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|MLB Career Stats
|Pitch Type
|Avg Pitch Speed (mph)
|Avg Spin Rate (rpm)
|Avg Exit Velocity (mph)
|MLB Avg
|Pitch Type
|Avg Pitch Speed (mph)
|Avg Spin Rate (rpm)
|Avg Exit Velocity (mph)
|MLB Avg
|25th in NL
|20th in NL
|8th in NL
|25th in NL
|5th in NL
|25th in AL
|7th in NL
|13th in NL
|6th in NL
|12th in NL
|April 20, 2018
|Bravos de Leon released RHP Luis Ayala.
|April 14, 2018
|Bravos de Leon activated RHP Luis Ayala.
|March 29, 2018
|Bravos de Leon placed RHP Luis Ayala on the reserve list.
|March 22, 2018
|RHP Luis Ayala assigned to Bravos de Leon.
|January 18, 2018
|Saraperos de Saltillo released RHP Luis Ayala.
|August 2, 2017
|Saraperos de Saltillo placed RHP Luis Ayala on the reserve list.
|June 4, 2017
|Saraperos de Saltillo signed free agent RHP Luis Ayala.
|April 17, 2017
|RHP Luis Ayala elected free agency.
|April 13, 2017
|Diablos Rojos del Mexico placed RHP Luis Ayala on the reserve list.
|April 5, 2017
|RHP Luis Ayala assigned to Diablos Rojos del Mexico.
|February 27, 2017
|RHP Luis Ayala loaned to Diablos Rojos del Mexico from Olmecas de Tabasco.
|September 19, 2016
|RHP Luis Ayala returned to Olmecas de Tabasco from Diablos Rojos del Mexico.
|June 29, 2016
|RHP Luis Ayala loaned to Diablos Rojos del Mexico from Olmecas de Tabasco.
|June 12, 2016
|Olmecas de Tabasco activated RHP Luis Ayala.
|May 18, 2016
|Olmecas de Tabasco placed RHP Luis Ayala on the reserve list.
|April 2, 2015
|Olmecas de Tabasco activated RHP Luis Ayala.
|February 7, 2015
|Olmecas de Tabasco placed RHP Luis Ayala on the reserve list.
|July 15, 2014
|Olmecas de Tabasco signed free agent RHP Luis Ayala.
|July 4, 2014
|Buffalo Bisons released RHP Luis Ayala.
|June 8, 2014
|Toronto Blue Jays signed free agent RHP Luis Ayala to a minor league contract.
|June 8, 2014
|RHP Luis Ayala assigned to Buffalo Bisons.
|May 31, 2014
|Bowie Baysox released RHP Luis Ayala.
|May 13, 2014
|RHP Luis Ayala assigned to Bowie Baysox from Norfolk Tides.
|April 3, 2014
|RHP Luis Ayala assigned to Norfolk Tides.
|March 31, 2014
|Baltimore Orioles signed free agent RHP Luis Ayala to a minor league contract.
|March 19, 2014
|Washington Nationals released RHP Luis Ayala.
|February 7, 2014
|Washington Nationals signed free agent RHP Luis Ayala to a minor league contract and invited him to spring training.
|July 5, 2013
|Atlanta Braves activated RHP Luis Ayala from the 15-day disabled list.
|June 20, 2013
|Atlanta Braves sent RHP Luis Ayala on a rehab assignment to Gwinnett Braves.
|May 14, 2013
|Gwinnett Braves sent RHP Luis Ayala on a rehab assignment to Mississippi Braves.
|May 8, 2013
|Luis Ayala roster status changed by Gwinnett Braves.
|April 30, 2013
|Atlanta Braves placed RHP Luis Ayala on the 15-day disabled list retroactive to April 25, 2013. Anxiety disorder
|April 12, 2013
|Atlanta Braves activated RHP Luis Ayala.
|April 10, 2013
|Baltimore Orioles traded RHP Luis Ayala to Atlanta Braves for LHP Chris Jones.
