text:
It's January, so that means it's time for ESPN to generate controversy by suggesting that a recent Super Bowl champion that just so happens to be competing for another berth in the Super Bowl has obtained its success through cheating.
Last year, Mike Fish of ESPN.com burst onto the scene on the Friday before the Super Bowl, the same day that former Pats video employee Matt Walsh finally went on the record with the New York Times after being chased by Fish and others for months.
The feeding frenzy fueled by Fish likely prompted the Boston Herald to report the next morning that the Patriots had videotaped a Rams practice prior to the Pats first Super Bowl win six years earlier.
Though ESPN didn't have ultimate ownership of the ultimately disgraced story, Fish and others at ESPN.com were squarely in the middle of a string of reports that strongly implied Walsh knew something big about the Patriots and allegations of past cheating.
In the end, the Herald admitted its error and apologized. ESPN never did.
This time, Fish and his editors decided to plop onto the national sports consciousness less than three days before the AFC title game another lengthy-to-the-point-of-unreadable article suggesting that the Pittsburgh Steelers were giving their players HGH.
Of course, Fish never says that the Steelers were giving their players HGH. But the article oozes with the implication that Dr. Richard Rydze was purchasing large amounts of HGH not for his non-football-playing patients.
It is expertly written, in our opinion, to point the reader to the conclusion that Fish wants the reader to make but doesn't have the evidence to support — that Fish thinks Rydze was buying HGH and giving it to Steelers players. And the paragraph after paragraph of plodding prose will make most readers at some point abandon ship, after concluding that there must be evidence somewhere in the story linking the Steelers to HGH.
The basic facts are simple. Reports surfaced in February 2007 that Rydze had used his own credit card to buy $150,000 in HGH in 2006. There was and still is no evidence that Rydze had distributed the substances to Steelers players. Four months later, the Steelers severed ties with Rydze.
Fish abandons all common sense when addressing the reasons for the move.
"So why . . . did Rydze leave the Steelers so willingly?" Fish asked former Steelers player (who played for the Steelers long before any of these issues came to light) and current ESPN talking head Merril Hoge. "Why didn't he put up a fight to save his association with the team?"
Um, maybe Rydze left because he knew that the team could no longer afford to be associated with a physician who had purchased HGH in any amounts, since it could cause people to conclude that the team endorsed his conduct. And maybe Rydze realized that the Steelers really had no choice, given that HGH is a substance that the NFL has banned.
The entire goal of this piece, in our opinion, is to take facts that had been already reported long ago — that a Steelers physician had purchased $150,000 worth of HGH with his own credit card — and to then fill in details that aren't all that surprising or groundbreaking as part of a lengthy analysis aimed at communicating to the casusal reader inclined to dislike the Steelers that the Steelers are cheaters.
And, of course, to divert some of the national attention that the Steelers are enjoying to ESPN.
It's the same formula that Fish and ESPN used last year regarding the Patriots, and that the network employed during the 2008 season, as the Cowboys were imploding.
Here's our question for Fish and the editors at ESPN.com: Why now? Why on January 15, three days before the AFC championship game? Was the story not ready before today? Or was it specifically held to have maximum effect?
Did ESPN consider holding the story until the Thursday or Friday before the Super Bowl, and did ESPN decide that there's a good chance that the Ravens will win on Sunday, making the story of possible HGH use by Steelers players far less intriguing?
Have we mentioned that there's a need for a full-time, real-time ESPN ombudsman?
Like the Spygate frenzy of late 2007, ESPN's look at HGH and the Steelers ignores the fact that, even if Steelers players were getting HGH from Dr. Rydze, plenty of other NFL players with other NFL teams have used it.
Fish fails to mention, for example, that the NFL doesn't test for HGH, which means that players can use it with impunity, as long as there's no paper trail as to how they got it. (Rodney Harrison and Wade Wilson learned this lesson the hard way.)
Fish also offers no background regarding the prevalence of HGH. In September 2006, Redskins tackle Jon Jansen said that HGH use "is on the rise" and that 15 to 20 percent of all players use some type of performance-enhancing substance. (Jansen later "clarified" his comments.)
So why wouldn't Fish and ESPN mention these facts, especially since they would tend to support the notion that Rydze was giving HGH to Steelers players?
We think Fish and ESPN left it out because the story is far less sexy if other teams are doing it. The overriding purpose is, in our view, to create another Patriots-style lightning rod, drawing eyeballs and ears to the various ESPN platforms so that they can acquire information and express opinions about whether the Steelers' most recent Super Bowl win is tainted, and whether their current run for another title can be undermined by the efforts of ESPN to create a distraction.
All that said, there continues to be no evidence that Dr. Rydze gave HGH to Steelers players in 2006 or previously. So since Fish struck gold (or so he thought) with a disgruntled former Patriots employee last year, did Fish try to track down former Steelers players who might blow the whistle on HGH use, if the Steelers are engaged in some type of elaborate laboratory experiments in which no other NFL franchises are engaged?
Guard Alan Faneca was a Steeler in 2006, and he was unhappy when he left. Maybe he would have given an off-the-record admission. Or what about Joey Porter? He was cut by the team after the 2006 season, and a looser cannon there cannot be. Receiver Cedrick Wilson has every reason to be upset; he was dumped for allegedly doing the same kind of stuff to a woman that two-time team MVP James Harrison allegedly did. Did Fish ask Cedric about HGH?
So either Fish didn't try to talk to former players at all, and thus was being journalistically irresponsible, or he tried to find out what former players had to say on the matter and came up with nothing, making him even more irresponsible for not pointing out the failed efforts to determine by talking with Steelers players whether Dr. Rydze had given them HGH.
In the end, it was far simpler to point out the previously-known facts, splice in comments harvested via various interviews of folks who were in no position to confirm or deny Fish's underlying suppositions, and scatter the suspicion throughout the article that HGH was given to Steelers players.
"And that's the issue," Fish concludes as to the question of what Rydze did with the HGH. "People are still left to wonder."
As for us, we wonder how long ESPN can continue to peddle this same, tired formula.
It's January, so that means it's time for ESPN to generate controversy by suggesting that a recent Super Bowl champion that just so happens to be competing for another berth in the Super Bowl has obtained its success through cheating.
Bill In DC says: Jan 15, 2009 11:24 PM
Because Dallas is out of the playoffs and they can't drum up headlines about TO?
Hollywood Wags says: Jan 15, 2009 11:26 PM
Gotta feed the ESPN Doomsday machine somehow…
Mike Beckwith says: Jan 15, 2009 11:26 PM
As someone who has grown up in Cleveland as a Steelers hater, I can honestly say that stuff like this is just another reason why I watch ESPN less these days.
I liked the network better when they were just stuck to running highlights that were fronted by smart-ass personalities like Olbermann, Patrick, and Kilborn.
CaptainFantastik says: Jan 15, 2009 11:27 PM
Wow. I take back everything I said about Florio being a Steelers hater and offer my apologies. You presented this completely on the level. Kudos.
ynasty says: Jan 15, 2009 11:37 PM
Tom Brady never injured his knee, he was just faking it. I think ESPN should look in to that. Come on, really? ESPN is just a network gossip, they'll just take one story, and talk about it for 5 years. Just let it go ESPN!
mrmagoo says: Jan 15, 2009 11:38 PM
Sports Illustrated put the Steelers on the cover.
I don't know which is worse.
ButchD says: Jan 15, 2009 11:46 PM
Steelers***** cheating? um, duh. That's old news Florihole
thepatriotsneverhold says: Jan 15, 2009 11:47 PM
Another desperate attempt by ESPN to remain relevant. I remember when they were showing Australian rules football. I actually logged more time watching ESPN back then ( I only watch the matchup show now). ESPN is pathetic and I can't even watch MNF anymore because of it. They did the same thing to MNF with the bogus "celebrity guests" , trying to make ESPN the focus. Note to Bristol…their will never be another Howard Cosell, no mater how embarrassingly hard the "talent" at ESPN tries.
Bmore Styles says: Jan 15, 2009 11:50 PM
I highly doubt the validity of this story…. But anyone who doesn't find it funny how Harrison went from being cut by a number of teams and their practice squads to becoming the Defensive Player of the Year is either dumb and/or a Steelers' fan. Somebody had to say it.
JPeezy55 says: Jan 15, 2009 11:51 PM
How long will ESPN continue to treat us like sheep and try to invent controversy and create news instead of reporting it.
One thing you didnt mention is the misleading titles on that article. "Growing Controversy" is the lead in, but the story is 2 years old and has been dead under a rug since then. Fact is Espn is more Entertainment than Sports or News anymore….
PFTiswhatitis says: Jan 15, 2009 11:52 PM
That Fish is low life scum but just to be safe, *Steelers
wingnut says: Jan 15, 2009 11:53 PM
Sports Illustrated put the Steelers on the cover
I dont know what is worse?
How about putting the Patriots** on the cover.
vikinghooper says: Jan 15, 2009 11:57 PM
Although I have no dog in this fight, you guys apologizing for the Steelers are sad. As a large majority of NFL players need PEDs to survive the brutality of the game, please just say you don't care that players are doing drugs and dying early, and stop acting like this knucklehead doctor wasn't giving HGH to Steelers.
You think he woke up early to inject old people with pulled muscles? I am a surgeon and will tell you unequivocably that this doctor injected Steelers with HGH, and was kicked out of the University Hospital quietly. We doctors stick together, but can't keep the smelly ones too close to the one's actually practicing safe medicine. Do you know why quacks like this inject HGH? MONEY. He has no business injecting HGH with his specialty. I operate on sick, dying patients and use HGH in dire circumstances, so giving it to Steelers makes the Steelers and the players money today, but shortens the players life considerably.
The people that benefit are the Rooneys, the Steeler fans, and oh yeah, this quack who probably outearns surgeons who are actually fixing what's wrong.
Oh, and every team is doing it, so this Fish clown is outing the Steelers and scaring the hell out of ALL the other teams. Boldin back in three weeks from facial fractures, Pat Williams coming back from a fractured scapula using StarCaps, TO recovering from a fractured fibula and playing 7 weeks later. NFL players don't use HGH and steroids, and a pile of WMDS were found today in Iraq.
wingnut says: Jan 16, 2009 12:00 AM
The Patriots** dream of being a REAL Dynasty like the Steelers.
QzrSoze says: Jan 16, 2009 12:01 AM
Leave the junk reporting to the bloggers!
wingnut says: Jan 16, 2009 12:05 AM
HGH, Steriods.
Old news,
Steal curtian year's
Elaw6 says: Jan 16, 2009 12:11 AM
If this story was about the Rams or Chiefs, Florio wouldn't have gone through all of this….who cares
wingnut says: Jan 16, 2009 12:14 AM
Rodney Harrison/HGH.
wingnut says: Jan 16, 2009 12:17 AM
Eddie Haskell needs to retire.
bmac187 says: Jan 16, 2009 12:18 AM
wingnut says:
January 16th, 2009 at 12:00 am
The Patriots** dream of being a REAL Dynasty like the Steelers.
I couldn't agree more.
I'm sure Tom Brady wakes up every morning thinking, "I wish we only won one Super Bowl this decade."
thepatriotsneverhold says: Jan 16, 2009 12:19 AM
Soooooooo, vikinghooper is really Mr. Fish? You can state "unequivocably that this doctor injected Steelers with HGH" with no proof? Or did you see actual injections taking place? Maybe you kept a syringe to back up your "facts"? If your a college educated surgeon I'm a fire truck. Your post leads one to believe you do not have the sophistication of a door knob.
GregO says: Jan 16, 2009 12:20 AM
I appreciate your take vikinghooper and I appreciate and deeply respect your ability to save lives. However I would like to make two points.
1) Show me the bodies. Show me all the dead bodies associated with HGH use.
2) Don't pretend that surgeons aren't after the money too and that they don't perform surgeries 1) when they might not be absolutely necessary and 2) using more invasive & complicated techniques (i.e. those that the insurance schedules pay more for) than what are required.
I have a PhD in human genetics and I work in the insurance industry . I am in a unique position to know the science behind steroids and I see the missteps of surgeons at the same time.
edgerules says: Jan 16, 2009 12:21 AM
Well, like all journalists, this Fish guy has an agenda. WHat I think it is is to just create a story. Period. He and ESPN with an assist from the Boston Herald and Senator Spector pretty much caused enough of a distraction to ruin the Pats' Super Bowl run, now this jacka** wants to do the same thing to the Steelers too. This is exactly why I do not take ESPN seriously. Very irresponsible "journalism" if so it can be called.
wingnut says: Jan 16, 2009 12:25 AM
Tom Brady's knee needs some "Tyson Any'tizers.
Ralphie says: Jan 16, 2009 12:31 AM
CaptainFantasDick, the only reason you're on your high-horse right now is because Florio's bailing out your beloved Stoolers. We'll see how long that lasts. Your the biggest loud mouth douchebag on this forum when it comes to the Patriots with that tired, revisionist bullshit that the comes out of that impacted little turd of a brain that you sit on. The biggest ESPN bandwagon jumper of them all. Still crying how the Pats "stole" all those championships from you starting way back in 02?
wingnut says: Jan 16, 2009 12:32 AM
@bmac187,Eddie Haskel wakes up every morning thinking "I wish we won
a Super Bowl without the help of a camera or the officials.
wingnut says: Jan 16, 2009 12:34 AM
Florio, ciruit city sucks!!!!
jjthetraveler says: Jan 16, 2009 12:41 AM
In this world of Perry Mason addicts to prove something / anything is very hard. What do you want a confession? Do you actually think a Steelers fanatic would not fall on his sword? When 2+2 adds up to 4 what other total should someone take? Given the amount purchased and treating just 200 patients, the time involved and the close proximity to the Steelers what should a reasonable person think? This will never see the light of day anyway so what's the big deal? In the world of pro sports money and results are all that matter.
