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Our Dallas-Fort Worth Personal Injury Blog
The most up-to-date information regarding personal injury law and cases happening in the Dallas Fort Worth area. Blog posts cover information regarding Texas car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, bicycle pedestrian accidents, plus work injuries and slip and fall cases. Posts also include news about changes in personal injury, drunk driving, or seat belt laws. Read this information to protect yourself and your family in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.


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"No one has ever lived in the past. No one will ever live in the future. The present is the form of all life." — the master computer Alpha 60 in Jean-Luc Godard's Alphaville (1965).
There's an interesting piece in Forbes this morning by Anthony Wing Kosner on the Harlem Shake meme, a massively duplicated performance piece which is spreading virally over the web, and which, by now, has probably peaked. Kosner offers a succinct summary of the meme, noting that " the Harlem Shake meme has a simple form: with the first 30-seconds of the song Harlem Shake by the DJ and producer Baauer in the background, a single person does something in the presence of others (who act as if nothing is happening), and then all of a sudden everyone is doing something together. The sound snippet is divided equally between the electronic tropes of the 'build up,' and the 'bass drop,' and the juncture between the two is punctuated by a deep, pitch-shifted voice commanding, 'do the Harlem Shake.' Unlike the video response parodies for Gangnam Style, Call Me Maybe or Somebody That I Used To Know, making a Harlem Shake requires very little preparation. This is not only because of the short duration, but also because the "something' that 'happens' doesn't matter. It could be anything."
Kosner intriguingly links this phenomenon to Douglas Rushkoff's soon-to-be-released book Present Shock, adding that "before you accuse me of taking this class of 30-second trifles too seriously, consider them in relation to Present Shock, the soon-to-be released book by Douglas Rushkoff [see Kosner's review here.] The book, subtitled When Everything Happens Now, is a follow-up to Alvin Toffler's 70s touchstone, Future Shock. Where Toffler argued that the pace of change was radically accelerating, Rushkoff finds that time itself has now metastasized to the point that all we can see is the present moment.
This 'presentism' effects every corner of our lives from finance to politics to entertainment. And the meme, whether it be an image plastered with ironic type, an animated gif or, as in Harlem Shake, a short video, is the perfect cultural expression of Present Shock. We don't have time for the five-act play—give me the 30-second video! [. . .] Rushkoff explains, 'Essentially, this is a presentist society's equivalent of mass spectacle [ . . .] We don't have overarching stories that we're a part of, no national narrative really—just lots of opinions."
To [an] audience of publishers he made the point that as much as we want to give our audience what they want, the impatience of the readership and the desire for everything to be à la carte, changes the way we now write non-fiction books. Instead of the grand five-act play structure of previous tomes, we have a series of chapters that essentially say the same thing about different topics.
Like a fractal, you can 'get the picture,' at any point. And Baauer's song is just that way. Undoubtably Harlem Shake has sold a bunch of downloads since the meme took off, but most people have only heard the first 30 seconds, and the rest of the tune adds no significant development. Once you get it, that's all there is.
Rushkoff continues, 'So something like this stands in for the centralized broadcast spectacle. It's interactive, in that people actually 'make' one of these things. And being in one, or knowing people who are in one, or even just knowing this phenomenon exists 'when it's happening' is a form of connection. In some ways, the brevity of the fad makes it all the more tempting to participate in. It's going to be over so soon that you want to get in on it before it's not cool anymore.'"
But this "eternal presentism," which I agree certainly exists, is certainly not a new concept, and both Rushkoff and Kosner instantly put me in mind of Jean-Luc Godard's brilliant vision of the future Alphaville, made way back in 1965. In the 21st century (actually then-contemporary Paris), a master computer, Alpha 60, rules society with an iron hand, and issues dictates which must be followed upon pain of death. Everything is informed by consumerism; genuine emotion is outlawed. A man is executed in a swimming pool spectacle for the "crime" of weeping when his wife dies; vending machines instruct consumers to insert a coin for some unspecified product, only to receive a token marked simply "thanks" — nothing for something, the hallmark of 21st century imagistic commerce.
In short, everything that both Rushkoff and Posher notes is absolutely true — as Alpha 60 says to private Lemmy Caution (Eddie Constantine), who is sent from the "outerlands" to destroy the massive computer, "No one has ever lived in the past. No one will ever live in the future. The present is the form of all life." Lemmy responds, "I refuse to become what you call normal." Alphaville ends on an optimistic note, with Alpha 60's destruction, but the present offers us no such panacea; the computers have won. Everything is available online, but no one really wants anything of substance; they just want the latest fads and trends, tailored to their own tastes.
When this happens, we forget what the past has taught us, and thus the future becomes dependent solely upon the fad and whim of the moment, instantly disposable and utterly without consequence. It's interesting that as Godard has cut down on his output as a filmmaker in recent years, his most recent films have developed a strong link to the past — to the culture of another era, in books, music, art, films — which Godard obviously mourns and celebrates simultaneously. But Godard knows that the past is gone, and irrecoverable, and the future is unknowable; we are all forced to live, whether we like it or not, in the eternal present.
No one remembers the past any more. And that's precisely the tragedy of the present.

subset: commoncrawl


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Three-star prospect Calvin Allen visited Arizona during spring practice and enjoyed his time getting to know the Wildcat coaching staff and team. The defensive end recruit from Albuquerque (N.M.) La Cueva recently made another unofficial visit to Tucson and he once again came away impressed with his experience.
"They both went really well," Allen said of his visits. "I was able to learn how I would fit into the team and what the coaching staff is really about. I like the coaching staff and what they've been doing out at Arizona.
"I'm getting a lot of interest from Arizona right now, so it's going pretty good."
The Wildcats recently lost 2012 signee Dylan Cozens to baseball when he was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies leaving a spot on the defensive line that needs to be filled. Allen said knowing that is going to play a small part in his final decision.
"I'm looking at early playing time a little bit," he said. "I have a chance to play early if I work hard, because they recently had one of their signees get drafted to the league for baseball. So they're down a player at my position, which gives me a chance to play out there."
The state of New Mexico's top-ranked prospect also plays tight end, but his preference is to stick on the defensive side of the ball.
"I have a preference for defense, I like it better and I think it's more fun," he said. "But it really doesn't matter what I play, but I would prefer to play defense."
The 6-foot-5, 225-pound prospect feels like there are a few things that stick out about him on the defensive side of the ball that make him appealing to UA and other programs.
"I always play hard and I'm good with my hands," Allen said. "So I don't get blocked very easily. But those are kind of like my strengths and I'm quick. ... They (UA) like my size and speed for that position. A lot of teams don't have tall rush ends, and that's what they're looking for and I fit that."
Because he's been able to take more than one visit, the defensive end prospect has had a chance to really get to know the Wildcats' coaching staff better.
"It's good," he said about his relationship with the staff. "I talk to (recruiting coordinator) Matt Dudek a lot down there, and I like coach Kirlav (Bill Kirelawich) and the way he does things and his scheme."
Should he ultimately pick UA, Allen would be spending a lot of his time with Kirelawich and the 2013 recruit is very comfortable with the defensive line coach's approach.
"I like how he coaches, I like the old school style," Allen said. "My dad played in college and that's kind of what I've gotten from him. What I've learned from him is kind of the same way I'd get from coach Kirlav."
At this point Allen is getting closer to making a decision, but most importantly he wants to make sure his next school is a good fit in many aspects.
"Just the best fit for my family," he said about what he's looking for. "My mom wants me to go to a good academic school, and I want their football team to be good - obviously. Also something that's close, I don't want to go too far away.
"I want to make [my decision] soon, and definitely before the season starts. It just kind of depends on if other kids commit to schools and if my timetable closes on a school."
There are a number of recruits who have made the choice to commit early and Allen said that has put some pressure on him to make an early decision. However, he also has been watching to make sure he doesn't lose out on an opportunity - he said.
Although UA is one school that is sticking out in his recruitment, it is not the only option Allen has right now and the Wildcats' biggest competition could come from one of his in-state schools.
"I recently just got an Iowa State offer, so I haven't really taken that in yet," he said. "But my home school, UNM (New Mexico), they're the only other school really pushing. At UNM I'd have a really good chance of playing early, because they are going to lose a lot of players because of seniors and there's only going to be one recruiting class ahead of me that has experience on me.
"That's the biggest thing that sticks out for UNM."
While he continues to think about his future, Allen is also preparing to work more as a pass-rushing defensive end this season.
"This year we're changing defenses, so that I can run that rush end more," he said. "I've done it a little bit in the past, but schools have said they want to see more of that from me. So I'm going to do that more in my senior season to make sure that schools can see me do that.
Allen holds offers from UA, UNM, New Mexico State, Iowa State and San Diego State.
Click Here to view this Link.Matt Moreno
GOAZCATS.com Senior Recruiting Editor


