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Winter Meetings At Half-Way Point
In the first two days of the Winter Meetings, the Phillies have been seeking out bullpen help, so far to no avail. It now appears unlikely that they will be able to sign back Chan Ho Park due to differences of opinion, although he is not yet ruled out. Scott Eyre is also in limbo since his elbow surgery.
With the revelations that Brad Lidge, JC Romero and Jamie Moyer may not be ready for Spring Training after their off-season surgeries, the bullpen is becoming more and more of a concern. Moyer may go back to the starting rotation, but that remains to be seen. Either way, with these players unavailable, this leaves a big hole in the back end of the pen unless they find players to fill the gap.
The Phillies did pick up another bench piece late last night, signing former Marlins outfielder, Ross Gload to a 2-year deal. Gload hit .261 with six home runs and 30 RBIs in 230 at-bats with the Marlins. He turns 34 years old in April but the real head scratcher here is that he is a lefty. With a line-up that is loaded with lefties, it is curious to me that they would not sign a righty. But as usual, the method to the Phillies madness is not always clear.
It does seem that Baseball America understands the madness to a certain degree. They named the Phillies the Organization of the Year for 2009, which was announced at the meetings yesterday. This award is given each year to the organization that excels in both the major leagues and minor leagues with improving their teams and developing talent. Now let us see how much of that young talent the Phillies can hang onto while attempting to sign players for the 2010 season.
Starting pitcher Roy Halladay seems to still be in the rumor mill for the Phillies as well as several bullpen pitchers. But Halladay will command a huge salary for 2010 and the Phillies are quickly running out of money. That means if they choose to go after him, someone else will likely have to go.
It is more likely that any big moves will take place later in the off-season. However, with two days left of meetings, anything can happen. By the way, this is my 500th blog entry on MLBlogs! People often tell me I never shut up, but who knew? A few other associations for the number 500 are: So, I am either a totally awesome Italian race car, or just an annoying computer error. Either way, thanks for reading! :O)
The latest rumor is that Joe Blanton could be moved, but as most rumors, there is no way to know how credible the information is. My guess is that Halladay, with 1 year and $15.75 million dollars left on his current contract, is not a real possibility. The expense is too great and there is no guarantee they can sign him past that one year.
It is more likely that any big moves will take place later in the off-season. However, with two days left of meetings, anything can happen.
By the way, this is my 500th blog entry on MLBlogs! People often tell me I never shut up, but who knew?
A few other associations for the number 500 are:
So, I am either a totally awesome Italian race car, or just an annoying computer error. Either way, thanks for reading! :O)
Blanton photo: Jenn; Gload photo: Miami Herald
*Read more about the Phillies at my other home page, Phightin' Phils Phorum in the My Team Rivals network*
8 Comments
Congrats on the 500th post! Great feeling! I'll be real interested to see how the 2010 Phils fix their bullpen woes. I also wonder if The Pen will come back for another season on MLB Network. I was let down that they stopped filming after the All-Star break, when it really fell apart.
Big round of applause for your 500th post! That's quite a milestone. Isn't it amazing how all these rumors surround Halladay? One minute I think he's going to the NL, the next to the Yankees, Red Sox or Angels. I can only imagine how unsettling this is for him!
Hi Jenn,
The way you throw those protocol errors around I'd think you are a computer professional! Are you?
In any case, you're my favorite mlblog!
How about another "500" reference – the early 90's alternative group Galaxie 500, which was in fact named after the not-so-fast Ford Galaxie 500 car. So you can be a domestic car or an alterna-babe. So many choices…
Rants, Raves, and Random Thoughts
And we never saw the white flag before the checker during your 500th lap around the MLBlogs course.
Congrats on a numero 500-o, and we know there is at least 500+ more in you.
Seriously, I still think you guys have the trade parts that could hook Halladay in an instant if Toronto wants to pull the switch.
Hopefully it will all be over soon as we can relax and enjoy the holidays..Then start it all over again full blast.
Rays Renegade
Congratulations on 500! There are some rumors that the Phillies would include Cole Hamels in a package for Halladay.
Jeff, I know, I was sad they broke the Pen off at the All-Star break :O( Hope they do it again this year though!
Jane, yes my head is spinning with the Halladay stuff! Bet his is too.
Ed – Thanks so much :O) And yes, I am a computer geek. But my real jobs are teaching, freelance writing & photography. I tinker with the computer in my spare time ;o)
Sue, thanks…I always wanted to be a rock star…LOL
Rengade – Seriously…all the rumors make me nervous. Need to get it over with already!
Babu – I heard that too…and JA Happ and Joe Blanton…they are all making me dizzy!
Congrats on the 500th, do you have tired fingers yet,how many words do you think you have typed into your blogs during those 500 entries… wow… the Phillies I think have time to solve the bullpen woes, I hope anyway… still it's a concern..
Outside the Phillies Looking In


