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The Declining Baseline of Personal Choice
June 28, 2013 § 21 Comments
This whole conversation about health care and health (the former of which sadly does not generally contribute to the latter) has me thinking of a topic that's been the subject of frequent conversations 'round these parts: Declining baselines.
I was first introduced to the concept via Erik, during my reporting of $AVED. It's come up again lately thanks to an essay by Derek Jensen in the latest issue of Orion (it's not on the magazine's website, so I can't link to it). In short, declining baseline refers to the phenomenon of adaptation to ever-lower standards. In Jensen's essay, he refers to the profound loss of wildlife, and the fact that most people alive today don't even know what's been lost, since so much of it was lost by the time their frame of reference was even established. That frame of reference – a new normal, so to speak – is a declined baseline.
I think there's also a declining baseline in regards to our expectations for human health and well being. I think of our own story surrounding money and debt, and how so many of the privileges we have been granted – a piece of land at a price we could afford, for instance, and even the embodiment of the basic skills necessary to build our house – are slowly eroding from our society. Only 15 years ago, we purchased 40 acres – and not just any 40 acres, but 40 really freakin' nice acres – for $30k. How many young adults have that option today? And on that 40 acres, we built a house with our own four hands and numerous others belonging to friends and family. We never kept careful track of what our place cost to build, but it wasn't too terrible much more than $50k. Even when adjusted for inflation, these numbers would be tough to match in 2013. Not impossible, perhaps, but tough, and the contemporary expectation that a young family must go 100's of thousands of dollars into debt simply to put a roof over their heads is a declined baseline.
What of the fact that by 2050, one-third of all adults will have diabetes? Can you imagine how that might have sounded 30 years ago? But now, given that we're well on our way to that 33% number, it no longer seems so outrageous. Why? Because our baseline has declined. What of the fact that in the comments yesterday, Beth notes that she feels compelled to pay $18k/year for her family's health insurance coverage at least in part because the law tells her she must? That is the declining baseline of our freedom. Indeed, I even wonder if her apparent anger at folks such as myself and Tonya, who "move to the northeast kingdom in the middle of nowhere and live on the dole" represents a sort of declining baseline of human empathy.
I don't know. Perhaps I'm wrong about all of this; probably I'm wrong about at least some of it. But I can't help noticing how it seems increasingly difficult for people to carve out truly rich and meaningful lives in the context of cultural and economic arrangements that seem all but engineered to thwart them. Sure, some of it comes down to personal choice: After all, no one forced Penny and me to live in a tent for two summers, while we saved to by our land. We chose to exchange that inconvenience for at least some of the freedom we currently enjoy. Likewise, no one is forced to assume large mortgages, or drive new cars, or quaff 64-ounce jugs of Mountain Dew for breakfast.
And yet, it's not hard to see how the quiet pressures to do these very things – celebrated in literally trillions of dollars of advertising and a culture that seems to have adopted them as the norm – might lead folks to believe there simply isn't another way. After all, what else have they been exposed to? It's the declining baseline of personal choice, and that might be the damaging of all.
Listen In
June 27, 2013 § 2 Comments
My friend David Goodman, who is a fantastic writer and all around swell person, has a radio show on WDEV called "Vermont Conversations."
I joined him yesterday and it was a whole bunch of fun.
Listen in here.
The Affliction
June 27, 2013 § 17 Comments
Not long after $AVED was released, and shortly after I'd been interviewed on New Hampshire Public Radio, I received an email. The email was from a fellow who'd heard the interview, in which I'd gone into some detail regarding Erik's and my family's finances. He was perfectly polite, but his primary reason for contacting me was to point out, in no uncertain terms, that Erik and my family survive only at the behest of hardworking folks like himself, whose tax dollars are essential to the delivery of services upon which my friend, my loved ones, and myself depend.
In other words, that we are basically free loaders.
Of course, this issue is hugely relevant to the discussion of health care. As Tonya noted in yesterday's comments "our family gets questioned about this often – how dare we choose to live in the way we do and have others pay for our healthcare…"
Let me begin by saying that my family does rely on subsidized health care for our infrequent visits to practitioners who even accept insurance in the first place. Historically, the majority of our health care has been conducted outside the meme of insurance, but there have been occasions – such as the time I thought it might be good fun to depart my (long ago sold) motorcycle at speed – upon which we have been dependent on and grateful for the mainstream medical community.
Let me also say that I have complete empathy for those who feel bitter and exploited by folks like myself and Erik who have chosen a life path that is unlikely to result in the sort of financial remuneration that allows for the purchase of health insurance on the free market. It is a bitterness that is stoked and fanned from almost every corner of our culture, and one can hardly blame them from having become infected by it.
But while I have empathy for this view, I cannot help but point out that it is generally blind to the systemic arrangements which quietly (and not-so-quietly) define what our society values. It is blind to the truth that the very reason so many in our nation must depend on government for essential goods and services is precisely because we have commodified these goods and services. And in the process, we have heavily subsidized the commodity providers of these goods and services, tilting the regulatory and rule making scales in ways that enable these providers to stash billions upon billions of dollars in tax-sheltered off-shore accounts, even as they suck the true wealth of natural and human resources out of our nation's towns and communities.
I happen to believe that health care should be a basic human right, and no more so than in a society where so many aspects of the fundamental building blocks of good health – clean air, clean water, clean soil, clean food – have been taken from us by the very same industries that are so heavily favored by tax and regulatory law. The tragic irony is that the very arrangements that are making it increasingly difficult for working class families to afford health care without subsidization are the very same arrangements that are forcing them to become more and more dependent on the health care system in the first place.
Furthermore, I happen to believe that people contribute to society in ways that are far more profound and affecting that mere dollars. I'm not terribly comfortable trumpeting my own non-dollar-denominated contributions to my community and society at large, but I am very comfortable speaking of Erik's. And what I have seen is that Erik's impact on the children he works with is overwhelmingly positive. Indeed, since the book came out, I have received emails from parents who feel incredibly grateful that Erik has been a part of their children's lives.
I believe this is what Erik is called to do, and I know that the world is a better place for his doing it. I am struck by the moneyed economic arrangements that define his value to society as being less than $10,000 per year, while someone who trades in complex financial instruments, or markets the sort of superfluous consumer gadgetry that continues to erode our relationships to one another and the natural world, all the while benefiting from the regulatory and tax codes that heavily subsidize their chosen professions, is able to command more than enough income to pay for the basic facets of their well-being on the commodity market.
So yeah, while I have empathy for the view represented by the email I received and the comments Tonya gets, and I feel badly that we inhabit an economy where people are compelled to feel so ungenerous, I am entirely unapologetic regarding my family's dependence on subsidies to afford health care. Furthermore, I am struck by the fact that both conditions – that sense of bitterness and stinginess, and the broader societal and economic arrangements that compel so many of us rely on subsidized health care – arise from precisely the same place. They are both the result of our society having become afflicted by the mentality of money. And that, my friends, is the affliction that is truly making us sick.
The Keys
June 26, 2013 § 11 Comments
Over the past couple weeks, a handful of themes have come to dominate the numerous conversations I've had regarding money and wealth. It will probably not surprise any of you to hear that one of those themes is health care. I suppose I could have anticipated this, although frankly, I didn't. Which is only indicative of yet another of my privileges: To be healthy and to have a spouse and sons that are healthy.
At the risk of giving away the whole darn point of this post in only the second paragraph, let's be very, very clear: Our so-called "health-care" system is much less about keeping us healthy, as it is about treating and profiting from the numerous preventable diseases and conditions that prevail in 21st century America. Ironically (or maybe not), many of these conditions are the direct result of having monetized practically every aspect of human well-being. What's that? You'd like an example? But of course.
Let us consider diabetes. Right now, the global market for diabetes drugs is currently in the $40 billion range, and is projected to reach $118 billion over just the next half-dozen years. And get this: The incidence of adult diabetes is projected to double by 2050, to the point where it will afflict one in three Americans. One can only imagine how much profit will be realized when fully one-third of us depend on diabetes treatment simply to live. For those of you whose moral compass is pointed due south, to the gates of hell, here is my advice: Diabetes. It's a growth market. Invest now.
Filthy Tired Rich
June 24, 2013 § 9 Comments
The past few days have been among the most hectic, rewarding, and flat-out delightful of my hopefully-not-yet-even-half-over life. On Thursday we got the call that our help was needed in the field, so the four of us skedaddled across the valley, where I commenced to fire up Martha's big John Deere and ted hay (this is the process by which mown hay is whirled and spread with an egg-beater like attachment known as a "tedder" so that it might better dry under each precious minute of sun). I love tedding; it's the most brainless of all haying tasks – a freaking monkey could do it, which makes me particularly suited for the job – and basically consists of riding long, looping circles through the field under the high, hot solstice sun. Hell, yeah.
Whilst I tedded, Penny and Martha raked the dry hay into windrows, and every so often, I'd catch a glimpse of one of them atop the old Farmall's, sitting tall in the seat, the rakes leaving endless dusky green waves in their wake. The boys, I knew, were fishing in the little pond at one corner of the 25-acre field, and for a couple of hours I was blessed by the sense that every little thing in my life was exactly as it should be. A field full of hay, a sky full of sun, my boys terrorizing the local population of perch, my wife waving from across the field, even the old, hot, snorting tractor beneath me: What more, really, could I even want?
