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Discover the Danube with AmaWaterways
When Kate from our marketing team got the opportunity to experience an AmaWaterways river cruise on the Danube, she was keen to jump at the chance. The trip was a 7-night adventure onboard AmaSerena, from Vilshofen to Budapest. Countries en route included Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary. Having never been to these places before, Kate was excited to see the culture and spirit of each destination. Thankfully, with AmaWaterways excursions are included, so she had plenty of opportunities to get to know every town and village on the way. Here's what she made of her experience of AmaWaterways' excursions.
I found there is plenty of choice when it comes to opportunities and experiences with AmaWaterways. Included tours and excursions were available in each port, or you could also explore at your own leisure, either on foot or with one of the ship's bikes. The options ranged in fitness level, start time, and activity, from castle hikes and cycle trips to walking tours, and tastings. We opted for the slightly more active excursions including hikes, which also included brief city tours too. The hikes were amazing taking you high above each town for absolutely astounding views, and the local guides were excellent.
Here we opted for the castle hike, and I'm so glad we did. It was stunning. From the heights of Passau's castle, you could see out across the Bavarian and Bohemian forests, and you also had an excellent vantage point for seeing where the three rivers – Danube, Ilz, and Inn – converge.
Durnstein
After enjoying the hike in Passau, we decided to go for another one in Durnstein. This hike was just as impressive, though a bit of a higher fitness level is definitely required, on this hike you could actually climb to the castle where Richard the Lionheart was held captive and stand upon the ruins.
In Linz, we opted for a morning bike ride along the 'Culture Mile', which was an informative and fun way of getting to all the hotspots and sights of the city including the Ars Electronica Center, Lentos Kunstmuseum, the mighty cathedral, and both the new and old town squares.
This was by far one of the best excursions! The guide on the coach getting there was great, giving lots of information about the area, and when we finally arrived at the first lake I was truly in awe. After a brief tour we were let loose to wander at leisure, and of course, we had to dip our toes in the beautiful Moon Lake. A few scenic drives and lakes later it was safe to say we were exhausted from such a long and brilliant day. It really is impossible to describe the magnitude of the beauty here.
In Vienna, we opted for the 'active walkers' city tour, which takes in a few more sights than the gentle group. We had a guided drive on the Ringtrasse where our guide brought history to life with each building! After the tour, we opted to stay in the city and explore for ourselves, from the Cathedral to the Strauss Statue, and plenty of gardens in-between. After some much-deserved strudel, we headed back to the pickup point, where shuttle buses arrived every half an hour to go back to the ship.
The pièce de résistance in Vienna had to be the optional Mozart & Strauss Concert in the evening. This was at an additional cost but was worth every penny. Everyone dressed for the affair and the music was sublime, but it's not all serious - there were a few comedic moments in the performance too.
We enjoyed panoramic views of the Wachau Valley as we sailed to Bratislava, whilst listening to incredible commentary from our brilliant Cruise Manager. Arriving in Bratislava, we opted for the tasting and brewery tour where we got to sample three local beers and delicious, traditional Slovakian snacks.
When we reached Budapest, we chose to take part in the city tour, to try to cover as much as possible in this beautiful city. In total, we were out for around 4 hours and still didn't see everything! The Pest side is like a classic cosmopolitan city reminding me of London with a lot of history and character, but a walk over the bridge to Buda is a must as well. This side of the bridge is another world entirely, especially if you head up to the castle. Here you'll feel like you're in a fairy-tale, with spires and towers and incredible views.
With at least three excursion options every day, it's clear that the crew at AmaWaterways think of everything. If you're feeling inspired to get out and see Europe on a river cruise, why not browse through our range of AmaWaterways Danube cruises and see this gorgeous region for yourself.
Tags: european river cruise, amawaterways, danube, excursions
Categories: Destination | Inspiration | River Cruise
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24 hours in Krems, Austria
Krems an der Donau is a key feature of many Iglu river cruises along the mighty Danube, with a number of trips stopping there for a day of sightseeing.
The town is the fifth-largest in Lower Austria, around 40 miles away from the capital Vienna. Officially given its title in 995 AD by Otto III, it has grown substantially and almost superseded the capital during the 11th and 12th century. It is made up of ten smaller divisions and is a great stop-off point as part of your river cruise.
So what is there to do with 24 hours in this riverside town?
Take a stroll from the port into the old town where you will be able to get a real sense of the history of Krems. The town is influenced by the Baroque era of the 16th century and many of the buildings pay homage to this. One in particular is the Steiner Tor which acts as an entrance to Krems and was erected in 1480.
The gate is considered to be the symbol of Krems and took the place of a wall which surrounded the town until the 19th century. It features a mounted memorial on the side of the stone door which commemorates a flooding disaster in 1573. It has appeared on a definitive stamp, similar to a postage stamp, and in 2005 the Steiner Tor underwent restoration work to celebrate the 700-year anniversary of Krems.
Staying in the old town and the Kunst Halle Krems is an absolute must for the culture vultures among you. The art gallery is home to a swathe of contemporary works and in the past has showcased the work of artists such as Pipilotti Rist, Dominik Steiger, William Kentridge, Andy Warhol and Yoko Ono.
Another place to tick off should be the Weinstadmuseum which highlights both the history of Krems but also its proud winemaking traditions. The museum is housed in a beautiful monastery providing a calm and tranquil vibe when you walk through the front door.
Krems Town Hall
Situated in the Wachau Valley region of Austria, Krems is famed for its Marillenschnaps. Like many other towns in the area, Krems is a producer of this apricot brandy. While there are similar liquors elsewhere in the world, if you want an authentic taste of the Wachau Valley then you cannot go far wrong with Marillenschnaps.
Krems is surrounded by an abundance of small orchards that are dedicated to producing the apricots designed for this drink. Bars in the town will always have a good bottle, so it would be rude not to try a little following a hearty meal. When it comes to food, Krems is home to some authentic Austrian cuisine. If you are looking for somewhere with real local flavour then head to any one of the Heurigers that are dotted around the town.
Translated as wine taverns you will be able to enjoy some great local fayre washed down with some Austrian wine, but don't forget the Marillenschnaps before you set sail for your next destination.
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Tags: Krems, Austria, Danube, River Cruise, Danube River Cruise, Krems an der Donau
Categories: Destination | River Cruise
9 Historical attractions you must visit on the Danube
The Danube is the heartline of eastern Europe, starting from the Black Sea cutting through many major countries before ending in Germany.
Such is the diversity of the cities along the Danube, it makes the river ideal for a cruising holiday. There is so much history attached to the waterway that is best experienced on a river cruise. There are a wide variety of Danube river cruises available such as starting in the Hungarian capital of Budapest, passing through the likes of Austria and Germany and ending in Amsterdam.
Along the way there is an abundance of historical sights which help to build the history of the Danube. Let's take a look at nine must-see attractions en route.
Shoes on the Danube Bank
Starting in Budapest, the Shoes on the Danube Bank is a highly poignant memorial. A collection of shoes on the banks of the river on the Pest side of the Danube Promenade honour the Jews who were killed by fascist Arrow Cross militiamen in the capital during World War II.
Created by film director Can Togay and sculptor Gyula Pauer, the memorial is a reminder of the tragedies which Budapest suffered during the war, while also commemorating the victims.
Schonbrunn Palace
This magnificent Baroque palace sits in the heart of Vienna, the next stop along the Danube. The 1,441-room palace is a former imperial summer residence originally purchased by Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian II in 1569.
It remains a focal point of Vienna's, and by a larger extent Austria's, style of architecture reflecting the changing taste of the Habsburg monarchs. Since the 1950s both the palace and the gardens have become major tourist attractions and were recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.
Staying in Vienna and another attraction to tick off is the Kunsthistorisches Museum. Translated as the Museum of Art History, this magnificent building has stood in the Austrian capital since opening in 1891. Commissioned by Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria-Hungary it houses some of the nation's finest art.
Notable works currently installed at the picture gallery include Jan van Eyck: Portrait of Cardinal Niccolo Albergati (c. 1431), The Fight Between Carnival and Lent (1559) by Pieter Bruegel the Elder and Rembrandt: Self Portrait (1652). It is an absolute must for all art lovers.
Mauthausen Memorial
Not far from the Austrian city of Linz is the Mauthausen memorial. Mauthausen-Gusen was a concentration camp used by the Nazis during World War II. Between 122,766 and 320,000 people are estimated to have been killed here during Germany's occupation of Austria.
Liberated by the US Army in May 1945, Mauthausen is now a national memorial site. It remains largely intact covering almost 3,000 sq ft. There are a number of guided tours going on throughout the day.
Regensburg Dom
Moving into Germany and the Regensburg Dom should be high up on the itinerary for anyone cruising the Danube. This huge cathedral is a brilliant example of pure German Gothic architecture and forms the focal point of the city.
Founded in 1275 and completed in 1634, the Dom is home to some magnificent monuments including one by renowned German sculptor Peter Vischer the Elder. It is a sight to behold and a must-see when in Regensburg.
Nuremberg Palace of Justice
Nuremberg is a city of huge prominence in Germany. The second largest in Bavaria, behind Munich, it is a place of so much history none more so than the Palace of Justice. Justizpalast was built in 1916 and was the scene of the infamous Nuremberg Trials between 1945 and 1949 after World War II.
Courtroom 600 saw the trial of the main Nazi Germany personalities such as Hermann Göering, Rudolf Hess, Joachim von Ribbentrop and Arthur Seyss-Inquart. The courts are still used today and are open to the public.
A magnificent natural sight in the heart of Germany, the Rhine Gorge is where the Rhine takes over from the Danube. The 65-kilometre section of river between Koblenz and Bingen was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002.
The area is unusual as it produces its own microclimate and has become the home to a number of species not generally native to this part of the world. Aside from this the gorge provides some splendid views.
German National Museum of Contemporary History
Moving on to Bonn in the North Rhine-Westphalia region of Germany and a must in this city is the German National Museum of Contemporary History. Charting the nation's past after 1945, the museum ranges from artefacts from over the previous decades to the changing face of politics in the country.
Admission is free and guide booklets can be obtained in English, as the exhibitions and tours are presented in German.
Koblenz, Germany
Ending the trip in Amsterdam, a visit to the home of Anne Frank is an absolute must. Situated at the Prinsengracht in central Amsterdam, this unassuming house was where Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank hid from Nazi persecution.
The 17th-century canal house became a museum in May 1960, following the publication of Anne's diaries in 1957, she did not survive the war. Behind the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank Huis is well worth a visit.
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Tags: Danube, river cruise, river cruising, danube river cruise, Austria, Romania, Bulgaria, Slovakia, Hungary, Ukraine, Croatia, Germany, Serbia, Moldova
5 Reasons to river cruise with Emerald
Launching in 2014, Emerald Waterways are a brand new UK based river cruise line with a fleet of five stunning state of the art 'Star-Ships'. Cruising some of the best rivers in the world, Emerald Waterways have a fantastic selection of destination rich itineraries and provide guests with a deluxe and comfortable home away from home.
Designed with space and comfort in mind, Emerald's Star-Ships provide a relaxing atmosphere for up to 182 guests. Every cabin comes fitted with a window so you never have to miss the idyllic river views, and with five types of contemporary cabins to choose from there is something to suit all tastes.
We were lucky enough to step onboard and experience the amazing quality of Emerald Waterways first hand and have compiled our top 5 favourite features for you below.
Emerald's European cruises can take you along some of the continent's most beautiful waterways including the Rhine, Danube and Saone. With ample opportunities to step ashore, join excursions and port talks, you'll get a fantastic introduction to each new destination along the way. From historical landmarks to pretty villages and towns, the selection of ports are magnificent.
"I loved how in each of the destinations, not only would there be expert guides to help bring it all alive, but the personal radio headsets mean you can benefit from all their knowledge at your own pace" – Margaret McCorriston, Iglu River Cruise Product Manager.
Keep Active
Keeping active is a breeze both on and off the ship during an Emerald River cruise. There are plenty of opportunities for walking as you explore each new destination along the way, with bikes available for those hoping to cover more ground. Onboard you'll find a small gym, river view walking track and even a heated swimming pool.
For quiet times you can enjoy the privacy of your comfortable cabin or suite. Check out the onboard book selection or catch a movie in the impressive onboard cinema.
"I was absolutely blown away by Emerald, I thought having seen many of the latest Ocean ships like Anthem of the seas, I'd seen it all – but the attention to detail, service, and innovations like the alfresco swimming pool by day that transforms into an intimate cinema by night were really impressive" – Dave Mills, Iglu Cruise Commercial Director
We are always on the move so staying connected is important to us. Free Wi-Fi onboard meant we could keep connected at all times and share our journey photos and updates straight away.
The Reflections restaurant kept us smiling throughout with delicious cuisine echoing the tastes of the rivers regions. Breakfast was either enjoyed at the daily self-service buffet or top deck in the sunshine. A resident Egg-Chef is also on hand providing speciality breakfast choices. Complimentary coffee and tea kept us fuelled for our excursions and we also enjoyed eating ashore to experience a taste of local life.
Have you been on an Emerald River cruise? Let us know your highlights in the comments below
Browse our Emerald Waterways river cruises
See the latest news for Emerald Waterways including two new ships!
Tags: river cruise, river cruise line, emerald waterways, european river cruise, europe, danube, rhine
Categories: Cruise Lines | Destination | River Cruise
Vienna's Finest Coffee Houses
Take a trip along the Danube river and taste your way through Austria's fascinating and wonderful capital city with our favourite coffee houses of Vienna. Visit a Viennese Kaffehaus for an authentic coffee experience and chat amongst the locals for an idyllic afternoon. [More]
Tags: River Cruise, River, Vienna, Austria, Danube, Danube River, Coffee, Coffee house, culture, city break
Categories: River Cruise
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"I booked a Fred Olsen cruise with IGLU last month and was so impressed by the service I received. The staff member I spoke to was Kimberley and she was exemplary. Capable, kind, professional, patient, friendly and knowledgeable. She went through every step of the way calmly and thoroughly. IGLU were recommended to me by friends and I have no hesitation in passing the recommendation along. Well done IGLU and thank you. "
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SEO, or search engine optimization, is the process of creating content to search engine standards. Over time, a successful SEO strategy will earn your website a higher ranking in search engine results. SEO is detail-oriented, and can be impacted by all elements that go into establishing your online presence – including your website's domain.
A domain is the name a website goes by. It is used in the URL – or website address – and is what online users will type in to find your website. While it's doesn't have to be your business's name exactly, do consider your domain your first name online.
How Does My Domain Affect My SEO?
Your domain is your online identifier. So, you want a domain that's easily recognizable for your business. Don't make users guess what your website is. You want to make it relevant to your business and probably pretty similar to your company's actual name. This'll help bring in more traffic, which, in turn, will work to strengthen your site's online authority.
You don't necessarily want an obscure or long domain name. This is because you always need to have the search intent in mind. The simpler the name, the easier it is to type it in. This can help your website rank higher, as well as make people come back and become repeat customers.
If you can implement a keyword anywhere within reason, and it make sense, you might as well. So, if a keyword makes sense when going to buy a domain name, why not? It's actually a pretty standard practice for businesses to include a their industry, product, or service in their domain to differentiate them. And, it does tend to work in helping them rank higher.
Is Your Business in Need of a Local SEO Company in NYC?
Rely on the experts when it comes to establishing your business's online presence. If your business is need of a local SEO company in NYC, contact us today to schedule a free SEO consultation.
At Best Marketing NYC, we are unique among SEO companies. Instead of changing your URL or your website, we create a unique site that is identical to your existing website with our favorable URL that links with every click back to your site. Contact us today for a detailed explanation.


