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Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
This was my original thinking, the only reason I'd read any book about the Red Sox would be to gain insight into Theo Epstein's approach to roster construction and player acquisition. Still, I'm a sucker for a good baseball story and I have to admit that learning about the Cubs sister AL team that suffered from the 'Curse of the Bambino' had it's appeal, if for no other reason than this old Billy Goat's misery loves company.
Seth Mnookin's 2006 book, 'Feeding the Monster' is an in-depth look at the Red Sox, focusing on team management and the eventual 2002 ownership change as the reason their drought ended. The Red Sox truly overcame urban legends created by the Boston press with their constant harping on eight decades of Epic failures and generations of fan misery.
Something I understand (except for the "overcame" part).
Now with the Theo "Compensation-gate" mostly completed, this book is filled with insights into the personalities behind what should have been a simple and quick front office only transaction (with no compensation as you will soon read). Why it became a bollixed, vitriol filled, press inflated, word-slinging mess that only Boston is known for makes more sense to me after this read.
There is a lot of story to set up before Theo Epstein jumps in, so prepare for the first part of the world's longest book summary. Most of Theo's story will be in part deux. Part one, after the jump...
The Red Sox history dates back to the 1870's when they were mostly known as the Bean-eaters. Jump forward to the more important history of the sale of Babe Ruth's contract to the Yankees by Boston owner Harry Frazee, in December 1919. The real story wasn't about Frazee having financial difficulties or needing cash to produce a Broadway Play (No, No, Nanette...as the press would subsequently create the urban legend in the 1980's). Mnookin relates it had more to do with Frazee wanting to build up a substantial war chest to do legal battle in his longstanding feud with AL President Ban Johnson fueled by media hatred for the owner once Frazee halted perks like free food and liquor for the writers. Even back then, the Boston sportswriters were a noisy, whiny, manipulative lot.
The Red Sox owner of longest duration was Tom Yawkey, who at age 33, bought the team and Fenway Park in 1933 for $1.2 Million. His ownership spanned five decades of major baseball history. Ted Williams was awesome but pennant-less. Considering Jackie Robinson became a Dodger in 1947, the Red Sox were to last to let that barrier go, until Pumpsie Green was brought up in 1959. The 1960's teams were lead by manager Dick Williams and Yaz and included a World Series appearance. In 1974, Yawkee died of Leukemia and his estimated $57 million net worth was left to his wife Jean who would with one of the team executives, Hayward Sullivan (who also acted as GM) and John Harrington (who started as team treasurer but ultimately ran the team for 8 years after Jean Yawkee's death in 1992) would steward the team up until the John Henry era began in 2002.
Once again the Boston press came into the spotlight, creating the Yawkee mythology that he was a rich benefactor:
"a gentlemanly, sporting owner who was more interested in winning than turning a profit"
The author points out that Yawkee was also prone to alcohol fueled rants, unwillingness to break down the racial barrier and hot and cold interest in the team over his years, but it was tough to tarnish a legend when the press wanted to be protective of the long standing illusion.
The Red Sox on the field heartache gets painted along the way. The 'Impossible Dream' team of 1967. The Carlton Fisk HR in the 1975 World Series. The crushing Bucky Dent HR in 1978. The 80's were defined by Roger Clemens and playoff runs in 1984 and the Bill Buckner World Series gaffe in 1986. I had to smile when Calvin Schiraldi was written about as a surprising factor in the '86 Series. Manager John McNamara wanted Buckner on the field to celebrate the final out even knowing that he couldn't bend over because of his arthritic knees and didn't go to a defensive backup (Dave Stapleton) on the bench when Mookie Wilson hit his squibber down the line leading to more crying over spilt milk.
It was this loss that lead to the New York Times columnist George Vecsey writing about the "Babe Ruth Curse Strikes Back". In 1990, Boston Globe writer Dan Shaughnessy wrote a book, "Curse of the Bambino" which masochistically focused on Red Sox misery "as he repeated many of the inaccuracies that had hardened into perceived fact."
I loved this quote about Shaughnessy's book:
"it (Curse of the Bambino) served as the unintentional primer on the the ways in which the Boston press was able to inflict itself on players and fans alike. Forever after, every Red Sox fumble, misstep, or mistake would be attributed to a curse that had been popularized, if not largely invented, by a cantankerous sports columnist."
The sale to John Henry's group was incredibly complicated. Remember that Henry bought the decimated Marlins after Wayne Huizenga sold off the 1988 World Series team with the intention of getting a new stadium (they might get one someday soon). Obviously, that effort failed to get past the politicians in Florida. There was talk of contraction of a team (possibly the Marlins) and with the help of Commish Selig, Henry was promised a "put" for the Marlins. MLB would guarantee Henry $158 Million for the team (his original purchase price) if he bought another team and couldn't find a buyer for the Marlins. Ultimately MLB used the put on the Expos and the Expo owner Jeffrey Loria bought the Marlins. The Angels were available and Henry was negotiating with them but Disney Corp was too difficult for him to nail down a deal with. So when the Red Sox went for sale, several of the moving part owner-wannabee's that were swirling around started to take shape and looked to the crown jewel and large market ownership that the Red Sox represented.
The original group formation involved players Les Otten (a ski resort mogul), Tom Werner (a TV producer with mega-hits like The Cosby Show, Roseanne, 3rd Rock from the Sun and That 70's Show and in the early 90's the Padres owner) and Larry Lucchino (who gets a chapter called, 'The Baseball Visionary').
Lucchino's baseball career started with the Orioles when his mentor and Redskin's owner, Edward Bennett Williams bought the O's in 1979. When Williams died in 1988, Lucchino was named team president and CEO (NY investor, Eli Jacobs bought the team) and during his time in Baltimore, Camden Yards was created with much credit given to Lucchino's vision. Eventually Jacobs had financial problems and the team was sold to current owner Peter Angelos in 1993 but Lucchino made $10 million from his 9% ownership stake. Lucchino soon went to the Padres when Werner sold them to John Moores. His Padres stay was definitely successful and included 2 division titles and an NL pennant (1998). He learned how to run a club in a small market but profitability was still difficult and his relationship with the owner became strained as Mnookin's reports, "possibly because of Lucchino's combative and abrasive management style". With Lucchino out, Bud Selig tasked him to help see if Henry had exhausted all options to get a new stadium in Florida...and the connection between those two was made.
Finally, the Red Sox were put on the market in October 2000. As ugly as the Tribune purchase and bankruptcy by Sam Zell was leading to his unloading the Cubs, the story of the Red Sox transaction had my head spinning. Once again the Boston press ruled court. The 'hometown' bid came from home grown Joe O'Donnell (owner of Boston Concessions) and Steve Karp (a real estate developer) plus the feverish and a powerful local entourage that was pushing for this group (ranging form Boston's mayor Menino and the Globe columnists Will McDonough and Dan Shaughnessy). Conversely, they were pushing hard against what would become the Henry led group.
McDonough blasted away in his column:
If Harrington (the last of the Yawkee Trust, selling the Red Sox) wanted to do the "right thing," he would "chose the O'Donnell group, because their local roots and financial stability combine the best of what (the Yawkee) tradition wanted to champion. Maybe I'm old school, but the O'Donnell group has been positioning itself in a way I'm much more comfortable with: staying low-profile but still putting together a substantive financial and business package for the Red Sox"
Musical chairs ensued. Near the finishing line, Henry and O'Donnell had joined forces then fell apart over a dispute on controlling interest. Other competing groups were in the $700-plus million range but had financial contingencies and could not prove they had full financing in place. Ultimately John Henry's fairly liquid net worth of $1 Billion and Bud Selig's input that Henry was likely to get speedy approval of ownership sealed the deal.
Of course, this didn't sit well with the whiny press. Boston Herald headlines:
"Visitors 1 Boston 0"
because the hometown press favorites didn't get the team, articles included:
"The fix was really in."
Shaughnessy vented:
"Selig can be forgiven. It's OK with him if we become the Royals of the East."
GM Dan Duquette wanted to stay but Lucchino was made President and CEO. The Duquette front office was known to be combative including a rough 2001 season having a September swoon and major communication issues between players, staff and the press including a public dispute between manager Jimy Williams, volatile OF Carl Everett and Duquette. Duquette publically sided with Everett and Williams was fired in August. Star hitter, Manny Ramirez was unhappy with interim manager Joe Kerrigan, plus he complained of a poisonous clubhouse and a press corp that wouldn't leave him alone. In his first meeting with Henry in spring training 2002, Ramirez said, "I hate the pressure...I gotta get out of here."
On Feb 27th, 2002 the Red Sox sale was finalized. 24 hours later, Duquette was fired and replaced by assistant GM Mike Port who was given the interim GM title. Five days later Kerrigan was fired. Eventually Lucchino picked Grady Little to manage because he was expected be a calming influence in the volatile clubhouse.
Several more hirings came shortly after, as Lucchino was getting his team in place and both were Boston natives. Sam Kennedy (with expertise in Corporate sponsorship development) and his Brookline High School baseball teammate Theo Epstein (they became known as "the Brookline Two"). Lucchino knew Epstein dating back to his Oriole days in 1992. Theo had landed a summer internship in Baltimore with Lucchino. After Lucchino had moved over to the Padres and Theo had graduated from Yale, Epstein applied to work in the San Diego front office. In fact while with the Padres, Lucchino encouraged Epstein to get his law degree from the University of San Diego. In 2000, Theo was named the Padres Director of Baseball Operations.
Epstein coming to Boston needed approval from Padres owner John Moores but as previously mentioned the relationship between Lucchino and Moores was strained.
Here is the ironic part. Mnookin writes,
"In baseball, there is an unspoken rule that clubs will allow their employees who are under contract to interview for positions with other teams if the new job would be a promotion."
Quoting Lucchino:
"I was pretty determined to press John (Moores) to request permission to talk to them. These were not just promotions, but opportunities for them to return home to a sort of dream job they had always hoped for. I couldn't imagine someone standing in their way."
Moores relented and on March 24th, 2002. Theo Epstein joined the Red Sox front office as assistant GM. Clearly Lucchino's plan was to gradually groom Theo for the GM job. No compensation was required. That precedent of no compensation for management personnel movement by Boston was never mentioned since Theo was hired in Chicago.
Two more events took place before we get to the good stuff. Godfather of Sabermetrics, Bill James was hired and he even gets his own chapter. It was a beautiful fit philosophically with owner John Henry's road to riches as a futures trader. John Henry is quoted:
"Usually when making investments, it is implicit that investors believe they have some degree of knowledge about the future. I've had an advantage over the years because I am clear about a couple of things: 1) it is a part of the nature of life itself...to trend, and 2) I will never have a complete or full understanding of anything. Therefore, all investment decisions should be based on what can be measured rather than what might be predicted or felt. People in both baseball and the financial markets operate with beliefs and biases. To the extent you can eliminate both and replace them with data, you gain a clear advantage...Many people think they are smarter than others in Baseball, and that the game on the field is simply what they think it is, filtered through their set of images and beliefs. But actual data from the market means more than individual perception/belief. And the same is true in baseball."
Event two? Billy Bean didn't take the offered Boston GM job. Moneyball meets a simple twist of fate.
Finally, the stage is set for part two. Larry Lucchino and Theo Epstein battle (the Yankees and themselves) all the way to the top. To be continued...
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
More whiny stuff from Boston. Sounds like it might hurt less if someone takes the sticks out of their butts...and this stuff comes after John Henry just apologized over comments for throwing Carl Crawford under the bus (publicly said he was against the Crawford signing)...
Jon Heyman tweet:
Henry doesn't sound thrilled w/ theo compensation, but says that's how tough negotiations go. (maybe he can apologize to carpenter now)
Tim Britton (Providence beat writer) tweet:
Henry said there was a "basic misunderstanding" with the Cubs over compensation expectations
Gordon Edes tweet:
Lucchino on Theo comp: We have a saying: All's well that ends. Period. That's our view about this thing. Let's move on. Next issue
this link has a video (from WEEI) of the above quotes during the presser with the 3 Red Sox owners:
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Tom Werner's on the right, Lucchino (left) and Henry (center) talk to the Boston media:
...and a more detailed Henry quote from this article by Dan Shaughnessy (note the use of the word "bollixed" (I borrowed it for the writeup) and the parting shot (about Henry's inattentiveness).:
Regarding the bollixed Epstein compensation issue, Henry said, "If it's a tough negotiation, both sides generally are a little unhappy with the way it worked. The Cubs probably aren't happy with it. We probably aren't happy with it. Given the amount of time that was spent on it, it probably was the appropriate result.
"I think there was a basic misunderstanding between [Cubs owner] Tom Ricketts and I when we first spoke about it. I really admire Tom Ricketts as an owner. We probably had a misunderstanding, at least as far as expectation. There was no real agreement. We probably had different expectations based on our first conversation.''
Not the first time Henry's inattentiveness has cost the Sox.
P.S. Nick Cafardo's weekly baseball column...not a Cub related whisper. To quote Big Z: "Thanks God"
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The fix was in...
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Scott Miller from cbs.com has two Cub articles out.
This one has a Theo interview with some good quotes:
Know what's sort of refreshing about the Cubs this spring? The baseball.
The second article is called "Likes and Dislikes":
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Uh, yeah. This one's pretty good too:
From where they are now, it's more about the tortoise than the (Bryan) LaHair.
And that's when I closed that tab
Re: TV deals
In the case of the Angels — who announced their deal with Fox Sports West within days of the 10-year agreement with Pujols — the entire $317 million commitment to Pujols and Wilson is covered by roughly two years of the value of their TV deal.
It's believed the Cubs receive about $45 million annually for TV rights on their WGN and CSN deals combined.
says WGN contract expires in 2014, CSN in 2019. I have a fear that games won't be on WGN much longer.
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thanks for the article Dr. Hecht, interesting stuff..
I would say the promotion from whatever position Theo held in San Diego to assistant GM probably doesn't deserve much in the form of compensation.
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At the time, Theo was probably an undervalued asset so he was pretty much undersold, but by the time the Cubs got to him, Theo's talents were already out of the bag.
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The compensation although not spelled out in terms other than vague assumptions made on both sides was based upon a conversation between John Henry and Tom Ricketts. There must have been some mention of compensation...it was just a question of what and this was the mistake not to make this more concrete.
Some of the problem was the organizational mismatch at the time. The initial interaction was between owners and not CEO or GM's (or in the Cubs case there was only a new interim GM and no Baseball CEO as Boston had). I recall Crane Kenney got some more bad press at the time for any involvement (another unclear issue as to whether he also promised any compensation) in this mess because he was the closest comp to Lucchino at that point....and would have been like putting a lamb (wearing Kenney's Cub uniform) in a tigers cage.
Until Theo was actually on the Chicago side of the fence to counter the Lucchino factor where CEO vs CEO could take place.
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USA Today reported:
Chairman Tom Ricketts said, "2011 wasn't what we wanted it to be on the field, but off the field, we've added some people that I think will get the organization going in the right direction. And I think we have a bright future."
**He said president Crane Kenney was the one who actually requested permission from Boston to speak to Epstein**, and after negotiations began, they flew him in for a clandestine meeting in Chicago.
Castro seems to think he's batting third.
Swaim might be thinking:
9 DeJesus
4 Barney
6 Castro
3 LaHair
7 Soriano
2 Soto
5 Stewart
8 Byrd
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the "guessing consensus" since they settled on this crew of talent is castro is moving back to the 3 slot again.
though SWAIN hasn't said so, a lot of people are slotting d.barney into the 2 slot assuming SWAIN's a "contact hits 2nd" type manager (common, though usefulness debated). castro fits this definition for that 2 slot, but he also projects to be a #3 or #5 hitter eventually, anyway.
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I have strong thoughts about the type of batter who should bat second. Unfortunately, no one on the roster meets the criteria.
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I bet they have the DNA lying around somewhere to clone Sandberg.
Was it "The Book" or some other similar read that said a team should put their best hitter in the #2 spot of the lineup?
Castro belongs there imo, especially on this team. He may not take a lot of pitches, but can hit behind the runner and DeJesus isn't gonna steal much anyway.
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IMO, Castro in 2012 should hit in the spot in the lineup that management feels will best aid his long-term development. I just read some press where Theo or Sveum was saying they want him taking more pitches, so wherever he needs to bat to help him do that, is where he should bat. Honestly, he's probably our only shot at having a significant long-term asset on this offense until Rizzo or Jackson shows up.
As for the prototypical No. 2, I think Sandberg is a solid example. I guess I felt like the ideal No. 2 is the hitter who could or would do anything that needed to be accomplished in the plate appearance - swing for contact, swing for power, hit situationally, move runners, sacrifice, work the count, and ultimately have a high OBP, preferably a high BA, solid ISO, and excellent K:BB rates.
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I would think that leadoff would be a good place to help Castro work on seeing more patience. I would think at #3 he'll feel more pressure to drive in baserunners that are on in front of him, which may result in a slightly hack-ier approach. Seems like we would all hope that he his destined to bat somewhere between 1-3 during the prime of his career, probably #2 if the Cubs can get themselves a decent slugger or maybe #3 if Castro himself develops consistent 20+HR power.
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If Barney bats 2nd, I'm done with Sveum before he even started.
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This lineup is awful top to bottom.
Of the available options, Barney isn't a terrible option, but I probably would have selected Soto instead.
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Barney has everything you want in a # 2 batter except a willingness to take walks. If he improves a lot in this area, he will make a very good # 2 hitter.
If he doesn't improve very much in this area, he is likely to be riding the bench, watching Cardenas play and bat second.
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I doubt that unless Cardenas goes on some crazy hot streak, the defense isn't there to be a regular.
Doubtful Barney learns to take pitches.
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It was my understanding that Cardenas was a decent defensive second baseman. Have you seen scouting reports that say differently?
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fringe to bad, supposedly...only know what i've read. kevin goldstein doesn't seem to like his glove at all.
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Barney has everything you want in a # 2 batter except a willingness to take walks.
Well, that, and the ability to hit.
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I think Barney has everything you want in an 8/9 hitter. Plenty of suck.
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Other than the Rangers, that statement could be applied to every Major League Team - with the bat. Barney's defense is decent enough though.
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b.molina (sat out last year) officially retires...and j.zumaya is having TJ surgery.
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And then I assume all his injures woes will be behind him.
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Bravo CUBSTER. Nice article. Calvin Schiraldi...
You had to remind me?
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Arizona Phil gets mentioned in the CCO blog:
According to respected observer Arizona Phil, Del Valle throws a moving fastball, a plus breaking ball, and a change-up. He shows exceptional poise and a "nifty" pick-off move. However, there is some dispute over his fastball. While some claim he posted a 98 MPH pitch, others attribute it to a faulty radar gun and/or scoreboard. Whatever the case may be, Del Valle can bring heat and miss bats. The one concern is that at 5-foot-11, 190 pounds, he may not be able to have the stamina to remain as a starter.
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Not sure I am happy to be agreeing with Rogers, but many were saying exactly this point when the trade happened. Unless we get good return for Garza at the trade deadline (a good possibility, I must add), I am still not a fan of the deal. (My main backer on this argument, TRN, is unfortunately no longer with us, so I may be opening a bad window here!)
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Meh...so the Cubs gave up a back up OF who hit .240, a back-up catcher whose "power" disappeared last year, a pitcher who can't find the plate, a tweener OF in Guyer, and a pretty good SS prospect that is still a season away for Garza.
They gave up too much for Garza in quantity. Lee, Archer and Fuld or Chirinos should have been enough, but let's not gnash our teeth over losing most of those players. I liked Guyer and Lee especially, but the other 3, unless Archer rediscovers his one season of accuracy, I'm not too broken up over.
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Looking back, Fuld and the Fuld clone from Tampa were just a change of scenery swap. I don't miss Chirinos or Guyer much - backups on the ML level. Archer has a good chance to be a solid MLB reliever, and Lee could be an exceptional SS. If we could go back in time, I would certainly have kept Lee and Archer, but obviously Hendry thought the team would have a chance at the central.
It sure would be nice to have Lee and Archer in the system. Makes me wonder where the farm would rank compared to present. Moving Castro to 2B next year would sure help the defense with Lee at SS.
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I think the consensus back then was "Yeah, okay, we got Garza, but the Cubs aren't really contenders, so why make the trade?" That consensus still stands.
Heads are still being scratched.
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Coming into 2011, if the Cubs expected Dempster to pitch as in 2010, and Zambrano to do so...and to not lose the 4th/5th starters for 2 months...I'm pretty sure they thought that the Cubs could get to 85 wins, and try to get into the playoffs.
Again, I don't disagree that the Cubs gave up too much, but Lee and Guyer are the only ones I'd really miss. Chirinos and Fuld are bench players, at best.
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Fuld has a more promising career as a writer, than baseball player.
But he can be fun to watch.
Re: Garza
the point at the time was to try and compete, i.e. the band-aid approach that so many are advocating on here this offseason. But having him for 3 years is kind of nice.
I have to agree that with the direction the new front office is taking, they'd probably be better off with some of the prospects now. But Cubs still have Garza for 2 years or can sign him to an extension or trade him before we can fully evaluate if the Cubs got any real value in the deal.
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Maybe it's just a case of having a guilty conscience, but...
I think the term "band-aid" approach is far too simple and derogatory to describe what I and others have advocated for in the past. To me, a band-aid approach is foolishly throwing money at a weakness, which I don't think anyone is in favor of.
What I (and others) have suggested is that the Cubs can begin building now for the future with MLB-ready players. For instance, Prince Fielder would have fit as a player who could improve the club now and in the future. Edwin Jackson may have been that type of player as well (although I'm not completely sold on him).
I know I sound like a broken record, but the only point I have been trying to make all off-season is that it is not necessary to sacrifice a season (or more) of the big league club in order to build up the minor leagues. The Cubs could be competitive now AND in the future.
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Maybe it's just a case of having a guilty conscience, but...
I think the term "sacrifice a season" approach is far too simple and derogatory to describe what I and others have advocated for in the past.
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Do tell? Please explain.
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People are not proposing that the Cubs sacrifice a season anymore than you are proposing applying a band-aid to their problems. I would instead characterize the discussion as a disagreement over resource allocation, with both sides disagreeing over the weight the team should give to short term and long term assets.
Fielder is a good example. I would have been perfectly happy for the Cubs to sign Fielder to a contract so long as the terms were reasonable. That said, I am not unhappy they didn't sign him and instead traded for Rizzo. The fact that Fielder will likely outperform Rizzo in 2012 doesn't mean that the Cubs have sacrificed 2012 by trading for Rizzo instead of signing Fielder. Now the money that they saved by not signing Fielder can be used to fill other holes either this off season, in future off seasons, on improvements to the park that will help generate additional income, in the draft, or on international free agents.
Re: Band-Aids
9 years, 200M+...fat guy in the NL?
you don't see the problem?
only the U.S. government and the Yankees can get away with overpaying at that kind of astronomical rate and paying it down later.
Cespedes, Darvish and Fielder made some sense for the Cubs this offseason, but minus getting all 3 and then some, hard to see them competing this year. Then once you commit to them, you feel the need to fill some other holes with other FA's that are overpriced and then you don't trade Marshall, etc, etc.
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You're looking at this from present day, but the Cubs were out on Fielder long before he signed with Detroit. I agree that his contract was for too many years. I would not have wanted the Cubs to sign him for that long.
However, the point I have been making all off season pre-dates Fielder's signing. Theo & Co. admitted that they were never in on either Pujols or Fielder. They had decided to basically give up on the 2012 season at or near the beginning of the off season.
Re: Fielder
why, because they told LaHair they were never in on those guys? What do you think they should tell him?
they're just pumping up his ego.
And maybe, oh just maybe, knowing Boras and baseball, they realized pretty quickly that Fielder wasn't coming at a price they were comfortable with, but probably maintained some cursory interest at 5-6 years. They may have even struck a deal with Boras that if you're sure to make Pena decline arbitration, you can use our name as a bargaining chip for the deal you want and we'll keep up the facade.
I don't get how just adding Fielder is competitive in 2012 either? You seem to think the Cubs would have the pick of the litter of just the good, young free agents. Obviously other teams are going to compete for those guys and overpaying is still overpaying and generally a bad idea unless you really are close to a WS caliber team. Surely you know they would need more than Fielder to compete in 2012 and that means probably overpaying for the likes of Ramirez or Beltran (band-aids) or some starting pitching.
I think they decided early on, they weren't going to overpay for past performance. Besides Cespedes, I can't imagine any deal this offseason that ended up making a lot of sense for the Cubs. And Cespedes is no sure thing of course, he could pull a Fukudome.
Also the A's were allegedly the only team offering a job right out of spring training w/o a trip to the minors and willing to go 4 years rather than 6.
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I have to agree with Rob here. Fielder, Cespedes, and Darvish were the only potentially star quality players in an age range appropriate to what the Cubs should be looking for in long-term contracts. Meanwhile, Cespedes and Darvish have never played in the U.S. and may turn out to be (as Rob G. noted) Fukudome and Dice K. redux, and Fielder at 9 years would have been absurd for an NL team.
Edwin Jackson would've made some sense as 3rd piece to go along with a couple of elite acquisitions, but would you really want to give Edwin Jackson a long-term contract?
