A time travel tale strong enough to stand besides heavyweights like The Terminator and 12 Monkeys. Masterful storytelling. Sizzling action. Brilliant cast. It's probably too early to call Looper a classic – but if it isn't yet, it's going to be.
McCarthy is hands-down my favorite novelist. I have yet to read one of his books and come away disappointed. From the blazing morality play in No Country for Old Men, to the violent poetry of Blood Meridian, McCarthy has long since established himself as one of the greats. That said, if I had to choose only one of his works to call my favorite, it would be The Road. It's a post-apocalyptic saga, both epic and intimate – a tale of survival, depravity, and remarkable courage. Above all that, however, it's a love story; fierce, beautiful, gritty depiction of the bond between father and son.
My first taste of Dostoevsky, and what a taste it was! Crime and Punishment is one of those classic classics; a book I can't help but recommend to every single person who crosses my path. It is at once a gut-wrenching morality play, a brilliant psychological study, and a gripping crime thriller (not to mention a stunning refutation of Frederic Nietzche's "Superman"). It's dark and heavy, yes, but also shot through with hope; a story that affirms both the lostness of the human condition and the power of Christ to save.
Bradbury one of those storytellers I can return to over and over again without tiring. He's a master wordsmith, a spinner of tales wonderful, wise, and bizarre. And Fahrenheit 451 is his tour de force. It doesn't revolve around aliens, robots, or mutating viruses. The primary focus is mankind… and the dangers inherent to a society that's gone almost completely brain-dead. If you haven't read it, you must. It's an example science fiction at its very finest: thrilling, chilling, and smart.
The Book Thief is the literary equivalent of Roman Polanski's film The Pianist: artful, absorbing, devastating, beautiful. Quite simply, unforgettable. And though it is classified in the Young Adult section of the bookstore, it deserves the consideration, not only of older teens, but of adults as well. It is a story of love and loss, tragedy and hope, wrapped in prose that will take your breath away.
This acclaimed novel is ostensibly a courtroom drama, but such a description does not really do this profound and multifaceted book justice. Through the eyes of a child, Lee explores the evils of racial prejudice with subtlety and power, gracing her story with an elegance so unspectacular it's spectacular. More than once, I had to pause and read passages aloud, just for the pleasure of rolling them off my tongue.
So I'm curious… what are your favorite novels? Leave a comment below and share your choices with the rest of us!
The Best Way to Come to Christ – Beautiful.
Purity and Gospel Motivation – Good stuff from Persis. Very good stuff, indeed.
Mumford & the Son – Being the ardent fan of Mumford & Sons that I am, I really enjoyed this piece by Kevin Emmert, who dubs their lyrics "Christ-haunted." Now is that a neat description or what?
Hysterical Artifact – The Sacred Sandwich striketh againeth!
Peter's Angel – I realize I'm a bit late on this, but… Aubrey Hansen's new book is finally available for sale, in paperback and eBook format. I haven't read it yet, but if Aubrey's debut is any indication, it ought to be good.
A Tall Tree and a Short Rope – Douglas Wilson nails it. As usual.
Rand Paul's Lonely Filibuster – A stellar piece from Bryana Johnson. Whenever I hear the word "filibuster," I can't help but remember that iconic scene from Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.
Is it just me, or has doctrine fallen on some really hard times?
I'm not trying to be funny here, honest. But an exchange I had recently with a friend started me thinking (again) about this issue. Take a look around today's evangelical fishbowl and you'll see people who are scared by doctrine, people who are annoyed by doctrine, and people who are flat-out indifferent to doctrine. Rarely will you see people with an earnest love for doctrine.
Such indifference is on brazen display in comments like this one: Doctrine really isn't all that important to me. I just want discipleship. I just want to become more like Christ.
Can anybody else say vague?
We need doctrine. Not because it saves us, but because it is important to understand the whys and wherefores of our Christian faith. Doctrine is teaching, and the crucial teachings of the church are the ones relating to truth about God. And this is unimportant… how?
"It is of exceedingly great importance," writes Jonathan Edwards, "that we should have right notions and conceptions of the nature, attributes, and perfections of God.
It is the very foundations of all religion, both doctrinal and practical; it is to no purpose to worship God, except we know what we worship… It is impossible we should love, fear, and obey God as we ought, except we know what He is, and have right ideas of His perfections, that render Him lovely and worthy to be feared and obeyed.
Can anybody else say amen?


I've got a Cubie 1 running as a downloader. Initially I set it up to run Gentoo and did the Gentoo thing of using source to build "this & that", including the kernel. This was in 2013 so you can imagine how that went. Thanks to Patwood and this forum, I downloaded an image, installed it and then used "the Gentoo way" to do the rest.
I've just decided to update the little beast and been doing a bit of reading. I still can't work out if enough stuff has been pushed into mainline Linux that I can build from source, ie just maintain the machine as I do the several other machines kicking around the house fully using Gentoo, or should I still be just grabbing images. The machine is headless and runs a minimal of stuff, although I want it running nfs, which the kernel needs to support. The time taken to compile also isn't a concern.
I have some experience about the mainline kernel (4.0.5) on ArchLinux, Cubieboard A10. This information is quite similar to information from the links above, but still can be helpful.


Every week I present to you my favorites of the fashion season here on this blog. Anyone who is a continuous reader of my DESIRED posts knows that it's all about the length this fall. Even my current selection again got something to do with length. Besides Midi Boots and ankle length coats, midi skirts are also to die for. These skirts reach almost to the mid-calf and are nothing new in the fashion industry. I think in 2013 the skirts were very popular and they never completely disappeared. Thats why I put them on my desired list for fall 2015. With pumps or boots and a satin blouse you can almost always wear midi skirts: in the office, in the restaurant or for a stroll around the city.


I hope this web site will give you an understanding of the types of psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and consultation to organizations and leaders that I offer, and some perspective about my work and the ways in which I might be helpful to you.
Psychological insight and self-knowledge are essential for our health and vitality as we confront the inevitable challenges that we meet in our lives as individuals, in relationships, and as participants in organizations of any size.
When we recognize that we are struggling in some way, and not living to our full potential, we are called to work toward a better understanding of ourselves and the nature of our interactions with others.
A form of psychoanalysis for people who seek a deep, integrated understanding of their own psychological nature and of psychological forces active in the world. While it can be very helpful in addressing particular situations or symptoms, Jungian analysis has more ambitious aims: learning to work with your personal history and unconscious nature to bring about more authentic expression of your innate personality. more . . .
What is Collaboratively Structured Analytic Psychotherapy™?
An innovative, intensified type of Jungian psychotherapy that I have developed for the highly motivated person who is seeking a very comprehensive process of self-examination, and willing to do a substantial amount of self-reflective work independently, outside of sessions.
I understand that it takes courage and humility to explore the difficult psychological questions that arise within us, whether the issues are personal or relational. No matter what problem or situation leads you to psychotherapy or analysis, it will be my priority that the issue be sensitively understood in the context of your life history and philosophical or spiritual perspective. It is my hope that you will learn to appreciate the symptom or situation that prompted you to enter treatment as your psyche's way of bringing your attention to an important and possibly neglected aspect of your life.
I work with people in psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to address a wide variety of concerns, including emotional or relational issues, philosophical or spiritual concerns, or physical health problems that might be related in some way to emotional health.
I offer three different approaches to psychotherapy and analysis, so that we can optimize the treatment approach to your personality style and needs.
If necessary, I can work with you to determine whether psychiatric medications (such as anti-depressant, anti-anxiety, or sleep medications) might be helpful to you as a part of your treatment, and I can prescribe these medications when appropriate.
Based on the belief that our collective well-being depends on an increase in our capacity to participate consciously and ethically in groups and organizations, I offer consultation services to organizations and people in leadership roles.
I offer psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and leadership consultation in my San Francisco and Berkeley offices, and I offer on-site consultation services to organizations throughout the Bay Area.


For booklovers, aside from receiving well-chosen books, there is a real satisfaction in finding the perfect book to give. It's not always easy though, so, if you're looking for inspiration – you've come to the right place.
As we did last year, we asked our Shiny reviewers and friends to tell us which book or books they'd like to give for Christmas and why.
We've included links to reviews where available, and 'BUY' links for the Book Depository for most books. (If you click through to the Book Depository and make a purchase, we will earn a small commission which helps to pay to maintain Shiny – thank you).
From a Low and Quiet Sea by Donal Ryan was a book of breathtaking beauty. I can't think of anyone with whom it wouldn't make a connection. Ryan poignantly portrays our roles as children, parents, or spouses. He also includes an immigrant experience which is the most touching I've ever read. Three short, and seemingly separate, stories combine at the end to an exquisite conclusion which has been masterfully wrought. Listed for the Man Booker Prize in 2018, it is the best book I have read all year. Review, BUY.
Ryder Carroll's The Bullet Journal Method is a marvelous explanation of the bullet journal system, giving the reasons why he devised this analog method for a digital world and how to best implement it. For those who wish to become organized and purposeful in the new year, while creating a memory of each day, this would be a perfect gift. BUY.
It has been an amazing year for stimulating books about the more-than-human-world, as well as a year of deeply alarming news about the state of the climate, loss of species, and other catastrophes.
Richard Powers' novel The Overstory asks questions about the relationship between humans and trees AND is also a gripping adventure story. Shiny review BUY.
The books I enjoy are often quite miserablist, and not always suitable to give as gifts. But I've read two zany debuts this year I can happily recommend.
Caroline Eden's Black Sea: Dispatches and Recipes is beautiful. The cover shimmers like a shoal of sardines, and whilst it has plenty of recipes, it's more of a travel journal with a foody emphasis than a traditional cookbook. For anyone interested in the area, and specifically in the three cities Eden focuses on (Odessa, Istanbul, and Trabzon) this is going to be a treat. Not everyone can pull this sort of book off with grace, but Eden makes it look easy; it is a complete treasure trove of words, images, and recipes.
These books are both brilliant!
We hope you enjoyed our selections.
Please do leave a comment with the books you'd like to give too.
Wow… what a list! The only one I've heard about is Take Nothing With You by Patrick Gale, and I really, Really, REALLY want to read it. He's one of my favorite authors!
You are a bad influence. I don't know about presents, but you have expanded my tbr list!
Books make the best gifts I'm particularly proud of my efforts this year: I figured out that my father in law has read The Dry, but (with some subtle and nosy questions) hasn't read the follow up, Force of Nature… and I managed to find a SIGNED copy at my local indie bookstore for a really good price. It's a win/win/win!
This is doing serious damage to my bank account! I'm far more impressed with this list than the ones I've seen published by the people paid to review books. Their lists often don't seem aimed at real readers.


