text:
Parcel tax proposal approved in LVUSD
bertholdo@theacorn.com
By The Acorn Staff | on March 04, 2004
By Stephanie Bertholdo
Measure E, the parcel tax designed to offset state budget cutbacks, readily passed on Tuesday with 72 percent of voters in Las Virgenes Unified School District (LVUSD) casting a yes vote. It passed with a total of 11,852 votes in favor and 4,802 against. Measure E required a two-thirds majority to pass. The district serves the cities of Calabasas, Hidden […]
Student sees the beat
Voters pass three of four propositions
knight@theacorn.com
By Michelle Knight
Voters pass three of four propositions Voters on Tuesday overwhelmingly agreed with Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's plan to balance the state budget by approving Propositions 57 and 58. Despite claims from critics that it would plunge the state deeper into debt, 63 percent of the electorate approved Prop. 57, which allows the state to sell $15 billion in bonds to cover […]
Oak Park voters OK new tax for schools
porter@theacorn.com
By Lori Porter
Voters in Oak Park showed incredible support for their school district in passing Measure D4. The parcel tax initiative handily exceeded the required two-thirds majority vote when 81 percent of voters literally made it a "Super Tuesday" for Oak Park Unified School District. With Propositions 57 and 58 passing in California (Oak Park voters said yes by 65 and 73 […]
Acorn starts up new Simi Valley edition
The first Simi Valley Acorn will be delivered on Friday to 25,000 homes and businesses in Simi Valley. It becomes the fourth publication in The Acorn family of free newspapers. In addition to the one you're reading, The Acorn also publishes the Thousand Oaks Acorn and the Moorpark Acorn. The Acorn and the Thousand Oaks Acorn are distributed each week […]
Mystery woman plants trees illegally in Oak Park
Teens to discuss Bradbury book
The "Book Scene 4 Teens" book discussion group will next examine "Fahrenheit 451," Ray Bradbury's classic tale of a futuristic world where books are banned and burned if found, from 6 to 8 p.m. Wed., March 17 at the Westlake Village Library, 31220 Oak Crest Drive, Westlake Village. The gathering offers teens the opportunity to share pizza, discuss books and […]
Fireworks firm under fire
Calabasas City Councilman Barry Groveman doesn't want the city to contract with companies that are environmentally reckless. He and the city council asked staff to write a policy requiring companies that do business with Calabasas to disclose any relevant environmental information as part of the bidding process. This issue came up after Groveman, an attorney who's handling a water case […]
Parks and recreation department seeks 'mystery lady' who planted coastal oak trees in Oak Park
Rancho Simi Parks and Recreation is concerned over 13 coastal oaks that were recently planted in the vicinity of North Oak Hills Drive and Medea Creek Lane by a "mystery lady." An Oak Park resident said he met the woman while walking his dog. She took credit, he said, for planting the trees and said she was very proud of […]
LVUSD to offer early retirement program
For the third time in the history of Las Virgenes Unified School District (LVUSD), a Supplemental Early Retirement Program (SERP) will be offered to veteran teachers. The last SERP ended this year. At a recent school board meeting, staff reported that as part of the budget process, they've been investigating ways to save money. According to LVUSD Dep. Superintendent Donald […]


Colonel Alfred Hobart Sturdee, CMG, VD, MRCS, was born on the 6 May 1863 at Southsea near Portsmouth, Hampshire, United Kingdom. He graduated from King's College Hospital, London, and served as a ship's doctor on a voyage to Australia in the 1880s. He settled at Williamstown, Victoria, where he established a successful private medical and surgical practice.
He was commissioned in the Colony of Victoria on 8 March 1889, and served as a Captain (Medical Staff) in the Boer War, 1900-1902, as part of the 4th Victorian Imperial Contingent. He was mentioned in despatches in July 1901, and awarded the Queen's Medal with 3 clasps and the King's Medal with two clasps. After being on the Reserve of Officers List from July 1903, he re-enlisted in the Australian Army Medical Corps in January 1905, was promoted to major in the 2nd Field Ambulance in August 1908, and lieutenant-colonel in the 16th Field Ambulance in December 1912.
On 18 August 1914, aged 51, he raised the 2nd Field Ambulance at Victoria Barracks, Melbourne. He embarked from Australia on board HMAT A18 Wiltshire on 19 October 1914, arriving in Egypt on 11 December 1914.
On the 6 April 1915, he embarked on HMAT 13 Mashobra and anchored just off the Gallipoli Peninsula on 25 April. He served as the Principal Medical Officer at Gallipoli from the landing on 25 April 1915, until the final evacuation. On 15 December he left HQ (Anzac Gully) on board Heroic, and landed at Sarpi, Lemnos on 16 December. He returned to Egypt from Lemnos on 15 February 1916.
He commenced service on the Western Front on 30 March 1916 as ADMS of 1 Australian Division, and served in various locations in France and Belgium. On 21 November 1916, he was evacuated from the Front with chronic bronchial disability to London. He embarked for Australia on 10 February 1917, and arrived in Melbourne on 12 April, where he took up duty as DDMS 3rd Military District and later Director of Medical Services, Repatriation Department until he retired.
He was mentioned in despatches twice in 1916 and once in 1917, and awarded the Commander of the Order of St. Michael and St. George (CMG) in 1916.
Colonel Alfred Hobart Sturdee died in Melbourne, aged 76 on 19 June 1939.
Please acknowledge:	: UNSW Canberra, Academy Library and copyright holder.
Acquired in digital format. Access copy available on line.


