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Former big league pitcher, Jim Bunning, now serves as a conservative member of the Senate. He has announced that he is not going to run for re-election. But his reasoning is not the same as Senator Bayh, Democrat from Indiana, who also announced he will not run. Bayh is sick of the petty bickering, but Bunning would not have been elected if he chose to run. The differences between the two Senators is far, far wider than that.
GOP Senator Bunning has taken the role of the do-nothing conservatives to heart. He will try to stop anything that has any relationship to Democrats...anything. So, he alone stands in the way of moving forward on extending jobless benefits. He probably wouldn't be the roadblock if he were running for office. Not only his constituents are angry with him, but so are many Republicans. But the Republicans will not break their negative ranks to "out" him. Of course all Republicans are worried about the implications of his stubborn roadblock. It affects all people who are unemployed or underemployed, and that is a very, very large number. Each Republican will feel a backlash because the general public is far more sensitive and understanding than the stalwart do-nothings. Imagine a major political party so hellbent on doing nothing that they will hurt their own nation and even some of their consituents. That is a very cynical and insensitive position. But the conservatives feel they have enough negativity sympathizers on other issues to off-set this one miscue.
Almost from the beginning of his administration, I was scathingly critical of Lyndon Johnson's horrible policies in Vietnam. Not only was Johnson insensitive to the horrors he was raining down on innocent Vietnamese people who wanted nothing more than a unified nation and the vote that was promised them. They would have voted overwhelmingly for Ho Chi Minh, but the U.S. broke the agreement. Today, with U.S. forces out of Vietnam, that nation is rebuilding, not bothering its neighbors, and is fast becoming a vacation destination for Americans, Europeans, etc. But Johnson, his Secty. of Defense, and his horrible generals did not have to face the effects that Agent Orange had on babies and adults.
On Wednesday, the BBC broke a story about what is happening in Fallujah, Iraq. The U.S. focused its great might on that Sunni stronghold. The international community was openly critical of the U.S. for its tactics and its use of depleted uranium shells and white phosphorous. Today, the BBC filmed and reported from Fallujah's hospital. As many as 13 times the normal birth defects have been reported. And these defects are of the most horrible nature. A baby born with 3 heads, babies born with one eye in the middle of their forehead, babies born with an eye and a nose in the middle of their forehead and struggling to gasp for breath, brain damage, one leg, one arm, three legs, grotesquely distorted spines, and the list goes on. The doctors at the hospital blame the U.S. weaponry and related attacks.
The forces most dangerous and destructive to the United States are not from the Middle East or south of the Rio Grande or anywhere outside of the confines of our own nation and our own people. And hypocrisy is their religion. The height of hypocrisy occurs when the super-patriots, the Founding-Fathers-citing, democracy-touting, Bible-thumping Americans morph into their true selfish, crass and bigoted selves. Let's start with some quotes to clarify. How about beginning with one of their "macho" heroes...
"I don't feel we did wrong in taking this great country away from them. There were great numbers of people who needed new land, and the Indians were selfishly trying to keep it for themselves." -John Wayne.
It is time to call the bluff of all the partisan posers, the greed mongers, and those who simply do not know what they are talking about when it comes to health care reform.
Health care reform is needed. It is absolutely true that if this reform does not take place very soon, the health care and insurance industries are going to drain the United States dry. We cannot sustain the inhumane way we treat people in need of health care -- financially, medically, or morally. We stand alone among industrial nations in our horrendous health care system, skewed in favor of the wealthy and those who can afford the expensive health care premiums. Every average American lives with the fear of bankruptcy from health care costs or lack of adequate health care. People are dying in huge numbers today in America for lack of adequate health care. People are losing their homes and/or filing for bankruptcy every day because of our predatory health care and insurance greed. About 50 million Americans have no health care insurance at all. Emergency rooms in hospitals are treating people who wait until the last minute for treatment because they do not have coverage to help them get ongoing, regular health screenings. ER personnel are not trained for this, and people are dying prematurely because they wait too long. This is the health care scenario of a Third World nation.
Looking through almost 2,000 pages of a proposed Congressional health care bill is arduous. When it is put together like a jigsaw puzzle to satisfy every self-aggrandizing Congressperson, it is a nightmare. It is not to be believed how these small minds in Congress feather their own nest. The current bill is a hodge-podge. But let me tell you something surprising: this bill could have been written by a Republican dominated Congress. In fact, there are major portions of this bill that include provisions and wording that mimic past feeble attempts by Republicans to reform health care. This bill could have been introduced by Republicans in Congress and the GOP Party would have supported it eagerly.
Such is the way Congress makes sausage that is called legislation. It is a lie, a fraud, a deception to call this bill only a Democrat one. Republicans could have written it. And many Democrats are opposed to it. This bill has been wrongly portrayed as a Democrats bill by a lazy, uninformed media. If you dig back to some wordings of Republican suggestions from the 1980s you will find very similar wording in the current bill. The difference: the Republicans do not want anything to pass in this Congress and the liturgy they adhere to is wrapped around one word: no. The GOP sees the failure of health care reform as their ticket to success in the November elections. The nation and its people be damned.
It was with some reluctance that I agreed to write this blog when approached about it. My first response was to turn it down. Since I ultimately did agree, I have resigned myself to its limitations and its "environment." I have to swallow a couple times to be placed in the blogosphere amid the comments.
Blogs are not my thing. Most on-line material has to be consumed very carefully. People can write anything in a blog, as you are probably clearly aware, and even present things as true that are patently false. Today's media environment is atrocious, and professional standards are out the window.
As I mentioned from Day One of the American invasion of Iraq, it is doomed. I said then and I repeat it now: 1) We will be seen as just another, in a long line, of colonialist powers in the Middle East; 2) You cannot foist democracy on a nation or culture that has no history or likeness of it, especially something as culturally insensitive as AMERICAN democracy; 3) A civil war is inevitable in a place that has no history of united nationhood like Iraq; there will be at least 3 splinter groups that will strongly resist nationhood. Iraq is not a nation, and in the true sense of the word, never was a nation.
To quote an intellectual seer from Alaska: "You can put lipstick on a pig, but it is still a pig."
The misplaced focus on immigration is one of seeing working people shooting themselves in the foot by blaming Mexicans and other Hispanic immigrants for unemployment. What a waste of effort by the common American.
Why do you suppose American auto manufacturers and other big corporations cannot provide enough jobs for American workers? Greed! Look to Germany. Vokswagen, Mercedes, etc. all have wonderfully paying jobs, strong labor unions, and they do not use their greed to look for slave labor plants in China, India, Mexico, etc. Look again to Germany where workers have marvelously guaranteed wages, long vacations, great retirement benefits, national health insurance, and every poll taken shows Germans to be healthier, happier, and living longer than Americans. We could have this in the United States if we did not build our economy on industrial greed.
It is truly amazing that any legislation gets done in today's horrid Congressional climate. Had President Obama taken the bull by the horns and led the march toward health care reform, we would have had a less cluttered and compromised bill. HOWEVER it is nothing short of an historical accomplishment that Obama was able to get this major legislation passed in the aftermath of the mess left to him by Bush, and the irrationally contentious legislature.
After 100 years of trying, including strong efforts by Republican Presidents Teddy Roosevelt and Richard Nixon and others, health care reform has finally come to a place where legislation is near. There is no celebrating. We leave the celebrations and slander to the extremes of the political spectrum. But there is more hope today than there was a short while back. This is a tribute to President Obama. His strength and will withstood a scandalous onslaught of lies, deceptions, threats, lobbying, scandal, and organized mayhem by right-wing demagogues. The huge corporations that poured hundreds of millions of dollars into lobbying against health care reform underestimated the intelligence, will, and principle of the current president. He was not as easily defeated as were all the past presidents who tried and failed at health care reform. President Barack Obama, I salute you.
OK, we get it. The right-wing in American politics was opposed to the health care reform bill. They have been good little puppets for big corporations who realize ungodly profits off the backs of sick people or those who try to protect themselves from sickness. But enough is enough.
The United States has a history and tradition of hearty debate on issues. There was spirited debate that came forth from the right-wing of William F. Buckley, Barry Goldwater, and other conservatives prior to the administration of Ronald Reagan. Since then, however, things have become decidedly more contentious, immature, violent, and very threatening to the fabric of our democracy. Debate has been replaced by in-your-face negativity that includes lies, deceptions, insinuations, polarization, and now even violence.