Raiders757 says: Jan 16, 2009 12:48 AM
Really, I would hope this wouldn't become what made the rest of the sheep realize what a pile of dung ESPN has been after all these years.
Anyone who watches ESPN, are in need of major help. That channel is so full of themselves, that "pathetic" is being nice when describing them.
I get all of my sporting news from anywhere else, but them. They are biased, and report news without verification quite often. ESPN is to sports, what MTV is to music these days. Pretty damn worthless.
The same can be said about those who watch ESPN. More than likely they go to the gym just to be seen, and think it's cool to wait in line outside a club, even if they don't get in. You know, the trendy type of idiots, who have no clue they are as dumb as a box of rocks.
12thman says: Jan 16, 2009 1:05 AM
That article was a tougher read than Ulysses. Thank God I read it right before bed. I'm more worried about the #4 pick.
Bradybunch says: Jan 16, 2009 1:26 AM
Just my two cents.
I will not stoop to the haters level. But I will say there are four teams playing this weekend that have at least a player or two (or 48)useing HGH.
wingnut says: Jan 16, 2009 1:53 AM
Fish? he's that guy from Barney Miller?
DarthJay says: Jan 16, 2009 2:09 AM
That's the PFT track record anyway.
But seriously… the Steelers and Steroids? NO WAY! Never heard that one before…
Favre2012 says: Jan 16, 2009 2:10 AM
It's a business. If this makes them a dollar, it's a good move.
ebapen says: Jan 16, 2009 3:57 AM
Bmore Styles is right.
Harrison is totally juiced !
Atlas says: Jan 16, 2009 4:24 AM
BMore Stylez,
The problem with your astute observation is this paragraph:
"The basic facts are simple. Reports surfaced in February 2007 that Rydze had used his own credit card to buy $150,000 in HGH in 2006. There was and still is no evidence that Rydze had distributed the substances to Steelers players. Four months later, the Steelers severed ties with Rydze."
So… the guy was fired months before James Harrison took the field for his first season as a starter? That's why two years later he's the DPOY?
Da Oracle says: Jan 16, 2009 5:28 AM
Interesting how the good doc could remember his referrals in great detail, yet couldn't come up with names for his early morning forays. Professional interviewers talked to him for an hour and didn't receive any clear answers. There's no doubt in my mind that he was methodically giving HGH to Steeler players. Every team has a few guys using HGH, just like every team tries to cheat. It's when that cheating is organized by the team and not by the individual player that ticks people off. If anyone thinks that Rydze wasn't giving HGH to players, they are bleepity bleep fools.
lawdjayee says: Jan 16, 2009 5:53 AM
So there's a drug which encourages rapid recovery from injury and is undetectable by testing…and we think it's unlikely NFL players are using it because….why, exactly?
8man says: Jan 16, 2009 6:31 AM
As always, wingnut chimes in with his sad and deranged jealousy filled crusade concerning the Patriots. As soon as I read this headline I knew he'd drop one of his rambling, yet incredibly consistant "camera", "dyansty" or "**" takes. Brilliant! Brilliant like a doorbell. It doesn't matter when you push it or how many times you push it, it always spews out the same chime and the same tone. Way to go doornut..err..wingbell…Thanks for not disappointing me.
Where there is smoke there is fire. It's only a matter of intensity. Unfortunately, ESPN beats these stories to death and then resurrects them with lies and insinuation to grab attention. Their credibility level is so low, even if there is truth to this, who will belive them?
This is what happens when you cry wolf.
steelerfan9598 says: Jan 16, 2009 6:37 AM
'ESPN is to sports what MTV is to music' -well said.
Inept_guy says: Jan 16, 2009 7:36 AM
I am a big Steelers fan, but come on seriously. People in the NFL using a substance that can help them and isn't tested for? No way, don't believe it for a second. You would be stupid to think that no one uses. I would bet my life that there isn't a team in the league that is completely clean. Why did Fish pick the Steelers? Probably cause that would make for the biggest splash as they tend to garner the most viewers of the teams left and there are some old "facts" that he can splash in there. I agree with Florio, the bigger story is the irresponsibility of Fish and ESPN.
brasho says: Jan 16, 2009 7:51 AM
HGH is not tested for in the NFL. It has tremendous effects in recooperation from injury and greatly increases muscle building and muscle building potential. A doctor told me the other day that it also gives the user energy but I've never seen literature or heard testimonry to confirm this.
One reason Fish might not have gotten good testimony from Steelers like Faneca and Porter would be that those two players are still playing and likely still using HGH. They wouldn't dare point their fingers and have four fingers pointing back at them.
It is painfully obvious that the Doc was purchasing the HGH for the Steelers, there was no other reason for it. Most sports and Hollywood are full of HGH users and abusers.
From what I understand, it is a great thing in small doses. Supposedly, many Docs believe that men 35 and over should be on an appropriate dosage of HGH for their overall health (especially with connective tissue), I'd do it in a heartbeat, make my knees feel better… maybe I finally get my bench up to 400 (oops)…help my elbows not hurt so much, I wouldn't hesitate doing it at the lowest recommended dosage for my age…. AND if I had millions of dollars on the line like NFLers, MLBers, and NBAers do, I'd probably abuse it… just like they do.
steelersplayfootballallotherscry says: Jan 16, 2009 7:52 AM
This is why you get paid to write!! Well said!! Perfectly said actually!
JimmySmith says: Jan 16, 2009 8:09 AM
Circumstantial evidence is used all the time. The weight of the evidence and the connections to the Steelers is undeniable but we are in the public court of opinion and ESPN is hardly the problem here.
I can hardly blame Matt Walsh for selling his videotape to the highest bidder (read millionaire Bob Kraft) but again ESPN can't be blame for not outspending the competition especially when the NFL was assisting the Patriots in burying that story.
Karma extracts its price in a multitude of ways so if I were a Steelers fan (the first thing I would do is go back and get my GED), watch out for a creative ref's call in the fourth quarter. Look at it this way, the ref's already gave you a Superbowl (ask Mike Holgrem), so it might just be evening the score this weekend.
shuxion says: Jan 16, 2009 8:14 AM
Oh wingnut, you so disgruntled.
But you're still entertaining.
Mike D says: Jan 16, 2009 8:15 AM
Heres the link to the article below. There is an icon you can click to email comments to them regarding the article. Personally, im going to email them and let them know how I feel about this shoddy piece of trumped-up journalism.
shuxion says: Jan 16, 2009 8:21 AM
"so if I were a Steelers fan (the first thing I would do is go back and get my GED)"
Funny quote 5/5.
I thought Jimmysmith only took shots at the PATS. I had you all wrong.
Deadguy says: Jan 16, 2009 8:31 AM
Anything is possible and I have no inside information… but from what i do know is that Harrison was from a small college program. He had trouble adjusting to the NFL, knowing his assignments and getting frustrated with all that. Most of his early lack of production was mental, not physical.
Besides, what do you thing Suggs is doing to get ready for this game?
Point is, I wouldn't throw stones… might hit one of your teams players.
ROMO4PRES says: Jan 16, 2009 8:33 AM
Whatever happened to Matt Walsh?
Is he working for Arlen Spector in Washington?
SteelerNC says: Jan 16, 2009 8:38 AM
The four letter network in the TMZ of sports….90% is worthless.
madpunter88 says: Jan 16, 2009 8:45 AM
Who has $150,000 in credit cards they can use to purchase drugs? What must the monthly interest payment be on that…
SteelyJ says: Jan 16, 2009 8:49 AM
Bmore Styles says:
January 15th, 2009 at 11:50 pm
I highly doubt the validity of this story…. But anyone who doesn't find it funny how Harrison went from being cut by a number of teams and their practice squads to becoming the Defensive Player of the Year is either dumb and/or a Steelers' fan. Somebody had to say it.
Bmore – James Harrison always had the type of explosivness and power that he uses today to make big plays. The difference is, and its no secret, that he isn't the smartest guy in the world and it took him along time to learn schemes, defenses and crap. His first couple years he would literally stop dead in the middle of a play and not know what to do. He was, and still is, a demon on special teams long before he put his whole game together.
Do everyone a favor and dont just run stupid at mouth about people w/o knowing a damn thing about what you spew.
Have fun watching the game Sunday! 0-3 unagainst us this year should shut your thug team up for awhile.
PFTiswhatitis says: Jan 16, 2009 8:50 AM
rossidrums says: Jan 16, 2009 8:50 AM
I am a huge Ravens fan who hates the Steelers, and even I think this is total bull. I'm not saying that nothing happened, but between the lack of journalistic integrity, and the fact that I'm pretty sure all teams have players that use HGH, Fish is just being ridiculous.
I hope this doesn't distract the Steelers this weekend. If they lose, I want it to be because we beat them, not because they were distracted. And if we lose, I want it to be because they beat us, not because "they are all on HGH."
May the best team win.
spullins27 says: Jan 16, 2009 8:59 AM
Mike aren't you a Steelers fan? It doesn't show in your writing. LOL
SteelerNC says: Jan 16, 2009 8:59 AM
The four letter network is the TMZ of sports!
90% of what they report is crap.
BuckFutter says: Jan 16, 2009 9:00 AM
Of course the Steelers have been using HGH….well, at least some of them….and it's been going on for awhile.
How else can you explain Joey Porter's abnormally enlarged sense of entitlement? Or his freakishly huge mouth?
pfitz says: Jan 16, 2009 9:01 AM
Wow Wingnut you sound like a guy that had histeams ass kicked by the Pats and cant get over it.This is just the latest example of ESPN throwing shit at the wall and seeing what sticks.Until they can prove anything I dont believe them because they have NO credibility..
Ralphie says: Jan 16, 2009 9:03 AM
JimmySmith, 500 million sperm and you won?
shuxion says: Jan 16, 2009 9:04 AM
wingnut says:
January 16th, 2009 at 12:25 am
Tom Brady's knee needs some "Tyson Any'tizers.
Dude, shut up, I like Tyson Any'tizers. They are good and make an excellent quick lunch. You don't like them then go back to Uzbekistan where you came from.
dbartdog says: Jan 16, 2009 9:05 AM
Steve Courson, gave a speech at Whitehall H.S. In Whitehall NY on the evils of doing steroids. But, being brain damaged by them, it turned out to be an endorsment for them…leaving the kids with the idea that if they want to make it in the NFL, steroids would help….officials were furious with Courson, who was an All-Pro offense lineman for Steelers during their tainted glory years…they said this clown would never be invited back. Steelers have been dirty for years.
br3002 says: Jan 16, 2009 9:08 AM
I was watching showtime last night about the Cocaine trade during the 70's and 80's in Miami. One of the dealers was telling a story about Steelers players doing a bunch of cocaine at his house before the super bowl against the Cowboys. Drugs have been and will always be a storyline in sports
hayward giablommi says: Jan 16, 2009 9:15 AM
Not for nothing, but does anybody look at at guy like Bob Sanders and seriously not think that he is taking serious amounts of HGH?
mborz says: Jan 16, 2009 9:18 AM
I remember when the Matt Walsh thing wound down last year with a whimper. What was so hyped in the days leading up to the Super Bowl turned out to be absolutely nothing. And I remember thinking what a colossal waste all of that attention was.
I thought, at the point at which it wound down, that it was a huge embarrassment for everyone who had invested so much air time talking about it and that they'd be more careful in the future to not repeat it.
So I do have to say I'm surprised that ESPN is not only taking steps not to repeat it, but seem to be taking steps to recreate it. The fact that Fish didn't present any new facts about this 2 year old topic that was considered dead and buried completely reinforces this.
I guess the reason for this is that The Herald paid for their involvement in the Walsh mess, but ESPN didn't. But it also bums me out to think that people have to be held accountable (punished) before they grow a conscience. There are certain professions where you hope people are able to just "do the right thing", and journalism would be one of those, even though we're so far from that these days it's not even funny.
I think the real reason for ESPN to so blatantly prop an old story up at an opportune time for them has everything to do with business greed. With all big businesses, the focus is never simply about sustaining what you have, but is instead always about growing. All of the goals are set around selling more products, making more money, more of everything. And that's not an entirely bad thing in and of itself. When a company is starting out, after all, it will usually die unless it can significantly grow. The problem always arises when a mature company still wants to continue to achieve the aggressive growth they are used to, but are simply out of room to do it. That's when things get a little silly. Goals are set that can't easily be reached, and as a consequence you start to find people "reaching", even if it means taking action that before had seemed out of character.
And this is what ESPN is clearly doing. They are no longer an organization that simply reports sports news — they are now an organization that also creates it. Even if it's their own people (like Chris Carter with his gun) that ultimately become the story. Or like when they go after old stories and try to make them new as they've done here. How else can they fill up the massive amount of programming they're now responsible for?
SteelyJ says: Jan 16, 2009 9:24 AM
As sad as it is plenty of other people use HGH besides NFL players.. like High School & College athletes, Frat Boys, Body Builders, Douchebags that want to look good in t-shirts…and guess where they get it from…SCUMBAG DRs !!! I'm not saying that this guy wasn't giving some steelers HGH. I really dont care if he did. I just don't see how vikinghooper "the great surgeon" can be so sure they were purchased w/o question for the steelers players. ESPN blows who cares… they are a like a scripted reality TV show. I feel like I'm watching the Hills when i turn that crap on.
GR365 says: Jan 16, 2009 9:31 AM