They didn't like the return on the investments required for the free agents and they didn't have an enormous farm system to deal from. There wasn't any way to turn this around quickly and build for the long term.
That said, time will tell whether they are successfully building up the franchise.
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I agree. sometimes the best transaction you can make is not to make one.
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Wscr spoke w Rudy Jallimiro and he said "Rizzo is ready now formlb"
Grain of salt
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speaking of, apparently crushed one in BP... 475 to dead center.
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off of Red baron?
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says the tweet, don't think Sutcliffe was trying to fool him though, just BP.
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Is that long enough to have hit the scoreboard in Chicago?
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Let me see him do this in April, with the wind blowing in, or even neutral, off ML pitching.
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Hopefully they teach him to hit HR to left center, only cub to understand this was Jim Edmonds.
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Kerry Wood just hit Starlin Castro in the wrist during live batting practice...
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Nice to see Kerry Wood is in midseason form.
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And all reports to this point are that Castro is fine.
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Carrie Muskat @CarrieMuskat Reply Retweet Favorite · Open
Castro is defintely fine. He just hit ball off RF fence off Marmol. #Cubs
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
God forbid Len have an opinion on something other than baseball.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
Thank you. Neither do I.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
i have no patients for homonyms, myself.
(yes, technically a heterograph...but work with me on this one language nerds).
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
Yeah! Huh?
"A Baseball Conversation Worth Documenting"
Marshall extension
3+ years, signed through 2015.
guess he's comfortable not getting a chance to start.
Re: Marshall extension
maybe they will give him a chance to start, total deal is worth 16.5M for 3 years. Steep for a set-up man.
Could be a closer candidate too.
yup, I spoke too soon
Interesting aspect to Marshall extension: $2M in performance bonuses each year. Half for games finished, half for games started.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
That seems like a fair price as long as he continues to be one of the league's premiere left-handed relievers. Bobby Howry says hi.
Re: Marshall
that's a terrible price for a set-up man, but if he moves to closer or starter, it becomes a real good deal.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
Your use of terms like closer and set-up man are obfuscating the value of dominating relief pitchers who can be employed in high-leverage situations to save games, whether or not they are actually credited with a statistic for doing so. GMs know this, and closers' agents are fighting it, but gradually, MLB payrolls are increasingly reflecting this. Sean Marshall is absolutely worth 60% of Heath Bell over the next three years.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
fair point, and you did say if he continues...
I guess I'm not 100% sure he will and if he does, they'll probably move him to closer.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
Enter the Dusty...
BA top 100 that didn't make it
W. Castillo, D. Maples and T. McNutt others that received votes
puts Javier Baez (#61) on top of list of guys that could move up substantially next year.
The best pure high school hitter in the 2011 draft has tremendous bat speed and a chance to hit for big average and power. He may not stay at shortstop, but his bat will play anywhere.
Good day to be a catcher
Y. Molina 5 year extension, ranging between 60 to 75M depending on the report. We'll know soon enough.
Salvador Perez of Royals signs 5/7M deal with 3 club options.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
salvador perez...dat arm...dat glove.
great signing for a small market team. shame he doesn't have more power.
Fun article on...
what Trout, M. Moore or Harper would get if they were FA's like Darvish. Goldstein calls a bunch of execs...
Average and Best Offer
Moore: (A)6/83 - (B)8/144
Trout: (A)8/102 - (B)8/120
Harper: (A) 8/113 - (B) 8/150
"Based on our organizational assessments, all three would be ahead of Darvish and Cespedes.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
i know trout is a high-end prospect and plays CF and etc...but i still don't get the love for the guy on the level he has.
i don't understand the high-end love...guy reminds me a ton of darrin erstad, really (the young/good one). it's not like i think the kid won't have a good carrer with all-star-like numbers, but a lot of people lump him with the cream of the crop for a couple years now. last year people were in love with him and this year the love hasn't faded even though the power isn't showing up (yes, playing over his head).
he's a true 5-tool player, but i'm not a fan of his stroke leading to power.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
I think Goldstein's point is that either the foreign players are way over valued, or that the MLB teams are damn lucky to be able to get players at such a low cost, initially, through the draft.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
yeah, i was just fishing for other people's opinions of trout.
people love...LOVE...his "gary sheffield lite" batting style (way less swagger in the bat).
i know it's almost impossible to project a guy with good contact skills like his playing over his head at 19...i just don't know how much leeway they're giving the guy because he plays a "rare" position vs. how much is actually in his bat.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
I watched him play a few times in Double A last season. His athletic ability is very apparent, but I never saw him do anything of any significance. Me and Trout do share the same birthday, though. So there's that.
Most improved positions in offseason
Brewers at 3B; 3.9 WARP improvement of McGehee to Ramirez.
Now figure out the loss from Fielder to Gamel?
Did anyone hear the full interview of Jed Hoyer talking about how the Cubs in their current state are not ready for "Big Game Hunting" [FA's] yet, and need to develop a better foundation?
I mean I know its obvious, but why not just come out and tell the fans the "R" word?
This is just a pile of shit it looks like, they they have assembled.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
Listening to Kenny Williams on WSCR today and this TheoJed-speak, I've come to the conclusion they must all have a clause in their incentive/MBO's that using the 'R' word significantly decreases that yearly payout.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
damn near killed em.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
I still think (hope?) they aren't done yet. Byrd, for example, is a waste of space. If they are really rebuilding, bring up Jackson and throw him to the wolves. I'm sure the fact they haven't gotten any worthwhile offers for Byrd has something to do with it.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
Obviously, teams aren't scrambling to give up a prospect to pay $6.5M for one year of Byrd, especially after his post-beaning performance last year.
Now consider the end of July. With only 55-60 games left, he only costs $2.5M or so. And with 5-12 teams realizing they're in a position to eek into the playoffs, there are likely to be at least 2 suitors. So maybe teams will cough up a B prospect for Byrd's services at that point.
First things first, he has to show he's over whatever was messing him up after he got beaned.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
Byrd came back in July and had a pretty good month, so who's to say his shitty August/Septembe was beaning related.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
I don't think he's worth keeping around to catch on to a B prospect in late July and hold up Jackson. Byrd might be ok if he was on a contender, but he's a waste of a uniform on a team like this one that has no chance to win the division.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
Doesn't waiting a couple of months delay Jackson's free agent clock?
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
If he's ready, he's ready. Are we now the small market Rays?
Re: Jackson
2-3 months isn't going to make or break this season and Jackson still has some stuff to work on. Just cause you're a big market, doesn't mean you can't take advantage of small market tactics.
Save on the arbitration and free agent clock and see if Jackson can cutdown the strikeouts.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
Also, as noted above, 2-3 months might improve Byrd's trade value. Win-Win.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
If Jackson does anything this spring, I'd still rather see him in CF, with Byrd playing all 3 positions occasionally.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
I was glad to hear that, among other things, this management team put little to no weight on spring training results.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
Sure...again...cool. Great.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
Why does it have to be so black and white? Don't rush Jackson .... therefore, woot Byrd?
The guy only has like 210 plate appearances at AAA. He OPS'd pretty well in that timeframe, but his K rate was higher than his minor league average, and his BB rate was lower. So let him chill there for 2 months, play every day, master the level, and guess what? We save a year on the arb clock.
Look at Rizzo. He had even gaudier AAA numbers in even more PAs, and he still belly-flopped in SD last season. From what I understand, there's a big jump between AA and AAA pitching, so let Jackson see the league a couple more times and learn to adjust to hitting those better guys.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
". From what I understand, there's a big jump between AA and AAA pitching"
I always thougth AA had the better pitching more consistently through season, and AAA was more of a holding pen before they were brought up.
\I could be wrong.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
there's probably more talent in AA, but unrefined. AAA certainly has more major league rejects, so the bite on their slider may not be as good, but they may have a better idea how to use it and where to throw it. That being said, there were plenty of good pitchers in the PCL last year.
although telling that out of the top 20 prospects in the PCL, only 4 were pitchers; Mike Montogomery, Martin Perez, Jordan Lyles, Rex Brothers,
I'd still take AAA numbers over AA, although certainly players have been able to make the leap from AA to majors.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
Rizzo was also playing in a bandbox stadium with a rock hard infield. Jackson was smoking the ball in AA before hurting his hand. He'll have to adjust to MLB pitching anyway, regardless if he starts in AAA, or in Chicago.
I know I'm in the minority opinion..so fine. The Cubs are punting the season anyway, so I "get" the arb clock BS. But if he's a better option in CF, I don't get "saving" the 150-200 PA's. This is a team shooting for 2013-2014. I'd rather see him work through some issues now, rather than then.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
so I "get" the arb clock BS
I don't think you do. There's no reason to waste a year of service time when he has work to do in the minors still.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
No, I do. This is also the Cubs top prospect, who has had 3 seasons in the minors. If he starts the season, in the minors...fine.
But don't expect me to do cartwheels over it. He's going to have to adjust to MLB pitching too, i'd just rather it was this year rather than next. I really am not worried about the Cubs 2018. I'm hoping that Jackson can be the Cubs CF from 2012-2022.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
I believe Theo at some point in the offseason said something to the effect that he wants his prospects ready to go in the majors once they're called up.
So expect guys to be held down a little longer than what the masses are crying for...
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
Pile of shit has nothing to do with rebuilding though. They had a pile of shit last year and they weren't rebuilding. I'm sure they also don't use the rebuilding word because people freak out on them then.
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
Has anyone heard why Concepcion hasnt signed by now?
Re: Feeding the (Blue) Monster, Part One
I presume he hasn't taken his physical yet.
but no haven't heard anything...
Marmol's offseason
Recent comments
j.buchanan with a nice start...5ip 2h 1bb 3k, 0r/er
zobrist with 2HR and a double through 8
heyward 0-4 :(
Mark Gonzales @MDGonzales
Soler likely to return Sunday, Maddon says
Right now, I'd like to see the Mets first, Giants 2nd.
I believe that since most of the team from last years' NLCS is on the squad this year, they will really amp their game up even more to kick their ass in payback for 2015.
The Giants just do not have the depth in years past, and I think all things equal - and at Wrigley - they could handle them.
I do not want to see the Cards, period. Or their fans, media, or Joe Buck.
I don't want to play Braves in the first round. Any friggin team in the league can win 3 of 5..I hate the first round. Furthermore, I wanted to play the Marlins in 2003 and the Mets over Dodgers last year.
With that said in reverse order:
3. Cardinals: It will be devastating to lose in the first round, but even worse to their main rival. It is increased incentive for the Cardinals, especially after last year. Cards would have nothing to lose, Cubs have everything to lose.
2. Giants: Rotation in the playoffs scare me a bit, but what a lousy team.
1. Mets--because of the losses in the rotation
2. Giants--because they're not the team they were BUT they maybe have bullshit even-year magic?
3. Cardinals--because rivalry and not making the playoffs hurts them more than losing in the NLDS plus getting eliminated by them in the playoffs would make for horrible sports commentary next throughout next season.
Who's asking?
CLE/DET rained out last night already, possible rain-outs in New York (vs. Baltimore), Boston(vs. Toronto) and Philly(vs. Mets) this weekend too.
Not only games involving playoff spots that would need to be played, but any that involve home field advantage.
I got the first one! Second one I'm not even sure what even/odd betting is.
any opponent preference for NLDS?
Mets are down to 1 great pitcher instead of 4. Syndegaard may pitch Sunday which means if Mets win the WC game, he'd be set up for Game 1. There's a chance they clinch a spot by Sunday so he'd pitch the WC and then we'd probably get Colon for Game 1. They've certainly had the hottest bats over the last week and month out of the WC options.
A couple of Cub related puzzles.
Can't teach height and thinness
Hopefully Pirates don't call up A. Lincoln.
j.buchanan going friday...should be...baseball...or something like it.
Wow. I didn't know they could do that.
Nice for Willson, not so much for Addy.
Game is officially called...also officially a tie.
Stats count, no make-up date of course.
Yeah -- seeing the weather -- I hope KB and Rizz are inside, wrapped in blankets and drinking hot chocolate.