There seems to have developed a dedication by some people to labeling persons who sexually abuse children or adults as "sexual predators." While this labeling is thought by some to weigh down such people with a label that will forever keep them from integrating back into society, others almost take delight in attaching the word "predator" to them forever. That also means in some states that you are tracked for the rest of your life, limiting where you may live and making sure that your past abuse is forever known to as many people as possible. This blog post is not about how this abuse should be enforced.
AT LONG LAST the sex abuse and pedophilia so rampant in the Roman Catholic Church for many years has been brought to light. While we pussy-footed around this widespread abuse for generations, thousands and thousands of children were terribly abused sexually by priests. The Roman Catholic Church turned a blind eye to the abuse. Priests who committed these crimes were too often simply moved to a different parish or diocese. Yes, bishops and archbishops knew of the abuse. Yes, they treated this abuse very differently when perpetrated by priests than done by other members of society.
As you may know, all during the George W. Bush administration the White House never missed an opportunity to provide his buddies in the military-industrial empire with a hand-out. And to see that they got plenty, he provided the war in Iraq. Of course he lied to get us to invade, but no matter, the corporations got their money and contracts [or some did not even need contracts].
So, George Bush, who escaped going to Vietnam because his father pulled strings, sent hundreds of thousands of American men and women to fight a war of his making in Iraq. Testimony in Britain by Members of Parliament and staff people close to Prime Minister Tony Blair, have testified that Bush had


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Pasta Serve Bowl
Winterberry is the holiday classic that brings this timeless motif to life in elegantly sculpted dinnerware & serveware, beautiful glassware and joyous giftware. A hearty bowl that will feed a hungry crowd mounds of spaghetti, but don't limit it to just serving pasta. This bowl is perfect for crisp garden salads, potato salad, or stuffing! Makes a great punch bowl too! Dishwasher and microwave safe. Pasta Serve Bowl measures 10-1/4 inch diameter and holds 96 ounces.
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Rated 5 out of 5 by 1 reviewer.
Rated 5 out of 5 by silla Perfect for serving anything that requires a 3 quart bowl I love the Winterberry pattern. While this is called a Pasta Bowl, it is the only 3 quart serving bowl in this pattern that I could find. I think Pfaltzgraff would do well to offer more traditional type serving bowls, but this one is awesome December 11, 2013
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I worked at Ombudsman Educational Services
Pros – Lessons are computer based making it efficient to teach several grades at the same session.
Cons – Lack of teacher computers made it difficult to complete work. Lack of privacy made it difficult to have confidential conversations with staff, students, and guardians.
Advice to Senior Management – Treat your teachers as if they matter.
1 person found this helpful
I have been working at Ombudsman Educational Services full-time for more than 5 years
2 people found this helpful
I have been working at Ombudsman Educational Services full-time for more than 5 years
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Lunch Box Notes
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Uses Recycled Items: No
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- Recollections™ Scrapbook Pad - All Girl
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1. Will Auburn target the NFL again in its search for an offensive coordinator?
2. Will Muschamp: "The SEC is different because of the defensive lines."
3. Was the 2011 Alabama defense the best unit in school history?
4. A new, golden age for the Crimson Tide?
5. Six Alabama players are headed to the Senior Bowl but due to injuries, only half of them may see any action.
6. With 13 starters returning, LSU looks good heading into 2012. Eight of 12 games in Tiger Stadium. Non-conference schedule features North Texas, Washington, Idaho, and Towson.
7. Kentucky 65 -Tennessee 62. Wildcats rally from eight-point second-half deficit.
8. Tennessee freshman Jarnell Stokes impresses in his debut. "He looks like a Kentucky player."
9. John Calipari:"I am so impressed with what Coach [Cuonzo] Martin has done."
10. Auburn 69 – Ole Miss 68. Tigers win in double-overtime. "At least 20 of the Tigers' 46 missed shots were either layups or uncontested looks from within five feet of the basket."
11. Rebels just 9-for-28 from the field.
12. Mississippi State 56 – Alabama 52. Dee Bost gets hot late and Bulldogs pull away. MSU 0-14 beyond the arc before late surge.
13. Vanderbilt 77 – Georgia 66. Difference at the free-throw line: Commodores hit 30 of 44 free throws. Georgia makes 16-of-20.
14. Arkansas 69 – LSU 60. Freshman BJ Young scores 19 off the bench as the Razorbacks remain undefeated at home.
15. Razorbacks QB Brandon Mitchell will walk-on to the Arkansas basketball team.
16. Florida 79 – South Carolina 65. Gators get first road win of the season as six scorers hit double-figures.
17. After half-time ceremony honoring the Gamecocks football team, Carolina falls flat in the second half.
18. Assessing Missouri and Texas A&M as potential rivals to Kentucky: "(T)he better bet from the two new SEC schools to become a genuine UK rival is Mizzou."
19. NCAA votes down scholarship cuts but cost of living proposal goes to the next stage.
20. Tim Tebow and the Broncos need help. Tebow's unclear future.
21. Did Cam Newton just have the best NFL rookie season ever?
22. Joe Paterno's first interview since the Sandusky scandal hit.


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Industrial Pharmacy Advanced Training (IPAT)
35 participants from seven African countries – DR Congo, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda – have to date successfully completed the Advanced Industrial Pharmacy Training Programme, organized by the Kilimanjaro School of Pharmacy (KSP), St. Luke Foundation, Moshi, Tanzania. Sponsored by the global UNIDO project, the trainees were being familiarized with drug development, drug manufacturing as well as regulatory & quality compliance issues. Another 12 participants are currently enrolled in the course and will complete the training in 2012.
Coming from private pharmaceutical enterprises, medicines regulatory authorities and research entities, the trainees included staff from companies that the UNIDO project seeks to assist in their upgrading efforts. The training programme is carried out by KSP in close collaboration with renowned lecturers from Purdue and Howard University, USA. It aims at filling a void on the continent: the lack of a well educated and qualified workforce is among the key factors constraining the growth and development of a local pharmaceutical industry.
A new cycle of the course will start in August 2012. The Industrial Pharmacy Advanced Training program provides in-depth training in important aspects of drug development and manufacturing. It consists of the following 4 modules of two weeks each.
1- Drug Discovery
2- Drug Development and Regulatory and Quality Compliance
3- Drug Manufacturing Process (GMP) and API Synthesis
4- Regulatory Documents and Generic Drug Approval Submissions
UNIDO support
UNIDO will continue to support participants from private pharmaceutical enterprises, medicines regulatory authorities and universities to participate in this important training.


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An integrated plan for Nashville's future
Mayor's Office of Economic Development
Explore the Development Services One-Stop Shop
Find something to do using the Interactive Parks Finder
Download the NashVitality mobile app, Nashville's mobile application guide to a healthy, active and green lifestyle. On Apple iOS and Google Android.
Visit Nashville's Parthenon in Centennial Park
Streaming on Metro3
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September 23, 2013
Officers paid through a Governor's Highway Safety Office grant charged 16 persons with DUI last weekend in the police department's continuing DUI initiative using extra duty officers. These officers target impaired drivers Friday and Saturday from 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. and Sunday from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. in areas with a propensity for fatal crashes, crime and DUI arrests.
Additionally, the DUI Unit charged 24 persons last week with driving under the influence.
Enhanced visibility on Nashville's roadways and zero tolerance for impaired drivers are the cornerstones of the police department's DUI initiative.
So far this year, extra duty officers working under the grant have arrested 533 suspected drunk drivers. The DUI Unit has arrested 1,031 suspected drunk drivers.
© 2014 Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, Tennessee


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Tuesday, March 6th, 2007 Stories in The Daily Standard
Online Local News Stories
A Celina couple have been indicted in connection with a May 2005 fire that heavily damaged Richardson's Floors and More, a business they owned and operated. David W. Sloan, 27, and Druscilla R. Sloan, 30, both of 404 W. Market . . .
BURKETTSVILLE - Village council members are unsatisfied with how long it took a local contractor to clear the village streets and alleys during the recent blizzard. At the regular council meeting Monday night, council members d . . .
Print Edition Only News Stories
• Employees to get driving, other training
• Council gets updates on well fields, bag/tag trash system
• Big honors for Celina duo
• New Knoxville takes top MAC awards
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Wednesday, April 23


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6113 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ | Directions 8525033.527026 -111.924544
Neighborhoods: South Scottsdale
Chew your "prime" meat for 30 minutes and get substandard service. I wouldn't eat here again IF MY LIFE DEPENDED ON IT!