Accompanying the international triennial Prospect New Orleans, this book features work by 73 artists and arts collectives illustrating transcultural connections through contemporary art. The fourth iteration Prospect.4: The Lotus in Spite of the Swamp, evokes New Orleans's natural environment—surrounded by bayous, lakes and wetlands near the mouth of the Mississippi River—and alludes to the city's unique cultural landscape as a creative force. By positioning itself in the city of New Orleans, the Prospect triennial aims to echo the city's history of cross-cultural fertilization. From Creole culture to jazz, in waves of migration and colonization, and as the American South's largest port, New Orleans is truly a cultural and historic nexus. Prospect.4 relies on New Orleans's richly hybrid character to offer a diverse and exhilarating panoply of new and exciting art. Contributors include Trevor Schoonmaker, William Cordova, Miranda Lash, Omar Lopez-Chahoud, Wangechi Mutu, Filipa Oliveira, Ebony G. Patterson, Ylva Rouse, Ned Sublette, Zoe Whitley, with additional contributions from more than 40 local, national, and international curators and writers.
TREVOR SCHOONMAKER is Artistic Director of Prospect.4. He is also Chief Curator at the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina.


Fairfax Media has today launched a new trade marketing campaign that encourages advertisers to 'Do more with data' by emphasising the effectiveness of data-led campaigns.
Showcasing Fairfax's market-leading approach to data-driven advertising solutions, 'Do More with Data' highlights the benefits of utilising audience insights to inform digital media strategy and improve campaign effectiveness.
Fairfax Media offers a range of data-driven advertising solutions through the sales product suite known as D&A (Data and Audiences). Fairfax D&A is represented in market by a team of specialists who provide clients with tailored solutions across Fairfax's extensive digital network.
Fairfax D&A has one of the biggest and most diverse data pools in Australia, reaching more than 7.1 million people* each month.
'Do More with Data' features an animated video outlining the lifecycle of a data-led campaign as well as digital ads utilising time of day retargeting. The campaign runs until 9 March, 2016.
More information about Fairfax D&A can be found on AdCentre.com.au.
* Source: Nielsen Online Ratings December 2015 people 14+ only.


Charles, make your request in an email form and send it to unifiableparadox@gmail.com ... I will forward it to the proper places.
In fact, I will see about making free energy systems available for sale. We should be able to do this, now.


THIS PETITION SHOULD NOT BE SIGNED. It's on change.org, not on Care2. But, it's AN EXAMPLE OF THE KIND OF PROPAGANDA THE RELIGIOUS RIGHT, and the USConferenceofCatholicBishops, is using to TRY TO STOP EQUALITY IN MARRIAGE. Be forewarned! But DON'T SIGN!


