioned could be part of the second leg of your journey there. But wait! There's still more! (hehe, sounds like some infomercial). On my second time there, I extended my Taylor Meadows hike up to the Black Tusk Junction (minimal elevation gain; about 2.5km extra to the junction, about 5km extra for total hike) where you can get a nice, close view of the Black Tusk mountain/hillside while passing by yet more wildflowers on your path.
View on the Black Tusk, from Taylor Meadows
At the Black Tusk Junction, on a cloudy day :(
The Black Tusk (can you make out the face? ;) )
But the main course is Garibaldi Lake, so why don't we move on towards this most amazing of lakes now… Shall we?
A first peek at Garibaldi Lake, coming from the Black Tusk Junction
Garibaldi Lake's peaceful, turquoise waters
Creek flowing down from Garibaldi Lake
Again, this is an amazing place… I'm not a geologist; I don't know exactly what gives the lake its wonderful turquoise color (the glacier?), but it sure is pretty! A friend I was hiking with who also went to famous Lake Louise said that Garibaldi Lake is more interesting — no kidding! Make sure you bring enough warm clothes so you can enjoy a nice, long, relaxing break on the shores of the lake — it can get a little chilly up there!
All good things come to an end and we must head our way back down now… Well, we can expect a little more excitement down the road at the Barrier. This spot is quite unique with its rock face that comes alive every so often with falling rocks and smoke coming out of some openings. Apparently, the Barrier has been the setting of "several catastrophic rock avalanches" in the past. There was some activity on my first visit, early July, but everything was quiet on my second outing there, late August. And apart from the other-worldly nature of the site, it also gives us an excellent vantage point on the landscape at large from there.
Mighty stream, early July, flowing into the Lesser Garibaldi Lake
Molten volcanic rock formation
Falling rocks and smoke coming out of a hole in the Barrier :o
Tough little wildflowers at the Barrier
What a long, but extremely rewarding day this has been! I can't wait to go back! It's good advice to arrive there early though — especially on weekends — as this is a very popular spot and the parking space tends to fill up quickly I've been told. 3$ for the day or 5$ for an overnighter is what it will cost you to park at Heaven's doorstep. See directions to get there by clicking the "Directions" tab at the top of this page and enjoy! ;)

subset: commoncrawl


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Your Collin County Republican SD 30 Convention will be held on:
June 13, 2020
Landing at Myers Park Event Facility
7117 Co Rd 166, McKinney, TX 75071
Registration begins at 9 AM • Convention begins at 10 AM
We are asking you to pre-register so that we can better plan the conventions in light of the current pandemic. As per Republican Party of Texas Rules, Delegates or Alternates at a Senate District Convention must have been selected at the Precinct Conventions, which this year were held at Cottonwood Creek Church in Allen on Saturday, March 7th.
Collin County is split between two different State Senatorial Districts: 8 and 30. These conventions will be the step up from the Precinct Conventions. Republican primary voters, that are nominated in their Precinct Convention, are eligible to attend their Senatorial District Convention. The resolutions that were submitted and passed in the Precinct Convention will be considered in this convention for inclusion in the SD 30 platform.
NOTE: You must have been selected as a delegate or alternate delegate at the Precinct Conventions to be seated as a delegate or alternate delegate at the SD 30 Convention. The public is allowed and encouraged to attend, but will not be allowed to participate in convention floor activities.
A county convention is held when the county is completely within one state senatorial district. A senatorial district convention is held when the county is divided between two or more state senatorial districts. -Republican Party of Texas
What is the Senate District Convention Process?
The process for the SD 30 Convention begins several months before the Primary. The Collin County Republican Executive Committee, consisting of Precinct Chairs in SD 30, votes to elect a temporary chair for their SD Convention. From there the temporary chair will establish the various temporary committees that are responsible for the functions of the convention.
At the time of the convention, the body will vote for and elect permanent members of committees and the Chair for the duration of the convention.
The various committees will give reports about their process, and resolutions will then be read, considered, and voted on the floor. If a resolution passes, they will be included in the SD 30 convention platform report to then be submitted to the State.
Senate District Convention Committees
This committee determines the eligibility and hears contests of those submitted to be delegates to the convention. They will recommend a Permanent Roll of delegates of the Convention.
Chair: Alicia Young
This committee determines the rules that will apply to the SD 30 convention.
Chair: Corbett Howard
Permanent Organization
The committees that operate before the convention are temporary. This committee will recommend people who will be elected as permanent members of the actual SD 30 convention.
Chair: John Jones
This committee reviews the resolutions that were passed in Precinct Conventions. This committee will condense similar resolutions, hear defense of your resolution, or reject resolutions. Note: Resolutions are still allowed for submission from the SD Convention floor per convention rules.
Chair: Gary Kruse
Public Hearing Info:
6/9 from 7p
9967 CR 800, Royse City, 75189
This committee will deliberate to make nominations to the Permanent Nominations Committee that will determine the delegates that go on to the next convention.
Chair: Dixie Jeffers
Public Hearing Info:
March 24 – 11AM
At Convention


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Wooden Coin
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Custom Wooden Coins
Minimum Order of 25 required!
Usually completed in less than 2 weeks.
Quantity upon checkout must be 25 or higher...
2 3/8 inches in diameter.
Graphics on both sides.
No Setup Fee.
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text: Kent Boortz (kent@REDACTED) wrote: > [...] > Or, as I wrote, you can use Erlang/Gtk. Is there a chance that Erlang/Gtk become supported in the official release of Erlang/OTP ? Erlang/Gtk is nice but the problem is that installation on Windows is not trivial. When writing an application in Erlang, the OS does not matter. It it thus important to be sure that the application can be run both on Windows and the various flavour of Unix. To reach this point, the best solution would be to integrate the UI toolkit into the Erlang release. Just my thoughts. -- Mickaël Rémond http://www.erlang-fr.org/


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Caroline Hayward
Inkerman. The Battle Field By Moonlight.
Poem by Caroline Hayward
Above the vale of Inkerman,
Calmly the moon's rays fell,
Revealing as by light of day,
That deep and lonely dell;
Tchernaya's waters as a band
Of silver graceful flowed,
But who can paint the ghastly scene,
Which those bright rays disclosed!
Thickly as leaves around the path
Through copse and brush-wood dense,
Lay piles of dead and wounded men,
Slain in that fierce defense.
The fearful moan, the struggles fierce,
The hoarse and gurgling cry
Comes on the night wind sweeping past,
Of mortal agony!
Around were groups of comrades true,
To succour those who still
From bloody contest breathing lay,
Upon that fatal hill.
Their slippery fearful way they take
Through paths beslimed with gore,
Ne'er on those Crimean hills had moon
Such sight revealed before.
But who are these with noiseless tread,
Who hurry fearful by,
Now fling them down beside the dead,
With soul-despairing cry,
As trembling, with wild eager gaze,
They search with sickening dread,
And the moon's rays too sure reveal,
Their husband with the dead!
Yet one redeeming feature still
Those moonbeams yet displayed,
Of men who with their British hearts
Their enemies forgave.
And tended gently, lovingly,
Their cruel bitter foe,
Who never yet had quarter given
To our brave men laid low.
For even then, above their heads,
Came murd'rous bullets sent
Among our brave and gallant men,
On mercy's errand bent;
And some there were who fiendish slew,
With their last parting breath,
The very hand which tended them,
Upon that field of death.
Comments about Inkerman. The Battle Field By Moonlight. by Caroline Hayward
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- Do Not Stand At My Grave And WeepMary Elizabeth Frye