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subset: commoncrawl


text:
California Cyclists Buzzed--By the CHP!
By Rick Bernardi
When the Beatles were in the studio recording what has gone down in music history as "the most important rock & roll album ever made," Paul McCartney, working on one of his songs, sang "it's getting better all the time"… to which John Lennon countered "it couldn't get no worse."
Bicycling advocacy is kind of like that. Every now and then, bicycling advocacy advances another step. But the victories we win are just the visible tip of the iceberg. Often unseen are the lives forever changed by traffic violence, and the years of battles fought to put a much-needed, common-sense law into place. The three-foot safe passing law is one such example. Safe passing has always been required by law, and yet there are countless examples of drivers passing cyclists within inches—and sometimes, by much less.
And yet the burden has always been on the victims of traffic violence to prove that the unsafe pass was in fact unsafe. In response to this topsy-turvy, Alice-In-Wonderland application of the law, a movement sprang up to establish a minimum safe-passing distance in all of the states. If drivers were incapable of determining what makes a safe distance when passing cyclists, the law would spell it out for them. Typically, states have established 3 feet as the minimum safe-passing distance, although that minimum does vary in some states. For example, in Virginia, the minimum was 2 feet (now increased to 3 feet as of last July), while in Pennsylvania, it is 4 feet—and in New Hampshire, the minimum starts at 3 feet for a driver passing at 30 MPH, but increases by 1 foot with every10 MPH increase in the driver's speed, up to a 5 feet minimum safe passing distance at 50 MPH.
Ten months ago, California joined the ranks of states that have established a minimum safe passing distance for cyclists. That was an advocacy victory for cyclists, but lying just below the surface, unseen, was just how hard it was to get the law passed. In fact, the California Legislature had passed a three-foot safe passing law 3 times, but Governor Brown sided squarely with unsafe drivers when he vetoed the law the first two times it was passed. Still, the law finally instructed California drivers about what constitutes a minimum safe passing distance, and even instructed drivers about how to make a safe pass when it's not possible to leave three feet of safe passing distance. Although the law is not perfect (it was weakened at Governor Brown's insistence), that's still a victory for cyclists.
But as we might expect, not all drivers got the message. That's where enforcement comes in. Without enforcement, the message sent to unsafe drivers is that they will not be held accountable. And early warnings about three-foot laws were that they would be unenforceable, because law enforcement wouldn't be able to prove that a driver passed closer than 3 feet.
In fact, however, law enforcement officers in several cities (Austin, Texas, Naples, Florida, and Chattanooga, Tennessee) have demonstrated that where the will to enforce the law exists, it is enforceable. So passing these laws is one hurdle, but it's not the last hurdle; the laws help educate the public, but enforcement is still the key to making the law work.
But what happens when the dangerous driver is a law enforcement officer? This was the question raised in an incident in Los Angeles County this past Saturday, when a California Highway Patrol officer buzzed two cyclists outside of Glendora, CA—and then returned to copsplain why the cyclists were in the wrong (see the video here).


