text:
Town Square
Pleasanton school board approves drug-sniffing dogs at high schools
Original post made on Jan 25, 2012
Read the full story here Web Link posted Wednesday, January 25, 2012, 5:49 AM
Comments (91)
on Jan 25, 2012 at 7:36 am
"Neighboring school districts in Dublin and Livermore have such policies."
Because no one has challenged the searches. La Canada School district had a parent that sued the district and they backed off. The district is in California.
Currently, we have a case in the Supreme Court because in Florida dogs sniffed the outside of a house and based on that the house was searched. The Florida Supreme Court already ruled it was a violation of the 4th amendment.
The principal and superintendente of PUSD better have reasonable suspicion before the allow the dogs on campus, or else, get ready for a lawsuit, against them and PUSD.
I am confident that if a case goes to court, that it will rule agains the dog sniffing.
In Montana, btw, the ACLU is already looking (2001) into the dog sniffing of vehicles of students in schools' parking lots.
I will ignore the email about donating to PPIE... what for? PUSD obviously has money since they can afford to hire lawyers for the litigation that is about to start.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 8:13 am
This is sad news, and PUSD can count on expensive litigation if this goes forward. I hope to be at both board meetings to help dissuade them from doing this.
I wouldn't be surprised to hear that PUSD will be attaching GPS devices to every car in the parking lot too.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 8:18 am
This is AWESOME news to most of us. Drug use is rampant at our high schools. This is another tool in the toolbox that administrators can use to help keep drugs away from our high school campuses.
What is sad is that there are people that are probably already on the phone trying to drum up a law suit BEFORE any search has happened and they have even seen if student's rights are violated. Instead of being a partner with the administration to come up with a reasonable plan that meets everyone's needs, these individuals are bullying the schools with threats of bankrupting the schools with their legal threats. That is what is sad to me.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 8:27 am
" She also suggested creating an "anonymous" posting section on the school district's web site where messages could be posted similar to the "tip line" already in place by telephone."
Yeah, like that wouldn't be subject to more abuses than a pooch sniffing out the kids stash.
I guess no good deed goes unpunished. Mom, I agree with you that there are those in our community (some posting here) that will be contrarians no matter what you do, to the point that they are willing to bankrupt the school district to stnad on some self-proclaimed moral high ground.
Truth is, they are so worried that their kids might get busted for their dangerous habits. It's one thing for their kids to get high under an underpass somewhere, but once they get in their cars and start killing innocent victims, what do you think the cost of your inaction will be?
on Jan 25, 2012 at 8:29 am
What is sad to me is when people ignore our laws and constitution and violate our rights. Did you read about the recent unanimous US supreme court ruling on GPS tracking devices being placed on cars? Did you read my story about what happened to a personal friend as the result of a policy like this? He was entirely innocent of ever possessing or using any drugs, but his reputation was damaged. He was an adult. In this case we are talking about children.
What is your take on the fourth amendment, and how it applies here. Do you care about the fourth amendment?
"Instead of being a partner with the administration to come up with a reasonable plan that meets everyone's needs"
It isn't my job to come up with a plan. What are we paying all those high administration salaries for? I'm happy to make my concerns known to them. Their job is to come up with a plan.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 8:30 am
Stacey is a registered user.
Please hire some drug sniffing dogs to sniff your child and their friends when they come over to your house. It's an awesome tool and we should expand its use.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 8:32 am
on Jan 25, 2012 at 8:36 am
"Truth is, they are so worried that their kids might get busted for their dangerous habits."
Ridiculous assumption. You have no idea whether I have children or not. Can I also assume that you know nothing of American history, the rule of law, the bill of rights, or the United States constitution? Did you happen to notice that the US supreme court ruling against GPS tracking without a warrant was unanimous? Every judge ruled against it, regardless of his political leanings -- from the far right to the far left.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 8:37 am
Stacey is a registered user.
I hope that the new written policy includes sniffs of the staff and district parking lots. It's called Fair Share Sniffs.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 8:40 am
"...some self-proclaimed moral high ground."
The constitution of the United States of America.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 8:40 am
"I wouldn't be surprised to hear that PUSD will be attaching GPS devices to every car in the parking lot too. "
Probably because the Supreme court already ruled that is illegal, but the case about the dogs is still pending.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 8:42 am
Stacey is a registered user.
Will the dogs be sniffing the parking lots during school board meetings too? If not, I think they should. We need to keep everyone who attends those meetings safe from drugs.
Hopefully the dogs will sniff for alcohol, oxycontin, and other prescription drugs.
I'm certain this program will be a success, so much so that we should consider expanding drug dog sniffs to other public spaces, like the library parking lot and city hall.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 8:45 am
"to drum up a law suit BEFORE any search has happened"
Why not? PUSD is getting the dogs BEFORE they have reasonable suspicion.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 8:45 am
Stacey is a registered user.
Lots of teens hang out at the library! Hey, that's a great idea: drug dog sniffs at all public locations where teens hang out! I'll be hiring drug dogs to sniff the cars of the teens hanging out at the neighborhood parties. And the cars of any parents who come by and drop off a minivan-load full of teens and then leave. Because, like many of you, I too believe that all teens are guilty until proven innocent.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 8:50 am
To Patriot:
"It isn't my job to come up with a plan. What are we paying all those high administration salaries for? I'm happy to make my concerns known to them. Their job is to come up with a plan"
That is a cop out. At my job... we are challenged to bring solutions not just complaints. I challenge you to meet with Mr. Dwyer and hear his concerns about drugs and discuss your concerns about canine seaches. That is a mature response.
Yes, I read about the GPS case. I think that putting GPS tracking on cars for 30 days is not quite the same as a dog sniffing a public area for drugs.
From my research, it appears that if the searches are conducted properly, personal possessions are only searched if there is a positive sniff. A positive sniff would result in further search, NOT an arrest. An arrest would occur after drugs were found through the search. From what I've read about CA law, (ie., the FHS teacher that was arrested with drugs) a first offense results in a referral to a drug diversion plan... which results in an expunged record after successful completion. Is this the process in CA?
If I remember correctly, I think your friend was in the military..which I believe follows different rules.
I do agree with you that this could be abused and that is concerning. The schools should not have blank slate to do what they want. They need to follow the law. That is why I think it is important to be sure that the searches are performed legally. From what I have read, there are legal ways to do it and then there are people that go to far and do violate rights and that is what the suits are about.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 8:53 am
Board member Jamie Hintzke questioned the accuracy of the dogs' sniffing capabiities"
Good for you, Jamie! Thanks for being the only voice of reason on the board on this issue. Vote your conscience, Jamie, don't let yourself be intimidated by a majority of board members who, imo, are not thinking correctly about this.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 8:54 am
To Resident:
'PUSD is getting the dogs BEFORE they have reasonable suspicion'
OK... you really have your head in the sand. FACTS: 3 kids arrested at AVHS on drug possession. A teacher at FHS arrested on drug possession. A student at PMS arrested on drug possession.
As any high school student if there are drugs at school.
You really believe there is no reasonable suspicion??? Come on.... I didn't think the debate was whether or not there was a drug issue at the schools. but rather the best way to deal with it.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 8:58 am
"She said some students opposed the plan because they thought the searches will be a breach of their civil liberties, while she and others think the schools would be safer if kids left their drugs at home."
Good to see that some students are concerned for their civil liberties. They are the future and I am glad we have students who can recornize this as a violation of civil rights. It is sad that some students cannot see beyond the real issue: once you start allowing the violation of civil rights, where will it lead? I hope these students who are all for the dogs learn something as they enter college and become adults.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 9:02 am
"PUSD is getting the dogs BEFORE they have reasonable suspicion."
Really? If I'm interpreting your statement correctly, there's no connection to the major increase in drug related offenses at school and this course of action? The increase in drug related suspensions and expusions doesn't constitute reasonable suspicion?
Should we wait until we witness a student run over another student in the parking lot?
I get that you don't like the dogs being used as a tool to help prevent the continuation of the schools growing drug use, but to say there's no reasonable suspicion is naive.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 9:03 am
"You really believe there is no reasonable suspicion?"
They do not have INDIVIDUAL reasonable suspicion to searh every car they feel like.
Thay may have had reasonable suspicion to arrest the 3 AVHS students, but that's it.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 9:06 am
"Should we wait until we witness a student run over another student in the parking lot? "
So should we throw you in jail, Steve? To prevent some hypothetical situation where you lose your temper so badly that you shoot everyone you run into? Should we do that? Act before something bad happens?
That is the way it works: you cannot punish the innocent because you have fears.
Right now, there are drugs in the high school, but you cannot target all students because of the actions of a few.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 9:08 am
"She said some students opposed the plan because they thought the searches will be a breach of their civil liberties, while she and others think the schools would be safer if kids left their drugs at home."
OK, now substitute the word 'drugs' for the word 'guns'. Are there not schools in CA that employ metal detectors? If that's legal (it's an invasive as a dog sniffing your car) why not let these trained dogs provide this much needed public service?
on Jan 25, 2012 at 9:09 am
Resident- Go back to school and learn the difference between reasonable suspicion and probable cause. It's sad to me that some people, some of whom don't even have kids that attend PUSD schools (Patriot) are more concerned with their own agenda than that of the safety of the students and their right to go to a drug free school!
A canine sniff of property is not a search under the Fourth Amendment. There does not need to be prior reasonable suspicion prior to the canine sniff. A positive alert from a trained Narcotics Detector Dog gives reasonable suspicion to the presence of narcotics. This reaction gives the handler probable cause for a warrant. School officials need reasonable suspicion to search a student or their property. A canine alert is that reasonable suspicion. School officials do not need a warrant to conduct the search.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 9:14 am
So sick of the "civil liberties" card. So, so sick of it. I am very glad the board is voting to allow the searches. If you aren't doing anything wrong, chances are, you or your possessions won't be searched.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 9:24 am
{removed because it was irrelevant to the thread]
on Jan 25, 2012 at 9:32 am
{removed because it was irrelevant to the thread]
on Jan 25, 2012 at 9:37 am
". I am very glad the board is voting to allow the searches."
My neighbor already talked to the ACLU. Now it is only a matter of waiting until the dogs are used. How can you be glad, Vanessa? They are about to violate civil rights and face a big lawsuit as a result.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 9:44 am
Stacey is a registered user.
Mom wrote: "A student at PMS arrested on drug possession."
Good point, Mom. We need to expand drug dog sniffs to the middle schools. They don't drive cars, but that's ok. We'll have dogs sniff their parents' cars during drop-off and pick-up and their backpacks when the students aren't around.
Yea, "civil liberties" are sooooo inconvenient!
You're right, the 117 drug related suspensions at Foothill and 122 at AVHS this year is a HUGE INCREASE from the 138 Foothill and 117 AVHS suspensions in 2006! Such large increases demand drug sniffing dogs to solve the problem. Drug sniffing dogs are so effective at preventing teenage drug abuse that we need to expand the program to all public spaces.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 9:46 am
"A canine sniff of property is not a search under the Fourth Amendment. "
Actually, that is being challenged right now. You are probably relying on the 2005 supreme court ruling, which other courts have used in their rulings. That 2005 ruling though, is being challenged as we speak. PUSD would have been better off waiting until the may-june timeframe when the ruling is expected.
"A positive alert from a trained Narcotics Detector Dog gives reasonable suspicion to the presence of narcotics. This reaction gives the handler probable cause for a warrant. School officials need reasonable suspicion to search a student or their property. A canine alert is that reasonable suspicion. School officials do not need a warrant to conduct the search. "
The ACLU in Montana is challenging that right now. (sniffing of students' vehicles).
Sniffing dogs are not 100% reliable, and we do not have case law in California with respect to canine sniffs in schools because all the lawsuits were stopped when districts decided to end the sniffs instead of going to court. We do have the ruling about the GPS devices, the supreme court already ruled they were unconstitutional (before that ruling, people thought they were okay)
on Jan 25, 2012 at 9:46 am
Stacey is a registered user.
Hah, it would help if I read my own source correctly... 138 drug-related suspensions in 2009... Web Link
on Jan 25, 2012 at 9:47 am
It's about time they let the dogs out, A.C.L.U stay out of it, our kids are becoming drugged up and the parents need help from the school to curb this curse.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 9:55 am
Stacey is a registered user.
{removed because it was irrelevant to the thread]
on Jan 25, 2012 at 10:12 am
{removed because it was irrelevant to the thread]
on Jan 25, 2012 at 10:13 am
Thanks for the statisics, Stacey. I'm glad to see the problem has been rectified. That was your point, right? Oh, OK, yes, there is still a major drug problem in Pleasanton schools.
Back to the discussion as how to handle it or ignore the problem.....
on Jan 25, 2012 at 10:16 am
Stacey is a registered user.
There's nothing stupid about drug abuse. We should be using all available tools, like drug sniffing dogs, to prevent it and root out its sources. Parents need to take on their Fair Share Sniffs. If you are a parent who is doing nothing wrong, you have nothing to worry about. If we can save at least one child from the affliction of drug abuse, it will all be worth it.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 10:23 am
Parent of Two is a registered user.
I have a child at Foothill, and I have no problem with the drug-sniffing dogs. If you were really concerned about the safety of your kids (rather than preserving the "rights" of drug users), maybe some of you would actually see the BENEFITS.
And this has nothing to do with GPS tracking or any of those other strawman arguments against this. Kids are using drugs in the school. That ISN'T a guess. That ISN'T a suspicion. It's a fact. The sooner you ACLU-banner waving loons realize that, the better.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 10:49 am
I'm still trying to figure out how the supreme court ruling on GPS tracking has anything to do with K9 searches? Anyone??
on Jan 25, 2012 at 10:55 am
{removed because it was irrelevant to the thread]
on Jan 25, 2012 at 11:13 am
"I'm still trying to figure out how the supreme court ruling on GPS tracking has anything to do with K9 searches?"
This editorial may help:
Web Link
"prosecutors argued that investigators didn't need the warrant in the first place because Mr. Jones could not have an expectation of privacy while traveling on public roads. "
"Writing for the court, Justice Antonin Scalia cited the Fourth Amendment, which protects the "right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures." Justice Scalia said the government's installation of the GPS device and its use to monitor the vehicle's movements constituted a "search" and that it would have been considered as such when the Fourth Amendment was adopted."
"in a concurrent opinion, four other justices said that the key legal element in the case was not the government's physical intrusion of Mr. Jones' vehicle, but the unconstitutional violation of his privacy. "