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By Dr. James Dobson
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Dr. James Dobson, founder and president of the James Dobson Family Institute (JDFI), issues the following statement in reaction to the permanent injunction and declaratory relief granted by United States District Judge Robert E Blackburn to Family Talk in the case of "Dobson v. Azar" (initially filed as "Dobson v. Sebelius"):
I believe in the rule of law, and it has been my practice since I was in college to respect and honor those in authority over us. It is my desire to do so now. However, this assault on the sanctity of human life takes me where I cannot go. I WILL NOT pay the surcharge for abortion services. The amount of the surcharge is irrelevant. To pay one cent for the killing of babies is egregious to me, and I will do all I can to correct a government that lies to me about its intentions and then tries to coerce my acquiescence with extortion. It would be a violation of my most deeply held convictions to disobey what I consider to be the principles in Scripture. The Creator will not hold us guiltless if we turn a deaf ear to the cries of His innocent babies. So come and get me if you must, Mr. President. I will not bow before your wicked regulation.
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Baggage checks at Braddock Road? Really? I guess it's a pretty "safe" place to start, but I was shocked this morning!
Yes, Braddock Road and College Park this morning. Law enforcement officers stopped riders at random and asked them to submit their bags to a swath test designed to test for potentially explosive materials.
The Post's Ann Scott Tyson was at Braddock Road. Here's her account: http://wapo.st/gd6JwS
Notice that the inspections were done by two TSA officers.
Here's a description of one encounter:
Officers at the same station got a positive result on a man's bag and shot it with radiation.
"It could have been from a gun, or residue from target shooting if he went to a firing range," said Lt. Doug Durham of the Special Operations unit of Metro Transit Police.
A police sergeant interviewed the man, who was let go. The search on that man took about 8 minutes. He wouldn't give his name. "I'm going to work" he said, clearly irritated.
If I'm rushing to catch a train -- or, more important, a bus at the end of the line -- I realllllly don't want to have to wait the "few moments" that officials referred to on the radio this morning.
No problem, says Metro. You can always refuse to have your property inspected.
And then you can walk to work. You'll be refused entry into the Metro system with your property. (Good reason not to be carrying any Christmas gifts aboard Metro this week.)
One more reason NOT to take Metro! Why does the government believe so much in restricting our freedoms? Whatever happened to us being a free society? This DOES NOT make us safer - it just gives fools a false sense of security. How about Metro actually making Metro safer, or is that just too much work for them?
You folks already are submitting a lot of interesting questions and comments. Many express concerns similar to mine, giving me a chance to exand on them. But if you love this new policy and think it makes you safer, I'd like to hear from you, too.
To Reston: Yes, I also think it's one more reason not to ride Metro. It's a nice little end of the year present from the transit authority leaders who brought you the biggest fare increase in the system's history, busted air conditioners, overcrowded trains and escalators that either don't work or take you for an unwelcome slide.
Does it make the transit system safer? I'm not a security expert, so I can't speak from that perspective. (I have yet to encounter security personnel who argued that there should be fewer security personnel.)
What I think I can say is that it makes the system more intimidating to travelers. Yes, the searches are "voluntary." When the man in uniform with the gun and the big dog asks you to submit, you can refuse -- though you may be detained for questioning.
Was this episode of security theater proposed by TSA or WMATA or some other entity? I could see TSA wanting to expand their reach and also see Metro asking for federal security assistance to imply that they take such threats seriously. I could also see the auto industry proposing this to drive people from Metro as well as the airports. I used to take Metro and fly...now I drive.
Well, Metro did try to do a different version of this program two years ago, but never implemented it. There was a similar outcry from the public last time it was announced. Many of the issues you're asking about today came up then.
(So knowing that, why didn't Metro officials bother to talk to the ridership before launching this new program?)
Metro officials say they are not inspecting your stuff because of any specific threat to the transit system and the nation's alert level has not been raised. However, Metro does have a federal Homeland Security grant and TSA officers are participating in these inspections.
I am unclear on whether the searches will apply to Metrobus too? If so, the holes in the policy seem even larger in that the stops are so close together. What is to prevent someone from refusing a search and then walking a few blocks to the next stop? Further underscores that this policy is a joke.
Yes, officers can stop you for an inspection before you board a Metrobus. That is tougher to picture than the train station inspections that began this morning. Metro says that you'll go through the inspections before you pay your fare. We'll talk more about the holes in this security blanket as we go on.
What happens if you say "No" to the bag check, leave the line, then re-enter the same line? If they pull you aside again, it's not a random check. If they don't pull you aside again, it's a gaping hole in their security theater, er I mean "safeguards." Also, I think the groups planning and implementing this are grossly underestimating how time-crunched and rushed the average Metro rider is during rush hour--we don't even have patience for people standing on the left of the escalator, how do they think we'll react when they really start pulling people aside en masse for 45 seconds of our time to perform bag checks?
I don't have any direct experience with the TSA officers in this program, but I have a great deal of respect for out Metro transit police. Much as I disagree with this inspection program, I think their goal is public safety, so they won't be just going through the motions on this.
I expect that if you refuse an inspection, they may well question you. If you try to enter with your property via another entrance, they may well stop you and at least question you further.
So I do think that under any conceivable circumstances, these inspections will be disruptive for riders.
From what I can gather they're only swabbing the outside unless it turns up positive - seems to me to be a reasonably non-invasive process that would take no more than a couple of moments if, and only if, you happen to get selected. It's not like you're going through a TSA-style pat-down...
That's a fair statement, and I'd like to make a couple of points.
Yes, this program is somewhat different from the program announced two years ago, at least on the surface.
It starts, as I just said, with a uniformed officer with a gun and a big dog asking you if you'd like to submit to an inspection of your property. Then you're taken over to a security table where -- at least in this morning's version -- a federal TSA officer swabs your bag, looking for the presence of something that could be used as an explosive.
If the test is positive, they're almost certainly going to examine the contents of your bag and question you. (What would you think of them if they didn't do that?)
None of what I'm describing here meets my definition of "non-invasive."
Has Metro given any indication as to what method they're using to determine "random"? Also, how are they dealing with folks obviously traveling? When we're headed to the airport tomorrow, are they going to want to open all of my suitcases?
Yes, it's possible they'll want to open all of your suitcases. My understanding is that this could happen if the swab test returned a positive result. (A positive result doesn't mean you're actually carrying an explosive, as the rider at Braddock Road found out this morning.)
A search would result in a considerable delay for you. (But let's also follow your adventure to it's logical conclusion: We know that your stuff is going to be subject to various inspections at the airport. I do think the airport inspections are different, but we can discuss that later.)
Dr Gridlock, Do you know whether any person intending to do harm has been caught by the extensive airport screening procedures now in place? I've not heard of any. This makes me wonder what the chances are of the Metro bag searches actually catching anyone.
I rarely write about airport security, so like you, I can't think of an instance in which a potential terrorist has been thwarted by an airport inspection.
As with the Metro inspections, people will argue that we'll probably never know if a terrorist was discouraged by an airport inspection.
But I do consider the airport inspections different. Pointing out again that I'm neither a lawyer nor a security expert, I find the airport searches reasonable, because we all must go through them, we all know what they're looking for, and we all know the specific, disasterous consequences of a security failure of this type.
To me, Metro's random searches, conducted by a handful of officers at a couple of stations, do not meet that standard of reasonableness.
"I expect that if you refuse an inspection, they may well question you." So it's not at all voluntary. The officer with the gun and the dog will ask permission to check your bag, you say no and say you'll leave the system, they'll possibly interrogate you and check your bag anyway. Great.
Metro calls the searches voluntary: "Customers who encounter a baggage checkpoint at a station entrance may choose not to enter the station if they would prefer not to submit their carry-ons for inspection."
That's not my idea of voluntary. If you're rushing to get to work or an appointment, as many thousands of commuters would be, there's nothing voluntary about an officer telling you that either you submit to a property inspection or you can't ride.
Then no you can't swap my bag. Am Isuspected of committing a crime? Not sure. Then I refuse. May I have your name please officer and that of your supervisor. Thank you see you in court.
I think you might be interested in the letter the American Civil Liberties Union sent to Metro in which the ACLU expresses deep concern about the police checkpoints: http://wapo.st/eUIZJn
Are they doing this simply because they have money to burn? I have lived in Israel, where imminent terrorist threats routinely require ALL bags to be searched- It makes no sense to harass a small group of passengers.
Given that setting up police checkpoints at public transit stations is clearly going to be intimidating to thousands of people who are just trying to get to work, Metro's statements about why this is necessary have been rather blithe.
I take them at their word when they say they are not doing it in response to any specific threat against Metro.
Post reporter Ann Scott Tyson quoted Interim General Manager Richard Sarles as saying, "It's good to vary your security posture."
And they keep pointing out to us that this program isn't costing Metro much money because they got federal Homeland Security funding.
So far, they haven't given us much grounding in why they need to cross this very significant threshold in civil liberties in order to protect us.
In all seriousness, can we as Americans (or Washingtonians, or whatever) have a reasonable conversation about what level of risk is acceptable? Right now, we're going overboard because we have a bunch of polarized politicians who will be glad to use any attack as a club to beat the opposition party. Back in the 1980s, we had more terrorist attacks on US interests overseas, but I don't remember them being blamed on one party's lack of vigilance. Can we go back to "We'll do our best to protect you consistent with a free and open society," or are we too far gone for that?
You can certainly tell that I think this particular Metro security policy has crossed a line that shouldn't be crossed. That's vastly different from saying I don't believe in security vigilance to protect transit riders. I welcome the presence of transit police on the trains and buses, I've got the transit police number on my cell phone speed dial, and I have often written that I think there should be many more officers.
These police checkpoints are taking us in the wrong direction.
Thanks for the answer - I'll just cross my fingers that they don't do the same station 2 days in a row, since I'm traveling tomorrow. But could you answer the first part of my question - what is Metro using to determine "random"? I feel like if there is going to be a legit battle against these inspections that is where the justification for opposition will lie.
They pick a number and count passengers with stuff. When they hit that number, they stop the passenger. I don't know how strictly the officers will adhere to that "random" standard. As I said before, I respect these officers and think they're dedicated to protecting us.
So let's use an extreme example to play out your question: If the officer sees an odd looking character carrying a huge backpack with fluid leaking from it, will the officer stick to the count and let that person go by?
It's hard to believe that officers won't be tempted to profile under any circumstances.
You triggered that check by acting suspicious. That's like criticizing getting pulled over for speeding because it isn't random.
I think what people are writing in and saying is that they'd try to go to another station entrance, or to another station if one is nearby. They may be acting "suspicious," but I'm pretty sure the people who are writing in to me today and saying they would do this are not terrorists. I may be naive, but I'm going to give them the benefit of the doubt on this one.
We're talking about the mass transit system serving the capital of the United States, at a time when the US is in violent conflict with terrorists who attack subways and buses just like Metro's. Isn't it possible that these random checks serve a valuable deterrent effect? Isn't it possible that by making it that much harder to plan a bombing of Metro, they flush potential attackers out as they try to develop new means of attack? Won't this disrupt existing cells and perhaps expose the bad guys through their efforts to compensate? Thanks.
Yes, all those things are possible. How far do you think we should go in this direction? I think you could make the case that it's even more possible to stop terrorist attacks on Metro if all riders were lined up at the station entrances and put through body scans while their bags are opened and they produce identification.
From a security point of view, isn't that the more responsible thing to do?
In this busy holiday travel season, why are TSA agents being diverted from their important jobs at airports to do these useless bag screenings on Metro? Or is Metro employing moonlighting TSA agents for this like malls employ moonlighting cops for security?
I don't know the answer to your question about the deployment of personnel, but I don't believe this amounts to "moonlighting" by the TSA officers acting outside of their legal jurisdiction.
I do wish, by the way, that federal authorities had taken an equally active role in overseeing the safety of local transit systems before the Red Line crash.
It sounds like they are only checking people carrying bags or purses. What about the big puffy winter coats? Many suicide bombers in Iraq, Afghanistan and Israel have the bombs strapped to their body. Are there plans for checking coats?
I don't know where this inspection policy will lead, once we get passed this first "That didn't hurt so bad, did it?" introductory phase.
The previous commenter used the now-famous phrase "Don't touch my junk." You'll recall that the airport inspections have advanced well beyond their initial phases to the new threshold of groping passengers.
How does Metro get around constitutional limits on search and seizures?
Metro's inspection program has not been tested in the courts. The transit authority has noted that the New York subway inspection program survived a court test.
As a rider at Braddock Road, I'm glad to have stayed home today. I hink they chose Braddock because it's less busy than King Street. I don't like these "random" searches-especially that it doesn't seem like the procedure would find anything. I've ridden on the London Tube before and after 7/7 and yet they don't have police searches. If Metro wanted to be like NYC, they'd have police ride the trains themselves and make their presence felt.
I grew up in New York and always appreciated the very visible presence of police on the trains. It's quite a contrast to Metro.
I admit I'm shocked at the level of anger about this. As a former resident of NYC - it's not a big deal. It doesn't take that long. It's just like the security lines at the airport. I think it's true - most of us are good people and law-abiding citizens who follow the letter of the law - so why are we subjected? Becuase of the random nut jobs and terrorists who rely on us being trusting and complacent. Trust me - the first time a bomb goes off on a DC subway all of you who complained are going to crying foul about how Metro didn't do more to keep you safe. You can't have it both ways.
There's really no limit to what Metro could do to keep us safe. Even if we all had to pass through detectors before boarding the trains and buses, if a bomb went off, there would be plenty of criticism.
But how far is it reasonable to go in guaranteeing that riders are safe? I've been riding Metro for 22 years. Frankly, if I thought I was going to get blown up, I wouldn't get on the train. That's a deal-breaker for me.
Yet I don't believe these random searches are a reasonable protection. I think the very real loss, as of today, in personal liberty for a great mass of travelers is far greater than the ephemeral reward in personal security.