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Scrapbook MAX! Digital Scrapbooking Software
Archival Quality Digital Scrapbooking Software
Thanks for sharing,it's so cute
We haven't had a white christmas around here since we moved here 6 years ago. When I see adorable pages like this I want to move to snow country!! BEAUTIFUL work!!! Keep'em coming!!!
Thanks so much, very cute
Thank you so much
thank you for sharing
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The Stetson University women's golf team will be back in action this weekend, making a return to the JU Classic for the first time since the spring of 2010 when the Hatters finished second.
Stetson played in the event the first three times it was held, but did not play in the last three.
Hatters coach Floyd Kerr said he hopes to see his squad build on some of the positives they have had this fall, while putting the negatives behind them.
"We had some good finishes this fall, but in not one tournament do I think we played to our capabilities as a team," Kerr said. "We continue to be positive, and have that positive energy as a team and, as the year progresses, we hope to see better play. We are very close to being good, and I think we will get there."
To get to the level the Hatters expect to be at, they will have to be at the top of their game against another quality field. Two of the teams in the field, the host team from Jacksonville as well Daytona State College, have wins over the Hatters this year.
The tournament also includes defending champion Troy as well as Atlantic Sun opponents North Florida and USC Upstate. Others in the field are the College of Charleston, Florida Atlantic, High Points, Seminole State, Winthrop and Wofford.
The tournament will be played at a familiar venue for the Hatters. Marsh Landing Country Club in Ponte Vedra Beach has been a regular stop in recent years for Stetson. The course will play to a par 72 at 5,987 yards.
"The Marsh Landing Club is another of four great venues we have played this fall," Kerr said. "The course does not play particularly long, but definitely is a shot makers golf course. As always, hitting the fairways and greens will be paramount."
Stetson will take six players to the tournament. Seniors Mallory Viera, Ryan Ashburn and Jenna Hoecker will be joined by freshmen Giulia Vandenberg and Alessandra Kutz while senior Claudia Redinger will play as an individual.
Kerr said he expects the College of Charleston to be the favorite in the tournament, but several of the other teams could challenge.
"If we play well, we certainly can compete with any of those teams," Kerr said. "Once again, we will play two different people than we played in the Xavier Tournament. I am still looking for someone to step up and be a consistently good performer."
The Tournament will open on Monday with 36 holes of play, followed by a final 18 holes on Tuesday.
Live scoring will not be available for the tournament.


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A native of Salt Lake City, Utah, Jeanne studied art and design at the University of Utah. She received her Bachelors of Fine Art Degree in 1978. Her post-graduate work was at the School of Visual Arts in New York City. This experience had a profound influence on her. Art and Design merged into one.
Jeanne is primarily a Modernist painter depending on the subject matter and what she wishes to create. She uses only archival materials to create her fine art.
"Art at its essence makes you think and feel. When I look at a subject I often find patterns of light, color and rhythm emerging. These elements evoke emotion for the subject."
Numerous art galleries in both Salt Lake City and Park City have exhibited her award winning art. Her work has been exhibited at the Bountiful Art Center, the Kimball Art Center, The Springville Museum of Art, The Eccles Community Art Center, the St. George Museum of Art, and the Woodbury Art Museum. Jeanne's distinctive work is also included in many corporate, private, and public art collections, including the Utah State Capitol, Salt Lake International Airport and at the Albuquerque Museum.
Jeanne Hansen is a Signature Member of the Utah Watercolor Society. She is also a Member of Merit with the Intermountain Society of Artists.
"Painting has taught me important lessons in life—to be flexible and to go with the flow."
Meet the artist reception Saturday, June 22nd, 3-6pm
Feng Shui of Art Discuaaion Saturday, June 29, 4-6pm


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Stuart Huntley has accepted a position as senior research associate microbial bioinformatics with DuPont Pioneer in Johnston, Iowa.
In this role, Huntley will work with the Pioneer Forage Additives research group to clarify information contained in the microbial genome leading to enhanced product development opportunities for novel forage additive products.
Prior to joining Pioneer, Huntley worked at the Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology in Marburg, Germany, as a bioinformatics staff scientist. He obtained his Ph.D. at Washington State University and did post-doctoral work in the Genome Biology Division at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in Livermore, Calif.
From planting through feedout, Pioneer uses industry-leading research, agronomic and nutritional expertise to provide the entire range of seed genetics, crop-specific forage additives, silage know-how and local service all dedicated to the goal of meeting the feed needs of producers' livestock operations.
microbial bioinformatics, DuPont Pioneer
DuPont Pioneer is the world's leading developer and supplier of advanced plant genetics, providing high-quality seeds to farmers in more than 90 countries. Pioneer provides agronomic support and services to help increase farmer productivity and profitability and strives to develop sustainable agricultural systems for people everywhere. Science with Service Delivering Success.
DuPont (NYSE: DD) has been bringing world-class science and engineering to the global marketplace in the form of innovative products, materials, and services since 1802. The company believes that by collaborating with customers, governments, NGOs, and thought leaders, we can help find solutions to such global challenges as providing enough healthy food for people everywhere, decreasing dependence on fossil fuels, and protecting life and the environment. For additional information about DuPont and its commitment to inclusive innovation, please visit www.dupont.com.


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SALEM- The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Christmas "Light Up Night" Friday night on the Chamber lawn.
Adults and children alike welcomed the holiday season as the Christmas pine, horse-drawn carriage and snowflake-lined streets were illuminated with assistance from Mayor John Berlin. The Salem High School "Encore" choir followed with a short concert of Christmas carols and holiday themed songs.
Following the event the Salem Historical Society offered a Quakertown Trolley Christmas Light Tour of the Salem Beautification Committee's "Light Up the Night" contest participants. Winners of the contest were Mr. and Mrs. Cliff Mix for residential and Charles Presley and Group Leaders of America for commercial.
Article Photos
The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Christmas "Light Up Night" Friday night on the Chamber lawn. The Salem High School "Encore" choir performs a Christmas carol to set the mood. (Salem News photo by Kevin Howell)
Realife Church provided hot chocolate and refreshments. Fresh Mark and Visiting Angels of Salem provided hot dogs.
Friday night's celebration served as precursor to today's slate of downtown activities including the annual Christmas Parade at 1 p.m. Horse-drawn carriage rides will be available from 11:30 to 12:30 p.m. prior to the parade and 1:30 to 3 p.m. following. Santa will be at Key Bank for photos from 1:30 to 3 p.m., as well. The Salem High School Interact Club will be distributing goody bags to children visiting Santa. The Salvation Army will be providing refreshments.
"This is a great community event and we're happy to be able to sponsor it," said Audrey Null, chamber executive director. "Hopefully people will turnout [today] and shop Salem, support our local businesses."
Kevin Howell can be reached at email@example.com


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Top Definition
something that has been used but is still brand new to you.
someone who wears a shirt one time and lets you have it. you just got a brand-used T-shirt
dodane przez chrisloves40s wrzesień 08, 2011
Trending Now
Can you define these popular missing words?
When something is brand new to one person but used to another.
1.Some people think of my girlfriend is a slut,but I just see her as brand used.
2.Brand new to you,used to me.
2.Brand new to you,used to me.
dodane przez o.s.f. listopad 26, 2010


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Not many Americans still living can recall the launch of the Social Security System back in the 1930s, and fewer still have even read about the problems that arose on that occasion.
It would do us all well to realize that Obamacare is not the first ambitious federal program to encounter bumps along the road to getting it up and running.
Toward that end, there are two helpful articles.
As the Social Security Bulletin recounted on the program�s 75th anniversary, �Keeping a record of each individual�s lifetime earnings was an unprecedented task, and the technology to support ...
Read more


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Federal prosecutors in Dallas join campaign to curb prescription drug abuse
The U.S. Attorney's Office in Dallas says it has joined a nationwide effort to stop the abuse of prescription medication.
The campaign from Partnership at Drugfree.org is called the Medicine Abuse Project.
The Northern District of Texas will hold several events as part of the campaign. The primary focus will be to help save lives by warning the public, and teenagers in particular, about the dangers of abusing prescription and over-the-counter medicines.
"Prescription drug abuse is an epidemic, especially among our teens," said U.S. Attorney Sarah R. Saldaña.
Also taking part will be the Council on Alcohol & Drug Abuse, the Dallas Area Drug Prevention Partnership, local police departments, and federal agencies such as the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Saldaña said last weekend's prescription drug "Take-Back" initiative was a big success and set records locally for the disposal of expired and unwanted medications.
DEA Special Agent in Charge James L. Capra, of the Dallas division, said the agency collected 14,468 pounds of drugs from 70 collection sites in the region.


