The Computer Games Of Tomorrow
Tom R. Halfhill Features Editor
Listen to what Scott Adams, Chris Crawford, and other experts have to say about computer games of the future. You're in for some surprises.
Harry Buttondown left the office promptly at 5:05 p.m., walked two blocks to the subway stop, dutifully deposited his token in the turnstile, and stepped onto the train.
It was already pretty crowded. Harry decided to squeeze himself next to a seat-hog who was inconsiderately sprawled across two spots, staring obliviously out the window with his back turned. Harry leaned toward the stranger. "Excuse me, sir," said Harry, with the assuming poise of a supervisory executive. "Please move aside."
Slowly the man turned his head. Harry froze in terror as he stared into the stranger's glowing red eyes – all five of them. Foam drooled from laser-sharp fangs and dribbled down a fur-covered chest. Growling like a timber wolf with acid indigestion, the thing reached toward Harry with a pair of six-inch claws.
Harry screamed. All poise forgotten, he hurled his Gucci briefcase at the horrible monster and stumbled over an obstacle course of ankles and feet in his mad scramble down the aisle for the exit.
Suddenly, Harry became aware that people were laughing at him. Were they insane? He turned around, panting, and saw that the creature had mysteriously disappeared. Then Harry noticed a huddle of snickering teen-agers in the back of the train. They were holding one of those newfangled portable holographic computer game machines. (Snicker, snicker.)
Harry sheepishly recovered his briefcase and found another seat. How he yearned for the good old days when kids used to board the subways with nothing more than boom boxes.
Forces Shaping The Future
Sounds pretty fantastic, doesn't it? But when you think about it, Harry Buttondown's encounter with the subway creature is a logical extension of two trends in game and entertainment technology : the trend toward games which more and more closely simulate reality(or unreality), and the trend of miniaturizing entertainment devices until they are portable enough to be carried around almost anywhere. Both of these trends are highly visible today.
On the one hand, technology is making possible increasingly vivid video games, and on the other, it is shrinking stereos and televisions – and computers and electronic games – down to personal size. Appliances that used to occupy immovable living room cabinets can now be carried while jogging. Would anybody have imagined 25 years ago that radio-tape stereos, the "boom boxes," would be toted by kids on subways? Or, even ten years ago, that video games could be worn on your wrist?
Still, it's too easy to get carried away with the possibilities of future technology. Sure, almost anything is possible in 20 or 30 years. The moon landings and other technological feats of the past two decades have pretty much silenced the doubters and nay-sayers. You can get away with predicting practically anything these days, and almost nobody is now willing to go on record saying, "Impossible!"
So what are the possibilities? What can we realistically expect in the near, and not-so-near, future? Three-dimensional, high-resolution computer graphics on home video game machines? NASA flight simulators in the arcades? Videodisc adventures? Wraparound screens and "smellavision"? Will the teen-agers of tomorrow really carry portable holographic computer game machines onto subways?
Even the experts – the programmers and software producers who will make the future happen – don't agree. What's more, some warn against a narrow vision of the future that considers only technological advances as a vehicle of change. Don't forget, they point out, that psychological factors, fads, styles, marketing considerations, and economics are equally important.
"Five years ago I could never have predicted where things are today," says Scott Adams of Adventure International. "I've been totally amazed. So there's no way I could anticipate what's going to happen five years from now."
Scott Adams, Adventure International.
Predicting the future – as many a crystal ballgazer busted by the fraud squad has discovered – is a risky business.
Are Video Games A Fad?
One thing virtually everyone agrees on is that computer games are here to stay. Individual games will pass on after short lifespans, and certain general types of games may fade in and out of style, but we've only begun to exploit the possibilities of computerized gaming.
"If people today are becoming bored with electronic games, it's because they're becoming too sophisticated for the games," says Michael Tomczyk, product marketing manager for Commodore International. "The whole question is whether the game players will outstrip the technology, or whether the technology will outstrip the players. If the players grow more sophisticated than the games, then the games will fall off for awhile until the technology catches up. On the other hand, if the technology outstrips the game players, we'll see games that only a very few highly skilled people can play."
Tomczyk foresees a general trend of increasing technological sophistication filtering down from the coin arcades to the home. Right now, he says, there's a crying need at the home level for more powerful game machines and better game controllers. Within a year, he predicts, home games will start incorporating simulated three-dimensional graphics, remote-control joysticks, voice-actuated joysticks, and wider use of voice synthesis. "The next big step will be graphics that look just like cartoon animation on TV - I mean very much like it."
Others believe the popularity of computer games does not depend on new technology, that computers are flexible enough already to sustain long-term interest. "I think people always will be fascinated by [computer] games. They'll never tire of those fantasy worlds," says Ernie Brock, product manager for Sirius Software, a top game producer for the Apple. "People still watch TV, don't they? People have hi-fis and stereos and continue to buy new records and don't tire of them. I think the same thing is true of computers and game software…. If you tire of one world on the computer, you can stick in a new disk and create another one."
This principle of escapism has not been lost on software designers, any more than it has on today's Hollywood filmmakers. That's why space and fantasy themes are so prevalent in both entertainment fields. What better way to escape the day's troubles than to leave the planet altogether, or even the universe? But although escapism will endure, certain methods of achieving it may not. Some already think the "shoot-'em-up" space games have peaked.
"The key is that the computer can temporarily make you into something you are not," notes Ken Williams of On-Line Systems, a major game software producer. "But even being a spaceship commander gets boring if that's all you do. The games where he just shoots up screens of aliens, and which only give him more aliens when he's done, are going to die. They're OK for now, but they won't be soon."
Several top game designers predict more different types of simulations in the very near future. Chris Crawford, a programmer with Atari, Inc.'s Research and Development Group who has written such games as Eastern Front, refers to the "movement of computer games into larger realms of reality," and "broadening our base of fantasies instead of expanding our hardware." He says the current glut of space/fantasy games will be supplanted in part by computer simulations of soap operas, Westerns, detective mysteries, cops and robbers stories, and even gothic romances. In other words, all the escapist paths of pop culture in modern America.
Harlequin romances on disk? Heaven help us.
The Psychology Of Computer Games
But the fear of fading fads is certainly not the only reason why game producers are moving toward wider varieties of simulations. Another reason might be even more important: they want computer games to attract wider audiences.
Think about it. The audience (read: market) for computer games today is really quite narrow - mainly, children and young adults with excellent reflexes and an almost insatiable appetite for space/ fantasy themes. Too many people (read: consumers) are left out. For example, millions are addicted to soap operas. What if they could be hooked on a computer-adventure simulation that transports them into All My Children? Or if the thousands of True Detective readers could be transformed into cops by an interactive adventure game, so they themselves could heroically rescue the innocent victim from the cult-killers? It takes no marketing genius to realize that software sales would skyrocket.
This possibility - the concept of redesigning the psychology of computer games to attract a wider audience - is now under close scrutiny by many game designers. If they weren't already thinking about it, something stupendous happened last year which opened their eyes:
You see, Pac-Man was more than just a hugely successful video game that managed to gobble more money in 1981 than the entire Hollywood film industry combined. Pac-Man also turned out to be an equal opportunity employer.
Before Pac-Man, you saw very few young women playing video games. When you did, they usually were with their boyfriends. But Pac-Man was different. Women liked Pac-Man. So much, in fact, that although no one has done a formal study, women are believed to have been a major factor in the immense Pac-Man phenomenon.
That's exactly why a new version of Pac-Man hit the arcades and cafes this summer: Ms. Pac-Man, complete with different graphics and colors. The lesson was not lost on other game designers, either. Computer games are no different than any other form of popular entertainment—specific audiences can be psychologically targeted.
"Pac-Man is classified as a ‘cartoon’ game," says Gary Carlston, marketing director and cofounder of Brøderbund Software, a leading game house. "If you're planning a game to appeal to women, you've got to be consistent in your concepts. For example, you couldn't put together Pac-Man and Space Invaders and expect a game about space warfare and killing aliens to attract women."
Commodore's Tomczyk says his company has gone so far as to informally study the matter. "Men tend to like games that have you destroying aliens and running away from robots and landing landers without crashing them. Women tend to like games which are, well, let's not say nonviolent, but not as grotesque, not involving destruction of animate objects or human life. Like, the ghosts in Pac-Man never really die, they just get recycled."
Jim Wylde, vice president-sales for United Microware, Inc., has also noticed these characteristics. "There doesn't seem to be much ‘femaleness’ in computer games today. They seem to be left out of computer games. I've talked to many, many young women in my own organization and elsewhere, and I always ask them, ‘What would you like to see in a computer game?’ And I always get a blank stare."
Joanne Lee, a consultant for Tensor Technology Ltd. and a freelance game programmer for United Microware, explains why: "I don't like violence and I am not into science fiction, so I don't like space games. I don't like the little aliens running around on the screen. The only game I really liked was Pac-Man…."
Jim Wylde, United Microware, Inc.
The bottom line is that game designers no longer will ignore the female market, and will scramble to tap other new markets as well. Does this mean we'll see a sharp decline in space/fantasy shoot-'em-ups? No way. The young males still dominate the market. As Lee explains, "Sure, I would prefer to write a more nonviolent type of game, but I have to think about what is marketable."
The forecast: more diversified computer games, each catering to its own audience.
So. Now that we have some idea where computer gaming is headed, what technological form will it take? This is the sort of pie-in-the-sky dreaming that everyone likes to indulge in, but there's a difference between imagination and extrapolation. We can imagine anything–well, quite a lot–but what seems likely to happen, based on current trends?
Practically all the experts agree that computer games will continue to grow increasingly sophisticated, and that sophistication will come in the form of better simulations of environments. That is, the games of tomorrow will seem incredibly real.
Videodiscs are most commonly mentioned. As consumer items, today they're pretty much limited to playing back movies, like videotapes. But videotapes, like computer tape drives, are only sequential access devices. Videodiscs, like minifloppy computer disks, allow random access. Under computer control, an image (or sequence of images) stored anywhere on a videodisc can be searched out and displayed within seconds. Consider the possibilities of a videodisc interactive adventure game. Instead of watching crude computer drawings of dungeons and caverns on the screen–or text descriptions–the player can see actual film footage of the scene unfold. In fact, filmed motion can be stored on the videodisc and recalled in response to joystick commands. Move the stick forward, and you walk deeper into the cavern. Move it left, and your "eyes" pan left.
Not only is all this possible: it's being done right now in highly advanced flight simulators and trainers. There are even projects underway in which film crews are filming all the streets of entire cities, making every possible turn at every intersection. When the images are stored on high-density videodiscs, they will be linked to computerized driving simulators to train truckers and cabbies.
The chief limitations are speed and cost. "We've fooled with that here," says Williams of On-Line Systems, "but the access time just isn't fast enough yet. No one wants to wait four or five seconds for a videodisc to go search out an image. Also, there aren't enough of those [videodisc] units out there yet."
But he is excited over the possibilities of three-dimensional video games. "I've already seen some prototypes of arcade machines which use the same type of 3-D effects as the movies, the red-blue technique. We'll probably see this and also polaroid 3-D, at least in the arcades."
Fred D'Ignazio, author and COMPUTE! columnist, thinks realism will be achieved by isolating the player from extraneous stimuli–of which there is plenty in most arcades–by "immersion" in the game environment. Arcade games would look something like those automatic booths in which people have their pictures taken, and players might even don helmets, headsets, and goggles. "All you would see visually would be your game screen, maybe wraparound," he says. "And you'd have a better environment for sound effects, too, and especially voice synthesis. You could even have voice-responsive commands, which even today's technology would support to a degree. And you'd need more controls, foot pedals and everything."
Nor would you be limited to playing a lifeless computer. D'Ignazio says arcade games could be hooked up to each other so people could play against other humans –maybe in another part of the city, or even another state –absolutely anonymously. "A lot of people play these games–at least, I know I do–because you don't have to compete with another human face-to-face. You can play the computer. But if you could play another person anonymously without having to confront them face-to-face, it would be a new challenge for a lot of gamers."
Fred D'Ignazio. CREDIT:Karen Tam, Raleigh News And Observer
What's more, the hook-ups could serve another function: "You could have news bulletins. ‘Joe Smith just got a high score on Galaxians in Cincinnati.’"
This kind of telecomputing, or "telegaming," is already here in a simpler form. Although communications over phone lines between personal computers are still too slow to permit realtime, multi-player, arcade-style games, a few games are available which allow several players to compete head-to-head using phone modems. CompuServe, a leading information utility, offers two space warfare games, Megawars and Decwars. Up to ten people can simultaneously play either–a CompuServe subscriber merely signs onto the system and joins the game in progress. Although the game processing is handled by a large PDP-11 computer at CompuServe's base in Columbus, Ohio, the players are pitted against each other, communicating through their keyboards. Both games are text-only (no graphics).
Scott Adams's Adventure International sells a telecomputing game called Commbat. Commbat is a bit different than Megawars or Decwars; it allows only two players, but bypasses the need for a central computer. Instead, the players compete against each other using their own computers, linked over the phone lines by modems. Also, the game has graphics. The graphics are very simple, though, since Commbat allows Apple, Atari, and TRS-80 users to compete interchangeably, and those computers' graphics systems are normally incompatible.
Still, all of these games allow the sort of anonymous telegaming that D'Ignazio says could someday immerse the gamer in an elaborate environment of sight, sound, and sensation.
On the other hand, if you're the nervous type who would react to this "total immersion" by degrading into a screaming meemie, you might prefer computer games as a spectator sport. You know, Sunday afternoons on NBC. "I think there'd be a great audience for watching world-class video game players," says D'Ignazio. "You could have instant replays, slow-motion, and commentators going over their moves."
What's that, you say the video combat on TV got your adrenalin pumping? Anyone who wanted to work off a little "displacement aggression," as psychologists call it, could take up boxing at the local amusement park. "Instead of driving bump'em cars or riding roller coasters or shooting at ducks in a shooting gallery," suggests D'Ignazio, "you'll be able to have robot wars by controlling your own little robots."
D'Ignazio also says video games will be found in unusual places, not just arcades. They'll be built into the backseats of cars to keep rowdy tots occupied; implanted in the ceilings of bedrooms; reduced to book-size and placed in dentist waiting rooms next to the National Geographies; installed in hospital rooms and nursing homes to entertain the bedridden; loaned by public libraries, and, of course, carried by teen-agers onto subways. He thinks they might even be built into eyeglasses, so the true addict can throw a switch and see video games on the inside of the lenses.
Commodore's Tomczyk carries it one step further: "The concept of TRON, when you are really the computer – and the computer is you –is definitely going to happen. That's the ultimate. The trends of the pricing and power and technology indicate that is really going to happen. The physics of the fantasy expressed in that movie are probably impossible, but we are moving in that direction. We are moving toward the ultimate TRON."
The Future Or Fantasy?
But not everyone agrees with this fantastic view of the future. Crawford, the respected Atari expert, says the role of technology in future computer games is constantly overblown. "All these people predict that in coming years we'll be able to plug into our computers, and be surrounded by colorful 3-D images, and wonderful sound, and we'll just be able to think and all these things will appear, and it'll be just a gas…. I reject all that. I don't think it's going to happen, and I don't think it has to happen.
"A lot of people mention new technologies as the engine of change in computer games," explains Crawford. "But I don't see technological developments as the driving force in computer games. I don't even see technology as the limiting constraint in creating computer games. I think the main constraint is lack of creativity and imagination."
Just as the technology of the automobile has not changed drastically over the past 50 years, neither must the technology of computer games, he argues. Technology remains fairly static if it is perceived as adequate, and Crawford believes most people are satisfied with the current state of computer games. "The development of cars since 1932 has been more in the way of polish than the way of new technology…. Although I believe the technology of new hardware will be forced upon us, I don't believe we'll need it to develop the computer games of the future."
Crawford's theory, though apparently the minority viewpoint, might come as welcome relief to those who are less than thrilled with the concepts of "total immersion" and "the ultimate TRON." Maybe you won't have to worry about running into a monster on the subway after all.