All I can say is....... – Yum!!!!
Roomy banquettes and hefty portions typify this polished American grill that's popular for business deals and special occasions. – In Short
Burnished brass and stained wood complement roughly mortared brick and the occasional plant. Amid ubiquitous earth tones, corporate types and small parties (celebrating or simply living large) occupy deep booths done up in fine upholstery and lit from above by pin spotlights. Burgers, prime rib and steaks are the specialties of the house, but the menu also includes salmon, salads, pork chops and roasted chicken.
AAA+++ Service as usual – You can ALWAYS count on superb service when you choose Houstons, Great food, freindly service, wonderful atmosphere, you just can't go wrong.
Great place to meet up with friends for lunch, or just a nice quite dinner. Save room for dessert!
Go hungry, and go early, as this place is awlays busy!!
We went to Houston's for lunch today. Everyone in our group loved it. We started off with the spinach &
artichoke dip and it was awsome. Best Food,and Service, we would recommend this restaurant to anyone.
Arctic Charr to Die For... – My spouse and I had the most wonderful Arctic Charr here....REALLY delightful. We ate that as the appetizer (shared) and each had our own Filet Mignon as entree. Fantastic food and fantastic service.
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...make that the worst environmental disaster in US history.
Despite being in the gulf (and quite huge), Ixtoc 1 was in the Yucatan, more than 500 miles from from US shores. It's impact on US estuaries was far less due to to both dilution and the two months of warning in which there was time to form and implement a mitigation plan. This blunted the environmental effects in the US considerably. Although the damage in Texas was still significant, it's was not nearly what is now expected in LA/MI/AL (no matter what measures are taken.) The barrier islands protecting the TX coast are much more substantial & continous than those in LA/MI too- it was simply easier to protect.
As a single-event type of environmental disaster, it's hard to think of any past incidents in the US that will have the kind of impact that this oil spill will. Killing the grasses that hold the barrier islands together will leave the the inner coastal marshlands set up for the 1-2 punch on gulf storms in years to come. If the coral reefs in FL are impacted things could get very dicey in the Keys over the next few decades too. The Florida Keys are much closer to this spill than Texas is to Ixpoc-I. This party is just getting started.


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1 Bedroom
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Pricing From $190 Per Night
Sleeps 4
Gatlinburg Dream is a one bedroom, one bath cabin nestled in the woods on 2/3 of an acre. You will find this smoke-free luxury cabin clean and tastefully furnished throughout. The all-wood interior and stacked stone gas fireplace gives this true log cabin a warm, cozy feel - the perfect place to get away from it all.
After a fun-filled day -- whether hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, outlet shopping in Pigeon Forge, or enjoying the many attractions of Gatlinburg -- relax on the deck in one of the rocking chairs taking in the view of Mt. LeConte or soak in the private hot tub on Gatlinburg Dream's covered deck.
Inside the cabin, you can play some darts or air hockey in the loft game room, play a game, read a book, or watch a movie or satellite television on the 42" flat screen high definition LCD TV or one of the other TVs. For those that need to stay connected there is wireless internet (WiFi). If you like to cook, you'll appreciate the fully-equipped kitchen. Or why not barbecue on the charcoal grill outside. For your convenience the cabin even has a washer and dryer. The master suite includes a king bed, 37" TV with blu-ray DVD and satellite, door to the deck and a full bath containing a jetted tub with shower.
Gatlinburg Dream is conveniently located on the north side of Gatlinburg's Arts and Crafts community less than about 10 minutes or so from the Gatlinburg "strip" and around 15 minutes or so from the center of Pigeon Forge. The cabin has a flat, paved circular driveway. If mobility is a concern, you'll appreciate the fact that one small 6-inch step will get you into this luxury cabin and the master suite is located on the main level.
Enjoy your Smoky Mountain vacation while staying at Gatlinburg Dream.
Call (877) 549-6775 for Specials!


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Joe Ochoa was driving along Interstate 35 near Loop 410 on Nov. 23 when he was faced with oncoming danger.
"I noticed the Transguide sign said 'Reported wrong-way driver. Stay alert,'" says Ochoa.
That wrong-way driver was headed north in the southbound lanes, according to police. Another driver swerved to avoid hitting the oncoming car and clipped a vehicle, causing it to fly off of the overpass at Rittiman Road and I-35 and land upside down.
Moments earlier, when Ochoa saw the alert of TXDOT's Transguide sign, he says he knew what to do.
"I'd always heard that wrong-way drivers tend to stay in what they think is the slow lane, which ends up being the fast lane going the wrong way. So I pulled over to the center lane," Ochoa said.
But as the female driver headed toward Ochoa's truck- with his children in the backseat- she changed lanes.
"I slammed on the brakes and got up against the wall and she came within an inch of the truck," he said. "If we would've had the same height mirrors they would've definitely slapped."
According to TXDOT, there were 185 reports of wrong-way drivers in 2011, but TXDOT says the San Antonio Police Department received 358 calls to 911 reporting wrong-way drivers during 2011.
TXDOT created a task force that same year to address the issue and later implemented the use of flashing signs to alert drivers who might be entering the highway going the wrong way.
After such a close call, Ochoa made a personal call to thank TXDOT.
"They remarked that that's probably the first time they ever got a compliment as opposed to 'why wasn't this updated quicker?' Ochoa recalls. "They were pretty pleased as I was, too, for my family's sake."
For a list of recent stories Myra Arthur has done, click here.


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« Knobler On Braves, Peavy, Holliday | Main | Padres Willing To Trade Kouzmanoff? »
Giants Not Dangling Cain, Not Interested In Holliday
Henry Schulman of the San Francisco Chronicle provides an update on a few Giants rumors.
- Schulman's "very high-level" Giants source says Matt Cain is not being dangled, contrary to an earlier rumor.
- Schulman agrees with Juan C. Rodriguez's report that the Giants have asked the Marlins about Dan Uggla.
- Schulman believes the Giants are talking to the Nationals about Nick Johnson. However, his source said the team has no interest in Matt Holliday. Much has been made of Holliday's slow start, but keep in mind he's hitting .296/.406/.494 in May.