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Sleeps 5
Bedrooms 3
Bathrooms 2
Pets No
- Off road parking
- Smoke-free
- Garden / Patio
- Cot available
- Highchair available
- Washing machine
- Dishwasher
- Games Room
Ruffside Cottages
Edmundbuyers 2.5 miles. These seven luxury cottages are surrounded by stunning countryside in the charming hamlet of Ruffside in the heart of County Durham, in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Each of these Ruffside cottages has been thoughtfully converted from the former 19th century, stone-built mining offices and each cottage has been tastefully furnished and decorated, retaining character and charm. With a variety of accommodation across these seven Ruffside cottages, up to 35 people can be accommodated and there is plenty of flexibility for all party requirements. Positioned around the green and the children's play area and with stunning views over the Derwent Reservoir, each of these Ruffside cottages has its own outdoor seating area and shared use of the communal gardens, social area and games barn. Why not take some time to enjoy some of the exceptional countryside walks? Explore the delights of the Wear Valley, Five Pikes and The Pennine Way, or follow the River Tees from Forest-in-Teesdale to Middleton-in-Teesdale passing Low Force and High Force, one of Britain's most spectacular waterfalls. There are plenty of mountain bike tracks and hacks for all abilities and numerous riding centres for horse lovers. Nearby Derwent Reservoir has three excellent picnic sites, and easy access trails with bird hides, nature reserves and fishing opportunities for those who prefer the slower pace in the countryside. If outdoor pursuits are not for you, there is still plenty to see and do with Barnard Castle, Rokeby Hall, Bowes Museum, Beamish Museum and Durham Cathedral all just short drives away. With so much to see and do in the area, these Ruffside cottages make a great base for a holiday any time of year.
The property
Everything about this Ruffside cottage exudes luxury and style.
The bedrooms have all been individually designed with solid furniture and exquisite accessories.
The ground floor living area is light and airy with plenty of space for the family to relax in comfort and style, and the contemporary kitchen is well-equipped to cater for all occasions.
Outside this Ruffside cottage is a small seating area and shared use of communal gardens and a social area, just the spot to watch the sun go down and soak up the stunning views over Derwent Reservoir.
An exceptional Ruffside cottage for a well-earned break.
Note: This property can be booked with Refs. 911707, 911981, 911982, 911984, 911985 and 911987, together they sleep 35.
Three bedrooms: 1 x super king-size double (zip/link, can be twin on request), 1 x king-size double with en-suite walk-in shower, basin and WC, 1 x single. Bathroom with bath, shower over, basin and WC. Ground floor basin and WC. Open plan living area with kitchen, dining area and sitting area with electric fire. Shared use of on-site games room with TV, table hockey and pool table.
- Eco underfloor heating with electric fire
- Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge, freezer, washer/dryer, dishwasher, TV with Freeview, Blu-ray DVD, CD/radio, iPod dock, Wii, selection of books, games and DVDs
- Fuel and power inc. in rent
- Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
- Cot and highchair on request
- Off road parking for 2 cars
- Patio area and shared use of communal gardens, social area and games barn
- Sorry, no pets and no smoking
- Shop 4 miles, pub 1.5 miles
- Note: Check-in 4pm.
About the location
Consett 10 miles; Hexham 11 miles; Corbridge 12 miles; Durham 21 miles.
Edmundbyers is a quaint, traditional village situated south of the River Derwent, nestled in the foothills of The North Pennines and surrounded by heather moorlands, fields of grazing cattle and sheep, streams and woodland. From the village of Edmundbyers there are plenty of opportunities for walking, cycling, golfing, sailing, fishing and simply appreciating the quiet natural beauty. Edmundbyers consists of about forty cottages scattered around the village green, a Wesleyan Chapel, pub, restaurant and deli. Only four miles away is the delightful village of Blanchland. Dating back to 1165, Blanchland is reputed to be one of the prettiest villages in England, famous for being the film location for many of the Catherine Cookson novels; it is a popular destination for visitors from all over the world.
Region Information
This property offers the following short breaks:
- Winter
- Off-season
- Last minute
- Christmas


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BP Comment Quick Links
|Strength of Schedule Report
September 20, 2013
BP Unfiltered
Found Footage: Kyle Lohse's Grumpy Face
Yesterday afternoon, Kyle Lohse lost to the Cubs, giving up three runs on seven hits over five innings. All of the runs were scored on homers, the more damaging and game-winning of which was a two-run shot by Nate Schierholtz in the third. That homer, which was hit on 3-1, followed three straight pitches that Lohse probably felt he deserved to get. Home plate umpire Chad Fairchild felt otherwise.
Today there's been a new revelation, courtesy of FoxSportsWisconsin.com's Andrew Gruman: According to Lohse, Fairchild—after that dinger—told catcher Martin Maldonado that the pitcher's "'grumpy face' was going to cost him strikes."
"Not a whole lot of it was me," Lohse said of his start. "When you have an umpire that says your grumpy face is going to cost you strikes, you've got issues. I wasn't as consistent as I wanted to be, but I made a lot of really good pitches and I guess I looked funny out there and I wasn't going to get the calls."
For what it's worth, Brooks Baseball rules in favor of Fairchild.
Of course, pitchers often get strikes off the outside corner vs. left-handed hitters, so Lohse was probably feeling a bit salty after going 0-for-3 on strike calls and seeing Schierholtz hit his next pitch 400 feet. But to hear him tell it, his frustration wasn't reflected on his face.
"It's been awhile (since I've shown up an umpire)," Lohse said. "I've matured out there. I don't think I did anything to show him up. I had a lot of calls that I thought could have went my way, I get the ball back and I made another pitch."
So did Lohse look grumpy, or did he keep his composure? Lohse's body language after the ball calls and the homer looks a little grumpy, but it's tough to see his face on either broadcast feed. When we do get a glimpse, he looks more or less like Kyle Lohse—which is to say slightly on the grumpy side, but not much more so than usual.
But what about after the inning was over? That's often the time when a pitcher on his way back to the dugout will really get his grump on. Let's go to the GIF! Which is what Warner Wolf would say in this situation, if he knew what a GIF was.
And there's the smoking gun: some serious grump going on. There's the initial glower:
And then there's a second one that starts just as the broadcast cuts to commercial. Short of eyewitness accounts, there's no way to know how grumpy his face got after that.
Obviously, an umpire should be above penalizing a pitcher for the appearance of his face, so even thought Lohse did get grumpy, that's no excuse for threatening to call pitches incorrectly. But is there any evidence that Fairchild followed through on his threat?
Here's Lohse's pitch plot from innings one through three:
These plots aren't perfectly precise, but I count two in-zone balls and one out-of-zone strike, so let's say net negative one rulebook strike for Lohse. And here's the plot for innings four and five, which followed the grumpy face.
It seems safe to safe that there was no real fallout from GrumpyFaceGate. But man, that sure was one grumpy face.
Ben Lindbergh is an author of Baseball Prospectus. Follow @benlindbergh
2 comments have been left for this article.
BP Comment Quick Links
I can't believe an umpire would tell a catcher that his pitcher's grumpy face would cost him some calls. Isn't that something that should at the very least draw an investigation? That sounds like exactly the opposite of professional and objective, and even if the data shows nothing came of the "threat", the very fact that it was allegedly made should be looked into, and seems to be the biggest part of this story.
Sep 20, 2013 10:42 AM
Just a guess, but maybe the umpire wasnt saying that Lohse's looks would cause Fairchild to call fewer strikes, but he was surmising that future umpires might not appreciate getting those looks.
Sep 21, 2013 07:59 AM
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WAYNE, N.J. Toys"R"Us has announced the launch of a new national product safety vigilance program to provide consumers with proactive steps they can take to become advocates for children's safety. The program includes "Eight Steps to Keep Kids Safe," a checklist to help parents stay informed about product recalls, and a product record List to assist parents in tracking purchases and gifts.
The company said the product safety vigilance program is launching in conjunction with the start of the company's "Great Trade-In" event. Beginning Aug. 27, parents can exchange potentially unsafe items for savings on new items.
"Unsafe products that remain in circulation after they've been recalled present dangerous risks that could be avoided. The 'Great Trade-In' event calls attention to this problem while encouraging parents to scour basements and attics for used products and bring them to our stores," said Jerry Storch, chairman and CEO of Toys"R"Us. "The product safety vigilance program builds upon this children's safety effort by providing parents with ways they can monitor the products in their possession and act with urgency in the event of a recall or when changes to product safety standards render older models unsafe."