The new federal minimum wage. The adult and serious inquiry into domestic wiretapping. And then overhauling the congressional pages program. And the ethics rules. And the rolling back of subsidies to the oil industry.
It's easy to belittle any and all of these efforts should one wish to do so. But I like the return to something a little less like a fundamentalist corporate haven for this country.


The Moment I Stopped Being a "Nice Girl" | Greatist - The Moment I Stopped Being a "Nice Girl"
Stylish Girls Wallpapers - Wallpaper Cave - Very Nice Girls Wallpaper Stylish Attitude Girls Wallpapers For .
Nice Girl | Raven Theatre Chicago - Melissa Ross' plays include Thinner Than Water, A Life Extra Ordinary, Nice Girl, An Entomologist's Love Story and Of Good Stock.
Attractive,seductive,brunette girl with languishing look in autumn ... - Attractive,seductive,brunette girl with languishing look in autumn park.Relax on the wooden fence.Sexual,attractive,nice girl has a rest outdoors in summer.


text:
What is the crime rate in Fullerton CA?
The Fullerton CA crime rate for 2018 was 235.24 per 100,000 population, a 13.71% increase from 2017. The Fullerton CA crime rate for 2017 was 206.87 per 100,000 population, a 13.88% decline from 2016. The Fullerton CA crime rate for 2016 was 240.2 per 100,000 population, a 13.08% decline from 2015.
How do I know if I got accepted to CSUF?
Check your Student Portal Often The Student Portal is your connection to Cal State Fullerton. The following information is available through the Student Portal: Check your admission status and refer to the "To Do List" Accept admission decision.
Is Fullerton CA Safe?
The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Fullerton is 1 in 37. Based on FBI crime data, Fullerton is not one of the safest communities in America. Relative to California, Fullerton has a crime rate that is higher than 76% of the state's cities and towns of all sizes.
Is Cal State Long Beach good for computer science?
The bachelor's program at Cal State Long Beach was ranked #69 on College Factual's Best Schools for compsci list. It is also ranked #12 in California.
Which is the best Cal State?
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
How safe is Brea CA?
The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Brea is 1 in 28. Based on FBI crime data, Brea is not one of the safest communities in America. Relative to California, Brea has a crime rate that is higher than 88% of the state's cities and towns of all sizes.
Is Fullerton a party school?
People who believe that school spirit is based on support of a football team, and also those who want to be associated with a "party school." This is because CSUF can rightly pride itself for its academic programs for the various majors as well as being one of the top schools to successfully acquire internships for its …
How Safe Is La Mirada CA?
The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in La Mirada is 1 in 60. Based on FBI crime data, La Mirada is not one of the safest communities in America. Relative to California, La Mirada has a crime rate that is higher than 38% of the state's cities and towns of all sizes.
What is Cal Poly Pomona best known for?
As one of only seven polytechnic universities nationwide, Cal Poly Pomona is known for its learn-by-doing philosophy. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs through its academic colleges as well as community access to traditional extension programs through the Extended University.
What majors is Cal Poly known for?
The most popular majors at California Polytechnic State University–San Luis Obispo include: Engineering; Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services; Agriculture, Agriculture Operations, and Related Sciences; Biological and Biomedical Sciences; and Social Sciences.
How far is Cal State Fullerton from the beach?
It is 17 miles from Huntington Beach to California State University, Fullerton. It is approximately 22.1 miles to drive.
Which Cal State is the easiest to get into?
Is Csuf or Csulb better?
Cal State Long Beach has a higher submitted SAT score (1,115) than Cal State Fullerton (1,115). Cal State Long Beach has higher submitted ACT score (22) than Cal State Fullerton (22). Cal State Fullerton has more students with 40,280 students while Cal State Long Beach has 37,466 students.
Which Cal State is the best for business?
Best Schools to Study Business Administration & Management in California
#1. University of California – Berkeley.
#2. University of Southern California.
#3. Pepperdine University.
#4. California Polytechnic State University – San Luis Obispo.
#5. University of San Francisco.
#6. University of California – Irvine.
Is Fullerton California expensive?
The Cost of Living in Fullerton California has a reputation for being one of the most expensive states in the country, and Fullerton is no exception.
Is CSU Long Beach good for MS in CS?
In terms of academics, CSULB isn't good. You won't be learning much here. However, the fee is very cheap, ~$7.5k for 3 subjects. You will be done with your master's degree within ~$25k.
How safe is Placentia CA?
The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Placentia is 1 in 47. Based on FBI crime data, Placentia is not one of the safest communities in America. Relative to California, Placentia has a crime rate that is higher than 55% of the state's cities and towns of all sizes.
PREVIOUS Previous post: How much is the cheapest VR headset?
NEXT Next post: Which two government agencies are responsible for following up on elder abuse?
What is the role of a parent governor?What is the role of a parent governor?
What is the role of a parent governor? Parent governors play a vital role on governing bodies, holding the unique position of having a parental viewpoint of the school. It
What was invented in 1838?What was invented in 1838?
What was invented in 1838? Victorian Inventions Timeline (1837 to 1901) 1838 The first photograph taken, by Louis Daguerre in France and William Henry Fox-Talbot in Britain. 1846 Sewing Machine
Do you think online disinhibition is a good thing or a bad thing?Do you think online disinhibition is a good thing or a bad thing?
Do you think online disinhibition is a good thing or a bad thing? But it's not all bad news. Junco's research has also shown that "online disinhibition can be a

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


An original brown Bakelite bell push with name plate – currently says "For Service" but the card may be replaced with a name or other typeface.
In excellent original condition the push is in excellent working order.
The push has raised deco stylised lettering "PRESS" (most have indented lettering which is filled with white paint).
Stamped "Made in England" on the rear.


After attending a funeral last week for a friend my age, my mind turned to thoughts and processing of death and what that means. Death is a prevalent part of life. But as many have observed before, our society does little to prepare us to deal with it ahead of time. Many current resources can help us when life catapults us into the sudden face of dying and death, but most of us just don't go there until we have to—at least we adults who are mostly in control of our behavior and faculties.
When I was a kid my sisters and friends and I spent one summer playing funeral all the time. You could call it our "funeral phase." We had a giant box—a huge florist container or storage bin that had a lid—and we could fit inside lying out flat on our backs. We also had beautiful ball gowns from the fifties that my mom had acquired from a connection in the wardrobe department from her college days. The formals had velvet and beaded tops with full tulle skirts, which weren't truly floor-length gowns, but on us, they made it to the ground easily. We also had artificial flowers, which of course never wilted, so we could play this game over and over for a whole summer. Which we did.
I imagine we were working through some exposure to death in the ways only children do. My dad's best friend's parents were killed in a car crash off the side of a mountain highway. If there wasn't a terrible snow storm, I imagined one into the scenario, which forever popped back into my head if ever driving through the mountains, even now. A vivid picture of the ceremony lingers in my mind, conjured from sitting wide-eyed in a pew and staring at those double closed caskets presiding at the front of the church that day at the funeral service. In the ways that children pick up little snippets here and there of adults' speculative comments and conversations, I gleaned the things that haunt kids at night about those two closed boxes. Around the same season of life, one day the phone rang and I answered. The voice asked me to relay a message to my parents that the daughter of their college friends, a girl my age, had died of a brain tumor. It was a phone experience seared into my psyche, to be entrusted with such weighty information. I listened so hard, trying to memorize what the man said, knowing it was really important to get it all right.
And so, what we didn't understand or couldn't comprehend, we practiced. We played funeral out in our backyard. We dressed up in those beautiful colorful gowns, arranged and carried the plastic flowers in a procession like a wedding, humming Greensleeves—over and over and over. It was the prefect funeral piece, evocative, melodious, and haunting. We had to take turns being the dead person in the box, because that was really the prized role, even in the summer heat. After getting in, carefully tucking in and arranging our gowns and crossing our arms just so over our chests, the others would drop the lid into place and the "dead" person would lie there in the dark heat for as long as possible while listening to the muffled humming from the other participants of Greensleeves--over and over and over.
The pastor at the funeral service last week read a beautiful poem. On the internet it is attributed to many different authors under different titles, including The Sailing Ship and Gone From My Sight. No matter who wrote it, I love its sentiment. A ship is sailing away, disappearing into the horizon and the observers watching from shore express after she shrinks and disappears from sight that "she is gone." But then someone says to consider a different perspective. Those on the opposite shore will see her coming and shout out in gladness because to them, "here she comes." I love that hope. The faith in continued life after dying is so hopeful and comforting. I wish when we were kids we could have moved from playing funeral to playing "life after death." Wouldn't that have been fun? Instead of lying still in a dark, hot box we could have acted out supernatural things like teleporting or flying. Though, considering more than once I announced I could fly then leapt from a hay loft or bunk bed onto the hard ground, maybe it really was better that my best aspiration was to lie still in a box on the ground in the backyard. Less broken bones that way.


another medication isn't the answer?
you had a true partner in care?
At Legacy, we're changing the approach.
And therefore, we're changing the outcome.
Legacy provides an elevated and personal approach to care coordination for patients by focusing on the whole self/whole life, actively involving patients in evaluating care options, and by being highly available to help patients do more than live — to help them live well.


