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Reputed Boston mob boss James "Whitey" Bulger is an 83-year-old man federal prosecutors say was responsible for 19 murders before he went on the lam in 1994.
Jodi Arias is a 32-year-old ex-waitress from Arizona who's facing the death penalty in the grisly killing of her lover, stabbed 27 times, his throat slashed and shot in the face.
As criminal types, they have about as much in common as rocks and birds. But here's something that may help them both: In the age of social media, it's easier than ever for the jurors sitting in their cases to screw up.
The impartial jury, untainted by influences from outside the courtroom and unwilling to share opinions about the proceedings except in the context of jury deliberations, is supposed to be a linchpin of American jurisprudence. The trouble is, amid the proliferation of social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter – coupled with the increasing portability of computers – it's nearly impossible to keep jurors chaste.
"It's very difficult," says Philip K. Anthony, the CEO of DecisionQuest, a nationwide trial consulting firm. "What we've seen consistently is once a person gets selected as a juror they almost can't help but use social media. The first thing they do is they'll use search engines and they'll either do research on the case itself or they'll look at web sites of the parties involved or some other aspect of a case.
"The other thing they do is seek out opinions from peer groups."
It's now routine for judges to warn jurors against the misuse of social media. But the amazing thing, says Anthony, is that no matter how often judges warn juries that they're supposed to decide the cases based solely on the evidence that emerges in the courtroom, many jurors don't take the admonition seriously.
"In the current environment, most jurors do not see that as a violation of their responsibilities as jurors," he says. "Most see it as helping them do a better job."
Robert Mann, a prominent defense lawyer from Rhode Island, says a trial doesn't have to be about a racially charged killing in Florida or an FBI-protected mob boss in Boston for social media to be a serious concern. It doesn't even have to be a criminal trial.
"Forget about the high-profile cases for a second," says Mann. "What a lot of juries now have the capability of doing is to find out a great many details of a case just by going on the internet."
Back in the day when newspapers were the nation's main spigot of information on current events, the chief concern of prosecutors and defense lawyers was that jurors would be unfairly influenced by pre-trial publicity, according to Mann.
Pre-trial publicity is as much a worry as it ever was, he says, but social media and the power of the internet have also made it more difficult to insulate juries from unwanted influences after the trial begins.
"The danger is after picking the jury," he says.
Computers, smart phones and other portable devices are making it more convenient than ever for jurors to do things they're not supposed to do while a trial is going on. Jurors are often escorted to crime scenes in the context of a trial, but now they can take a virtual tour simply by clicking Google Maps. If a witness testifies about DNA evidence, a juror can effortlessly consult the web for a broader understanding of human genetics. Then he can tell all his Facebook friends everything he learned.
Many aficionados of social media hardly need a compelling reason to post a status update, observes Andrew Horwitz, associate dean of academic affairs at Roger Williams University Law School. "I just bought a trash can at Walmart," might be enough, he snickers.
For the serial status-updater, the momentous occasion of a criminal trial is an irresistible opportunity to indulge.
"It seems like quite an obvious proposition," says Horwitz. "We're all so connected to our electronic equipment at this point. Most people can't go three minutes without their cell phones. It's hard to imagine jurors aren't routinely accessing their phones to communicate with other people or access the web to do research about the trial or some concept that's come up at the trial."
Horwitz says the natural human tendencies to share, explore and opine have always been issues for juries, but "the problem with digital media is that it makes it so much easier to do."
Horwitz thinks jurors are about as likely to abide by a judge's instructions to refrain from using social media to discuss a case as they are to avoid reading a newspaper or discussing the evidence with a spouse – which is to say, not very. But Horwitz believes the potential risk is much higher when a juror is exposed to the opinionated fare that's standard on social networking sites like Facebook.
"How many people go can really go home at the end of the day and not talk to their spouse? I've always assumed that's a very small percentage of people in real life. But I am troubled if suddenly there is a discussion on social media – it's worse. It's more likely the case is going to get polluted by some really inappropriate material because somebody thinks they know something and they start injecting opinions into what ultimately becomes the deliberation process. It's more likely that's going to happen if they're chatting on social media than if someone is chatting with their spouse."
Legal watchdogs have been taking note of the effects of social media on juries for several years.
A 2009 study at Duke University concluded that the rising influence of social media posed serious threats to the integrity of the jury system. The study said judges could help by giving specific instructions to jurors on permissible uses of the web before they begin hearing testimony.
"The explosive growth of social networking has placed enormous pressure on one of the most fundamental of American institutions—the impartial jury," the study said. "Through social networking services like Facebook and Twitter, jurors have committed significant and often high-profile acts of misconduct."
Not long before the study was published, the authors observed, the Arkansas Supreme Court reversed a death sentence because a juror Tweeted during deliberations about the verdict.
The same year a juror sitting in a high-profile federal drug case in Florida admitted to the judge that he'd been doing research on the internet in violation of the judge's instructions. The judge, William J. Zloch, wondered what other jurors were up to. He was surprised to learn that eight other members of the panel had been doing their own independent research on the web, and he was forced to declare a mistrial.
In March 2009, the New York Times reported that the use of portable devices like BlackBerrys and iPhones for collecting and distributing data on court cases was "wreaking havoc on trials around the country, upending deliberations and infuriating judges."
"Of course it should be a concern," says retired Superior Court Judge Stephen J. Fortunato. "The idea is jurors are not supposed to be getting any information expect what's displayed in the witness stand and what comes from the court. They're not supposed to be dealing with conjecture or what comes from the internet or anywhere else."
Fortunato, who retired from the bench four years ago, says that even then jurors were routinely instructed to hand over their cell phones to the sheriffs while court was in session..
He says he would caution them against talking to each other about the case outside the courtroom and to their relatives after they went home. He also told them not to visit crime scenes or "conduct experiments" to determine if one theory of the case or another was the most persuasive.
"From time immemorial the rule is do no not talk about the case with family, friends, neighbors...you and you alone make the decision," says Fortunato.
Fortunato believes most jurors take the advice seriously and do their best to follow it, but compliance is certainly less than universal.
How much less, he says, "is anybody's guess."
Follow Russ Olivo on Twitter @russolivo


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Read: How The Rangers Could Win If The NHLPA Decertifies
At ESPN Insider, Craig Custance looks at who could be winners and who could be losers if the NHLPA files for decertification.
He notes that big market teams could be big winners since nothing would stop them from spending and hoarding the best players.
Players like Sidney Crosby and Steven Stamkos, among others, could sue to become free agents and it's possible that based on court rulings, everyone could become a free agent.
Restricted free agents would no longer exist as they are determined RFA's because of the CBA so Michael Del Zotto, Jamie Benn, PK Subban and more would be free to sign with any team that they wanted.
There would also be no draft and all of those players would be free to sign anywhere.
On decertification, Scott Burnside writes that only one word can describe what is likely to happen with the NHL "kaboom."
He adds "Maybe the mere threat of such a potentially devastating move sparks the types of resolutions we saw in the NBA and the NFL. But if this lockout has taught us anything it's that the obvious path, the right path, has been one that has been studiously avoided by both sides."

subset: commoncrawl


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Wayfair Business JOIN FREE!