It also has big implications about privacy issues on the web:
"The concurrent opinions make it clear that this likely to be only the first in a series of cases dealing with privacy, the Fourth Amendment and technology in the Internet era. That's why this decision is significant. "
Basically, this decision opens the door for many challenges for different issues, when it comes to privacy, 4th amendment rights, etc.
Up until this decision, they thought it was okay to install a GPS device, arguing that people should not have expectation of privacy when on public roads.
Aren't schools saying students have no expectation of privacy while on school grounds (parking lots)?
The other Supreme Court case currently pending deals with dogs sniffing personal property (a house) and based on what the dogs smelled, searching that property (house) without probable cause/reasonable suspicion other than the sniffing dogs' cues. The Florida Supreme Court already ruled it is a violatioin of 4th amendment rights and challenged the 2005 Supreme Court ruling (sniffing of a car). The case will be decided sometime in June and will have implications about dogs sniffing people's property (house, cars)
on Jan 25, 2012 at 11:16 am
I'm disappointed this was a 5-0 vote. This doesn't reflect the community division on this issue. I guess we need a brand new school board that represents the people, listens to the community, isn't mesmerized by the supt and blindly votes yes on everything.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 11:19 am
"If you were really concerned about the safety of your kids (rather than preserving the "rights" of drug users), maybe some of you would actually see the BENEFITS."
I'm concerned about the rights of innocent students who could get caught up in this, just as happened to a personal friend of mine. People who have done nothing at all wrong have plenty to fear from a policy like this.
"...That ISN'T a guess. That ISN'T a suspicion. It's a fact..."
There is also drug use in homes all over Pleasanton. This isn't a suspicion either, it is a fact. We could start doing random home searches, and that would likely turn up some drug users. But we are a nation ruled by laws, and unreasonable searches are not allowed by the constitution. Just because some students are using drugs doesn't mean we treat them all with suspicion. That is a fundamental right enumerated in the Bill of Rights.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 11:25 am
"I challenge you to meet with Mr. Dwyer and hear his concerns about drugs and discuss your concerns about canine seaches. "
I'll meet with him and hope that his mind isn't as closed as some of the people on this thread (I'm not saying you). I also hope to attend the meetings if my work schedule permits.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 11:44 am
[Removed because it was off topic]
on Jan 25, 2012 at 12:21 pm
Stacey is a registered user.
I'm glad someone clicked on the "Report Objectionable Content" link and the PW removed my post, although I disagree that it was irrelevant. The idea that we should have drug dog sniffs of parents at the Sunshine Saloon as a way to catch lawbreakers (drinking and driving is illegal) IS offensive. Why is it only offensive to catch lawbreakers by treating a whole group of people as suspect/guilty when the group is composed of adults and not teens?
on Jan 25, 2012 at 12:24 pm
This is why we elect school board members -- to govern the administration of our schools and ensure our children get a quality eduction. I applaud the action of PUSD. I only wish this had happened a decade ago when our daughters attend AVHS.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 1:35 pm
If only 1 kid is saved from a lifetime of Drug Addiction or Death - it is all worth it! Don't loose sight of doing what we can to save our kids!
on Jan 25, 2012 at 1:41 pm
I believe the school board and superintendent should lead by example and reveal what prescription medications they take and have taken and all drugs and alcohol they may or may have not taken in the past, including high school and college.
If you can have drug sniffing dogs on school campuses, the school board and superintendent should be willing to be open and drug tested themselves as well as have a full lifestyle and background polygraph administered.
And the results should be made public.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 1:53 pm
Stacey is a registered user.
Agreed. Everyone should welcome the chance to proudly prove that they are innocent on any wrongdoing. Resistance can only indicate guilt.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 2:03 pm
This is EXCELLENT news. I also applaud the board on making this important decision to help rid the campus of drugs and get the offenders on the road to recovery so they can lead productive lives.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 2:15 pm
To all the people that are against the Dogs, WAKE UP.. My family has suffered with this disease for many years. I wish the dogs were on campus when my child was in school. Then maybe our lives wouldn't be turned upside down. This truly is a family disease.....
on Jan 25, 2012 at 3:00 pm
There is an epidemic of drug and alcohol abuse in our pleasanton schools today. There are so many kids being kicked out of school, dropping out of school, going to rehab programs and dying that I cannot believe that anyone that cared about the safety of children and the environment in which they learn about their futures would not want to help curb this problem. It is a reasonable part of a solution to a very bad problem. Children have the right to learn in a safe environment. The schools are not currently a safe environment for our kids. Most kids will tell you if they are anonymous that there are drugs in the bathrooms, the parking lots the locker rooms and on the persons of many children at school. I think the solution to this problem is many faceted but we need to start somewhere. Safety of our kids is worth so much more than this. Sadly pleasanton has turned into an upper middle class example what goes on in oakland with drugs.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 3:59 pm
Web Link said regarding the Supreme Court decision yesterday on GPS tracking requiring a search warrant says: "It is important to be clear about what occurred in this case," Justice Antonin Scalia wrote. "The Government physically occupied private property for the purpose of obtaining information. We have no doubt that such a physical intrusion would have been considered a 'search' within the meaning of the Fourth Amendment when it was adopted."
The police depts tried to argue that because the GPS tracked cars driving on public streets soit didn't violate anyone's rights. They failed to convince the Supreme Court.
The Supreme Court said even touching the cars underneath the car to attach the GPS device was an illegal 'trespass' and they didn't even open up the car to do that, much less the trunk.
All they did was place something on their car.
So physically occupying cars parked on public school parking lots without probable cause (the result of a simple dog sitting down?) will probably be given the same treatment.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 4:07 pm
You better hope they can sniff-out Oxycontin because if you think marijuana is the problem, you are truly ignorant and out of touch with reality.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 4:27 pm
Kids know what's going on and that the schools are allowing drug-sniffing dogs on campus. If this action is taken because the Board thinks it will prevent drug usage...their wrong. Kids will just be carrying whatever drugs around with them. They know that if they don't cause suspicion and draw attention to themselves they can't be searched because the school doesn't have probable cause. In my opinion, this will just make a lot of drug-users and dealers "smarter" in where they hide and use their drugs.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 4:28 pm
Or the Board thinks it will help them catch more druggies*
on Jan 25, 2012 at 4:57 pm
If you are concerned about your kids and drugs, TRY PARENTING rather than shrugging off the responsibility onto the school, which is all too willing to abuse civil rights and increase it's inapropriate police activity and oppressive roles.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 5:12 pm
Disappointed - you are an idiot and you have no idea what is really going on in our award winning schools. Whatever it takes to keep our kids out of harms way is ok with me. Parents: wake up and stop trying to be so cool and hip. Drugs and alcohol are real problems here and hiding behind something unrelated to this is just irresponsible. Thank you Board for taking action to protect ALL our children. Pretty sad when your kids tell you that the drug deal is going on next to them while they are changing into their PE clothes.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 5:51 pm
If your child told you there was a drug deal going on while your kids were changing into their PE clothes at the 'award winning schools (huh)', did you personally call the police and report this incident? Or did you contact the school resource officer on staff? Or did you contact the school board with the name, date and persons involved. If you didn't, that is pretty sad.
If you expect canines and cameras to take the place of actually proactively doing something, you are sorely mistaken.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 6:07 pm
Note to parents and students alike:
if your child is a target because the sniffing dogs made a false alarm or something, there is an organization that can help for free with the legal aspect.
The only thing is that there needs to be an actual violation of rights, and the student needs to call them for help, or a parent/legal guardian on their behalf:
Legal Services for Children
Web Link
I called them today to see what they thought about the dog sniffing deal in PUSD. The person I spoke with said it sounded like a violation of civil rights for the minors in our district, but that we needed to wait until a child was made the target of school discipline, arrest, search, sniff, in order for them to step in, for FREE. They would help an individual student, and that student would have to request their involvement, or the student's legal guardian on the student's behalf.
Good to see organizations out there other than the ACLU can help.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 7:05 pm
"Whatever it takes to keep our kids out of harms way is ok with me."
And if a few innocent kid's lives are ruined because of mistakes, is that OK with you too?
What do you think the purpose of the fourth amendment is? When does a search become unreasonable. Why not search the homes where all the children live?
on Jan 25, 2012 at 7:43 pm
MOM said "OK... you really have your head in the sand. FACTS: 3 kids arrested at AVHS on drug possession. A teacher at FHS arrested on drug possession. A student at PMS arrested on drug possession.
As any high school student if there are drugs at school.
You really believe there is no reasonable suspicion??? Come on.... I didn't think the debate was whether or not there was a drug issue at the schools. but rather the best way to deal with it."
Right on! A voice of reason....for once. There is a problem and all that have the sky falling need to address this. The problem must be solved. The greatest fear is fear itself. Do it and do it right.....now!
on Jan 25, 2012 at 10:03 pm
My kids knew kids at Harvest Park and Hart and later at Amador and Foothill who smoked pot and tried other drugs. Apparently, a pill party is more popular than weed - bring pills, put in a bowl and share. This is much more dangerous. They couldn't believe that parents didn't think there were drugs in the schools.
No, my kids didn't say who and I didn't ask. If these kids would be sent to family counseling, a drug counseling and have regular tests while "under probation" and still attend school - may be. Sending them to juvie - no.
Let's get real - there are cops in the middle schools and high schools for a reason. They are not the kids friends.
on Jan 25, 2012 at 11:04 pm
Deb, you should have asked what the kids' names were and reported that you had concerns regarding their health to the Anonymous Tip Line the district has and suggest to the Tip Line that they see a counselor. So you failed in following through with your adult responsibilities. Next time, take action. You did nothing. So tomorrow, ask the kids what their names were, call the Anonymous Tip Line and do something.
on Jan 26, 2012 at 8:29 am
The school district is really going down a slippery slope with this dog sniffing program. I assume the liability insurance companies are looking at this and making decisions on how much to raise rates to afford payouts when a student is searched, and nothing is found. If this is the only way to control drugs in schools, we are in a sad state. Guess this is what happens when you take all the authority away from the teachers and all the responsibility away from the students.
on Jan 26, 2012 at 9:23 am
[Post removed due to disrespectful comment or offensive language]
on Jan 26, 2012 at 9:29 am
Stacey is a registered user.
That brings up a good point. The district's written policy on drug dog sniffs should include standards for the dogs that are used to perform the task.
on Jan 26, 2012 at 10:06 am
It looks like Foothill High has already started rounding up children like criminals and putting them in mass detention on Saturday because of this heinous crime -- drum roll -- being late to class when classes are changing. So when exactly are the children supposed to use the bathroom? They round the kids up, lock them out of class and have "Sweeps" involving detention round ups.
Did this policy come from Joan Laursen or the new superintendent?
Maybe we should just put ankle bracelets on them all.
on Jan 26, 2012 at 10:11 am
Parent of Two is a registered user.
I agree that the dogs (and handlers) need rigorous testing and licensing. I also agree that Oxycontin is probably just as prevalent in the schools, likely stolen from pill-popping parents, and NOT detectable by the dogs.
But the dogs ARE trained to sniff out the ILLEGAL drugs, which won't solve the Oxycontin problem, but will take the more dangerous drugs out of circulation. And let's be honest, the cops aren't going after the individual users... they're going after the dealers. By putting pressure on the kids who are BUYERS, they hopefully will expose the SELLERS.
And I have no problem with dogs sniffing the Board, the faculty, and the parents. Too many times, it's the parents that are the suppliers (some with their knowledge, some without).
on Jan 26, 2012 at 10:14 am
Parent of Two is a registered user.
Geez, "disappointed", how about you teach your kid to show up for class on time? It's not like these "tardy sweeps" weren't announced MONTHS in advance.
What about the 30 other kids that made it to class on time? Should their classes be disrupted by your disrespectful kid? Try acting like a parent, and teach your kid some respect for others.
on Jan 26, 2012 at 10:44 am
Thanks, Parent of Two...
Disappointed.... Some of your facts are incorrect. My student told me that the tardy sweeps were put in place because it was identified as a major problem in an accreditation observation, by an by an independent group. (That came from my student... who knows if that is totally correct?) But, as parent of two pointed out.. students were warned and parents were warned ( i received multiple emails about this). If students were caught in the sweep, they had detention the next morning...NOT Saturday. Saturday detention happens after a student is caught in a sweep (late once) and then either skipped the next morning detention or was late to the detention. I find it hard to believe that droves are students are at Saturday detention. If they are, then maybe they need to learn to be on time? There are also droves of students that are not at Saturday detention...and these students are managing to get themselves to class on time.
You are against disciplining for tardies, you are against enforcing rules on drugs. I am curious to know what rules do you think should be enforced at the high school?
on Jan 26, 2012 at 10:54 am
Good article Disappointed... the young writer received the effect she may of wanted. Admitting that school requires 6 hours a day(24 hrs. in day), student attention spans are decreasing, a students time may be more important to social interaction than their own peer groups education, hello... Mom and Dad, your own behavior(over the years) may have set me up for failure-please help me, its not about the money... but the embarressment/disrespect that the district may of shown to bring consultants in to push the responsibility problem to someone else, other than our "OWN" community. Learning to communicate, works at all levels... I know better than most. We are taught to be curious... but not inquisitive. Why? At least dog sniffing is not a government funded mandated requirement... with money then taken away and leaving districts to fund themselves. At least the dogs have respect... even love you more if you pay attention to them. ;-)
on Jan 26, 2012 at 10:58 am
Folks are dancing around the real issue. This isn't a matter of whether to advocate a libertarian or disciplinary approach. Rather, it is a matter of asking ourselves what is possessing our kids to take drugs and continue taking them, at great risk to their health, general well being, their futures? I see it as a failure of parents as role models. If kids respect their parents, they'll listen to them. If kids don't respect their parents, they'll not only not listen to them but they'll actually attempt to move their lives/behaviors in entirely different directions. We know what Pleasanton largely consists of: poorly educated, money-grubbing suburbanites, who are scared to death of human diversity. Look at the quality of arguments offered on so many of these posts. Do you actually believe our kids are going to be impressed with and respect their parents' intellects? Keep on money-grubbing, and go ahead, bring in the dogs. It won't help. All our children are poor unfortunate victims of an infected system, embraced by their parents, that only rewards stupidity, selfishness, and greed. The kids see it, in spades. They don't want any part of it.
on Jan 26, 2012 at 11:34 am
Stacey is a registered user.
See, PW? Oxycodone and parents are not irrelevant to this thread.
Parent of Two,
A past article mentioned that the dogs are indeed trained to find prescription drugs.
on Jan 26, 2012 at 1:34 pm