Special thanks to Renee for sharing this great resource on using Google Spreadsheets and Forms.
Have you ever wanted students to have an online discussion about a video while they watch without having to open another application?
Now you can with Vialogues.
And it works beautifully on iPad.
It's been great to hear that many of you are interested in using QR Codes.
Here is a resource to get you started.
Review and provide feedback on the 21st Century Learning actions you listed in Session 2.
Indicate the actions you have implemented with students and provide feedback on the outcomes.
Not sure what actions you listed? View them here.
In light of what was covered in Session 2, add your 'What Ifs' or essential questions about your practice and or the way learning is organised in your classroom you will focus on.


text:
/*
 * This API service will listen on 127.0.0.1:1337 for http requests.
 * The used path for the endpoint is irrelevant.
 *
 * If you want to run that in the SmartOS global zone use the platform node:
 * /usr/node/bin/node
 */

var http = require('http');

http.createServer(function (req, res) {
  var data = '';

  req.on('data', function(chunk) {
    data += chunk.toString();
  });

  req.on('end', function() {
    var resultCode = 200;

    var parsed_data = JSON.parse(data);

    if (parsed_data.event) {
      switch (parsed_data.event) {
        // sshd requests login verification
        case 'login':
          // set a bad response code to disallow all logins by default
          resultCode = 401;

          // if we have the needed fields in the posted data
          if (parsed_data.username && parsed_data.fingerprint) {
            // and it matches our super-duper user-pubkey repository
            if (parsed_data.username === 'root' &&
                parsed_data.fingerprint ===
                  '3c:18:2f:3a:68:ed:44:87:b6:51:dd:53:3b:c0:41:e0') {
              // allow the login by returning a good http response code
              resultCode = 200;
            }
          }
        break;
        // zone state transition
        case 'state':
        break;
      }
    }

    // some cool stuff on the console as we like it.
    console.log({
      request: {
        method: req.method,
        url: req.url
      },
      event: parsed_data
    });

    // be informative and send something back!
    // (only the http status code really matters)
    res.writeHead(resultCode, {'Content-Type': 'text/plain'});
    res.end('');
  });
}).listen(1337, '127.0.0.1');

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
New 'War on Everyone' Trailer Puts Alexander Skarsgård, Michael Peña on the Warpath
by Dave Trumbore August 12, 2016
Let's start a petition to get this film a U.S. release date, shall we?
Alexander Skarsgård and Michael Peña Declare 'War on Everyone' in New Red-Band Trailer
by Matt Goldberg June 20, 2016
The corrupt cop comedy is from 'The Guard' and 'Calvary' director John Michael McDonagh.
CALVARY Review
by Matt Goldberg February 10, 2015
[This is a re-post of my review from the 2014 Sundance Film Festival. Calvary opens today in limited release.] The Catholic Church can give absolution to sinners who feel true repentance. The Church is a vessel for God's forgiveness. But …
New Theatrical Trailer for CALVARY Starring Brendan Gleeson and Chris O'Dowd
by Adam Chitwood February 10, 2015
Fox Searchlight has released a new theatrical Calvary trailer for writer/director John Michael McDonagh's (The Guard) drama. The film stars Brendan Gleeson as a good priest who is told during confession that he will be killed by a man who …
John Michael McDonagh Talks CALVARY, the Heavy Themes of the Movie, How No Movie Should Go over…
by Steve 'Frosty' Weintraub February 9, 2015
One of the many films to premiere at this year's Sundance Film Festival was writer-director John Michael McDonagh's Calvary. The dark comedy stars Brendan Gleeson as a good priest who wants to do well by his community, but his life …
Sundance 2014: CALVARY Review
The Catholic Church can give absolution to sinners who feel true repentance. The Church is a vessel for God's forgiveness. But their cover-up of sex abuse was, by the morals of any civilized human being, unforgivable. John Michael McDonagh's Calvary …
Trailer for Sundance 2014 Selection CALVARY Starring Brendan Gleeson, Kelly Reilly, and Chris O'Dowd
Yesterday, we reported that the 2014 Sundance Film Festival had chosen John Michael McDonagh's Calvary to play in the "Premieres" category. The dark comedy stars Brendan Gleeson as a good priest who wants to do well by his community, but …
Writer/Director John Michael McDonagh Talks THE GUARD and Future Projects
by Tommy Cook July 29, 2011
John Michael McDonagh, noted screenwriter (Ned Kelly) and brother to playwright Martin McDonagh, makes his directorial debut today with the action-comedy The Guard. On surface, The Guard could easily be viewed as just a fun-rollicking buddy action comedy but delving …
US Trailer for THE GUARD
Sony Pictures Classics has released the domestic trailer for John Michael McDonagh's The Guard. A couple weeks ago, we showed you the international trailer for the film and at the time I speculated that the US trailer would dial back …
First Trailer for THE GUARD Starring Brendan Gleeson
by Matt Goldberg May 24, 2011
An international trailer for John Michael McDonagh's comedy-crime flick The Guard has gone online. I caught the film at Sundance and thought it was a lot of fun with a must-see starring performance from Brendan Gleeson. The story centers on …


Our Sweet Love Story: Happy 3rd Birthday, Brody!
You were just the sweetest baby! We all adored you...yes, we still do! Last year when you turned two, you were still so quiet and just seemed to be observing everything around you. We suspected you were learning language as you understood everything we told you and have always been a great listener and followed instructions well. Then, one day at Target you just started speaking in little sentences, and now we are constantly amazed at the intelligent way you express yourself. You fill our home with the sounds of your sweet voice and laughter. Like your brother, you have a lot of very good common sense, and you also have a great sense of direction which should help you a lot in life. Lately, you love to tell us how to get places in the car. "Turn that way, Mommy!" You definitely know how to get to your beloved Chick-fil-a. One Saturday, we were going to the mall so we passed the exit that we usually take to go to Chick-fil-a, and you loudly protested that we were going the wrong way. "No, Daddy, turn that way!"
We just love your smiles and laughter!
You still love music, and yesterday, I enjoyed hearing you sing "Let It Go" (from Frozen) in the car. Your favorite song is still "The B.I.B.L.E."
You still love your "toot toots," but you recently acquired a new fondness for Mickey. Now when you wake up and come in our room in the morning, you immediately request to watch "Nickey's House." Your favorite movies lately are the "Genii Genii" movie (Aladdin), "the snowman movie" (Frozen), and "panda panda" (Kung Fu Panda). Like your big brother, you mostly like funny movies that make you laugh. You are still a video game addict, and I am just so amazed at how well you play the games. I sat and watched you playing Super Mario Bros. on the Wii one night for a few minutes, and you beat two levels. You do not like when you get killed though. One morning a few months ago, I was upstairs, and you were downstairs playing the Wii. I suddenly heard a loud banging sound and then you screaming "Ahhhh!" I snuck down the stairs and watched you (and I might have videoed you too!). When you got killed in the game, you would bang the controller repeatedly on your little table in a fit of rage and then scream "Ahhhh!" Once you had gotten your frustration out, you calmly continued the game. Then, you would repeat the process. Ha! You've actually done better lately at controlling your temper.
You love school and learning new things.
You still love those choo-choos.
You have been learning so much lately...your colors, shapes, numbers, etc. You love to tell us when to stop and when to go at stoplights or point out stop signs for us. You know the stop sign is an octagon and sound so cute saying big words. Your favorite color is still blue, but you know green, orange, and red pretty well. You have also been learning to use your manners a lot more. When you ask for our help with something like playing one of your favorite games, you always says "Thanks" after we help you. You are pretty good about saying "please" too although you do need reminding occasionally.
You actually don't use your little Elmo potty much anymore and do better using the big potty, but I thought this was a cute and fairly acceptable shot of you on your potty.
You have been doing a fabulous job using the potty like a big boy and telling us when you have to go. It is really Mommy and Daddy's fault that you are not yet wearing underwear as you are telling us you need to go all the time and rarely wet your pants anymore in the daytime and stay pretty dry at night too. I think I can honestly say you have done as well potty training as your brother did, and I am so thankful I have had two easy potty training experiences. You really trained yourself as you started asking to go on your own. We are so proud of the big boy you are becoming and love when you proudly proclaim that you are a big boy.
You still love to eat and will basically eat ANYTHING! You are definitely like your Mommy there. We both know how to appreciate good food. Your favorites are probably Chick-fil-a chicken nuggets, anything you can dip, and salad. You still love to eat salad!
Rocking out on the guitar.
Being super silly in the bathtub is one of your favorite pastimes.
We just love your sweet face.
We just can't believe how quickly you are growing up. I look back at your pictures from the last three years, and I miss all of our happy times together. You are still my sweet, cuddly baby boy who loves to snuggle with Mommy in the bed every night and just gives me the sweetest hugs and kisses. You still adore your big brother "Edah" and, of course, your daddy. You boys have so much fun together, and I look forward to watching all the fun you three will have in the years to come. I anticipate you will be starting to play sports later this year and so much more. Welcome to being a big boy, my sweet baby boy!
Brody is such a special little guy! Sending lots of love and Happy Birthday wishes from all of us!!!!
Happy birthday Brody! You have turned into such a fantastic big boy. Of course you have always been a fantastic baby, but it's time to drop the baby now that you are three. Yay!