WTF…Dude! It common knowledge that the Patriots were set-up right before the SuperBowl. ESPN, The Boston Herald, The NY Times and let's not forget the esteemed Senator Spectre's involvement..
Here's the conadrum, who does Specter call out? The Igles or the Steelers?
Let's get the record straight! Since "Spygate," 2007 18-1, 2008 11-5, w/o Brady, Harrison, Samuel, AD and Maroney! Ratgini was fired! Tannenbaum is not a worthy GM. Once again, BB protege's are busy taking HC jobs in Denver, KC and Cleveland. Swartz was just hired as the Lions HC. If it was all about the cameras, why are these guys getting HC gigs? 2002 when according to you BB was deep into the taping…9-7 that season. They almost made the playoffs, but not quite. The point is, mathematically the taping was insignificant! I know it, the league knows it…You're standing by yourself on this one! Theres a few more to keep an eye on, Ferentz Iowa, Hill Fresno St. BB tree continues to grow and thrive!
Alpheratz says: Jan 16, 2009 9:33 AM
Looks like "gotcha" journalism before big games is the new trend.
Sports mimics politics. As a Pats fan, I don't like it this year any better than last. It should be rejected.
Sort it out during the meaningless Pro Bowl.
(p.s. – 70's Steelers would have never been a dynasty in salary cap era, 00's Patriots are unique and outstanding in what they've been able to achieve – and they're not finished)
Rob0769 says: Jan 16, 2009 9:35 AM
First, this is old news. It was reported that this doctor bought massive quantities of HGH while he was with the Steelers when Rodney Harrison was caught. I have the opinion that this doctor probably gave players HGH, but why bring it up now.
Second, as pointed out Fish did the same thing with Matt Walsh. He wrote that Matt Walsh claimed he had damning evidence on the Pats that would destroy him eventhough Fish never saw the evidence in question to see if Walsh's claim had any merit whatsoever. It was shady journalism then and it is shady journalism now. But funny every called Fish a hero then.
Third, someone needs to question Fish's motives. You barely hear from this guy except for the last two years trying to create scandals for teams who are deep in the playoffs. Is he just trying to make a name for himself?
The way I look at this, if the Steelers did cheat and someone can prove it they need to be punished. If they cheated and can't be proved, I say oh well it just goes to show that many teams cheat in some way. If it cannot be proven or the story as it alludes to is outright wrong, Fish needs to be fired.
HGH and steriod use is not new to the NFL. I am not shocked by the allegations and I wouldn't be surprised if this doctor used HGH to treat all the players with injuries. I doubt he was the only one if he did.
Funny though Florio, you never attacked Fish with such passion about the Walsh story until your Steelers got the same treatment.
dabooo says: Jan 16, 2009 9:40 AM
The Steelers don't need HGH to win. The league will just trot out another Yellow and Black officiating crew and bail them out of any trouble. The Knicks think the Steelers get too many calls.
south-fl-steel says: Jan 16, 2009 9:45 AM
i'm pretty sure the nfl has drug and steriod testing in place now. i'm fairly sure the nfl is randomly testing players now. so therefore i would think if anyone playing for the steelers was taking hgh, they would test positive, and we would know about it. not so much defending my steelers as much as presenting facts.
unless the nfl, as a favor to the godfather rooney, doesn't test the steelers (DA DA DADA!!!!!)
Pistol says: Jan 16, 2009 9:45 AM
This blog post was long to the point of unreadable.
The Jimmy says: Jan 16, 2009 9:53 AM
I am and always have been a Steelers fan. Do I think Steelers are using HGH? Absoultely. The only teams in the NFL that aren't are the ones with the 260lb offensive linemen. They're aren't any. Every team does it. Period. Anyone that doesn't believe this has their head in the sand.
CopesCabana says: Jan 16, 2009 9:57 AM
Jimmy Smith, you are an idiot.
Yeah Karma is going to get us because the refs "gave" us the superbowl (which they tried their best to keep us from getting to). Just like it got us because the refs "gave" us the Immaculate Reception. Four superbowls later people were really hurting from the karma. Holmgren (learn how to spell Mr. GED) is a sore loser and so are you apparently.
empty13 says: Jan 16, 2009 10:00 AM
maybe the refs dont all holding calls on o-lines that play the steelers cause they know the steelers are all hopped up.
hinesforthehall says: Jan 16, 2009 10:05 AM
ESPN has become a joke, I am not sure what they are trying to accomplish. As someone that hasbeen in the Navy for ver 20 years now I am disgusted by Fish's abuse of free speech.
Sportsavant says: Jan 16, 2009 10:09 AM
wingnut, the only reason the Steelers slipped into the playoffs this year is because Brady got injured. I hope the Ravens kick your collective black and gold asses. Greetings from New England!
Jeremiah W says: Jan 16, 2009 10:10 AM
Why would any NFL player not be on HGH? They do not test for it, and most of them are rich enough to buy it without getting caught. They can pay a doctor to buy and distribute it, because it makes them bigger, stronger and faster, and a lot more money on the next contract. Any one willing to play pro football already proved they are not too concerned with long term health. If you do not test them for hgh, they are going to use it. They may even get it from the team doctors. There is no proof, no snitches, and for those who are looking for the bodies, just try to round up the old players for a party. Not the really old guys, just try to fill a room with former NFL players that are between 55 and 65.
LuvThatDirtyWatah says: Jan 16, 2009 10:13 AM
ESPN ba-lows!
andyreid says: Jan 16, 2009 10:17 AM
Not a new story. The steelers have been using performance enhancers since the dawn of the organization. Now florio may not be a Steeler fan but whoever filters these posts DEFINETLY is. I had a post censored because I referred to Rothlisberger as "Simple Ben"
wingnut says: Jan 16, 2009 10:22 AM
@GR365,name a player or a coach who have left the Patriots** and have won a big game.
kate773 says: Jan 16, 2009 10:27 AM
Every team does it. Period. Anyone that doesn't believe this has their head in the sand.
Funny, this excuse was absolutely unacceptable when used by Patriots fans. Now its ok? Alright then. I'll remember that.
TheBigOldDog says: Jan 16, 2009 10:28 AM
Want to know why ESPN did this now? Becuase many of you proved there was a huge market for it. You lapped it up last year. You couldn't get enough of it becuase it served your agenda. You willingly turned off your critical thinking and helped the media create a frenzy from which they made a lot of money. Now the same people have the audacity to ask, "why now?" Give me a F'ing break! Your simply getting a taste of your own medicine.
bradyisgod says: Jan 16, 2009 10:28 AM
Wait just a minute, Florio. It was well established by this time last year that " everyone's doing it" is not a legitimate defense.
HGH use is rampant throughout the NFL. If we're pointing out individual teams where the use of HGH seems "systemic", I'd have to put the Steelers, Ravens and Giants at the top of the list. Remember the days when guys built like Bruce Smith and Jim Brown dominated the league. True freaks of nature. Now each of those teams listed above have at least 4 guys on their rosters built like that. Seems more likely a freak of science than nature, now.
RaiderMight says: Jan 16, 2009 10:38 AM
QzrSoze says:
January 16th, 2009 at 12:01 am
Leave the junk reporting to the bloggers!
He is a blogger dummy. This is a blog.
wingnut says: Jan 16, 2009 10:45 AM
@GR365,Charlie Weis,Romeo Crennel….Losers!
"They almost made the playoffs"
pretty funny!
The Patriots** playoff hopes where riding on Brett not throwing
interceptions. Now thats fuunny!
shuxion says: Jan 16, 2009 10:50 AM
The Jimmy says:
January 16th, 2009 at 9:53 am
I am and always have been a Steelers fan. Do I think Steelers are using HGH? Absolutely. The only teams in the NFL that aren't are the ones with the 260lb offensive linemen. They're aren't any. Every team does it. Period. Anyone that doesn't believe this has their head in the sand.
I agree 100% and I hate the Steelers.
bloggersRstupid says: Jan 16, 2009 10:51 AM
Florio – You do this same shite on a daily basis. jump off the high horse please.
kellyb9 says: Jan 16, 2009 10:54 AM
"hayward giablommi says:
January 16th, 2009 at 9:15 am
Not for nothing, but does anybody look at at guy like Bob Sanders and seriously not think that he is taking serious amounts of HGH?" If he isn't already, he probably should consider it. That guy is always injured.
footballnut says: Jan 16, 2009 11:06 AM
Did you know that a wingnut is always the female end of a connection?
Go buy some tampons wingnut and leave the football talk to the men.
winkel33 says: Jan 16, 2009 11:48 AM
ESPN is a joke, and Mike Fish is right at the top of the list of why the network has become nothing more than a necessary evil for sports fans. For me personally, I go to ESPN to watch games, I go to ESPN.com to check a schedule or a stat. But as far as news, I do my best to stay away. There is no integrity with the network whatsoever because they know they can do whatever they want, and no matter what you think, if you love sports, you can't cut ESPN/ABC out. And instead of using that as motivation to provide the best possible product, ESPN has gone the other way. If you want real news about sports, turn away from ESPN. If you want to know about Paul Blart Mall Cop, then maybe, ESPN is the place to go.
BlitzDorsey says: Jan 16, 2009 11:59 AM
Diehard Steelers fan Florio has this response? SHOCKING I TELL YA.
Hey Florio, I can't wait until this guy comes out with more evidence and makes you look like even more of a fool. The facts are pretty clear here. The Steelers' team doctor buys $150K worth of HGH (that's almost a career's worth for Roger Clemens) then when he is caught the team fires him to try and save face (with I'm sure a nice buyout under the table not to say anything).Then you have scrub Steeler players that suddenly have great years when they come to Pittsburgh. Hmmm. I would say the Steelers are like the NFL's version of the St. Louis Cardinals. Under Tony LaRussa, guys just seem to have career year after career year. And to say there's no actual proof that the Steelers did HGH, that is laughable. That would be like someone saying there is no actual proof that Barry Bonds did 'roids. You might not have video evidence, but you know he did it. The BALCO documents back it up just like the news about the Steelers' doctor. If you believe this doctor bought $150,000 worth of HGH for his regular patients, I have waterfront property in Florida I want to sell you.
And to the guy that thought Florio was a Steelers hater, you're not very perceptive, are you? Florio is an obvious Steeler lover and anyone who has been on this site for a long period of time knows what I'm talking about. Keep cryin' Florio!!! I hope this takes your cheating Steelers down!
winkel33 says: Jan 16, 2009 12:19 PM
In response to BlitzDorsey, I don't think the point is that the Steelers were not taking HGH from this doctor. They may have been. The point is that ESPN did (another) lousy/lazy job in reporting the story. And they held it intentionally until they felt it could have the most important impact. Wasn't it also ESPN that reported on Paul Byrd and steroids on the day of game 7 of the 2007 ALCS? The story about this doctor was already out there – why report if you are ESPN unless you have something new, such as quotes from Steelers or anyone of relevance? But ESPN doesn't have it, but for some reason, Mike Fish thinks being an investigative reporter means simply reprinting facts already known. Where is the investigation? What doesn't ESPN use all of its power to actually report a story? Instead they are content to offer up garbage like this on a repeated basis.
Brad says: Jan 16, 2009 12:48 PM
wingnut is just pissed because his steelers could never beat the patriots in the afc championship games. ive never seen anyone as obsessed with the pats as this guy. wingnut youre a total douchebag, and get prepared, the ravens are going to rape rothlessburger.
hayward giablommi says: Jan 16, 2009 1:24 PM
kellyb9 says:
"hayward giablommi says:
Not for nothing, but does anybody look at at guy like Bob Sanders and seriously not think that he is taking serious amounts of HGH?" If he isn't already, he probably should consider it. That guy is always injured.
Always injured he is…usually a byproduct of, you got it, too much juice.
Bmore Styles says: Jan 16, 2009 2:45 PM
@ SteelyJ:
Way to prove my point…. Once again, anyone who doesn't find Harrison's unfounded climb from PRACTICE SQUAD to Defensive Player of the Year is either DUMB and/or a Steelers' fan. SteelyJ just ignore the 'or', it obviously doesn't apply to you.
ebapen says: Jan 16, 2009 3:05 PM
The NFL does NOT test for HGH because the union, and probably the NFL itself does not want players to have their blood drawn, not because there is no test available. A blood test has been available since summer of 2004.
And as far as NFL testing for other PED's(steroids) and narcotics,
the players know well in advance when they are going to be tested.
Alpheratz says: Jan 16, 2009 3:41 PM
Wingnut, please use three asterisks, one for each championship.
And behind them, leave space for a couple more………
GR365 says: Jan 16, 2009 3:44 PM
@ Wingnuts
1. Parcells has never won a SB w/o BB, is that what you're talking about?
2. The SB the Stilers won was awful to watch…bad calls, pre-season type game…
3. Adam Viniteri won with the Colts, that's one. I think Dexter Reid was on that team too.
4. BB has 4 rings…3 Pats, 1 Giants, How many does Cowher have genious?
Interesting, that you bash the Pats? Why? With a name like Wingnut I thought you'd be from Detroit! Now there's an NFL juaggernaut!
ajd78 says: Jan 16, 2009 4:19 PM
James Harrison. enough said. Kent State Golden Flashes. Cut from multiple teams.ask his team. they say he is a freak of nature.wonder why? probably the samw reason jerome bettis found his fountain of youth and heinz ward never misses a game.
8man says: Jan 16, 2009 6:48 PM
"footballnut says:
January 16th, 2009 at 11:06 am
Did you know that a wingnut is always the female end of a connection?
Go buy some tampons wingnut and leave the football talk to the men."
Classic! Absolutely classic! I don't know what to add, except to repeat it!
yoyo says: Jan 16, 2009 7:44 PM
Once ABC bought ESPN, their news departments have the same focus, make stuff up if it suits our purpose.
fgssand says: Jan 30, 2009 6:42 PM
Sure thing wingnut……..we want to be a dynasty just like the Squeelers***** , riiiiight. Steroids & HGH – see, if you are going to use spygate BS then you have to accept your own rule bending as well.
Supposed illegal filming of signals versus drugged up and fed up cheating players…so that's how your mind works.
Wingnut your a first class dickhead.
As for you Florio & ESPN – you are right on – ESPN blows, nothing but shameless crap to get people to click on their website.