Full Story | Comments (44) | Categories: Dan Uggla | Matt Cain | Matt Holliday | Miami Marlins | Nick Johnson | Oakland Athletics | San Francisco Giants | Washington Nationals
Astros To Promote George Springer Padres Extend Jedd Gyorko Athletics Designate Sam Fuld For Assignment Rangers Acquire Hector Noesi Cardinals Extend John Mozeliak Red Sox Sign Ryan Roberts Astros Outright Chia-Jen Lo Rays Extend Yunel Escobar Pirates Extend Neal Huntington, Clint Hurdle Mariners Designate Hector Noesi For Assignment Diamondbacks Claim Roger Kieschnick Indians Extend Jason Kipnis Rays Extend Chris Archer Blue Jays Sign Juan Francisco Indians Extend Yan Gomes Rangers Designate Adam Rosales For Assignment Athletics Designate Michael Taylor For Assignment Red Sox Release Francisco Cordero Royals Release Ramon Hernandez Scott Diamond Accepts Outright Assignment Angels Extend Mike Trout Phillies Acquire Jayson Nix From Rays Yankees Sign Alfredo Aceves
Out Of Options 2014 2014 Top 50 Free Agents With Predictions 2014 MLB Free Agent Tracker 2014 MLB Free Agent List 2015 MLB Free Agent List Non-Tender Candidates Projected Arbitration Salaries For 2014 Free Agent Prediction Contest Leaderboard Transaction Tracker DFA Tracker Agency Database MLBTR iPad/iPhone App MLBTR Android App Interviews Hot Stove Glossary MLBTR On Facebook MLBTR On Twitter MLBTR Mobile MLBTR On Kindle Team Twitter/RSS Feeds Team Facebook Pages
AL Notes: Nunez, Vizquel, Cousins, A's AL Notes: Defensive Value, White Sox, Astros, Fuld NL Notes: Hamels, Morse, Diamondbacks, Walker Kole Calhoun To Miss Four To Six Weeks Minor Moves: Giants Release Dontrelle Willis Padres Notes: Gyorko, Headley, Cashner Rangers Outright Daniel McCutchen Athletics Claim Marcus Walden Off Waivers From Blue Jays Mets Outright Lannan, Promote Matsuzaka AL West Notes: Astros, Franklin, Walker, Reddick Morales Rejected $30MM Extension Last Summer Astros To Promote George Springer Astros To Designate Lucas Harrell For Assignment Minor Moves: Scott Cousins NL Notes: Johnson, Cubs, Bradley
How Clubs Determine Pre-Arbitration Salaries Another Bite At The Apple: Opt-Out Clauses In MLB Scouting Masahiro Tanaka Free Agent Contract Trends: 2007-08 To Present Minor League Free Agents Finding Major League Deals Peralta, PED Incentives, And The Next JDA Future Salary Obligations In Context Players Reflect On Arbitration Hearings Why I Chose My Agency Series Arbitration Breakdown
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An exceptional product manager to join our team with a focus on our mobile and tablet offerings. You will work with the product, engineering and design teams to create world-class mobile experiences that enhance the way users enjoy sports.4/15/2014 New York, NY Save This Job
Location: Emeryville Supervisor: Eric Scharin, Director, Engineering Department: Operations - Engineering POSITION SUMMARY This employee is responsible for planning and execution of process engineering; equipment specification, procurement, and qualification; and process2/23/2014 Emeryville, CA Save This Job
Gazzang is an emerging leader in Cloud Data Security and we are looking for a talented product lead to aggressively expand our product portfolio.4/10/2014 Austin, TX Save This Job
We are looking for an experienced Product Manager to join our rapidly growing team to lead live operations and build high-quality new features for a top mobile game.San Francisco, CA Save This Job
The Player Experience Manager is responsible for developing and managing the team responsible for supporting and nurturing a community of players of GREE games. The individual will have a passion for player satisfaction and retention.San Francisco, CA Save This Job
Technical Project Manager Zoosk is a leading online dating company that learns from your behaviors and we're looking for an awesome Technical Project Manager to help manage feature development from initiation to release across multiple groups. A Bit About You: You love to create4/10/2014 San Francisco, CA Save This Job
Zoosk is a leading online dating company that learns as you click and we're looking for an awesome Product Manager to help drive the creation of new features for the millions of users who use our product. A Bit About You: You read about start-ups because you want to know how3/11/2014 San Francisco, CA Save This Job
Marketing Manager ? Facebook International Specialist Zoosk seeks an enthusiastic and experienced direct-response marketer to lead the company?s customer acquisition initiatives on Facebook internationally. The primary focus of the Marketing Manager ? Facebook International4/10/2014 San Francisco, CA Save This Job
Zoosk is a leading online dating company that learns from your behaviors and we're looking for an awesome Product Manager to help drive the creation of new features for the millions of users who use our product. A Bit About You: You read about start-ups because you want to know3/11/2014 San Francisco, CA Save This Job
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Marketing Manager? France Specialist - Native language skills required Zoosk seeks a France country specialist with experience in online marketing and consumer web businesses, specifically to help expand the company?s customer acquisition initiatives in those countries. The4/10/2014 San Francisco, CA Save This Job
Zoosk is a leading online dating company that learns from your behaviors and we're looking for an awesome Product Manager to help drive the creation of new features for the millions of users who use our product. A Bit About You: You read about start-ups because you want to know3/11/2014 San Francisco, CA Save This Job
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REQUISITION #: AO7322 Technical Support Manager SUMMARY OF JOB FUNCTION: AOptix is looking for a highly motivated and experienced technical support manager with strong wireless technical background to join the AOptix team. As a technical support manager you will possess the4/24/2014 Campbell, CA Save This Job
The CMOS Engineering Manager will be responsible for building and leading Analog Design teams through the development of precision timing circuits, leveraging SiTime?s industry-leading MEMS technology, that span high-performance Networking and Communications Infrastructure market4/18/2014 Sunnyvale, CA Save This Job
Job Type:Full time, exempt Location:Lisle, IL Position Summary The Program Manager plays a key role in managing a variety of internal and external resources involved in the company?s indoor and outdoor distributed antenna system (DAS) deployments. Core responsibilities of this4/18/2014 Lisle, IL Save This Job
DESCRIPTION Process Engineering Manager Pittsburgh, Pa The Process Engineering Manager Position forms part of the Westmoreland manufacturing team but will work closely in cross-functional teams such as Engineering and Technical Operations. The primary responsibilities will3/24/2014 Mt. Pleasant, PA Save This Job
Senior Product Manager, Platform - Imperva, Inc. - Redwood Shores, CA Imperva is looking for a stellar Senior Product Manager, Platform to join the Product Management team, located at corporate HQ in Redwood Shores, CA. Imperva, pioneering the third pillar of enterprise3/19/2014 Redwood City, CA Save This Job
Job Description The Manager of Hardware Systems is a key member of the engineering management team and helps develop the vision, direction and architecture of the systems used at Audience. This role has responsibility for the productivity and effectiveness of the hardware3/19/2014 Mountain View, CA Save This Job


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For our first new Ask A Silly Question interview in six (six!) years, we called up fast-rising singer Kyla La Grange to chat about mock duck, running - on tracks and away from home - and her "miserable" debut album, Ashes (out 30 July).
Hello Kyla, how are you?
I'm good, thanks. We're in Carlisle on our way to a radio session in Glasgow and we just bought some macaroni pies, so we feel pretty disgusting.
What is the best thing you can cook?
It's called Mock Duck. It's fake duck. It sounds horrible, but it's really, really nice.
What makes up the fake duck bit?
It's fried gluten, which comes in a tin. But I make it with a really nice sauce and stir fry veg. The sauce is really the good bit.


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United Electrical News
sold by: Royal Military Chronicle
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an original editorial cartoon depicting the "Rip Off Medical Centre" where people are allowed to bid on the purchase of human organs and transplant operations
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All is not well in the e-book market. Amazon and Google have each scaled back some e-book programs in the past week because business was weaker than expected. Both e-book sellers are having trouble doing business with publishers.
Amazon has pulled more than 4,000 books from its e-shelves after publishers wouldn't budge for lower prices. Google is cutting off partners in its e-book affiliates program because sales referrals are too low to be worthwhile.
What's going on here? E-book sales passed print in all trade categories last year, and e-book library lending is huge, but print still brings in more revenue for publishers. The problem is that consumers expect e-books to be cheaper, so publishers can't charge as much for them as they might like. In other words, it's a problem of business models, not of demand.
Meanwhile, Amazon's profits are sagging, and Google Books trails far behind in terms of sales. They're both getting tired of the middlemen, i.e. the publishers., and the squeeze they put on e-book sales.
Amazon is not shy about its efforts to get authors comfortable with self-publishing of e-books. Meanwhile, when publishing houses can't meet its price expectations, Amazon pulls the plug on their books. Google's affiliate program for e-books gave partners a better deal than Amazon's affiliate links, but it's cutting off the partners who can't perform.
The author and the reader are hamstrung by the presence of not just one but two middlemen. Something's got to give.
Inevitably, it will. It will be the publishers.
It's getting amazingly easy for authors to publish their own books, and Amazon, Apple and Google are all working on ways to let authors expand the idea of the e-book itself. Amazon is poised for a big Kindle push in Brazil. There's no question that the future of the book business is in the hands of these tech companies, not the publishers who can't keep up.
See also: Books Continue to Evolve - Check Out E.O. Wilson's 'Life on Earth' iBook
UPDATE 7:44 p.m.: RWW tipster Porter Anderson just passed along the news that Google has changed its mind and will now reinstate its independent affiliate publishers:
From Publishers Weekly:
"After notifying some independent bookseller Google eBook affiliates late last week that they will be removed from the program as of March 15 and their links deactivated, Google is now working to reinstate all indie affiliates. A Google spokesperson told PW that the company expects to add back those affected soon. She suggests that booksellers who sent e-mails but haven't heard back yet recontact Google."
Once we figure out why Google changed its tune, we'll let you know.
Do you read e-books? Which store(s) and device(s) do you use?


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COUP 15th Anniversary Marathon 03/24/13
What's happening the other 51 weekends of the year? Organize some gatherings, find a club and keep in touch with all those new friends you made at Animazement!
Moderators: Macross-Junkie, Katharine
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COUP 15th Anniversary Marathon 03/24/13
Howdy, gang. The Carolina Otaku Uprising, UNC's anime club, was founded in the fall of 1997 and really got rolling with regular scheduled meetings in the spring of 1998, so we're celebrating the club's 15th anniversary with an all day anime
marathon on Sunday, March 24th, from Noon to 8pm in Hamilton 100.
