6 non-materialistic, experiential presents that are great for kids!
The tots in your house may be making their holiday lists and checking them many times over, but some of our favorite presents aren't the kind that come wrapped up. We love experiential gifts because they truly keep on giving -- and they help kids and families move away from material things and focus on playing, learning, and doing. Going to the ballet may inspire a young one to learn to dance, and a membership to the local science museum helps little ones learn about the world around them and encourages them to question and experiment. We also like that many of these gifts are activities families can do together. Read on for 6 experiential presents that will get your kids thinking, dreaming, and exploring.
Kids of all ages love animals, especially ones that they don't see every day. Perpetuate this passion by sponsoring an endangered, rescued, or orphaned animal. Kids will love getting updated pics and info on "their" animal, and the message clearly comes through that even a half a world away, we can positively impact the natural world. Looking for something closer to home? Rescue organizations such as Farm Sanctuary let kids sponsor rescued farm animals.
My personal favorite gift for my kids- a museum membership. I love watching my kids explore a new museum, knowing we can come back and visit over and over again. Science and discovery museums are great for learning about the environment, but don't feel limited: children's museums often feature rotating exhibits on topics such as health and our bodies or global cultures. More traditional art and cultural museums are also offering children's programs more and more, so be sure to check out what is in your area.
Also, many museums feature reciprocal memberships, where admission is free or reduced at similarly-themed sites around the country. We love staking out the local children's museums whenever we are traveling and have literally saved hundreds of dollars in admission fees.
No airplane trips in your family's future? No problem. Take an imagination vacation with the kids, and let their minds travel all over the world. Let kids choose a destination, then find books, music, and educational videos (Sesame Street is a great resource for this) about their chosen vacation spot. Whip up some delicacies, learn a few vocabulary words, play dress up in traditional garb, and spend a few days soaking up another culture. Your imagination vacation will be a lot lighter on your wallet than a regular one and just as rich in memories.
There's something about live music or theater that is irreplaceable and totally magical: watching their faces light up and their feet start moving as they get totally engrossed in what they are seeing and hearing. Younger kids will likely do well with a short event that involves music or storytelling, while older kids can sit through longer, more elaborate productions. Local theatre and music venues are usually great about bringing in acts with different cultural and ethnic backgrounds-great for exposing Mom and Dad to new instruments, music, and experiences as well! Additionally, check out school productions from the middle school level up through colleges and universities: they are often free or offer discounted rates.
While piano lessons or a kiddie yoga class may not be at the top of your child's holiday wish list, they are a great way to get them to try something original and explore diverse interests. So let older kids peruse the class catalogue at a local arts league or YMCA: they will likely meet new friends as well as learn a valuable skill. Your child's new talent may inspire the whole family to step out of their comfort zone-and try something like circus classes!
Maybe your child has always wanted to learn how to sew, but you have no idea how. Enlist another parent or adult friend with a different skill set than yours and swap kids for a few hours. You can teach their child how to make homemade muffins, while your little builder gets a lesson in woodworking. Skill swapping is free, fun, and a great way to teach kids about how everyone has something different to offer!
Also, many museums feature reciprocal memberships, where admission is free or reduced at similarly-themed sites around the country. We love staking out the local children's museums whenever we are traveling and have literally saved hundreds of dollars in admission fees.
There's something about live music or theatre that is irreplaceable and totally magical: watching their faces light up and their feet start moving as they get totally engrossed in what they are seeing and hearing. Younger kids will likely do well with a short event that involves music or storytelling, while older kids can sit through longer, more elaborate productions. Local theatre and music venues are usually great about bringing in acts with different cultural and ethnic backgrounds-great for exposing Mom and Dad to new instruments, music, and experiences as well! Additionally, check out school productions from the middle school level up through colleges and universities: they are often free or offer discounted rates.


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Q: How to create personalized font in Ubuntu? Is there any other way to create a very own personalized font or character in ubuntu?

A: Try FontForge. From the Fontforge project page:

FontForge allows you to edit outline and bitmap fonts. You may create
  new ones or modify old ones.

If you just want to install some crazy fonts that other people have created, have look at almost any truetype fonts you can find with google.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


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Paul Merson states his prediction for Arsenal v Man City
The former Arsenal midfielder doesn't envisage Arsene Wenger's side springing a surprise against Manchester City
Friday 21 April 2017, 09:15 UK
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger Photo: The Sport Review
Paul Merson believes Manchester City will beat Arsenal in their FA Cup semi-final at Wembley on Sunday afternoon.
Arsene Wenger's side have struggled with consistency in the second half of the season after crashing out of the Champions League and falling off the pace in the Premier League title race.
Indeed, the north London side have lost seven of their last 13 games in all competitions to leave Wenger's future at the Emirates Stadium in doubt.
Manchester City are in fourth place in the Premier League table and two points behind Liverpool in the race to secure a place in next season's Champions League competition.
The Citizens were held to a 2-2 draw with Arsenal at The Emirates last month despite Pep Guardiola's men dominating the Premier League clash in north London.
Writing in his Sky Sports column about Arsenal's clash against Manchester City, former England midfielder backed the Citizens to secure their place in the final.
"I have to go for Manchester City here. It was a stroll in the park for them at times at the Emirates and they took their eye off the ball to end up with a 2-2 draw," Merson said.
"I just don't see Arsenal producing a big performance at the moment, the way they have capitulated in recent weeks has been really poor."
MORE: Latest Chelsea news and views
Chelsea are four points clear of second-placed Tottenham Hotspur.
Martin Keown: This is what Chelsea manager Antonio Conte got wrong at Man United
Shaun Wright-Phillips states 'perfect' prediction for Arsenal v Man City

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


The Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board is committed to the delivery of a successful International Languages Elementary program (ILE). Language classrooms are dynamic and engaging and promote effective language learning. The ILE is an important educational experience and opportunity for elementary students.
* Please note, Tentative Schedule below – Classes are based on sufficient enrollment.
** Days, Times and Languages available are subject to change.
Join any time! On-going enrollment throughout the year.
All students from JK – Gr 8 at any language level are more than welcome to join at any time!


Mid-Atlantic winters can get pretty cold so if you're planning a trip to Baltimore this winter make sure to pack everything that you need to stay warm and dry. Warm coats and scarves with hats and gloves are a must but that doesn't mean that you have to look like a snow man to stay warm.
With lots of really stylish parkas and ski jackets available at affordable prices, even if you come from a warmer climate you can still get great use out of one after it keeps you warm on your trip to the east coast.
One of the best things about winter is the fashion sense you have to develop in order to stay warm and look cute at the same time. Accessories like hats, scarves, and ear muffs serve dual purposes: warm gear and outfit enhancer.
We lose 90% of our body heat through our head, so a warm hat is an absolute essential for cold winter days. Yes, the Cossack style hat with ear flaps looks a little nerdy but it's probably the warmest hat ever made. What better way to make your own fashion statement?
Ear muffs are another handy thing to take on a trip to Baltimore in the winter, especially if you can't bring yourself to wear a Cossack hat. Fluffy warm ear muffs are a head's second best friend. They come in lots of cool styles and colors – from the ostentatious, like hot pink fluffy ear muffs, to the the sleek, like a more conservative black pair of ear muffs.
Also vital is a good thick scarf, cashmere is a girl's best friend. It's light soft texture, keeps you warmer than most wools and synthetics. Like one's hat, a scarf can be a personal expression and an opportunity to add color to your winter outfit.
Keeping your hands warm is vital, so make sure that your choice of a winter jacket has good, warm, deep pockets and take a good pair of gloves. Ski gloves are good in a pinch but you will really thank yourself if you invest in a pair of fleece lined leather or kid skin gloves because you won't have to sacrifice your dexterity for warmth.
One thing that most people from warmer climates might forget is to take a pair of waterproof shoes or galoshes to protect your shoes. Snow may look beautiful at first but it quickly turns to slush and can ruin a good pair of shoes and freeze a toe or two.


People of all walks of life and professions have to make a myriad of decisions based on ethics every day. Resisting unethical temptations requires effort and energy. Throughout the day, our energy wanes, and so does our self control. According to the Harvard Business Review (HBR), people are more likely to behave unethically when their energy is low.
HBR conducted two studies to test their theory, which stated that morning people (those who naturally wake up early in the morning) are less ethical later in the day and night owls (those who naturally stay up late at night) are less ethical in the morning. The first study was conducted in morning sessions, in which participants had to self-report on how many matrices they could solved as each would help them earn more money. In this case, the night owls were more likely to behave unethically.
In a second study, HBR held sessions early in the morning and late at night. Each participant took part in a die rolling test in which they had to self report the number rolled, and would get paid based on the number that was reported. Morning people reported getting higher rolls in the late-night session than they did in the morning sessions. Additionally, night owls reported higher rolls in the morning sessions than they did at night.
The below graph displays the how ethical behaviour is affected by energy levels.
"The important organizational takeaway from these findings is that individual may be more likely to act unethically when they are 'mismatched' –that is, making a decision at the wrong time of day for their own chronotype. Managers should try to learn the chronotype (lark, owl, or in between) of their subordinates and make sure to respect it when deciding how to structure their work," the HBR article reads.
When structuring your day, keep in mind your natural body clock and how that might impact your own behaviour. If you are a morning person, you will have a harder time resisting temptation at night, and a night owl will feel the same in the morning. Pay attention to your energy levels and, especially for solopreneurs and freelancers, create a schedule in which you are performing your most important work when you have high energy levels.