I departed the field in early afternoon, en route to dinner with Jim and Wendy and a reading at Battenkill Books, in the profoundly lovely little town of Cambridge, NY. The post-reading conversation was exactly as lively as I've almost becoming accustomed to, and I was tremendously pleased to finally meet the indefatigable and hugely inspiring Jenna Woginrich, along with Jon "I did five blog posts before you even woke up" Katz. By a quarter to twelve, I was pulling back into our driveway and past Melvin's hayfield, where, at the far end of the field, I could just see the lights of his big New Holland. Haying at midnight. Here's an idea: Don't ever complain about the price of a gallon of milk again. Not that you would. Just sayin'.
By 5 the next morning, we were deep into chores and preparing for a huge day. Twenty-five acres of square bales ain't no joke, particularly since Martha's baler does not have a kicker, the contraption that hurls bales high into the air and (usually) into the wagon behind. I'll cut to the chase and just say that by 9:00 that night, we had each and every last bale off the field and under cover, at which point we collapsed into our beds, bodies still covered in the souring, half-dried sweat of our exertions, to which innumerable bits of chafe had become stuck.
Friday, I was up early and on the road to Woodstock, NY for Barnfest, a wonderful event made all the more wonderful by the surprise appearance of a friend I had not seen in nearly two full decades. I had not even known he lived in the area, and we spent five full hours chatting and eating and drinking and again I had that sense of all the odd little pieces of my life slipping into place, like the completion of a puzzle you didn't even know you were putting together.
I suppose there is no real point to this post, which is probably indicative of the fact that I am currently walking a ragged edge of exhaustion. But it is a good exhaustion, a tangible sense of satisfaction and gratification for a barn that is full of hay, the work that put it there, the blessing of being invited into so many conversations, and friends that appear after decades of absence. So, yeah, I'm tired. But as the subtitle of $AVED suggests, I'm also feeling like the richest guy in the world.
And in a strange way, I know that even my fatigue is part of my wealth.
Light Shines Through
June 20, 2013 § 7 Comments
Quick reminder: I'll be at Battenkill Books in Cambridge, NY tonight. 7 pm. Come on out!
The launch of $AVED has gone far better than I could ever have imagined, particularly given that the book has not yet captured the attention of the national media. As I wrote in the shamelessly self-promotional post that I then removed, this is in some ways ok: There are many ways for a book to find readers, particularly in this era of Interwebs connectivity, and I suspect $AVED might just be one of those word-of-mouth books that never really gets a big media boost. On the other hand, if you're reading this Oprah, I'm game.
Of all the things that have happened over the past week that have made me feel as if this book was worth the effort, the one I'm most pleased about was an email from an instructor of the Financial Literacy program at a local high school. He's thinking of assigning $AVED to his class and is wondering if I might come in and talk to his students when the fall semester commences. Well, hot damn: Impressionable young minds. Really, what could be better? And to think, this was the very high school I dropped out of 25-odd years ago. Life is such a strange and interesting journey, is it not?
It is amazing how frequently the subject of children and education in the context of money and economy has come up over the past couple weeks, and most often in conjunction with yet another aspect of our society's desire to accumulate far, far more than we need: Fear. In short (and of course it is far more nuanced than this, but hey, this is a freakin' blog post, not another book!), parental fear regarding our children's future compels us to force them into educational arrangements that we flat-out know are not honoring their human spirit but which, we dearly hope, will prepare them for the sad realities of the 21st century economy. This is the exchange: Spirit for solvency. Passion for prosperity. But of course it is merely a conditional solvency and prosperity, hinging on institutions that will keep us solvent and prosperous only so long as we can afford for them to.
I understand why parents feel compelled to make these choices. There is little support for an alternate view. And yet, over the past week or so, having had innumerable conversations about these very issues, I see that cracks are opening in so many assumptions regarding money and all the ways it defines our relationships with the facets of our well-being. With what it means to simply be human.
And do you know what happens when cracks open? That's right: Light shines through.
Investing For Fun and Profit
June 19, 2013 § 6 Comments
Last night, after I returned home from a reading and an interview on VPR's Vermont Edition, Penny – who'd listened to the interview – dressed me down a bit. "You didn't talk about our investments," she said, and for a moment, I was a little puzzled, because like most people, my definition of "investment" has been hijacked by the mentality of money. In other words, exactly what investments was she thinking I should have mentioned? The $50 in small bills we have stuffed under our mattress? The half gallon jar of pennies sitting on my desk?
As should be entirely obvious by now, Penny is infinitely wiser than me, and therefore able to clearly see that the realm of investing needn't be solely about money and finance. It needn't be about flipping condos, or precious metals. It needn't be about stocks and bonds and convoluted financial instruments that are generally rooted in the assumption that's it's perfectly ethical to screw someone else or ravage the environment in the name of profit. I mean, hey, we live in a dog-eat-dog world. If you ain't getting yours, someone else is.
But of course these are not the only things we can invest in. I am starting to wonder what the world would look like if we applied the same ingenuity we apply to investing in money and finance to investing in the things that really matter, the things that provide true, unconditional security, not the strictly conditional security of that comes of relying on institutions that are both too big to fail (which almost certainly means they ultimately will) and beyond the sphere of our personal influence. Because let's be crystal clear: These institutions care for you only so much as you can afford to have them care for you. It's like paying for love, and we all know how that generally works out.
So the next time I have an opportunity (today, as it turns out: I'll be on KERA's Think program at 12:00 central, if you happen to be hanging in Texas and wanting to talk about this stuff) to discuss my family's investments, here's what I'm going to say:
Yes, it is true that we do not have much in the way of investments, in so much as investments are assumed to mean money and other assets that can readily be exchanged for money. But this does not mean we are not investing. Indeed, we are always investing: In our land, in our relationships with friends and neighbors, in our children, and in the skills that enable us to thrive outside the realm of money and finance. The tragic irony of monetary investments is that they inevitably divest us of the unconditional security that comes of immersing ourselves in family, community, skills, and the natural world, because if we spend the bulk of our waking hours in a quest for financial accumulation, there is little time or energy remaining to invest in anything else. So yeah, some people buy stocks and bonds in a quest for security. Me, I'm planting trees, putting up hay with the neighbors, and learning how to use hand tools with my boys. And darned if these don't feel like the most profitable investments I could be making.
Do I Dare Make a Stupid Joke About Driving a Ford? And the Winner is…
June 18, 2013 § 5 Comments
You know, you go your whole life thinking you ain't never gonna amount to much. Your parents telling you that if you don't get your act together, yer gonna end up living on a little hill farm in northern Vermont with a couple of wild-ass children and some half-baked "career" as a writer or something, spending all your spare time slopping pigs and mucking out barns. Your teachers tell you that if you don't apply yourself, you're gonna end up dropping out of high school and never going on to college, and then… why, who knows what awful fate awaits you? Goodness, you might wind up spending your days ruminating on the meaning of money and education and whatnot, making $30k or so per year if you're good and lucky, and heavens knows you can't live on that. (BTW, my parents never told me this, nor did any of my teachers. At least not explicitly)
And then. Then, on a magical day in your 41st year, this poster arrives in your inbox. And it's you and the man you've always felt such a deep and abiding kinship to, right next to one another (although isn't his picture just a bit bigger than mind? I'll have to talk to the designer…).
Anyway, truth is, this poster cracks me up. I place little-to-no stock in Hollywood celebrity, but I have to say, if there's any Hollywood celebrity I can sort of enjoy sharing a poster with, it's Chevy. Or maybe Steve Martin. Now, that would be pretty cool. Maybe next year…
Other stuff this week:
I'll be on VPR's Vermont Edition today at noon and again this evening at 7.
I'm reading at Bear Pond Books in Montpelier tonight at 7 (I was worried how this was going to work out until it was explained to me that the evening VT Edition is actually just a rebroadcast. Whew)
Thursday evening, I'm reading at Battenkill Books in Cambridge, NY. Never been there, but they tell me it's nice.
Saturday, I'll be chillin' with Chevy and Jayni at Barnfest. Hope they don't come at me with that pitchfork.
Hope to see some of you!
Oh yes, and the winner is, for sheer originality and effort and because I'm a sucker for a good story, Anne Kretschmann! Thank you all, and for those of you who didn't win and can't afford to buy the book, please consider asking your library to get it.
The tale of twenty-five dollars begins two months ago in a messy barn on a 200 acre farm as far north as you can get without being either in Lake Superior or Canada. We had what felt like an endless spring, the snowiest in over ten years with snow halfway up the buildings into April and the ice remaining on the lakes into late May. When the spring snow finally melted, mud season in red clay country began in earnest. At the crowning peak of this pleasant season, the pond overflowed its banks, diverting itself through the pole barn providing enough water for two geese and a wood duck pair to spend their days swimming between wagon tires.
The barn was also 'home' to a hundred beef mamas and calves with more on their way. The cows were not yet allowed on pasture due to its achingly slow growth. On a miserable, rainy day, a calf chose to make an ungraceful entrance into not only the world but into a flooded messy barn. It is unclear how she landed when she was born (face down?) or if mama simply abandoned her to eat some hay leaving her to flop in the slop. All that is known that when found, she looked like a brown tootsie roll that a child sucked on for an hour, black, covered with brown slimy manure-water. Dottie, the black angus mama, distinguished by a white dot next to her eye, a fairly young cow was already on notice from her prior pregnancies, one of which resulted in a breached dead calf (subsequently becoming a good foster mom to a neighbor's Holstein calf for which she received another chance.) We quickly loaded up the soggy new calf into a sled for a rough ride to an older drier barn (with pens for new moms and calves to bond in) with Dottie following after a few persuasive human yells.
