Shane Therrien has three uncles who work in Windsor’s currently thriving mould, tool, die and machining sector.
“They always told me never get into the trades,” said the 21-year-old.
He is not the first Windsor area kid to get that message from family members who have ridden the highs and lows of the auto industry. Now that he’s working full time as he completes his apprenticeship as a computer numerical control machinist, he is glad he decided to check it out himself.
These days the Windsor area shops that feed auto parts suppliers and car factories are hiring machinists, welders, industrial electricians and other skilled tradespeople at a frantic pace. Many of these shops were laying workers off not long ago and had almost stopped taking apprentices as the industry shrank for a decade.
Now they’re desperate for young blood, but many lack dedicated staff, time and money to train new hires. One exception is Valiant Corp., where Therrien landed almost by accident.
After graduating from St. Thomas of Villanova High School in LaSalle, he was ready to go to university to take math and sciences with the aim of getting into the medical field. After one semester at the University of Windsor, Therrien knew it wasn’t for him.
He found it difficult to hit the books after class, but he is smart and good with his hands. He’d built decks and fences with one of his uncles in the summers since he was 14 years old and helped his dad with maintenance work at his mom’s hair salon.
“My family is a hard working family. Everybody is always working,” he said.
A Grade 12 diploma, motivation and reliability are the three things Mike Ouellette looks for in the young trainees he hires at the Valiant Training and Development Centre. Therrien is one of 83 students the company has taken in to date. They are paid $12-$12.75 an hour and given benefits while they train for 46 weeks.
So far, Therrien and 50 others have then been hired by Valiant as apprentices after completing the program. Their wages start at $14 an hour as they complete their apprenticeships through night classes at St. Clair College and climb to $24 an hour and beyond when they are seasoned journeymen. Other smaller shops are asking Valiant to train for them, said Ouellette, the centre’s skilled trades training co-ordinator.
“We’re hoping to grow to train for bigger numbers, but we need help from the government,” he said.
If Windsor wants to maintain its leadership in the tool, mould, die and machining sector, it needs thousands of young skilled workers like Therrien, he said. “This is what Canada has to wake up and see. We’re going to lose the work to offshore people…. If we don’t start training all these people will be retiring.”
Therrien said he had no idea what he was getting into. He quickly learned Ouellette, who ran his own shop for 33 years, had a good eye for potential. In 2011, Therrien was awarded an apprentice of the year bursary by the Canadian Tooling and Machining Association.
“It’s good. I’m enjoying it now,” he said of running the mammoth machines and computers that produce tooling and parts used in manufacturing. “I don’t know if my body can handle it for a long time…. Hopefully, eventually I’ll move up into engineering or something like that.”
He’s heard the cynical view that it’s a dying trade but, the way he sees it, no matter how technology changes, the work will have to be done by those who can learn and adapt.
“Everything we have requires a mould, requires some kinds of designing to it.”
Plus, he is getting a paycheque with his education, he said. “They’re offering to pay you while you’re training. Why wouldn’t you take that opportunity?”
2012年12月27日 星期四
2012年12月26日 星期三
Idaho Power is obstacle to wind generation
Brian Jackson, a scrappy, eternally optimistic engineer who believes that community wind projects can be built—projects that are good long term for ratepayers, good for the environment and good for the counties that receive property taxes—partnered with an Idaho farmer, Ben Bartlett, to build projects outside of Burley, Idaho, on the family’s scrubby piece of land where they can barely raise cattle in the harsh winter winds.
Unfortunately, the engineer and the farmer are up against a monopoly utility, Idaho Power, which has spent the last 10 years doing everything in its power to kill wind projects—from lobbying for state wind energy moratoriums to public anti-wind energy campaigns. Idaho gets about half its power from coal plants. The acid rain from mercury and sulfur dioxide from these coal plants just happens to fall on other people’s kids and milk cows in the Pacific Northwest.
After working with Idaho Power diligently for five months in 2010 to draft an acceptable contract for it to purchase the power from these renewable energy projects (a Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act contract), Brian signed the contracts and handed them back to Idaho Power in its building’s lobby. Idaho Power sat on the signed power purchase contracts and refused to sign them until one day after the Idaho Public Utilities Commission deadline limiting wind projects, and then said it didn’t have to honor the contracts.
The problem for Idaho Power and the Idaho PUC is that this is not legal under federal PURPA laws. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission recently has initiated a federal court action against the Idaho PUC for its lack of enforcing PURPA in a similar case. The federal government created the PURPA laws in 1978 exactly to encourage small, renewable energy projects over dirty power plants. Brian, who used to work for Idaho Power, thought he could work with the company peaceably to resolve this. He has been shocked by its blatant disregard for federal law and “so-sue-us” attitude. This honest engineer still can’t believe that companies would operate this way.
This old-style utility would rather build coal plants because it’s easier to dispatch coal-generated energy than work with the intermittency of a renewal resource. We’ve come so far with technology—many countries and states have up to 20 percent of their energy coming from wind energy these days. Wind can be modeled, predicted and integrated as an energy source with software and with smart meters—meters that Idaho Power got federal funds to install all over Idaho. Coal leaves poisonous tailings ponds in communities and significantly contributes to carbon and pollutants in our air.
There are many in the United States who objects to wind turbines, most notably the energy industry which sees the development of alternative fuel sources as a threat to their survival. Now it seems that there are aliens who feel the same way.
In a video posted on UFOsightingsdaily by founder and manager Scott C. Waring, a UFO seemingly shoots something, at a group of wind turbines. The location is not identified and the men who filmed the video refer to remain anonymous, but there are clues. The narrator of the video speaks in Spanish most of the time, but twice says “Oh my God”. It is not a great leap of imagination, therefore, to place them in the American Southwest where many people speak Spanish but are also conversant in English. Turbines are another clue pointing to this area.
A UFO is clearly visible in the video, taken with a simple point and shoot camera. What is not so clear is the contention that the UFO was shooting at the turbines. One has to wonder why aliens (presumably) would be threatened by windmills. A UFO is an unidentified flying object. Could this one have been sent by an alien race with highly advanced technology, or could it have been a low-tech ploy by fossil fuel companies to put turbines out of business?
Unfortunately, the engineer and the farmer are up against a monopoly utility, Idaho Power, which has spent the last 10 years doing everything in its power to kill wind projects—from lobbying for state wind energy moratoriums to public anti-wind energy campaigns. Idaho gets about half its power from coal plants. The acid rain from mercury and sulfur dioxide from these coal plants just happens to fall on other people’s kids and milk cows in the Pacific Northwest.
After working with Idaho Power diligently for five months in 2010 to draft an acceptable contract for it to purchase the power from these renewable energy projects (a Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act contract), Brian signed the contracts and handed them back to Idaho Power in its building’s lobby. Idaho Power sat on the signed power purchase contracts and refused to sign them until one day after the Idaho Public Utilities Commission deadline limiting wind projects, and then said it didn’t have to honor the contracts.
The problem for Idaho Power and the Idaho PUC is that this is not legal under federal PURPA laws. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission recently has initiated a federal court action against the Idaho PUC for its lack of enforcing PURPA in a similar case. The federal government created the PURPA laws in 1978 exactly to encourage small, renewable energy projects over dirty power plants. Brian, who used to work for Idaho Power, thought he could work with the company peaceably to resolve this. He has been shocked by its blatant disregard for federal law and “so-sue-us” attitude. This honest engineer still can’t believe that companies would operate this way.
This old-style utility would rather build coal plants because it’s easier to dispatch coal-generated energy than work with the intermittency of a renewal resource. We’ve come so far with technology—many countries and states have up to 20 percent of their energy coming from wind energy these days. Wind can be modeled, predicted and integrated as an energy source with software and with smart meters—meters that Idaho Power got federal funds to install all over Idaho. Coal leaves poisonous tailings ponds in communities and significantly contributes to carbon and pollutants in our air.
There are many in the United States who objects to wind turbines, most notably the energy industry which sees the development of alternative fuel sources as a threat to their survival. Now it seems that there are aliens who feel the same way.
In a video posted on UFOsightingsdaily by founder and manager Scott C. Waring, a UFO seemingly shoots something, at a group of wind turbines. The location is not identified and the men who filmed the video refer to remain anonymous, but there are clues. The narrator of the video speaks in Spanish most of the time, but twice says “Oh my God”. It is not a great leap of imagination, therefore, to place them in the American Southwest where many people speak Spanish but are also conversant in English. Turbines are another clue pointing to this area.
A UFO is clearly visible in the video, taken with a simple point and shoot camera. What is not so clear is the contention that the UFO was shooting at the turbines. One has to wonder why aliens (presumably) would be threatened by windmills. A UFO is an unidentified flying object. Could this one have been sent by an alien race with highly advanced technology, or could it have been a low-tech ploy by fossil fuel companies to put turbines out of business?
2012年12月25日 星期二
NextEra to sell hydroelectric power assets
A subsidiary of NextEra Energy Resources LLC is selling it stake in White Pine Hydro Investments LLC, which has operations in Maine and New Hampshire, to Brookfield Renewable Energy Partners L.P.
The assets consist of 19 hydroelectric generation plants and equity interests in eight reservoirs in Maine and New Hampshire, NextEra said in a deal made late Friday.
The system generates 351 megawatts of power, which is more than twice the 158 megawatts of solar power NextEra had at the end of 2011. NextEra Energy Resources is the national leader in solar power and wind power, the latter having 8,569 megawatts of capacity.
"While this is an attractive portfolio in many respects, this transaction enables us to further optimize our power generation portfolio and concentrate our resources on areas with greater growth potential for our business," said Armando Pimentel, president and CEO of NextEra Energy Resources, a unit of Juno Beach-based NextEra Energy.
The sale is based on an enterprise value of $760 million, including $700 million in debt. The price was not disclosed.
The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter and provide a gain for NextEra Energy Resources, but it is not expected to have a material impact on its financial position or future financial results, a press release said.
Brookfield's website say it is one of the largest pure-play renewable power companies, mainly by hydroelectric rather than solar or wind. Its systems in Canada, the Brazil and the U.S. generate enough power for 2 million homes, the website states.
Brookfield, which trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "BEP.UN," said the portfolio includes the two largest hydroelectric facilities in Maine, and adds to its existing 103 megawatts of capacity on the same river systems. The electricity is sold into the New England wholesale power market. NextEra has upgraded and modernized some of the plants.
Brookfield Renewable said it expects a private fund sponsored by Brookfield Asset Management (NYSE: BAM) to invest up to 50 percent in the transaction.
The project, located in Wellington County, Ontario, is comprised of 10 Siemens wind turbines and is capable of generating enough power for approximately 5,700 homes in an average year. All of the power from the project is being sold to the Ontario Power Authority under the Feed-In-Tariff program. Conestogo Wind, LP, an indirect subsidiary of NextEra Energy Canada, owns and operates the project.
"We are pleased to have completed our first wind project in Ontario," said Mike O'Sullivan, NextEra Energy Resources senior vice president of development. "In addition to generating clean, emission-free energy, this project will have a positive impact on the local economy through the jobs created, taxes paid, lease payments to landowners, and goods and services sourced throughout the region."
The Conestogo Wind Energy Centre is the first of eight wind projects NextEra Energy Canada plans to bring into service by the end of 2015 in Ontario. Combined, NextEra Energy Canada's eight Ontario wind projects represent a capital investment in the province of approximately $1.5 billion.
In addition to the Conestogo Wind Energy Centre, affiliates of NextEra Energy Canada own and operate the 20-MW Moore Solar Project and the 20-MW Sombra Solar Project both located in Lambton County, Ontario.
The assets consist of 19 hydroelectric generation plants and equity interests in eight reservoirs in Maine and New Hampshire, NextEra said in a deal made late Friday.
The system generates 351 megawatts of power, which is more than twice the 158 megawatts of solar power NextEra had at the end of 2011. NextEra Energy Resources is the national leader in solar power and wind power, the latter having 8,569 megawatts of capacity.
"While this is an attractive portfolio in many respects, this transaction enables us to further optimize our power generation portfolio and concentrate our resources on areas with greater growth potential for our business," said Armando Pimentel, president and CEO of NextEra Energy Resources, a unit of Juno Beach-based NextEra Energy.
The sale is based on an enterprise value of $760 million, including $700 million in debt. The price was not disclosed.
The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter and provide a gain for NextEra Energy Resources, but it is not expected to have a material impact on its financial position or future financial results, a press release said.
Brookfield's website say it is one of the largest pure-play renewable power companies, mainly by hydroelectric rather than solar or wind. Its systems in Canada, the Brazil and the U.S. generate enough power for 2 million homes, the website states.
Brookfield, which trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "BEP.UN," said the portfolio includes the two largest hydroelectric facilities in Maine, and adds to its existing 103 megawatts of capacity on the same river systems. The electricity is sold into the New England wholesale power market. NextEra has upgraded and modernized some of the plants.
Brookfield Renewable said it expects a private fund sponsored by Brookfield Asset Management (NYSE: BAM) to invest up to 50 percent in the transaction.
The project, located in Wellington County, Ontario, is comprised of 10 Siemens wind turbines and is capable of generating enough power for approximately 5,700 homes in an average year. All of the power from the project is being sold to the Ontario Power Authority under the Feed-In-Tariff program. Conestogo Wind, LP, an indirect subsidiary of NextEra Energy Canada, owns and operates the project.
"We are pleased to have completed our first wind project in Ontario," said Mike O'Sullivan, NextEra Energy Resources senior vice president of development. "In addition to generating clean, emission-free energy, this project will have a positive impact on the local economy through the jobs created, taxes paid, lease payments to landowners, and goods and services sourced throughout the region."
The Conestogo Wind Energy Centre is the first of eight wind projects NextEra Energy Canada plans to bring into service by the end of 2015 in Ontario. Combined, NextEra Energy Canada's eight Ontario wind projects represent a capital investment in the province of approximately $1.5 billion.
In addition to the Conestogo Wind Energy Centre, affiliates of NextEra Energy Canada own and operate the 20-MW Moore Solar Project and the 20-MW Sombra Solar Project both located in Lambton County, Ontario.
2012年12月24日 星期一
Law enforcement, staff receive special awards
Sill’s first award, the Chief’s Award, was given to Captain David Odle and Deputy Fire Chief Skeety Poulton following the public tribute the two helped organized following the passing of commissioner Bob Carlile. The two also received Commendation Awards for their efforts.
A Commendation Award was also given to Captain Jon Antrim following a motorcycle crash which claimed the life of Chad McIntire, who worked as a paramedic and shift supervisor for the Seward County Emergency Medical Services. Sill said that Antrim came to the aid of EMS employees by watching over their night shift and allowing them to grieve the loss of their friend. Antrim then arrived for work the next morning to fulfill his regular duties. He also spent many hours with McIntire’s family in helping to coordinate funeral services. Sill added that Antrim grew up with Chad.
“This was a sign of true compassion for your colleagues,” Sill said. “I was so moved by this that to me, this deserves a lot of recognition. He did this all on his own, on his own time. It was his friend, but he did this with the utmost professionalism and I was absolutely in awe over how he managed to hold himself together and make all emergency service personnel proud.”
Commendation Awards were also given to more than a handful of officers, detectives and investigators who helped uncover several strings of burglaries throughout the year. Corporal Wade received an award as well for dedicating time to uncover a counterfeit scheme on his own.
Sill also announced that Captain David Odle, who went on to receive several awards, has been accepted into the FBI National Academy to attend in April 2013.
“This is huge, this is just as big for him as it is for the Liberal Police Department,” Sill said. “I was just as happy as he was to receive that letter.”
Detective Aaron Harvey also received a Commendation Award for training he has already completed in interviewing child victims in abuse cases. Sill commented that while these cases are the most difficult and stressful to work, Harvey has completed an astounding 40 interviews this year – each of which can take weeks to a month to complete.
A Commendation Award was also given to Sergeant Dallas Ryan for his work in coordinating with grant-writer Catherine Byrd to fund the purchase a piece of equipment used to map out crime scenes using laser technology. The tool saves extensive time for the department, which used pencil and paper mapping beforehand.
Staff member Catherine Byrd was recognized with a Meritorious Service Award for her work in applying for and securing grants for both the LPD and other agencies in the county – grants which Sill mentioned are hard to come by. Byrd’s work has resulted in several new technology systems, equipment upgrades and funding for the School Resource Officer program. In total since 2008, Sill said Byrd has gathered $713,625 dollars in funds for the department.
Meritorious Service Awards were also given to staff members and officers for their dedication to the National Night Out campaign and the Shop with a Cop program.
Finally, Chief’s Awards were given to Officer Josiah Smiddy for the most improvement in his running time, and to Sergeants Franka Jiminez, Jared Ratzlaff, Mark West and Dallas Ryan for their leadership on the force.
Crime Analyst Sandy Castaneda won employee of the year for her service. Sill noted that Castaneda has done a tremendous job in improving the flow of intelligence information throughout the department and partnering agencies across the state.
A Commendation Award was also given to Captain Jon Antrim following a motorcycle crash which claimed the life of Chad McIntire, who worked as a paramedic and shift supervisor for the Seward County Emergency Medical Services. Sill said that Antrim came to the aid of EMS employees by watching over their night shift and allowing them to grieve the loss of their friend. Antrim then arrived for work the next morning to fulfill his regular duties. He also spent many hours with McIntire’s family in helping to coordinate funeral services. Sill added that Antrim grew up with Chad.
“This was a sign of true compassion for your colleagues,” Sill said. “I was so moved by this that to me, this deserves a lot of recognition. He did this all on his own, on his own time. It was his friend, but he did this with the utmost professionalism and I was absolutely in awe over how he managed to hold himself together and make all emergency service personnel proud.”
Commendation Awards were also given to more than a handful of officers, detectives and investigators who helped uncover several strings of burglaries throughout the year. Corporal Wade received an award as well for dedicating time to uncover a counterfeit scheme on his own.
Sill also announced that Captain David Odle, who went on to receive several awards, has been accepted into the FBI National Academy to attend in April 2013.
“This is huge, this is just as big for him as it is for the Liberal Police Department,” Sill said. “I was just as happy as he was to receive that letter.”
Detective Aaron Harvey also received a Commendation Award for training he has already completed in interviewing child victims in abuse cases. Sill commented that while these cases are the most difficult and stressful to work, Harvey has completed an astounding 40 interviews this year – each of which can take weeks to a month to complete.
A Commendation Award was also given to Sergeant Dallas Ryan for his work in coordinating with grant-writer Catherine Byrd to fund the purchase a piece of equipment used to map out crime scenes using laser technology. The tool saves extensive time for the department, which used pencil and paper mapping beforehand.
