Play action pass run down much

Posted on June 29th, 2008 in Uncategorized by admin

A play action pass is a type of American football play. The play action, or “PA” for short, appears to be a running play, but is actually a pass play; in this way, it can be considered the opposite of a draw play. Play action passes are usually used against defenses that gear up to stop the run. By looking like a run at first, the offense hopes to get the defense to “bite” on the run fake and be out of position in their pass coverage, giving receivers more time and room to get open behind them.


Offensive action during a play action pass

  • The quarterback takes the snap and drops back to hand off to the running back.
  • The running back gets ready to take the hand-off.
  • The quarterback quickly pulls the ball back from the hand-off position, trying to hide it from the defense. He then looks down-field for an open receiver.
  • The running back continues to move upfield as if he has the ball in his hands.
  • The offensive line comes off the ball to run block, but goes into pass protection soon afterward.
  • The receivers “sell” the running play by appearing to block at first, then break off into their routes.

Play action passes are difficult to run effectively if a team does not have at least a threat of a running game. A team without a good running attack will have a hard time fooling the defense into thinking a run is coming.

Zinc-bromine flow battery batteries

Posted on June 28th, 2008 in Uncategorized by admin

The zinc-bromine flow battery is a type of hybrid flow battery. A solution of zinc bromide is stored in two tanks. When the battery is charged or discharged the solutions (electrolytes) are pumped through a reactor and back into the tanks. One tank is used to store the electrolyte for the positive electrode reactions and the other for the negative. Zinc-bromine batteries have energy densities of 75 to 85 Wh/kg[1].


Electrochemistry

At the negative electrode zinc is the electroactive species. Zinc has long been used as the negative electrode of primary cells. It is a widely available, relatively inexpensive metal which is electronegative, with a standard reduction potential, E°= -0.76 V vs. SHE. However, it is rather stable in contact with neutral and alkaline aqueous solutions. For this reason it is used today in zinc-carbon and alkaline primaries.

In the zinc-bromine flow battery the negative electrode reaction is the reversible dissolution/ plating of zinc, according to the following equation.

<math>Zn _{(s)} \leftrightarrow Zn^{2+} _{(aq)} + 2e^-</math>

At the positive electrode bromine is reversibly reduced to bromide, (with a standard reduction potential of +1.087 V vs. SHE) according to the following equation.

<math>Br _{2(aq)} + 2e^- \leftrightarrow 2Br^- _{(aq)} </math>

The overall cell reaction is therefore.

<math>Zn _{(s)} + Br _{2(aq)} \leftrightarrow 2Br^- _{(aq)} + Zn^{2+} _{(aq)}</math>

The measured potential difference is around 1.67 V per cell (slightly less than that predicted from the standard reduction potentials).

The two electrode chambers of each cell are divided by a membrane (typically a microporous or ion-exchange variety). This helps to prevent bromine from reaching the positive electrode, where it would react with the zinc, causing the battery to self-discharge. To further reduce the self-discharge, and also to reduce the vapor pressure of bromine, complexing agents are added to the positive electrolyte. These react reversibly with the bromine to form an oily red liquid and reduce the Br2 concentration in the electrolyte.

World Organisation Against Torture mechanisms

Posted on June 28th, 2008 in Uncategorized by admin

The World Organisation Against Torture (Organisation Mondiale Contre la Torture, OMCT) is the world’s largest coalition of non-governmental organisations fighting against arbitrary detention, torture, summary and extrajudicial executions, forced disappearances and other forms of violence. The global network consists of almost 300 local, national and regional organisations, all of which share a common goal of eradicating torture and fostering respect of human rights for all.

The OMCT’s Prevention of Torture programme reinforces the prevention and reporting of torture by strengthening the capacity of members through the SOS-Torture network to use United Nations human rights mechanisms. The programme submits alternative reports to UN Committees in collaboration with local NGOs, provides support for individuals and organisations wishing to challenge torture practices in international legal fora and publishes a practical guide on international and regional conventional mechanisms relevant to torture. OMCT is also mainstreaming women’s and children’s issues into the UN human rights mechanisms.