|April 10, 2013
|Luis Ayala assigned to Mississippi Braves.
|February 10, 2012
|Baltimore Orioles signed free agent Luis Ayala.
|October 30, 2011
|RHP Luis Ayala elected free agency.
|May 11, 2011
|New York Yankees activated RHP Luis Ayala from the 15-day disabled list.
|May 2, 2011
|sent RHP Luis Ayala on a rehab assignment to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees.
|April 13, 2011
|New York Yankees placed RHP Luis Ayala on the 15-day disabled list retroactive to April 10, 2011. Strained lat.
|March 30, 2011
|New York Yankees selected the contract of Luis Ayala from Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees.
|February 16, 2011
|Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees signed free agent Luis Ayala.
|February 11, 2011
|New York Yankees signed free agent RHP Luis Ayala to a minor league contract and invited him to spring training.
|November 6, 2010
|RHP Luis Ayala elected free agency.
|August 27, 2010
|RHP Luis Ayala assigned to Colorado Springs Sky Sox from Colorado Rockies.
|August 26, 2010
|Colorado Rockies signed free agent RHP Luis Ayala to a minor league contract.
|May 20, 2010
|RHP Luis Ayala assigned to Reno Aces from Arizona Diamondbacks.
|May 19, 2010
|Arizona Diamondbacks signed free agent RHP Luis Ayala to a minor league contract.
|May 17, 2010
|Albuquerque Isotopes released RHP Luis Ayala.
|April 5, 2010
|RHP Luis Ayala assigned to Albuquerque Isotopes from Los Angeles Dodgers.
|December 16, 2009
|Los Angeles Dodgers signed free agent RHP Luis Ayala to a minor league contract and invited him to spring training.
|September 1, 2009
|Florida Marlins designated Luis Ayala for assignment.
|August 29, 2009
|Florida Marlins recalled RHP Luis Ayala from New Orleans Zephyrs.
|August 8, 2009
|Florida Marlins optioned Luis Ayala to New Orleans Zephyrs.
|July 12, 2009
|Florida Marlins selected the contract of Luis Ayala from New Orleans Zephyrs.
|July 6, 2009
|Luis Ayala assigned to New Orleans Zephyrs from Florida Marlins.
|July 2, 2009
|Florida Marlins signed free agent RHP Luis Ayala to a minor league contract.
|June 23, 2009
|Minnesota Twins designated Luis Ayala for assignment.
Luis Ignacio Ayala (loo-EES iy-YAH-luh)...has twice pitched for Mexico in the World Baseball Classic (2006, 2009) and often participates in the Mexican Winter League.2013
Began season and pitched in 2 games for the Orioles before being dealt to the Braves on April 10...posted a 2.90 ERA in 37 appearances to help the Braves reach the postseason for a 2nd consecutive season...spent 2+ months on the DL while dealing with anxiety disorder/high blood pressure...upon return, registered 10 holds and a 2.73 ERA for ATL...per STATS, Inc., 76.2 percent of balls in play were hit on the ground in '13...successfully stranded 18 of 21 inherited baserunners (86%)...ERA after the All-Star break was 2.35 in 28 appearances...posted nearly as many GIDPs (7) as extra-base hits allowed (8)...in 23 appearances against the NL East, ERA was 2.25.2012 Allowed one ER or fewer in 59 of his 66 appearances ... Pitched to a 1.76 ERA (15.1IP, 3ER) in a 13-game stretch, 7/15-8/15 ... Had 13 straight scoreless appearances (15.2IP) to start the season (4/7-5/6) ... On 4/26 vs. TOR, earned his first save since 9/23/08 ... Tossed more than 1.0 inning in 25 of his 66 outings, pitching to a 2.57 ERA (42.0IP, 12ER) in those games ... Made 10 (April & July) or 11 (May, June, August & September) appearances in each full month of the season ... Pitched to a 0.68 ERA (52.2IP, 4ER) in 45 games on either one (22G) or two (23G) days of rest and a 7.25 ERA in his other 21 games (22.1IP, 18ER) ... Made five scoreless appearances (5.1IP, 3H, BB, 4K) in extra-inning games ... Held hitters to a .236/.293/.348 line with RISP (99PA) and a .216/.273/.255 line with RISP and 2 outs (55 PA) ... Earned 5th win, 9/19 @SEA, stranding the bases loaded in the bottom of the 10th ... Struck out season-high three, 6/12 vs. PIT Posted a 2.34 ERA (34.2IP, 9ER) in 32 games vs. the AL East (0.00 in 8G vs. TOR, 1.04 in 8G vs. TB, 2.89 in 8G vs. NYY & 5.00 in 8G vs. BOS) ... Pitched to a 1.00 ERA (9.0IP, ER, 9K) in seven