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Legal Professional: Build Your Business
several months ago a friend of mine for over 20 years asked if i'd be interested in renting a room from him bcuz he needed the extra income. the price was right so i agreed. we didn't draw up a lease, thats not the problem. i asked if i could store my very small 1966 shasta travel trailer on the 10 acres of property, its not evem 12 ft long. again, it was fine with him. after a few weeks i began noticing some behavior that just didnt seem normal (up all night for 3 and 4 days in a row, unkempt appearances, bad hygene, etc), so i started spending less nd less time there but still paid my rent without fail. Finally i did find out that he and his girlfriend were infact using drugs. i gave him a 30 day notice. he was fine with that. on the 24th of last month i removed all of my belongings and packed them in my little travel trailer and made a deal with him for him to tow it to my mothers home. i paid him $400.00 cash and it was to be delivered the next day. I never heard from him nor did he return any of my calls. today he called and said that he was missing a very large oxygen tank used for welding and assumes i took it so unless i give him another 250.00 by tomorrow or he is going to burn it down. yes i could go there with the police and show my proof of ownership but then what? i have asked everyone i know and even strangers too if they would tow it for me and i would of course compensate for fuel and their time. no luck. what can i do to ensure he doesnt destroy all i own until i can find a truck to tow it? im am in az.
"i paid him $400.00 cash and it was to be delivered the next day. I never heard from him nor did he return any of my calls."It is unclear why you wouldn't make other arrangements to go get your trailer.He isn't in a position to declare that you may not have your stuff. If I were you, since AZ is a one-party consent state, I'd call him (or text him) and record that call, asking why he threatened to burn down your trailer and saying that you've made arrangements for someone to tow it for you (even if that means paying someone else for it and later suing him for a return of the money you paid). Even if you don't get him on tape admitting he did this, you may ask the police to call him and warn him what charges will likely follow if he does anything to your property.
"yes i could go there with the police and show my proof of ownership but then what?"Not sure what your point is here/what you expect us to say. :)I cannot fathom why you can't call a tow company and say you just need a truck with a trailer hitch.
mswenson: i paid him $400.00 cash and it was to be delivered the next day. I never heard from him nor did he return any of my calls.
You gave $400 to a druggie and didn't see that coming?
mswenson:what can i do to ensure he doesnt destroy all i own until i can find a truck to tow it?
There's plenty of places where you can rent a pick up truck with a trailer hitch.
Make sure you have a friend or two go with you.
See if the police will do a civil standby.
Once you get the trailer out, you can sue him for the $400 back.
Thank you very much for your advice. The reason i cannot rent a truck is because my license is suspended, as well, while I was at his house packing and loading my things from the room i rented 780.00 mysteriously went missing from my purse. I had just got a partial grant payment for my college classes that day and, well, since i didnt see him do it, nor do i have any witnesses, it was just myself and him, process of elimination, it had to have been him but as i mentioned in my original post, i eventually discovered that he was in fact using drugs, dangerous drugs and from what i know those kind of people are very unpredictable. i agreed to pay him 250.00 and i found someone to help me tow it but before we get there we will park and call law enforcement and ask for their assistance. I called them after i posted earlier and they filled me in on my rights. i have no intention on giving him even 1 cent, and with my ownership paperwork and his dislike for the law i don't believe i will have a problem. i hope not anyway. Thanks again.

