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For those of you that want the Code Camp presentation, you can get it here. The code can be downloaded here.
Just a quick update to the Azure Storage app… added support for both Win 7 folder dialogs and older Windows as well. Still not perfect by any stretch of the imagination, but slightly better. I would like to try and add drag and drop support and provide a progress indicator for larger files when uploading.
Download Here
Spaghetti Code talks with Adam Grocholski about the Text Template Transformation Toolkit, or T4. Adam walks us through what T4 is, how it works, and how you can use it in your own software projects.
I had need to demo some Azure blob storage stuff to a customer the other day. This is what I churned out. Quick and dirty, incomplete testing, and probably some design flaws, but it gets the point across. ;-)
To use the sample, you need to modify the DemoAuthorizationService.cs file to include your real Azure account and token information, or change it to use the local devstore account and key (though you will need to modify the DemoAuthToken.cs file to return the right Uri – like I said, some stuff that needed to be cleaned up).
Oh, and I did some wonky stuff with the WPF interface as well as far as styling some buttons go – better way to do what I did – but I was learning styling as I went and just banged out something that worked. Having said all that, not a bad example of MVVM/MVP/whatever you want to call it.
Download here
In Part 5 of the Peer to Peer Series, I show a sample application that uses PNRP to connect a client application to a server application using WCF and PNRP Peer Host Names. The details of the actual WCF Service implementation. Instead, I will focus on those areas of leveraging PNRP to establish connections via WCF.
The video will show a sample application that is comprised of a client and a server application. You could use a more "peer-to-peer" duplex-style of communication, but the client-server arrangement makes the two key parts of establishing a WCF connection easier to explain.
When hosting a WCF service, the key code from the IntelServiceHost.cs file is shown below:
this.PeerRegistration.Start(peerClassifier, port);
Uri tcpUri = new Uri(string.Format("net.tcp://{0}:{1}/IntelService", this.PeerRegistration.PeerUri, port));
_serviceHost = new ServiceHost(service, tcpUri);
NetTcpBinding tcpBinding = new NetTcpBinding(SecurityMode.None);
_serviceHost.AddServiceEndpoint(typeof(IIntelService), tcpBinding, "");
The PeerRegistration property exposes a wrapper class around the PNRP API. The Start method registers the application with a given peer classifier and port as an unsecure peer name in the Global PNRP Cloud. The PeerUri property passes back the peerhostname. That uri is used to setup a new Uri, along with the port, that is then used to configure the ServiceHost using a NetTcpBinding. Some of this could have been configured in the application's config file, but I put it all here so you can see how the different parts relate.
The client side of the equation is even easier (found in the IntelClient.cs file):
PeerNameResult peerRecord = PeerResolution.ResolveHostName(hostPeerName);
System.ServiceModel.Channels.Binding netBinding = new NetTcpBinding(SecurityMode.None);
EndpointAddress endpointAddress = new EndpointAddress(string.Format("net.tcp://{0}:{1}/IntelService", peerRecord.Uri, peerRecord.Port));
IntelServiceProxy = new IntelProxy(netBinding, endpointAddress);
The PeerResolution class is another wrapper around the PNRP API, this time providing resolving a given unsecure peer name in the Global PNRP cloud. It returns an object containing the remote peer's peerhostname and port. The rest of the code is just setting up the client side of the WCF connection.
Other documentation for PNRP:
View the Screencast:
Download the Demo Code
Spaghetti Code teams up with the Thirsty Developerpodcast to conduct a special edition, joint interview of Claudio Caldato, Senior Program Manager for Microsoft's Interoperability Team. Thirsty Developer Host Dave Bost and I talk to Claudio about his team, what they do, and more specifically about the recently released PHP Bridge to ADO.NET Data Services.
You can get more information on the PHP Bridge from these locations:
I know… it does seem odd that I would have a title of saying that Windows needs to be friendly to .NET developers. Considering that .NET is THE development environment for Windows (no offense to my C++ or Mono friends), it seems a strange that I would have some "complaints†about Windows not being friendly towards .NET developers. But it's true.
It is not that Windows isn't a good platform to develop on. Quite the contrary. Great tools, lots of great OS features that are readily accessible, etc. The problem is that the Windows team sometimes forgets that the vast majority of Windows development is now done in .NET. I am sure many of you read that and said, "Duh! Of course.†So what am I talking about?
As you start getting into the back corners of the operating system, it suddenly feels like some Microsoft teams have never heard of .NET. Example? Windows Firewall. I have been writing some peer-to-peer stuff and it would be nice to be able to set some firewall rules when an app is installed, or better yet, prompt the user at runtime to change the rules and dynamically set them. Can you do that? Sure, if you are writing in C++ or want to use a COM object and wrap it with .NET. There is no .NET implementation out of the box. Talk about a pain in the ass! I have spent enough time playing with p/invoke and COM wrappers to know that I don't want to go there unless absolutely necessary.
Peer to peer is another example. Great team – good guys on it. They have been fantastic helping me work my way through my learning. The problem is, some of the coolest parts of their stack do not have a managed implementation. Distributed routing tables? Absolutely wicked stuff but C++ only. Peer Groups; C++ only. Peer Graphs; C++ only. Double argghhh!
Even with the release of Windows 7, the problem continues. The Windows API Code Pack certainly helped expose some of the new Win 7 features, but still no Windows Firewall support. Peer to peer still missing. Some other APIs are still native only. Considering that .NET has been around for quite a while now, you would think that 100% of the Windows API would be covered with managed implementations by now.
Some day, my friends, some day….
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1:35 AM Eastern
It was a roller-coaster day for Jays fans, with Travis Snider's coming-out party in the opener and the old offense rearing its ugly head in the nightcap, and the upshot is that the Blue Jays really can't afford more than one more loss the rest of the season, and it can't be to Boston.
What the Jays have to hope for now is to begin a seven-game win streak with Roy Halladay in the finale in Boston, and for that to also begin a seven-game losing streak for the Red Sox. Of course, the Jays and Sox will play four times in those seven games, and the other three have the Jays home to the pitiful Orioles and the Red Sox playing in Tampa Bay (well, not actually in the bay, though that would be really cool), where they're 0-6 so far this season.
The opener was everything the Jays could have hoped for. A.J. Burnett continued to be perfect both against the Red Sox (now 5-0 lifetime) and on three days' rest (now 4-0 lifetime). He was fantastic, taking a three-hit shutout into the 7th, when he struck out Scarborough's George Kottaras (in his first big-league AB) but the ball got away from Rod Barajas, allowing the rookie to reach. Burnett then got a double play grounder from Jacoby Ellsbury, but Joe Inglett couldn't handle the throw. Jesse Carlson came on to finish the inning and the unearned run scored, but that was it.
Offensively, aside from another edition of the baserunning follies in the 4th inning, the Jays were very good, especially Snider. The 20 year-old went deep with two on in the 5th, then hit a ground-rule double to right-centre in the 6th to cash two more. He tied the club record for rookies with five RBIs in the game (nine others have done so) and is the youngest Blue Jay ever to accomplish that feat.
Scott Rolen contributed a pair of hits and scored twice. He's really turned it on on this road trip. Since starting that doubleheader in Chicago 0-for-5, he's 7-for-19 with two doubles and a homer, hitting .368/.429/.632. Maybe he's not so done after all.
The nightcap was a whole 'nother story. Jesse Litsch had a shaky first inning, with one wild pitch scoring a pair of runs as Litsch and Gregg Zaun played Alphonse and Gaston trying to get the ball back and forth to each other, but after that Litsch settled down and the offense came to life with five runs in the second. A Jed Lowrie error that loaded the bases with one out helped a lot, but it was followed by Travis Snider drawing a walk, then a two-run double by Joe Inglett, a Marco Scutaro sac fly and a bloop RBI single by Alex Rios. Then it stopped.
After the second inning, the Blue Jays had three baserunners, on two ground-ball singles and an error, and all were erased by double-play grounders. They hit THREE balls out of the infield over the last seven innings. This offensive strategy didn't really leave the pitching staff much room for error – and where have we heard that before?
The bullpen management was curious, to say the least. Litsch was allowed to come out to start the 6th, which was fine, but the leash should have been as short as humanly possible, given that his pitch count was up and he was going on short rest for the first time in his career. Instead, he was allowed to give up a double off the wall, then a four-pitch walk, then a soft line single which loaded the bases with nobody out. All that before even a visit to the mound. Jed Lowrie then took him to deep right for a sac fly, and that was it.
In came Jesse Carlson, who had thrown 12 pitches in the opener after not having pitched since Tuesday. He was brought in to face the lefty Alex Cora, but got pinch-hitter Mike Lowell to line out softly to second and was yanked with Kevin Cash (!) coming up. I didn't get that at all.
I also didn't get Brandon League only being allowed to face three hitters – he got Crisp on a second-pitch grounder to second to end the 6th, and was taken out for Downs with a runner on second and one out in the 7th, David Ortiz coming to the plate. Now, I understand wanting to go with a lefty against Ortiz, especially when he's the tying run, but I don't get asking Downs to get five important outs when he's been so shaky lately and Cito has said that he thinks his ankle might be bothering him and he might be tiring a bit. And it had to be Downs until Ryan came out in the 9th, because Carlson and League were done.
So Downs came on and was shaky again, walking Ortiz, giving up the grounder to score one, and then after getting out of the 7th, allowing three hits in the 8th including the swinging bunt by Ellsbury on which Downs tripped and fell flat on his face on his way to try to get the ball. That allowed the go-ahead run to score with two out, and sealed the Jays' fate.
In his last six appearances, Downs has allowed five runs on nine hits and six walks, striking out only two, in just six innings. That's a 7.50 ERA and 2.50 WHIP. He's also allowed ALL SIX of his inherited runners to score over that span.
For the first five months of the season, Downs was unquestionably the best thing going in the best bullpen in baseball. Now he's the worst they've got. Something is wrong, and until he gets things straightened out he shouldn't be used in high-leverage situations anymore, especially with the Jays in the position they're in, unable to afford another loss.
The fact that he re-injured the right ankle he hurt in Detroit exactly a month ago may make it all academic, anyway.
Before I finish, I just have to mention the spit-eating grin that Bartolo Colon had on his face in the 5th inning, when an Alex Rios comebacker bounced directly into Colon's glove while he had his back turned. When Colon realized he had the ball, he was facing shortstop Alex Cora, and paused to give him a smile that said "dig the hell out of me" before turning to throw Rios out. It was hilarious, and it was cool to see that Colon could appreciate the sheer absurdity of the play he made despite the fact that he was down three runs in the middle of the big game.
Since it was a doubleheader, we double your JaysTalkic pleasure!
Here's the first:
And here's the second:
Remember, today and every day in the month of September, please vote for Tom Cheek and ONLY for Tom Cheek to be on the ballot for the Ford C. Frick Award to gain entry into the broadcasters' wing of the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown. It'll make more of an impact on the voters if Tom alone gets the overwhelming majority of the votes. Just click on this link:http://web.baseballhalloffame.org/awards/frick_2008/vote.jsp
It's a bit of a pain to fill out all the info, but it only takes two minutes at the most, and Tom Cheek was certainly worth your time. Thank you.
Rational, reasonable comments are always welcome!
71 Responses to "Ups and Downs"
hey mike what do you feel about ortiz's aggresively dirty slide in the bottom of the 7th that cost us a sure double play and scored the 4th run for the sox. That seemed to be a tell of things to come. He slid cletes up and purposely moved his foot into the throwing lane of scutaro and stepped on his ankle literally with cletes up. I understand if that foot is close to the bag, but its obvious his slide was offline and he stuck his leg out to tackle him for lack of a better word. Do you think the league might take a look a suspension for this dirty incident.