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Secondhand Nightmares: 10 Horrifying Thrift Store Finds
Especially horror.
The Curse of the Irish
What possible use is there for this, aside from "murder totem"? Is it supposed to be a Saint Patrick's Day decoration? Two questions, if so:
1.) What is it doing here, when it is nowhere near St. Patrick's Day?
2.) What did we lose in translation by bringing St. Patrick's Day over to the states?
Because over here, the holiday is a harmless celebration of questionable ancestry followed by a race to alcohol poisoning. But apparently, somewhere in the world, it is also the day set aside for trapping the souls of madmen in the eyes of dead ginger midgets.
Bonus Horror!
Dora the Horror
What? What's out of place here? It's just a wall of kid's sleeping bags. Why can't I shake the feeling that I am being watched, judged and found wanting? Where is that cold, unfeeling disdain of my very being coming from? It's not Elmo; Elmo seems pretty cool with me. It's not the Disney princess. I mean, she looks like a judgmental bitch and all (every Disney princess does), but hers is more of an "I can't believe you're wearing that" vibe, and less of a "your pathetic scrabbling dance is something I do not recognize as life" vibe, like the one I'm getting here. God, where is that coming from?!
The Bloodpig
Mrs. Davis' fourth grade class, arts and crafts period:
"OK, time's up, children! Everybody hold up your piggy banks and let me see how you've painted them. Sally, is yours wearing a wedding dress? Adorable! 'A' for you! Teddy, yours has a wittle top hat! A+! Billy, let's see yours. Oh, he's still blank. You didn't even paint him pink? What's that? You did the face, you say? Well, let me take a look at wha- oh. You ... just sprayed blood all over his face. You, uh, you left your piggy bank completely blank -- a cold white pig with coal black eyes -- save for the bright red gore splashed across his face.
That's fantastic! A++!
Who doesn't need to go to the cornfield? Mrs. Davis doesn't need to go the cornfield! Isn't that right, Billy? Oh god, Billy, please tell me that's right!"
The "Friendly" Chefs
The "friendly chef" statues are in every thrift store, every department store and at every Russian flea market (right next to the Betty Boop lamps, behind the switchblades with the ornate crosses painted on them). They come in a variety of poses: they might be stirring a pot, presenting you with a plate of spaghetti, tossing a pizza or just wrist-deep in intestines!
Well, that's a little off-putting, but it is a part of cooking. So it's not disquieting in a way that haunts you, quietly, in the twilight state between sleep and waking. Like ...
Yep. That'll do it. I just want to stress that I found him like this: Decapitated neatly, head set upside down and with loving care at his own feet, smiling pleasantly up at me. Either this was just an unfortunate and unsettling accident, or else somebody is trying to send an obscure but ominous warning to the fat, mustachioed owner of the southeastern St. Vincent De Paul.
Have you ever wondered what Africans would look like if they were actually hybrid-aliens designed by H.R. Geiger to remind the viewer of diseased cocks? You have? Good news! You're going to be the most prolific serial killer this world has ever seen! History will remember you in hushed, frightened whispers -- reluctant to speak your name lest they invoke some small part of the greater evil that you brought into this life.
Even better news: I bought you this dead-eyed statue of a buxom and subservient member of the terrible race that is a byproduct of your specific kind of horrible insanity! It'd look great in your foyer.
Bonus Horror!
My motto: "Always leave things worse than when you found them, no matter how awful they already are."


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Top Definition
A secret-keeper; to clutch is to know some of the best gossip but keep it tight-lipped.
My mother thinks I'll be an awful clutcher, because I spill things from stirring them to quickly. -Kate Nash
Beküldő: Chel-say 2011. november 2.
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Can you define these popular missing words?
(clutcher) One who holds a portable coffee cup or mug in public locations. Mostly seen at malls, flea markets, retail shops, grocery stores, rummage sales, soccer games, or strolling around various public locations. The (clutcher) has a higher rate of visibility during weekends and holidays and is more visible in affluent areas. Can be used to describe the holder of the vessel or the name can be used for the vessel itself.
Strolling around the outdoor mall we see (clutchers) enjoying themselves on their way out of the coffee shop to (clutch) their way through their day.
Beküldő: Johnny65 2013. augusztus 5.
Heart attack created when some fat fuck who had one "clutched" his chest
Phil had a clutcher. now he's dead.
Beküldő: Gimpy Pete 2005. március 15.


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Mary Welch Transfers to Ball State's Women's Golf
Mary Welch, who completed her second season at Wisconsin-Stevens Point in 2011-12, is transferring to Ball State to compete on the women's golf team, according to Cardinals' head coach Katherine Mowat.
Welch, a 2010 graduate of West High School in Madison, Wis., finished eighth at the 2012 NCAA Division III Women's Golf Championships at Zollner Golf Course in Angola, Ind. She managed a 77-78-78-75=308 at the event and was six strokes off the national champion's final score.
Welch won four events as a sophomore for UW-Stevens Point. She managed a first place finish at the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Association Championships with a 79-78-81=238. In addition, Welch won the Georgianni Memorial Invitational, the UW-Oshkosh Invitational and the UW-Stevens Point Mad Dawg Invitational. Welch managed a top-10 finish in nine of the 10 events she competed in during the 2011-12 season, while averaging 79.60 on the season.
Welch received honorable mention on the 2011-12 National Golf Coaches Association NCAA Division III All-America Team to become only the second golfer in UW-Stevens Point history to receive the honor. She was named to the NGCA Central All-Region Team in 2011-12.
With two years of eligibility remaining at Ball State, Welch plans to major in accounting.


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Friday, July 19, 2013
10,000 Hoodie March, Rally and City Vigil for Social Justice in Remembrance of Trayvon Martin and others will be held Saturday, July 20 from 10 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. It will begin at the South Carolina State House (no longer Finlay Park) and will march to the Matthew J. Perry Federal Court House.
The rally will be moderated by Cynthia Hardy. The keynote address will be given by event organizer and National Building Communities and Families chairman, Chris Sullivan. Additional speakers include: State Representative Leon Howard, Richland County Councilman Norman Jackson, the Rev. Michael Baker (National Board Member of the Rev. Al Sharpton's National Action Network), Mrs. Henri Baskins (Executive Director of the Community Relations Council), Kyle Green (chair of the 1k Hoodie March in Honor of Trayvon Martin last year in Finlay Park) and others. There will also be a live performance by Jeffrey Lampkins from American Idol.
fter the rally members of the community will march from the South Carolina State House to the Matthew J. Perry Federal Court House at 11 a.M. to join the rest of the nation in the "Justice for Trayvon 100 City Vigil). Marchers will begin at the intersection of Main and Gervais streets. The march will proceed down main street until Hampton Street. Marchers then will proceed to Hampton and Sumter streets and will continue to march down Sumter Street until the intersection of Richland and Sumter streets. Once on Richland Street marches will then surround the Matthew J. Perry Federal Court House.
Participates are strongly encourage to bring school supply items as well as non-perishable food items.
Organizers say the "non-violent" demonstration is a way to exercise their constitutional rights, sign a petition to call on the Department of Justice to act, to show their support to the Martin's family, to help collect school supplies as well as collect non-perishable items for the homeless.
If members of the community are interested in donating, volunteering or more information they should should call 803-206-4687 and/or email email@example.com.
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text: There is a range of accommodation available in Greece to suit every taste and pocket. All places to stay are subject to strict price controls set by the tourist police. By law, a notice must be displayed in every room, stating the category of the room and the price charged in each season. It's difficult to generalise accommodation prices in Greece as rates depend entirely on the season and location. Don't expect to pay the same price for a double on one of the islands as you would in central Greece or Athens.


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All Pro Dads love and lead their families in every season, even the challenging teenage years. Here are some things you can do to love your teen, no matter what. read more
Page 75 of 127
Why Are Men Leaving the Church?
Is your church environment conducive for nurturing men? Here are some things men are desperately searching for in their church experience. read more
What Are the Best Investments You Can Make?
Are you struggling with your finances? Every Man Ministries' Kenny Luck tells you how your bank account on earth and in heaven can be blessed. read more
How to Make Wise Decisions in Your Marriage
Some choices for married couples are big, while others are not so big. What are some of the methods you and your wife employ to make choices in your marriage? read more
The 6 Ws of Men's Discipleship
Discipling men is not easy, but it's crucial in God's plan for the Great Commission. Find out the critical elements involved. read more
How to Become That True Man of God
There are two musts for someone who wants to be a man after God's own heart. Find out what they are. read more
Kenny Luck: Get Fit for Christ's Sake
It is human nature to be attracted to physical health. Find out why every man needs to get on a fitness regimen. read more
How to Say No to Divorce and Yes to Lasting Marriage
There are others—including your children—who are watching your marriage. Is your marriage a great witness to them and to other couples? read more
How to Overcome the Struggle Between Knowing and Doing
What is keeping you from doing the things you have planned? Here are some things you can do to get going. read more
6 Ways to Keep Your Kids Honest
How do we teach our children to tell the truth even when it's hard? Here are some tips. read more


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MIFFLINTOWN - The larger-than-life sign that once tempted travelers off old Route 22 and into Zimmie's Diner for a piece of pie and a hot diner meal has returned to Juniata County. After being missing for more than 20 years, Zimmie's "Pie Lady" is now on display by the Juniata County Historical Society at the Tuscarora Academy Museum.
"Everybody remembers Zimmie's Diner," said Audrey Sizelove, president of Juniata County Historical Society. "It was a very popular place and a lot of folks have great memories of visiting there. Since the restaurant isn't open anymore, when we were offered the chance to acquire a piece of memorabilia, we really wanted it."
The sign was originally found by Reed Lebo, of Halifax, at a public auction he attended in Liverpool. Though the sign had no personal meaning to him, he found himself bidding on it, both to his and his wife's surprise.
Article Photos
The Zimmie's Diner sign, right, featuring the lady holding a pie, has returned to Juniata County and is now on display at the Tuscarora Academy Musuem. A postcard owned by the Juniata County Historical Society, below, shows the sign at the diner in Mifflintown.
Sentinel photo by BUFFIE BOYER
"I saw this great big sign and I'm attracted to unusual stuff like that," Lebo said. "It wasn't even on the list of things they were going to sell that day. I decided to take a chance."
Lebo ended up purchasing the piece of Juniata County history for $70. When he learned just what Zimmie's Diner actually was, and what it meant to the community, he decided to contact the Juniata County Historical Society.
"I was told that Zimmie's was the place to go back in the day, but it's not there anymore," Lebo said. "I thought the sign should really go to a historical society where people can appreciate it. It belongs in a museum."
The historical society purchased the sign from Lebo for his original purchasing price of $70 and moved it to the Tuscarora Academy Museum.
"The sign has certainly generated a bit of a buzz," Sizelove said. "People are bringing their grandchildren and their friends in to see it. It really brings back a lot of memories."
Though the museum's regular hours ended in August, the museum is open to groups only by special appointment. To schedule an appointment, contact Sizelove at 436-5152 or firstname.lastname@example.com. For more information about the Juniata County Historical Society, visit www.juniatacountyhistoricalsociety.org.