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text:
Unter einer Judasziege versteht man eine mit einem Peilsender ausgestattete Ziege, die zum Aufspüren verwilderter Ziegen verwendet wird. Durch eine auffällige Farbmarkierung am Fell und den Hörnern des Tieres kann dieses von den anderen Tieren unterschieden werden. Die Bezeichnung ist angelehnt an den Apostel Judas Iskariot, der Jesus von Nazaret verraten hat.

Herkunft
Auf mehreren der Galapagos-Inseln wurden durch Übersiedler auch Ziegen eingeführt. Diese sind teilweise verwildert und haben sich durch fehlende Fressfeinde massenhaft vermehrt. Es ist von bis zu 400.000 wilden Ziegen die Rede, die durch massiven Pflanzenfraß die Lebensgrundlage der nativen, endemischen und schützenswerten Pflanzenfresser zerstören. Im Rahmen von Naturschutzmaßnahmen wurden diese Ziegen zunächst vom Hubschrauber aus abgeschossen. Dies war allerdings nur effektiv, solange es ganze Ziegenherden gab. Einzelne überlebende Tiere, die sich ins Unterholz zurückzogen und so gegen die Sicht von oben geschützt waren, konnten nicht erlegt werden.

Da das teils unwegsame Gelände ein Aufstöbern zur Bejagung vom Boden stark behinderte, wurden mit Peilsendern versehene Ziegen ausgesetzt. Eine auffällige Farbmarkierung dieser Tiere verhindert eine Verwechslung mit den zu jagenden Ziegen. Die markierten Ziegen suchen die Gesellschaft ihrer frei lebenden Artgenossen und verraten deren Aufenthaltsort. Die verwilderten Ziegen können dann von Jägern erlegt werden. Die Judasziegen suchen dann weitere Artgenossen und beginnen erneut ihr unbeabsichtigtes, verräterisches Werk.

Ähnlich verfährt man auf Tasmanien mit Füchsen, die ebenfalls dort kein natürliches Vorkommen hatten und deren Überhandnehmen eine Bedrohung der einheimischen Beuteltiere darstellt. Hier spricht man von Judasfüchsen.

Nach anderen Quellen sind Judasziegen solche, die von Hirten als Anführer einer Herde eingesetzt werden, damit sie diese in den Schlachthof führen. Hier bleibt die Herde. Die Judasziege wird dagegen mit der Freiheit belohnt und kann die nächste Herde in den Tod führen.

Weblinks
 Atlant Bieri: Auf Galápagos wachsen die Pflanzen wieder. In: Neue Zürcher Zeitung. 9. September 2007

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A couple of things make Iron Man different to your regular comic-book superhero movie.
First, there is the hero himself, Tony Stark, a scientific genius who for once is not the timid or bespectacled geek we are used to in Hollywood, but is charismatic, confident, and a hit with the ladies.
But it is the technology that Stark uses to turn himself into Iron Man that gets us going. The tech in the movie is probably more firmly rooted in reality than you might think – unless, that is, you are a regular New Scientist reader.
No such suit exists – yet. The leg sections of a wearable exoskeleton have been built, however.
This contraption does not yet give the wearer added strength, but it does make the backpack they are carrying feel lighter, by transferring its weight to the ground. This can makes a 36-kilogram (79-pound) load feel about 80% lighter. Other teams are building similar suits, and a Japanese company plans to sell one later this year.
Of course, the coolest thing about Stark's suit is not its strength but its ability to fly. In the film, Stark zooms to Afghanistan, just in the nick of time to stop warlords killing a group of poor villagers.
Danger and possible financial ruin hasn't put everyone off. UK inventor and pilot Stuart Ross reckons his Rocketbelt packs enough power to lift him 2500 metres in the air and plans to test fly the latest model this year.
In the movie, Stark has a friendly robot to help him build his armour. It looks too clever to be true, but in fact it is highly reminiscent of AUR. Built last year by MIT scientists, AUR is a robotic desk lamp that calculates where you are looking and moves its flexible neck to shine light on that spot.
And while Stark's robotic helper doesn't always correctly guess what he wants, as real-world software grows evermore sophisticated, it too is making the same mistakes humans do.
In the great tradition of robots in movies, Stark forms emotional bonds with his. At one point, his assistant Pepper (Gwyneth Paltrow) catches him in what looks like a compromising position with his robots ("Let's face it, this isn't the worst thing you've walked in on me doing," says Stark).
Will humans and robots ever have relationships like this? It's certainly something NASA is trying to figure out. Should robots be better tools or better teammates?
Owners of the robotic vacuum cleaner Roomba seem to think the latter, treating the machine more like part of the family than a tool.
Moving from robots to software, when Pepper sees a video clip sent by terrorists who have captured Stark, she uses nifty real-time translation program to understand their demands.
The most fashionable way for software right now to learn how to translate is for it to scan through thousands of previously translated documents. But the approach doesn't always work, with sometimes unfortunate results.
This is just some of the tech used in Iron Man that is rooted in reality. Others include a 3D tactile interface that Stark uses to design his armour, targeting software that homes in on human heads, and the problem of ice formation when flying.
For the scoop on technology that will no doubt feature in the sequel to Iron Man – you know where to look.