MW: Nope. It might have looked dirty to you – and it was a little, since he actually did kick Scutaro, but he still touched the bag going by, so it was a clean slide. There won't be any suspension coming.- paolo
quirky fun fact for you mike all barajas's children have a first name that links to letters in his last name: for example the R is Rod Barajas Junior, however he only has 6 kids and hasnt had the seventh to name it starting with an S. Funny how i learned this while working for the Rogers Centre staff. Just goes to show you how cool Roddy is…
MW: He is, indeed. I'm a big fan of him as a person, which is something I didn't expect after last year's free agent tease.- paolo
The second game certainly was a heart-breaker.
Why are you citing AJ's win-loss record to claim that he's pitched well on 3 days of rest and against the Red Sox? I thought win-loss records are meaningless? There are other stats you can cite to improve the argument.
"Since it was a doubleheader, we double your JaysTalkic pleasure!" – you mean, "JaysTalking"
MW: No, I meant JaysTalkic. You're right, won-loss records are meaningless, but it was a long day and I wanted to make a point quickly. Four starts, 29 baserunners in 27 innings, there you go.- Jaybird
As Downs fell down, he took the blue jays playoff chances right with him. How's that for symbolism…
MW: Just about.- Terry
Anyways mike, keep up the good work.
MW: I took out the other stuff, because I don't think this is the appropriate forum for that, but thanks.- paolo
Cito certainly "nuked the fridge" tonight. Younger fans are just now getting a sneak preview of Cito's, "stick with the veterans.. come hell or high water", managing style.
Why would any sane manager pull a well-rested, Brandon League, in favour of an over-used, ineffective, Scott Downs? And then leave Downs in until it was too late.
I don't blame the offense at all. It was ineffective after the second inning but it did give the "best pitching staff in baseball", a three run lead going into the sixth inning. It should have been enough.
But Cito had to…. well… we all saw what he did… or should I say, didn't do.
Cito will probably have John Mcdonald as the Jays' lead-off batter Sunday afternoon.
Not that it matters… anymore!
Oh yea, Mike, you seem to always throw out stats when it's convenient to winning your arguments.
Yesterday, you corrected me by stating that, Tim Wakefield, is having a "very, very, good year".
Prior to Friday's start against the Jays', he had a 8-10 record, with a 4.11 ERA.
That is bad! Not very, very good. Yes, he has a low opponent batting average and good WHIP numbers. But, Mike, if you are going to use stats, use all the stats, not just the ones that you find beneficial to your argument.
Another point, WHIP uses walks and hits to innings pitched. But it doesn't take in account of what kind of hits. So a broken bat single has the same value as a home run. That doesn't seem like a totally accurate way to measure a pitchers effectiveness. Maybe your, High Priest of Stats, Bill James, should look into that one.
And Wakefield, in most seasons, does give up quite a few neck-turners. Led the League at least once.
Here's hoping Roy wins 19 tomorrow. Complete game. Even Cito can't screw that up.
MW: You immediately lose your argument by saying that you think Cito Gaston is insane. That's just stupid, and indefensible. Wakefield is, indeed having a very, very good year. I bring up WHIP and opp. BA because they are truer indicators of a pitcher's performance than W-L and ERA, both of which things are dependent on teammates. Yes, Wakefield does give up a lot of home runs, but because his WHIP is so low, they tend to be solo shots, which do far less damage. In fact he has only given up three homers that have resulted in more than two runs all season.- Kelly Pfeiffer
I was surprised to see you point to Rolen's recent success (7-19) as a defense against those who claim him to be old and used up. Aren't you the king of "small sample size?" And have we not seen him sidelined by the same injury that has plagued him the last few years?
I find it interesting to see how… Shall I say "willing"… You are to criticize Scott Downs while he has performed well above expectations (albeit with a few shaky appearances) and how defensive you remain of BJ Ryan, while I think it is more or less agreed upon he has performed below expectations. Does this have anything to do with the discrepancies between their contracts and/or reputations? If BJ is as shaky next year will you still have the same confidence in him?
Thanks Mike, love the show.
MW: I don't believe B.J. will be as shaky next year, but if he is and he continues to get the job done in spite of it, then yes, I will defend him against people who say he sucks. I don't see where the discrepancies are. If Ryan was allowing 2 1/2 baserunners an inning and giving up five runs in six innings, I'd suggest that he get things figured out, as well. As for Rolen, yes it's a small sample size, but I'm not suggesting that I believe he'll perform anywhere near that level for any sort of significant period of time. All I'm saying is that it means he's not incapable of being a productive offensive player, which many people seem to believe he is.- JRD
I noticed that as well. The Sox only had to face the minimum from the third on.
In fact the entire game I was thinking to myself, If this were football and they flashed a "time of possession" stat up there, it would have been 90 to 10 percent sox in terms of time the sox offense was up vs the jays…
I dont know what was going on today but Jessie and Zauny had a hell of a time getting on the same page. Jessie generally works very, very quickly, yet tonight he was constantly backing off the rubber and having mound meetings with zaun to coordinate pitch selection…it just seemed that either he or zaun or both were a bit off..overall though i think he had a very live cutter and fastball which one could really appreciate on the NESN HD dead centerfield feed (most cf cameras are off to the side a bit)
i think you summed up the misuse of the penn quite well and this worries me for next year going forward. As taboo as it is to "talk" like this, i have serious concerns as to how cito constructs the lineup and how he uses his penn. I have never questioned his coaching skills and his sheer knowledge base and of course class, but he's never had to prove he can truly Manage a team with so many moving parts. thus far this year he hasnt proved it to me at least. the team has been winning but i believe this has little do with the management. Too many righties and lefties stacked up on a regular basis. Johnny Mac batting too high in the order, the near complete abandoning of the stolen base or hit and run. Just look at what francona did today. Noone would argue that Kotsay is a better hitter than Bay, yet there was Kotsay batting ahead of bay and behind Youk in order to make the opposing manager "burn" relievers. its a simple thing yet Cito clearly doesn't subscribe to Lefty/righty matchups even if they are supported by stats…or in other words..facts.- sammy jalalzai
MW: And he's been the best reliever in baseball's best bullpen this season.- Bernard Singh
Ah well.
Maybe they can go on the seven game winning streak–probably not but who knows?
It was good fun while it lasted and (again) who knows? Maybe it isn't over yet.
I had a feeling something like that was going to happen to Downs (you can only get away with allowing base runners for so long until it comes back to bite you) and sadly, it might be for the best that he's unavailable for awhile–regardless, the Jays wouldn't have gotten this far without him and is deserving of our gratitude.
So, kudos on a great year Mr. Downs (and thanks) and hopefully he'll be able to get a little rest while his ankle mends. Here's hoping he gets a chance to finish 2008 on a high note.
Let's cheer on Halladay's (and Burnett's) run at 20-win seasons, Rios' pursuit of 50 doubles, Vernon's chase of 20 HR, Snider's progress, League's evolution as an ace reliever etc. and let's not forget–90 wins. If the Jays go nuts in the coming week (including a sweep of the Red Sox in Toronto) then we'll cross that bridge then.
Alex Rios owes the Green Monster a few dents this afternoon–I thought he'd have a monster series. At any rate, hopefully the Rogers Centre crowd will give them a hero's welcome when they return home–if Halladay wins, the Jays will have gone 5-3 on a road trip with two doubleheaders against a couple of the AL's best teams–not too shabby.
Go Jays!
Best Regards
MW: I don't think we'll see that hero's welcome, unfortunately. They didn't sweep the Red Sox, so the casual fan is now back in "Jays suck" mode.- John B.
Hey Mike…I was angry to see Ortiz lift up his cleats when sliding into Marco. I know Scutaro didn't get injured but it was a moment where if his foot is planted and not in the air he might of been a man on crutches after the game. I wouldn't be angry if Ortiz just slid at him like every other player does but to intentionally lift your foot that was just terrible. I understand that he is trying to win and not injure Marco but if Baseball made a rule against it then Ortiz and everybody else don't have a chance to commit something like that. Don't know if you agree Mike but it got me angry and not just because it cost the Blue Jays a run.
Another thing Mike Delgado didn't come out for a curtain call the other day and probably has the booing from Mets fans stuck in the back of his head. Would you give Delgado 20 million for two years if he would take it…and do you think players would leave teams and even lose a little money because they are turned off by fans. Not a small group but a stadium full of fans booing you. What's your take Mike. Thanks a lot and keep up the good work.
MW: I didn't like that Ortiz stuck his foot out, but he hasn't tended to be a dirty player so I don't want to vilify him for it. Delgado isn't going anywhere.- Stewy
My question about Gaston's bullpen usage starts with the afternoon game. Why on earth would he waste Carlson and Tallet, whom he might need in the evening game, with an 8-0 lead? Why not Wolfe? Or Parrish? Or Richmond? Why not save his bullets for when he might need them?
That was not impressive usage of a very good bullpen.- Chuck V
I'm not trying to say scott downs is done, because he has been one of the top set-up men in baseball all year, but don't you think that with his recent comand issues they should try and work him in, during a less pressure situation
MW: It's a tough tightrope to walk, but I certainly wouldn't have looked to him to get me five outs.- John Terry
Nothing regarding the weekend games but I was wondering if you know whether or not the Jays still host a luncheon for fans during the season. My grandmother would take my brothers and I to a couple of them when we were kids. The team would usually honour their players of the month (a pitcher and a position player) with Tom and Jerry hosting the event usually held at a downtown hotel and it gave people a chance to talk to the players and get autographs etc. This was probably 25 years ago though.
My grandmother passed away a few years back and I've just started going through her stuff and found tons of Blue Jays paraphenalia (programs, pictures, posters, newspaper clippings etc.) from back in the 70′s and 80′s since she was the world's biggest Blue Jays fan. I came across some pictures of me and my brothers with Ernie Whitt and Mark Eichorn from a couple of those luncheons and just wondered if they still have them.
The funniest thing was also finding a piece of paper with Jerry Howarth's 2 children's autographs on them (they were 8 and 9 at the time). I guess my grandmother asked them for their autograph after getting Jerry's to make them feel important.
Anyway, just brought back some childhood memories and thought I'd ask if you knew.
MW: They don't do the monthly luncheons anymore, but I believe they still do the Welcome Back at the beginning of the season.- Peter B.
It's still possible.
Jays:80-69… 13 to go.
Boston:87-61.. 14 to go.
Let's say Jays win the next four games v Boston. Then
Tor:84-69 and Bos:87-65
Then Jays go on to win 2 out of 3 v N.Y and 5 out of 6 v Baltimore and finish the season with 91 wins. Boston will choke and win 4 of the 10 games against other teams and end up with 91 wins as well. Jays will win the tiebreaker and make the playoffs. Who says it's over?
MW: It's not over, but it's pretty over. Boston is the best team in baseball, why would you assume they'll "choke"?- Beburg
Hi Mike,
Will the Jays throw at Ortiz today for spiking Soot's leg at second? I'm surprised the attack was ignored after the game. It cost the Jays a run and the third out of the inning.
MW: No, they won't.- Dan
Hi Mike,
The Ortiz slide into 2nd in the 7th (I believe) where he was waaaaaay wide of the bag to take out Scutaro and prevent the DP, I assume that was legal as there was no call on the play and no argument either. That to me smacked of interference. Scoot made the play at 2 and move himself out of the way of Ortiz to throw to 1, but got taken out by a cheap play – not fair, but not against the rules? It was a bit of a game changer there.
I'm doing my job and voting daily – cheers!
MW: He wasn't waaaaaaaaaay wide of the bag, he touched second. Keep on voting!- bob
Today is Doc's test# 2 under pressure. He failed the 1st one. For the first time in his career there's a ray of hope for the postseason ball. He choked v the white sox so let's see what he does today. If he fails again, it'd mean he is not a big game player. That's atleast how I am gonna see it.
MW: Then you're an idiot.- Beburg
