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SourceThe numbers are startling: According to video-game tracking site VG Chartz, Nintendo has sold an astonishing 20.9 million Wii game consoles worldwide, while Microsoft has sold 16.9 million Xbox 360s and Sony has managed to move just 9.8 million PlayStation 3s (PS3).
Yet before the PS3 launched in November 2006, many respectable gaming pundits were convinced Sony would retain its decade-long domination of console gaming. Sure, the PS3 was expensive, but it was loaded with features, like high-definition DVD playback and a hyper-fast 3.2 gigahertz processor.
Nintendo's Wii, on the other hand, was so pathetically underpowered that it couldn't even display high-definition graphics. Sure, it had an innovative, motion-sensitive controller, but to a lot of people, that just sounded gimmicky. Before its worldwide launch in November 2006, lots of smart people thought the Wii would be a niche product, appealing primarily to young children.
Boy, were they wrong.
Predicting the future is never easy, and it's particularly difficult in the fast-paced world of video games. But the runaway success of the Wii highlights some trends that will be very important over the next decade, as the gaming industry matures and becomes more mainstream.
First and foremost, expect the demographics of the average video gamer to change significantly. The Wii's motion-sensitive controller has gotten a lot of credit for being technologically innovative, but its real genius is that it opens up gaming for people who wouldn't normally play video games.
You don't have to read a 30-page manual and memorize 17 button combinations to play "Wii Sports." If you know how to swing a tennis racket or throw a baseball, you're good to go.
Low-time-commitment games are also going to be huge. While it is generally true that middle-aged women won't fire up an Xbox 360 for a hair-raising session of "Bio Shock," older women definitely play puzzle games like "Solitaire" or "Bejeweled."
Shrewd entrepreneurs are already taking this to a new level, offering so-called "casual games" specifically targeted at an older, female audience. Winster.com, for instance, is focused on creating cooperative, social games that particularly appeal to this demographic.
The smartest game makers are also "thinking outside the screen." In 10 years, mashing buttons to control on-screen avatars will no longer be enough. Gamers will insist on being able to "feel" a game, or to "move" realistically within it. We already have force-feedback steering wheels, guitar-shaped controllers and pressure-sensitive dance pads. In the future, expect much more.
Video game graphics will continue to grow richer and more detailed. But don't expect that photo realism alone will be enough to sell a game. Sony's face-flop with the PS3 proves gamers aren't obsessed with hyper-realistic graphics to the extent that game designers are.
Most gamers don't require characters that look exactly like actors in a movie, and don't care how realistically blood splatters; they want to play great games. Chess isn't any more or less fun in high definition; it's the game that counts.
PC games are going to grow in importance, especially for older, more educated gamers. After being widely dismissed as dead (or irrelevant at best) only five years ago, PC role-playing games have made a tremendous comeback.
Going forward, expect multiplayer online games to merge with each other and with social networking sites like Facebook and LinkedIn. The result will be a virtual meta-universe where your dragon-slaying, 67th-level Paladin from "World of Warcraft" will be able to seamlessly cross an electronic bridge and end up in a suburban kitchen worrying about the dirty dishes in "The Sims Online."
And as the young people who grew up playing these games embark on their careers, they will begin to establish business and social connections through the same networks. Don't be surprised if, within a decade, you find yourself jetting off to Singapore to meet with members of the "Dark Brotherhood" and close a business deal.
Another bold prediction: Within 10 years, guilds formed on "War of Warcraft" or other online games will become offline political forces. Especially in Asia, look for these groups to start agitating for social change.
This is a role traditionally reserved for university students, but in many ways, online groups are better suited to challenge the status quo. These tight-knit, hierarchical groups are dispersed geographically, and they're used to playing specific rolesfor example, casting healing spells or printing 1,000 posters.
In short, the instigators of the next Tiananmen Square could very well not be students from Peking University, but members of the "Chinese Nathrezim Finger Guild."
First, I realize the numbers of the sales may be a bit off, but don't come in here and talk about those being wrong or whatever. Discuss the matter as a whole.

subset: commoncrawl


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Alex Rodriguez. Alex Rodriguez opinions. Alex Rodriguez news. Reminder that Alex Rodriguez was Mike Trout before he was Noah Cross. Analysis of Alex Rodriguez's legal case. Analysis of Alex Rodriguez's arbitration hearing. Alex Rodriguez Alex Rodriguez Alex Rodriguez.
There, you're caught up with baseball from the past week. Oh, sure, there was a Clayton Kershaw extension and some Masahiro Tanaka rumors, but for the most part, you were forced to think about Alex Rodriguez when all you wanted to do was look up Expos games on YouTube.
This is why people don't like Alex Rodriguez. One of the reasons, anyway. Another one is that he's completely unlikable.
Thinking about Alex Rodriguez made me want to come up with a list of the five most unlikeable figures in baseball. You know, a list. On the Internet. People love those. More importantly, people love arguing about lists on the Internet. A list of unlikeable figures would rile the hoi polloi up, alright.
Get the easy ones out of the way first. A-Rod, obviously. Bud Selig is obvious, too, even if he doesn't always get credit for baseball currently being a financial juggernaut. No one really likes the guy. And unless you're busy laughing at a picture of him with his mouth open, your initial reaction to his name is probably mild disgust and/or general loathing.
Scott Boras is good at his job, and people dislike seeing rich baseball players for obvious ("Now my team has less flexibility to acquire better players!") and not so obvious ("I used to play that same sport! Why am I not rich?") reasons. Also, Boras comes off as kind of a buffoon when he pretends to believe what he's saying.
Jeffrey Loria is, quite possibly, the least likable person in baseball right now. He poisoned the Expos and suckered the politicians in Florida. Also -- and this is an important point -- just look at the guy. The worst part is that he might actually care about baseball, which somehow makes things worse. It would be better if he were an Emperor Palpatine variety of pure evil instead of a Darth Vader evil-with-shred-of-humanity type.
So we have four. A-Rod, Selig, Boras, and Loria. You can't have a four-person list, though. Not on the Internet. Five's the minimum, so I had to search for a fifth.
Spoiler: There is no fifth.
That is, when looking for an unambiguously disliked baseball-related figure, there isn't anyone who can approach the Mt. Rushmore up there. I started thinking about A.J. Pieryznski, but White Sox fans really like that guy. Understandable, considering he was there for the better part of a decade, and he helped them win their first championship in almost a century. He's the kind of player you root for when he's on your team, apparently. Same goes with Shane Victorino. It's tough to become the player who qualifies to join the quartet up there. You have to be A-Rod, more or less.
I asked around, tried for some crowdsourcing. Someone mentioned Joe Buck and/or Tim McCarver. I have a problem with 45 different announcers before I get to Buck, and McCarver makes me giggle and roll my eyes more than curse. I actually … well, I'm not going to … you know, admit that … look, I don't dislike … this isn't about me, you know. Joe Buck might have a fair number of detractors, but it's ridiculous to put him with the A-Rod/Selig/Loria/Boras quartet.
Here, try it. A-Rod/Selig/Loria/Boras/Buck. That's a great way to get the one-of-these-things song stuck in your head.
Nothing fits there.
A-Rod/Selig/Loria/Boras/Schilling. I'm not a fan of Curt Schilling's persona as a talking head, and I wasn't a fan of him as a player or video-game mogul. But that name doesn't fit there. It's not in the same galaxy.
No one is in the same galaxy. So here are the five least beloved figures currently associated with Major League Baseball:
1. Jeffrey Loria
2. Alex Rodriguez
3. Scott Boras
4. Bud Selig
5. Richard Sherman
Feel free to substitute OBAMA or George W. Bush or Mike Love in that last spot, depending on your worldly concerns. But there's no one baseball-related who fits. It's the four at the top, then everyone else. Really, the only one I have personal enmity toward is Loria. The other three fascinate and amuse more than infuriate.
A-Rod/Selig/Loria/Boras. When there's another name that will fit there, we'll be in a different time. I will enjoy the strong opinions directed toward this mystery figure. Can't wait. Until then, though, it's four and a huuuuuuge gap.
Though, if you have the time, I'd like to tell you about a fella named Tommy Lasorda ...


