Thank you for posting sample data and code. Unfortunately, your code sample is incomplete and correct. You dont' define or provide values for five local variables,...

As always, if the inputs are coming from a user interface, you will want to take additional precautions against SQL injection attacks. But either of these approaches...

Still thinking about Steve's idea, it really wouldn't hurt to post up cases where at some point an alternate technique performs faster. The "it depends" really applies...

Steve, that's not a bad idea but isn't the answer usually "It depends?"

Alvin, I just looked read the editorial. Interesting coincidence. I did in fact have a microphone on me, as does everyone who carries a cell phone....

Don't worry, Kit. No apologies are necessary. Self-deprecation is just a habit with...

Ummm.... should I take that personally?

I've been trying to keep my mind out of the gutter, thank you very much.

Too late....:w00t:

That's a chair? :w00t:

What chairs?

Yes, I'm planning on being there.

Ouch... that's gonna leave a mark, Alvin. 😉

I was just trying to figure out the picture Ian posted.

Oh look, a little upside down heart....

... or is that an ace of spades? ....

.... a hooded apparition with glowing eyes?

(DANG, this is a good cup of...

Thanks Flo, and Ed. Yes, please post your results as test. I'm very interested as we are looking at using MERGE as part of a...