Sain Tag Archives | Sain Associates, Inc.
Merry Christmas from Sain Associates! We hope this video adds some seasonal cheer to your day.
Our recent announcement of acquiring Vision Engineering and Planning (Vision E&P), a transportation planning and engineering DBE firm with locations in Columbia, MD and Atlanta, GA, brings Paul Gilliam, the current President of Vision E&P, to the Sain team.
Did You Know How Mile Markers On The Highway System Are Established?
On Friday November 16, our Sain family gathered for our annual office Thanksgiving feast! Employees and family members joined together for a delicious lunch full of turkey and dressing from Magnolia Café, a Honey Baked ham courtesy of Venture Technologies, our IT vendor, and delicious homemade side dishes and desserts were provided by our employees.


Wilderness is a place of barrenness – devoid of even the bare necessities of life. There is neither water nor food, and most importantly, no companionship.
No sane person volunteers to spend time in the wilderness. The poor soul who wanders into wilderness is often stripped of things that are dearest and most important to his well-being and even survival.
Aging (and ultimately dying) can be like the wilderness experience. The good news is that it does not have to be. It is a process that we can prepare for and celebrate during.
Like the ancient Israelites, I believe a feast is spread for us in the wilderness (of old age). The key is to be prepared for the journey.
I hope this blog will be a companion in your journey through wilderness in order to reach the great promised land of happiness and fulfilment.


Save Up To 53% OFF On Current Deals at GetSkiTickets.com!
Sign Up To get up to 70% OFF On Ski Deals at GetSkiTickets.com. Save now!
Save up to 61% on Magic Mountain, Vermont at GetSkiTickets.com!!!
Save up to 58% OFF on Diamond Peak Ski Resort, Lake Tahoe!!!
Granby Ranch, Colorado Save up to 50% OFF at GetSkiTickets.com!!!
Homewood Mountain Resort, Lake Tahoe Save up to 46% at GetSkiTickets.com!!!
Grand Targhee Resort - Wyoming Save up to 42% - View Deals at GetSkiTickets.com!!!
Save Up to 43% OFF on Utah Snowbird Resort Deals at GetSkiTickets.com!!!
Save Up to 28% OFF on Alta Ski Area Ski Ticket Deals at GetSkiTickets.com!!!


text:
Season offers little rest for Bostons aging Big 3
By JIMMY GOLEN | | Associated Press
BOSTON � While the rest of the NBA was locked out, the Boston Celtics were locked in.
BOSTON - While the rest of the NBA was locked out, the Boston
Celtics were locked in.
The Big 3 and Rajon Rondo, who led Boston to its unprecedented
17th NBA championship in 2008, were already signed and ready for
another run at the title.
So while the defending champion Dallas Mavericks were trying to
replace Tyson Chandler and Chris Paul was trying to figure out
which side of the Staples Center to report to, the Celtics were
simply resting up for the season to start.
"It does help, having the five guys back," coach Doc Rivers
said, throwing center Jermaine O'Neal into the mix with Rondo and
the Big 3 of Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen.
The lockout that wiped out the first seven weeks of the season
has widely been seen as a gift to the aging Celtics, who would
benefit from the extra time off and the shortened season.
But because the 66-game schedule has been compressed, with fewer
off-days and frequent strings of three games in four nights, the
labor strife may not have done the team any favors.
"We're all figuring it out. It's going to be a period where
everybody's adjusting," Garnett said. "This year will test
everybody's endurance and their willingness. This will be more
mental than physical."
That might not be the best news for the Celtics, who will be
relying on the 34-year-old Pierce, 35-year-old Garnett and
36-year-old Allen. O'Neal, 33, is the center for as long as he can
stay on the court; he played in only 24 games last season.
At least the Celtics don't have to worry about 39-year-old
Shaquille O'Neal, who retired after spending most of last season
trying to recuperate from injuries.
"It's not going to come down to age, but who's mentally
tougher," Jermaine O'Neal said. "Who's going to stay mentally tough
from the get-go? And also health is a big part of it. You've got to
take care of your body. My goal is to stay healthy. I just don't
want to be hurt."
Although the compressed schedule has some teams playing on three
consecutive nights, the Celtics will not play back-to-back-to-back
games this season. What they do have is a 12-day, eight-game road
trip in March to California, Denver, Atlanta, Milwaukee and
"I don't know what the impact is of the 66 (game schedule),"
Rivers said.
Garnett said the Celtics' age can be an advantage.
"The league is getting younger," he said. "We're a veteran team,
but one thing you can't teach is experience. We're a very confident
group, a group that's willing to work."
Jeff Green, one of the team's best young players, is already out
for the season after surgery to repair an aortic aneurysm. The key
piece in the trade that sent Kendrick Perkins to the Oklahoma City
Thunder - a deal that likely doomed Boston's playoff hopes last
year, Green is expected to recover and be back next season.
That leaves Marquis Daniels and Sasha Pavlovic backing up
Pierce. Brandon Bass replaces Glen Davis and Keyon Dooling is at
backup point guard instead of Delonte West and Nate Robinson.
First-round draft pick JaJuan Johnson, the Big Ten defensive player
of the year at Purdue last year, joins the frontcourt.
"I like the guys that we brought in," Pierce said. "I thought a
year ago we had a lot of immaturity with our bench roster, and it
brought inconsistent play with them. But I think these guys are a
lot more experienced, bring a lot more professionalism on a
day-to-day basis. I think they're going to be great.
"And we're going to need them. Because the season, with the
back-to-backs, the games crammed in in such a short period of time,
we're going to be asking a lot of them."
Rivers said he will try to counter his players' age by managing
their minutes. He would like to get Garnett down to about 30
minutes per game, a number he has hit just once since his rookie
season. After averaging close to 40 for most of his years in
Minnesota, he played 32.8 minutes a game when he won a championship
in his first year with the Celtics in 2008.
Allen has shown no signs of slowing down: He had career bests in
field goal (.491) and 3-point shooting (.444) percentage last


text:
George Carter Sherman Sr. (April 2, 1880 – January 4, 1933) was an American polo player known as the "father of indoor polo."

Early life and career
George C. Sherman Sr. was the founder of the Indoor Polo Association and its first president from 1915 to 1926. He modified the rules of outdoor polo for indoor use and redesigned standard polo equipment for the arena game's specific needs, including the introduction of the inflatable polo ball.

The game's origins were not promising. In 1939, the New York Post noted, "Grooms, while exercising some Western horses indoors at Durland's Riding Academy, took to batting a soccer ball about with ordinary kitchen brooms... Sherman and [Robert A.] Granniss, along with several other winter-bound horsemen, improved on that, developing a miniature soccer ball that permitted use of orthodox polo mallets."

In 1928, Sherman presented the first Interscholastic Cup, now known as the George C. Sherman Trophy, given annually to winners of the National Interscholastic Championship. The National Arena Sherman Memorial was started in his honor in 1934 and is still played today.

In February 2020, George C. Sherman Sr. was inducted into the Polo Hall of Fame at the Museum of Polo as the Posthumous Iglehart Inductee. He follows his son, George C. Sherman Jr., who was inducted into the Polo Hall of Fame in 1998 for his contributions to the sport.

In his business life, Sherman was President of Sherman & Bryan advertising in New York City, which became Sherman & Lebair in 1920, and then George C. Sherman Co. In his career, he was also President of the National Outdoor Advertising Bureau, head of the Universal Tobacco Machine Company and of the Fulton Motor Truck Company.

Death
George C. Sherman Sr. died on January 4, 1933, in Greenwich, Connecticut, after a fall in his home.