Staff member Catherine Byrd was recognized with a Meritorious Service Award for her work in applying for and securing grants for both the LPD and other agencies in the county – grants which Sill mentioned are hard to come by. Byrd’s work has resulted in several new technology systems, equipment upgrades and funding for the School Resource Officer program. In total since 2008, Sill said Byrd has gathered $713,625 dollars in funds for the department.
Meritorious Service Awards were also given to staff members and officers for their dedication to the National Night Out campaign and the Shop with a Cop program.
Finally, Chief’s Awards were given to Officer Josiah Smiddy for the most improvement in his running time, and to Sergeants Franka Jiminez, Jared Ratzlaff, Mark West and Dallas Ryan for their leadership on the force.
Crime Analyst Sandy Castaneda won employee of the year for her service. Sill noted that Castaneda has done a tremendous job in improving the flow of intelligence information throughout the department and partnering agencies across the state.
2012年12月19日 星期三
Methuen crash victim, 70, remains critical
A 70-year-old city woman remained in critical condition at Boston Medical Center yesterday, one week after she was struck by a car crossing Pelham Street, police said.
Manok Leach, a resident of the Methuen Housing Authority at 22 Mystic St., suffered a shattered pelvis, brain bleeding and other internal injuries as a result of being hit by a 2002 Toyota Camry driven by John F.J. Sullivan, according to a prosecutor.
Sullivan, 46, of 23 Laurel Ave., has been charged with leaving the scene of an accident with personal injury. Yesterday, police Chief Joseph Solomon said Sullivan is not expected to face additional charges.
"We are awaiting review with the District Attorney to see if there's more charges, but it doesn't appear there will be," said Solomon. "It looks like it was just an unfortunate accident."
Sullivan hit Leach on Dec. 11 as she attempted to cross Pelham Street at Mystic Street at 5:36 p.m. Manok's late husband, Richard Leach, was hit by a car in the same area six years ago.
Sullivan is a self-employed freelance writer and a former night news editor most recently at The Salem News. He was also a former editor at The Eagle-Tribune. He was released on personal recognizance at his arraignment in Lawrence District Court last week and is due back in court Feb. 13.
Sullivan told police he was driving west on Pelham Street after picking up his dry cleaning and initially thought he hit a deer. He then drove to the Methuen Police Department at 6:03 p.m. after realizing his windshield was cracked and his front right headlight was smashed.
In a statement to police time stamped at 6:13 p.m., Sullivan wrote, "I figured I might have hit a person because of the extent of the damage." Police found Leach lying, injured in the westbound lane of Pelham Street.
Witnesses reported seeing Leach fly into the air after she was hit. Another driver thought someone had tossed a garbage bag back out of a car, before realizing a pedestrian was hit and lying in the street, she told police.
During his arraignment last week, attorney Andrew Goldstein said Sullivan never saw Leach in the street. Goldstein said Leach was dressed in a black down jacket, jeans and gray shoes as she tried to cross Pelham Street.
Police said Sullivan was not under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the crash. Goldstein said Sullivan does not having a texting plan on his cellphone, nor was he talking on his cellphone when the accident occurred.
Goldstein said Sullivan's driving record is nearly impeccable, with only one minor accident in 2011, but no speeding tickets or traffic violations.
Run by the Maplewood Concierge Company (MCC), the initiative offers services for commuters including drop-off/pick up dry cleaning and shoe repair, jitney and other permits, holding packages, hailing taxicabs and connecting customers to businesses and services throughout town.
"Whatever they need from me, I provide it," said Candy Naraine, assistant manager. Naraine has even helped commuters find their cars when they have forgotten where they parked.
Now, the MCC is in a public bidding process with New Jersey Transit, from which it leases the space, that will determine whether the company will continue to operate the service it helped pioneer.
Manok Leach, a resident of the Methuen Housing Authority at 22 Mystic St., suffered a shattered pelvis, brain bleeding and other internal injuries as a result of being hit by a 2002 Toyota Camry driven by John F.J. Sullivan, according to a prosecutor.
Sullivan, 46, of 23 Laurel Ave., has been charged with leaving the scene of an accident with personal injury. Yesterday, police Chief Joseph Solomon said Sullivan is not expected to face additional charges.
"We are awaiting review with the District Attorney to see if there's more charges, but it doesn't appear there will be," said Solomon. "It looks like it was just an unfortunate accident."
Sullivan hit Leach on Dec. 11 as she attempted to cross Pelham Street at Mystic Street at 5:36 p.m. Manok's late husband, Richard Leach, was hit by a car in the same area six years ago.
Sullivan is a self-employed freelance writer and a former night news editor most recently at The Salem News. He was also a former editor at The Eagle-Tribune. He was released on personal recognizance at his arraignment in Lawrence District Court last week and is due back in court Feb. 13.
Sullivan told police he was driving west on Pelham Street after picking up his dry cleaning and initially thought he hit a deer. He then drove to the Methuen Police Department at 6:03 p.m. after realizing his windshield was cracked and his front right headlight was smashed.
In a statement to police time stamped at 6:13 p.m., Sullivan wrote, "I figured I might have hit a person because of the extent of the damage." Police found Leach lying, injured in the westbound lane of Pelham Street.
Witnesses reported seeing Leach fly into the air after she was hit. Another driver thought someone had tossed a garbage bag back out of a car, before realizing a pedestrian was hit and lying in the street, she told police.
During his arraignment last week, attorney Andrew Goldstein said Sullivan never saw Leach in the street. Goldstein said Leach was dressed in a black down jacket, jeans and gray shoes as she tried to cross Pelham Street.
Police said Sullivan was not under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the crash. Goldstein said Sullivan does not having a texting plan on his cellphone, nor was he talking on his cellphone when the accident occurred.
Goldstein said Sullivan's driving record is nearly impeccable, with only one minor accident in 2011, but no speeding tickets or traffic violations.
Run by the Maplewood Concierge Company (MCC), the initiative offers services for commuters including drop-off/pick up dry cleaning and shoe repair, jitney and other permits, holding packages, hailing taxicabs and connecting customers to businesses and services throughout town.
"Whatever they need from me, I provide it," said Candy Naraine, assistant manager. Naraine has even helped commuters find their cars when they have forgotten where they parked.
Now, the MCC is in a public bidding process with New Jersey Transit, from which it leases the space, that will determine whether the company will continue to operate the service it helped pioneer.
2012年12月18日 星期二
Marysville farmers turn to tilapia to diversify product
Some farmers get by growing row crops like soybeans and corn. Others make their way raising cattle, hogs and poultry. Some grow hay and grain.
The Bayes family in Marysville used to be like other farmers, and in a lot of ways, it still is. Jeff Bayes oversees 300 acres of soybeans and corn, and 300 acres of hay each growing season. But year-round in a building that used to house pigs, churning tanks filled with hundreds of gallons of water serve as the pens for thousands of tilapia, with about 300 pounds of the fish sent live to market each week.
“We went and toured some farms in Illinois before we went into this and found out that tilapia was about the fastest-growing fish in popularity out there, and they were very, very hard to kill,” Bayes said. “We thought with those two things, that might be something in our favor. So that’s why we decided to go with tilapia.”
Native to the Middle East and parts of Northern Africa, the Tilapia has gained popularity in recent years among seafood lovers and foodies in general. The freshwater fish is hardy and survivable in warm climates, and the lack of a fishy taste to its meat makes it a more accessible dish to those with picky palettes.
What used to be a hog building on a farm owned by Duane Bayes, Jeff Bayes’ father, houses three large finishing tanks in what used to serve as the building’s manure tanks. The tanks have been modified, lined in rubber and extending a few feet upward from the floor. Hoses containing water heated by a wood-burning stove outside run through the tanks to keep the water at the right temperature, while motors housed in the middle of the building keep the water in the tanks well-oxygenated and filtrated.
Every few months, about 4,000 fry — or babies — are shipped in from a supplier in New Mexico and kept in a five-foot-tall drum. When they’re large enough, the fry are moved into two adjacent tanks. When they’re big enough and there’s room in the finishing tanks, they move on.
“We have found it’s not worth our time for the expense and everything to mess with any breeding stock or anything like that,” Jeff Bayes said.
All told, about 20,000 fish of varying ages and sizes are under the roof, and the Bayes plan to expand the building to accommodate another finishing tank and an expanded nursery for the babies.
“It’s unbelievable. We can’t keep up with the demand,” Jeff Bayes said. “That’s why we’re trying to expand, because there are more people wanting fish than we can supply.”
It all started about 3 1/2 years ago. Jeff Bayes got the idea from a soybean digest, and the rest of the family was on board. It took some convincing to get the bank to help out with financing the equipment, along with a lot of trial and error in getting things running smoothly. The first batch of babies reached maturity in tanks at New Washington High School, but since then, the nursery has been tended to in-house.
Rodney Bayes, Jeff’s brother, was the mastermind behind getting the building ready to house a fishery. The building needed to be completely rewired to house the motors that run the filtration and oxygenation systems. The fish rely on those to survive, so a kerosene generator to protect against outages was a must. The building’s roof was in need of repair after years of disuse, and then, of course, there were the tanks.
In addition to expanding the operation, the Bayes are examining ways to cut costs by installing equipment to take advantage of renewable sources of energy like solar and wind. The family uses a nearby pond to finish a group of fish in cages each summer, where the tilapia thrive at a lower operating cost. The water from the tanks runs is partially filtered by an adjacent water garden.
When the garden was first introduced, the Bayes tried using plants like lettuce to filter the water, but as the water became more rich with nutrients, the plants’ roots couldn’t handle the fine particulates. In search of a solution, Bayes’ employee Mike Hawkins discovered a solution in an unlikely form — duckweed.
The Bayes family in Marysville used to be like other farmers, and in a lot of ways, it still is. Jeff Bayes oversees 300 acres of soybeans and corn, and 300 acres of hay each growing season. But year-round in a building that used to house pigs, churning tanks filled with hundreds of gallons of water serve as the pens for thousands of tilapia, with about 300 pounds of the fish sent live to market each week.
“We went and toured some farms in Illinois before we went into this and found out that tilapia was about the fastest-growing fish in popularity out there, and they were very, very hard to kill,” Bayes said. “We thought with those two things, that might be something in our favor. So that’s why we decided to go with tilapia.”
Native to the Middle East and parts of Northern Africa, the Tilapia has gained popularity in recent years among seafood lovers and foodies in general. The freshwater fish is hardy and survivable in warm climates, and the lack of a fishy taste to its meat makes it a more accessible dish to those with picky palettes.
What used to be a hog building on a farm owned by Duane Bayes, Jeff Bayes’ father, houses three large finishing tanks in what used to serve as the building’s manure tanks. The tanks have been modified, lined in rubber and extending a few feet upward from the floor. Hoses containing water heated by a wood-burning stove outside run through the tanks to keep the water at the right temperature, while motors housed in the middle of the building keep the water in the tanks well-oxygenated and filtrated.
Every few months, about 4,000 fry — or babies — are shipped in from a supplier in New Mexico and kept in a five-foot-tall drum. When they’re large enough, the fry are moved into two adjacent tanks. When they’re big enough and there’s room in the finishing tanks, they move on.
“We have found it’s not worth our time for the expense and everything to mess with any breeding stock or anything like that,” Jeff Bayes said.
All told, about 20,000 fish of varying ages and sizes are under the roof, and the Bayes plan to expand the building to accommodate another finishing tank and an expanded nursery for the babies.
“It’s unbelievable. We can’t keep up with the demand,” Jeff Bayes said. “That’s why we’re trying to expand, because there are more people wanting fish than we can supply.”
It all started about 3 1/2 years ago. Jeff Bayes got the idea from a soybean digest, and the rest of the family was on board. It took some convincing to get the bank to help out with financing the equipment, along with a lot of trial and error in getting things running smoothly. The first batch of babies reached maturity in tanks at New Washington High School, but since then, the nursery has been tended to in-house.
Rodney Bayes, Jeff’s brother, was the mastermind behind getting the building ready to house a fishery. The building needed to be completely rewired to house the motors that run the filtration and oxygenation systems. The fish rely on those to survive, so a kerosene generator to protect against outages was a must. The building’s roof was in need of repair after years of disuse, and then, of course, there were the tanks.
In addition to expanding the operation, the Bayes are examining ways to cut costs by installing equipment to take advantage of renewable sources of energy like solar and wind. The family uses a nearby pond to finish a group of fish in cages each summer, where the tilapia thrive at a lower operating cost. The water from the tanks runs is partially filtered by an adjacent water garden.
When the garden was first introduced, the Bayes tried using plants like lettuce to filter the water, but as the water became more rich with nutrients, the plants’ roots couldn’t handle the fine particulates. In search of a solution, Bayes’ employee Mike Hawkins discovered a solution in an unlikely form — duckweed.
2012年12月17日 星期一
Slapshot bots
Guns N' Roses' "Welcome to the Jungle" blared from the sound system. The crowd, many of them zonked from pulling repeated all-nighters, was in a state of near-delirium.
This was Robockey 2012 - hockey played by wheeled robots. It is the culmination of a notoriously tough engineering course at the University of Pennsylvania - taught every fall by Jonathan Fiene, the man in the gray suit - and it is a wild scene.
You thought the Palestra was loud? For sheer concentration of energy, it would be hard to top Robockey. More than a hundred spectators crammed into an auditorium at Penn's Levine Hall on Tuesday night to watch the violent clash of machine on machine. They spilled into the aisles, alternately whooping, fist-bumping, jumping up, and yelling themselves hoarse.
"Fraternity brothers," explained Justin Starr, a member of the team that the bare-chested guys were supporting. (Starr himself sported a coat and tie for the occasion. Who says engineers don't know how to dress up?)
The class, a mix of undergraduates and grad students, was divided into 17 teams of three or four people from various disciplines, such as mechanical engineering, computer science, or robotics.
He does Robockey because it motivates his students, and because he likes the power of learning by doing. Robockey is just a game. But by taking part in the tournament and in other projects over the course of the semester, students get an intense dose of electronics and mechanics that several said made it the toughest course they'd taken at Penn.
Several students said they spent well over 100 hours on the Robockey project alone, wrapping up in the last week with 14-hour overnight sessions in the lab.
Some of the matches Tuesday night, consisting of two 60-second periods, were more even than others. Team 16 jumped out to a quick 4-0 lead against Team 14. Fiene respectfully averted his gaze from the bloodbath.
By the end it was 7-0, one of the goals coming when a Team 16 forward simply drove the opposing goalie backward into the goal. Brutal.
"It was tough," said Team 14 member Rafi Pelles, slipping easily into the role of a cliche-spouting athlete in a post-game interview. "You go out there and you try your best."
He attributed the team's loss to a few bugs in its computer code, along with unspecified issues in the "interface between hardware and electronics."
Before his team's first match of the evening, Nick Parrotta bounced on his feet a few times to warm up, as if he were the one about to step into the rink, not the robots.
Dubbed the Avengers, after the comic-book superheroes, Parrotta's team lost its match Tuesday. But it finished with a respectable record of five wins, three losses, and a tie, counting preliminary rounds. Fellow Avenger Vivienne Clayton was not feeling downcast.
"Adrenaline rush!" Clayton said afterward. "That was so much fun."
Easily tops in the spirit category was Starr's team, dubbed Team 'Murica, as in the faux down-home pronunciation of "America." Like Starr, the rest of the team wore blazers. Starr also wore a red-white-and-blue baseball hat backward, while Tarik Tosun sported a red-and-black-checkered hunting cap.
Their robots had presidential names: Millard Killmore, Martin van Bruisin', and Grover Cleaveland.
There was substance to go with the flash. Many teams' robots got stuck in a fierce scrum from time to time, wheels spinning madly. But if one of 'Murica's robots got stuck, it was programmed to back up and allow its teammate to attack from a different angle. "It was beautiful to watch," Fiene said later.
Another strong contender was Team 8, whose members were clad in neon-yellow T-shirts. They started each match by placing their three robots in single file, so the wheeled combatants could plow forward as one. "That's our train formation," said team member Ian Rafter.
It was a good strategy, until they met Team 10 in the finals. That team consisted of Central High grad Wenbin Zhao, Daniel Chabolla, and Sean Gowen, all seniors in mechanical engineering.
Designing the robot required making decisions, and one of the biggest was selecting a motor. Speed or brute force? Claude Giroux or Chris Pronger?
This was Robockey 2012 - hockey played by wheeled robots. It is the culmination of a notoriously tough engineering course at the University of Pennsylvania - taught every fall by Jonathan Fiene, the man in the gray suit - and it is a wild scene.
You thought the Palestra was loud? For sheer concentration of energy, it would be hard to top Robockey. More than a hundred spectators crammed into an auditorium at Penn's Levine Hall on Tuesday night to watch the violent clash of machine on machine. They spilled into the aisles, alternately whooping, fist-bumping, jumping up, and yelling themselves hoarse.
"Fraternity brothers," explained Justin Starr, a member of the team that the bare-chested guys were supporting. (Starr himself sported a coat and tie for the occasion. Who says engineers don't know how to dress up?)
The class, a mix of undergraduates and grad students, was divided into 17 teams of three or four people from various disciplines, such as mechanical engineering, computer science, or robotics.
He does Robockey because it motivates his students, and because he likes the power of learning by doing. Robockey is just a game. But by taking part in the tournament and in other projects over the course of the semester, students get an intense dose of electronics and mechanics that several said made it the toughest course they'd taken at Penn.
Several students said they spent well over 100 hours on the Robockey project alone, wrapping up in the last week with 14-hour overnight sessions in the lab.
Some of the matches Tuesday night, consisting of two 60-second periods, were more even than others. Team 16 jumped out to a quick 4-0 lead against Team 14. Fiene respectfully averted his gaze from the bloodbath.
By the end it was 7-0, one of the goals coming when a Team 16 forward simply drove the opposing goalie backward into the goal. Brutal.
"It was tough," said Team 14 member Rafi Pelles, slipping easily into the role of a cliche-spouting athlete in a post-game interview. "You go out there and you try your best."
He attributed the team's loss to a few bugs in its computer code, along with unspecified issues in the "interface between hardware and electronics."
Before his team's first match of the evening, Nick Parrotta bounced on his feet a few times to warm up, as if he were the one about to step into the rink, not the robots.
Dubbed the Avengers, after the comic-book superheroes, Parrotta's team lost its match Tuesday. But it finished with a respectable record of five wins, three losses, and a tie, counting preliminary rounds. Fellow Avenger Vivienne Clayton was not feeling downcast.
"Adrenaline rush!" Clayton said afterward. "That was so much fun."