To support the growing mission of the Special Forces at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, RS&H provided multi-discipline design services for various facilities for the Naval Special Warfare Center Advanced Training Command.
This project comprises two new buildings at two separate locations: a 15,000-square-foot, single-story Dive Instruction/Foreign Language Program Facility (DIFL) at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek and a 25,000-square-foot, multi-story Applied Instruction Facility (AIF) at Fort Story. Additionally, the project renovates two, 21,194-square-foot buildings at Fort Story. The facilities support a variety of functions, including applied instruction, dive operations, secure operations storage area, operational gear storage, and administrative areas.
The design team included high performance and sustainable building requirements to meet LEED Silver certification. Systems in the facilities were selected to maximize energy efficiency and enhance the overall life-cycle cost.
To complete all projects on schedule, the design team developed highly detailed phasing plans, linked to construction activities which included coordination with multiple stakeholders such as NAVFAC, Special Operations Command, Virginia Natural Gas, and Dominion Energy.


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South Africans are being encouraged to donate blood; this follows a serious shortage of blood stocks in the country. On Saturday the South African National Blood Services took its blood drive to a biker’s rally in Mbombela.
A rally with a cause, bikers from all over South Africa, Mozambique and eSwatini converged in Mbombela.
Funds collected from the rally will be donated to needy communities among others. In 2018 proceeds were donated to the victims of Cyclone Idai.
The bikers have teamed up with the South African National Blood Services, to mark World Blood Donor Month.
SANBS’ Lebo Matsimbi says: “We really would like to encourage more people to become blood donors so that we can be able to save more lives.”
Less than 1% of South Africans are active blood donors and a unit of blood only lasts 42 days after donation.
Every unit can save a minimum of three lives.
President of Sunriders MCC Trompies Matsane says:”Bikers are human beings as well, they must also learn to donate blood as you know that blood is needed for our people.”
Donors can give blood as often as every eight weeks.
Click video below:

domain: news


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Content Archive of Printed Periodicals and Books
The American Conservative Archives The American Conservative • 10
Arts & Letters
Know Your States' Rights
Nullification, by Thomas E. Woods Jr.
Reviewed Books and Films Nullification (2010)
How to Resist Federal Tyranny in the 21st Century
1 Review, 1 Readable