Interleague games ... Made one appearance in the ALDS vs. NYY, allowing 2H and recording a strikeout in Game 4 2011 Spent the season with the Yankees, posting a 2.09 ERA (56.0IP, 13ER) in 52 appearances...Did not allow an earned run in 44 of his 52 appearances...Struck out season-high three, August 10 vs. LAA...Lowered season ERA from 9.00 to 1.33 in a 25-game stretch, April 5-July 6, posting a 0.72 ERA (25.0IP, 2ER)...Tossed more than 1.0 inning 18 times, including season-high 2.0 IP eight times...Posted a 1.53 ERA (29.1IP, 5ER) in 25 games at Yankee Stadium (24K, 7BB)...Had ERA under 1.00 in both May (0.82 in 11.0IP) and June (0.96 in 9.1IP)...Was on the DL, April 10-May 11...Made three rehab appearances for Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, allowing one ER in 5.0 IP (7K, 0BB)...Pitched to a 0.92 ERA (19.2IP, 2ER) and converted all 12 of his save opps for Yaquis de Obregon in the Mexican Winter League. 2010 Combined at the Triple-A level with three organizations (Los Angeles-NL, Colorado and Arizona) to go 2-10 with a 6.42 ERA (47.2IP, 34ER) and four saves in 36 relief appearances...following the season, combined to go 2-0 with a 2.27 ERA (35.2IP, 9ER) and 12 saves in 33 games with the Yaquis de Obregon and Aguilas de Mexicali of the Mexican Paci c League...made four relief appearances in the Caribbean World Series for Mexico, and earned two saves, not allowing a run in 5.0IP (2H, 1K, 2BB). 2009 Opened the season with Minnesota, pitching for an American League club for the first time in his career after six seasons in the National League...Induced 1.58 double plays per 9.0 innings pitched, eighth among qualifying relievers...Did not allow an earned run in six consecutive appearances (7.2 innings pitched) from May 20-June 7...Designated for assignment by the Twins on June 22 and claimed by the Marlins, tossing scoreless relief over his first five appearances with the club (3.1 innings) before allowing 10 runs in his final five appearances (4.1 innings)...Picked up four saves in nine scoreless relief appearances for Triple-A New Orleans, striking out 10 in 10.0 innings and limiting opponents to a .114 average (4-for-35). 2008 Began season with Washington...first win of the season, May 1 vs. Pittsburgh, tossing 1.0 scoreless inning...appeared in 62 games for the Nationals before being traded to New York (NL) in exchange for a player to be named later (infielder Anderson Hernandez), August 17...tossed 1.1 scoreless innings and stranded two runners to earn his first win as a Met, August 21 vs. Atlanta...recorded first save of the year, August 22 vs. Houston...earned his sixth save in New York's 10-8 win over Washington, September 9...closed out the game on September 10 vs. Washington for his seventh save...did not allow a run in 13 of his 19 appearances with the Mets...finished tied for fifth among National League relievers with 81 appearances and was tied for 12th with 19 holds...ranked tied for 14th among NL relievers in innings pitched (75.2). 2007 Made long-awaited successful return from March 30, 2006 right-elbow UCL repair surgery, going 2-2 with 6 holds, one save and a 3.19 ERA in 44 appearances...did not pitch for the Nationals in the Grapefruit League...as big league club headed north, continued throwing program in extended spring training...began minor-league rehab stint on June 1... was reinstated by the Nationals, June 20...in 14 appearances on zero days' rest, went 1-0 with 9 strikeouts, a .208 batting average against and a 1.23 ERA...issued only 12 walks in 42.1 innings (2.6 per 9.0 innings)...went 2-1 with a 2.29 ERA in 21 games at RFK, 0-1 with a 3.97 ERA in 23 road appearances...went 2-1 with a 2.45 ERA against the NL East...all 5 homers allowed were to opposing right-handed batters...worked season-best 8.1 scoreless innings, July 25-August 10...capped '07 with 4.2 scoreless innings in final 5 appearances. 