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Roundup: Mountaineers stun No. 11 Cowboys
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. Clint Trickett threw a touchdown pass in his first start at West Virginia, Ishmael Banks returned an interception for a touchdown and the Mountaineers shocked No. 11 Oklahoma State 30-21 on Saturday.
Josh Lambert kicked three field goals for West Virginia (3-2, 1-1 Big 12), which rebounded from its first shutout loss in 11 years to outlast the mistake-prone Cowboys.
Trickett became West Virginias third starting quarterback this season after Ford Childress was injured last week. Trickett finished 24 of 50 for 309 yards.
But after taking a 24-14 halftime lead, West Virginia was held out of the end zone in the second half and relied on its defense to slow down J.W. Walsh.
Walsh threw three touchdown passes but was intercepted twice.
The Cowboys (3-1, 0-1) were penalized 10 times for 96 yards and had four turnovers more than their first three games combined.
Trickett, a transfer from Florida State, became West Virginias third starting quarterback after Ford Childress was injured last week. Trickett finished 24 of 50 for 309 yards in his first start since subbing for EJ Manuel for the Seminoles in October 2011.
But after taking a 24-14 halftime lead, West Virginia was held out of the end zone in the second half and relied on its defense to slow down J.W. Walsh, who couldnt bring the Cowboys back from their first halftime deficit of the season.
Walsh threw three touchdown passes but was intercepted twice.
Banks 58-yard interception return in the first quarter was part of 13 points the Mountaineers scored off four Oklahoma State turnovers. That was more turnovers than the Cowboys (3-1, 0-1) had in their first three games combined.
They also were plagued by errant and dropped passes, poor punting and were penalized 10 times for 96 yards.
Oklahoma State, making the 1,000-mile trip to Morgantown for the first time since 1928, got the only touchdown of the second half on Walshs 30-yard scoring pass to fullback Jeremy Seaton in blown coverage early in the third quarter.
The Cowboys had the chance to tie it midway through the fourth, but Ben Grogans 23-yard field goal try hit the right upright.
It marked the first time in 16 tries this season that Oklahoma State didnt score a touchdown when it advanced inside the opponents 20.
The pace was furious the teams combined for 177 plays.
Oklahoma 35, Notre Dame 21
SOUTH BEND, Ind. Blake Bell threw a 54-yard touchdown pass to Sterling Shepard in the fourth quarter and No. 14 Oklahoma beat No. 22 Notre Dame 35-21 on Saturday.
It was the Sooners second win over the Fighting Irish in 11 tries.
The Sooners had three interceptions that led to TDs, including a 24-yard score by linebacker Corey Nelson.
Damien Williams added an 11-yard TD run after an interception by linebacker Frank Shannon and Bell threw a 26-yard TD pass to Lacoltan Bester to cap an 88-yard drive after an interception by cornerback Julian Wilson.
The Irish cut the lead to 27-21 in the fourth quarter, but the Sooners answered with Shepards TD.
The only other victory for Oklahoma (4-0) in the series was a 40-0 win in 1956 that remains the worst home loss for the Irish (3-2).
Clemson 56,
Wake Forest 7
CLEMSON, S.C. Tajh Boyd became the second Atlantic Coast Conference quarterback to account for 100 career touchdowns and got No. 3 Clemsons offense back on track in a 56-7 victory over Wake Forest on Saturday.
Boyd threw for three touchdowns and rushed for another score. He stands at 102 TDs in college, joining former North Carolina State star Phillip Rivers in the ACCs century club. Boyd passed for 311 yards and ran for 69 to surpass Charlie Whitehurst as Clemsons total offense leader.
The Tigers (4-0, 2-0) have won their first four games for the second time in Boyds three seasons as starter. He had been out of sync the past two games, but found his rhythm quickly against Wake Forest (2-3, 0-2).
Florida State 48,
Boston College 34
BOSTON Jameis Winston threw for four touchdowns, including a 55-yard Hail Mary as time expired in the first half to help No. 8 Florida State rally from a slow start and beat Boston College 48-34 on Saturday.
Winston had first-half touchdown passes of 56 and 10 yards to tie the game after BC, coming off a 28-point loss to Southern California, opened a 17-3 lead. The desperation heave to Kenny Shaw made it 24-17, then Winston added a fourth TD pass in the second half as the Seminoles (4-0, 2-0 Atlantic Coast Conference) pulled away.
In all, the Florida State freshman completed 17 of 28 passes for 330 yards and ran 14 times for 67 more.
Chase Rettig completed 19 of 29 passes for 197 yards and a career-high four touchdowns for BC (2-2, 1-1), including a 52-yard score to Myles Willis that cut a three-score lead to 38-27. But the Eagles quarterback also threw an interception early in the fourth quarter that T.J. Williams returned 20 yards for a touchdown to make it 48-27.
Miami 49, South Florida 21
TAMPA, Fla. Stephen Morris threw for two touchdowns before limping off with an ankle injury and Duke Johnson scored a TD in his eighth consecutive game, helping No. 15 Miami roll past winless South Florida 49-21 on Saturday.
Miami (4-0) is off to its best start in nine years heading into next weekends Atlantic Coast Conference opener at home against Georgia Tech. At 0-4 under first-year coach Willie Taggart, USF is off to the worst start in school history and has dropped 13 of 14 dating to last season.
Morris threw for 222 yards, moving ahead of Steve Walsh and into ninth place on Miamis career passing list. He tossed TD passes of 19 yards to Herb Waters and 34 yards to Stacy Coley as the Hurricanes scored on their first three possessions.
South Carolina 28, UCF 25
ORLANDO, Fla. Mike Davis rushed 26 times for 167 yards and three touchdowns, as No. 12 South Carolina overcame an injury to its starting quarterback, four turnovers and a 10-0 halftime deficit to beat UCF 28-25 on Saturday.
Davis picked up the slack for a Gamecocks offense that played the final three quarters without starting QB Connor Shaw. He left the game with a sprained right shoulder following a hard tackle during South Carolinas first offensive series of the contest.
The Knights were sharp early, but failed to convert all but one of the Gamecocks miscues into points.
UCF rallied late, but had four turnovers of its own, two of which set up South Carolina scores.
Knights quarterback Blake Bortles threw for 358 yards and two touchdown passes, but had two interceptions and a fumble.
Tennessee 31, South Alabama 24
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. Brian Randolph made a game-clinching, fourth-and-goal interception in the end zone with 1:51 remaining as Tennessee squandered most of a 24-point lead before hanging on for a 31-24 victory over South Alabama.
South Alabama (2-2) had first-and-goal at the 7 in the closing minutes but was unable to get the tying touchdown. Facing fourth-and-goal from the 8, South Alabama quarterback Ross Metheny was hit by Corey Vereen while releasing the pass that Randolph intercepted.
Tennessees Rajion Neal rushed for a career-high 169 yards on 25 carries. Neals 11-yard touchdown run gave Tennessee (3-2) a 31-7 lead early in the third quarter.
Metheny was 21 of 42 for 234 yards with two interceptions. He also rushed for 67 yards and two touchdowns.
Tennessee overcame a three-interception performance from Justin Worley, who was 20 of 36 for 234 yards. Worley threw touchdown passes to freshmen A.J. Branisel and Josh Smith.
FORT WORTH, Texas Trevone Boykin completed 15 of 26 passes for 228 yards and two touchdowns and TCUs defense forced five turnovers to lead the Horned Frogs to a 48-17 victory Saturday against rival SMU.
Boykin overcame a 7 of 16 first-half performance by completing seven of his first nine passes in the second half, tossing touchdown passes of 20 and 56 yards to help the Horned Frogs (2-2, 0-1 in Big 12) overcome a 10-7 halftime deficit.
The Horned Frogs retain the Iron Skillet trophy for the second straight year, and they are 11-2 under coach Gary Patterson in the annual rivalry game.
SMU (1-3), which entered the game 10th in the nation in passing, amassed 292 yards of total offense, and quarterback Garrett Gilbert finished 23 of 44 for 276 yards and four interceptions. TCU also had six sacks, its most since 2009 at Virginia.
TCU played without star defensive lineman Devonte Fields, who was out with an unspecified injury.
Pitt 14, Virginia 3
PITTSBURGH Pittsburgh turned a pair of early Virginia turnovers into touchdowns and the Panther defense did the rest in a 14-3 victory on Saturday.
Tom Savage completed 13 of 30 passes for 190 yards and a touchdown with two interceptions before leaving late in the fourth quarter. Tyler Boyd caught seven passes for 111 yards for Pitt. The Panthers (3-1, 2-1 ACC) have won three straight for the first time since 2010.
A week after giving up 55 points to Duke, Pitts defense shut down the Cavaliers (2-2, 0-1). Virginia managed just 188 total yards. Quarterback David Watford completed 15 of 36 passes for 122 yards and Virginia never threatened to make it interesting after spotting the Panthers two first-quarter scores.
Lehigh 34, New Hampshire 27
BETHLEHEM, Pa. Brandon Bialkowski threw two touchdowns and Sean Farrell ran for two more to lead Lehigh to a 34-27 come-from-behind win over New Hampshire on Saturday.
Lehigh was trailing 27-20 in the third quarter when Farrell scored his second consecutive rushing TD to tie the game. The Lehigh defense held and Bialkowski capped the next Mountain Hawks drive with a 15-yard scoring pass to Derek Knott. Bialkowski was 31 of 52 for 359 yards passing.
New Hampshire had a chance for a comeback, but Andy Vailas overthrew his receiver in the end zone as time ran out. Vailas ran for one TD and connected with Chris Setian for another one for the Wildcats. Setian also had two 5-yard scoring runs.
The win boosts Lehighs record to 4-0 and is only the third time in nine contests that the Mountain Hawks have beaten New Hampshire (1-2).MORE IN Sports WireOXON HILL, Md. Wade Davis already had closed out a World Series. Full StoryBOSTON New Boston Red Sox pitcher Chris Sale said he isnt worried that he might not be the ace... Full StoryNORMAN, Okla. Full Story
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Police: Man was on school grounds at night with shotgunAugust 16,2013
Police: Man had shotgun at school
BENNINGTON A local man was arraigned Thursday after police said he brandished a shotgun on the grounds of the Mount Anthony Union Middle School on Wednesday.
School is not currently in session and the man does not work for the school.
Thomas R. Dwyer Jr., 58, pleaded innocent in Bennington criminal court Thursday to misdemeanor charges of possessing a weapon at a school with intent to injure another person, reckless endangerment, grossly negligent operation of a motor vehicle and disorderly conduct. Dwyer was released without bail but has been ordered to undergo a competency evaluation.
In an affidavit, Sgt. Michael Plusch of the Bennington Police Department said he was dispatched to the parking lot of the middle school on East Road in Bennington, around 9:25 p.m. Wednesday.
Plusch said when he was approaching the school, he saw a man, later identified as Dwyer, coming out of the woods with a shotgun. Plusch said he got out of his police cruiser, drew his weapon and told Dwyer to drop the gun.
While Plusch said Dwyer initially continued toward him holding the shotgun and saying he had a right to protect himself, Dwyer did put the gun on the ground after being told to do so a second time.
Plusch said Dwyer told him he was sick and tired of being pushed around and watched all the time.
According to police, Dwyer had been holding a 20-gauge shotgun with a one round in the chamber.
Police also spoke to the people who had called to report Dwyer. Plusch said they told Officer David Faden, also of the Bennington Police Department, that they had pulled into the schools parking lot because their car was overheating. While they were trying to fix the car, Dwyer drove at them twice, almost hitting them, they told police.
According to the affidavit, the two people, a man and a woman, Dwyer pulled up next to them and asked them in what they believed was a threatening way if they were looking for him. They said Dwyer left after they told him they hadnt been looking for him but they were afraid he might return and hurt them so they left.
Staff reportMORE IN Vermont NewsMONTPELIER Rep. Peter Welch, D-Vt. Full StoryVermont Attorney General Bill Sorrell plans to join the U.S. Full StoryAs Rutland prepares to welcome Syrian refugees to its community, some are continuing to voice... Full Story
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Paris Hilton's need to have moisturized lips over the weekend directly led to the cocaine in the purse she was carrying literally dropping into a Las Vegas Police Officer's hands, according to the newly released police report.
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In the document, obtained by Access Hollywood (included in the felony Possession of a Controlled Substance charge against the heiress, filed in court by the Clark County District Attorney's Office on Monday), an LVPD officer detailed how the cocaine discovery happened in the Wynn Hotel security holding room where the heiress was waiting for a female officer to arrive to take her to the bathroom.Story: Paris reportedly suspects she was set up in drug bust
"… Hilton said she needed to put some lip balm on, and I handed her the purse from the table. As she began to open it, I saw a small bundle of what I believed to be cocaine in a clear baggy begin to fall from the purse and into my hand," an officer wrote in his arrest report.
Click HERE to read the court documents.
The officer then took the purse away from Hilton and waited for backup to arrive before searching it with another officer as a witness.
As previously reported on AccessHollywood.com, Hilton and her boyfriend, Cy Waits, were pulled over in Las Vegas on Friday night after a police officer allegedly noticed a strong smell of marijuana coming from the car Waits was driving. According to the newly released report, the officer claimed Waits failed a number of field sobriety tests after the couple was pulled over.
The officer claimed in his report that the gathering of a crowd of onlookers prompted Hilton to ask to go somewhere more private to "prevent her from being molested by the growing crowd." He also claimed that Hilton told the officers that pulled the couple over that she "needed to use the bathroom badly and asked if I would accompany her inside the Wynn Hotel."
Photos: Paris Hilton's journey from 'Simple' to superstar
After discovering the cocaine, the officer placed Hilton under arrest. Following her arrest, the officer claimed Hilton told him the purse was not hers and "she had borrowed it from a friend."
As the officer searched the rest of the bag, he discovered $1,300 in cash, credit cards and a broken Albuterol tablet (used to treat breathing and chest tightness) and Zig Zag wrappers, all of which Hilton reportedly claimed to the officer were hers.
She reportedly told the officer, however, that "several cosmetic items inside the purse were not hers "and that she thought the cocaine he found was "gum."Story: Train wrecks, has-beens and more go 'Dancing'
The Clark County DA's Office confirmed to Access on Monday that Hilton has now been charged with felony possession of a controlled substance and is due in court on Oct. 27 at 7:30 a.m. Waits, who was arrested on a misdemeanor driving under the influence charge, is due in court on Nov. 29 at 8 a.m.
The Associated Press reports that the charge could get Hilton probation if convicted, and up to four years in Nevada state prison if she violates that probation.
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In related news, on Sunday night, Hilton thanked her fans via Twitter for reaching out during her time of need.
Keeping it real with TV's hottest reality stars
"I'm so thankful to all my fans for all the love and support you are giving me. Thank you all. Love you so much. Love Paris xoxo," she tweeted.
Meanwhile, on Saturday, Hilton's lawyer, David Chesnoff, told Access, "This matter will be dealt with in the courts not in the media and I encourage people not to rush to judgment until all of the facts have been dealt with in a court of law. There will be no interviews and no more comments at this time."
Copyright 2013 by NBC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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Mayor Jaso, sorry I was unable to attend the ceremony honoring you at King's Park on June 29 for your many years of public service to the citizens and town of Refugio.
I wish I could have been present to personally thank and congratulate you for your exemplary and dedicated service. Serving as a councilman for 25 years and subsequently being elected to mayor and serving another 16 years is quite an accomplishment.
Although I left Refugio in 1955 I do not recall another elected official serving in public life for 41 years. The fact that the voters elected and re-elected you to multiple terms both as councilman and mayor tells me that they respected and liked your leadership and service to the citizens and town of Refugio.
I appreciated the leaders and community honoring you with a ceremony, plaque, as well as proclaiming June 29 as "Ray Jaso Day" in Refugio, but it is my hope that, given your distinguished years of public service, the elected officials will see it appropriate to confer on you the title of "Mayor Emeritus." It seems clear that through your distinguished elected public service you have earned emeritus status.
If this is not in the works or under consideration I hope that Refugio City Council, the Refugio County Commissioners Court, the Refugio Chamber of Commerce and Board of Trustees for the Refugio Independent School District will jointly consider the appointment of a committee to study and research public service in Refugio and make a recommendation to the city council. Such a study could also identify other individuals who deserve recognition for public service. A "Wall of Honor" could be erected at King's Park to help honor past and future individuals who have or may distinguish themselves as Mayor Jaso has. Refugio is steeped in history and tradition and is well know for its resources such as oil, cattle, football, education, patriotism, as well as others.
When I am asked where I was born, I always take pride in explaining my birth place and the values that I assimilated being raised in Refugio. Elected officials have helped to shape our beloved Refugio and its past, so it is fitting that these fine citizens are publicly and historically recognized for their contributions. Mayor Jaso, thanks again, sir. I feel certain that history will look at your service in a positive way.