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Lake HallettW St Julien St and Old Minnesota Ave
St Peter, MN 56082
612-604-1257 (Phone)
Region: Southern
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Brave Minnesotans around the state Plunge into frozen water to raise funds for Special Olympics Minnesota as part of the 2013 Polar Bear Plunge. In 2012, more than 14,000 participants took the icy dip and raised more than $2.85 million for Special Olympics Minnesota. Coordinated by law enforcement, the 16 Polar Bear Plunge events statewide provide fun-loving adrenaline junkies an opportunity to be "freezin' for a reason" — and to have a blast in the process. Special Olympics Minnesota offers year-round sports training and competition to more than 7,100 children and adults with intellectual disabilities.
For more information or to register, visit plungemn.org.
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RICOMINATI's Blog
Mon, Dec 26, 2011 at 6:01 AM
Y.U. Mad (Silly Remix)
Nicki Minaj's "Y.U. Mad" Silly Verse: I am the male Nicki And a little freaky Pull up in that new-new, b*tch lick my dicky Yeah my dick's biggy Yeah, yeah that b*tch greasy Haha whip out on 'em: Pee Pee Pee Pee Pee This dick is clean, this dick is sticky That dick has mold, that dick is pity When I'm out the country, n*ggas call me Ricky (Martin) "Hi, how are you?", Of...


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November 11, 2011 — November 4, 2013
The exhibition Inventing a Better Mousetrap features thirty-two models illustrating the wide variety of nineteenth-century patented inventions submitted by inventors from across the United States. All of the models on display are from the collection of Alan Rothschild, whose holdings of 4,000 patent models is the largest private assemblage of American patent models anywhere.
On July 4, 1836, President Andrew Jackson authorized the construction of a patent office building in Washington, D.C. It was designed to celebrate American invention, technical ingenuity, and the scientific advancements that the patent process represents. In 1840, the Patent Office moved into the south wing of what is now the Smithsonian American Art Museum's historic main building. All of the models included in the exhibition were originally displayed in cases nine feet high, along with some 200,000 others, in the grand galleries on the third floor of the building, which was completed in 1868. American patent law in the nineteenth century required the submission and public display of a model with each patent application. These scale models in miniature illustrate not only the imaginative fervor of the era but also the amazing craftsmanship required to fabricate these often intricate works of art. Many of the models were constructed by specialized makers in workshops located near the Patent Office.
The models in the exhibition are grouped by category, including domestic life, leisure, and machinery. The models will be complemented by drawings, illustrations, a rare early patent signed by George Washington, and a full-scale model of a ""better"" mousetrap with questions about its advantages and disadvantages over more conventional mousetraps. The installation also will include a case of ""mystery models,"" each accompanied by a clue, which will allow visitors to guess their purpose.
The exhibition is on display in the museum's Allan J. and Reda R. Riley Gallery. Charles Robertson, deputy director emeritus of the Smithsonian American Art Museum and specialist in American decorative arts, is the curator of the exhibition. In 2011, Alan and Ann Rothschild generously donated twenty-five patent models to the museum for its permanent collection.
Want to Know More?
To learn more about the Rothschild patent model collection and the Rothschild Petersen Patent Model Museum, please visit its website. A webcast of a conversation between Alan Rothschild and Charles Robertson in which they discuss nineteenth-century American ingenuity, the patent models that represent the imaginative fever of the era, and the amazing craftsmanship that attracts collectors is available online.
Free Public Programs
Thursday, December 1, 2011 at 7 p.m.; Conversation with Collector Alan Rothschild
In the News
WETA Around Town, April 13, 2012, Janis Goodman, Bill Dunlap, and Robert Aubry Davis discuss the exhibition
The Wall Street Journal, November 26, 2011, Icons, "Trying to Build a Better Mousetrap"
Salon, November 19, 2011, Five-Minute Museum, "Tiny Instruments of American Invention" by Emma Mustich
Go behind-the-scenes with the museum's blog, Eye Level
In this Case: Patent Models, December 24, 2013
Mousetrap 101: Patents and Innovation with Collector Alan Rothschild, December 13, 2011
Related Books
The Smithsonian American Art Museum has published two books that relate to the themes of American ingenuity and the history of the U.S. Patent Office that may interest visitors to this exhibition.Temple of Invention: History of a National Landmark ($19.95) details the historical and cultural significance of the museum's building, including its time as the home of the Patent Office. Written by Robertson and co-published with Scala Publishers, it features more than 80 images, including historic photographs, engravings and other archival materials.The Great American Hall of Wonders: Art, Science, and Invention in the Nineteenth Century ($65/$45 softcover) and the related exhibition examine the nineteenth-century American belief that the people of the United States shared a special genius for innovation. It explores this belief through works of art, mechanical inventions, and scientific discoveries. The book is written by Claire Perry and co-published with London-based publisher D Giles Limited. Both books are available in the museum store and online.
Inventing a Better Mousetrap: Patent Models from the Rothschild Collection is organized by the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Reda R. and Allan J. Riley; Niro, Haller & Niro; and Harness, Dickey & Pierce generously support the exhibition.


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Revision Information
- Reviewer: Michael Woods, MD
- Review Date: 08/2015 -
- Update Date: 08/04/2015 -
The content below is part of the "Health Library" and is not indicative of services available at the facility.
820 North Orleans Suite 411
Chicago, IL 60610-3131
The National Headache Foundation provides information about the different types of headaches. This nonprofit foundation promotes research into the causes and treatment of headache and offers support groups in many areas of the country.
19 Mantua Road
Mount Royal, NJ 08061
The American Headache Society is a professional organization for healthcare providers who study and treat headache. The society also provides information about headache to the public.
P.O. Box 5801
Bethesda, Maryland 20824
NINDS seeks information about the brain and nervous system and uses that knowledge to reduce the burden of neurological disease.