Easily tops in the spirit category was Starr's team, dubbed Team 'Murica, as in the faux down-home pronunciation of "America." Like Starr, the rest of the team wore blazers. Starr also wore a red-white-and-blue baseball hat backward, while Tarik Tosun sported a red-and-black-checkered hunting cap.
Their robots had presidential names: Millard Killmore, Martin van Bruisin', and Grover Cleaveland.
There was substance to go with the flash. Many teams' robots got stuck in a fierce scrum from time to time, wheels spinning madly. But if one of 'Murica's robots got stuck, it was programmed to back up and allow its teammate to attack from a different angle. "It was beautiful to watch," Fiene said later.
Another strong contender was Team 8, whose members were clad in neon-yellow T-shirts. They started each match by placing their three robots in single file, so the wheeled combatants could plow forward as one. "That's our train formation," said team member Ian Rafter.
It was a good strategy, until they met Team 10 in the finals. That team consisted of Central High grad Wenbin Zhao, Daniel Chabolla, and Sean Gowen, all seniors in mechanical engineering.
Designing the robot required making decisions, and one of the biggest was selecting a motor. Speed or brute force? Claude Giroux or Chris Pronger?
Reforming gun control is essential
The impression that this leaves on the average person is remarkably different from other mass shootings in the United States: this involved a new level of innocence and a new tier of destruction that had not been experienced in this manner.
Why was this preventable? While gun control could have easily prevented this from happening, the bigger issue is the fragmented and greatly flawed mental health system in the United States. The only more powerful stigma than dealing with guns in any meaningful manner is the stigma attributed of living with mental health issues in North America.
Federal regulations of the retail sale of guns are the weakest in the industrialized world, there is little to no accountability to those who sell firearms due to loopholes and a lack of teeth to legislation. The logical first step is the elimination of the legality of high capacity magazines and assault rifles. The defence of these by hunters as necessary for shooting deer is simply disingenuous and unrealistic.
Just because you have a right to own firearms does not mean you should have the right to own a killing machine with a laser sight that shoots 150 rounds a minute. These kind of weapons were designed for war and killing people, not hunting.
Stopping criminals and underage youth from buying guns is important, but this does not stop someone with documented or undocumented mental illness from purchasing or gaining access to firearms (this is not to compare those living with mental illness to criminals).
Putting teeth in the regulations of firearm sales and possession to mandate necessary psychological testing to purchase handguns would be an important step to reform. You have to provide a police check and are typically interviewed for certain types of jobs, why shouldn’t an even higher level of responsibility be required to possess firearms? If you can prove you have a clean bill of mental health, you should be granted the purchase of a firearm. This is not meant to bolster the stigma against mental illness in North America, but rather is a practical public policy method.
But critics would note the killer’s mother was the legal owner of the firearms. Indeed she was, but reforms should extend to this as well. If you have dependents suffering from mental illness, your gun possession rights should be restricted. If you cannot understand the irresponsibility of owning multiple pistols and assault rifles while sharing a house with somebody diagnosed with a mental illness with violent implications, there should be safeguards in place to prevent this from happening.
The diagnosis of mental illness and living with it is a totally different beast though. In a country with skyrocketing prices for medical and clinical aid, access to diagnosis and the resources to deal with mental illness fall by the wayside every passing day. Millions live with personality disorders and the more extreme schizophrenia and sociopathic behaviour, which many live undiagnosed with every year.
Typically, they are more at risk to themselves than others, but the exceptions can result in tragedy. True, there are many cases of mass murders being committed by people who are simply loners, socially isolated and angry towards the world. But many would consider this form of depression to be just as important to diagnose.
However, simple mental screening methods could potentially identify people at a higher risk of violence and not leave people applying hindsight judgments that they should have noticed the behaviours. Mental illness is not just confined to thoughts, the issue of chemical imbalances is also key to conceptualizing this. Too much testosterone is anything but a good thing for the male mind.
Why was this preventable? While gun control could have easily prevented this from happening, the bigger issue is the fragmented and greatly flawed mental health system in the United States. The only more powerful stigma than dealing with guns in any meaningful manner is the stigma attributed of living with mental health issues in North America.
Federal regulations of the retail sale of guns are the weakest in the industrialized world, there is little to no accountability to those who sell firearms due to loopholes and a lack of teeth to legislation. The logical first step is the elimination of the legality of high capacity magazines and assault rifles. The defence of these by hunters as necessary for shooting deer is simply disingenuous and unrealistic.
Just because you have a right to own firearms does not mean you should have the right to own a killing machine with a laser sight that shoots 150 rounds a minute. These kind of weapons were designed for war and killing people, not hunting.
Stopping criminals and underage youth from buying guns is important, but this does not stop someone with documented or undocumented mental illness from purchasing or gaining access to firearms (this is not to compare those living with mental illness to criminals).
Putting teeth in the regulations of firearm sales and possession to mandate necessary psychological testing to purchase handguns would be an important step to reform. You have to provide a police check and are typically interviewed for certain types of jobs, why shouldn’t an even higher level of responsibility be required to possess firearms? If you can prove you have a clean bill of mental health, you should be granted the purchase of a firearm. This is not meant to bolster the stigma against mental illness in North America, but rather is a practical public policy method.
But critics would note the killer’s mother was the legal owner of the firearms. Indeed she was, but reforms should extend to this as well. If you have dependents suffering from mental illness, your gun possession rights should be restricted. If you cannot understand the irresponsibility of owning multiple pistols and assault rifles while sharing a house with somebody diagnosed with a mental illness with violent implications, there should be safeguards in place to prevent this from happening.
The diagnosis of mental illness and living with it is a totally different beast though. In a country with skyrocketing prices for medical and clinical aid, access to diagnosis and the resources to deal with mental illness fall by the wayside every passing day. Millions live with personality disorders and the more extreme schizophrenia and sociopathic behaviour, which many live undiagnosed with every year.
Typically, they are more at risk to themselves than others, but the exceptions can result in tragedy. True, there are many cases of mass murders being committed by people who are simply loners, socially isolated and angry towards the world. But many would consider this form of depression to be just as important to diagnose.
However, simple mental screening methods could potentially identify people at a higher risk of violence and not leave people applying hindsight judgments that they should have noticed the behaviours. Mental illness is not just confined to thoughts, the issue of chemical imbalances is also key to conceptualizing this. Too much testosterone is anything but a good thing for the male mind.
2012年12月12日 星期三
Siemens increases revenue from green technologies
The company's ecofriendly products and solutions are now generating faster revenue growth than its other businesses. Green technologies, which have been consistent growth drivers at Siemens since 2008, now account for 42 percent of the company's total business. In fiscal 2012, offerings from Siemens' Environmental Portfolio enabled customers to cut CO2 emissions worldwide by 332 megatons – an amount equal to 40 percent of Germany's total annual CO2 emissions.
"As the revenue development of our Environmental Portfolio over the last few years demonstrates, the market for green technologies offers attractive business opportunities. In fiscal 2012 alone, revenue from our Environmental Portfolio increased ten percent to over 33 million – a new record. Since 2008, the Portfolio has grown by over 50 percent. We're extremely pleased to have been ranked the most sustainable industrial company in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index as well as by the recognition that our sustainability strategy is receiving from other important external organizations," said Barbara Kux, member of Siemens' Managing Board and the company's Chief Sustainability Officer.
Siemens' Environmental Portfolio includes products and solutions from all four of the company's Sectors: Industry, Energy, Healthcare and Infrastructure & Cities. Enhancing energy efficiency is a major driver for sustainable development worldwide. And here Siemens is making a key contribution with products and solutions for the entire energy chain – offering everything from systems for energy production, power generation in highly efficient combined cycle power plants and wind farms to power transmission technologies, power distribution systems and energy-saving solutions for consumers in industry, cities and the field of transportation. The company's future-oriented solutions also include the intelligent management of energy flows via smart grids and systems to improve energy efficiency in buildings.
Siemens' pioneering role in ecofriendly technologies is illustrated by the following examples. Since July 2012, the company has received 16 orders for a total more than 270 onshore wind turbines in Europe and South Africa. In Düsseldorf Harbor, Siemens is building the world's most efficient and ecofriendly gas-fueled power plant for the Stadtwerke Düsseldorf, a public utility in northwestern Germany. Partnering with Siemens, Taipei 101 – the tallest building in Taiwan and the second tallest worldwide – has been awarded LEED Platinum certification. As Siemens AG said, the company is also participating in the modernization of Carnegie Hall in New York, one of world's most famous concert venues.
The revenue volume of 33 billion generated in 2012 and the revenue of 3.9 billion from Osram have already put Siemens well on the way to achieving the Environmental Portfolio's growth target for 2014. Initiated portfolio adjustments and innovation-driven impacts have, of course, not yet been taken into account here.
In September 2012, Siemens received two awards for its performance in the area of sustainability. For the first time ever, it was ranked the most sustainable industrial company in the Industrial Goods and Services category of the Dow Jones Sustainability Index, a grouping that includes more than 200 enterprises. Siemens also captured a leading position in the rankings of the Carbon Disclosure Project.
"As the revenue development of our Environmental Portfolio over the last few years demonstrates, the market for green technologies offers attractive business opportunities. In fiscal 2012 alone, revenue from our Environmental Portfolio increased ten percent to over 33 million – a new record. Since 2008, the Portfolio has grown by over 50 percent. We're extremely pleased to have been ranked the most sustainable industrial company in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index as well as by the recognition that our sustainability strategy is receiving from other important external organizations," said Barbara Kux, member of Siemens' Managing Board and the company's Chief Sustainability Officer.
Siemens' Environmental Portfolio includes products and solutions from all four of the company's Sectors: Industry, Energy, Healthcare and Infrastructure & Cities. Enhancing energy efficiency is a major driver for sustainable development worldwide. And here Siemens is making a key contribution with products and solutions for the entire energy chain – offering everything from systems for energy production, power generation in highly efficient combined cycle power plants and wind farms to power transmission technologies, power distribution systems and energy-saving solutions for consumers in industry, cities and the field of transportation. The company's future-oriented solutions also include the intelligent management of energy flows via smart grids and systems to improve energy efficiency in buildings.
Siemens' pioneering role in ecofriendly technologies is illustrated by the following examples. Since July 2012, the company has received 16 orders for a total more than 270 onshore wind turbines in Europe and South Africa. In Düsseldorf Harbor, Siemens is building the world's most efficient and ecofriendly gas-fueled power plant for the Stadtwerke Düsseldorf, a public utility in northwestern Germany. Partnering with Siemens, Taipei 101 – the tallest building in Taiwan and the second tallest worldwide – has been awarded LEED Platinum certification. As Siemens AG said, the company is also participating in the modernization of Carnegie Hall in New York, one of world's most famous concert venues.
The revenue volume of 33 billion generated in 2012 and the revenue of 3.9 billion from Osram have already put Siemens well on the way to achieving the Environmental Portfolio's growth target for 2014. Initiated portfolio adjustments and innovation-driven impacts have, of course, not yet been taken into account here.
In September 2012, Siemens received two awards for its performance in the area of sustainability. For the first time ever, it was ranked the most sustainable industrial company in the Industrial Goods and Services category of the Dow Jones Sustainability Index, a grouping that includes more than 200 enterprises. Siemens also captured a leading position in the rankings of the Carbon Disclosure Project.
2012年12月11日 星期二
High-end, High-tech
Many luxury carmakers are leveraging the latest technology to help their vehicles stand out in a crowded market and give motorists a compelling reason to trade in their existing rides for the latest posh models.
“The competition is particularly intense among the German automakers,” said Clifford Atiyeh, senior news editor at MSN Autos. “When one of them offers something, the others follow with remarkable speed. New technology, if marketed correctly, increases vehicle prices and profit margins, especially when desirable features are bundled in option packages costing thousands of dollars each. To get a backup camera, for example, you may also have to buy adaptive cruise control and upgraded seats.”
The race among high-end manufacturers to incorporate new high-tech features is so aggressive, in part, because many less-expensive models now offer features previously only available in really expensive cars.
For example, the 2013 Honda Accord and Ford Fusion both offer lane-keeping systems and blind-spot detection. Hyundai made heated front and rear seats standard on the 2012 Elantra Limited, along with a power moonroof and mirror-embedded turn signals.
With lower-end vehicles hijacking much of their tech cachet, luxury automakers have been forced to find “the next big thing” to stimulate the luxury end of the market. They’re pulling out all the stops to offer new innovations that justify premium prices.
Mercedes-Benz is offering what amounts to the world’s most sophisticated windshield wiper/washer system in its 2013 SL-Class hardtop roadster. Called Magic Vision Control, it squirts washer fluid onto the windshield (via channels embedded into the wiper blade) in both directions of travel to avoid any oversplash. And the SL’s onboard computer allows web browsing while the vehicle is stationary, so you’re never far from Facebook.
The new Rolls-Royce night vision system can identify human forms up to 300 yards away (a greater distance than headlights can reach) and relay a warning to the driver. This warning is displayed on the windshield via a “heads-up” display system that also includes information like vehicle speed and navigation instructions, reducing the need to take one’s eyes off of the road.
Other new safety features on Rolls-Royce vehicles include LED headlamps that can change direction to cast more light into turns, as well as adjust beam intensity and pattern depending on vehicle speed and orientation.
GMC’s redesigned 2013 Acadia SUV claims to be the first vehicle on the market with a front-center air-bag system, created to protect drivers and front passengers in far-side impact crashes where the affected occupants are on the opposite, non-struck side of the vehicle. The air bag deploys from the inboard side of the driver’s seat and positions itself between the driver and front passenger.
Standard on GMC’s upscale Acadia Denali version is a heads-up display that monitors your speed and other critical driving information continuously, as well as Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert systems that use radar to watch blind spots the driver may not be able to see and then issue visible and audible warnings.
Luxury automakers are also upgrading their multimedia systems. One of latest is CUE (Cadillac User Experience) in the Cadillac XTS and ATS luxury sedans. The system integrates entertainment and information data from up to 10 Bluetooth-enabled mobile devices into a cutting-edge infotainment system. CUE reduces (from around 20 to just four) the number of buttons traditionally found in luxury cars to control the radio and entertainment functions.
“CUE doesn’t replace your smartphone or your iPod,” said Micky Bly, executive director of global electric systems, infotainment and electrification at Cadillac. “Rather, it allows consumers to securely store those mobile devices while channeling the information on those devices — along with your navigation tools, weather maps, AM/FM and XM radio, instant messages and emails — through a central portal in your Cadillac, keeping hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.”
Even more sophisticated luxury cars are just around the corner. The BMW i8 Concept is fast, fuel-efficient and also intends to lead the way in innovative vehicle light technology. The Munich-based company claims that the vehicle’s laser headlights are more efficient than LED lights, 10 times smaller and easy on the eyes.
“The competition is particularly intense among the German automakers,” said Clifford Atiyeh, senior news editor at MSN Autos. “When one of them offers something, the others follow with remarkable speed. New technology, if marketed correctly, increases vehicle prices and profit margins, especially when desirable features are bundled in option packages costing thousands of dollars each. To get a backup camera, for example, you may also have to buy adaptive cruise control and upgraded seats.”
The race among high-end manufacturers to incorporate new high-tech features is so aggressive, in part, because many less-expensive models now offer features previously only available in really expensive cars.
For example, the 2013 Honda Accord and Ford Fusion both offer lane-keeping systems and blind-spot detection. Hyundai made heated front and rear seats standard on the 2012 Elantra Limited, along with a power moonroof and mirror-embedded turn signals.
With lower-end vehicles hijacking much of their tech cachet, luxury automakers have been forced to find “the next big thing” to stimulate the luxury end of the market. They’re pulling out all the stops to offer new innovations that justify premium prices.
Mercedes-Benz is offering what amounts to the world’s most sophisticated windshield wiper/washer system in its 2013 SL-Class hardtop roadster. Called Magic Vision Control, it squirts washer fluid onto the windshield (via channels embedded into the wiper blade) in both directions of travel to avoid any oversplash. And the SL’s onboard computer allows web browsing while the vehicle is stationary, so you’re never far from Facebook.
The new Rolls-Royce night vision system can identify human forms up to 300 yards away (a greater distance than headlights can reach) and relay a warning to the driver. This warning is displayed on the windshield via a “heads-up” display system that also includes information like vehicle speed and navigation instructions, reducing the need to take one’s eyes off of the road.
Other new safety features on Rolls-Royce vehicles include LED headlamps that can change direction to cast more light into turns, as well as adjust beam intensity and pattern depending on vehicle speed and orientation.
GMC’s redesigned 2013 Acadia SUV claims to be the first vehicle on the market with a front-center air-bag system, created to protect drivers and front passengers in far-side impact crashes where the affected occupants are on the opposite, non-struck side of the vehicle. The air bag deploys from the inboard side of the driver’s seat and positions itself between the driver and front passenger.
Standard on GMC’s upscale Acadia Denali version is a heads-up display that monitors your speed and other critical driving information continuously, as well as Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert systems that use radar to watch blind spots the driver may not be able to see and then issue visible and audible warnings.
Luxury automakers are also upgrading their multimedia systems. One of latest is CUE (Cadillac User Experience) in the Cadillac XTS and ATS luxury sedans. The system integrates entertainment and information data from up to 10 Bluetooth-enabled mobile devices into a cutting-edge infotainment system. CUE reduces (from around 20 to just four) the number of buttons traditionally found in luxury cars to control the radio and entertainment functions.
“CUE doesn’t replace your smartphone or your iPod,” said Micky Bly, executive director of global electric systems, infotainment and electrification at Cadillac. “Rather, it allows consumers to securely store those mobile devices while channeling the information on those devices — along with your navigation tools, weather maps, AM/FM and XM radio, instant messages and emails — through a central portal in your Cadillac, keeping hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.”
Even more sophisticated luxury cars are just around the corner. The BMW i8 Concept is fast, fuel-efficient and also intends to lead the way in innovative vehicle light technology. The Munich-based company claims that the vehicle’s laser headlights are more efficient than LED lights, 10 times smaller and easy on the eyes.
2012年12月10日 星期一
Suguna group JV with Israel's Shatal Engineering
Pumps and motors major Suguna group has tied up Israel-based Shatal Engineering, with manufacturing base in the city, for marketing light construction machinery in the domestic market, top company officials have said.
Shatal Engineering, which manufactures light machinery like tiles cutting and levelling machine, was exporting its entire production of four types of machinery, so far.
It would now earmark 25 per cent of its production for Indian market, initially for the Southern markets, V Lakshminarayansamy, Chairman, Suguna Group and Josef Levy Chairman, Shatal Engineering told a joint press conference here.
The joint venture, Suguna Shatal, would be officially launched tomorrow and Suguna would manufacture motors for the entire machinery, Lakshminarayanasamy said.