Do you provide free quotations?
Yes we do! We know that a lot of kitchen companies today are unwilling to provide free quotations but we always strive to offer our potential clients the best possible service and in this respect, providing free quotations is just another way we show that we put our clients first.
We do not charge for consultations. We offer expert advice on kitchens, built-in cupboards, vanities and on anything else that we can. Give us a call to set up an appointment with one of our consultants and we can get the ball rolling!
We usually request a house plan and if that is not available, we do send our clients a step by step guide which explains how to go about measuring the room in question. If you are unable to do this and you are not too far out from our factory, we do try to make a plan to come out and measure for you. Usually however, we reserve coming out to measure until final plans have been done and you are willing to go ahead with the project.
Can you give me a few different options when quoting?
We most certainly can. If you are unsure about the price difference between materials we do offer alternate quotations for you to get a better idea of what to budget for your new project. We do however limit the amount of changes to quotations to 3 per client. However, if you are willing to sign off on a quotation and then have changes that need to be made, we will gladly make changes to both designs and quotations until you are satisfied.
Do you give out your floorplans?
Unfortunately, we do not give out our floorplans without a signed contract but we would love to have you come into our showroom so that your consultant can do a walkthrough of the project with you and explain anything regarding the quotation and designs. We often find it easier if you come through and see the showroom for yourself so that you can touch, feel and see the products to get a better understanding of what we are offering you.
How long does it take to process my order and go ahead with installation after my first payment has been made?
Installation takes place 2-6 weeks after the 50% deposit has reflected in our account. We allow up to 6 weeks for materials that might need to be shipped in (Eg. Niemann) but our consultants constantly communicate with you so that you are aware on what the schedule is looking like.
How long will it take to draw up a quotation for me?
If the project you would like us to quote on is small (eg. Just a kitchen or maybe a kitchen with 1-2 bedroom cupboards) we are able to provide a quotation within the 24-48 hour mark. For full house quotations, please allow the consultant 3-4 day.
Can I get the units from Palmin, but have my own team come and collect the items and do the installation themselves?
You are more than welcome to go with this approach. We will gladly provide the material for the project. Just ensure that the consultant you are working with is aware of this to ensure that we do not charge you for delivery / installation to make sure that you are able to compare prices correctly.


I was most interested in your brief report (Worst Words Ever Heard, p4, 24.3.04).
I was most interested in your brief report (Worst Words Ever Heard, p4, 24.3.04). It mentioned "at the end of the day" being one of the most irritating phrases, along with "at this moment in time".
Here are some of mine - conspicuous by his absence; last but not least; poor but honest; selling like hot cakes. They are now as dead as mutton. Oops.
Incorrect pronunciations also irritate me, e.g. Al Kyeeda for Al Keida (Al Kyda) and Middlesbrough to rhyme with go.


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Nand Kishor Contributor
Nand Kishor is the Product Manager of House of Bots. After finishing his studies in computer science, he ideated & re-launched Real Estate Business Intelligence Tool, where he created one of the leading Business Intelligence Tool for property price analysis in 2012. He also writes, research and sharing knowledge about Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Data Science, Big Data, Python Language etc... ...
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Nand Kishor is the Product Manager of House of Bots. After finishing his studies in computer science, he ideated & re-launched Real Estate Business Intelligence Tool, where he created one of the leading Business Intelligence Tool for property price analysis in 2012. He also writes, research and sharing knowledge about Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Data Science, Big Data, Python Language etc...
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What Will The Rise of Conscious Machines Mean for Human Beings?
By Nand Kishor |Email | Jun 29, 2017 | 9846 Views
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Zombies and aliens may not be a realistic threat to our species. But there's one stock movie villain we can't be so sanguine about: sentient robots. If anything, their arrival is probably just a matter of time. But what will a world of conscious machines be like? Will there be a place in it for us?
Artificial intelligence research has been going through a recent revolution. AI systems can now outperform humans at playing chess and Go, recognizing faces, and driving safely. Even so, most researchers say truly conscious machines - ones that don't just run programs but have feelings and are self-aware - are decades away. First, the reasoning goes, researchers have to build a generalized intelligence, a single machine with the above talents and the capacity to learn more. Only then will AI reach the level of sophistication needed for consciousness.
But some think it won't take nearly that long.
"People expect that self-awareness is going to be this end game of artificial intelligence when really there are no scientific pursuits where you start at the end," says Justin Hart, a computer scientist at the University of Texas. He and other researchers are already building machines with rudimentary minds. One robot wriggles like a newborn baby to understand its body. Another robot babbles about what it sees and cries when you hit it. Another sets off to explore its world on its own.
No one claims that robots have a rich inner experience - that they have pride in floors they've vacuumed or delight in the taste of 120-volt current. But robots can now exhibit some similar qualities to the human mind, including empathy, adaptability, and gumption.
Beyond it just being cool to create robots, researchers design these cybernetic creatures because they're trying to fix flaws in machine-learning systems. Though these systems may be powerful, they are opaque. They work by relating input to output, like a test where you match items in column â??A' with items in column â??B'. The AI systems basically memorize these associations. There's no deeper logic behind the answers they give. And that's a problem.
Humans can also be hard to read. We spend an inordinate amount of time analyzing ourselves and others, and arguably, that's the main role of our conscious minds. If machines had minds, they might not be so inscrutable. We could simply ask them why they did what they did.
"If we could capture some of the structure of consciousness, it's a good bet that we'd be producing some interesting capacity," says Selmer Bringsjord, an AI researcher at the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, N.Y. Although science fiction may have us worried about sentient robots, it's really the mindless robots we need to be cautious of. Conscious machines may actually be our allies.
Children interact with the programmable humanoid robot Pepper, developed by French robotics company Aldebaran Robotics, at the Global Robot Expo in Madrid in 2016. AFP-Getty Images
ROBOT, KNOW THYSELF
Self-driving cars have some of the most advanced AI systems today. They decide where to steer and when to brake by taking constant radar and laser readings and feeding them into algorithms. But much of driving is anticipating other drivers' maneuvers and responding defensively - functions that are associated with consciousness.
"Self-driving cars will have to read the minds of what other self-driving cars want to do," says Paul Verschure, a neuroscientist at Universitat Pompeu Fabra in Barcelona.
As a demonstration of how that might look, Hod Lipson, an engineering professor at Columbia University and co-author of a recent book on self-driving cars, and Kyung-Joong Kim at Sejong University in Seoul, South Korea built the robotic equivalent of a crazy driver. The small round robot (about the size of a hockey puck) moves on a loopy path according to its own logic. Then a second robot is set with the goal of intercepting the first robot no matter where the first one started, so it couldn't record a fixed route; it had to divine the moving robot's logic.
People expect that self-awareness is going to be this end game of AI when really there are no scientific pursuits where you start at the end.
Using a procedure that mimicked Darwinian evolution, Lipson and Kim crafted an interception strategy. "It had basically developed a duplicate of the brain of the actor - not perfect, but good enough that it could anticipate what it's going to do," Lipson says.
Lipson's team also built a robot that can develop an understanding of its body. The four-legged spidery machine is about the size of a large tarantula. When switched on, its internal computer has no prior information about itself. "It doesn't know how its motors are arranged, what its body plan is," Lipson says
But it has the capacity to learn. It makes all the actions it is capable of to see what happens: how, for example, turning on a motor bends a leg joint. "Very much like a baby, it babbles," Lipson says. "It moves its motors in a random way."
After four days of flailing, it realizes it has four legs and figures out how to coordinate and move them so it can slither across the floor. When Lipson unplugs one of the motors, the robot realizes it now has only three legs and that its actions no longer produce the intended effects.
"I would argue this robot is self-aware in a very primitive way," Lipson says.
Another humanlike capability that researchers would like to build into AI is initiative. Machines excel at playing the game Go because humans directed the machines to solve it. They can't define problems on their own, and defining problems is usually the hard part.
In a forthcoming paper for the journal "Trends in Cognitive Science," Ryota Kanai, a neuroscientist and founder of a Tokyo-based startup Araya discusses how to give machines intrinsic motivation. In a demonstration, he and his colleagues simulated agents driving a car in a virtual landscape that includes a hill too steep for the car to climb unless it gets a running start. If told to climb the hill, the agents figure out how to do so. Until they receive this command, the car sits idle.
Then Kanai's team endowed these virtual agents with curiosity. They surveyed the landscape, identified the hill as a problem, and figured out how to climb it even without instruction.
"We did not give a goal to the agent," Kanai says. "The agent just explores the environment to learn what kind of situation it is in by making predictions about the consequence of its own action."
The trick is to give robots enough intrinsic motivation to make them better problem solvers, and not so much that they quit and walk out of the lab. Machines can prove as stubborn as humans. Joscha Bach, an AI researcher at Harvard, put virtual robots into a "Minecraft"-like world filled with tasty but poisonous mushrooms. He expected them to learn to avoid them. Instead, they stuffed their mouths.
"They discounted future experiences in the same way as people did, so they didn't care," Bach says. "These mushrooms were so nice to eat." He had to instill an innate aversion into the bots. In a sense, they had to be taught values, not just goals.
In addition to self-awareness and self-motivation, a key function of consciousness is the capacity to focus your attention. Selective attention has been an important area in AI research lately, not least by Google DeepMind, which developed the Go-playing computer.
"Consciousness is an attention filter," says Stanley Franklin, a computer science professor at the University of Memphis. In a paper published last year in the journal "Biologically Inspired Cognitive Architectures," Franklin and his colleagues reviewed their progress in building an AI system called LIDA that decides what to concentrate on through a competitive process, as suggested by neuroscientist Bernard Baars in the 1980s. The processes watch for interesting stimuli - loud, bright, exotic - and then vie for dominance. The one that prevails determines where the mental spotlight falls and informs a wide range of brain function, including deliberation and movement. The cycle of perception, attention, and action repeats five to 10 times a second.
The first version of LIDA was a job-matching server for the U.S. Navy. It read emails and focused on pertinent information while juggling each job hunter's interests, the availability of jobs, and the requirements of government bureaucracy.
Since then, Franklin's team has used the system to model animals' minds, especially behavioral quirks that result from focusing on one thing at a time. For example, LIDA is just as prone as humans are to a curious psychological phenomenon known as "attentional blink." When something catches your attention, you become oblivious to anything else for about half a second. This cognitive blind spot depends on many factors and LIDA shows humanlike responses to these same factors.
Pentti Haikonen, a Finnish AI researcher, has built a robot named XCR-1 on similar principles. Whereas other researchers make modest claims - create some quality of consciousness - Haikonen argues that his creation is capable of genuine subjective experience and basic emotions.
The system learns to make associations much like the neurons in our brains do. If Haikonen shows the robot a green ball and speaks the word "green," the vision and auditory modules respond and become linked. If Haikonen says "green" again, the auditory module will respond and, through the link, so will the vision module. The robot will proceed as if it heard the word and saw the color, even if it's staring into an empty void.
Conversely, if the robot sees green, the auditory module will respond, even if the word wasn't uttered. In short, the robot develops a kind of synesthesia.
"If we see a ball, we may say so to ourselves, and at that moment our perception is rather similar to the case when we actually hear that word," Haikonen says. "The situation in the XCR-1 is the same."
Things get interesting when the modules clash - if, for example, the vision module sees green while the auditory module hears "blue." If the auditory module prevails, the system as a whole turns its attention to the word it hears while ignoring the color it sees. The robot has a simple stream of consciousness consisting of the perceptions that dominate it moment by moment: "green," "ball," "blue," and so on. When Haikonen wires the auditory module to a speech engine, the robot will keep a running monolog about everything it sees and feels.
Haikonen also gives vibration a special significance as "pain," which preempts other sensory inputs and consumes the robot's attention. In one demonstration, Haikonen taps the robot and it blurts, "Me hurt."
"Some people get emotionally disturbed by this, for some reason," Haikonen says. (He and others are unsentimental about the creations. "I'm never like, â??Poor robot,'" Verschure says.)
A NEW SPECIES
Building on these early efforts, researchers will develop more lifelike machines. We could see a continuum of conscious systems, just as there is in nature, from amoebas to dogs to chimps to humans and beyond. The gradual progress of this technology is good because it gives us time adjust to the idea that, one day, we won't be the only advanced beings on the planet.
For a long while, our artificial companions will be vulnerable - more pet than threat. How we treat them will hinge on whether we recognize them as conscious and as capable of suffering.
"The reason that we value non-human animals, to the extent that people do, is that we see, based on our own consciousness, the light of consciousness within them as well," says Susan Schneider, a philosopher at the University of Connecticut who studies the implications of AI. In fact, she thinks we will deliberately hold back from building conscious machines to avoid the moral dilemmas it poses.
"If you're building conscious systems and having them work for us, that would be akin to slavery," Schneider says. By the same token, if we don't give advanced robots the gift of sentience, it worsens the threat they may eventually pose to humanity because they will see no particular reason to identify with us and value us.
Judging by what we've seen so far, conscious machines will inherit our human vulnerabilities. If robots have to anticipate what other robots do, they will treat one another as creatures with agency. Like us, they may start attributing agency to inanimate objects: stuffed animals, carved statues, the wind.
Last year, social psychologists Kurt Gray of the University of North Carolina and the late Daniel Wegner suggested in their book "The Mind Club" that this instinct was the origin of religion. "I would like to see a movie where the robots develop a religion because we have engineered them to have an intentionality prior so that they can be social," Verschure says. "But their intentionality prior runs away."
These machines will vastly exceed our problem-solving ability, but not everything is a solvable problem. The only response they could have to conscious experience is to revel in it, and with their expanded ranges of sensory perception, they will see things people wouldn't believe.
"I don't think a future robotic species is going to be heartless and cold, as we sometimes imagine robots to be," Lipson says. "They'll probably have music and poetry that we'll never understand."
Source: Futurism
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Posted 173 days ago | 5613 Views
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While Artificial Intelligence and data science make up part of most computer science undergrad degrees, it's at a post-grad level where students can really start to develop expertise.
The OpenAI API is a new way to access new AI models developed by OpenAI. It provides a general-purpose interface, which you could specify what you want it to do, with just a handful of examples.
Understanding the types of AI, how they work, and where they might add value is critical. AI, in short, is a pretty big deal.
The term Robotic Process Automation or simply RPA is drawing more and more attention nowadays and has put people in a dilemma that whether it is right to use it or not.
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MPPFG are pleased to announce that we no longer require TAC patients to pay a Gap Fee for services including Physiotherapy, Exercise Physiology, Strength & Conditioning, and Dietetics.
To be eligible, patients must have an active TAC Claim and TAC Claim Number. Call (03) 9534 0611 for more information.