domain: library


June 10, 2016
"Let me ask a question that should be obvious: Why is it that we’re now fighting about drafting our daughters, our sisters, and our mothers when nobody has told us that we need to draft anyone?"
U.S. Senator Ben Sasse (R-NE) spoke on the Senate floor tonight regarding his amendment to the National Defense Authorization act to stop, study, and sunset the draft.
Sasse's amendment can be found here and his remarks, as prepared for delivery, are found below:
Mr. President: Why is it that Washington always jumps blindly into culture war fights?
Why is it that we first divide into blue shirts versus red shirts, retreat into our tribes, and then maneuver to inflict maximum pain on each other?
That’s not how adults in communities across our land make complicated decisions – but that is what’s happening in this body right now.
The legislation before the Senate is supposed to be about national security – which is the first and the most important responsibility of the federal government. Republican and Democrat, every single member of this body, tells our constituents that we support the troops. And I would hope that every single member of this body means it – and thus agrees that national security is far more important than running up the partisan score in some cultural battle.
But here we are, getting ready to divide again, now over the issue of women in the draft.
Let me ask a question that should be obvious: Why is it that we’re now fighting about drafting our daughters, our sisters, and our mothers when nobody has told us that we need to draft anyone?
Seriously, where is any general telling us that the pressing issue of the day is that they need more bodies in a draft? Where is that happening? Who is telling us this? Because I haven’t heard it from anyone. Not once.
This fight – about women in the draft – is entirely unnecessary. And wisdom should be nudging us to avoid unnecessary fighting. We have enough real and needed fighting.
Before we send our press releases and condemn our opponents, could we just take one minute to recognize this indisputable fact: Our military is already the best fighting force in human history – and it is all-volunteer, and no one is recommending that we change that.
So, rather than needlessly dividing Americans over an obsolete 20th century registration process, let’s do this: Let’s stop the expansion of the draft, let’s study the purpose of the draft, and let’s evaluate whether we really need a draft. Maybe we do, but let’s evaluate it.
Let’s not start by fighting about who else to add to the draft.
Let’s not start by trying to import more culture warring into a national security bill. Let’s start by asking if we are sure we need a draft.
I’m introducing a simple amendment. And I hope this body could agree that it aims toward common sense, and toward a de-escalation of our bitter conflicts. My simple amendment replaces the NDAA’s controversial draft provisions, and does 3 relatively non-controversial …but I think more important things instead:
1. It says that the Senate admits that the draft – which hasn’t issued a call since December of 1972 – when I was ten months old (and I think I’m five years older than the youngest person in this body) – should be reevaluated, rather than continue on auto-pilot forever without scrutiny;
2. It sets a sunset date on the draft for three years from now UNLESS the Congress acts to say that we have consulted with the generals and we believe it is actually needed; and
3. It requires the Secretary of Defense to report to Congress in six months on the merit of a selective service system rather than simply defending the status quo. It doesn’t force the unelected Secretary of Defense to wade into culture wars or social engineering.
Instead, it asks him to consult with the generals and report back telling us one of three things:
· Either they believe the all-volunteer force – which has in actuality been what we’ve done for many years – is sufficient for the human capital needs of the country, and they think the draft is in fact obsolete;
· OR number two, they believe we should be keeping the current draft system;
· OR number three, they believe that the Draft in fact needs to be expanded – and why they believe that.
Again, either the generals think we are fine with an all-volunteer force; OR they think we need as many potential draftees as we have today; OR they think we need more.
If they think we need more, then this body should debate who – maybe men older than age 26; maybe women; who knows?
But let’s first know that they think the Draft is still needed before we fight about who is potentially going to be drafted.
One of the fundamental purposes of this body is to debate – to debate the biggest issues facing our nation, and to do in an honorable way. The Senate is for debate – not as an abstraction, but to be addressing and ultimately solving the meatiest challenges that the Constitution demands we tackle.
If any Senator believes that the purpose of the NDAA should be to have a culture war fight, I urge that Senator to come to the Floor and make her or his case. But if not, then let’s avoid the unnecessary cultural division and stick to the national security tasks at hand this week.
Thank you, Mr. President.


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JOHNSTON, Iowa – A Children’s Systems State Board is gathering information about personal experiences with children’s mental health services in the state.
The board calls it a “listening post.” There are 10 gatherings and an online survey to gather the information.
The “listening post” locations include:
- October 2nd 6:00-7:30 p.m.
- Northwest AEA, 940 Lincoln St. SW LeMars
- October 3rd 6:00-7:30 p.m.
- Prairie Lakes AEA, 500 NE 6th St., Pocahontas
- October 4th 12:00-1:00 p.m.
- October 8th 5:30-7:00 p.m.
- Heartland AEA, 6500 Corporate Dr., Johnston
- October 8th 6:00-7:30 p.m.
- Fairfield Arts & Convention Center (Great Prairie AEA), 200 North Main St., Fairfield
- October 10th 5:30-7:00 p.m.
- Green Hills AEA 257 Swan St. Creston
- October 10th 6:00-7:30 p.m.
- Carrie Lee Elementary Auditorium (Keystone AEA) 210 Vernon St., Decorah
- October 10th 6:00-7:30 p.m.
- Central Rivers AEA 9184 265th St., Suite B Clear Lake
- October 11th 6:00-7:30 p.m.
- Grant Wood AEA 4401 6th St. SW, Cedar Rapids
- October 11th 5:30-7:00 p.m.
- Mississippi Bend AEA 729 21st St. Bettendorf
Prairie Lakes AEA Chief Administrator Jeff Herzberg said children’ mental health is wide spread across the state.
“Hearing from people all across the state, it’s everywhere. There is an epidemic of children’s mental health issues and a challenge to meet those needs,” Herzberg said.
The board was established by Governor Kim Reynolds through Executive Order 2 in April 2018. The goal is to gather information to help establish a children’s mental health system in Iowa.
The board is co-chaired by Iowa Department of Human Services Director Jerry Foxhoven and Iowa Department of Education Director Ryan Wise.
Herzberg said children can be diagnosed as early as 12 years-old with a mental illness.
“The issues are complex, so some children may need a residential setting, others may need less intense services and we need to have a whole continuum of services from those that are least restrictive to places where we need to keep kids safe,” Herzberg said.
Herzberg said some signs to look out for include: acting out, withdrawing from activities and people close to them.
Herzberg said one suggestion is having extra resources in the schools where children spend a lot of time.
“Students are in schools, but schools are asked to do a lot. One of the issues is lack of skilled training for schools to deal with these issues. Our teachers aren’t mental health counselors, they aren’t neccesarily trauma therapists, but we have to be more understanding on what trauma does to mental health issues. But we do need the resources,” Herzberg said.
Board Members will review its information gathered and develop recommendations to create a children’s mental health system. These recommendations will be due to the legislature on November 15th .
If you cannot make a gathering, but would like to contribute click here to review the online survey. The survey closes October 12th.


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The Women's History Hall of Fame will induct Charlotte-Mecklenburg women who have blazed trails and impacted the community. The event includes ceremony and light reception, and is open to the public. Cost to attend is $15.00.
The Hall of Fame is sponsored by Levine Museum in conjunction with the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women's Clubs of Charlotte. RSVP to Delores Hurt, 704.778.3887 or [email protected]

domain: history


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The move came after the state ground water resource agency passed an order to the department of horticulture, asking it to opt for an efficient watering system.
Noida Authority is all set to introduce spring irrigation system to the city's major parks. The system, which will be installed in 10 to 12 parks in the city, saves water from the wastage.
The move came after the state ground water resource agency passed an order to the department of horticulture, asking it to opt for an efficient watering system to save the dropping ground water levels, which is reducing by a whopping metre every passing year.
According to a study by Central Ground Water Board, the water level in Sector 62A was recorded as 21.15 mbgl (metres below ground level) in August 2012. It fell to 23.62 mbgl in August 2013. In Sector 72, it was 19.31 mbgl in 2012, which, within a year, fell to 21.42 mbgl. In Sector 92, it was 9.46 mbgl in 2012 and fell to 9.86 mbgl in 2013.
Mahendra Prakash, deputy director with the department of horticulture, said they had received the order and were in the process of preparing an estimate for its implementation. Initially, the system will be implemented in the big parks. He said the estimate will be sent for approval shortly.
He explained that under the spring irrigation system, the department will set up several rain guns (long range sprinklers) to water the lawns and the plants. "The system does not allow wastage as it covers a vast areas," said Prakash.
He said that it will take them about two more months to begin setting up the system. One of the parks being considered is the Meghdutam park in Sector 50.


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Hawaii may lose hundreds of solar jobs if issues aren’t resolved
The solar photovoltaic sector, one of Hawaii’s fastest growing industries and one that has been experiencing a recent slowdown, may lose hundreds of jobs if issues such as the changes to building permit fees and the state solar PV tax credit as well as the increasing saturation of some key geographic areas aren’t resolved, according to members of an industry trade group.
That’s what Leslie Cole-Brooks, executive director of the Hawaii Solar Energy Association, has been hearing from her members. Cole-Brooks was the moderator of Thursday’s “Solar in Hawaii: How will it do over the long haul?” panel discussion at the Plaza Club in Downtown Honolulu.
The panel discussion, which included industry professionals, legislators, regulators and others involved in the solar PV sector, touched upon several issues, although the most polarizing issue may have been the talk of the slowdown of the industry due to several issues, including grid saturation.
Just earlier this month, the Hawaiian Electric Cos., which include Hawaiian Electric Co. on Oahu, Maui Electric Co. on Maui County and Hawaii Electric Light Co. on the Big Island, said that it changed rules to allow more small solar PV systems to be added to the grids without a potentially costly and time-consuming interconnection study.
The new threshold for a possible interconnection study is 100 percent of daytime minimum circuit load, which is an increase from 75 percent, HECO Cos. said.
In addition, HECO said that it is conducting a limited number of studies on several circuits and will apply the results to as many projects as possible on other circuits.
Duane Shimogawa covers energy, real estate and economic development for Pacific Business News.
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Host Hotels (HST) Enters New $500M Term Loan
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Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc. (NYSE: HST) today announced that it has closed on a term loan for $500 million ("Term Loan") through an amendment and restatement of its existing credit facility. The Term Loan has a five-year maturity and the interest rate spread depends on the Company's leverage ratio. Based on the Company's current leverage ratio, the Term Loan has a floating interest rate of LIBOR plus 180 basis points (or approximately a 2.0% all-in interest rate). Proceeds from the Term Loan will be used to repay a portion of the revolver draw associated with the Company's recent acquisition of the 888-room Grand Hyatt Washington, D.C., as well as to redeem $400 million of senior notes. The Term Loan was arranged by Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated and J.P. Morgan Securities, LLC, as joint lead arrangers and joint book runners.
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domain: economics