Stating that the company would be targeting a conservative share of the huge Indian light construction machinery market estimated at about Rs 9,800 crore, he said that it was expected that it would sell 4,000 machineries in the first year, with markets expanded to Northern and Western parts of the country.
The products would be distributed through a wide network of dealers and an extensive service network was also being put in place, Josef said.
Josef said the company, which started 18 months ago, has so far invested $1.5 million and considering the new venture, it would pump in more investment.
All the machinery would have advantage over manual machines, at present used by the, as it would have two to three times more productivity, he said.
With Indian construction equipment market ranging at four billion dollars, the company would also enter into larger machinery manufacture in the near future, L Anishkumar, Director, Suguna Shatal said, adding that Suguna would produce and additional 10,000 motors to meet the machinery requirement.
LAI, a strategic supplier of precision components and subassemblies for original equipment manufacturers, has combined its three Arizona facilities—its manufacturing plants in Phoenix and Tucson, and corporate headquarters in Scottsdale—into the 32,400ft2 Tempe facility, expanding the size of its production space in the state by one-third. LAI operates additional manufacturing plants in Minneapolis, MN., Westminster, MD, and Scarborough, ME.
“Our new center of excellence spotlights LAI's precision manufacturing processes and innovations in advanced manufacturing technology,” says Patrick Gruetzmacher, CEO and president of LAI International. “Plus, we have available space to expand our manufacturing capabilities for producing make-complete components in our strategic markets.”
Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) capabilities have been added to complement the facility's complete-part manufacturing capabilities. The facility features the company's core machining capabilities of advanced waterjet and laser machining in separate production areas, in addition to secondary machining operations, including metal fabrication and finishing areas, tool shop, and a larger assembly area.
“The facility is producing product now and will be fully operational Dec. 24, after we complete our moves from the Phoenix and Tucson locations,” says Joe Wagner, V.P. of Manufacturing Excellence, LAI International, and site leader for Arizona Operations. “The production floor is configured and workstations laid out for efficient material throughput and increased production-line capacity.”
Shatal Engineering, which manufactures light machinery like tiles cutting and levelling machine, was exporting its entire production of four types of machinery, so far.
It would now earmark 25 per cent of its production for Indian market, initially for the Southern markets, V Lakshminarayansamy, Chairman, Suguna Group and Josef Levy Chairman, Shatal Engineering told a joint press conference here.
The joint venture, Suguna Shatal, would be officially launched tomorrow and Suguna would manufacture motors for the entire machinery, Lakshminarayanasamy said.
Stating that the company would be targeting a conservative share of the huge Indian light construction machinery market estimated at about Rs 9,800 crore, he said that it was expected that it would sell 4,000 machineries in the first year, with markets expanded to Northern and Western parts of the country.
The products would be distributed through a wide network of dealers and an extensive service network was also being put in place, Josef said.
Josef said the company, which started 18 months ago, has so far invested $1.5 million and considering the new venture, it would pump in more investment.
All the machinery would have advantage over manual machines, at present used by the, as it would have two to three times more productivity, he said.
With Indian construction equipment market ranging at four billion dollars, the company would also enter into larger machinery manufacture in the near future, L Anishkumar, Director, Suguna Shatal said, adding that Suguna would produce and additional 10,000 motors to meet the machinery requirement.
LAI, a strategic supplier of precision components and subassemblies for original equipment manufacturers, has combined its three Arizona facilities—its manufacturing plants in Phoenix and Tucson, and corporate headquarters in Scottsdale—into the 32,400ft2 Tempe facility, expanding the size of its production space in the state by one-third. LAI operates additional manufacturing plants in Minneapolis, MN., Westminster, MD, and Scarborough, ME.
“Our new center of excellence spotlights LAI's precision manufacturing processes and innovations in advanced manufacturing technology,” says Patrick Gruetzmacher, CEO and president of LAI International. “Plus, we have available space to expand our manufacturing capabilities for producing make-complete components in our strategic markets.”
Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) capabilities have been added to complement the facility's complete-part manufacturing capabilities. The facility features the company's core machining capabilities of advanced waterjet and laser machining in separate production areas, in addition to secondary machining operations, including metal fabrication and finishing areas, tool shop, and a larger assembly area.
“The facility is producing product now and will be fully operational Dec. 24, after we complete our moves from the Phoenix and Tucson locations,” says Joe Wagner, V.P. of Manufacturing Excellence, LAI International, and site leader for Arizona Operations. “The production floor is configured and workstations laid out for efficient material throughput and increased production-line capacity.”
2012年12月6日 星期四
Will there be an encore for the Montclair Arts Council?
It's been almost two years since the Montclair Arts Council, known as MAC, turned in its final annual report, in December 2010. In that report, MAC noted that since the municipal government had canceled its $80,000 yearly contract, it would be unable to continue.
Though moribund, MAC has maintained its 501(c)3 status, legally remaining a tax-exempt nonprofit organization. That interim, comatose status will soon be over.
At the end of this year, the group will legally cease to exist, unless dedicated volunteers come forward to take over MAC. They would have to run MAC without its former funding, however.
Second Ward Township Councilwoman Robin Schlager brought up MAC during the Township Council meeting on Nov. 20. Her council colleagues, Schlager said, were "pretty unanimous that they could not find money in the budget for it."
Schlager said that she raised MAC's status at the meeting in the hope that someone would want to "come forward in the nick of time. I wish there was funding in our budget.
"I would like to see it revived, but doubt I could get the others to agree," noted Schlager, who said she feels strongly about the arts in Montclair. "They are a big piece of what makes our town so special."
Phoebe Pollinger, a former chair and one of the co-founders of MAC, said that when the group stopped operating two years ago, its members decided to wait to see what would happen with a new council, and keep the initiative alive on paper.
Among its accomplishments, the report states, MAC commissioned $150,000 in public art projects, including a laser-cut metal sculpture by Tom Nussbaum in Edgemont Memorial Park, and mosaics by Anne Oshman on the Crescent Parking Deck. MAC sponsored collaborative projects with Montclair seniors, including the Creative Aging Initiative, as well as with Montclair State University. One of MAC's most significant projects was the website Destination Montclair, which has continued to operate, supervised by municipal Communications Director Katya Wowk. The site, Pollinger said, was originally developed through a grant MAC received from the department of New Jersey Tourism.
MAC's 26-member Board of Trustees included representatives from Montclair State University, the Montclair Art Museum, the Montclair Public Library, the Wellmont Theatre, the Montclair Center Business Improvement District, the Montclair Historical Society, the Montclair Board of Education, and other organizations.
Pollinger said that she had hoped the township would be able to use the 501(c)3 in some way, if not reconstituting the arts council as it was, perhaps to use it for parades or for First Night Montclair.
"We made the offer, and it was declined," she said.
While arts programs are often cut during budget crunches, this is a false economy, according to Pollinger. Many studies, she said, have shown how the arts benefit young people, seniors and the business community by bringing in revenue via taxes, parking fees, restaurants and shopping.
"Historically, you see many examples of communities looking to the arts and to artists to help them revive themselves. Artists come in, take over warehouse spaces and places that need rehabilitation. They bring vibrancy and vitality and commerce."
Then, as a town becomes popular, it becomes to expensive for artists to stay and work there, Pollinger noted. "What you have here in Montclair is really no different."
Luna Stage, said Pollinger, was Montclair's only Equity theatre, in town for 16 years. When the cost of staying in town became prohibitive, "the mayor of West Orange made it his business to make the move attractive," said Pollinger.
Such a group could make recommendations to the council about the arts. "For instance, coming up in the next year, we will have a piece of public art that we will be getting as part of our agreement with the CentroVerde development. We have no idea where to put it."
Montclair does not have a fulltime events coordinator, either, Schlager said. In addition to overseeing the 4th of July Parade and First Night Montclair, an arts committee would be very helpful in coordinating efforts for Montclair as a Super Bowl destination.
Though moribund, MAC has maintained its 501(c)3 status, legally remaining a tax-exempt nonprofit organization. That interim, comatose status will soon be over.
At the end of this year, the group will legally cease to exist, unless dedicated volunteers come forward to take over MAC. They would have to run MAC without its former funding, however.
Second Ward Township Councilwoman Robin Schlager brought up MAC during the Township Council meeting on Nov. 20. Her council colleagues, Schlager said, were "pretty unanimous that they could not find money in the budget for it."
Schlager said that she raised MAC's status at the meeting in the hope that someone would want to "come forward in the nick of time. I wish there was funding in our budget.
"I would like to see it revived, but doubt I could get the others to agree," noted Schlager, who said she feels strongly about the arts in Montclair. "They are a big piece of what makes our town so special."
Phoebe Pollinger, a former chair and one of the co-founders of MAC, said that when the group stopped operating two years ago, its members decided to wait to see what would happen with a new council, and keep the initiative alive on paper.
Among its accomplishments, the report states, MAC commissioned $150,000 in public art projects, including a laser-cut metal sculpture by Tom Nussbaum in Edgemont Memorial Park, and mosaics by Anne Oshman on the Crescent Parking Deck. MAC sponsored collaborative projects with Montclair seniors, including the Creative Aging Initiative, as well as with Montclair State University. One of MAC's most significant projects was the website Destination Montclair, which has continued to operate, supervised by municipal Communications Director Katya Wowk. The site, Pollinger said, was originally developed through a grant MAC received from the department of New Jersey Tourism.
MAC's 26-member Board of Trustees included representatives from Montclair State University, the Montclair Art Museum, the Montclair Public Library, the Wellmont Theatre, the Montclair Center Business Improvement District, the Montclair Historical Society, the Montclair Board of Education, and other organizations.
Pollinger said that she had hoped the township would be able to use the 501(c)3 in some way, if not reconstituting the arts council as it was, perhaps to use it for parades or for First Night Montclair.
"We made the offer, and it was declined," she said.
While arts programs are often cut during budget crunches, this is a false economy, according to Pollinger. Many studies, she said, have shown how the arts benefit young people, seniors and the business community by bringing in revenue via taxes, parking fees, restaurants and shopping.
"Historically, you see many examples of communities looking to the arts and to artists to help them revive themselves. Artists come in, take over warehouse spaces and places that need rehabilitation. They bring vibrancy and vitality and commerce."
Then, as a town becomes popular, it becomes to expensive for artists to stay and work there, Pollinger noted. "What you have here in Montclair is really no different."
Luna Stage, said Pollinger, was Montclair's only Equity theatre, in town for 16 years. When the cost of staying in town became prohibitive, "the mayor of West Orange made it his business to make the move attractive," said Pollinger.
Such a group could make recommendations to the council about the arts. "For instance, coming up in the next year, we will have a piece of public art that we will be getting as part of our agreement with the CentroVerde development. We have no idea where to put it."
Montclair does not have a fulltime events coordinator, either, Schlager said. In addition to overseeing the 4th of July Parade and First Night Montclair, an arts committee would be very helpful in coordinating efforts for Montclair as a Super Bowl destination.
2012年12月4日 星期二
GibbsCAM Becomes Member of Okuma Partners in THINC
Gibbs and Associates, developer of GibbsCAM software for programming CNC machine tools and a Cimatron company, announced that it has been selected for membership in Okuma America’s Partners in THINC, a collaborative network of over 40 companies that service the metal-cutting and manufacturing industry with specialized software, equipment, expertise and a commitment to solve problems and increase productivity for end users. With Okuma’s open architecture, PC-based THINC-OSP control as its nucleus, Partners in THINC strive to provide the best possible integrated solutions to end users.
“We are pleased to be recognized for our expertise in providing a highly efficient, productive, and easy-to-use CAM system to industry, and for the service and support we provide our customers,” said Bill Gibbs, founder and president of Gibbs and Associates.
“We have been supporting Okuma machinery for over thirty years, and the THINC-OSP controls since their introduction in 2004. We look forward to participating in the delivery of integrated solutions that help manufacturers increase efficiency and profitability with the latest and most sophisticated machine tools from Okuma.”
GibbsCAM is well known in the industry for its easy-to-use graphic interface, and its extensive capabilities, providing a modular solution for programming all Okuma machine tools, from their 3-axis mills and 2-axis lathes, to their multi-axis and multi-task machines (MTMs). GibbsCAM is especially renowned for its support of Okuma MTMs, because it programs turning and milling operations from a single interface, and provides error-free postprocessing, that results in machine-ready programs that require no editing.
These capabilities extend to all of Okuma’s machine tools. With a library of over 11,000 postprocessors, including over 1,000 for MTM machines, Gibbs has many postprocessors for Okuma CNCs, including the MU, Millac, Multus and Macturn series.
Mr Gibbs was recently the speaker at the Okuma “Go Beyond Productivity to Profitability” open house, in Houston, Texas, on November 15, where machine-tool distributor Hartwig used GibbsCAM to program all of the Okuma machine tools on display and in operation, including four 4-axis, double-turret vertical and horizontal lathes, three 4-axis vertical and horizontal mills, plus the Okuma LB3000 EX, a double spindle, single turret, Y-axis lathe, and the MULTUS B400, a multi-function horizontal lathe with B-axis head.
The current GibbsCAM product line supports 2 through 5-axis milling, turning, mill/turning, multi-task simultaneous machining and wire-EDM. GibbsCAM also provides fully integrated manufacturing modeling capabilities that include 2D, 2.5D, 3D wireframe, surface, and solid modeling. GibbsCAM is Compatible with Windows 7 and Certified for Windows Vista.
GibbsCAM’s data exchange capabilities are able to access the broadest range of native and industry standard CAD data formats. GibbsCAM is certified under the Autodesk Inventor Certified Program, is a Siemens Solution Partner Program-PLM for Solid Edge product, and is a SolidWorks Certified CAM Product. GibbsCAM is either offered or endorsed by a number of leading worldwide control and machine tool manufacturers. Gibbs and Associates distributes its products worldwide through a network of international Resellers. In January 2008, Gibbs and Associates merged with Cimatron Ltd., and is now operating as a wholly owned subsidiary.
“We are pleased to be recognized for our expertise in providing a highly efficient, productive, and easy-to-use CAM system to industry, and for the service and support we provide our customers,” said Bill Gibbs, founder and president of Gibbs and Associates.
“We have been supporting Okuma machinery for over thirty years, and the THINC-OSP controls since their introduction in 2004. We look forward to participating in the delivery of integrated solutions that help manufacturers increase efficiency and profitability with the latest and most sophisticated machine tools from Okuma.”
GibbsCAM is well known in the industry for its easy-to-use graphic interface, and its extensive capabilities, providing a modular solution for programming all Okuma machine tools, from their 3-axis mills and 2-axis lathes, to their multi-axis and multi-task machines (MTMs). GibbsCAM is especially renowned for its support of Okuma MTMs, because it programs turning and milling operations from a single interface, and provides error-free postprocessing, that results in machine-ready programs that require no editing.
These capabilities extend to all of Okuma’s machine tools. With a library of over 11,000 postprocessors, including over 1,000 for MTM machines, Gibbs has many postprocessors for Okuma CNCs, including the MU, Millac, Multus and Macturn series.
Mr Gibbs was recently the speaker at the Okuma “Go Beyond Productivity to Profitability” open house, in Houston, Texas, on November 15, where machine-tool distributor Hartwig used GibbsCAM to program all of the Okuma machine tools on display and in operation, including four 4-axis, double-turret vertical and horizontal lathes, three 4-axis vertical and horizontal mills, plus the Okuma LB3000 EX, a double spindle, single turret, Y-axis lathe, and the MULTUS B400, a multi-function horizontal lathe with B-axis head.
The current GibbsCAM product line supports 2 through 5-axis milling, turning, mill/turning, multi-task simultaneous machining and wire-EDM. GibbsCAM also provides fully integrated manufacturing modeling capabilities that include 2D, 2.5D, 3D wireframe, surface, and solid modeling. GibbsCAM is Compatible with Windows 7 and Certified for Windows Vista.
GibbsCAM’s data exchange capabilities are able to access the broadest range of native and industry standard CAD data formats. GibbsCAM is certified under the Autodesk Inventor Certified Program, is a Siemens Solution Partner Program-PLM for Solid Edge product, and is a SolidWorks Certified CAM Product. GibbsCAM is either offered or endorsed by a number of leading worldwide control and machine tool manufacturers. Gibbs and Associates distributes its products worldwide through a network of international Resellers. In January 2008, Gibbs and Associates merged with Cimatron Ltd., and is now operating as a wholly owned subsidiary.
2012年12月3日 星期一
Trey Aces Tennis Challenge
Last week, teams went through Amsterdam. Natalie and Nadiya fast forwarded to win the leg. Abbie and Ryan were eliminated, leaving four teams to go to Spain, where they meet flame-bearing devils, hit tennis balls on a clay court in Nadal’s hometown, bullfight matadors, or screw blades to a windmill. Trexi finishes first, followed by Chippendales, the Goat Farmers and the twins. It is a non-elimination race, but Nadiya and Natalie will face a speed bump sometime in the race.
The race starts from Amsterdam, in a house rumored to be Rembrandt mistress’. Natalie and Nadiya, whose initial goal was not to be kicked out of the show, depart first for Barcelona, Spain. James and Jaymes, who depart second, still feel bad about U-turning Ryan and Abbie. Trexi departs third.
After the twins arrive in Barcelona at 9 am, Josh and Brent leave Amsterdam for Barcelona. Josh’s foot is still swollen from an injury from last week. Brent had tells him to do Lamaze; Josh tells him that he’s not pregnant. Brent breathes on Josh’s foot, which does not help.
The first three teams meet in Barcelona. Because they have 12 hours to kill before their boat leaves for Mallorca, they hit the beach. Then they meet Josh and Brent, who are more optimistic when they see the other teams.
At Palma de Mallorca, teams meet people dressed as devils swinging flames–and carrying clues. Trey and Lexi are now in first place. Trey drives a car and leads Chippendales. While it took the other teams a while to figure out where the clue was, Josh and Brent seemed to quickly realize that the devils had it.
Josh’s ankle was feeling better until he tried to play tennis. When Josh rests, Natalie and Nadiya arrive. Josh worries that Natalie and Nadiya will sail past them, but he outplays Tweenie. The twins talk about how they used to escape their tennis lessons in Sri Lanka.
Trexi and Chippendales go through thousands-year-old caves together. They go to two guitarists, who have the detour clue: Spin It or Bull It.
In Spin It, teams need to screw on two blades to a windmill. Once completed, Don Quixote will hand them the next clue. In Bull It, teams need to act like bulls attacking matadors.
Josh irritates Brent with his backseat-driving. Trey thinks that the Chippendales went the wrong way to the windmills. James and Jaymes u-turn to the windmills and put on hard hats. James says that he used to take apart radios when he was a kid.