Djordje Stojanovic and Milutin Cerovic will be giving a workshop at University of Rijeka, Trsat Campus, from 03-09 September 2012, as a part of "Geometry Education for Future Architects" initiative, sponsored by Deutsche Akademische Austausch Dienst (German Academic Exchange Service). Workshop is a continuation of the research http://blog.4ofseven.com/tag/elastomer-assemblies/ which has resulted with the realization of the series of prototypical assemblies from elastomer components. Over the period of five days we will explore ways of computer based modeling with material properties using custom made Rhino plug-in, developed in collaboration with Bojan Mitorovic.
This entry was posted on Friday, August 24th, 2012 at 10:12 am	and is filed under Events. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.


Fun with Buddha & Co.
Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) is one quirky place just south-east of Vientiane. Hundreds of statues of Buddhist and Hindu figures, built by one priest from the finest ferro concrete Laos has to offer, spread out over a couple of acres in a lush setting. If this sounds a bit bizarre, it definitely is. Whether he did it for lulz or out of devotion, I can't tell. Maybe a bit of both?
A local bus takes about an hour to get there from the main bus station in Vientiane. Remember the number of the bus (14, I think) so you know who to flag down on the way back, as there's no marked bus stop at the park. Spending an hour at the park is probably enough. They have shops for souvenirs and drinks/food there.


The content which is explored these days includes that of the latest pattern of the content like infographics, videos as well as quizzes. Artificial intelligence along with the chatbot features to ensure that the visitors landing the website of a particular company or business are attended, and the initial queries are solved. This also eases the communication between the companies and potential clients. This also reduces the time required by the business or company via the website of the company. Chatbots are quite famous these days and also ensure that the businesses utilize this new and innovative feature quite efficiently and productively to improve the results.
Mobile marketing is quite popular these days which makes it essential to keep it on the top of the list for the successful execution of the strategies associated with digital marketing. Based on the type of niche of the business, the frequency of the utilization of the mobile marketing strategies varies from time to time. Success stories of various clients and customers motivate other businesses or companies to take the right digital marketing steps.
Companies and businesses can utilize provoking stories and real achievements of other customers and clients to encourage their potential clients for similar actions. The reviews of the business present in the Google's search list leads to initiation of the building of the trust among the prospective clients which eventually convert them into long-term clients. In this way, when your company or business has a good number of positive reviews over the time, then you will acquire an increasing number of clients for your business.
In this way, these are some of the most critical factors which ensure that you will achieve success with your digital marketing strategies from time to time. Thus, it is essential to know the importance of the utilization of every factor which will make your business performance and profits rise high to an appreciable extent.


If a doctor is unable to diagnose the cause of your symptoms with simple recording methods such as an EKG or a 24 hour monitor, they may consider an implantable cardiac monitor (ICM).
Traditionally doctors would have implanted an insertable loop recorder (ILR) (which is the size of a USB stick) under the skin on the left side of a patient's chest in order to capture a recording of the heart rate and rhythm at the time of an episode of loss of consciousness. The device records on a continuous loop for up to three years. If you experienced a blackout, you would use a separate device to freeze the recording and document the episode which would then be assessed by a heart rhythm specialist.
The ICM is a diagnostic tool that will monitor the heart's electrical activity that helps a heart rhythm specialist identify the cause of your symptoms. This device offers the same benefits as a traditional ILR but is a tenth of the size. Virtually invisible to the naked eye, it is more comfortable and much less noticeable under the skin.
As this miniature monitor is so much smaller and easier to implant, it is intended that the procedure could be performed in a treatment room rather than a theatre setting. Implanting the device requires an incision of less than 1cm which can then be closed very simply with medical adhesive, steri strips or one suture. It is anticipated the procedure will take about ten minutes. Hopefully this will reduce the waiting lists for this diagnostic device to be fitted and in some cases the procedure could be undertaken when you first attend the clinic, saving delay in reaching a diagnosis and the inconvenience of repeat visits.


HUMAC Balance appeals to the Fall Prevention, Orthopedic, Concussion and Research markets. Designing a product that addresses four markets without overwhelming any one of them is a delicate line to walk. This month we added Average Velocity to the HUMAC 2013 mCTSIB Report.
A modified version of the Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction in Balance (Shumway‐Cook & Horak, 1986) is used to evaluate the patient's/client's ability to use different sensory strategies for maintaining upright balance. Although this test cannot distinguish between different sensory system impairments, this test can be used to identify whether the use of sensory information in different sensory environments is normal or abnormal. Test results can be compared to normative values for each patient's age range.
When we released HUMAC Balance the mCTSIB report included one parameter, Stability. In the fall a researcher suggested we add Path Length to the mCTSIB Report. Path Length is the length of line created by tracking the subject's Center of Pressure (COP) during a test. Generally speaking if the Path Length from an initial test to a follow-up test is shortening the subject's balance is improving.
Average Velocity is a parameter we believe all Users will appreciate. Average Velocity is not dependent on direction, rather it is the average speed obtained to go from a starting point to an end point. The average speed along the Path Length. Generally speaking the Average Velocity tends to increase as the subject becomes less stable.
If you have question regarding HUMAC Balance send us a note.
HUMAC 2013 Balance Software release including Average Velocity is available free from the CSMi website. Download HUMAC 2013.


When you create a user in Dynamics GP from the User Setup window (Microsoft Dynamics GP > Tools > Setup > System > User), you enter a value for the user's password. However, when GP creates the matching login on your SQL server, it actually hashes the password using the server name in GP's ODBC connection. This is because all GP users are made members of the DYNGRP SQL role in each database, which, in turn, gives them unfettered access to every Dynamics GP database object.
Anyone who connected to the database using SQL Server Management Studio or even Excel, could plop in their GP user name and password and see anything they wanted to see, regardless of their security roles in GP itself. So, with a hashed password, they can't do that because they don't actually know what their real SQL password is.
How can you reset your user passwords in GP?
This works pretty well to secure your data, but it also creates a challenge whenever you create a test environment or move SQL servers. Because the passwords are hashed using the SQL server name, if you change the SQL server, no one except for sa (sa's password is not hashed) will be able to log in until you reset their password in GP, one at a time.
However, GP has the capability to run macros and, using SQL Server Management Studio, we can generate a macro to reset the password for all GP users (that also actually have a SQL login).
I'm going to stop and add a quick disclaimer before going any farther. You should ALWAYS run a backup before running any scripts. If you are not comfortable performing a backup or running SQL scripts, it is best to contact your partner or Microsoft directly. Every environment is different so these scripts are provided as is, without warranty.
Open a new Query and change the context to your system database (typically DYNAMICS).
Copy the script below into that window and run it.
Copy the output of the script and create a new file called reset passwords.mac or something similar.
Launch Dynamics GP and log in as either sa or DYNSA.
Go to the User Setup window (Microsoft Dynamics GP > Tools > Setup > System > User).
Without moving the cursor out of the first box (macros are pretty sensitive, so your cursor has to be in the right place at the beginning), from the window ribbon select Tools > Macro > Play.
Navigate to wherever you saved the macro you created in step 4 and click open.
In addition to setting their password to the temporary value, it also forces them to change it when they log in, so you don't have all users with the same password in your test system.
Interested in Microsoft Dynamics GP training?


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WATCH: Damien Dempsey performs 'Tupelo Honey' for Rave On, Van Morrison
As part of our nightly YouTube series celebrating Van Morrison's 75th birthday, Damien Dempsey performs 'Tupelo Honey'.
Across his remarkable career, Damien Dempsey has forged a reputation as one of the country's most beloved artists – with 2020 marking his 20th year of releasing albums. His most recent album, 2018's Union, saw the soulful singer-songwriter showcasing new songs and re-imagined classics, through collaborations with Finbar Furey, John Grant, Kate Tempest, Maverick Sabre, Lisa O'Neill and more. Following his iconic run of Vicar Street gigs in December, he's set to play the Iveagh Gardens on July 10, 2021.
Watch Damien Dempsey perform 'Tupelo Honey' below:
Take a look at the spectacular line-up for the next week of 'Rave On, Van Morrison' below:
Tue Aug 18 Damien Dempsey Tupelo Honey (7pm); Carrie Baxter Out In The Cold Again (8pm)
Wed Aug 19 Camille O'Sullivan Avalon Of The Heart (7pm); Joshua Burnside You Don't Pull No Punches, But You Don't Push The River (8pm)
Thu Aug 20 Gemma Hayes Comfort You (7pm); Little Hours Streets Of Arklow (8pm)
Fri Aug 21 Gemma Bradley Sometimes We Cry (7pm); Jess Kav Vanlose Stairway (8pm)
Sat Aug 22 Mick Flannery Linden Arden Stole the Highlights (7pm); The Henry Girls These Are The Days (8pm)
Sun Aug 23 Martin Hayes Moondance (7pm); Cara Dillon Memory Lane (8pm)
Each 'Rave On, Van Morrison' performance premieres every night on the Hot Press YouTube channel. To make sure you don't miss out on any of our upcoming videos, subscribe to our YouTube here!
Hot Press is also publishing a Van Morrison Special Issue, to coincide with 'Rave On, Van Morrison', featuring written contributions from the legendary likes of Sinéad O'Connor, Gary Lightbody, Tim Wheeler, Una Healy and David Keenan – who reflect on Van's music and influence. The issue will also look back at five decades of landmark Hot Press interviews with Van, in which he discusses everything from Ray Charles and his other musical heroes, to the inspiration behind the seminal Astral Weeks. Plus, you can expect exclusive photos from the archives, ten ways Van has changed the world, and much more. This historic publication is set to be a must-have for Van Morrison fans all over the world, and is available to pre-order now.
Live Report: Damien Dempsey delivers a heart-warming performance at The Big Top, Limerick
Damien Dempsey announces two Iveagh Gardens gigs
Damien Dempsey releases music video for Christmas track 'Fáilte Abhaile (Welcome Home)' in aid of Focus Ireland
New Irish Songs To Hear This Week
Damien Dempsey releases Christmas song with all profits going to Focus Ireland
Damien Dempsey's Tales from the Holywell is coming to the Abbey Theatre
Niamh Regan covers Captain Beefheart's 1972 single 'Her Eyes are A Blue Million Miles'
Forest Fest Early Bird tickets go on sale tomorrow
Tau & The Drones of Praise collaborate with Damien Dempsey and Pól Brennan on new single 'Ceol Ón Chré'

