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Newsletter 2 April 2012
There is little doubt that man has been foraging for food for a long time. As one might guess, in different places he foraged for different plants. He also foraged before there were cities and suburbia. Foraging continued well into the 1900's, and of course, selectively today.
Among the challenges of teaching foraging is finding suitable sites. In my classes I tend to visit the same areas, at least four times a year, usually more often. Almost all of these sites are in suburbia, not in the wild. This surprises people because they assume wild food is out in the wilderness. When the famous Willie Sutton was asked why he robbed banks, he supposedly said "because that's where the money is." I teach foraging in suburbia because that's where the plants are. It's also where the people are.
That said, I have to qualify that comment. There are edibles in the wilds, but they tend to be different than those found in population centers and represent more a subsistence living than variety. Many edible weeds, perhaps the majority, are not native. They are from somewhere else. They came with humans and humans went to population centers. They spread out a bit from there but in density suburbia is ground zero.
In an old city park I can usually find 60 to 100 edible species and I usually have to walk only a mile or so. In a state park I can walk 10 miles and find perhaps 20 edible species. This is not to say native food is inferior or rare. It is better to say the choice is limited. But when you combine native and imported plants (and edible ornamentals) then one has a much larger menu in suburbia, which is conveniently where the people live. (In agricultural areas, farm land substitutes for suburbia. Read where man is active there are weeds.)
The other reason I use city parks is because most of the species we find there most folks can also find in their own yard or neighborhood. It's good to learn what the natives ate to survive but most folks want to find food around their own home, not a distant state park (where foraging is often illegal.)
Foraging in suburbia does raise the issue of pollution, and that has to be taken into consideration. Despite that complication foraging in suburbia is where more people forage today. It is where most people find their wild food, and that is where I teach the most. Willie Sutton would understand.
(By the way, what Sutton really said was: "Why did I rob banks? Because I enjoyed it. I loved it. I was more alive when I was inside a bank, robbing it, than at any other time in my life. I enjoyed everything about it so much that one or two weeks later I'd be out looking for the next job. But to me the money was the chips, that's all."
♣ An Observation: A friend has been taking me to a gym in hopes I will become a member. I presume the goal of a gym is to improve ones health. At the gym exit, on the inside, there is a smoothie bar of sorts with about three dozen concoctions on the menu. The names hide that they are all simple sugar, some with formulated fortification to make you more of a man or woman or whatever you want to be. Others boast a pick me up, a caffeine boost. For these healthy sounding non-healthy drinks one pays dearly. It's all rather curious: Go in the gym to burn calories and before leaving replenish them. Meanwhile directly right outside the door to the main entrance is a source of antioxidants and caffeine for free, the Ilex vomitoria var. pendula. All that is required is a few leaves in hot water for a few minutes.
If you visit the Green Deane Forum, mentioned below, you will see some discussions about primitive skills, plants as medicine, and the paleo diet and related issues as they pertain to edible plants. Our ancestors got their nutriments and antioxidants and the like from their wild diet, and getting the food was exercise enough. At the gym I was struck by the antithetical dichotomy: Artificial exercise and empty nutrition inside the gym, real nutrition and real exercise outside the gym. We've gone so far away from who we are with all that artificial stuff on sale, yet the real deal is right outside the door.
(And I will add, do you know what gymnasium means? It's Greek meaning where people exercise naked… because people used to exercise and train naked. Why get clothes dirty? … the Olympics were naked as well… Snow skiing wasn't a sport then… Don't know if I'd like to go to a naked gym… nudist colonies give ample reason why clothes were invented. That said, I've been asked to teach a class in a nudist colony… definitely stay away from the stinging nettles….)
♣ Botany Builder #16: Compound leaves can be confusing. Leaves are either simple or compound. A simple leaf is one leaf whereas a compound leaf is comprised of several leaflets. Compound leaves are divided into two to several dozen leaflets.
A leaf is attached to a stem. There is also a bud there. When it is attached to the main stem it is simple. When it is attached to a stem which is in turn attached to a main stem with a bud it is compound. Where the bud is, is the key. Oaks have simple leaves as do birches, sycamores, and elms. Hickories have compound leaves, as do many trees in the greater pea family. Compound leaves can also be called pinnate, which means feather because someone thought they looked featherish. Compound leaves can be bipinnated and tripinnated. And they can be palmately pinnated.