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TV On The Move
Jon's Tests | over 2 years ago
The home is not the only place you can watch TV, with the latest portable tech you can now watch TV on the move and pretty much anywhere and Ortis, went up a mountain to test the best
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Episode 6: HDTVs
Best of Series 16: Jon's Best Gadgets Tested
Jon is the resident Gadget Tester but what are his favourite Jon Tests from The Gadget Show Series 16?
Future Tech: BAE
Jon looks at the development of technology within the military at BAE.
Movie Services
Suzi turns the heating up and settles down on the sofa for some intense testing of the latest Online Movie Services.
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Programme for Queen's visit to Blackburn revealed (From Lancashire Telegraph)
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Programme for Queen's visit to Blackburn revealed
2:00pm Friday 21st March 2014 in News By Jon Robinson, Reporter
THE full programme of events to be staged during The Queen's visit to Blackburn on Maundy Thursday has been revealed for the first time.
The royal party is due to arrive at the town's railway station at 10.45am where they will be driven slowly down the Boulevard and Church Street to the cathedral for the historic service.
During the private, ticketed event on Thursday, April 17, 88 men and 88 woman from the diocese will be honoured by The Queen Following the service, in keeping with Royal Maundy tradition, The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh are due to spend time with religious and civic dignitaries.
This will take place at Ewood Park, however there will only be a very limited oppourtunity to see the royal party at the venue.
The cathedral has been working with Blackburn with Darwen Council and The Royal Almonry in London to ensure the event runs as smoothly as possible.
The Royal Maundy is an ancient ceremony which can be traced back to the fourth century.
It seems to have been the custom as early as the 13th century for members of the royal family to take part in Maundy ceremonies, to distribute money and gifts, Coun Kate Hollern, leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said:
"We are lucky to have The Queen coming to Blackburn Cathedral and happy to support on all the preparations for this special occasion.
"It's also right that we put effort into making it as big a community celebration as possible.
"It's going to be a happy and memorable day which will go down in history. In true Blackburn spirit the community is stepping up to make sure we have the town looking as good as possible for all the visitors.
Canon Andrew Hindley, who is co-ordinating the cathedral arrangements, said: "Our preparations for this historic service are now moving in the final stages.
"The music and hymns have been chosen, and the cathedral is being made ready over the next few weeks." The Director of Music at Blackburn Cathedral, Samuel Hudson, said: "For the majority of us who will be performing at the service this is our first Royal occasion, and certainly the first involving The Queen.
"For that reason alone there is a real buzz about the place and everyone is really looking forward to the event."
Comments (13)
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2:14pm Fri 21 Mar 14
shytalk says...
2:30pm Fri 21 Mar 14
greenscreener says...
3:48pm Fri 21 Mar 14
Loving lances says...
4:00pm Fri 21 Mar 14
crusade to find the truth from the brown stuff says...
4:04pm Fri 21 Mar 14
123Jon123 says...
4:37pm Fri 21 Mar 14
keybo5 says...
4:48pm Fri 21 Mar 14
onsidecobra says...
2:41am Sat 22 Mar 14
doylerf says...
Loving lances wrote:what drugs are you on and how much?
She will give more money at Ewood Park than the Venkys spend on wages for goalkeepers.
10:24pm Sun 23 Mar 14
noddy57 says...
12:38pm Mon 24 Mar 14
leyton says...
3:54am Fri 4 Apr 14
Lancistan says...
10:41am Sun 6 Apr 14
ConcernedOssy says...
shytalk wrote:She'll certainly not forget it in hurry what with all the cleaning needed when she gets back staff will be vey busy !!
Oh dear i hope she soon gets over her visit to Blackburn
10:44am Sun 6 Apr 14
ConcernedOssy says...
shytalk wrote:Don't give a shut lol
Oh dear i hope she soon gets over her visit to Blackburn
Comments are closed on this article.


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1/2 cup butter
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
2 cups flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp vanilla extract
*1/2 tsp of salt if using unsalted butter
4 medium bananas
1 cup chopped walnuts
~ Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease a bread pan.
1.Cream butter in a large mixing bowl (about a minute)
2. Add sugar, beat until completely incorporated
3. Add one egg at a time, beat well
4. Beat in vanilla extract
5. Fold in flour, baking soda and salt (if using)
6. Mash two bananas and beat it into the batter
7. Mash the other two bananas and fold it into the batter
8. Add chopped walnuts to the batter.
9. Pour batter to the baking pan and for 50-60 minutes.
10. Do a toothpick check and if need to bake longer, bake for another 10 minutes.
11. Take the bread out and lay on the side.
~ Cool down completely before cutting.


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So it's the morning after BIG win, obviously the biggest of the season thus far (hopefully the first in a series of wins of exponentially increasing importance). How are we all feeling, hmm? Elated? Relieved? Is this the kind of thing that will make things awkward at the workplace between us and the Blazers?
After the last win, I started work on a portrait series, hoping to immortalize our 2009 starting five, the first of which was Przy, who I posted in the game day junk drawer, foolishly, against my better judgment. Of course, we went on to lose that game in heartbreaking just too short come back bid (and then the next in even more soul tearing fashion) so I both haven't really felt like salting the wounds of those losses by being forced to stare for hours at those what treated me bad. ;)
But I've been busy nonetheless on them, and have just been waiting for a non game day to post, so I can avoid any possibility of being the goat in this series. ;)
So, next in line is LaMarcus. Based on some of the feedback from the Przy portrait, I decided to improvise a bit and stray from the "eyes on the prize" sort of deer in the headlight look that the photographs have taken. I can't say how successful I was, but the goal was a more intense and focused LMA, instead of a doe eyed one.
The next one is the one I'm most nervous about, given the potential disaster it will be if I've nerfed even a hair of sexiness from the French one. This one's for the ladies (or lady) so I'll let them be the judge. No intense soul devouring focus here, just straight up voulez vous couchez avec moi.
And a slightly reworked Przybilla for those who found his ogreishness lacking in the first iteration:
So, B. Roy's up next, and while I don't want to get ahead of myself (after all, if we lose one of these next two, it might be mid-Summer before I feel up to finishing the starters) I wanted to throw the reins to you guys as to what my next portrait will be in celebration if we make it to round 2 (think of it as a cosmic incentive for the fates to be kind. An offering to the basketball gods, rather than an arrogant assumption). Take your pick below. You can check out my other portrait work here.
As with many others, this is my first attempt at a Junk Drawer, so flagellate accordingly if I blow the poll.


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Retina Display MacBook Pros in 2012? Why it could happen.
The MacBook Pro could get a substantial boost in screen resolution, according to sources upstream in Apple's supply chain talking to DigiTimes Wednesday. But how likely is it that Apple will actually produce these monster graphical powerhouses in 2012, as reported? Read more »


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Deja Vu?
View Single Post
Oct16-05, 06:17 AM
Quote by
The deja vu is an incredibly weird sensaton that the present situation you are in is unbelievably familiar, as though you are remembering it from the past even though there's no way it could already have happened.
Neurologists have proven that it is caused by a tiny bit of seizure activity in the neurons of a part of the brain called the
. Even though this is technically seizure activity it's nothing to get worried about
: all that means is that the neurons are firing all at the same time for no good reason.
The hippocampus is a major contributor to memory, and performs some vital function in the storage and retrieval of memories. When it gets a power surge like this it creates the false impression that the present is a memory, when it isn't.
A small seizure like this is called a
simple partial seizure
. This means it is confined to one small location in the brain, and that there is no loss of consciousness.
Most people have at least one deja vu in their lifetimes, some have many more than that. The hippocampus is part of the
limbic system
of the brain, which is the very touchiest part, the most likely to experience seizures.
What is interesting to me is that there is an opposite to the deja vu called the
jamais vu
. When a person has this kind of simple partial things around them seem weirdly unfamiliar. They fail to evoke the proper feelings of recognition despite an intellectual realization that you should recognize them. They
all strange and wrong.
Here is a site that describes some of the many other weird symptoms that simple partial seizures can cause:
Simple Partial Seizures
To add another of my 2¢ on how weird my mind is:
A few days a week, I get this deja vu many times per day (~6?). Its a common part of everyday life for me. There is an odd correlation between looking between small stacks of things, and deja vu. Jamais vu describes a feeling I get when I stare into a mirror, into my irises sometimes. Everything just feels so unfamiliar, the word that best describes it is "alien." The world and I just feel so alien to me. Eventually I get scared and must look away, so I know where I am and who I am.


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Expired Property Listing
This property is disabled.
Pitcorthie House in St Andrews
- bedrooms 4
- baths 3
- sleeps 8
- pool no
- hot tub no
- pets allowed yes
- type House
- community
rates (USD)
/ week
vacation rental description
n a peaceful rural location, on a country estate just three miles inland from the pretty fishing village of Elie in the East Neuk of Fife and eight miles from St Andrews, Pitcorthie House is a quite unique and very striking modern house designed by the internationally acclaimed architect Trevor Dannat, which on completion in 1968 featured in lengthy articles both in Country Life and Homes and Gardens. Now offered as a holiday home, it affords the opportunity for larger parties and groups of friends to holiday in a lovely area in spacious, light, airy and most comfortable accommodation.
The house, stands in 46 acres of mature, secluded parkland and gardens which are shared with Pitcorthie and Goodall Cottages, though with that amount of space there is more than enough room for all. (The cottages form a useful extension for larger parties, but have been so cleverly designed that all the properties face away from each other and one wouldn't know that the others were there.) There is a tennis court and children will also adore the new tree house in the garden. A 20m games room, with table tennis table, pool table, TV etc. is across the courtyard and is available for the exclusive use of tenants of Pitcorthie House.
Inside, the house has a stunning open plan design, with one side being almost entirely of glass giving quite amazing views over the gardens and away to the Firth of Forth in the distance. There is a large, state of the art kitchen, and a dining area alongside. Two steps lead up to a most attractive sitting area with open fire, oak flooring, Oregon pine ceiling and French doors to a raised, west facing patio, which overlooks the gardens and, with furniture and barbecue, is a perfect spot to relax of a warm summer evening and watch the sun go down.
There are four bedrooms, one with en suite bathroom and a further shower room. Oil fired central heating and double glazing ensure the house's cosiness
house rental amenities
Elie has lots of interesting little shops and the area is richly blessed with good restaurants. However, if you prefer to stay in, yet don't wish to cook, an excellent catering service is available and meals can be ordered in advance either for your arrival or during the course of your stay.
activities and attractions in St Andrews Scotland
The surrounding area is quite perfect for both family holidays and for sporting activities. Just about every small town/village in Fife has its own often excellent golf course, and you are but half an hour from the legendary courses at St Andrews (8m). There are wonderful beaches, notably at St Andrews and Tentsmuir, and delightful coastal paths to explore. Inland, there is the lovely village of Falkland, with Mary Queen of Scots' turreted castle while other historic buildings in the area are Hill of Tarvit and Kellie Castle with its marvellous gardens. A family day out could take in a visit to the Scottish Deer Centre near Falkland, or Craigtoun Park near St Andrews, where there are activities to keep everyone happy all day. For rainy days, visit Scotland's Secret Bunker at Anstruther.
vacation rental rates
rates for the property range from 950 to 2365. dollars per week. Bed linen, towels, £30 of oil central heating and electricity are all INCLUDED in the rental. Coal and logs for the fire can be purchased at the local garage
Well behaved pets are welcome by arrangement. Wireless Broadband is available (subject to provider.)


