Abstract: This invention relates to the awarding of prizes for games, such as for example, table games like card games. In one form the present invention is suitable for use in the game of Blackjack and provides a system for awarding a game prize, comprising: determining a tally corresponding to each game completed at two or more locations at which games are played; and awarding the prize to a second game upon the completion of a first game which causes the tally to reach a predetermined number. Alternatively, the present invention provides a system for awarding a game prize, comprising: determining a tally of predetermined results produced by the play of a game; and awarding the prize to a second game when a predetermined result associated with a first game causes the tally to reach a predetermined number.

Abstract: A microprocessor controlled arc metalizing unit includes a wire cassette and a drive mechanism cassette engaged in a separable manner. By disengaging the wire cassette and drive mechanism cassette, an operator has much greater control of the unit since the wire loaded wire cassette is fixed and the operator need only maneuver the lightweight drive mechanism cassette. To improve the safety of the arc metalizing unit, a “dead-man” switch acts to automatically shut down the arc metalizing unit should any number of preestablished safety conditions be breached. In addition, one or more composite housings enclose the operational components of the arc metalizing unit to improve safety. Reliability is improved through a tension control unit that eliminates any rotational fluctuations associated with wire spools. The arc metalizing unit further incorporates a touch pad control with a display for operating the unit and displaying the status of the unit.

Abstract: Methods are described for the decontamination of soil containing heavy metals. In particular, these methods rely on phytoremediation using the plants of the species Larrea tridentata, the creosote bush. The methods are particularly directed at the decontamination of soil containing lead, copper, nickel and cadmium. The methods described herein are the first examples of phytoremediation using perennial plants which concentrate a high proportion of the scavenged metals in nonessential tissues, allowing the plants to be used continuously, rather than requiring repeated cycles of planting and harvesting entire plants in order to fully decontaminate the same area of land.