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


The warning signs were not what you might imagine with such a weighty diagnosis. Piper's symptoms presented in such a way that simple, rational explanations were enough to satisfy our early concerns.
After Nelson and I returned home from a 3-night trip to Chicago (our first travel without the girls) we began to notice changes in Piper. It started with her speech. Minor pronunciation issues that we attributed to her wanting to talk like her baby sister, Harlow, or simply acting out because we had been away. A couple days later we noticed she also seemed to have difficulty swallowing and chewing her food. Her saliva would gather in the right corner of her mouth and if she was laughing or looking down, it would drip out. But still this was all minor. Then came the calls from her school. Always watchful, they described a lack of energy and engagement uncharacteristic for Piper.
Friday, June 9, six days after our trip, we had an appointment with our family pediatrician in hopes of finding answers. The visit put all our concerns at ease… "it may be an ear, nose, throat issue" … "perhaps she has strep or swollen glands" …. "no neurological concerns"…. Piper had also been having night terrors and, paradoxically, sleep laughter over the previous six months (also early signs of DIPG) so the doctor felt that sleep deprivation might be playing a role. She scheduled a sleep study and told us to go to Target to get nasal spray to calm down what she thought was a swollen tonsil.
Then, late Sunday, June 11, Piper's symptoms suddenly worsened. No longer nuanced changes, but clear signs that something bigger than an ENT issue was at hand. She lost her energy, began to trip and stumble, and her speech became so slurred we could hardly make out her words. Although she was talking as much as ever, she was clearly laboring to do so. Alarmed, we began to Google her symptoms but her eventual diagnosis never once came up in the search. At that late hour, reassuring ourselves it could not be neurological like the doctor said, we decided to let her rest and take her in first thing the following morning.
Monday, June 12, 2017, will forever be etched in our memories as the day the sky fell. The day our seemingly perfect world evaporated. At 6:30 a.m. it became clear Piper was not improving. Although she had slept comfortably in our bed all night, she was slow to wake and couldn't even really get out of bed. Rather than wait for her doctor's office to open, we rushed to the ER at Children's Hospital South Campus. They wasted no time getting a CT scan in process. Even then, worried as I was, I believed the explanation would be something I'd at least heard of, or could be treated in the age of modern medicine. We waited for what seemed like hours, and although we had been given no information, we began to know that something was wrong. The nurses and staff who were so cheery when we arrived were now avoiding eye contact and conversation. After about half an hour, the ER doctor asked us to meet her in an empty room. The short walk to the next room was silent and foreboding. A box of tissues had already been placed on the table in front of where we were to sit, then the doctor bravely, and with obvious heartbreak, told us that the scan showed a mass in Piper's brainstem. Everything echoed. "What kind of a mass?" we both asked. The doctor said nobody would know until Piper had an MRI at the Children's Hospital Main Campus in Aurora. After we pressed the issue, she said the mass appeared to be cancerous. Before the conversation was over, an ambulance was ready for us.
Minutes have never felt so long. After we arrived, Piper's condition began rapidly deteriorating. She couldn't walk or even move much at all. She couldn't talk, but just whimpered and uttered half-formed words. She wanted to tell us something, but she just couldn't. The doctors explained they would image Piper's brain and spine and that it would take about an hour and a half. We held and kissed her as they put her under general anesthesia so they could obtain a clear image.
Before the procedure was even complete we were asked to come to yet another ominous room. They had seen enough to make a diagnosis. Waiting for us was another pre-placed box of tissues, two neuro-oncologists, a medical student, and a social worker. It was there that we first heard the words Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma, or DIPG for short. These words came alongside others like "inoperable," "incurable," and "universally fatal." The doctors said our beautiful 3-year-old would die from her brain tumor and that she might live 6-9 months if we elected palliative radiation, or just 7 weeks if we did nothing.
We held hands and cried until there were no tears left. Then each of us broke the news to our parents. Life has never been the same since. We spent the next week in-patient with Piper, encouraging her to talk, chew, and slowly walk again. Her tumor was biopsied (something they only started doing in the last five years) and confirmed it to be grade IV DIPG.
Every day since June 12, 2017, has been far from normal – even in the happiest of moments. Although our reality has been irreversibly altered, some changes have been positive. We understand as we never could have before that we should be grateful for each day. To take struggles one step at a time. To live for today. To love like there may not be a tomorrow.


Take a quick tour through Monday's Las Vegas Summer League action in the Fast Break.
DJ Stephens scores 21 points and grabs seven rebounds as the Grizzlies beat the Bucks,85-81.
If the Memphis Grizzlies care to overhaul their image as a plodding, physical, halfcourt team, they could find room and minutes this fall for these guys. Baldwin is a savvy floor leader with "controlled speed," as one NBA insider put it Monday. The No. 17 pick in last month's draft had 13 points and six assists in less than 25 minutes in Memphis' 85-81 victory over Milwaukee. Then there was Stephens, a freakish athlete who played at the University of Memphis and had a cup of coffee with Milwaukee last season (three appearances) while delighting fans in the D-League. Stephens had a handful of dazzling dunks but he also hit a couple 3-pointers and shot 9-of-13 en route to 21 points. He grabbed seven rebounds and, defensively, took another step toward his goal of proving his worth isn't limited to dunks.
Joel Wright scores a game-high 19 points to lead the D-League Select to victory over the Rockets, 89-71.
An underdog on a team filled with them, Johnson had 17 point and eight rebounds off the bench for the D-Leaguers. The 6-foot-6 forward from Louisiana Tech and the Rio Grande Valley Vipers led a second unit that outscored Houston's reserves 46-20, the key stat in the Rockets' 89-71 defeat. Johnson, a backup at Louisiana Tech, hadn't even attracted much interest from overseas when he got a tryout with the Vipers two seasons ago. He played last summer with the Rockets' squad and went to camp with Washington, but his improvement both as a shooter and in setting up teammates has come through from his opportunities with Rio Grande.
Norman Powell leads all scorers with 23 points as the Raptors down the Mavericks 80-69.
Powell keeps scoring and the Raptors keep winning. If he keeps this up, the Vegas Summer League MVP crown could be his, though a meatier role in Toronto's 2016-17 scheme would mean more. With 23 points in his team's victory over Dallas, Powell was the only one on either side to top 14. He has hit 10 of his 19 3-point attempts, continuing a trend from last spring; Powell shot 35 of 75 from the arc after March 1, compared to 1 of 14 prior to that in his rookie season.
Jamal Murray leads all scorers with 29 points but the Nuggets fall to the Heat 92-81.
McGruder's fortunes has taken a significant turn upwards recently. When veteran Heat guard Dwyane Wade opted to sign with Chicago last week, it opened a spot that went to McGruder in the form of a three-year, partially guaranteed contract. Then the undrafted guard from Kansas State -- three years ago, with various cuts and D-League and Euro stints in between -- scored 23 points in Miami's Vegas victory over Denver. He was the more efficient player compared to Denver's Jamal Murray, the No. 7 pick last month who went volume-shooter (10-for-25) for his 29 points in the absence of Nuggets backcourt mates Emmanuel Mudiay and Gary Harris.
Raphiael Putney scores 19 and Kay Felder adds 15 as the Cavaliers beat the Timberwolves 99-68.
If Bill Russell were playing in 2016, there's a chance he might look like Putney, a long (6-foot-9), lean (185) presence in the paint with a goatee not unlike the legendary Celtics great. OK, we'll stop the comparisons there, but still must note that Putney scored 19 points in not quite 21 minutes off the bench for Cleveland in its 99-68 rout of Minnesota. Putney made seven of his 12 shots, including five of seven 3-pointers, while grabbing six rebounds and blocking two shots.


