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Lmao, Jeff Pendegraph is making more than Darren Collison...
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Lmao, Jeff Pendegraph is making more than Darren Collison...
How good is Kaman and what would he bring to the team that would make us so much better?
I think we'd go something like this as far as minutes go:
West (28)/Hansbrough (20)
Hibbert (31)/Kaman (17)
So is it worth taking him on? Would we be intending to re-sign him?
It's possible to work a 9 man rotation with our current starting 5, Kaman, Hill, Tyler, and Foster while giving West, Tyler, Hibbert, and Kaman all close to 30 minutes. The key is how many minutes would we play West at the 3. On offense he already plays more of a pick an pop game anyway and we don't have to have our sf shooting 3's. I think it could be done with Danny sliding over to back up the 2 West playing some at the 3 and Kaman playing some time at the 4 like he's done recently for the Hornets.
We'd have the biggest lineup in the NBA and it would give us some major advantages. It would also create some defensive challenges but we wouldn't have to stick with that lineup for long periods.
Bird. No comment.
Oh, Good Lord. It's called a rookie contract, people! DC is still on his, and he was a low 1st round pick! YEESH.
Wait... Jeff Pendergraph is making above the minimum and somewhat significantly so?
That can't be right. Please tell me that isn't right.
"I had to take her down like Chris Brown."
-Lance Stephenson
We've pretty much been doing that already.
Starting Lineup
Granger - 33 mpg
Hibbert - 29 mpg
West - 29 mpg
Collison - 34 mpg
PG - 30 mpg
2nd Unit
Hansbrough - 24
Inferno - 16
Foster/Amundson/Lance - 9 to 14 each
Personally, I'd prefer to reduce Granger's minutes by a minute or two.....and actually surprised that DC is playing the most minutes. I can see why DC is playing the most minutes as the PG "running the show", but I'd really hope that his minutes be reduced to playing roughly 29 mpg....cuz I'd prefer to spread out the minutes among the 2nd unit where the 9 man rotation plays a minimum of 24 mpg.
Ash from Army of Darkness: Good...Bad...I'm the guy with the gun.
Here's the problem with going after Kaman and bringing him to Indy:
Unless Hansbrough plays 14 mpg for the rest of the season and Kaman is the one to play for 28 mpg....he's not happy playing a backup role in NOLA...I don't think that he would be happy playing a backup role ( even if it's for 2/3 of a shortened season ) behind Hibbert.Kaman was unwilling to accept playing a diminished role as a backup. He said last week that it was hard for him to play 15 to 25 minutes when he's used to playing 30 to 35 minutes.
Ash from Army of Darkness: Good...Bad...I'm the guy with the gun.
Didn't realize he felt that way, though I guess I shouldn't be surprised. Drops my enthusiasm for this way down. Though I suppose he might feel different if he's playing those kinds of minutes on a contender instead of a doormat.
Ash from Army of Darkness: Good...Bad...I'm the guy with the gun.
Larry may be too attached to Hans, but I'd be keen on a swap of Hans + Inferno + ?pick? for Kaman + Bellinelli. What level pick ... that's the hard part.
I'd like to see it in play.
I see playing Hans at the three as more viable.
West struggles with lateral movement and Hans is pretty good at it.
"Look, it's up to me to put a team around ... Lance right now." Kevin Pritchard press conference
Good grief! It's about how much Pendergraph's salary is for a 1 year player who missed all last season due to an injury. Why was he paid that much is the question? He played in 39 games his rookie year and missed all last season. He's making almost 2x's what McBob made last year, and McBob wasn't on a rookie contract. One would have to believe the PBO had to ok and signoff on the contract. Thus my original post.
Surely that isn't right. He's got to be on a minimum deal. It would make absolutely zero sense if they gave him nearly double the minimum.
I don't know what Sportrac is but they have him at $1.6 million for 2 years, which sounds a lot better and more realistic. Hopefully they are right.
Last edited by BRushWithDeath; 01-31-2012 at 03:47 PM. Reason: Link
"I had to take her down like Chris Brown."
-Lance Stephenson
Hoopshype has him at $762,000 which is what I would feel is about right for him. Shamsports is more reliable on salary than Hoopshype, but it truly makes more sense that Hoopshype salary would be more correct than Shamsports 1.5 mil.
If in truth JP is being paid 1.5 mil, could the new CBA have something to do with it?
I'm no expert on the ins and outs of the agreement but I'm pretty comfortable in saying there is nothing in the new CBA that says a player, who nobody in their right mind would give a dime over the minimum to, has to be given double that amount.
"I had to take her down like Chris Brown."
-Lance Stephenson
For anyone who's interested, here's the last article from Rohan.
Today, we look at the third team that has been linked with the Hornets' Chris Kaman - the San Antonio Spurs. If you missed the earlier breakdowns of the Houston Rockets and the Indiana Pacers, those are here and here.
Kaman missed his third straight game last night, again not traveling with the team to Miami. As noted over the weekend, the Hornets cannot include Kaman in multiplayer deals until February 14th. Keep in mind, though, that this refers to the Hornets aggregating salaries on their end; Kaman cannot be traded in conjunction with other Hornets players before that date, but he can bring back any combination of players in an otherwise legal transaction. From a broader perspective, we're two weeks from the February 14th deadline, and waiting until then would give the Hornets a month to arrange a deal before the March 15th NBA trade deadline.
So hit the jump for some Spurs talk.
I won't rehash all the regulations again; the full versions of those are available in the two articles from above. Here is the quick summary though:
- Kaman can't be in multiplayer deals till February 14th, without trade exceptions
- Kaman's salary for trade purposes is $12.2M
- Hornets must take back between $8.13M and $18.3M in any trade to a team over the cap but under the tax.
The Houston Rockets were over the cap and under the tax so that specific range did indeed apply to them. The Pacers, on the other hand, were well beneath the cap, meaning they could theoretically take back the entirety of Kaman's contract for no return players.
It's unclear where the Spurs actually fall; one source has them above the luxury limit, but weirdly includes Antonio McDyess, who is no longer with the team, but may or may not be due money this year. Another source has them under the tax. In any case, parsing the specifics of a Spurs deal is far more complicated than any trade involving Houston or San Antonio. If the Spurs send back less salary in a Kaman deal than they receive, they appear likely to cross over the luxury threshold, regardless of where they stand right now.
For teams that are over the luxury tax, a different range of salary values applies, dictated by the old 125% matching rule. Under this scenario, the new range $9.76M to $15.25M. But clearly, only the lower limit would apply here; if the Spurs sent out more for Kaman than Kaman's contract value itself, the new 150% rule would come into play. So essentially, the lower limit should be governed by the 125% rule (as this would send San Antonio over the tax) and the upper limit by the 150% rule (as they'd be below the tax). Keeping in mind that this is all still variable since we don't know the Spurs' exact payroll, this results in a new range of $9.76M to $18.3M.*
*One last point - keep in mind that the Hornets can't actually legally get too close to the upper limit here because they themselves are only $4M below the tax threshold. If they surpass it, the 125% rule comes into play all over again, and the trade must be started from scratch.
And with that, we finally get to the Spurs roster.
San Antonio Spurs
Players, Salaries, Trade Exceptions, and Draft Pick (protection in parentheses) Statuses
Player 2011/2012 1sts Owed 2nds Owed 1sts Owned 2nds Owned Tim Duncan $21,164,619 None None None '14 LAC Manu Ginobili $12,981,038 '16 CHA Tony Parker $12,500,000 Richard Jefferson $9,282,000 Exceptions Tiago Splitter $3,672,000 $0.85M (Hill) Matt Bonner $3,315,000 Antonio McDyess * $2,640,000 Kawhi Leonard $1,731,960 James Anderson $1,463,520 DeJuan Blair $986,000 Cory Joseph $942,700 T.J. Ford $854,389 Danny Green $854,389 Gary Neal $762,195 Malcolm Thomas - Ike Diogu * $69,204
In a sense, San Antonio provides all the same problems as Indiana (limited pick options, limited exceptions) without possessing the Pacers' magic elixir (ridiculous amounts of cap space). Their own first round pick appears to be in the same range as Indiana's.
Additionally, only two contracts on their entire roster are expiring - those of Tim Duncan and Gary Neal. The Hornets' apparent search for "cap relief" as one of their trade criteria probably won't be answered here. In terms of talent, there might be some that's available. Richard Jefferson, for example, could be a possible inclusion in trades. The problem there, of course, is that he's due over $30M in salary through 2014; there's no possible way David Stern sanctions such a deal. And of course, a player like Jefferson would make little sense for a rebuilding team.
There's minimal young talent available otherwise. It's unlikely that San Antonio would trade Tiago Splitter, Kawhi Leonard, DeJuan Blair, or even Danny Green. That leaves the 27 year old Gary Neal, the 22 year old (and forgettable) James Anderson, and... Matt Bonner? And none of those players make enough money to create a legal trade anyway. If we're crossing out Ginobili, Parker, Splitter, Leonard, and Blair, I actually can't even come up with a legal trade that doesn't involve Richard Jefferson. Try your hand here, but it seems almost impossible.
Plus Assets San Antonio Might Give Up:
1. 2012 1st Round Pick
Random Pieces That Make Trades Work
1. ???
It's entirely possible I'm missing something huge here. I've been known to do that. But right now, the Spurs look easily the worst trading partner among the three reported suitors. Unless they can get a third team involved somehow, it appears Houston should be the target.