In the diagram above left there is a simple leaf, a compound leaf, and a doubly (bipinnated) leaf. It would be tempting to call all the green things leaves but they are not. The simple single leaf is a leaf, but the rest are leaflets. They can also be even or odd depending on whether there is a leaflet at the end, see diagram two at right. Also they can be palmate (think like a palm and fingers.) Clover and oxalis are two more examples of compound leaves. In the clover there are three leaves at the end of the stem, shaped like a T. In the oxalis there are three leaves at the end equally distributed around the stem. That is sometimes called a terminal compound leaf.
♣ Articles added: Rumex Ruminations, Topi Tambo, Water Lettuce, Duckweed, Edible Flowers Part Nineteen.
♣ Classes This Week: It was a road tour weekend with a Saturday class in Port Charlotte and West Palm Beach on Sunday. Round trip it was a total of 533 miles for the weekend on the big red motorcycle. I always enjoy these two locations because they have species not found even 200 miles to the north.
At Port Charlotte we saw a gray Nickernut, Caesalpinia bonduc. It's included among the "sea beans" that float north on ocean currents from Central and South America. However, the gray Nickernut is actually a Florida native. I have not found any reference to this legume vine being edible however the seeds have been used medicinally for many applications. As the plant was used extensively to combat malaria, it's also been called the "quinine of the poor." The non-edible seeds float and stay viable for at least 30 years. They have been found as far away as Scotland where they are called Molucca Beans. Oddly the Scots call all sea beans that come ashore arna Moire, or in Gaelic, Mary's Kidney. One relative of the Nickernut is edible. That is the C. pulcherrima, whose young seeds are eaten fresh or cooked.
And I had a rare moment in Port Charlotte which was not being able to remember the exact botanical name of a seasonal shore plant. I don't see it too often. The last time I carried some home was several years ago in Daytona Beach. In fact, I've been casually looking for it since. I knew it when we found it and did manage to remember that the botanical name had to do with worms. It's Blutaparon vermiculare which means, roughly, "amaranth worm-like." Of course the most important thing is recognizing a plant and knowing that it is edible. Humans got along for a long time without scientific names for plants. Its common names are Silverweed, Beach Carpet, Silverhead, and Samphire. The latter is unfortunate because there are other edibles also called Samphire. The stems and leaves are edible boiled (though I do snack on leaves raw.) You can read about it here.
While I don't eat at McDonalds I do like their decaffeinated coffee, or in Saturday's case a large serving of iced tea (no sugar.) One of their franchises is near where the class meets in Port Charlotte. While in the southwest corner of that parking lot, getting my load ready for the ride east across the state, I saw a Milkweed Vine, Morrenia odorata. It's a wonderful wild edible and in that part of the state produces food year round. The state of Florida has tried mightily to get rid of it but this edible is here to stay. In fact, I picked a fruit and took it with me for show and tell at my Sunday class in West Palm Beach. (Properly disposed of course.) You can read about the M. odorata here.
We got off to a rocky start Sunday at Dreher Park in West Palm Beach. A foot race closed the north half of the park where we normally meet. So we had to park wherever and make our way to the rendezvous point. We got started late but around a dozen brave folks made it through the athletic extravaganza.
Though roughly at the same latitude on the west coast the same species have slightly different seasons on the east coast. Coco-plums (Chrysobalanus icaco) are a good example. They are just forming buds in Port Charlotte but growing fruit in West Palm Beach. One nice find was a fruiting Queen Palm (Syagrus romanzoffiana.) Tall and stately Queen Palm fruit start out green then turn to light orange then dark orange and then fall to the ground. They are very sweet and gooey with a large non-edible seed (though its oil is edible.) They're kind of like eating sugary paste with some fiber tossed in. The fruit can be made into jelly and wine, the latter won't clear because of the high pectin content. (Pindo palm [Butia capitata] fruit are also edible. Those palms are short and squat with yellow fruit)
An after-class discussion raised the topic of what are some local staple wild foods to learn about, foods that produce a lot of calories for the collection effort. I promised I would make a list. They are: The Winged Yam (Dioscorea alata) Milkweed Vine (Morrenia odorata) Ground Nuts (Apios americana) American Lotus seeds (Nelumbo lutea) Spurge Nettle root (Cnidoscolus stimulosus) Bull thistle Root (Cirsium vulgare or nearly any Cirsium) Cattails (Typha species) Coconuts ( Cocos nucifera) and Acorns (Quercus species.) One could add to that Queen Palm Fruit, Pindo Palm fruit, Pine Tree cambium (all Pinus species, Crowfoot Grass seeds (Dactyloctenium aegyptium) and in the right place and right time of year, Barnyard Grass seed (Echinochloa crus-galli.) Add a palm grub or two and you have a balanced meal. And do I dare mention Saw Palmetto berries, Serenoa repens? They do taste like vomit but are very nutritious.