References

1880 births
1933 deaths
American polo players

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
Third Deficiency Appropriation Bill for 1937: Hearings Before the ...
Por United States. Congress. House. Committee on Appropriations
I can give you the exact figures on the personnel, if you desire same, and also data as to the postal receipts, and so forth.
DATA ON POSTAL RECEIPTS, MAIL HANDLED, NUMBER OF PERSONNEL, ETC.
Mr. Woodrum. I wish you would put in the record a statement showing the number of employees, the volume of mail, the postal receipts, and any other information that will give the committee some useful information on that subject.
Mr. PURDUM. We will do that.
As a matter of fact, Mr. Chairman, the postal receipts of the New York City post office approximate one-tenth of the postal receipts of the entire Nation, and this year it is believed that the postal receipts will be far greater than any year in the history of the country.
(The statement above referred to is as follows:)
Grand Central Station of the post office of New York, N. Y., is one of the most important postal units in that city.
Its location in conjunction with the terminal facilities of the New York Central Railroad, and the New York, New Haven, & Hartford Railroad, permits economical and expeditious handling of the mail. It has been estimated by officials of the New York post office that the direct contact with the railroad afforded by the present location represents a saving to the Department of about a half-million dollars a year over a location not having this direct contact.
In addition to its importance as a mail distribution unit, Grand Central Station serves a territory that is considered second in importance in New York City only to the Wall Street financial section.
The following statistics are indicative of the size and importance of this unit: Postal receipts calendar year 1936.
$6, 773, 375 Number of domestic money orders paid, calendar year 1936
26, 308 Number of international money orders paid, calendar year 1936.
481 Number of domestic money orders issued, calendar year 1936
209, 253 Number of international money orders issued, calendar year 1936... 12, 412 Number of pieces of registered mail handled, 1936.
359, 167 Number of C. 0. D. parcels handled, 1936.
247, 691 Number of insured parcels handled, 1936.
826, 209 Number of pieces of first-class outgoing letters handled daily
1, 200, 000 Number of outgoing parcel-post packages daily
60, 000 Number of incoming parcel-post packages daily
50, 000 The personnel at Grand Central Station: Supervisors.
66 Clerks...
1, 843 Carriers..
365 Laborers
152 Custodial.
Total.--
2, 462 Mr. PURDUM. I might say, Mr. Chairman, that the Treasury Department and our Department had a very thorough engineering and architectural survey and investigation, made by most efficient engineers and architects, to ascertain what remodeling and changes would be necessary. We will give you an amplified statement of the postal receipts, as you have suggested, but the postal receipts for the Grand Central Station for the calendar year 1935 amounted to $6,219,809, and for the calendar year 1936 to $6,773,375, or an increase in 1 year of $554,000.
Mr. WOODRUM. And that is still keeping up?
Mr. PURDUM. Yes, sir.
Mr. Martin. The important feature of that particular station is its location over the tracks of the New York Central Railroad, which allows a direct transfer of the mail from the station platform to the building and vice versa.
Mr. PURDUM. I think the record shows that this postal unit has been in that particular building approximately 27 years.
Mr. MARTIN. Also, it may be noted for the record that the original legislation authorizing the purchase of this building contemplated remodeling, and the language so stated.
INCREASE IN LIMIT OF COST OF VINITA, OKLA., POST OFFICE AND COURT
Mr. WOODRUM. Tell us about the increase from $78,000 to $218,000 for Vinita, Okla., which is a sizeable increase.
Mr. Martin. That is to provide additional space for the Federal court authorized to be held at Vinita. The initial limit of cost contemplated only a post-office building. Since then the Department of Justice has requested court quarters at that place, which will require an increase of $140,000 to provide a three-story building, which is Dow contemplated.
Mr. LUDLOW. After the Department of Justice requests you to provide court quarters at these different places, do they hold court there?
Mr. Martin. We find that the Department of Justice does not request space for court quarters unless they intend to make good use of it.
Mr. TABER. How big a town is this?
Mr. Martin. We can get that information for you.
Mr. Taber. How big is it in postal receipts?
Mr. PURDUM. We can get you those figures in a moment. In the 1936 calendar year they amounted to $31,736. The population according to the census of 1930 was 4,263.
SPACE FOR EMERGENCY AGENCIES NOT PROVIDED IN PROPOSED NEW
Mr. Woodrum. To what extent do these various projects where you are increasing the limit of cost because of the increased floor space requirements provide for the emergency organizations that may not be with us later on?
Admiral PEOPLES. None, Mr. Chairman. In none of these new buildings has any space been provided especially for any emergency agency. On the contrary, all those requests have been turned down.
In some places where old buildings have been available an emergency agency has been permitted to occupy tenancy to save their rent.
But in the new building it has only been for permanent agencies where space is provided. That has been the rule that has been followed in the three preceding programs.
AMOUNT REQUIRED FOR INCREASE IN LIMIT OF COSTS
Mr. Woodrum. In this list we have been discussing, where there has been an increase in the limit of cost, and you are asking for additional funds and additional authority to increase the cost, limiting the amount, the funds necessary in 1938 will be 6 million dollars plus?
Admiral PEOPLES. Yes, sir.
Mr. WOODRUM. How much is in the increased authorizations?
Admiral PEOPLES. The same amount.
Mr. WOODRUM. And you expect to use all of that in 1938?
Mr. Martin. Yes, sir, Mr. Chairman, because in most cases these projects have passed the site stage and are now.up to drawing stage.
Mr. WOODRUM. That 6 million dollars is part of the 23 million dollars plus estimated for by the Treasury Department?
Mr. MARTIN. Yes, sir. İhat comes out of the 23 million dollars.
In the first deficiency act, approved February 9, 1937, an increase of one million and thirty thousand dollars was authorized for the Los Angeles courthouse, and that job is under contract, so you can see the large amounts will, without question, be used in 1938.
The Grand Central Station remodeling is nearing the marketing stage now.
AMOUNT REQUESTED FOR INCREASE IN LIMIT OF COST UNDER 10- AND
15-PERCENT PROVISION
Mr. WOODRUM. How much did you say was involved in the project where you have, under authority given you, increased the limit of cost? What is the gross amount there?
Admiral PEOPLES. We are asking for $500,000, but that does not include any of these lists. That is to take care of the large over-run which heretofore we have found averaged about 7.2 or 7.3 percent.
Mr. WOODRUM. You already had a fund which was authorized, for a 10 to 15 percent increase in cost?
Mr. WOODRUM. You still have a balance in that fund?
Mr. WOODRUM. There is nothing here for that?
Admiral PEOPLES. Nothing whatever.
Mr. MARTIN. Except that we are asking for authority to augment that balance by a further amount of $500,000 to take care of any subsequent cases which might require an increase up to 10 or 15 percent.
Mr. WOODRUM. Outside of the $500,000, plus the $6,000,000 plus, the rest of the fund provided in the $23,000,000 is for that project building program?
Mr. MARTIN. With one exception, Mr. Chairman. During the consideration of the annual bill the Procurement Division presented the question of major repairs and small extensions which were too small to be considered as a major project under the new construction program, but which were too large to be considered under the annual repair and preservation appropriation available to the Procurement Division, and it was indicated at that time, at that hearing, that a million and a half dollars would be required for these major repairs and small extension projects.
Mr. WOODRUM. There is nothing here for the District of Columbia, is there?
Mr. Martin. No, sir.
Mr. WOORDUM. In the $23,000,000?
DISTRIBUTION OF ESTIMATE OF $23,000,000 Mr. WOODRUM. Have you a break-down of the $23,000,000, showing what it will be used for?
Mr. WOODRUM. The $7,000,000 will be used for projects previously authorized ?
Admiral PEOPLES. $500,000 of the $7,000,000 contemplates provision for increases in the construction cost of public buildings where the increase is within 10- or 15-percent of the authorized limit of cost, and approximately $6,500,000 will be required for the augmentation of allotments made under previous programs on projects where the limited cost appears insufficient by more than 15 percent to permit the completion of the project. The appropriation estimate of $23,000,000 contemplates a material curtailment in the program for the construction of public buildings outside the District of Columbia.
Of this amount, approximately $6,500,000 will be required for the augmentation of allotments made under previous programs for projects where the limit of cost appears insufficient to permit the completion of the project; $1,500,000 for major repairs and small extensions, the cost and character of which are not being considered under the annual repair and preservation appropriation for existing public buildings; $500,000 for augmentation of limits of cost under the 10- and 15percent provision contained in the First Deficiency Act, approved June 22, 1936, leaving $14,500,000 for new projects of major importance.
With $14,500,000 available for new projects consideration would have to be given to a list of 42 major projects costing in the aggregate $30,000,000. Such projects have been deferred from time to time, and should receive consideration as funds are made available by Congress.
It will be noted by the report of the Treasury and Post Office Departments that the average cost per project under the three preceding programs is $171,000, and that the majority of the projects previously authorized had limits of cost less than $100,000. The maximum number of new projects therefore possible under a $23,000,000 program, using a minimum of $70,000 per project, is 200. Using the average of prior programs, namely, $171,000 less than 85 projects may be authorized. In view of this situation, it is believed that consideration must necessarily be given to a fewer number of projects of major importance in the selection of places to be provided with new construction under the $23,000,000 estimate now before the committee.
Mr. Woodrum. Are you going to give us a list of those projects?
Admiral PEOPLES. Yes, sir; the list is part of the report submitted by the Treasury and Post Office Departments which has been incorporated in the record.
Mr. Ludlow. In the case of these increases of the limit of cost, you are prevented by law from entering into contracts until you have the money in hand?
Admiral PEOPLES. Except under the 10 and 15 percent provision. In all other cases we are barred by law from exceeding that amount, and for that reason it has been customary before proceeding with the programs to furnish the committee with a list of those projects which exceed the 10 or 15 percent augmentation, and those increases come out of whatever sum may have been appropriated.
Mr. WOODRUM. In other words, the 23-million-dollar estimate, after you take 6% million dollars for augmentation and a million and a half
for major repairs, and $500,000 for augmentation, would amount
to approximately 15 million dollars, which would be.25 percent of the previous program?
Admiral PEOPLES. About that much.
Mr. WOODRUM. You have had 60 million dollars a year for the last 3 years?
Admiral PEOPLES. Sixty million dollars in the 2 preceding years, and 65 million before that.
Mr. WOODRUM. And you had added limits of cost also in the last two preceding programs?
Admiral PEOPLES. Exactly, which was taken out of the amount of money appropriated.
Mr. WOODRUM. So under the 23-million-dollar item as sent up, you would have about 85 new projects?
Mr. Martin. If you use the average of prior years it would only permit a few large projects. If you use the minimum of $70,000 for a small project, you would get about 200.
Mr. WOODRUM. Of course, the construction cost enters into that also. The average of former years would hardly be a fair criterion, that is, at least for the last couple of years.
Mr. Martin. The increase in limits for prior projects is accounted for in that average.
Mr. WOODRUM. Of course, there has been an increase in construction costs. If you take the projects provided for in the last 2 years and increase those by what you are asking for now you would have a higher average.
Mr. Martin. Yes, sir. What I was pointing out was that the limits of cost in prior programs included the increases received in prior years.
METHOD FOLLOWED IN SELECTING ELIGIBLE PROJECTS
Mr. WOODRUM. Refreshing our recollection as to the manner of selection of eligible projects, let me ask you this question: If you had, let us say, 60 million dollars to build public buildings, what is the manner of the selection of projects; how is that accomplished?
Admiral PEOPLES. Previously, under each program, there has been furnished an eligible list.
Then, in addition to that eligible list, the two Cabinet officers are authorized to select any other projects which were considered economically sound in the interest of the Government, and we are furnished a list of those.
Mr. CANNON. What are the considerations that determine that?
Admiral PEOPLES. Usually the more pressing need, considering the higher postal recipts.
Mr. Cannon. Of what character? Admiral PEOPLES. Postal receipts, Mr. Cannon. In making an allocation of the funds it has been the aim of the two Cabinet officers to allocate a project for each congressional district in the United States, except in the larger cities, where a major project which was selected was looked upon as being sufficient for all of the Representatives whose districts were included within the metropolitan area of that particular community. But that is the principle. That has been done in order to distribute the work equitably throughout the country.