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Small Kitchen Retrofit – Making the most of 8 square metres
With very limited floor space available and with no scope for extension, the priority for this project was to make the most of what is available within the given space.
Taking inspirations from the interior configurations of the International Space Station, where physical space is extremely finite and every storage and work space available are treated with precious considerations. Every single surface and storage unit in the revamped kitchen were planned with purposes and configured based on a comprehensive analysis in order to maximise their efficiency supporting various kitchen activities and requirement. As a result, the renovated kitchen has 23% more counter-top surfaces and 43% additional storage volume when compared to previous layout – all these gains were achieved without increasing the existing building footprint.
The existing PVC window was replaced by a pair of custom-made, high performance composite windows, allowing additional storage units to be installed above. Taking reference from the "Cupola" window on board the International Space Station, the low & wide windows act as a picture frame, capturing the views of the neighbouring trees and garden, providing a better connection between the kitchen and the external space. The windows layout also minimises the late afternoon solar glare caused by the west-facing orientation of the property.
The kitchen interior was designed with functionality and practicality in mind. A careful combination of materials including Baltic birch ply, stainless steel, tempered glass and oil finished oak gave a rich-yet-calm expression to the otherwise minimalistic finishes. The horizontal lines are accentuated by the bold coloured counter-tops and the constellations-inspired, shimmering glass splashbacks, generating a much needed sense of spaciousness through subtle use of glass reflections and careful storage arrangement, removing unnecessary clutter from the working space.
The building fabric of the kitchen has also been overhauled; New external wall insulation and enhanced roof insulation made a substantial improvement to the building thermal performance, to the point that radiator is no longer required in the room. New skylight window brought in the much needed daylight into the kitchen room. As a result, the renovated kitchen has become the most environmentally comfortable space within the late Victorian property.