Activities

OMCT contributes to UN activities through three main activities:

  • The submission of alternative reports to the UN Committee Against Torture (CAT) and the Human Rights Committee (HRC) in collaboration with local NGOs. Reporting activities are designed to encourage national NGOs to report torture and follow-up on reports of torture through:

    • the participation of local NGOs in the drafting of alternative reports and their active inclusion in the relevant Committees’ sessions, with the possibility of a follow-up meeting in the field;
    • an integrated approach to the questions relating to the protection from torture and other ill-treatment of women and children, by involving organisations specialised in these issues in the drafting of alternative reports and in the sessions of the Committees;
    • greater dissemination of reports and of the Conclusions and Recommendations of the Committees in English and in the preferred language of the relevant country, through the publication of the reports that have been submitted.
  • Support for individuals and organisations wishing to challenge torture practices in international legal forums. Complaint mechanisms can be used to achieve a number of different objectives including: protection for victims or persons under threat; obtaining reparations and compensation for victims; putting pressure on governments to end impunity in specific cases; and achieving changes in legislation and State practice which lead to serious human rights violations. Many NGOs are not fully aware of how the UN procedures can be used in support of their work in protecting victims from torture. OMCT hopes to encourage and assist partner NGOs that are already active in the struggle against torture to present individual complaints and other relevant information to the CAT, the HRC, and the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW).
  • The publication of a practical guide on international and regional conventional mechanisms relevant to torture. The Handbook is conceived as a tool for action. It seeks to respond to the practical needs of the persons intending to employ international mechanisms and bodies to challenge torture practices.


See also

  • Command responsibility
  • Equipo Nizkor
  • International humanitarian law
  • UN Convention Against Torture


External links

  • World Organisation Against Torture

Honda CBR series were some motorcycles

Posted on June 28th, 2008 in Uncategorized by admin

The Honda CBR models are a series of sport oriented motorcycles. Several of which (400RR,600RR,900RR,929RR,954RR and 1000RR) are marketed as Race Replica, hence the suffix “RR” after the engine size designation. With the exception of the single cylinder CBR125 and CBR150, all CBR motorbikes have inline engines (as compared to the V engines in the VT, VTR and VF/VFR series). Less sporting models with inline engines make up the CB Series.

The series includes:

  • CBR125, CBR150
  • CBR250
  • CBR400, CBR400RR
  • CBR600F Hurricane, CBR600F2, CBR600F3, CBR600F4, CBR600F4i
  • CBR600RR
  • CBR750F Japanese domestic market model similar in appearance to the Hurricane, or Aero, CBR models
  • CBR1000F Hurricane
  • CBR900RR Fireblade
  • CBR954RR Fireblade
  • CBR1000RR Fireblade
  • CBR1100XX Super Blackbird


External links

  • Honda CBR600RR and CBR1000RR official US site

Straight-12 engine starting.

Posted on June 19th, 2008 in Uncategorized by admin

A Straight-12 engine is a Straight engine with twelve cylinders. A straight-12 is a very long engine, and therefore straight-12 engines are not common in automobiles, but it has been used for large military trucks. Also some Russian firms built straight-12s for use in boats in the 1960s and 1970s.

The Wärtsilä-Sulzer RTA96-C, the largest reciprocating engine in the world as of 2006, is a straight-12. It is used on container ships.

Ballarat, California two-wheelers

Posted on June 18th, 2008 in Uncategorized by admin

Ballarat is a ghost town in unincorporated Inyo County, California that was born in 1896 as a supply point for the mines in the canyons of the Panamints. A quarter-mile to the south is Post Office Springs, a reliable water source used since the 1850s by prospectors and desert wanderers. George Riggins, a young immigrant from Australia, gave Ballarat its name when he proposed it should be named for the city in the heart of Australia’s gold country, Ballarat, Victoria.

In its heyday—from 1897 to 1905—Ballarat was home and headquarters for 400 to 500 people. It hosted seven saloons, three hotels, a Wells Fargo station, post office, school, a jail and morgue, but not one church. Ballarat was an oasis of fun, frolic, and relaxation—a town to go to and blow off the dust of long trails and hard work. The town began its decline when the Ratcliff Mine, in Pleasant Canyon east of town, suspended operations. Other mines nearby also began to play out, and in 1917 the post office closed and all that remained were a few diehard prospectors and desert rats.

In the 1960s, another famous (or infamous) visitor came regularly to Ballarat. Charles Manson with his family of killers stayed at the Barker ranch south of town, and left their graffiti in Ballarat. An old Dodge Power Wagon parked near the general store still bears the stars the family used as their signature, on its headliner.

The movie Easy Rider had a scene filmed in Ballarat where Peter Fonda’s character removes his Rolex watch and throws it away before he and Dennis Hopper’s character head out again on their choppers enroute to New Orleans.