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A Citrus Heights man killed on Stonehand Avenue early Sunday morning has been identified, according to Citrus Heights police.
The victim was identified as Jack Swaim. Swaim was found unconscious outside of his home on the 6300 block of Stonehand Avenue.
Officers said Swaim was struck with an unknown object.
Swaim, 52, was transported to the hospital and was later pronounced dead.
On Sunday, police said before the shooting there was a confrontation involving the victim and the victim's son.
Police said they have identified a person of interest and are actively looking for the person.


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National Geographic Rock Tumbler Science Set
- Overview
To a child, it seems like magic: ordinary rocks go into the tumbler, and gleaming, gem-like stones come out. The polishing process reveals all the colors, patterns and beauty of the rocks, which can then be used to create jewelry pieces with the included craft kit.
- Tumbler: 7" diameter, 10" high
- Polishes rocks and gemstones; comes with viewing window that lets kids watch the process unfold.
- Craft jewelry by fitting the polished stones into the settings included in the craft kit.
- Mains powered; AC adaptor power supply included.
- Requires glue (not included).
- Ages 10 and up.
- Dimensions & Care
Tumbler Kit Contents
- 226 gemstone rocks (approximately 8 ounces).
- 2 bags of Step 1 coarse-grind powder.
- 2 bags of Step 2 fine-grind powder.
- 2 bags of Step 3 polishing powder.
- 2 bags of Step 4 finishing powder.
Craft Kit Contents
- 3 key chains.
- 12 setting holders in 3 styles.
- 18" silver-tone necklace chain.
- 4 adjustable rings
- 6 earring wires.
- 12 jump-ring connectors.
- Dust with a soft, dry cloth.
- Shipping & Return Info
This is a general shipping item.
View Our Shipping Information
Return Policy
At Pottery Barn Kids, we take great pride in the quality and craftsmanship of our products. Attention to design, materials, safety and construction is our priority. We carefully inspect your order prior to shipment; upon receipt, please inspect your purchase and notify us of any damage. We will arrange for a prompt replacement. If, within 7 days for Quick Ship upholstery and 30 days for all other products, you are dissatisfied for any reason, you may return your purchase for a refund of the merchandise value.
If your return for Merchandise Credit Cards is greater than $10,000, we will issue $10,000 in Merchandise Credit Cards to you that day, and then mail additional Merchandise Credit Card(s) for the amount in excess of $10,000 to you.
We cannot accept returns on monogrammed, personalized, special-order items, or on items damaged through normal wear and tear. We also cannot accept returns of final-sale items, which are identified by a price that ends in $0.99.
For returns of items purchased from your Pottery Barn Kids registry, we will gladly provide a refund or exchange for the merchandise within 90 days of your event or within 90 days of purchase, whichever date is later.
For assistance, please contact Customer Service at 800.993.4923, 7 days a week, 5:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. PST.
International Returns: Online returns are available only for items that were shipped to the United States. If you would like to return items that were shipped outside the US, please see International Returns and Exceptions.


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In the narrow lanes leading down to the lake you will find some picturesque spots to admire: gardens where lemons, oranges and cedars grow in the open air, as well as beautiful mansions.
Brissago is famous not only for its tobacco and cigar factory, but also for its islands, which seen from above look like bright green spots in the blue of the lake. Between 1885 and 1928 Baroness Antonietta Saint-Léger, a Russian of German origin, planted a botanical garden designed as an earthly paradise, and her successor, the department store king Max Emden, continued her work. Today the neo-classical villa contains a restaurant and the administration offices of the Botanical Park of Canton Ticino. Their plants are still there, together with the Himalayan cinnamon with its scent of camphor, the Madagascar gladiolus, the bald cypress from the swamps of North America with its trunk under water, and numerous other exotic species.
The islands of Brissago are easy to reach by boat, have the mildest climate in Switzerland, and can be best admired from Ronco s/Ascona, a little village caressed by the sun, situated on the slopes of the mountain and characterised by the church of San Martino, which dominates the surrounding countryside. The hill between Ronco and Monte Verità above Ascona is the site of luxury villas, and the view can be enjoyed from one of the spectacular footpaths.
Here, especially on clear winter and spring days, you can discover all the charm of the south: mimosas and agave grow between the walls and the view over the lake is of a rare beauty.
Top Events
- Artisti di Strada – over 100 shows of all kind of art forms at free admission performed by artists from all over the world along the lake promenade (Piazza) and in the streets and alleys of Ascona (May).
- JazzAscona – europe's largest hot jazz festival. Internationally renowned artists perform live on stages located along the enchanting Ascona lake promenade and link the event directly with the city of New Orleans (June-July).
- Settimane Musicali di Ascona – the most prestigious classical music festival in Ticino with symphony orchestras, chamber ensembles as well as recitals on single instruments held at the Churches Collegio Papio in Ascona and San Francesco in Locarno (August-October).


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OLYMPIC VALLEY, Calif. — Four of the premier independent mountain destinations in the West will offer a combined pass option for the 2012-13 season in an unprecedented move that officials say could set the stage for future collaboration and better promotion of the Lake Tahoe ski industry.
Starting Tuesday, the Mountain Collective Pass — offered via a partnership among Alta, Aspen/Snowmass, Jackson Hole and Squaw Valley/Alpine Meadows — is available online through a partnership with Liftopia at www.TheMountainCollective.com, officials announced in a joint press release.
Andy Wirth, CEO of Squaw Valley Ski Holdings, which operates Squaw/Alpine, said the concept originated from talks he had last winter with Mike Kaplan, CEO of Aspen Skiing Co., and Jerry Bland, president of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Corporation.
"Today's announcement was an appropriate and natural follow-up to those conversations," Wirth said in a Tuesday morning phone interview. "It was very analytical ... based on existing market research we used as a guide to gauge a level of interest. I'm quite confident this is a product that has legs."
For $349, the Mountain Collective Pass includes two free days at each of the four destinations, plus a 50 percent discount on unlimited lift tickets at each resort, once the complimentary days are used. In addition, passholders will receive exclusive lodging deals throughout the season.
As of 11 a.m. Tuesday, Wirth said he had been contacted by a number of North American resorts and a high-ranking Chinese ski official who had learned of the deal and were interested in learning more.
"This has the potential to not just be a Western product ... it has the potential for global reach," he said.
Collectively, the pass grants access to eight mountains with more than 16,000 acres of terrain and more than 100 lifts. Youth rates and other options also are available.
"This is a completely new concept for a ski pass and gives winter enthusiasts the freedom to access some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world, " said Christian Knapp, vice president of marketing, Aspen Skiing Co., in a statement. "There's been an incredible spirit of collaboration (among) the partners to bring this historic alliance and innovative new product to life."
Locally, Wirth said the deal serves as another example of the work Squaw is doing to improve not only its image, but also the appeal of the Lake Tahoe ski industry.
"We're working to reevaluate Squaw Valley Ski Resort's status as a premier destination resort, something it hasn't been the past 25 years," Wirth said.
Tuesday's announcement comes days after Wirth was honored by Reno-Tahoe Airport Board Chair John Wagnon with a community service award. According to a press release, the award acknowledges Wirth's ability to understand the role air service plays in sustaining the region's ski industry.
On Tuesday, Wirth pointed to work he and Squaw staff has done to increase more non-stop flights through the international airport as another example of better promoting and growing the ski industry at Lake Tahoe.
While Wirth said he couldn't speak to anything larger happening down the road, he did say Tuesday's announcement be a stepping stone to future collaboration, Wirth said.
"I think it speaks to the level of interest out there about different ways (ski resorts) can combine their efforts," Wirth said. "Transactions are one way to effect change, of course ... but the interest is there for more opportunities."
Visit www.TheMountainCollective.com or call 800-705-6286 for more information.


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That would be ageism. Yet I think they can do it, bizarre though. You could differentiate based upon experience, i.e. how long you held your licence and how many actual road years experience (if that were measurable).
Odds of a payout event are not ism anything....this is the real danger of DIVERSITY and Political Correctness.
Next they will be suggesting that all horses in a race should have the same odds.