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Project X CODE Extra introduces more exciting adventure stories and stimulating n-fiction texts into the Project X CODE series. This pack contains 1 copy of each of the following titles: The Feast, The Jousting Handbook, T-rex Trouble, Di Detectives. In line with the phonic, vocabulary and comprehension progression in Project X CODE, these books are ideal for additional practice outside of the core intervention sessions, for introducing children to n-fiction texts, and for children who simply want to read more of the CODE adventure!
Ian MacDonald, Justin Richards, Paul Mason
Oxford University Press
Date of Publication
School Textbooks & Study Guides: Literature, Arts & Humanities


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EveryMatrix, a leading supplier of iGaming solutions, software, services, and content for sports betting and casino operators, has released its latest trading update for the third quarter of 2023. The report, published on Tuesday, reveals the company’s record-breaking performance between July and September.
In the third quarter of this year, EveryMatrix recorded net revenue of €27.2 million ($29 million), representing a 62% increase compared to the same period in 2022. The company’s EBITDA for Q3 reached €14 million ($14.9 million), marking a staggering 113% year-over-year growth. This is the third time EveryMatrix has achieved net revenue growth exceeding 50%. Additionally, the company reported a revenue of €60 million ($64 million) for Q3 2023, indicating a substantial 79% increase compared to the previous year.
Despite facing headwinds from exchange rate effects, EveryMatrix achieved outstanding results in the casino and sports betting segments. Casino gross gaming revenue for Q3 2023 reached €463 million ($493.9 million), up by 77% year-over-year. The company’s sports turnover soared to €810 million ($864 million), representing an 85% increase year-over-year. Furthermore, the sports segment’s gross gaming revenue saw solid growth of 26%, despite similar exchange rate challenges.
These impressive results reinforce EveryMatrix’s position as the fastest-growing provider of iGaming content, technology, and solutions, with consecutive quarters of profit margins exceeding 50%.
Earlier this month, EveryMatrix secured a collaboration with Szerencsejáték Privately Held Company Limited (SZRT), the entity responsible for Hungary’s national lottery. After a competitive tender process, EveryMatrix was selected to provide betting services and solutions to power the TippmixPro brand of the national lottery.
Ebbe Groes, EveryMatrix’s group CEO, expressed his excitement about the company’s latest achievements. He credited the outstanding performance to the hard work of the company’s experts and highlighted the significant milestones accomplished during the trading period. Groes also mentioned EveryMatrix’s certification by the World Lottery Association (WLA) as a major achievement. In September, EveryMatrix became the first iGaming supplier to receive the prestigious WLA Safer Gambling Certification. Groes concluded by stating that the company is well-positioned for further growth and expansion in the coming months and beyond.


Robert Spencer is opposed to radical Islam. For this he was poisoned.
Robert Spencer Poisoned After Giving Anti-Jihad Speech in Iceland
The political atmosphere in Iceland is poisonous if you are on the Right. It's an atmosphere created by the news media which enforces the dominant narrative. It's much like that in the U.S. where Conservatives are attacked by mobs who fear no push-back by either the media of local politicians and law enforcement.
After I spoke last Thursday in the beautiful nation of Iceland, a Leftist in Reykjavik poisoned me.Perhaps I should have seen it coming. The international Left has rejected free speech, and has embraced violence as a suitable response to speech contradicting its narrative.My visit triggered a firestorm of abuse in the Icelandic press, all of which was based on American Leftist talking points. Every story about my visit used the same elements. For example, that the Southern Poverty Law Center claims I purvey “hate speech,” which is a subjective judgment used to shut down dissent from the establishment line. Or the fact that I am banned from Britain, with no mention of the key detail: I was banned for saying that Islam has doctrines of violence. (Ironically, Britain has no problem allowing foreign Muslim dignitaries who happen to agree with me to enter.)Of course, local media also pilloried me for the “crime” of supporting Israel.Perhaps most absurd of all, Icelandic media published the false claim that I incited the Norwegian mass murderer Anders Breivik to kill. (Sigh. In a world of logical thinking, I’m as responsible for Breivik as the Beatles are for Charles Manson.) After the event, one article even featured a large photo of Breivik, yet it quoted nary a thing I said that evening.Not one Icelandic media outlet contacted me for comment, much less for rebuttal to the charges they made against me....Of course, the Icelandic media gave the 50 protesters outside far more extensive and respectful coverage than was given to anything that happened inside. One station aired an interview with me in which the interviewer refused to believe that I did not feel responsible for the Breivik murders, asking me about them again and again. Articles after the event included quotes from the protesters, but none included even a single quotation or description of anything we had actually said.Clearly, jihad is a subject that Icelandic politicians and opinion-makers do not want Icelanders to discuss.And that’s all the more reason why it must be discussed.After the event, my security chief, the organizers of the event, Ms. Williams, and I went to a local restaurant to celebrate its success. But I was quickly recognized: a young Icelander called me by name, shook my hand, and said he was a big fan. Shortly after that, another citizen of that famously courteous land likewise called me by my name, shook my hand, and said “f*** you.”What likely happened is that this young man, or whoever drugged me, heard that a notorious “racist” was coming to Reykjavik, happened to see me in the bar, and decided to teach me a lesson with some of the drugs that are as plentiful in Reykjavik as they are anywhere else.I learned my lesson. And the lesson I learned was that media demonization of those who dissent from the Leftist line is direct incitement to violence. By portraying me and others who raise legitimate questions about jihad terror and Sharia oppression as racist, bigoted “Islamophobes” without allowing us a fair hearing, they paint a huge target on the backs of those who dare to dissent.Those who paint the targets, and those who shoot at them, think they’re doing something great. Not only does the Left fill those whom it brainwashes with hate, but it does so while portraying its enemies as the hatemongers, such that violent Leftists such as the young man who drugged me feel righteous as they victimize and brutalize for the crime of disagreement.I have no doubt whatsoever that whoever poisoned me in Iceland went away feeling happy over what he had done. If he told anyone what he did, I’m sure he was hailed as a hero. I’m also aware that many who read this will crow and exult in knowing that someone who hates my opposition to jihad terror and Sharia oppression made me seriously ill. This is how degenerate and evil the Left has become.
The people who now run the media - the Gods of the the Culture - are evil.


Precise energy calibration is an important characteristic of Super-Kamiokande and is essential for solar neutrino measurement. In these sections, three methods of energy calibration are described: using monoenergetic electrons from the LINAC [here]; using a radioactive source for what we call ``Nickel calibration''[next]; and using decay electron events from stopping muons [after next].
For MSW analysis using the solar neutrino energy spectrum, the systematic error of absolute energy scale must be less than 1%. In Super-Kamiokande, ``LINAC calibration'' is used for precise absolute energy calibration. The advantage of the LINAC is that the electron energy is monochromatic and can cover the full energy range relevant for solar neutrinos, 515MeV. Another advantage compared to the Nickel calibration, which is described in the next section, is that a direct calibration is available using electrons. Note that solar neutrinos are observed using electron signals from scattering. In addition, more precise position calibration and direction calibration is available using a collimated beam from the LINAC.
The schematic view of LINAC calibration system is shown in Fig 1. The LINAC, which was originally for medical purposes, is a model ML-15MIII from Mitsubishi. The beam pipe is evacuated to less than torr, and the desired beam size and momentum are obtained by collimators and magnets. On the top of the Super-Kamiokande tank holes are welded every 2.1m along the -x-axis. We insert vertical beam pipe into the detector through these, and the length of the vertical beam pipe is variable, so we can do LINAC calibration at various positions in the inner detector. The beam intensity is adjusted to 0.1 electron per bunch so that almost all events are single electron events. The bunch width is 2sec, and the maximum rate of bunches is 60Hz. Plastic scintillators acting as a trigger counter and veto counters are placed at the end of the beam pipe as shown in Fig 1.
The energy of electrons which travel through the beam pipe is measured by a Ge detector. For estimating the systematic error of the beam energy determination in the LINAC, the relation of observed momentum by Ge detector to the magnet field of magnet 1 is used, as shown in Fig 2. The observed momentum can be fitted by a line, and the deviation from that line is less than 0.3%.
The specifications of the LINAC are summarized in Table 1. The results of LINAC calibration, the position, angular, and energy calibrations, are described elsewhere (e.g. see Y.Koshio's PHD thesis, page 69, in the publications).
Table 1: LINAC specification.
revised on 1999/09/27 email@example.com


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Hospital Managers’ Hearings are also known as Associate Managers’ Hearings. They consist of a panel of at least 3 people and they have the power to renew or discharge sections.
Although there needs to be ‘at least 3’ on the panel it is rare in practice to find more than 3. When there are 3, all of them must agree in order to discharge. The Hospital Managers must consider your case if:
- your responsible clinician has renewed/extended your section or Community Treatment Order
- you are an unrestricted patient and have appealed to the Hospital Managers for them to discharge your section, which you can do at anytime
- your responsible clinician has stopped/barred your nearest relative from discharging you
- They also have the power to convene a hearing at their own discretion where they feel appropriate. This usually happens when they are unhappy with the progress in your case and want to put pressure on professionals to ensure things happen more quickly for you.
As with Mental Health Tribunal hearings, the professionals involved with your care will have to write reports explaining whether they feel the section is necessary/appropriate. Your solicitor will be able to go through these reports and advise you before the hearing. Your solicitor can attend the hearing on your behalf if you wish but it is always preferable if you are able to attend too. You may also wish to be supported by an Independent Mental Health Advocate (IMHA)(if you have one), or a relative/friend.
It is normal for your solicitor to speak on your behalf and question the clinical team at these hearings but you can, of course, speak too if you wish.
Our experienced team can help and advise on any aspect of the above. Contact our Newcastle or South Shields office for further information on hospital managers’ hearings.