Open call for performers, singers, procession participants and volunteers!
How would you like to get involved in Acton Carnival 2019?
Are you a singer, musician, dancer, DJ or any other type of performer? Maybe you would like to be part of the procession or maybe you would like to offer up your services as one of our volunteers for the day? If so, please contact chantel@artification.org.uk we look forward to hearing from you!!!
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All Investigations
State Accountability Project
Publish Date: October 23, 2018
New Lawsuit Seeks Details of White House, Trump Organization Involvement in FBI Headquarters Decision
American Oversight today filed a suite of lawsuits to uncover the role that President Trump and the Trump Organization played in reversing a long-time plan to relocate the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) headquarters outside of Washington, DC. In its current location at the J. Edgar Hoover building, FBI headquarters sits a block away from the Trump International Hotel.
"This is a prime example of why the president's refusal to divest from his businesses is so problematic," said Austin Evers, Executive Director of American Oversight. "If the administration's abrupt about-face on the long-planned FBI relocation was related to the president's hotel—and it's looking increasingly likely that it was—it would take 'profiting from the presidency' to a whole new level. The public should know if this decision is what it appears to be: an expensive maneuver intended to shield the president's businesses from competition."
American Oversight's lawsuits against the FBI, Department of Justice (DOJ), General Services Administration (GSA), and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) are the watchdog's first suite of litigation in its Parallel Investigations Initiative. The initiative aims to amplify congressional oversight by building on document requests from members of Congress and enforcing them in court. House Democrats including Elijah Cummings, Peter DeFazio, Gerald Connolly, Mike Quigley, and Dina Titus last week demanded the release of some of the same documents that American Oversight is seeking, including records related to meetings about the headquarters project between GSA and DOJ, FBI, OMB, or White House officials. Through its independent, parallel effort, American Oversight has created an additional opportunity for transparency and accountability.
Emails released last week by the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform indicate that the president was directly involved in GSA's decision earlier this year to keep FBI offices at the Hoover building. The messages about a January 24, 2018, White House meeting involving President Trump, GSA Administrator Emily Murphy, and FBI, DOJ, and OMB officials include reference to "the project the president wants" and "direction from the White House."
An August 2018 report from GSA's Office of Inspector General also concluded that Murphy gave "the misleading impression" that White House officials were not involved in discussions about the headquarters relocation. The report noted that in addition to the January 2018 meeting, White House officials met to discuss the headquarters move in December 2017 with Murphy and OMB officials, as well as in June 2018 with GSA, OMB, DOJ, and FBI. The inspector general also determined that GSA failed to account for the full costs of the project, underestimating the price of keeping FBI headquarters in DC by $516 million.
American Oversight's suits come after the watchdog filed over a dozen Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests in August 2018 with FBI, DOJ, GSA, and OMB related to the decision to stop the FBI headquarters relocation plan. The agencies failed to provide records in response to any of the requests. American Oversight's suits seek a broad range of documents, including:
Notes, agendas, and other documents from GSA, OMB, DOJ, and FBI related to the December 2017, January 2018, and June 2018 White House meetings regarding the FBI headquarters project;
Communications between officials at DOJ, FBI, GSA, and OMB—including Attorney General Jeff Sessions and Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein at DOJ; Director Christopher Wray and former Director James Comey at FBI; Administrator Emily Murphy and Acting Administrator Tim Horne at GSA; and Director Mick Mulvaney and Deputy Director Russ Vought at OMB—and a) White House officials mentioning the headquarters project and b) anyone associated with the Trump Organization or Trump Hotels, including Ivanka Trump, Jared Kushner, Donald Trump Jr., and Eric Trump; and
Any communications from certain DOJ, FBI, GSA, and OMB officials, including those listed above, mentioning terms related to the headquarters project or the Trump Organization.
See all the complaints here.
Part of Investigation:
Trump's Interference in the FBI Headquarters Relocation Plan
Parallel Investigations Initiative: Amplifying Congressional Oversight
Select a tag below to see a full list of related documents
Trump Family Business
Areas of Investigation
Ethics & Conflicts
General Services Administration
All Investigation Update News
American Oversight's 2019 in Review: Nine Important Stories We Uncovered
News Roundup: Beyond Impeachment — The Investigations Continue
Administration for Children and Families, Congress, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Customs and Border Protection, Department of Defense, Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Justice, Department of State, Department of the Interior, Department of Transportation, Federal Communications Commission, Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission, Food and Drug Administration, Government Accountability Office, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Office of Management and Budget
American Oversight Sues for U.S. Embassy Communications About Trump Properties
Investigation Update
News Roundup: Fiona Hill's Warnings, Nikki Haley's Emails, and Matt Bevin's Stay at Trump's Hotel
Department of Commerce, Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Justice, Department of State, Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Kentucky Office of the Governor
News Roundup: Above the Law
Congress, Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Housing and Urban Development, Department of Justice, Department of State, Department of the Interior, Department of the Treasury, Department of Veterans Affairs, General Services Administration, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative
New Evidence of Emoluments Violations Prompts American Oversight Lawsuit
Department of Justice, Department of State
American Oversight Sues HUD for Communications Related to Sale of Trump-Tied Housing Complex
Why Congress — and the American People — Deserve to See Trump's Tax Returns
Congress, Department of the Treasury, Internal Revenue Service, White House
News Roundup: DeVos, Mnuchin, Barr Testify in Congress
Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement, Congress, Council on Environmental Quality, Department of Defense, Department of Education, Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Housing and Urban Development, Department of State, Department of the Interior, Department of the Treasury, Environmental Protection Agency
The Corruption Continues: Mueller Has Finished His Work. American Oversight Has Not.
Two Years of American Oversight
News Roundup: Lawsuits Against Departments of Defense, Agriculture, and Health and Human Services
FBI Headquarters Investigation: Agencies Refusing to Search for Records of Trump Interference to Protect Hotel
Lawsuit: Why Did Government-Run Site Attached to Trump Hotel Stay Open During the Shutdown?
General Services Administration, National Park Service, Office of Management and Budget
Government Site Attached to Trump Hotel Stays Open Despite Shutdown and We Want to Know Why
Ivanka Trump Email Investigation Sparked by American Oversight FOIAs
Department of Commerce, Department of Education, Department of Labor, Department of the Treasury, Small Business Administration
American Oversight Sues State Department for Trump Organization, Kushner Companies Records
Court Rules in Favor of American Oversight in Trump Hotel Lawsuit
Trump Transition GSA Emails and Memorandum of Understanding
State Department Emails Show How Embassy Websites Promoted Mar-a-Lago
FOIA In Action: Helping Journalists Expose Questionable Behavior By Trump's Appointees
Department of Education, Department of Labor, Small Business Administration
Texts Show SBA Staff Tried to "Crop the Opulence" from Trump Hotel Event
Ethics 101: Twitter Ads Follow President Trump to Bedminster, NJ
American Oversight Launches "Defund Trump" Investigation
Commodity Futures Trading Commission, Council on Environmental Quality, Department of Agriculture, Department of Commerce, Department of Defense, Department of Education, Department of Energy, Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Housing and Urban Development, Department of Justice, Department of Labor, Department of the Interior, Department of the Treasury, Department of Transportation, Department of Veterans Affairs, Environmental Protection Agency, General Services Administration, Office of Management and Budget, Office of Science and Technology Policy, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative
Ethics Watchdog Sues GSA for Trump International Hotel Lease Records
Ethics Watchdog Calls for Investigation into Pattern of Promoting Trump Family Ventures on Government Websites
American Oversight Files IG Complaint over State Department Promotion of Mar-A-Lago
Call for GSA Inspector General to Review Trump Hotel Lease Decision
Help us keep the American Government accountable
Current Litigation
Join American Oversight
© 2020 Copyright American Oversight.


Your Blue Room was written for the Michelangelo Antonioni-Wim Wenders film Beyond the Clouds. It was lined up as the follow up single to "Miss Sarajevo", but it was canceled due to poor sales of Original Soundtracks Vol 1.
It was later featured as a B-side on the "Staring at the Sun" single in 1997. The song features U2 bassist Adam Clayton singing the last verse, only the second time in U2 history he as appeared vocally on a track.
U2 debuted Your Blue Room live during the 2009 show in Chicago.


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Report: MLB 'indefinitely' suspends Papa John's promotion
Major League Baseball has announced its Papa John's promotion has been "indefinitely suspended," Yahoo Sports reportedly has confirmed.
The substance of the promotion involves MLB bestowing the moniker "Papa Slams" upon grand slams. Since 2016, fans have been receiving a 40 percent discount on their Papa John's order the next day by using an online coupon code. According to Yahoo's report, that promotion will now cease, at least temporarily.
The suspension of the promotion appears to already be in effect, as New York Yankees first baseman Greg Bird's grand slam on Wednesday in a game against the Baltimore Orioles was not characterized as a Papa Slam by the league.
Several MLB teams have an individual promotional partnership with Papa John's beyond the league's Papa Slam promo. Although two teams, the Miami Marlins and Baltimore Orioles, have already cut ties with the pizza chain, again it would appear on a temporary basis, if not longer. The option whether or not to continue any Papa John's promotion reportedly is up to each individual team.
The controversy involving one of the most popular pizza chains in America stems from Papa John's founder John Schnatter using a racial slur during a conference call in May with a marketing agency.
The call was intended to be a "role-playing" exercise in the wake of Schnatter's public relations disaster last fall when he publicly blamed NFL players' anthem protests for the company's declining profits. Schnatter stepped down as CEO on Jan. 1, 2018 and also was replaced as the company's president and COO.
Schnatter announced his resignation as chairman on Wednesday and issued an apology.
"News reports attributing the use of inappropriate and hurtful language to me during a media training session regarding race are true," Schnatter's statement read. "Regardless of the context, I apologize. Simply stated, racism has no place in our society."
News Ticker, Papa John's
Bryce Harper installed as early favorite to win Home Run Derby
LaVar Ball envisions 'powerful' partnership with LeBron James (vid)