Why do teams insist on trotting out injured players. A few years ago it was reported Speir had a sore arm but John Gibbons kept bringing him in to get hammered, now we're doing the same with Scott Downs. Why won't they sit him til he's fully healthly.
MW: It's a very good question. One would think that if they know the player is hurting AND he's struggling, they wouldn't use him in high-leverage situations.- Mike U
Hello Mike, couple of points that I disagree with you that night as I'll explain. The Jays got 8 runs in the first game & 5 runs in the second game. Maybe some runs were unearned but great teams somehow get the runs. Having said that, I think you are over reacting when you say "the old offense rearing it's ugly head". Lets try to leave the old in the past. Yes, they hit 3 fly balls in 7 innings & the double plays as you mentioned. But, they got 8 & 5 runs & the offense has been great in the past month or so. No team is going to be offensively good & do the fundamental's in every single game & every single situation. So, I think you are overacting because of 7 not-so-good offensive innings.
The other point I would like to make after listening to the first Jays talk is that I think you like to play both sides on topics at times. If the Jays are not hitting, you say that you knew that the coaching staff has no influence on the hitting/team. And if they are hitting, you say that the offense is bound to be better. I totally disagree with you in that the offense is good now because of your saying the offense is bound to be better. A season & a half they have not hit well under Gibbons & Denbo. When Cito/Tenace took over, it has got better. It shouldn't take a whole year & a half for the offense to come around. What took them so long??…Hitting does not take a whole year & a half to come around & finally bound to hit. To me & many fans including many commentators on TSN. Sportsnet. & The Score agree it's pretty obvious their hitting has improved now mainly because of Cito/Tenace & they would have at least 10 more wins now if he was here at the start of the season. These commentators includes ex-player who played at the major league level, such as Rance Muliniks, Allan Ashby, Jesse Barfield, & ect. So, because they have 'been there, done that', they are mostly right on their baseball on what they believe. I just think you are just a bit stubborn about this topic.
Lastly, I don't think you give Cito enough credit. Actually, it sounds like you don't like to much. Maybe that is just how it sounds on air. Yes, Cito made some questionable calls in this game tonight, but no manager in the history of MLB is anywhere perfect & he has still a great record since he took over. Wins is the bottom line in this profession. You brought up that if Gibbon's was let go 20 games before, they would be missing a 20-8 stretch(or something like that). You are saying that, assuming Cito can't top that in that stretch. And, with Cito's record so far, I don't think that is out of the question he could of done better in that stretch than Gibbons. I notice you also say "Cito has done some good things"…I don't think "some" is a strong enough word for what Cito has done & his past accomplishments. Even the worst manager in the league has done 'some good things'. With Cito's record since he took over & what he has done with this team, 'a lot of good things' is more of a deserved statement. Anyhow, I do agree with you Mike when you say these are meaningful games & you are still doing a great job with Jays talk & appreciate being able to listen to Jays talk after on this blog. So, thanx for that post.
MW: You're welcome?- Dominic
Regarding Brandon League – I think people get a little too excited about his 98-100MPH fastball. Truth is he doesn't miss enough bats to be a great reliever yet. He clearly needs another pitch. His major league K rate is just 5.13/9IP and his minor league rate is only 7.10.
Maybe he can learn another pitch but at present he's likely not effective over the long run.- jim maron
Yes, I've been an enthusiast of the Cito return, but, in that second game I was having scary memories of the great puppet master back from the old days. Especially in Litsch's final inning. I wasn't even entirely convinced he should be coming out for the 6th considering he's struggled all game and just escaped the 5th without damage thanks to a sensational double play, and had already thrown over 90 pitches in what was supposed to be a hard 100 pitch limit. But, man, if you are going to bring him out, you've got to have guys ready to go, immediately, in the bull pen. Don't you? Utterly perplexing to me, but, hey, that's Cito!
Incidentally, Mike, do you know why it's called a "bull" pen?
MW: Puppet master? There doesn't seem to be a firm story as to why it's called the bullpen, probably an old rodeo term or something.- mikie
Thanks for your reply about Manny and arbitration on the other blog Mike.
That brings up an interesting issue. Who do you think asked for Manny to not be offered arbitration?
Was it Boston/Pittsburgh because they felt the deal would've been too lopsided if the Dodgers received Manny AND picks?
Or was it Manny himself? Because he was planning on signing with teams that tend to keep their picks?
Wink Wink*. Haha.
Ibanez seems like the most logical and realistic player to fill our DH role next season, but as I outlined in my previous comment about the Jays and their picks, I have a gut feeling that they take a serious run at Manny, and that he's their #1 target.
Boy would he look good launching bombs outta the RC…
MW: It was Manny, or really Scott Boras through Manny, in order to make sure that teams wouldn't be wary of losing picks.- Alex
Mike, here's a message to all the callers/fans who insist that these wins in september are meaningless and tell us nothing about the future of the team…
It makes no sense. On the one hand they claim these games are meaningless yet on the other they are obviously watching them very closely and intently, dissecting the managerial moves and the players' successes and failures. Truly, I am embarrassed for them.- sammy jalalzai
Mike, here's how I see the "Cito Gaston" way of managing. Cito is an offence guy so even though were scoring 6 runs a game, there are probobly going to be some poor decisions on the pitching.
MW: And that's OK?- greg
I did not see most of the second game but what a pathetic display of offense. How can they go in to next year thinking they have a shot at the playoffs with this offense.And the pitching probably wont be as good with Burnett leaving.I really think Cito is a terrible bullpen manager. I also did not understand using Carlson in an 8-0 game and then using Downs again in a very high leverage situation. Lastly, I really don't agree with you saying the Jays are where they should be right now. We are still seeing a lot of the traits of the mediocre team they were before the 10 game win streak. They do have a great run differential but that has to do more with the pitching than anything. Even during the 10 game win streak they had some lucky wins and low scoring wins.
MW: But they've still had more unlucky losses and low-scoring losses. I don't see how you can slough off the role of the pitching staff in creating the Jays' run differential. It matters a whole lot as to why the team is good.- Avi
Hi Mike- Dan from Wellington
I really enjoy your blog and Jay's Talk on the FAN590.
I have been a Bluejay's fan since they came into being. I enjoy watching the games for what they are, great entertainment at a relatively cheap price. I just don't get all of this crap some of your callers espouse. Sure I get upset when someone doesn't hit or makes what I think is a dumb move or play but I don't for a minute think that I could do better! If you cannot stand to watch them play, imagine how a fan in Kansas City, Seattle, San Francisco or Texas must feel. We are really lucky to have a very competitive team with the best pitching in all of baseball. I've seen the best and the worst of the Jays but win or lose I am still a Jays fan, just ask my wife!
If you were the manager, would you have brought in Ryan instead of Camp to face Ortiz?
MW: No.- Jay Money
Mike with the replay usage now, why all the hassle going in the hallays and stuff. why don't they just call up to the commentatr's room or video booth or whatever since we see it right away on a replay?
MW: Good question. I think the 5th member of the umpiring crew should be upstairs to do just that.- Mike
What do you think that the Blue Jays should do with Scott Rolen in the offseason? Does he have any trade value? If so, where would you look and what do you get back?
MW: Rolen's not going anywhere. The best the Jays can do is hope that he can stay healthy next season and know that they have Inglett and Bautista to step in if he can't.- Jake
Mike, I'm just wondering why you don't believe that the Blue Jays start winning games in September when the pressure is off or the Blue Jays don't win games when they matter?
MW: Because I don't believe that you can decide when to win and when not to, and they've been playing really, really well since the second week of July.- andrew
Tom Cheek was the greatest baseball announcer that I had the pleasure to listen to.
MW: Yes!- Mike Healey
Tom Cheek should be oin the baseball hall of fame.
MW: Go vote for him!- Mike Healey
Thanks for not only doing JaysTalk, but also for doing this blog. I voted for Tom Cheek and hope others will as well.
Disrelarted, I'll be discouraged if they let AJ go. Not only will we lose a guy who's starting to settle in here as a player and team member, but with our luck he'll end up on the yanks or bosox. I say save any money earmarked for a DH, let Snider and Lind share the role and take another chance with AJ.
MW: I'm glad you voted for Tom, keep it up! It's not that they're going to let A.J. go, he's going to leave. There's a difference.- sonny
Wasn't it curious that Carlson was brought in during the first game with a huge lead? I didn't mind Downs being brought in during the 2nd game but I thought Carlson or League should have been kept in reserve to take over if he struggled.
MW: And yet, they'd both been used up. Yes, I was surprised that Carlson was brought in with the huge lead, but Cito doesn't like to take any chances at Fenway Park – he's seen bigger leads blown late.- Peter
I wanna see Cito scold the umps this game. That was hillarious.- Andrew (Guelph)
I can appreciate trying to run as many righties as possible against Lester but I would be much more comfortable with Lind (.266/.314/.405 vs. LHP) or Inglett (.296/.367/.370 ditto) over Mench (.254/.337/.380).
Halladay's choking again too!! He's self-defecating out there!!
Seriously though–he really looks weary out there … very deliberate; he almost looks like he's pitching in slow motion (although he's perking up in the fourth–the man is a warrior).
The whole team looks flat–a combination of fatigue and disappointment?
Best Regards
MW: Not hitting at all makes a team look flat. As for Halladay, he's on three days' rest and feeling the weight of the entire season on his shoulders.- John B.
Then what is their record since the second week of July?
MW: Going into Sunday, they're 38-22 since July 7th.- andrew
The Great Home Run Race of 2008
Ron Fairly (1977) 19
John Mayberry (1981) 17
Vernon Wells (2008) 17
If the Jays had some true meat in the heart of the order, they might just be contenders, especially with the best E.R.A. in baseball.
The Jays have a National League West batting order, but they're playing in the AL East.
MW: I don't understand what that means – a National League West batting order. The Jays' OPS this season is one point lower than the team with the best record in baseball.- Ken Pagan
Obviously Cito doesn't pinch hit for j-mac there.
2 on, 1 out… 7th inning down by 1…. clearly we need defense more… way to go cito.- Chris
As much as I love him, if John McDonald is starting consistently, this Jays team will never make the playoffs. His bat is just a total liability. They really need to upgrade on some positions because Inglett, Scutaro and Batista should not be leading off and hitting 2nd either. Those guys should be the #8 and #9 hitters, with McDOanld on the bench. Hill's return will help obviously.- Francis
#18. I thought it was one of the best observation anyone has come up with. As I write this, it's bottom of the 7th, 1 on 0 out. If Doc implodes here, we've to put the 'choker' tag on him. Or you tell me how would you explain this…a dominant pitcher who has had a great year and when suddenly when there's a slim playoff chance he loses two games in a row? There has to be some choking involved in this. But Doc has done well so far today so I'll keep that tag with me. 2 out 2 on, let's see what he does…there you go, Coco drives one in. Doc choked, Jays lost, season over.
MW: Not even worthy of comment.- Beburg
Why don't the Jays go after Abreu? I mean he won't give you 30 HR power, but he will get some serious RBI's on this team. But maybe power is needed on this team…just thought that if we got Abreu then Snider could DH and Lind could…platoon??? I don't know…just a thought.
MW: Like you said, they need power.- Jake
Now that the season is over, Doc will have a pressure of winning 20 games. 3 starts to go and 2 wins needed. I am ready to bet any money that Doc won't win 20 games this year. He can't deliver under pressure.
MW: I don't know why I keep posting these – I guess it's to let you keep exposing yourself.- Beburg
Overbay should be benched for that play. I don't know what he was thinking there! You could tell Halladay was not amused at all either. It was bad enough that the double play king didn't make that double play ball.- Francis
Mike… WHIP And opponent batting average is also dependent on teammates, unless the pitcher strikes out every batter. Think before you type.