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Signing Cliff Lee Not All Cracked Up to Be.
I know it leaves out all the Sabermetrics shit but if you've studied your baseball history you should know that the best rotations, statistically, failed to win a ring. Think, 1971 Orioles, 1997 Braves, 2005 Astros, and the favored 2010 Phillies. The Giants may or may not repeat, but some team is going to knock the 2011 Phillies off.


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Well he's certainly had an interesting couple of days. #51 on our list is Mark Teahen.
"Tell us about Teahen," says Billy.
Mark Teahen, says Erik, is a third baseman from St. Mary's College just down the road in Moraga, California. "Teahen," says Erik. "Six three. Two ten. Left right. Good approach to hitting. Not a lot of power right now. Our kind of guy. He takes pitches."
"Why haven't we talked about this guy before?" asks the old scout.
"It's because Teahen doesn't project," says Erik. "He's a corner guy who doesn't hit a lot of home runs."
"Power is something that can be acquired," says Billy quickly. "Good hitters develop power. Power hitters don't become good hitters."....
Everyone stares silently at Teahan's name for about thirty seconds. Erik says, "I hate to say it but if you want to talk about another Jason Giambi, this guy could be it."
-"Moneyball" by Michael Lewis
Mark enters his fourth season as a Royal in 2008, after being acquired in a blockbuster deal with John Buck and Mike Wood for star outfielder Carlos Beltran in June of 2004. He was touted as a third baseman of the future and a cornerstone for the franchise for years to come, but just two years later the franchise had a new third baseman of the future and cornerstone for the franchise, moving Teahen to the outfield. The initial scouting report on him turned out be right, at least thus far in Mark's career. Good plate discipline, good walk totals, not much power. Another Jason Giambi he is not.
Mark was originally a first round pick in 2002 by the Oakland Athletics, one of seven draft picks chronicled in the book "Moneyball." After just thirteen games in Rookie ball, where he hit .400, Teahen was moved up to High A ball in the California League. He struggled mightily in the hitters league, posting an anemic .239/.302/.299. He repeated the level the next year, and although his average and plate discipline rose, his power was still absent. He hit .283 with a .374 on-base percentage, but hit just three home runs in 121 games. You really have to try to not hit home runs in the California League.
"He always pushed the ball to the other side, never really hit with much power. He was always content dropping a single, flaring it over the shortstop's head. If he used his legs better and got a better start, he could hit with power. It was all there, just a little stubbornness on his part."
-Oakland Director of Player Development Keith Lieppman
Teahen opened 2004 in another hitters league, the Texas League, where he enjoyed his finest professional season. He was hitting .335/.420/.543 in 53 games for Midland before being promoted to AAA. He spent twenty games in Sacramento before being told he had been traded to Kansas City.
Everyone in baseball knew the Royals were going to trade Carlos Beltran, going as far back as 2002. The Royals unexpected success in 2003 put off that trade talk for awhile. Beltran was an impending free agent going into the 2004 season, but with the Royals surprising finish in 2003, the team was thinking contention instead of rebuilding. When the team stumbled out of the gate and were ten games back by Memorial Day, the Beltran trade rumors intensified.
Royals third baseman Joe Randa was also and impending free agent in 2004. He was willing to stay in Kansas City and was still reasonable productive. Rather than try to ink him to a short term deal, the Royals instead looked towards the future and insisted on receiving a third baseman in return for Beltran. They also hadn't had a good catcher in the organization since the days of Mike MacFarlane, so General Manager Allard Baird also insisted on a backstop in the trade. I'm not quite sure how he perceived those to be the two biggest holes on the team, considering the team ERA in 2003 was over 5.00, and the team was dead last in ERA in 2004. The team had finished in the bottom five in the league in ERA every year since 1997. But it was catching and third base they needed, right? So that's what Allard insisted on.
He asked the Angels about Dallas McPherson and the Mets about David Wright, but both teams balked at trading those young prospects. The Red Sox were quite interested in Beltran and offered a package of Kevin Youkilis and Kelly Shoppach. The Yankees were also quite interested and offered a package of Dioner Navarro and Robinson Cano, who they showcased at third base. Neither of those packages garnered enough interest in Allard. It was actually Athletics General Manager Billy Beane's need for a closer that got trade talks going between the A's, Royals and the Houston Astros. On June 24, the Royals finally consummated a deal that sent Beltran to the Astros, Houston closer Octavio Dotel to the A's, and third baseman Mark Teahen, Astros minor league catcher John Buck and A's minor league pitcher Mike Wood to the Royals.
"Any baseball person who's seen him enough knows he's going to be a solid major-league player. I think he's got a chance to hit 25 home runs, have a good on-base percentage and hit between .290 and .300."
-Royals General Manager Allard Baird
Win Shares of Possible Beltran Deals
New York Yankees
Robinson Cano
2005 - 12
2006 - 18
2007 - 21
Total - 51
Dioner Navarro
2005 - 4
2006 - 3
2007 - 6
Total - 13
Boston Red Sox
Kevin Youkilis
2004 - 8
2005 - 3
2006 - 22
2007 - 20
Total - 53
Kelly Shoppach
2004 - 3
2007 - 7
Total - 10
Oakland Athletics/Houston Astros
Mark Teahen
2005 - 10
2006 - 19
2007 - 16
Total - 45
John Buck
2004 - 4
2005 - 9
2006 - 10
2007 - 8
Total - 31
The Teahen/Buck duo produces 76 Win Shares, with Cano/Navarro edging out Youkilis/Shoppach 64 to 63. This is pretty simplistic however, and does not take into account the player projections going forward. If I had to rank the players I'd most want now, I'd rank them (1) Youkilis, (2) Cano, (3) Teahen, (4) Buck, (5) Navarro, (6) Shoppach. The Royals got the two mediocre players. Not great, not awful, but serviceable. I guess that would be seen as an improvement for where the Royals were coming from.
The bigger question is why a franchise in as bad a situation as the Royals felt they only needed to address two holes? Why did Allard box himself into getting a third baseman and catcher when there were so many glaring needs in the organization? That was the biggest mistake in the Beltran deal, in my opinion.
Which is not to say Mark Teahen and John Buck were a terrible haul for three months of Beltran. The Royals could have done much worse. Trouble is, low-revenue franchises like the Royals really need to hit home runs on such deals. And the Royals hit a solid single - maybe a stand up double.
Teahen was supposed to begin 2005 in Omaha, but when a wrist injury sidelined stop-gap solution Chris Truby, Teahen made the Opening Day lineup. Teahen struggled on defense and suffered a viral infection and back injury early in the season. Just two weeks into his MLB career, he was on the disabled list. When he returned, he failed to hit for much power and ended the season with a disappointing .246 average in 130 games. He slugged .376 with just seven home runs. Even more disappointing was his much anticipated defense. Highly touted as a glove man in the minors, Teahen was by many defensive metrics, the worst defensive third baseman in the league in 2005.
Mark was even worse to start off 2006. By early May he was hitting .195 with a strikeout per game when the Royals finally demoted him to Omaha.
The Royals aren't just bad, they're infuriating. John Buck - a key element in the Carlos Beltran trade - actually had a passed ball on a pitchout the other day. First time I've seen that one. And it reminds you that the Beltran trade, looking back, was the death knell for this organization. The Royals had one great player to trade, one of the best players in the game, and in exchange they got Buck, Mark Teahen and Mike Wood.
A baseball executive e-mailed me that day to say the trade was a fiasco, a breathtakingly dumb move by general manager Allard Baird. I held out hope that the executive was wrong. He wasn't wrong. To this point, Buck and Teahen - the two key elements to the deal - are hitting a combined .190 with three times more errors than home runs.
-Joe Posnanski
Teahen went on a tear in Omaha, hitting .380 with fourteen extra-base hits in twenty-four games. The Royals recalled him in June and he hit over .300 in each of the next three months. He was torrid in July hitting seven home runs, seventeen extra-base hits, slugging .692, and collecting 25 RBI. After his June call-up, Teahen hit .313/.376/.557 with sixteen home runs in just 86 games. He missed the last three weeks of the season with a shoulder injury, but Teahen compiled very solid numbers for the season with a .290/.357/.517 line, and a team high eighteen home runs.
With first round pick Alex Gordon ready for the big leagues at third base, the Royals asked Teahen to make the switch to the outfield for 2007. They were counting on him for middle-of-the-order run production. He went on a tear in May, hitting .305/.392/.486 and it looked like the Royals had a solid hitter in their lineup. Teahen would hit just fifteen extra-base hits over June and July, including a 250 at-bat home run drought. He would end the season slugging just .410, although he did sport a healthy .353 on-base percentage, tops on the team. He also managed to play right field competently, even impressing at times with his rifle arm.
Teahen has again emerged to a slow start in the power department in 2008. It is becoming clear that this season is a crucial one for Teahen, one in which he must make progress, or else he will find himself on the bench, or in another uniform. Mark is a likeable guy, a goofball in the clubhouse, a "heads-up" player with great baseball skills, a decent fielder, an excellent base-runner, and a solid hitter with good plate discipline. He has enough skills that some team should be able to find a good use for him. I'm just not sure it is Kansas City.