For three days, the little black heifer calf and her mama were the picture of happiness and health. Then, the calf contracted the dreaded 'stomach bugs'. It's a wonder she survived, but her will to live was great. She got better, then worse, then better. We named her Yo-yo, because she went back and forth so much. Dottie was put on further notice of bad things in her future should the calf die. Then, inexplicably, the stomach bugs turned septicemic, going into her joints and causing partial paralysis to her rear half. Dottie, ever patient, stood over her allowing her to drink without the calf having to stand.
The calf's stomach got better, but now it was on to multiple times a day 'physical therapy' in the barn, lifting her, making her stand, rubbing her back legs. Eventually, she would try to walk, however her back feet knuckled over and we forced her to straighten them as part of her therapy. Despite our efforts, she developed scabs on the tops of her back feet.
This is when the real fun began. One evening, several weeks ago, one scab split open revealing black bones indicative of gangrene. A plan was hatched to amputate her hoof, and the following morning she took a pleasant ride in the truck the two miles to the vet. She loved the truck ride as it was her first experience out of the barn, there was plenty to look at, and the breeze felt good. The vet poked, prodded, and her pastern bone came out in his hand, completely black. After some disagreement about where to amputate, her hoof was removed at the dewclaw. The following day, the scab on the other foot split.
For the last three weeks, every night we lay her on her side with one of us holding her 180 pound body still. We've discovered that she likes to have a boot to lick while we play vet. We clean both feet and treat them with honey which draws out the infection and silver which sooths and heals. Then, we wrap them with a menagerie of gauze, maxi pads, diapers, stretchy flex wrap, and tape. Yes, I'm sure that the women at the grocery store in town were very perplexed by my shopping cart. She is healing, but everything with this calf is a process.
The end of the tale of twenty-five dollars is a 'boot' contraption made out of a creative combination of a child's Velcro shoe (cut in half), gorilla glue, and a yogurt cup. That is what twenty-five dollars shall get me in this day and age, a homemade prosthetic hoof for an unfortunate calf with a heck of a will to live. Here on this farm, we honor that will.
The Left Hand
June 17, 2013 § 17 Comments
For those of you wondering where yesterday's post disappeared to, after only a few short hours of life, well, as it turns out, I'm not quite as comfortable with overt self-promotion as I thought. Henceforth, I return to my regularly scheduled broadcast of subvert self-promotion. You have been warned.
A few nights ago, at my reading in Warner, NH, a young fellow introduced us all to the term "left hand economy," a reference to the underground economy that prevailed in Soviet Russia in the years before the union disintegrated. I like the term, in part because Penny is a leftie, and I'm keenly aware of the extent to which my personal economy is dependent on her hard work and support, but also for what it stands for: A way of life and commerce that occurs on the fringes of the dominant economy. To me, it speaks of subverting the hierarchal moneyed economy, and if there's anything that gets me out of bed on those mornings when I'd so much rather drift back into the soft, halcyon world of my subconscious, it's subverting the hierarchal moneyed economy. That's actually not entirely true, but I like the way it sounds.
There were two small events from the previous week that I wanted to share, both of which quietly (and hearteningly, I'd say) point to the existence of a left hand economy in my own small corner of the world. So settle in: A little story-telling is about to commence.
On Wednesday morning, our 17-year-old Subaru began to emit a wall of noise from the point at which the exhaust connects to the manifolds. Now, our poor car is challenged in myriad ways – excessive oil consumption, non-functioning door locks, a passenger window that does not lower (which is good, because if it did lower, it would not raise), a sizable rusted-out void in a rear frame member, and so on – but all of these we've learned to live with until we stumble across something better or until the car simply disintegrates beneath us. But the exhaust noise? Egads. Awful. And me with many miles to travel over the next few weeks. Even Rush's 2112 turned up to 11 would do little to sooth the sonic roar emerging from beneath our horseless carriage (as the boys are fond of calling it).
So it was that I found myself in Shon's garage at 8 on Thursday morning. Yes, he was busy, and had no time to fit me into his normal business hours, but if I came down early, he said, we'd have us a look. Shon is fast, and knows what he's doing in a way that is almost graceful to watch. He had the manifold studs off, the deficient gaskets smeared with gasket compound, and the whole thing bolted back together, car on the ground and idling quietly (well, as quiet as the ole girl gets) in no more than 30-minutes. "Shon," I said. "How much do I owe you?"
He squinted at me through the smoke rising off his cigarette. "I don't know… you got five bucks on ya?"
The next day (and this is again motor related, which does make one wonder, does it not?), our neighbor came over to help diagnose a frustrating and recurrent problem with the sawmill, involving frequently fouled spark plugs. We puttered for little while, before he determined that I had a bad right side coil that was not providing sufficient spark to the plug. "Here's what you need to do," he said, and showed me exactly how to replace the coil and set the appropriate gap between the flywheel magnet and the coil itself.
"Luke," I said. "How much do I owe you?"
He glanced over at our little sugaring rig, which is situated within spittin' distance of the mill. "You got a spare quart of syrup?" he asked. Indeed, I did.
I think a lot about the extent to which it is possible to live wonderfully rich and contented lives on the margins of the moneyed economy. Lately, I've been thinking about how I might move my own work into these margins. I have this fantasy – which may never be realized, but then again, maybe it will – that someday I will be able to offer my services on a pay-as-you-are-able basis. How cool would it be if I could simple give away copies of my books, and readers could pay me based on both ability, and what they felt my work is worth to them, personally? (Of course, this raises the thorny possibility that I might actually start receiving bills from those readers who felt I had so utterly wasted their precious time with my drivel).
For now, of course, I remain tethered to the traditional model of publishing: An advance paid out, a book produced and marketed, price affixed to its glossy cover, with no room for negotiation. For now, when someone asks me to come speak at an event, I feel compelled to charge a particular fee, which I will be paid whether or not half the audience winds up slumbering in their seats (for the record, I'm fairly sure this has never happened). How might it change the experience – for me and for them – if I were to be paid based not on what the market has determined is the value for a speaker, but instead on the extent to which my talk enriched their life experience?
In a few days, if weather forecasts hold, we will embark on our annual haying adventures with our dear friend Martha. As I wrote in my keynote at the PASA conference a few months back
the story of our haying with Martha is a story that strikes back at the myth of reliance on industry and corporation for the simple essentials of our lives and it comforts me precisely because it shows how we can survive and even thrive outside this myth.
The older I get, the more I understand the extent to which the full richness of my life is dependent on all the small exchanges that are, for lack of a better term, part the left hand economy. And I suspect this is true for many, if not most of you. The moneyed economy does not want us to recognize, acknowledge, and participate in this realm (indeed, did you know that barter is actually taxable? Assuming you report it, that is…), but of course that is only because the masters of the moneyed economy have not determined how to profit from these exchanges.
And that, my friends, is a beautiful thing.
Still Free, And Maybe Easier Than You Think!
June 14, 2013 § 9 Comments
Due to overwhelming response and a lack of references to classic rock memorabilia, I have extended the "how-you'd-spend-the-$25-you'd-save-not-having-to-buy-$AVED" contest through the weekend. Enter now, operators are standing by!


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Style Map
Daily Dispatches From The Global Scene
Browse Lookbooks with the tags you selected here.
Just a small selection of spring/summer handbags. You'll be fool not to be seen with one of them. Be aware of the B Mix Fendi and Tassle Prada handbags
if only i had the money!
little details that complete your style
A few of my favourite pieces from a vast array of designers.
It's not what goes in that matters, but what bleeds out... and thats STYLE!!
Fall 2007 clutches
This is just to show that, Versace, can't really do any wrong!.
Vestidos con tendencias muy divertidas y que todas podemos usar.
All the handbags, shoes, etc. that add personality and class to LIFE.
My sweetest dreams... Aah... To own all of these gorgeous things...
Daily Dispatches From The Global Scene


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This helped brand Miranda Lambert's "feisty girl" image -- as an abused woman who's not going to take any more physical abuse. It's a more upbeat counterpart to "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend" or, for that matter, Garth Brooks' "Thunder Rolls.
Song Lyric: "His fist is big but my gun's bigger. He'll find out when I pull the trigger!"
Album: Crazy Ex-Girlfriend


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Taiwan-based computer technology and electronic product manufacturer ASUS was recently sued by toy and game manufacturer Hasbro for its use of the phrase, "Transformer Prime."
ASUS has been using the phrase for its new tablet, which earned its "transformer" title due to its removable battery docket, which turns a Tegra 3 slate into a notebook. However appropriate the title may be for ASUS' product, however, Hasbro is alleging that the phrase infringes on the Transformer trademark for the toy line Hasbro produces.
Hasbro owns the trademark to "Transformers Prime," which it attests can be used for all toy action figures, toy vehicles and toy robot convertibles, among other products. Hasbro also believes that the ads for the ASUS tablet used images that closely resemble the recent Transformers feature films.
Not one to let a lawsuit infringe on its holiday spirit, Hasbro recently announced it will be donating more than 400,000 toys and games to needy families this year through the Gift of Play program. The company donated $2 million worth of toys through the Toys for Tots program this year, as well.


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JU sweeps the SunTrust River City Rumble with 73-61 win
Related Links
Using a business-like approach, the JU men's basketball team finished off a sweep of the SunTrust River City Rumble with a 73-61 win over UNF at the UNF Arena on Friday night in the Atlantic Sun Conference "Game of the Week."
Lehmon Colbert scored a season-high 22 points with 10 rebounds for his third double-double of the season, leading three Dolphins (12-8, 8-3 A-Sun) in double figures as JU won its ninth straight game – tying the longest winning streak in the Cliff Warren era.
JU's defense shined throughout the night, limiting the Ospreys (10-12, 5-7 A-Sun) to just 18 field goals with a 12-rebound advantage while forcing 16 turnovers that turned into 15 points.