Today Ballarat has one or two full-time residents. As of June 2004, Rock Novak and his dog, Potlicker live in the town. The store is open most afternoons and weekends and Rock will sell you soft drinks and other snacks. Visitors are welcome. Rock Novak is currently busy reparing the pipelines that supply water for the ghosttown. It’s a 5 mile walk out of Ballarat and every day old Potlicker joins him. Rock gets payed for his services by the government. Every summer a certain June and her now (July 2007) 10-year old son visits Ballarat for some time. She and her son reside in the former jailhouse/morgue. The young boy is then educated by his mother.
Many 4-wheelers use the trailer park as a campground headquarters for expeditions into the Panamints and Death Valley. In wintertime some 200 to 300 travellers use the grounds of Ballarat as their campground. The scenery is still spectacular, virtually unmarred by signs of human occupation.

The town is located approximately at .


See also

  • List of ghost towns
  • Ballarat, Victoria


External links

  • GhostTowns.com
  • Desertusa.com

Scream If You Wanna Go Faster (song) faster than other forms

Posted on June 15th, 2008 in Uncategorized by admin

Scream If You Wanna Go Faster” was the second single from Geri Halliwell’s second solo album. It was released on July 30, 2001. The song peaked at number-eight in the UK charts. It sold around 77,500 copies in the UK and was the 154th best seller of 2001.

Two different versions of the European 2-Track CD Single were made to gain sales adding her previous hit “It’s Raining Men” as the track #2, this edition of the single was released in selected European Countries.


Tracklisting and formats

These are the formats and track listings of major single releases of “Scream If You Wanna Go Faster”.

  • European 2-Track CD Single (#1)
  1. “Scream If You Wanna Go Faster” - 3:24
  2. “New Religion” - 3:05
  • European 2-Track CD Single (#2)
  1. “Scream If You Wanna Go Faster” - 3:24
  2. “It’s Raining Men” [Album Version] - 4:19
  • European/UK CD1
  1. “Scream If You Wanna Go Faster” - 3:24
  2. “New Religion” - 3:05
  3. “Breaking Glass” - 3:37
  • European/UK CD2
  1. “Scream If You Wanna Go Faster” - 3:24
  2. “Scream If You Wanna Go Faster” [Sleaze Sisters Anthem Edit] - 4:58
  3. “Scream If You Wanna Go Faster” [Rob Searle Edit] - 4:25
  4. “Scream If You Wanna Go Faster” [Burnt Remix] - 7:07
  • Australian CD
  1. “Scream If You Wanna Go Faster” - 3:24
  2. “Scream If You Wanna Go Faster” [In The Name Of Charlie Rapino] - 5:02
  3. “Scream If You Wanna Go Faster” [Sleaze Sisters Anthem Mix] - 8:02
  4. “Scream If You Wanna Go Faster” [Burnt Remix] - 7:07
  5. “It’s Raining Men” [Almighty Mix] - 8:12


Chart performance

Chart Peak
position
Mexican Top 100 2
Portuguese Singles Chart 6
UK Singles Chart 8
Philippines Singles Chart 12
Brazilian Singles Chart 12
Italian Singles Chart 13
World Chart (Airplay) 14
Irish Singles Chart 17
Belgium Singles Chart 18
World Chart (Single Sales) 19
Argentina Singles Chart 18
Belgium Singles Chart 18
Canadian Singles Chart 36
Australian Singles Chart 40
Swiss Singles Chart 62
Dutch Singles Chart 66
German Singles Chart 67

No-issue scooters still carry both

Posted on June 14th, 2008 in Uncategorized by admin

A no-issue jurisdiction, within the context of gun law, is one that does not allow any private citizen to carry a concealed handgun (”concealed carry”). The term refers to the fact that no concealed carry permits will be issued (or recognized).


No-issue jurisdictions in the U.S.

As of March 2006 in the United States, only Illinois, Wisconsin, and Washington, D.C. (where handguns are illegal) are no-issue jurisdictions. Nebraska and Kansas have passed concealed carry laws which took effect on January 1st, 2007. Wisconsin, Kansas, Virginia and Nebraska all permit unlicenced open carry, subject to county and municipal restrictions.