subset: commoncrawl


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I've got a requirement to serve a weather forecast within a current project. The forcast feed - for a location in the philippines - has to be free so I've gone to NOAA to grab the XML. I've been able to find the page on the NOAA site with the current weather conditions for the location I need, but it's just a display page - not the actual XML.
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Posted by George Colony on December 15, 2008
If you want to understand the financial meltdown, read Niall Ferguson's article in Vanity Fair: "Wall Street Lays Another Egg." It logically lays out the causation of the disaster, complete with historical backdrop.
If you're busy, here's my instant summary:
Factor One: Real estate
The belief, going back to Roosevelt, and most recently promulgated by G.W. Bush, that all citizens should own a home.
Factor Two: Converting mortgages into securities
Wall Street bundled mortgages into securities, supposedly attenuating risk, but actually making it hard to ultimately assess the value of the loans.
Factor Three: Subprime mortgages
The securitization of mortgages theoretically made it possible to take on riskier loans (subprime mortgages), as long as they were bundled with better risk loans. This strategy worked as long as real estate prices kept rising and interest rates remained low.


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Lacrosse news straight to your inbox.
Tuesday August 6th, 2013 1:08am
San Diego, Calif. — Building on the enormous success of last year's inaugural recruiting event, Adrenaline Lacrosse has announced the Black Card Showcase will be held on June 14th, at Franklin and Marshall College, in Lancaster, PA. Always known for exceeding expectations, Adrenaline also revealed a new partnership with the National Scholastic Club Lacrosse Association (NSCLA). The NSCLA Cup, the premier club tournament in the country, will be held on the two days following the BCS June 15th – 16th. Adrenaline will serve as the lead sponsor and tournament director for the event.
"Adrenaline is thrilled to help contribute to the quality and growth of the NSCLA. We believe the NSCLA represents the best interests of the players and the college coaches, something we spend a lot of time focused on at Adrenaline," said Adrenaline Lacrosse Director of Business Development, Scott Hochstadt. "Working with the club directors who make up the NSCLA to ensure the event is the best in the country is something we couldn't be more excited about."
The BCS and NSCLA will feature the top one percent of uncommitted players in the entire country at this summers' "Black Card" event. Only the top 114 players from the United States will get invited to the most exclusive recruiting event in lacrosse. Each team will be comprised of 19 players who will compete in four games throughout the day. Last year's event produced an unprecedented commitment rate for upper classmen and a commitment rate of 100% is expected as the 2015's continue to make the next step and commit to play lacrosse at the collegiate level.
The Black Card showcase is becoming widely known as the top individual recruiting event in the country. Similarly, the NSCLA Cup is the top team-recruiting event. The top 24 club teams in the United States and Canadian provinces will all be in attendance again this year, including Leading Edge, the Baltimore Crabs and the West Coast Starz, winners of last year's 2013, 2014, and 2015 divisions, respectively.
The event will play host to over 75 college recruiters, including virtually every top program in Division I lacrosse. John Hopkins, Duke, Virginia, Syracuse, Maryland, UNC and host of other top schools will be in attendance. Coaches will be provided the perfect opportunity to evaluate the best talent right in their backyard.
"We were able to lay a solid foundation for this event in year one and we have all of the top coaches in the country signing on and supporting us for this initiative in year two. The amount of recruiters coupled with the talent pool and low cost, make this unlike any other marquee recruiting event in the country, and that is something we are very proud of here at Adrenaline." Jon Zissi, Director of Recruiting.
Last year, Adrenaline became the first company to disregard the preconceived notions of high priced recruiting showcases when designing the Black Card Showcase. Teaming up with Cascade and STX, each player received the complete Adrenaline Treatment. Outfitted from head to toe, players received BCS gear packs that included custom Cascade Pro 7's, custom STX Cell-II gloves, Adrenaline jerseys, shorts, backpack, and socks. The event, which was done 'at-cost', only charged the participating players for the use of fields, referees, and coaches. Adrenaline has confirmed the same holds true this year. The fee for this year's BCS is $100.00, something that is absolutely unheard of in the world of recruiting showcases. Adrenaline is confident that this event will undoubtedly pool together the absolute top 1% of our country's best players.
Perhaps most importantly, Adrenaline and NSCLA will be raising awareness for Prostate Cancer in honor of Coach Jack McGetrick. The long time Bellarmine and Hartford coach lost a long battle to the disease in 2010. All proceeds from the event will be donated in his name. As the event is being run at cost, last year the Adrenaline Awareness initiative raised over $2,700 for the great cause, a number that hopefully will be much more significant as awareness continues to be raised. If you wish to make a donations please follow this link.
Player recommendations for the event are now being accepted online at www.adrenalinelacrosse.com. If you are interested in attending the Black Card Showcase as a recruiter please contact email@example.com or call (858) 405-2435.