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Workhorse Belisle feeling better than ever
DENVER -- Rockies righty reliever Matt Belisle believed in Matt Belisle, and that's all that mattered.
On July 20, Belisle gave up four hits and two runs and let a possible Rockies victory slip away in Pittsburgh. It was at the end of a nine-game stretch in which Belisle went 0-4 with an 11.57 ERA, and opponents hit .471 with a .513 on-base percentage against him.
Belisle said at that point he would be "back on top," at a time when many observers wondered if he had pitched his way out of town. Since then, Belisle has given up just two runs in eight appearances. By last Thursday's non-waiver Trade Deadline, contending teams were hoping the Rockies would send him away. It didn't happen.
During the good stretch, Belisle has had plenty of traffic -- eight hits and three walks in 8 1/3 innings. But he is making enough pitches to show why he has been one of the most frequently used pitchers in the Majors in recent seasons. Wednesday night's scoreless inning in a 13-4 victory over the Cubs, during which he walked one and gave up a hit, but forced a key double-play grounder, was his 354th appearance since the start of the 2010 season.
Belisle, who has pitched in 52 games heading into Thursday's action and 72 or more in each of the past four seasons, insists there's a lot left in his arm and heart.
"You always want to have success and consistency and great numbers all year, but one thing I love is the pressure -- having to fight and grind," Belisle said. "That's what makes great ballplayers. I look at every season as an opportunity to become stronger at the grind. Have an unwavering confidence and belief, and win the day. I really try to focus on that."
At 34, Belisle has remained in top condition and there is no major issue with his arm. Last year, his fastball velocity dropped to 90.5 mph, the lowest it's been since he joined the Rockies. The dip sparked concerns that the heavy workload had negatively impacted his arm. However, this year he is up to 91.5 mph, which is not far below the 92-plus range of his best years.
While Belisle doesn't concern himself with velocity, the increase supports his belief that he still has the necessary physical ability. Belisle said the career-long battle to repeat his delivery, as well as a tendency to overanalyze himself, have been issues.
"Mentally and physically, I'm at the best of my career right now," Belisle said. "Now, the results need to be there, and they will. I know I have a lot more in me, and a lot more to give to my team.
"It's just me getting out of my old way. It's me figuring things out, looking at journals from my successes, going to people who have seen me for a long time and pulling things out. It's just digging deep. I really tightened up my mindset and focus, doing things before the pitch to focus on executing, and made small adaptations of the grips on my pitches to feel better command. I'm also doing some mechanical things each day to make sure I can repeat my delivery -- small steps."
Thomas Harding is a reporter for MLB.com. Read his blog, Hardball in the Rockies, and follow him on Twitter @harding_at_mlb This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

subset: commoncrawl


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PLANS for the £270m redevelopment of Worthy Down Army base into a tri-service training college have reached a major milestone.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has officially lodged plans for a new Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force college with Winchester City Council.
But there is disappointment for local people hoping for a boost in community facilities.
The major revamp will more than double the number of personnel to 2,000 and secure its future as a military base at a time of defence cuts.
It is the biggest military development in Winchester since the opening of Sir John Moore Barracks at Littleton and the departure from Peninsula Barracks in the mid-1980s.
The plans have been welcomed by the local MP and a city councillor but hopes of extra facilities, including allotments and burial ground, have been dashed.
Under the plans, up to 92 new homes for service families will be built on farmland off Connaught Road.
Most buildings inside the camp will be bulldozed to make way for new barracks, mess buildings, classrooms, offices and welfare facilities.
Some buildings will be up to four-storeys tall although largely hidden by surrounding woodland, say military chiefs.
Under the plans, students will nearly triple from 479 to 1,350 while permanent staff will increase from 250 to 650.
Proposals include a cycle route both sides of Christmas Hill between Worthy Down and the roundabout at the A34 slip road.
The MoD also plans to negotiate with the county council and transport companies to improve bus services between Worthy Down, Winchester and Basingstoke.
City councillor Stephen Godfrey, who represents South Wonston, hailed plans for the 90-hectare site as "good news in many respects."
The retired Army major said: "Worthy Down has been slowly getting quieter and quieter. The investment of £270m will allow to the MoD to bring back something like 1,250 jobs with Worthy Down getting back to what it was 25 years ago. It will bring a lot of vibrancy to the area."
Cllr Godfrey said: "We hope we will get greater co-operation between the MoD and local community in the shared use of facilities."
There are currently no plans to make MoD-owned farmland next to South Wonston recreation ground available for a burial ground, allotments or football field, as requested by parish chiefs.
Nor are there proposals for a former railway to become a cycle route between South Wonston and Winchester. Military chiefs say a legal agreement with the tenant farmer make these impossible.
Debbie Found, clerk to South Wonston Parish Council, said: "There are no extra opportunities for us which is a shame."
Winchester and Chandler's Ford MP Steve Brine welcomed the "huge investment" by the MoD. He said: "I am due to receive a full briefing before Christmas on the outline plans and will be using that opportunity to leverage as much in the way of positive community outcomes as possible."
In the outline planning application, it says there are believed to be sufficient spare places at South Wonston Primary and Henry Beaufort Secondary School to cope with the extra 90 homes.
However military chiefs admit there is likely to be increased pressure on
local services and are prepared "if necessary" to make financial contributions for improvements.
As a condition of planning permission, known as Section 106 agreements, the MoD is proposing to give money for sports pitches in the area, library services and special education.


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Man, he looks ripped. Hopefully his legs can keep up.
Hummel joins teammates in workout drills
By JEFF WASHBURN firstname.lastname@example.com August 26, 2010
Robbie Hummel dribbled a basketball, laughed along with assistant coach Paul Lusk and began shooting Tuesday afternoon in Mackey Arena.
They were just individual drills, but for the first time since suffering a season-ending knee injury in February at Minnesota, the 6-foot-8 forward participated in a structured basketball environment.
He will visit with Dr. Donald Shelbourne on Tuesday, and after that appointment, Hummel hopes to be cleared to play five-on-five.
"I'm excited to get back out here," Hummel said. "I'm a little bit nervous, but I guess that's part of it. I am going to do everything that is not one-on-one.
"I haven't been cleared to play yet, but that should be coming in the next few weeks. I'm chomping at the bit. I'm bored. I'm sick of lifting weights and not being able to play."
Through a rigorous weight training program, Hummel weighs a solid 230 pounds. His upper body is chiseled.
"It was sort of planned, because we knew that I would be able to work on my upper body," Hummel said. "It's one of the positives that could come out of this negative.
"The coaches presented that as a possibility. I could improve my strength, and it was good to try to get that done in the offseason."
Hummel has been doing individual shooting drills, but until Tuesday, he wasn't participating in team drills.
"I feel good," Hummel said. "I feel like I'm almost normal. I'm looking forward to getting back out here. Physically, I can't jump at all. My vertical jump is horrible.
"But everyone I've talked to said that will come back. That's not a huge concern at this point."
As Hummel worked out, many teammates, including E'Twaun Moore, JaJuan Johnson and Lewis Jackson, looked on, eager to see how far Hummel has come since surgery in March.
"He has done a lot of stuff by himself," Johnson said. "For him to get back out here is pretty cool. I'm happy to see him out there. That means he is one step closer."
Jackson, who missed most of last season with a broken left foot, wants Hummel to take his time. Purdue's regular-season opener is Nov. 14.
"We're eager, but I don't care if it takes Rob until two days before practice," Jackson said. "Everybody here understands the situation. We want him to be there, but we're not eager for him to rush into it. I don't want him to come back 60 to 75 percent.
"I know it's tough not being able to be out here and compete. We want him to be 100 percent. I know how he feels. An ACL injury is a way more serious injury than mine. He just wants to help his team."
Hummel acknowledges that Purdue trainer Jeff Stein has had to remind him to be patient.
"Jeff had to slow me down," Hummel said. "It was challenging, because I'm used to playing basketball year-round."
For now, Hummel is wearing a protective knee brace.
"I honestly don't know how long they want me to wear it," he said. "I would hope I wouldn't have to wear it at all during the season. But that's one of those I guess I will listen to the doctor."
Hummel appreciates the support he has received from fans, but he has had a difficult time maintaining privacy in his life. He had no idea fans cared so much about his every move.
"It's surprising to see how crazy all the (social) media stuff is," Hummel said. "If I go to a golf course, people find out about it. If I'm at the movies, people find out about it.
"The whole Twitter and Facebook thing gets kind of crazy. You have to be careful, even when you're just out playing golf. You have to be careful what you are saying and who you are around."


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Eric Garcetti and Wendy Greuel, the candidates for mayor of Los Angeles, personify this region's most remarkable new population trend. It's not because Garcetti is a one-man diversity study - a mix of Mexican-American, Italian-American and Jewish heritage. And it's not because Greuel would be our first woman mayor.
It's because both are actually from Los Angeles.
This is more exotic than it sounds. Greuel and Garcetti reflect a historic shift in the L.A. population. Researchers at the University of Southern California have given it a dramatic label: the "Homegrown Revolution. "
A study by USC's Population Dynamics Research Group projects that by the end of this year, apparently for the first time ever, a majority of L.A. County residents will be California natives. The wave of immigrants from other states and countries has slowed. Meanwhile, the people who arrived in recent decades are having children here.
For natives like me, this is a conversation-changer. Often told that I'm a rare species, I've always enjoyed pointing out that not only was I born in L.A. - my 88-year-old dad was born in L.A. Now I can add that the cliche about the typical L.A. resident being from somewhere else is a statistically not true anymore.
As for the broader meaning of this milestone for local society, commentators speculate it will make the L.A. community tighter-knit, rooted deeper in its realities and less in its caricatures as a sunny paradise and/or cultural cesspool.
But there's another implication of this trend. It means that, increasingly, Los Angeles is being run by Angelenos.
Look at the city's mayors. However the May 21 runoff election turns out, Greuel or Garcetti will an L.A.-born mayor of L.A. Though this certainly will not be a first, having a mayor who's from here is a relatively new thing.
Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa is from here, born in City Terrace, and the previous mayor, Jim Hahn, was from here, born in L.A. and raised in Morningside Park. But none of the 16 L.A. mayors of the 20th century was from here.
Richard Riordan was born in New York, Tom Bradley in Texas. Sam Yorty was one of two from Nebraska. Two were from Canada. Only one was even from California - Fletcher Bowron, born in Poway, near San Diego.
The last L.A.-born L.A. mayor before Hahn was Frederick Eaton, so long ago that he was said to have been the sixth white child ever born in the city.
Is it good or bad that L.A. now is being led by natives?
Do natives love the city any more or less than non-natives? Do natives "get" the city more, or are we prone to be more complacent about its ills? Are natives as well-equipped to lead?
We must admit: The men and women who flocked here and shaped the region did a pretty good job. Think of a towering figure in local industry, entertainment or government, and he or she was probably an out-of-towner who came here to strike it rich.
It's possible, California State University Northridge political science Professor Tom Hogen-Esch was telling me, that new arrivals "bring with them values and ideals and a certain drive that natives sometimes lack. People from elsewhere often bring new ideas and fresh blood to politics."
But, Hogen-Esch believes, it also may be that those gifts have become part of the region's "cultural DNA," along with the cosmopolitan quality that goes with being home to people from so many different places.
We'll see. From the mayor's office on down, we natives are in charge. We will build the Los Angeles of the new century.
Let's show we can do as well as the people who built the Los Angeles of the last century.
Kevin Modesti is a Los Angeles News Group editorial writer. email@example.com. Twitter.com/KevinModesti.