"We were very business-like in our preparation and how we played the game," said Warren. "We did a good job on defense and got up the floor in transition, which got us some good looks."
JU controlled the second half, slowly and methodically pushing the lead through the final 20 minutes.
Sporting a six-point halftime lead, JU pushed the lead to 12 in the first four minutes, with Tevin Galvin capping the run with a layup.
UNF cut the deficit back to six, 49-43, but the Dolphins came right with an 11-3 run to take a 60-47 lead on a jumper by Colbert on the baseline.
The Dolphins eventually pushed the lead to as many as 14, before running out the clock for the eighth straight win over UNF.
Ben Smith scored in double figures for the 16th straight game, scoring 13 points with five assists and four steals. Ayron Hardy had 13 points to go along with two steals.
UNF came out hot early and slowed JU down, taking a 15-9 lead on a 3-pointer by Will Wilson. But the Dolphins came back by dominating the final seven minutes, finishing the half on a 20-8 run – capping the half with a pair of Hardy free throws to take a 36-30 lead at halftime.
The Ospreys were led by David Jeune's 14 points, with Matt Sauey recording 10 rebounds.
The physical contest finished with 50 fouls called, with JU shooting 27-of-36 from the free throw line while UNF was 21-of-30.
Jacksonville hits the road on Saturday in preparation for Sunday's game at USC Upstate. Tipoff is set for 3 p.m.


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NaturVet Cranberry Relief
NaturVet Cranberry Relief 77 77
cranberry relief! This product is wonderful and works within 12hrs of initial dose. I put the powder in a slice of cheese and my dog eats it right up. I do have cats but, haven't tried it out on them yet. I'm positive the result would be the same! 03/30/2011
Doctor Recommended My doctor recommended this for me because I had crystals in my urine and it was causing me to have accidents and problems with my bladder. Within about 2 weeks, I was back on track. I love it sprinkled over my food. Hasn't deterred my taste buds at all. My mom and dad also have well water, and that could be the cause of the crystals, but since I've been on this stuff, I'm good! 03/02/2011
CRANBERRY RELIEF product review: One of the most natural and effective anti bacterial and anti inflammatory substances for use in bladder inflammations/infections has been the use of cranberry tablets or extracts. Laboratory studies have shown cranberry's ability to reduce adherance of E Coli(a common cause of urinary infections) to the bladder lining of people. In simple urinary tract infections/inflammations, I will often reach for a product like this first,(especially in cats with acute urinary tract inflammation) along with having clients give extra amounts of vitamin C in the form of Ester C dosed from 250 mg twice daily(in cats) up to 1 or 2 grams daily in dogs for an acute flareup of a urinary tract problem. This product does not have enough vitamin C in it by itself to be effective, so I will often use both cranberry relief product and vitamin C together in my patients with signs of acute urinary tract inflammation/infection. The addition of the immune stimulant echinacea makes this product even more attractive. The only concerns I would have for clients using cranberry relief tablets and/or vitamin C would be if their pet has a history of chronic urinary tract problems, or prior problems with crystals called calcium oxylates or urate stones. In those cases I would not want to use products like cranberry or vitamin C, as the acidification of the urine can possibly increase the risk of developing these other type of crystals. However in the short term and in most patients, using cranberry and vitamin C short term can often offer dramatic relief to urinary symptoms. With male cats, and even male dogs, guardians must always be certain that some urine is coming out during times of acute urinary flareups, as in these cases, sometimes male pets can have crystal and mucous buildup in the urethra or bladder that can lead to blockages, which can be medical emergencies. If in doubt about it, a veterinary exam would always be recommended. My overall rating of this product however is a 4. Its efficacy a 4 and its ease of use/taste a 4 as well. 12/29/2008
Has stopped the "lakes" in the kitchen Our Maltese had symptoms of Cushings. Most had cleared up with a homeopathic medicine I gave her, but whe kept leaving puddles in the kitchen and wouldn't even ask to go out. . Now she asks to go out and in the week we have used it, only one lake in the kitchen and that was the day I forgot to give it to her. 08/15/2014
AMAZING! This product is great! I really couldn't afford to take my cat to the vet when I figured all she had was a UTI. I got the product yesterday afternoon and gave her the first scoop with her night time food. It had worked by this morning. She went to the bathroom normally with no problems at all. So far she hasn't had anymore problems going potty. She loved the taste and ate more food than usual with the powder in it. This was a lifesaver! 07/23/2014
56 Questions · 68 Answers
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1 answer
Cranberry Relief
I would like to know if this is okay to give to a healthy dog as a preventative? I have 2 jars left that I used on one of my dogs that has passed away, so just wondering if I can use them on my other dog?
My lab has crystals in her urine & the vet is having us take Ditrim 480mg 2x a day, this is her 3rd wk on it, 1 wk left. Also feeding Science Diet S/D canned food for 2wks to dissolve crystals. Can my dog take this cranberry relief to help this whole mess?
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Asimov's Guide to the Bible
|This article includes a list of references, related reading or external links, but its sources remain unclear because it lacks inline citations. (November 2010)
Asimov's Guide to the Bible is a work by Isaac Asimov that was first published in two volumes in 1967 and 1969, covering the Old Testament and the New Testament (including the Catholic Old Testament, or deuterocanonical, books and the Eastern Orthodox Old Testament books, or anagignoskomena, along with the Fourth Book of Ezra), respectively. He combined them into a single 1296-page volume in 1981. They included maps by the artist Rafael Palacios.
Including numerous black-and-white maps, the guide goes through the books of the Bible in KJV order, explaining the historical and geographical setting of each one and the political and historical influences that affected it, as well as biographical information about the main characters. Asimov treats the secular aspects of the Bible with intellectual instead of theological commentary. His appendix "Guides to the Old and New Testament" include biblical verse, footnotes, references and subject indices.
Publication data[edit]
- Asimov's Guide to the Bible: The Old and New Testaments, Wings Books (Random House), 1981, ISBN 0-517-34582-X, also Gramercy Press reprint 1988 (same ISBN)
External links[edit]
- Brummond, Michael. "Religion in Asimov's Writings". Retrieved 26 December 2013.
|This article related to a book about religion is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it.


text:
Design: KYTG091
A Circus Soiree Gold Glitter Key Tag
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text:
Defense Trade:
Arms Export Control Vulnerabilities and Inefficiencies in the Post-9/11 Security Environment
GAO-05-468R: Published: Apr 7, 2005. Publicly Released: Apr 7, 2005.
Additional Materials:
- Accessible Text:
(202) 512-4383
Office of Public Affairs
(202) 512-4800
In the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, attacks and the subsequent global war on terror, the nature of threats facing this country has changed, and as a result, policies and structures from previous decades need to be rethought. One area for reexamination in this changed security environment is the arms export control system. The State Department oversees this system to ensure that arms exports are consistent with U.S. national security and foreign policy goals. As such, the State Department is responsible for authorizing arms exports, which is generally done through export licensing, and for monitoring exporter compliance with governing laws and regulations. In so doing, the department needs to balance complex and competing interests. Specifically, the State Department must limit the possibility that exports will erode the U.S. military's technological advantage and prevent U.S. arms from falling into the wrong hands. At the same time, the department needs to allow legitimate defense trade with allies to occur. At a Congressional request, we are providing highlights from our most recent report on the arms export control system and observations regarding weaknesses and inefficiencies in the system based on our larger body of export control work.
The State Department has not made significant changes to the arms export control system since the September 2001 terror attacks. State Department officials maintain that such changes are not needed. However, their position is not based on systematic evaluations of the effectiveness of controls. Over the years, we have identified weaknesses in the arms export control system and made corrective recommendations, a number of which the departments involved have not yet implemented. Weaknesses include disagreements and poor coordination over whether certain items are controlled by the State Department, as well as limitations in the government's ability to ensure that exports not needing prior government approval comply with export laws and regulations. These weaknesses are compounded by challenges facing the enforcement community, including constrained budgets and limited resources. Taken together, these weaknesses and challenges create vulnerabilities in the arms export control system and undermine assurances that the system is protecting U.S. interests. To facilitate arms exports to allies, the State Department has sought over the last several years to reduce processing times for license applications. The department undertook efforts, such as reallocating staff and implementing initiatives, to streamline and expedite the processing of export license applications. However, the State Department's median processing times for arms export cases--after declining since fiscal year 1999--began increasing in fiscal year 2003. Further, the department's streamlining initiatives have generally not met established goals and have not been widely used by exporters.
Jul 31, 2014
Active and Reserve Unit Costs:DOD Report to Congress Generally Addressed the Statutory Requirements but Lacks DetailGAO-14-711R: Published: Jul 31, 2014. Publicly Released: Jul 31, 2014.
Air Force Working Capital Fund:Actions Needed to Manage Cash Balances to Required LevelsGAO-14-480: Published: Jul 31, 2014. Publicly Released: Jul 31, 2014.
Defense Health Care Reform:Actions Needed to Help Realize Potential Cost Savings from Medical Education and TrainingGAO-14-630: Published: Jul 31, 2014. Publicly Released: Jul 31, 2014.
Defense Health Care:US Family Health Plan is Duplicative and Should be EliminatedGAO-14-684: Published: Jul 31, 2014. Publicly Released: Jul 31, 2014.
Defense Management:DOD Needs to Improve Future Assessments of Roles and MissionsGAO-14-668: Published: Jul 31, 2014. Publicly Released: Jul 31, 2014.
Jul 30, 2014
Defense Contracting:Factors DOD Considers When Choosing Best Value Processes Are Consistent with Guidance for Selected AcquisitionsGAO-14-584: Published: Jul 30, 2014. Publicly Released: Jul 30, 2014.