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The watchdog's move was welcomed by BT, which said: 'Oftel has been very conservative in its estimates of how competitive the market has already become and we are pleased that it now recognises that the price cap is no longer needed.'
The ending of price capping will not bring a surge in prices for customers. Oftel will still stop BT from raising its prices by more than inflation and said it would probably not lift this curb until BT had cut its gross profit margins on domestic calls from between 80% and 100% to between 40% and 50%.
The final price control will be lifted automatically once this trigger is reached and BT is likely to argue strongly that another halving of prices is too demanding.
Oftel director-general of telecommunications David Edmonds said: 'Competition has begun to bite and these proposals strike a new balance between the need to promote competition and protect consumers.'
The most recent price cap has forced BT to cut its call costs by 4.5% in real terms for the last five years.
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Track run #2: 1/4 mile times w/ Stage III
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After a chat with Dinan, they recommended that I install the Stage 3 software - which I went ahead and did the same day
I initially thought I would only benefit from the software upgrade if I had the Dinan exhaust, but they explained that the upgrade would benefit all cars with better airflow including mine which doesn't have any mufflers. With the Stage 3 software in place, I decided to hit the track again to compare how my car did with my Stage 2 run last month . . .
Compared to the Stage 2 software, I definitely noticed improvements. I consistently hit 110+MPH which was something I was having trouble doing before. The results from my 1st run last month and my most recent run are below. Overall, my times are still weaker than other people that have hit the track with Stage 2/3 which I'm thinking is primarily related to my troubles getting off the line when the light turns green
What'd you guys think?
my buddy has a 550i x drive stock with 400 miles i used launch control in his 550i and it felt way way faster then my 550i but what im getting to i ran a 12'900 5500 Miles bone stock my friends 550i x feels way way faster to me cause its awd system with the launch control if you have dinan stage III with a muffler delete you should be atleast a 12'500
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Hulu Orders J.J. Abrams-led "11/22/63″ thriller from Stephen King
Earlier this week, we brought you one of the most incredible and emotional bride Wedding entrance we have seen (Click Here to watch!) so we thought it only fitting to bring you an epic mother/son dance to keep with the theme. Kathy and Blake, take it away! Enjoy!


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EA Sports predicts a Lakers title, again
Credit: EA Sports
Will they never learn?
A computer simulation of EA Sports' 'NBA Live 09' videogame predicts the Los Angeles Lakers will win this season's NBA Finals.
With Las Vegas odds favoring the Lakers at 3-1, the pick isn't that huge a reach. However, the full season and playoff simulation has the Celtics – a 7-2 pick for defending their 2007-08 title - failing to reach the Finals. What's more, the virtual version of the Green ends up third in the Eastern Conference behind Miami and Detroit.
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Freshman Flashpoint Gets His First Winner
Louisiana freshman sire Flashpoint's first runner eventually become his first winner when Flashy Coop took a five-furlong maiden claimer May 19 at Hipodromo de las Americas in Mexico City.
Louisiana freshman sire Flashpoint's first runner eventually become his first winner when Flashy Coop took a five-furlong maiden claimer May 19 at Hipodromo de las Americas in Mexico City.
The Washington Thoroughbred industry's annual salute to its year-end champions took place Feb. 27 with Stryker Phd honored as Washington horse of the year for the second straight year.
Santa Anita Park, Turf Paradise, Sam Houston, Tampa Bay Downs, Hong Kong and More. view slideshow
Laurel Park, Churchill Downs, Del Mar, Golden Gate Fields, Woodbine and More. View Slideshow
Grade II-winning sprinter Flashpoint sired his first reported foal Jan. 31 when a dark bay filly was born in Carencro, La.
In stature Vicar's in Trouble will be one of the smallest starters in this year's Kentucky Derby (gr. I), but he will carry big hopes for not just his connections but the state of Louisiana as well.
Bruce and Cass Maller's Highlander Racing Stables mare E Z Kitty took home 2013 Horse of the Year honors at the Washington champions annual awards banquet held Feb. 22 at Emerald Downs in Auburn, Wash.
Spendthrift Farm has purchased Flashpoint, winner of the Hutcheson Stakes (gr. II) and Jersey Shore Stakes (gr. III). The multiple graded stakes-winning son of Pomeroy will stand at Le Mesa Stallions for 2014.
Fasig-Tipton's new horses of all ages sale that is utilizing new technology in the way horses are cataloged and information is disseminated is gaining momentum. A dozen horses have been added recently for the July 15 event.
Lightly raced and undefeated Gentlemen's Bet will add some intrigue when he faces several tough competitors in the $250,000 Count Fleet Sprint Handicap (gr. III) at Oaklawn Park April 13.
Karl Krieg's 3-year-old homebred Makors Finale captured the Horse of the Year title for 2012 at the Washington Champions Annual Awards banquet held the night of Feb. 16 at Emerald Downs.
Chamberlain Bridge, winner of the 2010 Breeders' Cup Turf Sprint (gr. IIT) at Churchill Downs, returns to familiar territory when he takes on 11 rivals in the Twin Spires Turf Sprint at the track.
Speedy multiple graded stakes winner Flashpoint has been retired by Peachtree Stable and may stand at stud in 2012.
Peachtree Stable's Flashpoint will hope the inside post is kinder to him this time around when he faces six competitors in the $175,000 Stoll Keenon Ogden Phoenix Stakes (gr. III) Oct. 7, opening day of the Keeneland meet.
The top spot is on the line in the 3YO division. read blog
Jason, Tom and James Scully from TwinSpires.com handicap the Travers Stakes and King's Bishop Stakes from Saratoga. watch video
All eyes will be on champion Uncle Mo when he makes his comeback in the $250,000 Foxwood's King's Bishop (gr. I) Aug. 27, but unlike his season debut that was light on talent, he will have to be at his best at Saratoga.
Third in the Remington Sprint Cup in 2009, Ravalo made his return to Oklahoma City a winning one when he prevailed by a half-length over favored Captain Cherokee in the $200,000 event at Remington Park Aug. 20.
John Fort is grieving over the death of his beloved 'Inky.' read blog
Lenny and Steve reflect on the Independence Day racing weekend, John Veitch, Saratoga, and Lefty Lenny the Legend. Watch Video
Flashpoint humbled three opponents en route to a seven-length romp in the $143,000 Jersey Shore Stakes (gr. III) on a muddy track at Monmouth Park July 3.
After giving way in the Preakness Stakes (gr. I) in his most recent start, Flashpoint returns to sprinting in the $150,000 Jersey Shore Stakes (gr. III) at Monmouth Park July 3.
PORTER ON PEDIGREES: The 2011 Preakness Stakes winner gives Forestry a boost the same year the stallion's stud fee dropped to its lowest point. Shackleford also has pedigree ties to Mr. Prospector and Dr. Fager.
Tom LaMarra talks about the pace of the race, and the track conditions. Watch Video
Jason Shandler's picks for Saturday's big race. Read Blog
|Breeder / Owner
|Absolutely Cool
|Valorie Lund
|City Sage
|Jon G. Arnett
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Defend ancient lands against evil forces! Your brave journey will begin in Hammerhold. You can command the kingdom's forces against waves of demons, monsters, and mythical creatures. Earn gold for defeating foes, and don't let the ancient city fall to ruins!
Kingdom Rush Frontiers is one of our selected Tower Defense Games. Also very popular on this website right now are Bloons Tower Defense 5, Death Valley, StrikeForce Kitty: Last Stand and Battle Panic.
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Delete McAfee
This is a discussion on Delete McAfee within the Windows 7 , Windows Vista Support forums, part of the Tech Support Forum category. I have a new computer with Win 7 home premium. It came with A mcafee suite that keeps popping up
« Turning on my bluetooth headphones is a real nightmare | Problem With Consistent Internet Connection - Windows 7 vs. Mac Router »


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A Good Marketer Is Always Researching
The Internet is awash with products and services that offer customers more choices than ever before. This has made the job of differentiating your products and services all the more difficult, which gives credence to the importance of understanding your marketplace, your competition, and how your company can effectively compete.
Knowing the all-importance of developing long-term customer relationships is placing heavy demands on marketers everywhere. This is why the term "market research" should not scare you off, but it is an activity in which you need to regularly engage. By using market research, you can comb through the myriad of factors confronting your company—or possibly confounding it—and pinpoint a clear and focused strategy to drive your entire marketing program.
Researching your market can provide your business with specific snapshots of key insights on how to win more attention and close more deals. That should be reason enough, but here are a few more benefits:
- good market research can let you know what your customers really think about you;
- it can tell you if your pricing is too high, too low, or just right; and
- it can let you know if you need to change any of your products or add new ones.
In our many years of consulting, we have consistently observed that many troubled companies got that way because they didn't want to allocate market research dollars to their marketing spend, preferring to instead invest heavily in awareness building and lead capture. Don't misunderstand, those are good and useful dimensions as well.
Think about it, though. If you don't research your customers, prospects, competition and overall marketplace, isn't marketing a lot like shooting at a flying duck with your eyes closed!
Today, every company is its own publisher and responsible for its content. That fact has shifted the ability to make strategic decisions for the company, lessing the role of marketing firms and industry publishers. The good news is you're in control. The bad news can be—if you're not experienced in strategic marketing and/or publishing—that you are in control!


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District > Mission and Vision Statements >
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The school district does not discriminate on the basis of gender (sex), race, color, age (except students) national origin, religion, creed, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, socioeconomic status, or disability in admission or access to, or treatment in, its hiring and employment practices. Any person having inquiries concerning the school district's compliance with the regulations implementing Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), § 504 or Iowa Code § 280.3 is directed to contact: Shane Wheeler, Dean of Students, 12476 Hwy F62 E, PO BOX 210, Sully, Iowa 50251, 641-594-4445 x102 who has been designated by the school district to coordinate the school district's efforts to comply with the regulations implementing Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, the ADA, § 504 and Iowa Code 280.3 (2007).