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Product Information:
Product Details
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Framed: Yes
|Mirror Type: Bathroom / Vanity mirror
|Hanging Orientation: Vertical
|Distressed: No
|Number of Items Included: 1
Water Resistant: Yes
|Jewelry Storage Included: No
Shelves Included: Yes
|Drawers Included: No
|Wall Mounting Hardware: No
|Stemware Storage Included: No
|Swing Arm Included: No
|Lighted: No
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|Life Stage: Adult
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About the ManufacturerBellaterra Home uniquely designs the line and manufactures overseas. The production is meticulously managed so that a beautiful piece is the final result every time - from the production sample shown at market to a reorder one year later. Overseeing the selection of the best raw materials, employing skilled carvers and craftsmen, artfully finishing and packing the piece so it arrives without damage are just a few ways we know we can stand behind the quality of our products. They pride themselves on selecting the best materials for each piece to ensure it will withstand the test of time. For each piece they carefully select the wood, marble, granite, stone, iron, metal, glass, mirror, or hardware, then hand-craft each design using only the best techniques and quality materials combined with quality construction results in a piece you will enjoy for a lifetime. Their vanities are manufactured around the concept that function, design and value are decisive factors in decisions consumers make before purchasing. Function precedes design but harmonizing both creates value. Attention to details is their guiding principle. They only use genuine solid wood to make the cabinets as we believe it truly delivers the beauty of nature. Wood finishes are all 100% waterproof, eliminating warping or humidity damage.
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text:
getting rid of stuff
Posted 08 October 2012 - 09:27 PM
my motivation's a little drastic but it's working and my giant garbage and recycling bins are so full that anything else will have to wait until after this week's pickup. and i have a car load of stuff for the salvation army, too. yayyyy tax write offs! and i have a box full of stuff for a friend and might just get a 2nd box, yet.
i even emptied a matching 6 drawer dresser and 4 drawer night-table set. i'm kind of thinking of getting rid of them altogether because i already have a big extra dresser that either my father or my grandfather made, and really need the space in that room.
it's been at least 10 years since i've really gone through my closets, much less anything else like kitchen junk and have no regrets so far. and i'm not done yet, either!
Posted 08 October 2012 - 09:30 PM
Are you getting a roommate?
Posted 08 October 2012 - 09:37 PM
Posted 08 October 2012 - 09:46 PM
I'm purging stuff to get ready for the baby.
It feels good to just let go.
Posted 08 October 2012 - 10:14 PM
Posted 09 October 2012 - 12:11 AM
I went through my clothes recently and made some tough calls 'if you haven't worn it in a year it's gotta go' although those rules do not apply to the costume side of my closet
Posted 09 October 2012 - 02:05 AM
next up is piles of paperwork and receipts to be sorted. ugh.
Posted 09 October 2012 - 02:19 AM
I've been getting rid of a lot of stuff in my mom's apartment and she is happy about it
Posted 09 October 2012 - 02:52 AM
Its amazing how much crap we accumulate.
Posted 09 October 2012 - 04:45 AM
Posted 09 October 2012 - 06:11 AM
Posted 09 October 2012 - 10:44 AM
been doing this since kids left for college.
Anyone want a 14" trampoline?
Posted 09 October 2012 - 11:04 AM
Posted 09 October 2012 - 11:16 AM
however even nancykind has now dragged another thread right into the gutter. no wonder they made her a vibeguide.
Posted 09 October 2012 - 11:19 AM
Anyone want a 14" trampoline?
Posted 09 October 2012 - 11:22 AM
also, my motivation originally was in thinking of my sister and father. that if i were to die, nooobody deserved to have to deal with that much crap! now i can picture them going in to a room without being completely overwhelmed.
Posted 09 October 2012 - 11:22 AM
Posted 09 October 2012 - 11:24 AM
Posted 09 October 2012 - 11:25 AM
Posted 09 October 2012 - 03:30 PM
i havent moved in over 10 years now but moving a lot in the years previous sure cured me of most of my packrat tendencies
now, once a year i do the "i havent worn this so it goes" donation sweep and not only are the tax write-offs nice, but the space is wonderful!
my biggest problem now is going through old paperwork and recycling non-sensitive stuff, shredding the stuff with info on it and keeping only what i NEED to have paper copies of
how long do people keep paper copies of paid bills?
i used to keep them for a year but have been told that its unnecessary
Posted 09 October 2012 - 03:57 PM
Posted 09 October 2012 - 04:00 PM
Depends if they have been used for a tax deduction or not.
if i use something for my taxes, it goes in my tax return folder and thus, gets saved
how long for non-tax related items?
Posted 09 October 2012 - 06:01 PM
What documents to keep, what you can toss—and when.
Consumer Reports Money Advisor: March 2010
There are a lot of good reasons to have a plan for keeping track of your important papers. If you're meeting with a financial adviser or an attorney, it might take you an hour to prepare instead of a week. If there's a fire, flood, or theft, you'll be able to find essential documents without delay. If something happens to you, your loved ones will be able to readily locate your health-care power of attorney, insurance policies, medical records, and outstanding bills. Even on an everyday basis, good record-keeping makes it easier to pay bills on time, find receipts, and reduce tax-time anxiety.
Unfortunately, only 40 percent of Americans think they can find a document at a moment's notice, and only 49 percent can do so with a little looking, according to a recent poll by the Consumer Reports National Research Center. And although 89 percent said they were extremely to fairly organized when it comes to their financial paperwork, nearly one-quarter had either lost or forgotten about an important financial document. Worse, 16 percent had lost money or incurred a charge because of their poor organization of paperwork.
"It's amazing how much money disorganized people lose track of, and how much they waste on late fees and interest charges," says Stephanie Denton, a professional organizer and author of "The Organized Life: Secrets of an Expert Organizer" (North Light Books, 2006). "One time I found a check for $25,000 that some clients forgot to deposit."
If you're a married woman you're more likely to think you're on top of your financial record-keeping than your spouse is. Fifty-eight percent of the women surveyed said they had a better idea of where their most important documents were than their spouses did; only 30 percent of the married men thought they had a better idea. But some of the respondents might not be as on top of things as they think—5 percent admitted they had hidden accounts from a spouse or significant other.
The most surprising discovery from the survey may be this: 16 percent of the respondents said they actually liked organizing their financial records. People who were 65 and older were the most likely to enjoy it.
Even if you dread it, getting your financial papers in order helps lower stress in your life, says Peter Walsh, author of "Does This Clutter Make My Butt Look Fat?" (Simon & Schuster, 2008). All you have to know is how long to keep your records and where they should be stored.
Tax season is the perfect time to start tackling the paper piles, Denton says. The act of filing (or gathering your information for a tax preparer) forces you to become reacquainted with your finances. You can divide nearly all of your financial records into four categories: papers that you need to keep for the calendar year or less; ones that can be destroyed when you no longer own the items they cover; tax records, which you should save for seven years; and papers to keep indefinitely.
Keep for a year or less
Denton suggests you begin your organizing by setting up a place you can keep your bills until you pay them. As soon as a bill comes in, for example, put it in a folder labeled "bills to pay." Then set an electronic calendar reminder for a time when you're going to sit down and pay them. Store the documents listed below in a file cabinet. You don't need to keep other bills.
If you don't pay your bills electronically, now may be a good time to set up online banking. "That way you can schedule your payments in advance, and even set up monthly bill payments for amounts that don't change, like your mortgage, so you won't be late," Denton says.
To help avoid identity theft, shred anything you plan to throw away that contains personal data. More than 50 percent of the people we surveyed said they put documents through a shredder before they trashed them. Look for a crosscut shredder rather than a strip one, which leaves long paper bands that could be reassembled.