Upcoming this weekend are classes at Cassadaga and Wekiva State Park, both a bit unusual. Cassadaga is a nice little park that tends to get overlooked as a good place to learn about wild edibles. Wekiva State Park requires a shift in mindset. There are more edible plant species in suburbia than out in the wild. So visiting the state park is more along the lines of learning what the natives did. There are less edible species but we see them often which increases retention. Pretty spot though. Nice Easter morning option.
Saturday, April 7th Colby-Alderman Park: 1099 Massachusetts Street, Cassadaga. Fla. 32706, 9 a.m.
Sunday, April 8th,Wekiva State Park, 1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka, Florida 32712. 9 a.m.
♣ The Green Deane Forum: 3,000 posts, 500 topics, 300 members, not bad for a couple of months old. UFOS (unidentified flowering objects) Primitive Skills, What's in Season, Edible Plants, Herbal Medicine, Beginning Foragers, References, that and much more. Join the Green Deane Forum and chat with other foragers. Go to the Eat The Weeds Home page and join via the button on the upper right, or click here.
♣ For What It's Worth: If you've ever raised chickens one of the standard procedures of husbandry is to feed them arsenic. It's a disease preventative, according to the experts. Kind of makes one wonder how chickens managed to survive before arsenic was introduced into their food. Some 55% of chicken meat sold in supermarkets have detectable traces of arsenic but so do some of the plants we eat such as mulberries and loquats. Detectable and rising to the level of toxic are two different and debatable issues. The arsenic problem raised its crested head lately in Maryland where chicken farmers defeated a bill to remove arsenic from chicken feed. Apparently the arsenic moves from the feed to the chickens' waste (and waists) and then ends up in the environment. In this particular case Chesapeake Bay. You can run but you cannot hide.
To donate to the Green Deane Newsletter click here.
{ 14 comments… read them below or add one }
- April 3, 2012 at 20:15
Great article, Deane, but I do want to point out that you use there terms "man" and "humans" and you really mean this one culture that destroys its environment. The "global culture, Western culture, modern culture, or even Europeans" would do. Otherwise, it might be construed as insulting to the Native Peoples here, as they most certainly are human. I think this distinction is important as we are programmed into thinking that people are bad, when it's just some basic memes that have been passed down the line that we need to rid ourselves of.
- April 2, 2012 at 21:56
Hello, I recently met you at the Florida Herbal Conference and you really sparked my interest in wild edibles! I will be camping at the above mentioned website (camp ground) the first week of May and I was wondering what it would take for you to come do a walk with the group I am camping with. We are a home school group with mostly older teens for kids. There will be about 5-7 teens and 5-7 parents (probably more of each) at the event. Long Point has an island that you reach by crossing a foot bridge, and that is where we camp and would love to do the walk on. While you are there, you are welcome to join us for dinner, and we will have kayaks available for your enjoyment. I'm sure you have a fee. Please tell me if this is something you would be interested in and available to do! Thank you so much!
- April 2, 2012 at 19:36
Hi Green Deane,
just wondering, have you written a book about wild edibles that is for sale?
- April 2, 2012 at 18:13
hello green dean i was wondering will a lot of loquats and mulberrys make us sick because i eat lots of both?????
- April 2, 2012 at 17:21
Nickernut, I saw something like this in Bradenton a while back but was never able to find anything in my searches, really cool looking seed pod.You said a vine the one I saw was like a small shrub is there a look alike?
nudist colonies give ample reason why clothes were invented. This gave me a good chuckle.
- April 2, 2012 at 15:43
Deane, enjoyed your walk at the Fla Herbal fest so much and enjoy eating more weeds in my yard. 2 friends went to Pt Charlotte and loved the info and entertainment. I hope we can get you to come to our suburban preserves in S Sarasota Co. I will spread the word. How many folk do we need committed to invite you over? thanks, go well, Tina
- April 2, 2012 at 14:40
BTW Uncle Willie did not "Rob" banks. He Burglerized them. He didn't hold them up at gunpoint. He tunneled in at night.