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A Handle on the World
From Asprey to Zero Halliburton, Attachés Have Cachet. They Carry Clout--and Your Business Papers.
(continued from page 5)
When that approach didn't work, Leach visited a hypnotist to see whether he could recall anything about the cab or its driver. "I came up with a pretty good description of the female driver," Leach says.
The detective tracked down the woman, who hadn't turned in the briefcase because she feared being arrested for stealing, even though the loss was an accident. She met the detective in a coffee shop, handed over the briefcase--everything was still intact--and collected $500.
Ever since the incident, Leach says he has sworn off briefcases. "I'm probably the only member of the 'rich and famous' who doesn't carry a briefcase," he admits. Today Leach carries his ideal tote: an Andiamo over-the-shoulder bag that was a gift five years ago from one of his directors. He just added one small detail: an outside label bearing his office address.
"The fabric is virtually indestructible," Leach says. "What I like about it is that it has got two central portions that expand: a zippered compartment and a buttoned compartment. It enables me to have two ever expanding compartments: one for files and diaries, the other for toilet supplies, electric razor, credit cards, keys, camera, film, checkbook, medicine, mobile phone and three very good Cuban cigars."
"I carry it every day," Leach adds. "I might be expected to have a Louis Vuitton, Mark Cross or Gucci briefcase, but I opt for practicality."
Leach is right. Based on his glamorous, jet-set lifestyle, it's assumed that he carries a prestigious briefcase. Why? Because a briefcase, like an Armani suit, Patek Philippe watch or Mont Blanc pen, is a business accessory that conveys power and speaks volumes about a person--before the first word is uttered. A briefcase is a subtle combination of fashion accessory, marketing tool, travel-ing office and security blanket. Some--like the silver Zero Halliburton--demand that the world notice. Some--like Swaine Adeney--are more elegant. Others--like Seeger--whisper rather than shout their credentials. Some--in "leather-look" vinyl--make a bad impression, while today's canvas and nylon totes make a trendsetting statement. As Leach might tell you, a briefcase will carry your papers and, depending on your motives, as little or as much clout as your heart desires.
Susan Bixler knows all about it. Author of Professional Presence, Bixler is president of the Professional Image, an Atlanta-based consulting firm whose 1,200 clients include Citibank, American Express and Ritz-Carlton. "A briefcase says a lot," says Bixler, who carries a soft case. "There's a certain status. The large, hard-sided, plastic-molded ones that cost about $40 say: 'I'm a worker. I have to have everything with me. So I keep it in my briefcase.' It's a security blanket."
On the other hand, Bixler adds, "if you walk in with a thin briefcase and a minimum of props, it shows you have a lot of intellectual capacity between the ears. The meeting is more customer focused than selling focused."
In Bixler's opinion, an executive's one and only choice is a leather briefcase in black, light tan or cordovan. "Vinyl or plastic doesn't last as long or look as good," she says.
Besides, when someone walks in with a vinyl "leather-look" briefcase (and probably cheap, scuffed midcalf boots), it raises the questions: Would you buy a used car from this person? How could you ever take him or her seriously?
Of course, if you're lucky--or rich enough--you might have an assortment of briefcases. Just ask Bob Ermatinger, executive vice president of the Luggage and Leather Goods Manufacturers of America, who owns what he calls a wardrobe of briefcases and selects one every day based on his destination. His six examples include an underarm envelope made by Stuart Kern of America, a Schlesinger soft-sided case with three compartments, two more soft cases by Coach and Stuart Kern, a "lawyer-type" Holland Sport glazed leather case, plus a $600 private-label suede-and-black-leather attaché. "It's the same case that Ronald Reagan carried," Ermatinger adds. "It's not made anymore. When the recession hit, no one could afford it."
Steve Berglas, a Boston-based psychologist and author of the book The Success Syndrome, also tailors his briefcase to his audience. When making a presentation to a successful firm, Berglas carries a soft, glove-leather Tumi briefcase. But when he meets with executives in a struggling business, he uses a less intimidating case. "It's like walking in with a jewel-encrusted Rolex," Berglas explains. "You don't want to wear it if the other people there are wearing Timex and Seiko watches."
Dick Forte, president and chairman of Forte Cashmere, owns three briefcases. His favorite is a $285 J. Peterman suede mailbag. " I can put two sweaters, or 12, in there," Forte says. "It's very convenient." However, when Forte travels to China and Mongolia, he uses a case that can withstand the rough treatment, a Samsonite that doubles as a carry-on bag and briefcase. "To go into China with a shiny leather briefcase is a mistake," says Forte. His third briefcase, which he uses for board meetings, is a soft London Fog that matches his luggage.
Another attaché enthusiast is Barry Berish, president and CEO of Jim Beam Brands, who owns six soft cases by Mark Cross, Bally and the Sharper Image as well as a 25-year-old Schlesinger. "I change briefcases; it's like buying a suit or tie," Berish says. "It gives me an uplifting feeling."
The ultimate briefcase connoisseur is Bob Saks, chairman and producer of the New York Friars Club, which created the famous "roast."
"I own six briefcases in black, brown and tan," Saks says. "I'm not going to take a brown attaché when I'm wearing a black suit. I have a wardrobe of cases," Saks explains, naming his Louis Vuitton and Mark Cross versions, which are two-and-a-half to three inches wide. "They're very sleek and stylish."
Every case that he owns "must have reinforced brass corners in all eight separate corners," Saks adds. "That's where all briefcases wear out the most."
Like Berglas, Saks adapts briefcase to audience. "I use my Asprey briefcase when I go from my office to a meeting. My briefcases that cost $1,000 to $3,000 and my $3,800 Dunhill alligator I use to go into a board meeting or a private conference room with a Fortune 500 company," he says. "It revolves around whom I'm seeing, how much paperwork I'm carrying and where I'm traveling."
The meticulous Saks uses the same modus operandi with his Corum and Piaget watches. His gray suits demand a white-gold watch, whereas his brown suits call for a gold timepiece.
Basically there are three styles of business cases. An attaché is a fully framed, box-shaped, hard-sided business case usually secured by one or more combination locks. This is the type people usually think of when they hear the generic term "briefcase." To open it, you lay the case flat on its side; the top inside is frequently fitted with pockets or files to organize papers and other accessories like your Filofax agenda and calculator.
A briefcase, which is typically associated with attorneys and accountants, opens at the top while upright. It can be secured with a lock. The interior is usually fitted with two or more compartments with gussets that allow for expandability.
Envelopes are carried under the arm and have flap enclosures plus locks or snaps.
In the market for a business case? If you want to be in style, you'll have to forsake the hard attaché--once the ultimate yuppie status symbol--in favor of soft cases, which are lightweight, have a place for everything and allow for a shoulder strap. Due to changing consumer lifestyles, there's now a trend toward soft, supple looks. Besides, if your company has "casual day" on Friday, do you really want to lug a formal attaché?
In fact, sales of hard cases have plummeted in the past three years. The most dramatic drop occurred in 1993, according to industry estimates by Showcase, the trade publication of the Luggage and Leather Goods Manufacturers of America. That year, 7 million business cases were sold--down from 8.6 million in 1992.
"Basically, more and more people seem to carry less traditional business cases in favor of more casual styles like briefbags, backpacks and totes," explains Michele Pittenger, spokesperson for the luggage and leather-goods industry.
Michael Gelman, executive producer of "Live with Regis and Kathie Lee," follows the trend with his soft, black Coach briefcase. "I bought it for myself in East Hampton," Gelman explains. "I've always loved Coach leather. It's sturdy, functional and classic looking. My briefcase weighs about 20 pounds, and I have tennis elbow in my right arm, so I carry it in my left. Then I developed tendinitis in my left arm from carrying it, so now I switch back and forth...maybe I need a backpack," he says with a laugh.
You might also follow the example of Matt Lauer, the news anchor on NBC-TV's "Today" show, who carries a black private-label soft case from Barney's. "It was a gift from my girlfriend last Christmas," Lauer says. "I carried around an old, black satchel for 12 years, and it was completely broken. I keep all my wire copy for stories [in my case], newspapers, keys, checkbook and sunglasses. It's very boring."
Lauer commiserates with Leach. "When I first got my briefcase, I tended to forget it. Now it's like a ring on my finger. In New York City, you can't put a briefcase down for one second. They tend to disappear."
Another soft-sided-attaché enthusiast is Daniel Boulud, the chef/owner of the French restaurant Daniel in New York, who carries a black Longchamp briefcase. "It's soft leather with three pockets," Boulud says. "I carry my weekly and monthly reports, recording machine, cash organizer, pictures of my daughters, keys, three pairs of glasses and cookbooks."
Besides using a soft case, another trend is "carrying a nylon or canvas bag," Pittenger adds. "Briefcases used to be leather. Now you see executives carrying canvas, for it suits their needs better."
Ed Safdie, owner of Connecticut's Norwich Inn and Spa, carries the canvas tote bag he designed for the spa, into which he throws his Hermès zippered portfolio. Massachusetts Rep. Joseph Kennedy traipses around with a carry-on bag usually reserved for planes. Tom Kershaw, owner of Cheers, the famous Boston bar, uses a heavy-duty, black canvas bag that he bought when helicopter-skiing in Canada. "I'm not really a briefcase kind of guy," says Kershaw. "A briefcase isn't expandable."
Some people, however, refuse to be left holding the canvas bag. For them, the only way to go is with a pricey, status-symbol case. Tova Borgnine, the CEO and chairman of the Tova Corporation cosmetics firm in Beverly Hills, California, is a perfect example. A huge fan of Louis Vuitton--which is known by its golden LV initials--Borgnine bought a briefcase for her actor husband, Ernest. (An LV monogram briefcase can cost up to $2,170.) She also included a gold plaque inside, inscribed with the words I Love You. When she gave it to Ernie, though, he replied, "you're the one in business. You carry it."
Now, when she opens the briefcase and sees the plaque, Borgnine jokes, "I don't know if I love me or I love him." What made her pick Louis Vuitton? "Two or three of my friends suggested it. I have Louis Vuitton luggage," Borgnine explains. "It's an investment because of its durability and practicality, and, after 15 years with it, it looks brand-new."
Borgnine also owns a second briefcase that she uses every day: "The most beautiful, soft, baby alligator case from Italy, which was handmade for me and given to me by QVC [the home-shopping channel] when I reached my first $10 million in sales."
Tom Corcoran, a consultant to clients at Hill & Knowlton in New York City, also carries a Louis Vuitton briefcase--but one with a distinctive provenance. "I carry an antique Louis Vuitton from the '30s," Corcoran says. "It was given to me by Joan and Melissa Rivers after Joan's husband, Edgar, died. I was very touched. He bought it in the '50s in London."
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On Saturday, fractional provider Avantair grounded its entire fleet of about 60 Piaggio Avanti twin turboprops to conduct "a comprehensive examination of all maintenance records and aircraft." According to industry sources, the action stemmed from an incident earlier this year in which an Avantair Avanti shed an elevator in flight.
"This action is voluntary and involves the temporary stand-down of [our] aircraft," Avantair said in a statement. "To date, of the aircraft in the fleet that have been inspected, there have been no compliance or airworthiness issues. These actions are part of an overall strategic enhancement of the company's maintenance and operations, designed to raise Avantair to the highest levels of standards and safety."
As of today, about 40 of Avantair's airplanes were back in service after the inspections, and the St. Petersburg, Fla.-based company expects to have its entire fleet flying again by Thursday. While its fleet was grounded, Avantair outsourced trips to third-party charter operators or, in some instances, told customers it was unable to conduct their flights, a spokesman told AIN.
"Safety is Avantair's top priority. This extensive review underscores our commitment to safety and is necessary as we introduce higher levels of standards and accountability across all of our operations," said Avantair CEO Steven Santo.
Pilotwifey (not verified)
October 26, 2012 - 1:27pm
My husband told me if anything ever happens to him to launch an investigation into the company's maintenance records. That sounded scary to me and I'm glad the FAA came down on them, it saved the lives of employees and customers. Which is more important than running a shotty operation. Praying for the pilots who work hard and get crap in return. Good luck to you all.
Pro Pilot (not verified)
October 26, 2012 - 2:00pm
Here are a few facts for you to consider. Avantair hires very experienced pilots with thousands of flight hours. They put them through rigorous training in sophisticated flight simulators before they fly with passengers.
The Piaggio is equipped with advanced, modern avionics including terrain and traffic collision avoidance technology.
The engines on the Piaggio (Pratt and Whitney PT6) are the most reliable turboporop engines available.
It is my understanding that the FAA is not happy with the way the maintenance department has been documenting its work.
The company has taken it upon themselves to halt all flights until the issue has been resolved.
Piaggio Pilot (not verified)
October 26, 2012 - 5:23pm
Yea.....Avantair grounded its entire fleet just to get their paperwork in order. That's the dumbest thing I have ever heard.
piaggiodriver (not verified)
October 26, 2012 - 3:48pm
Hi Truth, in the interest of fairness, truth, and transparency, I wanted to respond to your assertions that I am drunk on VNR Kool Aide, and don't have concerns for my fellow VNR employees.