Sakthi Soyas has its Seed Preparation Plant with the State of the Art Technology of Buhler Brothers, Switzerland and Solvent Extraction / De oiled products through an innovative system named "FLASH DESOLVENTISING SYSTEMS" besides the DTDC technology of Extechnik, Germany.
It has a capacity to crush 350 MT soybean seeds per day.
The flash de-solventising system de-solventises the spent soybean flakes in a couple of seconds thereby retaining the enzyme activities with minimal protein denature.


text:
First Wednesday Happy Hour
The Diana Foundation
Wed Jan 04, 2023 at 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM. The first Wednesday of every 1 month(s)
George's Country Sports Bar
617 Fairview Street
Join America's oldest active gay organization, The Diana Foundation, for our monthly happy hour event from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at George Country Sports Bar.
617 Fairview St,
This event is open to the public. Enjoy drink specials and entertainment.
Special surprises and announcements will be made at each event.
Get to know Houston's gay community and share in the networking opportunities.
The Diana Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit founded in 1953 in Houston, TX. Learn more about The Diana Foundation at www.TheDianaFoundation.org.
P.O. Box 66523 - Houston, TX 77266-6523 - thedianafoundation@gmail.com
Photographs and illustrations, as well as text, cannot be used without permission from The Diana Foundation.
All rights reserved. Contact Webmaster.
Powered by MemberNova © 2002–2023 All rights reserved.
Privacy Statement | System Requirements


text:
using System;
using System.Runtime.InteropServices;
using NAudio.Wave;

namespace NAudio.Midi
{
    internal class MidiInterop
    {

        public enum MidiInMessage
        {
            /// <summary>
            /// MIM_OPEN
            /// </summary>
            Open = 0x3C1,
            /// <summary>
            /// MIM_CLOSE
            /// </summary>
            Close = 0x3C2,
            /// <summary>
            /// MIM_DATA
            /// </summary>
            Data = 0x3C3,
            /// <summary>
            /// MIM_LONGDATA
            /// </summary>
            LongData = 0x3C4,
            /// <summary>
            /// MIM_ERROR
            /// </summary>
            Error = 0x3C5,
            /// <summary>
            /// MIM_LONGERROR
            /// </summary>
            LongError = 0x3C6,
            /// <summary>
            /// MIM_MOREDATA
            /// </summary>
            MoreData = 0x3CC,
        }

        public enum MidiOutMessage
        {
            /// <summary>
            /// MOM_OPEN
            /// </summary>
            Open = 0x3C7,
            /// <summary>
            /// MOM_CLOSE
            /// </summary>
            Close = 0x3C8,
            /// <summary>
            /// MOM_DONE
            /// </summary>
            Done = 0x3C9
        }

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798460%28VS.85%29.aspx
        public delegate void MidiInCallback(IntPtr midiInHandle, MidiInMessage message, IntPtr userData, IntPtr messageParameter1, IntPtr messageParameter2);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798478%28VS.85%29.aspx
        public delegate void MidiOutCallback(IntPtr midiInHandle, MidiOutMessage message, IntPtr userData, IntPtr messageParameter1, IntPtr messageParameter2);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798446%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiConnect(IntPtr hMidiIn, IntPtr hMidiOut, IntPtr pReserved);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798447%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiDisconnect(IntPtr hMidiIn, IntPtr hMidiOut, IntPtr pReserved);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798450%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiInAddBuffer(IntPtr hMidiIn, [MarshalAs(UnmanagedType.Struct)] ref MIDIHDR lpMidiInHdr, int uSize);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798452%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiInClose(IntPtr hMidiIn);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798453%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll", CharSet = CharSet.Auto)]
        public static extern MmResult midiInGetDevCaps(IntPtr deviceId, out MidiInCapabilities capabilities, int size);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798454%28VS.85%29.aspx
        // TODO: review this, probably doesn't work
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiInGetErrorText(int err, string lpText, int uSize);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798455%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiInGetID(IntPtr hMidiIn, out int lpuDeviceId);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798456%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern int midiInGetNumDevs();

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798457%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiInMessage(IntPtr hMidiIn, int msg, IntPtr dw1, IntPtr dw2);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798458%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll", EntryPoint = "midiInOpen")]
        public static extern MmResult midiInOpen(out IntPtr hMidiIn, IntPtr uDeviceID, MidiInCallback callback, IntPtr dwInstance, int dwFlags);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798458%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll", EntryPoint = "midiInOpen")]
        public static extern MmResult midiInOpenWindow(out IntPtr hMidiIn, IntPtr uDeviceID, IntPtr callbackWindowHandle, IntPtr dwInstance, int dwFlags);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798459%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiInPrepareHeader(IntPtr hMidiIn, [MarshalAs(UnmanagedType.Struct)] ref MIDIHDR lpMidiInHdr, int uSize);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798461%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiInReset(IntPtr hMidiIn);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798462%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiInStart(IntPtr hMidiIn);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798463%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiInStop(IntPtr hMidiIn);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798464%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiInUnprepareHeader(IntPtr hMidiIn, [MarshalAs(UnmanagedType.Struct)] ref MIDIHDR lpMidiInHdr, int uSize);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798465%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiOutCacheDrumPatches(IntPtr hMidiOut, int uPatch, IntPtr lpKeyArray, int uFlags);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798466%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiOutCachePatches(IntPtr hMidiOut, int uBank, IntPtr lpPatchArray, int uFlags);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798468%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiOutClose(IntPtr hMidiOut);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798469%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll", CharSet = CharSet.Auto)]
        public static extern MmResult midiOutGetDevCaps(IntPtr deviceNumber, out MidiOutCapabilities caps, int uSize);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798470%28VS.85%29.aspx
        // TODO: review, probably doesn't work
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiOutGetErrorText(IntPtr err, string lpText, int uSize);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798471%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiOutGetID(IntPtr hMidiOut, out int lpuDeviceID);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798472%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern int midiOutGetNumDevs();

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798473%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiOutGetVolume(IntPtr uDeviceID, ref int lpdwVolume);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798474%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiOutLongMsg(IntPtr hMidiOut, [MarshalAs(UnmanagedType.Struct)] ref MIDIHDR lpMidiOutHdr, int uSize);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798475%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiOutMessage(IntPtr hMidiOut, int msg, IntPtr dw1, IntPtr dw2);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798476%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiOutOpen(out IntPtr lphMidiOut, IntPtr uDeviceID, MidiOutCallback dwCallback, IntPtr dwInstance, int dwFlags);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798477%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiOutPrepareHeader(IntPtr hMidiOut, [MarshalAs(UnmanagedType.Struct)] ref MIDIHDR lpMidiOutHdr, int uSize);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798479%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiOutReset(IntPtr hMidiOut);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798480%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiOutSetVolume(IntPtr hMidiOut, int dwVolume);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798481%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiOutShortMsg(IntPtr hMidiOut, int dwMsg);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798482%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiOutUnprepareHeader(IntPtr hMidiOut, [MarshalAs(UnmanagedType.Struct)] ref MIDIHDR lpMidiOutHdr, int uSize);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798485%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiStreamClose(IntPtr hMidiStream);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798486%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiStreamOpen(out IntPtr hMidiStream, IntPtr puDeviceID, int cMidi, IntPtr dwCallback, IntPtr dwInstance, int fdwOpen);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798487%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiStreamOut(IntPtr hMidiStream, [MarshalAs(UnmanagedType.Struct)] ref MIDIHDR pmh, int cbmh);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798488%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiStreamPause(IntPtr hMidiStream);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798489%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiStreamPosition(IntPtr hMidiStream, [MarshalAs(UnmanagedType.Struct)] ref MMTIME lpmmt, int cbmmt);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798490%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiStreamProperty(IntPtr hMidiStream, IntPtr lppropdata, int dwProperty);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798491%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiStreamRestart(IntPtr hMidiStream);

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798492%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [DllImport("winmm.dll")]
        public static extern MmResult midiStreamStop(IntPtr hMidiStream);

        // TODO: this is general MM interop
        public const int CALLBACK_FUNCTION = 0x30000;
        public const int CALLBACK_NULL = 0;

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd757347%28VS.85%29.aspx
        // TODO: not sure this is right
        [StructLayout(LayoutKind.Sequential)]
        public struct MMTIME
        {
            public int wType;
            public int u;
        }

        // TODO: check for ANSI strings in these structs
        // TODO: check for WORD params
        [StructLayout(LayoutKind.Sequential)]
        public struct MIDIEVENT
        {
            public int dwDeltaTime;
            public int dwStreamID;
            public int dwEvent;
            [MarshalAs(UnmanagedType.ByValArray, SizeConst = 1)]
            public int dwParms;
        }

        // http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd798449%28VS.85%29.aspx
        [StructLayout(LayoutKind.Sequential)]
        public struct MIDIHDR
        {
            public IntPtr lpData; // LPSTR
            public int dwBufferLength; // DWORD
            public int dwBytesRecorded; // DWORD
            public IntPtr dwUser; // DWORD_PTR
            public int dwFlags; // DWORD
            public IntPtr lpNext; // struct mididhdr_tag *
            public IntPtr reserved; // DWORD_PTR
            public int dwOffset; // DWORD
            [MarshalAs(UnmanagedType.ByValArray, SizeConst = 4)]
            public IntPtr[] dwReserved; // DWORD_PTR dwReserved[4]
        }

        [StructLayout(LayoutKind.Sequential)]
        public struct MIDIPROPTEMPO
        {
            public int cbStruct;
            public int dwTempo;
        }
    }
}