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this is so cute! would be perfect to set out on the table around Halloween time, or any time really!
Cocktails by the sea! This silicone ice tray mold shapes your cubes into mini fish. Comes complete with a plastic stick that can be used to stir your cocktail.
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Release Date: 2007 |
Chan it's 2007. Stop reviewing Dimmu Borgir. Then we'll talk.
seriously though. good review. The song titles make this review hard to read, because they are all so lame. It's like they are trying way to hard to be metal.
Album Rating: 2.0they all start with "the" which is annoying
Album Rating: 2.0Album would be better if the drums didn't sound like they do, since, as you said, they're the only real interesting thing happening.
This review made me lol left and right. Good work, although I still might check this out.
So I was thinking, "Hey, I've only heard one song by these guys and I can't remember it...maybe I'll check this out."
Then I read this review.
Album Rating: 4.0You seems to be a dimmu Borgir hater. You review as some good point but some arguments are wrong. Are you familiar with Black Metal. The ''Look Thing'' and the video have nothing to do with the music. Plus, your point on the cover is wrong again. First of all, it's not Satan. It's Baphomet and that's the way he's supposed to look. For the song title I don'T see everybody's point about this. The album has a concept and I don't see how a title can be annoyin. Your review is biased.
^^ Dimmu arn't black metal (anymore), but you do have a point. I'd get this.
Album Rating: 2.0Okay, I have to lower my rating. Shagrath sounds like a total knob on this.
This review is biased because you obviously gave this album a chance, and didn't like it!
neg neg neg
Album Rating: 2.5I'm still gonna get this album. Anyone want to send it to me?
The opening paragraph is funny. Dimmu Borgir is a very ridiculous band, but I still like their music.
I got a Decibel mag with a Dimmu Borgir cd with 2 songs from this on it, and ya, they didn't sound to good. Nice review!
Album Rating: 4.0It's an good album, Vortex is what keeps this band alive. Galder is such a good guitarist, they should use him more.
Album Rating: 2.5I agree that Galder should be playing out more. His work on Old Man's Child albums recently has been fantastic.
Chan, you rule.
Thank god you wrote this. I don't like these guys, and think they are incredibly overrated.
gg on negging because you disagree Foodforthegods.
Their first album was great in my opinion, and they had a lot of amazing singles to follow that. Ill buy this because I actually got somewhat excited for it.
Album Rating: 2.0um foodforthegods i didnt take any points off the album because of the band's look. i just bring it up because it's so ridiculous and stupid. and yes i am a dimmu borgir hater. the band sucks. i don't like them. get over it.
and don't you fucking ask me if i'm "familiar with black metal." i love the genre. have you noticed that corpse paint hasn't been cool in 15 years? its stupid. it was stupid in the 80s and 90s too, but at least then it was amusing and interesting.
also omg its afucking baphomet who gives a fuck whether its a baphomet or satan but just to appease you i will change itThis Message Edited On 04.26.07
Awesome review.
Album Rating: 2.5Chan wins yet again. I can definitely respect this review, as it's very well written and Dimmu Borgir isn't for everyone. Chan also knows plenty about black metal, as he has eloquently reviewed Burzum and Ulver albums in the past. And besdies, this album isn't even all that black metal.
No one should be negging this review.
Bands: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z


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By Susan M. Selasky Detroit Free Press
A juicy beefsteak and sauteed mushrooms go together perfectly — especially when you add a great sauce to the mix.
Make that beefsteak a filet mignon, add a yummy zip sauce, top it off with a tangy blue cheese and you've got a combo that's irresistible.
Today's recipe mixes sauteed mushrooms with some fresh green beans and my version of a zip sauce, a hearty sauce that enhances the beef's flavor.
Another plus: This recipe keeps the mess to a minimum because it uses the same skillet to cook the beef and the mushrooms and make the sauce.
Just make sure the skillet is oven-proof.
Using a skillet to sear the filets first is a way to ensure a crusty exterior and a tender, juicy interior. Finishing them off in the oven provides low and slow constant heat.
Another option is to grill the filets over a high heat and then move them to a cooler part of the grill to finish the cooking. When grilling, you'll need to make the sauce separately, keeping in mind it won't have any of those flavorful beefy pan juices or little bits of food that are packed with flavor.