An eye examination is a series of tests that measure a person's ocular health and visual status, to detect abnormalities in the components of the visual system, and to determine how well the person can see.
An eye examination is performed by an ophthalmologist, (M.D. or D.O.-doctor of osteopathy), or an optometrist (O.D.) to determine if there are any preexisting or potential vision problems. Eye exams may also reveal the presence of many non-eye diseases. Many systemic diseases can affect the eyes, and since the blood vessels on the retina are observed during the exam, certain problems may be uncovered (e.g., high blood pressure or diabetes).
Infants should be examined by a physician to detect any physical abnormalities. Frequency of eye exams then generally differs with age and the health of the person. Eye exams can be performed in infants, and if a problem is noted the infant can be seen, generally by a pediatric ophthalmologist. A child with no symptoms should have an eye exam at age three. Early exams are important because permanent decreases in vision (e.g., amblyopia, also called lazy eye) can occur if not treated early (usually by ages 6-9). Again, with no other symptoms, the second exam should take place before first grade. After first grade, the American Optometric Association recommends an eye exam every two years; ages 19-40, every two to three years; ages 41-60, every two years; and annually after that. However, these are recommendations for healthy people with no risk factors. Patients should ask their doctors how often they should come for exams. Some patients have risk factors for eye disease (e.g., people with diabetes or a family history of eye disease; African Americans, who are at higher risk for glaucoma) and may need more frequent checkups. Also, if children seem to be having trouble in school, problems with reading, rubbing their eyes when reading, etc., an eye exam may be necessary sooner.
The examiner needs to know if the patient is taking any medications or has any existing health conditions. Some medications, even over-the-counter (OTC) medications can affect vision or even interfere with the eyedrops the doctor may use during the exam. Certain eyedrops would not be used if the patient has asthma, heart problems, or other conditions.
The patient may need someone to drive them home in case the eyes were dilated. Bringing sunglasses to the exam may also help decrease the glare from light until the dilating drops wear off.
An eye examination, given by an ophthalmologist or optometrist, costs about $100. It may or may not be covered by insurance. It begins with information from the patient (case history) and continues with a set of primary tests, plus additional specialized tests given as needed, dictated by the outcomes of initial testing and the patient's age. The primary tests can be divided into two groups, those that evaluate the physical state of the eyes and surrounding areas, and those that measure the ability to see.
The examiner will take eye and medical histories that include the patient's chief complaint, any past eye disorders, all medications being taken (e.g., OTC medications, antibiotics, and birth control pills), any blood relatives with eye disorders, and any systemic disorders the patient may have. The patient should also tell the doctor about hobbies and work conditions. This information helps in modifying prescriptions and lets the doctor know how the patient uses his or her eyes. For example, using a computer screen vs. construction work, the working distance of a computer screen may affect the prescription; the construction worker needs protective eyewear.
The patient should bring their current pair of glasses to the exam. The doctor can get the prescription from the glasses by using an instrument called a lensometer.
Visual acuity measures how clearly the patient can see. It is measured for each eye separately, with and without the current prescription. It is usually measured with a Snellen eye chart, a poster with lines of different-sized letters, each line with a number at the side denoting the distance from which a person with normal vision can read that line. Other kinds of eye charts with identifiable figures are available for children or anyone unfamiliar with the Roman alphabet. These charts are made to be placed at a certain distance (usually 20 ft) from the person being tested. At this distance, people with normal vision can read a certain line (usually the lowest), marked the 20/20 line; these people are said to have 20/20 vision. For people who can't read the smallest line, the examiner assigns a ratio based on the smallest line they can read. The first number (numerator) of the ratio is the distance between the chart and the patient, and the second number (denominator) is the distance where a person with normal vision would be able to read that line. The ratio 20/40 means the patient can see at 20 ft. what people with normal vision can see at 40 ft. away.
When a patient is unable to read any lines on the chart, they are moved closer until they can read the line with the largest letters. The acuity is still measured the same way. A ratio of 5/200 means the person being tested can see at 5 ft what a normal person can see 200 ft.
When a patient cannot read the chart at all, the examiner may hold up some fingers and ask the patient to count them at various distances, and records the result as "counting fingers" at the distance of recognition. If the patient cannot count the examiner's fingers at any distance, the examiner determines if the patient can see hand movements. If so, the result is recorded as "hand movements." If not, the examiner determines if the patient can detect light from a penlight. If the patient can detect the light but not its direction, the result is recorded at "light perception." If the patient can recognize its direction, the result is recorded as "light projection." If the patient cannot detect the light at all, the result is recorded as "no light perception."
The examiner asks the patient to look up and down, and to the right and left to see if the patient can move the eyes to their full extent. The examiner asks the patient to stare at an object, then quickly covers one eye and notes any movement in the eye that remains uncovered. This procedure is repeated with the other eye. This, and another similar cover test, helps to determine if there is an undetected eye turn or problem with fixation. The doctor may also have the patient look at a pen and follow it as it is moved close to the eyes. This checks convergence.
The doctor checks the pupil's response to light (if it dilates and constricts appropriately). The iris is viewed for symmetry and physical appearance. The iris is checked more thoroughly later using a slit lamp.
The examiner will determine the refractive error and obtain a prescription for corrective lenses for people whose visual acuity is less than 20/20. An instrument called a phoropter, which the patient sits behind, is generally used (sometimes the refraction can be done with a trial frame that the patient wears). The phoropter is equipped with many lenses that allow the examiner to test many combinations of corrections to learn which correction allows the patient to see the eye chart most clearly. This is the part of the exam when the doctor usually says, "Which is better, one or two?" The phoropter also contains prisms, and sometimes the doctor will intentionally make the patient see double. This may help in determining a slight eye turn. The exam will check vision at distance and near (reading).
A prescription for corrective lenses can also be supplied by automated refracting devices, which measure the necessary refraction by shining a light into the eye and observing the reflected light. Another objective way to obtain a prescription is using a hand-held retinoscope. As in the automated method just mentioned, the doctor shines a light in the patient's eyes and can determine an objective prescription. This is helpful in young children or infants.
Sometimes drops will be instilled in the patient's eyes before this part of the exam. The drops may relax accommodation so that the refraction will be more accurate. This is helpful in children and people who are farsighted.
After the refraction and other visual status tests, for example color tests or binocularity tests (can the patient see 3-D, or have depth perception), the doctor will check the health of the eyes and surrounding areas. The main instruments used are the ophthalmoscope and the slit lamp.
These observations are best accomplished after dilating the pupils and require an ophthalmoscope. The ophthalmoscope most frequently used is a called a direct ophthalmoscope. It is a hand-held illuminated 15X multi-lens magnifier that lets the examiner view the inside back area of the eye (fundus). The retina, blood vessels, optic nerve, and other structures are examined.
The slit lamp is a microscope with a light source that can be adjusted. This magnifies the external and some internal structures of the eyes. The lid and lid margin, cornea, iris, pupil, conjunctiva, sclera, and lens are examined. The slit lamp is also used in contact lens evaluations. A little probe called a tonometer may be used at this time to check the pressure of the eyes. A colored eyedrop may be instilled immediately prior to this test. The drop has a local anesthetic so the patient won't feel the probe touch the eye. It is a quick procedure.
A perimeter, the instrument for measuring visual fields, is a hollow hemisphere, equipped with a light source that projects dots of light over the inside surface. The patient's head is positioned so that the eye being tested is at the center of the sphere and (about 13 in. 33 cm) from all points on the inside surface of the hemisphere. The patient stares straight ahead at an image on the center of the surface and signals whenever he or she detects a flash of light. The perimeter records which flashes are seen and which are missed and maps the patient's field of vision and blindspots.
Tonometers are used to measure IOP. Some tonometers measure pressure by expelling a puff of air (noncontact tonometer) towards the eyeball from a very short distance. Other tonometers are placed directly on the cornea. The noncontact tonometers are not as accurate as the contact tonometers and are sometimes used for screenings.
Depending upon the results other tests may be necessary. These can include, but are not limited to binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy, gonioscopy, color tests, contrast sensitivity testing, ultasonography, and others. The patient may have to return for additional visits.
INITIAL OBSERVATIONS AND SLIT LAMP EXAM. Some general observations the doctor may be looking for include: head tilt; drooping eyelids (ptosis); eye turns; red eyes (injection); eye movement; size, shape, and color of the iris; clarity of the cornea, anterior chamber, and lens. The anterior chamber lies behind the cornea and in front of the iris. If it appears cloudy or if cells can be seen in it during the slit lamp exam an inflammation may be present. A narrow anterior chamber may put the patient at risk for glaucoma. A clouding of the normally clear lens is called a cataract.
OPHTHALMOSCOPIC EXAM. The observations include, but are not limited to the retina, blood vessels, and optic nerve. The optic nerve enters the back of the eye and can be checked for swelling or other problems. The blood vessels can be viewed as can the retina. The macula is a 3-5 mm area in the back of the eye and is responsible for central vision. The fovea is a small area located within the macula and is responsible for sharp vision. When a person looks at something, they are pointing the fovea at the object. Changes in the macular area can be observed with the ophthalmoscope. Retinal tears or detachments can also be seen.
VISUAL ACUITY. The refraction will determine the refractive status for each eye for distance and for near. A prescription for glasses is made after taking many things into consideration. The eye doctor may alter a prescription based upon many factors. Different materials for glasses may be suggested. For example, polycarbonate may be suggested for children or people active in sports because it is very impact resistant. Bifocals, trifocals, single-vision spectacles, and contact lenses are also options.
VISUAL FIELDS. A normal visual field extends about 60° upward, about 75° downward, about 65° toward the nose, and about 100° toward the ear and has one blind spot close to the center. Defects in the visual field signify damage to the retina, optic nerve, or the neurological visual pathway.
Amblyopia — Decreased visual acuity, usually in one eye, in the absence of any structural abnormality in the eye.
Conjunctiva — The mucous membrane that covers the white part of the eyes (sclera) and lines the eyelids.
Cornea — Clear outer covering of the front of the eye.
Floaters — Translucent specks that float across the visual field, due to small objects floating in the vitreous humor.
Fundus — The inside of an organ. In the eye, refers to the back area that can be seen with the ophthalmoscope.
Glaucoma — There are many types of glaucoma. Glaucoma results in optic nerve damage and a decreased visual field and blindness if not treated. It is usually associated with increased IOP, but that is not always the case. The three factors associated with glaucoma are increased IOP, a change in the optic nerve head, and changes in the visual field.
Gonioscope — An instrument used to inspect the eye (e.g., the anterior chamber). It consists of a magnifier and a lens equipped with mirrors; it's placed on the patient's cornea.
Iris — The colored ring just behind the cornea and in front of the lens that controls the amount of light sent to the retina.
Macula — The central part of the retina where the rods and cones are densest.
Ophthalmoscope — An instrument designed to view structures in the back of the eye.
Pupil — The circular opening that looks like a black hole in the middle of the iris.
Retina — The inner, light-sensitive layer of the eye containing rods and cones; transforms the image it receives into electrical messages which are then sent to the brain via the optic nerve.
Slit lamp — A microscope that projects a linear slit beam of light onto the eye; allows viewing of the conjunctiva, cornea, iris, aqueous humor, lens, and eyelid.
Tonometer — An instrument that measures intraocular pressure (IOP).
Ultrasonography — A method of obtaining structural information about internal tissues and organs where an image is produced because different tissues bounce back ultrasonic waves differently.
Seeing clearly does not necessarily mean the eyes are healthy or that the eyes are working together as a team. Regular checkups can detect abnormalities, hopefully before a problem arises. The eye doctor can suggest ways to help protect the eyes and vision (e.g., safety goggles, ultraviolet (UV) coatings on lenses). A person should also have an eye exam if they notice a change in vision, eyestrain, blur, flashes of light, a sudden onset of floaters (little dots), distortion of objects, double vision, redness, pain or discharge.
American Academy of Ophthalmology. 655 Beach Street, PO Box 7424, San Francisco, CA 94120-7424. http://www.eyenet.org.
Eye examination instruments the university of portsmouth is in the process of equipping a state of the art eye clinic this tender is for the provision of the key diagnostic instruments for the provision of core optometric services, within this public facing eye clinic.
As glaucoma has no symptoms, it is often referred to as the 'Silent Sight Thief' and the only way to detect it is through early diagnosis through an annual eye examination.
Vision has a huge impact on our lives yet so many of us do not associate eyes with health and do not have a regular eye examination even if we notice changes in our vision.
Following a thorough eye examination, Richard's optometrist could detect no reason for his vision loss but made an immediate hospital referral for further checks.
Following a thorough eye examination, Richard's optometrist made an immediate hospital referral for further checks.
The draft guidance suggested that patient consent should be sought at each stage of the eye examination, but the AOP thinks that there is implied consent when patients attend an eye examination.
An eye examination will, of course, tell you if you could benefit from corrective lenses, but it can also reveal so much more about your general health.
by Times News Service It is important to go for regular eye examination.
THE eye examination procedure that Eye Clinic at Home carry out is essentially the same procedure as you would get by visiting any well-known high street optician.
Regular, comprehensive, dilated eye examination is the only way to detect vision problems and eye diseases in their early stages.
Getting an eye examination is a bit like getting a whole physical examination," explains ophthalmic surgeon Dr Steve Schallhorn, chief medical director at Optical Express.


