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Understanding APC
Filed Under (Uncategorized) by Brian Keith on 08-01-2011
by Vito Chin | October 7, 2010
APC is a performance-enhancing extension. It should not be confused with a magic pill, although having it around does provide a positive impact on performance! If configured incorrectly, APC can cause unexpected behaviour, however when implemented optimally APC can be a useful weapon in your arsenal. In this post we will examine APC's capabilities and it's application both as an opcode cache and in its less common usage as a data cache.
How APC differs from Memcached
APC is not a replacement for memcached. They are designed for different roles. memcached is a generic, distributed caching daemon. APC on the other hand is PHP-specific and limited in size. As such, you'll want to only use APC for local caching of articles and objects that are relatively small. This begs the question: why not just use memcached universally?
The answer to this question, and indeed the question of whether to use memcache or APC, depends entirely on your circumstance. If you have a small application under a lot of load, then APC is a good choice. APC is a PECL extension, so it is very easy to add into your PHP ecosystem if you have control over your platform. Memcache on the other hand has a dependency on the memcache libraries and an external daemon running. The additional dependencies can imply additional maintenance costs in terms of administering the system, so APC, which does not have these dependencies, can be a better choice.
As generic caches, we can store many types of item in either APC or memcached. These include opcodes (which we will examine in more depth later in this article), strings, or other result representation from database queries or HTTP calls to feeds and services external to your application. We can also store objects that are expensive to create within our application, ready to use again later. The key is that all these objects can or will be in the same state for a certain period of time.
A key metric is the projected sum of the size of all objects; this is a determining factor between chosing APC or memcached since this dictates the size of the cache required. Memcached is more relevant than APC when a large cache is required because the maximum allocated memory is only limited by the architecture in which it runs. As it is language-independent, memcached can be helpful when used creatively within applications constructed in multiple languages. The distributed nature of memcached also enable resource sharing and makes it flexible enough to fit within a scalable environment.
We should view APC and memcached as tools that have different applications, although some part of their functionalities do intersect. That said, APC and memcached can be used together if the application architecture would benefit from this approach. They can be part of a layer of caches, covering anything from database results to pages or snippets of pages for the view layer. This article examines the use of APC for opcode and data caching, if you want to know more about using memcached, read our other posts about getting started with Memcached and regarding the new memcached extension.
How important is APC?
How important APC is for your setup depends on whether speed is important, and that depends on where you use PHP. Certain scripts may not be time critical, but user-facing applications usually are. Another aspect to consider is whether there is a need to minimise resource utilisation. Usually, the full potential of APC can be seen best in environment where usage/traffic volume is high, i.e. there is a small code base being executed very frequently.
As you will know, PHP is an interpreted language. This means that a PHP script has to be read, parsed and compiled before it is executed. (There is a very interesting resource on slideshare regarding this, from Joseph Scott – Anatomy of a PHP Request). The process of serving a PHP script ends up looking something like this:
This process is not ideal in a deployment where speed and resource minimalisation is a requirement, because the code is repeatedly parsed and compiled. APC is an excellent tool under such circumstances as it caches compiled code for execution so that there is no need for code to be parsed and compiled every time it needs to be executed. APC is not the only solution available for this purpose, there are others ( see the wikipedia page on PHP accelerators), however APC is mature and widely-used. For those facing optimisation challenges similar to those of Facebook's, there is always HipHop PHP.
What does APC actually cache?
A PHP script is converted into opcodes in the parsing and compilation process. APC caches these opcodes, making opcodes available to be executed without going through the parsing and compilation process.
There is a PECL extension, VLD (Vulcan Logic Dumper/Disassembler), which allows you to check out the opcodes generated from the compilation and execution of a PHP script. For instance if you consider the following code example:
"Test variable";
Will show the following opcodes:
Finding entry points
Branch analysis from position: 0
Return found
filename: vldtest.php
function name: (null)
number of ops: 2
compiled vars: !0 = $testvar
line # * op fetch ext return operands
> ASSIGN !0, 'Test+variable'
branch: # 0; line: 2- 3; sop: 0; eop: 1
path #1: 0,
Limitations of Caching with APC
APC caches in memory, so inherently the size of the available cache is not massive. The default size of the cache is 30 MB. This can be changed with the apc.shm_size configuration directive. For APC instances that are configured to use the System V-style kernel shared memory, the maximum size of shared memory is dependent on the shmmax kernel parameter. For Debian machines, this is usually 33MB. You can check this by doing:
$ cat
However, since v3.0.11, APC uses mmap by default and with that you can a specify a cache size that is unconstrained by the limit in the OS's shmmax parameter. The cache size specified can go beyond the size of the physical RAM but that will result in swapping (which means that part of the memory utilised is actually taken from the hard disk) which is undesirable for those without a solid state drive. In any case, the apc_sma_info() function shows memory allocation information pertinent to your APC instance.
Another consideration of using AP is that it only caches to the host machine where the PHP instance is executed. As a result we cannot share an APC cache among multiple load-balanced PHP servers serving the same application in parallel. Each PHP instance on a server has to maintain and utilise their own cache.
Storing Data, Rather Than Opcodes, With APC
APC also caches user data via the apc_add/apc_store functions, essentially this means we can place the values of a variable into APC, not too unlike caches such as memcached. Although this can be very useful, especially in systems without another convenient caching mechanism, do be wary of the memory limitations of APC and remember that user data stored within cache could be vying for space with cached opcodes from files. Let's take a look at how the value of a particular variable is stored:
"This is a value to be stored in cache. ";
The first parameter to the apc_store() method is the key. Here, the md5() function maybe useful to create unique keys from any string that could be used to identify the value. To retrieve stored values:
echo apc_fetch("sampleKey1");
A conventional method with user caches is to first check if an item exist in the cache first before getting it from source and storing it in the cache if it is not available in cache:
= apc_fetch('key'))
Benefits of User Data Caching
Although user data caching is often perceived as a secondary purpose of having APC, it is nevertheless a very useful feature for a certain type of data. APC is faster than a cache residing in another server that needs to be reached via a socket connection. The overall size of the cache however is relatively small. Because of these characteristics, data that can fully reap APC's benefits should be relatively small, used often within a short time, and take a long time to generate. One example of such a data is the accessible resources of a particular role in an ACL component. If this list is stored in a database, effort to retrieve this list typically looks like the following:
function getResourceList()
mysql_connect("localhost", USERNAME, PASSWORD);
"Unable to connect to database server";
"Unable to connect to database";
mysql_query("SELECT resource_id FROM acl WHERE role_id = 1 ORDER BY resource_id ASC");
"Unable to retrieve resource list";
= getResourceList();
With Xdebug profiling, we are able to determine the execution time of the above code, which is about 5 ms. The breakdown of this operation looks like this:
Since it is likely that we are going to need this resource list very often, we can cache it in APC to give us improved execution speed, caching the data and eliminating the overhead of fetching it each time. We would use some caching code along the lines of:
= apc_fetch('resource_list'))
= getResourceList();
When running this from the CLI, do remember to set apc.enable_cli=1 in your APC runtime configuration. Notice that we serialize() the $resourceList before caching it and unserialize() it after retrieving it from APC. $resourceList is a serializable() array and thus can be cached. The $result itself in getResourceList is a resource that is not cacheable. Retrieving the list from APC for the first time takes 6 ms, so our breakdown on the first iteration looks like this:
This is slightly longer than when it is not cached but only happens initially when $resourceList is not available in the cache. As long as subsequent requests are made within the TTL of the cached data, retrieval of the list takes 0.112 second, as we can see from this third breakdown:
By caching the resource list and retrieving it whenever its needed, we save that amount of time per request. In this example, using APC is about 50x faster and certainly helps when request volume is large and frequent. getResourceList() is not too lengthy to begin with, imagine the time that can be saved on heavier functions. The speed in which we see here is specific to APC. Other data caches will have different times since their implementation is different and there are other factors may be involved, such as the network latency that we touched on earlier. We will not delve too deeply into the performance differences of the various data cache solutions here, but consideration given to the difference between data caches helps in identifying the best cache for your situation.
File Cache
A file cache is also known as the "system" cache. By default, APC caches compiled files whenever they are executed. Pre-compilation before execution can be triggered with the apc_compile_file() function if so desired. To obtain a list of compiled files, call the apc_cache_info() function. To turn off this system caching, set apc.cache_by_default to 0. Using these functions, we can "warm up" a cache, filling the cache with the opcodes of our scripts.
Time To Live
Cached opcodes and user values has a default TTL (Time To Live) of 0, which means that nothing will be removed until the entire cache becomes full, in which case the whole cache is expunged. To avoid such an expunge, you can set a TTL on your opcode caches with the apc.ttl configuration directive and customise TTLs to specific keys based on the need of the application and specific data being stored. The TTL for cached user values can be supplied as the third parameter to the apc_store or apc_add function. For the user cache, an item place with a specific TTL will be expunged even if the space used by the item is not needed.
Deleting from cache
To delete a compiled file stored within the opcode cache, we call apc_delete_file(), passing in the filename to be deleted from cache. For user cache, the apc_delete() function can be used, passing in the key of the item that we wish to remove. However, such deletion may be costly as it might involve re-structure of internal hash tables. It is more ideal to work on a basis of auto-expiry of cache items, or to clear the user cache via a call to apc_clear_cache("user") if you need to do so.
apc.stat is an important configuration directive, especially if you're looking at optimising APC for a production environment. This configuration is turned on by default and causes APC to check a requested file to see if there are any modifications and serve from cache only if there are none. Turning this check off will speed things up and is typically done in a live or stage environment where deployments are usually followed by a restart of the webserver, clearing the cache and forcing the loading of the newly modified files. After the webserver restart, APC will no longer check for file modifications, this is useful since scripts should not normally be modified directly on these environments. On a development environment however, it is more common to set apc.stat to be turned off as scripts will be changing during development.
Monitoring the cache
Distributed along with the APC source is an apc.php script which provides a browser-based front-end that shows useful information about the current state of your APC instance. Here's an example of the interface:
The information shown is quite intuitive and is a great place to start looking to improve configuration to optimise performance. One value of importance to cache performance is the Cache full count, which can be seen under File Cache Information when in the View Host Stats tab. This indicates the number of times the cache became full, upon which it is expunged if apc.ttl is set to 0. If apc.ttl is larger than 0, APC removes items in the cache that are older than the allowed apc.ttl to make way for newer items. The expugning process has a negative impact on performance and thus the number of times this occurs should be reduced if possible. This can be done by either increasing memory allocation or reducing cached scripts via the apc.filters configuration directive. Lastly, remember to place apc.php in location that is not publicly accessible.
APC is a performance-enhancing tool that is a key part of the stack for most live environments where PHP-based web-applications are deployed. The system cache will definitely complement other performance-enhancing endeavours while the user cache can be used if a fast and small object cache is desired. Whatever your situation, it is beneficial to invest some time into understanding how APC behaves with your application and configure APC accordingly, in order to get the best advantage from this tool or any other.