Beef filet with blue cheese and zip sauce
4 beef tenderloin filets, 2 inches thick and about 5 ounces each
Salt and pepper
Favorite steak seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
4 cups thinly sliced cremini mushrooms
2 cups fresh green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
¼ cup sherry
½-1 cup fat-free beef broth
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or Maggi Seasoning (see note)
1/3 cup reduced-fat blue cheese crumbles
Season the beef filets on both sides with salt and pepper and, if using, steak seasoning. Set aside for 20 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
In a large oven-proof skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil. When hot, add the beef filets (don't crowd them) and sear on both sides about 2 minutes or until well-browned.
Transfer the skillet to the oven to finish the cooking, about 12 to 15 minutes for medium rare, depending on the thickness. Remove from the oven and transfer the filets to a platter and keep warm.
Carefully using the same skillet (the handle will be hot), place it over medium heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and butter. Add the mushrooms and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the beans and saute 2 minutes until they are just crisp tender. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from the skillet to a plate.
In the same skillet over medium heat, add the sherry and deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Add the beef broth, balsamic vinegar and any of the juices from the platter. Bring to a boil and reduce until slightly thickened.
Note: Maggi Seasoning is an all-purpose sauce used to enhance flavors of sauces, soups and stews. Look for it in the condiment aisle.
To serve, place a filet on a plate, top with a heaping tablespoon of blue cheese and a serving of the mushrooms and beans. Drizzle with the zip sauce and serve.
Makes 4 servings. Per serving: 374 calories (55 percent from fat ), 23 grams fat (8 grams sat. fat ), 9 grams carbohydrates, 31 grams protein, 385 mg sodium, 92 mg cholesterol, 2 grams fiber.


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|You are in: World: Americas
Friday, 16 March, 2001, 17:18 GMT
Norwegian defends Castro Nobel nomination
A member of the Norwegian parliament has defended his decision to nominate the Cuban President, Fidel Castro, for the 2001 Nobel Peace Prize.
Mr Hallgeir Langeland said that he was aware of the controversial character of his decision, but he wanted to praise President Castro's efforts to help other developing nations.
He added that despite the hardships created by the long-standing United States embargo on Cuba, President Castro had been able to send doctors, engineers and aid workers to other countries. This years' winner will be announced in October.
Other nominees include the United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan and the founder of the Chinese Falungong movement, Li Hongzhi.
From the newsroom of the BBC World Service
Top Americas stories now:
Links to more Americas stories are at the foot of the page.
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Murud Overview
You can reach Murud from Bangalore by road in about using a cab upon driving using a cab.
Murudeshwar is a popular town located in the Uttara Kannada district in Karnataka, India. The place is a home to lots of people who worship Lord Shiva. The world's largest statue of Shiva is located in Murudeshwar.
The town also offers breathtaking scenic views during the monsoon season and hence it is a must visit place for many tourists who want to enjoy natural environment. The nearest airport to Murudeshwar is the Mangalore International Airport and nearest railway station is Murudeshwar.. Book cabs in Murud


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PHOTOS: Amber Rose teaches baby Sebastian to swim
Amber Rose was one of the most popular pregnant mamas. From her racy style to her over the top Instagram posts, we followed her from model to motherhood. Now she's showing fans what life is like as a mom to baby Sebastian, aka baby Bash.
She recently posted some adorable shots of her and Sebastian playing around in the pool and it's bananas how big he's gotten. He's only 7 months old but already a water baby.
Plus, Wiz Khalifah's wife is showing off a new blonde-and-black buzz cut. This is quite a look. It's like a futuristic Mr. T with a dash of Grace Jones. What do you think? Hot or Hot Mess?
Check out the pool pics with Mama Amber and baby Sebastian.


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ORONO, Maine — Dirigo Pines Inn will be celebrating Assisted Living Week, September 9 – 15 with a variety of programs.
The theme is "Art for the Ages" which brings together residents, staff, family and community to celebrate the talents and creativity assisted living residents have developed through hard work and their love for the arts.
The public is welcome to attend any of the following activities at the Dirigo Pines Inn in Orono during Assisted Living Week:
• Tuesday, Sept. 11, 7:15 p.m. : Dirigo Pines Variety Show with staff and residents presenting skits, stories, comedy and the ever popular Dirigo Songsters.