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New GI JOE, Marvel, Forces of Valor, and 1:6 Scale...
Be sure and "LIKE" SmallJoes on Facebook!
SmallJoes is having a coupon contest this month! Each new Facebook "LIKE" they receive in August 2013 will be entered into a drawing to receive a 20% off coupon! Ten winners will be selected, and winners will be announced September 1st.
The burning question for everyone right now is: when will SmallJoes have the Wave 3B GI JOE Retaliation figure case? SmallJoes can announce that 100% of their orders have been confirmed by Hasbro. This usually means shipment is about one week away but they were unable to pin down a better date as Hasbro's offices were closed on 8/9 and will also be closed on 8/12. SmallJoes still have some figures available for pre-order. Please get your pre-orders in as it is unlikely that this assortment will be available from Hasbro beyond initial orders.
SmallJoes also have Retaliation Wave 4 figures available for pre-order. This assortment includes three new figures (Blind Master, Night-Viper, and Jinx). Also re-released in the assortment will be Lady Jaye, Joe Colton, Alley-Viper, and a few other figures that only got a limited release earlier this year. SmallJoes have the best deal going for these figures in sets of 3, sets of 9, and the full case. Also, the Eagle Hawk helicopter is back in stock.
SmallJoes are pleased to announce that the vintage GI JOE clear figure stands are back in stock! They are with a new injection molder and are very excited about the super-high quality and clarity of the new parts. (Next on deck, the return of our APEX Display Case!)
In other news, SmallJoes have reduced prices on all of their GI JOE comic incentive/ retailer exclusive covers to just $4.99. Be sure to check all of the IDW comic categories to see what is still available. They are very small print runs. SmallJoes usually have only 3-4 copies of each special cover (and that was when Diamond's warehouse staff wasn't stealing them from our orders.)
Other new selections at the site include new listings for GI JOE club and convention exclusives, a lot of carded Battle Corps figures from the early 90's, and a variety of carded GI JOE vs. COBRA, Spy Troops, and Valor vs. Venom from 00's.
The new assortment of Marvel 3.75" figures featuring Elektra, Rhino, Mysterio, and an updated Captain America are in stock and available to order.
The next assortment featuring Abomination, Baron Zemo, Iron Man (b&w), and Cloak/Dagger is available for pre-order. There is some confusion right now as to what exactly will be shipping - Abomination or A-bomb, and also whether Cloak/Dagger will be a 2-pack or variant arrangement. For these reasons and if you are concerned about variants customers are encouraged to check b ack with SMallJoes when more information is available on this assortment.
SmallJoes recently listed a lot of new 1:32 scale Forces of Valor models. New armor and vehicles of U.S., German, and Russian design. Several retired pieces have returned in new color schemes.
SmallJoes have two new offerings in this category. The MARSOC Special Ops Team operator from DAMTOYS, and also a General Patton figure with George C. Scott likeness (as he appeared in the Patton movie). Or JSOC (Joint Special Operations Command) T1 Special Mission Unit-Op Geronimo Hunting Down is on sale right now at $104.99.
Don't forget to take a look at SmallJoes' Clearance Section. They recently added a lot of t-shirts at $6 each. Most are adult smalls and medium, great inexpensive gifts for kids! There are also some excellent deals here on 1:6 scale military figures, GI JOE, comic books, and much more.


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Just Stay Focused I've been living in the same home going on six years now. In that short amount of time, I've only experienced a couple of minor inconveniences, having to replace certain necessities. Considering this place is 25 years old, it should only be expected.
The worst of these was a 3.5-ton air-conditioning system during one of worst summers I've ever experienced. I mean that literally, and the cost was way over my head and required me to sit it out until the funds were available (the dead of winter). You may recall my editorial discussing electrical wiring-yeah, that made for an interesting situation, too. Then there was the water heater, the washer and dryer, the constantly running shower heads, and the leaky kitchen faucets.
Several months ago it was a water leak in the downstairs bathroom that ultimately ruined the carpet. Then again, why anyone placed carpet in the bathroom was beyond me. Turns out, the old spiral-style feed line that leads into the water tank gave up the ghost. The quick fix was to turn the water valve off, but then how could I replace the feed line? The spiral feed was integrated into the valve, requiring it to be replaced as a single unit.
Considering my lack of plumbing knowledge and proper tools, I deferred to the talents of local hot rodder, CHP reader, and certified plumber Kris Shields, who'd helped me in the past. No joke, for every problem I've run into, Kris has been able to handle each plumbing situation with ease. A quick call and I luckily slid into his schedule. Over the next few hours, he showed up, assessed the situation, grabbed the components out of his truck, and replaced the valve. Pretty awesome.
As luck would have it, I had the same situation arise during the Fourth of July weekend, only this time it was upstairs, in the master bathroom. No way was I going to Kris call on a holiday weekend. Instead, I made a mental note of the parts and tools I needed, desperately wishing I paid better attention to how it all went together.
After a quick trip to Home Depot, I shut the water off and got to work. Unlike Kris, who handled it quickly, it took me all day! The compression fitting went on easily and so did the new stainless-braided feed line, but for some reason it had a tiny drip that would not seal. For the next seven-yes, I said seven-hours I snugged the fitting every so often, questioning if I used enough Teflon tape. I'm notorious for stripping out bolts, so was I not tightening it enough?
Finally, enough was enough. I took everything back apart, applied a bit more Teflon and tried it again ... nope, still leaking. Just as I was about to call it quits, I wondered whether the fitting on the water valve side was tightened down from the factory. Sure enough, a half turn later and it was fixed. What did I learn? Don't assume anything, and when given the opportunity to be around the experts, stay focused and pay better attention. Of course, this includes everything automotive related. Got a similar story? I want to read it.


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A LIVE 'mermaid' will be hoping to hook traders and shoppers into supporting next month's Blackburn Heritage Festival when she makes an appearance at the town's market tomorrow.
The special performance by the 'living mermaid' will be at Mayers Fishmongers from 5pm on Blackburn Market.
Festival organisers want people to join the crowd with a phone to generate a social media buzz and create a viral marketing stunt.
They hope 25,000 people will attend the Blackburn Heritage Festival, to be opened by former Coronation Street star Peter Gunn, on the weekend of September 13 and 14.
Organiser Harriett Roberts said: "We are joining in with Heritage Open Days across the UK, so a wide range of fascinating buildings and spaces will be open free to the public where dedicated local volunteers will be bringing history to life through archive displays and presentations."


text:
Buxton's MRI reveals minor sprain in left wrist
CLEARWATER, Fla. -- Top prospect Byron Buxton underwent an MRI exam on his left wrist on Saturday, and it showed only a minor sprain and no structural damage, Twins assistant general manager Rob Antony said Sunday.
Buxton originally injured his wrist while making a diving play in a Minor League game with Double-A New Britain on March 16, and he hasn't played since then.
Antony said Buxton remains day to day, and he should return to action next week.
"I think they thought initially it would be two or three days, but they wanted to make sure they weren't missing anything, so they had the MRI," Antony said. "They expect him to back in there after going on some anti-inflammatories. They did not think it was anything to be concerned about."
Buxton, ranked as the No. 1 overall prospect by MLB.com, was reassigned to Minor League camp in the first round of cuts on March 9. The center fielder hit .158 (3-for-19) with a double and a homer in seven Grapefruit League games.
Rhett Bollinger is a reporter for MLB.com. Read his blog, Bollinger Beat, and follow him on Twitter @RhettBollinger. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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Fatal collision near Northleach
12:59pm Tuesday 8th April 2014
By SNJ Reporter
12:59pm Tuesday 8th April 2014
By SNJ Reporter
Police are appealing for witnesses after a man died in a collision near Northleach late yesterday (Monday April 7).
The incident happened at about 11.35pm on the A429 Fosse Way between Northleach roundabout and Stow, close to Farmington Quarry.
A 37-year-old man from Farnborough in Hampshire was driving a white Ford Transit van that left the road and struck a tree. Sadly the man was pronounced dead at the scene.
The road remained closed for six hours to allow a detailed collision investigation. Officers are appealing for anybody with information, who has not already spoken to police, to contact them on 101, quoting incident 512 of April 7.
© Copyright 2001-2017 Newsquest Media Group