What I was referring to was that VNR had none of the recession-related mass terminations seen at places such as XOJET and, I believe, Flex. Nor did we have any of the mass furloughs seen at Flex, Options, and Netjets. Yes, after our recent pay freeze, and per diem, vacation cuts, and schedule change, VNR management did offer leaves of absences for pilots who were not satisfied with their new assigned schedule, pay or vacation. And while a furlough MAY indeed happen, no furlough has happened yet. In addition, VNR has has a written, seniority-based furlough policy; No returning at first-year pay or re-interviewing for your job. We hope that it doesn't come down to needing it, but it is nice to know that it is there.
As far as terminations for "cause" and training failures, yes they do happen. But from my experience, you have to screw up pretty bad to get terminated or asked to resign. And yes, training is challenging at VNR, but it is challenging due to the challenging environment that we fly in. Not everyone makes it through training here, and that includes former airline and military. This flying is infinitely more challenging than my scheduled 121 airline past and the training was tougher, but the flying was also infinitely more challenging, diverse, and enjoyable and I am a better pilot from it and VNR training. I would be a liar if I said that I didn't wish that some of those who were fired or failed training, were given a third or fourth chance, but that wasn't my call.
Finally, I never said that VNR is a flawless, Utopian society, and that management, employees, or myself are without flaws. But I will tell you that VNR has and is worth fighting for, and myself and my fellow employees are probably in for the fight of our careers to try to right our ship. In my discussions with fellow pilots, we often discuss how few places that we would leave VNR for. I hope that you and everyone else here on this board wish us luck in our goal to preserve VNR and best luck in our endeavors and careers. Thanks, piaggiodriver.
Piaggio Pilot (not verified)
October 26, 2012 - 5:32pm
PD, no one wishes bad on most of you VNR pilots. But geeez dude, wake up. The business model at Avantair doesn't work. It never has and never will. There is a reason that your company has sustained 10 straight years of losses. There is a reason the stock value went from $5.00 down to .10 cents today. This isn't rocket science. Your ship can't be righted. The smart people already jumped your ship.
And you found the training "challenging?" That might explain some of the incidents/accidents there. I found the training a peice of cake. Good luck.
Bill (not verified)
October 26, 2012 - 6:05pm
It's official folks. Everyone is furloughed!
Piaggio Pilot (not verified)
October 26, 2012 - 8:30pm
But it isn't a suprise. It's been brewing for a few years. Shoulda voted for a union.
AvantairEmployee (not verified)
October 26, 2012 - 6:38pm
On a conference call conducted at 1800 EDT, the are furloughing employees for at least 2 weeks. Sad day for all of us employees.
Communication with employees/owners have always been horrible. For instance management did not alert employees of the upcoming call till 30 minutes before the call was scheduled. Only by chance i saw this email and heard the bad news.
VNR Fractional Owner (not verified)
October 26, 2012 - 7:22pm
My wife and I have been fractional owners for several years. The people we have dealt with in Owner Services have always been lovely. The pilots and FOs that have flown us have been exceedingly polite and professional. The Avanti has always been a very comfortable aircraft, and its performance and operating costs were part of what drew us to Avantair. To all of the staff that we have met and/or talked to, you have made our lives much easier. To those who we have never met, your contributions are appreciated. You will all be in our thoughts over the coming weeks. We thank you for everything you have done for us.
Avionicswife (not verified)
October 26, 2012 - 11:45pm
Of course we are sad for all the hard working people who are out of work and for those who will face deep hardship. But I am so happy that my husband can collect unemployment and look for a real job. The stress he went through while working for this horrible company is just not worth the paycheck. The management was nonexistent. People sleeping or gaming on the job- even so called managers! No system for organizing and inventory of parts so yes, robbing other plans was happening! Spending outrageous amounts of money to send $2 parts from one location to another. Everyday he would come home with a story about how things were being done and how he felt it was so wrong and many times wasteful. I encouraged him to speak with management but it fell on deaf ears. Pass down of information never happened from shift to shift. Management never followed through on anything. He was so frustrated. He likes to work and do things right. He has been in this business his whole life and has loved it. He no longer wants to work on airplanes. We could not afford for him to quit so he was trying to stick it out. Our prayers were answered. SO RELIEVED!!!!
Marc Piaggio Owner (not verified)
October 27, 2012 - 3:36am
A lot of these negative posts feel like they're coming from people either uninformed or with an ax to grind--be they disgruntled former employees or hopeful competitors. I've been a Colorado-based owner of a 1/8th interest (100 hours) in Avantair's Piaggio for eight years, and I generally couldn't be happier with their performance over what is approaching the past decade. This is a hard-working group of good people providing a great service at a reasonable price. Sure, they've had some growing pains over the eight years I've been an owner (including fairly poor communication throughout this ongoing stand down), but it's not like that's something unusual for a young, growing company, and these few isolated aircraft incidents in the past year or two can't be much different than those experienced by any other type of aircraft (I believe the Piaggio has an exceptional overall safety record). Almost without exception the pilots we've flown with have been first and foremost concerned about safety, and some of these folks are retired major-airline pilots with a huge amount of experience. The Owner Services folks are equally customer oriented. And this isn't like some high-tech IPO of the past where upper management gets wealthy at the cost of the rest of the company; these guys aren't getting rich on this--read the proxies on the SEC web site to see just what they're making. Absent having some sort of personal agenda, I don't know why people want to wish ill will on Avantair. At the proverbial end of the day, "Avantair" is not some corporate beast--it's a group of good, talented people working hard to help the company succeed by providing a great service at an exceptionally competitive price. I wish them nothing but the best, and hope they get through this quickly and get back to doing what they do so well. That's my agenda.
Avantair Dude (not verified)
October 27, 2012 - 12:22pm
As is usually the case, the truth falls somewhere in the middle. As much as I see personal agendas on here, I also see some pretty hard sugar-coating of serious and fundamental problems, most of which are not/will not be addressed during this shut down. It's true that our pilots are great. They are professional, highly-qualified and usually very pleasant to work with. Owner Services are mostly great, hard working people and take a verbal beating by some owners at the slightest delay or issue with their travel. You can imagine what these last weeks have been like for them. And operations is also full of very qualified and hard working people. There are bad seeds in each group as is always the case. As has been mentioned before, the core of Avantair's problem is with management. Upper management is completely detached from the operation. They swoop in and interfere occasionally, not having the slightest clue what they are talking about. And they have no vision, no ideas. If they have a strategic plan, it is a closely guarded secret that is not shared, nor visible to concerned employees. The Piaggio is an amazing aircraft. Nothing can match its speed, range and comfort at a similar price. No turboprops can do it, no light jets and only midsize jets at a much higher price. But they are not designed to fly 1500+ hours a year. They were made for a different mission, not airline-style work. Upper management needs to deal with this issue. Employees have tons of ideas to improve the company, but there is absolutely NO ONE willing to listen to new ideas. And lower level managers are mostly unqualified, incompetent friends of the upper management that have no people or manager skills whatsoever and show an open contempt for their hard-working employees. There's just no respect or appreciation from them at all. Avantair has lots of potential, but more changes need to be made. All the pieces are there, they just need to bid farewell to about 80% of the managers and ask Steve Santo to go far, far away and never return. I don't think the company will ever make a dime with him calling any shots. Avantair's hard-working employees deserve better than this and I hope that investors will demand a change in management and a true strategy moving forward.
Geo (not verified)
October 27, 2012 - 8:13am
Cannibalization of an aircraft to make another airworthy is the worst maintenance practice there is. It doubles and in some cases quadruples the workload while introducing possibilities of errors needlessly.
And is even legal in this case without the owners permission? I can see where an owner of a new airplane might have his airplane in the shop while a part has to be fabricated or, in this case, sent from Italy. When the owner gets his plane back it is still the same low-time airframe, but now has older, repaired engines, propellers, landing gear, actuators, and other life-limited components. The value of the owner's aircraft has decreased drastically.
If I were an owner I would hire my own professional to go over the log books from day one to see what has been done to the aircraft and compare what serial-numbered components are physically on the aircraft compared to what should be there and what serviceable components were cannibalized and replaced. Then I would find someone else to manage it and quite possibly go get a lawyer.
furloughed (not verified)
October 27, 2012 - 2:06pm
Yesterday, they "furloughed" a lot of dedicated employees with no true idea as to when we will be called back to work. Mgmt has a habit of lying to owners as well as their employees. I believe that they knew what was in store for us for weeks and chose not to COMMUNICATE to us. I can't say we didn't see this coming. When the CEO's right hand man leaves, the writing is on the wall. Good luck to those few that were selected to stay. I'm not really sure who actually got the blessing here.
furloughed (not verified)
October 27, 2012 - 3:13pm
Yesterday, they "furloughed" a lot of dedicated employees with no true idea as to when we will be called back to work. Mgmt has a habit of lying to owners as well as their employees. I believe that they knew what was in store for us for weeks and chose not to COMMUNICATE to us. I can't say we didn't see this coming. When the CEO's right hand man leaves, the writing is on the wall. Good luck to those few that were selected to stay. I'm not really sure who actually got the blessing here.
THE ANUNNAKI (not verified)
October 28, 2012 - 9:32am
The Avanti P180 is by far the most economical aircraft of it's Kind. Owners, please find a crew to manage your aircraft, it is not that difficult. The aircraft is not the problem, is what the company is demanding from a fragile but fantastic machine.
There are lots of Avanti pilots that would love to fly and, manage this fantastic machine. Good Luck to all.
Piaggio Pilot (not verified)
October 28, 2012 - 5:42pm
The matching has begun.
Rmr (not verified)
October 28, 2012 - 10:41pm
The challenge, of course, is that few people own an entire plane. Many own 1/16 or 1/8th. Still if all else fails, I am sure opportunities will present themselves. That said, I am still holding out hope that the company will work it's way through this.
PRO PILOT (not verified)
October 29, 2012 - 1:22am
Santo created this company then ultimately killed it. Great plane, great pilots, terrible management and lying greedy CEO.
What a waste. What a waster.
THE ANUNNAKI (not verified)
October 29, 2012 - 4:15am
If in need of a Managing crew for an Avanti , please let me know.
Dean (not verified)
October 29, 2012 - 10:51pm
Get ready for another diatribe from management...about this being voluntary. This place is essentially in shut down mode. One can only hope they go BK so that the judge can stop the looting. The mo for this management team has been to fleece the owners and employees...if there is a few mil $ in cash left, watch out for the final money grab.
Rockitansky (not verified)
October 30, 2012 - 4:56pm
I am a Phoenix based pilot who has 1000+ hours in the Piaggio and 6,000+ total time who can also quickly return to the cockpit.....I come from the corporate world and would love to get back into it and would be willing to relocate for the right job.....Good luck to all you Avantair pilots and support personnel.
Notshocked (not verified)
December 28, 2012 - 4:01pm
flew for Avantair several years ago. Had a run away elevator trim in to ATL on final. Both myself and other pilot used enormous amounts of back pressure on controls to both maintain safe flight attitude to complete landing.....that was my first thought hearing of this...Not shocked.
Howard Roark (not verified)
January 10, 2013 - 11:13am
I have been reading all the posts, and agree. I have been an owner since 2005, lots of hours flown, honest, the service level changed once they became a public company and also since they started selling cards. Since I made the decision to buy based on fractional only, I estimated with re positioning, the average hours flown on my aircraft would be 1000 per year, maybe 1100. The card sales meant my asse was going to be depreciating much faster, without any revenue pick up to the owners, as well as the card flyers in my opinion do not treat the asset like the owners do. I have been very happy on most flights, the pilots, crew are great. I was also scheduled to fly out the next morning after the grounding, and with less than 11 hours notice, had to find my own ride which I did with Flight Options help, not Avantair's. They did not honor their own contract to charter me an aircraft, but did offer hours. So how do we make sure Avantair succeeds and really lives up to the contracts, and I think the best way is that we have a real owners group, not the Clint Allen group, which is rediculously biased.
Thoughts on how we set this up, so we can all share our concerns and comments?
piper62j (not verified)
June 27, 2013 - 10:04am
It saddens me to hear about yet another airline under poor management. Seems the American way is to bleed a cash cow dry and dump it. Being an aviation enthusiast & pilot, I believe the industry should be controlled and managed by those who love aviation for what it is. If it was possible (maybe it is) the employees or an individual who cares about this aircraft and the Avant Air company could throw out present management, clean house and run it as a growing, money making entity. It's been done before. Employees of Harley Davidson did it when AMC owned the company and it was dying. Look at HD today.. One of the largest profit making industries in the world. It can be done..