Frank is 100% correct. Calling out the dogs is a sign of parental failure and will just worsen the situation for those failing parents. This is another example of this failing society's attempt at putting a bandaide on something rather than addressing an issue or owning up to it.
on Jan 26, 2012 at 1:46 pm
to DB and Frank
Maybe if someone is 'caught' by the dogs, it will be that wake up call to a parent needs to seek help for their child?
My child's friend had a similar to him...he got caught with pot, his parents confronted him and he decided it wasn't a smart thing to do. He was a good kid with good parents that made a bad choice at one time. Doesn't everyone make bad decisions, even those of us with good parents?
It's not always so black and white as 'be a better parent'.
on Jan 26, 2012 at 1:55 pm
To "Mom": we don't need or want cops with dogs to vet decisions. You want the government involved in everything and considering everyone guilty until proven innocent? America used to be different...
on Jan 26, 2012 at 2:23 pm
to DB
I didn't say anyone was guilty? Bringing in dogs doesn't say anyone is guilty or innocent. It is just a check, just like I get screened everytime I go to the airport.
Hmmm.... I think last time I checked, it IS the job of the police to deal with people who are carrying illegal drugs around public places?
regarding "America used to be different"? really? i think this drug issue has been around along time. I think they have been using drug dogs through many administrations, covering both political parties? Look at the dates in some cases that others have referenced in these boards.
Seriously.... I fly in from another country and the dogs sniff my suitcase for drugs, food, whatever. How is that any different than this? My mother in law was stopped at customs becuase the dog smelled an apple in her suitcase. I got patted down at the screening because of wire in my undergarments. How is this any different?
Please make an intelligent argument instead of throwing around useless cliches.
on Jan 26, 2012 at 2:45 pm
to "Mom:"
Seems that you enjoy the idea of living in a police state. For now you have the choice, but as you give up more and more of your civil liberies, you will soon no longer have the choice.
on Jan 26, 2012 at 3:00 pm
When are Pleasanton parents going to get there heads out of the sand and admit that our 3 high schools have a drug and alcohol problem? Now that PUSD wants to finally do something about it you all a complaining. Maybe if you parents would wake up and admit that we have a problem the district and the police dept could get a handle on this issue. I would much rather that a child is caught when they are a minor rather than when they are over 18.
on Jan 26, 2012 at 3:16 pm
Stacey is a registered user.
OK. The three high schools have a drug and alcohol problem. I disagree with you that increasing the preventative police state is the correct way to address that problem. Now what?
on Jan 26, 2012 at 4:18 pm
It is amazing how many people have a problem with dogs in the school. Dogs are used at many High Schools across the country. Is there anything you people support? Many of you are well educated, but lack any vision. Have any of you read the policy? The dog will be used in the parking lots and the lockers around school buildings. They will not be used to search students. Have any of you seen a police dog in action?
Or are your kids the one's dealing drugs in school?
on Jan 26, 2012 at 4:26 pm
Stacey is a registered user.
There is no policy to read. It hasn't been written yet.
on Jan 26, 2012 at 5:30 pm
To Disappointed - My kids graduated a number of years ago. I would not use any line to the PPD or school. Why? Because police want arrests and not to help. Amador and Foothill's answer is out to the continuation school. I'd feel differently if the consequences were family counseling, drug counseling for the kid and pee tests for the kid as I said earlier. Yes, I did go to parents of two - one believed their son as mine did (I have a real hard time believing dilated eyes on multiple occasions) and the other took action. I bet Disappointed you'd want me to go to you and not the police too for yours (oh, of course, yours are perfect or you don't have any).
Another mom told me that my son could date her daughter (they'd be seeing each other any way) because he did not take drugs although some of his friends did - this was 8th grade. I did ask her how she knew - her daughter.
on Jan 26, 2012 at 5:36 pm
Those of you in favor of the use of dogs, please read this PW post:
Web Link
Someone posted an article about a school where dogs made false alerts, student lockers were searched and NO DRUGS were found.
"Drug dogs make 'false hits' at Conemaugh Township school lockers"
"Administrators, however, have found no solid evidence of drug use in any of the lockers searched.
To the corporals, that suggested a problem with the handler and dog, not students.
"It goes back to the credibility of the drug dog team," Johnson said."
"Both corporals said false hits should not be happening, and that embarrassing a student can lead to that student learning to distrust police and the school."
And the "brilliant" idea of the superintendent was called unconstitutional:
"Superintendent Joseph DiBartola also asked about checking backpacks.
"We have been entertaining the idea of putting book bags in a hallway," he said.
The corporals said that would be unconstitutional."
on Jan 26, 2012 at 6:12 pm
It's unfortunate but unsurprising that the PUSD Board has chosen to go down this ill-advised slippery slope of using drug-sniffing dogs, since no one (not the Pleasanton Teachers union representatives nor anti-drug-sniffing dog parents or students) bothered to present their objections to the Board at their last meeting. Silence is consent, as the saying goes.
The drug-sniffing dogs will be used not only in the student parking lots but also in the teacher parking lots, which is why I was surprised that no representative of the Pleasanton teachers union took an official position on these searches.
Let's say for the sake of argument that the Supreme Court has already definitively ruled that these searches are Constitutional (and that is still a matter that has NOT been decided). The drug-sniffing dogs are a bad idea because they are really just "show policing" that doesn't address why teenagers choose to abuse alcohol, narcotics, and prescription medication (hint: these problems start in the home). The drug-sniffing dogs will also create an atmosphere of mistrust and intimidation between adults and teens, which is the opposite of what you want to do when trying to combat any problem involving young people. You cannot solve the drug problem without the cooperation of the students. Period.
But let's return to the reliability of the drug-sniffing dogs. That reliability has been called into serious question on many occasions in many different countries (the UK, Norway, and the United States, just to name three). As the use of drug-sniffing dogs spread, so does the likelihood not only of a court challenge to the constitutionality of the practice, but also the chances of false accusations tarring the reputation of an innocent student or teacher.
I found this story via a quick Google search and it is interesting reading. An excerpt, followed by the link:
False Alerts:
Growing Evidence that Drug-Sniffing Dogs Reflect Police Bias
by Earth Erowid
June 2011
Dogs trained to detect drugs, explosives, and human scents have become standard in police departments around the world. Courts in the United States generally accept law enforcement claims that a detection dog "alert" provides legal justification for bypassing 4th Amendment privacy protections against unreasonable search and seizure, and many other countries have similar rules. A dog alert is considered sufficient evidence to allow police to conduct a search without a warrant, permission, or additional probable cause. In that regard, a dog alert is the equivalent of an officer seeing a dead body or smelling cannabis. Given how much power the reaction of a drug dog and its handler's interpretations can have, it is striking how little research and data has been collected about their abilities and accuracy.
False Positives
A provocative research paper published in January 2011 showed that, rather than being neutral, police detection dogs alert where their handlers think they should. This research is one of only a handful of scientific attempts to test the validity of law enforcement claims of reliable detection.
The study by Lit, Schweitzer, and Oberbauer caused a stir because, in their experiments to test detection dogs and their handlers, the researchers did not use any explosive or drug scents. Instead, they created a course inside a building and placed red paper markers on various objects to fool handlers into believing that marked locations contained scents and "Slim Jim" meat sticks as decoys to fool the dogs. Even with no legitimate targets present in the experiment, 85% of searches resulted in at least one alert by the handler-led detection dog. Only 21 out of the 144 police dog walk-throughs correctly reported no alerts by the dog, while 123 searches resulted in a combined total of 225 false alerts.
Extensive Australian Review
In 2001, a judge in Sydney, Australia ruled in Police v. Darby that the use of drug-sniffing dogs, without other probable cause to suspect an individual, was illegal. In response, the New South Wales (NSW) legislature passed a law allowing the general use of drug detection dogs and created an oversight role for an organization to track and review the use of the dogs. In 2006, the NSW Ombudsman issued an extensive report based on two years of data representing over 10,000 drug dog alerts.3 The review found that illegal drugs were found in only 26% of all searches that were initiated after a handler indicated that a dog alerted on the subject. The report softens the dismal performance by suggesting the false positives could be the result of "residual scents": after being searched and found not to possess any contraband, 60% of dog-alerted suspects "admitted to having had some contact with cannabis or to being at a place where cannabis was smoked."3 This unsubstantiated excuse for their deplorable success rate is offered by police despite their claim that dogs are "not trained to detect the odour of cannabis smoke". Improbably, some of the "residual scent" admissions collected by police were "related to drug use that was weeks, months and sometimes more than a year prior to the indication by the drug detection dog."3 Obviously this sort of remote past contact should not lead a detection dog to alert and establish probable cause for a search for current evidence.
The rest of the article at the link:
Web Link
on Jan 26, 2012 at 7:34 pm
With all due respect Professor Emeritus... good eating habits, respect, financial responsibility, good manners, good hygiene, patience, cleaning, time management and cooking (hint: these problems start in the home). Oh, I get it... because my parents built a business together, with 100 employees, representing 100 families with kids, paid their salaries,benefits, cash bonuses and yearly profit sharing(employees were stockholders) and didn't have personal time for children as needed... our families benefit was narcotics, alcohol and perscription medication. Having a fallguy(parents) I feel much better now.
I'm sure you are a great guy... nothing that a real private sector job wouldn't cure. We are the stockholders of the great enterprise. We pay your salary, benefits and retirement. You should be very grateful that people were willing to risk everything to protect/support practical people like you. Thank you for your contributions to our school district.
I know...I know... it is not my full name and that saddens you.
on Jan 26, 2012 at 7:53 pm
uhhhhhhh, could you please please tell me exactly when they will be at my uh, huh, huh, huh HIGH school so I could like, leave my weed um, uhhhh, somewhere else?
High school kids smoking pot? Are you serious? Soon they might be having sex, on campus, under the bleachers. Good god where will this all end? Why do young people act so young? It is all so immature.
Dogs are used everywhere like "illegal" weed or "legal" booze itself and who cares if a kid gets busted? (cough, cough, loser scare) Leave your weed at home! If you get caught tough crap and you deserve it for being so dumb. Dogs are legal begals and dope does not belong in schools.
If the dogs are narcotic dogs who actually catch the seriously shitty kids we do not want in our schools, then super bravo folks. Catching weed kids is good for their parents to know about, and legally please allow them their remaining childhood without a reason to not care about their futures that may be ruined for being simply kids.
Drug dogs are good and I am glad they are out there, not to catch kids legally, but to inform parents!
on Jan 26, 2012 at 7:55 pm
Another thing Daniel Bradford... if you could hand pick 7 individuals... with 3 of those persons necessary to do sweep, would that assist your anxiety associated with this move? Do you know 7 people, whose judgement you would trust to carry out sweep?
on Jan 26, 2012 at 8:26 pm
"That reliability has been called into serious question on many occasions"
Yes, many studies have shown that drug sniffing dogs are not reliable. And now we have a school (see my post above) where they have used the dogs, and they had quite a few false alerts.
Good news is, the Supreme Court is reviewing a case which will have implications as to the legality of drug sniffing dogs in schools. I am confident that the court will rule against the dogs, given how they ruled about the GPS devices. And the ACLU is challenging the dog nonsense across the nation (in Montana they are looking into the sniffing of students' cars)
btw Daniel, parents like myself who oppose the drug sniffing dogs did not show up at the meetings because we know it will fall on deaf ears. Plus we have kids in the district, and the last thing we want is for them to be harassed because the district disagrees with us.
And as for teachers, well, didn't they help elect one of the board members who is the strongest supporter of this dog nonsense? I assume then that teachers are okay with this. My friend's child told us that his/her teacher told the class that students lost their rights at school... what can you expect then from PUSD teachers?
on Jan 26, 2012 at 9:15 pm
Is it any accident that Pete's list of things he learned at home -- good eating, respect, financial responsibility, good manners, good hygiene, patience, cleaning, time management and cooking -- beginning with good eating and ending with cooking is so conspicuously lacking any virtues beyond being a good worker and consumer? Sense of justice? Nope. Feelings of compassion toward others? Nope. A willingness to share one's good fortune and luck by helping the downtrodden and impoverished? Nope.
Rather, Pete comes across as a good little superficial Republican son of neglectful, money-grubbing parents who weren't around enough to instill deep values into him and were so self-absorbed in the capitalist game of maximizing profit that they wouldn't have known how to instill such values in the first place.
So many of our youth see this and opt to alienate themselves from it. Drugs is the penultimate expression of alienation by minds that are still growing and immature. The smarter ones of course will avoid detection by dogs; the cleverer ones will smear kif oil on everyone's cars in the parking lots. These they believe are more ideal options available to them than to kowtow to the mind-numbing value deficit that typifies Pete and his parents.
on Jan 26, 2012 at 9:51 pm
Resident: You don't "know" what would have happened at the school board meeting. You think you know, but unless you're omniscient (or prescient, take your pick), then no, you don't "know".
I sometimes think that matters are a foregone conclusion, and I get weary of fighting the good fight, too. But can't we at least try? You're assuming that the school board members have closed minds. If enough members of the public took the time to voice a considered objection to the proposal to use drug-sniffing dogs in Pleasanton schools, then it might give the Board members cause to reconsider.
As it is, we'll never know, because you didn't bother.
I also take issue with two other statements you made:
" we have kids in the district, and the last thing we want is for them to be harassed because the district disagrees with us."
Faulty logic. If you are seen as publicly dissenting, the district officials would be very careful to NOT be seen as taking any sort of retribution against your children. What's more, in my eight years of experience in the district, I never witnessed nor heard of any sort of retaliatory action taken against the children of complaining parents. Pleasanton administrators might be misguided in some of their policies, but the ones I know mean well and I can't imagine any of them doing anything so hurtful as retaliating against your children just because you disagreed with them.
" as for teachers, well, didn't they help elect one of the board members who is the strongest supporter of this dog nonsense? I assume then that teachers are okay with this."
Did you vote for President Obama? If so, then I assume you are OK with everything he does, even on issues that weren't raised when Mr. Obama ran for the Presidency. You have given him a blank check by electing him to the Presidency.
I have no idea what Pleasanton teachers think on this issue. I imagine some support the Board's stance on this issue and others do not. I simply don't know because, like you, neither the union leadership or one single high school teacher could be bothered to speak at the Board meeting. Or were they afraid of retaliation, too?
That's funny, I spoke up all the time when I worked for PUSD and although some people made it clear they were annoyed with me, I never experienced anything that could be described as "retaliation".
Standing up for what you believe in means taking risks. I never know what's going to happen when I speak my mind. Maybe there will be a price to pay. But I am willing to pay it, because as the saying goes: "Freedom isn't free."
And that's the sermon for today.
If you were a member and logged in you could track comments from this story.
Understanding Early Decision in College Admissions
By Elizabeth LaScala | 1 comment | 958 views
Sentinels of Freedom Newsletter
By Roz Rogoff | 0 comments | 878 views
When those covering the news become the news
By Gina Channell-Allen | 2 comments | 633 views
New heights for NIMBYs
By Tim Hunt | 10 comments | 586 views