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To act as a catalyst and conduit for responsible growth and reinvestment in the Lawrenceville community.
The Lawrenceville Corporation was formed in January 2000 as a merger of the Lawrenceville Development Corporation (LDC) and the Lawrenceville Business Association (LBA). Both the LBA and LDC had been in existence since the mid-1980s and were formed in response to neighborhood decline stemming from Pittsburgh's economic crisis during the 1970s and 1980s.
The merger yielded a new organization with a strong combined board of directors: the Lawrenceville Corporation. The organizational mission, membership, and much of the programming trace back to the original two entities. Since the merger, the LC has gained local and national recognition for its innovative niche marketing programs like the 16:62 Design Zone and the Doughboy branding campaign, recruitment efforts that have yielded numerous destination-type retail and restaurant businesses, and the commercial and residential efforts throughout the neighborhood.
Our vision for the community includes the following elements:
- A diverse community that embraces newcomers and long-time residents, homeowners and renters, children and senior citizens, low-income and middle-class families alike.
- A thriving and competitive business district that attracts customers from around the region with unique stores and products, while continuing to meet the day-to-day needs of community residents.
- A safe, healthy and clean community free from crime, drugs, prostitution, violence and litter.
- An attractive neighborhood full of amenities including shopping, restaurants, green space, parks and recreational facilities.
The LC is guided in its work by five main principles.
- Preserve Authenticity: preserve community diversity and working class heritage; and build on existing architectural assets
- Strategically Target Development Efforts: geographically concentrate development to maximize impact in targeted areas that have been identified as priorities by strategic or community planning processes
- Market Our Assets: understand the neighborhood's assets and its potential role in the city or regional marketplace; target regional and local customers that will advance our neighborhood's revitalization; and develop lines of business that promote the neighborhood's assets
- Support High Quality Design: insist on top-notch design standards for all development and projects in the community
- Engage in Visionary and Participatory Planning: work with local stakeholders to creatively envision the future potential of the neighborhood while keeping an eye on national and regional trends and local opportunities
Our Team
- Matthew GalluzzoExecutive Director
- Valerie FleisherDirector of Operations
- Ed NusserReal Estate and Planning Manager
- Julia PascaleCommunity Land Trust Coordinator
Board of Directors
The Lawrenceville Corporation is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors that meets twelve times per year to oversee the organization's operations and to set the direction for future programming.
George Arendas
Allegheny Valley Bank
Will Bernstein
Resident, Allegheny Conference
Dave Breingan
Resident, Lawrenceville United
Lauren Connelly
Resident, Allegheny County Econmic Development
Stephen Casey, President
Stephen Casey Architects
Jamie Patten
Owner, Allegheny Wine Mixer
David Green
Resident, City of Pittsburgh Dept. of PLI
Joseph Kelly
Kelly Custom Furniture & Cabinetry
Owen Lampe
Resident, Wenco
Andrea Lavin Kossis
City of Pittsburgh Dept. of City Planning
Elizabeth Meyer
The Clemente Collection at Engine House 25
Juliette Murcko
Juliette Murcko, D.D.S.
Kento Ohmori
Fukui Architects
Brooks Robinson, Jr., Secretary
Pittsburgh Cultural Trust
David Tobiczyk
Goodwill of Southwestern Pennsylvania
Tiffany Wilhelm
Resident, Opportunity Fund

subset: commoncrawl


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The Prince steps up!
Detroit Tigers: 91-64, 1st Place (6.0 ahead of Cleveland). Magic Number: 2
Well, time certainly does fly, flies like Prince Fielder scoring from first on a double, and comes barreling home to this my last regular season post. Time to get myself in playoff shape.
With a magic number down to 2, it is possible for the Tigers to celebrate the division title in front of the home fans. The Tigers need to beat Chicago today, and pull for the Astros to beat Cleveland (the games are simultaneous). I imagine there will be some scoreboard peaking.
The home fans were certainly treated to an exciting comeback win last night. I confess I had stopped paying attention when the White Sox started adding runs in the top of the 9th, but woke up when Torii tripled to lead off the bottom of the inning (there is something about triples that get your attention, more sustained excitement and crowd noise than the quicker home run blast).
9th inning summary:
That's a whole game's worth of action there. The last Tigers team to make up a deficit that large in the 9th inning: the 1947 team which featured George Kell.
OK, enough celebrating, here is the part of the blog where we get anxious. Miguel Cabrera had to leave the game early yesterday, and is now Day-To-Day with groin soreness. The Tigers are certainly capable of winning without Miguel Cabrera in the lineup, but…well, you want a healthy Miguel Cabrera in the lineup, and that might not be possible.
Jose Iglesias still is hampered by his bruised hand, and can't field grounders. He may miss the next series also.
If you have been wondering where Bruce Rondon has been, he has had some elbow soreness. He is scheduled to come back Tuesday, and is throwing a session in the bullpen today.
Today's Player of the Pre-game: Don Kelly. The Donkey makes everyone forget Miguel Cabrera with a key hit. OK, well not really (the Cabrera part I mean; I am calling the hit).
Today's Home Closing Lineup:
The Prince steps up!
4-run 9th inning comeback should be no problem.
Hmmm…..Avila is 3-3 and Pena pinch hits a double!
JL genius at work, Too bad I've gone over to the other side. 51%.
Detroit is now 5 games ahead of Cleveland. If you were to take out the head-to-head games, Cleveland is 6 games ahead of Detroit:
Cle 82-55 .599
Det 76-61 .554
Detroit's eventual division title will be completely a product of Detroit's ability to beat Cleveland, nothing more and nothing less.
Yes, but if you take out the Angels and A's, they're tied:
Det 73-51 .589
Cle 73-51 .589
Also, if you arbitrarily void all of Cleveland's wins, Detroit has a comfortable lead:
Det 91-65 .583
Cle 0-70 .000
A loss seemed almost inevitable after the incredible comeback. Panic is in order if they don't get right back with a win over the Twins. Don't want the Tigers to end up a footnote in the Indians storybook.
Inevitable or not, it was a serious drag on my Game Post League ambitions.
Relax. You're tied for first place, and there's a good chance the Tigers' spring training approach to the finale is going to cost me 2 of 3 in Miami.
You still have a shot at the wild card, Kevin.


text:
Railroad buffs still make tracks to Strasburg
Take a ride, see displays and relive those clickity-clack timesSeptember 25, 2015
STRASBURG, Lancaster County — Parents instinctively want to re-create their favorite childhood memories for their own children. When we adopted our son, now 5, he arrived with an innate love of trains that reflected and even outpaced my own childhood devotion to all things railroad. It was only a matter of time before we retraced my childhood visits to railroad sites in this Amish county town, with our tow-headed young'un in tow.
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Pregnant Nigerian Actress Uchenna Nnanna Gives Birth To Baby Boy[PICTURES]
Feb 2nd, 2015 – Pregnant Nollywood Actress Uchenna Nnanna Delivers Baby Boy For Husband [PHOTOS]
Popular Nollywood actress Uchenna Nnanna who married her Spain-based fiance last year April has delivered a bouncing baby boy.
Yesterday Uchenna gave birth to her first child in New York.
Her husband Uche Maduka made this known few hours ago.
A very big congrats to her.


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[photogallerylink id=84235 align=left]
Girls… in case you missed the latest [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]Justin Bieber[/lastfm] CSI episode, you may want to look away.
And definitely don't show this to any REALLY young fans… it could scar them for life.
Fellas… not so much the case for you. This is going to be like getting a Christmas and birthday gift all in one!
Girls… I'm sorry for your loss. Boys, how dope was that?!?!?
- What did you think of the (obviously) final Justin Bieber performance on CSI? Holla back in the comments section below!