2006 Did not pitch for the Nationals in 2006 after having successful season-ending right-elbow UCL reconstructive surgery performed in Los Angeles, CA, by Dr. Lewis Yocum and Nationals team orthopedist Dr. Ben Shaffer, March 30...began rehabbing a week later...spent majority of summer rehabbing...visited the club during Washington's lone visit to Phoenix, Septemer 11-13...did participate in the World Baseball Classic...pitched in 3 games for Mexico despite multiple appeals levied by the Nationals front office...entered training camp with elbow soreness, but Nationals had belief that rest and elbow strengthening exercises would render eventual health...nevertheless, recorded final out of Mexico's 9-1 victory on March 9 at Chase Field in Phoenix, AZ...pitching on March 15 at Anaheim Stadium, allowed one run on 2 hits and a walk in a 2-1 loss to Korea...then on March 16, in a meaningless game for a Mexican team that was mathematically eliminated from advancing to the 2nd round, faced only one batter, Alex Rodriguez, in the 9th inning...walked Rodriguez and left the game...did not pitch again before aformentioned surgery. 2005 Made just two appearances during the month of September because of a bone spur in his right elbow. Managed to make 68 appearances and had career-high 22 holds. ... Has made 214 appearances during his career and walked the first batter 16 times. 2004 Followed up stellar rookie season with improved sophomore campaign...was again one of NL top middle relievers, but battled periods of inconsistency...led Montreal relievers and ranked 8th in the NL by appearing in 81 games...set career bests in games, innings (90.1), home runs allowed (6), strikeouts (63), strikeout-to-walk ratio (4.2/1), ERA (2.69), holds (21), games finished (21) and pitches per inning (14.6)...12 losses not only led all MLB relievers, they established a new Expos record for relievers...loss on September 22 vs. NYM was club single-season record 12th loss in relief this season...Mike Marshall lost 11 games for the 1973 Expos...pitched in every series of the season except 2 (June 11-13 at SEA and August 27-29 vs. SD)...worked 2.0 or more innings 16 times, including a careerlong 2.1 scoreless innings on May 11 at MIL...Ayala' ERA when pitching at least 2.0 innings was 1.11 (4 ER/32.1 IP)...issued only 1.49 walks per 9 innings pitched...6 of 21 holds came in June...worked scoreless 8th inning on October 1 at NYM to nab career-high 20th hold (posted 19 holds in 2003)...padded career-best total with 21st hold in final 2004 appearance, October 2 at NYM...at the plate, collected his first big league hit at Hiram Bithorn Stadium on April 9 vs. NYM off David Weathers (single)...went 3-5 with one save (July 25 vs. FLA) and a 2.25 ERA (10 ER/25.0 IP) against NL East foes...posted more holds against NYM (5) than any other club...did not allow a run in 7.2 innings against ATL in 2004...Montreal went 41-40 when Ayala pitched...was 2-3 with 2 saves and a 2.18 ERA at Olympic Stadium...threw fewer pitches per inning (14.6) than in 2003 (16.0)...pitched better after the All-Star break (2.47 ERA) than in the first "half" (2.89 ERA)...ERA from May-August was 1.93...pitched well when working on consecutive days (2.67 ERA)...posted 5 HBPs (all right-handed hitters)...retired 56 of 81 first batters faced (69%)...pitched in 20 ballparks...did not allow more than one homer in any of the 20 parks. Game-By-Game Highlights: Recorded 100th career strikeout on August 25 vs. LA (Jason Grabowski)...fanned a career-high 5 on June 29 at PHI...pitched in 100th career game, June 27 at TOR. 2003 Ayala made his Major League debut after five years with Saltillo of the Mexican League, going 10-3 with a 2.92 ERA in 65 games out of the bullpen...became one of the Expos most dependable and important players...led the Expos in relief wins (10) and holds (19)...converted five of eight save opportunities...missed one month of action from June 22 to July 21 due to right shoulder inflammation...allowed only five of 30 inherited baserunners to score (16.7%)...averaged 16.0 pitches per inning...65 appearances ranked 4th among National League rookies...closed the season strong, posting a 2.12 ERA (7 ER/29.2 IP) in August and September...for one season, was perhaps the most successful Rule 5 addition in Expos history...during the winter, played for Culiacan in the Mexican League.