See also

  • may-issue
  • shall-issue
  • unrestricted
  • Gun politics in the US

Mandriva Linux both a kickstart and

Posted on June 14th, 2008 in Uncategorized by admin

Mandriva Linux (formerly Mandrakelinux or Mandrake Linux) is a Linux distribution created by Mandriva (formerly Mandrakesoft). The first release was based on Red Hat Linux (version 5.1) and KDE (version 1.0) in July 1998. It has since diverged from Red Hat and has included a number of original tools mostly to ease system configuration. Mandriva Linux (at the time named Mandrake Linux) was originated by Gaël Duval, who was also a co-founder of Mandrakesoft and was fired from the company in 2006.

Contents


Features

The major features of Mandriva Linux are:


Installation, control and administration

Mandriva Linux uses the Mandriva Control Center for administration of Linux rather than using a text editor to change settings. It has many programs known as Drakes or Draks, collectively named drakxtools, to configure many different settings. Examples include MouseDrake to set up a mouse, DiskDrake to set up disk partitions and drakconnect (previously known as draknet but forced to change its name after a company of the same name complained) to set up a network connection. They are written using [[GTK+]] and Perl, and most of them can run in both graphical and text mode using the ncurses interface .


Desktops

Mandriva Linux is geared to use KDE or GNOME as the standard desktops, but includes others such as IceWM, Blackbox, Window Maker and twm. A unique theme provides consistency between applications and desktop environments. Mandrakegalaxy debuted in version 9.1 and Mandrakegalaxy II appeared in 10.0. A variant of Mandrakegalaxy is “Mandrakegalaxy Squared”, which uses square window buttons rather than round ones. A new default theme named “Ia Ora” was introduced with the release of Mandriva Linux 2007, but “Galaxy” remains available as an option for those who prefer it.


Package manager

Mandriva Linux uses a package manager called urpmi, which functions as a wrapper to the RPM package management system. It is similar to apt-get in that it allows seamless installation of a given software package by automatically installing the other packages needed. It is also media-transparent due to its ability to retrieve packages from various media, including network/Internet, CD/DVD and local disk. Urpmi also has an easy-to-use graphical front-end called RPMdrake which is integrated into the Mandriva Control Center.

Remote sources for urpmi / rpmdrake can be added during the installation of recent Mandriva Linux versions. After installation, they can be added through an option in the Software Sources Manager, or by using console commands generated either manually or by one of several helper sites such as Easy URPMI. This functionality allows the user to choose some or all of the various software repositories available for their version of Mandriva Linux and can greatly expand the amount of software that the user can install through the urpmi system. Instructions on adding repositories and installing software can be found on the Mandriva Wiki.


Name changes

From its inception to version 8.0, Mandrake named its flagship distribution Linux-Mandrake. From version 8.1 to 9.2 it was called Mandrake Linux.

In February 2004 MandrakeSoft lost a court case against Hearst Corporation, owners of King Features Syndicate. Hearst contends that MandrakeSoft is infringing upon King Features’ trademarked character Mandrake the Magician. The word Mandrake is not unique to the King Features character, and MandrakeSoft was appealing the decision.

As a precaution, MandrakeSoft renamed its products by removing the space between the brand name and the product name and changing the first letter of the product name to lower case, thus creating one word. Starting from version 10.0, Mandrake Linux became known as Mandrakelinux, and its logo changed accordingly. Similarly, MandrakeMove became Mandrakemove.

In April 2005 Mandrakesoft announced that after the corporate acquisition of Conectiva, and the legal dispute with Hearst Corporation, the new company name would be Mandriva, and that Mandriva Linux would be the new name covering products.


Availability

Mandriva provides multiple editions of Linux. Some are freely-distributable, while others are sold
online and via a network of authorized resellers. Mandriva also provides the Mandriva Club, which allows paying members to download commercial editions at no additional cost (depending on membership level).


Versions


Latest version

The latest stable version is Mandriva Linux 2008 (2008.0), released on 2007-10-09.


Development version

The development tree of Mandriva Linux has always been known as Cooker. This tree is directly released as a new stable version.

The next release will be named 2008.1 and is scheduled for release in Spring of 2008. An exact release date has not yet been given.