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Escape to the Emerald Isle with our cottages to rent in East Ireland. Easily accessible via Dublin Airport or ferry port, the East of Ireland is the perfect place to experience Ireland without the stress of a long journey.
Take your pick from a great range of cottages to rent in East Ireland. For impromptu short breaks, choose accommodation near Dublin, the cultural capital of Ireland. Here, the country's history and heritage comes alive in museums and galleries across the city, including the Dublin Writers Museum, Chester Beatty Library and the Dublin Biennial Gallery. Dublin is also famed for its nightlife, and offers an eclectic offering of some of the world's oldest and most interesting pubs and bars.
Rent a cottage in East Ireland today!
If it's scenery you're after then you won't be disappointed when you rent a cottage in East Ireland. Just south of Dublin, the Wicklow Mountains National Park is a sprawling mass of mountains, lakes and woodland that extends from Dublin's suburbs to the southern borders of County Wexford. The region forms the largest upland area in Ireland, dominating the landscape of the beautiful County Wicklow. Outdoor sport enthusiasts will be at home among the park's craggy peaks and white water rapids, which provide a wonderful natural playground for hiking, mountain biking and kayaking.
Elsewhere in East Ireland, archaeological sites lie around every emerald knoll, harking back to Ireland's ancient past; white sand beaches such as Rosslare, Greystones and Brittas Bay provide the perfect destination for sun worshippers; and our East Ireland holiday cottages offer a peaceful bolthole from which to explore this charming region.
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Advertising revenues on its major titles continue to slide, with January and February significantly lower year-on-year. There was likely to be no growth in advertising revenues this year.
But Pearson reckons last year's cost-cutting and its US education business will underpin profits growth. 'We are confident of resuming our progress whatever the economic climate,' said chief executive Dame Marjorie Scardino. Pearson added: 'We expect a number of factors to contribute to a significant recovery in adjusted earnings per share.'
The shares climbed 7% to 823p in early trade.
Profits fell 12% to £294m before tax for the year ended December, hit by what Pearson dubbed the worst TV and newspaper advertising market for more than a decade.
That was the first time Scardino has failed to post double-digit earnings growth since she took over in 1997. But the profit was still above City forecasts of around £271m.
Pearson wrote off £153m, mostly for the acquisition of Dorling Kindersley. But it expects the children's publisher to turn a profit this year. Pearson warned in December the downturn had spread to its core education business and that the division would fall well short of forecasts, mirroring a rough ride in its advertising-exposed business publishing.
The group added that 2002 profits would also be helped by the eventual sale of its stake in RTL, Europe's biggest commercial broadcaster.
Reporting separately, RTL posted a 35% drop in underlying earnings to e361m, and warned of weak ad markets 'for at least the first half of 2002'. The company is majority-owned by Bertelsmann, the German media giant recently tipped to bid for ITV broadcaster Carlton.Reuse content


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I really don't have the money to hire a divorce attorney, and my wife and I both had an amicable relationship the whole time, including during divorce talk. Can I take a chance doing this myself?
If you both agree on all the terms of the divorce (separation of assets, child custody and visitation, support), and you trust that both parties will proceed in good faith, you can file your own divorce. One party can file, the other has 30 days to respond. You can agree that the other party does not file a response, then file for default judgement after the 30 days. In 6 months the divorce will be final.
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'Pitch Perfect' Anna Kendrick Poses for GQ Magazine! *SEE SULTRY PHOTOS*
It seems that Anna Kendrick is EVERYWHERE since the wildly successful 'cult classic' already "Pitch Perfect" came out. In fact, her song "Cups" from the 'Pitch Perfect' soundtrack is in the top ten on Billboard's HOT 100 chart. So how should she celebrate such an accomplishment?? Pose scantily clad for GQ magazine of course! Check out some of the pics in her September spread HERE...
WOWSA!! We likey! What do YOU think of the sultry photos?? For the rest of her pics and interview, pick up a copy! Also, word is...there is a "Pitch Perfect 2" in the works.
(Photos courtesy of GQ/Marc Hom)


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Buying Watches Online
April 2015
1.00 Karma
The net and the technology that goes by using it have lead to the developments in online shopping as we know it today. We could buy almost anything online, understanding that needless to say include watches. The sale of watches is big business and the competition among dealers is fierce.
So how do you select a dealer if one really wants to obtain a vintage or antique timepiece online?
You will find many websites claiming specialty in selling
watches for men
. Some specialisations tend to be general, and some will be more specific, including those specialising within a specific brand, by way of example. You will find others that satisfy might know about would call a distinct segment market. Included in this are vintage watch dealers or antique watch specialists. Even though this is somewhat of a niche market there are a variety of sellers trading on and off-line and also the numbers increase everyday. So, just how can you pick a dealer if an individual would like to get a vintage or antique timepiece online?
Many people are sceptical about buying online since they're of thebelief that it must be better to verify the credibility of the on-site seller than that of an internet one. It's not necessarily the truth; the credibility of your business or a dealer is just as important whether are powered by or off-line. The serious online watch dealer is thinking about delivering quality timepieces and excellent customer care, simply because they know that their viability is determined by this. Consequently there is also a number of reputable and honest vintage watch dealers online. However, not every will deliver the identical quality standard or supply you with a memorable shopping experience. Here are several points to consider and look for when choosing :
1. The refund guarantee outlined - would be the terms reasonable? If the dealer will not accept returns, this isn't the business you must might like to do business with. Normally a dealer that's willing to pay a no quibble refund is one that is probably very certain about the quality product which they sell.
2. Have customers constantly complained? Glance at the amount of complaints, have you been seeing many complaints relating to this business or many negative reviews? Unfortunately that no company will be able to please customers constantly, but they should be able to satisfy a large most of their clients more frequently not.
3. Ask questions about the watches, observe how quick or how accurate the fact is.
4. Are you able to readily get the owners or managers of the business? You need to be capable of this - consider the 'about us' page - the information should be there. The vintage watch dealer needs to be readily identifiable.
5. It can also help if your dealer, though operating online, comes with a on-site base or office attached with the best address.
6. Where payment is manufactured online with the use of credit cards, particularly when paying about the dealer's website, generally go looking for 'https' at the start of the address, inside the address bar, on the payment page. If this isn't present, it might be advisable not to proceed through with all the purchase. PayPal is however always a good option, if you are connecting from your seller's website or not.
7. Is the dealer experienced? Especially where it concerns
Patek Philippe Watches
you wish to obtain somebody who has experience and understands watches.
Using the above into account will help you for making a fantastic vintage watch purchase - whether for intent behind something special, for your own pleasure or as a possible investment. Have fun.
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text: Show Hide image Politics 24 February 2012 Average household spend down £9 per week Asda income tracker shows a further decline in spending power. Sign up for our weekly email * The average UK household has £9 per week less spending power in January 2012 than they did 12 months previously, according to the latest Asda Income Tracker. On average, households had £147 a week of discretionary income in January, 5.5 per cent lower than in 2011. Although disposable income continues to decrease, the figures show that the rate of decline is slowing down. January's data represents the lowest annual decline since June 2011. The Asda president and CEO, Andy Clarke, said: It's encouraging to see the cost of basics improving, easing the pressure on family spending power and freeing up cash to spend elsewhere. Families are making smart choices, doing more with less and staying optimistic about maintaining their quality of life. Asda has now launched an online budget planning tool aimed at helping families to maximise their spending power. The Asda Budget Planner allows users to "understand what's coming in, going out and how much is left over each week". Rob Pollard is a freelance writer. You can follow him on Twitter @_robpollard Subscribe from just £1 per issue More


text: The Fulton Theatre provides apprenticeship, internship, volunteer and shadow opportunities for emerging professionals to apply skills acquired in the high school and university setting to a professional institution, to build upon those skills and to learn new ones. Apprentices are recent college graduates and young professionals who desire a season long, full-time commitment (August through July). Internships can be accomplished for college credit or under a special project agreement made with specific department heads. Our summer camps for ages 3-18 provide a comprehensive hands-on experience for individuals interested in teaching theatre arts to youth. Apprentices and interns fully participate as Fulton Theatre personnel, attending appropriate staff and production meetings and monthly seminars, and participating in special events. Seminars are held throughout the program based on apprentices and interns interests. Volunteers may be 16 years old or a retired professional. The Fulton Theatre seeks qualified volunteers with special skills to help realize Fulton projects and goals. A shadow opportunity may be a young person who desires a career exploration opportunity or must fulfill a school requirement.


text: The summer holidays are fast approaching and Samsonite brings you a great selection of perfect summer holiday suitcases. Whether you're heading for a romantic beach escape or a getaway with the kids, if you need a strong suitcase for a longhaul flight, or a flexible suitcase for train or car travel, look no further than Samsonite. Start summer in style!


text: Matthew McConaughey stars in first trailer for Christopher Nolan's much-hyped Interstellar The new film from the director of Inception co-stars Anne Hathaway and Jessica Chastain and has remained shrouded in secrecy until today's new footage... Comments Written By Susanna Lazarus 10:25 AM, 17 May 2014 Nowadays we're accustomed to knowing films inside out before we even make it to the cinema so it's a rare occurrence for a movie to give out next-to-no details in the months leading up to release. With Christopher Nolan's Interstellar, the mystery has done much to hype the sci-fi space odyssey which sees Matthew McConaughey's return to the silver screen, fresh from his Oscar win last March. A cryptic teaser released last December mostly involved old footage of space so today's updated trailer marks our first glimpse of what's going on. Although don't expect too much... McConaughey plays Cooper, an astronaut and father who must travel through a wormhole in space to save planet earth. Nolan has assembled an appropriately star-studded cast to support him, including Jessica Chastain, Anne Hathaway, Casey Affleck and Michael Caine, whose sonorous voice tells us, "We're not meant to save the world, we're meant to leave it." Take a look below... Interstellar is released in UK cinemas on 7 November 2014 Follow @RadioTimes Like this? Share it. Facebook Twitter Google Tumblr Pinterest Blogger Reddit VKontakt Print Email


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WEB EXCLUSIVE: SUV stuck in hole in Land O'Lakes
LAND O'LAKES, Fla. (970 WFLA) - The following video was recorded in Land O' Lakes Monday after a water line broke, the road flooded and a van fell into the hole when the van was trying to drive through it.
A witness says the driver is okay.
Thanks to our listener, Jason for taking the video and sending it to us!