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Hollywood director Jason Reitman recently filed legal papers in a Los Angeles court seeking a California divorce from his wife, Michele Lee according to the celebrity-watching magazine OK!. Reitman is the Oscar-nominated director of such movies as Juno and Up in the Air.
The court papers reportedly cite the reliably standard (and reliably vague) "irreconcilable differences" as the reason for the Los Angeles divorce. According to Digital Spy, another celebrity-tracking publication, the couple have been married for just over seven years and have one child, a daughter. The early accounts of their Southern California divorce petition do not say how Reitman and Lee hope to resolve the issue of child custody, though if this break-up follows the pattern for celebrity divorces we should have some sense of that issue soon enough.
Neither do the publications offer any insight into either the size of the Reitmans' marital estate or whether the couple have a Orange County or Los Angeles County prenuptial agreement in place. As I have noted in earlier entries, however, it is also important to remember that pre-nups are not necessarily ironclad documents. Courts are free to examine them, and in extreme cases, may even throw out a California prenuptial agreement if they believe the terms are grossly unfair to one party or the other.
Sorting out potentially complex legal issues such as these is a one of the key services an Orange County divorce and family law attorney can offer clients. Every divorce is different, so a careful examination of the complete range of issues affecting any particular split is a crucial first step in the legal process. An Orange County divorce lawyer's first responsibility is to defend your interests while making the process as smooth as possible.
Digital Spy: Jason Reitman files for divorce from Michele Lee


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TCRA stands for 'Transnational Child-Raising Arrangements' and is the abbreviation used by this 5 year research programme between Ghana and The Netherlands. TCRAf-Eu stands for 'Transnational Child-Raising Arrangements between Africa and Europe' and is a 3 year research programme. Both programmes investigate the effects parent migration has on a) the children, b) the migrant parents and c) the caregivers.
Migration is a common practice yet it is often difficult for families to travel together which leads families the world over to live physically apart. This separation has many consequences both for those migrating and the (extended) family left behind. In particular we are interested in the arrangements that have to be made for raising the children who have one or both parents living abroad. As these arrangements expand over the borders of nation states and countries they are transnational and include different legal and institutional conditions.
In many African countries such arrangements are not a novelty; they are a common practice and have been well established. Nevertheless, very limited or too focused information is available on the effects such transnational child raising arrangements (TCRAs) have on those involved. In particular the children, parents and caregivers are affected by such arrangements but institutions also play an important role laying down the conditions and regulations for TCRAs.
The programmes compare the results of three different African (sending) and three different European (receiving) countries namely Angola, Nigeria and Ghana with Portugal, Ireland and The Netherlands. By focusing on education, jobs, emotional and physical wellbeing as well as how these arrangements function the programmes' aims to find out four main things;
- How these TCRAs affect the life chances of children who remain in their home country, their parents living abroad and their caregivers.
- How European migration laws and African child schooling and fostering institutions influence TCRAs and in turn how they are affected by TCRAs.
- How the different country contexts influence the functioning and outcomes of the TCRAs on the people involved (child, parent and caregiver).
- How institutions in both Africa and The Netherlands influence TCRAs and in turn how they are affected by TCRAs.
The research was conducted in several locations in Ghana, Angola, Nigeria, The Netherlands, Portugal and Ireland. Here is a list of research locations;
- The Greater Accra Region, Central Region, Ashanti Region and the Brong Ahafo Region
- Luanda Province (Luanda) and Benguela Province (Benguela and Lobito)
- Oyo state, Osun state and Lagos state
The Netherlands
- Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague and Almere
- Greater Lisbon and Setúbal
- Cork City and County, Dublin City and County, Galway, Drogheda, Dundalk
Through your participation you have enabled the programme to shed light on the realities of families living apart, the arrangements they have to make and how these function. We therefore will be able to provide detailed information on both the personal and institutional effects transnational child-raising has.
Thank you for your involvement.