2003 Highlights:


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|This article describes a concept which could impact a variety of companies, countries or industries. To see what companies and articles reference this concept page, click here.
Diabetes is the syndrome of having excess blood sugar due to low levels of insulin or insulin resistance. Approximately 21 million individuals in the U.S. have diabetes, and this number is growing at 10% a year, or over 1.5 million new cases annually.[1] Age and obesity are both risk factors, and contributes to this number.
According to a new report published by Transparency Market Research (http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/diabetes-devices-market.html) The Global Market for Diabetes Management accounted for USD 40 billion in 2010 and is expected to attain a market size of around USD 114 billion following a growth rate of 13.5% CAGR. The major products in this market consists of glucose meters, test strips, lancets, continuous blood glucose meters, syringes, insulin pumps, insulin and other insulin delivery devices and anti-diabetic drugs. However, insulin, test strips and anti-diabetic drugs are the most revenue generating products.
While diabetes often cannot be cured, drugmakers and biotech companies make glucose monitors, insulin delivery devices, and drug products to help manage the condition. It is estimated that the total market for diabetes products and related care is worth $92 billion in the U.S.[2] Diabetes is especially important to Amylin, Novo Nordisk, Insulet, and DexCom, which focus on this market.
The diabetes treatment market consists of three related but distinct submarkets that address different aspects of the condition.
A number of drugs are available to help manage type 2 diabetes. Depending on the severity of the condition, drugs are usually used in conjunction with other monitoring and treatment options.
The non-insulin oral diabetes drug market is estimated to be $8.4 billion.[7] Eli Lilly and Amylin's Byetta first entered the market two years ago and signals the pancreas to produce more insulin. Glaxo's Avandia and Takeda's Actos work by reducing insulin resistance. Merck's Januvia is the newest of the diabetes drugs and has the potential to become a blockbuster. It successfully controls blood sugar levels in type 2 patients and has few reported side effects.[8]
Studies at the University of California - Berkley successfully reduced and preventing type 1 diabetes with a rate of 80% using two cancer drugs, Gleevec by Novartis and Sutent by Pfizer. [9]
Diabetics often take other drugs not directly related to diabetes to help manage the risks of the condition. For example, doctors may prescribe a cholesterol drug such as Pfizer's best-selling Lipitor to help lower the risk of heart disease, which diabetics are at risk for.
Since diabetes is a life-threatening condition, insurance providers usually reimburse most costs of diabetes management. Health insurance companies such as Aetna (AET), UnitedHealth Group (UNH), WellPoint Health Networks (WLP), and AFLAC (AFL) may be hurt by the increased incidence of diabetes because reimbursement costs will increase.
Continuous blood glucose systems are not commonly covered by policies.