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SOMETIMES the simplest measures can make the biggest difference in people's lives.
So it is with Hunter New England Health's Better Health Check initiative, introduced in 2010 and now reaching more than 58,000 people.
Program manager Paula Wye said the program was started as a way to promote preventative health checks within the community and is part of a visit to any of Hunter New
England Health's community-based services.
"There are a number of factors that can impact an individual's lifestyle," Dr Wye said.
"The health check is a way for us to work with our clients and identify any factors that may impact their quality of life including their likelihood of illness, infection and injury and then finding ways to change these habits and reduce the risk.
"We ask questions about a client's everyday habits like how and what they eat, the amount of exercise they do, if they smoke and drink alcohol, if they are fully up to date with schedule immunisations and their risk of falls."
She said their answers helped identify any areas of risk so clinicians were then able to equip the client with the tools and support necessary to bring about change.
Dr Wye is a passionate believer in the program, which was actually first trialled in this region before being rolled out across the whole health district.
She said when half the district's health care costs were devoted to the treatment of chronic disease, such as diabetes and heart conditions, a preventative program like the Better Health Check made perfect sense.
"Why I'm so passionate about it is that it's a shift from a health system that waits for people to get sick ... to looking at keeping people well," she said.
The proof of its success was in some of the examples of those who'd made drastic lifestyle changes.
"Quite elderly people have decided it's to finally make changes after going through this check," Dr Wye said.
One man in his 70s, she said who'd been a longtime smoker decided to quit, while a clinician going through the check with an elderly lady in her 90s who was at risk of falls, realised it was her poor eyesight that was to blame.
"We were able to get her to see an optometrist and she's still living at home," Dr Wye said.


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Tour »
Joey Bada$$ – B4.DA.$$ (Schedule & Tour Dates)
Joey and the gang are jumping back on the road again in honor of his forthcoming LP B4.Da.$$. Check out the official schedule and tour dates below! Sept. 26th – New Haven (Toad's Place) Sept.Read More »
Wiz Khalifa Tells Power 99 Tyga Dropping Out Of His Tour Was Corny (Video)
Watch above as Wiz Khalifa tells Philly's own Power 99 Tyga leaving his Under The Influence Tour was corny to say the least! viaRead More »
T-Pain – Drankin Patna (2014 Tour Dates & Schedule)
Tired of going out and being the only one getting wasted? Wish you had a 'Drankin Patna'? Well your in luck. Beginning August 11th, T-Pain, accompanied by Snootie Wild, Bando Jones, Rich Kidz and MykellRead More »
Curren$y – The Drive In Theater (Tour Dates & Schedule)
In support of his well received The Drive In Theater project, Jet Life Recording's front man Curren$y is hitting the road once again. Check out the official tour dates and schedule above and theRead More »
Jay-Z & Beyonce – 'On The Run' Tour Rehearsal (Video)
Watch below and Life + Times gives us a behind the scenes look at Jay Z and Beyonce's 'On The Run' Tour rehearsals!Read More »
Kanye West 'Yeezus' 2014 Tour Dates
Kanye West will be continuing his Yeezus tour in Australia and is bringing King Push with him starting May 2nd to May 11th. He will then hit the European leg starting in late June.Read More »
Ty Dolla $ign Announces 'Beach House' Tour
Taylor Gang's Ty Dolla $ign has just announced his very first tour called the "Beach House Tour." The tour will be hitting 15 cities starting on April 29 at Strummers in Fresno, California. BeachRead More »
Bun B & Kirko Bangz Announce Dates For 'The Trillest' Tour
Houston's finest Bun B and Kirko Bangz are teaming up for 'The Trillest' tour. Starting March 6th in San Marcos, TX the duo will tour until April 17th, finishing up in Atlanta. Check outRead More »


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Rutgers SportsGet news on Rutgers sports, talk about the Scarlet Knights and view and share photos
Rutgers-Washington State game to be blacked out on Dish Network
By Dan Duggan | NJ.com
August 23, 2014, 7:01AM
Rutgers fans who subscribe to the Dish Network are going to be left in the dark for the Scarlet Knights' season opener Thursday night at Washington State. The game will air on Fox Sports 1, which is engaged in a dispute over programming fees with the Dish Network. As a result, a handful of Fox Sports 1 games on... Full story »
Rutgers releases depth chart: Justin Goodwin to start at corner, WR Andre Patton not listed
By Dan Duggan | NJ.com
August 22, 2014, 9:27PM
Kyle Flood sticks with converted running back Justin Goodwin as a starting cornerback for the opener. Full story »
Rutgers assistant Jim Panagos brings passion to D-line unit
By Keith Sargeant | NJ Advance Media, for NJ.com
August 22, 2014, 4:45PM
Rutgers defensive line coach Jim Panagos brings energy to a position group that's expected to be much improved in 2014. Full story »
Wisconsin to start former Bergen Catholic star Tanner McEvoy at QB in season opener
By James Kratch | NJ Advance Media, for NJ.com
August 22, 2014, 3:13PM
Hillsdale native reported to have beat out incumbent starter Full story »
Football recruiting: NJ.com Top 50 football recruit updates, Aug. 22
By Todderick Hunt | NJ.com
August 22, 2014, 2:00PM
Many of the NJ.com Top 50 recruits have turned their attention to the 2014 high school football season. However, recruiting coverage never stops at NJ.com. Let's take a look at how some of the Garden State's top prospects have fared over the last week. Full story »
Washington State QB Connor Halliday ready to air it out against Rutgers' defense
By Dan Duggan | NJ.com
August 22, 2014, 12:01PM
Halliday runs the show for the pass-happy Cougars. Full story »
Kareem Walker, top RB in the country, chimes in on the possibility of N.J.'s best staying home in 2016
By Todderick Hunt | NJ.com
August 22, 2014, 12:00PM
Here's Walker's take on Kyle Flood's proposition to have New Jersey's top class of 2016 talent stay home. Full story »
Rutgers freshmen put on a 'talent' show to end training camp
By Dan Duggan | NJ.com
August 22, 2014, 9:46AM
Annual camp-ending tradition received mixed reviews from the team's veterans. Full story »
Former Rutgers football star Raheem Orr looking to inspire future Scarlet Knights
By Keith Sargeant | NJ Advance Media, for NJ.com
August 22, 2014, 6:30AM
Former Rutgers star Raheem Orr reflects on academic and athletic achievements, aims to help inner-city youth be successful on and off the playing field. Full story »
Jordan Fuller, brother of former U.S. Army All-American Devin Fuller, discusses Thursday's Rutgers visit
By Todderick Hunt | NJ.com
August 21, 2014, 9:30PM
Jordan Fuller, brother of former U.S. Army All-American Devin Fuller, is poised to take over for Old Tappan (N.J.) as the team's starting quarterback in 2014. He is already bigger, faster, and arguably more athletic than his older sibling, and the Rutgers staff, among many others across the country, have taken notice. Full story »
Ronnie James surprised his brother Paul, Rutgers starting running back, with his commitment to RU
By Todderick Hunt | NJ.com
August 21, 2014, 8:15PM
Ronnie James, the No. 46 recruit in the NJ.com Top 50, knew he would commit to the Scarlet Knights long before he revealed his plan to people within his support system, including his older brother Paul, Rutgers' starting running back. Full story »
Rutgers men's basketball 2014-15 schedule announced
By Keith Sargeant | NJ Advance Media, for NJ.com
August 21, 2014, 7:00PM
Rutgers announces a 31-game men's basketball schedule that begins Nov. 16 and includes nine Big Ten home games. Full story »
Rutgers practice report: Defense embracing challenge from Washington State
By Dan Duggan | NJ.com
August 21, 2014, 4:59PM
Defense is welcoming the opportunity to face a pass-heavy opponent in the opener. Full story »
Rutgers DE Julian Pinnix-Odrick ready to make his long-awaited debut
By Dan Duggan | NJ.com
August 21, 2014, 3:27PM
Third-year player is eager to get on the field after start of career has been delayed. Full story »
At a glance: An early look at Washington State with opener 1 week away
By Keith Sargeant | NJ Advance Media, for NJ.com
August 21, 2014, 12:00PM
A look at the Washington State football team that Rutgers will face in its season opener next Thursday night in Seattle. Full story »
- Follow former Rutgers football player Eric LeGrand as he tweets on his recovery from spinal injury
- Rutgers has another home on NJ.com. News and sports updates from NJ.com and Rutgers University. Plus, upload your photos and videos.
Breaking news, game updates and all of NJ.com's Rutgers coverage to your inbox for free
Visit NJ.com's Fan Zone page