And when I said that Cito is insane… it is not a statement of his legal mental state. Do you not have a sense of humour?
You need a long vacation.
MW: You need to step back and see when you lose an argument. Wins and losses are dependent on the offense, ERA is partly dependent on the bullpen. You know, these kinds of comments are what make me think that I'm not going to be able to continue doing this.- Kelly Pfeiffer
re: Post #9
And he`s also been their worst reliever over the past couple of weeks!!! Jesse Carlson is far better and way cheaper!!
MW: Six outings on a bad ankle do not a season make.- Bernard Singh
Hi Mike,
Was it just me or was Overbay sae by about a mile??? Thats the second bad call of the day! I hope the umps are happy that they ruined all hopes of us making the playoffs.
MW: It was a terrible call, but it didn't cost the Blue Jays a chance at the playoffs.- Warren
On a day like today, you have no choice but to blame Jean Tennis. I don't think Tennis prepared the team will in this series. It's different than any other ballpark and I don't think Jays hitter did a good job of exploiting the Green Monster. Jean Tennis let the team down.
MW: I'll never understand this.- Jojo
WE NEED ROBOT UMPS…that Overbay call changed the whole game…like seriously I AM P****D!!!
MW: Robot umps would be cool.- Jake
Mike, last night someone asked if you would go to Cooperstown if Tom gets inducted. You said, you would probably have to work, but your sure Jerry and the Cheek family would likely be there. Wouldn't Jerry have to work also? When was the last time he missed a game?
MW: Jerry hasn't missed a game in years, but I'm sure he'd miss one to help induct Tom into Cooperstown. Chances are only one of us will be able to go, and if there's a choice between Jerry going and me going, wouldn't you think that Jerry would be the one to go?- Shmuel Yitzchoj
Hi Mike
A real weird week-end in terms of managers decicions with players. On Saturday, I could not understand why francona gave up so easily in the afternoon game. On the night cap, why did Cito use Downs again to close when he has been struggling lately.
What happened in the sunday game with the two blown calls by the ump begs to reason why baseball should instill the same ump/ref challenge as the NFL. Allow each team to have three challenge in a game they can use any time. In Sunday's game, Jays could have used it in the ninth inning and let the Zaun call go since it was early in the game….
MW: I don't like the three-challenge rule. What happens if the umpires make four mistakes in a game?- francis
"MW: Not hitting at all makes a team look flat. As for Halladay, he's on three days' rest and feeling the weight of the entire season on his shoulders."
He came through admirably.
Best Regards
MW: That he did.- John B.
Mike, as a radio show host, you should encourage more 1) stupid calls, and 2) calls where one guy will disagree and yell at you. I know I would if I was in your shoes. It might not be good quality baseball/Jays talk, but those calls actually make the show more entertaining!
MW: I think those calls are entertaining, too. Of course, I think they're entertaining because the longer I let those people go, the more they get exposed.- Francis
Hey Mike,
I'm typing this up just as a guy (Andy I think his name is) is basically calling you a condescending a-hole.
Basically I just wanted to say, WTF! I think I'm in the vast majority of your listeners/comment-makers who actually appreciates the job you do on the radio and the blog. I agree with you on most things and disagree with you on a few (though I'm a dyed in the wool Jays fan who thinks JP has done for the most part a good job, I'll take the frustration at releasing Reed Johnson to my grave!).
Anyway, my main point is that I'm glad you come down on all the ugly negativity from callers and posters whenever it rears its ugly head. Bitching and complaining and hurling insults doesn't get anybody anywhere and doesn't help anybody appreciate a great game like baseball or anything else for that matter.
The season may be dead now but as always I'll watch and enjoy every game til the end of the year as well as every playoff game no matter who's playing. I wonder how many of these people who get so angry or consistently want to throw in the towel are actually real baseball fans and not just bandwagon wannabes.
On a pleasant note, I was 6 years old and living in NYC when the Mets beat the Red Sox to win their last world series, so at least I get to cheer for a personal nostalgic favourite anyway… not to mention hope that Delgado wins N.L. MVP.
Anyway, keep up the good work.
MW: Thanks, I appreciate it. And the season's not dead, just the post-season (pretty much).- Siguy
Mike Wilner condescending? I guess they've never heard Bob McCown host JaysTalk. I sometimes wish that you would go Bobcat on some of these callers and rip into them for being stupid.
On another point, same time Riccardi was lying about Ryan's injury, Pat Gillick and the Phillies front office was caught lying about his closer Tom Gordon being fine when a couple of reporters saw him flying back to Philly during spring training.
MW: Not true. J.P. Ricciardi is the only human being who has ever lied.- Peter
Say what you will about whether or not you're condescending, but I really have to say that correcting people's grammar and vocabulary on air is just flat out rude (and this is coming from an educator and someone who is a veritable freak about grammar and spelling). You just don't do it. Period. I'm a fan of your show, but it's this sort of behaviour (often in conjunction with the tone of voice) that makes people interpret you as condescending. I'm all for intelligent discourse, but let's not forget that intelligent discourse always requires mutual respect.
MW: I give respect in kind. I don't think correcting people is rude at all – if you're trying to make a point and using the wrong word, which people often do, then it's better to be told the correct term than to sound like an idiot.- Kate
I disagree with post 57 wholeheartedly. The great thing about the internet is how it's made communication more democratic. The bad thing is that in doing so it has legitimized bad spelling and poor grammar. Anything that helps combat the dumbing down of the English language is a good thing. Please keep it coming, Mike.
(I guess for the purposes of full disclosure I should admit that I accidentally pluralized the word "appreciate" in my last post… C'mon Mike! Where were you?! Why didn't you tear me a new one?!)
MW: The majority appreciates, there's nothing wrong with that grammatically, is there?- Siguy
Oops. You're right. I quickly glanced at the previous post just before I wrote the last one. Guess you gotta just trust your instinct!
On a non-copy editing related note: What are your predictions for how the playoffs will turn out?
If you don't want to play prognosticator for fear of the obvious "Hey Wilner, you said the Angels were gonna go all the way and they didn't which proves that you don't know sh*t about baseball (and you're condescending)", what match-ups do you think would be most exciting?
Personally, for nostalgic reasons, I want to see the Mets win the series. I also think it would be cool to see a rematch of '86 (provided NY wins, thus giving me some sweet revenge against the Sox for beating my beloved Blue Jays, made even sweeter by getting Carlos a championship ring).
If that doesn't happen I think a Cubs/Rays series would be pretty cool in that it would pit a team that hasn't won the series in 100 years against the youngest team in baseball who's making it for the first time. In that case I'm rooting for the Cubbies all the way.
I just went on a baseball road trip to Yankee Stadium (Jays win last Saturday where I caught an Alex Rios home run in batting practice – that is CAUGHT, not picked up from the ground), Comerica Park and Wrigley (which I found to be just about the best park I've ever been to for its beauty, fan excitement/knowledge and overall experience… it was also nice to see Reed Johnson again even though he pinch-hit once and failed). Anyway I was really impressed with all things baseball on the north side of Chi-town and wish the Cubs well… very well if the Mets are out of it.
MW: I'll get into all that playoff stuff at the end of the regular season. Personally, though, I love a lovable loser – so I want the Cubs to stay that way!- Siguy
Mike, what's up with the Jays' defense, lately?
Since setting their franchise record for errorless games, they have committed at least one error in all but two of the 11 games (total of 15 errors), and in the process coughed up 7 unearned runs, several of them "critical".
Rolen, J-Mac, Inglett, now Overbay — yikes!
Is this a matter of defensive "regression to the mean", or did someone sneak into the clubhouse and pour concrete into their gloves? Is it a matter of "trying too hard", or simply an anomaly that happens from time to time to the best of teams?
What do you think?
MW: I would go with the anomaly thing more than anything else. This is a terrific defensive team, but every team has its hiccups. Thing is, when the errors happen when they did, a lot of people think "choke" and that's just unfair.- Norm
Will Snider be eligible for Rookie of the Year honours next season? How many ab's would disqualify him?
MW: He'll be eligible unless he gets 93 at-bats in the final 12 games of the season. So long as you get 130 or fewer, you're still a rookie the next year.- Neil
MW: bring up WHIP and opp. BA because they are truer indicators of a pitcher's performance than W-L and ERA, both of which things are dependent on teammates
Mike WHIP and opp. BA are also dependent on teammates.
MW: Didn't I answer this already? Not NEARLY to the same extent.- Dan M
Ironically, there was a grammatical error in your post 57.
"if you're trying to make a point and using the wrong word, which people often do, then it's better to be told the correct term that to sound like an idiot."
"that to sound like an idiot"?
you mean, "than to sound like an idiot"
MW: That's not a grammatical error, that's a typo. But I'll go fix it!- Jaybird
I just wanted to leave a comment to say thanks for helping me to understand baseball this season far more than I ever have before. I'm a Jays fan but I don't have a great deal of knowledge about baseball or the other teams and you've helped me to undertand a lot. Even reading the comments here clarifies to me a lot that happens during a game. Just bought tickets to 3 more home games, post season or no, I still love watching these Boys play (althoughs sometimes I cringe a lot). Thanks again,
MW: My pleasure, and thank you!- Pat
"The majority (singular) appreciates"
"The majority of listeners (plural) appreciate".
The trick when correcting people's grammar, is to make sure you don't make any mistakes yourself. Pedantry, meanwhile, can lead to awkward phrases like "is nothing about which to be ashamed" (see more recent post), when there is really nothing wrong with saying "nothing to be ashamed of" ;-)
Winston Churchill (probably) agreed: see http://www.wsu.edu/~brians/errors/churchill.html
Baseball has taught us that there is often eloquence in bad grammar: "I hit them where they ain't".
MW: And "the hitter flied out to centre." But it's OK sometimes, with language, around to play.- Ben
"It was a roller-coaster day for Jays fans"
We have come to expect days like this….or seasons like this.- KD
"Was it just me or was Overbay sae by about a mile??? Thats the second bad call of the day! I hope the umps are happy that they ruined all hopes of us making the playoffs."
The jays ruined those hopes long before that bad call by the umps.- KD
Today is Doc's test# 2 under pressure. He failed the 1st one. For the first time in his career there's a ray of hope for the postseason ball. He choked v the white sox so let's see what he does today. If he fails again, it'd mean he is not a big game player. That's atleast how I am gonna see it.
MW: Then you're an idiot.
Very intelligent response Mike.
MW: Thanks! I thought it was pretty on-the-nose, myself. By the way, if you're going to be replying to the comments, should I stop?- KD
Hi Mike,
"as for Halladay, he's on 3 days rest and feeling the weight of the season on his shoulders"
YES and then going out and throwing a gem of a game is what seperates the great pitchers from the good ones……. that being said
I believe The Doc can and will redeem himself next season…
There's no doubt with Cito at the helm for an enire season we'll be there come September
next year.
Have a good offseason when you get there Mike…..Oh and I and many others will proudly
stand in for you WHEN Tom Cheek is inducted into the HOF(Tom wouldn't want you to miss a Game I'm sure).
Greg Q
MW: Halladay DID throw a gem of a game, he has nothing from which to redeem himself – or were you watching something else?- Greg
it should be the 'majority appreciate'
MW: I still think it's "appreciates". In England, it would be "appreciate".- Paul O
Today is Doc's test# 2 under pressure. He failed the 1st one. For the first time in his career there's a ray of hope for the postseason ball. He choked v the white sox so let's see what he does today. If he fails again, it'd mean he is not a big game player. That's atleast how I am gonna see it.
MW: Then you're an idiot.
Very intelligent response Mike.
MW: Thanks! I thought it was pretty on-the-nose, myself. By the way, if you're going to be replying to the comments, should I stop?
YES!….Ok NO, why is it bad for others to reply to comments? There are a lot of different opinions right?
MW: There are, but you were on a run of, like, three in a row there. I thought it was a coup.- KD