Documents that you have no long-term need to keep include:
Bank records
Keep deposit and ATM receipts until you reconcile them with your monthly statements. File your monthly checking and savings account statements. After you do your taxes, file any statements needed to prove deductions with your tax records; the rest can be shredded.
Credit-card bills
You don't need to keep them after you've checked and paid them, unless you need a bill to support a deduction you'll be taking on your taxes, such as for a charitable donation (in which case you'll need to file the bill with your current-year tax records). If an item you've charged is under warranty, keep the bill until the warranty expires. Staple the credit-card bill to the warranty document and put it in a file with other warranties; you may need the bill as proof of purchase if the item needs repair.
Current-year tax records
Keeping your records organized can save you headaches and money at tax time. Tax preparers might charge more if you give them a disorganized shoe box full of papers. Place documents you'll need for your next return in a file. If you need to save a lot of receipts and bills, use a standing accordion file.
Insurance policies
Keep policies that you renew each year, such as those for your home, apartment, or car, until you get new policies, then shred the old ones.
Investment statements
You can shred your monthly and quarterly statements from brokerage, 401(k), IRA, Keogh, and other investment accounts as new ones arrive. But hold on to annual statements until you sell the investments. You may want to have separate folders for traditional and Roth accounts to help you keep track of amounts that are deductible and nondeductible for tax purposes. Better yet, sign up for electronic statements if your financial institutions offer them.
Pay stubs
Keep the calendar year's records until you reconcile them with your annual W-2 form, then shred them.
If you're not doing anything with your receipts—like tracking your spending, itemizing tax deductions, or using them to return purchases—you can get rid of most of those little scraps of paper immediately. If you need to keep them on hand so you can verify amounts against your credit-card bills or bank statements, create a folder labeled "receipts" and keep it with your bills-to-pay folder. That way you'll have your receipts handy when you pay your credit-card bills. If you think you might return something, ask the salesperson how long you have to decide, and jot down the date on your receipt.
Keep for a limited time
Documents relating to investment purchases, loans, and other items that expire or are sold can be stored in an out-of-the way file cabinet. But try to go through them once a year and toss out papers as detailed below.
Household furnishings paperwork
Keep receipts, warranties, and, while you're at it, instruction booklets for major appliances and electronics. You can get rid of a warranty when the period it covers has passed, and the rest of the material when you no longer own an item. Ditto for canceled receipts and bills for major purchases such as furniture.
Investment purchase confirmations
You'll need these to establish your cost basis and holding period when you sell the investments. If this information appears on your annual statements, you can keep those instead. Store the records in your file cabinet until you sell the investments, at which time you should move the back-up records into that year's tax-return file.
Loan documents
Keep closing documents for mortgage, vehicle, student, and other loans in a safe-deposit box. You can get rid of them after the loan is paid off.
Savings bonds
Hold these in a secure place until you cash them in. Or you can convert them to electronic form using the Treasury's SmartExchange program, at www.treasurydirect.gov.
Vehicle records
Keep purchase receipts, titles, and registration information in a safe-deposit box as long as you own the car, boat, truck, or other vehicle. Store the maintenance and repair records in your home filing cabinet.
Hold these for seven years
This category includes personal federal and state tax returns and their supporting records. You should keep them because your returns can be randomly audited up to three years after the date you filed the return. If you fail to report more than 25 percent of your gross income, the government has six years to collect the tax or start legal proceedings. You can be audited at any time if the IRS suspects you of fraud.
After seven years, you may want to keep just the tax returns if you'd like to track your income over the years. Keep tax records more than seven years old in your out-of-the-way file cabinet. Better yet, scan the returns into your computer and store them on a CD or external hard drive. Nearly half of the people in our survey said they kept both electronic and paper tax files, but only 3 percent stored their records only in electronic form.
Do not toss
These are permanent members of your financial paperwork family, which you may need to retrieve occasionally. Essential records such as birth and death certificates, marriage licenses, divorce decrees, Social Security cards, and military discharge papers should be kept in a safe-deposit box. Here are some other documents you should hold on to forever:
Defined-benefit plan documents
Keep pension-plan documents from your current and former employers. Store them in your file cabinet.
Estate-planning documents
Keep copies of wills, trusts, and powers of attorney in your safe-deposit box. You should also make sure your attorney and your executor have copies. It's also a good idea to give your primary-care physician and anyone named to make decisions on your behalf copies of your health-care proxy.
Life-insurance policies
For permanent life insurance—policies that have a cash value or investment component—keep documents and a list of the companies that issued them and their phone numbers in your safe-deposit box. If you have a term life policy, hold the documents until the term is over, then toss them.
Safe-deposit box inventory
Note the location of the box and your keys, and keep a list of what you have in it. Update the list once a year or as you add or remove documents. Keep the inventory list in your out-of-the way file cabinet. You should also keep photocopies at home of any documents you have stored in the box in case you need to refer to them.
Posted 09 October 2012 - 06:17 PM
will print that out (more paperwork to keep )
Posted 09 October 2012 - 07:04 PM
Posted 09 October 2012 - 07:31 PM
Posted 09 October 2012 - 08:57 PM
Love the document list! Can now convince Mary that the pay stubs from 1992 can go
Posted 09 October 2012 - 10:24 PM
Diddy - sure! want pics? PM me an email addy and i can send some. it's one nightstand though, single not plural. one dresser, matching nightstand. i stained 'em myself. 25 years ago. golden oak!
Lostsailr - good luck with that!!
Posted 09 October 2012 - 10:25 PM
Posted 09 October 2012 - 10:41 PM
Posted 09 October 2012 - 10:53 PM
Posted 09 October 2012 - 11:02 PM
Love the GOne with the Wind Civil War like scene of the wounded! lol
I do have a safety net (but made me crazy when kids went on with friends dispite my "1 at a time" rule. Damn kids!
Posted 09 October 2012 - 11:04 PM
Posted 09 October 2012 - 11:24 PM
Posted 09 October 2012 - 11:57 PM
Posted 10 October 2012 - 10:55 PM
Posted 10 October 2012 - 11:08 PM
Can u email pics?? We really need extra clothing storage space. My pants are in a pile! Lol
Will PM
Posted 11 October 2012 - 12:44 AM
i'll be kinda sad to see them go but not for any good reason. just 'cause i've had them so long, i guess. but if either they or the handmade but plain one has to go, my choice is obvious.
Posted 11 October 2012 - 03:01 AM
Posted 11 October 2012 - 08:58 AM
Posted 11 October 2012 - 09:19 AM
Posted 11 October 2012 - 12:49 PM
Posted 12 October 2012 - 12:05 AM
Posted 12 October 2012 - 12:13 AM
Posted 12 October 2012 - 12:31 AM
Posted 12 October 2012 - 03:09 AM
Posted 12 October 2012 - 11:29 AM
Posted 13 October 2012 - 05:18 PM
and those sheets that came with mail order tickets that had hotels and restaurants and directions 'n stuff? time to get rid of those too.
i have a pile of random envelopes with no cards, cards with no envelopes, 6 copies of the foot and hand reflexology charts that aren't even in color.
but i can't help but laugh.