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Magical Stacks Slot Review, RTP & Features
The online slot game Magical Stacks is brought to you by software developing giant Playtech, and although it has an Asian theme, it's a far cry from what you see most of the time in this genre. This particular offering shows us a different side of Asia – modern Japan. By that we mean high tech, bright and bold colors, as well as those big anime eyes. You will notice the main character in the slot game is a girl with pink hair who is accompanied by her white cat that also appears on the reels as a symbol. The backdrop is a flashy mixture of blue, pink, and purple colors, and you can see the title written both in English as well as Japanese at the top of the screen.
As far as the layout goes, the extravagance ends here. There is a grid featuring your common 5 reels and 3 rows which come with a total of up to 20 active paylines. This means that you will have the opportunity to regulate these paylines as you see fit. Hence, the minimum bet will only be 1p per single spin, while the maximum bet allows you to spread your wings a little more at £20 per spin.
Mystery Symbol
Look out for the box with the question mark appearing in stacks anywhere on the reels. This is the game's Mystery Symbol, and it has the capacity to randomly assume the form of any of the other symbols in the game and help to form winning sequences. However, it will not assume the shape of the Scatter and Coin symbols during gameplay.
The interesting thing about Magical Stacks is that there are actually two Wild symbols. One of them is present in the base game and appears as the pink-haired girl we described earlier. And the second is a white-haired girl only present in the Freespins Feature. Both act in an identical manner, though, appearing in any position on the reels. Both will also be able to substitute for all other symbols to help complete winning combos. The exception to this rule is the Scatter and Coin symbols.
By landing 3, 4 or 5 Scatter symbols anywhere in view you will trigger the Super Magical Freespins Feature. Yes, a dramatic name for a bonus, indeed, but just look at the genre. As a result of triggering the bonus you will receive a total of 10 freespins, and these will come with a multiplier of between 2x and 6x.
Better yet, you will also have the chance to increase that multiplier during the bonus round. This will happen every time you land the Coin symbol on reel 5. On the downside, though, every time you fail to land that Coin on reel 5 the multiplier will decrease by 1 – but it cannot go lower than 2x. There's another bright side here, which is that you can retrigger this feature indefinitely. Just land another 3 or more Scatters anywhere in view and voila.
Magical Stacks certainly isn't your typical Playtech offering and that's great. It's fast-paced, has a number of exciting features that come bearing terrific winning opportunities. Of course, the theme may not be everybody's cup of tea, but you can't please everyone.
Viking Mania


The GE Microwave Oven Grease Filter WB06X10288 works with many GE and Hotpoint XL1800 series microwaves featuring over the range (OTR) hoods, as well as some GE ranges. It features an aluminum mesh filter and measures 13" x 4 5/8" x 3/16".
The Filters Fast FFMH-002 Oven Hood Range Filter is the compatible replacement for the American Metal Filter Company RCP0806.
This Universal Oven Range Hood Filter (RYM1518G) is a trim to fit grease range oven filter for use with many over the range oven hoods (ducted and non-ducted), microwave ovens, and all other similar applications requiring grease elimination.
The GE WB06X10596 Microwave Grease Filter fits various GE & Hotpoint oven range hoods, countertop microwave ovens & over the range (OTR) microwave ovens. The range grease filter traps grease & odors from the air, thus protecting the appliance.