text:
4BR Luxury Beachfront Condo! 300 Ft² Balcony! Spring special in Panama City Beach
- bedrooms 4
- baths 3
- sleeps 10
- pool yes
- hot tub yes
- pets allowed no
- type Condo
- community Ocean Reef
rates (USD)
/ night
$ 900 - $ 2,900 / week
$ 1,800 - $ 1,800 / month
Panama City Beach Condo deals
stays between: 9/1/14 & 10/31/14
deal expires in: 5 days
Great fall deal! Gulf front 4-br home sleeping 10! We also have a 2 bedroom sleeping 6
Add $150 cleaning fee and 12.5% tax. 3% charge if paid by credit cards.
- $1,600 $1,000/week ($600 off)
- WiFi and HBO ($50)
deal# DYX6TB
vacation rental description
Please also check out listing number 89630 which sleeps 6, if you have smaller group
This luxurious four bedroom condo is in a new building and it has every amenity you want to have a fun and relaxing vacation!! Discover the captivating full Gulf views from the private 300 sqft balcony overlooking the sparkling Gulf of Mexico and powder white beach. Featuring over 1,600 square ft, upscale finishes and 10' ceilings, We decorated and outfitted the unit for our family and yours, keeping in mind everything you would need to make your vacation easy and fun and more than comfortable. You deserve a luxurious vacation!
The resort amenities include a Gulf front pool, indoor pool, hot tub, fitness, sauna and steam room to enjoy throughout your stay. You will love the location on the west side of PCB, only 1.5 miles down the street from Pier Park (Front Beach Road at Nautilus). There is not another high-rise condo next to ours, so you have a lot of privacy on the beach but don't sacrifice any amenities that combine the best of the beach, entertainment, and dining for an ultimate beach vacation.
- 4 bedrooms with 2 master suites
- All tile floor, no messy carpets
- Bed Sizes:
- Master Bedroom - King
- Second Bedroom - King
- Third Bedroom - (2) Twins
- Fourth Bedroom - Queen
- Living Room - Queen Sleeper Sofa
- Free WiFi and HBO
- 50" LCD TV in the living room
- LCD TVs in all other rooms
- 5 DVD Players
- Indoor heated swimming pool
- Outdoor gulf front swimming pool
- Sauna & Steam Room
- Free covered Parking
property availability
- dates with deals
- unavailable dates
Last modified on 08-26-2014 at 11:48 AM.
email owner view full calendar
Lei Chen 404-435-1745
condo rental amenities
Gulf front pool
Indoor pool (seasonally heated)
Hot tub
steam room
Fitness room
vacation rental rates
Mar 2 - Apr 12...$2000-2800 week... Saturday in Saturday out
Apr 12 - May 18...$1400-1800 week... $260 per night
May 18 - Aug 10... $2000 - $2900 week... Saturday in Saturday out
Aug 10 2013 - Oct 31 2013...$1600 week... $260 per night
Nov 1 2013 – Feb 28, 2014... $900 week ...$180 per night...$1800 per month
Plus $150 Cleaning and 12.5% Tax
Lei Chen 404-435-1745
accepted payment methods
Prior to paying a reservation deposit, always verify payment instructions by calling the phone number displayed on this listing page. By contacting the owner directly and paying by an approved method - credit card, paypal, check or bank transfer - your reservation payment will be protected up to $1,000.Learn more in our Security Center