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Inmate helps foil plot: 'I couldn't let a little boy die'Posted: Updated:
Bernadette Beanes has been behind bars for the past eight months for her role in a May 2013 kidnapping and hostage standoff that ended in death.
According to court documents, Beanes fatally shot another suspect, Isreal Celis, before being arrested.
Now the 20-year-old is accused of trying to hire a hit man to kill four witnesses, including a child.
Fellow inmate Windy Panzo blew the lid off of the alleged murder-for-hire plot, and has since been moved from the general population at the Estrella Jail into protective custody because of death threats.
But this mother of three children said she'd do it all again to save a child's life.
"I'm not a snitch," Panzo said. "A snitch is somebody who snitches somebody out to get them in trouble - not to save a life."
According to a Phoenix police report, Panzo likely saved four lives.
In December 2013, Beanes, who was already in jail on 41 charges including first-degree murder, struck up a friendship with Panzo.
"She was joking around, talking about how it would be so much easier if she could get people out of the way," Panzo said.
She quickly realized Beanes wasn't kidding.
Panzo said Beanes was looking to have four witnesses, including a 9-year-old boy, killed.
So Panzo told Beanes she could help her, and then alerted jail officials.
"If I can save one little boy and these people - I would put my life on the line for that little boy and these people. Who wouldn't?" Panzo said.
On Jan. 10, an undercover Phoenix police officer – posing as a hit man who knew Panzo – visited Beanes in jail.
The recorded conversation is chilling.
Officer: "You want me to take care of all four?"
Beanes: "Yes. It's $5,000 a body and it's going to be paid $20,000 total when the job is completely done."
The undercover officer pressed Beanes several times about whether she really wanted to kill a kid.
Officer: "You're sure about that?"
Beanes: "Yeah."
Officer: "Cause he's a kid."
Beanes: "I know."
Officer: "So, you don't give a f*** how I do it? Stab them? Kill them?"
Beanes: "However you want. You paint your masterpiece."
According to the police report, "Beanes wanted the murders carried out before her court date on May 12, which would result in the dismissal of her case – which would lead to her eventual release."
The report also states that on Jan. 6, "Beanes approached a detention officer – believing they knew each other prior to her arrest. She told the officer that she planned to have the witnesses in her case killed and asked the officer to help transport the bodies across the border to Mexico. She asked to use the officer's badge and uniform to facilitate crossing the border with the bodies."
The undercover officer – a detective for nearly 24 years – wrote: "Having been involved in numerous conspiracy to commit murder investigations, I have never encountered a suspect likes Beanes. Beanes, for being so young, was direct and to the point on the murder of four victims. Beanes never wavered and showed no type of sympathy or compassion, even when she was confronted with the fact that one of the victims was a 9-year-old boy."
Beanes now faces four counts of conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, and Panzo said she feels relieved to know an innocent child is out of harm's way.
"That little boy would not be standing here," Panzo said about what could have happened had she not spoken up. "And, one day, I hope to get a hug from him because that would be an honor. It's altered my life greatly from doing it. But, I cannot be ashamed. I cannot be ashamed of what I'm doing."
CBS 5 News spoke with the sergeant with whom Panzo confided.
He confirmed she has not asked for any special treatment, or a reduction in her sentence stemming from drug and weapons charges, for coming forward with the life-saving information.
Copyright 2014 CBS 5 (KPHO Broadcasting Corporation). All rights reserved.


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Last night I went to a birthday party in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. When it was over I went out with some friends and was surprised to find out that Michal Matejcík was performing at the Sullivan Room. I raced over there to him. I've mentioned him on this blog before. He plays covers of Depeche Mode songs on the harp. Check out the video I recorded of Michal performing Halo.
"The night will kick off at 10pm with a unique performance by the renowned Slovakian harpist Michal Matej?ík who presents Depeche Mode songs rearranged for the harp combined with audio mixes as well as visuals on screen. Michal performed as an opening act for Depeche Mode in two shows this year…" – DJ Shred
For more info: michalmatejcik.com


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Escobar promoted, Hembree optioned to PawSox
ANAHEIM -- The Red Sox added a fresh arm to their bullpen for Sunday's series finale against the Angels, recalling No. 11 prospect Edwin Escobar from Triple-A Pawtucket and optioning Heath Hembree to the PawSox.
Hembree pitched incredibly well in Saturday's 19-inning game, tossing four innings and allowing just two hits in his Red Sox debut.
"He had the poise and the mound presence," manager John Farrell said. "We didn't know a lot about him other than the scouting reports and watching him throw a bullpen in St. Louis. He couldn't have pitched any better given the situation."
After the team used its entire bullpen and even starter Brandon Workman, Farrell felt the move was necessary.
"He has a four-pitch mix for strikes. He is coming off a solid outing in which he was able to command the strike zone," Farrell said of Escobar. "He will pitch with average velocity but has the ability to use multiple pitches."
Hembree and Escobar were both acquired when the Red Sox traded Jake Peavy to the Giants on July 26.
Between Triple-A Fresno and Pawtucket, Escobar is 3-8 with a 4.76 ERA in 22 games, all starts.
The left-hander will be a long relief option for the Red Sox on Sunday, while the rest of the bullpen will be available, with the exception of Junichi Tazawa.
Quinn Roberts is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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RANCHO CUCAMONGA – The Kiwanis Club of Rancho Cucamonga will sell See's Candy starting Saturday through Dec. 23.
The Kiwanis Club See's candy sale will be held inside the JC Penney Furniture outlet, 8443 Haven Ave., from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays.
The Kiwanis Club supports four Rancho high school Key Clubs; partners with Shoes that Fit to help provide over 100 pairs of schools to students in the RC community; supports the Inland Valley Aktion Club at PVW and contributes to the Gap Food bank as well as other community needs.
Information: Steve Roberts, 909-660-0951.


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I like Cardini's Caesar so much I made it one of my Kalyn's Kitchen Picks, but if you can't find Cardini's, use your favorite Caesar dressing that's low in sugar. (I don't buy dressing that has more than 2 carbs per serving; Cardinis has 1 carb and zero grams or sugar in two tablespoons.) And if you can find fresh garden cucumbers to make this salad, it will only be better.
(Easy Low-Carb Cucumbers Caesar was first posted in 2006 and updated with better photos in June 2016.)
Easy Low-Carb Cucumbers Caesar
(2 servings, increase as needed)
2 medium cucumbers, preferably garden-fresh
3-4 T Cardini's Caesar Dressing (not low-car or fat-free version)
fresh ground pepper to taste.
Cucumbers Caesar is a great recipe for any phase of the South Beach Diet and it would be approved for most other low-carb or low-glycemic diet plans.
Find More Recipes Like This One:
Nutritional Information?
More Five-Ingredient Dishes You Might Like:
Pork Chops with Balsamic Glaze ~ Kalyn's Kitchen
Five-Ingredient Zoodles with Capers and Cherry Tomatoes ~ A Spicy Perspective
Not-So-Dumb Salad with Cucumbers, Tomatoes, Onions, Avocado, and Balsamic Vinegar ~ Kalyn's Kitchen


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Youth Basketball League Registrations Now Being Taken
December 21, 2012
The Grand County Youth Basketball League is now taking registrations for the league which begins with practices on Monday, January 7, 2013. This league is open to all children in 3rd through 6th grade, with practices during the week and five Saturdays of games. The games will start on with Saturday, January 26, with March 2 being the final game day. Registrations are now being taken until teams are full.
For more information on the league, league fees, or to register, please call your local recreation office: Granby Recreation Department at 887-3961; Fraser Valley Metropolitan Recreation District at 726-8968; or Kremmling Town Hall at 724-3249.


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'The Hateful Eight' Trailer: Watch the Early Teaser For Quentin Tarantino's Next Film
Subscribe to KZCD-FM on
While 'The Hateful Eight' doesn't even begin filming until early next year (headed for a December 2015 release date), we got word last week that the first trailer would be attached to prints of 'Sin City: A Dame to Kill For' in theaters this week. Which is cool! But, we also got word that the trailer wouldn't be appearing online. That's not so cool. If you can't wait until Friday for a sneak peek at Quentin Tarantino's next film, don't worry, it's popped up online anyway and you can watch it right now.
Because the film doesn't start shooting for another five months or so, there's no footage to show and no official cast to list. There are some beautiful animated graphics at work here though, as well as some striking musical choices ("Gimme Danger" by Iggy Pop & The Stooges and "L'Uomo Dalla Pistola D'Oro" by Angelo Francesco Lavagnino). The trailer also confirms the plan to release the film in "Glorious 70mm [Super CinemaScope]".
After almost ditching the project after the script leaked online, Tarantino has again committed to the project, reportedly bringing most of the actors from the staged live-read with him, including Kurt Russell, Bruce Dern, Samuel L. Jackson, Michael Madsen, Walton Goggins and more.
If you never got a chance to read the leaked script, the 'Hateful Eight' plot is as follows:
A bounty hunter and his prisoner traveling by stagecoach to a town called Red Rock get stuck in a blizzard and meet other travelers along the way that need a lift. Sidetracked by the blizzard, they stop at a nearby haberdashery to take shelter until the storm passes. While holed up in this haberdashery waiting out the blizzard, coincidences stop looking like coincidences, enemies become allies, secrets escape, and lots of living things get dead.
'The Hateful Eight' is set to open in theaters next year.
Subscribe to KZCD-FM on


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Mail: Southern statutes symbolize suppession
Mail: Thanks for helping Aiden
More opinion
Robertson and Delsing re-elected chair, vice chair of NWB
Goat Expo set first October weekend
More Ag News
MAXWELL-Maxwell blindsided Sutherland for 39 unanswered points in the second quarter on its way to a 69-6 win at Brittenham Field on Friday.
Maxwell (2-3) scored the first points of the game with just over five minutes left in the first quarter when quarterback Drew Riggs threw to Wyatt Strickland for a 14-yard touchdown pass that made it 6-0.
But Sutherland quarterback Tyler Fear led the Sailors (0-5) down the field and he evened the game up with a three yard touchdown run three minutes later.
Jones said that not containing Fear on defense was one of several problems his team had in the first quarter.
"We had too many penalties and too many turnovers," he said. "(Fear) is a good athlete and after the long run he had (on the scoring drive) we changed our defense."
But a minute into the second quarter, the Wildcats regained the lead when Tanner Vedder scored on an end-around from five yards out. Jordan Biere ran in the two-point conversion and Maxwell was up 14-6.
The Wildcats started to bring pressure to Fear and that caused the Sailor signal caller to leave the game for good due to injury. After stopping Sutherland, Maxwell took over at midfield and on the third play of the drive, Brandon Fletcher scored on a 24-yard touchdown run. Fletcher also kicked in the extra point and it was 21-6.
Both teams traded turnovers with Riggs intercepting Kadin Copeland, Sutherland's back-up for Fear, and Brandon Groseth fumbling on the following play to turn it back over to the Sailors.
But Sutherland was stopped again on offense and it had to punt from its end zone, where Groseth blocked Copeland's punt. The freshman Copeland fell on the ball to make it a safety instead of a touchdown and it was 23-6.
On the second play after the free kick, Strickland had 33-yard touchdown run. Then Fletcher intercepted Copeland and returned it to the one where Biere punched it in for another score.
Then with two minutes left in the first half, Maxwell was in the end zone again when Fletcher broke loose for a 49-yard touchdown run to make it 45-6 which was the score at halftime.
"It was tough when Fear left the game for Sutherland," Jones said. "They're taking their lumps right now but Sutherland's going to be a good team in a couple of years. They're playing a lot of freshman and that's going to pay off down the road."
The Wildcats scored three more touchdowns in the second half to complete the win over the undermanned Sailors, who have a roster of under 20 players.
Sutherland 6 0 0 0 - 6
Maxwell 6 39 8 16 - 69
First Quarter
M-Wyatt Strickland 14 pass from Drew Riggs (conversion failed), 5:07
S-Tyler Fear 3 run (conversion failed), 2:09
Second Quarter
M-Tanner Vedder 5 run (Jordan Biere run), 10:53
M-Brandon Fletcher 24 run (Fletcher kick), 7:58
M-Safety, blocked punt in end zone, 5:25
M-Strickland 33 run (Fletcher kick), 5:06
M-Biere 1 run (Fletcher kick), 3:18
M-Fletcher 49 run (Biere run), 2:03
Third Quarter
M-Fletcher 6 run (Strickland run), 7:05
Fourth Quarter
M-Biere 3 run (Taylor McKeeman run), 11:56
M-Biere 5 run (Bryson Keller run), 5:59
Flatrock Publishing, Inc.
1300 E 4th St., Suite F
North Platte, NE 69101