text:
Obama woos Vietnam amid China's economic rise, South China Sea aggression
Three-day trip could include offer to ease arms embargo
Cultivating relationships: President Obama will make his final trip to the G-7 summit next week, including a visit to Vietnam, where the president hopes to foster a mutual relationship against Chinese expansion in the waters around the country. (Associated Press) more >
By James Borton - Special to The Washington Times - - Wednesday, May 18, 2016
HANOI — From the busy street stalls around Hoan Kiem Lake to the grand French Colonial-style Metropole Hotel, Vietnam's capital is displaying its trademark hustle and bustle in the run-up to President Obama's landmark three-day visit that starts Monday.
While Vietnam, a war-hardened nation, can't choose its neighbors, it can certainly choose its friends. Once-implacable foes burdened by a bloody and tragic history, Washington and Hanoi increasingly share overlapping strategic interests that could redirect the trajectory of security cooperation in the contested South China Sea.
In his final six months in office, analysts say, Mr. Obama intends to make clear that Vietnam is a centerpiece of his administration's Asia-Pacific "pivot," including a trip here as part of his visit to attend the G-7 summit in Japan — his eighth and last as president — that starts May 26.
Never mind that Vietnam's leadership may feel some frustration since they have been relegated to his last year in office. More fundamentally, the White House recognizes that this trip is Mr. Obama's last opportunity to shine a light on a much discussed but long delayed priority — a shift of American focus from the chaotic Middle East to what is both the world's most dynamic economic region and one on course to be the next featured arena for great-power competition.
Two decades after trade normalization, the U.S. and Vietnam are now drawn closer together due to China's economic and geopolitical rise, and, in particular, Beijing's increasingly assertive claims to the South China Sea. One measure of the growing closeness: Vietnamese press outlets report that the U.S. delegation, including the president's advisers, security teams and representatives of private business groups, will total more than 1,000.
From a visitor's first arrival at Noi Bai international airport, the signs of American influence are everywhere. Just outside the capital, where American B-52s once launched the largest bombing strikes, is the site of a new Ford car factory. Nearby are towering billboards promoting Nike — one of the largest employers in the country. Mr. Obama's hosts will also be giving him a state dinner during his stay.
While trade, security and human rights may dominate the formal agenda for talks, there is rising speculation on Capitol Hill and among senior U.S. defense officials that Mr. Obama may offer a complete rollback of a decades-old U.S. arms embargo, one of the last vestiges of the Vietnam War era.
Maryland Sen. Benjamin L. Cardin, the ranking Democrat on the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, said in an email that he had "expressed to the administration that we must take care to ensure any potential arms sales are appropriate to our bilateral relationship and would support regional stability."
A potential offer to ease or repeal the embargo may be matched by a response from Hanoi to a U.S. Navy request for greater access to Cam Ranh Bay, a key outpost for the U.S. military during the Vietnam War that now could provide crucial access in the event of a crisis in the South China Sea.
Despite the continuing violence in the Middle East and the uncertainty brought on by the U.S. presidential fight, Mr. Obama and his team are said to be keen to reassure Asia Pacific nations — Vietnam chief among them — that the U.S. will maintain its commitments to the region. That includes deployment of up to 60 percent of the U.S. Navy fleet.
Like other countries in the region, Vietnam is seeking Washington's reassurance that it will balance China's militarization in the South China Sea.
The Communist Party of Vietnam, during its 12th National Congress held in January, selected incumbent General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, instead of the reformer Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung, to lead the party. Also, former public security chief Tran Dai Quang was installed as president. This proves worrisome for many in the West who sense it may signal a more authoritative turn with fewer freedoms.
But Phuc Huu Hoang, a member of the National Assembly, insisted that "there is no way that Vietnam will slow down economic and political reform, nor stop its own pivot to America and turn to China."
China vs. U.S.
China's economic clout and growing soft power represent an attraction, but talks with officials here make clear that Vietnam's party leadership prefers to maintain its independence and does not wish to be in any nation's orbit, whether that be China or the United States. Hanoi has eagerly sought U.S. investments and has signed on to Mr. Obama's Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal — one that pointedly does not include China — even though the TPP calls for more reforms, especially in state-owned enterprises, transparency and human rights.
Pentagon chief Ashton Carter and his advisers are seeking greater cooperation from Vietnam as they have accelerated the number of noncombat exercises at a time of escalating tension in the region. China's construction of islands on top of reefs, placement of advanced radar systems in the Spratlys and surface-to-air missiles and fighter jets in the Paracel Islands has advanced and deepened U.S.-Vietnam military cooperation.
After the Chinese placement in May 2014 of an oil rig by the China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) in what Vietnam said was its exclusive economic zone, the Obama administration, in a symbolic gesture, eased the arms embargo, allowing Hanoi to purchase American-made Coast Guard patrol vessels, a move backed by Republican Senate Committee on Armed Services Chairman John McCain.
Hanoi has used the South China Sea sovereignty disputes to urge closer military ties with the U.S.
"Vietnam calls on the U.S. to totally lift the arms embargo on Vietnam and believe that this element of barrier of the past should be removed to reflect the full normalization of our relations started two decades ago and the current level of our comprehensive partnership," Amb. Pham Quang Vinh said last month in a speech in Texas.
And in a recent U.S. Senate Committee on Armed Services hearing, where maps were displayed revealing how Chinese fighters could potentially strike throughout the South China Sea, the northern Philippines and Vietnam, Mr. Carter said he backed lifting the arms embargo and in stepping up defense trade. U.S. forces are already providing assistance to build up the capacity of Vietnam's maritime law enforcement agencies, the Coast Guard and the Vietnam Fishery Surveillance Force.
"Defense and security ties between the U.S. and Vietnam have grown as a result of a convergence of interests on territorial disputes in the South China Sea," said Carlyle A. Thayer, emeritus professor at the University of New South Wales at the Australian Defense Force Academy.
But Vietnam's authoritarian government and its spotty human rights record remain stumbling blocks to more robust ties.
"One of the United States' top demands is for Vietnam to improve the human rights environment. The situation has improved a great deal over the past decade, but Washington estimates there are still about 100 bloggers and democracy activists under detention," said Murray Hiebert, senior fellow and deputy director of the Southeast Asia Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington.


Skyridge vs. Jordan: The Beetdiggers and the Falcons. A more puzzling pair of 5A quarterfinal participants is hard to find.
Both squads have been enigmas at times this season, rising into the ranks of Utah high school football's elite before tumbling down to less lofty standings.
At one point, the Falcons trailed only the unbeaten Corner Canyon Chargers in the 5A rankings, while the Beetdiggers, led by star quarterback Crew Wakely, seemed as a good bet as any to make serious noise come playoff time.
A Week 8 loss to Springville ended Skyridge's claim to excellence, costing the Falcons both the Region 8 title and a number-one seed.
Back-to-back-back losses against Alta, Timpview and Corner Canyon, meanwhile, had the Beetdiggers fighting for their playoff lives.
Heading into last weekend's first-round contests against Skyline and Viewmont, it wouldn't have surprised anyone had Skyridge or Jordan's season come to an end.
The Falcons obliterated the Eagles, 55-0, while the Beetdiggers took down the top-seeded Vikings 28-20.
Teriipaia, meanwhile, feels much the same about his Beetdiggers.
"I think our team hasn't peaked yet, which is a good thing," said Teriipaia. "I think we are still, even this late in the season, getting a lot better and growing.
Wakely has been one of the best quarterbacks in Utah, completing 177 of 297 passes for 2,848 yards and 20 touchdowns all the while rushing 163 times for 1,315 yards and 20 additional scores.
Along with Wakely, Jordan has benefited from the play of running back Jake Shaver (151 carries for 728 yards and 15 scores) and receiver Ethan Bolingbroke (52 receptions for 1,008 yards and eight touchdowns).
Add in a defense that, while much maligned during the season (Jordan finished with the 15th-rated defense in 5A), proved stout against Viewmont, and the Beetdiggers look like a team to be reckoned with.
As for Skyridge, the Falcons are best characterized by their balanced approach.
For Lehman, the Falcons showed that in their beatdown of Skyline.
The Falcons have had 10 different players score rushing touchdowns this season, led by Ma'a Notoa (47 carries, 315 yards and five scores) and Alex Palmer (31 carries, 573 yards and five touchdowns).
Quarterback Jayden Clemons has excelled this season as well, throwing for 1,596 yards and 24 scores.