Table of versions

Year Number Name
1998 5.1 Venice
1998 5.2 Leeloo
1999 5.3 Festen
1999 6.0 Venus
1999 6.1 Helios
2000 7.0 Air
2000 7.1 Helium
2000 7.2 Odyssey (called Ulysses during beta)
2001 8.0 Traktopel
2001 8.1 Vitamin
2002 8.2 Bluebird
2002 9.0 Dolphin
2003 9.1 Bamboo
2003 9.2 FiveStar
2004 10.0 Community and Official
2004 10.1 Community
2004 10.1 Official
2005 10.2 Limited Edition 2005
2005 2006.0 Mandriva Linux 2006
2006 2007 Mandriva Linux 2007
2007 2007.1 Mandriva Linux 2007 Spring
2007 2008.0 Mandriva Linux 2008


Editions

Each release of Mandriva Linux is split into several different editions. Each edition is derived from the same master tree, most of which is available on the public mirrors (some commercial software is not available on the public mirrors, but all free / open source packages are).


Mandriva Linux Free

Mandriva Linux Free[1] is a ‘traditional’ distribution (i.e. one that comes with a dedicated installer—named DrakX—which is first used to install the distribution to the hard disk of the computer before it is run). It is ‘free’ in both senses: as in speech—it consists entirely of free/open-source software—and as in beer—it is made available for public download at no charge. It is usually available in CD (three or four discs) and DVD editions for x86 32- and 64-bit CPU architectures. It is aimed at users to whom software freedom is important, and also at users who prefer a traditional installer to the installable live CD system used by One. The package selection is tailored towards regular desktop use. It consists of a subset of packages from the ‘main’ and ‘contrib’ sections of the master tree.


Mandriva One

Mandriva One[2] is free to download. It is a hybrid, being both a LiveCD and an installer (with an installation wizard that includes disk partitioning tools).

Several One versions have been provided for each Mandriva Linux release. Users could choose between different human languages, select either the KDE or GNOME desktops and include or exclude non-free (as in speech) software. (It is not possible to fit both KDE and GNOME desktops, or more than one language, on a single live CD.) The ‘lead’ version is the KDE version with non-free software included. The One images consist of a subset of packages from the ‘main’, ‘contrib’ and ‘non-free’ sections of the master tree, with the documentation files stripped from the packages to save space.

Mandriva Linux One 2008 no longer has a free-as-in-speech variant, but a single KDE version.


Mandriva Linux Discovery

Mandriva Linux Discovery[3] is a commercial distribution aimed at first-time and novice Linux users. It is sold via the Mandriva Store website and authorized resellers, or can be downloaded by some subscribers to the Mandriva Club. Mandriva Linux 2008 does not include a Discovery edition, having added optional novice-friendly features to the Powerpack edition.

In releases prior to Mandriva Linux 2007, Discovery was a ‘traditional’ distribution built on the DrakX installer. In Mandriva Linux 2007 and 2007 Spring, Discovery is a hybrid “Live DVD” which can be booted without installation or installed to hard disk in the traditional manner.

Discovery was a DVD rather than a CD, allowing all languages to be provided on one disc. It consisted of a subset of packages from the ‘main’, ‘contrib’, ‘non-free’ and ‘non-free-restricted’ sections of the master tree. The package selection was tailored towards novice desktop users. A theme chosen to be appealing to novice users was used, and the ’simplified’ menu layout in which applications are described rather than named and not all applications are included was the default (for all other editions, the default menu layout was the ‘traditional’ layout, where all graphical applications installed on the system were included and were listed by name).


Mandriva Linux Powerpack

Mandriva Linux Powerpack[4] is a ‘traditional’ distribution (i.e. one that comes with a dedicated installer - named DrakX - which is first used to install the distribution to the hard disk of the computer before it is run). It is the main commercial edition of Mandriva Linux, and as such it is neither free as in speech or free as in beer. It contains several non-free packages intended to add value for the end user, including non-free drivers like the NVIDIA and ATI graphics card drivers, non-free firmware for wireless chips and modems, some browser plugins such as Java and Flash, and some full applications such as Cedega, Adobe Reader and RealPlayer. It is sold directly from the Mandriva Store website and through authorized resellers. It is also made available via a subscription service, which allows unlimited downloads of Powerpack editions for the last few Mandriva releases for a set yearly fee. It consists of a subset of packages from the ‘main’, ‘contrib’, ‘non-free’ and ‘restricted’ sections of the master tree.