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Houston Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson has joined a very small group in history with his 100th catch of the season. Johnson is now one of two players in NFL history to have five seasons of 100 catches or more. The veteran receiver caught a 33-yard pass from quarterback Matt Schaub against the Denver Broncos in the first quarter. Wes Welker is the only other player to collect 100 receptions in five seasons.
Johnson currently leads the NFL in receptions and has 1,328 receiving yards and six touchdowns on the season. Clearly, the Texans' forgotten 2013 season has not cost Johnson any personal success. Houston has had three different quarterbacks throw passes this season, but Johnson and rookie DeAndre Hopkins are still producing. Johnson is the team's all-time leader in receiving yards, receiving touchdowns, receptions, games played and games started.
Bears wide receiver Brandon Marshall can also join Welker and Johnson in the five-time 100 reception club this season. He is currently at 90 receptions on the season with two games left to play.
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Got an old fridge or freezer laying around the house? You could earn some cash and help a charity of your choice by making one phone call.
It's part of Ameren's ActOnEnergy campaign. Ameren will arrange a pick up time and you will get $50. And you can even help an organization, like the Adams County American Red Cross, receive a $10 referral bonus.
"We're just trying to get the word out and if people will recycle, this is a good way. It's a win win, not only for the customer but also for the American Red Cross," said Pam Shaffer, the Executive Director of the Adams County American Red Cross.
When the Adams County American Red Cross, receives the bonuses they are able to use that money within their organization.
"We use it for our daily operation and our programs and services. So it will go to help our disaster clients, it will go for our blood program, for our health and safety program, or for serving our military men and women," said Shaffer.
There are some requirements though.
You schedule a pickup time you can call Ameren at 1-866-899-9088. You can call on weekdays from 6am-7pm and on Saturdays from 8am-7pm.
If you would like to help the Adams County American Red Cross you can give them this code, RR12-1004, to make sure the Red Cross receives its referral bonus.
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Originally published January 7, 2012 at 7:01 PM | Page modified January 8, 2012 at 8:47 AM
Plant Life
Here's to brighter, easier, more edible NW gardens
Plant Life columnist Valerie Easton says gardeners, whether because of frugality or environmental concerns, are making wiser choices about matching plants to growing conditions and space limitations.
Local news partner - Plant Talk
Valerie Easton writes in her blog about gardens and the people who make them. A columnist for The Seattle Times' Pacific Northwest Magazine for the last 14 years and author of four books on gardening, she lives on Whidbey Island where she loves to hike, read and garden.
See Plant Talk now!
Trends to take root in 2012
I see a great many gardens every year and have the pleasure of talking with smart, savvy gardeners. This doesn't give me a crystal ball, but here are a few of their trend predictions that ring true:
• Gardeners, whether because of frugality or environmental concerns, are making wiser choices about matching plants to growing conditions and space limitations. This results in healthier plants that require less labor and fewer resources.
• Vivid, saturated colors are the new, new thing in plants, art, birdhouses, pots — a great way to warm up the garden on chilly days.
• We seem to be moving away from the rustic, handmade look and toward metal finishes for the garden. Copper, iron and galvanized steel are durable materials that add a modern edge, gloss and reflectivity to outdoor spaces.
• The buy-local movement has helped independent garden centers and smaller growers come on strong. In a world where information and plants proliferate beyond our ability to keep up, the value, selection and knowledge offered by local experts is ever more appreciated.
• Who wants to put flowers doused in chemicals and shipped halfway across the world on our dining-room tables? The idea of localism is extending to cut flowers. Gardeners are starting to see their entire property as a cutting garden, finding joy in crafting easy, fresh little bouquets from their own backyards. The new Seattle Wholesale Growers Market Cooperative in Georgetown was a big success in its first year.
• We're learning that food gardening is hard work and not always cost effective. As crops peak in our gardens they're plentiful at local farmers markets. But we won't stop growing our own food now that we've started. We'll just be smarter about it and plant what makes sense for our tastes, time and garden space. Edibles like strawberries, blueberries, herbs, lettuces, arugula and peapods are ornamental, delicious freshly picked, don't take up too much room and are easy to grow. I've heard a surprising number of gardeners say that with the spate of cold summers recently, they're leaving tomato growing to the experts. Might the competitive sport of tomato ripening be on the wane?
Nerd Night moves north
Only in a gardening community as fervent as ours would hearts leap in joy to learn that Seattle is finally going to have its own Plant Nerd Night. Portland gardeners have long celebrated spring with a lively gathering of plant fanatics who show and sell their most exciting plants. Many of us from Seattle drove three hours to be part of the frenzy. Portland's Plant Nerd Night is hard-core, with door prizes of soil and fertilizer, and rousing songs from the Chorus of the Goddess Flora.
The Northwest Horticultural Society will kick off our very own gathering 6 to 9 p.m. April 19 at the Mountaineers at Magnuson Park. Moderator Ciscoe Morris is sure to whip the crowd into a fever over covetable plants from the likes of Dan Hinkley and Far Reaches Farm. There'll be swag bags, wine, an auction and music, song and dance from the hilarious Chorus of the Goddess Flora. See www.northwesthort.org for details.
The fairest plants of them all
Speaking of plant celebration, 'Bountiful Blue' blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) from Monrovia Growers was named "Best Edible" at the 2011 Farwest Show for the national plant industry in Portland. 'Bountiful Blue' distinguishes itself with blue-toned foliage, a compact habit and lots of big, sweet berries. Monrovia also took home "Best Shrub" honors for a dwarf, disease-resistant holly called 'Little Rascal' (Ilex x meservae 'Monnieves') with dark, glossy green foliage that colors up purple and burgundy as the weather cools.
"Best in Show" went to Flutterby Grande Peach Cobbler Nectar Bush. Doesn't it drive you crazy when such long names don't even tell you what the plant is? Turns out the grand champ is a buddleia, or butterfly bush, with flower cones that are more pink than peach. The foliage is silvery, it blooms all summer, and the honey-scented flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
Valerie Easton is a Seattle freelance writer and author of "The New Low-Maintenance Garden." Check out her blog at www.valeaston.com.
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Homes -- New Home Showcase


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Q. We have a condominium owner who constantly stores personal belongings in the hallway, which is a common element. In spite of numerous requests by the board and association manager to remove the items, he continues to use this area as his own. Can these items be considered abandoned since they are no longer within his condo?
S.C., Naples
Never touch personal property! If you want to remove the items, have your attorney render advice on how to do so. Have you contacted the county fire inspector? Many times that department will issue a warning about blocking an area that can cause delays in event of a fire. Keep in mind that you need legal support, either from your attorney or other government agencies before you remove the items.
Q. I live in a condominium complex. Over the last few years residents have been building patios on common ground. My understanding is that common elements belong to all residents and that nothing should be built on them. The board will not do anything about this; the past president also has a patio. What can I do without hiring an attorney?
You are correct in that no condominium owner has the right to use the common grounds for personal use. FS 718.106 says: Each owner is entitled to use the common elements in accordance with the purpose for which they were intended, but no use may hinder or encroach upon the lawful rights of other unit owners.
You can sue the board and the owners, but that is expensive. I would first try to get the board to acknowledge its responsibilities to have the owners be declared in violation and restore the common grounds. That would require a certified letter addressed to the board of directors explaining the improper use of common grounds. Ask the directors if they have talked to the association's attorney and insurance agent to determine the condominium's liability. Ask them if they have received proper permits from the county or other government agencies.
You also need to plan for the next annual meeting. Depending on the action of the board, you need to inform it in writing that you want a motion at the next meeting to force the board to restore the common area by forcing owners to remove the patios. There may be some property tax liability for owners who improved their units but that will require an investigation by the property appraiser. You also need to determine if there will be maintenance costs incurred by the association by allowing the patios. You should seek records to find out who approved the additions.
Q. My condominium association funds reserves for several items in its annual budget, among them tennis courts and spa. According to the definition of "reserves," they are for items of deferred maintenance that eventually will need attention, but do not call for recurring annual output of expenses. My board interprets the reserves to specifics within the line item categories listed. In other words, it collected a special assessment for replacement of tennis court lights instead of using the funds in our reserves designated for tennis courts and/or outside lighting. It used the same tactic to collect a special assessment for bathroom renovation in the spa, saying the spa reserves were strictly intended for exercise machine replacement, even thoughthose reserves had been used for changing the interior layout of the spa. In the absence of any written specifications for these reserve categories can the board make choices when it comes to special assessment levying instead of using those reserves? They are collecting extra money when we already have accounted for those expenditures through our reserve funding.
F.H., Aventura
There are three parts to the annual budget. I like to say that really you have three different budgets because they use different computations. The "expense" budget includes normal day-to-day, month-to-month or annual-to-annual expenses. The income budget is merely the expense budget and the reserve budget combined to establish the income needed to balance the two budgets.
The reserve budget is calculated on state formulas that require specific amounts to be collected and held in special accounts for expenses that occur more than annually. The line items are to be used only for the specific line for which they were collected. As to special assessments, that is a right of the board to meet expenses that were not part of the budgets. Funds cannot be transferred from other accounts because the funds are not available. I would advise you that if the board does approve a special assessment to meet an unplanned expense, a special assessment could be proper.


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Stacy Kowalchuk
Social Media Manager
Stacy Kowalchuk has been with Trupanion for over four years, expanding Trupanion's reach in the online world. She is a dog lover and has had at least one dog in her life ever since she was born. Her current four-legged love is Ellie, her rescued Whippet-mix who loves tennis balls and squeak toys. In her free time, Stacy likes to stay active with yoga, dog walks, and shopping to balance out her other hobby of baking sweet treats.


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Routes Sorted
L to R R to L Alpha
The best problem in the Bay Area hands down! I can't believe it wasn't listed yet. The obvious line starting from the corner as you come up the stairs...pulling the corner is the first crux...(the top rail is off)...then the bulge right after the tree is the next crux...it ends on the ramp and is about 30 feet long..
Pad isn't really necessary...maybe for the ramp. You are no more than 3 feet off until the end.


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Derailed train cars fall from bridge in Duluth's West End
By Paul Lundgren on Feb 3, 2011 in Current Events
A Canadian National train carrying 17 empty cars derailed while approaching a limestone storage area on a trestle bridge near the Duluth, Missabe and Iron Range Railway Ore Docks this morning.
Two cars fell; one landed upside down, the other landed against a support for the ore docks and sat standing on its end. No one was hurt.


text: I see that the Wolves' brain trust has hired former coach and supposed NBA guru Jim Lynam as a consultant to evaluate the team! Now I not exactly sure what the hell a consultant is supposed to do, but I am going to take a wild stab that whatever he concludes will not excatly be rocket science. In fact, I bet a group of us bloggers here from Canis Hoopus might be able to conclude some of the same things as this big shot consultant! So, let's get to the heart of this Jim Lynam issue. Does this mean that there is extra pressure now on the players or more likely the coaching staff since there is now a "new" set of eyes watching? I'll take it a step further, could this be a signal to all interested that perhaps Coach Rambis should be worried and looking over his shoulder? Weigh in on this fellow Woofie Fans. Peace out from the AZ desert.