Dietrich Bonhoeffer was a famous pastor and theologian from the Germany of both World Wars. He famously took part in a plot to assassinate Hitler in 1942-1943. The plot ultimately failed, and he was arrested on April 5, 1943 in connection to that plot. While in prison in May 1943, he wrote this sermon to his close friend Eberhard Bethge, on the occasion of Eberhard's wedding. It is written down for posterity, and published as part of Bonhoeffer's 'Letters and Papers from Prison,' which is widely available as a book. Bonhoeffer was executed in the Flossenburg concentration camp on April 9, 1945, two weeks before the Allied armies reached the camp.
It is right and proper for a bride and bridegroom to welcome and celebrate their wedding day with a unique sense of triumph. When all the difficulties, obstacles, hindrances, doubts, and misgivings have been, not made light of, but honestly faced and overcome – and it is certainly better not to take everything for granted – then both parties have indeed achieved the most important triumph of their lives. With the 'Yes' that they have said to each other, they have by their free choice given a new direction to their lives; they have cheerfully and confidently defied all the uncertainties and hesitations with which, as they know, a lifelong partnership between two people is faced; and by their own free and responsible action they have conquered a new land to live in.
Every wedding must be an occasion of joy that human beings can do such great things, that they have been given such immense freedom and power to take the helm in their life's journey. The children of the earth are rightly proud of being allowed to take a hand in shaping their own destinies, and something of this pride must contribute to the happiness of a bride and bridegroom.
We ought not to be in too much of a hurry here to speak piously of God's will and guidance. It is obvious, and it should not be ignored, that it is your own very human wills that are at work here, celebrating their triumph; the course that you are taking at the outset is one that you have chosen for yourselves; what you have done and are doing is not in the first place, something religious, but something quite secular. So you yourselves, and you alone, bear the responsibility for what no one can take from you; or, to put it more exactly, you, Eberhard, have all the responsibility for the success of your venture, with all the happiness that such responsibility involves, and you, Renate, will help your husband and make it easy for him to bear that responsibility, and find your happiness in that. Unless you can boldly say today: 'That is our resolve, our love, our way', you are taking refuge in false piety. 'Iron and steel may pass away, but our love shall abide for ever.' That desire for earthly bliss, which you want to find in one another, and in which to quote the medieval song, one is the comfort of the other both in body and in soul – that desire is justified before God and man.
Certainly you two, of all people, have every reason to look back with special thankfulness on your lives up to now. The beautiful things and joys of life have been showered on you, you have succeeded in everything, and you have been surrounded by love and friendship. Your ways have, for the most part, been smoothed before you took them, and you have always been able to count on the support of your families and friends. Everyone has wished you well, and now it has been given to you to find each other and to reach the goal of your desires. You yourselves know that no one can create and assume such a life from his own strength, but that what is given to one is withheld from another; and that is what we call God's guidance. So today, however much you rejoice that you have reached your goal, you will be just as thankful that God's will and God's way have brought you here; and however confidently you accept responsibility for your action today, you may and will put it today with equal confidence into God's hands.
As God today adds His 'Yes' to your 'Yes', as He confirms your will with His will, and as He allows you, and approves of, your triumph and rejoicing and pride, He makes you at the same time instruments of His will and purpose both for yourselves and for others. In His unfathomable condescension God does add His 'Yes' to yours; but by doing so, He creates out of your love something quite new – the holy estate of matrimony.
God is guiding your marriage. Marriage is more than your love for each other. It has a higher dignity and power, for it is God's holy ordinance, through which He wills to perpetuate the human race till the end of time. In your love you see only your two selves in the world, but in marriage you are a link in the chain of the generations, which God causes to come and to pass away to His glory, and calls into His kingdom. In your love you see only the heaven of your own happiness, but in marriage you are placed at a post of responsibility towards the world and mankind. Your love is your own private possession, but marriage is more that something personal – it is a status, an office. Just as it is the crown, and not merely the will to rule, that makes the king, so it is marriage, and not merely your love for each other, that joins you together in the sight of God and man.
As you first gave the ring to one another and have now received it a second time from the hand of the pastor, so love comes from you, but marriage from above, from God. As high as God is above man, so high are the sanctity the rights, and the promise of marriage above the sanctity, the rights, and the promise of love. It is not your love that sustains the marriage, but from now on, the marriage that sustains your love.


text:
package kieker.tools.slastic.simulation.software.controller.exceptions;

/**
 *
 * @author Robert von Massow
 *
 */
public class NoSuchSeffException extends Exception {

	private static final long serialVersionUID = 4155896770149929148L;