domain: medical


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Submitted by: Roger Welton
When you are a pet owner and have a dog or a cat, there is a lot to learn. Most responsible pet owners want to know everything possible about taking care of their animals, and about keeping their animals healthy. This involves doing some research and taking the time to ask and learn the answers to some common health questions in respect to dogs and cats. The more information you read and learn about pet health questions, the better equipped you will be to understand what your pet needs from you to stay happy and healthy.
Common Dog and Cat Health Questions
There are many different questions related to the health of dogs and cats. Here are a few common questions and answers that people may have:
1) What does it mean when my dog or cat eats grass?
If your pet is eating a lot of grass, this can indicate that your animal has an upset stomach. If this occurs only occasionally, then your animal may simply have eaten something that did not agree with him. If your pet is routinely consuming grass, however- and especially if he/she consumes the grass and then vomits- then there may be a problem with digestion of the food you are feeding or another health issue that should be checked out.
2) What should I feed my dog or cat?
It is important to make sure that your dog or cat has a healthy and balanced meal and that he/she does not become overweight. Feeding good quality, premium dog or cat food can help ensure that your dog or cat gets all the nutrients he/she needs. While it is possible to make your own food in certain instances, it is important to follow an established recipe and dining plan if you choose this option to ensure that your pet stays healthy. You should also monitor the weight of your dog or cat and ensure that your animal does not become obese.
3) Is exercise important?
Dogs and cats need to exercise, just as humans do. Dogs typically enjoy running, chasing, walks and playing fetch for their exercise while cats might chase a string or a laser pointer around the home in order to have a chance to run around and play.
4) What if my dog is itching all the time?
If your dog is itching or licking himself/herself, this can be the sign for a number of issues. Your dog may be experiencing an allergic reaction to food or to products used on him/her such as dog shampoo or flea and tick medication. An allergic reaction to something in the environment is also possible, as is an overgrowth of yeast. Your dog may also have some type of mange that needs to be addressed by a veterinary professional.
5) What if my cat is throwing up hair all the time?
Your cat may have hairballs as a result of the natural grooming process. Brushing your cat more to minimize the hair he/she eats can be helpful. There are also special cat foods designed to minimize or help cats with hairball problems.
These are just a few of the questions you may have about dog and cat health. If you have specific questions, you should consider contacting your veterinarian or using an online service where licensed veterinarians answer questions posed by pet owners.
About the Author: Learn more about veterinarian questions and dog health at

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Teaming up with what's been dubbed as the 'original school of rock', Jack Black has covered David Bowie's 'Suffragette City'.
The band of students are from San Francisco's Blue Bear School of Music, founded in 1971.
Celebrating their 50th anniversary, the school, which is "the longest-running rock and roll school in the nation, and probably the world”, enlisted the help of Black to celebrate the occasion in true style.
“I jumped at the chance to celebrate their 50th anniversary by jamming some Bowie with their teen all-star band. So fun. What an honour. They’ve been teaching kids to rock since 1971! I love Blue Bear…the original school of rock!!!” said Black.
The non-profit band are also lauching a "rocking' auction" to further "benefit our nonprofit mission, providing free music education”.

domain: entertainment


Dec. 5, 2018: Below are events that will take place in and around Bronxville from Wednesday, December 5, to Wednesday, December 12, 2018. For the Village of Bronxville calendar, click here. For events at the Bronxville Public Library, click here. For the Bronxville school district calendar, click here.
Wednesday, December 5, 7:30 pm, the Ying Quartet at Sarah Lawrence. The Ying Quartet, holding the Jean Wentworth Music Residency at Sarah Lawrence College this year, will give a recital at The Performing Arts Center Reisinger Auditorium on the campus of Sarah Lawrence College. The concert is free and open to the public. Click here for more information.
Friday, December 7, 6:00-7:30 pm, Light the Night Bronxville, Leonard Morange Square (Parkway Road near the train station). The Bronxville Chamber of Commerce will host its annual tree lighting with food and prizes as well as special appearances by Frosty and Santa.
Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday, December 5, 6, and 8, Support Groups and Classes at NYP Lawrence Hospital. NYP Lawrence Hospital will be holding a pre-operative joint replacement patient education class on Wednesday from 9:45 to 11:15 am (call 914-787-2119 to register); a weight loss (bariatric) surgery support group for those preparing for bariatric surgery and those who have already had it on Wednesday from 7:00 to 8:00 pm (call 914-787-4000 to register); a living with cancer support group on Thursday from 5:00 to 6:30 pm (call 914-644-8844, ext. 133, or email Deborah Vincent at
to register); and a childbirth class on Saturday from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm ($200; call 914-787-5044 to register). Click here for more information about these and other events at NYP Lawrence Hospital.
Monday, December 10, 8:00 pm, Bronxville Board of Trustees Meeting. The Bronxville Board of Trustees will hold a meeting at 8:00 pm in Bronxville Village Hall. For more information, go to www.villageofbronxville.com or call 914-337-6500.
Photo by A. Warner
Editor's note: As a public service, MyhometownBronxville publishes notices about meetings of village government, the Bronxville Board of Education, and the board of trustees of the Bronxville Public Library. MyhometownBronxville does not independently research other events but will, at its discretion, consider including a notice of an event that will occur in Bronxville if information about the event is received by MyhometownBronxville (managing editor Marcia Lee at
and publisher Sarah Thornton Clifford at email@example.com) by noon on the Sunday before the subsequent Wednesday publication. These notices must not be advertisements; please send any requests for advertisements to Sarah Thornton Clifford at


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A tense hearing about how migrants are treated at the border turned into a shouting match between former Immigration and Customs Enforcement Director Thomas Homan and Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal.
Jayapal, from Washington State and the vice chairwoman of the House Judiciary Immigration and Citizenship Subcommittee, repeatedly cut off Homan for exceeding his allotted time. It started when the former ICE director responded to a previous statement Jayapal made about the Trump administration's use of funding for additional detention beds.
Homan's response at the end of the confrontation was classic and probably something everyone wishes they could say to their Congressman or Congresswoman if they had the chance.
Check it out below, plus a second round between Homan and Jayapal! Plus, you can read more HERE.


Having a chokehold on mainstream hip-hop isn't enough for YMCMB. The label is looking to flex their muscle on the pop world too. During a press conference in Beverly Hills earlier this week, the label announced the signing of their first pop act Savvy, joining the likes of Kevin Rudolf and Jay Sean as non hip-hop acts on theroster.
The group consists of Shaylen Carroll, GiGi LeMaire, Drew Reinartz, Alan Shaw and Andrew Stern, who also star on the international TV comedy "The Wannabes," making its series debut in the U.S. September 5. They are in the process of recording for their album and Ronald "Slim" Williams has very high hopes for the quintet.
"Savvy is a special group. They work hard; we work hard. We saw their energy and felt their passion. With [the addition of artists like] Jay Sean, Kevin Rudolf and now Savvy, we're ready to make Cash Money into a world company."
Cash Money has been making headlines the past few days because of Lil Wayne's recent released Tha Carter IV album, which has already broken iTunes records and is on pace to sell 925-975K albums in its first week.


The RTX 3060 is currently the most selling RTX 30 series GPU in the market. It is currently the 8th most popular GPU with a market share of 2.58%. This video card is Nvidia’s option for budget 1080p gaming without compromises. It is the spiritual successor to the very successful GTX 1060 and RTX 2060 GPUs.
The Core i5 12600K is also one of the most selling CPUs in this generation. With 10 cores and 16 threads, this CPU packs enough power to suit modern gaming workloads without a hiccup. The processor also supports DDR5 and the improved performance levels of the Alder Lake processors.
Finding the best motherboard and processor for the Core i5 12600K and the RTX 3060 can be a bit intimidating. There are dozens of options available in the market, This makes narrowing down the choices a bit difficult. Thus, we will list the best motherboard and case for the i5 12600K and the RTX 3060 in this article.
Best Motherboard for Core i5 12600K and RTX 3060
ASUS makes some of the best motherboards on the market. Their TUF Gaming lineup is known for its solid build quality, a plethora of features, and aggressive pricing. The TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS D4 is undoubtedly one of the best budget Z690 motherboards on the market.
This motherboard comes with support for DDR4 memory. This will also help users to save money on memory. Being based on the Z690 platform, this motherboard is PCIe Gen 5. Thus, users can upgrade to upcoming graphics cards and SSDs without losing performance.
Best Case for Core i5 12600K and RTX 3060
The Lian Li Lancool III is a recently launched design from the company. This case is one of the best options in the market currently. It has a full mesh front panel that will allow a ton of airflow. It also supports up to 420mm radiators. Users can also choose to mount three 360mm radiators with a total of 10 fans in this case.
In terms of airflow and optimal cooling, the Lian Li Lancool III is a no-brainer.