subset: commoncrawl


text:
TROY, N.Y. -- It's been little more than a week since 21-year old Takim Smith was fatally stabbed multiple times at a Troy apartment, and investigators have spent days combing through the crime scene gathering evidence.
It was that detective work that led officers to arrest six suspects, four of which have been charged with 2nd-Degree Murder, and two others with luring Smith to that apartment.
Police say the motive was money, and that those involved were using a promise of sex to get Smith there.
Troy Police Chief John Tedesco tells NEWS10 an item from the murder scene was turned in and is now being tested to determine if it has any bearing in the case.
Tedesco says investigators are searching of the crime scene to see if the claim is valid. He also said police are aware of some items that went missing from the scene.
Tedesco says more information will be available Wednesday.
Check back to NEWS10.com for updates.
341 Northern Blvd.,
Albany, NY 12204
Telephone: 518.436.4822
Fax: 518.426.4792
Email: email@example.com


text:
Friday, February 11, 2011
ROBLOX News Valentines Contest: Romantic Retextures
Here at ROBLOX News, we love good old valentines day, well some of us. So I thought I would treat you guys with another user contest. This time enter a Retexture of a romantic/ valentines feel. Pink and red are perfect colours, use roses and hearts and be creative! This contest will be run throughout the weekend and will end sunday night. So be quick when entering.
So if you would like to enter, simply:
1) Create a retexture and upload as a model to ROBLOX.
2) Email the link to the retexture model to email@example.com
(Titled 'Romantic Contest Entry') - make sure you leave your ROBLOX Username! You can only send in one entry!
3) We will look at your entry and judge the winners!
2 comments:
huh? why did you delete the old one and repost this? i dont see any difference from the other news post.ReplyDelete
By the way, i cannot decide on with or without the heart eyes on this retexture:ReplyDelete
With heart eyes:
Without heart eyes: http://www.roblox.com/Dominus-Valentinius2-item?id=45943658
anyone have an opinion on whether i should go with or without?
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


text:
A newly released audio transmission from the Highway Patrol depicts the desperation from a state trooper after he was shot during a traffic stop in Durham last month.
In the recording Trooper Mike Potts says, "Hurry up, send units, hurry. ... I've been shot in the face."
Authorities say Potts was shot four times by Mikel Brady on Highway 70 on Feb. 18.
Brady was indicted on one charge of assault with a deadly weapon, one charge of assault on a law enforcement officer and one charge of attempted murder.
Brady's pregnant girlfriend, Lyndsey Smith, was also arrested in the case and charged with being an accessory after the fact in connection with the shooting.
3221 South Evans StreetGreenville N.C. 27834
Telephone: 252.355.8500
Fax: 252.355.8568
Email: email@example.com