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Marks Against Evil
Wayne Perkins November 27, 2021 November 27, 2021 Graffiti, Uncategorized
A recent survey in London has revealed a number of marks and symbols carved into the masonry of the capital's churches and buildings. Many of these marks have been interpreted as apotropaics; ritual protection marks intended to avert the evil-eye, bring good luck, trap evil spirits and to act, in some cases, as counter-witchcraft measures.
The study of medieval graffiti has been in the ascendant recently, with popular books published on the subject. These mainstream publications have helped to disseminate the new interpretative frameworks and ideas that are the culmination of the last thirty years of academic research into medieval inscriptions. The re-evaluation of medieval graffiti has revealed many more subtleties and meanings than hitherto imagined. There are many categories now recognised, including masons' marks, devotional and memorial inscriptions and a whole range of apotropaic symbols now believed to represent an element of ritual building protection.
It is now generally agreed that many medieval buildings which contain examples of apotropaic graffiti are also likely to contain concealed objects within the buildings' fabric. There is a growing database that records the discovery of concealed shoes (and clothing), witch bottles, written charms and mummified cats that have been found within building contexts and which have been recorded archaeologically.
This study takes the data collected from a random sample of medieval buildings in London. The only criteria having been that the buildings had to contain surviving fabric from the medieval period or retained structural elements that dated to before 1850. The aim of the study was to determine if any of the graffiti found therein can be said to be apotropaic in nature and what evidence existed to support the hypothesis.
This talk was given in 2019. It is now online:
https://www.treadwells-london.com/lectures?fbclid=IwAR0LavkLgqMp2BmACHwzGrv9MM1E7B88eb9hWRQyOzCvQj9xGlmYsMYQrV4
Previous Master John Schorn: The Rector Who conjured the Devil Into A Boot!
Next Mythological Creatures of the Sea
Published by Wayne Perkins
I am an archaeologist with over twenty years of experience. After a decade or so working as a volunteer on excavations in the 1990's, I undertook my degree in Archaeology at the University of Birmingham. In the last year of my degree I helped to supervise the university's annual excavations. Directly after my exams I began my career in Commercial Archaeology as a Field Archaeologist with Oxford Archaeology and remained there for four years. Anticipating a career in archaeology in France I volunteered on excavations at Rom and at Prisse-la-Charriere, Niort (for Poitiers & Rennes University respectively). In due course I worked for the States' premier scientific organization, I.N.R.A.P. (Institut Nationale des Récherches Archéologiques Préventives) as well as for a number of private companies. I returned to the UK in 2013 and resumed my role as a Supervisor, undertaking projects around Oxfordshire with John Moore Heritage Services before moving to London in 2014. I now undertake Historic Building Surveys and supervise urban excavations in the City of London as well as overseeing rural excavations in surrounding Sussex, Surrey & Kent. Wayne Perkins BA Hons (Archaeology) ACIfA (Associate Member, Chartered Institute for Archaeologists) View all posts by Wayne Perkins


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Get set to show your fine films
Annual event draws nearly 500 submissions from more than 50 countries
Get set to show your fine films Annual event draws nearly 500 submissions from more than 50 countries Check out this story on sctimes.com: http://www.sctimes.com/story/entertainment/arts/2016/07/13/s-not-too-late-enter-work-st-cloud-film-fest/86863614/
SPECIAL TO THE TIMES Published 3:30 p.m. CT July 13, 2016
John Scott, director of St. Cloud Film Fest, stands outside Pioneer Place on Fifth on Oct. 7, 2015. Pioneer Place is one of the venues for the festival.(Photo: Times photo)Buy Photo
The sixth annual St. Cloud Film Fest is looking for filmmakers to show off their creations during this fall's festival. Even though the event draws nearly 500 submissions from more than 50 countries, organizers are seeking local talent.
"We're up for promoting film and filmmakers locally by creating opportunities for people to see the film," said festival Director John Scott. "It's a really good opportunity for feedback, to see how your work plays in front of an audience."
The festival accepts films of all lengths, works as short as a minute to full-length films. Over the course of seven days in November, Scott hopes to air at least 65 pieces to the public. All genres are welcome, including video or film, stop motion, experimental, features, sports, music videos and animations. Scott said the more entries under five minutes, the better so they can include more works.
Judges will award the following: a Grand Jury Prize, Jury Prize and prizes for Best Documentary, Best Animation, Best Avant-Garde, Best Short-Short (under 5 minutes), Audience Favorite and Most Promising Young Artist (for K-12 students).
Complete rules can be found at https://filmfreeway.com/festival/StCloudFilmFest. The regular deadline for submissions has passed, but those who want to submit their work can do so by July 18 to meet the late deadline and Aug. 1 to meet the extended deadline.
The fee for submitting by July 18 is $30; the fee for those pieces submitted by Aug. 1 is $40. Those submitting work will be notified of their inclusion on Oct. 3. Submissions are accepted through www.filmfreeway.com, www.withoutabox.com and via an online link emailed to john@stcloudfilmfest.com. Submissions can also be mailed to 22 Fifth Ave. S, St. Cloud, MN 56301.
Films will be shown the week of Nov. 5-12 at a variety of venues including Marcus Parkwood Cinema, St. Cloud State University and Pioneer Place on Fifth.
Read or Share this story: http://www.sctimes.com/story/entertainment/arts/2016/07/13/s-not-too-late-enter-work-st-cloud-film-fest/86863614/


FBCH is committed to the Great Commission and as such we pray, send, encourage and support the work of God in and through the Southern Baptist Convention as well as through Missionary partnerships and outreach ministries.
It is our prayer and hope that we partake in illuminating every portion of this world with the glory of God!
Every age group at FBCH has the opportunity to get involved with many different mission ministries throughout the year.


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Travis Scott Launches His Own Cactus Jack Foundation
By Joseph Gibson on December 1, 2020 in Articles › Celebrity News
Travis Scott now has an official non-profit organization, through which he can accomplish his goals in the field of philanthropy. The rapper recently announced the launch of the Cactus Jack Foundation, as well as a new scholarship for prospective students at several Historically Black Colleges and Universities, including Morehouse College, Howard University, Texas Southern University, Grambling State University and Prairie View A&M University.
Scott has some family history at two of those institutions. His mom attended Grambling State and his grandfather went to Prairie View A&M, and it's his grandfather who also serves as the namesake for Scott's Waymon Webster Scholarship. The scholarship will cover tuition for students facing financial difficulties related to COVID-19 or otherwise, and according to TMZ, Scott will choose the winning applicants himself. Scott also said a few words to TMZ about his motives in focusing his new non-profit on the cause education to start with:
"My grandfather wanted me to take it all the way through college, I feel there is a power in education so to be able to give someone the opportunity to fulfill that dream as my papa thought for me is amazing."
Rich Fury/Getty Images
Scott himself attended the University of Texas at San Antonio before dropping out to pursue music, a decision that obviously worked out very well for him, but he's still clearly interested in the benefits of higher education.
In addition to the Waymon Webster Scholarship, Scott is also teaming up with The Parson's School of Design in New York to establish a "Cactus Jack program" in Houston, as well as scholarships for an online certification program that will eventually be nationwide. Scott has been doing other good works in Houston lately, partnering with the city's own parks and recreation department and elementary schools for various youth-focused endeavors in the city.
Travis Scott Articles
Travis Scott Net Worth
Here's The $23.5 Million Mansion Travis Scott Just Bought In LA
The Simple Reason Why Travis Scott Is The Hottest Name In Hip-Hop Right Now…
Travis Scott Sued By LCAR Management Over Millions In Unpaid Fees
Travis Scott Sued By Fan Who Was Left Paralyzed After One Of His Concerts
Travis Scott Sells Out The Forum, Show Grosses Record $1.7 Million
Kylie Jenner And Travis Scott Just Bought This Incredible $13.45 Million Beverly Hills Mansion
San Diego Billionaire Funds $30 Million Scholarship For Students Who've Overcome Adversity
LeBron James Overshadows NBA Championship Win, With Amazing $41 Million Donation