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Webroot Introduces a Smarter Way to Adopt Endpoint and Mobile Protection with Innovative User-Based Pricing
New Approach Helps Enterprises and Strategic Partners Easily Deploy Webroot® SecureAnywhere™ Business Solutions Licensed by the User, on any Device
Mar 12, 2013, 13:34 ET from Webroot Inc.
BROOMFIELD, Colo., March 12, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Webroot, a leader in cloud-based security intelligence solutions, today launched Webroot SecureAnywhere Business User Protection Pricing. Unlike traditional fixed per device plans, the new flexible licensing program enables enterprise and service provider customers to leverage a user-based licensing model. Companies can now quickly and easily deploy Webroot SecureAnywhere endpoint and mobile protection services with a simple, straightforward licensing model that protects users across endpoints, mobile devices and physical servers and virtual servers—all in a single, user-based license to keep companies secure, anywhere.
(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20121016/LA94090LOGO)
Mobile devices are quickly becoming the security perimeter for the business network thanks in large part to the rise of the BYOD (bring your own device), which is responsible for doubling or even tripling the number of devices per user. With the constantly changing IT environment, guessing how many devices are in your infrastructure at any given moment is creating new IT challenges. When it comes to security, companies should not have to worry about tracking the number of devices on their network and instead should focus on what matters most—running their business.
Webroot SecureAnywhere Business User Protection Pricing allows businesses to leverage Webroot's innovative portfolio of SecureAnywhere endpoint and mobile protection solutions, powered by the world's most comprehensive cloud-based security intelligence and analysis engine. Unlike traditional security solutions, Webroot's security intelligence immediately protects all users against new threats, does not disrupt productivity and simplifies management. With Webroot's security cloud, users are protected anywhere and avoid the hassle of constant signature threat updates. The new flexible licensing program will enable companies to accelerate the delivery of SecureAnywhere solutions with a single license key, lower the cost of security operation, and provide a clear path to implementation.
Webroot SecureAnywhere Business User Protection Pricing provides:
- Simplicity: Stop counting devices and secure users on any device.
- Flexibility: Allow IT infrastructure and endpoints to expand and contract as the business needs change.
- Cost Savings: Licensing solution that accounts the daily changes without consuming resources.
- Assurance: Peace of mind that users are always protected.
"Webroot SecureAnywhere is the most innovative endpoint technology solution introduced into the marketplace in over a decade. We are augmenting our disruptive technology with an equally disruptive user-based pricing approach that will greatly benefit customers, service providers and strategic channel partners," said Jeff Santelices, vice president of Webroot Worldwide Demand Fulfillment. "The economics behind the user-based pricing model combined with our performance and efficacy will make the decision to standardize on Webroot SecureAnywhere straightforward. We fully expect the generous partner margins incorporated into the program to be a major incentive for convincing the channel to displace incumbent endpoint alternatives."
Webroot SecureAnywhere Business User Protection is available to new customers, renewing endpoint protection customers and endpoint customers who want to upgrade or add mobile protection from March 12, 2013 to June 30, 2013. To learn how your organization can enroll in this program visit http://www.webroot.com/wsauserprotection.
Webroot is bringing the power of software-as-a-service (SaaS) to Internet security with its suite of Webroot® SecureAnywhere™ offerings for consumers and businesses. Webroot also offers security intelligence solutions to organizations focused on cyber-security, such as Palo Alto Networks, F5, Corero, SOTI, NEC, FancyFon and others. Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Colorado, Webroot is the largest privately held security organization based in the United States. For more information, visit http://www.webroot.com or call 800.772.9383. Read the Webroot Threat Blog: http://blog.webroot.com. Follow Webroot on Twitter: http://twitter.com/webroot.
© 2013 Webroot Inc. All rights reserved. Webroot, SecureAnywhere, and Webroot SecureAnywhere are trademarks or registered trademarks of Webroot Inc. in the United States and other countries. All other trademarks are properties of their respective owners.
SOURCE Webroot Inc.


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Jimmy Riffle Net Worth


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3/6/14 Today, the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) released a new research report that found, in a single 24-hour period, more than 66,000 victims of domestic violence received help and support from service organizations in the United States, yet nearly 10,000 more who needed assistance could not be helped due to a lack of adequate resources. In Indiana, 1,708 victims received services in that 24-hour period, but 128 could not be helped because local programs here in Indiana didn't have sufficient resources. This data was gathered from 100% of the ICADV domestic violence member programs in Indiana. Click here for the Indiana statistics.
You are here: Home / Uncategorized / Domestic Violence Counts 2013 – A 24-Hour Census of Domestic Violence Shelters and Services


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Gordon earns award ... Barfield keys win
As the Lehigh Valley IronPigs sealed another series win Monday with their 4-3 win over Norfolk, a rare weekly honor was bestowed on the pitching staff.
Brian Gordon became just the third IronPig to be named the International League Pitcher of the Week for May 9-15.
The right-hander had a 0.36 ERA in 13.2 innings pitched last week including 6.2 shutout innings against Toledo that gave him his first win as a starter for Lehigh Valley.
"He's been very steady," IronPigs manager Ryne Sandberg says. "He's got a great demeanor on the mound.
"He sets a good pace for our infielders playing behind him and he seems to get good defensive plays because of that."
Steady does not seem to be the word to describe Gordon who started his professional career as an outfielder in the Arizona Diamondback system. After reaching Triple-A for three teams, he switched to the mound under the tutelage of Hall-of-Fame strikeout king Nolan Ryan.
Last season he served mainly as a long reliever for the IronPigs sporting a 1-3 record and a 3.46 ERA.
"He hits his spots and changes speeds with that slower curve ball that he has. He's on a nice little roll with every outing being consistent with quality," Sandberg added.
Gordon was moved to the rotation when Vance Worley got his shot with the Phillies after Roy Oswalt left the team to deal with the severe weather tragedy in the South. Now that Oswalt will be returning Tuesday, it is likely that Worley will be sent back to Lehigh Valley.
That is great news for Lehigh Valley fans as Worley proved he could successfully face major league hitting. What will be more interesting is to see who will be bounced from the IronPig rotation.
Gordon is not worried. He is having a blast in this role and would love to stay there if he had the choice. If he is returned to the bullpen, he is more than fine with that as well.
"I'm always throwing 'if you ever need a guy, let me be the one'," the 32-year-old Gordon described himself. "As long as they need me in this roll, I'll be there."
Monday Night's Win
The IronPigs got a lot of help from Norfolk in last night's win.
The star of the game was Josh Barfield who had three hits, including a line drive homer to left field. Brandon Moss followed with a double and later scored on Norfolk catcher John Hester's throwing error to give IronPigs a 2-1 lead.
Ronnie Belliard, who seems to be in the thick of the Lehigh Valley scoring game-in and game-out, doubled in the third with one out. He advanced to third on Tide's pitcher Rick VandenHurk's errant throw on a pick off. Delwyn Young struck out, but the wild pitch allowed him to advance to first and Belliard to score. Young score on Moss's RBI single to give Lehigh Valley a 4-1 lead.
Ryan Feierabend (2-2) picked up the win by allowing just two runs on four hits.
Chance Chapman and Mike Zagurski bridged the gap to David Herndon who struckout two of his perfect ninth inning for his first IronPigs save.
Battle for First Place
Having now won 15 of their last 23 games, Lehigh Valley (22-16) is in tied for first place and tie their franchise best six games over .500. More importantly, they will now travel up the PA Turnpike to face the Scranton Wilkes-Barre Yankees (21-15) for a four games series.
Lehigh Valley will start Nate Bump on Tuesday followed by Brian Bass, Eddie Bonine, and Gordon on Friday.
The IronPigs return to Coca-Cola Park on Saturday to start an eight game home stand that features the Gwinnett Braves and the Rochester Redwings for a pair of four game series.
Rich Thompson is 15-for 15 in stolen base attempts this season (403-486 83 percent) for his pro-career ... In the last six games, Brandon Moss is 7-19 (.368) with a pair of doubles, a homer, and three RBI ... Josh Barfield has hit in 10 of his last 13 games batting .354 (17-48) with four doubles, a triple, and a homer.


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Steven James decided his newest series for Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, should be science thrillers, not the psychological suspense of his popular Patrick Bowers series (The Rook, Revell, 2008; The Queen; Revell, 2011). He perused news sites for months looking for information on emerging technologies such as bionics, the topic of Singularity (Revell, Nov.), the second in The Jevin Banks Experience series.
"I tried to locate information on technology that would be available when the book came out, but wouldn't feel dated or old by then," says James. "I took what was out there and guessed what would be available in the future." James didn't want to write a traditional investigator as his main character, so he chose an escape artist, illusionist Jevin Banks, who is determined to find out what happened to his murdered friend and fellow illusionist Emilio Benigno. As he digs, Banks discovers only secrets and lies and a conspiracy that ties to an old enemy, RixoTray Pharmaceuticals, and faces down corporate giants once again in this sequel to Placebo (Revell, 2012).
"It's frightening to see weapons that can be given algorithms that allow them to choose when to fire," James says. "Right now humans are in the loop to do the actual firing—as in drones—but the day is coming when humans will be taken out of the loop." The problem then, James says, becomes "who is at fault if a machine makes a mistake by doing only what it's been programmed to do?"
Singularity addresses the moment when a machine fires on its handlers. "It's all about bionics, and the technology is out there," he says. "Recently I saw an announcement in the news about the military planning to mass produce exoskeletons. Those days are coming."
James says his books start with a question he's trying to explore, such as "What makes me different from those who do the unthinkable?" "What does it mean to forgive?" "What makes humans different from machines?"
Says James, who lives in eastern Tennessee with his family, "I'm able to think through my answers in my writing. I don't always start with an answer; a lot of the writing process is me sorting out where I stand on an issue. People appreciate that because memorable stories start with a big question."
James also has written inspirational nonfiction, including Flirting with the Forbidden: Finding Grace in a World of Temptation (Revell, 2012) and Story: Recapture the Mystery (Revell, 2006).