• Wednesday, Sept. 12, 4-6 p.m.: Dirigo Pines Inn will host an open house for the general public with food, refreshments and Joe Weisheit on piano. Tours of the assisted living neighborhood will be available as well.
• Thursday, Sept. 13, 7:15 p.m. : "Terry & Jerry" will be performing some old musical favorites. Theresa Laliberte and Jerry Hughes are a popular entertaining duo in the greaterBangorarea.
Dirigo Pines is located off the Kelley Roadin Orono.
For more information, call Dirigo Pines Front Desk at 207-866-3400.


text: The following Father's Day meditation was written and shared by John Clanton this morning, 17 June 2012, as the communion meditation at Englewood Christian Church, here on the Near Eastside of Indianapolis. I am honored to share this extraordinary reflection here... On this day in which we celebrate fatherhood, I am reminded of the awesome responsibility which is ours as fathers. Let me be the first to admit that I have fallen short of the mark. I see us, fathers, as mere shadows standing in representation of God in the lives of our children. Whether we are biological fathers or … [Read more...]


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Medical Science Research Building II
The Medical Science Research Building (MSRB) II was designed to use 26% less energy than the typical energy-intensive research laboratory and preserves the surrounding landscape.
View the MSRB II LEED™ Scorecard
Sustainable Site Features:
The building's location preserves a buffer of trees and minimizes the building's footprint. The roof and landscape elements were selected so as to reduce the heat island effect from exposure to the hot North Carolina sun.
Water Efficiency
Incorporating the natural forest rather than exotic landscaping in the buildings design enabled the designers to achieve landscape watering reductions of more than 50% compared with traditional landscapes decorated with non-native plants that would require regular irrigation.
Energy Efficiency
Light-shelves and other elements shade the buildings windows, where heat would otherwise enter the building. Light-colored exterior materials and roofing, as well as treated windows were used to reduce heat absorption, while the angles of ceilings allow natural ambient light deeper into the building. Inside, a heat-recovery wheel helps to balance the temperature of air moving into the building by exposing it to the controlled air leaving the building, reducing the need for heating and air conditioning.
Indoor Air Quality
Low-VOC carpets, paints, tile, wood and sealants were used throughout the building to improve air quality and the health of occupants.
Resource Management
MSRB II was one of only a few LEED™ projects at Duke to divert more than 75% of construction waste from the landfill. The project made use of recycled steel, concrete and gypsum in addition to obtaining more than 20% of all materials locally.
Integration of Sustainability in Design & Construction Process
As a research and laboratory space, commissioning of fume hoods to ensure efficiency was a critical step. The building also uses Green Seal approved housekeeping chemicals and microfiber mops to maintain the exceptional indoor air quality.


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The 440 phantom districts found on the government's stimulus tracking web site have been replaced.
Recovery.gov has taken down all of the phantom districts–that is districts that received money without actually existing. The 12 phantom districts in Virginia, for example, have been consolidated into one category: unassigned congressional district. It appears that the administration, embarrassed by the fallout of New Mexico Watchdog's discovery of these discrepancies, is now looking to retrace what actual districts received the $6.4 billion distributed to the phantoms.
This is a far cry from the response that Ed Pound, spokesman for the Recovery Accountability and Transparency Board, gave a Montana Policy Institute reporter on Monday. Pound told reporters that the problem would not be resolved until the next data collection cycle in January.
Luckily, Watchdog.org has preserved Recovery.org's most recent data on the 440 UFD's (Unidentified Funded Districts) of the stimulus package:


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- Super Bowl XLIII - http://www.ktbb.com/superbowlxliii -
Gil Brandt on the Cowboys, changes through the years at the Super Bowl.
Posted By Paul On January 26, 2009 @ 1:00 pm In Video Availalble | No Comments
Bill Coates caught up with former Dallas Cowboys Director of Player Personnel Gil Brandt. He shared his thoughts on the changes to the Super Bowl over 43 years and the current state of the Dallas Cowboys.
Article printed from Super Bowl XLIII: http://www.ktbb.com/superbowlxliii
URL to article: http://www.ktbb.com/superbowlxliii/2009/01/26/gil-brandt-on-the-cowboys-changes-through-the-years-at-the-super-bowl/
Click here to print.