On a video posted recently by Aptera on social media, we see the company doing some extensive dynamic testing of the three-wheeler, with the developing team focusing on all the important aspects such as acceleration, braking, the turning radius of the vehicle, and the likes. The Beta version was joined on the track by the older Alpha models.
As announced in previous statements, the Beta prototype came with the controversial roll cage for safety, which made a lot of people question the strength of the SEV in case of a crash. However, Aptera recently explained that the cage will be ditched once the vehicle successfully passes its brutal stability testing phase. But right now, the idea is to break stuff and test the limits of the vehicle, so a little extra protection doesn’t hurt.
The Aptera solar electric three-wheeler weighs just 1,800 lb. (816 kg), using a composite body that the manufacturer describes as being very strong. In one of the latest roof crush strength tests, Aptera’s composite body had the highest strength of any passenger car on the road, as boasted by CEO Chris Anthony.
Aptera has managed to surpass 15,000 reservations for its solar electric vehicle this December. The company says it plans to start deliveries by the end of 2022.
With a claimed range of up to 1,000 miles (over 1,600 km) on a single charge, the Aptera SEV makes for one efficient and reliable wheeler for daily use. It will be available in several trims and it has room for two passengers and luggage. The SEV can be reserved for $100, with pricing starting at $25,900 and going as high as $50,700, depending on your customizations.
You can watch the track testing of the Aptera in the video below.


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Mullan Road Cellars Red Blend
Mullan Road Cellars is a journey into Washington winemaking led by Dennis Cakebread of Cakebread Cellars. Drawn by the high quality of wines and the camaraderie of the Walla Walla wine community, Dennis and winemaker Aryn Morell worked with the famed Seven Hills Vineyard on the Southern edge of the Walla Walla Valley appellation as well as vineyards in the soon-to-be-recognized Royal Slope appellation to craft this powerful yet elegant Bordeaux-style Red Blend
REGIONColumbia Valley, Washington State, USA
TASTING NOTESInitial aromas of fresh black cherry, cassis, vanilla bean and juniper berry make way for deeper scents of sweet blackberry pie and dried strawberry. The palate offers concentrated flavours of blackberry, blackcurrant and dark cherry with a touch of spice. It's framed by firm but silky tannins for balanced elegance.
FOOD PAIRINGPairs well with any red meat on the grill, pork tenderloin, heavy cheeses and grilled vegetables.
IMAGE DISCLAIMERThe product image shown may not be an exact representation of the product due to vintages and variations in pack sizes.


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- By Kevin
- On Oct 31, 2017
- Travel Tips
Madrid’s sunny summers make it a magnet for travelers seeking a laid-back relaxing holiday,but the country’s capital and largest city is no place for lazing about.For the chance to pack the history and architecture of two incredible cities into a single full-day trip,consider traveling from Madrid to Avila and Segovia.All in one day,you will see everything from Roman aqueducts to Gothic cathedrals.Top experiences in Madrid,most famous places in Madrid as below:
Temple of Debod:An Ancient Egyptian Temple
In La Montaña Park(close to Plaza de España),visitors can see one of Madrid's most surprising monuments-an ancient Egyptian temple.A gift from Egypt,the Debod Temple was brought to Madrid in 1968.The temple was built for King Adikhalamani in the 2nd century BC and includes several shrines,a spacious hall,and a terrace on the upper level.Well-preserved original decorations are found inside,rare for an archaeological site.Peaceful gardens surrounding the monument feature reflective pools and a fountain,creating a magical effect.
Address:Paseo Pintor Rosales,Madrid
This charming museum is dedicated to the work of Joaquín Sorolla,the most famous Spanish Impressionist artist.Displayed in beautiful bright rooms,the collection includes a broad representation of the artist's paintings and drawings.Be sure to see the museum's lovely patio adorned with a gurgling fountain and Andalusian-style decorative tile work.
Address:37 General Martínez Campos,Madrid
Puerta de Alcalá:A Grand Monument to the Spanish Monarchs
This grand Neoclassical triumphal arch was commissioned by King Carlos III to celebrate the arrival of the monarchs to Spain's capital city.The monument was designed by Francesco Sabatini and built between 1769 and 1778.Nearly 30 meters high,the elegant granite entrance gate makes a grand impression.The facade is adorned with sculptures,capitals,and decorative reliefs.
Address:Plaza de la Independencia,Madrid

domain: travel


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Smart Ones Tasty American Favorites Homestyle Beef Pot Roast
Freezing is a simple way to keep foods fresh. That's why we don't add preservatives to this entree and you can have delicious cuisine all year long!
Cooked Seasoned Beef Pot Roast and Modified Food Starch Product (Beef, Beef Broth, Modified Food Starch, Soybean Oil, Salt, Dextrose, Sodium Phosphate, Caramelized Sugar, Spice Extractives), Sauce (Water, Modified Cornstarch, Reduced Sodium Soy Sauce [Water, Wheat, Soybeans, Salt, Alcohol, Vinegar, Lactic Acid], Burgundy Wine, Tomato Paste, Natural Flavor, Roasted Beef With Beef Broth, Salt, Red Wine Vinegar, Yeast Extract, Dehydrated Garlic, Spices, Xanthan Gum, Cane Syrup Solids, Maltodextrin, Barley Malt Extract, Dehydrated Onion, Potato Flour), Carrots, Roasted Red Potatoes, Green Beans, Onions
Contains Wheat and Their Derivatives,Other gluten Containing Grain and Gluten Containing Grain Products,Soybean and its Derivatives,Corn and Its Derivatives.
Actual product packaging and materials may contain additional and/or different ingredient, nutritional, or proper usage information than the information displayed on our website. You are responsible ... Read More

domain: food


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Growing Organic Cauliflower In Your Garden
Posted January 21, 2016
Cauliflower can sometimes be challenging to grow, but can be done easily with a few essential steps.
When cauliflower does not form a head many times it has been exposed to extreme cold temperatures, to little water, old transplants, to hot of temperatures or little sunlight.
Most people will plant cauliflower at the same time as cabbage and broccoli, but it is more sensitive to chilly conditions, so planting just a little later by two to three weeks is generally enough to get past the "danger" zone. While cauliflower can withstand freezing temperatures, anything below 25 degrees seems to cause withering and damage to the plant.
Planting seed directly is easily done and ensure you get a plant that hasn't set in its transplant pot to long. We generally start seeds right into the ground around February 15th (zone 8) in well-amended and fertilized soil. Once seeds have germinated, we thin to one foot to 16' apart. If very cold or snowy weather moves in we cover with a frost blanket to protect our babies from and damage from extreme frost. But generally we are past this type of weather by the time the seeds emerge from the ground. Watch weather and plant accordingly.
Transplants can work well as long as they are not old and root bound. Older plants tend to be stressed and do not perform as well as actively growing seedlings. Look for young and tender transplants. While you certainly will need to be more careful, it will be well worth it! Harden plants carefully by gradually increasing cold before transplanting out, especially if the transplants were purchase right out of a greenhouse. Plant transplant into well-amended soil, dig a hole slightly deeper than the plants exciting soil, add a tablespoon of organic fertilizer, cover hole and slightly firm in plant. Water. Keep moist.
Watering is critical! Cauliflower does not produce well, if at all in dry soil. Keep moist from the time it goes into the ground, until you cut the head!
Blanching. When you start to see a small head forming through the leaves it's time to "blanch" your cauliflower. Gather the outer leaves and fold over the to the center. This generally breaks part of the vein, but still remains viable. Or you can with a string or rubber band once leaves are gathered in the center. This prevents yellowing of the curd from sunlight. Flavor is better, it looks better and the overall quality of the cauliflower head is better.
Harvest head while they still remain tight.

domain: hobby


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What Is A Sturgeon?
We went sturgeon viewing at the fish hatchery at Bonneville Dam. Rather than describe the huge fish, I've included this sign. If you're interseted, you can click on it. They have a huge sturgeon in the viewing pond at the hatchery. Not to give any lunatics ideas, but a few years ago my brother said someone broke in at night and stole an even larger sturgeon. Guess they are kind of hard to catch with rod and reel? Idiots often ruin it for the rest of us, no?
The Oregon Pony - first steam locomotive in Oregon
One might rightly assume that the first railroad in Oregon was in the Portland area, since after all that was where most of the population was. However, that was only partly the case.
The first "railway" (if it can be called that) here was a simple series of carts pulled by horses to get freight and passengers around Willamette Falls in Oregon City. It did run on rails, but it wasn't exactly a true railroad.
A similar, but much longer railway was built at Cascade Locks, and eventually the portage railway here became a fairly substantial operation. Not exactly a long distance railway, by any means, but it did have fully enclosed passenger cars and a reasonable assortment of freight cars, and traveled a distance measured in miles rather than yards.
In the 1850s, the Oregon Pony became the first steam locomotive delivered to Oregon, for operation on this river portage railway, and remained in operation until around 1905. It was then put on display at Union Station, and for a while was on display at the Lewis & Clark Exhibition in Portland (a "World's Fair" type of event).
Eventually, however, it wound up back home in Cascade Locks.
Here, it is on display in a park near the remains of the river locks that once doomed this little locomotive to a life of obscurity, as without the locks the portage railway around the very rough rapids in the river would have continued until the Bonneville Dam was completed.
Unfortunately, the display enclosure makes it very difficult to view the locomotive. It is possible to see all the parts, and to get a reasonably up-close look at the machine, in terms of trying to photograph it the enclosure is quite difficult to work around.
The locomotive is a "gypsy" style locomotive with two cylinders driving a gear shaft at the front of the locomotive, and the reduced gearing driving the front wheel. This style remained fairly popular in the Pacific Northwest for a number of decades, particularly among logging operators. Bigger and heavier and faster standard style locomotives were quickly put into service as they became available and as the track was rebuilt to accommodate them.
The locomotive is located in Marine Park. You will find the entrance to Marine Park to be a narrow paved road that goes sharply down hill from the main road through town, on the north (river) side of the city. There is a very sharp curve just before going under the railroad line, so large vehicles will have their work cut out for them getting through here. The display structure is to the left on a grassy mound just after you pass under the railroad line.
A Lot to See Here
"Salmon run was very interesting"
This area includes the first Bonneville Dam, the lock for boats, the fish hatchery and the opportunity to see a sturgeon up close. There was also a nice little gift shop.
The dam on the Oregon side was built during the Depression and changed forever the character of the Columbia river. It also helped with creating new jobs and new industry in the area. We had seen the dam and fish ladders on the Washington side so didn't take the tour on the Oregon side. It is said the experiences are similar.
What we did enjoy however were the activities at the hatchery. Salmon run is late summer to early fall. It was rather amazing to watch the salmon swimming upstream be caught in the gates, sent in one by one to be examined for readiness to spawn, if ready to be stripped of eggs and then thrown on ice for food. If they weren't ready they were sent back out for a few days.
The eggs that are harvested and fertilized here are hatched and raised here until ready to be sent back to the river. The ponds hold various sizes of fingerlings.
It would be good to plan the greater part of a day here during salmon run in order to see all there is to see. If no salmon are running then half a day would be enough for the ponds, the dam, the fish ladders and the lock.
The town was named for the series of locks built in 1896 on the Columbia River to navigate boats past what were once dangerous rapids. Provides access to Cascade Locks, and Bridge of the Gods Historic Site. If you wish to head for Washington, Bridge of the Gods Toll Bridge will take you there. Cross the bridge and check out Beacon Rock and the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center near Stevenson, Washington.