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WELCOME TO THE 2nd DISCUSSION!
How are you liking S&S so far?? I hope you are just eating it up! I keep reading the volumes in one or two sittings and then waiting the rest of the week for the discussion so that I'm not ahead!
I noticed that y'all led your own discussion for the 1st one so I won't include too many tough questions because I'm sure that you have had some crazy reactions to the many twists and turns Volume 2 has led us through!
Again, thank you so much for being here, I appreciate everyone and every comment posted!
- Virtually at the heart (of the novel) Marianne muffles a scream in response to the letter from Willoughby. At losing their respective loves, Marianne screams (although muffled) while Elinor suffers in silence, but they both do suffer emotionally. What are the causes that lead both women to suffer? And what does Marianne's muffling of her own scream indicate about her character in comparison to the first half of the novel and then the second half?
- One of my favorite lines is in chapter 23 about Elinor. "She was stronger alone, and her own good sense so well supported her, that her firmness was as unshaken, her appearance of cheerfulness as invariable, as with regrets so poignant and so fresh, it was possible for them to be." I admire Elinor's strength so much throughout the novel (so far). Name a character and a trait they have that you admire.
- Why do you think Lucy shared this quite intimate confidence about her and Edward to Elinor?
- Both Elinor and Marianne are very close opposites. However, they both are similar in one aspect: protective over each other and their family. How do the sisters react to their protective instincts? (hint: though they are similar in this one instance, they react quite differently)
- I couldn't help but swoon after Colonel Brandon, in chapter 27, says, "to your sister I wish all imaginable happiness; to Willoughby that he may endeavor to deserve her." Just out of curiosity, which Austen man are you rooting for in S&S?
- How did you react to Willoughby's letter in chapter 29? Tell me all of your thoughts!
- Have your feelings toward Marianne changed after this hard blow?
- What is one of your favorite humor moments/quotes in Volume 2 that Austen includes? (I know; this one is hard there are so many!)
- How did you react to the "inset story", the one Colonel Brandon tells in chapter 31?
- Curiosity question #2: In chapter 32, my dislike for Lucy Steele grew and I wanted to smack her. Did you feel the same?
- Curiosity question #3: It is revealed that John Dashwood does in fact have some guilt about his sisters and their well-being. He also mentions that he believes Elinor and Colonel Brandon to be married soon. Thoughts? Desires? More thoughts? 😉
Good luck!
Comment away!


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Expectations for WayForward and Pendleton Ward's upcoming game Adventure Time have been understandably high. Adventure Time often feels like a classic 2D game in animated form, and WayForward is all about taking the principals of classic 2D gaming (beautiful 2D pixel art, simple gameplay hooks fused with iconic characters) and bringing it to today's marketplace. Teaming the creator of the show with WayForward's philosophy almost feels too good to be true.
Judging from this teaser trailer, I think it's still a little too soon to say if those expectations will be met. The animation looks great, the characters look great, and Tree Trunks is looking really great. The gameplay isn't looking quite as hot. It's just a few seconds of combat, but none of it looks particularly interesting. Knowing that so many licensed games have boring combat has me a little worried.
It makes me feel better to remember that Zelda 2 is reportedly the biggest inspiration for Adventure Time: HIKWYSOG. If you look at a few random seconds of Zelda 2's combat, you wouldn't be able to see how fun the game can be. The high/low guessing games, the downthrust pogo-sticking, the bubble busting;all great stuff that isn't immediately apparent. Lets hope that Adventure Time: HIKWYSOG carries that brand of fun.
Adventure Time: Hey Ice King! Why'd You Steal Our Garbage?! - first teaser trailer [GoNintendo]
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Listen to this artist
GARY, JOHN (1932–1998). Singer and stage and television star John Gary was born John Gary Strader in Watertown, New York, on November 29, 1932, the son of Harold Strader and Merle Dawson Harrington. Gary became a popular stage and television star during the 1960s because of his soulful, heartfelt singing style and three-octave range. His signature song, "Danny Boy," revealed his love for Irish tunes, but his singing repertoire included show tunes, country hits, and romantic ballads.
He began singing at age five with his older sister Shirley at amateur talent shows. At age nine he won a three-year scholarship as a boy soprano to the Cathedral School of St. John the Divine in New York. At age ten he won two "Pins of Distinction" from the American Theater Wing and the Merchant Seaman's Club for the Stage Door Canteen.
By Gary's twelfth birthday his parents had divorced. After he toured the Southern states with Macon Conservatory pianist Frank Pursley he went to live with his mother and three siblings in California. He attended North Hollywood Junior and Senior High and enrolled in Hollywood Professional School while performing as a regular staff member on CBS/KNX radio. He also sang for tips as he worked as a waiter, doorman, and usher at various restaurants, hotels, and theaters. His stepfather, Bob Yale, became Gary's agent and manager and promoted his early career in Hollywood. As a teenager, Gary made stage and radio appearances with Lionel Barrymore, Paul Whiteman's Orchestra, Billy Wardell, Martha Tilton, Marie Wilson, Jack Cooper, George Jessel, Ken Murray's Blackouts, and others.
When he was seventeen his voice finally began to crack and change, and he decided his singing career was over. He joined the United States Marine Corps, in which he served as a military policeman and chaplain's assistant. But he began singing in military chapel services and found his voice had matured to a brilliant tenor with rich baritone flexibility. After being discharged from the service at age twenty Gary met Bob McGimsey, who became his mentor and manager. Gary made "demo" recordings for songwriters such as Harry Ruby, Sammy Fain, Jimmy McHugh, Hoagy Carmichael, Johnny Mercer, Victor Young, and Henry Mancini. He performed regularly on Don McNeill's popular network radio show, "Breakfast Club," and then began a steady career making television and stage appearances across America.
About 1962 he signed with the RCA label. During Gary's affiliation with RCA he recorded more than twenty albums; the first was Catch a Rising Star. He also recorded about twenty-five albums for various independent labels. He performed on "The Tonight Show," "The Ed Sullivan Show," "The Bell Telephone Hour," Dick Clark's "American Bandstand," and "The Danny Kaye Show." In the early 1970s a summer-replacement program for Danny Kaye's CBS television show evolved into Gary's own syndicated television variety show, "The John Gary Show," which ran for three years. Gary also sang in stage productions––The Student Prince and Camelot, for instance––at venues such as the Kansas City Starlight Theater, the Dallas Theater in the Round, and the Dallas Crystal Palace. Gary's popularity continued well into the 1990s, and he sang with numerous symphonies and at various concert halls, conventions, and special events around the world.
In 1971 he moved to Richardson, Texas, and married Lee Wilson. Gary also had children from previous relationships with Muriel Stafford Getz and Lois Reidy McDonnell. His family included four sons, two adopted sons, and seven stepchildren. Although Gary's singing talents made him famous, he excelled at many other interests throughout his life, such as boxing, archery, and underwater diving. Among his achievements are two published books of poetry and numerous published songs, including "Possum Song," "I'll Say It All Again," "One Red Rose," and "I'll Never Fall in Love Again."
He received many honors and awards, including the National Association of Recording Arts and Sciences "Most Promising Vocalist" Grammy in 1963, mention in the California and United States congressional records, and numerous appearances as grand marshal at St. Patrick's Day parades throughout America. Though he scored no hit singles, some of his mid-1960s albums rose to the Top 20, including The Nearness of You, Encore, and A Little Bit of Heaven. Other popular albums by Gary include Songs of Love and Romance (Collector's Choice, 1994), Ireland's Greatest Hits and The Very Best of John Gary (RCA, 1997), and The Essential John Gary (BMG Records, 2001).
In 1991 Gary was diagnosed with cancer. He died at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas on January 4, 1998. He was buried in Pecan Grove Cemetery in McKinney, Texas.
Dallas Morning News, January 6, 11, 1998. John Gary (www.johngary.com), accessed November 1, 2015. Music by Mail: John Gary—Catalog of Distinguished Releases (http://www.websterrecords.com/artists/gary.html), accessed April 2, 2008.
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Call for Papers: Texas Center for Working-Class Studies
Events, Symposia, and Workshops
Hi all! You may be interested in this call for papers I received from the Texas Center for Working-Class Studies at Collin College...
Katy Jennings' Ride
Scholarly Research Request
I'm doing research on Catherine Jennings Lockwood, specifically the incident known as "Katy Jennings' Ride." Her father was Gordon C. Jennings, the oldest man to die at the Alamo...
Texas Constitution of 1836 Co-Author- Elisha Pease?
Ask a Historian
The TSHA profile of Elisha Marshall Pease states that he wrote part of the Texas Constitution although he was only a 24 year-old assistant secretary (not elected). I cannot find any other mention of this authorship work by Pease in other credible research about the credited Constution authors...