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Gaiser Hall is being remodeled to better serve our students. As a result, several Student Affairs offices relocated during the month of December – some to the "T" building and some within the Penguin Student Union.
The "T" building, which earned its nickname because of its shape, formerly served as the Clark County Social Services Building. It's on the west side of Fort Vancouver Highway, across the street from Gaiser Hall and the Penguin Student Union.
Signage has been posted outside the T building to assist students and campus visitors in locating services, and an updated map is available.
|Running Start program manager Linda Calvert (left) and program assistant Saundra Solis welcome students to their new offices.
Here is a summary of recent and pending moves:
- Eligibility Programs (WorkFirst, Work Study, Displaced Homemakers, Worker Retraining Advising and Adult High School Diploma) and Running Start have all moved to the "T" building.
- Career and Employment Services is now located in the T building. Institutional and work study referrals will be handled through Financial Aid in Gaiser Hall at this time.
Career & Employment Services staff members (left to right) Alicia Sandbloom, Suzanne Thayer and Katherine Buhr are settled in and ready to assist students in their new offices in the "T" building.
- Counseling has moved to the "T" building.
- Disability Support Services has relocated to its permanent location in PSU 014.
- The Assessment Center has relocated to its permanent location in PSU 016.
- Security is now located south of the Clark College Bookstore in room 021.
- The Advising Center is scheduled to move to the "T" building in mid-January.
- Financial Aid is scheduled to move to the "T" building in mid-January.
- The Clark College Bookstore will remain in its current location throughout construction but will add two new entrances.
- Registration and Admissions services are available in the Welcome Center in PSU 002 throughout the remodel.
While many of the "T" building occupants will return to Gaiser Hall when the remodeling is completed, medical radiography, Corporate Education and Workforce Development will be permanent residents.
Learn about other Clark highlights.


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In one of those unfortunate twists of fate, individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may find themselves having to deal with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) at the same time. Understanding why this might be happening to you can help you develop a more successful management plan for dealing with all of your symptoms.
What Is GERD?
GERD is a condition in which the sphincter at the bottom of the esophagus does not work properly, thus allowing the contents of the stomach to back up into the esophagus. The primary symptom of GERD is a burning sensation in the chest, commonly known as heartburn.
How Prevalent Is the Overlap Between GERD and IBS?
If you are experiencing GERD symptoms along with your IBS, you are not alone. Some estimates of the comorbidity of the two disorders are quite high, with 79% of IBS patients reporting symptoms of GERD and 71% of GERD patients reporting symptoms of IBS. Note that these high numbers refer to symptoms, not confirmed diagnoses. In studies in which the diagnosis of GERD was confirmed, percentages of GERD patients also suffering from IBS ranged from 24% to 35%.
Research also indicates that having one of the two diagnoses raises one's risk of having the other. In addition, patients who experience higher levels of anxiety are more likely to have both conditions.
Why Do GERD and IBS Often Occur Together?
There are no definitive answers as to why these two disorders frequently overlap. One theory suggests that any IBS symptoms experienced are part of the full spectrum of GERD. Another possibility is that there is some underlying digestive dysfunction, involving visceral hypersensitivity and motility, that results in symptoms in both the upper and lower GI tract.
What This Means For You
If you suffer from both IBS and GERD, it is important to work closely with your doctor to develop a comprehensive management plan. Research suggests that when GERD is treated effectively, patients are more likely to experience improved quality of life and an improvement in their IBS symptoms.
For comprehensive GERD information, visit Sharon Gillson's About.com Heartburn/GERD site.
De Vries, D., Van Herwaarden. M., Baron A., Smout A., & Samsom M. "Concomitant functional dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome decrease health-related quality of life in gastroesophageal reflux disease." Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology 2007 42:951-956.
Gasiorowska, A., Poh, C., & Fass, R. "Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)—Is It One Disease or an Overlap of Two Disorders?" Digestive Diseases and Sciences 54:1829-1834.
Lee, S., Lee, K., Kim, S. & Cho, S. Prevalence and risk factors for overlaps between gastroesophageal reflux disease, dyspepsia, and irritable bowel syndrome: a population-based study. Digestion 2009 79:196-201.
Ruigomez, A., et.al. "Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in Primary Care: Is There a Link?" Digestive Diseases and Sciences 2009 54:1079-1086.
DISCLAIMER: The information contained on this site is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for diagnosis or treatment rendered by a licensed physician. It is essential that you discuss with your doctor any symptoms or medical problems that you may be experiencing.


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By BOB COUPLAND
Tribune Chronicle
WARREN - Through interactive activities and presentations, nearly 400 fourth-grade Warren City Schools students learned about the importance of the water cycle as a natural resource for any community.
The Trumbull Soil and Water Conservation District hosted its 11th annual, two-day Community Waters Festivals this week at Perkins Park, featuring activities about the water cycle that correlate with the state's science standards for fourth-grade students.
Kelly Hardval, education coordinator with TSWC, said the outdoor educational event had several learning stations at the Warren Community Amphitheatre and scattered throughout the park.
Students take part in hands-on activities such as being water molecules and traveling through the water cycle, seeing the effects of pollution from yards and automobiles in the local waters and finding out how tiny insects in the streams give clues to water's quality, she said.
''We had the children be water drops and think about how they move through the water cycle. They think about what could happen as they move through the water system,'' Hardval said.
Audrey Hudak, an educational instructor, said children asked questions, such as how beavers alert their young to danger by slapping their tails and how beavers construct dams.
Statistics were provided to students, such as of all the world's water, 1 percent is a source of drinking water since 97 percent is salt water and 2 percent frozen polar ice cap.
Station presenters include natural resource experts from the state and local levels and independent environmental educators.
Kassidy Smith, 9, said she learned interesting facts about beavers including their second eyelid that helps them see underwater.
Madalyn Pasek, 9, and Xander White, 9, said the most fun was making the water bracelets and pretending to be water drops traveling through water.


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JONESBORO, AR (KAIT) - It's official. Arkansas State's head football coach, Bryan Harsin, is leaving the team for Boise State.
Red Wolves faithful fans were disappointed. The general consensus from one of ASU football's biggest fan bases, the students, was surprise.
Copyright 2013 KAIT. All rights reserved.
472 Craighead Co. 766
Jonesboro, AR 72401
(870) 931-8888
FCC Public File
(870) 336-1816
EEO Report
Closed Captioning