Posted 13 October 2012 - 11:08 PM
Posted 13 October 2012 - 11:22 PM


text:
Elan Jacket (Women's)
Out of Stock Product Number: 29024
The women's Marmot Elan Jacket is hard-core mountain protection with town-friendly style. The Elan is a rain jacket you can dress up. Completely seam-taped, the rain shell is made from Marmot MemBrain® 2.5 Strata fabric that's waterproof and breathable. Long and stylish, the jacket has an attached hood, tie belt, zip hand pockets and snap cuff closure.
- Marmot MemBrain 2.5 Strata Waterproof/Breathable Fabric
- 100% Seam Taped
- Attached Hood
- Zip Hand Pockets
- Detachable Tie Belt
- Snap Cuff Closure
Gender: Women's
Weight: 14.8oz (419.6g)
Material: MemBrain®Strata™ 100% Nylon Ripstop
Fit: Regular Fit
Dimensions: Center Back Length 32.5in
Season: S13
Vendor ProductId: 35200
Review ProductId: 29024


text:
Vivi Pant (Women's) Closeout (out-of-stock)
Out of Stock Product Number: 27113
PrAna's designers stripped away anything nonessential, then added a hidden stash pocket to the women's Vivi Pant. With a relaxed fit and a clean profile that fits every body style, the Vivi Pant is shaped out of performance poly/spandex fabric for moisture-wicking comfort and stretch.
- Chakara(R) performance fabric
- Clean flattering waistband with internal stash pocket feature
- Size small = 31" (78.7 cm) inseam
- Quick dry
- Relaxed fit
Gender: Women's
Material: 90% Recycled Poly 10% Spandex
Fit: Size small = 32" inseam, Relaxed fit
Season: F12
Vendor ProductId: W4VIVP310
Review ProductId: 25070


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You've seen the imitators, now behold the only cage on the market designed to the exacting standards of Louie Simmons of Westside Barbell. Some of the world's most powerful men use this sturdy device everyday, and it has never been broken. Unlike any other cage on the market, this cage features 1″ incremental loading and spotting graduating to 2″ for a total of 41 adjustment points. Elevated base bars accommodate extra wide sumo stances. The Combo Cage comes with adjustable band pegs on both the top and bottom of the cage. The set-up also includes pull-up bar, weight plate storage, and band storage pegs.
Notice: Some Legend Fitness pieces will arrive fully welded and in one piece. It is the customer's responsibility to make sure the delivered dimensions of each piece will allow it to be moved to the preferred location in your home or business. Any fully welded pieces can be built to bolt together upon request. This may require an upcharge. Please consult with a salesman if you have doubt before placing the order!
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text:
By RICHARD SHAWSports editor
The Carbon Dinos went Rabbit hunting on Friday night and they did it in the dark. No they didn't illegally spot light hunt; they just did it while it was dark and outside and by the time they were done it was dark inside the Dinogym too because the Carbon boys had shot the lights out.
Making up for a disappointing loss to the Rabbits earlier in the season in Millard County, the team took out their frustrations on the kids from Delta and whipped them 79-54.
It was a truly interesting game, with a noisy crowd and people having to use a different entrance to get in because the old gym next door was occupied with a varsity wrestling meet at the same time. People kept going from one to the other and after the basketball game wrapped up many fans walked into the other gym and watched the Dino wrestlers beat up on Union.
In some ways there was a wrestling match going on in the Dinogym as well. The Carbon boys are trying to stay alive in the Region 8 race for a spot at the state tournament and went a long ways towards doing that by beating Delta. They are now tied for second in the Region with Emery and Delta, while third ranked in the state Lehi leads the league with an undefeated record.
Carbon jumped all over the Rabbits right from the beginning of the game and never let up. They played good defense and held onto the ball very well. At the end of the first they were ahead 17-12, a good sign. Carbon has won few games this season when they didn't lead at the end of the first period.
The second quarter was similar as the Dinos out scored Delta 18-14. Matt Jewkes moves to the basket kept the Rabbits very honest on their defense and they had to pay the price as 10 Carbon players scored in the game.
But it was the third quarter where the Dinos really ran down their prey. They destroyed the Rabbits at that point turning their offense into a joke and almost pouring the ball through the basket at will. By the end of the quarter they led 59-37 and never looked back.
The Rabbits may as well have packed their bags, but hope springs eternal. However, the hope got lost and the spring dried up; they didn't gain a thing in the fourth period, in fact even with a good effort they still lost ground.
In the end it was the balance that Carbon showed that did Delta in. Matt Jewkes had an outstanding game in many ways, demonstrated by his 22 points and his fine moves to the basket.
One of the best things about the game was the way the Dinos shot their three point shots. All together the team made 13 threes, possibly a school record. Jewkes had four, Jeff Anderson had three, Jake Wood and Matt Hough each had two a piece and Tyson Hackwell and Kyle Willson each had one. Delta only had three from beyond the arc.
Now Carbon must travel to Emery County on Wednesday night and beat the Spartan's to solidify their position. They lost at home to the Spartans a month ago, but things have changed. Carbon is a better team now, particularly with their outside shooting touch being what it is.
Then next week they face North Sanpete at home with the final game of the regular season against powerful Lehi in Utah County on Feb. 13.
Two more wins would assure them a playoff spot.


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Luna Top (Women's)
Out of Stock Product Number: 30800
Rustic charm and feminine detail are on full display in the women's prAna Luna Top. Wool's natural qualities make that display a warm and moisture managing one.
* This product does not qualify for shipping to all countries.
- Lightweight, heather wool blend fabric
- Front yoke seam, chest pockets, placket, and princess seams with tonal reverse coverstitch detail
Gender: Women's
Material: 70% Acrylic, 30% Wool
Season: F13
Vendor ProductId: W2LUNA312
Review ProductId: 30800
Reviewed by 1 customer
- Lightweight
- Warm
- Too Long
Best Uses
- Business
- Casual
- Travel
Comments about prAna Luna Top (Women's):
I own a number of Luna tops that I bought last year, but bought more when they came out in new colors this year. They are dressy enough to wear for business and comfortable enough to wear for everyday. They are wonderful as a layering piece for travel, as they are lightweight and pack small. They wash and dry well. They can be worn open as a cardigan, or buttoned as a shirt. My only complaint is that this year Prana is making them about 2 inches longer than they did in the past and I find this fit less flattering than the older model, even though I am 5'6".
- Was this a gift?:
- No


text:
= Access Restricted
Letters to Regulators
Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking Regarding Risk-Based Capital Guidelines: Implementation of the
November 3, 2003
Public Information Room
Ms. Jennifer J. Johnson, Secretary
Robert E. Feldman, Executive Secretary
Regulation Comments
Re: Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking Regarding Risk-Based Capital Guidelines: Implementation of the New Basel Capital Accord
Dear Sir or Madam:
Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA)1 appreciates the opportunity to comment on the advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPR) regarding the New Basel Capital Accord (Basel II) and how it should be implemented in the United States. The banking agencies (Agencies) are soliciting comment on all aspects of Basel II and will seek further changes to the new accord based on the comments that are received in response to the ANPR.
Background to Basel II
The current risk-based capital adequacy rules, adopted in 1989, are based on the International Basel Capital Accord of 1988 (Basel I). Although developed for large, internationally active banks, U.S. regulators applied these new risk-based standards to all domestic banks. Specifically, Basel I requires all banks to maintain a minimum total risk-based capital ratio of 8 percent, Tier I capital to risk-weighted assets of 4 percent, and a leverage ratio of 4 percent. For well-capitalized banks, those percentages are 10, 6 and 5, respectively.