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Contact us for any information or check our Frequently Asked Questions. For questions on warranty, please check the Guarantee section on this page. Please call on the retailer where you purchased your Quinny product to discuss your claims for service and guarantee.
Yes, I would like to receive the latest news from Quinny by e-mail.


text:
Sierra Designs Sizing Chart
|14"-14 1/2"
|15"-15 1/2"
|16"-16 1/2"
|17"-17 1/2"
Rain protection doesn't get much easier than the Sierra Designs Storm Poncho. Whether your travels take you to town or the trailhead, this rain poncho translates to easy slip-on storm protection from the elements.
Using Sierra Designs' waterproof polyester Storm fabric, you get hooded weatherproof protection with easy over-the-top deployment. Thanks to its generous cut and poncho style, you can throw it on over your regular clothes, backpack and all. The Poncho's long cut protects your upper legs, too. Generous arm holes allow for a great range of motion, while the hood maximizes your protection. The Velcro placket helps ease transitions and adds venting, while side snaps help to accommodate backpacks and make the poncho easy to put on and remove. The whole thing packs into its own zippered storage bag for easy travelling.
A little rain protection goes a long way whether you're traveling or hiking, and the Sierra Designs Storm Poncho for men and women puts full rain coverage in a lightweight, easy to wear package.
4.2 out of 5
4 Reviews
Some what thin....
March 15, 2012
Material seems some what thin. But (LIKE) the neck fit adjustments, around the face adjustments and also has room for helmet in the hood.. Comes with stuff sack(sml./thin) that can be put in a backpack or a pocket.. Only rainy/windy weather and time will tell if this poncho will hold up....Pros: Ease of use, Cons: Cost
January 15, 2012
reasonnable priced for the quality, efficient drawstrings for the hood, grommet holes at four corners make this poncho double as a tarp that you could secure via the holes!! Pouch is convenient but zipper of the cheapest quality, I bought two poncho's, both zippers went out of alignment during the first use!Pros: Build quality, Ease of use, Great value, Cons: zippers on pouch
Excellent poncho for mountain climb
July 23, 2011
water tight and keep me dry from torrential rain. I worked great and comfortable. It is small and compact to carry with you and almost no weight on your gear.Pros: Build quality, Performance, Ease of use, Great value
I am optimistic
October 10, 2012
I bought this for an upcoming trip to Costa Rica - that will be the test. It is marked unisex and I am a women 5'5 ~115 pounds - got a large. It seems good for me and I like that it is below the knees - for a large man it may be too small. It seems well made for what it is and my zipper in the storage pouch is just fine. I like the hood drawstring feature but will add more hook & loop tape to the arms in case of a rain-forest deluge. Teal color is very pretty - wish they had more lighter colors though like tan / stone.Pros: Build quality, Ease of use
Sierra Designs Storm Poncho Photo
Bamboo, Black, Crimson, Electric Blue, Leaf Green, Midnight, Red and Teal.
Available sizes, while supplies last, include size s/m and size l/xl: s/m, l/xl.
We're Available:
Mon-Fri: 7:30am-4:00pm PST
Sat-Sun: CLOSED