Trey directs Lexi under the bull costume to run through the mock matadors. When they crash into a matador, Lexi cries when she hurts her finger, which is bloody and throbbing. They switch places, which works better.
Like the Chippendales, Josh and Brent opt for Spin It. When James and Jaymes finish the windmill, they are in first place.
The twins arrive at Coves last, and opt for Spin It, where they see Josh and Brent, who have a wind turbine in the farm, although not as nice. Josh and Brent finish the windmill challenge first, leaving the twins behind. At fourth place, they tell themselves that they only have themselves to blame.
The Pit Stop is Palma. Lexi, whose finger still hurts, directs Trey. They are Team Number One, and win a five-day trip to Riviera Maya, where they can enjoy the infinity pool and massage. The Chippendales place second. James talks about how the million dollars can change their families’ lives. At third place, Josh says that it’s hard to kill their team. Phil Keoghan tells the twins that it is a non-elimination race, and that they will encounter a speed bump.
The race starts from Amsterdam, in a house rumored to be Rembrandt mistress’. Natalie and Nadiya, whose initial goal was not to be kicked out of the show, depart first for Barcelona, Spain. James and Jaymes, who depart second, still feel bad about U-turning Ryan and Abbie. Trexi departs third.
After the twins arrive in Barcelona at 9 am, Josh and Brent leave Amsterdam for Barcelona. Josh’s foot is still swollen from an injury from last week. Brent had tells him to do Lamaze; Josh tells him that he’s not pregnant. Brent breathes on Josh’s foot, which does not help.
The first three teams meet in Barcelona. Because they have 12 hours to kill before their boat leaves for Mallorca, they hit the beach. Then they meet Josh and Brent, who are more optimistic when they see the other teams.
At Palma de Mallorca, teams meet people dressed as devils swinging flames–and carrying clues. Trey and Lexi are now in first place. Trey drives a car and leads Chippendales. While it took the other teams a while to figure out where the clue was, Josh and Brent seemed to quickly realize that the devils had it.
Josh’s ankle was feeling better until he tried to play tennis. When Josh rests, Natalie and Nadiya arrive. Josh worries that Natalie and Nadiya will sail past them, but he outplays Tweenie. The twins talk about how they used to escape their tennis lessons in Sri Lanka.
Trexi and Chippendales go through thousands-year-old caves together. They go to two guitarists, who have the detour clue: Spin It or Bull It.
In Spin It, teams need to screw on two blades to a windmill. Once completed, Don Quixote will hand them the next clue. In Bull It, teams need to act like bulls attacking matadors.
Josh irritates Brent with his backseat-driving. Trey thinks that the Chippendales went the wrong way to the windmills. James and Jaymes u-turn to the windmills and put on hard hats. James says that he used to take apart radios when he was a kid.
Trey directs Lexi under the bull costume to run through the mock matadors. When they crash into a matador, Lexi cries when she hurts her finger, which is bloody and throbbing. They switch places, which works better.
Like the Chippendales, Josh and Brent opt for Spin It. When James and Jaymes finish the windmill, they are in first place.
The twins arrive at Coves last, and opt for Spin It, where they see Josh and Brent, who have a wind turbine in the farm, although not as nice. Josh and Brent finish the windmill challenge first, leaving the twins behind. At fourth place, they tell themselves that they only have themselves to blame.
The Pit Stop is Palma. Lexi, whose finger still hurts, directs Trey. They are Team Number One, and win a five-day trip to Riviera Maya, where they can enjoy the infinity pool and massage. The Chippendales place second. James talks about how the million dollars can change their families’ lives. At third place, Josh says that it’s hard to kill their team. Phil Keoghan tells the twins that it is a non-elimination race, and that they will encounter a speed bump.
Talking Business
Nathan Lynch may be just 15 years old, but he has plenty of skating experience to share with customers at his family’s new business, Rocket Scooter & Skate in Spearfish.
“He hasn’t ridden a bicycle all year,” said his father, David Lynch. “He’s probably got 200 or 300 miles on his longboard.” Nathan and his sister Hannah, are the real reason for the shop, which opened Nov. 17 at 541 West Jackson Blvd. near Killian’s Steakhouse.
“We have two teenagers that are both very much into longboarding, and we decided to make a board one day,” said David, who’s a craftsman by trade. “My wife, Krista, is interested in scootering … (and) we just worked into an idea of combining the scooter and the skateboards together.”
Rocket Scooter & Skate carries a big variety of skateboards and “a good healthy line” of longboards, including Landyachtz, Loaded, Arbor, and Lynch’s own Trophy Longboards, which he makes from cherry, maple and walnut hardwoods. The shop also carries parts and hardware for skateboards and longboards, as well as safety gear and skate apparel such as hoodies and backpacks. They hope to eventually sell shoes as well.
Rocket Scooter & Skate also sells 50cc and 150cc retro-style scooters and mopeds by Motorino. They sell parts, too, and they can repair and service scooters.
David grew up skateboarding in southern California. The new business has inspired him to get back to skating himself, but don't expect to see him doing tricks at the Spearfish skate park anytime soon. “If I did that I’d just be laying there until the paramedics showed up,” he said with a laugh.
In fact, plenty of people DO know the Kuchen Man, also known as Joel Schwader, who sells his homemade desserts, rolls and breads at the Farmer’s Market each summer. In 2009, he sold more than 3,000 of the South Dakota state dessert, a pie-sized custard pastry with German origins.
Schwader sold kuchen through local grocery stores for a time but stopped when the price of cream would have forced him to raise his prices. Now the Kuchen Man has found a new home at The Beanery Deli & Bakery.
“They were looking for a baker,” he said. “In wintertime, things slow down for me, and I thought, well, this might be a good fit.”
So far it’s worked out great for both Schwader and The Beanery. “He, of course, was a great (job) candidate, with his experience and what he could offer,” said restaurant owner Lisa Holbrook.
Schwader now makes all the bread for The Beanery and its contract sites, Western Dakota Technical Institute and Camp Rapid. He kneads all the dough by hand. "It just gives a better bread," he said.
Schwader’s kuchen — which he calls "the best comfort food I know” — is now sold by the slice and whole at The Beanery at 201 Main St. Schwader’s kuchen comes in apple, peach, raspberry, cottage cheese, rhubarb, strawberry, strawberry-rhubarb and triple berry.
Herbst, who is married to Sturgis native Robert Herbst, operated a restaurant in Colorado for 10 years. She took over Tillie’s in mid-October, saying she plans to build on the current menu rather than make big changes.
Tillie’s is now open at 6:30 a.m., serving breakfast sandwiches on Black Hills Bagels along with Dark Canyon coffee. A variety of soups, sandwiches and salads is also on the menu, including specialty sandwiches such as the Cuban and Buffalo Chicken.
Diners can also choose to have their sandwich fixings on a wrap, cooked on the Panini press or served on a fresh spinach salad.
“I may be biased, but I believe we have the best deli sandwiches in town,” said Herbst, whose business sits at the corner of Junction Avenue and Main Street.
“He hasn’t ridden a bicycle all year,” said his father, David Lynch. “He’s probably got 200 or 300 miles on his longboard.” Nathan and his sister Hannah, are the real reason for the shop, which opened Nov. 17 at 541 West Jackson Blvd. near Killian’s Steakhouse.
“We have two teenagers that are both very much into longboarding, and we decided to make a board one day,” said David, who’s a craftsman by trade. “My wife, Krista, is interested in scootering … (and) we just worked into an idea of combining the scooter and the skateboards together.”
Rocket Scooter & Skate carries a big variety of skateboards and “a good healthy line” of longboards, including Landyachtz, Loaded, Arbor, and Lynch’s own Trophy Longboards, which he makes from cherry, maple and walnut hardwoods. The shop also carries parts and hardware for skateboards and longboards, as well as safety gear and skate apparel such as hoodies and backpacks. They hope to eventually sell shoes as well.
Rocket Scooter & Skate also sells 50cc and 150cc retro-style scooters and mopeds by Motorino. They sell parts, too, and they can repair and service scooters.
David grew up skateboarding in southern California. The new business has inspired him to get back to skating himself, but don't expect to see him doing tricks at the Spearfish skate park anytime soon. “If I did that I’d just be laying there until the paramedics showed up,” he said with a laugh.
In fact, plenty of people DO know the Kuchen Man, also known as Joel Schwader, who sells his homemade desserts, rolls and breads at the Farmer’s Market each summer. In 2009, he sold more than 3,000 of the South Dakota state dessert, a pie-sized custard pastry with German origins.
Schwader sold kuchen through local grocery stores for a time but stopped when the price of cream would have forced him to raise his prices. Now the Kuchen Man has found a new home at The Beanery Deli & Bakery.
“They were looking for a baker,” he said. “In wintertime, things slow down for me, and I thought, well, this might be a good fit.”
So far it’s worked out great for both Schwader and The Beanery. “He, of course, was a great (job) candidate, with his experience and what he could offer,” said restaurant owner Lisa Holbrook.
Schwader now makes all the bread for The Beanery and its contract sites, Western Dakota Technical Institute and Camp Rapid. He kneads all the dough by hand. "It just gives a better bread," he said.
Schwader’s kuchen — which he calls "the best comfort food I know” — is now sold by the slice and whole at The Beanery at 201 Main St. Schwader’s kuchen comes in apple, peach, raspberry, cottage cheese, rhubarb, strawberry, strawberry-rhubarb and triple berry.
Herbst, who is married to Sturgis native Robert Herbst, operated a restaurant in Colorado for 10 years. She took over Tillie’s in mid-October, saying she plans to build on the current menu rather than make big changes.
Tillie’s is now open at 6:30 a.m., serving breakfast sandwiches on Black Hills Bagels along with Dark Canyon coffee. A variety of soups, sandwiches and salads is also on the menu, including specialty sandwiches such as the Cuban and Buffalo Chicken.
Diners can also choose to have their sandwich fixings on a wrap, cooked on the Panini press or served on a fresh spinach salad.
“I may be biased, but I believe we have the best deli sandwiches in town,” said Herbst, whose business sits at the corner of Junction Avenue and Main Street.
2012年11月28日 星期三
GE says fabric turbine blades could make wind power cheaper
GE, Virginia Tech and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), will begin work on a project that could change the way wind blades are designed, manufactured and installed.
With most of the cost of electricity for wind tied up in the initial capital investments made in the wind turbines themselves, new technology advancements that reduce these costs could substantially lower the overall cost of wind energy.
According to GE, this new blade design could reduce blade costs 25 percent-40 percent, making wind energy as economical as fossil fuels without government subsidies.
GE's research will focus on the use of architectural fabrics, which would be wrapped around a metal spaceframe, resembling a fishbone. Fabric would be tensioned around ribs that run the length of the blade and specially designed to meet the demands of wind blade operations. Conventional wind blades are constructed out of fiberglass, which is heavier and more labor and time-intensive to manufacture.
Advancements in blade technology will help spur the development of larger, lighter turbines that can capture more wind at lower wind speeds. Current technology doesn't easily allow for construction of turbines that have rotor diameters exceeding 120 meters because of design, manufacturing, assembly and transportation constraints.
Wider, longer wind blades are tougher to move and maneuver, and molds, which form the clamshell fiberglass structure, cost millions of dollars to acquire. GE's new fabric-based technology would all but eliminate these barriers.
With this new approach to making wind blades, components could be built and assembled on site, meaning design engineers no longer have to concern themselves with manufacturing and transportation limitations. Taken together, these improvements will help reduce start-up costs and the cost of wind-generated electric in general.
It's estimated that to achieve the national goal of 20 percent wind power in the U.S., wind blades would need to grow by 50 percent — a figure that would be virtually impossible to realize given the size constraints imposed by current technology. Lighter fabric blades could make this goal attainable.
The use of fabrics to reduce weight and provide a cost-effective cover dates back to the World War I era, when it was used on airplanes. Over the years fabric has proved to be rugged and reliable and GE has already begun using this spaceframe/tension fabric design in the construction of wind towers for better aesthetics, cost, and protection.
The $5.6 million ARPA-E project will span three years. GE's blade architecture will be built to achieve a 20 year life with no regular maintenance to tension fabrics required.
Electrical Wind Turbine Installation Technician required to lead a team of installation engineer dealing with the for a vibrant and exciting market leader in Renewable technical engineering solutions. Experience in working from heights is essential.
The role is based is regionally based but is commutable from West Bromwich, Tamworth, Staffordshire, Sutton Coldfield, Dudley and Birmingham. As a result of my client's continuous success and growth, they now seek to compliment their expansion further with an installation team leader who can manage projects up to 1m in value and develop a portfolio with 3rd party contractors such as M&E contractors.
The installation manager will be required to manage and support development practices and procedures for given projects and ensure that deadline are met. The Electrical Wind Turbine Installation Technician will have experience of working with three phase power solutions and have experience working from heights. The Electrical Wind Turbine Installation Technician is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to progress their career with a forward thinking, pro-active organisation who will offer a bright future in return for hard work and dedication.
With most of the cost of electricity for wind tied up in the initial capital investments made in the wind turbines themselves, new technology advancements that reduce these costs could substantially lower the overall cost of wind energy.
According to GE, this new blade design could reduce blade costs 25 percent-40 percent, making wind energy as economical as fossil fuels without government subsidies.
GE's research will focus on the use of architectural fabrics, which would be wrapped around a metal spaceframe, resembling a fishbone. Fabric would be tensioned around ribs that run the length of the blade and specially designed to meet the demands of wind blade operations. Conventional wind blades are constructed out of fiberglass, which is heavier and more labor and time-intensive to manufacture.
Advancements in blade technology will help spur the development of larger, lighter turbines that can capture more wind at lower wind speeds. Current technology doesn't easily allow for construction of turbines that have rotor diameters exceeding 120 meters because of design, manufacturing, assembly and transportation constraints.
Wider, longer wind blades are tougher to move and maneuver, and molds, which form the clamshell fiberglass structure, cost millions of dollars to acquire. GE's new fabric-based technology would all but eliminate these barriers.
With this new approach to making wind blades, components could be built and assembled on site, meaning design engineers no longer have to concern themselves with manufacturing and transportation limitations. Taken together, these improvements will help reduce start-up costs and the cost of wind-generated electric in general.
It's estimated that to achieve the national goal of 20 percent wind power in the U.S., wind blades would need to grow by 50 percent — a figure that would be virtually impossible to realize given the size constraints imposed by current technology. Lighter fabric blades could make this goal attainable.
The use of fabrics to reduce weight and provide a cost-effective cover dates back to the World War I era, when it was used on airplanes. Over the years fabric has proved to be rugged and reliable and GE has already begun using this spaceframe/tension fabric design in the construction of wind towers for better aesthetics, cost, and protection.
The $5.6 million ARPA-E project will span three years. GE's blade architecture will be built to achieve a 20 year life with no regular maintenance to tension fabrics required.
Electrical Wind Turbine Installation Technician required to lead a team of installation engineer dealing with the for a vibrant and exciting market leader in Renewable technical engineering solutions. Experience in working from heights is essential.
The role is based is regionally based but is commutable from West Bromwich, Tamworth, Staffordshire, Sutton Coldfield, Dudley and Birmingham. As a result of my client's continuous success and growth, they now seek to compliment their expansion further with an installation team leader who can manage projects up to 1m in value and develop a portfolio with 3rd party contractors such as M&E contractors.
The installation manager will be required to manage and support development practices and procedures for given projects and ensure that deadline are met. The Electrical Wind Turbine Installation Technician will have experience of working with three phase power solutions and have experience working from heights. The Electrical Wind Turbine Installation Technician is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to progress their career with a forward thinking, pro-active organisation who will offer a bright future in return for hard work and dedication.
Make your next meeting or event unforgettable
Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld, the leading hospitality location in Bangkok city, will add a new dimension to the long list of facilities and services already on offer.
The fully-integrated and innovative hotel, convention venue, retail, and leisure complex in the heart of the city is set to unveil M23, a new event space and state-of-the-art corporate meeting retreat. The new concept aims to harmonize meeting essentials and services to deliver high-end products for hosting corporate and social meetings, conferences, receptions, and retreats.
With 505 luxurious rooms and suites, it encompasses 9 executive floors, including one World Executive Club floor, and 9 food and beverage outlets that also includes RedSky, an spectacular outdoor rooftop venue. These are matched by 5-star-hotel facilities and unparallel service standards.
Located just off the main hotel lobby on the 23rd floor, the area provides a unique cutting-edge for flexible meetings and an event space ideal for intimate boardroom meetings to larger corporate and social events.
Covering more than 1,000 square meters, the space is divided into four natural day-lit boardrooms offering dramatic views of the city skyline, and with a class/board room capacity from 18 to 50. Equipped with the latest comprehensive audio-visual capability, each are equipped with built-in LCD projectors and screens, high-speed Wi-Fi Internet access, personalized stationery, coffee machine, and stocked with a selection of soft drinks, still and sparkling mineral water and tasty lozenges. Meeting rooms, M1 and M2 also allow you to conduct your presentations on interactive boards.
The remaining area is divided into four exclusive spaces. “My Foyer” is a reception area with a modern interior design and plush seating. Dedicated to freshly-prepared food and beverages, “My Kitchen” is an open show kitchen and bar that can cater to tea breaks, luncheons, and social events. Adjoining it is the alfresco “My Terrace” with stunning views of the bustling city below and is perfect for cocktails or a standing buffet. “My Lawn,” a 50-meter-long, open-air patio with a putting green that adds a casual fun element to this corporate retreat and is ideal for sumptuous sunset cocktails, dinners, or BBQ.
To ensure your meeting or event runs smoothly, dedicated event butlers complemented by a team of multinational chefs and wait staff, are on hand to look after your every need with personalized service.
So whether it is a corporate meeting, workshop, conference, or a product launch, M23 offers all the ingredients for a successful event.
VoluMill has consistently shown itself to be the easiest, quickest and most cost effective way for machining operations to reduce cost, shorten delivery times and increase productivity. Adopted by large and small organizations around the world and across all industries, VoluMill’s patented technology generates toolpaths that produce a consistent material removal rate.
Their smooth, flowing motion establishes and maintains ideal milling conditions in any part shape. Reduced forces on the spindle and cutting tool enable machining hardware to be safely utilized to its full capabilities. Uniform chip formation and excellent heat dissipation result in the previously unachievable combination of dramatically reduced cycle times and significantly extended cutting-tool life.
“We are pleased to have this opportunity to work with DECKEL MAHO, one of the world’s leading machine tool builders with a reputation for superior quality and innovation. The Aerospace Excellence Center’s focus on aerospace applications is directly in line with many of Celeritive’s industry distinctive initiatives,” says Terry Sorensen, CEO for Celeritive. “Our Aerospace business is growing rapidly as companies discover how quickly VoluMill improves profitability, delivery times and production capacity.”