This tour is the ultimate opportunity to see the magnificence of the pearl of the Indian Ocean in its full glory. It covers all cultural, historical as well as nature and wildlife hotspots in Sri Lanka in a very well organized grand tour. You will visit beaches with golden sands and blue water and watch hundreds of elephants and leopards pass by in famous wildlife parks. In this 3 weeks tour you will visit the island from North to South, exploring hidden beaches, ancient cities and all of Sri Lanka's natural beauty in the most unique way.
Single room supplement is 340.00 Euros per person on top of the standard price.
Standard prices per person is calculated based on shared rooms for your selected group size. You can select single rooms to stay for supplementary price of 340.00 Euros per person for the tour for all group sizes.
Spend the whole day exploring the 3000 year old ancient city Anuradhapura, birthplace of the Sri Lankan civilisation and the most monumental architectural site of the country, of course a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is also the only megalopolis in the ancient world in the eastern hemisphere.
Enjoy the drive to Jaffna, which after a 30-year civil war again open for Sri Lankans and tourists alike and offers a unique insight into the cultural mix of the island. Visit the Jaffna library, one of the first targets of the war and now symbol of reconciliation as it was restored thanks to donations from all ethnic groups in Sri Lanka. Take the boat to the island of Nagadeepa, visit the temple and a freshwater pond and if time allows, even relax on the untouched Csuarina beach and peek at India at Point Pedro.
Spend three days in Trincomalee on the East coast of Sri Lanka, from where you can explore a whole lot of different attractions or simply relax on the long, sandy beaches. Visit the famous Pigeon Island, one of Sri Lanka's national wildlife parks and home to some of the best coral sites in the country. Wander around Trincomalee harbour, one of the largest natural harbours in the world and if you want, visit a cemetery for British soldiers killed during World War II at this Asian battle place.
Head out to the coastal towns of Pasikudah or Kalkudah, boasting one of the longest stretches of shallow coastline in the world.
Leave Trincomalee for Arugam Bay, one of the best surfing beaches in the world. You can choose to try your first surfing lessons, or simply watching the pros in the waves. There's also a bird sanctuary close-by so bird-watchers will enjoy spotting hundreds types of tropical birds circling above them.
Visit Polonnaruwa, another ancient metropolis and UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander along the shores of the giant man-made lake bordering the ancient capital Polonnaruwa.
a narrow trail through banana plantations to the home of a chena farmer, where you can quench your thirst with a cool drink of king coconut.
Climb up to the Golden Rock Temple in Dambulla and marvel at the rock paintings and more than 100 Buddha statues standing in mysterious rock cave.
Be amazed by Sigiriya, the incredible "Fortress in the sky" and a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy the views from this ancient rock palace. Then you can either return to the hotel to relax in the afternoon or head out on a safari at Minneriya National Park or Kaudulla National Park (depending on the time of the year). In the evening, benefit from one of our free services, a relaxing herbal massage offered by a professional massage therapist.
Watch elephants taking their bath at Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage. Wander through a beautiful spice garden and learn how the famous Sri Lankan spices are grown in their natural habitat. Visit the Temple of the Tooth, one of the most important Buddhist centres in the world, or take a look at the gem museum.
Take a walk in the bustling city of Kandy, go shopping at the colourful bazaar, stroll by the lake and soak up the atmosphere. If you want, visit an arts and craft workshops and a Batik manufacturer to see skilled villagers producing some of the most beautiful souvenirs.
Choose from our optional excursions (complimentary): You can visit the Royal Botanical Garden in Peradeniya, home to a huge variety of Sri Lankan plants and flowers, for example hundreds of types of colourful orchids, or go on a tour of the three temple loops (Gadaladeniya, Embekke, Lankathilaka). Later in the evening witness a cultural dance performance in Kandy with the famous Kandyan dancers performing their incredible skills.
Enjoy the ride through the scenic countryside of the Hill Country, watch tea pickers in the fields, stop at roaming waterfalls and breathe the fresh air of the mountains. Get an insight into the world of the famous Ceylon tea – learn how it is produced at a tea factory and visit a tea plantation. Of course you'll also have the pleasure to taste the world's best tea.
Stroll through the colonial town of Nuwara Eliya, visit the beautiful municipal park and take a look at the old horse racing grounds.
Either sleep in and enjoy the cool weather in your hotel in Nuwara Eliya, or get up very early for an optional excursion to the unique Horton Plains, the highest plateau in the country. Enjoy a morning hike through one of the country's most scenic hiking trails. Visit the Baker's fall and check out the infamous World's End.
In the afternoon, take a nice walk through tea plantations to the Lovers' Leap waterfalls and be impressed by the power of the water crashing down the rocks.
A train ride in a typical Sri Lankan train from Nanu Oya to Ella, the most beautiful train ride in the country, giving you views on impressive mountains, waterfalls, tea plantations and thick, lush greenery. Take a walk in the authentic village of Ella, admire the views over the paddy fields below you in the valleys and see the powerful Rawana waterfall.
Continue your ride from Ella to Yala National Park and go to bed early for next day's safari.
your path, tropical birds circling around you. A whole day of adventure from a safe 4WD safari tour jeep!
Enjoy the last four days of your unforgettable trip at Bentota beach, where great activities are waiting for you – besides sipping fruit juices by the pool, sunbathing and jumping through the waves of the Indian Ocean. Visit beautiful Galle Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site where the old and modern city blend together in perfect harmony. Spot giant blue whales off the coast of Mirissa and be amazed by hundreds of dolphins dancing around your boat.
Enjoy the serene atmosphere of Kosgoda beach, where sea turtles lay their eggs. We will visit a turtle hatchery that looks after this beach to ensure the survival of these majestic marine creatures.
Use your last day to explore the bustling colourful capital of Sri Lanka, Colombo. Say good-bye to the island with a delicious meal in one of the many great fusion restaurants of Colombo. Go shopping for designer handloom and batik at Barbara Sansoni's Barefoot Gallery, and enjoy our favourite ginger beer in the Barefoot Café afterwards. Visit the temples of the capital or simply enjoy your last-minute souvenir shopping in the traditional Pettah market district or the air-conditioned shopping malls of the city.