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That was the gist of an I-69 update at City Hall Monday evening, June 23.
Presenting the update, at the request of Refugio County Community Development Foundation executive director Victor Garza, was Judy Hawley, who chairs the State I-69 Corridor Advisory Board and many other statewide transportation boards. Hawley also is a commissioner of the Port of Corpus Christi.
Joining Hawley was Roger Beal, Texas Transportation Department's advanced project development director, and Christopher Caron, deputy district engineer of the TxDOT Corpus Christi District.
"I can't imagine a community in this day and age in our environment not wanting to be a part of I-69," Hawley said.
"It's a growing thriving sustainable economy, and it behooves you to pull I-69 into your plan," she added.
"But if you prefer to stay the way you are, which is fine, you can. We're talking about a 20-, 40-, 60-year growth plan. Long-term planning placed in your lap," she said.
Hawley and Beal agreed that infrastructure was key to a sustainable economy, and getting involved in I-69 planning would ensure the well being of the community.
"It's one of the few variables you can control," Hawley said.
For example, Hawley said $32 billion was going on right now in Corpus Christi, including I-69, I-35, deep water ship channel and other freight routes and sources, including rail.
Other examples of cities that were reluctant but then became involved were given. Those included Laredo, Freer, El Campo, Sinton and Marshall, to name some of the examples.
However, early I-69 segment committees left no consensus where Refugio wanted to be in the process.
"We are looking at a relief route for this community," Beal said.
Hawley said the best action is to get involved in the I-69 process to plan now for the location and infrastructure.
When the federal dollars become available the work will be done.
"Don't build it and they won't come. Wrong. They will come with a vengeance," Beal said.
Refugio County Judge Rene Mascorro noted it was easy to say get involved when it isn't TxDOT land.
"The landowners don't want to give up land that has been in their families for hundreds of years," Mascorro said.
Garza said an example in Laredo where landowners emerged better off was one large family that gave land for a relief route and claimed the rights of way afterward.
"Now their land around it is valuable real estate," Garza added.
The term "relief route" really seemed to refer to a bypass exit.
And one such relief route is on the I-69 planning map as a possible solution to Refugio.
That relief route could be close to Refugio, farther east or west of Refugio or completely out of Refugio County. Hence, that is why it is important to become part of the planning process.
Hawley suggested meeting with and getting more information from Corpus Christi District Engineer Lonnie Gregorcyk, who could inform officials who owns the rights of way and what would be the best plan going forward, as well as any financial advice.
Hawley noted that rail already is in place, so "some funding opportunities for buying rights of way" might be available.
And she said the city should seek partnerships with anyone "moving freight" in and out of the city.
For now, the important decision is getting involved.
"Just decide you want to move forward. Solving the problems comes later," Hawley said.
"I-69 is going to happen whether it goes through, around or outside the county," Garza said.
Beal suggested to plan relief routes through downtown Refugio.
Ron Nelson said businesses would have to move toward the location of the interstate. So any relief routes would have to be planned close to downtown.
Mascorro said downtown Refugio as it is now would dry up if bypassed.
But Hawley said the logical connection between Houston and Corpus Christi is Refugio, and that would mean if planned well, Refugio could adjust in the years to come and benefit in the long run.
She also advised to make connections with state elected officials, state Rep. Geanie Morrison and state Sen. Glenn Hegar for any possible state funding or other help.


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"I have been listening to you on EWTN for about a year now. I left the Catholic Church 42 years ago. After many struggles during this last year, I finally went to confession on Sunday. I cannot begin to explain how excited I am to be home. Thank you so much for helping me on my journey home."
~ Peggy
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"The longer it lasts the better it will be."
~ Theo Venard, Blessed, missionary priest, martyr in China; to his executioner, who had just asked Venard what he would give to be killed quickly because the executioner coveted Venard's clothing. Fr. Venard was beheaded.