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Notes: Boone joins big league camp
Notes: Boone joins big league camp
The original plan was to have Boone, 38, play with the Minor Leaguers in the Accelerated Development Program, but general manager Jim Bowden felt that Boone was ready to play with the Major Leaguers because he is in great shape and still has the bat speed. To get more at-bats, Boone will also play in the accelerated-camp games in the morning and the Major League exhibition games in the afternoon.
"He's doing extremely well here, and he can certainly compete with everybody that's here," Bowden said. "So to hold him back for another four or five days would be foolish for what we are trying to do. Our window is pretty short with him. We didn't think he would be this far in advance. It's not like we are in a situation where we need him to lose weight. His body fat is 7 percent. It ranks second in the entire camp. His bat speed was like it was four or five years ago."
Boone, who was signed to Minor League deal last Monday, wants to be the starting second baseman and declined to accept a lesser role or play different positions. Bowden already announced early in the week that the team doesn't need a second baseman.
"Jim is the GM, and I'm going to do what he says I'm going to do," Boone said. "I'm going to get ready and see how it goes. So far, so good."
Their side of the story: Bowden confirmed on Saturday that the team is not close to giving a multiyear deal to third baseman Ryan Zimmerman.
Vowing not to break the bank, the Nationals are willing to give Zimmerman a contract that is similar to Rockies shortstop Troy Tulowitzki , who signed a six-year, $31 million contract Jan. 23.
According to Zimmerman's agent, Brodie Van Wagenen, he expects his client's contract to be automatically renewed. Zimmerman has less than three years of service time, and the Nationals can automatically renew his contract for 2008 before the March 11 deadline.
"We have tremendous respect for Brodie Van Wagenen and Ryan. We have a great relationship," Bowden said. "We made it very clear to Brodie and to Zim that if Ryan is willing to sign a contract that is somewhere to what all the other good young players are signing for, we are prepared to do that with him. We are not going to change the pay scale for one player."
MLB.com coverage | Schedule | Ballpark | Tickets
Odalis in the house: Left-hander Odalis Perez arrived in Spring Training on Saturday and already was working out with the team. Before practice, he said that the Red Sox offered him a deal, but he said he signed with the Nationals because he had the best chance to be in the rotation.
"I understand Boston is a winning team, but at the same time, I wanted to get the opportunity to comeback to the big leagues," Perez said. "I want to come to Spring Training and show these people that I have a lot of things to give.
If Perez makes the Major League club, he will earn $850,000, plus incentives. He can earn extra money if he makes 20 starts.
Perez, 30, is coming off one of his worst seasons in the big leagues, going 8-11 with a 5.57 ERA in 26 starts for the Royals. He didn't pitch after Aug. 18 because of a sprained left knee.
"I would say the past is the past," Perez said. "I would say that this is the first time in my career I worked so hard. I feel like I'm in shape. I just want to get the ball every five days and show to this team that I have a lot to give."
Let's switch: Perez was supposed to wear No. 49 for the Nationals, but he will now wear No. 45, which was originally worn by Chris Schroder. Perez has worn No. 45 for most of his career.
On the mound: Right-hander Shawn Hill threw batting practice for the first time this spring and didn't have any problems. His fastball had some pop to it, but he acknowledged that he was mediocre with his breaking pitches.
"The fastball was pretty good today, but the offspeed stuff needed a lot of work," Hill said. "That's the whole point of going through these exercises. "Overall, once I get going, it has been feeling pretty good."
Visa issues Catcher Jesus Flores was expected to fly to Viera on Saturday and be in camp on Sunday.
Bill Ladson 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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I've done DH Uplifts a couple of times at FoD and fancy riding the Verderer's Trail as I enjoyed how jumpy/swoopy and generally good fun it is.
But, looking at the info about Verderer's it's only 7 miles long, which makes it hard to justify a road trip to get there/back.
Is it possible to link Verderers with other trails at FoD to make a big loop?
Any recommendations?


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Why fans of America's Team shouldn't lose sleep over players who used to be Cowboys
When a player leaves a team and finds success with another franchise, fans of the original team criticize that club for allowing the player to depart. In Dallas' case, it's safe to say not many players made the Cowboys look bad this season. To prove that, SportsDay's Jon Machota has listed 30 former Cowboys and how they performed in 2013.
Will Allen, S. Played in 12 games with Pittsburgh after being released by the Cowboys in October. Allen finished with 34 tackles and one interception for the Steelers.
Alan Ball, CB. Started 15 games for Jacksonville, recording 47 tackles, two interceptions and 14 pass breakups.
Martellus Bennett, TE. Started 15 games for Chicago, catching 65 passes for 759 yards and five touchdowns.
Stephen Bowen, DE. Started 10 games for Washington, recording 19 tackles.
Kevin Burnett, LB. Finished with 105 tackles and 2.5 sacks for Oakland. It was the third consecutive season he recorded over 100 tackles.
Victor Butler, OLB. Tore his ACL in June and missed the entire season for New Orleans.
Chris Canty, DE. Started 13 games for Baltimore. Canty had 30 tackles, two sacks and two forced fumbles.
Scott Chandler, TE. Played in all 16 games, starting seven for Buffalo. Chandler caught 53 passes for 655 yards and two touchdowns.
Tashard Choice, RB. Played in 12 games for Buffalo before joining Indianapolis for three regular season games and the playoffs. He totaled 170 yards on 46 carries.
Kenyon Coleman, DE. Tore a pectoral muscle in August and missed the entire season for New Orleans.
Dan Connor, LB. Played in five games for Carolina and one for the New York Giants, recording a total of four tackles.
Anthony Fasano, TE. Missed some time with a concussion but started nine regular season games for Kansas City. Fasano, who caught 23 passes for 200 yards and three TDs, was also in the starting lineup for the Chiefs' playoff loss to Indianapolis.
Tony Fiammetta, FB. Played in 16 games, starting seven for Chicago. He caught four passes for 57 yards.
Nick Folk, K. Played in all 16 games for the New York Jets. Folk made 33 of 36 field goal tries with his longest coming from 54 yards.
Andre Gurode, C. Played in 10 games for Oakland, starting four.
Andre Holmes, WR. Played in 10 games, starting four for Oakland. Had seven catches for 136 yards against the Cowboys in Week 13. Holmes finished with 25 receptions for 431 yards and one TD.
Mike Jenkins, CB. Recorded 65 tackles, six pass breakups and two interceptions in 15 starts for Oakland.
Adam Jones, CB. Finished with 56 tackles, 14 pass breakups and three interceptions in 13 starts for Cincinnati.
Felix Jones, RB. Played in 16 games, starting two for Pittsburgh. Jones finished with 184 yards and no touchdowns on 48 carries. He caught nine passes for 63 yards.
Sean Lissemore, NT. Played in 15 games, starting two for San Diego. Lissemore totaled 24 tackles, two sacks and an interception. He did not play in either of the Chargers' playoff games.
Mat McBriar, P. Played in nine games for Pittsburgh, punting 40 times for a 35.0 net average.
Bryan McCann, DB. Played in six games for Arizona, recording two tackles.
Brian Moorman, P. Played in 11 games for Buffalo, averaging 41.2 yards per punt.
Terence Newman, CB. Recorded 52 tackles, 14 pass breakups and two interceptions in 13 starts for Cincinnati.
Kevin Ogletree, WR. Played in 12 games, starting one for Detroit. Ogletree caught 13 passes for 199 yards and one touchdown.
John Phillips, TE. Played in 15 games, starting six for San Diego. Phillips had four receptions for 30 yards.
Jeremiah Ratliff, DT. Played in five games, starting four for Chicago. Ratliff, who was released by the Cowboys in October, had nine tackles and 1.5 sacks.
Marcus Spears, DE. Played in five games, starting one for Baltimore. He finished with 10 tackles.
Shaun Suisham, K. Played in all 16 games for Pittsburgh. Suisham made 30 of 32 field goal tries with his longest coming from 48 yards.
Jason Williams, LB. Played in 11 games for Carolina, recording four tackles.


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Hyundai has taken a leaf out of Kia Australia's book with progressive localisation of its vehicle lineup. Latest to benefit from the Aussie touch is the popular Hyundai ix35, with a Series II of the popular small SUV that's been around for a few years now. Hyundai says the changes enhance the vehicle's value for money and a look at the spec' sheet gives little to complain about.
They've had a crack at the suspension set up for better ride comfort in addition to sharper handling and made it more resilient to local conditions. Other changes have been made to its appearance inside and out and mechanical upgrades include new direct-injection petrol engines.
Explore the 2014 Hyundai iX35 Range
- Hyundai ix35 2014 review
- Hyundai ix35 Series II 2014 review: snapshot
- Hyundai ix35 Highlander diesel 2014 review
- Hyundai ix35 2014 review: video
- Hyundai ix35 Elite diesel 2014 review
- Hyundai ix35 Highlander 2014 review: long term 2
- Hyundai ix35 Series II 2014 review
- Hyundai ix35 Highlander 2.4 2014 review: snapshot
On the outside are projection headlights with LED positioning lights, aerodynamic roof rails and new alloy wheels. Inside is new seat upholstery on the entry level Active variants, more upmarket door trims on Elite and top-spec Highlander variants, two-way adjustable split rear bench seat and more.
Engine / Transmission / Suspension
Under the bonnet is a new petrol engine range in 2.0 and 2.4 litre capacities complementing the diesel. The 2.0L GDI engine achieves 122kW/205Nm while the 2.4L GDI in Elite and Highlander is good for 136kW/240Nm. Both use less fuel and generate fewer emissions along with performance gains.
The 2.0L diesel remains the same achieving some 135kW/392Nm with 7.2L/100km fuel economy. The base model now gets a six-speed, rather than five-speed manual gearbox, alongside the six-speed automatic that is standard across the rest of the range.
Other mechanical changes are to the steering now with quicker-ratio power assistance. The suspension has been fine tuned with changes to the coils, front and rear stabiliser bars and a bushing mounted engine sub-frame.
Price and features
Pricing for the front wheel drive 2.0-litre petrol six speed manual starts at $26,990. The ix35 Series II gets standard Bluetooth telephone and audio streaming, six-speaker audio including tweeters, steering wheel audio controls, USB auto input with iPod compatibility, auxiliary audio input jack and rear roof-mounted aerial. Safety rating is 5-star ANCAP.
We had a good spin in the diesel Elite covering some 500km and a stint on Fraser Island's sand tracks. On the road the ix is a delight with high levels of comfort and excellent throttle response with minimal noise or vibration. See a gap in the traffic, push the accelerator and you're there. Come to a set of corners and it's a lot like the i30 dynamically.
But the deep sand stopped it after about 6km of darting across the soft Fraser sand. Even with 4WD lock and the stability control switched off it was a case of "get the snatch strap." We were expecting way too much of the little SUV but on rough dirt roads, in the snow or on firm beach sand it would be a handy tool.
We know why they are so popular — practical, comfy, stylish and well featured at a hot price.


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Society columnist George Christy may have roughly exited the pages of The Hollywood Reporter ten years ago, but his showbiz memory bank remains formidable. He can reach back at any time far beyond the realm of most of today's red carpet crew.
In his latest Beverly Hills Courier dispatch, Christy connects a recent United Friends of the Children gala honoring Annenberg Foundation chairwoman Wallis Annenberg to a long-ago dinner at the desert home occupied by her parents Walter (pictured) and Ronnie Dunkleman (a.k.a. "Wally"). At the time, Christy was the wine editor for Good Food, an Annenberg publication:
Dining of an evening with Wally and Walter at their duchy in Rancho Mirage with its collection of French Impressionist art, we introduced them to the sparkling wines created by Jamie and Jack Davies of Schramsberg Vineyards in the Napa Valley. Impressed and proud that America was producing wines of high quality, Walter quickly convinced President Nixon that for his upcoming breakthrough visit to China, he must allow ample cases of the Schramsberg sparkling wines as America's gift to the premier and his country.
Christy goes on to note how the international media went crazy over Nixon's decision to choose a domestic champagne vintage over something more traditional (read: French). Vive la domestic difference!