	public NoSuchSeffException(final String seff) {
		super(seff);
	}

}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


The euro briefly went to 1.4320 overnight before returning to 1.4285 - the level it traded at for most of Thursday evening, after the initial surge. As long as price remains above the previous high of 1.4280, the pair will maintain its bullish tone. With no economic data out Friday, market sentiment and risk aversion will drive prices through to the week's close. The G7 summit starts later Friday and while it is probable European Ministers will try to raise the question of the weak dollar behind closed doors, it seems highly improbably that the US will permit the release of an official communique that mentions the dollar's exchange rate. The same goes for Japan and the yen, so any official statement on currencies will probably again focus on the Chinese yuan, given that China are not part of the G7. Markets effectively don't expect the dollar to get a public airing and that is why there has been a bold move to push the euro higher over the past few days. Today could prove to be volatile as currency traders closely track equity markets and volatility levels. If we get another run of momentum on the euro, we could see the single currency try to reach 2.0350 this afternoon. Stops should be placed at the overnight low of 1.4260 and if this gives way, we could be set for a return to 1.4240 and possibly even 1.42 later today. With no data and a lot of volatility out there, the safest option might be to stay away for the rest of the day and close out positions for the weekend. Any verbal intervention on the euro or dollar could see markets open at significantly different prices come Sunday night.
Despite all the forecasts of gloom for the UK housing sector and the potential for a major slowdown in the economy, today it was reported that the UK grew at an annualised 3.3% rate in quarter 3, above the 3.1% in quarter 2. It is the fastest economic growth seen for 3 years. The quarter on quarter rate at 0.8% was higher than the 0.7% forecast. Sterling has rallied back up towards USD2.05 against the dollar, while pushing the euro back to GBP0.6970 from the GBP0.70 reached overnight. Cable will struggle to hold above 2.05 in short-term unless there is more dollar weakness across the board. Sterling is still attracting plenty of selling interest with many analysts expecting a slowdown in the economy over the final quarter and into early next year. If the dollar stages a recovery late Friday, then cable could fall back to 2.04. there is no value n buying sterling at current levels against the dollar (2.0490), but sterling offers good value against the euro on any euro rallies towards 0.70.
USD/JPY hit 114.83 this morning as risk averse traders exit their long positions ahead of the G7 meeting. That is the lowest the pair has reached in 3 weeks and if equity markets significantly under-perform Friday, then we could see the yen reach 114. The yen will probably revert back to its funding role next week and weaken, unless there is an official statement from the G7 meeting directed at the currency. The euro has rallied back up to 164.90 against the Japanese currency at lunch-time, having fallen to 164.20 this morning. Expect the yen to weaken further today if US stock markets rally to the upside. In this event, the dollar could strengthen to 116, while the euro could reach 165.50.
The loonie hit yet another 31 year high Friday against the US dollar, in the wake of higher than expected consumer price inflation data and oil prices hitting $90 a barrel. USD/CAD fell over 80 points to 0.9653 soon after the CPI data showed the headline inflation rate in September rose to a much higher than expected 2.5% while the core rate slowed to 2.0%, in line with expectations. The headline rate was distorted by a massive increase in gasoline prices over the month and with the core rate (which excludes volatile items like food and energy) in check, it is unlikely to shift the Bank of Canada from its current neutral stance, so the market move we have seen today is a knee-jerk reaction. The loonie is grossly overbought at present and when we do see a genuine shift away form the currency, it is likely to be a very sharp one (CAD longs stand at 85%). The currency offers no value at present levels, and in terms of value against the loonie, the euro again offers the best buy, with the EUR/CAD cross back presently back down to1.38 today.
Yesterday's woeful report on US housing starts and building permits was far worse than expected and sent shockwaves through the markets and the yield on US treasurys nosedived. The dollar now finds itself under renewed pressure as markets begin to price in a further Fed rate cut at the end of October. The US dollar index has also sunk to its lowest print ever Thursday and all of this ahead of the G7 meeting which starts tomorrow and at which European officials are expected to voice concerns about the weakness of the US currency (albeit unofficially). Markets don't appear to expect anything to materialise from the G7, because the dollar continues to be sold off in large volumes. The euro this morning took out the 1.4280 lifetime high and hit a new high of 1.4312. With dollar sentiment so negative, the dollar is going to continue to struggle, with its rallies being limited to sell-offs owing to profit-taking. What is really worrying for the US currency is its sharp decline against a broad-based appreciation of both the yen and the Swiss franc today, which suggests that for now the dollar has been abandoned as a 'safe haven' currency by risk averse traders. The euro appears to offer little value at current levels, but the market may try to push it to as far as 1.45 in the near future. So long as the euro remains above the previous high of 1.4280, there is the potential for the pair to climb to at least 1.4350 by tomorrow. If the euro stalls and profit-taking ensues, then a fall back below 1.4280 will open the way for a retreat back to 1.4240, with an outside chance of a sharp decline to 1.4180 over the next 24 hours.
Sterling got a lift from a strong set of retail sales figures for September, which printed at 0.6% on the month, much higher than forecast. Cable rallied to just over 2.05, thanks mostly to a further dollar decline. Having taken out the 2-month high at 2.0492, cable now has the potential to rise towards 2.06 and the 28 year high at 2.0660. The pound fell against the euro this morning, with the single currency hitting 0.6984. With prospects of an interest rate cut in the UK this year now receding, on the back of stronger data, the pound should be able to keep the euro below 0.70 in the short term and again any rallies to this price level offer sell opportunities for EUR/GBP, although any attempt to take out 0.6950 is likely to hit resistance. UK third quarter GDP is out Friday and all the indications are that the number will match the robust 0.7% seen in quarter 2, for another annual 3.1% growth rate. A strong GDP figure should boost sterling and could see cable establish itself above USD2.05. On the crosses, sterling should be able to gain against the Canadian dollar and the Aussie dollar, particularly while risk appetite for the carry trade is somewhat more constrained.
The yen has gained significantly over the past day, with the aversion to risk, nervousness over the forthcoming G7 meeting, lower interest rate expectations for the US and a repatriation of funds all contributing to a strengthening Japanese currency. The currency has gained 100 points against the dollar since the close in New York Wednesday and the pair reached 115.23 today and is seemingly on its way to going lower. If equity markets continue to tumble, there is scope for further appreciation, possibly to as low as 114 by Friday. Against the euro, the yen should be able to push the single currency back towards 164 ahead of the weekend. But any shift in risk tolerance levels will see the yen once again go into retreat, so traders need to keep a firm eye on what is happening on equity markets.
Despite the record oil prices, the loonie has clung to the dollar for most of Thursday and it has lost out to all other currencies. The US dollar's broad retreat was triggered by data released Wednesday that shows that the US housing sector crisis is getting significantly worse, leading many to believe the US economy is headed for recession. While bad news for the US dollar, it is hardly good news for a Canadian economy that sends 80% of its exports to the US. The loonie could be the one currency to watch in the coming weeks, because with 85% of all open positions on the currency now long, if the fate of the Canadian economy is coupled with that of the US in the minds of investors, we could soon witness a major reversal in the USD/CAD currency pair. For now, the US dollar must hold the 0.97 line against the loonie, while a rally that sees the pair close above 0.9830 could signal a possible rethink on which direction the pair is going in the near future. Friday's consumer price inflation data from Canada is going to be crucial and a very soft set of figures should trigger a sell-off of some of the current CAD long positions. On the crosses, the CAD will probably remain under pressure against both the euro and the AUD.
We failed to see any real move upwards Tuesday and most of the price action was to the downside. 1.4150 was beached but not convincingly and immediate support for the euro is now found around 1.4140. US data yesterday was rather poor and with the international net capital flows coming in at a negative $163 billion in August, this should raise concerns within the US Treasury Department, as doubts amongst foreign investors intensify over the outlook for the US economy and by consequence dollar-denominated assets. August was the month when financial markets endured a major credit squeeze and this will have distorted the capital flow numbers and we will have to wait until next month to see if yesterday's shock report was a one-off, or the beginning of a worrisome trend. Wednesday sees key inflation and housing data released and the best outcome for the dollar will be a bigger rise than expected in inflation and a better than expected set of housing figures. The core inflation rate is expected to remain unchanged at 2.1%. but should this rise to 2.3% or more, the Fed's hands may be tied on interest rates later this month and it should give the dollar a much-needed lift. The housing data is expected to be poor – housing starts are forecast at a 1.285 million annual rate. If the number comes in sharply lower than this, then expect risk aversion levels to rise and currency markets to become more volatile. The euro's prospects of hitting the lifetime high of 1.4280 this week are reducing with each day, as we get closer to the G7 meeting at the weekend. With European politicians expected to raise the issue of the strong euro Vs the dollar and the yen at the weekend (unofficially), many would-be euro supporters will remain on the sidelines for fear of some form of intervention, thus curtailing the scope of immediate euro gains. The dollar does therefore have the potential to break to the downside, if the US inflation data is robust and we could possibly see a retreat to 1.41, or below, later on. If stock markets fall again, it will tend to hamper the euro. On balance, I would rather sell down Wednesday on any price advances towards 1.4240, presuming 1.4242 stays intact. Even if the euro does rally, it will find it difficult to hold its gains, given the wider risks at play.
Good old David Blanchflower didn't let the side down at October's MPC meeting, when being the only member of the committee to vote for a rate cut. The solitary vote is significant in market terms because it means a rate cut is now at least in the mindset of committee members and a cut is likely to command a more heated debate at the next Bank of England meeting in November, particularly following yesterday's soft inflation report and recent housing data that points to a slowdown in that sector. September's favourable employment report didn't reveal any new inflation concerns on the wage front and will have little impact on interest rate policy. Cable has managed to hold above the 2.03 line again today but it looks good value for a sell-down on any advances close to 2.04, with the possibility of a return to 2.0250 within the next few days. The pound will continue to struggle to make much progress against the euro, but should be able to prevent any immediate moves by the single currency to retake the 0.70 price level. Sterling will come under pressure on the yen and swiss franc crosses, if risk aversion levels rise again later.
The yen has given back nearly all of yesterday's gains this morning, as a bounce in European markets Wednesday has attracted a flood of carry trades. There is plenty of high risk data scheduled for release in the US though and any further sharp deterioration in US housing data could spark another sell-off in US equities and see the yen come back into favour. It is difficult to see the US dollar advancing beyond Y118 in the short-term, given the current level of negative sentiment, while any yen advances are likely to occur in bouts of sporadic attacks, similar to what we have seen in the past two days. A significant decline in stocks could see the yen push the dollar back below Y116, with the potential to spike lower towards Y115, if the trend continues into the tonight's session. The euro could rally back up to Y167 against the Japanese currency, if markets manage to stabilise.
The Bank of Canada issued a broadly neutral statement Tuesday, when voting to keep rates unchanged, as expected. They were not as vociferous in their language about the currency's high value as they might have been and many market players who are currently long on the CAD may see this as a let-off. At the same time, the statement did see inflation risks as tilting to the downside and have at least left the door slightly ajar for a cut, should events point to any deterioration in the economy. While oil prices are generally supportive of the loonie, the fact that prices are rising on the back of a weak US dollar and a slowing US economy should cause some alarm and the loonie will struggle to penetrate the 0.97 31-year low in the short-term. If US inflation data proves to be soft and US housing data is in line with expectations, the loonie should be able to hold its own. High US inflation data coupled with a rise in risk aversion levels could see the US dollar advance to 0.9850, if only temporarily. The euro is again a good buy at levels close to 1.38. A sharp fall in oil prices might also be seen as a reason to sell the CAD.
Currency markets are on a volatile footing Tuesday after stock markets declined overnight and we witnessed a sharp sell-off in the carry trade this morning. This has made the euro more vulnerable, because it has appreciated significantly against the yen in recent weeks. The euro has dropped to 1.4150 against the dollar this morning, a level that has held since the middle of last week and with no key US economic releases Tuesday, direction today will be determined by risk tolerance levels. A further unwinding of carry trades will undermine the euro and the pair could retreat to 1.41, with the outside possibility of sharp return back close to 1.40, if fear intensifies. If equity markets settle, then the current market price should be taken as a buy opportunity and the euro could bounce back to 1.4240. Bernanke's comments overnight during a speech in New York were not especially positive for the dollar and there is still a strong sense that the Fed will move to cut rates again, possibly at the end of this month. This will keep the US currency on the defensive in the short-term and any dollar rallies should prove to be temporary, so long as market conditions remain stable. October's ZEW business survey index for Germany was unchanged from September and this must be taken as a plus for the euro, given the concerns raging about higher energy costs and the high value of the euro. Euro inflation for September was confirmed at 2.1%, the first time the rate has exceeded the ECB's guideline rate of 2.0% since August 2006. With the ECB likely to maintain their hawkish stance against this background, there is every opportunity for the euro to take out the lifetime high of 1.4280 this week. For today, I would be inclined to buy around 1.4150 to 1.4160 with a stop at 1.4125 and a target price of 1.4240.
Sterling bulls took a knock this morning when September's consumer price inflation came in unchanged at a benign 1.8%. It is the third consecutive month that the CPI rate has come in below the Bank of England's 2% target. With inflation under control the Bank are in a position to lower UK interest rates within the next two months, if a further deterioration is seen in the housing sector or if financial markets encounter another credit crunch. We will find out on Wednesday, when the Bank of England minutes from the October meeting are released, just how dovish or otherwise thinking is on the Monetary Policy Committee. Sterling is certain to come under selling pressure against the euro and the dollar, particularly after it has rallied. Cable again looks like a good sell-down opportunity on levels close to 2.04, while it is difficult to see EUR/GBP breaking significantly below 0.6950 in the short-term, and any price near this level offers an opportunity for a rally back up towards 0.70. Sterling could fall sharply against the yen today, if the carry trade comes under increased pressure.
The yen came through like a train this morning as market panic overnight sent the first layer of carry traders running for the exits. USD/JPY went as low as 116.43 this morning and has currently settled around 116.75. The euro also fell by more than Y1.5 since last evening's close and it currently at 165.26. We may see further sharp appreciation by the Japanese currency is risk aversions remain high today and traders need to keep a close eye on the performance of US stock markets. If the Dow IA strikes triple digit losses again today, then we could see the dollar fall to at least Y116 and maybe 115.50. te euro could decline back as far as Y164 in the short-term. However, the yen is not a currency traders like to hold for long and if stock markets rebound, then the currency will depreciate sharply, possibly back as far as Monday's levels of Y117.50 against the dollar and Y167 against the euro. The biggest gains from a major carry unwind should be made on the AUD/JPY and NZD/JPY pairs. The yen is a dangerous currency to be trading in current market conditions and the rewards/losses can be substantial.
This is D Day in many respects for the loonie. With the currency having appreciated by 8% since the last Bank of Canada meeting in September, all eyes today (14:00 GMT) will be on what the Bank has to say about the country's runaway currency. A rate cut, though unlikely, cannot be ruled out, but at the very least I expect the Central Bank to issue a strongly worded statement in an attempt to rein in a currency that has gained a massive 20% against the US dollar in the past 6 months. A failure to do so will be taken as the Bank effectively turning a 'blind eye' and could propel the loonie to further rapid gains, particularly since it is now armed with accelerating oil prices. Today is a stern test of the Bank of Canada's mettle. The loonie will face a major reversal if rates are cut, or if the Bank's statement signals a shift to an easing policy. Such a shift could see the dollar return to parity against its Canadian counterpart in the coming days, even in the face of rising commodity prices. Anything less will be taken as the committee being passive towards the currency's appreciation and we could quickly return to the low at 0.97 for USD/CAD, with the possibility of a slide to 0.95 in the coming days. EUR/CAD and AUD/CAD offer good buy prospects, particularly if markets settle today and the Bank of Canada are dovish on monetary policy.
The euro held support at 1.4150 Friday even though US economic data was stronger than expected. The dollar is simply unable to gain any momentum at present with the market effectively anticipating a further Fed rate cut later this month. We have key inflation and housing data out in the US this Wednesday and ahead of that there is a speech by Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke tonight. Bernanke is unlikely to give too much away in tonight's speech ahead of a key policy meeting later this month, but if he does emphasis continued weakness in the housing sector and further downside growth risks to the wider economy, then the dollar will suffer. The euro is ideally positioned price-wise to take out the lifetime high at 1.4280, if Bernanke says the 'wrong' thing this evening. If he says nothing or talks up inflation risks, then there is plenty of scope for a pullback to 1.4160, or below. Failure by the dollar to take out 1.4150 will however leave the bulls firmly in control. Expect most of today's price action to be between 1.4150 to 1.4250.
Sterling bounced back rather miraculously on Friday and made further inroads Monday on the back of broad dollar weakness and increased appetite for the carry trade. Sterling has been very volatile in the past week and has fluctuated sporadically against nearly all currencies with little clear directional pattern developing in the short-term. This is a major week for UK data, with consumer price inflation data Tuesday and the Bank of England minutes of the October meeting released Wednesday. Tuesday's inflation data could determine whether or not the BoE have scope to cut interest rates when they meet in November, while the Bank of England minutes will inform us whether or not the MPC are inclined to move on interest rates at all. Cable should remain in a 2.03 to 2.0440 price range until Tuesday's data, while the pound should attract support on any rallies to 0.70 against the euro.
The only currency doing worse than the US dollar right now is the yen, which continues to be the target of risk-hungry carry traders. This situation is unlikely to change unless there is a distinct rise in risk aversion levels. The dollar should be able to rise to 118 against the yen in the short-term, although it could prove difficult to hold significantly above this level ahead of the weekend's G7 meeting, when weakness of both the dollar and the yen may be raised as an issue. The euro rose to above 1.6750 against the yen Monday morning and now seems on course to challenge the lifetime high at 1.6894 this week. There appears little reason why this level won't be taken out and if the yen cedes the 118 price line to the dollar, then expect the euro to hit the all-time high against the Japanese currency in the coming days.
The loonie hit yet another 31 year high against the greenback Friday (and Monday), when the dollar slipped to 0.9705 against its North American rival. Canada's leading indicator rose 0.4% in September and vehicle sales rebounded to jump 2.8% in August. Record oil prices are helping to curtail the extent of any US dollar rally and the key question now for the pair is how low can it go, or how low will it be allowed to go? The Bank of Canada meet Tuesday and they find themselves in a serious dilemma. While the country's underlying fundamentals appear to be sound, many of the economic reports released of late do not reflect the impact of the loonies surge through September and October, during which time it appreciated by almost 8 cents. There has to be concerns within the Bank of Canada about the serious implications for the competitiveness of Canada's economy moving forward and they may well use the opportunity this Tuesday to signal their intentions on how to manage the impact of the loonie's strength. It is not beyond the bounds of possibility that they could even cut rates tomorrow, or signal to the market that the next rate move is likely to be down. Tomorrow is a major risk event for the loonie and it could retreat back to at least 0.98 ahead of the Bank of Canada statement at 13:00GMT Tuesday. The euro looks at present to offer good value at levels close to 1.38 against the loonie.