The Season Is Upon Us
Just one more day until the start of the 2013 Super League Season, will you be there?
The Wolves take on the Castleford Tigers in the first round and the opening game of the new campaign, who will reign supreme this season? What will the year hold for the Wolves, who regained the Challenge Cup in 2012 and reached their first Grand Final since the inception of the Super League era. The Tigers come to town with some new faces and will be looking to spoil the party at The Halliwell Jones Stadium.
The first game of the season is one that can set the tempo for the rest of the year, will cobwebs be well and truly blown away? Make sure you are there for Round 1!
Tickets for the match can be purchased at the WolfWare store at the stadium from just £19 for adults and £13 for kids, prices do go up on a matchday so make sure you them before Sunday.
The new supporters wall is being unveiled at the stadium at 12.30pm, with turnstiles opening at 1.30pm. The WolfWare store and ticket office windows are open from 12pm, tickets are required for the seated areas but there will be some cash turnstiles on the South and West standing areas.
There will be a minutes applause before the game to remember Warrington Hall of Famer Dave Chisnall who passed away recently.
02, Feb, 2013


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chapter 11: Articular Cartilage Lesions in Patellofemoral Pain Patients
LATERAL PATELLOFEMORAL ARTHROSIS
This form is by far the most common. It is predictable, given the lateral predominance of the patellofemoral joint, the lateral vector of force resulting from the physiologic valgus and the prevalence of lateral tilt in patients with chronic malalignment. Chronic lateral tilt, with or without subluxation often leads to lateral facet erosion. The lateral facet shows the greatest incidence of wear both clinically and in autopsy series (23, 34, 53, 79).LATERAL BICOMPARTMENT ARTHROSIS
The patella contact area extends on to the portion of the femoral condyle that articulates with the tibia in full extension, particularly the lateral compartment. It is not uncommon to see a combination of lateral arthrosis affecting both the tibiofemoral and patellofemoral compartments. This is particularly true if there is associated clinical valgus of the knee. The combination of lateral bicompartment arthrosis is more common in women, likely due to the greater frequency of clinical valgus in this sex (Fig. 11.47).CROSSED BICOMPARTMENT ARTHROSIS
Lateral patellofemoral and medial tibiofemoral compartment arthrosis (Fig. 11.48) are commonly associated. Chronic medial meniscus pathology may cause chronic effusions and diffuse softening of articular cartilage resulting in earlier breakdown of an overloaded lateral facet, particularly in the obese, elderly patient. It is important in such patients to determine if pain is most troublesome in the patellofemoral or medial compartment, so that treatment can be appropriately planned.MEDIAL PATELLAR ARTHROSIS
Severe medial patellofemoral arthrosis is less common than its lateral counterpart. When it does occur, however, it is accompanied by all the radiologic signs that are so common laterally: joint line narrowing, subchondral sclerosis, and cysts (Fig. 11.49). This is in marked contradistinction to the radiographic picture associated with the florid type of chondromalacia encountered in the second and third decades. Medial bicompartment arthrosis is often associated with significant varus deformity. Excessive imbrication of the medial retinaculum at the time of proximal realignment can lead to progressive medial patellar arthrosis (Fig. 11.8).
When dealing with symptomatic arthrosis of the knee, with or without deformity, an axial patellofemoral view is essential. When performing a high tibial osteotomy, this knowledge of the status of the patellofemoral joint may indicate including lateral retinacular release or anterior placement of the distal tibia, after osteotomy, to anteriorize the tibial tubercle.
Inside Chapter 11:

domain: literature


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Seed in M. deanei is produced in barrel shaped woody capsules that contain 500-600 seeds (Felton 1993). It is held in the canopy of the plant for several years (possibly up to 15 years) until dehydration allows the capsules to open (Benson & McDougall 1998). Seed release is triggered by fire, occasionally also by drought or frost (Virtue 1991; Felton 1993).
Melaleuca deanei seed is wind dispersed. Light winds are sufficient to empty most capsules of M. quinquenervia, which has similar sized seed (Virtue 1991). It is unknown whether M. deanei possesses a persistent soil seedbank. Itsseeds remain viable for at least nine weeks following release from the capsules, but their viability after this period is unknown (Felton 1993). Felton suggests that the species does not require a persistent soil seedbank as the requirements for germination are provided by fire, which also triggers the release of the seed from its capsule.
Under laboratory conditions, seeds germinated readily and had high levels of viability (Virtue 1991; Felton 1993). Germination seems to be greatest in seeds that are sourced from large populations (Virtue 1991). However, in the wild, no seedlings have been observed during the field work associated with the preparation of this recovery plan, or in previous studies (Travers Morgan 1990; Virtue 1991; Felton 1993). Doig (pers. comm.) notes that despite setting lots of potentially viable seed, germination in the wild is poor and many seedlings do not survive. Seedling establishment is most likely also dependent on prolonged moisture availability (Virtue 1991). It appears that overall, this species relies predominantly on clonal reproduction and produces seed infrequently.
Melaleuca deanei frequently produces coppiced growth and suckers from its roots, particularly after fire or the disturbance and death of a major stem (Travers Morgan 1990). The species has also been observed to regenerate from epicormic buds that are protected from fire by thick papery bark (Felton 1993).
It has been suggested that fire is required to provide the right conditions for germination and seedling growth and that seedlings very rarely establish at any time other than after fire (Felton 1993). It has also been suggested that fire may be required to stimulate flowering of M. deanei (L. McDougall pers. comm. cited in Benson & McDougall 1998), however Felton (1993) states that some populations flower annually regardless of time since the last fire.
Melaleuca deanei has been observed growing most commonly and vigorously in sites exposed to direct sunlight, or in places where light penetration has been increased by disturbance, such as the edge of fire trails (Travers Morgan 1990; S. Douglas, pers. comm.). The species’ preference for light may explain its habitat preference for open ridgetop vegetation (Felton 1993). Shaded plants seem to have fewer and shorter new stems and leaves, and a shorter internodal distance (Travers Morgan 1990).
It is therefore likely that fire, and possibly other physical disturbances that increase light levels without impacting upon the soil, play a role in providing for the recruitment and long term persistence of the species.
5Threats and Management Issues
6.1.1 Low fecundity and viability
Melaleuca deanei appears to have low fecundity levels as exhibited by infrequent flowering, poor seed production, and poor seedling vigour (Virtue 1991; Felton 1993; Travers Morgan 1990; R. Johnstone, pers. comm.). Also, larger populations seem to have greater seed viability and are more likely to produce fruit than smaller populations (Virtue 1991). A number of small populations (i.e. less than 10 ramets) have been lost or have suffered significant declines in population size in the last 10 years, even though habitat conditions at these sites do not appear to have changed (R. Doig, pers. comm.).
The causes of this low fecundity are not known and warrant further research, to determine both its exact cause and its implications for the viability of small M. deanei populations (see Table 7). Possible reasons could be inbreeding depression, the absence of a specific stimulus, or set of stimuli, that would trigger flowering, or a natural tendency towards vegetative reproduction.
Actions that counteract the low fecundity levels will depend on the outcome of such research. However, results so far indicate that until the research has been conducted, fecundity is likely to be enhanced by increased cross-breeding between individuals of the same or different populations. To facilitate such cross-breeding, care must be taken to retain genetic links between populations by providing contiguous habitat between them. Also, careful in-situ management of existing populations should focus on increasing the number of individual plants, and this should include the application of fire to stimulate seed release into favourable conditions for germination and establishment.
6.1.2 Habitat loss and fragmentation
The available habitat for M. deanei has been severely reduced and fragmented by urban development, quarrying, and associated disturbances. This is primarily a consequence of the species’ distributional range being centred upon the Sydney region, and its apparent preference for ridge-top locations and sites with lateritic soils. The urbanisation of the Sydney region has divided the species’ historical distribution into two distinct areas (ie northern and southern populations). Ongoing urban consolidation and expansion continues to threaten a number of populations. For example, undetected, though probably small, populations may be present in the rural-residential areas of Baulkham Hills and Hornsby LGAs where the threat of clearing is substantial (S. Douglas, pers. comm.).
Holsworthy Military Area contains a number of highly significant populations and large areas of contiguous and relatively undisturbed habitat, which are largely zoned as land for Environmental Protection. The Department of Defence is currently considering the development of a conservation agreement for Holsworthy with the Commonwealth Minister for Environment Protection, Heritage and the Arts, which would safeguard this area from negative impacts arising from future development (D. Carter, pers. comm.).
Sites that are considered to be at high risk of habitat loss and fragmentation include the 17 sites that have been recorded from freehold land. Only five of these sites are zoned as land for Environmental Protection (Sites BM1, 2, 3a; SU10; WA11), all others are zoned as either Rural, Residential or Special Users, and thus are potentially subject to development or disturbance.
Of the eight known sites on crown or public land, four are in council reserves which are zoned as land for Environmental Protection (Sites RY2, SU2b, SU3, SU7a-f). Here, appropriate management can safeguard them against further habitat loss. A fifth site along a fire trail is also zoned for Bushland Conservation (Site BM3b), whereas the remaining three sites are zoned as Rural or Open Space and should thus be considered to be potentially at risk of loss (Sites HO4, KU3&4).
6.1.3 Inappropriate fire regimes
Frequent fires over a long period have the capacity to eliminate resprouting species such as M. deanei because juveniles have a slow growth rate and therefore take a longer period of time to become fire resistant (Felton 1993). High frequency fire has been recorded as a threat to M. deanei populations within Holsworthy Military Area (Felton 1993), and possibly elsewhere.
Populations within Holsworthy Military Area were reportedly burnt every 1 to 5 years (Travers Morgan 1990). However military practices have subsequently changed, and no fires as a result of military exercises have occurred in the area since 1996 (M. Peterson, pers. comm.). Lightning strike and arson are now the major cause of fire with suppression of those fires hindered by unexploded ordnance (M. Peterson, pers. comm.).
It is also likely that fire exclusion is impacting on the species, particularly those populations that inhabit small urban bushland remnants. As discussed in Section 5, fire is likely to play an essential role in the maintenance of M. deanei populations by:
providing soil and light conditions that are conducive to germination and seedling growth; and
increasing stem density through vegetative growth.
Further research into aspects of the fire ecology of M. deanei are required to determine the appropriate fire regime for the species (see Table 7). In the absence of this information, it is important that land managers apply an appropriately conservative fire regime for the species that comprises:
a minimum fire frequency of 8 years;
moderate intensity fires in preference to high intensity fires, until the intensity of fire that the lignotuber can withstand has been determined; and
late summer or autumn burns, as seedlings emerging at these times should encounter favourable moisture conditions and therefore have a greater chance of establishment (Auld & Bradstock 1996).
Low intensity fires in habitat for the species should be avoided where possible (with the exception of those conducted and monitored under experimental conditions) until it can be demonstrated that such fires will trigger the release of seed and provide the appropriate conditions for seedling establishment.
The maximum fire-free interval for the species is not known. However, given the susceptibility of the species to shading and the potential for aging to reduce seed viability, it is recommended that fire exclusion for periods of greater than 20 years be avoided.
At sites where fire cannot be applied (e.g. due to remnant size or proximity to urban areas), other methods to trigger seedling recruitment could be trialled in an experimental manner. Such methods could include placing seeds in burn piles and burning the piles immediately.
6.1.4 Mechanical methods of bushfire fuel hazard reduction
Populations of M. deanei that are located in close proximity to residential developments or other assets are potentially threatened by mechanical methods of bush fire hazard reduction. Any Bush Fire Hazard Reduction Certificates issued under the Rural Fires Act 1997 must incorporate the mitigative actions for M. deanei identified in the Threatened Species Hazard Reduction List (TSHRL). Currently the TSHRL requires that no slashing, trittering or tree removal occurs at M. deanei sites. It is thus essential that the NPWS Wildlife Atlas contains records of all locations of the species that are accurate to within 100 metres.
In circumstances where the application of mechanical methods of fuel reduction cannot be avoided, selective hand removal of tree and shrub species (other than M. deanei) within 5 metres of M. deanei stands should be considered.
6.1.5 Construction and maintenance of tracks and easements
Track construction should be considered a significant threat due to the species’ preference for ridgetop habitat, where it is often easiest to build roads and powerlines. Also, several M. deanei populations occur on the edge of fire trails and along powerline easements, where they are at risk from mechanical damage during the maintenance and/or widening of these areas (Sites BM3b; HO9a-b, 10a-e, 18e; SU9c&d; WO1, see Appendix 3). One population (Site BH2) has most likely been destroyed by the re-establishment of a fire trail along which it grew (S. Douglas, pers. comm.).
Repeated disturbance in the form of mowing, slashing, or trittering is likely to destroy M. deanei plants, or to at least prevent flowering and seed set. To avoid further losses of populations along fire trails and easements, several measures should be taken: first, the NPWS Wildlife Atlas contains all known records, and the appropriate authority should ensure that the Atlas is consulted for location records and updated where new populations are found. Further surveys should be conducted in areas where the species is suspected to occur, and field staff should be trained in the identification of the species. Populations should then be marked, e.g. by coloured survey pegs. Wherever possible, physical disturbance at such sites should be avoided or not occur in intervals of less than 8 years. Note that a s132C licence (NPW Act) may be required for works that will impact on this species.
Unrestricted access, the creation of new tracks and the dumping of rubbish threaten several M. deanei populations, through mechanical damage, soil compaction and introduction of weed propagules. It also leads to associated changes in runoff and weed encroachment.
Examples of such disturbances are informal tracks for trail bikes (Site HO1, S. Douglas, pers. comm.), or four-wheel drives (Site SU5a-5d, Travers Morgan 1990). Dumping of rubbish, including green waste, building debris and car bodies, has also caused disturbance at several sites (Site SU5a-5d, Travers Morgan 1990; SU9a-b, M. Bremner pers. comm.; HO26, S. Douglas, pers. comm.). These combined threats are best addressed through the installation of barriers to prevent physical damage to M. deanei sites.
6.1.7 Weed invasion
Weed invasion has been recorded as a threat to M. deanei at a small number of sites. Weeds present at these sites include Lantana camara (Lantana), Asparagus densiflorus (Asparagus Fern), Eragrostis curvula (African Love Grass) and Ehrharta erecta (Panic Veldt Grass).The impact of weeds on M. deanei include direct competition to mature plants through shading, as well as the disruption of life cycle processes including recruitment.
The management of weeds at M. deanei sites requires targeted bush regeneration efforts that aim to restore and maintain areas of suitable habitat. However, it is important that land managers are aware that weed control measures have the potential to impact negatively upon the species and caution should be used when applying herbicides within or near habitat for the species.
The small tree species Pittosporum undulatum (Native Daphne) is also a threat to M. deanei at sites where fire has been excluded for a long period. This species contributes to a mesic shift in vegetation and will potentially shade out M. deanei. At sites where fire cannot be applied, this species should be treated as a weed and selectively culled to maintain light levels. A second native species found to compete with M. deanei is Devil’s Twine (Cassytha glabella), a leafless parasitic vine common in heath and woodland (Felton 1993). This species attaches to its host plant by means of suckers and extracts water and nutrients from the host. At least half of the populations visited by Felton were covered with this vine. Where possible, this species should be removed from M. deanei plants to avoid shading and competition for resources.
The hybridisation of M. deanei with other species of Melaleuca and Callistemon is a potential threat, particularly to those populations that occur in close proximity to urban areas. For example, the germination of seed collected from one site (SU3) revealed that only approximately 20% of progeny were ‘pure’ M. deanei, with the remaining progeny being hybrids with other Melaleuca and Callistemon species (probably M. armillaris and C. viminalis; R. Johnstone RBG pers. comm.). Further research is required to determine the extent of such hybridisation. Until this is done, the planting of other species of Melaleuca and Callistemon in close proximity to M. deanei sites should be avoided.
Table 7. Limits to current knowledge of Melaleuca deanei. The justification of the research and the methodology that may be used to address each question is broadly defined, as are the potential benefits of the increased knowledge.
Benefits of increased knowledge
The species’ capacity to regenerate, including the cause of low fecundity levels.
Implications for long term viability of the species.
Investigate the breeding system and the species’ ability to self-pollinate.
Investigate the level of gene flow within and among populations.
Investigate the need for a specific stimulus to trigger flowering.
Results will enable consent and determining authorities to effectively determine the impact of proposed developments on the species.
Better allocation of resources for the recovery program.
Appropriate fire regime
Inappropriate fire regimes are a threat to the species.
Investigations of specific aspects of the fire ecology of the species including seedbank longevity; the time required for seedlings to become fire resistant; the age of reproductive maturity; the effect of capsule age on seed viability; the minimum fire intensity that will trigger the release of seed; and the maximum fire intensity that the lignotuber can withstand.
Potential to increase population size through seedling recruitment.
Extent of hybridisation with other Melaleuca and Callistemon species
Hybridisation has been observed in at least one population.
Germination of seed collected from urban and non urban populations.
Investigations of source of genetic ‘contamination’ at sites where hybrids occur.
Land managers will be aware of the actual degree of this threat and will be able to implement appropriate threat abatement measures, eg removal of inappropriate plantings.
The community can be informed of the safe distance at which other Melaleuca and Callistemon species can be planted.


Motorists are facing a speeding crackdown on the motorways of the Midlands, we revealed this weekend.
Drivers in the region could soon run the risk of fines and points for just nudging over the 70mph limit.
The threat comes from ‘hidden’ cameras which were designed to monitor lower speeds on ‘smart motorways’.
VOTE: What do you think?
Should the 70mph motorway speed limit be strictly enforced?
0+ VOTES SO FAR
The Highways Agency, which operates Britain’s motorways, defended its decision to extend speed enforcement.
A spokesman said: “Smart motorways are cheaper, faster to deliver and more environmentally-friendly than building additional lanes.
“Research on the M42 found that by managing speed, the traffic flow is smoothed. Using safety cameras ensures a high level of compliance with variable speed limits.”