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Rus Tourism News
16 March 2012 - Rus Tourism News
World Travel Awards, "the Oscars of the travel industry", has unveiled the regional nominees for its 2012 programme.
European organisations in contention include Lufthansa, Air Berlin, Kuoni, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Bulgari Hotels & Resorts and Europcar. All will now go head to head at WTA's Europe Ceremony, which is set to take place at the new Conrad Algarve, Portugal on 6 October 2012.
The number of organisations self nominating in 2012 has increased by 17 percent year-on-year, reflecting the growing awareness of the global coverage and commercial benefits that accompany WTA success.
Online voting has now opened and WTA is urging both the travel trade and the public to vote for their favourite travel brands.
Graham E. Cooke, Founder & President, WTA, says: "As the tension surrounding the regional ceremonies builds, we are looking forward to revealing the leading players and tracking their progress as they head to our Grand Final 2012 in December."
"In these times of global economic austerity, the ability to pinpoint quality travel products remains paramount to both business and consumer travellers. Winning a World Travel Award is a brand's gold seal of travel excellence, which is why our 2012 programme has attracted a record number of nominees," he adds.
More than 5,000 organisations from 162 countries will compete in travel and tourism's most influential awards programme. More than 900 categories cover all aspects of the industry from airlines and cruise ships to ski resorts and new luxury hotels.
WTA's 2012 Grand Tour includes regional legs in Dubai (Middle East Ceremony), Turks & Caicos (Caribbean & The Americas Ceremony), Nairobi, Kenya (Africa & Indian Ocean Ceremony), The Algarve, Portugal (Europe Ceremony) and Singapore (Asia & Australasia Ceremony). The winners of these regional heats will progress to the Grand Final, which will take place at The Oberoi, Gurgaon, New Delhi, India in December.
Log on to www.worldtravelawards.com/nominees2012-8 to see the full list of nominees.
To vote for your favourite travel brand visit www.worldtravelawards.com/vote.
About World Travel Awards
World Travel Awards was launched in 1993 to acknowledge and recognise excellence in the global travel and tourism industry. Now celebrating its 19th anniversary, it is regarded as the very highest achievement that a travel product can receive.
Main partners include Qatar Tourism Authority, BBC World News, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, Jebel Ali International, the Jamaica Tourist Board, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, World.mobi, Sandals Resorts and WeClickMedia.
WTA's global media partner network includes: CNBC Arabiya, Khaleej Times, Trade Arabia, TTN ABTA Magazine, ASTA Network, Breaking Travel News, eTurboNews, Trav Talk, Travel Daily News International, Focus on Travel News, Vox Africa, New Focus Travel Magazine, Tourism Review, JAX FAX, Passport Magazine, Travel & Leisure China and National Geographic Traveller.
Source: Rus Tourism News


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Bones of John The Baptist Possibly Discovered
A team of researchers believe a knuckle bone found buried beneath a Bulgarian church may belong to John the Baptist, the New Testament prophet who heralded the ministry of Jesus.
The archaeologists from Oxford University were surprised that the bones dated from the first century AD, the time of John's life, and the DNA was consistent with a person of Near East heritage.
Scientists cautioned that although the bones discovered in a marble sarcophagus on the remote Black Sea island Sveti Ivan, Bulgarian for John the Baptist, bare intriguing similarities to those belonging to the biblical martyr it is impossible to conclusively prove they are John's remains.
When first excavating the site two years ago, Bulgarian researchers discovered alongside the sarcophagus another small box made from volcanic ash and bearing an ancient Greek inscription referencing John and his feast day as well as a personal prayer asking God to "help your servant Thomas."
There is some historical evidence, researchers say, to support a theory that John's bones were removed from Jerusalem and brought to Constantinople, called Istanbul today, then the capital of the Roman Empire in a box resembling the sarcophagus found on Sveti Ivan.
Source: ABC News
An interesting discovery and theory, which might have some merit to it with dating. But as the archaeologists and scientists involved mention and make very clear, it's impossible to say for certain whether or not the remains are of John the Baptist.
Of course there's a TV special lined up for the discovery on National Geographic (what, NOT Discovery Channel?) which will be aired on June 17. So, the hype will begin.
John the Baptist is venerated as a saint by many Christian denominations. According to the Bible, he was decapitated on the orders of King Herod. The reasons surrounding this are a bit cloudy.