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Stanford coach David Shaw issued his first public comments Monday on a federal agency's decision last week to allow Northwestern football players to unionize.
He did not stand on the side of the players.
"I'm curious what's really driving it,'' Shaw said after the Cardinal's first practice following a three-week hiatus for exams and spring break.
"I've seen everything, and my understanding is it's been provided. I think Northwestern does a phenomenal job providing for their kids, and it's weird to try to unionize but still compliment Northwestern on being taken care of. Those things don't seem to go hand in hand."
The decision, by the regional office of the National Labor Relations Board, is restricted to Northwestern but has the potential to impact players at private schools. The NLRB has no jurisdiction over public universities.
Shaw said there have been "preliminary conversations" about the issues with the Stanford players but that he won't go into detail "until we see where it's going."
Backed by the College Athletes Players Association, the Northwestern players are primarily seeking post-career medical benefits, better concussion testing, the formation of an educational fund and scholarships guaranteed for four years.
Salaries and the right to seek commercial endorsements are secondary issues at this point.
Defensive end Henry Anderson said the players have monitored the developments at Northwestern but added that "there hasn't been any big discussion.
"We've been focused on football,'' he added. "We're not too involved.''


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By now you've heard lots about 3D TVs. Every manufacturer has at least one 3D-capable model and even the projector companies are offering new products that include this technology. The display is not the only component required to view 3D however. You will also need, at a minimum, a new Blu-ray player. The format itself has not changed but a 3D model is required to view Blu-ray 3D discs. No matter what the brand, every 3D flat panel has a companion player. In the case of the Toshiba WX800 Cinema Series LED panel, recently reviewed at Secrets, that player is the BDX3000.
- Design: Blu-ray Universal Player
- Supported Disc Types: BD-Video, BD-3D, DVD-Video, CD, AVCHD, CD-R/RW, DVD-R/RW, BD-R/RE
- Audio Codec Support: PCM, Dolby Digital, Dolby TrueHD, DTS, DTS-HD Master Audio
- Audio Output: LPCM, Bitstream, Bitstream Mix
- Internet Apps: Blockbuster, Netflix, Pandora, Vudu
- BD-ROM Profile 2, Version 2.0 & Profile 5, Version 3 (3D)
- Audio Connections: 7.1 RCA, TOSLink, 2-channel RCA
- Video Connections: HDMI 1.4, Component, Composite
- Supported Video Resolutions: 480i/p, 720p, 1080i/p
- 24p Output: Yes, for Blu-ray only
- Additional Connections: Ethernet (100BASE-T)
- WiFi 802.11n
- Dimensions: 2.5″H x 16.9″ W x 8.25″ D
- Weight: 3.9 Pounds
- Toshiba
When I requested the WX800 TV, Toshiba included the BDX3000. Without it, I would have only been able to use the panel as a standard 2D display. This and the glasses are the minimum compliment of gear you'll need to view 3D Blu-ray content. If you want lossless sound from your 3D Blu-rays, you'll also need an HDMI 1.4 receiver or pre-pro. And of course, don't forget the glasses! In Toshiba's case, they are sold separately from the player and the panel.
The BDX3000 is Toshiba's top-of-the-line player. In addition to 3D, it offers a suite of Internet apps with built-in WiFi. Since 3D content is pretty scarce right now, I was anxious to see how the BDX stacked up in more relevant areas like DVD up-conversion and ergonomics. Apps are a new feature appearing now on many players and TVs so I looked forward to checking them out as well. So, here we go.
The BDX3000 looks no different than Toshiba's other players. It's a 17-inch wide box that will fit any standard rack or shelf unit. It's only 8.25 inches deep though, so cabling will be a little tricky if you use a rack. The power cord is not removable. The front panel is smooth with no traditional buttons at all. Only the cutout for the disc tray breaks up the landscape. At the center is a backlit Blu-ray logo which can be dimmed with a button on the remote. To its immediate right is the status panel which conveys the usual track and time information as well as output resolution and disc format. Continuing right are the touch-sensitive controls. These were annoying to me as they only light up when you touch the panel first. Then you have to touch the appropriate control again to execute. It was easier to simply use the remote for opening and closing the disc tray. I usually prefer the front panel control for this but the double-tap required by the BDX got old after awhile.
The back panel has a full set of connections. Besides HDMI 1.4, there is a TOSLink output, 7.1 analog RCA jacks, a LAN connection and a USB port for flash drives. Analog video outputs include component and composite. Finally, there is a two-channel analog audio output separate from the multi-channel ones.
Internally, the BDX is nothing out of the ordinary. All Blu-ray profiles are supported right up to BD version 3, profile 5.0 which adds 3D to the list. Of course this means BD-Live and Bonusview, something which all players now offer. On the audio side, both bitstream and PCM output is supported so you if you have a receiver that is LPCM-compatible, you can still enjoy the full detail of the lossless Dolby TrueHD and DTS Master Audio codecs without upgrading. I'm proud to say I'm still using a Denon AVR-3806 in my living room system with its now archaic HDMI 1.1 inputs; all two of them. It handles lossless audio just fine after four years on the job!
Another major feature set of this player is Internet apps. The BDX has built-in WiFi compatible with all major wireless standards up to 802.11n. Apps include Netflix, Vudu, Pandora and Blockbuster. This is becoming a common feature in both Blu-ray players and TVs now. The added WiFi is nice since you don't have to run an Ethernet cable or add some sort of wireless bridge. The WX800 TV required me to add a WiFi adapter to access its Internet features.
In addition to Blu-ray and DVD, you can play Redbook CD, writeable DVDs and CDs and data discs. SACD and DVD-A are not supported. Compatible data formats are AVCHD, MP3, Windows Media Audio and JPEG. The files can reside on a disc, SD memory card or USB thumb drive. The SD card slot is conveniently located on front panel in the lower right corner. If you want to use the USB port, you'll have to reach around back. This is probably your best bet if you want to use BD-Live with this player. It does not have any internal memory so you'll have to use either an SD card or a USB stick of at least 1 gb capacity.
The remote is much like the wands that come with other Asian-built players. It is not backlit which makes it frustrating to use in a darkened room. The buttons are grouped by function and have different shapes alleviating some of the fumbling when the lights are off. At the top is the power toggle followed by the eject button and keys for display-related functions. Next is a row of round buttons to access the disc menus. In the center is the navigation cluster. Below that are the transport keys. These were all the same shape and I had a hard time remembering the layout. Here's where a backlight would have really helped. At the bottom is the customary numeric keypad.
Installing the BDX3000 is just like setting up any other Blu-ray player. You'll need a 3D display obviously, if you want to use that feature. For most of the review, the BDX was connected to Toshiba's WX800 LED TV. Despite the higher bandwidth required by the HDMI 1.4 interface, I had no trouble using one of my trusty Blue Jeans cables. If a dealer tries to convince you to buy a new pricey HDMI cable for your 3D setup, tell him you'd like to try your old cables first. Chances are they'll work just fine. I also plugged in an optical cable to test the player's musical abilities.
The menu system is easy to navigate with a tree-style interface that progresses from left to right as you drill down through the options. The main menu is split into Settings and Connected which accesses all the player's Internet features. I'll talk about those a bit later. One thing I did not like was the menu's sluggish response to remote commands. There is no flipping quickly through settings with this player. Each key press takes at least two or three seconds to execute. That includes merely scrolling down a list of options. I don't know if the remote or the player's firmware is the culprit here but it sure was annoying.
To set up the player you can opt for a Quick Setup which selects the language, resolution, aspect ratio, wireless, disc auto play and the screen saver duration. If it is your first time turning it on or you've done a factory reset, you'll be presented with Quick Setup automatically. You can bypass it and run through all options manually of course, which is what I did.
Display options extend to setting the output resolution, aspect ratio, film mode, deep color and the 3D mode. Output resolution usually works fine when set to Auto but I prefer to force 1080p just to be safe. TV Aspect will nearly always be 16:9 Pillarbox which shows 4:3 DVDs correctly with bars on the left and right. Film Mode is the 24p option and you'll want to set that to on if your display accepts that rate as most do nowadays. I discovered leaving this on when streaming content from Netflix results in extreme judder. I believe this is a design flaw since you have to go to the setup menu every time to turn Film Mode off when you want to stream. You can turn on Deep Color if you want to output video at 4:4:4 or 36 bits-per-pixel. This is a setting I always turn on when possible and the BDX handled the color up-conversion perfectly. Blu-ray 3D Mode should be left on Auto if you want 3D discs to show correctly. You can force 2D if you want.
Moving on to Audio settings we have PCM Downsampling (48 or 96kHz), Digital Output, Dynamic Range Control and Stereo Downmix. Digital Output is where you'll choose bitstream or PCM output. If you have an HDMI 1.3 or later receiver, you can let it handle the decoding by choosing bitstream. Choosing PCM relegates decoding duties to the player. There were two other choices here I had not seen before, Bitstream Legacy and Bitstream Mixed. Legacy sends a DTS or Dolby Digital feed from the core track encoded on every Blu-ray disc. Mixed will add in menu sounds and PIP audio and send a DTS stream to your receiver. Choosing either one of these means you won't experience lossless audio. Dynamic Range Control can be set to On, Off or Auto. Auto means the compression will be applied to all audio codecs except Dolby TrueHD. In that case, compression will be applied if the correct flag has been set during the disc authoring process. Finally, Stereo Downmix processes multi-channel audio to the two-channel analog outputs. You can have straight stereo or a surround encoded version that is compatible with older Dolby Pro Logic receivers and processors.
If you are using the analog multi-channel outputs, the speaker setup is limited to choosing large or small for each channel and setting the sub crossover. There is no adjustment for delay or level. I have to wonder why Toshiba bothered with analog outputs when they have provided no proper way to calibrate a surround system.
The Language Setting menu lets you change options for the on-screen menus and the default language used with discs and the subtitles. The Parental Control menu gives you the option of blocking content past a certain MPAA rating. Once configured, this setting can be locked with a four-digit numerical password. The final menu is called System Setting. Here you can toggle Auto Play, set the time zone, choose the screen saver duration, toggle the CEC control support or update the firmware. This can only be done over the network, not from a USB device or SD card. Normally, the player will prompt you when it finds a new update. You don't have to check for them manually. You can also reset all options to their factory defaults.