Copyright © 2009 Super Bowl XLIII. All rights reserved.


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Shared Services
A better way to do business
Shared Services is a widely-used business management system that enables core services to be provided on behalf of an entire organization.
DNR's Shared Services model is an integrated, cost-effective approach to delivering internal financial, budget, capital investment, human resources, planning, and communication and outreach services.
Our focus is adding value to DNR operations and modeling "a better way to do business" for the state of Minnesota.
Benefits of Shared Services
There are many benefits to the Shared Services approach, including:
Shared Services is a success. Learn more:
(Click on topic below to reveal more information. Click again to hide.)
Fire Equipment
The DNR Fleet Program is responsible for all fleet maintenance and for ensuring the equipment is safe and ready for work, whenever and wherever needed. DNR Forestry is the lead in agency response to wild land fires, the equipment required to support this effort is extensive, specialized and diverse.
Regional shop mechanics do the bulk of the work, diagnosing, replacing, draining, inspecting, greasing and testing the machines to ensure they are ready for severe service– requiring around 1,200 mechanic hours annually, on 280 assets, located at 62 sites and all performed at four DNR regional shops – attention must also be paid to several other details including weather, travel, parts, delays, and workload management. Despite the challenges, the Fleet program staff accomplished the goal of "everything done by March 1st," documented and ready for the users.
To learn more about our fire-fighting efforts, visit: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/forestry/fire/index.html
MAGC Award Winners
Scott Pengelly, who retired as assistant communications director in February after 25 years at the DNR, received a Lifetime Achievement Award.
Denny Behr received two Awards of Excellence for his videos, "Wild Bee Surveys in Prairie – Grassland Habitats" and "Wildlife Artist."
Deb Rose received an Award of Merit for her photograph, "Springtime at Gooseberry Falls."
Amy Kay Kerber and Mateo Cadiz received an Award of Merit for the DNR Forestry publication, "Standing Tall."
Stefanie Stearns received an Award of Merit for ParkFinder in the category of new website feature, application or mobile app. Also recognized for this award were MN.IT employees Kate Lamers and Steve Lime, along with Conservation Corps Web Specialist, Brook Maier.
Modernizing website and improving online technology
In an effort to meet new and increasing online technology demands from individuals and businesses across Minnesota, the DNR will be modernizing the agency's website and developing user-friendly online and mobile tools designed to help people find the information and services they need to enjoy the state's great outdoors and to conduct business in Minnesota.
This initiative builds on Governor Mark Dayton's plain language effort – to make government information easier to access and easier to understand. With an initial investment of $250,000 in the DNR's online technology we are creating a modern web platform that can support future web enhancements.
Check out a few examples of our efforts so far:
Park Finder »
Key documents
Shared Services Outcomes Report (Fiscal Years 2014-15)
Shared Services Outcomes Report (Fiscal Years 2012-13)
Operational Order 122 - This document defines Shared Services' governance framework.
Biennial Shared Services Report - Reporting and evaluation ensures fiscal integrity, disciplined decision-making and sound business practices.
Service Level Agreements (SLAs)
The Commissioner of Natural Resources sets the types and levels of shared services through SLAs between the Commissioner and the Operations Services Division. MN.IT. Management Information Services (MIS) are provided by MN.IT.DNR.
Contact Information
To learn more about the DNR's Shared Services system, and to locate resources on how to develop and implement your own system, please contact Marcia Honold, Planning Director, DNR.
"Shared Services seeks to continuously improve the efficiency and delivery of department services that are essential to accomplishing our natural resources mission."


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This time of year, only a fraction of major league players are still in uniform. However, plenty of future professionals are being showcased in the Arizona Fall League, which began yesterday (Oct. 12).
UPDATE: The Washington Nationals will be sending 2010 top draft pick Bryce Harper to play in the AFL.
The preliminary rosters were announced at the end of August and like every year there is tremendous talent headed to the desert, particularly on the offensive side. Fantasy owners should pay close attention to the efforts of these ten players.
Freddie Freeman, 1B, Braves -- At age 20 he placed fourth in the Class AAA International League in OPS. Freeman hit only eight home runs in 2009 but raised his total to eighteen in 2010. Atlanta used impending free agents Troy Glaus and Derrek Lee at first base this year, so Freeman could have the job out of spring training in 2011.