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Aesop Immediate Moisture Facial Hydrosol
Please select a color and size before adding to your cart.
Please select a color and size before adding to your Wish List.
Please select a color and size before adding to your Gift List.
Immediate Moisture Facial Hydrosol
Select Returns & Free Shipping on All U.S. Orders. See Details
Spritz-on moisturizer for dry skin in dehydrating environments. This Rose Petal infused mist is perfect for those forced to spend long hours in air-conditioned offices, airline cabins or in front of computers.
1.76 oz. / 50 ml
Started in Melbourne in 1987 with the simple goal of developing the highest quality products using the best botanical-based, scientifically-developed ingredients, Aesop has become one of Australia's biggest beauty exports since the legendary Helena Rubinstein. The brand's nourishing collections for skin, hair and body are rich in protective antioxidants to assist in repairing and protecting surface cells otherwise at risk due to internal and environmental stressors.
Need Help? Have Questions? Contact Us.
Please call 1.888.222.7639 to speak with a Customer Service Representative.
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Fashionistas know winter brings a whole new selection of season-appropriate fabrics. Boston-based designers Kelly Smith and Chris Grimley match high-quality German felts with Knoll interior textiles in their handbags, which are sewn locally. These cushy accessories carry laptops, cameras, and digital music players stylishly yet carefully, without overtly advertising the valuable items within. Pictured here are the Stockholm shoulder bag ($160) and the Harrison clutch ($58). 617-833-0300; etceteramedia.com
Topic: Made in New England
From the January/February 2008 issue


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Brandon Derfler, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
B.A. University of Utah
M.A. Univ North Carolina Chapel Hl
Ph.D. University of Washington
Ph.D. University of Washington
M.A. University of North Carolina
B.A. University of Utah
Music Theory, Aural Skills, Musicology, Instrumental Conducting, Piano, Composition
Director, Westminster Chamber Orchestra
Brandon Derfler studied music theory at the University of Washington, where he received a Ph.D in 2007. In addition to teaching at the University of Washington, he has also taught at the Academy of Music Northwest in Seattle and at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he received an M.A. in musicology. Dr. Derfler also holds a B.A. in music (magna cum laude) from the University of Utah. He served as Assistant Editor of the journal Perspectives of New Music from 2001 to 2007. His work has been published in GAMUT Journal, Indiana Theory Review, and Perspectives of New Music. His book Single-Voice Transformations: A Model for Parsimonious Voice Leading was published by Cambridge Scholars Publishing in 2010. He has been the conductor of the Westminster Chamber Orchestra since 2012. Outside of academia, Dr. Derfler enjoys composing music, hiking and backpacking in the canyon country of southern Utah, and dissecting the minutiae of J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-Earth.


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Pay raise clash may set tone for W.Va. House of Delegates session
February 25, 2013
CHARLESTON — At least some Republicans in West Virginia's House of Delegates believe their failed bid to block proposed magistrate court pay raises, and similar partisan clashes that are expected as......
Oh yeah, I forgot. Here we go again, it all won't cost us anything "and we already have the money" -- out of the citizen's pockets. How about giving some back??
3 Agrees | 2 Disagrees | Report Abuse »
Yet another article carrying the water for Democrats.
People, understand a few facts how Charleston works:
1. NO bill will reach the floor for a vote unless the Democrat speaker wants it there.
2. The Democrat speaker will NOT allow any bill to reach the floor unless he knows it will pass. Check it out, they ALL pass.
3. If any Democrat votes against a Democrat sponsored bill, it happens because the speaker allows it to happen. No free will here or thought of what the folks back home want.
Such it is that Mr. Messina ignores the fact that T. Lawrence and Barrett were allowed to vote against this bill and why.
But it's the minority Republicans, who can't stop anything, who are partisan. Mr. Messina, you are a propagandist for the Democrats!
Folks, if you want change the majority must change first. That simple.
2 Agrees | 2 Disagrees | Report Abuse »
It is time to get rid of the Democratic leadership in Charleston! This is exactly the failed policies and "leadership" of the last 80+ years that has pulled the state of West Virginia to the bottom!
1 Agrees | 2 Disagrees | Report Abuse »
Its about time we see some conflict down in Charleston. In my opinion I think (and everybody is entitled to their opinions) that this only made headlines because we finally have some representation in Charleston that doesn't mind raising some*****and bringing it out loud enough so it hits the press. Would we normally hear about pay raises? Never. Why should we fund a payraise that is nothing more than saying to taxpayers they are gonna feel it in their pocketbooks next year, the year after, and so on. Why cant they focus on the fact we need to get people back to work? Fix our drug issues? Protect our seniors or children? Oh wait that's right...they have a charged agenda and want to pass the payraises so they are guaranteed a contribution in the next election.
2 Agrees | 1 Disagrees | Report Abuse »
No increases. We're in a financial bind. What don't they understand?
4 Agrees | 0 Disagrees | Report Abuse »
Democrat Delegates Miley and Manchin, both lawyers, sponsored these pay raises to Judges they will be arguing cases in front of. The bill flew out of Chairman Miley's Judiciary Committee to be fast tracked. Nothing like a little legal grease. Republicans do not think elected officials should get raises costing nearly $1 Million per year when we do not have enough money to fix the roads. "Is this the way this session is going to be, all year?" House Majority Whip Mike Caputo complained. Yes, Mikey. You may no longer be able to get your way all the time.
3 Agrees | 2 Disagrees | Report Abuse »
"'Is this the way this session is going to be, all year?'" House Majority Whip Mike Caputo asked...." One can only hope.
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Philadelphia prosecutors have rested after five weeks of evidence against an abortion provider charged with killing a patient and seven babies.
The move comes after a whistleblower said she saw more than 10 babies breathe before they were killed at Dr. Kermit Gosnell's clinic.
Witness Kareema Cross also said she saw three babies move limbs and a fourth make a sound.
But in defense questioning, she said she saw babies move after their necks had been cut. Prosecutors say Gosnell and his staff killed babies that way after they were born alive.
The defense argues that any movement seen was a post-mortem reflex.
Gosnell's lawyer will ask the judge Monday to dismiss the eight murder counts for lack of evidence.


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Pennsylvania is beautiful in October. Like many places on the East Coast, fall turns the expansive deciduous landscape into a blanket of fire, transforms light into magic and the mind to the past. Time slows down this time of year. The future is no longer yours to be explored, but is yours to be remembered as life takes its rightful place within the cycle of death and rebirth.
It was under these conditions that I drove from Philadelphia to Harrisburg for a weekend event on immigration hosted by Harrisburg Monthly Meeting and the Harrisburg Center for Peace and Justice. Amy Gottlieb, a staff person with the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) in Newark, had been invited to present about her work serving immigrants who face detention and deportation.
Amy started working at AFSC as an intern during law school and has continued for over 15 years. Not only does she have a solid understanding of the organization's Quaker philosophy—a philosophy that resonates with her own beliefs—but she has a vast knowledge of the immigration system itself, the roots of its dysfunctions, and what people around the country are doing to help move immigration reform in the right direction.
Harrisburg Monthly Meeting has deep ties to the local community through its close association with the Harrisburg Center for Peace and Justice. One woman who works at the center is also a member of Harrisburg meeting, and she has seen firsthand the effects of the current immigration policies on local families who are suffering from detention, deportation, or a lack of services due to their undocumented status.
After a warm and well-attended potluck at the meeting house, we gathered in the worship room to watch "Caminos: The immigrant's trail," a short film on immigration across the U.S./Mexico border that addresses the roots of immigration, how it is affecting local communities in Mexico, and the dangers that people face when attempting to cross the border.
Amy then presented on her experience working with immigrants facing deportation, as well as AFSC's New Path document that outlines seven principles for humane immigration reform. She shared how difficult it has been to create change in a system that is so complex and archaic, that many lawyers—let alone those undocumented immigrants caught in its web—have trouble navigating it.
She is not convinced that the U.S. is ready for real immigration reform—how could we be with our country's current rhetoric around "national security"? Our foreign and domestic policies are based around fear and the accumulation of power to assuage that fear.
I found myself both impressed with the depth of her knowledge, and overwhelmed by the dimensions of injustice embedded in our current immigration policies.
Amy's husband, Ravi, who also spoke, has been fighting his own case to stay in this country after having been detained with the threat of deportation. Having spent two years in an immigrant detention center, Ravi has firsthand experiencewith alegal system that does not protect immigrants without citizenship. In telling his story, he exposed the inhumanity of a system that refuses to see undocumented immigrants as human beings.
And this is where hope shone through. Because Ravi spoke of hope; hope that his own story might serve as a small victory in the longer struggle to recognize the dignity and inherent worth of all people. Hope that by joining hands with citizens like those sitting in the room that night, who recognize Ravi's humanity, all of us can expose the injustice of this system and begin the journey towards justice.
Both he and Amy maintain a wide perspective on this work—the struggle for basic human rights has come a long way and has a long way to go. But every time we see one another as human beings, when we witness to the good in ourselves and others, when we speak truth to power in the face of injustice, we are shaping the course of history. We are claiming our right of connection to this life and all people.
"When an immigrant is accompanied by community members, friends, clergy and family," Ravi said, "the impact is felt beyond the individuals. We are making an impact on the whole system when we show the government that we [immigrants] are part of communities."
Fall is a time to take stock of our communities, and to imagine what might be reborn into a world that recognizes the humanity in each being. It is a time to witness to others' stories of pain and injustice, to share our power for the good, and to join in the cyclical nature of our collective future. It is a time to love and listen as many have done before. It is a time to look deep into our humanity, join hands with our community, and harvest the seeds of regeneration.


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Navigating officer on super tankers?! You heard right.
- Posted: Apr 18, 2006 at 4:15PM
- 13 comments
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Eileen has a great blog on enterprise server products at http://blogs.technet.com/eileen_brown/default.aspx
Eileen is totally cool !
I've met Eileen on more than one occasion as she is a great supporter of London Geek Dinners and Girl Geek Dinners here in the UK. She is funny, knowledgeable, lively, entertaining and very very technical.
Am I a fan? Very much so.
Sarah, I think Jennifer and I have to come to London at some point to film at a Girly Geek Dinner for the WM_IN series.
Jennifer, what do you think?
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Saturday, December 28, 2013
The Bishop England Bishops fell 55-41 to the Stratford Knights in the second round of the Lake Marion Invitational Friday in Santee, S.C.
Bishop England (6-4) held a one-point advantage at halftime but was shutout in the third quarter while Stratford (9-2) opened a 10-point lead.
Dillon Corbett led Bishop England with 14 points to go with seven rebounds. Taylor Howell added nine points and four steals, and B.J. Grevey turned in eight points and five rebounds.
The Bishops shot 46 percent from inside the three-point arc but connected on just 28 percent from outside.
Saturday, Bishop England will play a consolation game against Berkeley at 2:30 p.m. in the final day of the tournament. B.E. 18 10 0 13 Stratford 16 11 11 17 Follow @fjmansfield //
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