text:
The latest news in the Ruby and Rails communityGot some news to report? Send it in!
Sorry about the audio in this episode, we were trying out some new equipment. It is none the less packed full of appetizing Ruby and Rails knowledge served with a side of Hash(rocket).
This episode is sponsored by New Relic. New Relic gives you performance monitoring, tracking, and reporting of your web applications.
In today's episode we cover the new Rails 4.2beta, JSON API Resources, Country Select 2.0, Harpoon, Poodr course learning, and Feature Focus all while riding in our Roles Royce.
Semaphore is now free for open source projects, URL extraction with PostRank-URI, STI with JSON fields, a different approach to email validation, transit-rails, and the Pixel Perfect Precision Handbook all in this episode of the Ruby5!
We talk about Rails 4.0.9 and 4.1.5, flatten records, introduce Http::Exceptions, manage configurations, and update Devise.
Dokkufy, Rails Helpers, JRuby, Xiki and DHH code review


text:
Three New Cook Island Collector Coins: Bees, Painting, and the PGA
CoinWeek would like to bring to your attention, three new Cook Island Collector Coins struck by B.H. Mayer's Kunstprägeanstalt GmbH. Shades of Nature – Bee "Sweet as honey" – the yellow nectar has always been the epitome... read more »


text:
Forest Service officials have postponed prescribed burns in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest just west of Reno.
The intentional fires were to be set Monday in the Dog Valley area near Verdi about a mile from the Nevada-California line, but the Forest Service says it will announce prescribed burns at a later date, weather permitting.
At the time, crews intend to burn about 28 acres of forest understory. The project may take a couple of days.
District fuels specialist Steve Howell says prescribed fire is an efficient way to remove woody debris and forest litter so as to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire.
KTVN-TVPhone: (775) 858-2222Fax: (775) 861-4298
Mailing Address:4925 Energy WayReno, NV 89502


text:
September 2, 2014
Subscribe to BP
BPNews English
BP En Espanol
BP News
Life-saving supplies delivered to displaced in northern Iraq
Platt shares IMB calling with church family
Bae interviewed; Abedini's release requested
Human trafficking targeted by WMU ministry
Disaster relief volunteers find love while serving
2nd VIEW: Platt looks ahead to mission challenges
FROM THE STATES: Okla., Ark., Ky. evangelism/missions news; Okla. business leaders impact East Asia
FIRST-PERSON: The Gospel & the call to hunger relief
BP en Espanol
Platt sucede a Elliff como presidente de IMB
La cooperación es fundamental para la visión de Platt en IMB
Floyd: Crisis de Irak requiere acción urgente
Cristianos israelitas y palestinos oran por la paz mientras soportan el conflicto
EDITORIAL: Por tres pecados, y por el cuarto
BP Sports
BP Cartoons
A daily feature by Joe McKeever
Beyond the Ark
a weekly by Doug Michael
Brother Blooper
a weekly by Dennis Daniel
Church of the Covered Dish
a weekly by Thom Tapp
a weekly by Dennis Fletcher
P.K. (Preacher's Kids)
a weekly by David Ayers
Culture Digest
CULTURE DIGEST: Huckabee weighs another presidential bid; Salvation Army counters LBGT rumors; ...
CULTURE DIGEST: 'Spiritually innocent,' Gosnell says
CULTURE DIGEST: Webcam abortions banned in Iowa
CULTURE DIGEST: Biola president apologizes to pro-lifers, affirms sanctity of life at univ.
CULTURE DIGEST: 'Soul surfer' Bethany Hamilton marries
CULTURE DIGEST: California's Brown vetoes egg donor bill
International Digest
INT'L DIGEST: Chavez facing major opposition
INT'L DIGEST: Mexico City ponders 'temporary' marriages, Saudi women may not get to vote
INT'L DIGEST: Chavez prepares for re-election
INT'L DIGEST: Chavez, facing cancer, grants health parole to opponent; ...
INT'L DIGEST: Iran pastor to be executed?
INT'L DIGEST: Muslims destroy church in Egypt, but Christians quickly rebuild
Life Digest
LIFE DIGEST: More than 700 saved in 40 Days
LIFE DIGEST: Abortions drop after law passed
LIFE DIGEST: Fed gov't to fund N.H. Planned Parenthoods after N.H. says it won't
LIFE DIGEST: D.C. funds 300 abortions
LIFE DIGEST: Alabama bans abortions after 20 weeks; U.S. House stops 'telemed' funds
LIFE DIGEST: States continue targeting abortion clinics, funds
Marriage Digest
MARRIAGE DIGEST: With military policy reversed, gay couples want family benefits
MARRIAGE DIGEST: Marriage amend. blocked in Iowa; French court rejects 'gay marriage'
MARRIAGE DIGEST: Obama signals his views on 'gay marriage' could change
MARRIAGE DIGEST: Prop 8 hearing on TV
MARRIAGE DIGEST: Calif. gov., AG races could affect Prop. 8; ...
MARRIAGE DIGEST: Glenn Beck taken to task for libertarian 'gay marriage' position
Story Collections
Mideast Monitor
Texas Border
Crisis in Ukraine
The Persecuted Church
SBC Call to Prayer
More Story Collections >>
Today's Edition
Past Editions
1997 ~ Present
1948 ~ 1996
Search Stories
1997 ~ Present
1948 ~ 1996
Search Photos
BP Newsfeed
BP Espanol feed
RSS BPNews
RSS BP en Espanol
RSS BP Sports
About Baptist Press
Contact BP
Richard Land issues open letter of apology for controversial Trayvon Martin comments
Posted on Apr 16, 2012 | by Art Toalston
Email this Story
My Name*:
My Email*:
Enter list of email recipients, one address per box
Recipient 1*
Recipient 2
Recipient 3
Recipient 4
Recipient 5
To fight spam-bots, we need to verify you're a real human user.
Please enter your answer below:
What is the last month of the year?
* = Required Fields
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP) -- Richard Land has written an open letter of apology for comments he voiced about the infusion of politics into the Trayvon Martin killing.
Land, president of the Southern Baptist Convention's Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, made the apology in a letter to SBC President Bryant Wright, an Atlanta-area pastor, on April 16.
In response, a prominent African American pastor, Fred Luter Jr. of New Orleans, issued a statement to BP accepting Land's apology. Luter is the SBC's first vice president who will be nominated for SBC president during the convention's June 19-20 annual meeting in New Orleans.
"I am writing to express my deep regret for any hurt or misunderstanding my comments about the Trayvon Martin case have generated," Land wrote in his letter to Wright. "It grieves me to hear that any comments of mine have to any degree set back the cause of racial reconciliation in Southern Baptist or American life."
Land, who voiced the comments during his call-in radio broadcast Marc
h 31, wrote that he has been committed "to the cause of racial reconciliation my entire ministry. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a Baptist minister has been a personal hero of mine since I surrendered to the ministry in 1962."
Land's apology is printed in full at the end of this article.
Luter, in his statement to Baptist Press, said, "I commend Dr. Richard Land for his letter of apology pertaining to his comments about the Trayvon Martin case. His comments certainly were a concern for many of us across the Southern Baptist Convention.
"Our convention has made a lot of progress in the area of racial reconciliation and we want to continue this effort," Luter continued. "Dr. Land's letter of apology will hopefully keep us on track. I accept his apology and will look forward to working with him and others within this convention to tear down the walls of racism in our great country."
Wright also issued a statement to Baptist Press.
"Racial reconciliation is very important to Southern Baptist Christians," Wright said. "Richard Land has often led the way in this effort and yet his recent remarks have offended many. It has grieved him that this has occurred and he has apologized.
"Fred Luter is one of our leading pastors in the Southern Baptist Convention who is serving as our 1st Vice President and happens to be African American. His spirit of forgiveness is what we would hope of everyone in situations like this when one person says something hurtful and offensive to others and acknowledges it and asks forgiveness.
"I pray that Dr. Land's apology to all who have been hurt or offended by his recent remarks will be another important step towards our full reconciliation with one another," Wright said. "This is a noble goal to which our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ calls us to have with our fellow man."
Land, on his "Richard Land Live!" radio show March 31, said, in part, that black leaders such as Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson should not have been so quick to jump into the Trayvon Martin case in which the 17-year-old African American was shot and killed by neighborhood watchman George Zimmerman, a Hispanic, in Florida in February.
"The rule of law is being assaulted by racial demagogues," Land said, "and it's disgusting, and it should stop."
Land's comments were reported nationally by Religion News Service, Huffington Post, Los Angeles Times and other media. An Associated Press article in mid-April repeated Land's comments.
Baptist Press' April 10 report on Land's comments can be accessed at
Land's apology followed conversations between Wright and Land in which they discussed how offended many African Americans and many fellow Christians were over his comments. "In talking with Richard, I found a receptivity to apologize for the comments he had made," Wright said.
Land then sent the open letter of apology to Wright, asking that it be shared with Luter and then with the broader Southern Baptist family.
Land, who has led the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission since 1988, played a key role in the Southern Baptist Convention's 1995 racial reconciliation resolution in which Southern Baptists denounced racism, apologized to African Americans for "individual and systemic racism in our lifetime" and repented of racism "of which we have been guilty, whether consciously or unconsciously."
The full text of Land's April 16 apology for his Trayvon Martin comments follows:
Dr. Bryant Wright
President, Southern Baptist Convention
955 Johnson Ferry Road
Marietta, GA 30068
Dear Bryant,
I am writing to express my deep regret for any hurt or misunderstanding my comments about the Trayvon Martin case have generated. It grieves me to hear that any comments of mine have to any degree set back the cause of racial reconciliation in Southern Baptist or American life. I have been committed to the cause of racial reconciliation my entire ministry. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a Baptist minister has been a personal hero of mine since I surrendered to the ministry in 1962.
When I was elected president of the then Christian Life Commission in 1988, I made it clear to the search committee and board of trustees that I was going to make racial reconciliation a top priority. I assumed office in October of 1988 and the first conference held under my administration was a racial reconciliation conference in January of 1989. As you know I was one of the progenitors of the racial reconciliation resolution our convention passed at our sesquicentennial in 1995.
I have rejoiced in the tremendous progress that has been made in racial reconciliation both in our convention and in American life. I rejoice in the prospect that one of our most admired leaders and pastors, Dr. Fred Luter, will in all likelihood be elected president of our convention in June.
I look forward to the day when our convention membership reflects the ethnic and demographic diversity of the general population, with no difference between Southern Baptists and the nation.
Clearly, I overestimated the progress that has been made in slaying the ugly racist ghosts of the past in our history. I also clearly underestimated the extent to which we must go out of our way not to be misunderstood when we speak to issues where race is a factor.
Please know that I apologize to any and all who were hurt or offended by my comments. I will certainly recommit myself to seeking to address controversial issues with even more sensitivity in the future.
Yours in his service,
Richard Land
Art Toalston is editor of Baptist Press. An earlier Baptist Press
was posted April 16 on charges that Land, in his "Richard Land Live!" broadcast March 31, had failed to attribute some of his comments about the Trayvon Martin killing to a Washington Times columnist. The BP story, titled "Land responds to charges of plagiarism," can be accessed at
Latest Stories
Life-saving supplies delivered to displaced in northern Iraq
Platt shares IMB calling with church family
Bae interviewed; Abedini's release requested
Human trafficking targeted by WMU ministry
Disaster relief volunteers find love while serving
2nd VIEW: Platt looks ahead to mission challenges
FROM THE STATES: Okla., Ark., Ky. evangelism/missions news; Okla. business leaders impact East Asia
FIRST-PERSON: The Gospel & the call to hunger relief
Add Baptist Press to
your news reader
© Copyright 2014 Baptist Press. All Rights Reserved.
Terms of Use
Southern Baptist Convention