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Virgin Mary spotted in piece of wood
Utah man made discovery while cutting wood
Published On: Nov 08 2012 09:44:27 AM CST Updated On: Nov 08 2012 09:09:04 AM CST
A Utah man claims to see the Virgin Mary holding baby Jesus in a piece of wood.
Dean Hansen made the discovery about six weeks ago when he and his uncle were chopping pinyon pine wood in central Utah for tent posts and firewood, Salt Lake City TV station KSTU reported.
"When we first saw it, we were like 'Wow,'" Hansen told the station.
He said he's keeping the piece of wood in a safe place as he decides whether to put it on display.
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Oscars' Best Pictures in posters: 1928-2014
Published On: Feb 17 2012 08:47:15 AM CST Updated On: Apr 01 2015 01:55:10 PM CDT
Since the Academy Awards started handing out Oscars in 1928, more than 80 films have received the Best Picture Oscar. With this year's Oscars right around the corner, take a look at the posters for the winners through the years.
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Judith McCormick TaylorOctober 05,2012
Judith McCormick TaylorJudith McCormick Taylor
DORSET Judith McCormick Taylor, 72, a resident of Hollow Road in Dorset, died September 29, 2012, after suffering from a stroke at her summer home in West Falmouth, Massachusetts.
Judith was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on December 19, 1939, the daughter of John and Bertha (Brooks) McCormick. She graduated from Burr and Burton Academy in Manchester, Vermont, and Colby-Sawyer College in New London, New Hampshire. For many years, she was a remedial reading tutor in local Vermont schools. She was also a 4-H leader, a founding trustee at Hildene, the Robert Todd Lincoln House in Manchester, and one of the first woman trustees of Burr and Burton Academy. She was a major contributor for the Buzzards Bay Coalition, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute, High Field Hall, Falmouth Historical Society, The Nature Conservancy, Riley Rink at Hunter Park, Burr and Burton Academy and Hildene in Manchester and many other charitable organizations. She was a member of the Ekwanok Country Club, the Dorset Field Club and the Chilton Club. Judy had an affectionate sense of humor and was known for her storytelling and voracious reading habits. She loved people, entertaining and Basset Hounds.
Judith leaves her husband, Frederic F. Taylor of Dorset; her son, Charles M. Taylor and his wife Alison of Woodstock; her daughter, Suzanne Topsy King and her husband Andrew of Manchester; her brother, T.D. McCormick and his wife Judi of Manchester; and sister, Roxanne Leighton and husband Charles of Middletown, Rhode Island; and five grandchildren, whom she adored.
A celebration of the life of Judith McCormick Taylor will be held Saturday, October 20, 2012, at 3 p.m. at the First Congregational Church in Manchester. Rev. Gordon McClellan will officiate. Interment will be private. There are no visiting hours. If friends desire, memorial gifts in Judys memory may be made to one of Judys favorite organizations. To send the family personal email condolences, please visit www.sheafuneralhomes.com.
The family has entrusted arrangements to the care of Brewster Funeral Service, 34 Park Place, Manchester Center, Vermont.MORE IN ObituariesWilliam A. Spanos Rites
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Order in the Court? Audio Slideshow
For the full story: Order in the Court?
On a snowy afternoon late last year, Professors Jamal Greene, Gillian Metzger, Henry Paul Monaghan, and Trevor Morrison gathered for a conversation about the cases, controversies, and conundrums sure to arrive at the Supreme Court during Barack Obama's presidency. As veteran legal affairs reporter Joseph Goldstein moderated, the professors discussed an array of topics ranging from Guantanamo Bay to same-sex marriage, and engaged in some crystal ball–gazing about how the composition of the Court may change over the next four years.
Follow along with a photo slideshow and audio clips of the conversation, below. Download the full discussion here.
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In 2011 there were 700 traffic stops for the entire year. In 2012 that number increased to 2,400. As of the end of July, there have been 3,800 traffic stops so far this year.
This breaks down to an average of 58.3 traffic stops per month in 2011, 200 per month in 2012, and 475 per month in 2013.
If current rates continue for 2013, McMullen County could end the year with 5,700 traffic stops. With a voting population of only 700 people living in McMullen County's 1,100 square miles, it is likely that the majority of the traffic stops are from newcomers and traffic just passing through.
Shelton said the increase in activity correlated with the Eagle Ford Shale's development.
"But, when the Eagle Ford hit, we have 5,000-6,000 people on rigs, in man camps, and everybody is in a hurry and everybody is overworked and not getting enough sleep and trying to get from point A to point B as fast as they can," Shelton said. "This has become the norm and as long as the Eagle Ford is here it will continue to be the norm."
McMullen County Sheriff's Department has nearly tripled its staff in an effort to keep up with the unprecedented increase in traffic stops. In 2011 there was a staff of three for the entire county. That number is now up to eight patrol deputies, an investigator, a chief deputy and three part-time deputies.
Shelton said the staff increase is making a difference in keeping the roads safer.
"The number one threat to safety in McMullen County is the traffic, and due to the diligence of the deputies they are making a difference in making it safer to traverse from (point) A to (point) B," Shelton said.
Traffic stops aren't the only thing that's on the rise. Shelton said they used to make six arrests that were mostly for warrants, but in July they made 24. He said the arrests varied, everything from driving without a license, possession of marijuana, driving while intoxicated, warrants, and child support warrants.
"The thing is, you get this influx of people and all their problems they bring with them" Shelton said. "It is part of this boom; that part was unexpected but we are dealing with it."
However, an increased workload and staffing isn't the only challenge McMullen County Sheriff's Department is facing. Much like McMullen County Independent School District, housing is also an issue that needed to be solved.
"We are so far away from everything down here and housing is at a premium," Shelton said. "There wasn't housing before Eagle Ford and there really isn't any now."
Shelton said they currently have "four-and-a-half" housing units and will soon have six. The half-unit is what the sheriff's department refers to as "the doghouse." Sheriff's department staff stay at "the doghouse" for three days at a time and then commute back home afterward.
The rest of the housing units are all trailers – one of which is a double-wide they acquired from a repossession.
"We are on a budget and trying to maintain the best we can," Shelton said.
McMullen County commissioners recently approved purchasing a house in Calliham. It will be the sheriff's department's first slab-built house.
Shelton said the reason for the house in Calliham is to disperse its staff across the county and have a presence in Calliham.
The majority of the sheriff's department housing was put into place under the direction of former McMullen County Sheriff Bruce Thomas.
"We are trying to get it set up to where our people are comfortable. They like working here but housing was a big issue," Shelton said. "My predecessor was a forward thinker."


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"Space-based programming" heralds a new way of building distributed applications. The dominant methods of distributed programming are based on remote procedure calls (RPC), most notably embodied in the technologies CORBA, EJB, and COM/DCOM. Space architecture supplies a surprisingly compact model that completely replaces the RPC paradigm. Its inherent, minimalistic approach predisposes it to a wide range of applications while endowing it with the advantages of modularity, scalability, and source code economy.
Yale University's Professor Gelernter took the first steps toward space architecture in the early 80s, when, in order to support distributed applications, he developed a programming language named Linda (see [Gel92]). Linda was composed of a small set of operations in combination with a globally-accessible persistent store, the so-called "tuple-space." These operations form a coordination protocol, orthogonal to classical programming languages and thus readily implemented within them. Research results have shown that a large number of problems in parallel and distributed computing can be neatly solved using this architecture.
By "space" we mean a virtual, distributed shared memory. The necessary API
essentially contains four methods:
take, and
write and
read fetch and store objects in memory, respectively.
take removes its object following a
read, and
notify announces changes to the space.
Figure 1: All degrees of freedom (see [Rup02])
One could not hope for a simpler conceptual schema of distributed systems. In an RPC model, objects communicate and synchronize their processes through explicit procedure calls. This approach doesn't scale particularly well, at least not without supplemental effort; in general, the greater the number of participating objects, the longer and the more convoluted their conversational paths become. In a space implementation, however, the space itself synchronizes all of its participants. This is "blackboard communication," in which the participants:
This radical disengagement in all three degrees of freedom (see Figure 1) leads to very good and flexible system design results.
The space or space service (compare [Fre99a]) provides the following services:
read method thus asks for an object by
specifying the contents of its data fields, perhaps using null values as wild
cards. The space search engine then uses value and type comparisons to return
the desired object.
The simplicity of the fundamental paradigm is crucial; it can very easily be grasped, rendering unnecessary complex interfaces with their correspondingly steep learning curves. The minimal API allows for greatly reduced development expenditures; by dissociating the "senders" from the "receivers," it renders the application logic connecting them simpler, more flexible, and more stable. This particularly supports the construction, analysis, testing, and re-usability of large applications.
Figure 2: The Master Worker Pattern
The master-worker pattern nicely exemplifies the use of the space approach in developing a web application. Client requests (e.g., queries addressed to various archives) are received by a web server, which posts them asynchronously, as request objects, into the space (see Figure 2). The responsible worker processes then react in parallel, processing the requests and returning the results into the space as answer objects. The web server, upon notification of answers, then serves them to the clients, repackaging as required by the user interface.
By virtue of the use of a space as communication medium and the total decoupling of the interacting processes, this implementation scales linearly. In the event of a surge in the number of simultaneous requests, additional web server and worker machines (cheap standard hardware) can simply be added to the system as needed.
A worker represents an archive adapter. Should an archive be added, only its adapter need be newly programmed before being introduced into a running system. The author is aware of industry projects overjoyed at the benefit of this hot component plug-and-play capability.
Another characteristic almost inherent in spaces is distributed caching. Worker processes simply maintain a mapping of requests handled in a given timeframe to their resulting answers. Answer objects remain in the space, available to be returned immediately upon the arrival of a request identical to that of their mappings.
It is often difficult, by weighing costs and benefits, to achieve an optimal load balance in a system. Here again, a space offers a "natural" shortcut. Since workers are well-informed about the load upon their respective machines, a "space proxy" is charged with request redistribution. Only requests for which a worker with sufficient resources can be found will be accepted. The load thus calibrates itself automatically amongst the worker processes and their machines without the need to distribute the information about the load itself.
The advantages of a space-based approach can thus be summarized:
Project work in progress shows fantastic results with respect to the first point (compare [Sag01]). Bill Rawlings (CTO of Lockheed Martin, well known in industry circles due to his news postings) announced that by using spaces he was able to reduce the amount of source code (relative to J2EE) by two-thirds ([Raw01]). It's easy to imagine the effect on project budgets and timetables.
The following factors are essentially responsible:
Sun has introduced JavaSpaces (see [Fre99b] and [Fle01]), based on Jini (see [Sin00]), which offers a rudimentary space as a reference implementation. The two vendors GigaSpaces and IntaMission follow this standard. TSpaces from IBM, though also implemented in Java, goes in a different direction, notably by aiming to incorporate database functionality. (The problem here is to provide a simple query language when the space must manage a very large number of objects.) TSpaces is not an official IBM product; it is in "research status" but can nonetheless be purchased. The Vienna-based Tecco has also gone its own way, in the process extending the original "tuple-space" model. In addition to associative searches, objects in space can be addressed directly, a novelty that enhances scalability and assists garbage collection. Corso runs "natively" under Windows, Unix, and Linux and offers language bindings for Java, C/C++, Visual Basic, and Oracle Forms; its runtime kernel is smaller than 1MB.
The beauty of the space architecture resides in its tandem of simplicity and power. Compared to other models for developing distributed applications, it offers simpler design, savings in development and debugging effort, and more robust results that are easier to maintain and integrate.
Considering the current marketing strategies of Sun & Co., it remains to be seen how long it will be until the J2EE community takes notice. Considering, on the other hand, the ever-increasing complexity of future scenarios (invoked, for example, by the keywords "mobile" or P2P) and presuming better communication between some companies' decision-makers and their developers, the situation might soon and radically change.
[Gel92] D. Gelernter, Mirrorworlds, Oxford University Press, 1992
[Rup02] "Ruple White Paper - A Loosely Coupled Architecture Ideal for the Internet," RogueWave Software 2002
[Fre99a] E. Freeman and S. Hupfer, "Make room for JavaSpaces - Part 1," JavaWorld 1999, http://www.javaworld.com
[Sag01] D. Sag, "Jini as an Enterprise Solution," O'Reilly Network 2001
[Raw01] Bill Rawlings - Lockheed Martin, JavaSpace mailing list, Item 003081 oder 001588
Archives of email@example.com
[Fre99b] E. Freeman, S. Hupfer, K. Arnold, JavaSpaces Principles, Patterns, and Practice, Addison-Wesley 1999
[Fle01] R. Flenner, Jini and Javaspaces Application Development, Sams 2001
[Sin00] Sing Li, Professional Jini, Wrox Press 2000
Bernhard Angerer s a Software Architect focusing especially on object oriented methods and technologies.
Return to ONJava.com.
Copyright © 2009 O'Reilly Media, Inc.