In Use
A lot of my time with this player was as part of the WX800 TV review I did recently. There isn't much to say about 3D content specifically since its quality is dependant on the display, not the source. The only movie I watched in 3D after the TV review was finished was A Christmas Carol. I do want to cover it here because it is easily the best 3D content I have viewed to date. This description is more a follow-up to the WX800 article than it is an example of the BDX player's abilities. Simply put, A Christmas Carol looked fantastic. All my previous observations about the crosstalk and lack of image clarity were largely forgotten with this disc. The ghosting was not completely gone but it was so minimal I barely noticed it. Mind you, it was only the fifth 3D title I've been able to get my hands on. There just isn't anything out there yet. If you're investing in the format be warned, content selection is EXTREMELY limited at this time. The release of this disc was quite well-timed for the holidays and I enjoyed it thoroughly. Not only was the image near reference-level, it was obvious Disney knows how to best use the format. Resolution was always retained even in fast-moving action scenes. Objects always had a clear place in the z-axis never being too far in front of or behind the screen plane. Obviously any 3D Blu-ray player will render this film equally well but I have to take this opportunity to let you know what I saw.
For the remainder of the review period, I connected the BDX to my main theater system which consists of an Anthem LTX-500 LCoS projector and an Integra DHC-80.1 processor. The 80.1's video output was set to pass-through so all video processing was handled by the player. I watched a few Blu-rays and DVDs. I also listened to some music utilizing the optical connection. I always prefer TOSLink or coax over HDMI for music reproduction due to its lower jitter.
The Wiz is a recent Blu-ray reissue and Universal has done a decent if not stellar job blowing the dust off this 32-year-old film. The image looked as solid as I've seen on any other player; including the Oppo BDP-83. Film Mode was engaged to get the proper 24p frame rate from the disc. The DTS-HD Master Audio encode is the best thing about this release and it sounded excellent through the BDX-3000. Big musical numbers were rich and dynamic with lots of punch and pizzazz. Obviously this player gives nothing away to its competitors in the Blu-ray audio department. I used the BitstreamHD output and let my Integra DHC-80.1 handle the decoding duties. I observed no dropouts or artifacts of any kind.
Star Wars: The Clone Wars, animated series is one of my favorite references for testing displays and players. No surprise, Blu-ray performance in all aspects was exemplary. The bright bold colors popped just as they do when I play this disc in my Oppo. The painted textures used in this CGI presentation showed an appropriate level of grit and grime on the storm troopers' uniforms as well as other surfaces. The sound was also excellent. Even though the encode is only Dolby Digital, it had tremendous depth and slam especially during the many battle sequences. The BDX had no trouble with the extreme LFE information as my very-large Axiom EP-800 sub shook the walls with its usual aplomb.
On DVD I watched the James Bond classic, The Spy Who Loved Me. This disc is part of the Lowry Digital restorations released a few years ago. It has unfortunately not made it to Blu-ray just yet. This particular transfer is not quite as stellar as others in the set showing a little softness and obvious edge enhancement. On the BDX, it looked decent, in fact, not too far from my reference Oppo. The ringing was a little more pronounced and the detail a tad softer but scaling and deinterlacing seemed OK. As I mentioned earlier, the Film Mode does not work for DVDs so no 24p mode is available. This makes a bigger difference for me than resolution. I was able to use the 24Hz mode in my Integra pre-pro without trouble.
A Beautiful Mind has several torture tests including side-pans and images of stained glass windows that will show crawl and breakup on poor-performing players. I did not see these issues from the Toshiba. The picture was reasonably sharp and pans did not show any excessive resolution loss. There was the usual 3:2 judder of course but this is no worse than any other player I've tested recently. Given the performance I observed, the BDX3000 will do a fair job with DVD up-conversion. For more detailed information, please refer to the benchmark tests in the next section.
I started my music listening with a bit of Strauss in the form of his lush and beautiful wind concerti. This is a superb recording that I have listened to many times. The BDX did a passable job over its optical connection. I did miss that last nth degree of detail and transparency I'm accustomed to but then classical music shows this more than other genres. The music was still rich and dynamic with a strong low end. The Toshiba gave away little to my Oppo player. Only the tiniest bit of detail distinguished the two presentations.
I recently purchased the Beatles stereo remasters and have been re-discovering my youth by listening to all the albums. I played a few of these records when I was growing up and the music is now so wonderfully familiar. These recordings sound amazing especially given their age. I listened to Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band and found myself enjoying the entire album before I realized how much time had passed. The recordings are that engaging and they sounded every bit as good played on the Toshiba as on any other source. My recent switch to coax or optical connections for music rather than HDMI has really opened up a new horizon in my listening room. Not only are dynamics greatly improved, the detail and imaging is worlds better. The Beatles' stereo recordings frequently image many instruments to one channel or the other. It's neat to hear George Harrison's guitar coming only from the left channel or a keyboard riff firmly anchored in the right. The Toshiba did a fine job preserving the artists' and engineers intent.
Like many Blu-ray players in the current generation, the BDX3000 offers Internet apps in the form of Netflix, Vudu, Pandora and Blockbuster. Since the only one of these I subscribe to is Netflix, I could only try that app. Setup was the essence of simplicity. The player generated a code which you then enter on your computer (I used my iPhone) to get connected. The titles in your streaming queue appear on the screen in a side-scrolling chain with cover art. Selecting a title brings up a synopsis and the runtime info. Playback starts a few seconds after the app measures your connection speed. I got 10 of 13 bars over my 802.11n network, not bad at all. Quality varies widely depending on the movie or TV show you've chosen. Some episodes of Dirty Jobs bordered on unwatchable due to macroblocking and other artifacts. Zombieland showed decent resolution but there were frequent frame drops and periods of judder. That's when I realized the flaw was with the player's Film Mode setting. Once I turned it off, the image was much smoother. It is strange that 24p doesn't work with DVDs but it does engage with streamed content. Too bad it doesn't work! I don't recommend using the Netflix streaming service with a projection setup. The image just doesn't hold up on the big screen. A TV 50 inches or smaller is OK if you're not sitting too close. None of this is the fault of the BDX3000.
One aspect of player performance I should touch on is ergonomics. Most Blu-ray players perform equally on Blu-ray content and do a fair job with DVD up-conversion. There is a greater divide when comparing usability and responsiveness. On this score, the Toshiba did not fare too well. Loading discs was good and response to remote commands was OK when a transport key was pressed but menus displayed only after a delay of several seconds. Ejecting a disc was also very slow. It usually took at least 10 seconds after I pressed the button before the disc finally emerged. Moving in and out of the Netflix app was also sluggish. It took 17 seconds for my queue to appear and another 24 to return to the player's home menu. Other than the poor response times, I had no other problems with the BDX3000. It never failed to read a disc and no lockups were observed.
On The Bench (Stephen Hornbrook)
These measurements were taken with a Tektronix Oscilloscope from the analog component outputs. Overall the BDX3000 did quite well, as I measured a peak output of 101 IRE which we consider within spec. YC delay on the bowtie test looked very good as well, with a very flat response. The Toshiba was also able to pass the blacker-than- black PLUGE test. The BDX3000 displayed full 1920×1080 resolution without cropping any pixels on the left, right, top, or bottom. (Click on the graph to make it larger for viewing, mouse over the larger graph and then click on the blue square in the bottom right hand corner to enlarge it to full size. Click the graph again to reduce it back to its original size on the page.)
HD performance was very good from the Toshiba. It passed the important jaggies tests with excellent picture quality. I was not able to test noise reduction since I couldn't find any settings for it on the player. It did not appear to be performing any sort of noise reduction on our tests.
Standard DVD performance was excellent as the Toshiba BDX3000 passed all our deinterlacing tests. The high detail Super Speedway clip took less than half a second to lock on, and once it did, it looked great. Switching from video to film was done correctly, but the transition was visible for a split second. 2:2 video was also handled correctly. I did notice some blocking on the Chroma ICP test via component.
On the usability side, I did feel the menus were a bit sluggish and non-responsive. At times the delay was a bit frustrating. However, the layer change time was almost undetectable.
My overall experience with the BDX3000 was a good one. Blu-ray video and audio performance was on par with every other player I've tested. DVD up-conversion was better than average at this price point and music playback over the TOSLink connection was decent. The only real flaw was poor ergonomics. Scrolling through menus was just too labor-intensive when the player couldn't keep up with the remote. I also didn't like the lack of traditional buttons on the front panel. I've seen several components from different companies with touch-sensitive controls and I don't like any of them. Please give us real buttons!
The Internet apps are somewhat crude and sluggish but it's hard to find too much fault since Toshiba includes WiFi. Adding 3D to the mix at least will make you ready for the future if 3D is indeed it. It's hard to say what will happen until more content is made available but if you want 3D now, a player like the BDX3000 is a necessity. As a convergence component, it competes favorably with similar offerings from other companies. The Internet thing is still new to consumer electronics and I haven't seen any products really stand out yet. Compared to a more refined device like the Apple TV, these players have a little work to do yet.
At $279, the BDX-3000 is at the upper end of Blu-ray player prices but it offers everything the competition does at that level. With solid audio and video performance, you won't regret adding this player to your system. Recommended.