text:
Go to: Content area More information Main navigation Vue d'ensemble Metanavigation Pied de page
Archaeological and palaeo-environmental investigations of the Pre-Funan period in the Mekong delta - Southeast Asia
Since 1993, the Commission for Archaeology of Non-European Cultures of the German Archaeological Institute has been undertaking annual fieldwork in Vietnam. During the first ten years, this work was concentrated on the excavation and investigation of sites belonging to the Iron Age Sa Huynh culture of the last centuries BC in central Vietnam.
In 2003, a new research project was started at the Gò Ô Chùa site in Long An province, just 2 km south of the frontier between southern Vietnam and Cambodia. Gò Ô Chùa consists of a range of three mounds - 450 m long, 150 m wide, and 4 m high. All three contain the remains of settlement, salt-making and a large burial ground. The site is situated about 100 km to the west-north-west of Saigon and at least 140 km away from the present seacoast near the 11th parallel north.
In the next few years, field research should be extended to similar sites with salt-making ceramics on both sides of the border with Cambodia, in Long An and Svay Rieng provinces. These investigations should clarify the natural sources, technological methods, former coastline and cultural and exchange network of this salt-making area before the Funan period.
A second focus of research are the time span and cultural position of the graves of Gò Ô Chùa.
By joint excavations from 2002 to 2004 by the German Archaeological Institute and Hanoi University at the jar burial site of Lai Nghi in Quảng Nam province in Central Vietnam 63 burials were excavated and at present the results are under interpretation.
Among the rich offerings are more than 10.000 beads made from precious stones, glass and gold, many iron tools, bronze vessels and two mirrors. The most finds are dated in the 2nd/1st century BC.
The excavation campaigns at Gò Ô Chùa started in 2004. The whole area of the Gò Ô Chùa site covers about 65,000 m2. During the previous excavation seasons up to 2006, the joint German-Vietnamese team have been investigated seven trenches with a combined area of 231 m2 in all three parts of the site.
In 2007, surveys were undertaken on both sides of the southern Vietnamese-Cambodian border.
Anthropological examination of about 50 individuals at the burial site has been completed.
Archaeological and geological surveys are planned to find similar salt-making ceramic sites and to solve the landscape-related questions.
The first volume of the excavation publication is in progress, to introduce the previous finds and excavation results at Gò Ô Chúa through about 15 papers by different specialists.
So far, cultural deposits up to 2.60 m in depth at the centre of the mounds, decreasing to 0.60 m near the edges have been discovered. The distribution of finds indicates that at least 40,000 m2 contain large deposits of ceramic pedestals. Following a rough estimate, all three mounds at the Gò Ô Chùa site could include 10-20 million fragments from about 2-4 million pedestals.
The main pedestal type has the same shape as those found on European salt-boiling sites of the Late Bronze and Early Iron Age. They were used as supports, and had been set unfired in many rows in the kilns, with their funnel-shaped ends either standing on the ground.
So far, we have not recovered any kind of pottery whose form or large quantity would support the assumption that they had been used as salt-boiling pots. Probably the boiling vessels were made out of organic materials like bamboo, coconut or palm spathes, the outer surfaces of which were protected by a lime coating, as described in both historical and ethnographic records.
Radiocarbon dates from different points and layers within the pedestal refuse mounds suggest a continuous occupation sequence from 1000 to 500 BC.
Moreover, at Gò Ô Chúa a large burial site overlies these refuse layers. The graves are dated to different periods, but mostly in the period from the 4th to the 1st century BC. Hitherto, 64 graves have been excavated - the largest series of skeletal remains so far discovered either in southern Vietnam or southern Cambodia.
Most graves are inhumations. Women, men and some children laid out on their backs very close to each other and oriented with their head to the southeast.
Besides, seven jar burials for infants were found and have to been dated earlier to about the middle of the last millennium BC.
Only one of the excavated inhumations is oriented to the west-north-west and has a date in the early phase of the burial site with inhumations.
From the size of this cemetery across all three areas of Gò Ô Chùa, and from the burial density, we have to assume a total of more than 1,000 individuals.
In the graves, we discovered iron arrowheads and spears, chisels and daggers; ring ornaments and axes made of bronze; and beads and bracelets made from glass or stone. Noteworthy are tiger tooth amulets and other ornaments and tools made from bone, antler or turtleshell. Many of the dead had sets of pottery in their grave, some conserving food remains (mostly fish or pig bones). In addition, beside pig jawbones, an entire pig skull was also deposited. Certainly, the most beautiful offering found so far is a pair of ivory bracelets with incised line decoration. Each bracelet consists of two halves, connected together by a pair of bronze hinges - at present, a unique find in Vietnam. In addition to these finds, the cultural layers containing burials have also yielded a rich ceramic collection, including 220 spindle whorls, 10 clay moulds for bronze-casting and 800 circular sherds, perhaps used as scrapers by the potters.
Our Vietnamese partners are archaeologists from the College of Social Sciences and Humanities of the Vietnam National University, Hanoi (Dr. Lâm Thị Mỹ Dung, and Nguyễn Xuân Mạnh) from Hue University (Lê Duy Sơn) and from the Museum of Long An province (Dr. Bùi Phát Diệm).
Scientific cooperation efforts exist with:
Prof. Dr. Norbert Benecke, Natural Scientific Department of the Head Office of the German Archaeological Institute (Zoology);
Karsten Brabänder, University of Bochum (Analysis of glass objects);
Michael Francken, University of Tuebingen (Anthropology);
Dr. Michael Prange, German Mining Museum in Bochum (Analysis of stone and metal objects);
Dipl. Phys. Andreas Scharf, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Physical Institute Dep. IV, group KORA (AMS) in Erlangen (14C-analysis);
Dr. Joachim Wahl, State Office for Historical Monuments of Baden-Wurttemberg, Dep. Preservation of Archaeological Remains in Konstanz (Osteology).
In Vietnam:
Email: email@example.com
Andreas Reinecke 2004: Reiche Gräber - frühes Salz: 600 Tage Feldforschungen auf Dünen und Reisfeldern (Vietnam): Expeditionen in vergessene Welten. 25 Jahre archäologische Forschungen in Amerika, Afrika und Asien (AVA-Forschungen Band 10). Aachen, 209-241.
Andreas Reinecke 2008: Briquetage und Gräber in Go O Chua (Vietnam): Zeugnisse der Prä-Funan- bis Angkor-Periode im Mekong-Delta: Zeitschrift für Archäologie Außereuropäischer Kulturen Bd. 2, 2007, 395-402.
Andreas Reinecke 2009: Early Cultures in Vietnam (first millennium B.C. to second century A.D.): Nancy Tingley (ed.), Arts of Ancient Viet Nam. From River Plain to Open Sea. Houston, 23-53.
Michael Francken / Joachim Wahl / Andreas Reinecke 2010: Reflections of a hard life - Burials from Go O Chua (Vietnam): Proceedings of the fourth Meeting of Junior Scientists in Anthropology ed. by C. Buhl, F. Engel, L. Hartung, M. Kästner, A. Rüdell, C. Weisshaar. Freiburg, 16-23.
Andreas Reinecke 2010: Early Evidence of Salt-Making in Vietnam: Archaeological Finds, Historical Records, and Traditional Methods: Shuicheng Li / Lothar Falkenhausen, eds., Salt Archaeology in China, vol. 2: Comparative Studies. Beijing, 137-159, color plate 1-7, plate 1-2.
Andreas Reinecke 2012: The Prehistoric Occupation and Cultural Characteristics of the Mekong Delta during the Pre-Funan periods: Dominik Bonatz / Andreas Reinecke / Mai Lin Tjoa-Bonatz (eds.), Crossing Borders in Southeast Asian Archaeology. Selected papers from the 13th International Conference of the European Association of Southeast Asian Archaeologists, Berlin 2010. Singapore (in press).


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The BodyHoliday continues to improve on its offerings at the award-winning Wellness Centre with the introduction of Dr. Mahalingam Lakshmanan and Ellie King.
Dr. Mahalingam Lakshmanan, or Dr. Maha as he is more commonly known, is a Naturopathic and Yogic Sciences doctor from India. He has a wealth of knowledge and experience in these two fields and has carried out many wellness programs in areas including detoxification, rejuvenation and treatments for various stress induced and degenerative illnesses.
Dr. Maha has been selected to join the team at Pavitra, The BodyHoliday's authentic Ayurvedic temple, because of his expertise in holistic wellness medicine and treatments. He has begun offering treatments including Shirodhara, Abhyanga, Prana Breathe, Udvarthan, Manual Lymphatic Drainage massage and Hatha yoga sessions.
Ellie King is a graduate of The British School of Osteopathy, one of the United Kingdoms' largest and oldest osteopathic colleges. She has completed post graduate training in Cranial Osteopathy and has worked with and treated many patients with a number of injuries.
She uses a holistic approach with a diverse range of techniques to adapt and maintain her objective of treating her patients and not just the symptoms. As The BodyHoliday's new Osteopath, Ellie's treatments include Osteopathic Treatment and Assessment, Cranio-Sacral Osteopathy and Postural Assessment and Correction.
If you will be staying at The BodyHoliday soon, be sure to book a free 15-minute consultation at the Wellness Centre with one, or both of our new practitioners to learn how Ayurveda and Osteopathy can make a difference in your life.


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is to change the face of men's health
GO BLUES! Thanks for doing all you do! :D
While a Team Donation, this is mainly for Oshie who's doing it hard - this video is for you mate http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JaCnGd_DnXE
Go Blues! #longlivethenote
Love Movember so much! Can't wait to see your hairy faces on Wednesday in Denver!
You guys are busy as heck during the season, thanks for trying to put your face out there on worth while causes. Anyone can be a critic and expect others to step up, not everyone has the selflessness or balls to do so themselves. Thanks from a veteran.
From your season ticket friends in Section 123, Row J, seats 6-9!!! LGB!!!
The Movember Hockey Style Guide!!!