Over the past several years, the Basel Committee on Bank Supervision has been working to develop a new regulatory capital framework that recognizes new developments in financial products, incorporates advances in risk measurement and management practices, and more precisely assesses capital charges in relation to risk. Although Basel I was a stabilizing force for the international banking system, the Basel Committee wanted a more updated accord that recognized the increasing complexity of the financial system. On April 29, 2003, the Basel Committee released a revised accord--Basel II for comment and on August 4, 2003, the Agencies issued the ANPR soliciting comment on the new accord and how it should be implemented in the United States.
Overview of Basel II
Basel II encompasses three pillars: minimum regulatory capital requirements, supervisory review, and market discipline. Basel II does not change the definition of what qualifies as regulatory capital or the risk-based capital ratios mentioned above. Under the first pillar, a banking organization must calculate capital requirements based on exposure to both credit risk and operational risk. Although the new accord provides several methods for determining capital requirements for both credit and operational risk, the advanced internal ratings based (A-IRB) approach is the method that the Agencies intend to apply to the largest banks in this country. Under the A-IRB approach, a bank's own assessment of key risk factors for a particular exposure serve as the primary inputs in the calculation of the bank's risk-based capital requirements. These risk factors are then inserted into formulas specified by the Agencies to derive a specific dollar amount capital requirement for each exposure or group of exposures.
To calculate credit risks, for instance, banks using the A-IRB approach assign assets and off-balance sheet exposures into one of three portfolios: wholesale (corporate, interbank and sovereign), retail (residential mortgage, qualifying revolving, and other), and equities. For each portfolio, banks then calculate a probability of default (PD), a loss given default (LGD), and the exposure at default (EAD) to determine the amount of capital that would be required for that portfolio. Under this first pillar, banks also have to hold enough capital for exposure to operational risk (defined as the risk of losses resulting from inadequate or failed internal processes, people, and systems, or external events) and use their own methodology for assessing exposure to operational risks.
The second pillar of Basel II-supervisory review focuses on the regulatory review that would be necessary to ensure that a bank holds sufficient capital given its overall risk profile. Since banks are already required to hold capital sufficient to meet their risk profiles under Basel I, the Agencies are not proposing anything new under the second pillar. Existing rules such as the prompt corrective action rules would continue to be enforced and supplemented as necessary to ensure that an institution holds sufficient capital given its overall risk profile.
Under the third pillar-market discipline-specific disclosure requirements would be applicable to all banks using the A-IRB approach of Basel II. Banks would have to disclose in their public financial reports or in regulatory reports on a quarterly basis, their risk management policies for each separate risk area and their exposures to credit and other types of risks. This would allow shareholders and debt holders to assess a bank's capital structure, risk exposures, risk assessment processes, and capital adequacy.
Limiting the Scope of Basel II
The Agencies plan to apply Basel II's A-IRB on a mandatory basis to only the large, internationally active U.S. banks that either have total commercial bank assets of $250 billion or more or foreign exposure of $10 billion or more. Other banks would be able to opt-in to Basel II but would have to meet certain supervisory standards to do so. The Agencies anticipate that approximately ten U.S. banks would be required to use Basel II (core banks) and that another ten or so banks would opt-in. All other banks would remain subject to Basel I.
ICBA applauds the Agencies for their plan to limit the applicability of Basel II to only the largest, internationally active banks that meet certain infrastructure requirements. If the objective of Basel II is cross-border competitive equality, only a handful of the largest banks should be involved since they account for most of the international banking activities conducted by U.S. banks. Collectively, the Agencies estimate that the 20 or so banking organizations that will comply with Basel II account for about 99 percent of the foreign assets held by the top fifty domestic US banking organizations, and for approximately two-thirds of the domestic assets of U.S. banking organizations.
Furthermore, methods of assessing capital adequacy must be appropriate to the size and complexity of operations of the bank. Bank consolidation in the United States continues to bifurcate the industry into a barbell shape with a few large, complex, globally active institutions on one end, and thousands of smaller, noncomplex, community-focused institutions on the other. In our view, capital adequacy regulations must recognize the increasing differences between these two ends of the spectrum.
The A-IRB approach is also infeasible for community banks and most likely will remain so in the future. Community banks do not have the resources to use sophisticated internal risk rating models which are overly complex and too costly for their needs that meet the Basel II requirements. A community bank is not likely to have a sufficient volume of credits to maintain a sophisticated, statistically valid model with the requisite degree or range of meaningful risk refinement to justify the high costs associated with the extensive data collection, record keeping and maintenance of the model. In short, Basel II would be overkill for community banks, and the costs and burdens of adhering to Basel II would outweigh the benefits, if any, of moving to the new accord for most community banks.
Competitive Concerns
Although ICBA is pleased with the proposal to limit the applicability of Basel II to only the largest, internationally active banks, ICBA still has concerns about the impact Basel II will have on community banks. In particular, community banks are concerned that Basel II may place them at a competitive disadvantage because the A-IRB approach will yield lower capital charges for residential mortgage, retail and small business loans, which are the bread and butter credits of community banks.
Larger banks that have the resources and capability to apply Basel II will choose it over Basel I if they perceive it to be in their best interests to do so. Under the A-IRB approach, various types of credits will enjoy much lower risk weights and correspondingly lower capital charges than under the Basel I. The Basel Committee intends the lower minimum capital requirements associated with the more sophisticated methods to provide an incentive for banks to adopt the costly, more advanced risk assessment and management techniques. Thus, banks using the A-IRB approach can be expected to use Basel II to keep their capital levels very tight. The resulting relatively higher minimum capital thresholds for community banks could put them at a potential competitive disadvantage.
A review of the Basel Committee's Quantitative Impact Study 3 (QIS3) heightens our concern in this regard. Analyzing Basel II's impact on more than 300 individual banks, QIS3 compares the average risk weights and capital charges for various credit portfolios required by the current Basel I accord with those required under Basel II. Average risk weights and capital charges for some types of credit and asset portfolios would increase. But for retail credits, including mortgage and non-mortgage loans to individuals and small businesses the very credits where community banks compete with large banks the risk weights and capital charges would significantly decrease. For example, total retail credit capital charges under the A-IRB approach are estimated to decrease by 50% (60% for mortgages, and 41% for non-mortgages) among the banks in the G10 market area. At a recent meeting of bankers, one regulator estimated that the capital requirement for mortgages could be as low as 1.6% versus the 4% that is presently required.
Since there is a cost to a bank for maintaining capital, the lower capital requirements may result in a cost advantage, and correspondingly a pricing advantage, in retail credits for large banks that are subject to Basel II. The lower capital requirements will also make it easier for the Basel II banks to achieve a higher return on equity (ROE). In order to compete with the cost advantage and the higher ROEs of Basel II banks, community banks may be forced to make concessions in pricing and underwriting guidelines that could impair their profitability, and ultimately their viability.
While it is true that community banks hold more capital than other banks, one should not conclude that regulatory capital levels have little or no influence on loan pricing. The pricing and structure of loan transactions can be influenced by the impact of capital and the desired rate of return on the capital held against the loan. While other factors such as the cost of funds and local market competition can have a greater influence over loan pricing, regulatory capital is a factor. And since the goal of Basel II is to achieve greater alignment between regulatory capital and economic capital, for Basel II banks regulatory capital will likely have an even greater impact on pricing.