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basic 65 is a monophonic synth, inspired by the classic 80s home computer, the Commodore 64 and its legendary SID chip. Building on the waveforms and signal path of this famous chip, basic 65 adds further features and options to take things a step further.
The double arpeggiator allows complex versions of that retro 8-bit game sound and the modulation options inspire experimentation via the mod envelope and 2 comprehensive LFOs. Pulse width modulation, ring modulation and oscillator detune/sync are key ingredients in the signature sound. Throw in some pitch drift, bit drift, a sprinkle of dirt and randomisation and you have a wide range of lofi, chiptune, retro-tastic sounds at your disposal.
Price: Free
Info & Download >> Delamanchavst / basic 65


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For a couple of minutes we're going to let ourselves enjoy a middle-eastern dream..
Completed in 2008, Villa Moda showcases the rich artisan ship of local craftsman, motifs and techniques, re-interpreted with Western eyes.
Located in Bahrain, Villa Moda includes brands such as:
Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Bottega Veneta, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci and Fendi
The souk includes heavily patterned walls..
… mannequins with mirrors in place of heads.
… and pearl decorated walls!
Designed by Marcel Wander
WONDERS indeed!


text: I am an assistant professor of economics at Christopher Newport University. I am broadly interested in labor economics and macroeconomics. My skill set includes the use of statistical methodology to analyze large data-sets, as well as computational modeling under a variety of contexts. I excel at organizing information and connecting ideas from multiple lines of research. Society is a living thing; its patterns are produced by the actions of countless individuals and institutions, each as complex as the whole. Understanding such a system requires diverse methods and an open mind.


text: Fall Accessories Trend: Emerald Envy The emerald may be May's birthstone, but fall accessories are awash with this rich green jewel tone. By Ashley Davis on May 11, 2015 Share This Article Reddit LinkedIn WhatsApp Email Print Talk View Slideshow View Gallery — 28 Photos May's birthstone, the emerald, provides the perfect palette for fall accessories. We've rounded up a selection of shoes, bags, hats, scarves and more — each as luxurious as the gemstone that inspired them. You're missing something! SUBSCRIBE NOW Chanel Hermès Manolo Blahnik Share This Article Reddit LinkedIn WhatsApp Email Print Talk load comments blog comments powered by Disqus


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My cockatiel Apollo screams and paces back and forth around the cage when I play back videos of himself chirping or singing. He also does the same thing when he hears other birds screaming, but not when its chirping and singing. Does he think it's another bird intruding his home? Why does he scream? Should I stop playing those videos around him?
He most probably thinks it is a real bird, and is flock calling the bird in the video! In my view, it probably would be best to not play the videos over and over. Once in awhile would be OK!


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The new chemical oscillator has been recently constructed with the help of DNA components. Following specific instructions, DNA molecules could offer larger précised molecular control for synthetic chemical systems, which is the discovery of creating molecular machines with complex and new behaviors.
A chemical oscillator and chemical amplifiers have been created by a team of researchers with a systematic process having potential of embedding sophisticated circuit computation in to the molecular systems dedicated for major applications in sectors such as health care, nanotechnology and advanced materials. The research has been published in the Science journal issue of December 15.
David Soloveichik, a leading researcher of the studies and his associated team at The Cockrell School of Engineering at The University of Texas, Austin disclosed theory about programming the synthetic oscillators as well as other systems, building DNA molecules that obey particular instructions.
An Assistant Professor, David Soloveichik from the Cockrell School's Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering with a graduate student, Niranjan Srinivas from The California Institute of Technology and co-authors of the study have successfully designed the first chemical oscillator of its type which uses DNA components, with no enzymes, proteins or other cellular components demonstrate that just DNA is capable for complex behavior.
Soloveichik said in a statement that, "DNA can be used in a much more active manner. We can actually make it dance — with a rhythm, if you will. This suggests that nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) might be doing more than we thought, which can even inform our understanding of the origin of life, since it is commonly thought that early life was based entirely on RNA."