Littoral Combat Ship:Additional Testing and Improved Weight Management Needed Prior to Further InvestmentsGAO-14-749: Published: Jul 30, 2014. Publicly Released: Jul 30, 2014.
Jul 28, 2014
Security Clearances:Tax Debts Owed by DOD Employees and ContractorsGAO-14-686R: Published: Jul 28, 2014. Publicly Released: Jul 28, 2014.
Jul 17, 2014
Missile Defense:DOD's Report Provides Limited Insight on Improvements to Homeland Missile Defense and Acquisition PlansGAO-14-626R: Published: Jul 17, 2014. Publicly Released: Jul 17, 2014.
Jul 14, 2014
Military Training:Observations on Efforts to Prepare Personnel to Survive Helicopter Crashes into WaterGAO-14-615R: Published: Jul 14, 2014. Publicly Released: Jul 14, 2014.
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Charles McGregor
I am a recent college graduate from a small college from Lakeland Florida called Florida Southern College. I have recently received my Bachelor's degree in English with a concentration in writing as well as a minor in Philosophy. I recently returned from the Peace Corps in Turkmenistan a bit early due to personal issues, and am currently trying my hand as a freelance writer.Read More »
My passions include creative writing, reading and baseball. I received the Ryals Award in 2009 for a piece of poetry and prose I had published in my school's creative writing journal Cantilevers. I also had a poem published on the literary website www.xenith.net titled Red Herring. This summer I will be attending the Colgate Writers' Conference at Colgate University in Hampton, New York. I plan on going to graduate school in the fall of 2012 to work on my MFA in poetry.
My passions include creative writing, reading and baseball. I received the Ryals Award in 2009 for a piece of poetry and prose I had published in my school's creative writing journal Cantilevers. I also had a poem published on the literary website www.xenith.net titled Red Herring. This summer I will be attending the Colgate Writers' Conference at Colgate University in Hampton, New York. I plan on going to graduate school in the fall of 2012 to work on my MFA in poetry.
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Displaying Results 1 - 95 (of 95) for All Content
Top 5 Clashes with Joe Maddon's Tampa Bay Rays and Tropicana FieldThis article details the struggles the front office of the Tampa Bay Rays have had with getting out of their lease at Tropicana Field with the city of St. Petersburg and the top five reasons why Joe Maddon hates the Trop.
Despite 16 Points, Angel McCoughtry's Reckless Play Ends the Atlanta Dream's Season in Game 3 Loss to Indiana Fever: Fan's OpinionThis article looks at the Atlanta Dream's star Angel McCoughtry's highlights and miscues for the Atlanta Dream in Game 3 of the Conference Semi-finals loss against the Indiana Fever.
Top 3 Wake-up Calls that Turned the Atlanta Dream's Season Around in 2012: Fan's PerspectiveThis article looks at all the drama that took place with the Atlanta Dreams' Angel McCoughtry and Marynell Meadors after the Olympic break and what had to be done to turn the 2012 season around.
Perhaps Time Is Right for Atlanta Dream to Dismiss Marynell Meadors: A Fan's OpinionThis article defends the Atlanta Dreams' decision to fire beloved head coach/general manager Marynell Meadors. This article cites problems the last two seasons with handling disciplinary issues on the team that may have cost the Dream a championship.
Game One Post-Marynell Meadors Ominous in Ugly Atlanta Dream Loss to Lowly Tulsa Shock: Fan's PerspectiveThis game recaps Tuesday, August 28th's game where the Atlanta Dream took an ugly loss to the worst team in the league, the Tulsa Shock. This article also looks at the make-up of the team with head coach Marynell Meadors and superstar Angel McCoughtry.
Cleveland Indians Postseason ProfileThe following article highlights some of the most memorable moments in the franchise of the Cleveland Indians.
Second Round Draft Pick Tiffany Hayes Showing First Round Skills in 2012 for the Atlanta Dream: Fan's PerspectiveThis article takes a look at the Atlanta Dream's rookie guard Tiffany Hayes and her promising start to her WNBA career.
Tampa's Electric Hotspot, Ybor City, More Than Just NightclubsThis article highlights Tampa's most electric, diverse and historical district--Ybor City. Ybor is already known for its high voltage nightclubs, so this article highlights some of its more muted activities.
A USF Bulls Football Fan's Essential Tailgating Gear ListThis article gives a list, from a USF Bulls fan's perspective, of essential tailgating equipment you'll need to bring along. The list includes gear for southern games or colder climates.
Iziane Castro Marques's Recent Dismissal Another Reason for Dream Fans to Cheer Against Team Brazil: Fan's OpinionThis article details Iziane Castro Marques and the Atlanta Dream's difficulties with Team Brazil.
Atlanta Dream's Sancho Lyttle Transforming from Good Player to Superstar: A Fan's OpinionWith pestering injuries to Angel McCoughtry and a season long absence from Erika de Souza, the Atlanta Dream's Sancho Lyttle has stepped up as the team leader by rounding her game and keeping her team in playoff positioning.
An Atlanta Dream Fan Contemplates David Stern's 23 and Under Olympic Rule in the WNBAThis article weighs the hypothetical pluses and minuses of a WNBA league that enforced a 23 and under rule for Olympic participation.Also published on:
The Atlanta Dream Lose Fourth Place to the New York Liberty: Fan's PerspectiveThis article follows Tuesday, June 19th's 73-60 loss to the New York Liberty as the loss allowed the Liberty to gain control of fourth place in the Eastern Conference.
France's Commitment to Supporting U.N. Military Intervention Could Mean Western Invasion of Syria is ComingFrance announced on Sunday, June 3 that it would support a U.N. lead military operation in Syria. With the Libya operation a little over a year old, France is looking to be the leading player again in the event of a military operation in the Arab Spring.
Poor Rebounding and a Poor Showing from the Bench Not a Good Omen for the Atlanta Dream in Their Loss to the Chicago Sky: Fan's OpinionThe Atlanta Dream were forced out of the paint all night long in their loss against the Chicago Sky Saturday, June 2 as they are desperate for someone to step up at center during Erika de Souza's absence.
Atlanta Dream Defeat the Decimated Phoenix Mercury Before Crucial Conference Matchup: Fan's PerspectiveThursday, May 31's game between the Atlanta Dream and the Phoenix Mercury was a battle of the benches as both teams were hampered by injuries. Atlanta was glad to see their bench step up as they'll play a big role filling in for Olympic absences later on.
Will Yelena Leuchanka/Courtney Paris Be Enough to Keep the Atlanta Dream in Contention? Fan's PerspectiveThis weekend's win against New York and loss against Indiana was a good preview of how the Dream will do against the worst and the best teams in the league; how they do against the rest depends on the play of centers Yelena Leuchanka and Courtney Paris.
Staying Slim With Free Weights and Nintendo WiiThis article chronicles how I lost a bunch of weight and have managed to keep it off through an intense weightlifting routine coupled with fun fat melting Nintendo Wii games.
Three Positive Silver Linings After the Atlanta Dream's Tough Opening Day Loss: Fan's PerspectiveThis article tries to highlight three positive signs for the Atlanta Dream after their rough season opener against the Indiana Fever.
The Atlanta Dream Draft Tiffany Hayes Hoping She'll Help Three-Point Woes: Fan's PerspectiveThe Atlanta Dream chose former University of Connecticut star Tiffany Hayes as their first pick in the 2012 draft. The Dream hope Hayes will play a crucial role immediately in 2012 helping bolster their three-point shooting.
Retirement of Alison Bales First Major Setback for Atlanta Dream This Offseason: Fan's OpinionThis article looks at the impact of the retirement of Alison Bales, and the strides Courtney Paris will have to take to fill her shoes.
Turkmenistan to Lakeland: My Journey from a Literal Desert to an Economic OneThis article chronicles a recent college graduates struggles with finding employment in central Florida, his critique of the Wall Street movement and his future outlook on his hometown of Lakeland, Florida.
Grading the Atlanta Dream's 2011-12 OffseasonThis article grades the front office performance of the Atlanta Dream during the 2011-12 offseason.
Dreaming About Iziane (Izi) Castro Marques: Fan's PerspectiveThis article relishes in the memories of Iziane Castro Marques with the Atlanta Dream, while speculating if she'll be returning for the 2012 season.Also published on:
Conflicting Feelings on the Resigning of Erika De Souza: Fan's PerspectiveThis article chronicles the feelings of a fan after the Atlanta Dream announced that they are resigning Erika de Souza despite her absences during last year's playoffs.Also published on:
An Offseason to Forget: Five Fictional Tales of Misadventure for the Boston Red SoxThis article includes spoof headlines about Youkilis' work with the Soviet Union, Bobby Valentine's strange methods to prevent clubhouse alcohol consumption, and Bill Buckner's School of Aversion Therapy.
Desperate for a Three-Point Threat, Atlanta Dream Sign Laurie KoehnLaurie Koehn returns to the WNBA as the Atlanta Dream sign the guard to a training camp contract hoping to add more three-point threats.Also published on:
Resigning of Coco Miller/Courtney Paris Adds Further Support for Starting Five: Fan's PerspectiveThe return of these two players highlights a muted, yet smart off-season for the Atlanta Dream.
Yelena Levchanka's Timely Return to the Atlanta Dream: Fan's TakeThis article highlights the importance of the addition of Yelena Levchanka to the Atlanta Dream as they expect Erika de Souza and Sancho Lyttle to miss time due to the summer Olympics.