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Trading in pedigree: the Hong Kong experiment
THREE years ago the Council of the British Thoroughbred Breeders' Association was asked to consider whether it would co-operate in the staging of a yearling sale in Hong Kong. As members of that august body are apt to do, they hummed and they haaed, set the matter down for further consideration at a later meeting, deferred that discussion, then hummed and haaed again. Eventually, as had been odds-on from the start, they opted not to get involved, citing a variety of reasons and omitting the real one - fear of the unknown.
But the spirit of adventure was not lacking in the Commercial Thoroughbred Breeder's Association of Australia, and tonight Happy Valley will host that long-awaited sale - not of yearlings, but of two-year-olds bred to southern hemisphere time. Within an hour or two we shall know whether the enterprising Australians or the dithering British got it right. We shall also know if there is a future for a concept that has been a long while in gestation.
On paper, the selection of horses looks promising, and care has obviously been taken to present individuals calculated to be suited to Hong Kong racing conditions. A bold venture of this kind deserves to succeed, but it remains to be seen whether the market will view it quite as positively as its promoters. The following thoughts on the horses scheduled for sale are based on a lifetime's study of pedigrees that remains obstinately fallible and on impressions gained from photographs published in the catalogue. Closer inspection of the individuals, particularly with reference to how they move, would doubtless reveal much more than I am able to deduce and I have been taken by surprise by the furore over the five 'rigs'.
1. ch c Kenmare - A Little Love (J O Tobin) Kenmare has proved much the best of Kalamoun's sons at stud, having collected a couple of sires' championships in France before making a strong impression again in Australia. Few of his stock are pretty, so it seems of no great concern that this one is of the plain sort. His dam was a bad runner by a bad sire, but she has plenty of good elements in her pedigree, and it is not altogether surprising that she has already managed to produce one top-notch performer in A Little Kiss, winner of the Queensland Oaks. Overall this colt's pedigree is not impressive, and it seems doubtful whether sire and dam were ideally matched. (Possible rig).
2. gr c Kenmare - Delightful Belle (Balmerino) Another son of Kenmare, he is a horse of a different colour, the only grey in the sale. Though not a thing of beauty - somewhat coarse, weak behind and seemingly a shade back at the knee - he is full brother to a filly who could run a bit and half-brother to three winners, one of them a proficient sprinter by Danehill. His dam, by international star Balmerino, was foaled in New Zealand and became a high-class sprinter/miler in Australia, two of her 10 wins coming in Group Two company. The family has known success in Hong Kong before - through Top Performance, a product of the dam's half-sister Chantilly Belle.
3. b c Marscay - Dream Appeal (Valid Appeal) A good-topped, strong-looking colt, slightly over at the knee (which is not necessarily a fault), he has excellent bone and has plenty to commend him on pedigree. His sire won the Golden Slipper and has headed the Australian sires' list, an achievement in which he emulated both his sire and his paternal grandsire. His American-foaled dam ran only once and showed nothing, but she has proved an excellent broodmare, her five winners including one filly successful at Group One level in South Africa and another in Group Three company in Australia. The latter was by Marscay, advertising the suitability of this mating, and that is a point driven home by the fine sprinting form of Kidman's Cove, by Marscay out of a daughter of Dream Appeal.
4. ch c Zeditave - Even True (True Statement) Quite a light-bodied, but passably well-made colt by a sire who earned over A$1.2 million while winning 14 races up to 1,600 metres, five of them at Group One level, and has seemingly made a respectable start at stud. Both the stallion's grandsires were top-class two-year-olds in England. There is speed on both sides of this pedigree, as his dam won 11 times (including seven in a row) up to 1,400 metres, and her own dam's half-sister Testimony notched 13 wins up to the same distance. Both raced to Group Three-winning standard. The family tends to produce the odd good winner, rather than a profusion of them, and this is the third produce of a mare who has yet to have a starter.
5. b c Snaadee - Fair Astrologer (Quack) Described as brown in the catalogue, but obviously bay, promises to develop into quite a good-looker. His sire's merits at stud are unknown, as he was still racing in England as a five-year-old in 1992, when he registered his career-best performance in the Group Three Temple Stakes over 1,000 metres; he was a moody character who could not be depended upon to do his best, but a good sprinter when he felt like it. The colt's dam was unraced and by a sire with a moderate record, but she has already bred a Grade One winner in America. Her own dam was a top-class performer (10 wins from 18 starts) in England, and her descendants have won stakes races all over.
6. b c Last Tycoon - Gun Lady (Thatching) This fellow is not one of the more robust-looking specimens in the catalogue, seeming somewhat weak in front. His sire was a gifted sprinter/miler of Group One calibre in Europe and America, and he swiftly made an impression at stud in both hemispheres, heading the table in Australia in 1993-94. This year his stock have been very quiet in Europe, but further successes Down Under and in Japan have come his way. A foal by him was sold at Newmarket last Saturday for 240,000 guineas, highest price for one of her sex in the sale. The colt's dam was a modest two-year-old winner and has already bred a stakes-winning juvenile in Australia, but there have been few top-class performers in the family in recent generations.
7. ch c Marscay - Heavenly Body (Grosvenor) The second son of Marscay on offer is by no means a striking individual, with a pair of hind legs that he could not have got from his mother, assuming she was aptly named. In fact he is a bit of a plain individual, but handsome is as handsome does at the track, where winners turn up in all shapes and sizes. His dam, by a top-class son of the outstanding sire Sir Tristram, won only a maiden and a minor handicap in her native New Zealand, but stepped up in class to land the Group One South Australian Oaks after she had crossed the Tasman. She comes from the family of excellent antipodean performers Uncle Remus, Cossack Warrior and Cossack Prince, and her son may well do best when raced beyond a mile.
8. b c Palace Music - Hyeres (Gay Mecene) The three sons of Palace Music are among the most interesting in the sale, and not just because their sire is responsible for Cigar, probably the best racehorse in the world in 1995. Sons of The Minstrel were apt to be shunned at stud after several early failures, so few people expected much of Palace Music (winner of England's Group One Champion Stakes), but he has done the business, particularly Down Under, where Naturalism (who cost A$30,000 and earned almost A$3.3 million) achieved real stardom.
This attractive, close-coupled colt, out of a mare by one of Vaguely Noble's best sire-sons, represents an excellent family. His dam's half-sister produced Erhaab, winner of the Derby in 1994.
9. b c Sunny's Halo - Key To The Gates (Key To The Mint) It seemed an odd idea to mate a mare of modest racing distinction, by a bad sire and from a worse family, with the highly bred and successful sire Halo, but the result was the Kentucky Derby winner Sunny's Halo, who has gone on to confound the 'experts' again by getting his share of high-class progeny at stud. His son here is quite a well-topped colt, if somewhat less admirable about the legs, and he has some fancy pedigree connections on his distaff side, though neither dam nor grand-dam managed to win a race. His dam is a half-sister to a minor stakes winner in the US; his grand-dam was full sister to French Classic winner Nishapour and half-sister to American Group One victor Nassipour, both of whom enjoyed their measure of success as sires.
10. ch c Salieri - Kilmarie (Bletchingly) Salieri's pedigree seemed all too obscure for the British market when he turned up in a yearling sale at Newmarket, and the bidding for him stopped at 8,000 guineas. Nevertheless he turned out to be a top-class runner up to 1,400 metres, and at the end of his second season he was sold again - for A$2 million! He has made his mark at stud in New South Wales, most conspicuously as the sire of the magnificent grey sprinter Schillaci. His son here is a well-made, strong-quartered sort from a good Australian sprinting background. The fifth foal of his dam, he will surely become her fifth winner; three of the four to date have scored in stakes company. (Rig) 11. b c Last Tycoon - Kiss Me Not (Kenmare) The second of the Last Tycoons owns a pedigree that features champion sires all over the place, but he is not as photogenic as such illustrious lineage might suggest, being somewhat deficient in the foreleg department. He is the first foal of an unraced - and presumably unsound - mare whose classiest close relation was her half-brother Blazing Saddles, a fast and precocious colt who subsequently became the sire of one (and only one) good sprinter in England, the admirable Mr Brooks. There was a fair amount of stamina in the family a couple of generations ago, but the accent more recently has been on sprinting, albeit not always to a high standard.
12. b c Marauding - Mystical Sunrise (Northfields) Another of the many good sons of Sir Tristram, Marauding won the Golden Slipper during a brief racing career, then became an instant hit at stud as Australia's leading first season sire in 1991-92. This colt looks plain almost to the point of coarseness about the head and neck, and one might wish for a better slope to his pasterns, but less appealing sights are to be seen in winner's circles every day of the week. He is the third foal of his dam, who won twice in the US herself and has already delivered one sprint winner. A half-sister to a Group One-winning two-year-old in Italy, she is a daughter of Northfields, whose record as a broodmare sire has exceeded expectations. (Possible rig).
13. ch c Palace Music - Neensie (Solitary Hail) The second Palace Music colt proclaims his descent from The Minstrel in his bright chestnut coat and distinctive markings, and in parts of his outline, too. If he does not show the same quality, or the same power behind the saddle, that is not too surprising; there was never a true facsimile of the old horse. He is the fifth foal of his dam, whose first four are all winners, among them a colt who won the Group One Rosehill Guineas in Sydney. Unraced herself, the mare is half-sister to Shaybisc, a filly who not only raced with great distinction at two and three, winning four Group races, but also has two Group winners among her seven successful progeny. (Rig).