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I think my brother hid my deck and best cards I can't find them anywhere. Anyways I love making up different decks and surprising people.
Ah, that sucks. That's what happened to my PKMN cards, but my sibling didn't hide them. It's somewhere in my house :P
Well, I've been losing cards from my main deck anyway. And average of every duel, I lose 3 cards.
IDK what's happening. :O
High Level Pokken Tournament Player
Yeah but you gotta remember that effects resolve backwards. Once he's targeted his effect activates, but if you, say, activated Compulsory Evacuation Device or Book of Moon, he'd be returned to hand or flipped face-down, respectively.
The best way is to not get over reaper. Pierce him to oblivion ;P
Also, I'm pumped to make a Madolche deck. It's been a while since I worked from the ground up on a deck. The last two I made were probably my synchro spam deck (which needs a lot of work atm) and my Gem-Knights. And I'm helping my friend with Spellcasters. Prophecy cards specifically. And Prophecy Destroyer is insane.
I'm so happy that none of my SUPER AWESOME CARDS THAT I JUST LOVE aren't gone, though some of them can't be summoned because I lost the cards they need to be summoned .
High Level Pokken Tournament Player
I bought a Battle Pack blister pack on Sunday. It came with two packs. Here's what I got:
Starfoil Rare:
Needle Ceiling
Tiras, Keeper of Genesis
Cyber Jar
Fiendish Chain
Fiend's Sanctuary
Asura Priest
Fabled Ashenveil
Blue Thunder T-45
Hyper Hammerhead
Pretty cool.
Fiendish Chains are always useful, and I've been trying to pick up a Starfoil Tiras. I have my secret still, and I traded my last battle pack one (non-starfoil) when it was only 4-5 dollars for a Gold Rare Naturia Beast, which was 9-10.
There are cards that go for lots of money right now, shrink has gone for $1,600 my dad used to have thousands of them xD
Eh well, just down to luck
So anyway, been duelling on DN and...mixed results as of yet, mostly down to how I can counter the synchros the opponent summons
Why would one card from a childrens card game be worth $1,600?
High Level Pokken Tournament Player
I don't know
But hey, there are Raichu cards going for like $10,000
Because of 1 mis-print .__.
Yu-Gi-Oh! Championship Series Prize Card:
That card will be tough to get for some duelists.
Some cards came for me in the mail today. There were about 100 random cards from the newest sets. Unfortunately, the majority of them were from the newest Gold Series set (I think it's called Haunted Mine?). I got a bunch of worthless cards like Ryu Kokki, Vampire Lady, Red Ogre, Book of Life, et cetera, which was a disappointment. Still, about 20 of them were cards I didn't have yet, so I added them to my collection. The rest are going to stay in a separate box until I can figure out what to do with them. But yeah, that's it.
I have this idea for the next World Championship game. Instead of adapting the anime, it should be an entirely new story with new characters in a different universe where the card game is known as we know it today. Something like WC08, but with human characters. And there should be cards created for the story, which are promo cards that come with the game. What do you think?
Eeveelover824 made this awesome banner
I am back to Pokémon/Serebiiforums. If you had any business with me before my long time outside Serebiiforums, let me know by a Private Message
I Yosh208, understand every rule that is in this club and will pledge to only talk about yugioh and not get off topic.
Im making a zombie deck, so I'm wondering if Vampire Genesis is a good card?
Last edited by Yosh208; 1st September 2012 at 4:10 PM.
Friend Code:1907-8764-6979
Pokemon in My Safari: Normal (Aipom, Mincinno and Smeargle)
Safari pokemon I'd like are: SHUCKLE, wigglytuff, forretress and heracross plz
I'd LOVE a relaxed stealth rock shuckle please. PM me and I will make an offer!
Xyz versions of Dark Magician and Blue-Eyes White Dragon:
From this site:
Pretty neat.
EDIT: Lord is quite good if you just get him destroyed by effs.
Eeveelover824 made this awesome banner
I am back to Pokémon/Serebiiforums. If you had any business with me before my long time outside Serebiiforums, let me know by a Private Message
I went to the comic book shop with the Duel Terminal with relatives today. I was gonna use the Duel Terminal there (I even brought my Duel Terminal card), but there was a Magic the Gathering tournament going on, and it looked crowded. Anyway I looked around and saw some cards under the glass case. I found a Number 32: Shark Drake in there. I considered getting one, but someone else was interested in it, so I left it alone so maybe he could get it. I decided to get a booster pack. I was going to get the Galactic Overlord pack until I saw the Ra-Yellow Mega Pack in the box, I got that pack instead because I haven't got that one yet. It was also the last pack they have. Here's what I got in the Ra-Yellow Mega Pack:
Card Blocker
Instant Fusion
Destiny HERO - Diamond Dude
Crystal Beast Topaz Tiger
Crystal Blessing
Overload Fusion
Yubel (I finally completed the Yubel set)
Offering to the Snake Deity
Judgement Dragon
Cunning of the Six Samurai
I pulled some nice cards.