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A tale of two cities
adrid is the most Spanish city of all, the best to live in, with the most accommodating people, and, month in, month out the best climate in the world". So wrote Hemingway, who preferred to be called Ernest when he visited the city. It was over 50 years ago that the Nobel prize winner walked the streets of Madrid for the final time, but there's something that still hasn't changed for those who visit the city nowadays. Its spirit cries out in a way that even though you may have only just arrived, you'll never be treated like a stranger.
Even though you may have only just arrived, Madrid never will treat you like a stranger.
Antonio was born in Andalusia but seems to have been directing the Madrid traffic from inside his taxi all his life. He told me a story about the Plaza Mayor, the heart of the Austrian dynasty: it has had ten names since it was built in 1617. He recommended that I wander around the Barrio de Las Letras district, which is a symbol of the Spanish Golden Age, but he gave me one essential address. Number 2 in Calle Cervantes, where the author of 'Don Quijote' lived and died.
Goya and Velázquez are the spoiled children of the Prado Museum, home to the largest collection of Spanish art in the world. Their nearby statues watch over 'Las Meninas' and 'The Third of May 1808'. Behind them, almost hidden, is a Gothic church next to a modern red-brick cube that has a cloister inside. This is the museum's extension designed by Rafael Moneo, who decided that the past and present should live together in peaceful harmony.
"Don't they have the Guernica here?" asks a woman, standing in front of 'The Three Graces' by Rubens. Cold, colder… in fact the most famous piece by Pablo Picasso and his expression of anti-war sentiment is the jewel in the crown of the Reina Sofia Museum, which is the most visited art gallery in Spain today.
Where the trends are taking us
Tourist guides talk about the Soho of Madrid when they refer to the Chueca district. The terrace of Room Mate Oscar Hotel next to Gran Vía, the El Huerto de Lucas organic produce market and the eco-friendly bakery La Magdalena de Proust are three good reasons why nobody dares to challenge its title as Madrid's most cosmopolitan neighbourhood.
Picasso himself declared, "art is not truth". Neither is architecture. The Nouvel Building was designed for the extension of the Reina Sofia Museum by the French architect Jean Nouvel and its enormous roof colours Madrid's skyline red.
The New York Times described the Matadero as "the most innovative and alternative arts centre in Madrid": the performing arts, film, music, design, architecture and urban planning are all contained in this former industrial slaughterhouse and cattle market that has been converted into an alternative creative laboratory.
Madrid doesn't need to have a skyline like New York or Hong Kong, or build skyscrapers that border on megalomania. One look from the panoramic rooftop of the Círculo de Bellas Artes (a private cultural organization) is enough to appreciate that the city escapes formal architecture and tends instead towards a chaotic but attractive combination of the old and the new.
Ancient yet modern, friendly yet rude. "You'll only find this paradox in Madrid" wrote Hemingway.
You can see this in the Malasaña area. Its narrow streets are full of people in skinny jeans and thick-rimmed glasses. Here, modern, multi-functional places like KikeKeller, a design shop by day and a cocktail bar by night, live side by side with more traditional down-to-earth places, informal pubs and bars. This is the result of gentrification, an urban regeneration phenomenon that has led to a rise in prices and to it being called the hipster area of the city.
Casto Herrezuelo has been working behind the bar of El Palentino for 60 years and has seen the most diverse people parading into his bar. Even so, he's still surprised when he sees that the queue to get in goes round the corner. This is one of the most traditional bars in the area, with fluorescent lighting on the ceiling and slot machines. A real legend in the neighbourhood.
Beauty is on the outside
15,000 plants spread over an area of 460 square metres and reaching 24 metres high. This is the urban lifeblood of the city in the form of a vertical garden designed by the botanist Patrick Blanc for the facade of the CaixaForum Madrid arts centre, one of the few industrial buildings that have been preserved in Madrid.
In the heart of the Malasaña district, in the Plaza del 2 de Mayo, Malayerba has recovered the tradition of old barbershops, where men used to go to have their cut, get a shave and 'put the world to rights'. Its interior design is the work of Guillermo García-Hoz who has managed to transport us straight back to the 1950s. However, seeing the beard of a twenty-something being trimmed while he's glued to his iPhone brings us back to reality.
The aristocracy and the middle-class, a pristine shirt and tie, pearls and handbags that have no notion of global economic crises…the Salamanca district retains the label of the 'nice part' of Madrid and is home to the most expensive street in Spain: Calle Serrano. With a symmetrical design with clean lines that is very different from the rest of the city, it brings together all the luxury brands around the streets of Ortega y Gasset, Claudio Coello and Serrano. The narrow street Jorge Juan is more intimate and full of small boutiques, a key stop-off for any shopaholic. Il Tavolo Verde, the organic cafeteria and antique market run by Martina and Leo is the perfect place to have a break. Here you can have a coffee surrounded by 18th century furniture and order a Napoleon III studded sofa to take away.
Ancient yet modern, friendly yet rude. "You'll only find this paradox in Madrid" wrote Hemingway. It's in this duality. And if you don't find it the first time, you'll have to visit again to search for it.


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|Top Online Data Backup Rankings
FalconStor Software experts make the case for more intelligent, heterogeneous analytics
MELVILLE, NY – November 18, 2015 – /BackupReview.info/ — Higher-end storage hardware suppliers have added a spate of customized tools for monitoring, reporting, and troubleshooting the health, performance, and utilization of their products to benefit customers. The business insights offered by these predictive analytics features – such as those by Pure, Nimble and Tintri – give IT professionals the ability to make proactive decisions about those specific systems within the infrastructure. Yet according to experts at FalconStor Software® Inc. (NASDAQ: FALC), a 15-year innovator of software-defined storage solutions, these tools are insufficient for today's data centers that combine legacy, modern and virtual environments.
Software-Defined Storage (SDS) solutions are able to integrate legacy infrastructure and processes with modern and commodity storage, including all-flash arrays, hybrid flash, and HDD arrays, by applying unified data services. These SDS environments of multi-vendor storage platforms and protocols will increasingly require a multi-vendor analytics engine for actionable information about arrays, servers, and application layers. Analytics across workloads and the entire storage infrastructure is what will deliver the most value to an IT organization. While this would have been an impossibility just a few years ago, today's advancements in cloud and distributed computing are making it a reality.
Intelligent, heterogeneous, predictive analytics tools provide real-time and historical data points on all components and adjust functions like performance, capacity usage, cache size, security, optimization, uptime and service levels. They also identify trends or patterns to forecast future requirements, detect problems before they result in failures or downtime, and most importantly convert that insight into policy-based actions like changing IO paths, storage tiers, or DR strategies.
"The ability of predictive analytics tools to work with software-defined storage architectures opens up a world of more important business possibilities than what storage vendors currently offer – if they offer any at all," said Farid Yavari, Vice President of Technology at FalconStor. "A truly heterogeneous, multi-vendor tool on a single pane of glass, that can analyze an entire storage infrastructure would result in operational efficiencies, better SLA management for key workloads, and return on investment that is far superior to a single-vendor tool. With a heterogeneous multi-vendor predictive analytics tool, the entire storage ecosystem can be monitored and predictively managed from a single point of interaction. This cuts down on the complexity of the environment which is a great benefit in a hyper-scale storage implementation."
Volume management, provisioning, and migration are often time-consuming chores, but with data mobility enabled by SDS solutions and rules-based analytics tools with automation; data and capacity can manage itself. The workload can manage its own performance requirements based on available resources, rather than going to great expense to meet a worst-case scenario.
The health and endurance of flash media can be monitored so that data can be replicated to private cloud storage before any failure or data loss occurs.
When an analytics tool is remote and cloud-based, it can also extend its benefits to service providers managing their customers' data and infrastructures, even if secure multi-tenancy is required. With desktop and mobile interfaces, IT personnel can monitor the health of their data center from any location.
"Adding analytics to SDS is moving beyond traditional data services – it's about giving IT organizations the insight and tools to manage storage from a proactive business perspective versus a reactive technical perspective, and it enables IT organizations to allocate engineering and operations resources in a more cost effective manner," said Yavari.
Under FalconStor's exclusive licensing and joint development agreement with Cumulus Logic, by early 2016, FalconStor's FreeStor® software will include this intelligent, predictive analytics capability that works horizontally across the entire heterogeneous storage environment.
About FalconStor
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FalconStor, FalconStor Software, FreeStor, and Intelligent Abstraction are trademarks or registered trademarks of FalconStor Software, Inc., in the U.S. and other countries. All other company and product names contained herein may be trademarks of their respective holders.
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The allowance for a blank ("") suffix is esential to be able to maintain compatability w/ legacy or handwritten WSDLs.
should read as:
/** Sets the suffix to append to the port type name to obtain the binding name. */
public void setBindingSuffix(String bindingSuffix)
currently as:
public void setBindingSuffix(String bindingSuffix){ Assert.hasText(bindingSuffix, "'bindingSuffix' must not be null"); this.bindingSuffix = bindingSuffix; }
patch forthcomming....