The food we eat is converted to glucose to be used by the body. After a healthy person has a meal,the pancreas secretes the hormone insulin which signals to the body to accept the glucose. Diabetes is the syndrome of having excess blood sugar due to low levels of insulin or insulin resistance. The condition is classified into two types:
While diabetes itself can usually be controlled with modern medical advances, the condition leads to a number of more serious diseases. Prolonged high blood glucose levels can cause diabetic retinopathy (blindness due to deteriation of the retina), neuropathies, kidney disease, and cardiovascular symptoms. Diabetics have a higher risk of heart disease and stroke, which accounted for 65% of deaths among diabetes patients. [10]
The causes and triggers of diabetes are not fully understood. It is likely that a wide range of environmental factors contribute to the disease. Some of the known major risk factors for diabetes are:

subset: commoncrawl


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Luigi's Mansion Multiplayer Dares You to Climb the ScareScraper
Nintendo has released a trailer showcasing just what the multiplayer for Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon will entail.
Up to four players can enjoy working together to clear the ScareScraper from its ghostly residents in Hunter mode. The players will have a set time limit to clear a given floor of a tower and hunt down as many ghosts as they can. Each tower has a boss character, and players will be able to unlock bonuses and upgrades depending on how well they are performing. Towers can be set to be either 5, 10, or 25 floors, and there will also be multiple difficulty settings.
Check out the trailer below, and let us know if you'll be getting Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon when it arrives on the Nintendo 3DS on March 24th.


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Editorial Cartoons
"Fire Trap Victims Buried. Draft New Law to Save Shop Workers." The March 28, 1911 New York Evening Journal cover stories told the horrifying experiences of survivors and witnesses, and asked who was responsible for the catastrophe and what would be done.
"Who is responsible? Who is responsible for the murders of one hundred and forty-five young girls and men in the "fire proof" fire trap? On whose head rests the blame for the inadequate, antiquated, criminal stairs and single fire escape, made possible because the building was classed as "fireproof"? These dead girls cry aloud, not for revenge, but for justice. Their flame-racked bodies demand protection for the thousands of sister toilers who have not yet been sacrificed to fire. Their silent lips call, 'Who is responsible?'" Detail of March 28, 1911 New York Evening Journal editorial cartoon.
"In compliance with law? The fire escape that ends in midair must be abolished." A New York Tribune editorial cartoon depicts women falling from a collapsing fire escape surrounded by smoke and flames while those above them look on.
"The horrors of jumping." An editorial cartoon depicts women leaning out windows, jumping and falling from the burning Asch Building, framed by dollar signs.
"This Is One of a Hundred Murdered. Is any one to be punished for this?" The editorial cartoon shows a woman's body on the sidewalk surrounded by smoldering fragments with a sign nearby that reads "Operators Wanted. Inquire Ninth Floor."
In an editorial cartoon, a skeleton surrounded by smoke and flames rises from the burning Asch Building and considers the horrifying events below.
In an editorial cartoon, a man wearing clothing made of money leans against the factory door which is locked with a dollar sign key, while women die in smoke and flames on the other side of the door.
"The Locked Door!" An editorial cartoon shows women surrounded in smoke and flames pounding their fists on the locked factory door.
In an editorial cartoon, a spotlight shines on a shrouded body being lowered from the Asch Building after the Triangle fire.
"How Soon Will They Be All Forgotten?" In an editorial cartoon, a grieving woman kneels to place flowers on a new grave.
"Inspector Of Buildings! Record fire for New York, 145 lives lost!!!! Building Fire Proof, Only Fire Escape Collapses. O.K. Inspector." An editorial cartoon shows a skeletal building inspector with a grim smile approving conditions at the Asch Building.
Composite of Triangle fire editorial cartoons from a variety of newspapers.
"Triangle Shirt Waist Manufacturers Listening To Testimony Against Them. Max Blanck and Isaac Harris.
The shirtwaist strike ended February 15, 1910. In September of the same year, Louis Brandeis mediated an agreement between factory owners and union leaders. Known as the Protocol of Peace, it attempted to reduce conflict between garment factory owners and the International Ladies' Garment Workers' Union, providing mechanisms to address worker grievances and promote arbitration.