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When it comes to leather handbags I simply love handmade unique bags that make a style statement. The smell of leather, the colours and styles. When we get a delivery from one of our handbag designers and each of the bags are wrapped individually I am like a kid at Xmas time, ripping at the paper to see what is inside!
When Coco Barclay Skirt bagsfirst arrived in our Bo'ness shop, I just had to have the Clutch My Skirt in fucshia and bought it before it even reached the shelves! I love the colour and style of the bag and I get loads of compliments on it when ever I use it. It has been to weddings, parties and even to the pub! My favourite designer leather handbag goes with anything and is great to add a splash of colour.
Coco Barclay works in the highest quality, ethically sourced materials and her designs are fun, stylish and practical too. Coco has brought together a group of British craftspeople to produce her designs, people who do what they do because they love it – and it shows.
One designer leather handbag I would love to own (but need to save some pennies first!) would be the Ameliafrom Steven Harkin. I love the structure of this handmade bag and it would look fantatsic dressed with jeans (or my new maxi dress!) for a day out with the girls.
Steven Harkin has been an artist, designer, maker and producer of leather accessories for some 25 years. He has gained international recognition for his creative style and his handbags are loved by public and private collectors. The Kylie clutch bag was named after Kylie Minogue who owns it in red patent leather.
I love the soft suede inside this bag and the selection of colours you can choose from, you could have one to match every outfit!
A leather handbag is one of the most important (and useful) accessories you own, so why not make a statement with yours?
Danielle x


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In the mid-1960s, the publication of Pynchon's V and The Crying of Lot 49 introduced a brilliant new voice to American literature. Gravity's Rainbow, his convoluted, allusive novel about a metaphysical quest, published in 1973, further confirmed Pynchon's reputation as one of the greatest writers of the century.
Thomas Pynchon is the author of V., The Crying of Lot 49, Gravity's Rainbow, Slow Learner, a collection of short stories, Vineland , Mason and Dixon and, most recently, Against the Day. He received the National Book Award for Gravity's Rainbow in 1974.


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Heather Carter makes sustainable living an art in her exhibition "Lifeboats".
According to Carter, the 1994 Southwestern graduate, "Lifeboats started out as
taking things that have had a life before and honoring them."
The exhibit consists of five pieces, all made from repurposed signs, wood, wire,
and trees. The piece "Tideline" leads the viewer through the exhibit with a series of
Carter's favorite quotes, and creates an ocean for the other boat-inspired pieces attached
to the walls to float on.
"Boats have always been a big part of my work but using the idea of lifeboats changed it for me somehow," Carter said. "It changed it into the idea of visualizing a seed pod or a place where you can be born out of and renewed – regenerated."
The exhibit as a whole highlights the fact that environmental problems are human problems and invites the audience to engage in finding solutions for the betterment of our world.
Green living isn't just an idea Carter touts with her art, but is instead a philosophy
that infuses her entire life. She lives completely off the grid with her family in
Wimberley, TX and consults with individuals and businesses that want to switch to more
sustainable practices through her website www.greenguru.org.
"Lifeboats" is on display in the Southwestern Fine Arts Gallery through
Sept. 29. For more information about Carter and her artwork, visit her website at


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Seed Grant: No-Till Farming and Methane Removal
Croplands can be net emitters or biological sinks for greenhouse gases depending on land-use and management practices. Land use change and agricultural activities contribute an estimated 25%, 60-65% and 90% of the total anthropogenic carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrous oxide (N2O) and methane (CH4 — a major greenhouse gas) emissions, respectively. In recent years, numerous assessments have been made to evaluate the potential of croplands to offset greenhouse gases emissions from the energy and industrial sectors. No-tillage farming, a way of producing crops without any tilling of the soil, figures prominently among the management practices recommended for that purpose. However, most attention has been on the impact of no-tillage to remove CO2 from the atmosphere and to sequester carbon in soils. Major uncertainties remain with regard to the impact of no-tillage farming on other greenhouse gases.
Ohio has an internationally recognized history and expertise in researching and promoting no- tillage agriculture. The longest continuously maintained no-tillage plots in the world are in Ohio and these plots have been very important in making important discoveries about the interaction of soils, crops, climate and tillage for almost 50 years. Although long-term no-tillage farming is expected to be beneficial to CH4 oxidation, and thus its removal from the atmosphere, this remains a working hypothesis and experimental data are needed to assess its validity.
In order for our science to continue to inform our policy decisions, it is critical that we generate accurate CH4 removal rates for no-tillage systems. This information will also be useful in promoting better modeling, at landscape scale levels, of the impact of no-tillage on the fate of methane. No-tillage agriculture is currently being practiced on about 25% of all farmland in the United States and estimates are that as more marginal lands are put into production to boost production of food and other raw materials, this percentage will increase.
The main hypothesis of our research is that the longer no-tillage is continuously applied to a soil, the greater becomes the soil's ability and potential to oxidize CH4, thus removing CH4's greenhouse warming impact. We therefore propose to conduct a study using no-tillage croplands of different ages, but on similar soil types and in the same eco-region, in order to isolate the impact of tillage from other factors on soil CH4 oxidation and atmospheric removal.
Project Status
Work has been initiated on building chambers to install in no-tillage fields for sampling of CH4. We are in contact with several farmer cooperators to discuss research on actual no-tillage farm fields.
While this Seed Grant was in preparation and also while it was being reviewed, a video was created to provide information about no-tillage agriculture and how it can have an important role in controlling the levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
School of Environment and Natural Resources
College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences


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Flourless Nutella Cheesecake Swirl Brownies
Rich, fudgy brownies marbled with Nutella and cheesecake swirls, Flourless Nutella Cheesecake Swirl Brownies are perfect for any chocolate-lover.
Brianne @ Cupcakes & Kale Chips, adapted from Heather's French Press'
Flourless Dark Chocolate Brownies
Recipe type:
Dessert, Brownies
For the cheesecake swirl:
4 oz cream cheese (light or regular), softened
1 egg yolk (save the white for the Nutella swirl)
¼ cup powdered sugar
½ tsp vanilla
For the Nutella swirl:
¼ c Nutella
1 egg white
For the brownies:
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
½ cup (one stick) unsalted butter
4 eggs
1 cup sugar
½ cup cocoa powder
½ cup almond meal
½ tsp salt
2 tsp vanilla
For the cheesecake swirl:
Combine all of the ingredients in a small bowl, and blend until smooth. Set aside.
For the Nutella swirl:
Combine the Nutella and egg while in a small bowl and stir until fully blended. Set aside.
For the brownies:
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 13x9 inch pan with parchment paper (or grease really, really well, though I'd recommend the parchment).
In a double boiler or a bowl set over a simmering pan of water, melt the butter, then add the chocolate chips, stirring until melted. Set aside to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar for a minute or two.
Add melted chocolate mixture a little at a time, whisking well after each addition.
Whisk in the cocoa powder, almond meal, salt, and vanilla.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Place small dollops of the cheesecake mixture and Nutella mixture over the batter and then create swirls with a butter knife or small spatula.
Bake at 350°F for 16-20 minutes, or until just set in the middle.
Cool completely in the pan before cutting.
Recipe by
Cupcakes & Kale Chips
at http://cupcakesandkalechips.com/2014/02/04/flourless-nutella-cheesecake-swirl-brownies/


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Peyton Manning could miss entire training camp
Wow that defiently doesn't sound good. I think he might have tough time without any practice. I think the colts should add some depth at QB because I can not see Curtis Painter starting week 1. I am almost certain Peyton will play and Painter will back up but I believe the colts should pick up either Kerry Collins, Jim Sorgi or Marc Bulger as insurance. any of them would come cheap and would be a huge upgrade from Painter.


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Verlander and Gilmore named to Jacksonville Mayor's Staff
Jacksonville mayor and Jacksonville University alumnus Alvin Brown has named JU director of athletics Alan Verlander as the new Executive Director of Sports and Entertainment for the City of Jacksonville.
In his seventh year leading the athletics department at JU, Verlander has overseen a dramatic transformation in the Dolphins fortunes - winning 37 conference titles in the last seven years, the most among any school in the state of Florida. Championships and NCAA Tournament appearances once again became common place under his leadership of the department.
"I want to thank Kerry (Romesburg) and the Board of Trustees for their support throughout my tenure at JU," Verlander said. "This is a difficult decision for me as I've enjoyed every minute of my time at JU. We have a tremendous group of coaches, staff and student-athletes who have been critical to our success and I feel certain that success will continue. JU is a special place and I know that there are even brighter days ahead for all of our programs. I will always be a Dolphin and hope to continue to help elevate JU Athletics, but just now in a different role."
Since coming to JU in 2005, Verlander's vision for the department has led to success on and off the field. There have been numerous facility renovations and creations, namely the installation of an AstroTurf field at D.B. Milne Field, the new Ron Autrey Family Track, the W.W. Gay Employees Entrance Pavilion, the creation of C. Peter Cost Pavilion at John Sessions Stadium, stadium and press box at softball, the renovation of Swisher Gymnasium and the athletic field house, completion of the Negaard Rowing Center. Currently construction is underway on Southern Oak Soccer Stadium, remodeled football locker room, the Swisher Golf Practice Facility and the Dolphin Sand Volleyball Facility. In all, over $10 million has been raised and spent to upgrade the JU athletic facilities.
"When we hired Alan seven years ago, he brought a dynamic vision and leadership to our athletic department, transforming our programs and rebuilding the tradition of success that has defined JU athletics," said JU President Kerry Romesburg. "This is tremendous opportunity for him and his family. I can't thank him enough for his service to JU and wish him all the best in his future endeavors."
Verlander's tenure at JU also featured the first postseason victory in basketball since 1974 and a win over Florida for the first time since 1994, the first 10-win season and national ranking in football along with two conference championships, two at-large bids and four postseason appearances in baseball, seven straight conference championships and NCAA Appearances in Track and Field, along with the addition of three new sports - men's and women's lacrosse along with sand volleyball.
One of the lasting relationships built by Verlander was with the city of Jacksonville. Starting with JU playing host to the first and second rounds of the NCAA Tournament in 2006, Verlander has been active in bringing college events to the city and Downtown - moving all of JU's home basketball games to the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena in 2007, bringing back the NCAA Basketball Tournament in 2010 and creating the Moe's Southwest Grill Classic lacrosse event at EverBank Field, which debuted in 2011.
With his new position, Verlander will be a key member in Brown's staff with the city - bringing sporting events as well as concerts and shows to the venues throughout the city of Jacksonville. He will begin his new position in May. Over the next month, Romesburg will be making a decision regarding Verlander's successor.
"I want to thank Alan for his friendship and for having faith in me and giving me the opportunity to lead the football program at JU. He gave me my shot in coaching at the college level and I will always be grateful to him for that. He's been a great supporter of our program and I've grown as a coach because of him. I know that his leadership has meant so much to this great university and that he will be truly missed."
"I will always be thankful for Alan Verlander taking a chance on me as his first hire at JU and giving me the opportunity to build the men's basketball program. Without his vision, leadership and tireless work ethic, the success our program has enjoyed would not have happened. He's been more to me and my family than just an AD. I've been blessed to have him as a friend and confidant. I wish he and his family continued success in their journey and look forward to our paths crossing again in the future."