A gunman attempted to assassinate Ahmed Dogan, the leader of Bulgaria's ethnic Turkish party, during a live conference on Saturday. Dogan was on stage at the National Palace of Culture (NDK) in Sofia for the Movement for Rights and Freedoms party (MRF). A 25-year-old man identified as Oktai Enimehmedov came onstage and held a gun to Dogan's head. Luckily, the gun got stuck and did not fire.
The Sofia Times reports that Dogan was able to slam away the gunman's arm. The two men wrestled on the stage and eventually security raced in to apprehend the shooter. Enimehmedov was then beaten severely people in the crowd, including delegates and other officials. In his possession, he had the gun and two other knives.
Enimehmedov has been convicted twice before for causing bodily harm to another in 2006 and drug possession in 2010.


text:
Q: Knowing whether system of equations has a solution or not I've been struggling with Mathematica to solve this system of equations
Given

*

*$a=14.0028$

*$b=1.35525$

*$c=0.0051$

*$d=0.0000472222$

*$W(R_1)=C_2 (c + (d + 108 C_1) R_1
+  C_1 R_1^2)$
Solve:
\begin{equation}
\dfrac{dC_1R_1}{C_{1}^2R_{1}^2+W(R_1)}=\dfrac{\pi}{4}\tag{1}
\end{equation}
\begin{equation}
\dfrac{a C_1 R_1 \sqrt{C_1 R_1 + C_2 (108 + R_1)} (C_1 R_1 (b + C_1 R_1)
+ W(R_1))}{\sqrt{C_1 C_2 R_1} (C_1^2 R_1^2 +
W(R_1))} = 60\tag{2}
\end{equation}
and
\begin{equation}
\dfrac{2.22861\sqrt{C_1 R_1 + C_2 (108 + R_1)}}{\sqrt{C_1 C_2 R_1}} = 220000\tag{3}
\end{equation}
Mathematica crunches away and cannot seem to return a solution (or one that I'm willing to wait for  --long hours!). I can't tell if Mathematic is hung up or not able to solve the problem.
So my question is, how would I go about determining whether a system of equations like this has a solution in the first place?  Under what conditions would such a system be not solvable?
thank you