text:
namespace dioptre {
namespace physics {
namespace bullet {

RigidBody::RigidBody(dioptre::physics::Shape *shape,
                     dioptre::Transform *transform)
    : dioptre::physics::RigidBody(shape, transform) {}

int RigidBody::initialize() {
  auto component = getComponent();
  auto object = component->getObject();
  auto orientation = transform_->getOrientation();
  auto position = transform_->getPosition();
  auto bulletShape = dynamic_cast<dioptre::physics::bullet::Shape *>(shape_);
  btCollisionShape *boxCollisionShape = bulletShape->getCollisionShape();

  btDefaultMotionState *motionstate = new btDefaultMotionState(btTransform(
      btQuaternion(orientation.x, orientation.y, orientation.z, orientation.w),
      btVector3(position.x, position.y, position.z)));

  btRigidBody::btRigidBodyConstructionInfo rigidBodyCI(
      mass_, // mass, in kg. 0 -> Static object, will never move.
      motionstate,
      boxCollisionShape,                            // collision shape of body
      btVector3(inertia_.x, inertia_.y, inertia_.z) // local inertia
      );

  rigidBody_ = new btRigidBody(rigidBodyCI);
  rigidBody_->setUserPointer(object);

  return 0;
}

void RigidBody::setTransform(dioptre::Transform *transform) {
  dioptre::physics::RigidBody::setTransform(transform);

  auto orientation = transform->getOrientation();
  auto position = transform->getPosition();
  auto motionState = rigidBody_->getMotionState();
  auto worldTransform = rigidBody_->getWorldTransform();
  worldTransform.setOrigin(btVector3(position.x, position.y, position.z));
  worldTransform.setRotation(
      btQuaternion(orientation.x, orientation.y, orientation.z, orientation.w));

  motionState->setWorldTransform(worldTransform);
  rigidBody_->setMotionState(motionState);
}

} // bullet
} // physics
} // dioptre


Kuwaiti Official hails Mohammed bin Rashid's initiative "Dubai: Capital of Islamic Economy"
DUBAI, 6th May (WAM) — The initiative of Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to set up a comprehensive platform of Islamic economy products and services is crucial to finding a host that takes under its wings an industry valued at USD four trillions, Kuwait's Arab Planning Institute (API) chief said Monday.
The initiative known as "Dubai: Capital of Islamic Economy" was announced in January 2013 by Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid. It aims at further diversifying Dubai's economy and boosting Islamic economy; which stands at 11 percent of world economy.
Kuwait News Agency quoted API's Director General as saying "Islamic economy is promising and fast-growing," at the end of a two-day conference on international Islamic Economics and China, held at Zayed University.
He further noted that Islamic economy is the only economy that truly benefits consumers since it does not seek profit or commercial exploitation.
"Choosing Dubai as the capital of Islamic economy mainly depends on the city's well-diversified economy and its ambitious growth fuelled by the robust performance of its core sectors including trade, retail, tourism, aviation, hospitality, financial services and logistics," Malallah continued.
This initiative seeks the development of Islamic financing tools, attraction of the biggest insurance companies to take Dubai as their headquarters, development of commercial standards for Islamic industries and guidelines for Halal food manufacturing and development of Islamic quality standards for Halal food approval.
Malallah noted that Kuwait is aware of this Islamic approach in economy. Kuwait Finance House, Bait Al-Zakat (House of Alms) as well as other Islamic insurance bodies, are very involved in applying Islamic standards in their businesses.
"Kuwait's Arab Planning Institute is "very interested" in going into partnership with Dubai by giving the needed training and consultative support," he said.
International Conference on Islamic Economics and China tackled basics of Islamic financial cooperation between Arab states and China, opportunities and challenges of Islamic finance services in China, Islamic economics, world financial crises, Islamic finance and challenges of global development.