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The Age > Home > Technology > IT News > Article
You do not have to be big to accomplish big things. This is especially true when dealing with technology. All the gadgets - phones, cameras, video cameras - that we use every day to stay in touch with friends, to capture memories and entertain us are shrinking. But at the same time, the distinction among them is blurring as manufacturers pack more features into smaller shells, which are being tailored and sculpted for the human body more carefully than ever.
Communication devices
Wristwatch phones were once only for the likes of Dick Tracy and Inspector Gadget. Now they are real, with models by Seiko available in Japan, and Samsung's to be launched soon in Europe. In the US, Bluespoon has taken a different approach, producing a wireless mobile phone headset that fits inside the ear like a hearing aid.
The thicker-fingered among us are keenly aware of how our mobile phones have shrunk in recent years. Once the size of housebricks, today's phones practically disappear in the palm of your hand. Siemens has a phone with a screen that slides over the keypad. At a little over eight centimetres long, it is one of the smallest around. Mobiles are shedding weight, too, with the lightest models by makers such as Nokia and Panasonic tipping the scales at less than 80 grams.
Carli Wilson, Panasonic's strategic marketing executive for mobile communications, says people's day-to-day dependence on mobiles has driven the reduction in size. "People have mobile phones virtually as an extension of their own limb," she says. "It's on your body so many hours of the day that it does become something that's almost part of you."
At the same time, manufacturers have stuffed more into less: built-in cameras, larger colour screens and electronic games with sound and vibration are common in the latest models. Some are even beginning to rival personal digital assistants. The Sony Ericsson P800 features a miniature keyboard and the ability to browse the internet and can store contact details and appointments and synchronise them with a PC .
Work-related devices
PDAs are also packing more punch into smaller units, often weighing little more than 100 grams. HP's iPAQ range can connect to the internet wirelessly via Bluetooth, with one model even having a fingerprint lock.
The first PDA, Apple's Newton, may have been the size of a paperback novel, but most PDAs are now less than half that size. Some PDAs from Fossil and Motorola are small enough to wear on the wrist.
Laptop computers have come a long way from the first, heavy, battery-hungry "portable" monsters. Panasonic's Toughbook CF-R1 weighs less than a kilo, one twelfth of the weight of the first notebook, the Osborne 1, released in 1981, but is more than 200 times more powerful. Taiwanese company Dialogue Technology Corp recently unveiled a palm-sized notebook with a full keyboard offering third-generation mobile communications. The rest of the mobile office is also shrinking. Printers are now light enough to stick in your carry-on luggage. Canon's i70 bubble jet printer has a footprint smaller than the A4 paper it prints on, and weighs 1.8 kilograms. Panasonic's pocket-size printer, the SV-P20, weighs just 265 grams.
But as electronic devices have got smaller, picture and audio files have grown. Compact portable storage devices, such as Sony's Mini Micro Vault and Trek's ThumbDrive, have come to the rescue. These lipstick-sized gadgets plug directly into your computer and can store thousands of pictures or hours of digital music on flash memory. Portable hard drives such as Apple's iPod can hold up to 40 GB of data, which is more than many desktop computers, in a body as big as an oversized credit card and thinner than two CD cases.
Capturing memories
Digital still cameras have also been swept up in the rush for miniaturisation. Quality 3-megapixel cameras from companies such as Pentax, Casio and Canon are now smaller than a cigarette pack. "So many of the features that were once moving components are now merely a circuit board inside a machine," says Scott Housley, senior product manager of DVD and audio for Philips. The Dutch company has released a digital camera the size of a key tag, which weighs only 35 grams but can store up to 800 pictures. Don't expect top quality, but it is an example of what is possible. In Japan earlier in the year, Sony released a 2-megapixel camera not much bigger than a matchbox. It sheds bulk by foregoing an optical zoom lens in favour of a 4x digital zoom.
In the past decade, the video camera has gone from being shoulder-mounted to pocket-sized, a change driven by smaller video cassettes. Hitachi now has a range of camcorders that record onto miniature DVDs, while Sony is continuing to champion MicroMV tapes, a third of the size of MiniDV cassettes. It is a technology that has helped Sony claim its DCR-IP7 Network Handycam as the world's smallest video camera.
It is just one of many new devices doing more with less. In the new Tomb Raider movie, Angelina Jolie's Lara Croft character uses Panasonic's SV-AV20 Secure Digital Multi AV device, which packs digital video and still cameras, an audio player and voice recorder into a silver shell the size of two pads of Post-it notes.
The devices that give us music on the move are also getting smaller as MP3, a format for reducing the data size of music files, has put the squeeze on comparatively bulky portable cassette and CD players. Panasonic has an MP3 player that weighs 26 grams and is light enough to be worn around the neck or on the wrist. It holds up to two hours of music in MP3 format, or twice as much in the more compact WMA digital music format.
Sony's smallest offering, the Network Walkman NW-MS70D, boasts twice the capacity in a titanium body little bigger than a matchbox.
But another development threatens to render even the sleekest and most stylish portable music players a bit naff: portable video. Thomson recently unveiled a palm-sized video jukebox with a 8.89-centimetre (3.5-inch) LCD screen for watching pre-recorded television shows, home movies or feature films on the go. The unit, which holds up to 80 hours of video, should be in stores by Christmas.
Panasonic also has a product that lets users watch up to an hour of recorded TV programs on a flip-up two-inch LCD screen. Toshiba, Philips and Sony have similar products in development. The vacuous conversation of Big Brother contestants, previously confined to the living room, may now spread to the train, the beach and the schoolyard.
The future
Is there a limit to how small electronic devices can get before they become unusable for all but the daintiest? And are we there yet?
Panasonic's Carli Wilson thinks her company's mobile phones are small enough. "To be quite honest with you, you could go much smaller than we are nowadays (but) it's just trying to find that right balance - something that's functional, something that will sell, and something people are going to be prepared to use, day in, day out."
Philips's Scott Housley agrees. "Many manufacturers can make a very small product but whether or not there's a usefulness or an application for a consumer is a whole different story."
Perhaps the future is not smaller electronics, but products that are less noticeable by being incorporated into everyday garments.
Minolta has a head-mounted picture viewer which projects images in front of the eye onto the lens of a pair of specially designed glasses. Snowboard company Burton this year unveiled a waterproof electronic jacket to be used with Apple's iPod portable music player. At its research facility in Japan, Pioneer has trialled jackets embedded with small, flexible organic electro luminescence (OEL) screens. Wearable, invisible. Technologies that we can forget we even have. Surely this is the ultimate in convergence.
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Idahoryden wrote:Matt, your Can looks identical in markings to the one I shot. Maybe rather than accept that we shot immature Drakes we just come to the consensus that we shot a rare Northwest subspecies. That will make an easier pitch to the wife at least for the mount.
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Sports of the Times; The Story of the Dodgers
By ARTHUR DALEY ();
May 20, 1945,
, Section Sports, Page S2, Column , words
THE Dodgers were in the middle of a rally and Chick Fewster, who was sitting in the dugout next to Uncle Wilbert Robinson, enthusiastically reached for a bat and pounded away furiously on the top step in order to rattle the opposing pitcher.
May 20, 1945
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wiring a new light
In the bathroom I have two lights and two switches that are all wired together. Each switch can turn on/off both lights. I am replacing these lights with canister lights. My problem is when rewiring the light, I can not get the new light to turn on/off. One side has a red, white, black, green. The other side has white, black, green. The light has white, black. The house is 30 years old. I think the red is the switch but I don't know how to rewire this light. Please help. I have tried the other light yet.
Sounds like a three way switch set up go to this web site for a example on how to wire it.
Sounds like when you say "one side" you are talking about the light boxes not the switches. If that is the case? the box with the most wires in it probably has 2 blacks together, 3 whites together, all greens together, and a black and red together, If this is the case then the black and red should connect to the fixture black. The white from the fixture goes to the other 3 whites.
The other box is easy black to black white to white throw the switch and see the light. :-)
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"Antoni and the missing "D"
View Single Post
NBA lottery pick
Join Date: Jul 2006
Posts: 5,980
Re: "Antoni and the missing "D"
Originally Posted by
I don't think you build around any one person unless they're Durant, Kobe, or Lebron. If you trade Howard for a guard, then you still need a big guy. For any team to win a championship they need a big time guard and a solid big guy. Howard is about as solid as they come. Getting a guy like James Harden makes no sense to me. He's not a guy that is going to lead a team to a championship. If he was that great OKC would've let Russell Westbrook go and they would've kept Harden. He wasn't even a starter on that team. Besides, the Lakers have Kobe. They play the same position. Kobe will be around for a few years. There's no reason to address the SG position until Kobe retires.
If the Lakers were to trade Howard it would be for another servicable big, and draft picks. They definitely wouldn't be getting equal value in the trade. I don't think trading Howard is the answer. I think he's about as good of a 2nd scoring option as you can have for a championship caliber team. He'll never be that #1 option because he can't shoot a free throw, so he needs someone like Kobe around to finish games. That Magic team that went to the finals was not as talented as this Lakers team. That tells me there's far more going on here.
nba is moving away from the big guy thing...who did miami had to get the chip...they had ZERO RIM PROTECTION
we have Pau Gasol...who is exceptional playing in the post and making plays...
we got Howard to tutor under kobe....we can do the same thing with Harden....Remember superstars are not made in a day...I fully expect him to be one....
tell me who is the serviceable big u talk about???
NBA is becoming perimeter oriented and the better we adapt to it...it would be much better
we still would have a max cap next summer to sign a contract like Lebron/Melo
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Travel Picks: Top 10 ski resorts for non-skiers
SYDNEY (Reuters Life!) - Ski resorts used to cater only to skiers and snow-bunnies but not anymore, with many resort towns housing first-rate spas, art galleries, shops, and top restaurants.
Travel website ShermansTravel.com has compiled a list of the top 10 ski resorts for non skiers (here).
The list is not endorsed by Reuters:
1. Bad Gastein, Austria
The picturesque Gastein Valley has over 170 miles of well-groomed trails but its spas have been luring visitors since the 13th century. Treatments here make use of the natural hot springs, which, combined with mountain air and healthy levels of radon, are said to have regenerative effects.
2. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Where else can you throw a snowball and burn your feet on a beach in the same day? At more than 73,000 square feet (6,800 sq meters), Ski Dubai is a large, opulent facility with five runs of varying difficulty, including the world's first indoor black diamond course, a "freestyle zone," snow park with options for bobsled rides and more, and two mountain-themed restaurants.
3. Mont Tremblant, Quebec, Canada
Mont Tremblant has a plethora of high-thrill activities for non-skiers such as Acrobranche, an obstacle course of sorts that comes complete with Tarzan ropes and suspended bridges atop a forest canopy, dog-sledding, horseback riding, and sleigh rides. Continued...