Community banks play not only a strong role in consumer financing in this country but also an important role in small business financing. Commercial banks are the leading suppliers of credit to small business, and community banks account for a disproportionate share of total bank lending to small business. Community banks account for 33 percent of small business loans, more than twice their share (15%) of banking assets. Because of the important role small businesses play in the economy (more than half the private sector workforce and two-thirds to three-quarters of new jobs), it is imperative that the Agencies consider the competitive impact Basel II will have on community banks and their customers.
ICBA commends the Agencies for questioning the results of the QIS3 and calling for a fourth Quantitative Impact Study. QIS3 has generated more questions than answers and no one is really sure of the competitive impact of Basel II to the banking industry, least of all community bankers. Both the Agencies and the industry would benefit from another study to more accurately show the impact that Basel II will have on the capital of the largest banks and what competitive effect that impact will have on community banks. We strongly encourage the delay of any further movement of Basel II until the results of QIS4 are collected and analyzed.
More Consolidation
ICBA also fears that Basel II will further accelerate consolidation in the banking industry. Lower capital levels that large banks obtain under Basel II will likely result in more acquisitions by the larger banks seeking to lever capital efficiencies. As more of the larger banks opt-in, over the long-term this may threaten the viability of community banking. Since most community banks will remain under Basel I, they will have difficulty competing against bigger Basel II banks that benefit from reduced capital requirements and higher ROEs. Basel I banks will become likely takeover targets for Basel II banks that believe they can deploy Basel I bank capital more efficiently. As more Basel I banks are left with riskier assets, lower credit ratings and higher costs of liabilities, they will find it more difficult to compete for the higher quality assets.
If Basel II is implemented, Basel I banks are also concerned that they will be considered "second tier" institutions by the market, the rating agencies, and sophisticated customers such as government or municipal depositors and borrowers. Rating agencies, for instance, may look more favorably upon Basel II banks resulting in these institutions gaining market share against those that cannot comply. Second tier institutions will be more interested in merging with the larger, first tier institutions, ultimately resulting in an acceleration of consolidation for the industry. Excessive consolidation will reduce competition and access to financial institutions in many markets and will have a negative impact on customer service.
Implementation Concerns
Implementing Basel II will present enormous challenges to the banking industry and to the Agencies. Banks that are required to adopt Basel II or elect to do so will have to devote considerable resources to implement it. Estimates range from $10 million for smaller banks to upwards of $200 million for the very largest banks. When one multiplies these costs by the number of national and international banks within the banking system, the figure is very high. Unfortunately, these costs are likely to be passed on to consumers and corporations who deal with Basel II banks.
While one can argue that Basel II banks would incur some of these compliance costs anyway by seeking to upgrade their internal risk management systems, most of the costs would be due to the unnecessary complexity of Basel II. Even Comptroller Hawke has admitted that Basel II is "not only complex, it is virtually impenetrable." It is so complex that it will be difficult for banks to find competent employees who will understand it. Basel II banks will be forced to hire consultants to evaluate credit and operational risks and to help create internal estimates of risk inputs. Sophisticated software programs and upgrades will be needed to compute the capital formulas and to calculate the capital requirements for each portfolio of assets. Auditors, both internal and external, will need to be trained under the new rules and will need to be familiar enough with the bank's own internal estimates of credit and operational risk so that they can certify as part of their internal control report that the bank is in compliance with Basel II. Bank directors will likely find Basel II and internal models that implement it almost impossible to understand other than in a broad, conceptual way.
Moreover, the Agencies will find it difficult to find sufficient talent to fill their ranks, especially when they will be competing for PhD-level expertise against the large banks. Examiners of Basel II banks must be qualified and have sufficient expertise to understand the bank's model or formula and its assumptions and limitations. As examiners leave and are replaced, it will be hard to maintain institutional memory regarding a bank's set of formulas for determining its credit or operational risk. The Agencies will also have the challenge of maintaining consistency among themselves in examining Basel II banks.
ICBA recommends that the Agencies consider ways of simplifying Basel II. A more simplified rule would facilitate its implementation and supervision and will reduce the compliance costs that will ultimately be passed on to bank customers. A simpler Basel II would also lessen some of the competitive disparities that will invariably exist with a bifurcated capital approach.
Risks to the Banking Industry
ICBA is also concerned about the special risks that Basel II poses to the banking industry, the Bank Insurance Fund and the Savings Association Insurance Fund, especially if Basel II banks reduce the percentage of capital they hold. The Agencies must be mindful of the conflict of interest inherent in using internal capital allocation models to both optimize profitability and increase returns on the one hand, and determine adequate capital levels on the other. Institutions that apply Basel II's A-IRB approach will have incentive to understate risk and losses in order to reduce capital requirements and increase return on equity. To guard against this, methods of ensuring accountability on the part of institutions using the A-IRB approach must be part of Basel II so that safety and soundness is not jeopardized.
Under the A-IRB capital scheme, regulators will ultimately be responsible for ensuring institutions maintain adequate capital levels and must be very careful to assure the suitability and validity of IRB models, which may prove to be a daunting task. Only those institutions that are truly qualified to use the A-IRB approach should be permitted to do so. Mistakes or faulty judgments will have far reaching implications as regulators face the challenges of supervising large, complex banking organizations whose failure or disruption of operations present systemic risk to the domestic and global financial system and economy. And, because of its impact on the BIF and SAIF, all banks will pay the price in such an event, not just Basel II banks.
ICBA agrees with the Agencies that the existing leverage ratio requirements under prompt corrective action legislation and implementing regulations should be maintained, including a minimum 5% leverage ratio, to be classified as "well-capitalized." This will ensure that, regardless of the risk-based capital model used by a Basel II bank, there is a base level of capital available in the event of a crisis.
Parity Between Basel I and Basel II
If Basel II is implemented, ICBA recommends that further changes be considered for Basel I to enhance its risk-sensitivity and to address any competitive equity concerns associated with a bifurcated framework. If, for instance, the capital requirement for mortgages drops as low as 1.6% as one regulator has predicted for Basel II banks, then Basel I should be changed so that the Basel I banks can also adjust their regulatory capital as compared to the 4% that is now required. The Agencies should also consider additional risk categories to enhance the risk-sensitivity of Basel I and to align capital requirements with risk levels. The risk-weighting of these categories should also be modernized to better match current knowledge about actual risk exposures. For instance, lesser risk weights could be considered for rated credits and conforming mortgage loan products. Additional risk categories could be added for loans with low LTV ratios. However, because Basel I includes a buffer for risks not easily quantified (e.g., operational risk and concentration risk), Basel I banks should never be subject to an additional direct capital charge for operational risk.
If the new QIS4 confirms the disparity in capital charges for retail credits that QIS3 showed, then ICBA recommends that the Agencies begin an immediate reevaluation of Basel I to determine how parity can be reached between the two frameworks. During that process, ICBA hopes that the relative simplicity of Basel I is preserved. There is no need to make Basel I unnecessarily complex in order to enhance its risk-sensitivity or to bring it into parity with the A-IRB approach of Basel II.