In Mandriva Linux 2008, the Discovery and Powerpack+ editions have been merged into Powerpack, which will become Mandriva’s only commercial offering. Users will be able to choose between a novice-friendly Discovery-like setup or an installation process and desktop aimed at power users.[5]


Mandriva Linux Powerpack+

Mandriva Linux Powerpack+[6] was a version of Powerpack with additional packages, mostly commercial software. Like Powerpack, it is sold directly from the Mandriva Store website and through authorized resellers; it is also a free download for Mandriva Club members of the Gold level and above. Powerpack+ is aimed at SOHO (small office / home office) users, with the expectation that it could be used to run a small home or office server machine as well as desktop and development workstations. The package selection is tailored with this in mind, including a wide range of server packages. It consisted of a subset of packages from the ‘main’, ‘contrib’, ‘non-free’ and ‘restricted’ sections of the master tree.

Mandriva 2008 no longer includes a Powerpack+ edition. Instead, the Powerpack edition includes all the available packages.


Derivatives

Derivatives are distributions that are based on Mandriva Linux, some by Mandriva itself, others by independent projects. Some maintain compatibility with Mandriva Linux, so that installing a Mandriva Linux RPM also works on the offspring.


Current Derivatives


Mandriva Flash

Mandriva Flash [7] is a pre-installed Mandriva Linux distribution on a 4GB USB key. The user can choose how much space is used for system files and how much is reserved for user files. An earlier version of Mandriva Flash was 2GB in size with fixed ratios. It can be booted directly from the key on systems that support booting from USB devices, or from a ‘kickstart’ CD (the image for the CD is provided with the Flash) on systems that do not. Flash runs faster than live CDs due to the relative speed of flash memory, and the read/write nature of the medium allows users to save files, configuration options and even to install new packages.


Mandriva Linux Clustering

Based on the CLIC project, this distribution allows users to set up a cluster. This product includes Drakcluster (GUI) for improved usability.

This product is dedicated to the HPC market but it could also be used (with some modifications) to all kinds of clusters (such as High Availability, applicative or grid). It features parallel commands (bash, copying tools), deployment (disks), software upgrade/downgrade (urpmi parallel), monitoring (ganglia), etc.

Clustering [8] is available on x86 and x86-64 architectures.


Mandriva Corporate Server

Mandriva Corporate Server [9] is a distribution specifically tailored for enterprise-level general purpose server usage. Development is started from the basis of a previous Mandriva Linux release, with the package selection altered, important packages updated, certain extra configuration tools and applications added, and some extra support for enterprise-level hardware. The maintenance lifetime of each release is five years. The current release of Corporate Server is 4.0.


Mandriva Corporate Desktop

Mandriva Corporate Desktop [10] is the desktop counterpart to Corporate Server. Again it is based on a Mandriva Linux release with enterprise-specific modifications and a five-year maintenance lifetime. The current release of Corporate Desktop is 4.0.


Multi Network Firewall

Linux Mandrake 7.2 had a version tailored specifically for use as a firewall, known as Single Network Firewall (SNF). Its successor, based on Mandrake 8.2, was titled Multi Network Firewall (MNF). The third iteration is named MNF 2 and is based upon Mandrakelinux 10.0.

These firewall distributions are designed to provide security for computer networks, and can be administered remotely via a browser-based interface or Secure Shell. MNF 2 is now counted as part of the Corporate product line and can only be bought, with support, from Mandriva.


MCNLive

MCNLive is a live CD distribution based on Mandriva Linux. As such it shares some features with Mandriva One, but it is an unofficial project developed in a different way. MCNLive has introduced many innovative features, including the ability to install to a bootable USB stick and to hard disk.


Discontinued Derivatives


GlobeTrotter

GlobeTrotter is a LaCie mobile USB drive loaded with a specific version of Mandriva Linux. Like Move, it can boot most PCs into Linux without installing first. The 40 GB hard drive makes it a convenient way to carry a Linux workstation around.
GlobeTrotter was launched in August 2003 and can be ordered through Mandriva’s online store. It is now superseded by Mandriva Flash.


Gaming edition

Mandrake Linux 8.1 had a Gaming Edition, which was a game oriented Linux distribution. It had a port of The Sims using the Transgaming WineX technology.


CLIC

CLIC (aka Cluster LInux pour le Calcul) is a dedicated version of Mandrakelinux created by MandrakeSoft specifically for clustering environments. It was sponsored by the RNTL, other partners were ID-IMAG, Groupe Bull and Mandrakesoft. This project’s aim was to produce a HPC Linux Distribution for 32- and 64-bit processors.

The objective of project CLIC was to allow the realization of large scientific computers while being based on free software. The objective consists of the realization a Linux distribution for clusters of machines, meeting the needs for deployment, administration and programming of clusters within the framework of exploitation for intensive calculation.