The fully-integrated and innovative hotel, convention venue, retail, and leisure complex in the heart of the city is set to unveil M23, a new event space and state-of-the-art corporate meeting retreat. The new concept aims to harmonize meeting essentials and services to deliver high-end products for hosting corporate and social meetings, conferences, receptions, and retreats.
With 505 luxurious rooms and suites, it encompasses 9 executive floors, including one World Executive Club floor, and 9 food and beverage outlets that also includes RedSky, an spectacular outdoor rooftop venue. These are matched by 5-star-hotel facilities and unparallel service standards.
Located just off the main hotel lobby on the 23rd floor, the area provides a unique cutting-edge for flexible meetings and an event space ideal for intimate boardroom meetings to larger corporate and social events.
Covering more than 1,000 square meters, the space is divided into four natural day-lit boardrooms offering dramatic views of the city skyline, and with a class/board room capacity from 18 to 50. Equipped with the latest comprehensive audio-visual capability, each are equipped with built-in LCD projectors and screens, high-speed Wi-Fi Internet access, personalized stationery, coffee machine, and stocked with a selection of soft drinks, still and sparkling mineral water and tasty lozenges. Meeting rooms, M1 and M2 also allow you to conduct your presentations on interactive boards.
The remaining area is divided into four exclusive spaces. “My Foyer” is a reception area with a modern interior design and plush seating. Dedicated to freshly-prepared food and beverages, “My Kitchen” is an open show kitchen and bar that can cater to tea breaks, luncheons, and social events. Adjoining it is the alfresco “My Terrace” with stunning views of the bustling city below and is perfect for cocktails or a standing buffet. “My Lawn,” a 50-meter-long, open-air patio with a putting green that adds a casual fun element to this corporate retreat and is ideal for sumptuous sunset cocktails, dinners, or BBQ.
To ensure your meeting or event runs smoothly, dedicated event butlers complemented by a team of multinational chefs and wait staff, are on hand to look after your every need with personalized service.
So whether it is a corporate meeting, workshop, conference, or a product launch, M23 offers all the ingredients for a successful event.
VoluMill has consistently shown itself to be the easiest, quickest and most cost effective way for machining operations to reduce cost, shorten delivery times and increase productivity. Adopted by large and small organizations around the world and across all industries, VoluMill’s patented technology generates toolpaths that produce a consistent material removal rate.
Their smooth, flowing motion establishes and maintains ideal milling conditions in any part shape. Reduced forces on the spindle and cutting tool enable machining hardware to be safely utilized to its full capabilities. Uniform chip formation and excellent heat dissipation result in the previously unachievable combination of dramatically reduced cycle times and significantly extended cutting-tool life.
“We are pleased to have this opportunity to work with DECKEL MAHO, one of the world’s leading machine tool builders with a reputation for superior quality and innovation. The Aerospace Excellence Center’s focus on aerospace applications is directly in line with many of Celeritive’s industry distinctive initiatives,” says Terry Sorensen, CEO for Celeritive. “Our Aerospace business is growing rapidly as companies discover how quickly VoluMill improves profitability, delivery times and production capacity.”
2012年11月26日 星期一
All vehicles in Mizoram to sport high security plate
According to Mizoram Transport department sources, around 6500 High Security Number Plates have been issued so far, and if it goes as plan, by April 26, 2014, which is the time stipulated by the government, all the vehicles in the state are expected sport the new number system.
High Security Plate manufacturing centre, the transport office at Chaltlang, was recently visited by local mediapersons where they were told that with good internet facility and power supply workers could complete around 55 plates per day.
Besides, the only one embossing machine with which they used to work is now supplemented by another machine. Therefore, work has become faster.
The two machines in Aizawl will manufacture number plates for Serchhip, Champhai, Mamit and Kolasib district, besides Aizawl district. The machine in Lunglei will manufacture number plates for Saiha and Lawngtlai district besides Lunglei district. As of now, there are 11 workers in Aizawl and 5 workers in Lunglei.
The new number system is expected to prevent vehicle theft, as it will have laser code with the owner’s name, address, chasis number, engine number and other important information. The number plate is being locked by a machine, therefore, it will mean stolen if destroyed. The vehicle owners after obtaining smart card from transport department have to take application form and after submission of it, will be given the High Security Number Plate as per seniority.
Manufacturing of the High Security Number Plate is being undertaken by Shimnit Utsch India Private Limited, a joint venture of India and German Company, and their centre at Mumbai. When the three machines works in a regular manner, it is expected that around 200 plates will be manufactured per day.
The manufacture of High Security Number Plate was inaugurated on April 27, 2012 by Transport Secretary H.Darzika, on which day High Security Plates for Chief Minister and other important officials were manufactured. It is estimated that there are around 1, 50,000 vehicles in Mizoram.
The expectation of a recovery in industrial performance has been belied against the backdrop of a slew of economic reforms announced by the government, it said.
The survey “has indicated greater percentage of sectors reporting low-to-negative growth in October-December quarter of current year over the corresponding period of last year”.
It points to a continuation of the slowdown as the positive results of the recent reform measures announced are yet to take effect.
“A commensurate action is now required from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in the form of reduction in repo rate to ease the monetary situation. Industry is in need of a combination of fiscal, monetary and administrative measures,” it said.
Industrial production contracted by 0.4% in September on account of dismal performance of manufacturing and capital goods sectors.
Sectors expecting low-to-negative growth include earth moving and construction equipment, machine tools, transformers, textile machinery, and tractors.
Besides, consumer durables such as passenger cars, two-wheelers, refrigerators, washing machines, air- conditioners, TV, are among the sectors expecting low-to-negative growth.
High Security Plate manufacturing centre, the transport office at Chaltlang, was recently visited by local mediapersons where they were told that with good internet facility and power supply workers could complete around 55 plates per day.
Besides, the only one embossing machine with which they used to work is now supplemented by another machine. Therefore, work has become faster.
The two machines in Aizawl will manufacture number plates for Serchhip, Champhai, Mamit and Kolasib district, besides Aizawl district. The machine in Lunglei will manufacture number plates for Saiha and Lawngtlai district besides Lunglei district. As of now, there are 11 workers in Aizawl and 5 workers in Lunglei.
The new number system is expected to prevent vehicle theft, as it will have laser code with the owner’s name, address, chasis number, engine number and other important information. The number plate is being locked by a machine, therefore, it will mean stolen if destroyed. The vehicle owners after obtaining smart card from transport department have to take application form and after submission of it, will be given the High Security Number Plate as per seniority.
Manufacturing of the High Security Number Plate is being undertaken by Shimnit Utsch India Private Limited, a joint venture of India and German Company, and their centre at Mumbai. When the three machines works in a regular manner, it is expected that around 200 plates will be manufactured per day.
The manufacture of High Security Number Plate was inaugurated on April 27, 2012 by Transport Secretary H.Darzika, on which day High Security Plates for Chief Minister and other important officials were manufactured. It is estimated that there are around 1, 50,000 vehicles in Mizoram.
The expectation of a recovery in industrial performance has been belied against the backdrop of a slew of economic reforms announced by the government, it said.
The survey “has indicated greater percentage of sectors reporting low-to-negative growth in October-December quarter of current year over the corresponding period of last year”.
It points to a continuation of the slowdown as the positive results of the recent reform measures announced are yet to take effect.
“A commensurate action is now required from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in the form of reduction in repo rate to ease the monetary situation. Industry is in need of a combination of fiscal, monetary and administrative measures,” it said.
Industrial production contracted by 0.4% in September on account of dismal performance of manufacturing and capital goods sectors.
Sectors expecting low-to-negative growth include earth moving and construction equipment, machine tools, transformers, textile machinery, and tractors.
Besides, consumer durables such as passenger cars, two-wheelers, refrigerators, washing machines, air- conditioners, TV, are among the sectors expecting low-to-negative growth.
2012年11月20日 星期二
Researchers use shock tube for insight into physics early in blasts
Sandia National Laboratories' one-of-a-kind multiphase shock tube began with a hallway conversation that led to what engineer Justin Wagner describes as the only shock tube in the world that can look at how shock waves interact with dense particle fields.
The machine is considered multiphase because it can study shock wave propagation through a mixture of gas and solid particles.
Shock tubes have been around for decades. What makes Sandia's unique is its ability to study how densely clustered particles disperse during an explosion. That's important because better understanding of the physics during the first tens of microseconds of a blast leads to better computer models of what happens in explosions.
"Not having this correct in those codes could have implications for predicting different explosives properties," Wagner says.
Understanding how particles move and react in the early part of a blast will help Sandia respond to such national security challenges as improving explosives; mitigating blasts' or assessing the vulnerability of personnel, weapons, and structures.
The project started when Steve Beresh of Sandia's aerosciences department and Sean Kearney of the Labs' thermal and fluid experimental sciences asked a since-retired colleague what he'd like to measure that he hadn't been able to. He started talking about some of the physics missing from the models used for predicting explosives, "and Sean and I looked at each other and said, 'We think we could do that,'" Beresh says.
They came up with the idea of a multiphase shock tube that would enable researchers to study particle dispersal in dense gas-solid flows.
The machine was fired for the first time in April 2010. Experiments and diagnostics are complicated, so team members are still gathering data they eventually will incorporate into codes used at Sandia and elsewhere.
The project, initially funded under Sandia's Laboratory Directed Research and Development program, hired Wagner to oversee the machine's design and building. "When we hired Justin we had an empty room and a blank sheet of paper. Now we have a shock tube that is different from what anybody else in the world has," Beresh says.
Particles in an explosion start out tightly packed. As the explosive process continues, they disperse and quickly become widely spaced. But the physics of the densely packed particles at the start of the explosion are crucial to everything that comes later. They are not yet fully understood, and thus limit current models, Wagner and Beresh say.
"The important thing about the shock tube is it generates a planar shock wave," Wagner says. "We study the interaction of the shock wave with a dense field of particles to understand the physics relevant to explosives processes."
Sandia's machine uses such diagnostics as high-speed pressure measurements, high-speed imaging, and flash X-ray to measure gas and particle properties, and it's adding laser-based diagnostics, team members say.
The machine is considered multiphase because it can study shock wave propagation through a mixture of gas and solid particles.
Shock tubes have been around for decades. What makes Sandia's unique is its ability to study how densely clustered particles disperse during an explosion. That's important because better understanding of the physics during the first tens of microseconds of a blast leads to better computer models of what happens in explosions.
"Not having this correct in those codes could have implications for predicting different explosives properties," Wagner says.
Understanding how particles move and react in the early part of a blast will help Sandia respond to such national security challenges as improving explosives; mitigating blasts' or assessing the vulnerability of personnel, weapons, and structures.
The project started when Steve Beresh of Sandia's aerosciences department and Sean Kearney of the Labs' thermal and fluid experimental sciences asked a since-retired colleague what he'd like to measure that he hadn't been able to. He started talking about some of the physics missing from the models used for predicting explosives, "and Sean and I looked at each other and said, 'We think we could do that,'" Beresh says.
They came up with the idea of a multiphase shock tube that would enable researchers to study particle dispersal in dense gas-solid flows.
The machine was fired for the first time in April 2010. Experiments and diagnostics are complicated, so team members are still gathering data they eventually will incorporate into codes used at Sandia and elsewhere.
The project, initially funded under Sandia's Laboratory Directed Research and Development program, hired Wagner to oversee the machine's design and building. "When we hired Justin we had an empty room and a blank sheet of paper. Now we have a shock tube that is different from what anybody else in the world has," Beresh says.
Particles in an explosion start out tightly packed. As the explosive process continues, they disperse and quickly become widely spaced. But the physics of the densely packed particles at the start of the explosion are crucial to everything that comes later. They are not yet fully understood, and thus limit current models, Wagner and Beresh say.
"The important thing about the shock tube is it generates a planar shock wave," Wagner says. "We study the interaction of the shock wave with a dense field of particles to understand the physics relevant to explosives processes."
Sandia's machine uses such diagnostics as high-speed pressure measurements, high-speed imaging, and flash X-ray to measure gas and particle properties, and it's adding laser-based diagnostics, team members say.
2012年11月19日 星期一
Europe Expected To Maintain Lead In Offshore Wind
The U.K. continues to lead the offshore wind energy market, with more than 2 GW of capacity installed, followed by Denmark, with more than 830 MW; and the Netherlands, with almost 250 MW. Germany and China both began installing offshore wind turbines in 2009 and continue to expand their portfolios.
Navigant Consulting predicts that average new installations will grow by 81.6% annually through 2016 and by 15.6% annually between 2017 and 2021.
Furthermore, the report finds that as of October, more than 95 GW of offshore wind capacity was in the project pipeline, 86% of which was in Europe. Taking into account China’s offshore wind target of 30 GW by 2020 and project proposals made at the provincial level, however, it is expected that China's offshore wind power development portfolio will soon reach at least 25% of the global total.
Currently, the Chinese and U.S. markets are dominated by domestic market developers, and due to the slow pace of progress in the U.S. and protectionism in Chinese waters, this situation is not expected to change in the foreseeable future, the report concludes.
2011 saw the continued dominance of Siemens in the European offshore wind market, but several new players are appearing in both Europe and China. With many years’ experience, Siemens and Vestas remain the market leaders in offshore wind turbines, supplying machines to most of the latest developments.
However, according to Navigant Consulting, it is likely that companies such as REpower, Areva Wind, Bard and Sinovel will see more turbines installed in the coming years and that new entrants from Asia - notably from China, Japan and South Korea - will soon make their mark on the offshore wind market.
Offshore wind projects have relied on cash-rich utilities - a trend that is expected to continue, Navigant says. However, the report finds that although utilities with historically deep pockets and established offshore wind experience will lead the sector in the future, utilities are seeing depleted cash resources and are seeking alternative sources of funding.
In addition, independent power producers and clean energy companies are beginning to show more confidence in offshore wind energy investment. According to the report, both types of companies will account for 11% of global development if all projected wind farms are installed according to plan.
In addition, with the maturation of the offshore wind sector, industrial conglomerates, private equity groups, pension funds and privately owned companies are entering the market, helping to increase market investment.
Furthermore, the report predicts that by the end of 2021, Europe will account for 63.4% of total global offshore wind installations, and the continent will maintain its position as the global market leader.
Offshore wind power development in Asia is forecast to be moderate through 2016, but rapid growth is expected in the following five-year period. Offshore wind power will account for 7.7% of global wind power installations by the end of the prediction period, the firm adds.
Navigant Consulting predicts that average new installations will grow by 81.6% annually through 2016 and by 15.6% annually between 2017 and 2021.
Furthermore, the report finds that as of October, more than 95 GW of offshore wind capacity was in the project pipeline, 86% of which was in Europe. Taking into account China’s offshore wind target of 30 GW by 2020 and project proposals made at the provincial level, however, it is expected that China's offshore wind power development portfolio will soon reach at least 25% of the global total.
Currently, the Chinese and U.S. markets are dominated by domestic market developers, and due to the slow pace of progress in the U.S. and protectionism in Chinese waters, this situation is not expected to change in the foreseeable future, the report concludes.
2011 saw the continued dominance of Siemens in the European offshore wind market, but several new players are appearing in both Europe and China. With many years’ experience, Siemens and Vestas remain the market leaders in offshore wind turbines, supplying machines to most of the latest developments.
However, according to Navigant Consulting, it is likely that companies such as REpower, Areva Wind, Bard and Sinovel will see more turbines installed in the coming years and that new entrants from Asia - notably from China, Japan and South Korea - will soon make their mark on the offshore wind market.
Offshore wind projects have relied on cash-rich utilities - a trend that is expected to continue, Navigant says. However, the report finds that although utilities with historically deep pockets and established offshore wind experience will lead the sector in the future, utilities are seeing depleted cash resources and are seeking alternative sources of funding.
In addition, independent power producers and clean energy companies are beginning to show more confidence in offshore wind energy investment. According to the report, both types of companies will account for 11% of global development if all projected wind farms are installed according to plan.
In addition, with the maturation of the offshore wind sector, industrial conglomerates, private equity groups, pension funds and privately owned companies are entering the market, helping to increase market investment.
Furthermore, the report predicts that by the end of 2021, Europe will account for 63.4% of total global offshore wind installations, and the continent will maintain its position as the global market leader.
Offshore wind power development in Asia is forecast to be moderate through 2016, but rapid growth is expected in the following five-year period. Offshore wind power will account for 7.7% of global wind power installations by the end of the prediction period, the firm adds.
2012年11月18日 星期日
Corps seeks smaller portable anesthesia machine
With an eye on lightening the load for its field medical teams, the Marine Corps wants to find a tough, portable system to administer anesthesia in austere expeditionary environments.
Anesthesia is used to induce unconsciousness and alleviate pain so medical procedures can be performed.
Marine Corps Systems Command wants a “field ruggedized and modernized” anesthesia machine that weighs less than 10 pounds and is compact, about the size of a cube that fits on your hand, according to a Nov. 4 request for information from the defense industry. It would replace the older, heavier and bulkier draw-over vaporizers, or DOVs, now used by the services.
Officials at MARSYSCOM and the Naval Medical and Health research centers want to find out what kinds of devices companies have on the market and may consider similar products.
“There are some portable systems available on the market, but most are still very large and heavy, and not ruggedized. These same systems typically have to operate with dedicated ventilators and support equipment,” Marine officials said in a written response to questions from Marine Corps Times. DOV machines used in field hospitals can weigh as much as 200 pounds.
Navy and Marine officials want a device that’s easily carried and can be used by units, such as shock trauma platoons, that operate closer to frontline units but farther from supporting commands and field hospitals.
The DOV systems, developed in the 1940s, are outdated. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration no longer approves them for use and has restricted their use in training.
“The only unit cleared for marketing in the United States went out of production ... in about 2007,” said Shoshona Pilip-Florea, a Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery spokeswoman in Falls Church, Va. “Since then, the DoD has been going to extraordinary efforts to keep the existing units serviceable.”
Anesthesia machines also are used to deliver painkillers. So getting an effective replacement also will help frontline medical teams aid the wounded and support “Marine Corps initiatives to provide pain management to injured war fighters as soon as possible following injury,” Pilip-Florea said.
MARSYSCOM officials are confident a smaller, lighter and compact system can be effective. The Marine Corps will seek FDA approval for the replacement system, and it could be adopted by all the services as “the Army and the Air Force have expressed interest in the technology.”
East Midlands Trains, the train operator running trains directly linking Nottingham and London, is planning on installing a ticket collection machine at NTU’s city campus early next year.