Here's the schedule:
12:00pm - Blazing Transfer Student
12:50pm - Prefectural Earth Defense Force
1:40pm - Assemble Insert
2:40pm - Flying Ghost Ship
3:40pm - Break
4:00pm - Otaku no Video 1
4:50pm - Here is Greenwood 1
5:20pm - Giant Robo 1
6:20pm - Castle of Cagliostro
8:00pm - Marathon ends and we start arguing about where to go get dinner
These are absolute favorites from the early days of the club, most of which are self contained and all of which are awesome. Most of these shows were screened at the club's 5th anniversary Re-Education marathon, to ensure ideological correctness among the otaku; now, a decade and two Five Year Plans later, it is time for all members of the Carolina Otaku Uprising to reacquaint themselves with the classics. We hope you can join us!
So, again: COUP 15th Anniversary Marathon, all killer, no filler, Sunday March 24th from Noon to 8pm in Hamilton 100. (If you're not not familiar with UNC's campus, drop me a PM and I can help give directions.) Be there! Drag your friends along! Party! Join us! Allegiance or death!
I'm not sure what's going on here, but have you watched any of these Japaheeno guns-and-hooters cartoon movies?
Re: COUP 15th Anniversary Marathon 03/24/13
Hey Phil, what format are you showing Blazing Transfer Student and Prefectural Earth Defense Force on? Been trying to track down commercial copies for years. Also, you wouldn't happen to have a lead on Ultimate Teacher on LD or VHS, there's a guy on eBay asking way to much for it, but it's the only one I've seen...
"Which side are we on? We're on the side of the demons, Chief. We are evil men in the gardens of paradise, sent by the forces of death to spread devastation and destruction where ever we go. I'm surprised you didn't know that."
- Col. Tigh / Battlestar Galactica
Re: COUP 15th Anniversary Marathon 03/24/13
Blazing Transfer Student never received a US release of any sort and hasn't been released in Japan since the VHS/LD days. Thankfully I was able to find a good digital source of both episodes and won't have to resort to digitizing my own LD copies.
PEDF had a US release courtesy of the ADV, but good luck finding a copy. Thankfully, I have the US DVD edition on hand, but we may wind up going with an earlier fansubbed DVD I have if only due to translation preference.
Ultimate Teacher is awesome and all, but that guy ain't getting two hundred bucks for it, that's for damn sure. I'll keep an eye out for ya.
I'm not sure what's going on here, but have you watched any of these Japaheeno guns-and-hooters cartoon movies?
Re: COUP 15th Anniversary Marathon 03/24/13
You're old.
Re: COUP 15th Anniversary Marathon 03/24/13
Yes, yes I am. Now, stop sassing back to me, young whippersnapper, or I'll tan your hide with this here boken.
I'm not sure what's going on here, but have you watched any of these Japaheeno guns-and-hooters cartoon movies?
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Quotations from CEO CookDecember 7, 2012: 7:15 AM ET
Excerpts from Tim Cook's Bloomberg Businessweek interview
FORTUNE -- We always knew that Steve Jobs was going to be a tough act to follow, so I suppose his successor should be forgiven if he came across in his NBC and Bloomberg Q&As Thursday as painfully sincere and even a little schmaltzy -- something the more cynical Jobs always managed to avoid.
The big PR coup in both interviews, of course, was the news that Apple (AAPL) is bringing some -- but not much -- of its manufacturing work back to the U.S. Cook also gave Bloomberg's Josh Tyrangiel a better explanation for why Scott Forstall had to go, and some of the detail in his description of Jobs' parting words struck me as new.
As for the rest, here are the quotes that stuck out for me:
I despise politics. There is no room for it in a company. My life is going to be way too short to deal with that.
The DNA of the company, the thing that makes our heart beat, is a maniacal focus on making the best products in the world.
If you think about Android, it's more like the Windows PC model. The operating system comes from company A. Company B is doing some integration work, and maybe the services come from yet somewhere else. I think we know the kind of customer experience that produces.
Look at netbooks. Many people thought netbooks were the coolest thing ever. Many companies hyped them. In fact, the sales boomed, and then what happened? They crashed, because they were awful! They were flimsy products with crappy, cramped keyboards. They were underpowered. They were just awful.
We will only do a few things. And we'll only do things where we can make a significant contribution. I don't mean financially. I mean some significant contribution to the society at large.
Eighty percent of our revenues are from products that didn't exist 60 days ago. Is there any other company that would do that?
The full interview: Tim Cook's freshman year at Apple


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Where's Towson's best elementary school?
Patch is relaunching its Readers' Choice program and we're asking you, your friends, family, neighbors, coworkers and anyone else to vote for the best spots in Towson Patch.
Here are your nominees:
Voting starts July 23 and ends at 11:59 p.m. on Aug. 17. Winners will be announced on Aug. 23.
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Classic Cruising
Collectible-car fever is catching on across the country—from Detroit's Woodward Dream Cruise to California's Concours d'Elegance—with action for buyers, sellers, drivers and gawkers
Paul A. Eisenstein
From the Print Edition:
Michael Jordan, July/August 2005
About this time on a midsummer day in Detroit, Bob Stephenson and his family would normally be found tossing some hamburgers and steaks onto the backyard barbecue. Instead, this warm Tuesday evening, they're stretched out on a blanket along Woodward Avenue, passing around sandwiches and snacks as traffic races by, close enough to smell the exhaust. As the bright August sun slowly sets, the scene, just with different characters, repeats itself all along the sprawling, eight-lane suburban boulevard.
The last of the day's commuters are rushing home, but, imperceptibly at first, traffic begins to pick up again. Were you to wander through town on this particular evening, you'd undoubtedly wonder why so many spectators have come to line up along Detroit's major corridor. Then again, you might notice that the minivans, pickups and sport-utes that suburban drivers tend to favor these days are suddenly in the minority, the cars taking their place making you feel as if you'd taken an unexpected detour into the automotive past lane.
A deafening screech rolls in on the warm breeze. "Man, did you see him move?" blurts out Stephenson, when a classic, ticket-me-red Pontiac GTO leaves a patch of rubber as the light goes green at the 13 Mile Road intersection. But the suburban Detroit machinist's son has his eyes on a Mustang Cobra GT350 slowly cruising down Woodward, with a pair of fuzzy red dice dangling from its rearview mirror. On the other side of the grassy median, a Little Deuce Coupe (a 1932 Model B Ford like the one that inspired the Beach Boys song of the same name) rolls by. The hot rod's engine compartment yawns wide, revealing a maze of brightly chromed pipes and machinery, burbling menacingly. "We'll be out here every night this week," Stephenson says with a broad smile, the family nodding in agreement. And so will more and more folks each night this week. They'll pack tighter and tighter along the boulevard until the automotive orgy reaches its climax over the weekend, with the official Woodward Dream Cruise.
August 20 will mark the 11th anniversary of what has become the biggest classic car event in the United States. Somewhere north of a million people will line every available inch of grass, sidewalk and parking lot along a 16-mile stretch of the big boulevard for a chance to relive the golden era of American muscle. Oh, there'll be a few Porsches and Nissan Zs, along with some modern sedans and SUVs slowly rolling along for the ride, but after a monthlong buildup, the Saturday extravaganza will be dominated by more than 40,000 muscle cars, hot rods and other automotive antiques.
The raw numbers will be somewhat smaller on the other side of the country that weekend, but the passion will be equally intense. It would be hard for anyone anywhere along the Monterey coast to miss the sound of thunder and fury echoing from the Laguna Seca racetrack, which straddles the hillsides a few miles inland from chichi Carmel. Few opportunities exist to see a 1903 Stanley Steamer Turtle, which some claim is the world's oldest race car, or a recent-vintage Formula One Ferrari—as well as some of the racers, like Phil Hill and Stirling Moss, who steered them to victory. Yet here the crowds can spend three days watching them in action.
The Monterey Historic Races are just one in a weeklong series of classic motoring events all over the peninsula, building to an elegant finale on Sunday. For one day each year, the 18th hole at Pebble Beach is transformed into the world's most expensive used car lot. Some of the nation's most avid—and wealthy—motoring hobbyists spend all year working and waiting for this day. Celebrity gawkers will be richly rewarded, as big names like Jay Leno, Jerry Seinfeld and Ralph Lauren vie with lesser-known, if equally avid collectors. It's not uncommon for collectors to invest $5 million to ready the rare Bugatti or Duesenberg for the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. The event prides itself on attracting only the most unusual, exclusive, even historic vehicles, often for their first showing in decades. But only one will take home Best of Show from this, the automotive equivalent of the Academy Awards.