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I chatted with Chris from Plaid Brixx about their music and their experience performing at Ottobar recently.
Q: How did the band form?
A: Mark, the drummer, and I went to high school together and played together in a band. We weren't great at the time but we had a lot of fun and so when I finished college and was looking to form a new band, Mark is the first person I called. Jared was a fan that came to one of our shows…one thing led to another and now he is our bass player.
Q: Who inspires you? (personally or musically)
A: Musically, there are a lot of great artists that have provided inspiration for me including Ryan Tedder, Max Martin, Bruno Mars, to name a few. Right now, I am really into the creativity of Grimes… I love that she writes and produces all her own music as well as her videos and live performances.
Q: What is your songwriting process?
A: There are lots of pieces to my process. First, I try to write some music every day…some days are obviously better than others! I start with the beats and then layer on the melodies. Lyrics come last once I have a feel for where I want to go with the song. And then once the song is done, I go back and re-write and re-write and re-write until I think it's as good as I can make it.
Q: What is your favorite song of yours and why?
A: No one has heard it yet! As a songwriter, my goal is to always improve, to take my craft to the next level. So the songs I have ready for release later this year are, in my opinion, the best so far. However, for the songs that have been released so far, my favorite is "Don't Look Down" because I am so proud of writing it and of the fan reaction to the song. We did an animated video and it has more than 500,000 views so far…and the fan comments about the song have been so favorable.
Q: What was it like filming the music video for "Since You Came"
A: Filming this music video was one of the best experiences for me. It was my first effort at developing a script and also being involved in the costumes and casting. We worked with Paul Cunningham of Cool World Photography and he identified a great location with sand dunes and water (Silver Lake Park in Michigan) and then did an amazing job on the film. And of course, the shoot itself was great fun….a fabulous location filming with friends and beautiful women…does it get better??
Q: What's the hardest part of touring? Best part?
A: The best part is performing, visiting a lot of great cities and venues and getting to meet our fans and make new fans all over the country. The most difficult part is the logistics…lots of driving, loading and unloading, staying in hotels. But we are having a fabulous time because of our fans and hope to tour again soon.
Q: How was performing in Baltimore with We The Kings?
A: This was our first performance in Baltimore and we really liked the city and Ottobar. We had some excellent tandoori chicken at a place down the street from the venue. And we are having a great time with We the Kings …they put on an amazing performance and are really easy to work with. The other bands on the tour, Cute Is What We Aim For and Astro Lasso, are also very talented and fun to tour with.
Follow Plaid Brixx on Twitter
'Like' Plaid Brixx on Facebook


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This past week has been filled with surprises. We swept right out of the fringe and frigid edges of the so-called 'Polar Vortex' into a few days of balmy spring weather. The last three days have been as near to perfect weather as one could possibly hope for in February in Virginia.
Its been warm, dry, and sometimes a little sunny these past few days. Signs of spring are literally bursting out of ground, buds on trees are swelling and those of us already itching to get busy for spring have heeded the call to come out of the cozy house and outdoors to make use of these unexpected days.
I've spent many happy hours outside these past several days flitting like some crazed butterfly from one part of the garden to the next, looking for growth even as I got on with the business of pruning and clearing beds. We actually spotted a butterfly on Wednesday afternoon.
We don't know whether it awoke from its chrysalis too soon, or migrated too far north too early. Its orange and brown wings caught our eye as it fluttered around some old cedar trees, an unusual color to find in the garden in February. It may have been a Fritillary; we didn't get close enough to do more than determine it wasn't an early Monarch. We were both very surprised to see it, and wish it well and safe shelter as we return to more seasonable temperatures this weekend.
The butterfly turned up a day after we found a honeybee feeding on the Mahonia, and the same day we found a colony of ground bees awake and foraging near the ravine. I was glad to notice the ground bees buzzing around as I headed their way with a cart full of pruned branches…. before they noticed me! I didn't stumble into them and they didn't feel a need to warn me off.
We saw our first blooming daffodils of the year, blooming beside the fence at the Williamsburg Botanical Garden. We discovered the first blooming Iris histrioides of the year, the first dandelion of the season shining golden in our 'lawn,' and the first ruby red Camellia japonica flowers on the shrubs near the street.
The most interesting surprise came yesterday afternoon when I placed a cutting of our Osmanthus 'Goshiki', that has been growing in our garden for the last several years, into a one of the little shrubs I believed to be a variegated English holly.
We bought these shrubs as English holly in November of 2017 at a chain home improvement store and sporting a big name plant tag. I never questioned the label and have written about them as English holly over the past few years.
But them California horticulturalist Tony Tomeo called me out. He commented on the post about taking stem cuttings, saw the little holly cuttings with the eyes of experience, and told me that what I was calling variegated English holly was, in fact, variegated false holly, Osmanthus 'Goshiki.'
It took me a day to process what was so plain to him. I photographed my shrubs, took a cutting from an older Osmanthus and set it seamlessly into the holly in a pot by our kitchen door. Their leaves were identical. Tony was correct and I had missed it in my own garden.
This is actually very good news. At maturity, the Osmanthus will grow to only half the size of an English holly. It has softer leaves and tolerates full shade. An English holly wants full sun, which is hard to find in our garden. Correctly identifying the shrub has proven a happy surprise for us.
Today we settle back into winter clothes and winter routines, but my heart is awake to the energy of spring. I'm motivated to continue the clean-up and pruning; polishing the garden stage for the next act waiting in the wings: spring.
Woodland Gnome 2019
Many thanks to The Propagator for hosting Six on Saturday each week.