A: Hint (assuming the missing parenthesis in the numerator of $(2)$ is at the very end). Define:

*$m=\pi / 4 \cdot 1/d$

*$n=108$

*$p=60 / a$

*$q=220000 / 2.22861$
Let $T_1=R_1 C_1$, $T_2=R_1 C_2\,$, then the equations can be written as:
\begin{equation}
\dfrac{T_1}{T_1^2+W}=m \tag{1}
\end{equation}
\begin{equation}
\dfrac{T_1 \sqrt{T_1 + n C_2 + T_2} \,(b T_1 + T_1^2 + W)}{\sqrt{C_2 T_1} (T_1^2 + W)} = p \tag{2}
\end{equation}
\begin{equation}
\dfrac{\sqrt{T_1 + n C_2 + T_2}}{\sqrt{C_2 T_1}} = q \tag{3}
\end{equation}
Substituting $T_1^2+W=\cfrac{1}{m}T_1$ from $(1)$ into $(2)$ gives:
\begin{equation}\require{cancel}
\dfrac{\bcancel{T_1} \sqrt{T_1 + n C_2 + T_2} \,(b T_1 + \cfrac{1}{m} T_1)}{\sqrt{C_2 T_1} \cfrac{1}{m} \bcancel{T_1}} = p \;\;\iff\;\; \dfrac{(mb + 1) T_1\,\sqrt{T_1 + n C_2 + T_2}}{\sqrt{C_2 T_1}} = p \tag{2'}
\end{equation}
Dividing $(2') \div (3)$ gives:
\begin{equation}
\dfrac{(mb + 1) T_1\,\cancel{\sqrt{T_1 + n C_2 + T_2}}}{\bcancel{\sqrt{C_2 T_1}}} \cdot \dfrac{\bcancel{\sqrt{C_2 T_1}}}{\cancel{\sqrt{T_1 + n C_2 + T_2}}} = \frac{p}{q} \;\;\iff\;\; T_1 = \frac{p}{q \,(mb+1)}
\end{equation}
Substituting the just determined $T_1$ in $(1)$ and $(3)$ leaves two equations to be solved for $T_2,C_2\,$, which system turns out to be linear in $T_2,C_2\,$.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
The 2014 Hammersmith and Fulham Council election took place on 22 May 2014 to elect members of Hammersmith and Fulham Council in England. This was on the same day as other local elections.

Overall Results

After eight years of Conservative administration, the Labour Party took back control of the council.

Ward Results
(*) represents a candidate running from previous election.
(~) represents an equivalent to a previous candidate.

Addison

Askew

Avonmore and Brook Green

College Park and Old Oak

Fulham Broadway

Fulham Reach

Hammersmith Broadway

Munster

North End

Palace Riverside

Parsons Green and Walham

Ravenscourt Park

Sands End

Shepherds Bush Green

Town

Wormholt and White City

References

Hammersmith and Fulham
2014
21st century in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham
May 2014 events in the United Kingdom

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


For some people travel means relaxation and a break from normal life. Laying on the beach with a drink. Reading a book by the pool. Well, for me it doesn't – even though I sometimes wish that was enough. When summer turned out colder then expected, I started to look for a cheap holiday with sun, adventure, culture and nature. Preferably with hidden, private beaches and mountains. The destination had to be backpacking-friendly and I needed to be back in a week. Unsure on what I would find with my criteria, I looked around and I found… Croatia!
Direct budget flight from Sweden, easy to book accommodation on location and amazing local traffic. This country also seemed to tick off all my wishes, all within a reasonable distance to be able to get through it all in only one week. Ten days later I was sat on a plane to Croatia with my backpack, hoping I would have enough to do to cure my restless legs after a rainy summer. Damn, did I! This is my guide to get the most out of Croatia in one week with a backpack.
Croatia has over a thousand islands and many of them are easy accessible by ferries and boats. A perfect day trip (that with pleasure could be extended) is to rent a bike, bring it on the ferry and go island hopping between the different islands. Take your bike across and around the islands to find amazing, private swimming spots and beaches with clear, turquoise water. And, don't forget – you want to be able to swim everywhere, especially where no one else is. So bring water shoes so you won't hurt your feet (even though the photo above would look so much better without them!).
What strikes you the most when flying over Croatia, preparing to land, isn't the green water or the thousand islands. It's the mountains. From all seaside towns you can see the Dinaric Alps in the background. This makes it possible to go climbing in the morning and, later the same day, to cool down by the sea. There are many National Parks in the Dinaric Alps such as Risnjak, Paclenica and Sjeverni where there are amazing opportunities both for walking and climbing no matter if this is you first hike or your hundred-and-something.
This country is full of small well-kept old towns that are smorgasbords of history and architecture. You can find these old towns along the coast, on the hills and on the islands. Many of them are an amazing mixtures of medieval churches and city walls together with Roman monuments and Venetian gothic architecture. A must is to visit at least one of these old towns during your week in Croatia.
Ok, I will try to describe this without getting all overexcited. This is what I first saw when I researched Croatia and there was no turning back. Plitvice Lakes is a national park close to Bosnia Herzegovina that was founded in 1949. You get there easily by bus from most of the cities in Croatia. The park is covered by 16 absolutely clear green lakes and the whole park is full (then I mean FULL) of waterfalls. Imagine when you start to get tired of seeing new waterfalls since you already have like 200 photos. That is Plitvice. I only had one day here, but if you have more time then a week I recommend that you get yourself at least one more day to explore this amazing park.
If you only knew one thing about Croatia before you read this post, it was probably that it's the filming location of Game of Thrones. Most of the locations are in Split and Dubrovnik but it doesn't matter where you are in Croatia. Bus traffic is awesome and it is a small country. So you will be able to do this in one day. There are many guided GOT tours in that you can book yourself on, and otherwise internet is full of information about locations that you can just tap into your google-maps to do it the DIY-way.
Where there are mountains there are caves. Croatia has several really big and beautiful caves. Some of them you need to hike for hours in the Dinaric Alps to reach, while some you need a boat to be able to access on an island. To step into a cave is something really different. Filled with amazing cave formations that has been created during millions of years it also gives a feeling that time is different in there. The temperature of a cave tend to be the same all year round. so when you get into a cave it can be summer and 25 degrees outside, or winter and -10 degrees but on the inside it is all the same. In the cave there are no seasons.
When I got the recommendation to watch the sunset in Zadar, I didn't really understand the point until I was sitting there around 8 o'clock, watching the sky turn red while listening to the Sea Organ. The Zadar Sea Organ is an architectural sound art that with help of the waves plays amazing music and it is located right by the best sunset watching spot. To sit peacefully and just watch the sun go down accompanied by the music was truly hypnotic – no matter how touristy it might be. The perfect way to finish off an intense but absolutely wonderful holiday, and to say goodbye to Croatia.
Have you been to Croatia, or do you plan to visit? Let us know in the comments!
I've only been island hopping once when I was young and it was a blast! I did it in Thailand, but man, the Alps seem like a dream place to do it. So fun!
Yes, really loved Paklenica! Such an amazing spot for both hiking and climbing!
It sounds like the perfect place !
Croatia + adventures is my DREAM destination. Living in Hawaii makes it seem like a bit more than a hop & a skip away, but after reading this I feel like I MUST get there (sooner rather than later). Thanks for this post!
Such a beautiful country, I can't believe I still haven't visited! I don't live all that far away so I could make it... I hope to go to see Balkans next summer.
How are the tourists? I've heard Croatia became really popular with foreign tourists which resulted in crowds... Did you feel that?
Hi Ioanna! Yes it's true that there are much more tourists now then I think it was a few years ago. But I can really recommend going out on the islands, where it's much more quiet! You can find private beaches everywhere! For instance Ugljan just outside Zadar is easy to get to, but so much more quiet then the city.
Beautiful guide to a beautiful country! There's so much to see in Croatia and I want to return for more!