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Learning from failure
From Library Success: A Best Practices Wiki
Revision as of 13:49, 28 March 2008 by Waltcrawford (Talk | contribs)
Ideally, we can learn more from failure than we can from success. Are we (you) willing to share failures?
I know: The word itself makes you nervous. They aren't failures. They're learning experiences. They're premature innovations. They're qualified successes.
Here's the definition I'm using:
- Failure:An initiative or process that was either terminated before a planned ending date or that failed to achieve the stated goals.
Contributions? I'll create a "Failure" subcategory when (if) there are any pages that start here...
There's also a Learning from failure page on the PALINET Leadership Network. --Waltcrawford 12:41, 28 March 2008 (EDT)


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The brand new BRRR wristband & Gucci Mane Cover Sketch t-shirt are on sale now on the Official Gucci Mane Merch Store! We also have a special deal going right now! Cop any item on the store page including the new wristband or t-shirt & get a free Gucci Time t-shirt with your purchase. Plus check out the Sale Section to get 50% off select t-shirts!
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National Editor Tom Karst chatted on March 30 with Paul Lightfoot, chief executive officer of BrightFarms, a hydroponic greenhouse rooftop farm company in New York City.
2:30 p.m. Tom Karst: I was interested to hear about the April 5 event to announce of the opening of BrightFarms in Brooklyn, which your company has said will be the nation's first and largest greenhouse rooftop facility. Is there a lot of resonance and support for this concept?
2:31 p.m. Paul Lightfoot: Very much so. People are really clamoring for more food that is local, so they know where it comes from. Me being in this business is not a coincidence; I'm responding to the market demand. And in this case, the city of New York has not produced a whole lot of produce historically, and it's a big city.
So people are really interested and places I don't always think about, like the people who run New York City, the elected officials, are really excited to see jobs created in New York City that are about creating food, which forever has been brought in from the West Coast or other countries.
2:36 p.m. Karst: Is it your ambition to have several of these greenhouses and operate them yourselves, or to market the concept and have other people take ownership?
2:37 p.m. Lightfoot: We will own the facility and operate it on behalf of our supermarket clients. In every instance we will hold on to the facility and will operate it and deliver the output to supermarkets. That's the model we are rolling out everywhere.
2:38 p.m. Karst: What are the crops you are looking to grow in the Brooklyn greenhouse?
2:39 p.m. Lightfoot: In this case, it will be lettuce and tomatoes and a a small amount of herbs like basil. That may not always be the case, but what will always be the case is that we are looking for the intersection between high demand, our ability to grow that product in a controlled hydroponic environment, and the arbitrage opportunity.
For example, we're not trying to grow kale here, because kale doesn't present a great arbitrage opportunity. You can grow kale pretty easily in a lot of places and pretty cheaply, but lettuce and tomatoes, we feel they are produced relatively inefficiently in North America.
Lettuce in particularly is almost entirely coming from the West Coast and is produced in a way that the producer of the food is getting less than half of the wholesale cost.
2:40 p.m. Karst: When will the facility have produce coming off the roof?
2:41 p.m. Lightfoot: We are planning to be live in the first quarter of 2013.
2:41 p.m. Karst: Do you think this concept is transferable to other cities as well?
2:42 p.m. Lightfoot: Absolutely.
2:42 p.m. Karst: What is the reaction from the supermarkets in the city and are you getting positive energy out of that?
2:42 p.m. Lightfoot: The reaction of the supermarkets has been unbelievable. The supermarket industry recognized that they are paying more for transportation and distribution than they are for some products. That doesn't make them feel great. They want to sell good food at good prices to their customers, and they realize that the length and complexity of some of the supply chains are making it so they are not selling good food at prices.


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I have been receiving letters from Elizabeth Griffin and Emily Fisher saying:
So I'm writing to let you know that one of our members, the same one who convinced Alibaba to stop selling shark fins at the beginning of The Year of the Shark (2009), has contacted the company about the matter, and Alibaba has accordingly removed manta ray products from its websites.
Therefore I would appreciate it if you would spread the word that Jack Ma has once again shown his determination NOT to support practices that threaten vulnerable wild animal species.
Thank you.
With good wishes,
Ila France PorcherThe Shark Group


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I'm 29 years old, and I've been out and totally happy living as a queer person since I was about 21. I had only dated queer women since I came out, although I knew I was open to other possibilities. My sex life is pretty polyamorously perverse, and I tend to connect with people on a lot of levels besides gender and physical sex, so you know, whatever. But still, last year I surprised no one more than myself when I ended up in a fairly lengthy relationship with a boy—a sort of queer boy, to be sure, but a boy nonetheless. I felt incredibly awkward because no matter how non-traditional, non-straight our relationship was on the inside, it automatically got read as totally straight by the outside world. Throw into the mix that my physical appearance has gotten to be what would be termed sort of femmey over the years, and all of a sudden I was feeling really invisible as a queer person.
Eventually the relationship broke up, and after some time off I'm going on dates again, but somehow it's completely different. For one thing, I get constant attention from men, including straight male friends who know me to be queer and to have primarily dated women. As far as I can tell, the thinking is that a) I look "straight," and b) I dated a boy last year, so clearly it's totally legit to hit on me now. To make things more confusing, I also feel more open to the possibility of dating men, although I'm very clear on the fact that I am first and foremost queer and that is a crucial aspect of any relationship I will ever have. Most of the men who are hitting on me don't really fall into that category, and so I'm not particularly interested in them.
But here's the shitty part: I find myself wondering. I mean, I enjoy the male attention— even if it's not exactly my cup of tea—and I dated a boy and yadda yadda yadda... I find myself wondering if I'm somehow straight after all and just didn't know it. I know that's not true, but the longer I go without connecting in an emotional or physical way with a girl while still getting all this male attention, the more confusing everything feels. I haven't felt this unsettled since I came out, and I'm not sure what to do about it.
—Queerly Confused
It's okay to be confused. Sexuality is confusing. Scientists are still puzzled over something as seemingly non-puzzling as why the female orgasm exists, so don't beat yourself up too much for teetering back and forth on the Kinsey scale. (For the record, I think the Kinsey scale is way too simplified, but there really aren't many sexual continuum references in existence. Would someone get on that? Thank you.)
Aside from owning your confusion, part of your frustration can be chalked up to simple cultural biases. What do I mean by that? Well, men tend to be more aggressive when pursuing sexual partners. So odds are that you will always get hit on more frequently by men than by women. The other cultural bias you're dealing with is one that presumes everyone is straight. This is more true if you are a feminine woman, but not even the dyke-iest FedEx uniform-wearing, crew cut-sporting, hockey lesbos are spared from male come-ons. Unless you decide to join an all-womyn farming commune in Oregon, male attention is something that you will simply have to get used to. Plus, it doesn't sound like it's all that bad for you. You admit to liking the validation, and we all want to feel desirable from time to time.
While you're waiting for the queer ladies, if you feel like giving it a go with a dude, by all means, make an exception. Dating is one of the few arenas where it's perfectly acceptable to make irrational judgments based on your wants, needs and whims. If you only want to date queerish boys from time to time, that's totally within your rights as a Modern Dating Person. I promise not to alert Lambda Legal.
I can totally relate to your "Wait, maybe I am straight" dilemma. While I do date dudes on occasion, my heart is pretty firmly set on the side that tastes the rainbow. Yet, sometimes, all it takes for me to start questioning my sexuality is watching 15-minutes of a Ryan Gosling movie. How does he do it?!
Ultimately, dating isn't about liking what's in someone's pants—although that's important!—it's about finding people you enjoy spending time with. To that end, don't let laziness and cultural assumptions impede you from fostering connections with gay ladies. In other words, don't wait for someone to hit on you because it's easier. Light your own fire!
Aside from that, trust your gut. Accept that there might not be a definitive answer to your sexuality. Maybe that'll eventually change, and you'll swing hard in one direction or another. Or maybe you'll spend the rest of your life wanting to bang anyone and everyone under the sun. We can't know for sure. But you'll feel a lot more at peace with yourself once you stop worrying about which box to check and start checking on your box.
Anna answers your sex and dating questions every other week. Got a dilemma for her? Email firstname.lastname@example.com.