14. b c Zoffany - Only A Rumour (Francis Bacon) Foaled on November 30, here is the latest foal in the book, more than three months younger than some of the others. He may perhaps be excused some lack of development on that score, though his comparatively weak appearance seems bound to inhibit him in the marketplace. His sire was a decent horse in England who developed into a star performer on grass in California, and he has acquired some respect at stud without hitting the heights. The dam won three races and has produced three winners from four foals to race, one of them a daughter of Zoffany who has notched three victories. The family is not exciting, but it throws up a top performer from time to time.
15. b c Danehill - Out Of Danger (Atilla) Danehill is just a respectable sire in Europe, but an exceptional sire, judged on his results, in Australia, where he headed the list in 1994-95. A sprinter himself, he has proved capable of getting precocious two-year-olds who train on and stay Classic distances in their second season. He even had the runner-up in the recent 3,200-metre Melbourne Cup. There is no rule saying that they have to be good-looking to win, and this colt, though out of a top-class performer and half-brother to a multiple Group One winner who earned nearly A$2 million, would not win a beauty contest. He is certainly plain, devoid of any striking physical characteristics, but that is not to say that he will not be able to run.
16. b c Palace Music - Parsimony (Beau Sovereign) There is a touch of quality about this colt, who seemingly has the potential to develop into quite an imposing individual. He is unlikely to be as precocious as His Prego half-sister Lusso, a Group Three winner as a two-year-old, but it is not hard to visualise him excelling later, like his Esperanto half-brother Laranto, who scored in Group Three company and was placed third at Group One level. The first five foals of the mare (herself a two-year-old winner and Group Three-placed) are all winners and this is number six. He should follow suit and promises to race to a high standard, judged on pedigree and conformation.
17. b c Bellotto - Pure Of Heart (Godswalk) Seemingly a neat and well-made colt, this chap is the 10th foal of his dam, who was conceived in Ireland to southern hemisphere time, imported in utero to Australia, and proceeded to become a top-notch performer there from 1,000 metres to 1,400 metres. In due course her sire also went Down Under, as first in the new wave of so-called 'shuttle stallions', and he compiled an impressive record there, far better than in Ireland. Pure Of Heart has bred five winners from seven to race, and she seems well matched with this colt's sire, who ran second in the 2,000 Guineas and third in the Derby, and has begun promisingly as a sire.
18. ch c Marauding - Severe (Keen) There is a lot to like about this fellow, who has size, substance and a deal of power behind the saddle; physically he impresses considerably more than the other product of his sire, lot 12. The second foal of a two-year-old winner at Moonee Valley whose sire is now based at England's National Stud, he also has a pedigree with considerable appeal. He is closely related to the excellent race-filly Burst (by Marauding out of his grand-dam), who won seven races - three in Group One as a two-year-old and earned over A$2 million. She did not win beyond 1,600 metres, but was placed in the Victorian Oaks at 2,400 metres. Grand-dam Sudden (by St Leger winner Boucher) was a Group One-placed two-year-old and full-sister to Artist Man, placed in the Queensland and West Australian Derbys.
19. Withdrawn 20. ch c Kenmare - Star Lead (Star Way) Here is a colt who shows a bit more quality than many by his sire, though he appears a little upright on his pasterns and lacks some strength behind the saddle. He is quite a sharp-looking sort, which might seem surprising in view of his female pedigree, where the emphasis is more on stamina than speed. Grand-dam Starzaan won the Group One AJC Oaks and was a daughter of the dour stayer Zamazaan; her half-brother Rocket Racer also appreciated long distances, winning a Group One Perth Cup. For all that, this colt's dam produced only one foal before him, and that was his full-brother, whose four wins have come between 1,200 metres and 1,400 metres.
21. b c Danehill - Stater (Kaoru Star) If the photographic evidence in the catalogue is to be believed, this is the most impressive physical specimen on parade; though one of the later foals and a possible rig, he seems to lack nothing in development, shows good, clean joints and conveys an impression of power. He comfortably outshines the other product of his sire, lot 15, and is out of a younger mare who is not only well-enough bred, but could run a bit herself and has produced one fine and durable performer in Deposition (15 wins in all, seven of them in succession) in addition to three lesser winners. It would not be altogether surprising if this turned out to be the sale-topper. (Possible rig).
22. ch c Bluebird - Subdue (Conquistador Cielo) Here is a leggy, rangy specimen, by a horse who is probably better appreciated in Australia, yet who has produced the best 1,200 metres sprinter in Europe this year, Lake Coniston. Although Bluebird himself excelled at 1,000 metres, many of his stock stay quite well, and this colt might turn out more than a miler if his dam's pedigree is any guide. Unraced herself, and by a horse who has proved disappointing at stud, she is a half-sister to the effective American grass horse Glow (a poor sire in Ireland) and out of a half-sister to the dam of Caerleon, winner of the French Derby and sire of Classic-calibre performers all over Europe. Nevertheless, the dam's first two foals are winners at sprint distances.
23. br c Salieri - Super Brenna (Super Concorde) The second of the Salieris seems quite a sharp sort, perhaps a little straight in his forelegs, but with the look of a runner about him. He is the third foal of his dam, who did not race, but who has already delivered a winner over 1,550 metres. The mare is half-sister to four winners of stakes races in America, two of whom showed a bit of form at Graded level, but this is not a family that has excelled in the highest class there in recent generations. But the most notable performances have been achieved further afield, by Corona Miss in Group Two company in Australia, and by her son Danzadanzer, winner of the Singapore Gold Cup.
24. ch g Rory's Jester - Tidal (New Regent) Winner of the Golden Slipper and a stud success since his first runners reached the racecourse, Rory's Jester is a major supplier of speed to the Australian bloodstock industry. This gelding is certainly no oil painting, 'common' being perhaps a more appropriate description than 'plain', but he comes from a family that habitually throws up sprint winners, and occasionally - like the dam's half-sister Angst - a runner of real distinction up to 1,600 metres.
25. b c Canny Lad - Time (Imperial Prince) Another mis-described as brown in the catalogue, this colt comes from only the second crop by a champion two-year-old and Golden Slipper winner. What is more, he seems quite a pleasing specimen, with no obvious physical defects. He has a nicely balanced pedigree, which seems to offer him options at a variety of distances, although his dam, her only winner to date and his dam's half-sister all did best at around 1,200 metres. Grand-dam Visit was a top performer at 1,600 metres and came from more of a staying background, a son of her half-sister Lesson having placed third in the Caulfield Cup.
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Now that the NFL has decided to start playing games abroad in an attempt to extend their global fanbase, we at KSK have taken it upon ourselves to begin a multi-part series schooling our international friends in all things NFL. Up next: France!
Greetings, Frenchmen! Welcome to Kissing Suzy Kolber. We're here today to promote Roger Goodell's global agenda and convince you of the Truth: that the NFL is the greatest sports league on the planet. Now, there are a lot of ugly stereotypes about the French: they're snobby, their women don't shave their armpits, they're genetically inferior weaklings since consecutive World Wars wiped out two generations of physically fit men. But that's a bit overblown. In truth, many French women shave their armpits.
Please note, people of France, that I like your country. I selected you in the country draft, after all. Sure, I regret taking four years of French class in high school and college, as not speaking Spanish has been a huge impediment to my Latina fetish. But I've visited L'Hexagone from Gay Paree (which was gay) to Nice (which was nice), so I think I know what you fine Frogs can appreciate about the NFL… and a few things you may choose to pass on as well.
Things about the NFL that will make you say, "FORMIDABLE!"
– Parisians are obnoxious, have overblown senses of self, and know little about their own country outside of their immediate geography. Which means they should find an immediate kinship with New England fans.
– Rampant, institutional racism gives French a head start on becoming talking heads who claim whites are better suited to play quarterback.
– John Madden's skull rumored to be filled with delicious triple-creme Brie.
– Meteoric rise to stardom of Kurt Warner, followed by his collapse into mediocrity and obscurity, reminiscent of Juliette Binoche.
– Very few Muslims.
– TJ Houshmandzadeh: Persian, not Arab. So it's okay to like him.
– Pétanque, a kind of lawn-bowling, is the most popular "sport" in France. Good news: fantasy football requires even less physical activity!
– No French NFL player has embarrassed himself with sorry attempts at rapping and an engagement to a B-list TV star on the decline. Suck on that, NBA.
– Descendants of Charles de Gaulle and the Free French will appreciate the Cleveland Browns' outward defiance of their enemies while they get their asses handed to them.
– In an attempt to gain French support, the Houston Texans' offensive linemen have been renamed "the Maginot Line."
– Drinking absinthe an excellent way to deal with cheering for Arizona Cardinals.
Things about the NFL that will make you say, "ZUT ALORS!
– Fans of La Cage aux Folles may find Brady Quinn too gay.
– Long snappers Jean-Phillippe "J.P." Darche (Chiefs) and Louis-Phillippe "L.P." Ladouceur (Cowboys) forced to go by initials due to Americans' inability to accept faggy French names.
– Despite Gene Upshaw's obvious likeness to Vichy France, he still hasn't been able to round up all the Jews in the NFL.
– Cheeseheads worn by Packers fans actually made of foam, and thus far inferior to Camembert helmets worn in Normandy.
– Drinking wine at an NFL game is a huge faux pas. Except in the luxury boxes. And San Francisco.
– No chance of Roger Goodell getting the Marie Antoinette treatment.
– Frenchmen visiting America's southern coast for football will be disappointed learn that Jacksonville and New Orleans aren't exactly the Riviera.
– Robots featured in FOX telecasts terrifying to cheese-eatin' surrender monkeys.
– Steelers fans reminiscent of Basque separatists.
Bonne chance, mes amis! And remember, if some clown in a Cowboys jersey tries to tell you how America is far superior to your homeland, politely remind him that the drinking age in France is twelve.