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'"Based on what I can see, I don't sense that," McCutcheon said. "Maybe things won't happen to him like they did last year. It may not be quite as easy the second time around. There'll be more eyes on him and more pressure and expectation. He's going to have to learn to handle that adversity and if he doesn't jump out to the best start, he's going to have to learn to bounce back."'
You are here: Home / SabresBeat / Myers has made a lasting impression on Sabres


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Until Amazon's Kindle Fire hit the market late last year, no Android-powered tablet had made even a small impact on the marketplace. With its $200 price tag and customized user interface, the Kindle Fire was a real success. Samsung is now aiming to grab a significant piece of that success by building its own low-cost Android tablet. The catch is that Samsung's new entry, the Galaxy Tab 2 7.0, looks anything but low-cost.
In fact, it features a much better spec sheet than the Kindle Fire, and uses the same streamlined body design as its more expensive brethren. From a hardware perspective, the Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 looks much like any other recent Samsung tablet. This particular model features a black front with a titanium silver rear cover, and it feels very nice in your hands. There's a lot to be said for the 7-inch tablet form factor.
With a price of $250 for the Wi-Fi-only model, the Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 is an instant best buy. And when you consider that it is one of the few devices on the market that ships with Google's Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich operating system from the get-go, it's even more of a steal.
Read: Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 Review
This article is brought to you in partnership with TechSpot


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Danielle Ballard darted from the top of the key to snatch an errant Derryal Youngblood floater and bank it off the glass to begin lifting the malaise hanging over LSU.
With four minutes left in the first half, the Tigers' progress toward an 87-61 rout of New Orleans on Monday at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center could graciously be described as plodding.
Until Ballard reeled off six consecutive points, LSU (9-4) found itself locked in a 26-26 tilt against the Privateers (1-13), who at one point built an early four-point lead.
So it behooved Ballard to serve as the catalyst alongside forward Theresa Plaisance, who finished with a game-high 25 points, as LSU built a three-point lead and pulled away early in the second half of their nonconference finale.
"That's just what I have to do," said Ballard, a 5-9 freshman who finished with 20 points on 10 of 12 shooting and added seven rebounds.
The demure response was fitting, considering LSU coach Nikki Caldwell required a stat sheet in her hands as a testament to Ballard's handiwork.
"Ballard's one of those players that has a quiet 20," Caldwell said. "She's so crafty in the way she scores."
Sure enough, Ballard's final six points of the first half came off crashing the offensive glass: An off-target jumper by Kuaneshia Baker, the miss by Youngblood and a garbage basket after errant hook shot by Plaisance with 2:55 until the break for a 32-26 lead.
"That's what a team is supposed to do — feed off their point guard," UNO coach Keeshawn Carter said. "But you don't expect them to be crashing the boards."
And none of the 2,608 sprinkled in the seats expected to see the Privateers pester and linger with the Tigers.
But UNO guard Keri Thomas, who paced the Privateers with 21 points on 7 of 16 shooting, sank a 3-pointer at the top of the arc to start a 9-2 spurt over two minutes that put UNO in front 14-10 with 14:24 left in the first half.
It was emblematic of LSU's early woes — struggling to rotate off traps in its 3-2 zone — that allowed Thomas and Mirjam Siphos uncontested looks at the rim.
"They were just doing a great job working for open shots in the corner and the top of the key," Plaisance said.
Not that the struggles to defend the 3-point line are new for LSU, which allowed opponents to hit 31.3 percent of their attempts entering Monday and ranks next-to-last in the Southeastern Conference.
"Awareness," Caldwell said. "Our lack of awareness of where their shooters were early on really hurt us."
The Privateers, who shot 42.6 percent, knocked down a season-high six 3-pointers in the first half, including Mirjam Sipos' 3-pointer with 1:54 left in the first half that drew UNO within 34-31.
Yet, those looks were scant after halftime, with LSU shifting into a match-up zone, abandoning pressure in the half-court and relying solely on pressing the length of the floor.
Speeding up UNO produced the desired effect — forcing quick shots early in sets as the Privateers shot just 30.3 percent after halftime, including just 3 of 14 from behind the 3-point line.
Ballard's jumper from the top of the key on the first possession of the second half was the first salvo in a decisive 14-1 run over four minutes to subdue New Orleans.
"We just gathered ourselves and looked in the mirror," Plaisance said. "We had to ask, 'Is this as hard as we can play?'"
On the next trip, Plaisance drove the left side of the line for a lay-up and foul by forward Yasmin Taylor, and then snared her missed free throw for a putback and a 44-35 lead with 19:03 to go.
"Theresa doesn't need a whole lot to feed off of," Carter said
Guard Adrienne Webb, who saw limited time in 17 minutes, knocked down a jumper, followed by a runner from Bianca Lutley with 16:57 left to extend the lead to 58-36.
And Ballard capped the burst with back-to-back buckets, converting on a fast break and a 52-36 lead at 16:03 after LSU forward Anne Pedersen came up with a loose ball.
The end game metrics of a 52-22 margin in the lane, a plus-20 rebounding advantage and a 22 second-chance points indicated an LSU rout.
Granted, Caldwell could quibble with the energy exerted to putting the figures together.
"You want to see that (effort) for 40 minutes," Caldwell said.


text: Girls' pajama set in metallic skeleton Item F5248 Color: SILVER IVORY Size: 14 All sizes are US sizes. 14 Size Charts Quantity: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Prices include duties and VAT. Add to Bag Wishlist Add to Bag Add To Wishlist share: size & fit Product Details Pj's. Jammies. Jam-jams. Sleepy suits. No matter what you call them, our supersoft and cozy pajamas are anything but a snoozefest. These feature a giant metallic skeleton that's sure to scare off all those monsters under the bed! Cotton. Machine wash. Import. Online only. For child's safety, garment should fit snugly; this garment is not flame resistant; a loose-fitting garment is more likely to catch fire. Item F5248.


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Wiltshire Police are appealing for witnesses after an assault in a Chippenham club between Christmas and the New Year.
A 19-year-old man from the Chippenham area sustained an injury above his left eye during an incident at Bar Eleven at The Bridge, on Saturday December 29 at 1.30am.
A 24-year-old man from Melksham was arrested on suspicion of common assault but later released without charge.
Local Crime Investigator Peter Ellison said: "This incident occurred in a busy bar over the Christmas period. I am keen to speak to anyone who was in the area at the time and either witnessed the incident or has any information in relation to it."
Anyone with information is asked to contact Wiltshire Police on 101 and ask for LCI Ellison at Melksham Police Station. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.


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Florida Gators Deluxe Grill Cover
Show your favorite team and protect your barbeque grill at the same time! The cover is made of a .15 mil thick vinyl with 3/4" flannel lining to protect stainless grill finishes. The stitching is tested at 30 lb. pull strength. The hook and loop velcro closures hold the cover in place during high winds. Large team logo is printed on both sides. The grill cover will fit a grill upto 68" wide, 35" high and 21" deep. Made by Rico.
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Once an item leaves the warehouse, Regular Ground shipments will be in transit for 2-5 business days & expedited shipments will be in transit for 1-3 business days.
You can click the "Estimated Delivery Dates" link next to the add to cart button on each product page to get an idea of when your merchandise will arrive to you.
How much does shipping cost?Our shipping charges are automatically calculated by our shopping cart after you enter your shipping information. Our shipping rates are based on the total cost of merchandise in your order:
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ROYAL Wootton Bassett start their pre-season with their firsts and seconds taking on Chippenham in a pair of friendlies today.
Head coach Alan Low believes it will be a good test for his side to go up against an experienced National League team but with Chippenham's well-regarded seconds providing stiff opposition for Bassett's own twos.
"Our first run out is against Chippenham," said Low. "They have been an established National Three side for a long time, it's their first run out as well in pre-season and will give us a good sounding board for where we are and where we would like to be.
"Their second team have been strong in the Dorset & Wilts for the last few years and it will be a good gauge to where they are and great gauge for their first teams as well.
"We won't be far off our full team, we have three or four guys missing, Tim Gallimore and a couple of the new guys are away but we could get that in the first week of September. Being August they could have that as well anyway. We're going over there to get as much from the game as possible.
"We have two more games after that the firsts and seconds at Coney Hill and Salisbury for firsts. It's a really strong pre-season programme for us, hopefully we'll hit the ground running in September really looking strong."
Bassett are always looking to recruit extra members and anyone interested should contact rugby manager Steve Milner on 07919 410755.


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Keep kids learning
Worried your kid forgets everything they've learnt when not at school? Here's how to keep their brain sharp. more
To confirm a food allergy or intolerance, you need to consult an allergy specialist who will do a series of allergy tests - skin prick and blood - and who may ask your child to participate in an elimination diet for a couple of weeks before reintroducing the suspect food to confirm a food allergy.
Yes, or no, depending on who you talk to. In the past, it's been suggested that delaying the introduction of certain foods to children who seem likely candidates for food allergies may help them long-term to avoid developing an allergy. However, there is conflicting evidence as to whether this is the best course of action.
Experts do agree, though, that breastfeeding offers some protection against allergies, so breastfeeding for as long as you can, will help your child to better deal with any potential allergy problems.
Another strategy is to introduce solid food to your baby slowly. Feed her one new food at a time with several days between the introductions of new items. By being methodical, you'll quickly be able to tell which food is causing the problem if she does have a reaction.
Common Sense Advice. Share your experiences, tips and advice on the Kidspot Forum.
Last revised: Thursday, 19 June 2008
This article contains general information only and is not intended to replace advice from a qualified health professional.