The first of the volunteer days was June 3 at the new Hickory Hollow tract of TWI's Dixon Waterfowl Refuge; despite unusual spring heat, volunteers helped get 2,000 mesic prairie seedlings planted.
It was a bit cooler by June 8 when employees from the Dow Chemical Company, Ecolab, Harrah's Joliet, and Waste Management of Illinois planted 2,430 plugs at Midewin's Secret Ridge, a dry ridge between the arms of a large marsh where TWI just started restoring extremely rare gravel hill prairie in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service.
The temperature was back up by June 10 at Indian Ridge Marsh in Chicago's Calumet region, where TWI, Audubon Great Lakes, and the Chicago Park District are partnering to restore the north end. With help from the Southeast Environmental Task Force, the group planted 3,400 seedlings in the prairie areas of the site—and then hoped for rain to keep them all growing!
Along with sowing native seed in the winter, TWI plants seedlings in the spring to increase diversity and the likelihood of establishment. Photo by David Miller.
TWI Assistant Ecologist Anna Braum was essential to the success of the plug planting this year. Anna joined TWI in April 2017 after working as a research assistant at the Chicago Botanic Garden's Plants of Concern program, where she monitored rare and listed plant species throughout the Chicago region. That expertise has been especially helpful in her new TWI position.
For each of the volunteer days Anna had to make decisions about which species would be planted in consultation with TWI Senior Ecologist Dr. Gary Sullivan. She explained, "We choose suites of plant species that are ecologically appropriate to each site, based on known plant community associates and physical factors such as the site's hydrology and soil types." So while all of this year's planting was in prairie areas at the three projects, there were some differences in species from site to site based on specific factors.
There have been many plug-planting volunteer days at TWI's Dixon Waterfowl Refuge in the past, but this year was only the second one at the new Hickory Hollow tract. Recently added to the Refuge, it's being returned to a mosaic of upland habitats including mesic prairie and oak savanna; the plug planting was focused on the prairie areas. The first volunteer day in 2016 covered about 40 acres, and this year's about 80 acres. With more than 30 people it was the largest group ever for a volunteer day at the Refuge.
Many of the native seedlings that were planted in 2016 at Hickory Hollow are in bloom this year, which is a good sign for the restoration. Rick Seibert, the Dixon Waterfowl Refuge site manager, has seen prairie violets, heart-leaf golden alexanders, and shooting stars, all of which were planted last year.
Planting at the Dixon Refuge's Hickory Hollow tract was particularly laborious this year because the ground was very dry and hard. Photo by David Miller.
This year volunteers planted mesic prairie species including pale purple coneflower, heavy sedge, wild strawberry, and pale-spiked lobelia. Though there were difficulties drilling holes for the plugs because the ground was so dry and packed, it didn't stop the volunteers, who resourcefully used hand trowels to get the job done.
Secret Ridge at Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is part of TWI's new seven-year, 1,800-acre restoration project at this vast U.S. Forest Service site near Joliet, Illinois. The area was the focus this year for our "Prairie Champions": the Dow Chemical Company, Ecolab, Harrah's Joliet, and Waste Management of Illinois. TWI has recognized these four companies—all of which have locations near Midewin—for their ongoing support of our work there, through both financial contributions and employee participation in volunteer days.
This year we organized the Prairie Champions volunteer day a bit differently. Each company had its own section of Secret Ridge marked out and there was a friendly competition to see which one could plant the most plugs. Species planted included prairie violet, leadplant, yellow fox sedge, butterfly weed, and more. TWI will share photos and updates of each company's area over the coming year so they can see how "their" piece of prairie develops.
Ecolab employees and their families planting plugs at Midewin's Secret Ridge area. Photo by Vera Leopold/TWI.
Later that week it was Indian Ridge Marsh's turn for planting. A remnant wetland near the Calumet River on Chicago's Southeast Side, it's an oasis in an industrial landscape. Organized with Audubon Great Lakes, the Chicago Park District, and the Southeast Environmental Task Force, the volunteer day was the first plug planting at the north end since restoration there began in 2016. In the months prior to the planting, work included clearing invasive species like phragmites and undertaking a prescribed burn. There are drier prairie areas at the site adjacent to the marsh and that's where the volunteers focused their efforts on that steamy June Saturday, planting native species like compass plant, rattlesnake master, purple prairie clover, and common ironweed. Later in the week restoration staff planted plugs in the wetter areas, including some aquatic species.
Plug planting is not easy work and we're indebted to the many volunteers who helped get so many seedlings in the ground this past spring. Only once a diversity of native plants is again thriving will the birds, butterflies, and other wildlife return to these special places throughout northern Illinois.


text:
Virgin Galactic test flight reaches space for the first time, lugging NASA cargo in place of tourists
SpaceShipTwo goes faster and higher than ever before
Richard Speed Thu 13 Dec 2018 // 16:38 UTC
Virgin Galactic's SpaceShipTwo took its first trip into space today as the company launched the reusable rocket-powered craft on its fourth test flight above the Mojave desert in southern California.
The spacecraft (for that is what it now is) hit Mach 2.9 and reached 271,268ft (about 82.7km) above the Earth, before beginning its descent to an unpowered landing.
It has taken Virgin Galactic a while to get this point. The planned sub-orbital lobs have been delayed repeatedly since the passenger-toting rocketplane's lavish unveiling back in 2009 and the firm has had to overcome a number of setbacks, including an incident that led to the inflight destruction of its predecessor in 2014 and the death of one of the two pilots onboard.
A replacement craft, the VSS Unity, made its maiden flight earlier this year. Slung from the WhiteKnightTwo carrier aircraft, the rocketplane was hauled to 46,500 feet and then released. The pilots fired up the rocket for 30 seconds, keeping the nose pointed up, and reached Mach 1.87 before coasting to an altitude of 84,271 feet and gliding back to a landing.
Virgin Galactic has continued its incremental test programme and a third flight in July cracked Mach 2 as pilots kept the rocket burning for 42 seconds, powering through the stratosphere to an apogee of 170,800 feet.
Here's what happened last time SpaceShipTwo took to the skies. pic.twitter.com/HQgRZosWsv
— Virgin Galactic (@virgingalactic) December 13, 2018
The Kármán line, at 100km, has commonly been regarded as where space starts, but Virgin Galactic will point to discussions within the scientific community about revising this figure downwards to 80km.
Next they'll be saying Pluto isn't a planet. Oh, wait.
As well as ballast to represent paying passengers (or "talking cargo" as one commercial pilot memorably described those sat at the back of the aircraft), NASA sent a number of technology experiments to take advantage of the extended period of micro-gravity achieved during the sub-orbital flight.
Engineers did not plan for a full duration burn, leaving the eventual altitude up to sweaty-palmed boffins on the ground and the pilots at the pointy end of things as the craft's handling characteristics and thermal dynamics were carefully monitored.
The successful test has brought the oft-delayed dream of Richard Branson welcoming the first paying passengers onboard for an expensive sub-orbital jaunt that bit closer.
That day cannot come soon enough for Mercury 13 candidate Wally Funk, who booked her flight on Branson's dream machine back in 2012 and at 79 might finally get a chance to go to space.
It is almost 60 years since the US backed away from the idea of shoehorning Funk and her fellow female pilots into a Mercury capsule.
Sue Nelson's excellent book on the sorry tale, Wally Funk's Race for Space, is highly recommended for anyone seeking ideas for Christmas reading.
As for VSS Unity itself, Virgin Galactic confirmed at 16:14 UTC that the spacecraft had landed safely at Mojave Airport, a little over 10 minutes after touching space. ®
Touch down, SpaceShipTwo


HomeCinemaMasalaSonakshi Sinha has no role in OMG Oh My God!
Sonakshi Sinha has no role in OMG Oh My God!
Everyone knows by now that Akshay Kumar and his co-star of two films, Sonakshi Sinha share a great working rapport. Sonakshi has immense respect for the actor and Akshay thinks Sonakshi has a lot of potential. Recently, Sonakshi even agreed to be a part of a special song, Go Go Govinda in his new production house Grazing Goat Pictures' maiden film, OMG Oh My God starring Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal.
From the beginning the makers maintained that OMG Oh My God is a novel script and unlike other conventional Bollywood films has no heroine. Hence it came as a surprise when earlier this week, a leading daily reported that Sonakshi has now landed a role in the film as she too wished to be a part of it. The article further reported that last week when Sonakshi along with her family went to see Paresh Rawal's play on which the film is based, she caused a delay of over two hours due to late arrival.
But the production house, Grazing Goat Pictures immediately took to social media and clarified the report , 'Now before you reach for your newspaper, we had a quick clarification to make. As reported in one of the dailies, Sonakshi Sinha doesn't have any scenes in OMG Oh My God. She is only doing the special song, Go Go Govinda.
OMG Oh My God directed by Umesh Shukla releases on 28th September, 2012.
Bigg Boss sparks new debate and controversy!