Unless they're lucky enough to have access to a private jet, automotive aficionados have to choose which side of the country they'll be on that weekend. But even gearheads who can't make it to Pebble Beach or Detroit have plenty of other options. The number of classic car shows, cruises and auctions has steadily grown each year, along with the number of American collectors. Check the online calendar at www.hemmingsmotornews.com, the bible of classic motor fans, and you'll likely find at least one event every single day, even in the middle of winter. There's something for absolutely every taste and fancy. The annual "orphan" show in Ypsilanti, Michigan, for example, targets the unusually avid fans of oddball, out-of-production nameplates, like Rambler, Willys and Kaiser. And it's staged at what claims to be the nation's only remaining Hudson showroom.
"I've got two. I've got two. Who'll give me 210...210...210...now 220?" The chant is hypnotic—and effective, the audience responding with increasing fervor. Bidders hoist paddles, raise their hands, tap their foreheads or give other subtle signs that send the figure on the video tote board jumping up $10,000 at a time.
The object of desire is a red-and-cream 1938 Lincoln Zephyr V-12 street rod, one of the more eagerly awaited cars to roll across the stage at a recent Barrett-Jackson Classic Car Auction in Scottsdale, Arizona. Approaching its 35th anniversary, the five-day event is "more than an auction. It's a massive happening," laughs the legendary writer Brock Yates, who has anchored what regularly proves to be one of the most popular shows on the motor sports network, The Speed Channel, which carries a good portion of the auction's action. Craig Jackson, the auction's boyish ringmaster and son of one of its founders, has created a county-fair-cum-car-show. Booths hawk everything from car parts to car art—as well as chiropractors and massage shoes. You might need the latter if you expect to cover all the acreage.
The cars are still the stars. And, perhaps aptly, prices have gone into orbit. At the January 2005 auction, one bidder spent $3,240,000 for a 1954 Oldsmobile F-88 General Motors concept car (a figure that includes additional bidder's fees). And the Barrett-Jackson is by no means unique. A Duesenberg drew $2.7 million on RM Auctions' block early this year, while that same auction house dropped the gavel on a $1.76 million bid for a 1950 Ferrari 166 MM Barchetta during an event coinciding with the Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance. The Florida gathering marks the semiofficial opening of the annual auto collector season.
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text:
Good Morning Warriors!
I will be heading to the gym today and then back home to get some of this homework done; I'm feeling overwhelmed. Was happy with the super bowl outcome!! My meals and workouts are semi planned for this week. I have a friend taking me out for lunch on Thursday, and I don't know where we will go yet.
Parson: I am glad you enjoyed your super bowl party with the family; that's the best place to watch the game!! I am sure being a pastor can be extremely draining, which is all the more reason to take care of yourself. You spend so much time taking care of your family and the parishioners that you NEED to make time for YOU! I can only imagine how you are going to feel tomorrow if you are already hurting lol. As far as my foods....I have my daily calorie allotment set to 1,300, even though the site has me at 1,200. I almost always hit that or go over. For the past few weeks, I have dropped the calories and have been trying to change up my foods....focusing more on the calories in/calories out theory. When I was trying to cut back on animal protein and incorporate more plant protein, it didn't make a dent in my weight loss, even though my calories were lower. All those carbs, nut, seeds, etc....caused me to bloat and retain fluid. This week, I am going to focus on getting my diet closer to where it was before......Minimal animal proteins (chicken, fish & eggs), as well as an occasional greek yogurt.
FYI: I got the CT scan report from my doctor. They are still trying to get a true measurement on my liver. But, I was surprised to find that I have an umbilical hernia that no-one bothered to tell me about....lol. At least I can live with that.
Alright Warriors, let's make it a great week!!!
"The only person you should try to be better than, is the person you were yesterday!"
Hey Warriors-
Well..lets just say the Bay Area folks are not the happiest campers around, So bummed with the outcome. I am really competitive and the Superbowl loss was not an easy one to lose.
I'n now on C1 W2. Yep. Up two pounds with yesterday being my free day.Grr. Too much red wine, and with my cold, my sleep was horrible , so I misssed my cardio workout and I am discouraged . I may get on my bike, but I just feel YUCK.
I SURE hope this is not a Sinus Infection. I am drinking H2O like crazy and hope sleep better this evening.
This week I have realized how afraid I am to let go of my foods. I get so impatient and want instant results. I need to visualize and dream of how good and fit I will feel in April.
BD: Nice to hear from you. Must be challenging to study, be a full time Mom, wife and to take care and eat really clean and healthy. Sounds like the Bday celebration is continuing. Your a special gal of course everyone wants to take you out.
How about a Mani/Pedi date instead?
Hang in there while you wait for the CT scan. Wow that must be tough. I am not sure of your history, but I know you have faith and trust that this will all be okay.
Parson: Hello. Where are you a Pastor?
Okay back to cleaning . My twin girls have Spirit week at school for 8th grade. It is like Homecoming so its super messy and busy making costumes in this house. I am also transitioning to working 5 days a week. Whew.
It's all good.
Whats everyones week look like?
As BD says..Lets Make it a great week.
Wow, it sure is quiet around here lately!!! I will be leaving for the gym in a bit. I'm going to try to get some suana time in as well. After school will be busy with kids' activities. My classes are keeping me busy this week too! Food is pretty good. My husband brought home a box of chocolates yesterday that a client gave to him. UGH, let's just say chocolate is definately my downfall. I just can't have it in the house. It haunts me until it is gone....lol. One piece made it on MFP journal; the other did not...it was late when I caved.
NGU: Sorry about the game. Bummer for you. I actually wanted to see the Ravens win this one. I hope you are feeling better today. Take it easy and don't overdo it. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day and neither is the perfect body. If it were easy, we'd all be in fabulous shape. Don't let the food control your thoughts. Know that you can have those foods in moderation; don't deprive yourself. If you need to take free days for awhile, do! Eat those foods you miss on that day and then keep it clean the rest of the week. This friend of mine is an ex-boyfriend's mom that I stay in touch with.....always liked her, even when I didn't like him (ha). She is, however, 80 years old and doesn't get into the mani/pedi thing. She likes to go out to eat, so that's what we'll do. The CT scan came back normal, overall. I'm just waiting for some specifics. Not too worried! Sounds like you are busy. Try to take care of YOUrself!
Have a great day, Warriors!!
Happy Humpday. Where is everyone? Have to make it quick. Just got off work. Ran home to change, un-pack groceries, arrange flowers and finish a sheep costume for one of my twin girls. This week is one of those 'Oh my goodness week " will I survive. My twins have spirit week in Jr High and have a different costume each day. My hubby and I are serving dinner to 200 high schoolers at our church this evening ...and tomorrow hosting a Baby shower for my co- worker after work. . Can you say NUTS. Friday is insane also.
I spent a bit more on the sweet treats. I got in trouble baking last week for a funeral, not this week. So what if it is not
homemade, OVER IT.
Did MY cardio this a,m and food is super clean today. YIPEE.
BD..where are those chocolates now? Some times chocolate has voices, chips for me.
Okay wish me luck not to get tempted at the shower. Its hard when I am on andrenaline. (SP?? ) There will be veges there too tomorrow.
Bye for now,
Morning Warriors!
WO is done. It was tough this morning. I had to grind out the last half of it. Such is life at times I guess LOL!
Crazy busy this week with work and everything else.
NGU - I pastor a small church in southeast Georgia about an hour from Savannah. It is a Pentecostal church in a small rural town of about 5000 people. We absolutely love it with all of it's challenges...joys and sorrows! Cuervo and I are good friends for many years and we worked together at a couple of engineering companies when I lived in the metro Atlanta area. I know at least Cuervo and myself work a couple of jobs...
If you haven't figured out yet...the warriors are pretty busy people. Between school, family, work travel, etc etc we are a good bunch of messed up people LOL! So if you are a bit crazy you will do just fine here ;-)
Have a good day Warriors! You have greatness in you!!!