Catherine Kraayeveld Adds Much Needed Three-Point Threat for Atlanta DreamThe Atlanta Dream signed Catherine Kraayeveld to a multi-year contract adding a three-point threat for the 2012 season.Also published on:
What Retirement of Guard Shalee Lehning Means for Atlanta DreamAfter three seasons with the Atlanta Dream, guard Shalee Lehning retired from the WNBA due to complications with her 2011 ACL injury. This article focuses on what this will mean for the Atlanta Dream in 2012.Also published on:
2012 Improvement List for the Atlanta DreamThis article breifly reviews the 2011 season, and goes over what needs to be improved on for the Dream to take home their first WNBA title in 2012.Also published on:
Top 3 injuries for D.C. United in 2011This article highlights United's three biggest injuries on the year.
Atlanta Dream, WNBA need to be tougher on midseason absences in 2012: Fan opinionThis article looks at Atlanta Dream's Sancho Lyttle and Erika de Souza's midseason absences, and what the Dream and the WNBA needs to do for preventing such absences.
Angel McCoughtry tries to do too much in Dream's Game 2 lossThis article looks at game two and Erika de Souza's return, as well as a close look at Angel McCoughtry's performance making a comparison to some of Allen Iverson's performances.Also published on:
USF defense falls short for second week in a row: A fan's reactionThis article highlights the defensive woes of the USF Bulls for two weeks in a row.
D.C. United's two-game skid diminishing playoff chances: A fan's reactionThis article highlights United's recent two-game osing streak as their playoffs hope begin to diminish.
Lynx physically outmatch Dream in Game 1 of WNBA FinalsThis article looks at the problems the Dream had in game one of the WNBA Finals including issues conrtolling the paint and giving McCoughtry adequate offensive support.
Top 3 Daytime Shows to Take the Ratings Lead After Oprah's DepartureThis article highlights some of daytimes tv's monster personalities who'll have big shoes to fill with Oprah being off the air for the first time, which includes Barbara Walters, Ellen DeGeneres and Dr. Phil.
Fan's take: What the Dream need for first WNBA championshipThis article highlights my keys for the Atlanta Dream to beat the Minnesota Lynx in the 2011 WNBA Finals.
Fan's preview: No. 18 USF looks to rout UTEP to keep climbing the AP ranksThis article previews this Saturday's match between USF and UTEP, highlighting USF's need to display another convincing rout in order to move up in the rankings.
Fan's preview: No. 20 USF Bulls look to trounce FAMU RattlersThis article previews South Florida's matchup this week against FAMU.
Visitor's guide to the USF Bulls' Raymond James StadiumThis article reviews Raymond James Stadium, home of the USF Bulls. This article highlights pregame, game time and postgame activities to do within and around the stadium in Tampa, Fla.
D.C. United midfielder Chris Pontius down with right tibia fractureThis article reviews D.C. United midfielder Chris Pontius' leg injury and how his absence will affect United's playoff run.
Dream roll over Fever 93-88, finishing an amazing regular season run: Fan reactionThis article briefly reviews the Dream's win over the Indiana Fever Sunday afternoon, and recaps the ups and downs of a remarkable season for the Dream.
USF routs Ball State 37-7, keeps pace with Top 25: A fan's reactionThis article reviews USF's great start as it is 2-0 by beating Ball State University as the Bulls try to hang with the Top 25 in the nation.
Injury reaction: Fragile United backup GK Steve Cronin injured again, but Willis stepping upThis article looks at D.C. United's promising backup goalie Steve Cronin's disapointing injury-plagued season, while highlighting rookie Joe Willis' surprisingly stellar season.
Fan's preview: 2011 South Florida footballThis article previews the 2011 season for USF.
United in desperate need of three points against Vancouver: A fan's takeThis article previews this Saturday's matchup between the Vancouver Whitecaps and D.C. United. Provided is a list of keys to beating Vancouver.
Atlanta wins, Chicago loses and Dream take sole possession of fourth place: Fan reactionThis game reviews Tuesday's game in Washington as the Dream narrowly defeated the Mystics taking over forth place in the Eastern Conference.
Tempers flare in wild 3-3 tie in D.C.-Toronto affair: A fan's reactionThis article reviews the Aug. 6 game of D.C. United versus Toronto FC. This wild game included multiple red cards and a stellar hat trick performance by Dwayne de Rosario.
Sancho Lyttle returns for Dream in 70-53 slaughter of Seattle Storm: Fan reactionThis article reviews last Sunday's game against the Seatle Storm. It also highlights Lyttle's importance to the team as she returned to the starting lineup for the first time since her injury.
Fan's preview: One point away from playoff seed, D.C. United meets Toronto FCThis article previews this Saturday's match between Toronto FC and D.C. United as one point seperates them from the last playoff spot.
Atlanta Dream win fifth straight over Los Angeles Sparks: Fan reactionThis article reviews Atlanta's fifth straight win over the L.A. Sparks, and takes a look at their place in the Eastern Conference race as result of their recent run.
Florida water skiing spots: Five great destinationsThis article reviews all of the great water skiing shows, museums, and clinics that Florida has to offer.Also published on:
Top five water ski tips for beginnersThis article chronicles the tips you need when trying water skiing for the first time. From purchasing your gear to jumping your first ramp, this article highlights the essential tips for beginning water skiing.Also published on:
Atlanta Dream hope to take advantage of woeful Tulsa Shock: Fan reactionThis article reviews the formula it has taken to start to turn the Atlanta Dream around, and reviews the free-falling Tulsa Shock and all of their recent personel changes.
Coach Ben Olsen upset with United's play against Everton: A fan's reactionDespite this being an exhibition match, Ben Olsen was highly unsatisfied with his team's play against English Premier League Everton FC. After a rough week, United hopes to move forward in an attempt to turn their season around.
D.C. United looking for win against Everton FC at RFK: A fan's previewThis article previews the match-up between D.C. United and Premier League Everton FC, and reviews the nature of the friendly matches against Premier League teams.
D.C. United's long climb to top halted in shocking 1-0 loss to New England: A fan's reactionThis article looks over the tough loss D.C. United took against the New England Revolution and how it sets them back on their season run.
Midseason assessment of Atlanta Dream's newly acquired point guard Lindsey Harding: Fan's takeThis article reviews the pros and cons of the Lindsey Harding trade for the Atlanta Dream.
Red hot Atlanta Dream pick up third straight win against Mystics 86-79: Fan reactionThis article review the Dream's third straight win against the Washington Mystics, and highlights keys to their recent turn-around.
West/Central Florida poker locationsThis article profiles three poker locations in west and central Florida. They include Lucky's Card Room in Tampa, Wally's in Lakeland, and the 11/12 Lounge in Orlando.
D.C. United hope to take much-needed win from New England: A fan's previewThis article previews the upcoming match between the New England Revolution and D.C. United.
Fan's preview: D.C. United looking to keep momentum against FC DallasThis article briefly reviews the amazing win against New York last week, and previews this Saturday's upcoming tussle with FC Dallas.
Season-long difficulties persist for Dream in 91-69 loss to Liberty: Fan reactionThis article looks at the July 13 game at New York and how a lot of the problems Atlanta faced have been ailing them all season long contributing to a poor start.
Dream take on conference rival Liberty July 13: Fan previewThis article reviews the newly developed rivalry between the Dream and Liberty as they are set to meet this Wednesday for the forth time this season.
A reflection on the early season woes for the Dream after losing at Chicago July 9, 81-69: Fan's takeThis article revisits some of the early problems that have been plaguing the Atlanta Dream during their slow start, while reviewing the loss on Saturday night to the Chicago Sky.
United, Rosario set to take on first-place Red Bulls: A fan's previewThis article highlights New York and United's previous match-ups, and previews this Saturday's upcoming game.
Sancho Lyttle to return in this Saturday's game at Chicago: Fan reactionThis article previews this Saturday's game at Chicago as the Atlanta Dream hope to turn their season around with Sancho Lyttle back.
Courtney Paris has been a nice pickup for the Atlanta Dream during Sancho Lyttle's absence: Fan's takeThis article chronicles Courtney Paris' all-star collegiate career, her rocky WNBA career, and her potential bright future with the Atlanta Dream.
Harding and Souza put up season high games as the Dream defeat the Liberty 87-81: Fan reactionThis article reviews the Dream-Liberty 87-81 victory, and touches on what has been plaguing the Dream all season.
D.C. United amped to unleash McDonald and Rosario on first-place Union: A fan's takeThis article talks briefly about the deals this week that landed Brandon McDonald and Dwayne de Rosario. Also, it takes a quick glance at last week's tie against the Dynamo, and previews this Saturday's game against the Union.
Atlanta takes another OT loss against Washington: Fan reactionPoor defense allowed the Washington Mystics to defeat the Atlanta Dream. For the second game in a row Atlanta allowed the opposition to tie it up late sending it to overtime ultimately losing.
D.C. United, Earthquakes riding 5-match unbeaten streaks: A fan's outlookThis article previews the Saturday, June 11 game between D.C. United and San Jose. Both teams are red hot riding a five game unbeaten streak by playing tough defense.
Top 5 DIY backyard games for summer: So simple, so funThis article takes a look at five easy outdoor summer games that can be played in your backyard. Also provided are links to purchase equipment for these games.Also published on:
Lindsey Harding ready to take on her former team June 9 on ESPN 2This article takes a look at the June 9 game between the Washington Mystics and the Atlanta Dream as Lindsey Harding will take on her former team.
Top five fishing poles for your childrenThis article reviews five different lines of children poles and porvides details on what is the best option for your little angler whether they're old, young, experienced, or a beginner.Also published on:
Watching Michael Jordan with the Father Figures of My LifeThis article recalls the time I spent with my uncles, two father figures in my life, watching the Chicago Bulls during the Michael Jordan years.