With the Weslo, you can engage your whole body in an exercise and fitness programmed workout. It doesn't matter whether you sit down or stand up this item starts to work perfectly.
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text:
Sugar Rautbord, Contributor
Author of three bestselling novels and a PR exec
Power Redefined at the 3rd Annual Forbes Women's Summit
On June 10th an invitation-only summit will assemble a multi-generational group of powerful women to forge partnerships, find solutions, and take action. Invitees include a diverse group of Women stakeholders, including CEOs, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, innovators as well as entertainers, disruptors, educators, artists and politicians. What these women do all have in common is the power to affect change in a world that is increasingly cognizant of the fact that women have seats at the head of the table in the corridors of commerce and real solutions to global concerns.
Jessica Alba, a Hollywood actress who currently graces the cover of Forbes, has added Founder and Chief Creative Officer of The Honest Company to her list of credits, boasting a current valuation of $1 billion since 2012, its first year selling safe, non-toxic products. "Details and hard work," the same principles Forbes writer Claire O'Connor says propelled her film career, are now applied to her "Safety Sells" Company. Ensuring safety in all products we introduce into our bodies and homes is a critical issue of our time.
"The focus of this year's Women's Summit is on transforming the rules of engagement. Today's leaders are redefining pathways to power in their businesses, communities and in the social causes they champion," says Moira Forbes, Forbes Women's Summit Host and President of ForbesWoman. "Most importantly, the Summit will harness the intellect and influence of these leaders in order to build partnerships and bring about much-needed change on critical issues of our time."
The Honest Company, presently focused on stylish and non-toxic diapers, has been able to successfully expand its efforts to create more products in categories such as dish soap, kitchen cleaners, laundry detergent, multi-vitamins, and the like, meeting a principled call-to-arms and addressing critical consumer demand.
Harvard MBA Thai Lee, CEO of the IT provider SHI International, has $6 billion in sales and 3000 employees worldwide and is well on her way, with 60% of the privately held company's shares, to becoming one of just 18 self-made female billionaires in the U.S. "I knew that the best chance of success for me was to start my own business because after I x-ed out all the professions I could not be successful in, that's what I was left with," Thai Lee shares.
Sara Blakely, the 44-year-old billionaire who founded Spanx, met a need amongst other women for body shaping hosiery, and fifteen years later her brand is creating sustainability and a host of philanthropies. By participating in the Forbes Women's Summit these powerful women are able to share invaluable stories of growth and, in many cases, entrepreneurial experience and motives with the other participants.
One of the panels, "Building Entrepreneurial Capital," will be introduced by Christina Smedley, Global Brand and Communications Officer of PayPal and moderated by Gayle King, Editor-at-Large of O, The Oprah Magazine; Co-Host, CBS This Morning. Also contributing will be panelists Ivanka Trump, Vice-President Executive of Acquisitions and Development of TRUMP Organization and Founder of The Ivanka Collection; Alba, Blakely, and Jennifer Hyman, Co-Founder & CEO Rent the Runway.
Tory Burch, Steve Forbes and Moira Forbes, President & Publisher of ForbesWoman, backstage at the 2014 Forbes Women's Summit in NYC. (Credit: Glen Davis/Forbes)
Moira Forbes will be interviewing The Honorable Nancy Pelosi, House Democratic Leader, The U.S. House of Representatives early in the session. The Alzheimer's Association will be presenting the Forbes Impact Award in Brain Powered Advocacy to this influential collection of philanthropists. On another panel Melanne Verveer, United States Ambassador at-Large for Women's Issues and Executive Director at Georgetown Institute for Women will be addressing "Power Today and Leveraging Influence To Engender Change" with Deborah Dugan, Chief Executive Office of RED.
The Forbes Women's Summit promises to be an informed session for an outstanding collection of women and all the other women who will be sharing the experience through the media.
Business Rent The Runway Donald Trump Jessica Alba Alzheimer's Disease