Greetings Fellow Warriors, Sorry about my long absence from the site, but I had several things on my family's side up n orth to deal with and provide moral support to my brother who is ill and in the hospital up there.(prayers for him are very much appreciated, especially from Pastor Brown as well). BDMOM: Glad your tests and scans so far have come back ok. Be sure to take care of that hernia some time , I had the same type one time and it got to be the size of a quarter and was making me sick all the time on a moments notice and hurt a lot so be sure to check on getting it patched up sometime. Hope Delaney and the family are all ok at school and home and Thanks for the update on a visit from Frick. Frick: How cool you got to meet BDMOM and hubby, What a great moment and fun that must have been. Perhaps someday I will make it out west for a visit...and after the visit we can all go to Disneyworld just like the MVP of the Superbowl who visited us at the Magic Kingdom this week on Monday. Sorry Giants fans better luck next year, and don't underestimate your opponent next time. New Orleans pay your power bill next time before the game. Parsons: Sounds like a great parish you have. How are your workouts going? Our gym still hasn't calmed down just yet so I am still doing cardio mixed with machines about 5 days a week and waiting just a bit more before I start the Mens Fitness Hard BOdy program until my BFL Challenge in APril. Getting my supps lined up for the first program and second right now. I tried to get a pair of Otomix Weight lifting shoes but must wait until April because the new movie Pai(In No Gain with Mark Wahlberg and Duane Johnson feature the shoes and they are on backorder until then (Mark wears the same color and style I wanted as a backup pair for the challenge (C4) and due to prepromotion they have sold out of them right now). Islanddude: WOW, that's quite the mask, sure looks like an extreme training device. If I showed up at the gym wearing that one they might all run out of there fearing I had gone over the edge in dealing with our current overcrowding due to the New Years Resoultionists. Still it is already thinning out due to the I give up factor, injury, Super bowl itis and soon Valentines day victims. Don't anyone in this group become a victim of Holiday defeat, just jump back on that bandwagon and start again if that happens everyone!!! NGU: Welcome to our group and be sure to join in and ask for help and advice should you need any during or after a challenge. Some of us have done several challenges and have been there and back again in dealing with obstacles and problems. Cuervo: Welcome back, great to hear from you again. Those folks you asked me about are still on the forum, although I am concerned because we haven't heard from TAZ lately and pray he is doing well with his treatments at the center. Great workout week to anyone I missed this time, I carried on enough for now and have to get that gym bag ready so I can beat the Aqua Class to the pool today for my after workout swim and cooldown(ICE hot cold therapy postworkout). RunnerMom: I did offer some advice for a theme to our Annual WDW MArathon next year dealing with the Incredibles as hosts for the rope drop that weekend. (10th anniversary of that Pixar film next year);. I even suggested they contact Jay Cutler, Mr Olympia 3 times since he appears that way on Google as a possible host to start the event. We'll see if they use the idea I put forth. I am sure Pixar would love the promotion aspect and the fans would be wowed to see Jay Cutler in person as Mr Incredible. Keep Moving Forward everyone!!!!
Good Friday Morning,
My wo's have been going well when I do them not consistent enough to make any real progress. So I know what I have to work on. just have too much life happening right now. Food so so. My wo for today will be shoveling more snow. Expecting 15/25 cm today.
Glad you are doing well keep it going. You are so busy with all kinds of stuff. It's funny to me that the most active people still find time to do their wo's amongst other stuff. At some point everyone gets too busy but that's life. You are not alone on this journey although it gets quite at times here. Keep pushing you will make it. I was surprised that the Ravens came out and won thought 49's would have one. The Ravens came to play and did in the first half wow what a surprise for me. Theres always next year.
You always manage to get those wo's in no matter what. I hate when theres chocolate in the house that I can eat it's easier if there is gluten in it then I know I can't eat it and am ok with that. But if I can lookout it's gone.
Glad you were able to find your mouth in the dark and navigate your way to the kitchen. Lol. Keep grinding it'll get easier some day. You are rock solid with those wo's and PR'S.
Island, Cuervo, and all the other warriors have a great weekend !
Howdy Warriors!
Just a quick weekend check-in to say hi! I am heading to bed soon. I have a sore throat and some gunk settling in my chest; I hope it doesn't get any worse. Just gonna take it easy tomorrow. All I have to do is go to the grocery store, and do about 10 loads of laundry...ha. But, I'll rest between loads.
Claude: Are you still getting snow or has it let up. I hope you'll be able to get back into a routine soon!
WPBill: sounds like you are staying consistent with those workouts. Stinks you have to wait on your shoes. Will you be doing another official BFL challenge?
Parson: thinking of you and praying for you during your services tomorrow! Keep pushing through those workouts. Have you registered for you competition yet? Will it be in the spring or summer?
NGU: Has your life slowed down, even a little bit yet? Hope you are doing well!!!
K....I better go get ready for bed and try to fall asleep before my husband comes in and starts snoring.
Enjoy the rest of the weekend!!
Just a quick post to let everyone know I am still alive and kickin! Life has been busy for months now. I think I am back on track. I will try to post more often. You all motivate me daily. Glad to see you are all still going strong.
Later Warriors!
Happy Monday!!!
It is cold and rainy here today, and I am still fighting this cold....chest congestion, sore throat. It's not horrible, but just enough to make me feel yucky! I didn't get up to do my HIIT this morning; I felt with the chest congestion, I'd better skip it. I am taking my vehicle in for service in a bit, and then will go to the gym to do weights and the stairclimber. I then have to come home and write two papers that are due tonight. Yes, I put it off, but just didn't feel like doing it over the weekend! My meals are plugged in for the week, and I really need to focus on eating good. My workouts are never a problem, but the eating always presents challenges for me. I would really like to drop a few pounds this week!!!!
Cuervo: Good to see you popping in. That's what makes this group so unique....as busy as everyone is, they still manage to take time for themselves. Hope to see you here more. Many of us have been less active on here since we are also on MFP and that site is so much easier to navigate and is so much more user friendly. BUT, I wouldn't type all this personal stuff there, since it is more fitness rellated, and a lot of my friends on there probably wouldn't care (lol). Do you THINK you are back on track, or do you KNOW you are back on track? I know you are!!
I hope you all have a fantastic week!!! Remember to workout dirty and eat clean..that is my motto this week!!
Good morning all-
Wish I had more time to check in and chat.
All is well here, DId a boot camp with old Mommies in my old neighborhood. Fun, hard and it was chlly out. Needed a change. Boy I was out of shape. I showed up at 5 a,,m in 35 degree weather ( warm to some of you) I liked the change.
Food is clean and I have been going to bed by 8;30 to avoid the munchies.
Sipping coffee on my way to the gym for legs and then worky worky.
Natalie- So sorry you are not feeling well. Hope today is a little brighter and the congestion is gone. How did the papers go?
When are they announcing the new Winners?
Have a fabulous day all.
Winners? We're all winners here.
Glad to hear you are sticking with it NGU. Keep up the good work.
Your absolutely right.
HAPPY HUMPDAY. It's Ash Wednesday. I am sure my Mom will ask If I am going to church today.
Do any of you do Lent?
How's everyone doing? The weather is springlike here in the Bay Area and I am so excited to have a 5 day weekend ahead of me. Whoo HOO. My Pre-school gave me my birthday off and I can't wait. I am really really struggling on taking time for myself. I would like to go to the beach and just veg all by myself and just do some reflection this next weekend. It is so hard for me to state what I want and all my life I have put others first . Im 42 on Tuesday and I do not want all the celebrations to be around food. I too can't make a decision for the life of me . That is why I like the BFL program it is easy to follow. The success book is really helping.
Okay off to the gym. I really dread this week with Valentines and parties . I AM WILL CHECK IN AND COMMIT MY FOOD so I don't blow it.
Okay off to the gym.Hurry coffee, I have a lot to do today.
Happy Hump day Warriors,
Sorry I haven't been around much. Trying to get wo's in when I can. I'm usually good for mon - thurs. Weekends are a no show just too much going on. It is what it is. Food is getting better. Linda is doing the Zenical Diet with the drugs that are suppose to flush away the fat. She is supposed to eat 1300 cals per day and is finding it hard. She says she feels like she is eating all day.lol She is just like the rest of us. I told her she needs to eat every 3 hrs. from the time she gets up until she goes to bed. Right now I'm currently in the DOG HOUSE with her. I told her that pop wasn't in the plan and was not good for her. Apparrently my doctor told her 0 cal pop was ok. Then I explained to her the artificial sweetners are just plain not good for you. When I first started Body For Life there was an artical about artificial sweeteners and how much they destroy the body. If any of you have that artical tucked away somewhere could you please post it. Any how I guess she listened and deep down she knows I'm right. She will need to get over herself on this one. She will come around hopefully sooner than later. She is addicted to this stuff. I don't beleive in the weining yourself off as she has tried that and it never works so Cold Turkey it is.