Michael Taylor, OF, Athletics -- Before the season he was expected to spend some significant time in the majors. His hitting disappointed this year and he is looking to rebound in the offense-friendly AFL. He is carrying some momentum after hitting .417 in his last ten games at Class AAA.
Dustin Ackley, 2B, Mariners -- His numbers were not overwhelming but still encouraging considering his first minor league season was split between Class AA and AAA. As a fantasy prospect, questions remain. He hits home runs and steals bases in small doses currently; is there potential for a standout skill? How does his defense look after a year of playing second base?
Devin Mesoraco, C, Reds -- His first three years in the Cincinnati organization were an offensive nightmare -- his OBP was .311. In 2010 he exploded, easily setting career highs in all categories and reigniting top-100 prospect talk. He moved up levels twice and caught all year; will he be worn out in Arizona?
Kyle Skipworth, C, Marlins -- He is similar to Mesoraco in that they are both highly drafted catchers who initially struggled offensively. Skipworth did not have the breakout season Mesoraco did, although his power showed up more than in previous years. His strikeout numbers remain troubling and contribute to a .285 career OBP. He cannot resolve anything in six weeks, but a strong showing would boost his confidence.
Josh Vitters, 3B, Cubs -- 2007's No. 3 overall pick has consistently displayed an aversion to walks. While he boosted his rates in 2010 they were still low and his performance suffered against Class AA pitching. Any progress he shows in the AFL would be encouraging.
Joshua Fields, RP, Mariners -- When he was drafted in 2008 there was talk of him skipping the minors altogether. Two years later he is still in Class AA and struggling to throw strikes. Aside from control issues, he has good skills ... but a walk rate of close to 6.0 BB/9 will not cut it at higher levels. Still, Seattle could use a shutdown reliever and Fields has the potential to be one.
Jered Mitchell, OF, White Sox -- Due to a badly injured ankle, the AFL will be Mitchell's first game experience this year. His 2009 performance was among the most impressive by any member of that year's draft class.
Jose Iglesias, SS, Red Sox and Adeiny Hechavarria, SS, Blue Jays -- The two AL East semi-rivals are each planning to solve their long standing shortstop woes with a young Cuban. Neither walk much, or hit for power, but reports say their defense is outstanding.
Bryce Harper, OF, Nationals -- He was already in Arizona for the Instructional League and there's still a possibility he could be added to a Fall League roster. If so, it would be a very aggressive move and would indicate that Washington feels he is extremely advanced.
-- Chuck Anderson, FantasyPros911.com
Steve's been with USA TODAY in one form or another since 1993. He started at USATODAY.com in 1996, becoming the website's baseball editor in 1999, and has written the fantasy baseball column for Sports Weekly since 2006. Follow him on Twitter: @sgardnerUSAT.
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UK foods giant Vestey Group has given its blessing to a merger in which the group's former in-house legal team joins southern firm Osborne Clarke.
The partnership of RA Roberts – formed a decade ago from Vestey's in-house legal department – has joined Osborne Clarke's London office, taking the group with it as its major client.
Two of the partners, John Cuthbert and Jeremy Langshaw, have already commenced work with Osborne Clarke. The third, Alison Simpson, will join the firm in mid-1996 after maternity leave.
RA Roberts had served the Vestey Group for more than 20 years and had a substantial portfolio of other business.
"We have worked successfully with the Vestey Group for many years, but changes in their business mean that it no longer makes sense to continue as a small firm handling predominantly Vestey Group business," said Cuthbert.
Vestey chief executive Sir John Collins said he was delighted with the merger. "The Vestey Group will continue to receive personal service… with the added advantage of support from a major commercial law firm," he said.
Osborne Clarke managing partner Leslie Perrin said the merger gave his firm new and highly experienced practitioners and an excellent relationship with an important UK commercial power.


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'La Maitresse' collection
Bronze setting
Twirling vine design decorated with Swarovski crystals in a mix of cool blue & purple tones and a variety of sizes and finishes
Featuring a large inverted teardrop of deep, midnight blue faceted Swarovski crystal as a focal point
Each of the crystals is securely clawed in
Stud fitting for pierced ears
Each earring weighs approximately 14g
9 cm long x 3 cm wide
Fabulous, feminine earrings for the evening!
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Whether it's because you've worn your new earrings at a wedding, adore the cocktail ring you were given on your birthday, or you just simply treated yourself, please let me know!
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