Ray Kingman is the founder and CEO of Semcasting.
The ties that bind consumers to brands are growing stronger. At the same time, however, they are fading into the background, thanks to the Internet of Things (IoT).
Today, a slew of devices, from refrigerators to thermostats, are connecting to the Internet. Soon, the signals from those devices will automate thousands of purchases consumers make. Our running shoes will tell us when they are worn out, and, if we like, they'll order their own replacements. Our refrigerators will stock themselves. By 2020, Gartner predicts brands will have access to data from 25 billion connected things.
The more signals connected devices throw off, the more the analytics will drive our marketing. As a consequence, marketing will evolve from an attention-seeking model to a subscription model. Brands will own the consumer/supplier relationship and maintain it by using data to automate and deliver goods and services that align with consumer needs.
What will subscription-driven marketing look like for marketers?
Driving past a car dealership my father would often say, "We are a Chevy family." For us, and millions of other brand-loyal households at the time, the question wasn't which automotive brand we'd choose, but rather when we would buy a new car.
Marketing isn't as simple as spending more than your competitors to attract customers.
Historically, automotive brands have relied on a long and costly marketing funnel to uncover the timing of that question, albeit with limited precision. The data applied to that funnel has increased exponentially in the last decade, but only recently have car makers begun to use the IoT to capture the most determinative data — the condition of the customer's current car.
Today's cars — many of which are connected via the Internet to the manufacturer — are capable of telling both the owner and the dealer when maintenance is needed and, although none are programmed to do it yet, when they need to be replaced.
If a car can schedule its own replacement date, the automotive industry's business model will have to evolve. Rather than selling you a car, an automotive brand would be better off selling you a multi-year subscription to a service contract that includes the car, maintenance and scheduled upgrades to a new model.
Given the totality of IoT data coming from tomorrow's cars, it would also make sense to include fuel and insurance in the subscription.
Once the automotive business model catches up with technology, marketers will face a big challenge. Rather than creating generic demand for anyone who may be in the market to buy a new car, the real battle will center around establishing lasting relationships.
In the same way that it was common to find Chevy families 50 years ago, marketers will need to work hard on establishing the strongest possible ties with consumers in the rare moments when they are unsubscribed.
How will they achieve that? It starts by recognizing the efficiency and cost savings of IoT technology. In the automotive industry alone, McKinsey estimates that the economic impact of the IoT could be as high as $700 billion.
That's an unprecedented disruption that will clear away many of the legacy expenditures associated with the traditional automotive funnel. As that happens, marketers will be able to shift focus from generic outreach to developing personalized experiences that automatically address consumers with customized solutions.
Check your mailbox and count how many offers you get for credit cards. I receive up to two or three each day. Dagget, my dog, has even been pre-approved, although that particular offer probably says more about the data management practices of the direct mailer than the credit worthiness of a Jack Russell.
Between the never-ending direct-mail offers bombarding us with TV and online ads and loyalty programs, credit card issuers look wasteful; their customer acquisition costs typically run into the hundreds of dollars.
But any marketer in the financial services industry will tell you a couple of hundred bucks per new card holder is money well spent. Those relationships, over the long term, are where credit card issuers make their money. In effect, credit card companies have always operated on a subscription model.
But it's not just financial services where the relationship matters more than an individual transaction. Increasingly, the relationship is the only thing that matters in retail. Naturally, the company that best embodies this "acquire-at-all-costs" philosophy is Amazon .
Free shipping, hassle-free returns, and dozens of other customer-centric policies all drive up Amazon's customer acquisition costs. But so what?
As any Amazon Prime member can attest, each year we happily turn over more and more of our purchases — from groceries to gadgets, from books to streaming content — to Amazon. Year after year, Amazon outperforms its competitors by doing whatever it takes to own the customer relationship.
Of course, marketing isn't as simple as spending more than your competitors to attract customers; it's about delivering valuable experiences that tie customers to brands. How you anticipate your customer's needs is increasingly becoming a data-driven proposition, even if current marketing strategies are still mostly about targeting ads.
Astute marketers will quickly realize there are greater opportunities to be had by exploiting the vertical integration of the data and analytics with other brands and products.
As we deploy the IoT, the amount of consumer data will grow exponentially, and so will the insights. Some marketers will doubtless use that technology to immediately bombard their customers with more relevant ads; and in the short run, they might move the sales needle.
However, the marketers who win the customer relationships of the future will do so by personalizing their offerings to a consumer's preferences, habits and environments, and managing that consumer's requirements over the longer term.
In other words, the challenge of owning the customer relationship for marketers will be about establishing the continuity of the brand; using data from the IoT to make a customer's life better today, tomorrow and for years after that.
What If They Don't Subscribe Directly?
Not every brand is subscription-worthy. I buy batteries, but I'd be hard-pressed to imagine a relationship with Duracell. I also buy light bulbs, but Sylvania and Phillips are not brands I ever think about. How will brands like that survive the rise of a subscription-marketing model?
Those brands will not only need to consider their value to the customer, but also their role in a larger subscription ecosystem. If the batteries I buy signal when my household supply of AA batteries is low, that data is perhaps most valuable to Amazon, or whichever virtual big box store to which I might subscribe.
If the light bulbs in my basement signal that they are near end-of-life and replacements automatically go on a virtual shopping list as part of my Home Depot service contract, then that is valuable to me as a consumer, more sales efficient for Home Depot and much more cost-effective to Sylvania and Phillips.
My connections to the battery brand and the light bulb fades into the background, but, at the same time, their role in the marketing ecosystem takes on a new level of importance. The value of IoT data from the battery or light bulb enhances my experience at the point of sale with the service providers to which I subscribe.
It also collapses the cost structure for these products. In effect, the battery and light bulb brands of the world transform themselves into brokers of data and analytics. Astute marketers will quickly realize there are greater opportunities to be had by exploiting the vertical integration of the data and analytics with other brands and products.
In turn, the true value of IoT data will serve to drive down the logistical and marketing cost of deliverables, as many products will no longer need to incur these costs. Quite literally, analytics will become marketing, thanks to the IoT.


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Q: @Input angular 2 pass number or object variables It is possible to send number or a whole class instance to @Input ?
I am trying to  send the value  like this value="id" or this [value]="id".
for example id = 1.But in console i see that my object received string value id and not the value of id, those = 1.
In console i see this:
 id :  id
    typeof:  string

UPDATED
My class that store value:
private id: number ;

  show(id: number): void {
    this.id = id;
  }

In html page of my component i assign to selector of my childComponent value  like this value="id" or this [value]="id".
And my child class is very simple:
 @Input() value: number;
  constructor() {
  }

   ngOnChanges() {
     console.log(`ngOnChanges: `, this.value);
   }

A:
It is possible to send number or a whole class instance to @Input ?

Yes, it is possible.
Notes:

*

*For Number and boolean variables you can pass them around as [value]="12" and [value]="true".

*For passing strings, you need to enclose the string within single quotes to pass them as it is. [value]="'Justastring'".

*For object or variables defined in the component, you can simply pass them.

For @Input() bound attributes, the common way is [value]="id".
Angular will now simply look for variable named id in the component's class and assign the value to the value variable in the child component.