The machine, which will initially be placed on the Lower Newton-Arkwright floor (Near the Sandwich Bar) will allow students to print tickets that are pre-booked and paid for by credit card. This will provide students with quicker and more efficient journeys by train, as they no longer have to face the long queues at Nottingham station for a ticket which have increased since redevelopment work at the station closed the original ticket hall in October 2012.
Anesthesia is used to induce unconsciousness and alleviate pain so medical procedures can be performed.
Marine Corps Systems Command wants a “field ruggedized and modernized” anesthesia machine that weighs less than 10 pounds and is compact, about the size of a cube that fits on your hand, according to a Nov. 4 request for information from the defense industry. It would replace the older, heavier and bulkier draw-over vaporizers, or DOVs, now used by the services.
Officials at MARSYSCOM and the Naval Medical and Health research centers want to find out what kinds of devices companies have on the market and may consider similar products.
“There are some portable systems available on the market, but most are still very large and heavy, and not ruggedized. These same systems typically have to operate with dedicated ventilators and support equipment,” Marine officials said in a written response to questions from Marine Corps Times. DOV machines used in field hospitals can weigh as much as 200 pounds.
Navy and Marine officials want a device that’s easily carried and can be used by units, such as shock trauma platoons, that operate closer to frontline units but farther from supporting commands and field hospitals.
The DOV systems, developed in the 1940s, are outdated. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration no longer approves them for use and has restricted their use in training.
“The only unit cleared for marketing in the United States went out of production ... in about 2007,” said Shoshona Pilip-Florea, a Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery spokeswoman in Falls Church, Va. “Since then, the DoD has been going to extraordinary efforts to keep the existing units serviceable.”
Anesthesia machines also are used to deliver painkillers. So getting an effective replacement also will help frontline medical teams aid the wounded and support “Marine Corps initiatives to provide pain management to injured war fighters as soon as possible following injury,” Pilip-Florea said.
MARSYSCOM officials are confident a smaller, lighter and compact system can be effective. The Marine Corps will seek FDA approval for the replacement system, and it could be adopted by all the services as “the Army and the Air Force have expressed interest in the technology.”
East Midlands Trains, the train operator running trains directly linking Nottingham and London, is planning on installing a ticket collection machine at NTU’s city campus early next year.
The machine, which will initially be placed on the Lower Newton-Arkwright floor (Near the Sandwich Bar) will allow students to print tickets that are pre-booked and paid for by credit card. This will provide students with quicker and more efficient journeys by train, as they no longer have to face the long queues at Nottingham station for a ticket which have increased since redevelopment work at the station closed the original ticket hall in October 2012.
2012年11月7日 星期三
LED Lighting is the way forward
Conservation of the environment is a situation which the majority of us hear about on a regular basis, regardless if this appertains to reclaiming our waste items or from the standpoint of utilising much less energy. In terms of lighting a recent advancement, now offers an effective option which offers a plethora of benefits. That innovation is LED lighting, and one of the leading specialists of LED lighting is a company termed Auraglow, whose internet-based presence can be viewed at the appropriately entitled.
LED or light emitting diodes present a unique and incomparable resolution by virtue of the fact that they provide significant power saving options. In reality LED lighting utilises up to 85 % less power than standard light bulbs. This means that in genuine terms, by using LED lighting throughout a residential or retail property, significant savings can be made in regards to not purely power usage but also in the inherent expense of the power itself.
Furthermore, among the principal elements of LED lighting is its longevity, with a lifetime in the region of 350,000 hours which corresponds to, conditional upon usage, approx 25 years. Correlate this to the common light bulbs along with the recent compact fluorescent light bulbs, it is very easy to witness exactly why LED lighting is proving so popular. This form of light is provided in a broad variety of options from the traditional bayonet style replacement options through to GU10 LED or B22 LED Bulbs.
As a way of saving money in a wide range of ways, LED lighting including the 12v LEDS are unequalled. Considerable savings can be received not only in terms of the time factor but also in regard to the money saved in reduced energy consumption alongside replacement expenses. These forms of units necessitate little routine maintenance which ensures cost savings for business and for domestic clients. These are the key reasons why the development of LED lighting has flourished greatly in merely a few years.
In a continued effort to assist readers save money in every facet of their daily lives, Go Banking Rates recently examined four popular, energy-efficient products to determine whether "going green" can really be adopted as a money-saving lifestyle. Go Banking Rates editor, Jennifer Calonia, interviewed both consumers and experts in the energy-efficient household product industry to find the best and worst swaps Americans can make in their homes to save money on energy costs.
The most cost-efficient green product was discovered to be LED lights. Jon Billings, sales director of the Green Works Energy Group, explained to Go Banking Rates, "By far the best up and coming product is LED lights." Billings continued, "They are efficient, recyclable, and as technology advances, affordable. LEDs are like an investment, you pay a higher price up front, but the long-term return exceeds all other available products."
Go Banking Rates found that transitioning the home to energy efficient lighting options like efficient compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs), LEDs or halogen sources can save up to 75 percent in household energy costs compared to incandescent bulb versions.
On the other hand, the energy-saving product with the highest up-front cost was determined to be solar panels.
Shel Horowitz, converted his pre-Revolutionary War home, built in 1743, into a solar-powered machine by installing three hot water solar panels in 2001 and four electricity panels to the roof of his home in 2004.
LED or light emitting diodes present a unique and incomparable resolution by virtue of the fact that they provide significant power saving options. In reality LED lighting utilises up to 85 % less power than standard light bulbs. This means that in genuine terms, by using LED lighting throughout a residential or retail property, significant savings can be made in regards to not purely power usage but also in the inherent expense of the power itself.
Furthermore, among the principal elements of LED lighting is its longevity, with a lifetime in the region of 350,000 hours which corresponds to, conditional upon usage, approx 25 years. Correlate this to the common light bulbs along with the recent compact fluorescent light bulbs, it is very easy to witness exactly why LED lighting is proving so popular. This form of light is provided in a broad variety of options from the traditional bayonet style replacement options through to GU10 LED or B22 LED Bulbs.
As a way of saving money in a wide range of ways, LED lighting including the 12v LEDS are unequalled. Considerable savings can be received not only in terms of the time factor but also in regard to the money saved in reduced energy consumption alongside replacement expenses. These forms of units necessitate little routine maintenance which ensures cost savings for business and for domestic clients. These are the key reasons why the development of LED lighting has flourished greatly in merely a few years.
In a continued effort to assist readers save money in every facet of their daily lives, Go Banking Rates recently examined four popular, energy-efficient products to determine whether "going green" can really be adopted as a money-saving lifestyle. Go Banking Rates editor, Jennifer Calonia, interviewed both consumers and experts in the energy-efficient household product industry to find the best and worst swaps Americans can make in their homes to save money on energy costs.
The most cost-efficient green product was discovered to be LED lights. Jon Billings, sales director of the Green Works Energy Group, explained to Go Banking Rates, "By far the best up and coming product is LED lights." Billings continued, "They are efficient, recyclable, and as technology advances, affordable. LEDs are like an investment, you pay a higher price up front, but the long-term return exceeds all other available products."
Go Banking Rates found that transitioning the home to energy efficient lighting options like efficient compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs), LEDs or halogen sources can save up to 75 percent in household energy costs compared to incandescent bulb versions.
On the other hand, the energy-saving product with the highest up-front cost was determined to be solar panels.
Shel Horowitz, converted his pre-Revolutionary War home, built in 1743, into a solar-powered machine by installing three hot water solar panels in 2001 and four electricity panels to the roof of his home in 2004.
Government to save P9.03M from efficient lighting conversion of buildings
State-run schools and hospitals in Northern and Central Luzon work together to generate annual savings of P9.03 million once the lighting retrofit project of the Department of Energy is completed.
The retrofitting project involves the replacement of existing 40 watt-fluorescent lamps and magnetic ballasts with energy efficient 28 watt-lamps and electronic ballasts.
DOE and heads of various state colleges and hospitals signed an agreement last October 9 for the lighting conversion of government structures. After the signing, installation of energy efficient bulbs will begin.
The DOE’s Philippine Energy Efficient Project has picked 20 government buildings in Northern and Central Luzon as recipients of the lighting retrofit as part of its nationwide campaign for energy efficient lighting technology.
Artemio Habitan, DOE’s program implementor, said 100 government buildings were targeted for lighting conversion out of the more than 175 government agencies that were surveyed for the program.
“We have prioritized state schools and universities including hospitals because they serve a bigger clientele and their energy consumption is 24/7,” he said.
Habitan said local government units will be accommodated in the future once the retrofitting of priority agencies is completed.
He said only Cebu City has so far qualified for the energy efficiency program.
The DOE has already signed similar agreements with the government units in Visayas and Mindanao and the National Capital Region.
The energy efficient project was supported by a loan agreement with the Asian Development Bank amounting to $31.1 million.
It is meant to reduce electricity demand using energy efficient lighting project, adoption of energy saving measures and improvement of equipment testing facilities.
These can be purchased online, including from Halfords and Amazon. Other products are reportedly being sold as French breathalysers, but won’t necessarily satisfy the French police, according to Green Flag, the motoring breakdown service.
“Although fines to enforce the new regulation may not come into effect until March, demand for these testing kits is likely to be high,” said Miranda Schunke of Green Flag.
“We’d strongly advise all motorists considering driving in France to invest in some breathalysers well in advance of their trip, to avoid last minute panics, and more importantly, breaking the law.”
The organisation advises motorists to carry at least two NF-certified breathalysers, which can be used to check a driver's blood alcohol level. The legal limit in France is 0.5 grams per litre, which equates to 50mg per 100ml of blood, lower than the 80mg limit in Britain.
Drivers in France are also already legally required to carry a warning triangle and a fluorescent safety vest. Other items motorists need by law in France are a first aid kit, fire extinguisher and spare bulbs for car lamps, lenses and reflectors.
The retrofitting project involves the replacement of existing 40 watt-fluorescent lamps and magnetic ballasts with energy efficient 28 watt-lamps and electronic ballasts.
DOE and heads of various state colleges and hospitals signed an agreement last October 9 for the lighting conversion of government structures. After the signing, installation of energy efficient bulbs will begin.
The DOE’s Philippine Energy Efficient Project has picked 20 government buildings in Northern and Central Luzon as recipients of the lighting retrofit as part of its nationwide campaign for energy efficient lighting technology.
Artemio Habitan, DOE’s program implementor, said 100 government buildings were targeted for lighting conversion out of the more than 175 government agencies that were surveyed for the program.
“We have prioritized state schools and universities including hospitals because they serve a bigger clientele and their energy consumption is 24/7,” he said.
Habitan said local government units will be accommodated in the future once the retrofitting of priority agencies is completed.
He said only Cebu City has so far qualified for the energy efficiency program.
The DOE has already signed similar agreements with the government units in Visayas and Mindanao and the National Capital Region.
The energy efficient project was supported by a loan agreement with the Asian Development Bank amounting to $31.1 million.
It is meant to reduce electricity demand using energy efficient lighting project, adoption of energy saving measures and improvement of equipment testing facilities.
These can be purchased online, including from Halfords and Amazon. Other products are reportedly being sold as French breathalysers, but won’t necessarily satisfy the French police, according to Green Flag, the motoring breakdown service.
“Although fines to enforce the new regulation may not come into effect until March, demand for these testing kits is likely to be high,” said Miranda Schunke of Green Flag.
“We’d strongly advise all motorists considering driving in France to invest in some breathalysers well in advance of their trip, to avoid last minute panics, and more importantly, breaking the law.”
The organisation advises motorists to carry at least two NF-certified breathalysers, which can be used to check a driver's blood alcohol level. The legal limit in France is 0.5 grams per litre, which equates to 50mg per 100ml of blood, lower than the 80mg limit in Britain.
Drivers in France are also already legally required to carry a warning triangle and a fluorescent safety vest. Other items motorists need by law in France are a first aid kit, fire extinguisher and spare bulbs for car lamps, lenses and reflectors.
2012年10月31日 星期三
An unforgettable love story
Literally and figuratively one of the quietest films you’ll ever see, the award-winning Korean documentary “Planet of Snail” offers a precious moment of clarity and simplicity amid a chaotic and poisonous summer, and tells an unforgettable love story to boot. Director Yi Seung-jun’s gorgeously photographed slice-of-life film is a contemplative experience, to be sure, but never a taxing or challenging one. If “Planet of Snail” implies or suggests profound questions about love and the human condition and how we think about ability and disability, it does so in 88 minutes and without sentimentality or heavy philosophy.
About halfway through the film, Young-chan and Soon-ho, the married couple at the center of “Planet of Snail,” need to change an overhead fluorescent bulb in their bedroom. This task poses logistical problems for them that few of us can imagine. Soon-ho is a tiny, gnomelike person with a spinal deformity, probably less than 4 feet tall. Young-chan is a long-limbed, lanky fellow with the distracted air of an intellectual; he’s easily tall enough to reach the light fixture, but he can neither see nor hear.
Between them they eventually manage to get the bulb changed, with no major mishaps. It takes quite a while, since every time Young-chan gets something wrong — a cord is in the way, or the bulb is incorrectly mounted — Soon-ho must tug on his sleeve so he’ll lower himself enough for her to offer advice by tapping on the backs of his fingers, using a system known as finger Braille or tactile sign language. They never, however, resort to the cursing or impatience or constant distraction that might attend you or me trying to do the same task much more quickly.
If you’re guiltily thinking that there might be some inherent comedy in the spectacle of a blind man changing a light bulb, you needn’t worry. Soon-ho, who seems to have a wry, detached perspective on the difficulties of her life with Young-chan, quietly gets the giggles several times. It might sound faintly condescending to say that the whole scene is one of the most inspiring things I’ve ever seen in a motion picture, as if I were marveling at the fact that people with severe disabilities can cope with everyday chores. Honestly, what I felt was gratitude: to Yi, the filmmaker, for allowing me to share this time with the couple, and to Soon-ho and Young-chan, for the reminder that the really important thing about being alive is how you relate to other people and the world around you, rather than how many tasks you complete or how quickly.
Last year, a lowly university parking garage won high praise for reducing its energy use by 63 percent, saving almost $35,000 in utility costs. How did the University of Central Florida do it? By replacing the lights in the parking garage with a combination of fluorescent and LED bulbs. Not only did the school save money but the new bulbs produced better light as well. Collectively, the 245 participants in the 2011 contest saved $5.2 million on their utility bills and prevented nearly 30,000 metric tons in carbon dioxide emissions.
The EPA contest focuses on commercial buildings because they're responsible for about 20 percent of the nation's energy use and greenhouse gas emissions at a cost of more than $100 billion annually in energy bills. By improving the energy efficiency of schools, offices, hospitals and retail stores, competitors can reduce energy waste and save on utility bills while protecting the environment and people's health, says the EPA. Competitors range from a Kmart store on the island of St. Thomas to a crime lab in Phoenix to a federal office building in Nome, Alaska.
About halfway through the film, Young-chan and Soon-ho, the married couple at the center of “Planet of Snail,” need to change an overhead fluorescent bulb in their bedroom. This task poses logistical problems for them that few of us can imagine. Soon-ho is a tiny, gnomelike person with a spinal deformity, probably less than 4 feet tall. Young-chan is a long-limbed, lanky fellow with the distracted air of an intellectual; he’s easily tall enough to reach the light fixture, but he can neither see nor hear.
Between them they eventually manage to get the bulb changed, with no major mishaps. It takes quite a while, since every time Young-chan gets something wrong — a cord is in the way, or the bulb is incorrectly mounted — Soon-ho must tug on his sleeve so he’ll lower himself enough for her to offer advice by tapping on the backs of his fingers, using a system known as finger Braille or tactile sign language. They never, however, resort to the cursing or impatience or constant distraction that might attend you or me trying to do the same task much more quickly.
If you’re guiltily thinking that there might be some inherent comedy in the spectacle of a blind man changing a light bulb, you needn’t worry. Soon-ho, who seems to have a wry, detached perspective on the difficulties of her life with Young-chan, quietly gets the giggles several times. It might sound faintly condescending to say that the whole scene is one of the most inspiring things I’ve ever seen in a motion picture, as if I were marveling at the fact that people with severe disabilities can cope with everyday chores. Honestly, what I felt was gratitude: to Yi, the filmmaker, for allowing me to share this time with the couple, and to Soon-ho and Young-chan, for the reminder that the really important thing about being alive is how you relate to other people and the world around you, rather than how many tasks you complete or how quickly.
Last year, a lowly university parking garage won high praise for reducing its energy use by 63 percent, saving almost $35,000 in utility costs. How did the University of Central Florida do it? By replacing the lights in the parking garage with a combination of fluorescent and LED bulbs. Not only did the school save money but the new bulbs produced better light as well. Collectively, the 245 participants in the 2011 contest saved $5.2 million on their utility bills and prevented nearly 30,000 metric tons in carbon dioxide emissions.
The EPA contest focuses on commercial buildings because they're responsible for about 20 percent of the nation's energy use and greenhouse gas emissions at a cost of more than $100 billion annually in energy bills. By improving the energy efficiency of schools, offices, hospitals and retail stores, competitors can reduce energy waste and save on utility bills while protecting the environment and people's health, says the EPA. Competitors range from a Kmart store on the island of St. Thomas to a crime lab in Phoenix to a federal office building in Nome, Alaska.
Local Legend 'The Great Morgani' Has 130 Costumes
Behind the crazy costumes of Santa Cruz's street performer "The Great Morgani" is a fashion lover and community representative.
Known as “The Great Morgani” by the Santa Cruz community, Frank Lima, 69, has been performing as an accordion extraordinaire for 15 years.
“People want to see the spectacle,” said Lima. “Oh what shoes is he wearing now? I have to create a fashion monster.”
Playing the accordion to entertain others is Lima’s hobby, and he is often spotted on Pacific Avenue, or at farmers markets. With 42 accordions, 130 costumes and over 1,200 songs, every performance is different.
One of Lima’s favorite parts of being a street performer is seeing the crowd react to his songs and his all-out costumes.
“I always feel that the crowd is entertaining me,” he said. “I love watching peoples’ reactions.”
Lima isn’t just like any street performer. Standing atop a mini-stage on Pacific Avenue, Lima dons a full-body costume of crazy patterns and intricate accessories.
“I just wanted to have this look and get more elaborate,” he said. “I have a lot of creative energy.”
Covered with about 100 cones, his “making a point” costume that he made for a Santa Cruz fashion show is one of Lima’s most memorable. The cool colors – turquoise, cobalt blue and magenta – react to fluorescent lights.
Although they sometimes take up to 100 hours of work, Lima said, “My passion is the costumes. The music is very easy for me.”