ICBA commends the Agencies for their dedication and for all the hard work that has gone into creating Basel II. ICBA also commends them for limiting the applicability of Basel II only to the large, internationally active banks in the United States that can comply with certain infrastructure requirements. The A-IRB approach is simply infeasible for community banks and most likely will remain so in the future. At the same time, ICBA fears that Basel II will have an adverse competitive impact on community banks and will further accelerate consolidation in the banking industry. Hopefully, a new QIS4 will shed more light on the impact of Basel II and the competitive concerns of community banks. Finally, if Basel II is implemented as proposed, ICBA recommends that further changes be made to Basel I to enhance its risk-sensitivity and to address any competitive concerns associated with a bifurcated framework.
If you have any questions or need any additional information, please contact Chris Cole, ICBA's regulatory counsel at 202-659-8111 or email@example.com.
C.R. Cloutier
1 ICBA is the nation's leading voice for community banks and the only national trade association dedicated exclusively to protecting the interests of the community banking industry. ICBA has some 4,600 members with branches in more than 17,000 locations nationwide. Our members hold more than $526 billion in insured deposits, $728 billion in assets and more than $405 billion in loans for consumers, small businesses, and farms. They employ more than 231,000 people in the communities they serve.


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Research & Development
IMS Connector Systems is a technology driven company with a strong research and development division.
Through close cooperation between R & D, Product Management and Sales, our specialists realize many innovative developments, which are oriented to the requirements of our markets.
Highly qualified employees, as well as, the latest methods and procedures in development and manufacturing only account for some of our success.
A further decisive success factor is the close cooperation with our customers, as well as, highly efficient partners, ensuring that we are always able to find the best customer-oriented solution in each research and development project.
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HS2 is a controversial high speed rail project linking London and Birmingham. The proposed route travels through boroughs of Hillingdon, Hounslow and Ealing.
Stop HS2 campaigners as well as the Construction Products Association have cast doubt on the timings of the controversial high speed rail project
See video of fly-though animation of the proposed route HS2 would take through west London, from the sky
Petitioners will continue their fight against HS2 but concerns grow for Hillingdon's Outdoor Activity Centre in Harefield
Ruislip petitioners believed the HS2 tunnel would be 30m below their houses but documents reveal it would be HALF that
MPs spoke to staff and visited a community hub outdoor activity centre used by 22,000 young people a year
Hillingdon MPs debated issues with HS2 and a third runway at Heathrow Airport during a Westminster debate this week
Hillingdon Council and anti-HS2 campaigners are gearing up to voice their petitions in front of the parliamentary select committee this month
The panelists discussed everything from Nigel Farage's leadership of UKIP to who should take Labour forward, but made no mention of HS2 or Heathrow Airport
Here are five issues that should be top of Boris Johnson's in-tray as the new MP for Uxbridge & South Ruislip
Rivals criticised the London mayor and Conservative Party candidate at the constituency's second hustings, with Labour's candidate telling voters: "You're not looking for a dinner party guest"
Reducing transport costs, stop west London hospital A&E closures and capping rents to help first-time buyers: Some of your top manifesto points
The House of Lords' Economic Affairs Select Committee found the government had not made a convincing case for HS2 and called for a review of the scheme
Candidates from four of the five main political parties made promises at a public debate about how they would vote if elected to parliament
Transport minister Patrick McLoughlin has said the spur will not be built in phase one or two of the rail project, but activists warn nothing is "set in stone"
Hammersmith MP Andy Slaughter said there is no guarantee any of the 24,000 new homes will be suitable for local people but the Mayor disagrees
Boris Johnson says it will provide 24,000 new homes, more than 55,000 jobs plus an HS2 station and Crossrail
The group of MPs scrutinizing the rail project came to Harefield, Ickenham and Ruislip to see for themselves what might be destroyed by HS2
Studies commissioned by Hillingdon Council show extending the HS2 tunnel through the Colne Valley IS a viable option
The cross-party select committee of MPs tasked with scrutinising the high speed line is visiting areas in Harefield that will be most affected
January saw west London deluged with biblical amounts of rain and there were concerns about pedestrian safety and tributes to Only Fools and Horses actor Roger Lloyd-Pack.
The Conservative prospective parliamentary candidate for Uxbridge and South Ruislip has told campaigners he is against HS2 unless conditions on a tunnel extension, Heathrow spur and HS1 link are met
The council joined HS2 Action Alliance to bring a challenge against the government accusing it of unlawfully failing to carry out a strategic environmental assessment for HS2
Transport union RMT said he would 'have to explain to the people of Uxbridge and Ruislip why they are in the front line of his cuts battering ram'.
The Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner MP joined campaigners to tell BBC London news about the impact of HS2 on Ickenham and Ruislip
Hillingdon Council and HS2 Action Alliance suffered a blow at the High Court in August but are continuing their fight against HS2 safeguarding directions at the Court of Appeal
Council Leader Julian Bell said they will be more strategic in tackling unemployment, crime and safety at a scrutiny meeting
HS2 has been nominated for community forums but Hillingdon campaigners argue they were less than engaging
The group of MPs and local authority leaders, which formed today, has written to the transport minister calling for a 'fair deal for London'.
Having paid more than £50 for my ticket, I did not have to present it once. Not at any barrier or to any person. Anyone could have travelled on that train for nothing. I bet many do.
HS2 say the role will help people eligible for government compensation - but anti-HS2 campaigner says "only a tiny percentage are eligible, so relatively few people will be helped at all"
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MVP Awards
American League: Mike Trout
Mike Trout claimed his first MVP Award in unanimous fashion after finishing second to Miguel Cabrera each of the past two seasons.
National League: Clayton Kershaw
Clayton Kershaw was the first NL pitcher since Bob Gibson in 1968 to win the Cy Young and MVP in the same season.
More »
Cy Young Awards
American League: Corey Kluber
The righty broke out with 18 wins, a 2.44 ERA and 269 strikeouts, becoming the Tribe's first Cy Young winner since 2008.
National League: Clayton Kershaw
The Dodgers' ace was a unanimous winner after going 21-3 with a career-best 1.77 ERA.
More »
Rookie of the Year Awards
American League: Jose Abreu
The White Sox slugger was a unanimous winner after slugging 36 homers and driving in 107 runs.
National League: Jacob deGrom
The right-hander finished with a 2.69 ERA, emerging by going 6-1 with a 2.16 ERA after the All-Star break for the Mets.
More »
Manager of the Year Awards
American League: Buck Showalter
Having won in 1994 and 2004, Showalter completed the trilogy by anchoring the O's to a division title.
National League: Matt Williams
In his first season as a manager, Williams propelled the Nationals to 96 victories and the National League East crown.
More »
Gold Glove Awards
American League
- C: Salvador Perez, Royals
- 1B: Eric Hosmer, Royals
- 2B: Dustin Pedroia, Red Sox
- 3B: Kyle Seager, Mariners
- SS: J.J. Hardy, Orioles
- LF: Alex Gordon, Royals
- CF: Adam Jones, Orioles
- RF: Nick Markakis, Orioles
- P: Dallas Keuchel, Astros
National League
- C: Yadier Molina, Cardinals
- 1B: Adrian Gonzalez, Dodgers
- 2B: DJ LeMahieu, Rockies
- 3B: Nolan Arenado, Rockies
- SS: Andrelton Simmons, Braves
- LF: Christian Yelich, Marlins
- CF: Juan Lagares, Mets
- RF: Jason Heyward, Braves
- P: Zack Greinke, Dodgers
More »
Defensive Awards
Defensive Players of the Year
- The Wilson Defensive Player of the Year Awards are determined by a formula that balances scouting information, sabermetric analysis and basic fielding stats. Last year, one player from each club was honored, but Dustin Pedroia (Boston) and Gerardo Parra (Arizona) came away as the top defensive players in the AL and NL, respectively.