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


I can not believe it has been a year. A whole year since I kissed my babies heads; a whole year since I held them in my arms. A year is a long time. A very long time to miss your babies and long to hold them. Those feelings have not weakened, but my hope and peace have strengthened leaving me in a much better place emotionally than I was a year ago, physically, too! I was looking at their picture yesterday and I had one of those moments where you go too deep in thought and you confuse and amaze yourself. Do you know what I mean? I had these random thoughts going through my mind, "Those are your babies." "You had identical twins!" "You had conjoined twins!" "Your babies died a year ago." OK, so that was what I like to call "wallowing," so I stopped and busied myself with a project. But through out the day when I would look at the clock I would think, "Oh at this time a year ago, I was finding out they would be born that day," or "by now I was holding them." Which was just something I had to do. We took birthday balloons to the cemetery yesterday and went out to eat with Matt's family. Over all, we had a good day. I am still thankful to be a part of God's plan, and I know he has a great plan for me, my life, and my family. I really hope it involves more children, but I am open to God's will, no matter what it is. Thank you for your love and support, with out you all we would have a hard time finding the strength some days. God is GOOD--that hasn't changed over the last year, and it never will. I will thank God everyday for my many blessings, and try to wait patiently for the longings of my heart that God knows without me ever uttering a prayer. I uploaded some sweet pictures of our time with Joshua and Caleb to share with you. I think most of these you might not have seen on the blog before. Have a good day!
This is July 4th, 2008. Billie always makes the best out of a situation. I was on bed rest and couldn't really do much, and she never complained. Not even for a minute. She really enjoyed the sparklers. The picture of me is at the end of June when we were in D.C. for a second opinion for the boys and their chances of survival or separation. I just thought you might want to see a picture of the boys at this time last year right before they were born!
We have decided we hate July. I know that is terrible, and part of me actually loves it, too. It is the month my beautiful boys were born. But it is also the month that I lost Michael, Joshua and Caleb, and even my beloved Grandma. All in different years, of course. It is just a very hard month, and I know once we get through this our "first" and Joshua and Caleb's first birthday, the next year will be easier and each following year will get easier. I find myself every day drifting off in deep thoughts about what I was doing this day a year ago. My babies were kicking and squirming in my belly, so strong and full of life. I just wanted to keep them there, safe and healthy. I would have gladly just stayed pregnant forever to keep them with me. I am sure that would have eventually gotten old, but at that time I was so scared for their birth. I didn't know I could survive what I have. I was so scared just to have the surgery. The doctors had warned us of all the things that could go wrong. I was so scared that I wouldn't survive, and if I did, that my uterus would not. I was terrified that my babies would be stillborn. I was terrified that they would not live through their first day. I was terrified that they would live and be in pain or have to undergo painful operations and medical testing. I trusted God to the best of my ability, but I am a worrier by nature and I was plagued with so many fears. I remember July 4Th last year, we took Billie outside and did a few fireworks and sparklers. We actually have a couple pictures of that night. We didn't know in just 11 days our boys would be born. We were really hoping to stay pregnant longer, to help their lungs develop. God knew that would never happen, and he took control and had them come on the 15Th. God is so good, I could not have planned it out better. They were born alive, and we got to spend time with them alive. It was too short, but it was God's will and we were able to accept that. If they had lived a few days they would have needed surgery to correct their Gastroschisis. That would have been a difficult decision to make, and excruciating to go through a surgery with their heart being so fragile. God is so good, he took that decision away from us. Looking back, I still long to have them in my arms and to see them sleep and hear them cry; to watch them wiggle and stretch and yawn, and to see their faces light up when Billie is around. But I also know that we were a part of a miracle of God's. Our boys were God's miracle twin boys. I wouldn't take that experience back for anything. I love our babies and I miss them every second, but I know their short life was a part of God's plan and I am glad I was able to be a part of that plan. I am so thankful to God for giving us the strength and peace we needed to get through this past year. Without God, we would not have made it. We still have hard days, and we always will, but we are living our lives and I didn't know if that would be possible as I felt them move in my belly and I thought about life without them. As this month goes on I will try to share more of my thoughts and memories with you. For now, I need to move on.
July will be a busy month for us! Matt is working, Praise the Lord! Billie has three different day camps to go to this month. Ijams Nature Camp, British Soccer Camp, and Horse Camp! She is very excited for all three. I can't wait to see her learn to ride and care for a horse. She loves horses, as most little girls do, so I am excited for her to get to spend a week learning all about them. I must mention that without her grandparents, Brian & Cathie and Bill & Wanda, these camps would not be possible for her this summer. As you know, Matt was out of work from January to just a few weeks ago and we would not have been able to afford any camps this year, let alone three! We are very lucky to have such wonderful and supportive parents. Thanks to all of you--I love you so very much!
I am looking forward to next semester at UT. I am excited for most of my classes. All of them are either Nutrition courses or Food Science courses. It should prove very interesting. I am glad I have all of my chemistry, physiology and pre-rec courses behind me now. I see light at the end of the tunnel! I should be able to finish in just 4 more semesters! Which is actually 2 years, but saying 4 semesters seems so much shorter somehow. I know, I am silly. Whatever works, I say.
I guess that is a good update for now. More over then next week + as we get closer to Joshua and Caleb's first birthday!


text:
Q: Why am I unable to set cookie name with PHP's setcookie()? I am trying to use the following code to set a cookie:
<?php
    setcookie("sid",      // Name
        session_id(),         // Value
        0,                    // Expiry
        "/",                  // Path
        ".mysite.com",        // Domain
        true,                 // HTTPS Only
        true);                // HTTP Only
    session_start();
    ...

According to my code the name should be "sid", but instead the cookie name is always "PHPSESSID". However, if I add session_name("sid"); just before session_start(), then the session name IS set to "sid". What am I doing wrong?

A: session_start creates a session cookie, using the session.name configuration value.
session_name can be used to override the default. You should use it (or configure it globally in php.ini), not manually attempt to set a cookie, as session_start has no idea that your custom sid cookie means anything relevant to sessions - for all PHP knows, that cookie might be storing whether or not the user's name is Sid.