It features an automated installation of a full cluster using the Ka tools, urpmi and the clusterscripts.

This project was finished on 1 December 2003 and Mandrakesoft decided to continue that project with a product called Mandrakeclustering (see Mandriva Linux Clustering above).


Mandrake Move

A LiveMove is the set formed by a LiveCD and a bootfloppy or USB flash drive.

Mandrake Move was a Mandriva product that benefits from a Mandrake Linux LiveCD which doesn’t need to be installed to run on a computer, and a USB key that automatically records bootloader, hardware configuration and personal data.

The first version of Mandrake Move was released in December 2003 (but only distributed to customers in January 2004, due to production delays). It brought two main innovations compared to competitors:

  • ability to eject the cdrom if the machine has 256 MB of RAM or more (Knoppix also can, but needs to copy the whole cdrom into RAM, therefore needs a machine with 1 GB of RAM or more), and continue to operate in a “downgraded” mode allowing only to play multimedia files
  • transparent save of any user modification of his/her own files and system configuration files, if operated with a USB key

The second version, now simply called Move, was released in October 2004. Hardware support and stability have seen much improvement. Move is now superseded by Mandriva One and Mandriva Flash.


See also

  • VnlinuxCD (Vietnamese Linux LiveCD based on Mandriva Linux)


External links

  • Mandriva Linux
  • Shareholder newsletter regarding the Hearst lawsuit
  • Mandriva Linux 2007 ONE for home users
  • Unofficial Mandriva Linux 2006 Starter Guide
  • Unofficial Mandriva 2007 (Free) Starter Guide

Halifax Regional Police and many ATVs

Posted on June 8th, 2008 in Uncategorized by admin

The Halifax Regional Police is one of three law enforcement agencies operating in the Halifax Regional Municipality, Nova Scotia; the other two being the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Canadian Forces Military Police.

The force has a total strength of 615 sworn officers, 151 civilian staff, 170 crossing guards and 9 K-9 dogs. It is headed by Frank A. Beazley, Chief of Halifax Regional Police.

Contents


Fleet

There are 233 vehicles of which 118 are marked vehicles and 115 are unmarked.
These include cruisers, SUVs, vans, 12 motorcycles, 4 boats, a mobile command vehicle, 6 ATVs, and a forensics vehicle.http://halifax.ca/revenue/TaxBooklet-Whatyougetforyourmunicipaltaxdollar.html#Police


Other Vehicles

  • 5 radar trailers
  • 4 utility trailers
  • 1 bomb trailer
  • New Beetle


Organization

The Halifax Regional Police is headed by the Chief of Police, who reports to Regional Council, the Chief Administrative Officer and the Board of Police Commissioners. The superintendent in charge of each division of the HRP reports to the Chief.http://www.halifax.ca/Police/departments/chief.html


Patrol Division

The patrol division is divided up into three divisional areas:

  • Bedford to Sambro Loop - West
  • Peninsular Halifax- Central
  • Dartmouth- East

The patrol division has a special 8 car traffic unit, a park patrol unit, and a mounted unit (consisting of a single horse named Sarge).

In addition to the visible patrol officers, the patrol division has several specialized units:

  • Bike Unit
  • Emergency Response Team
  • K-9 Unit
  • Mounted Unit
  • Public Safety Unit
  • Quick Response Unit
  • Traffic Services Unit
  • Violent Crime Linkage Analysis System (ViCLAS)http://www.halifax.ca/Police/PatrolAreas/index.html


Criminal Investigation Division

The Criminal Investigation Division is made up of four main sections: Special Investigation Section (SIS), Criminal Operations Section (CROPS), General Investigation Section (GIS) and Special Enforcement Section (SES).http://www.halifax.ca/Police/AboutHRP/CriminalInvestigationDivision.html


Special Investigation Section

The Special Investigation Section is an integrated unit staffed by HRP officers as well as RCMP officers. This section is responsible for investigating sexual assault, proceeds of crime, financial crime, and homicide. The section also investigates Cold Cases, and has a High Risk Enforcement team which monitors high risk offenders in HRM.http://www.halifax.ca/Police/departments/specialinvestigation.html


Criminal Operations Section

Within the Criminal Operations Section is a team of Quality Assurance Readers, 8 sergeants who are responsible for ensuring the quality of all police reports. The Quality Assurance Readers also determine, if a follow up is necessary, which section should handle the investigation.