- 1B: Adrian Gonzalez, Dodgers
- 2B: Ian Kinsler, Tigers
- SS: Andrelton Simmons, Braves
- 3B: Juan Uribe, Dodgers
- LF: Alex Gordon, Royals
- CF: Lorenzo Cain, Royals
- RF: Jason Heyward, Braves
- P: Johnny Cueto, Reds
- C: Russell Martin, Pirates
Defensive Team of the Year: Cincinnati Reds
- Overall Defensive Player of the Year: Heyward
Silver Slugger Awards
American League
- Handed out each season since 1980, the Silver Slugger Awards honor the game's top hitters and are voted on by big league coaches and managers. The 2014 results included eight first-time winners and five teams with a pair of honorees. Votes are based on batting average, OBP and slugging percentage, as well as coaches' and managers' general impressions of a player's value at the plate.
- C: Yan Gomes, Indians
- 1B: Jose Abreu, White Sox
- 2B: Jose Altuve, Astros
- 3B: Adrian Beltre, Rangers
- SS: Alexei Ramirez, White Sox
- OF: Jose Bautista, Blue Jays
- OF: Michael Brantley, Indians
- OF: Mike Trout, Angels
- DH: Victor Martinez, Tigers
National League
- C: Buster Posey, Giants
- 1B: Adrian Gonzalez, Dodgers
- 2B: Neil Walker, Pirates
- 3B: Anthony Rendon, Nationals
- SS: Ian Desmond, Nationals
- OF: Andrew McCutchen, Pirates
- OF: Giancarlo Stanton, Marlins
- OF: Justin Upton, Braves
- P: Madison Bumgarner, Giants
More »
GIBBY Awards
GIBBY Awards
- MLB's A-listers won GIBBY trophies based on votes by the media, MLB alumni, front-office staff, MLB.com fans and SABR. The categories:
- Stars
- Most Valuable Major Leaguer: Clayton Kershaw
- Everyday Player: Mike Trout
- Starting Pitcher: Clayton Kershaw
- Rookie: Jose Abreu
- Closer: Greg Holland
- Setup Man: Wade Davis
- Defensive Player: Andrelton Simmons
- Breakout Everyday Player: Jose Altuve
- Breakout Pitcher: Corey Kluber
- Bounceback Player: Johnny Cueto
- Manager: Bruce Bochy
- Executive: Dayton Moore
- Postseason MVP: Madison Bumgarner
- Must C
- Play: Steven Souza Jr.
- Outfield Throw: Yoenis Cespedes
- Moment: Derek Jeter
- Storyline: Instant improvement
- Hitting Performance: Lonnie Chisenhall
- Pitching Performance: Clayton Kershaw
- Oddity: Wild pitch scores three Brewers
- Walk-off: Derek Jeter
- Cut4 Topic: Boy gifts baseball
- Postseason Play: Joe Panik
- Postseason Walk-off: Travis Ishikawa
- Postseason Storyline: Wild win sparks Royals' run
Players Choice Awards
2014 Winners
Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw took center stage at the unveiling of the Players Choice Awards, claiming Player of the Year, Marvin Miller Man of the Year and NL Outstanding Pitcher. More »
American League
Outstanding Player: Mike Trout, Angels
Outstanding Pitcher: Felix Hernandez, Mariners
Outstanding Rookie: Jose Abreu, White Sox
Comeback Player: Chris Young, Mariners
National League
Outstanding Pitcher: Clayton Kershaw, Dodgers
Outstanding Player: Giancarlo Stanton, Marlins
Outstanding Rookie: Jacob deGrom, Mets
Comeback Player: Casey McGehee, Marlins
Postseason Awards
World Series MVP: Madison Bumgarner
After winning Game 1 and Game 5, Bumgarner sealed the 2014 World Series for the Giants with five shutout innings of relief in Game 7. More »
ALCS MVP: Lorenzo Cain
Cain batted .533 (8-for-15) with two doubles, two walks and a stolen base in the series, patrolling center field and right field with aplomb to help lead the Royals to the World Series. More »
NLCS MVP: Madison Bumgarner
Bumgarner all but single-handedly won Game 1 with 7 2/3 shutout innings, then put the Giants on his back for much of Game 5, retiring the final 13 batters he saw. More »
Aaron Awards
American League: Mike Trout
Angels slugger Trout topped the AL with 115 runs and 111 RBIs, while hitting .287 with 36 home runs and a .939 OPS. More »
National League: Giancarlo Stanton
Despite an injury-shortened year, Stanton led the NL in total bases (299), hitting .288 with 37 HRs,105 RBIs and a .950 OPS. More »
Clemente Award
Clemente Award: Rollins and Konerko
For the first time, there were two winners for the Roberto Clemente Award as veterans Jimmy Rollins and Paul Konerko shared the honor, which recognizes those who best represent the game through positive contributions on and off the field, including sportsmanship and community involvement. More »
Relievers of the Year
American League
As the "ace" of a historically dominant bullpen, Holland struck out 90 over 62 1/3 innings, netting 46 saves in 48 chances. More »
National League
In his fourth year as an All-Star, Kimbrel recorded 47 saves in 51 opportunities, striking out 13.9 batters per nine innings. More »
Comeback Player Awards
American League: Chris Young
Young went 12-9 with a 3.65 ERA over 30 games (29 starts) in his first season with Seattle following an injury-plagued 2013 season in which he made nine Minor League starts. More »
National League: Casey McGehee
In his first year with the Marlins following a season with the Rakuten Golden Eagles of Nippon Professional Baseball, McGehee hit .287 with 29 doubles and 76 RBIs. More »
Outstanding DH Award
Victor Martinez
Victor Martinez became the first Tiger to win the Edgar Martinez Outstanding Designated Hitter Award since Rusty Staub in 1978. Martinez led the Major Leagues with a .974 OPS, and topped the American League with a .409 on-base percentage. More »


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When I am finished knitting a project, it's not really finished finished until I've blocked it. And as I blocked this hat today it got me thinking. With many of you perhaps knitting or crocheting things to give as gifts for Christmas (or whatever holidays you celebrate), I wanted to remind you of my Blocking Tutorial. It should be a PSA. Don't Give Unblocked Knitting as Gifts! If you're one of the hopefully few people who haven't tried blocking yet, or you think it's too hard, or takes too long, then please check out that tutorial.
For the rest of you, I'm sure you know at least one last hold out, a knitter friend who thinks they don't need to block their FOs. Here's a little gift, then, from me to you. Print out this shiny new one page PDF blocking tutorial (reprinted from The Red Collection) and give it to your friend with a little bottle of your favorite wool wash. She or he will love you for it, I promise. (Yes, the file says "personal use only" and you may not print out one hundred and sell them or give them away at a yarn shop. Just be reasonable, people.)
Today I blocked Jerry's new Girdwood hat (pattern soon!), with that unruly curled edge that was driving me nuts.
Ahhh. Curly edge tamed. I am the boss of my own knitting! Now we wait for it to dry.
**Don't forget, the Asheboro Hat is still just $3, but tomorrow is the last day to get that deal! A HUGE thank you to everyone who has already purchased the pattern! There's already a few other projects, YAY!**