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An Interview with Dr. William J. Kay
What is the most exciting change you've seen in veterinary medicine?
First, the increasing opportunities for veterinarians to gain postgraduate education as interns, residents, and graduate students. These opportunities have increased from about 10% in the mid-1960s to nearly 50% of recent U.S. and Canadian graduating classes today, including a shift from university and institution-based programs to private practice.Second, the greater recognition of the profound interconnection between veterinary medicine and human medicine, called comparative medicine since the 1960s. Especially promising is the One Health Initiative that creates a new relationship between the AVMA and the American Medical Association.
Who was your most memorable patient?
My favorite cat, Mr. Yellow, a stray. I was unwilling to accept his dying, though tests confirmed irreversible kidney failure. Fortunately, Nancy O. Brown, VMD, DACVS, DACVIM, my wife and a practice owner, possessed the skill and humaneness to end his suffering.
Who inspired you most in your career?
Many veterinarians and others who supported and mentored me became dear friends throughout my 33 years at AMC, including the leaders of the board of trustees Joseph A. Poppi, Paul Cameron, and Philip Farley. I have also been fortunate to serve in close association and friendship for nearly 40 years with William F. Jackson, DVM, DACVS, DACVO, an AVMA past president and internationally known veterinarian and leader.
What was the best professional advice you ever received?
To get an AMC internship. AMC is a unique and dazzling institution that held for me and many others seemingly limitless possibilities. Beginning as an intern in 1966, I had the good fortune of serving with hundreds of the best, brightest, and most gifted and purposeful colleagues, who have made enduring and significant contributions to veterinary medicine.
What would you advise a new graduate?
Obtain the best post-veterinary-school education you can. You will gain and grow in skill, confidence, and knowledge faster than at any other time in your career.
What would you have liked to do if you hadn't become a veterinarian?
Become a career military officer or a military historian. I enjoyed leading a small unit during military service as an officer in the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps from 1964 to 1966, an opportunity that, although I surely lacked skill and experience, felt pretty good.
What book would you recommend?
Younger Next Year by Chris Crowley and Henry S. Lodge. It relays a powerful and simple message about why regular exercise, particularly after age 45, is the surest way to live a long and healthy life. The authors also urge us to quit eating garbage and to connect and commit to people and causes.
What favorite musicians or songs would you include on your personal jukebox?
Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, and music from The Phantom of the Opera.


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My husband had a little holiday break last week. We would have loved
to go on a trip but we stayed home to do some organizing, thrifting and go to the
fair. On his last night of vacation I made this for dinner, roasted butternut
squash, white garlic bread topped with baby brie and tomatoes, chicken with star
pasta, basil and artichoke hearts. Sometimes staying home and
cooking your own meal is much more rewarding than going out.
Other Stories
16 comments:
that squash looks so yummy!ReplyDelete
Yum! That's made me hungry! Sounds like a nice week off.ReplyDelete
O wow..mmmm :-) looks goodReplyDelete
OMG! That looks soooo good!ReplyDelete
I am happy you got some extra family time, holidays are such happy-makers!
ok i'm starving, and this looks delicious.ReplyDelete
Wow, that looks delicious! I love staying in and cooking with my boyfriend, but unfortunately he lives to far away to make it a regular thing. And cooking for yourself just isn't the same...ReplyDelete
looks gorgeous & delicious!! eating in never looks so perfect.ReplyDelete
how delicious! little breaks suit you....well your tummy reaps the rewards anyway!ReplyDelete
looks delish. and beautiful!ReplyDelete
that squash looks amazing and now has me yearning for all the recipes that come along with fall squash. YUM!ReplyDelete
- CarolynAugust 31, 2010
You make such a beautiful ensemble. A cook book is a must for you to create. Very nice creations!ReplyDelete
That squash looks delicious and I must try making that garlic bread. Who you could top it with yummy brie and tomatoes!? Thanks for the tip!ReplyDelete
Man, someday I hope to be able to create meals as delicious as this one.ReplyDelete
absolutely agreeReplyDelete
yum. would you pretty please post the recipe for this meal? seriously good looking things going on there.ReplyDelete
Very yummy darling! Glad Mia got a bit of a break. And yes, you should try that rhubarb drink on my blog..it's delish! Love and miss you!!ReplyDelete
thank you for your comments!
if you have any questions please email me via the 'contact' link.


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CHILDREN from Stockbridge Primary School went back to World War Two to Riverford's Upper Norton Farm last week.
Year four, five and six pupils, along with their teachers, pulled on their wellies and got a taste for what life was really like 'growing your own' between 1939-45.
The Dig for Victory day saw children flexing their green fingers planting seedlings in the farm's poly tunnels, and learning what would have been available during the war.
They also tried their hand at packing fruit and vegetables in the pack house, learning what rations actually looked like, and what limited foods would have been available at the time with a wartime 'greengrocers'.
Tony Lee at Riverford on Upper Norton Farm, near Sutton Scotney, said: "This is a great opportunity for local children to turn Norton Farm into a living classroom for the day, helping them to understand how hard life was during and after the war food wise, and where their food comes from today.
"We are delighted to support the school's curriculum and, who knows, we may even find a farm manager of the future!"
Riverford donated seedlings to the school on the day, and each child received a 'goodie bag' packed with fruit and vegetables, as well as recipe ideas for at home.
Stockbridge Primary School received a lottery grant last year, which has since been spent on poly tunnels to grow their own vegetables and teach children about planting and growing to coincide with their curriculum.


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As a group of legal marketing professionals we are very familiar with the legal industry and we are constantly searching the Internet for lawyers and searching for the best lawyers in the country. Most people have used a lawyer at some point in their life and these days it is so easy to just do a Google search and find one immediately. But when you do that, are you really finding the best lawyers & attorneys? If someone does a PPC ad at the top of Google, does that mean they are the most qualified? The answer is no.
After looking through multiple lawyer websites, we realized that some of these sites didn't even have a picture of a lawyer on the site. There was no information about an actual person, it seemed like it was just a way to get people in the door and then it was a group that just passed these cases around to each other without anyone actually giving you the direct attention you deserve.
Search All in One is a reputable website that actually looks at real results from lawyers. We take nothing at face value and we do our own investigations. Our vetting process is the most extreme over any legal organization. For us, no one can buy their way in, no matter what they offer us.
First, our team of investigators looks into the reviews of each lawyer that is a candidate. We make sure the reviews are actual real reviews from clients and we sometimes even reach out to those clients to verify them and get the bigger picture of how that lawyer treated them. Next we look into awards. Of course some awards can be bought but with years in the legal industry we know which ones are legitimate.
We consider their history as a lawyer, we look to see if they have any disciplinary actions and we also look at their social media presence to see if they are active in the community. Lastly and most importantly we look at actual verified court documents to make sure these lawyers are real trial lawyers. We have encountered too many shady lawyers that have told us about their trial experience but could not verify it with documents.
For a criminal lawyer we require 3 Not Guilty verdicts on all counts within the past three years. We also require 2 successful search and seizure motions that have been granted resulting in a dismissal.
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San Bernardino Named the Fourth Most Dangerous City in California
Recent reports have been talking about San Bernardino as the most dangerous city in California ...
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San Bernardino Named the Fourth Most Dangerous City in California
Recent reports have been talking about San Bernardino as the most dangerous city in California so we did our research to see whether or not that was true. San Bernardino is a city that is north of San Diego and south-east of San Francisco. It has a population of about 200,000 people. We saw an article stating that it was the most dangerous city in California but we wondered if that could be reliable or not. When we looked further into it, the article cited unemployment rate and other factors, we are guessing just to be unique or maybe to tarnish the reputation of San Bernardino. We looked through different articles and different facts to see if we could find any criminal attorneys that owned law firms who reported on these issues. We found Alex Ozols, from San Diego, California who seemed to put together a much more accurate report. In his article he talks about the most dangerous cities in California. After what we read about San Bernardino we wanted to see if it was the same in Mr. Ozols' report. Mr. Ozols had San Bernardino at #4 on the list much lower than on some other lists and what he said made perfect sense.
The article looks strictly to crime statistics and nothing else. The only other small factors that were considered were any red flags in the police department like any type of corruption. San Bernardino was actually quite lower in statistics for violent crime and for property crime then its competitors. The article has Oakland as #1, then Compton, Stockton, San Bernardino and then Sacramento and when you look into their findings it makes sense why this is the case. On a per capita basis, these are the cities over 100,000 people that you would have the most likelihood to have a property crime and a violent crime against you. Looking at it statistically Oakland would be a 1 in 16 chance of having a property crime against someone whereas San Bernardino had a 1 in 23 chance. Oakland was also doubled when looking at the violent crime rate. Overall the article cleared up the distinction in the media lately and helped us better understand which cities are the most dangerous.


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MUSICIANS spread the word through song about the outstanding care received by thousands of patients with life-limiting illnesses at the hands of Prospect Hospice.
Swindon Academy students took over rock club Level 3 on Commercial Road for two special end-of-year gigs, in support of the Wroughton charity, on Tuesday and Wednesday night.
From pop and jazz to heavy metal, every genre was duly represented at the performances which saw level 2 and level 3 B-Tech musicians and vocalists roused crowds of schoolmates, friends, parents and club regulars.
Supporting Prospect was an easy decision for the young people according to Hannah Fullick, the lead vocal for Lidexia Barjack and Academy head of charity.
"We chose Prospect because one of our classmates had a relative who died at Prospect," said the 19-year-old.
"She wanted us to donate some money to help Prospect and everybody decided to support them for that reason.
"It's very important to do something for charity. I love charity and I love to give something to others less fortunate than me. It fills me with great pride that we have all worked on something together to help other people."
She added: "It was quite a fun party. It was for anybody who fancied coming. Everybody was given separate jobs and we organised it as a whole group."
The funds raised are still being counted and the collection boxes sealed waiting to be delivered to Prospect Hospice.