The Investigative Call Back Unit is responsible for contacting people involved in a police incident to ensure that all necessary information has been obtained or given out.

The Crime Analysis team monitors crime trends in HRM, allowing police to have a better understanding of crime in the community.

The Crime Stoppers Unit is responsible for obtaining information about a crime from the public. Anyone with information about a crime can call anonymously to give police tips that may help with their investigation.

The Polygraph Unit is responsible for conducting polygraphs during the course of a police investigation, and during the hiring process.

The Forensic Identification Unit is responsible for collecting, analyzing and storing DNA evidence for the purposes of police investigations. This is a joint unit between the HRP and RCMP.

The National Weapons Enforcement Support Team (NWEST) is a joint unit between RCMP and other police forces throughout the country, including the HRP. They focus on the illegal movement of weapons within Canada.http://www.halifax.ca/Police/departments/criminalops.html


General Investigations Section

The General Investigations Section is an integrated unit of HRP and RCMP officers. They are responsible for investigating all cases of robbery, break and enter and auto theft. This unit also investigates cases of arson, serious assault, and firearms complaints.http://www.halifax.ca/Police/departments/generalinvestigation.html


Special Enforcement Section

The Special Enforcement Section is an integrated unit of HRP and RCMP officers.

The Drug Section is in charge of enforcing the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Primary focus is on street and mid-level drug trafficking, and also help with federal drug investigations. Drug awareness is also a priority for this section.

The Combined Forces Intelligence Unit is responsible for investigating organized crime. In addition to HRP and RCMP officers, this unit includes members of the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).

The Vice Unit investigates crimes of morality, such as gambling, prostitution, and pornography. The unit also investigates missing persons.

The Port Investigation unit are responsible for patrolling the lakes in HRM. The unit is also partners with the Coast Guard and Ports Harbourmaster to patrol the Halifax Harbour, Bedford Basin, and Northwest Arm. The unit consists of about 20 HRP officers who patrol on jet skis and a Boston Whaler.

The Computer Forensic Unit is responsible for gathering evidence in relation to computer hacking, internet prostitution and pornography, frauds, threats, and child pornography.

The Criminal Intelligence Service Nova Scotia (CISNS) is the provincial section of Criminal Intelligence Service Canada. Two members of HRP work full time with CISNS to gather and distribute intelligence relating to organized crime, terrorism, eco-terrorism, hate crime and technological crimes.http://www.halifax.ca/Police/departments/specialenforcement.html


History

The Halifax Police Department was officially formed on October 28, 1864, although the police department has been operated in an unofficial manner since the first days of settlement, on July 18, 1749. Each ship arriving in the port city of Halifax would appoint one member of the crew to act as a constable responsible for the actions of the crew and passengers on board. The Dartmouth police department was established in 1874 after the City of Dartmouth was incorporated in 1873. The town of Bedford didn’t have its own police force until 1982.http://www.halifax.ca/Police/AboutHRP/history.html

With the April 1, 1996 creation of the Halifax Regional Municipality, the police forces of Halifax, Dartmouth and Bedford were dissolved and merged into the new Halifax Regional Police (HRP). Policing in the new municipality was split between HRP covering the boundaries of the former cities of Halifax and Dartmouth and town of Bedford, while the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) covered rural areas in the rest of the municipality. This was originally enforced rather rigidly, but has since been relaxed as both forces are integrating their efforts in the urban core. Patrol boundaries were subsequently expanded for HRP to include the “Sambro Loop”, since this area can only be reached by RCMP by passing through the area of Spryfield, which was part of the original city of Halifax.


United Nations

Three members made history in 1999 they were the first officers from a municipal force from
Atlantic Canada to serve on a United Nations peacekeeping force in Kosovo . Since then and now 17 other HRP officers have served on peacekeeping mission in East Timor, Kosovo, Sierra Leone and Haiti.


Other Facts

  • A household in the Halifax Regional Municipality typically pays around $21.12 (Canadian dollars )per month for police protection.http://halifax.ca/revenue/TaxBooklet-Whatyougetforyourmunicipaltaxdollar.html#Police
  • The Halifax Regional Police also do Bylaw enforcement for the HRM - pesticides,noise, smoking, dangerous & unsightly premises, sidewalk snow & ice removal, and curbside solid waste.


References


External links

  • Halifax Regional Police
  • Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers

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