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It might not have Bob Sapp, Jennifer Lopez or Bollywood superstars, but Mumbai-based promotion Full Contact Championship (FCC) has been putting on small scale mixed martial arts (MMA) events since 2009.
It is the longest running professional MMA promotion in India and has another card coming up on February 25. There are currently eight bouts scheduled to take place, all featuring up-and-coming Indian fighters.
The previews should give more of an insight into the type of fights and the level of fighters on display at FCC 5, who face competition from the Super Fight League (SFL) later this year.
Videos and event preview, after the jump.
Fight One
Sagar Kadu - stands at 5ft 5in tall and weighs in at 60kgs. He has an unbeaten MMA record of 2-0 with two wins and no losses. Sagar is a National Kickboxing Gold Medalist, a State Wrestling Gold Medalist, and National Karate Gold Medalist. His fight style is MMA
Perumal Swamy - Stands at 5ft 6in tall and weighs in at 60kgs. Perumal, who hails from Kanyakumari, is more popularly referred to as "Swamy". A 3rd Dan Black Belt in Karate, Swamy transitioned into Kickboxing, and went on to become Tamil Nadu State Gold Medalist. Swamy will be making his MMA Debut in FCC-5 and describes his style as 'Kickboxing'.
Fight Two
Sangram Bhakre - Stands at 5ft 8in tall and weighs in at 65kgs. Bhakre is a National Level Kickboxer and Wushu Gold Medalist. He is also an expert in Muay Thai and has cross trained in Desi Kushti at the Akharas in Kolhapur.
Bhakre comes into FCC-5 with an unbeaten MMA Record of 2-0, with two wins and no losses and is famous for his signature Kushti style of picking up his opponents and slamming them to the mat. He then finishes the fight with some serious Ground 'n' Pound and is popularly referred to as Sangram " The Slammer" Bhakre. He describes his fight style as Muay Thai.
Mukesh Thakur - stands at 5ft 6in tall and weighs in at 65kgs. He is a Black Belt and State Level Gold Medalist in Taekwondo. Mukesh cross trained in Judo, and has also won a Gold in Judo at the State Level. Mukesh makes his MMA debut at FCC-5 and will be taking on a much more experienced, and decorated fighter but is confident of his own combat skills. His fight style is MMA.
Fight Three
Rajinder Singh Meena - stands at 5ft 10in tall and weighs in at 69kgs. He comes into FCC-5 with an unbeaten MMA record of 2-0 and is fighting out of the CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force) . His nickname is Rajinder 'Knockout' Meena, after a TKO win in FCC-4. A National Level Gold Medalist in Kickboxing his fight style is MMA
MMA IN INDIA FCC 1 Bout 7 Rajinder Singh Meena vs Ajay Godajkar.mp4 (via mmafccindia)
Dhananjay - Standing 5ft 8in tall, Dhananjay weighs in at 69kgs. He is a Professional Boxer, having won a Gold Medal at the State Level. Dhananjay has also cross trained in Judo. He comes into FCC-5 with a Professional MMA Record of 0-1 and needs a win desperately to prove himself and improve his MMA Record. Dhananjay's fight style is MMA
Fight Four
Jeet Toshi - stands at 5ft 4in tall and weighs in at 48kgs. She is a seven time National Kickboxing Gold Medalist in India, and is very talented. She has also been performing extremely well on the Wushu circuit and makes her MMA Debut in FCC-5. Jeet's fight style is Kickboxing
Pooja Mehra - stands at 5ft 4in tall and weighs in at 45kg. She hails from Haryana and has a black belt in Karate. Mehra will be making her MMA Debut and describes her fight style as Karate
Fight Five
Sandeep Yadav - stands at 5ft 11in tall and weighs in at 72kgs. He is a national level Kickboxing Gold Medallist, and an expert in Muay Thai. He comes into FCC-5 with an unbeaten MMA record of 2-0 and has very strong takedown defense and tremendous power in his kicks and punches. Sandeep is a member of the CRPF and his fight style is Muay Thai.
MMA IN INDIA Sandeep Yadav vs Imran FCC-4.VOB (via mmafccindia)
Amjad Khan - stands at 5ft 9in tall and hails from Calcutta. Amjad is a first dan black belt in Karate and is also a state level boxing Gold Medalist. For the past year, Amjad has been training in Muay Thai, and Grappling. Amjad makes his MMA Debut in FCC-5 and fights a much more experienced and decorated fighter, Sandeep Yadav. But Amjad is not intimidated by Sandeep. Amjad's fight style is Muay Thai
Fight Six
Akshey Anand - stands at 6ft tall and weighs in at 75kgs. HE is a powerful Kickboxer who comes into FCC-5 with an MMA Record of 0-1 and needs a win to prove himself. He fights debutant Gaurav Pandey, and is training hard for a win. Akshay's fight style is Kickboxing
Gaurav Pandey - stands at 5ft 11in tall and weighs in at 75kgs. Gaurav makes his MMA debut in FCC-5. Gaurav is a District Level Gold Medalist in Judo, District Level Bronze Medalist in Boxing, and State Level Gold Medalist in Wushu. Gaurav is a natural brawler, and is confident of his skill. He fights Akshey Anand. Gaurav's fight style isMMA.
Fight Seven
Raju Shirsagar - stands at 5tft 9in tall and weighs in at 85 kgs. Raju is a black belt in Karate and a National Shotokan Karate Gold Medalist. He also has a background in Desi Kushti. Raju comes into FCC-5 with an unbeaten MMA Record of 1-0 and his fight style is MMA
Nitin Gaikwad - stands at 5ft 10in tall and weighs in at 83kgs. Nitin is a National Level Kickboxing Gold Medalist. He has also wrestled in the Akharas at Kolhapur since an early age. Nitin comes into FCC-5 with an MMA Record of 1-1, with one win and one loss. Nitin lost a Title Bout in FCC-4 to Javed Mulla. He is desperate for a re-match with Javed, and has his eyes on the FCC Belt. But before that, Nitin fights Raju Shirsagar in FCC-5. Nitin's Fight Style is MMA
Fight Eight
Alfan Hasmi - stands at 5ft 9in tall and weighs in at 84kgs. Alfan was first noticed in a street fight, where he made short work of an opponent almost twice his size. His skills were then polished by Team FCC, who saw great potential in this youngster. Alfan makes his debut in MMA at FCC-5, and is willing to fight in any weight category, and against anyone. Alfan's fight style is kickboxing
Shibashish Banerjee - stands at 5ft 9in tall and weighs in at 82kgs. He hails from Calcutta and is a Muay Thai fighter popularly referred to as " Mad Dog" for his aggression. Shibashish makes his MMA Debut in FCC-5 against another debutant and is coming to Mumbai to make a mark in FCC-5. His fight style is Muay Thai,
With a TUF India supposedly imminent (although Zuffa have made similar claims in the past which haven't come to fruition) and the SFL investing big bucks the race is on to find an Indian fighter capable of competing at an international level.
FCC is at present the only promotion giving Indian fighters a regular taste of professional competition and there really is no substitute for spending time in the ring or cage, racking up a few wins while getting acclimatized to the experience.
The SFL has a vast budget and is splashing out on an expensive sounding main event between Bob Sapp and James Thompson as well as a potential performance by Jennifer Lopez, a name not traditionally associated with MMA. However FCC is also attracting mainstream attention and The Guardian newspaper in England recently ran a feature on it and blue chip bands like Budweiser are also coming in as sponsors.
FCC clearly can't compete with that but if they continue to build fighters like Sandeep Yadav (who looks aggressive and confident and already has a 2-0 record) slow and steady might just win this particular race.
For more information visit: Full Contact Championship


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It was Level 4 of the WIAA High School football playoffs and some local teams saw their seasons come to a close.
At Goerke Field in Stevens Point, Amherst and Colby squared off for a trip to Camp Randall Stadium. The Falcons made their presence felt early and often as they put up 34 points in the first quarter and never looked back. Colby struggled with turnovers and other miscues that allowed Amherst to take advantage in a big way. Amherst took down Colby in blow out fashion 34-6.
In Chippewa Falls, perennial powerhouse Edgar matched up with Regis in this Level 4 contest. After not allowing a single point in the postseason throughout the first three weeks, Edgar was taken by surprise. Regis scored 21 points en route to ending Edgar's miraculous run this year. The Edgar offense couldn't manage to score and they would be shut out in their last game of the season.


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I've created a playlist on my YouTube channel (rickbeldenpoet) for the video readings I made a while back of poems from my first book, Iron Man Family Outing: Poems about Transition into a More Conscious Manhood. The seven poems included in the video series are:
- little iron man
- half-life
- fused at the wound
- gift (iron man dream #3)
- charley horse
- body memory
- easter
You can watch me read these seven poems in sequence using the player above, or you can click here to select and play individual videos directly from the YouTube page for the playlist.
PDF versions of these and many other poems from Iron Man Family Outing are available on the "Contents" page of my website.
Poetry on video: Seven poems from Iron Man Family Outing by Rick Belden, unless otherwise expressly stated, is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.