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A stab in the back is good for you, Selig says
I don't know how MLB thinks tired slogans in favor of stadium development can even cut it as propaganda any more. Selig will be gone when the Angels' lease comes up for renewal in 2016, but I'm expecting a new boss just like the old boss. Who would Arte rather fight: the city, or the commissioner?


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These are a really beautiful set of tables. The first set came smashed up and overstock replaced them immediately. The second set came in perfect condition and they are better looking than the pictures. I have gotten many compliments on them.
They are absolutely beautiful!! It was a very practical and useful product for many different things. I am very pleased with this purchase.TT
Beautiful tables for a great price. They look expensive and look great especially if your going for that Hollywood glam look in the room. Was nervous about the shipping and any damages to the tables but they were packed well and were shipped to my home in just few days. Great buy!!!!!!!
Great little nesting tables. I will say that I was surprised by this difference in the sizes. Maybe it is just me but the smaller one is pretty small. I'm not complaining, I was just surprised. They look great in my living room, add just the right amount of shiney. And they arrived fully assembled and were packed very well. I'm happy with my purchase!
The tables are attractive and reasonably priced. I would definitely purchase these again.
These tables are beautiful and the price was soooo right. Packaging was fantastic, no chips or breakage. Of all my internet purchases, this is the one I am happiest about. Looks more expensive than the photos and has substantial construction. Put the small table at an angle under the larger one and it looks fantastic. Buy a set of these tables and you won't be disappointed.
These nesting tables were as many described - they were contemporary looking as well as sturdy and they come well-packed and already assembled! I bought them for a small condo living area and they give it pop and can be stacked to save space and used separately if needed. I have already had compliments on these - great looking and a great buy!
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Remember What You Came Here to Do/
I'm a sucker for a distraction. I often walk into my home office with a specific purpose in mind only to waste precious time doing something unplanned. Maybe it's grabbing a magazine off the desk to read a tempting article whose cover title is far better than the piece itself, or tumbling down the internet rabbit hole when I simply want to pay a bill online. The worst part is that after the detour ends, not only do I feel listless, I'm irritated because I find myself staring into space trying to remember what I originally came into the office do. Over the months, those small detours turn into long stretches of time I can't account for… and will never get back. And what do I have to show for them?
The same thing happens to our lives. String together countless detours of unplanned activities and they can turn intoRead More


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Report: Two killed in Newark gas explosion
A devastating explosion has killed two people after a suspected gas blast in North Nottinghamshire.
Six people were injured, including a baby and a seven-year-old boy. The children have been released from hospital but one man is still in a serious condition.
Emergency services have been at the scene for the last 24 hours with demolition work still taking place tonight. David Hirst reports.


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With economists estimating gas prices dropping closer to $3 every week, one fill-up station is getting ahead of the curve just for the weekend.
Fat Fred's, located at 480 Sabine St. in Hemphill, is offering gas for $2.89 a gallon.
Manager John Ward said the price is only offered until 8 p.m. Saturday. Customers who pay cash get a five-cent-per-gallon discount.
Ward said the lower price is a way to regain customers, now that the store is under new management.
Copyright 2012 KTRE. All rights reserved.
358 TV Road,
Pollok TX 75969
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EEO Report
Closed Captioning


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Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) Seems To Be Moving On A Recovery Track After Hitting Lows – (F, TSLA, HMC, GM)
Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) shares extended gains, recovering from the worst hit it faced in the start of this month. F is on its way to realize an increase of 29% in Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicle sales in 2012 as compared to last year. The sales gain appeared after a major modification of the CPO program and as stated by general manager John Felice, this rise suggests a great victory for Ford, its dealers and its consumers.
Felice further said that due to a strong CPO program, large numbers of vehicles were kept in the dealer network. It enhances residual values as well as increases the profit of the dealers and at the same time attracts more consumers toward Ford and Lincoln lots and eventually offers lower costs of vehicles to the consumers. He also said that as the sales of their new vehicles keeps increasing, ultimately the demand for better quality, low mileage pre-owned Ford and Lincoln vehicles will also increase.
CPO Ford Motor Company vehicles currently offer a 12-month/12,000-mile comprehensive limited warranty coverage to consumers versus the previously provided 3-months/3,000 mile warranty coverage.
At the close of the trading day, Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) shares rose +0.53% to settle at $9.40. Intraday trading was between $9.25 – $13.05. In the past year, the stock has traded within a range of $8.82 – $13.05. The last session's volume of 21.13 million shares was down from the average daily trading volume of 42.57 million shares.
Tesla Motors Inc (NASDAQ:TSLA) shares in the last session were up +4.11% closing at $31.17. The stock traded in a range of $29.10 – $31.30. In the last year the stock has moved within a range of $21.50 – $39.95. The last session's volume of 870,050.00 shares was down from their average daily trading volume of 1.48 million shares.
Honda Motor Co Ltd (ADR) (NYSE:HMC) shares were up +0.25% to close at $32.14. The stock traded between $32.01 – $32.31 during the last trading session. In the last 12 months the shares have traded between $27.52 and $39.35. The last session's volume of 97,796.00 shares was a lower than their average daily trading volume of 522,078.00 shares.
Another rival company, General Motors Company (NYSE:GM), traded down -0.34% moving to $20.47. Intraday trading recorded the stock price in a range between $20.36 – $20.80. In the previous 52 weeks the price has traded between $18.72 – $27.68. The last session's volume of 4.03 million shares was down from their average daily trading volume of 8.07 million shares.


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Well Sir, a promise is a promise. I promised you Lord if you helped the Chiefs win the Monday Nighter I would talk to you every week and you definitely lived up to your end of the deal…
First off, well done on Monday night. I was speechless (I can't say the same for MNchiefsfan though). I can honestly say I did not see you playing the whole Miracle card, that's for sure. That was truly a religious experience for many. However God, I am tempted to question your motivation behind what has been dubbed by many as the 'Halloween Miracle'. I don't think you did it to help the Chiefs; there I said it. Judging by all the "J.C.'s" yelled out by Charger fans and all of the "O.M.G.'s" yelled out by Chiefs fans, I am thinking you just recruited a few more followers. Coincidence? I think not.
Oh Omniscient One, in honour of said Miracle I would like to nominate a Kansas City Chief Player to be your next Saint. I believe in order to become a Saint one must perform a miracle and have it witnessed by many. So I am officially nominating #96 for miraculously snagging the ball out of the pits of Hell following the 'Phumble' in front of literally millions of viewers. I used to call him STUDebaker but I think St. Udebaker sounds even better.
Dare I say us APers witnessed another, smaller miracle? We all saw Craig in Calgary use the words 'like', 'impress' and 'quality' while describing Matt Cassel's play. I was stunned, just stunned to read this…
Anyway, on to business. Lord, I feel we have a good working relationship now and I would like to keep it going. Again, I am not going to be greedy, I want to maintain my humility in this, my time of need. God, I am asking you to help the Kansas City Chiefs be victorious over the Miami Dolphins this Sunday. I have been quite stressed all week about one thing with this game. I am worried Dear Lord that the Chiefs will fall victim to a common affliction know as Emotional Hangover. Please Lord; help the Chiefs fight through their shortened week and their emotional high to a focused preparation for the game. I do truly feel you taught them all to be humble during those first three games so I do not feel the success will go to their head, but I do not want them to come down from their high and play sluggish. Again, I am not asking for a blowout victory this week and I would never presume to ask for a miracle, but I would like to ask for a good game Dear Lord. Maybe not so close this time?!? I fear for the health of some Chief fans if they have to go through another nail-biter. I would kindly ask Dear God for a 31-14 victory.
As for the Miami Dolphins, I do not wish harm upon any of these players as I did to Antonio Gates last week. I know you are fond of that which is one of your greatest creations, the porpoise, so I would never ask you to hurt one. However, I do feel they have not learned the virtue of humility. Their coach is a wannabe judging by his goatee and their running back spends more time doing pizza commercials than practicing and building a rapport with his teammates so I feel they need another lesson in humility Dear Lord and this is a great opportunity to impose your will upon them.
I feel as though I owe you another concession this week after how well you treated me last week. So this week I promise you this Dear Lord: The number of bottles of beer I consume on Sunday will not reach double digits. You've known me for years (obviously) so you know how much of a sacrifice this will be for me.
Lord knows You know I failed to do this on Monday. And as I promised you last week Dear Lord, I will continue to talk to you on a weekly basis if you can grant me and all of the hard working, law abiding Chiefs fans this one request. Thank you.