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November 15, 2007
Higher Ed Leaders Applaud New Community College Readiness Program
Pilot project sponsored by Sen. Maloney, Rep. Miller aimed at assisting college readiness
SPRINGFIELD – Higher education leaders have praised Governor Blagojevich's signing of Senate Bill 858, which creates a new pilot program to promote preparation for college and the workforce and reduce the need for remedial coursework once students enter postsecondary classrooms.
The College and Career Readiness Pilot Program Act was sponsored by Senator Edward Maloney of Chicago and Representative David Miller of Dolton, and signed by the Governor November 5. The program is funded through a $750,000 appropriation to the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB).
"Readiness for college and careers is one of the most difficult challenges facing students, employers, and postsecondary institutions," said Carrie J. Hightman, Chairwoman of the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE). "We are indebted to Governor Blagojevich for approving Senate Bill 858, and to Senator Maloney and Representative Miller for their foresight in sponsoring this important legislation."
"We know that remediation in college is a large and growing problem," Senator Maloney said. "I am confident this pilot project will prove a valuable tool in alleviating the need for remedial coursework in college and improve retention and graduation rates."
Representative Miller noted: "When students enter college lacking the needed skills, they often burn up financial aid resources on classes that provide them no college credit. The college and career readiness program is a cost-efficient way for community colleges to link with their feeder high schools to help students who need additional academic preparation as well as those who are ready for college and may qualify for dual enrollment or other advanced coursework."
Guy Alongi, ICCB Chairman, said, "The Illinois Community College Board is excited about implementing this new program, which we believe will become a model throughout the state for helping to ensure that students are ready for the academic rigors of college when they walk through the door."
The program is designed as a partnership between the community colleges, their feeder high schools, and ACT, which will evaluate freshmen courses at the colleges and, based on scores on the ACT, determine each high school junior's readiness for coursework at the community colleges.
Teams from the colleges and partner high schools will then formulate a "readiness prescription" to give students the courses and other services, such as tutoring and study skills, that will better prepare them for college.
Students whose test scores indicate they are ready for college work will be encouraged to take dual credit (high school and college) courses or advanced placement to get a jump-start on their postsecondary careers. An evaluation process is built into the program to measure the effectiveness of readiness intervention strategies.
The project also is designed to diagnose gaps in curriculum between what is offered in high school and what is needed in college.
The three-year pilot envisioned in SB 858 calls for expansion to three new community college sites in the second year of the program and the addition of five new sites in year three.
"This program will be instrumental in not only serving many students who need a remedial boost while still in high school, but will complement other efforts targeted at college readiness," Chairman Alongi said.
"The college and career readiness initiative is a clear statement from the General Assembly and Governor that we must strengthen the link between the P-12 system and higher education to ensure students get what they need, when they need it, and at the appropriate venue to keep them on track for success in college and in the workforce," Chairwoman Hightman said.


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One thing we know about the achievement gap, in part from more than 15 years of Schools of Hope, is it requires a multi-faceted approach to close. That means teachers and parents and schools and communities working together in many different ways.
One of the great assets we have in efforts here in Madison, and in Wisconsin, is the University of Wisconsin. Professors and researchers and staff have been engaged in achievement-gap closing efforts and continue to be.
A great example is the 2013 Diversity Forum being held on campus Monday and Tuesday this week. Because it is partially funded by the UW System's Growth Agenda for Wisconsin Grant, the focus is statewide. It's an intensive, two-day agenda of sessions providing opportunities for faculty and staff from the UW System "to share knowledge about strategies and best practices for closing the achievement gap."
We need to tap into every resource available to make sure all of our kids succeed at school. We appreciate the UW's contribution to this effort.


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Admission Requirements
Columbia College wants to make the admission process as streamlined as possible. If you have a high school diploma, GED or previous college experience, complete the online application for undergraduate admission and send transcripts from high school and all colleges and universities you have attended. You will also have to complete the identity authentication process.
The Evening Campus admission requirements are considered "moderately selective." The Admissions Office will consider your overall high school performance or GED scores and any college coursework. Your academic past is important, but so are your life accomplishments, so personal letters of recommendation and resumes are welcome additions to your application file.
- New freshmen requirements include minimum 50th percentile class rank or test score (ACT, SAT or GED) and 2.0 cumulative grade point average.
- Freshman applicants who graduated from high school more than two years ago typically are not required to submit ACT or SAT scores.
- Transfer students must have earned a minimum 2.0 cumulative grade point average.
- If you have accrued more than 24 college credits, your high school transcript will not likely be required.
- There is a $35 application fee, which is nonrefundable.
Giving Credit Where Credit is Due
Columbia College accepts college credit from these programs:
- Advanced Placement (AP)
- International Baccalaureate (IB)
- Dual Credit
- Proficiency Exams
- Credit for Prior Learning
Learn more about CLEP and other testing services available at Columbia College.
For more information, please consult the Admissions chapter of the Evening Campus Undergraduate Catalog for the year of your admission.


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With an upright seating position that lets you see the world better and place your feet flat on the ground whenever you want, the Townie sets a new standard in comfort and control.
The Electra Townie® Go! is an easy to use, pedal assist bike with surprising power that'll make you want to go forever.
Designed with a functional minimalism in mind, the Loft is built to handle the rigors of the streets.
The fast-rolling 700c wheels mixed with our patented Flat Foot Technology® provide a nice, easy ride while the full chainguard and fenders let you ride without fear of messing up your threads.
Great for everyday transportation and longer distances, the Ticino sports fast-rolling 700c wheels and a lightweight frame for a fine-tuned, smooth-gliding ride.
This is the bike that started it all. 23 years ago we launched the company on the idea that we could improve on an American classic.
Flat Foot Technology® is available on most models and new this year on all 16" Kids' bikes. The technology ensures proper leg extension and no tippy-toe stops so kids can focus on the enjoyment of the ride.
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Dabigatran: A Promising Alternative to Warfarin
On October 19, 2010, the FDA approved a long-awaited new drug, dabigatran, expected to replace warfarin (Coumadin) as a better way to prevent blood clots in susceptible patients. This provides an opportunity to re-visit several issues that we have addressed before, including Big Pharma tactics, drug approval by the FDA, deciding what is adequate evidence, applying science to clinical practice, and making individual health care decisions based on evidence that is sometimes incomplete.
Patients with atrial fibrillation, artificial heart valves, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, antiphospholipid syndrome, and people undergoing certain types of surgery are at risk of blood clots, embolism, and stroke. They are currently being treated with rat poison. Warfarin (Coumadin) is an anticoagulant originally intended to kill rats. It inhibits the vitamin K dependent synthesis of several clotting factors. It saves human lives but is a mixed blessing. It takes several days to achieve therapeutic levels. Patients must be monitored with frequent blood tests to ensure that their prothrombin levels stay between an INR (international normalized ratio) of 2 and 3. When starting out, this means blood tests every couple of days. For some patients, dosage fluctuates and requires frequent adjustments; others can eventually drop down to a monthly blood test. Warfarin interacts with a long list of other drugs that raise or lower its blood levels. It interacts with many foods, and patients have to modify their diet. It can cause serious bleeding complications; while preventing thrombotic strokes it can cause hemorrhagic strokes. It is taken once daily. There is an antidote, vitamin K, that can reverse its effects promptly.
Warfarin is the 11th most prescribed drug in the US. Its benefits clearly outweigh its risks, but we wish the risks were fewer. We have yearned for a better option: something safer, something that would not require monitoring with blood tests, something that foods wouldn't interfere with, something that would not interact with every other drug in the book. And now it seems we have it: a direct thrombin inhibitor called dabigatran.
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The Washington Monument opens to the public, John Lennon is born, Che Guevara is executed, and President Barack Obama wins the Nobel Peace Prize, all on this day.
1940: Musician and singer-songwriter John Lennon, who rose to worldwide fame as a founder member of The Beatles, is born in Liverpool, England. He also went on to a solo career that produced such iconic songs as "Give Peace a Chance" and "Imagine" before his murder in December 1980.


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More than 31,000 runners registered for the 40th Honolulu Marathon and each person has a unique reason why.
"Really every person has their story and their reason to run it," said Honolulu Marthon President Jim Barahal. "And some of them are quite moving and emotional."
Take Julie Weiss of Santa Monica, Calif. The 41-year-old mother of two ran for her father.
"He's in my heart. He's the wind at my back. He's always there smiling," said Weiss.
But, her dad didn't get to see his daughter finish on Sunday or the 37 marathons she has run in the past 37 weeks.
"He passed away in 2010 from pancreatic cancer," said Weiss. "And I knew I had to do something and it should be centered around my passion for running and the love for my father. So, here I am running 52 marathons in 52 weeks.
Weiss has already raised more than $100,000 for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network through her website MarathonGoddess.com. With 15 marathons to go, she hopes to raise even more.
"I always say reach for the moon, even if you miss you'll land amongst the stars. My goal is a million dollars," said Weiss.
The goal of organizers in 1973 was to one day hold a race that rivaled the Boston Marathon. Forty years later, mission accomplished. This year, the Honolulu Marathon was the second largest in the U.S.
"And we'd like to stay in the top three. So, we're going to work real hard to keep growing, keep getting better and better," said Barahal.
As much as $120 million was expected to have flowed through Hawaii businesses.
"They're not coming out for the weekend. They're coming for five, six, seven days," said marathon analyst Toni Reavis. "It all just builds up and money comes out."
Twenty-six and two-tenths miles -- a test of endurance and stamina that race officials and thousands of running like Weiss passed with flying colors.
"Today was number 37 and I say it was like running in heaven. It's just beautiful here," said Weiss.
In all, 24,167 running finished the course.