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text:
Splendors on Grass
by tennisaccent June 27, 2017 June 27, 2017
1 Comment on Splendors on Grass
by Saqib Ali
When I was introduced to the sport in the mid eighty's and it was commonly referred to as Lawn Tennis. Grass court tennis was the norm in India and had more than a few weeks presence on the circuit. Grass was synonymous to the biggest tournament of all called the Championships, not the England Open but simply The Championships. Also known more popularly as Wimbledon to most. While grass tennis has all but evaporated form the tennis tour, winning Wimbledon still remains the most prestigious thing in the sport. Not to take away from the prestige of the other three majors but Wimbledon has an aura of its own. To the casual fan or someone who does not follow tennis, Wimbledon champion back in the day was the equivalent of the world champ or the most famous tennis player. And it is no coincidence that former tennis greats are often addressed as either former world number ones (if they reached the summit of course) or simply as former Wimbledon Champion! This year too the tennis world will look at the fortnight to produce another glorious chapter. Will we see a new champion or a familiar face triumphing on Center Court. As we are few days away from that chapter to unfold, here is a premature look at the possible contenders and the challengers of these championships.
Before we break down the favorites and the challengers I must say that men who have dominated these championships have become pretty good all court players as well. Which is remarkable in itself as the likes of Federer, Becker, Nadal and many other men who have won here have no or little training on the surface. All these men have adopted so well on the surface where the movement has been the biggest challenge. Playing styles have changed over the years since Becker-Edberg locked horns in three successive title fights to the more recent three final duel of Federer- Nadal. Serve and volley has been replaced by attacking baseline exchanges. The court used to lose all its grass around the net area, whereas now it is the baseline which is the most worn out part of the court. What has not changed is the sheer quality of tennis one has to display to win these championships.
The Favorites
Roger Federer reconfirmed his status as the favorite to win his eighth Wimbledon title after dismantling the young German Alexander Zverev in Halle yesterday. He was my pick to win this year even after the loss to Tommy Haas last week or even after his not so convincing win against another next generation contender, Karen Khachanov in the semifinals. Predictions have a way of playing out silly lot of times but Federer's masterful display against Zverev, stamped the much needed pre draw validation of his status as the favorite. Federer has always valued these two weeks as the most important time of the tennis year. And in a very longtime he comes into these championships as the strong favorite. The narrative around his story for the last twelve months is incredible, considering how he left the championships last year. There loomed a certain uncertainty if he would ever be a strong contender at these Championships. He has answered any concerns or doubts in the most emphatic manner. Nothing new can be said about how he has taken care of his body after all these years of top flight tennis. He knows he has made the right decisions and sacrifices to be in this position once again. Win or lose something tells me he will savor every minute of these championships.
Andy Murray The defending champ is another player who is literally at home on the lawns of Wimbledon. His movement is superb on grass and so is the feel if he comes to the net. I guess that is why he has won this thing twice. His ability to defuse the big servers is another aspect which makes him very complete on grass, where close sets are decided by a return there or a lob here! Since reaching the number one ranking, Murray has had a pretty tough time this year on and off the court until the recently concluded French open. His early departure at Queens is probably a big blow to his Wimbledon preparations. His two Wimbledon titles are quite remarkable given the immense pressure he is under every time he plays the Championships. For added pressure and expectations, it is the first time he comes into these championships as the world number one. On current form I don't see him beating Federer, but a lot can happen between now and then if they were to square off. Murray's season could be starting now as well similar to Federer's!
Rafael Nadal will not have appeared in this short list few months ago. The tennis narrative changes fast and Nadal's win at Roland Garros has propelled his status to a contender even though he himself feels otherwise. Of course we have to be realistic as Nadal has not made the last eight since 2011 at Wimbledon with few unceremonious losses to players he would not lose otherwise. Despite his newly regained confidence the first week at Wimbledon will be the critical phase for him in terms of survival. The new grass always plays fast and can be little tricky in the first week. The draw will be of huge intrigue for him as well. If he clears the first week then he can be a major threat as he definitely knows how to win here after reaching five finals at the Championships. He will be determined to avoid another early exit for sure, even though he cited his knees as suspect after winning the unprecedented tenth Roland Garros crown.
Milos Raonic is a throwback Wimbledon player with big booming serve and aggressive net play. But the problem is that Wimbledon is nearly not as rewarding to this kind of play anymore. The big four can be Raonic's undoing because all of them move so well and return very well, especially Murray and Djokovic. Raonic represents the lost generation of players who have not broken through the gridlock of the big four at major tournaments as the new generation is ready to take over as well. But one thing you cannot accuse Raonic is for lack of trying. He has always brought in the best help possible and has kept improving. He has parted ways with former Wimbledon Champ Richard Krajicek right after Roland Garros and has brought in Mark Knowles as the consulting coach. His big obstacle has been his injury niggles for most of his career. He has not been able to build any kind of momentum so far. If healthy he can seriously be a great contender this year considering he already reached the finals last year. Players don't want to admit this but the decline of Djokovic form his nearly invincible has already created some opportunities at the top. Raonic must fancy his chances as this is the year of some uncertainty and he his is a major force on grass. Raonic takes himself very seriously and that can only be a good thing on this surface where instinctive play holds the key.
Novak Djokovic is a former three time winner of these Championships. The good part is he knows what it takes to lift that trophy on the second Sunday. However the tricky part is he seldom has looked like that guy for quite some time now. The turmoil of his tennis are well known of late. He has brought in another super coach in Andre Agassi and has tinkered his pre Wimbledon schedule this year by accepting a late wildcard in to the Eastbourne event. Ironically his quest will be of a different nature at these championships as he tries to dig deeper than ever to find that missing mojo. His class cannot be questioned, so write him off at your own peril.
There are three others who can go through the draw and become Wimbledon champs. Marin Cilic, Alex Zverev and Nick Kyrgios. Kyrgios especially would be a favorite if had maintained health and form he displayed at the Miami Open. Arguably with the best second serve in the game, watch out for him if he clears weak one. Marin Cilic is one of the few players who knows what it takes to win a major and big titles. He is a little under appreciated by the experts in my opinion and is a very legit threat at these Championships especially if we have some upsets in the first week. Last but definitely not the least is the younger Zverev. This is a guy who probably will win contend for many big titles and a deep run is not out of the question for this year as well.
Tags: #Cilic #Djokovic #Federer #Murray #Nadal #Raonic #Wimbledon
Ashwin Swami says:
Thank you for writing this one and the other blog on Wimbledon. Both are well written and have kept me up to date. I am watching Wimbledon with much better insight than before I read these 2 blogs. Fantastic Titles by the way, especially snakes in the grass.
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"Porkchop" is the First Menu Item on a Trip to Mars
Ancient cultures looked to the patterns of tea leaves or animal entrails to divine the course of the future. At JPL, the course of a future Mars mission can be found in a porkchop.
Porkchop plot, that is. In the sometimes peculiar vocabulary of JPL mission designers, that nickname describes the porkchop-shaped, computer-generated, contour plots that display the launch date and arrival date characteristics of an interplanetary flight path for a given launch opportunity to Mars or any other planet.
Developing a porkchop plot is the first thing on the menu when mission designers are scoping out an interplanetary voyage. This is the sort of task accomplished by engineers in JPL's Navigation and Mission Design Section, whose unique, high-caliber expertise is signified by its recognition as NASA Center of Excellence.
Sending a spacecraft to another planet has been compared to throwing a dart at a moving target -- only the thrower is also on a moving platform, the Earth. It is further complicated by the fact that the Sun's gravity curves the trajectory of the dart. At launch, the spacecraft is aimed to arrive at the point the planet will be months from now.
Getting to the planet Mars, rather than just to its orbit, requires that the spacecraft be inserted into its interplanetary trajectory at the correct time so it will arrive at the Martian orbit when Mars will be there. This task might be compared to throwing a dart at a moving target. You have to lead the aim point by just the right amount to hit the target. The opportunity to launch a spacecraft on a transfer orbit to Mars occurs about every 26 months. Earlier you said 26 months.
To be captured into a Martian orbit, the spacecraft must then decelerate relative to Mars using a retrograde rocket burn or some other means. To land on Mars, the spacecraft must decelerate even further using a retrograde burn to the extent that the lowest point of its Martian orbit will intercept the surface of Mars. Since Mars has an atmosphere, final deceleration may also be performed by aerodynamic braking direct from the interplanetary trajectory, and/or a parachute, and/or further retrograde burns. From "The Basics of Spaceflight" http://www.jpl.nasa.gov/basics/bsf4-1.html
The Revolving Door to Mars
Representative porkchop plot for the 2005 Mars launch opportunity.
"We have launch opportunities to Mars every 25 � months because of the repetitive relative alignment of the planets," says Dan Johnston, an engineer in JPL's Navigation and Mission Design Section and mission design manager for the 2005 Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter. Opportunities to Mars this decade are in 2003, 2005, 2007 and 2009. "These are the opportunities where our launch vehicles have enough energy to send a spacecraft to Mars."
A tremendous number of calculations considering multiple variables must be performed to discover all the possible trajectories available and their unique characteristics in a given launch opportunity. Porkchop plots are visualizations that allow mission planners to view key parameters that must be considered, says Johnston.
Based on porkchop plots developed several years ago for the 2005 Mars launch opportunity, the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter team developed a "reference mission" on which to base its project planning. That planning is now well-underway, and on October 3, NASA selected contractor Lockheed Martin Astronautics in Denver, Colo., to build the spacecraft and provide mission operations support.
What a porkchop plot really represents, says Johnston, is a solution to some orbital mechanics equations known as Lambert's theorem, which he sums up thusly: "If I know where the Earth is and where Mars is on some given day, and I know how long I would like to take to get to Mars, then I can compute the departure conditions I need at Earth to be able to get to Mars in the desired time."
"When you use Lambert's theorem to compute this, you come up with a launch and arrival date pair that gives you a single, unique trajectory solution for getting to Mars," says Johnston. "Some we call 'Type 1', which are short transfers of about seven months. Some are 'Type 2', which are longer duration transfers of about 10 months." The shorter path to Mars is not necessarily the best, Johnston explained. Some missions, such as orbiters, for example, may benefit from a longer trajectory that delivers the spacecraft to the planet at a lower arrival velocity. That way, less fuel is needed to brake the spacecraft when it arrives.
Roller Coaster to Mars
"The porkchop plots for the 2005 Mars opportunity show that for our launch vehicles, this is one of the most challenging opportunities to get to Mars in this decade," says Johnston. The interplanetary doorway to Mars open at that time requires the spacecraft to be delivered to a spot above Earth's higher latitudes. This high-latitudinal orbit requires more launch energy - a bigger rocket - than most launches.
In terms of physics, the price paid for poising a spacecraft at that jumping-off point can be compared to that paid for a bigger, steeper roller coaster ride, says Johnston: "The cars have to be pulled up a longer hill to get to the highest point before the roller coaster's first plunge," he says. "In effect, we need a steeper plunge to get onto our flight path in 2005. We've got to push ourselves up higher to get onto the Mars trajectory for this opportunity."
Nearly half the Reconnaissance Orbiter's entire 1,800 kilogram mass (3,968 pounds) is propellant that will be used to brake the spacecraft's speed when it reaches Mars, allowing it to be captured into orbit. The spacecraft also carries a heftier science package with about twice the mass of the instruments carried by its recent predecessors. All these factors mean that a rocket the size of an Atlas 3 or a Delta 3 will be required to send the Reconnaissance Orbiter on its way. (By comparison, its sibling spacecraft Mars Odyssey, at about half the mass, was lofted on its voyage by a Delta 2.)
Save Your Baggage Allowance for Science
Porkchop plotting of the mission trajectory options "starts the very first day, before you start anywhere else" with a project, says Johnston. "The porkchop plots let you determine the basic requirements of the launch vehicle you'll need as well as a preliminary estimate of the propellant load necessary for the spacecraft. If the spacecraft cannot carry all the propellant it needs to reach its desired science orbit, a mission option using aerobraking may have to be employed." After all, he says, "We don't want to use up our baggage allowance just flying fuel to Mars; we want to fly instruments that send information back to us."
The porkchop plot also provides information on the conditions of the capture orbit when the spacecraft arrives, including the time of day it will be on Mars when the northbound spacecraft crosses the equator in its first orbits. This is particularly important for the 2005 Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, because the scientific instruments onboard require that the spacecraft end up in a nearly-polar, Sun-synchronous 3 p.m. orbit. That means that the territory beneath the orbiter as it crosses the equator of Mars will always be illuminated by a 3 p.m. Sun, providing optimum shadow and brightness characteristics on the surface for the cameras and spectrometers onboard. The 200 by 400 kilometer-high orbit (about 125 by 250 miles) will provide opportunities for extraordinary close-ups of the surface.
When the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter arrives at Mars, it will initially enter an 8:30 p.m. orbit. But up to six months of aerobraking, followed by small propulsive trimming of the orbit, will bring the spacecraft to the desired, nearly circular, Sun synchronous 3 p.m. orbit.
Another factor that's important to mission planners is selecting an arrival date that will require the smallest propulsive maneuver to brake the spacecraft's speed to allow it to be captured into orbit around Mars. "We try to minimize the overall delta-V (change in velocity) necessary to get into orbit," says Johnston.
When traveling among the planets, it's a good idea to minimize the propellant mass needed by your spacecraft and its launch vehicle. That way, such a flight is possible with current launch capabilities, and costs will not be prohibitive. The amount of propellant needed depends largely on what route you choose. Trajectories that by their nature need a minimum of propellant are therefore of great interest.
To launch a spacecraft from Earth to an outer planet such as Mars using the least propellant possible, first consider that the spacecraft is already in solar orbit as it sits on the launch pad. This existing solar orbit must be adjusted to cause it to take the spacecraft to Mars: The desired orbit's perihelion (closest approach to the Sun) will be at the distance of Earth's orbit, and the aphelion (farthest distance from the Sun) will be at the distance of Mars' orbit. This is called a Hohmann Transfer orbit. The portion of the solar orbit that takes the spacecraft from Earth to Mars is called its trajectory. (From "The Basics of Spaceflight" http://www.jpl.nasa.gov/basics/bsf4-1.html )
Extreme Parallel Parking
Getting a spacecraft to Mars is one challenge, says Johnston, but making one stay there is quite another. Imagine driving at 100 miles per hour, slamming on your brakes and maneuvering perfectly into a tiny parallel parking spot. That roughly compares to the difficulty of delivering a spacecraft to Mars with a trajectory, orbit insertion maneuver and aerobraking scheme that places it in the particular orbit needed for scientific observations.
"We can get to Mars, but these circular, low-altitude science orbits are tremendously difficult to reach," Johnston says. "It's very difficult to achieve a low-altitude orbit propulsively because of the tremendous burden of carrying the propellant. To supplement the onboard propulsive capability, the Reconnaissance Orbiter mission plans to use aerobraking. If we did not use aerobraking we would need even more propellant and a much larger launch vehicle to initiate the journey to Mars."
If the science team was content to stay in the original highly elliptical orbit in which the spacecraft was captured, that would be difficult enough, says Johnston. But the task will be even tougher for the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter flight team because of the mission requirement for a low, circular orbit.
The actual execution of that task will be another story. But the initial parameters to accomplish it were foretold in a porkchop.
Porkchop Plot
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