We are pleased to offer you a position with Tercica, Inc., as its Chief Operating Officer, reporting to the Chief Executive Officer. If you decide to join us, you will receive an annual salary of $310,000, less standard payroll deductions and all required withholdings. Your salary will be paid semi-monthly in accordance with our normal payroll procedures, and, as an employee, you will also be eligible to receive standard employee benefits, including the benefits detailed in Exhibit A.
We currently anticipate that your target bonus will be up to 33% of your annual salary, less standard payroll deductions and all required withholdings, at the Company's discretion, dependent upon both Company and individual performance.
In addition, if you decide to join us, we will recommend to our Board of Directors that you be granted an option to purchase 300,000 shares of common stock of Tercica. During the term of your employment with us, 25% of the shares subject to the option will vest on the one-year anniversary of your start date, and the remaining shares will vest ratably over the next thirty-six (36) months. All option grants will be subject to the terms and conditions of our stock option plan and form of stock option agreement.
We are pleased to offer you a sign-on bonus of $50,000, less standard payroll deductions and all required withholdings. You agree to return this bonus on a pro rata basis if you voluntarily resign or are terminated for Cause within eighteen (18) months after your start date. If you leave the Company for any reason more than eighteen months after the start date, you will not need to return any portion of this bonus.
The Company will pay you $7,000 per month, less standard payroll deductions and all required withholdings, for the cost of temporary housing expenses and travel to and from the San Francisco Bay Area. You will be eligible for this monthly payment until the sooner of: (a) the relocation of your household to the San Francisco Bay Area; or (b) nine (9) months from your start date.
The Company will reimburse you up to $25,000 for usual and customary moving expenses incurred in relocating your household from Rancho Bernardo, California to the San Francisco Bay Area. You agree to return this reimbursement on a pro rata basis if you voluntarily resign or are terminated for Cause within two (2) years after your relocation to the San Francisco Bay Area. If you leave the Company for any reason more than two years after your relocation, you will not need to return any portion of the reimbursement.
The Company will reimburse you up to $75,000 for expenses relating to usual and customary costs associated with the sale of your Rancho Bernardo, California home and/or the purchase of a home in the San Francisco Bay Area, upon your relocation to the San Francisco Bay Area. All of the payments described in this paragraph will be subject to full gross-up of required taxes and such will be paid by the Company. You agree to return this reimbursement on a pro rata basis if you voluntarily resign or are terminated for Cause within two (2) years after your start date. If you leave the Company for any reason more than two years after the start date, you will not need to return any portion of the reimbursement.
Exhibit A, Exhibit B, Exhibit C and the Agreement attached as Annex 1, is enclosed for your records.
To accept the Company's offer, please sign and date both this letter and the Agreement in the spaces provided and return both to the Company. This offer of employment will terminate if we do not receive your signatures to both this letter and the Agreement by April 17, 2004. You understand that, by signing this letter, you are also agreeing to the Terms and Conditions of Employment set forth in Exhibit C.


UPDATE: Working link! See X-play's views on Sonic Unleashed!
Everybody knows that X-Play normally doesn't like Sonic games other than the Rush games, but actually, they were quite surprised. In this hands-on, you can check out most of the Adabat stage during the day and about 30 seconds during the night. A good portion of the beginning of the Adabat stage your side stepping, trying not to run off the boardwalk. Adabat is confirmed not to be based off South America as for it's based of an Asian location. You see some super-sonic platforming as well as a moment where you knock enemies into each other. Keep it up SEGA!
Check out the full Hands on Here!


We all love a quick getaway to break the monotony of city life; and a weekend at the queen of hills was just what we needed to end the year 2016 on a peaceful note. It was a sheer coincidence when we were planning a short winter break, an invite from newly built Hotel Mosaic in Mussoorie (Uttarakhand) reached our mailbox and we couldn't resist the charm of exploring a beautiful destination in the hills.
Mussoorie, a pretty little hill station situated at the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayan range, is an ideal place for a quick break from cities (Delhi, the nearest metro city is approx 280 km). While some of you may prefer to drive through the scenic hills, we took the overnight train (Kalka Shatabdi Express) to reach our destination early Saturday morning.
After an hour's drive from Dehradoon, we were at the gorgeous five-star property Hotel Mosaic, which was officially launched in the month of July this year. This newly launched venture of Shipra Group under the Tux Hospitality has 45 rooms, conference hall, swimming pool, multi-cuisine restaurant, gymnasium, spa and a kids' play area. The hotel is located at the bustling Mall Road from where one can see the lush Doon valley and starry skies after sunset.
The best thing about reaching our hotel was the joy to live beautifully designed suites – we couldn't help but notice the assembly of very many modern interior styles used in the entire property. Right from the bold striped accent chairs placed in the reception area paired with the quirky wooden drawer-inspired desk and steely structural chandeliers to the vibrant colour combinations across the suites – a magical mosaic of interiors absolutely justified its name.
The rooms were divided into various categories and depending on the view of the hills, one could choose between the attic suite and the deluxe suite. Since it was a solo vacation for me, I picked a deluxe suite with a comfy bed surrounded by beautiful butterflies (not literally, but in the form of artwork on walls and on my bedspread).
The crisp white reticular separator in front of the printed couch and velvety curtains added a cosy, warm vibe to my room. As I checked the bath area, I was happy to find a lavish Jacuzzi and state-of-the-art shower space – a perfect place to unwind and rejuvenate after a tiring day.
The two-day trip was accompanied by some lip-smacking Indian and Chinese food that we tried at their in-house restaurant called 'Random'. Also, one of the most interesting things about the hotel was the bio-wall that was created by planting small plants in containers that were placed across the walls.
The hospitable staff guided us through the touristy places around the hotel and curated an interesting itinerary for us to explore the hills. A trek at the Benog Hills and a visit to the oldest house in the corn village called Bhatoli is something that we will remember for long. And, while we drove through the serpentine roads of Mussoorie we stopped by the pretty Kempty falls and cute curios across the mall roads before saying a final goodbye.
So this holiday season, pack your warmers and step into your comfy shoes to explore the luxe life at Mosaic Mussoorie.
← Where in The World Will You Be Ringing in The New Year?


One of the things I LOVE about living in this area is the fact that we get to enjoy the beauty of all four seasons (something I will especially not take for granted after living in Texas for a few years!). The Fall season by far is my favorite. The crisp, cool air, the vibrant colors of the leaves, and the lovely aroma of apples and cinnamon in the air. Every year, one of our special family traditions is going to a local farm and picking out a pumpkin (or two) to kick of the season. We are so lucky to be close to some fabulous farms that open their doors for terrific Fall festivals and pumpkin pickin'!
Great Country Farms Take a hayride to the pumpkin patch at Great Country Farms this season with your family and friends to find the pumpkin of your dreams. Spend a day on the farm by going through the corn maze, enjoying some of their famous cider donuts, visiting the petting zoo and more. The farm is also close to Bluemont Vineyard and Dirt Farm Brewing if you want to end the day with some local craft beverage products.
This 286-acre working farm provides an opportunity for children and adults to learn about farm animals and to enjoy the sights and sounds of the farm. In the fall, get "lost" in the cornfield MAiZE, shoot a pumpkin out of a cannon and play fun fall farm games at the Fall Festival.
Travel off the beaten path to an authentic working farm and pick your own pumpkin right from the vine. Wegmeyer Farms is a boutique pick-your-own farm tucked away in the village of Lincoln in Loudoun County. In the Fall, they open their farm to guests and help them find their favorite pumpkin out of the 50 varieties that they hand clip from the field. Wegemeyer Farms products have been featured at The White House and on the Chef Emeril cooking show.
Ticonderoga Farms has been family owned and operated for five generations and maintains more than 1,000 acres of rolling fields and forests. Ticonderoga offers hayrides, hillside slides, bouncing pillows, cow train rides, fire pits, a live bamboo maze, an American Indian teepee village and Virginia's longest swinging bridge, in addition to a great pumpkin patch!
Located on the outskirts of Purcellville, this small family farm, located on land first settled by the Quakers, is now a quaint escape for visitors. They take pride on their farming practices, bringing the freshest of local products to guests. Crooked Run Orchard features new varieties of pumpkin each season to allow pickers to try something new!
If you like this type of info then stay up-to-date with more goodies by "LIKING" my facebook page LIVING LARGE IN LOUDOUN!
← PART FOUR: Is low credit the only reason you rent?


Interclassics Brussels was a couple weeks ago and I was lucky enough to go with Jobjoris since I was already in France for the End of WWI Centenary. This has to be the biggest car show/market I've ever been to. Three huge halls filled with every classic European (and some American) car you can think of plus some. Most of them for sale. It's held in the imposing and huge Brussels Expo building which was built in the mid 30's for a world's fair.
The architecture gives off that "World War II is coming" vibe. World Expo '58 was also held here and that's when they put up the amazing Atomium nearby.
Anyway, this time of year it holds lots and lots of awesome cars. Here's a bunch of pictures of them.
This Iso Isocarro 400 truck was one of my favorites. It looks like a grasshopper. Here it's serving coffee.
This '64 Iso Rivolta GT also has an insectoid face.
This 1970 Monteverdi 375L High Speed was a magnificent beast. So much so, my camera seemed unable to focus on it. Powered by a 7.2 liter V8, so I believe the high speed part.
Beautiful blue Glas 1700 GT.
A Messerschmitt KR200 with an added convertible top. This is pretty common when the original plexiglass domes break.
This is a rare 1939 NSU/FIAT 500 A Weinsburg. These were license built Topolinos manufactured in Germany by NSU.
A 1975 Audi 100 Coupé S. A very handsome car that was apparently terrible.
A beautiful BMW 700 Coupe. This was the car that put BMW back on track in the 50's.
Belgian built 1925 Minerva AB Roadster that's apparently only had 4 owners since new.
1967 Fiat Dino Coupé. I like it in yellow.
This is a 2600 Berlina from 1962, one of Alfa's oft forgotten "big" saloons.
I thought this Michelotti designed Lancia Appia Convertible was one of the prettiest cars in the place.
A Maserati 4000 with a healthy amount of patina. This car came from Florida, so it's a good thing it's fiberglass.
The very first Alpine, the A106.
1937 Delage D8-120 Cabriolet with coachwork by Chapron.
Never seen one of these before. An Artega GT.
1972 Lancia 2000 Berlina. This car looks like it was built 10 years earlier. It is pretty, though.
Another favorite of mine was this 1955 Fiat 1100 TV Transformabile.
Fiat 2300 Berlina. I don't know what pissed it off.
BMW 1600 GT. After BMW bought Glas, they kept building these beautiful cars for a whlle powered by their own 1600 motor. A little smaller than the old Glas engine, but easier to manufacture since most stuff at Glas was still built by hand.
A rare Rumi Formachino scooter.
An another awesome Michelotti design, the Fiat Shellette.