Getting more snow today had some yesterday too not much just enough to make things sloppy. Using alot of windshield washer fluid. The stuff I use is good to -45 degrees doesn't freeze on the windshield.lol. It'll all melt soon another six weeks or so. Hope your feeling better maybe a sauna would help before it gets worse. We all miss wo's and we all come back for more that's the key and you know that. It's better to miss until you feel better than have your body run down.
Glad to hear from you. It's too bad about having to wait so long for those shoes. Is there not another gym that is better than the one you are at. Every wo sounds like a challenge in itself. That would drive me crazy just a bit. lol At least you aren't letting those resolutionist discourage you. Your doing great. I guess you have to develope an attitude to wo in that enviroment. I am not giving up and told Linda no chocolate for Valentines Day either. We may go out to dinner on the weekend as tomorrow I have to pickup the girl at school for 9 pm and feed her she won't have time to eat all day. She takes care of the animals from 6 am - 8am classes from 8 am - 12 then back to feed the animals 12-1 pm class 1 -5 pm 5 -7 animals class 7 - 9 pm last class is manditory so no breaks for her so she will be good and hungry. So sorry Imissed you last go round.
Glad to see you decided to drop by. I know you are addicted to this stuff so the wo's are getting done.
Glad you are getting nice weather. Happy Birthday to you. We all need to take time for ourselves time at the beach sounds good. There is nothing like being out in nature so relaxing. Glad to hear the program is working for you. 5 day weekend I wish good for you enjoy it you deserve it learn how to relax sort of. You are doing great keep up the good work it will be over before you know it and on to the next one. For lent I will give up desert that should help drop a few pounds. I have a sweet tooth so once lent is over I can continue to not have desert. What about you.
Keep Rocking your workouts Warriors
Good Humpday Warriors!!!
I am heading out to train with my trainer today; we will be doing legs! Ouch! Then, I told Brittany I'd take her to lunch today. I hope I can come hope and take a nap though. Staying up late doing homework, and then going to bed after my husband is snoring away is not working out so well!!! I feel so sleep deprived! Food has been good. I did have some chocolates yesterday (free samples at the store)...can't pass that up! Won't have much time to workout tomorrow, but will fit it in. I will do HIIT early on Friday and then won't be able to do weights; I have classes and the kids have early dismissal.
Claude: I could easily eat 1,300 calories a day!! Ha. Yes, those artificial sweeteners are terrible for you. I don't have the article you are talking about, but just google it, and I'm sure you will find many. Maybe she can try some iced tea with truvia/stevia. I didn't know they made windshield wiper fluid for temps that cold.
NGU: Happy early birthday.......you will do fine. Just make sure you are steadfast in your request not to have your birthday celebrated with food. I already told my husband NO CANDY for V-day. I have no willpower when it comes to chocolate in the house!! Maybe take some time on your days off to reserach recipes and try some new foods, or prep some food for the rest of the week. I find cooking/baking relaxing and I love to try new things. I loved my success journal; I wrote in it every single day!! I am sure they will be announcing winners soon. I think they usually do it in Feb. I am feeling better overall. Those papers went well; I have two more due this week, and just finished one, so one more to go.
K Warrior Family, make it count!!! HUGS!
© Abbott Laboratories,2013


text:
There is no joy in FarmVilleOctober 15, 2012: 7:30 AM ET
Changes in the way players play and a series of lackluster deals at Disney, Electronic Arts and Zynga has dulled enthusiasm for social gaming.
See correction below.
By Janet Morrissey, contributor
FORTUNE -- The white-hot enthusiasm for social gaming has cooled considerably. Zynga's recent woes have capped a long-gathering storm. Analysts and investors are now frantically waving cautionary red flags. They're particularly bearish on companies paying big bucks for entities that have developed the latest hit game. "A lot of media companies have been burned by investing in this space," explains Richard Greenfield, an analyst at BTIG Research.
It's not that the social gaming sector is tanking. It's that competition has intensified and enthusiasm for the latest hit among gamers can increasingly be clocked with an egg-timer rather than an old-fashioned desk calendar. "The lifespan of individual games is getting shorter and shorter and having lower and lower levels of success," says Greenfield. "People are becoming more and more fickle and transitory."
Indeed, the time it has taken the number of active users playing Zynga's (ZNGA) games to drop 50% from their peak fell to 62 days on average in 2011, down from 164 days in 2010 and 223 days in 2009, according to tracker AppData. "Games are a hit-driven business and so it's really hard to have a crystal ball and know what games are going to be successful and for how long," says Colin Sebastian, a senior research analyst at Robert W. Baird & Co. Sebastian says the market is still growing, but at a slower pace. He estimates social gaming revenue rose north of 50% in 2011, but will likely be up only 20% this year.
MORE: For Zynga, it's not game over yet
All of this has made Wall Street bearish on companies that chase after firms for the sole purpose of adding the latest flash-in-the-pan hit to their rosters. The track record isn't very encouraging.
Zynga is still reeling -- both its balance sheet and investors -- from the acquisition OMGPOP for about $200 million in March. It thought it was buying a hit title, Draw Something. But the ink was barely dry on the purchase agreement when the game's popularity started tanking, forcing Zynga to write off about half of the game's value. "They bought it as the user base was peaking, and it fell off right after they acquired it," says Arvind Bhatia, a managing director at Sterne, Agee & Leach. (In July, Zynga chief Mark Pincus told the crowd at Fortune's Brainstorm Tech conference that it was too soon to judge the success of failure of the acquisition. Last week the company said it planned to take a writedown of as much as $95 million on the deal).
Zynga is, at its core, a social gaming company to its core. But even more diversified games firms have suffered. Electronic Arts (ERTS), whose long-term business strategy has been to grow through acquisitions, has stumbled. It acquired PopCap Games in July 2011 for about $1.3 billion in cash, stock and future performance-based payments. PopCap, which created such games as Bejeweled and Plants Vs. Zombies, has been struggling with declining revenue since the takeover, which recently prompted PopCap's founder, John Vechey, to slash 50 jobs and make other cuts as part of a restructuring. "We've seen a dramatic change in the way people play and pay for games," said Vechey, on the company's blog in August. "The change in consumer tastes requires us to reorganize our business and invest in new types of games on new platforms -- it's a completely different world from when we started."
MORE: What it's really like to work at Zynga
Media giant Walt Disney Co (DIS) has also faced challenges since moving into the sector with its $760 million acquisition of Playdom in 2010. "Playdom wasn't digested very well," says Greenfield. The deal was an "initial disappointment" that caused "earnings to drag in the digital media group," adds RBC Capital Markets analyst David Bank. But after rolling out a new set of games last year, Bank says, the group has seen some improvement. "The business has ramped to some success, but it's been a fairly long journey," he says. "I do think they probably got in at the top of the market, but I don't know that strategically it was a bad decision."
Some industry experts say companies need to sharply analyze valuations before pulling the trigger on an acquisition. "What's a hit today does not necessarily mean it's a hit tomorrow," says Sebastian. "So it's a difficult business to make acquisitions of one-game companies." Although valuations are coming down, he says, executives still need to be cautious. This is particularly true if the targeted company has a hot game on the market. "If they get caught up on a valuation updraft, you can end up spending too much," says Sebastian.
Some suggest companies simply hire individual game developers who can create titles for Facebook, mobile phones and other platforms, rather than entire companies. At least until the sector shakes out its troubles. This might be easier -- and cheaper -- in the current environment and would, ultimately, achieve the same end. The company that this might be particularly hard for? Zynga.
Gaming companies are openly trying to poach talent from Zynga, for example, as it struggles with earnings shortfalls, acquisition missteps and a mass exodus of senior executives. (The most recent of these include Paul and David Bettner, the brothers who created the highly popular Words With Friends.) Says Atul Bagga, senior analyst of internet and video games at Lazard Capital Management, "the biggest challenge for Zynga is going to be keeping their employee morale intact." And that very well could be its biggest headache of all.
Correction: A previous version of this story incorretly stated that John Vechey was PopCap's CEO. He is a founder and franchise director. The story has been updated with the correct title. Fortune regrets the error.