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In 2002, there were 27 resident infant deaths for a rate of 4.2 infant deaths per 1,000 live births. This is the lowest rate ever in Vermont (Table A-1). The rate fell below the Healthy Vermonters 2010 goal of 4.5, and is lower than the 2001 U.S. white rate of 5.7. The 2002 U.S. white infant death rate is not available at this time. Comparisons are made to the U.S. white rate because all of the Vermont resident infant deaths were to whites in 2002. The Vermont infant mortality rate steadily declined from 24.0 in 1960 to 5.8 per 1,000 live births in 1991. The rate fluctuated through the rest of the 90's, and has decreased the past two years.
Eighteen (66.7 percent) of the infant deaths occurred during the neonatal period, that is, before the infant became 28 days old (Table D-3). The neonatal death rate was 2.8 deaths per 1,000 live births (Table D-5), lower than the 2001 U.S. white neonatal death rate of 3.8. The Vermont neonatal death rate has decreased over the past four decades from 18.6 in 1960, to 14.4 in 1970, to 6.2 in 1980, to 3.6 in 1990 (Table A-1). The rate increased through the nineties to a high of 5.9 in 1998 before sharply dropping to 3.2 in 1999. After increasing to 3.8 in 2000, the rate decreased to 3.6 in 2001, and 2.8 in 2002 - the lowest rate ever in Vermont.
The leading causes of infant deaths (Table D-9) were birth defects (5), extreme immaturity (3), maternal complications (2), birth trauma (2), and SIDS (2).
One of the most important risk factors in infant mortality is low birth weight. Of resident infants who died in 2002, 84.6 percent had a birth weight less than 2500 grams (5 pounds 8 ounces), while 6.4 percent of all resident births were low weight. The infant mortality rate for low weight births was 54.1 deaths per 1,000 live births. Age of mother is also related to infant mortality (Table D-5). From 2000 to 2002, the infant mortality rate for mothers 15 through 19 years of age was 8.9, and for mothers age 20 through 24 the rate was 8.2. The youngest maternal age group also had the highest neonatal death rates at 6.3 for the 15-19 year olds.
Unlike births and deaths, reports of fetal deaths and abortions are not shared among states. Therefore, statistics concerning these events reflect occurrences in Vermont only and do not include Vermont resident fetal deaths and abortions that occurred in other states.
There were 23 resident fetal deaths in 2002 ( Table D-1 ) for a rate of 3.6 per 1,000 live births and fetal deaths, up from 3.4 per 1,000 live births and fetal deaths in 2001 ( Table D-5 ). Of the fetal deaths in Vermont, 87.0 percent weighed less than 2500 grams ( Table D-7 ). From 2000 to 2002, the fetal death rates were highest in the youngest and oldest age groups: 6.9 per 1,000 live births for women age 15 to 19, and 5.6 for women age 40 to 44 ( Table D-5 ).
There were 1,635 abortions performed in Vermont in 2002, the first increase in number since 1989. Vermont residents accounted for 1,411, or 86.3 percent. This represents a rate of 10.9 per 1,000 women age 15 to 44.
The abortion ratio is the number of resident abortions occurring in Vermont times 1,000, divided by the total resident live births. The abortion ratio for 2002 was 221.0 abortions per 1,000 live births, among the lowest since 1975. The most recent U.S. white abortion ratio available was 167 per 1,000 live births, in 2000.
Women age 20 to 24 had the highest age-specific abortion rate, 29.0 per 1,000 women, followed by women age 25 to 29 at 19.6. First trimester abortions accounted for 94.2 percent of all Vermont abortions and 67.9 percent of all Vermont abortions were for pregnancies of less than 9 weeks duration. See Appendix B for the method used to compute the number of weeks of gestation.
[Note: Thirty-seven abortion records were reported late for the 2001 Annual Vital Statistics Report. The correct number of abortions performed in Vermont in 2001 was 1,550, rather than the reported 1,513.]
The pregnancy rate is derived by adding live births, fetal deaths and abortions. The pregnancy rates presented in this report underestimate the actual number of pregnancies for two reasons. First, Vermont resident abortions and fetal deaths that occur out of state are not reported to us. Second, by statute, fetal deaths prior to 20 weeks gestation are not reportable. Since residents of some counties may be more likely to use out-of-state services, the extent of these underestimates may differ among counties.
In 2002, the pregnancy rate in Vermont was 60.3 pregnancies per 1,000 women age 15 to 44 (Table F-1), compared to 58.4 in 2001, 61.2 in 2000, and 84.2 in 1980. The pregnancy rate peaked at 127.6 in 1960 and has dropped fairly steadily ever since (Table A-1).
The 2002 teen pregnancy rate was 36.1 pregnancies per 1,000 women age 15 to 19 years (Table F-1). This is down from 36.4 in 2001, and in general the teen pregnancy rate has been decreasing since 1991. In 2002, the highest pregnancy rate was seen in women 25 to 29 years of age at 116.6, followed by the 20 to 24 age group at 99.7. The lowest rate was for women age 35 to 44 at 25.2.


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Wood, SM, Adams, R, Lowe, M and Neely, A (2008) ESRC Business Engagement Project: A Scoping Study of Contemporary and Future Challenges in the UK Retail Sector UNSPECIFIED. Advanced Institute of Management (AIM).
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Submit News
Toyota's 50MPG Prius c Hybrid to Start at $18,950
Tiffany Kaiser
February 9, 2012 9:22 AM
Recipient E-mail
Sender E-mail
The Toyota Prius c hybrid is available in four grades, ranging from $18,950 to $23,230
At the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) last month, Toyota proudly unveiled its new
2012 Prius c hybrid
. The automaker boasted that the latest Prius member would be both fuel efficient and affordable, and today, the actual price figures have been released.
The starting manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for the 2012 Prius c hybrid is $18,950. However, the Prius c will be available in four grades, offering more features the higher the grade. The Prius c One has an MSRP of $18,950, while the Prius c Two is priced at $19,900, the Prius c Three is priced at $ 21,635 and the Prius c Four is priced at $23,230.
All Prius c's
will feature a Hybrid Synergy Drive 1.5-liter DOHC, 16-valve engine, a 144 volt nickel-metal hydride battery and a 60 HP permanent magnet AC synchronous motor for a combined hybrid system output of 99 HP. All Prius c's also offer Toyota's Star Safety System and nine standard airbags, and offer 53 mpg city and 46 mpg highway.
The Toyota Prius c One offers the basics like remote keyless entry, automatic climate control and a steering wheel with controls such as Bluetooth, audio and other options. Upgrading to the Prius c Two gets you a six-speaker audio system, a center console with armrest and storage, cruise control, engine immobilizer, a cargo area tonneau cover and a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat.
For those willing to bump up to the Prius c Three, drivers receive a plethora of technology for both entertainment and information such as a 6.1-inch touchscreen, Sirius XM Satellite Radio capability, HD Radio with iTunes Tagging, a Display Audio system with Navigation and Entune, advanced voice recognition, and a USB port with iPod connectivity. The Three also allows drivers to add 15-inch alloy wheels for an extra $390 and a power tilt/slide moonroof with sunshade for an extra $850.
The crème de la crème of the Prius c hybrids is the Four, with added 15-inch, 8-spoke alloy wheels, color-keyed heated power outside mirrors with turn signals, integrated fog lamps, and Softex-trimmed heated front seats. Prius c Four drivers can also choose to add a power tilt/slide moonroof with sliding shade for an extra $850, a 16-inch, 8-spoke alloy wheel package with P195/50R16 tires for an extra $300, or a 16-inch alloy wheel package that includes P195/50R16 tires and the moonroof with sliding sunshade for an extra $1,150.
"It's sized, priced, styled and packaged to appeal to young buyers on a budget who, until now, have probably found a hybrid experience out of reach," said Jim Lentz, Toyota USA president and CEO. "That's why we view
the Prius as a gateway vehicle
and a key component of our Prius strategy."
The Prius c hybrid will be available in dealerships in March 2012.
"We're Apple. We don't wear suits. We don't even own suits." -- Apple CEO Steve Jobs
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text:
MEA members can save thousands through exclusive discounts
Think of the items and services a household regularly purchases — groceries, clothing, meals, oil changes, entertainment. It all adds up over time.
Thankfully, MEA members have access to numerous member-only discounts that can save thousands of dollars each year on the items they buy most.
By logging on to the Members Only section of www.mea.org, members can peruse a wide array of deep discounts on dining, eye care, home supplies, vacations, health products, golf and much more. MEA members can also download the "My Deals" mobile app on their smartphones to find discounts in their neighborhoods.
While dues-paying MEA members enjoy numerous advantages for their careers, for their rights and for public education, the member-only discounts alone can easily offset the cost of dues.
Take, for example, a typical MEA member who pays in the neighborhood of $800 a year in dues to support the collective bargaining, representation and advocacy efforts of their professional association. By just occasionally taking advantage of member-only discounts, that member can turn that $800 investment into $1,600 in discounts:
By just using their member-only discounts just a few times a month — by no means "extreme couponing" — MEA members can offset the cost of dues and save additional money on products and services they use every day.
To learn more and start taking advantage of member-only discounts today, visit the Members Only section of www.mea.org.