Bittersweet tie for D.C. United: A fan's reactionIn a recap of the June 3 match-up between D.C. United and L.A. Galaxy, this article takes a look at how United could have won the match, and the effects on the Galaxy on not having star Landon Donovan play.
Atlanta Dream Season PreviewThis article looks at what this upcoming season has in store for the Atlanta Dream who look to go all the way with the acquisition of All-Star PG Lindsey Harding.
Father's Day memories: Super Bowl XXXVII with my fatherThis memoir recalls memories with my dad as we enjoyed the Tampa Bay Buccaneers win Super Bowl XXXVII and worked on mending our previously splinttered relatonship.
D.C. United must be physical against Galaxy: A fan's perspectiveThis article briefly recaps the early April 9 match-up between the United and Galaxy, and previews the June 3 rematch in L.A. Included is my keys for United to beat the formidable Galaxy.
'The Tree of Life' Has Tough Road Ahead Toward Box Office FortuneThis article looks at the events that took place around this year's Cannes Film Festival-winning feature "The Tree of Life," the type of influence the festival has on American audiences, and the type of box office success the film should look forward to.
Top ten D.C. United gifts for Father's Day: Make it a special eventIncluded in this article is my top ten list of D.C. United gifts for Father's Day. Such gift ideas range from jerseys, scarves, and balls, to unique gifts like trading cards and video games.
Top 10 Tampa Bay Rays gifts for Father's DayThis article looks at various gift ideas for dads who are fans of the Tampa Bay Rays. Ideas range from customizable jerseys to Joe Madden look-a-like glasses.
Top Three FOIA Cases Balance Public's Right to Know, Government's Right to ProtectThis article briefly recaps the recent developments in a FOIA case the Associated Press opened in an attempt to get the pictures of Osama Bin Laden public. Then, the article looks at old FOIA cases with President George W. Bush, J. Edgar Hoover and others.Also published on:
Basic Florida bicycle rules you should know when making the switch from car to bicycleThis article provides five basic laws that you should know if you're new to commuting by bicycle. Also, further information is available on where to get more information on traffic rules for bikers.
Mother's Day celebrations at Marlins game May 8: A fan's guideOn Sunday, May 8 the Florida Marlins will take on the Washington Nationals celebrating Mother's Day with various festivities. Susan G. Komen and MLB team up for the seventh year in a row in an attempt to raise money for breast cancer research.
Millions of Unused Fat Cells Later it is Still Just Super Nintendo and MeI briefly compare my Super Nintendo with other video game systems only to find that the SNES is my favorite system of all time. Then I take a look at some of my favorite games on the system and explain why they're my favorites.
An Ode to PersephoneA Shakespearean sonnet talking about the limited joy Persephone and her mother, the goddess of fertility Demeter, experience together during the spring and summer months before Persephone is returned to her husband, Hades, in the underworld.
T.S. Eliot's The Lovesong of J. Alfred PrufrockThis piece reviews Eliot's infamous poem about a man's anxiety and indecision. This modernist piece captures the spirit of listlessness Europe experiences after being ravaged by two world wars.
1 Goal, 0 AssistsThis first person account tells about my first goal in soccer ever towards the end of my senior year in high school. It also talks about my favorite soccer team I was on, which included a ragtag group of soccer enthusiasts who made the sport fun for me.
Book Review: Kazuo Ishiguro's The Remains of the DayA look at Kazuo Ishiguro's The Remains of the Day and how the novel's main thesis relates to our everyday lives. The butler, Mr. Stevens, tries to perform his duties with "dignity" by giving his master unwavering loyalty.
Celebrities Aim to Alleviate Strife in Africa, Middles EastOn a very recent trip, Angelina Jolie visited Tunisia to see Libyan refugees fleeing from the ongoing violence. Sarah Harding took a like-minded trip in February to check on how the funds raised from Comic Relief were being spent.Also published on:


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The San Antonio Spurs are one victory away from their fifth NBA title and can claim their first championship since 2007 when they host the Miami Heat in Sunday's Game 5. San Antonio rolled to back-to-back dominating wins in Miami to take a 3-1 series lead and is in good shape when you consider no NBA team has ever recovered from that deficit in NBA Finals play. The Spurs' three victories are by an average of 18.3 points.Heat standout LeBron James was among the stunned players over how easily San Antonio dismantled Miami the past two games. "I mean, they smashed us," James told reporters. "Two straight home games, got off to awful starts. They came in and were much better than us in these two games. It's just that simple." Spurs veteran Tim Duncan expects a fierce effort from the Heat as San Antonio attempts to avenge last season's finals loss to the Heat. "We're going to use our home court and we're going to come with the same focus that we did in these last two games, and hopefully close it out at home," Duncan told reporters.TV: 8 p.m. ET, ABC ABOUT THE HEAT: James is averaging 27.5 points in the series and is very much aware that no team has ever recovered from a 3-1 deficit to win the NBA Finals. He asserts that the players only have themselves to blame for the hole Miami finds itself in but doesn't want to look past Sunday and ponder the historical aspect. "It's never been done before but we're still a confident bunch, even though our heads are lowered down right now," James told reporters. "Of course, being down 3-1 and losing two straight games at home, that's just human nature. But we've still got to go out and play on Sunday."ABOUT THE SPURS: Small forward Kawhi Leonard produced back-to-back stellar efforts in Miami - averaging 24.5 points and nine rebounds in the two games - but versatile Boris Diaw has also been a valuable performer since San Antonio coach Gregg Popovich inserted him into the starting lineup for Game 3. Diaw had a solid all-around game with eight points, nine rebounds and nine assists in Game 4 and is averaging 6.5 points, 8.5 rebounds and 5.8 assists in the series. "He knows what's going on most all the time," Popovich told reporters. "At the offensive end he's a passer. He understands mismatches. He knows time and score. At the defensive end, he knows when to help. He's active. So he just helps the whole team have a better IQ, I think."BUZZER BEATERS 1. Duncan is averaging 15.8 points and 10.5 rebounds in the series and has three double-doubles with Thursday's being the 158th of his postseason career to break Magic Johnson's record.2. The Heat have committed 62 turnovers in the series with James (18) and G Dwyane Wade (15) being the biggest culprits.3. San Antonio G Danny Green was 10-of-13 from the field in the two games in Miami and is 9-of-17 from 3-point range in the series.PREDICTION: Spurs 108, Heat 95


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When most people think about the Caribbean (if you've never lived on the islands) one of the things which comes to mind is sipping on a cold glass of rum punch, decorated with slices of fresh fruit while sitting taking in the rays on white sandy beach (or a swim-up bar at an all-inclusive resort). Truth be told, rum punch is not as common a drink with locals as you would think. A more classic drink would be rum and coke or if you were in Cuba, a Mojito and if in Puerto Rico, it would be Piña Colada.
I'm going back to my "ultimate" series and in doing so, give you what I think is the perfect rum punch recipe.
You'll Need…
1 cup fresh lime juice
2 cups grenadine syrup
2 cups rum (Caribbean rum)
1 cup coconut rum
2 cups pineapple juice
2 cups orange juice
5-8 drops of Angostura bitters
dash nutmeg
Orange slices, for garnish
Pineapple slices, for garnish
Notes. The traditional way of making rum punch is to use a strong white rum, but I much prefer a dark rum as I love the undertones you get from it. If you don't have Grenadine, use a simple syrup or if you have a cane juice syrup that would work well also. Be sure to add crushed or cubed ice before serving.
The only real work here is to squeeze the limes for that freshly squeezed juice we need (you'll need about 8 limes). Basically all you have to do is add all the ingredients mentioned above into a large container, mix well and put in the fridge to chill.
If you'd like you can also add 1 cup of carbonated water to the mix before serving for that extra zing. Then pour into your serving jug or punch bowl, add some ice and watch your guests hover around as they enjoy what is sure to be the ultimate rum punch. Remember to garnish with slices of orange to make everything look pretty. Speaking about punch bowl, I recall my mom had one and to this day I've never seen any punch in that thing. My dad used it for tossing receipts and other things from his pocket.. that's where you'd also find our house keys as well.
Do remember this holiday season to partake in the beverages in moderation and NEVER drink and drive. BTW, you'll get about 10 cups of rum punch from this recipe and more if you add the carbonated water and ice.
Before you go, don't forget to check out the latest cooking videos, connect with me on twitter and join our community on facebook. oh yea! leave me a comment below – it's appreciated.
Had a delicious rum pinch in the Virgin Islands years ago. I have tried to reconstruct it with no success. Until now…thank you for a delicious drink! Made a pitcher and took it poolside today. Delish!!
Hi ,
this looks amazing! I'd like to make this at my " trini" inspired wedding , but i do have one question , I want to make this several hours before it is ready to serve ( 6- 7 hours ) , should i wait to add the alcohol in with the ice before serving , so that it does not loose its potency while spending all that time in the fridge ?
ps. Love your recipes !
Thank you for a fine recipe which I needed, another fine Drink .
Thank you very much for a fine recipe which I needed , just splendid.
I made this punch for a holiday gathering last night. I made it exactly as written using Appleton rum. IT was EPIC. Everyone was just raving, (and a little tipsy!!!!!!) hahaha. Fabulous, fabulous punch! Almost every guest asked for the recipe!
Great one Chris! and thank you for adding the perfect touch to our holiday!
Hi Chris,
Recipe sure sounds amazing. Always big fun of rum punch and always had friends around me to make it.
This time, am hosting and none of my Caribbean friends are around and your recipe has come in very handy.