text:
March 12, 2013
Shorepower Technologies has announced six more truckstops added electric plug-in power pedestals to their locations from late December 2012 to the end of February. The six truckstops located in Iowa, New Mexico, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Wyoming now offer truck operators and fleets more than 150 truck parking spaces with power connections.
Five of the six locations are also offering connections providing 480-volt power for hybrid refrigerated trailers. Below is a full list of the six truckstops now offering shorepower for trucks and 480-volt power for hybrid refrigerated trailers: • Flying J Williams - Williams, Iowa - 24 plug-ins and three refrigeration unit connections (480-volt power).• Russell's Truck and Travel Center - Endee, (Glenrio), N.M. – 24 plug-ins and five refrigeration unit connections (480V).• Flying J Hubbard - Hubbard, Ohio - 24 plug-ins and five refrigeration unit connections (480V).• Sapp Brothers - Clearfield, Pa. - 24 plug-ins and five refrigeration unit connections (480V).• Lee Hi Travel Plaza – Lexington, Va. – 24 plug-ins. • Little America - Little America, Wyo. - 36 plug-ins and five refrigeration unit connections (480V).The six join eight other truckstops that added electric plug-in power pedestals in December, which Shorepower announced late last year.
There are more than 50 locations around the country that have been outfitted by Shorepower Technologies. Shorepower provided most of the electrical pedestals through the Department of Energy's Shorepower Truck Electrification Project — administered through Cascade Sierra Solutions.Shorepower Technologies, which is offering free power incentive for truckers through March 31, recently created an easy way for fleets and owner operators to say where they want power at their website.
Who is subsidizing this "free power",Does this subsidy just get tacked on to my fuel bill when I fill up?How long will this last without a subsidy?
We offer e-newsletters that deliver targeted news and information for the entire fleet industry.
The expert, Mark Betner from Citgo will answer your questions Ask a question
Wheel end expert Jeff Geist from STEMCO will answer your questions Ask a question
Fiery Crash Video Paints Portrait of Brave and Caring Truckers
The True Causes of Rubber on the Road
Freightliner's S2G Propane-Autogas-Powered Truck Chassis
Volvo Brings Trucking Web Series to America
Stemco Launches CentriFuse HD Line of Brake Drums
Peterbilt Adds New Configuration for SmartAir System
Chicago Pneumatic Announces New Impact Wrench
Mitsubishi Announces Idle Limit System Option for Canter Trucks


text:
James Moffat
James Moffat has 10-plus years of professional writing experience for print and online publications. An avid sports fan and follower who grew up in New Jersey, he is a New York Giants fan who married into a New York Jets family.Read More »
He currently resides in North Carolina.
He currently resides in North Carolina.
- Page Views
- 1,400,325
- Content
- 39
- Fans
- 1
- Contributor since
- 1/3/2013
BadgesLearn more »
FavoritesNone yet.
Displaying Results 1 - 39 (of 39) for All Content
New York Jets Should Stop Winning to Improve Chances in 2014 NFL DraftIf I could offer the New York Jets one piece of advice for the rest of the season, it's would be this: Please, Gang Green, stop winning.
New York Jets: After Sunday's Loss, Time to Look Toward 2014No matter how you slice it, the 2013 New York Jets are NOT a playoff team. So it's time to start looking toward 2014.
New York Jets Need to Sign Mo Wilkerson Long-Term -- NowSigning defensive lineman Muhammad Wilkerson long-term quickly and fairly would show commitment to the team and the New York Jets fan base.
NFL Power Rankings Kind to New York Jets Following Bills ThrashingSunday's loss to the Buffalo Bills didn't affect the New York Jets much in many Week 12 NFL Power Rankings.
New York Jets Fans Should Be Mad at John Idzik and Woody Johnson, Not Darrelle RevisNew York Jets fans have to ask themselves this: Is the team better without Darrelle Revis? The answer is a resounding no.
New York Jets in Great Position for AFC Playoff BerthWith their win against New England on Sunday, the New York Jets are in position for an NFL playoff spot.
New York Jets Need Defining Win Against New England Patriots on SundayThe New York Jets Week 7 game against the New England Patriots represents the crossroad of their 2013 NFL campaign.
New York Jets Need to Bench Quinton CoplesQuinton Coples isn't hurting the New York Jets, but he's not helping them, either.
New York Jets Studs and Duds: Week 5Outstanding performances, area of improvement highlight New YorkJets' 30-28 win over the Atlanta Falcons on Monday Night FootballAlso published on:
Three Things to Watch for During New York Jets-Atlanta Falcons MNF MatchupTonight's Monday Night Football matchup between the New York Jets and Atlanta Falcons is a must-win game for both teams.
Geno Smith, New York Jets Humiliated Against Tennessee TitansGeno Smith showed his rookie stripes against the Tennessee Titans. The New York Jets and their fans should expect more of the same for the rest of the season.
In Depth: New York Jets Must Contain Jake Locker in Two-Minute DrillThe New York Jets might want to get ahead early in their Week 4 matchup against the Tennessee Titans.
New York Jets: Three Things to Watch in Week 4 Against Tennessee TitansBy the end of the weekend, either the New York Jets or the Tennessee Titans will legitimize their 3-1 record.Also published on:
New York, New York: Jets Flip Script on GiantsIt's looking like Big Blue – not Gang Green – will be the laughingstock of New York by season's end.
Can New York Jets Upset New England? Yes, They CanOn paper, New York Jets should lose to the New England Patriots tonight. But the Jets could -- and very well might – beat the Patriots.
New York Jets Downright Offensive in the Trenches in Week 1 WinThe running backs and the offensive line will make-or-break the New York Jets 2013 season.
Three Things Geno Smith Must Do to Succeed in Week 1 for the New York JetsMore than a win or a loss, Geno Smith's success for the New York Jets on Sunday will rely on three key factors.
New York Jets: Five Things to Watch in Week 1 vs. Tampa BayThe New York Jets open the 2013 NFL season against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at home this Sunday. Here are five things to look for at kickoff.
2013 NFL Season Predictions: New York JetsThe New York Jets face a brutal five-game stretch in the middle of their season that will make-or-break the 2013 NFL season
New York Jets: Five Things We've Learned Through 2013 NFL PreseasonThree preseason games into the 2013 season, the New York Jets aren't giving fans much hope -- for the season or the future.
New York Jets WR Santonio Holmes Has to Prove WorthSantonio Holmes was supposed to be The Man when he signed long term with the New York Jets less than three years ago. Today, he's playing for his contract.
New York Jets: Three Things Not Named Mark Sanchez or Geno Smith to Watch for in Training CampThe New York Jets open training camp this week. Outside of the quarterback battle, there are other pressing issues - such as skill positions, offensive line and rookie development - the team must address.
More Qs Than as Following New York Jets OTAsBoth on offense and defense, the New York Jets have plenty of questions heading into the summer.
Tim Tebow: New York Jets' Flub Will Become New England Patriots' GainUnder the direction of Bill Belichick, Tim Tebow will show the New York Jets organization what they missed out on when they kept him under wraps during his brief tenure with the team.
Parking Wars in the Middle of Giants-Jets Lawsuit Against American Dream ComplexWhile the New York Giants and New York Jets publicly say their lawsuit to stop the long-derailed American Dream retail and entertainment complex is to help fans, there's a big financial angle to their actions.
New York Jets Quarterback Situation Getting WorseThe New York Jets quarterback situation is only getting worse, as on-field performance at OTAs is dismal and teammates wonder if Mark Sanchez can ever regain his rookie year form.
New York Jets Need to Cut Mike Goodson Following ArrestThe New York Jets need to send the right message to its players and its fans by releasing Mike Goodson following his arrest on gun, drug charges
David Garrard Retirement Leaves New York Jets in Tough SpotQuarterback David Garrard's retirement leaves the New York Jets with an unsettled quarterback competition and a lot of what-ifs.
New York Jets Rumors: Team Kicking Tires on Spare Parts at WR PositionThe New York Jets have been linked with veteran wide receivers Brandon Lloyd, Braylon Edwards and Ramses Barden in an effort to bolster a lackluster receiving corp.
NFL Schedule Reaction: New York Jets 2013 ScheduleThe New York Jets' 2013 schedule is filled with opportunity, but one five-game stretch is likely to make or break the season
New York Jets Must Avoid Geno Smith to Save FranchiseTo save the franchise, the New York Jets must avoid temptation and avoid West Virginia quarterback Geno Smith during the 2013 NFL draft.
NFL Draft: Updated New York Jets' Mock DraftNow that we're a week away, it's time to mock the 2013 NFL draft for the New York Jets. This is the most important draft for the New York Jets franchise since 2006, so there's not a lot of room for error.
NFL Draft: New York Jets' Top NeedThe strength of the 2013 NFL draft class is on the offensive and defensive lines, and that's precisely where the New York Jets should be focusing their efforts over NFL draft weekend.
NFL Draft: Best Undrafted Players in New York Jets HistoryTake a look at some of the New York Jets' most productive undrafted free agents signings over the last few years.
NFL Draft: Top Five Busts in New York Jets HistoryWith the ninth pick in this year's NFL Draft, it seems like a great time to take a look back at the most agonizing draft moments by the New York Jets.
Time is Right for New York Jets-Darrelle Revis DivorceAll-Pro cornerback Darrelle Revis and the New York Jets are headed toward divorce -- something that's been a long time coming.
Mocking the Draft: Who Will the Jets Choose at No. 9?Mock drafts for the 2013 NFL Draft have begun. Here's a look at some of the players so-called experts are pegging for the Jets, and the rub against those picks.
Congrats, You're the Jets GM: Now What?Whoever takes over the general manager duties for the New York Jets is going to have to make some pretty stark changes. Here's where he should start.
Woody Johnson Had No Choice but to Stick with Rex RyanBetween the overpriced roster, the dearth of interested candidates and the lack of quality at the sport's premiere position, the New York Jets had no choice but to give the job to the only man who wanted it.