text:
Expert Q & A Answers About
I'm in a new relationship with a man and we recently slept together for the first time. My question is: why would a man's semen have an unusually "pungent" taste and odor? I usually enjoy oral sex, but cannot bring myself to do it with him.
Could my vaginal discharge have caused my partner's throat infection after he gave me oral sex?
Since as long as I can remember, I've always had some light, vaginal discharge. A few weeks ago, my boyfriend performed oral sex on me for the first time. A week later, he had a high fever and his doctor diagnosed him with a "throat infection" (not strep). Did my discharge cause this infection and is it an STD?
Am I allergic to sperm? I have a burning feeling after sex.
My husband and I don't use protection during intercourse, and when we're finished I have a burning feeling in my vagina. Could I be allergic to his sperm?
I notice a white discharge from my vagina after sex...what is it?
I've been sexually active since I was 16. Since the first time I had sex ⎼ and every time after that, only with sex ⎼ there's a white discharge from my vagina. The discharge is kind of thick and smooth, and there's no unusual odor. Is there something wrong with me?
I have abnormal vaginal discharge that looks like cottage cheese. Do I have a yeast infection?
I'm a 19-year-old college student and I am concerned about my vaginal discharge. It's very heavy lately. There is no itching and not really any bad smell, but it is rather embarrassing. At first I thought it could be signs of a yeast infection…but besides the heavy cottage cheese discharge, there are no other signs. Please help.
I haven't had sex yet, but I have bumps on my scrotum and penis. What are they?
I think I may have a venereal disease. I'm 19 and haven't had sex…I have some bumps on my scrotum at the base of each hair and these bumps around the ridge of my penis head that look like pimples. I've had these for about three years, possibly longer. I'm scared as I've entered my first real relationship where sex is inevitable...can you tell me what I have?
I self-cath...is that why I keep getting urinary tract infections?
I'm a female, C5 quad and have never had a sexually transmitted disease. I self-cath and haven't had serious urinary tract infections before. My boyfriend and I are in a monogamous relationship and recently became sexually active. We don't use protection...could this be why I've been getting more frequent urinary tract infections lately?
I have a burning feeling in my vagina during sex...what could it be?
I have started to have a burning feeling in my vagina when I have sexual intercourse. It hurts so much, I have to stop. My boyfriend and I use condoms...so what could it be?
What causes vaginal discharge to change color and smell bad?
For the past few months, I've had vaginal discharge that has an off-color and a pretty bad odor. What is it?
After anal sex, I noticed that my anus looks black. Why would that be?
I'm a 28-year-old married woman, and my husband and I are heavy into anal sex. I noticed that my anus has become black all around. Do you know why? And is it safe for my husband to cum inside my anus?


text:
Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: http://hdl.handle.net/1959.3/49983
- Title
- John Allan: the first agrarian
- Author(s)
- Costar, Brian
- Abstract
- John Allan had the distinction of being the first Country Party premier in Australia. He was also the fourth Victorian premier and leader of the fifth ministry to hold office in the calendar year 1924. While his government was to serve from 18 November 1924 unti120 May 1927, this veneer of stability concealed both policy inertia and extreme volatility within the country party movement. The latter was produced by divisions over coalition formation, vitriolic disputes over the proposed establishment of a compulsory wheat pool and the rising ambitions of (future premier) Albert Dunstan. Allan and Dunstan took contrary positions on whether the Country Party should have entered a coalition with the Nationalist Party as the junior partner in September 1923 and as the senior partner in November 1924, and clashed over the orderly marketing of wheat.
- Publication type
- Book chapter
- Research centre
- Swinburne University of Technology. Faculty of Life and Social Sciences. Institute for Social Research
- Source
- The Victorian premiers: 1856-2006 / Paul Strangio and Brian Costar (eds.), pp. 188-196
- Publication year
- 2006
- Keyword(s)
- Allan, John (1866-1936); Australia; Australian politics; Biography; Conservative government; Government; History; Local history; Parliament; Politicians; Premiers; Victoria
- Publisher
- The Federation Press
- 9781862876019, 1862876010
- Publisher URL
- Copyright
- Copyright © 2006 The Federation Press and contributors.
- Peer reviewed


text:
Competitive Sports: Helping Kids Play it Cool
Please Note: By clicking a link to any resource listed on this page, you will be leaving the KidsHealth site.
American College of Sports Medicine
This site has tips on staying safe while playing sports and exercising.
BAM! Body and Mind
This CDC website is designed for 9- to 13-year-olds and addresses health, nutrition, fitness, and stress. It also offers games for kids.
Kids Sports Network
This organization promotes quality nonschool sports and fitness for children between the ages of 3 and 19 through coaches, education, special events and activities, public awareness, and regular networking with youth sports organizations and agencies.


text:
Olson could see action as a backup
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text:
I love reading articles about tech gear I don't have and probably won't be in the market for any time soon.
There's this howler right now in the New York Times / International Herald Tribune about how BlackBerry owners are so embarrassed and ashamed of their devices because of the many things they can't do in comparison to an iPhone or other Android device.
BlackBerry outcasts say that they increasingly endure shame and public humiliation as they watch their counterparts use social networking apps that are not available to them, take higher-resolution photos, and effortlessly navigate streets – and the Internet – with better GPS and faster browsing.
In the next sentence we discover how these luckless BlackBerry-owning wretches are forced to do things that most everyone did about five years ago:
This means that they have to request assistance to get directions, book travel, make restaurant reservations or look up sports scores.
God, what a horrible life they must lead.
Imagine having to contact another human being to find out a piece of information, even if it is only to ask another human being with a better device to gather said information from the Internet.
And what about that shame? Unless you're psychopathic, shame happens to us all. We feel shame and even public humiliation when we realise that everyone knows we've done something most consider to be wrong. So should I feel ashamed because I freely admit to my readers that I do not own a BlackBerry, or an iPhone, or an Androgizmoid? That all I need is a Nokia cellphone and that no, I don't have an app for whatever it is you're looking for? Is it humiliating to do as I've always done and look up the sports scores in a newspaper?
And what about holders of older iPhones? Will they start having to hide them under a book or buy camouflage because their version doesn't have the fastest connection technology? Where is this obsession with tech taking us when our measure of our place in society is how many bazillagigabytes of information we can stream while eating ice cream and crossing the street?
I don't know, maybe living in Germany for 15 years has atrophied my sense of irony, but the tone of the article was pretty straight-forward. And its message is simple, updated for today: keep up with the Joneses, or feel the shame. It's been the same since people first started to wear clothing and seek warm shelter.
I do know that smartphones are capable of transforming the way we live our lives, and maybe mine would change for the better if I got one. The fact that most everyone I know has or wants one makes me wonder how it is I keep missing the point. I'm tempted sometimes, but for now – just for now – no thanks. I want to hold on to a bit of my old ways a little longer. Maybe like the vinyl I listened to while writing this, cellphones will one day come back into fashion and I won't have to feels like such a schmuck all the time.


text:
For Immediate Release
March 20, 2013
State Board recognizes Illinois Honor Roll schools in Monroe, Randolph and St. Clair counties
Annual list recognizes improving and high-performing schools across the state
BELLEVILLE — State Superintendent of Education Christopher A. Koch and Illinois State Board of Education members recognized 17 schools from St. Clair, Monroe and Randolph counties today (Wednesday, March 20) for being named to the 2012 Illinois Honor Roll. The schools were honored during a school assembly at Westhaven Elementary School in Belleville.
"At a time when many districts are being asked to do more with less, these schools are rising to the occasion. The educators, parents and students should be especially proud of these accomplishments," said Superintendent Koch. "I am honored to be here today at Westhaven Elementary to recognize these academic achievements."
Westhaven Elementary School received its second consecutive Academic Excellence award this year. The school also was named a Spotlight School from 2003 to 2007.
The latest Illinois Honor Roll list includes 624 schools across the state. There are about 4,000 public schools in Illinois. The Honor Roll is divided into three categories – Spotlight Schools, Academic Excellence and Academic Improvement. Each award has unique criteria that best reflect the diverse circumstances of Illinois schools.
- Spotlight Schools – Recognizes 105 high-poverty, high-performing schools that are beating the odds by overcoming the achievement gap.
- Academic Excellence Awards – 454 schools have sustained high performance over at least three years.
- Academic Improvement Awards – 81 schools are showing substantial improvement.
The schools recognized today in Belleville were:
|Belleville SD 118
|Westhaven Elementary School
|Cahokia CUSD 187
|Penniman Elementary School
|Columbia CUSD 4
|Columbia Middle School
|Parkview Elementary School
|Coulterville USD 1
|Coulterville Junior High School
|East St Louis SD 189
|Brown Elementary School
|Jackson Elementary School
|James Avant Elementary School
|Grant CCSD 110
|Grant Middle School
|Lebanon CUSD 9
|Lebanon High School
|Mascoutah CUD 19
|Scott Elementary School
|Millstadt CCSD 160
|Millstadt Consolidated School
|Shiloh Village SD 85
|Shiloh Elementary School
|Sparta CUSD 140
|Sparta Primary Attendance Center
|Valmeyer CUSD 3
|Valmeyer Junior High School
|Wolf Branch SD 113
|Wolf Branch Elementary School
|Wolf Branch Middle School
The 2012 Honor Roll roster contains elementary, middle and high schools, including charter schools, and represents 293 public school districts statewide. Downstate schools represent 39 percent of the Honor Roll schools, suburban schools represent 49 percent and Chicago schools make up the final 12 percent this year. The schools earned a total of 640 awards in the three categories.
Northern Illinois University works with ISBE to establish criteria, identify winners of the awards and administer the Illinois Honor Roll. A complete listing of the 2012 Illinois Honor Roll Schools can be found online at http://www.ilhonorroll.niu.edu.
Follow us: Visit the official ISBE website at http://www.isbe.net.