Now, it's time to prepare a bigger portion to serve 30-40 people. Would please you advise me on the proportions of the ingredients?
I look forward to hearing groom you soon.
I made 5 Gallons of this Rum Punch for my Birthday Party. I purchased a 5 Gallon Drink Cooler to serve it in..I went to get a glass and it was GONE!!! I make it all the time and my husbands family is from Trinidian and they say "The Yankee Girl sure knows how to make a wicked rum punch!"
Chris, made your rum punch for a BBQ, and it went down a treat. I'm being ask for the recipe. Your recipes a just great!
I made this for New Years and it was a huge hit!
Are the bitters necessary?
I didn't find that the bitter made a big difference as the punch on its own is just amazing.
Hi Chris thanks for the rum punch recipe I forgot about that i am so use to just buying the bottle but this is great and its fresh nice keep them coming.
Im using puncheon rum, strong indeed . nice recipe . keep up the good job l enjoy all of the recepies.HAPPY hOLIDAYS Albert from Trincity Trinidad …..
Great recipe Chris, I was feeling looking for a good rum punch recipe glad u posted this one…thx Chris love all your recipes
wow i have been looking for this recipe! By the way I love the emails you send to your subscribers keeps me up to date with your recipes thank you!!
[...] Check out his demonstration. [...]


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Monthly Archives: October 2011
Bufala Negra
October 24, 2011Posted by on
This is a refreshing and kind of tangy recipe that my friend and fellow tender from lyrics libations and life brought to my attention:
- 1.5 oz bourbon
- 4 basil leaves
- 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
- 1.5 teaspoons white sugar
- 1 dash Angostura bitters
- ginger ale
Muddle the basil, balsamic, sugar, and bitters in an old fashioned glass; add bourbon; fill with ice; and top with ginger ale, giving it a gentle stir. If you want to you can garnish it with a sprig of basil. Let me know how you like this and what you pair it with.
This is similar to a shrub, which is a spirit mixed with a vinegar based fruit syrup, popular in colonial times and in New England. I'm working on an Asian pear shrub, so stay tuned for that in the upcoming week or two.
The Whisky Brigade
October 18, 2011Posted by on
Last night I went to my first Whisky Brigade at Jack Rose Dining Saloon. A number of great whiskys were presented for the sampling, some known and some untasted by me so far.
Among the list were The Glenrothes out of Speyside: Select Reserve, 1985, 1994, and 1998 vintages; all of which took home awards from the San Francisco Wine and Spirits Competition. Of these I tried the vintages, the select reserve ran out too quickly, unfortunately. The favorite of mine was the 1998 with its smooth lush fruit notes and heaviness. This whisky has a definite spice to it, maybe light cardamom, and middling cinnamon, with vanilla smoothing out the sharpness that comes from this.
The other vintages are definitely more drinkable, I could probably only have a couple glasses of this, but I do like the bold character of this one. The 1998 is not something that I would drink with a meal, but something I would have for dessert, I think that it could easily overpower almost any meal. It is an interesting new addition to my notebook.
The Unknown Soldier
October 11, 2011Posted by on
If you like grapefruit juice you'll like this. This tastes strangely like a fresh glass of it. This drink was created to celebrate the birthday of a good friend and went like no other. I made a gallon of it and between 15-20 people it was gone in about a half of an hour:
- 1.5 dry gin
- .5 St. Germaine
- .5 lemon juice
- .25 Campari
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitter's
- 1 dash orange bitters
- 2-3 basil leaves
Muddle the basil into the gin, add the remaining ingredients, stir well but not vigorously, and pour over ice.
This drink ends up an amazing shade of orange and is bitter/tart with a lot of herbal punch. It works well before a meal and would go great with lighter salads.


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Peaceful Encounter
Peaceful Encounter
Old Dominion University President Roseann Runte, left, joined by community members and ODU faculty, staff and students, welcomed Nasim Yousefi and Jafar Edrisi, right, an Iranian couple who are bicycling around the world to promote peace. They planted a tree at the Powhatan Apartments complex on Thursday afternoon.
This highlight was posted on: February 22, 2008
Old Dominion University
Office of University Relations
Room 100 Koch Hall Norfolk, Virginia 23529-0018
Telephone: 757-683-3114
Old Dominion University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution.


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Week one of the Mark Norwood murder trial has come to an end. He's accused of killing Christine Morton in Williamson County in 1986. Friday, the judge allowed prosecutors to bring up another case Norwood has been charged in the murder of Debra Baker in Austin in 1988.
Jurors learned more about Norwood's past, both in his personal life and his criminal history. While his attorneys fought to keep the Debra Baker murder charge left out of this trial, the judge ruled that it is important in this case because it addresses the identity of the killer.
In the 1980s Mark Norwood was working as a carpet layer in Austin. He was living with his now ex-wife, Judy Norwood. Friday, she took the stand and spoke about her life with Norwood. She told jurors Norwood was often gone all hours of the night and early morning. The two separated in the 90s and eventually divorced.
In 2011, Norwood was arrested for the 1986 murder of Christine Morton. It was this blood-stained bandana found behind the Morton home that linked Norwood to the crime after his DNA was discovered on it along with Christine's.
Norwood's DNA was also confirmed to have been found at the crime scene of another case that had gone cold--- the murder of Debra Baker in Austin in 1988.
Norwood has been charged in that murder as well.
Friday, during the trial for Christine Morton's murder, Debra Baker's mother and sister testified. Prosecutors worked to point out similarities in the two cases--both women were beaten to death by a blunt object and were left with pillows covering their faces. Certain items and money were stolen from both homes, but jewelry left behind. Both women had sliding glass doors that has possibly been left unlocked.
At the time of those murders, Norwood lived on Justin Lane in Austin, one street away from Debra Baker and about 12 miles from the Morton home.
While Norwood's attorneys asked the judge to keep the focus on the Morton case and say the two murders do have some differences, prosecutors say there's no doubt the crimes were committed by the same person.
The state filed a motion of their intent to introduce Norwood's criminal history in this trial. In that paperwork we learned that Norwood may also be responsible for the death of a man in Tennessee in 1980. That case has not been brought up.
The trial is expected to wrap up by next week. While this is a capital murder case, prosecutors have said they will not seek the death penalty.
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Dark Tranquillity Live Footage In Chicago IL
July 6th, 2010 at 8:18am
Braingell Radio | DARK TRANQUILLITY: Complete Live Videos for "Focus Shift" and "Final Resistance":
July 6th, 2010 at 5:00pm
[...] DARK TRANQUILLITY has posted a couple live videos for their tracks "Focus Shift" and "Final Resistance" that were filmed recently at Reggie's Rock Club in Chicago IL. The audio for these live videos was professionally tracked and mixed. View them here. [...]
Heavy metal news on Devildriver, Neurosis, Dark Tranquillity and more. « HeavyMetalSource.com:
July 9th, 2010 at 8:51am
[...] http://www.undergroundvideotelevision.com/2010/live-videos/dark-tranquillity-live-footage-in… [...]


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News: Cam'ron Plots More "Crime," "We Gonna Put Out Another 3 Videos" [Video]
Tuesday, May 5, 2009 5:15PM
Dipset leader Cam'ron has kept his word with the announcement of more Internet-only music videos for his upcoming album Crime Pays.
While backstage at his comeback concert last night (May 4) in New York City, Cam expressed his feelings over performing in the Big Apple and spoke about his upcoming music videos.
"I was good to be in New York, we did a lot of shows outta town in the Mid-West, we did a lot of shows out there but to be in New York, I'm from New York, it's a great look, appreciate everybody for coming out," Cam said in an interview. "It's a real, real good crowd, a lot of engergy. I had a good time doing it. You know all the stuff we put on the Internet, a lot of fans out there support on the Internet so I had to do some of those. We shot a lot of viral videos we put 'em on the site, you can snatch 'em off every site and put it on your site but we gonna put out another three videos this week too." (MTV)
Cam's performance last night was reportedly sold-out.
Cam'ron is back and recently performed for the first time since The Diplomats broke up. Cam rocked the crowd at the Highline Ballroom in New York for the release party for his new "Crime Pays" album. Hosted by Hot 97's Funkmaster Flex, and sold out for weeks, fans got to see Cam'ron performing "I Really Mean It." Cam went on to perform a ton of hits including all of his Roc-A-Fella records including "Oh Boy," "Hey Ma" and "Down And Out." With no other members of Dipset there, Cam'ron made sure to chant "Dipset" multiple times during the entire show. (Rap Basement)
The Harlem-bred emcee informed fans of his comeback show last month.
"I'm back in the streets New York City with a hot new album and hot new music. It's your boy Cam'ron taking over Hot 97 this weekend. The 97th person to text us at 75759 will win tickets to my album release concert May 5th at the Highline Ballroom and my new album Crime Pays on sale May 5th. New York City, Tri-state, I am hip-hop, I am Hot 97." (Miss Info)
He recently sparked attention around Juelz Santana and Jim Jones and took credit for inspiring their Skull Gang and Byrd Gang rap groups.
"At the end of the day, that's the f*ck people's problem is, how the f*ck I'ma feel a part of something that I own," Cam said referring to Dipset. "People be confused...I own it. Are 'they' part of Dipset? See, what you gotta realize, there wouldn't be a bunch of Skull Gang, Byrd Gang if they could exclude me from Dipset. They wouldn't be making up all these other names if you could kick me outta Dipset. I own Dipset so you could never kick me out of Dipset. (Dog & Pony Show)
Check out Cam's backstage interview below:
[For more on your favorite rappers from the Big Apple peep SOHH NYC]