text:
With 57% of the votes, Colome is elected the eigth prospect. For this poll, I am going to leave it up two days to get more votes.
1. Jeremy Hellickson (84%)
2. Desmond Jennings (50%)
3. Matt Moore (100%)
4. Jake McGee (74%)
5. Alex Torres (55%)
6. Alex Cobb (65%)
7. Tim Beckham (41%)
8. Alex Colome (57%)
Contender Pool: Nick Barnese, Wilking Rodriguez, Josh Sale, Jake Thompson, Enny Romero, Joseph Cruz, and Drew Vettleson.
Tester Pool: Ryan Brett, Tyler Bortnick, Luke Bailey, and Juston O'Conner.
Josh Sale: I am sure we have all seen the glowing reports on his bat. The best HS bat, Sale's main problem is his speed/defense although he should be an average defender. He was considered a great pick by the Rays. BA says that he has tremendous bat speed and an excellent feel for the strike zone.
Nick Barnese: Barnesepitched in A+ as a 21 year old. He uses a low to mid 90s fastball with crazy movement. I don't have much info from this past year, but raysprospects.com reported that in 2009 he had a slurve and a change, which were both above average. I only saw a few of his starts and am no scout, but they both appeared to be average at some times while plus at others. Injuries are an issue.
Wilking Rodriguez: Signed out of Venezuela in 2007, Rodriguez is a polished pitcher compared to many other international signees. He has good control and limits walks. His fastball is an above average pitch that sits in the low 90's and can hit 96-97 if needed. He has a curve that he goes to alot, and has a usable change-up. THe curve is potentially plus. The main problem for him is if he can get more strikeouts or give up fewer hits. He hasn't been hit hard, but the hit rates are a little worrying.
Jake Thompson: Thompson was taken by the Rays in the second round of this years draft. He works off of a low to mid 90's fastball that has some good movement (plus pitch). Pre-draft reports said his clider and change needed work, but after his season, they were reported to be much better. His slider/curve has a good chance to be plus as does his change if he uses it more. After tearing up in Hudson Valley, the Rays very aggresively promoted him to A+ where he dominated in his short stint. This quick advance to A+ at only age 20 is a testimony to the Rays faith in his abilities. Will start the year in A+ and could see AA near the end of the year.
Joseph Cruz: Throws strikes and limits hits. Of course, this very much could change as he moves up to AA. His fastball sits at 92-94 although I have seen him hit 97 before. His curve (from what I have seen). I can't find much other scouting, but I can tell you from the several times I have seen him that his offspeed stuff needs work. His curve is too loopy and inconsistent and his changeup is below average. I am not sure how he did that well for his stuff, but he did. He did throw his offspeed stuff quite enough though, which kept hitters off balance. This in turn made his fastball better.
Enny Romero: As a 19 year old out of the Dominican Republic, Enny Romero dominated this year as his stuff advanced. He dominated in Princeton with an ERA in the 1's while even lowering it in the short time he was in Hudson Valley. As far as stuff, he has a mid-90's fastball (BA) and a good/potential plus curve (BA). I have also heard from people who have seen him that he has a changeup. He just needs to keep on progressing.
Drew Vettleson: The Rays third pick (supplemental first round) of 2010, Vettlson is a polished good all around bat. Unlike Sale, he should hit for an average while providing at least average power. Andy Seiler had this to say: "His combination of power, hitting ability, and arm strength make him a potential starting right fielder at the next level. His hit tool is above-average, and when combined with plus raw power, he's a legitimate hitting threat. He's quite selective at the plate, and like Sale, he's quite an advanced hitter for his age, which is exceptional considering their geography." He has yet to play a professional game. I would like to point our though that he did exceptionally well at the showcase curuit against some of the best pitchers in the draft.


text:
News >> Browse Articles >> Crime News
11 months ago
342 articles submitted
Source: Mid Hudson News
September 30, 2013
Read Article
Save time in your search for a criminal justice degree program.
Use PoliceLink's School Finder to locate schools online and in your area.
Ex-NJ State Police sergeant's pension docked after drunk driving accidents.
7-Eleven clerk arrested after allegedly "hugging and kissing" customer
School bus driver had .139 BAC
Man charged in investigation of Pomeranian's injuries
Four charged in VB deadly armed robbery
© 2014 PoliceLink


text:
|You Are Here:
DescriptionMake some noise at sales seminars, company parties, outings and sporting events! Earth-shaped plastic maracas featuring global-themed stock art. Filled with plastic beans. Shake to celebrate. Packaging: Shrink Wrap. Plastic.
Imprint Area: 1-1/4"W x 1"H, Side.
Product Size: 7"H x 2-3/4" Diameter.
Price includes one color, one location Pad imprint. Other imprint methods/areas may be available; please call for details. Please note that product images are for reference only and may reflect imprint methods/areas which are not included in standard pricing shown. Maximum number of imprint colors for this item: 1.
Item Colors
*Stock item colors shown on website are for reference only and may not match actual item color. Please request a sample for exact colors.
Additional Information
|Imprint Area
|See Description
|Standard Production Time
|5 days. (Rush production may be available. Learn More)
|4.16 oz
|Free Rush Production
|FREE 24 Hour Rush
Question & AnswerAsk Question Live Chat
General FAQ
This product has not been reviewed. Be the first to review this product and share your thoughts with other customers
Create your own review
Create your own review
How to order


text:
Work set to start on £600k scheme for Red Lion Yard (From Gazette)
Get involved: send your pictures, video, news and views by texting GAZETTE NEWS to 80360, or email
Work set to start on £600k scheme for Red Lion Yard
6:00am Sunday 19th January 2014 in News
A £600,000 scheme to redesign Colchester's Red Lion Yard will begin on Monday.
A refurbishment of the area, linking High Street with Lion Walk Shopping Centre, will include new shop fronts and improved lighting and signs.
First Choice has been appointed to carry out the work, due to be completed this summer.
Over the next few months, some of the smaller vacant units will be combined to create larger boutiques and a coffee shop.
Surveyor Nicholas Percival is the letting agent for the available units in the yard.
Nancy Cannon, commercial surveyor, said: "Red Lion Yard is home to some fantastic local retailers, but it's no secret there are a number of empty units.
"The revitalisation is designed to attract new businesses and create a boutique feel. We're looking forward to seeing Red Lion Yard come to life over the next few months."
Comments (1)
Please log in to enable comment sorting
3:34pm Sun 19 Jan 14
stevedawson says...
Comments are closed on this article.


text:
Sponsors include Blackberry, Google, Intel, MercadoLibre, Microsoft, Nokia, and Yahoo!
MIAMI (December 6, 2011) – Professor Hannibal Travis will address the Latin American Public Policy Forum on Internet, E-commerce and Mobile Technologies and will discuss safe harbors for Internet service providers against copyright infringement claims under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act of 1998. Also speaking at the forum were members of the in-house counsel departments for Latin America of Yahoo! and Google.
The event will take place on Tuesday, December 6 at the Four Season on Brickell Avenue in Miami, Florida.


text:
Komondor Puppy
• Female • $400
AKC Jewel 3
• Female • $750
Komondor Puppy
Receive an email alert when additional Komondor puppies are added. It's easy and free!
BREED: Komondor Puppy
INCLUDES: puppy food , health record
Puppies come with FREE Pet Insurance when adopted from NextDayPets.com! *Please ensure your breeder participates
Member Since: August 2006
Location: Bowling Green, Kentucky


text:
The Hill Newspaper: We've Found a Tax Hike Some Conservatives Like
The Hill newspaper can be a good read for Capitol Hill coverage. It goes deeper than the superficial treatment the MSM often gives legislative matters.
That said, it seems to me the paper is taking at best a curious tack on an issue dividing fiscal conservatives of late: whether to sew up a federal tax loophole on private equity compensation and effectively raise some taxes as a result.
The Hill is painting the matter as one of conservative activists versus their GOP congressional allies with Jessica Holzer's July 18 article, "Conservatives break with GOP leaders on tax bill." The lede for the article lends the impression that some conservatives are finding a tax they actually like:
Some prominent conservatives are coming out in favor of a Democratic proposal to raise taxes on the private equity and hedge fund industries, signaling a break with anti-tax groups and Republican lawmakers on the issue.
William A. Niskanen, the chairman of the libertarian Cato Institute and a former member of President Reagan's Council of Economic Advisors, called the share of investment profits, or "carried interest," earned by hedge fund and private-equity managers "basically fees for managing other people's money" and said it should be taxed as ordinary income rather than as a capital gain.
Aside for Niskanen, Holzer cites an expert at the Hudson Institute as favoring a shift in tax law governing private equity compensation. Yet later in Holzer's article she notes numerous conservative activists strongly opposed to the legislation sponsored by Rep. Sander Levin (D-Mich.)
Holzer cited the Wall Street Journal editorial board, Americans for Tax Reform (ATR) and the Club for Growth as strong opponents of the Democratic-sponsored legislation while noting that the "conservative Heritage Foundation, usually a vocal opponent of tax increases, has not yet taken a stance on carried interest."
Of course, regardless of where they stand on private equity taxation, conservative and libertarian activists generally agree that more can be done to lessen the federal tax burden. As Holzer herself noted in her closing paragraph, Cato's Niskanen:
... said that while he supported taxing carried interest as ordinary income, he favors far lower tax rates on corporations. He argued that the brouhaha over carried interest provided an opening for lawmakers to reduce the corporate income tax rate at the same time they raised taxes on fund managers.
The bottom line: while the article sheds some light on an in-house debate among fiscal conservatives on one issue in the complex tax code, what is lost to the reader is the sense of the greater unity among fiscal conservatives in combating the burdensome federal tax code, including the federal corporate tax rate, which ranks higher than even more socialized economies like France, Mexico, Canada, and Sweden.
- Ken Shepherd's blog
- Login to post comments


text:
Photoshop Elements Basic Training
Our popular 'one week drop in service' is now available with a 50% discount for your second machine until the end of August 2014Read more
Windows XP Retirement Windows XP is being retired – what does this mean? After being available since October 2001, Microsoft Windows XP remains one of the most widely used Operating Systems (OS)...Read more
Cryptolocker Ransomware The latest ransomware to hit businesses and home computers is named 'Cryptolocker' and now a new version of the same infection if circulating. If you click on an attachment...Read more


text:
Short and to the point: Withdraw Barclays' Banking Licence!
Responsible department: Her Majesty's Treasury
Within a capitalist economy banks perform a vital function in facilitating the production and exchange of goods and services. In return for fulfilling this role responsibly they are allowed to hold a banking licences, which brings them great benefits in terms of the ability to create money through making loans. The systematic manipulation of the LIBOR value to serve its business interests makes clear that Barclays is not a fit company to hold a banking licence. We call upon the government to withdraw Barclays banking licence.
A television crew from Sky News visited Molly Scott Cato at home to interview her about the manipulation of inter-bank lending rates by Barclays and the resignation of its chief executive Bob Diamond. This appeared on appeared on Sky news earlier this month.