On Saturday at the Willow Glen Farmers Market, Lima wore his “Flower Powered” outfit, featuring a coral hibiscus flower fabric that covered his body and accordion as well as a bike.
As a kid, Lima learned how to sew by watching his mother who was a great seamstress, he said. His mother upholstered his U-shaped couch that has about 32 cushions.
“Her stitches were so fine you could wear it inside out,” said Lima. “But you don’t want to see the backside of my costumes.”
“Could I get away with this in Fresno, CA? Or would I want to? I don’t think so,” he said.
Santa Cruz is ripe with artistic minds, expressing themselves in any way possible. When tourists come, Lima said they give him the strangest looks. In the eyes of tourists and locals alike, Lima hopes to represent Santa Cruz in a positive light.
“I want to do the best I can performing,” said Lima. “I feel that I am representing myself as a musician, but I’m also representing Santa Cruz. I want to do something positive. I don’t want to be scaring little kids.”
Even though Lima is not a kid person himself, he likes to entertain them and leave smiles on their faces.
“Little kids, I see their eyes get really big and I think they’re going to cry, so I try to wave at them. I try to establish trust,” he said.
Four years ago when Lima was performing, a 3-year-old girl named Emily showed up with a little accordion and started playing next to him. When her father asked Lima to come to Emily’s birthday party, he showed up to a room full of 4-year-olds with their own accordions. To this day Emily comes to perform with Lima.
Known as “The Great Morgani” by the Santa Cruz community, Frank Lima, 69, has been performing as an accordion extraordinaire for 15 years.
“People want to see the spectacle,” said Lima. “Oh what shoes is he wearing now? I have to create a fashion monster.”
Playing the accordion to entertain others is Lima’s hobby, and he is often spotted on Pacific Avenue, or at farmers markets. With 42 accordions, 130 costumes and over 1,200 songs, every performance is different.
One of Lima’s favorite parts of being a street performer is seeing the crowd react to his songs and his all-out costumes.
“I always feel that the crowd is entertaining me,” he said. “I love watching peoples’ reactions.”
Lima isn’t just like any street performer. Standing atop a mini-stage on Pacific Avenue, Lima dons a full-body costume of crazy patterns and intricate accessories.
“I just wanted to have this look and get more elaborate,” he said. “I have a lot of creative energy.”
Covered with about 100 cones, his “making a point” costume that he made for a Santa Cruz fashion show is one of Lima’s most memorable. The cool colors – turquoise, cobalt blue and magenta – react to fluorescent lights.
Although they sometimes take up to 100 hours of work, Lima said, “My passion is the costumes. The music is very easy for me.”
On Saturday at the Willow Glen Farmers Market, Lima wore his “Flower Powered” outfit, featuring a coral hibiscus flower fabric that covered his body and accordion as well as a bike.
As a kid, Lima learned how to sew by watching his mother who was a great seamstress, he said. His mother upholstered his U-shaped couch that has about 32 cushions.
“Her stitches were so fine you could wear it inside out,” said Lima. “But you don’t want to see the backside of my costumes.”
“Could I get away with this in Fresno, CA? Or would I want to? I don’t think so,” he said.
Santa Cruz is ripe with artistic minds, expressing themselves in any way possible. When tourists come, Lima said they give him the strangest looks. In the eyes of tourists and locals alike, Lima hopes to represent Santa Cruz in a positive light.
“I want to do the best I can performing,” said Lima. “I feel that I am representing myself as a musician, but I’m also representing Santa Cruz. I want to do something positive. I don’t want to be scaring little kids.”
Even though Lima is not a kid person himself, he likes to entertain them and leave smiles on their faces.
“Little kids, I see their eyes get really big and I think they’re going to cry, so I try to wave at them. I try to establish trust,” he said.
Four years ago when Lima was performing, a 3-year-old girl named Emily showed up with a little accordion and started playing next to him. When her father asked Lima to come to Emily’s birthday party, he showed up to a room full of 4-year-olds with their own accordions. To this day Emily comes to perform with Lima.
2012年10月25日 星期四
Work set to begin on Columbia Pike face-lift
Drivers on busy Columbia Pike in Arlington can expect years of construction delays as the county prepares to give the entire neighborhood a face-lift.
Construction is set to begin in August between South Wakefield Street and South Four Mile Run Drive, where crews place utility lines underground, widen sidewalks, plant trees and install street lights, benches and bike racks.
But the $7 million, 18-month project is only a small part of the planned Pike-wide makeover. The county has a total of $80 million set aside for street improvements on the road that stretches westward from the Pentagon to the Fairfax County line.
"To complete the entire 3.5 miles of Columbia Pike is going to take three to four years," said William Roberts, who manages transportation projects for the county. "It's going to be done in phases."
From the short-term pain of construction will come long-term gain, county officials said.
"These street improvements bring us one step closer to realizing Arlington's vision for an accessible, diverse and vibrant Columbia Pike," Arlington board Chairwoman Mary Hynes said earlier.
The county is also installing larger, more comfortable bus stops and energy-efficient LED streetlights on the Pike. And roadwork may stretch even longer if the county board adopts a plan Monday to install a $249 million streetcar system.
"First all the utilities have to go underground, then you have the streetcar. So it's going to take a while," said Kamal Taktak, who will oversee the utility project and who promised work would be done only during non-rush hours and at night.
The county board is expected to vote on the streetcar Monday. A report issued earlier this month promised that the streetcar would generate hundreds of millions in property tax revenues and other benefits.
But critics complain the streetcar will cost too much; others worry the increased development will push out poorer residents along the Pike and change the street's historic character.
"We don't want Columbia Pike so gentrified that we drive away small businesses, like car repair shops or small venues that have been here for years, only to be replaced with chain restaurants," said Sarah McKinley, vice president of Arlington's Columbia Heights Civic Association, in a letter to the county board.
According to an arrest affidavit, a Ouachita Parish Sheriff's deputy approached a vehicle sitting in the median on U.S. 165 early Saturday and turned his lights on. The suspects fled, running a red light and turning left on East Street. The vehicle turned right on Temple Street, proceeding across numerous intersections, ignoring stop signs and red lights and reaching speeds of over 100 mph before crashing on South Grand Street.
The driver fled on foot while the deputy tended the injuries of the passenger. Reed later turned himself in and admitted to driving the vehicle. He said he fled because he was on probation.
Reed was booked on charges of aggravated flight, driving under suspension, two counts of ignoring a traffic signal, nine counts of ignoring a stop sign, improper exhaust, improper parking and reckless operation.
Construction is set to begin in August between South Wakefield Street and South Four Mile Run Drive, where crews place utility lines underground, widen sidewalks, plant trees and install street lights, benches and bike racks.
But the $7 million, 18-month project is only a small part of the planned Pike-wide makeover. The county has a total of $80 million set aside for street improvements on the road that stretches westward from the Pentagon to the Fairfax County line.
"To complete the entire 3.5 miles of Columbia Pike is going to take three to four years," said William Roberts, who manages transportation projects for the county. "It's going to be done in phases."
From the short-term pain of construction will come long-term gain, county officials said.
"These street improvements bring us one step closer to realizing Arlington's vision for an accessible, diverse and vibrant Columbia Pike," Arlington board Chairwoman Mary Hynes said earlier.
The county is also installing larger, more comfortable bus stops and energy-efficient LED streetlights on the Pike. And roadwork may stretch even longer if the county board adopts a plan Monday to install a $249 million streetcar system.
"First all the utilities have to go underground, then you have the streetcar. So it's going to take a while," said Kamal Taktak, who will oversee the utility project and who promised work would be done only during non-rush hours and at night.
The county board is expected to vote on the streetcar Monday. A report issued earlier this month promised that the streetcar would generate hundreds of millions in property tax revenues and other benefits.
But critics complain the streetcar will cost too much; others worry the increased development will push out poorer residents along the Pike and change the street's historic character.
"We don't want Columbia Pike so gentrified that we drive away small businesses, like car repair shops or small venues that have been here for years, only to be replaced with chain restaurants," said Sarah McKinley, vice president of Arlington's Columbia Heights Civic Association, in a letter to the county board.
According to an arrest affidavit, a Ouachita Parish Sheriff's deputy approached a vehicle sitting in the median on U.S. 165 early Saturday and turned his lights on. The suspects fled, running a red light and turning left on East Street. The vehicle turned right on Temple Street, proceeding across numerous intersections, ignoring stop signs and red lights and reaching speeds of over 100 mph before crashing on South Grand Street.
The driver fled on foot while the deputy tended the injuries of the passenger. Reed later turned himself in and admitted to driving the vehicle. He said he fled because he was on probation.
Reed was booked on charges of aggravated flight, driving under suspension, two counts of ignoring a traffic signal, nine counts of ignoring a stop sign, improper exhaust, improper parking and reckless operation.
Recalling The Good 'Ole Days
My daughter and I found ourselves with an unexpected hour of 'free time,' and we decided to take a stroll through the Danvers Square to see what there is to see. "Isn't the downtown so pretty, now?" she asked me. She went on to point out all the new little shops and restaurants, the pretty , and the overall quaintness of it all.
"Sure," I told her, "it's really coming along..." of course, I can't help myself...perhaps its a sign of age, but I began pointing out 'what used to be': Archer Kent, Sunnyhurst Farms, Harvey Jewelers; and across the street, the old mattress store once stood where the atrium is now- before the big fire took it all away...
I told her the story about how our family was away in New Hampshire when that fire tore through, devastating the entire block. I'll never forget driving up route 35 into the square, the signal to my nine year old brain that said, "you're almost home!" And the scorched wreckage came into view. I was horrified. Although I had never even been inside the iconic blue building that had anchored the businesses on that corner of High and Elm Streets for as long as I'd been alive, I was still so sad to see it destroyed.
Thinking about that summer so long ago began to conjure up memories of what life was like when I was a kid growing up here in Danvers. In the summer, time seemed to stand still for us kids. We divided our time between catching frogs and riding bikes; there were daily ice cream trucks where you could get an Italian Ice for fifty cents; and at park we had bubblers, gimp and the annual park parade.
We would skip rope in the old neighborhood, as long as we could sucker two kids into holding the ends. If there were only two of us, well, then an old chair was the likely stand in.
But the real adventure was when the streetlights went on and we had a mere thirty minutes before the curfew whistle blew for our favorite pastime: Kick The Can. Being the youngest in the neighborhood gang with the earliest bedtime had its disadvantages. For years I merely watched the bigger kids' hide and seeking as I pressed my nose up against the smelly screen in my bedroom window, yearning to grow up (right now!). But those few times the teenagers let me play along were the thrill of my life!
Later, I became a big reader, abandoning the usual play things for the simple pleasure of getting lost between the pages of the classics my mom brought me free from some grocery store promotion: Little Women, Treasure Island, and my favorite, The Black Stallion. I would set up camp for the entire day, nose in book, toe to the floor, gently swinging back and forth on the old glider on our huge front porch. Well, the porch certainly seemed huge to me, funny how perspective changes with the passage of time.
As I take in the “New” Danvers Square, with its pristine brick walkways, beautiful flowering fruitless pear trees, and pretty street lights, I feel a sense of pride, and at the same time I can’t help but think about how things have changed. It's a different world now; a different neighborhood, and certainly a different Danvers Square.
Yeah, I think the downtown looks pretty snazzy. The improvements have brought new life to the businesses there, and I'm proud of what the town has done, and is continuing to do. But there is nothing like the good old days, when a kid was just a kid; catching frogs, skipping rope, kicking cans and having the sheer luxury to forget about time.
"Sure," I told her, "it's really coming along..." of course, I can't help myself...perhaps its a sign of age, but I began pointing out 'what used to be': Archer Kent, Sunnyhurst Farms, Harvey Jewelers; and across the street, the old mattress store once stood where the atrium is now- before the big fire took it all away...
I told her the story about how our family was away in New Hampshire when that fire tore through, devastating the entire block. I'll never forget driving up route 35 into the square, the signal to my nine year old brain that said, "you're almost home!" And the scorched wreckage came into view. I was horrified. Although I had never even been inside the iconic blue building that had anchored the businesses on that corner of High and Elm Streets for as long as I'd been alive, I was still so sad to see it destroyed.
Thinking about that summer so long ago began to conjure up memories of what life was like when I was a kid growing up here in Danvers. In the summer, time seemed to stand still for us kids. We divided our time between catching frogs and riding bikes; there were daily ice cream trucks where you could get an Italian Ice for fifty cents; and at park we had bubblers, gimp and the annual park parade.
We would skip rope in the old neighborhood, as long as we could sucker two kids into holding the ends. If there were only two of us, well, then an old chair was the likely stand in.
But the real adventure was when the streetlights went on and we had a mere thirty minutes before the curfew whistle blew for our favorite pastime: Kick The Can. Being the youngest in the neighborhood gang with the earliest bedtime had its disadvantages. For years I merely watched the bigger kids' hide and seeking as I pressed my nose up against the smelly screen in my bedroom window, yearning to grow up (right now!). But those few times the teenagers let me play along were the thrill of my life!
Later, I became a big reader, abandoning the usual play things for the simple pleasure of getting lost between the pages of the classics my mom brought me free from some grocery store promotion: Little Women, Treasure Island, and my favorite, The Black Stallion. I would set up camp for the entire day, nose in book, toe to the floor, gently swinging back and forth on the old glider on our huge front porch. Well, the porch certainly seemed huge to me, funny how perspective changes with the passage of time.
As I take in the “New” Danvers Square, with its pristine brick walkways, beautiful flowering fruitless pear trees, and pretty street lights, I feel a sense of pride, and at the same time I can’t help but think about how things have changed. It's a different world now; a different neighborhood, and certainly a different Danvers Square.
Yeah, I think the downtown looks pretty snazzy. The improvements have brought new life to the businesses there, and I'm proud of what the town has done, and is continuing to do. But there is nothing like the good old days, when a kid was just a kid; catching frogs, skipping rope, kicking cans and having the sheer luxury to forget about time.
2012年10月19日 星期五
Refinish Your Hardwood Floors Without Finishing Off Your Savings
A shabby-looking floor can make a poor first impression, especially if the wood boards are worn, scratched and have seen better days. However, replacing your flooring can cost a small fortune, particularly when you hire a contractor. If you’re not ready or willing to part with so much cash in one go, consider sprucing up your floors yourself by making smaller changes. The following tips will give your floor a new life.
1. Cut a rug. If you’re not in love with your hardwood floors, consider using a throw rug to liven up a room. Choose rugs that complement the color of the walls or opt for fun, vibrant patterns. When selecting a rug, choose one that is two feet shorter than the smallest wall in the room. You don’t want the rug to be disproportionate with the rest of the room.
2. Paint the floor. If a throw rug just won’t add enough color for your floor, consider painting it. Stick with a single bold color to cover the entire floor or get creative and use a variety of patterns and shades. Don’t just use any paint for the floor, though; consult with your favorite paint store as to which type of paint to use. Paint used on concrete floors, for example, might not work as well on hardwood floors with a special finish.
3. Wax off, wax on. When it comes to waxing your floors, take Mr. Miyagi’s sage advice, but in reverse. Wax off any old wax buildup already on your floor, then clean the floors before adding the new coat of wax. A highly-polished and newly-waxed floor will give your room a fresh shine; just rope off the room after waxing to avoid anyone from falling.
4. Say it with stencils. If you’re not willing to paint your entire floor, consider using stencils to create eye-catching designs. Head to your nearest teachers’ store and load up on oversized stencils featuring flowers, fun shapes or whimsical designs. After cleaning your floor, trace and fill in the stencil designs with acrylic paint. For an artistic flair, use different colors of paint within each design.
5. Get rid of scratches. Do you like your hardwood floor but have some unsightly scratches in a few boards? Remove scratches to give your floors a clean, new look. Get steel wool and a solvent, rub it with the grain and wipe with a damp cloth. It provides a great new look for your floor while also removing the blemishes.
6. Stain your floors. Give your hardwood floors a new look by staining them. After cleaning the floors and removing dust, stain with a rag or paint roller. Consult your local hardware store for advice in selecting an appropriate stain, as each variation of hardwood flooring will require a particular type of stain. Use a polyurethane finish when the stain is dry to create a smooth, glossy look.
7. When in doubt, distract the eye. Do you have such a battered floor that improving it seems like too daunting of a task? Consider using stage tricks to draw attention to other parts of the room. Hang oversized paintings on the walls and use curtains in bright colors that complement the color of the walls. If you have a particularly stubborn stain or scratch on your floor, try covering it up with a piece of furniture, a floor lamp or a small rug.
1. Cut a rug. If you’re not in love with your hardwood floors, consider using a throw rug to liven up a room. Choose rugs that complement the color of the walls or opt for fun, vibrant patterns. When selecting a rug, choose one that is two feet shorter than the smallest wall in the room. You don’t want the rug to be disproportionate with the rest of the room.
2. Paint the floor. If a throw rug just won’t add enough color for your floor, consider painting it. Stick with a single bold color to cover the entire floor or get creative and use a variety of patterns and shades. Don’t just use any paint for the floor, though; consult with your favorite paint store as to which type of paint to use. Paint used on concrete floors, for example, might not work as well on hardwood floors with a special finish.
3. Wax off, wax on. When it comes to waxing your floors, take Mr. Miyagi’s sage advice, but in reverse. Wax off any old wax buildup already on your floor, then clean the floors before adding the new coat of wax. A highly-polished and newly-waxed floor will give your room a fresh shine; just rope off the room after waxing to avoid anyone from falling.
4. Say it with stencils. If you’re not willing to paint your entire floor, consider using stencils to create eye-catching designs. Head to your nearest teachers’ store and load up on oversized stencils featuring flowers, fun shapes or whimsical designs. After cleaning your floor, trace and fill in the stencil designs with acrylic paint. For an artistic flair, use different colors of paint within each design.
5. Get rid of scratches. Do you like your hardwood floor but have some unsightly scratches in a few boards? Remove scratches to give your floors a clean, new look. Get steel wool and a solvent, rub it with the grain and wipe with a damp cloth. It provides a great new look for your floor while also removing the blemishes.
6. Stain your floors. Give your hardwood floors a new look by staining them. After cleaning the floors and removing dust, stain with a rag or paint roller. Consult your local hardware store for advice in selecting an appropriate stain, as each variation of hardwood flooring will require a particular type of stain. Use a polyurethane finish when the stain is dry to create a smooth, glossy look.
7. When in doubt, distract the eye. Do you have such a battered floor that improving it seems like too daunting of a task? Consider using stage tricks to draw attention to other parts of the room. Hang oversized paintings on the walls and use curtains in bright colors that complement the color of the walls. If you have a particularly stubborn stain or scratch on your floor, try covering it up with a piece of furniture, a floor lamp or a small rug.
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