text:
It looks like Sean is in for a lot of drama this season. I hope he can handle this and it's only just begun.
Sean went on his first one-on-one dates Monday night and he also went on his first group date. He handled himself well especially with all of the women and their different personalities.
I really like Sean and I think there are definitely a couple of women on the show that could end up being his wife.
Sean took Sarah out on his first one-on-one date of the night. Sarah was born with one arm and, if you remember, she made it clear to Sean that she didn't want to be seen as different or limited because of her situation.
I think Sarah is such an amazing woman and she has overcome so much in her life (I was seriously balling as she told her zipline story).
Sarah is really down to earth and real and just sweet. Sarah and Sean went on a helicopter ride and then spent the night on a rooftop overlooking the city (a typical date, wait, I mean scratch that, a typical date, on "The Bachelor").
Sean is such a gentleman and an all around good guy. He made Sarah feel so special and comfortable. I seriously love that about him. Sarah and him had a connection and I think that he really does like her. I hope to see more of her in the upcoming episodes.
One of my favorite parts of "The Bachelor" are the group dates. It's like all the women take some sort of crazy pill or something. They go to extreme measures to impress the bachelor or they go on a jealous rampage and it just makes you think, "OMG, I hope I'm never like that."
The 13 bachelorettes and Sean had a photo shoot to be on the cover of three novels. Lesley, the girl with bad roots from Washington D.C., was able to sneak in a kiss with Sean during the photo shoot and boy did that set the tone for the rest of the date.
Kristy, the Ford model with the huge smile, tried to seduce Sean which in turn ticked every jealous vein in the other 12 women. She won the competition though, surprise, surprise.
Later that evening, Katie (a.ka. the crazy-haired Yoga instructor) decided that this wasn't for her and it was time for her to go home (already, really? Why did you even come on the show to begin with?). That situation always makes me mad because the other girls who Sean eliminated on the first episode would have died to be in Katie's shoes.
Tierra (ugh, she is so irritating) had a hard time dealing with the other women in the house and sharing Sean's time as well. She has rubbed a lot of the girls in the house the wrong way and most of them don't think that she is genuine. On top of that, Tierra is super jealous and super competitive. I'm not sure why Sean likes her but he definitely does.
I was confused at first how Sean felt about Kacie B. (I really like her) but I think he sees her more as a friend. I am glad that they were able to have some alone time together but I don't think that they are going to work. It breaks my heart to say that because I really do love Kacie B. and I think ABC should look into making her the next bachelorette…or me (just kidding, ABC, call me, maybe?). But for real, she has so much to offer and I think she is just such an awesome person. I'm rooting for her to find love. I wish it was Sean but I don't think it's there for them.
Even though Sean ended up giving her the rose at the end of the group date, I don't think that necessarily means that they will have a lasting connection (I hope I'm wrong).
Desiree (a.k.a. Des) had the next one-on-one date and I think she is going to go really far. You can tell that Sean really likes her too.
Sean is a prankster as we all know and poor Des was the first girl of the season that Sean pranked on! He took Des to a "fake" art gallery and made her think that she ruined a $1.5 million piece of art. I felt so bad for her, I would have been freaking out. Des was in total shock and you could tell she couldn't comprehend what was happening. Sean and her went back to his place and their conversation just flowed. They both come from similar backgrounds and have the same morals. It was just easy between them. Sean even said that he saw qualities in Des that he could see in his wife. Sean of course gave her the rose, but Des hesitated at first to scare him and then she accepted, duh! I hope that she goes far. I really like her and I think that they are good together.
The cocktail party is always everyone's last chance to make one more impression on Sean before he decides who he will give roses to. Lindsay (the wedding dress girl) and Sean had a really good conversation which made up for her disastrous conversation with him last week. Amanda (the yellow dress model with the scary expressions) was straight strange and her true self really showed. She didn't talk to any of the girls and sat there by herself most of the night. She only lit up when she saw Sean and acted like a completely different person. She is definitely not there to make friends and the girls, especially Des and Robyn are not having it.
I liked that Robyn (outgoing girl with the long yellow dress) wasn't afraid to ask Sean any questions. She was very open about asking him if he was attracted to a certain race or if he has problems dating a certain ethnicity. Sean did not hesitate to answer at all, he said that he had no physical preference and as long as they were sweet, caring and loving that's all that mattered.
You could tell he really meant that (he even went on to say his last girlfriend was African American). I think at that moment, I realized that Sean should be my husband ha ha. But seriously he is a man of great character and he deserves to find someone as amazing as him.
At the end of the night, the two rose-less women were: Brooke and Diana. Sean told Diana he let her go because he didn't want to keep her from her children if he didn't feel that spark. What do you guys think? Did Sean make the right decisions?
Next week Sean will spend even more time with the remaining 16 bachelorettes as the stakes get higher. Will Sean connect with more girls? Will his feelings get stronger for any girl in particular?
Make sure to watch next week's episode of "The Bachelor" and continue to check kitv.com for updates.
And don't forget every week; we will post a comment or picture from #bachelorhi onto kitv.com, so please make sure to keep tweeting me throughout the entire episode @laurenjwang and hashtag it with #bachelorhi!
XOXO Lauren


text:
Zion Baptist Church presents musical for Black History Month
PARKERSBURG – "Be Still And Know That He Is God," Psalm 46:10.
This passage is not only a Bible verse to Susan Sylvia but also an inspiration that should be shared with everyone and is the reason she wrote a musical which takes its title from the verse.
Sylvia is the first lady of St. Paul A.M.E. Church in Charleston and a Parkersburg native. She said she originally wrote the musical for her church's Women's Day celebration. The Ladies of St. Paul presented it at the Gallipolis, Ohio, annual "Emancipation Proclamation Celebration" in 2012.
Cynthia Brown, a member of Zion Baptist Church in Parkersburg, attended the celebration and saw Sylvia's musical.
"I knew we had to bring it here," Brown said of bringing the musical to the Parkersburg church.
With the help of some hope and faith, the women were able to make the journey from Charleston to Parkersburg on a cold, wintry day to present a true inspiration to African Americans all over the world during Black History Month, Sylvia added in a speech to the crowded church on Sunday afternoon.
"It's important to know where our (African American ancestors) came from," Sylvia said. "Our youth are kind of losing some of our history and they need to know (the history of slavery and oppression)."
The play consisted of seven scenes starting with enslaved African Americans picking cotton as their ancestors would have been doing many years ago. The third scene included the freedom of the oppressed. After a brief intermission and offering, the women acted out more present-day scenes including a single mother trying to raise her young child in a world where African American women were still being repressed.
The final scene showed how far modern day African Americans, especially women, have come including two of the cast members portraying doctors.
"Would you look at us," one of the actresses began. "Two doctors, who would have thought."
The musical was inspired to show how far African Americans have come throughout history and how, especially African American women, can become as powerful and independent as any other nationality in America, a free nation.
Sylvia said she decided to name the play after the Bible verse because it showed the trial and tribulations African Americans went through up until the present day.
"It shows everything's going to be OK and we're going to get through everything we're going through," she said.
Sylvia said not only was her mother an African American woman growing up in an oppressed nation, she has also been through the loss of a young daughter.
"Psalm 46:10 is a scripture I'd been standing on pretty firm for the last few years because of losing my baby daughter," Sylvia said.
Following Sunday's performance, Brown presented a plaque to Sylvia in appreciation for bringing the play to Parkersburg.
The cast included Sharon Banks, Gerva Coleman, JoAnne Ford, the Rev. Carolyn Hairston, Brenda Hardy, Sara Moore, Ruth Nowling, Pam Robinson, Vanessa Robinson, Darlene Stokes, Johniece Sylvia, Jean Wiggins, Evelena Williams, Tierah Williams and Vanessa Williams.
Some other Black History Month programs are still included as the end of February approaches.
In Belpre, the 15th annual Black History Month Celebration luncheon and silent auction will be 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Saturday at Rockland United Methodist Church, 2141 Washington Blvd.
The speaker is C. Michael Gray, a Vietnam War veteran and graduate of West Virginia State College with a bachelor's in business administration. He has a law degree from the University of Wisconsin. A college professor for 30 years, he is on the faculty of African American Studies at Ohio University and is an adjunct professor at Marietta College.
The cost is $9 and children under 5 are free. Tickets are available at the chapel and from organizer Ray Simmons at email@example.com or at (614) 316-1553.
Marietta College is also continuing its Black History Month series in Marietta.
* Today, to mark President's Day, Al Letson will present a program on how identity, primarily for those who consider themselves black, is established at 6 p.m. in the Great Room of Andrews Hall. On his public radio show "State of the Re:Union," Letson recently followed this phenomenon to Pike County. He has also worked as playwright, actor and slam poetry performer.
* Marietta College will celebrate its 178th Founders Day with a program at 7 p.m. Thursday in the AlmA McDonough Auditorium. It will be free and open to the public.
Eugene Robinson is this year's Founder's Day keynote speaker. He is the author of "Disintegration: The Splintering of Black America" and provides political commentary on television news programs such as MSNBC's "Hardball," "The Rachel Maddow Show" and NBC's "Meet the Press."
Robinson is the winner of a Pulitzer Prize for commentary on the 2008 presidential election.
* In the final event of Black History Month, the College Union Board will present a comedian, Preacher Moss, a Muslim African-American, who will perform at 6 p.m. Feb. 28 in the Alma McDonough Auditorium.
A writer for "The Damon Wayans Show" and "Saturday Night Live," his stand-up routines have been performed around the country, focusing on racism, multiculturalism and civil rights.