During the period January 1, 1998 through December 31, 1998, hospitals received 20 percent of the fee-for-service DGME and operating IME payment. This amount increased by 20 percentage points each consecutive year until it reached 100 percent in calendar year (CY) 2002.
Non-IPPS hospitals and units may submit their MA claims to their respective A/B MACs (A) to be processed as no-pay bills so that the MA inpatient days can be accumulated on the Provider Statistics & Reimbursement Report (PS&R) (report type 118) for DGME payment purposes through the cost report.
In addition, this applies to all hospitals that operate a nursing or an allied health (N&AH) program and qualify for additional payments related to their MA enrollees under 42 CFR §413.87(e). These providers may similarly submit their MA claims to their respective A/B MACs (A) to be processed as no-pay bills so that the MA inpatient days can be accumulated on the PS&R (report type 118) for purposes of calculating the MA N&AH payment through the cost report.
Non-IPPS hospitals, hospitals with rehabilitation and psychiatric units, and hospitals that operate an approved N&AH program must submit claims to their regular A/B MAC (A) with condition codes 04 and 69. The provider uses Condition code 69 to indicate that the claim is being submitted as a no-pay bill to the PS&R report type 118 for MA enrollees in non-IPPS hospitals and non-IPPS units to capture MA inpatient days for purposes of calculating the DGME and/or N&AH payment through the cost report.
The A/B MAC (A) submits the claim to the Common Working File (CWF). The CWF determines if the beneficiary is a MA enrollee and what his/her plan number and effective dates are. The plan must be a MA plan, per 42 CFR §422.4. Upon verification from CWF that the beneficiary is a MA enrollee, the A/B MAC (A) adds the MA plan number and an MA Pay Code of "0" to the claim. For fee-for-service claims that were previously paid and posted to history for the same period (due to late posting of MA enrollment data), an L-1002 Automatic Cancellation Adjustment Report will be sent to the A/B MAC (A) when a DGME-only or a N&AH-only claim from a non-IPPS hospital or unit is accepted for payment by CWF. No deductible or coinsurance is to be applied against this claim nor is the beneficiary's utilization updated by CWF for this stay. If CWF enrollment records do not indicate that the beneficiary is a MA enrollee, CWF rejects the claim and the A/B MAC (A) notifies the hospital of this reason. The hospital may resubmit the claim after 30 days to see if the enrollment data has been updated. No interim bills should be submitted for DGME-only or N&AH-only claims and no Medicare Summary Notices should be prepared for these claims.
Teaching hospitals that operate GME programs (see 42 CFR §413.86) and/or hospitals that operate approved N&AH education programs (see 42 CFR §413.87) must submit separate bills for payment for MA enrollees. The MA inpatient days are recorded on PS&R report type 118. For services provided to MA enrollees by hospitals that do not have a contract with the enrollee's plan, non-IPPS hospitals and units are entitled to any applicable DGME and/or N&AH payments under these provisions. Therefore, such hospitals and units should submit bills to their A/B MAC (A) for these cases in accordance with this section's instructions. In addition to submitting the claims to the PS&R report type 118, hospitals must properly report MA inpatient days on the Medicare cost report, Form 2552-96, on worksheet S-3, Part I, line 2 column 4, and worksheet E-3, Part IV, lines 6.02 and 6.06.


This book your computer to work with the looser languages used by humans (like English) instead of the stricter counterparts used by machines.
The book is only 28 pages, so it's more of a long tutorial than a book, but it still acts as a good introduction to RFID.
Für Karim gibt es daher auch nur Moslems und keine "Islamisten", was ein vom Westen erfundener Kunstbegriff sei.
In Moslems keime immer der Wunsch, die Welt zu islamisieren.Recently i broke ribbon cable of my apple mighty mouse and i searched all Ebay for that spare part but no luck i couldn't find a single part , especially in india it's too difficult to get all these stuff.But you see necessity is the mother of all invention , i did't invent this process but luckily i did repaired my ribbon cable.Find out more about our packages and solutions by selecting an item from the menu.If you prefer to contact us directly, please fill in the contact form or dial the telephone number given. We would also be delighted should you wish to contact us personally.Procedure Goes here: To repair ribbon cable, expose the ends of the ribbon wires.


text:
Q: github with Visual Studio 2013 - cannot pull because of uncommitted changes I am a single developer right now, but I do have a workplace, and I also do work at home. Github is pretty ideal for me because the goal is to track my code, but also just keep it in a good repository so I don't lose it. So here is my work process...

*

*Do work at home (site a)

*commit changes to github frequently

*

*sometimes, this will be up to 20 commits in a day, depending on productivity. I commit
often.

*go to other work site b (usually office)

*clone repository at site b

*

*this is done within visual studio, by going to Team Explorer -> Projects -> Connect to Team Projects, and then using Clone with the github repository URL.

*

*redownload nuget packages, etc - resume work as normal at site b for the day

*

*I perform frequent commits here, as well.

*return home (site a) and open up Visual Studio 2013

*open up the project I was working on

*go to Team Explorer -> Unsynched Commits and click Pull

*

*sometimes it works

*sometimes, however, I receive the following error and I have no idea why

I would understand this if I had made edits to the current project before trying to pull - but I haven't. All I've done is loaded up Visual Studio. It says "See the Output window for details" but the Output window is completely blank - there are no details, and in this situation the only answer I've found is to delete the WHOLE project from my computer and clone the entire repository again.
Certainly this isn't right, I'm a complete newbie to git, and I have read the documentation over and over and this still makes no sense to me. Can anyone help shed some light on any of this?

A: Before pull-ing you need to stash your uncommitted changes first. Visual Studio does not support full range of Git functionality yet, including git stash, so you have to do it through command line or use something like Source Tree in addition to Visual Studio for such occasion. Run git status -u to see uncommitted changes and git stash to temporarily hide them before pulling/syncing. Once in a while Visual Studio will cache the status results and will get out of sync with reality, in this case kill Studio, delete .git\ms-persist.xml file and restart.


Welcome all the viewers from GOD TV. My name is Harvey Katz; it's so great to be here with you today. I'd like to read for you from Matthew chapter 5 starting in verse 13, Jesus says this, "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned. It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled by the foot of men. You are the light of the world: a city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lamp stand and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in Heaven.
I remember C.S. Lewis speaking about salt. He said salt is something very strong. Everything that you put salt on, you'd think that it would impose its flavor on it. When you put salt on your tongue, it's a very bold flavor, and you'd think that putting salt on meat and fish would impose its flavor, but it does the opposite. It brings the flavor out. Fish tastes more like fish and egg tastes better with salt on it and meat brings out the flavor with the salt. He also said the same thing about light. Light imposes itself wherever it goes. It's so strong that nothing can hide; when you have a bright light it shines on everything. But it's people in the dark that are all the same. Sometimes people are worried that if they become a believer or follower in Jesus that they'll all be the same. But the truth is the opposite. You become who you were intended to be. So when He says, "you are the salt of the earth and the light of the world," it's not a conformity and uniformity. You become who you were really intended to be.
Let us pray. Father, we thank You that knowing Jesus; having this relationship with Jesus is the most wonderful relationship on earth and it doesn't limit or restrict us; it sets us free to become the person that we were meant to be. I pray today, Lord, for all of our viewers, that they would know who they are in Christ. That they may be the salt of the earth and the light of the world through Jesus Christ, Yeshua, our Savior Messiah. Amen.


For years Malaga was overlooked by many on the march to the sybaritic paradises of the Costa del Sol. But, having visited a dozen times in the last ten years, I reckon it really should now rate higher in travellers' minds: as one of Europe's top weekend destinations, in fact.
Why? It's connected by every (budget) airline going, yet – importantly – perfectly Spanish, and prices aren't extortionate either: wine and beer can be as cheap as €2 a glass, with tapas starting at around the same. The dozens of free galleries and museums are a bonus, too. And you're sure to enjoy some winter sun.
Tourist sites are numerous: as well as the cathedral, dominating the narrow pedestrianised streets, the Alcazaba, a magnificent Moorish fortress, is an essential climb; and, further up the steep, bougainvillea-clad hillside, the Gibralfaro Castle. Within the ramparts you can sink a beer at its shady cafe after gulping down views of a city sprawl dominated by the cathedral on one side, turquoise sea on the other. Better still, both are free on Sundays after 2pm.
Modern art galleries are dotted around, too: best of all is the Centre of Contemporary Art (free), an enormous converted wholesalers' market with (currently) works by Tovar, Olafur Elassen, Basquiat, Warhol and Anish Kapoor. In particular we loved Galician sculptor Leiro whose wooden figures are dark and mesmerising.
If it's a first visit, try the standards: Bar Lo Gueno (Calle Marin Garcia) whose counter heaves with delights such as bacalao, langostinos and albondigas (meatballs). Nearby Bar Orellana is older still, dating back to the 1930s. Rammed on any given service, it's as touristy as it is popular with locals. La Campana (Calle Granada) specialises in fish; the eponymous bell is rung when you leave a tip.
Most famous of them all? Antigua Casa de Guardia (Corner of Pastora on the Alameda). Unchanged since 1840 (the barmen write the bill in chalk on the wooden counter), this creaking bodega may seem intimidating but order a vasito of Pajarete (sweet local wine) from one of 20 barrels and a pinchito atun queso (raw tuna and cheese). And, as every guidebook instructs, you'll want to try El Pimpi, always wildly popular, with slender tapas bar, cavernous restaurant and terrace overlooking the old theatre.
Arguably the best stretch in town for people-watching. By day it catches the sun whether it's January or August, and by night it's busy with a more colourful crowd. Long known as the gay district, it's now undoubtedly mixed (although we were dismayed to see Starbucks open next to longstanding gay café-bar Café Bruselas). Hungry? Hit Pica Tapas for five tapas for €10.
Beachside restaurant on the furthest tip of Playa del Palo, where camareros clasping plates of fish allow you to grab what you fancy. Recommended? Red mullet, calamares and gambas.
There are lots of apartments in the heart of the Merced area on airbnb. We stayed in the slick, modern one pictured, available through Malagaflat, with high ceilings and Andalucian balconies (more info here). Flights from London start at £25 one way on Easyjet and £36 on BA.