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Wilted LullabiesOh flower why hello...I didn't see you thereIn the world so far belowI could barely even hearYour screams of painSuch wilted lullabiesOh flower so far below meWhy do you cry?Oh flower belowHush your little leavesHow hard it hurts me soTo hear your petals screamTell me what to doThat's all I need to knowPlease flower let me take youFrom the world below.Oh flower in my worldAre you really there?Your wilted lullabiesHave turned into despairYour leaves are now holedYou fall with the winds blowFlower where can I take you?There's nowhere left for you to go.Oh flower leaving my worldWhere can you go?The world has forgotten youLeft you so far below.And while I couldn't save youAnd while I know you must goFlower I sing your wilted lullabiesSo the entire world will knowThe pain of a single flowerLeft in the world below.
Bag Of DreamsI once knew a boyWho carried his dreams on his backAnd kept them togetherIn a burlap sack,Which he hoistedAnd heavedUntil finallyHe'd leaveUsually in the same wayThat he came,With a bag full of dreamsA back full of painAnd with nowhere left to stay.This boyThough so smallcarried it allWithout a single complaint,While his legs seemed to stallAnd continually tried to fallAt every bump in the road.But on the boy walkedHe could not be stoppedOn his quest to keep his dreams.So to help him alongI sang him a songSo mellifluousAnd so sweetIt became a lullabyAnd slowly shut his eyesSo he could finally go to sleep.And while he slept on the groundI made not a soundWhile I approached the burlap sack,I made small tearSo some dreamsCould escape, if they dare.I just wanted to helpI swear.That bag was too heavyFor any boy to wear.I knew thisThis I did.So when he awokeAnd started to chokeAs he realizedThat his dreams were goneThey had long since died,I did
Why Love Is A Four Letter WordLet me tell you why "love" isA four letter wordIts so people will overuse itSo they'll say "love"Every other time they speak(A secret plot to replace "that")So it doesn't sound weirdLike an unpronounceable rumbleOf letters for every timeYou feel the need to repeatAnd repeatAnd repeat, those four letters.("I love love love snickers"Heard that sentence way too many times)So we'll be confused by itSo easily replacing two lettersChanging "Like" to "Love"With a flick of the tongueSo we'll adore the simplicityOf the word that so easily spokenCan define the thousands of emotionsWe feel for each otherSo it can be similarTo the words that are soEasily birthed from itLike "hope" and "need"So we won't forget itLike we sometimes forgetThe smaller things about each otherOr even the larger things,But those four lettersWill stay in our memoriesAnd on our tongues."Love" is a four letter wordBecause while nothing can defineThey way that I feel for youThey way your ey
You're My PoisonI'm dyingThe pain seeps throughClutching at my heartRipping it to shreds,You merely watchPretending you're not the cuaseSeeing me die slowlyEvery time you leave me,But you returnAs you always doSlowly sucking the poison outThat you yourself placedAnd i begin to forget,Just for a moment,And fall back into love with you again.And with every kissEvery time we fuckEvery second i spend loving you,I feel the poisonSeeping back into my heartAnd with everytime you leave mei begin to die againWhile you pretend not to see.You're the poison and the antitodeMy killer and saviourThe reason i want to liveWhile i slit my wrists,You're my poisonMy andidoteAnd my addictionAs i continue to drink you inAnd choke you down
The War Ain't OverThe war's never overIts always just beginningThinking of all the battles I've lostSends my brain spinning,But the war ain't overThat much I knowSo there's a chance I could take the reignsAnd then I'd never let 'em goBut right now's another battleAnother hour of pain,The enemies siegeWhen my smile started to waneUnder the crushing blowsTheir words did to meThough I supposeI should be glad they weren'tSticks and stonesCause then where would I be?And as my embarrassment mountsThen comes their cavalryStabbing at what's left of my gaiety.I call for a retreatCut the losses of my prideRun back for shelterAnd merely try to hide,But waiting there's an ambushAnother standing infantryAll their guns dutifullyPointing towards me.I stand and accept their fireWhere else am I meant to go?Here was supposed to be safeThis castle was supposed to be home.So I pull myself togetherI stride through their screamsTrying not to fall apartWhilst they rip me to seams.And the d
I Was Once Told My Heart BeatsI was once told my heart beatsBut how can I be sureWhen my soul feels so emptyNo sound so pureAs the reverberation of lifeBeating in my coreSo should i believe themI'm sure they've lied before,They said you only die onceBut I first died when I was fourWhen daddy snuck into my roomAnd treated me like a whore,And they said crying helpsThat it sets the pain freeAnd though i cried every nightThe tears never helped me,They even said wounds heal with ageAnd though I got older,Every single dayMy wounds only grew deeper,But I still continued to believe themEven as they lied to me againTelling me I'd find someoneWho'd save me from my painSomeone who'd love meFor who I amNot what I amAnd past what's happened to meThough I've searched and hopedBelieving what I was toldI was never enough for anyoneAnd my heart grew cold.I was once even toldMy heart beatsBut that seems too lovely to believe.
My Own HellI think of waysTo waste awayWith this time left unpaidI sit and reflectOn the breath in my chestAnd the words left unsaidI rot and writhe in darknessMy heart helpless and a messFilled with this sick unrestI look up and see nothingI look inside and see worse than nothingI watch the lies and hear the sighsThe lonely breaths of emptinessInto an empty world only I knowThe one I created for myselfYou may breach the castle wallsBut the stone will never crumbleAnd the fortress will never fallWho hears the cries of a helpless childWho hears the cracking of a broken heartWho hears the death of a dying smileWatch the words twist in agonyWrithing upon the cold hard groundBurning to ash like paper set to flameA dead world unknown to othersWrapped in words of hurtAnd fires that burn foreverThe plains of Hell never looked so heavenly
Last night,I had another dreamabout golden eyesand auburn hair.Hands that graspedmy damp [ inferior ]palms--interlocking fingers --A smirk too curvedfor the average smileand rose thorn lips thatpressed flame kissesalong my curves.[ fading whispers that dared me to dream. ]
Absence.Absence.I hate the thought of coming home to an empty room.It is a scenario my mind is not able to consume.Even though I know you will be back soon.I still have to wait for your return,In order for my life to resume.Kela Lewis-Morin
Wasted Words.Wasted Words.We wait for the last possible moment.Even when confronting our opponents.To reveal,How we truly feel.We hide behind our counterfeit expressions.Conceal and contain our countless confessions.Failing to announce,What our mouths long to pronounce.We purposely squander opportunities.Maintaining our positions within our communities.Avoiding any disclosure,Reducing the risk of exposure.We use humour to dilute what we actually say.Because the truth does not have to be revealed today.We know there always is a tomorrow,So today has not got to be filled with sorrow.We wait and wait. Stall and prolong. Until it's too late And the moment has gone. There is never a convenient time. For us to say what is really on our minds. It takes the sight of a death bed.
One of Many.One of Many.I'm afraid of your judgments.I'm afraid of what you will think of me.So I make subtle adjustmentsAnd become someone you want me to be.I hide behind my mascara and concealer.Smile and respond when instructed.I'm not smart or sexy enough to be a leader.So I allow myself to become conducted.I allow myself to become obstructed.I allow myself to become abducted.I allow myself to become corrupted.I allow myself to become artificial.I allow myself to become superficial.I allow myself to become egotisticalAnd live behind a carefully applied screen.Because my real face can never be seen.It's easier to act like everyone elseShare the same values and tastes.Believe the illusion and forget yourself.Because the bare truth is to spiteful to face.If you dare to stand out,Expect no helping hand outs.You have to completely give in,If you want to be a part of the world that we live in.After all, everybody just wants to be able to fit in.Kela Lewis-Morin
Memories of NowhereThe house swims with dustAnd the sun sighs warmthThrough the shattered window panesThings are brokenThey are crushedEverywhereBut there are toysAnd decrepit teddy bearsWith desperate smiles on their faceSpirits linger hereBut they do not hauntThey chuckle into the empy roomsAnd fill you with memoriesAnd nostalgia for a placeThat doesn't exist
I Am...I am an observer,I watch as you falland I won't make a moveto answer your call.I am dishonest,it has been since my smallest yearsthat I let my truth into others ears.I am a composer,of a great many liesyet carry luck like a cloverI never break my disguise.Through those heat filled faces surrounding meI can just barely seeand sometimes I find nowhere to runthey take over me.I am rarely awake with sun,so that when everything slips undone,I will not be exposedI will always stay composed.I keep my secrets like stars keep distanceburning bright beneath my skindefining my existenceout of reach and filled with sin.Never trust a word I say,I lie to everyone every dayand this is the only timeI will admitthat I am unlike you in many ways.Who I am is just this: a secret to holdand I will show no oneno matter how bold.
Life Is An Intravenous DripLife is an intravenous dripWith no transfusion of bloodInstead it slowly relieves meOf a mind that once was goodAdministering paranoiaDirectly from the drip chamberSuffocating me with terrorWhen there is no imminent dangerLife is an intravenous dripI am fascinated by my veinsAnd curious as to which oneCarries the blood to my brainWhich causes the unwanted impulseFor me to question every answerTourniquet that varicose vesselCuriosity is my cancerLife is an intravenous dripOf that I am A positiveMy blood remains optimisticSo why am I so negativeI see no saline solutionJust diminishing vital signsAs my sanity transfuses from meOne deplorable drop at a time
The Flower of DeathDeath is a flower that unfolds,each petal caressedreveals another secret untold,to drink from awakening nectarand transcend into worlds beyondeven dreams, while you are lulledaway upon its offering scent,bespeaking of mysteries evenfarther then the farthest Eastern shores.A subtly of beauty revealedlackadaisically within its unquestioning depths,like fields of opium dreamscaught upon the gentlest breeze,white as virginal snowits pollen is swept awayfor Death's blossoms are infinite,everlasting, and yet onlyrarely seen.
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Hello everyone, this
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Home › Blogs › James's blog ›
One more way Pat McCrory is just like Mitt Rmoney
Submitted by James on Fri, 08/31/2012 - 10:22am
Afterthought? Now there's an understatement.
... Pat McCrory, the Republican nominee, took his message of economic recovery to the Charlotte Chamber on Monday, but his eight-minute speech skimped on specifics and felt like an afterthought.
Our local paper
Submitted by Anonymouser (not verified) on Fri, 08/31/2012 - 11:52am.
Says Mcrory will be visiting Main Street Rutherfordton, tomorrow (Sat.9/1).


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Category — Developing Countries
Setting The Economist Straight on Developing Countries and (Anthropogenic) Climate Change
Last month, an article in The Economist tried to make the case that global warming is or ought to be an urgent concern for developing countries. My letter protesting the speculative and unsubstantiated claims of the piece was prominently published in the current issue. Although the editors of The Economist changed my title, dropped the references, and made it somewhat briefer, the printed version is quite faithful to the spirit of the original, which is available here.
For the public record, my full version is provided below.
A badly developed climate backgrounder
SIR — The Economist's article, A bad climate for development (September 17), which also serves as a backgrounder for an online debate on climate change, is not only selective in the information it presents, it is riddled with speculation and unsubstantiated claims.
For example, its chart 3 presents portions of two of three panels in figure 2.1 of the World Development Report 2010. But the panel that it chooses not to display shows that deaths from all climate related disasters have actually declined at least since 1981–85 despite (a) an enormous increase in the population at risk, namely, the world's population, and (b) the fact that older data has a greater tendency to underestimate the number and casualties of extreme weather events. The original source of the data (Center for Research on the Epidemiology of Disasters, CRED) states that the increase in the data until 1995 "is explained partly by better reporting of disasters in general, partly due to active data collection efforts by CRED and partly due to real increases in certain types of disasters."[1] They also state that they are unable to say whether the latter increases are due to climate change. [Read more →]
October 17, 2009 8 Comments


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I'm bored with my widgets. Make some recommendations?
I feel like I'm in a rut with my homescreens. I scroll back and forth, bored, wishing some interesting content would pop off the screen. I'm looking for inspiration. (Note: I'm stock VZW GNex, unrooted, have to stay that way).
Here are my current home screens, from left to right.
(1) The Facebook widget is from the official app and is of marginal utility. I like that is is less intrusive than a lot of other alternatives out there.
(2) The system settings widgets are fantastic and from Power Toggles. These are duplicated in the notification dropdown, but I like having them here, too. Those blurred squares are contact widgets for family.
(3) The clock, battery, and weather widgets are Beautiful Widgets.
(4) The calendar widget is Android Agenda Widget. Music is Google Play.
(5) The stock photo frame widget and the Play Shazam-knock-off widget, which I don't think I've ever used...
Some things I know I don't like: widgets that are constantly fetching data (like stock tickers and news readers) and draining the battery; full screen widgets (with some rare exceptions, historically speaking); messaging widgets (I prefer the full email/handcent/Gmail experience to bastardized widgetry). Other than that, though... well, I'll try anything once.
So, dear Android Army -- make some recommendations? What fabulous widgets could I be enjoying RIGHT NOW? :)


text: May 10, 2012Olson speaks to mediaHamline Law Professor Joseph Olson was interviewed by Sun This Week for an article about two criminal cases tried by Dakota County Assistant Attorney Kevin Golden. Two First District judges have thrown out the cases, finding out that Golden twice created a mistrial so he could retry defendants, according to court orders. Olson called the cases "astonishing" and said based on the rulings, the findings of prosecutorial misconduct against Golden are "so egregious" that the cases should be reviewed by the Lawyers Professional Responsibility Board. "It's certainly worthy of investigating and worthy of some kind of professional sanction," Olson said. "I'm amazed the county attorney didn't fire him after the first case because he … deliberately misused the process." Read more: Sun This Week: Rare mistrials declared due to prosecutor conduct (May 2)