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ICC Course Proposal Work Session
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TELEVISION presenter and gardener Christine Walkden hosts a talk for the Wroughton and District Gardeners' Society on Monday.
Christine, who is best known for her appearances on gardening programmes and The One Show, will talk about The Life of A Gardener at the Ellendune Community Centre.
The host of BBC show Christine's Garden trained at the Lancashire College of Agriculture and then worked at two experimental horticultural stations, before moving to The Royal Botanical Gardens Kew, where she worked in the seed physiology unit.
Later she undertook a career change and became a freelance horticulturist, lecturing nationally and internationally.
She has presented on BBC's Gardeners' World and various other TV and radio programmes and is a past winner of the Garden Writers' Guild Radio Broadcasting Award.
Tickets are £10 and doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. There will also be refreshments, a raffle and a book signing. Call Sue Harding on 01793 813147 or visit www.wroughtongardenerssociety.co.uk


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Astros make six-player trade with Marlins
HOUSTON, TX - The Houston Astros have completed a six-player trade with the Miami Marlins today in advance of the 3 p.m. CT trading deadline. In the deal, the Astros acquired outfielder Jake Marisnick, two minor league players, right-handed pitcher Frances Martes and third baseman Colin Moran, and a Competitive Balance Round A pick in exchange for right-handed pitcher Jarred Cosart, infielder Kiké Hernandez and minor league outfielder Austin Wates. The announcement was made by Astros General Manager Jeff Luhnow.
Marisnick will report to the Major League club. An additional roster move will be announced at a later time.
Marisnick, 23, has played in 14 games for the Marlins this season, having spent the majority of his 2014 campaign with Triple A New Orleans. With the Zephyrs, Marisnick hit .277 (95x343) with 16 doubles, 10 home runs, 40 RBI and 24 stolen bases in 89 games this season. He has played primarily center field in his minor league career, seeing only 19 games in the corner outfield positions. Marisnick was originally a third-round pick by Toronto in 2009.
Martes, 18, owns a 2-2 record in eight games (six starts) for the Gulf Coast League Marlins this season. He has recorded 33 strikeouts in his 33.0 innings pitched in 2014. In his professional debut last year, Martes posted a 3-3 record and a 3.04 ERA (17ER/50.1IP) in 12 games (six starts) for the Dominican Summer League Marlins. He was originally signed by Miami as an international free agent in November of 2012.
Moran, 21, has hit .294 (106x361) with 21 doubles, five home runs and 33 RBI for Class A Jupiter this season. He was ranked as the Marlins No. 3 prospect, per MLB.com, after being selected out of North Carolina with the sixth overall selection in the June 2013 Draft. MLB.com also ranks Moran as the No. 72 overall prospect in baseball.
Cosart, 24, has gone 9-7 with a 4.41 ERA (57ER/116.1IP) in 20 starts with the Astros this season. He was originally acquired by Houston from Philadelphia as part of the return in the Hunter Pence trade in 2011.
Hernandez, 22, hit .284 (23x81) with four doubles and eight RBI in 24 games in his rookie season with the Astros this season. Hernandez was originally a sixth-round pick by Houston in the June 2009 draft.
Wates, 25, hit .299 (84x281) with two homers and 30 RBI in 74 games with Triple A Oklahoma City this season. Wates was a third-round pick by Houston in the June 2010 draft.


text: The holiday season has come early with a sleigh full of new KoKo's candies. Let these festive treats deck your retail aisles during this year's winter season. KoKo's Confections introduces: The new and improved Gingerbread House Kit from KoKo's featuring Mike and Ike. What better way to celebrate the season than to decorate a 14.7-ounce


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For immediate release: Oct. 21, 2010
PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Timbers midfielder Ryan Pore was voted the USSF Division-2 Pro League Most Valuable Player for the 2010 season, it was announced today as U.S. Soccer revealed the league's postseason awards. Pore was also selected to the league's Best XI.
The USSF D-2 Pro League postseason awards were selected by a panel of journalists from print, television, radio and online media hailing from each of the 12 teams' local markets as well as club general managers and head coaches.
Joining Pore on the USSF D-2 Pro League Best XI is forward Eddie Johnson. Both Pore and Johnson were among a group of four announced earlier this week as the first players to join Portland for its inaugural Major League Soccer season in 2011. Johnson played the 2010 season with the Austin Aztex.
Pore, who was named the league's Goal-Scoring Champion on Wednesday, led the USSF D-2 Pro League in scoring (35pts) and goals (15) during the regular season and ranked among league leaders with five assists. He helped the Timbers to a 13-7-10 (49pts) record and the third-best points total in the league. Pore scored 15 of Portland's 34 goals during the campaign.
Selected to the Best XI, Pore, 27, received all-league honors for a second straight season with the Timbers. The Mansfield, Ohio, native started 28 of his 29 appearances, played 2,475 minutes, netted four game-winners amongst his league-leading 15 goals and took a league-high 84 shots in 2010. He was named to the USL First Division All-League first team in his first season with Portland in 2009.
Photo: Michael Stringfield


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Dimitrios Kambouris/Wireimage
When Kylie Bisutti won Victoria's Secret's first-ever national model search in 2009, she called it "a dream come true" and admitted to "always practicing my runway walk."
But she's been laying low for the last few years — until Wednesday, when she gave an interview to the New York Post alleging that she felt like "a piece of meat" working for the lingerie giant, and saying that she was required to "play down my marriage … because I was supposed to be flirting with everyone all the time."
She also says that she quit the glamorous life of being a Victoria's Secret "Angel" to honor God, and has written a book about her decision, called I'm No Angel.
Until now, Victoria's Secret hasn't commented on Bisutti's allegations, but in an exclusive statement to PEOPLE, they say that Bisutti is overstating her association with the brand and, in fact, was never an official Angel. Check out the company's full statement below, then tell us: What do you think of the latest Angel drama?
"Ms. Bisutti has made numerous fabrications and misstatements of fact regarding her brief association with Victoria's Secret. In 2009, Ms. Bisutti won an online amateur modeling competition and hasn't worked for us since that year. The prize for the winning contestant was the unique opportunity to a one-time walk in the 2009 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. Ms. Bisutti also participated in a swim photo shoot in 2009. That was the extent of Ms. Bisutti's involvement with Victoria's Secret. She was never a Victoria's Secret 'Angel' as defined by the terms of our Angel model contract. And contrary to Ms. Bisutti's claims, she was never offered any subsequent modeling contracts or opportunities with Victoria's Secret despite her multiple appeals for further work. She has repeatedly fabricated her work experience with Victoria's Secret — including a relationship that simply did not exist."


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Young Jeezy was arrested Friday in Atlanta on suspicion of battery, false imprisonment and making threats against his 17-year-old son Jadarius, UPI reported.
According to court documents, Jeezy got into a bathroom fight with Jadarius in September 2012 and threw him into a glass shower door causing him to hit his head. He then allegedly punched the boy in the face, dragged him into the bedroom, threw him on the bed and continued beating him.
Sounds like it's going to be a while before someone gets another Father's Day gift.
Sources connected to Jeezy told TMZ the rapper got into an explosive argument with his son, but it never turned really violent. Jeezy told the boy he had become a punk kid with an attitude, and Jeezy no longer wanted him in his house, TMZ also reported. Jadarius reportedly became belligerent and the pair screamed at each other. Jeezy has said he never hit, choked, or dragged his son, but does admit to pushing him to the ground when Jadarius got in his face.
Jeezy also is accused of telling Jadarius, "I will kill you … I will put a bullet in your head right now." The rapper said he only said something like, "I brought you into this world and I can take you out of it."
That's right. Rappers quote Bill Cosby when threatening their kids.
TMZ said their sources claim Jadarius' mother Tenesha Dykes is behind the public revelation and has turned her son against Jeezy while trying to squeeze the rapper for more money.
UPI reported Jeezy turned himself in to authorities after a grand jury issued a warrant for each charge. He was released after posting a $45,000 bond.
Contact Tony Hicks at Facebook.com/BayAreaNewsGroup.TonyHicks or Twitter.com/insertfoot.