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Arabic Summer Institute Program Overview
The Arabic Flagship Program and the Department of Middle Eastern Studies at The University of Texas at Austin are proud to offer the Arabic Summer Institute (ASI), providing an intensive language and culture program for beginning, intermediate, and advanced students of Arabic.
Program at a Glance
- Intensive ten-week summer program equivalent to one full academic year
- Open to all qualified students (competitive admission by application)
- Meets FLAS fellowship requirements
Program Dates
- Orientation and mandatory listening and reading tests will be administered June 5 - 6, 2018
- Classes run from June 7 - August 17, 2018 (Intersession break July 13 - 15, 2018)
With the largest full-time Arabic faculty in the country, more courses at all levels of Arabic, and a thriving events and cultural environment, UT's Department of Middle Eastern Studies is now rated among the best in the country. Set in friendly Austin, our program and our University are committed to continually expanding our curriculum to help students meet their academic goals. The Arabic Summer Institute illustrates our continued commitment to excellence.
The ASI is open to all qualified students (competitive admission by application), and exceptional high school students are welcome to apply. This program will feature:
- An intensive ten-week summer program equivalent to one full academic year
- Beginning, Intermediate & Advanced training combining instruction in MSA and Colloquial Arabic
- Communicative teaching methodology that emphasizes all four language skills equally: speaking, reading, writing and listening
- 21 contact hours per week
- Weekly Dardasha (chat) classes and daily Open Tutoring opportunities to develop oral skills
- A fully incorporated cultural program with lectures, films, hands-on workshops and guest speakers
- Competitive cost of attendance
- Dedicated, supportive faculty trained in Arabic pedagogy
- A Student Support advisor to provide tutoring, advice and guidance
Instruction is based on a pedagogical approach in which students gain competency in both MSA and colloquial Arabic. All ASI courses consist of two sessions: June 7 – July 12 (session 1), and July 16 – August 17 (session 2). Final exams are administered at the end of each session, with continuation to session 2 conditional upon earning a final grade of "C+" or higher in session 1.
Arabic Course Listing
Beginning Level, 12 credit hours, ARA 601C & ARA 611C
Intermediate Level, 12 credit hours, ARA 621K & ARA 621L
Advanced Level, 10 credit hours, ARA 531K & ARA 531L
Please note: These courses do not provide in residence credit at UT.
Beginning Arabic "First Year"
This course supports students with no prior knowledge of the Arabic language in developing strong communication skills in formal and colloquial Arabic. Beginning with a focus on reading, pronouncing and recognizing Arabic sounds, the course progresses quickly toward developing intermediate reading, writing, speaking and listening proficiency as well as cultural competence. Beginning Arabic prepares students to communicate with others about daily life topics, understand simple texts on familiar topics, and to actively use a vocabulary of approximately 600 words. Beginning students strive to reach Intermediate proficiency according to the ACTFL language proficiency guidelines by the end of the summer [1]. Students should expect to spend four to five hours of daily homework and preparation in reading, writing and listening. Course requirements include active participation in class and ASI cultural events, daily homework, occasional presentations, quizzes and tests.
Texts used in this level:
- Alif Baa: Introduction to Arabic Letters and Sounds (Third Edition)
- Al-Kitaab fii Ta'allum al-'Arabiyya with DVDs: A Textbook for Beginning Arabic, Part One (Third Edition)
- Arabic-English Dictionary: The Hans Wehr Dictionary of Modern Written Arabic
Intermediate Arabic "Second Year"
This course introduces students to various topics in Arab culture in order to expand language skills, advance vocabulary acquisition, and build toward Intermediate High proficiency in all skills. Coursework focuses on helping students master and activate large amounts of vocabulary and utilize the root and pattern system to increase fluency and accuracy in communication. We continue our work on reading and listening strategies to enable students to comprehend main ideas of authentic texts. Preparation for active, cooperative participation in class activities is an essential component of the course. Students should expect to spend four to five hours daily on homework, review and class preparation. Course requirements also include active participation in class and ASI cultural events, occasional presentations and exams, and weekly writing activities.
Texts used in this level:
- Al-Kitaab fii Ta'allum al-'Arabiyya with DVDs: A Textbook for Beginning Arabic, Part Two (Third Edition)
- Arabic-English Dictionary: The Hans Wehr Dictionary of Modern Written Arabic
Advanced Arabic "Third Year"
This course aims at helping students reach Advanced proficiency in Arabic through language and content work focused on Arab history, literature, thought and other cultural manifestations. We continue to focus on developing truly active control of a large vocabulary thru communicative activities. Grammatical work focuses on complex grammatical constructions and demands increased accuracy in understanding and producing complex structures in extended discourse. Preparation for class and active, cooperative participation in group activities are essential to students' progress in this course. Students should expect four to five hours of homework and class preparation daily. Requirements also include active participation in class and ASI cultural events, weekly essays, occasional exams and presentations.
Texts used in this level:
- Al-Kitaab fii Ta'allum al-'Arabiyya with DVDs: A Textbook for Beginning Arabic, Part Two (Second Edition)
- Al-Kitaab fii Ta'allum al-'Arabiyya with DVDs: A Textbook for Beginning Arabic, Part Two (Third Edition)
- Arabic-English Dictionary: The Hans Wehr Dictionary of Modern Written Arabic
ASI Cultural Activities
Each week, we will have two cultural events. On Tuesday afternoons we will typically have workshops on various aspects of culture and language. On most Wednesdays, we will screen an Arabic language film (subtitled), and the film will be followed by a discussion. On certain Wednesdays, we will have a lecture instead of a film.
Office Hours
Each ustaaz (instructor) and mu3iid (TA) will have office hours available to students each week for discussion of grades or general performance review. Instructional Support assistants will be available for additional language practice and assistance outside of the classroom.
[1] For more information on the ACTFL Language Proficiency Guidelines: http://www.languagetesting.com/scale.htm
Arabic Summer Institute Staff
Cameron Ford
Assistant Director, AFP
Norah Elamir
Program Officer and Outreach Coordinator, AFP
Why Study Arabic in the UT-Austin Arabic Summer Institute?
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Alshon Jeffery. Keenan Allen. Justin Blackmon. We all want to roster the most recent breakout star. When you wait until after the breakout has already happened, though, you're elbowing 11 other owners on your way to the waiver wire, hoping to land him but likely to miss out. The strategy here is obvious - how can we roster players like this *before* they break out?
For all of these guys, the clues were there. Jeffrey is big, fast, a second-round draft pick now in his second year, and unlike most teams (who spread the ball to numerous targets), the Bears basically throw to just four guys - Jeffery, Brandon Marshall, Matt Forte, and Martellus Bennett (h/t Scott Pianowski). Keenan Allen has a top-10 QB, bottom-five defense, and a terrific schedule. Allen didn't get a chance until Malcom Floyd got hurt, but he's bigger than the other Chargers wideouts and probably would have been a first round pick if not for a foot injury. Justin Blackmon is on the lowly Jaguars, but he's a first-round talent on a team that will constantly be throwing in garbage time.
See any themes there? I do. Draft pedigree. Backups who are an injury away from playing. Good offenses. Players on teams with bad defenses. Waiting behind injury-prone starters (in Allen's case, starting out behind Danario Alexander and Floyd). With these three themes in mind, here are several guys I'd try to stash on my bench during the bye weeks, hoping to get the next breakout fantasy star before he emerges.
Montee Ball, RB, Broncos: Yes, he's buried right now in Denver - third in the pecking order, in fact. But with the Broncos playing at a historic pace, it's rare you'll ever have a chance to acquire someone with this much upside for virtually nothing. Ronnie Hillman is merely a change of pace back, and I'm convinced that's all he'd be even if Knowshon Moreno were to get hurt. And make no mistake, Moreno always gets hurt - he's played 8 games or fewer each of the past three seasons. Sure, Ball might rot on your bench all year if you stash him, but there aren't many other waiver guys with the potential to win your fantasy league.
Roy Helu, RB, Redskins: Draft pedigree, check. Clear-cut feature back if the starter got hurt, check. Upside, check. Playing in the NFC East with a terrible Redskins defense, Helu would be a beast if Morris were to go down (as he did in Week 3 with bruised ribs). Helu can catch, too, so he might even be better than Morris for fantasy purposes, particularly in PPR formats.
Knile Davis, RB, Chiefs: Davis was just a third-round pick, but he's a physical freak who fell only because of injury and fumbling concerns. On a team that's built around ball control, defense, and check-down passes, Davis would be huge if Jamaal Charles got hurt.
Johnathan Franklin, RB, Packers: There's so much I love about the Packers right now. They're past the bye. The defense is falling apart, and Clay Matthews is on the shelf. The offense is terrific, obviously. Even with the recent fumbles, I tend to think Franklin is ahead of James Starks in the pecking order, meaning he's just an Eddie Lacy injury away from being a fixture in fantasy lineups.
Lance Dunbar, RB, Cowboys: DeMarco Murray gets hurt every year. We all know this. I feel like I rehash Dallas' terrific schedule every week in this column. Dunbar isn't far from being a feature back on a high-scoring offense.
Kendall Hunter, RB, 49ers: Hunter's upside is less than it appeared a few weeks ago as the 49ers offense has sputtered and their offensive line has failed to live up to the lofty standards it set in 2012. But Hunter is definitely above LaMichael James on the depth chart and Frank Gore is 30. At this point, we all know what happens to 30 year old backs - see Steven Jackson.
Andre Caldwell, WR, Broncos: Who's to say the only handcuffs have to be running backs? If Demaryius Thomas or Eric Decker got hurt, everyone would be rushing to the waiver wire for Caldwell. No, Andre isn't an elite talent by any means, but he'd be a WR3 in fantasy in the Denver setup. Yes, receivers get hurt less than running backs, but unlike the backs listed above, Caldwell only needs one of two guys to get hurt.
Christine Michael, RB, Seahawks: Michael looked great in the preseason but I can't put him any higher than this because Marshawn Lynch is fairly durable and Robert Turbin isn't going away. That said, I see Turbin like Hillman in Denver - as a change of pace guy only, with Michael getting the majority of touches if Lynch went down.
Kirk Cousins, QB, Redskins: Robert Griffin III has made it through the season so far, but with Michael Vick now on the shelf, Griffin is probably the most likely to get hurt among fantasy-relevant starting QBs. Cousins did well when given the chance in 2012 (101.6 QB Rating). With a bad Redskins defense and a terrific schedule (those NFC East teams all do), Cousins is my favorite QB stash among current non-starters by a country mile.
Jarrett Boykin, WR, Packers: Boykin lacks a draft pedigree and is completely unproven, but he's in an ideal situation to emerge in Green Bay if injuries strike to a starting receiver. Randall Cobb isn't a big guy and Jordy Nelson has had some injury issues, so this isn't impossible. If Julio Jones can go down for the year, Cobb, Nelson, or James Jones certainly could.
Michael Bush, RB, Bears: Matt Forte is another guy who seems to get hurt every year. With few exceptions, we can say that about most backs nowadays. That's the point here, really. Bush isn't young, spry, or sexy, but he'd get all of the goal line carries if Forte gets hurt.
Donald Brown, RB, Colts: Ahmad Bradshaw is out for the year and Trent Richardson always seems to have a nagging injury. Brown has never really been a feature guy or stayed healthy himself, but with the Colts playing how they are, he belongs on a list like this.
If you're trying to decide whether to stick one of these guys on your bench, context matters. If you're 0-5 or 1-4, you need to hit the lottery. Keeping Michael Floyd or Greg Jennings on your bench isn't going to turn your team around, but one of these guys might. Make the switch. If you need Floyd or Jennings to start, then that's different - they're probably better starters than the players listed above.
If you're 5-0 or 4-1 and relying on Knowshon Moreno or Alfred Morris, getting that player's handcuff is important. You don't need to hit the lottery - you just have to protect your floor, avoid a catastrophe. Jason Snelling is better than Ball right now (especially with Steven Jackson still out), but I gave him up for Ball as a handcuff to Moreno on my 4-1 team. I'm not starting Snelling, so if he's just sitting on the bench, the Moreno handcuff is more important.
Bernard Pierce is owned in many leagues, but I'd cut him for the first several running backs listed above. The Ravens just can't run-block, and while Ray Rice has been nicked up, he's no more likely to get hurt than most other starters.
One player I'd cut for virtually everyone listed above? Ryan Broyles. He's just not getting enough playing time (just 27 snaps last week even with Calvin Johnson inactive).
Last week, I was ready to see the Broncos and Seahawks in the Super Bowl. Now I want to see Denver head to Indy for the AFC Championship Game. Can you imagine Peyton vs. the Colts in Indy - the media might explode. It could happen, too - they're the two best teams in the AFC right now (though a matchup in Denver certainly seems more plausible). I've vastly underrated the Colts up to this point since they were such a fraud in 2012, but their underlying stats this year are legit (94.4 QB Rating, 68.4 QB Rating against).
Seeing such a disparity between the Colts QB Rating and the rating they allow made me curious about whether other teams have such a wide disparity. Let's look at every NFL team in that context - net QB Rating:
Broncos +43
Saints +30
Seahawks +28
Colts +26
Chiefs +21
Lions +19
49ers +14
Titans +11
Cowboys +9
Patriots +9
Bengals +6
Dolphins +2
Panthers +2
Eagles +1
Bills Even
Packers -2
Bears -2
Chargers -2
Steelers -7
Browns -7
Raiders -8
Falcons -8
Texans -9
Jets -11
Vikings -12
Cardinals -14
Bucs -16
Rams -21
Ravens -24
Redskins -26
Giants -32
Jaguars -48
A few mild surprises, I suppose, but this list correlates highly to team success.
With Julio Jones out for the year and an awful defense, it sure seems like a lost season for the Falcons. What a shame for Tony Gonzalez, who undoubtedly didn't envision this when he agreed to come back for one more year. Gonzalez to the Chiefs (for whom he endured so many losing seasons earlier in his career) for a fourth round pick is a trade that needs to happen - can't we all sign a petition or something?
I get the pink on the uniforms. The cause is great. But somebody's got to say it - the pink flags have to go.
If you're talking trade, you want just a little extra from your opponent, and he has Matt Prater, force him to swap kickers with you as part of the deal.
The only viable comparison for the Giants right now is the Jaguars. Both teams are not only 0-5, they're both 0-5 against the spread. The Jaguars have -112 point differential, while the Giants are -100 despite playing in the worst division in football. Yes, the Giants have had three tough games - Broncos, Chiefs, and at Cowboys, but the Panthers only win was a blowout over the Giants, and the Eagles just lost their starting QB yet still won handily. It doesn't matter that the Giants are only two games out of first if they keep getting blown out against everyone they play.
Jimmy Graham has more fantasy points than any running back, receiver, or tight end ... and more than all but four quarterbacks. In a redraft today, there's no way I'd let him get out of the top five (Adrian Peterson, Peyton Manning, Jimmy Graham, Jamaal Charles, LeSean McCoy).
The 2013 Bengals are like the Texans from 2010-2011 ... perhaps the best roster in the NFL from 1-53, but they're not going to get over the top without better quarterback play. Hopefully Cincy sees the purgatory Matt Schaub has forced the Texans to endure all these years and aims higher than Andy Dalton. Anything else would truly be a shame for a team with so much talent throughout the roster.
Who's been more disappointing, Cam Newton or Carson Palmer? I'll go with Palmer, as there's really no excuse for his struggles with an above-average receiving corps. Steve Smith, meanwhile, looks washed up - helping give Newton at least a plausible excuse. Either way, it's a shame, as the Cardinals and Panthers both boast fantastic defenses - a rarity in the defense-starved NFC.
I don't get Josh Freeman's decision to sign with the Vikings over the Bills. Maybe money had something to do with it, but if you're taking a one-year deal, why not go to Buffalo, where you'd have been guaranteed to start for so long as EJ Manuel is on the shelf (perhaps several weeks), rather than fight for playing time with both Matt Cassel and Christian Ponder? I'm not saying I wanted Freeman in Buffalo - I didn't - I'm just surprised Freeman chose the Vikings.
Keep those start/sit or trade questions coming on Twitter, using #stopalawfirm and following me @MarkStopa. More free Rotowire subscriptions are coming.