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With the release of "Elysium" in theaters this past weekend, the summer movie season is drawing — for all intents and purposes — to a close. Though there are still a few major releases scattered throughout the remaining weeks of August, students will soon be heading back to school, and Hollywood will be focusing on its line-up of fall films.
It's been an interesting summer at the box office, and I have to admit that as I look back over the summer, I'm a bit puzzled. While the summer started out strong with solid openings for "Iron Man 3," "Man of Steel" and "Fast & Furious 6," it seems like ever since July (with the exception of, perhaps, "Despicable Me 2") almost every major release has underperformed. Of course, there are a few flops every summer; some of the biggest bombs of 2012 included "Battleship" and the "Total Recall" remake. However, it seems like a higher than normal percentage of major releases had soft openings this year. What makes this even more puzzling is some of these films, such as "Pacific Rim," "Elysium" and "The Wolverine," even received good reviews.
It could be Hollywood has reached a point of saturation: with so many films coming out and ticket prices climbing higher, audiences could be getting choosier. In my area, it costs about $16 for a 3D IMAX showing. Add in drinks and two large buckets of popcorn, and you're looking at a cost of at least $100 for a family of four, which makes for an expensive night out. Families did turn out in big numbers for the animated sequels/prequels "Despicable Me 2" and "Monsters University," and "Iron Man 3" proved to be a crowd-pleaser, as well.
While I was hoping for higher box office receipts for some of the films this summer, I'd have to say that overall, I wasn't disappointed by the films I was most looking forward to. I think the best way to sum up this summer might be "flawed but fun." Many of the films — such as "Man of Steel," "Pacific Rim" and "The Wolverine" — may not have been perfect, but I felt film makers did bring some fresh ideas to the big screen, and I genuinely had fun watching these films.
Of the three main superhero movies released this summer — "Iron Man 3," "Man of Steel" and "The Wolverine" — "Iron Man 3" is probably my favorite. Robert Downey Jr. is my favorite actor, and I love his performance as Iron Man/Tony Stark. "Iron Man 3" did prove to be a bit polarizing among fans, primarily due to how the film handled its main villain, "The Mandarin." Though it might have been better if they'd adhered more closely to the comic book story-line, as fans had been anticipating, Robert Downey Jr. is always a lot of fun to watch in the role, and he brings plenty of his trademark snarky wit to his third solo outing as the character.
Another highlight of the summer for me was "Pacific Rim." Though I do wish the film had had a bit stronger character development and dialogue, this was a fun sci-fi monster movie. And it's hard not to geek out over the concept of giant robots fighting giant monsters. :) I actually went back a second time to watch this movie in IMAX 3D (I saw it in 2D the first time), and while I do think 3D is sometimes over-rated, I thought the film was actually even more fun in this format.
One of the most notorious flops this summer was "The Lone Ranger," but I also think (please don't judge me!) ;) that it was also the most misunderstood movie of the summer. Its decidedly quirky brand of humor may not be for everyone, and its infamously large budget earned it some bad buzz. While it probably wasn't a good business decision to give a $250 million budget to a Western — a genre that doesn't play as well anymore — I will say I don't think a single dollar of that $250 million was wasted. It's a lavish production with gorgeous cinematography and several nicely crafted action set pieces. The movie wasn't flawless, but it dared to be crazy and different and fun. I know I'm one of the only people defending this movie, but I believe it deserves a second chance and I hope people will check it out on DVD. And hey, at least it did out-gross "White House Down," "After Earth" and some of the other major flops this summer, right? ;)
As for my favorite movie of the summer, I'm going to have to pick "Star Trek: Into Darkness," which probably doesn't come as much of a surprise. ;) I'm a huge fan of J.J. Abrams' 2009 "Star Trek" reboot, and I loved the follow-up just as much. The film has plenty of action and breathtaking special effects, but it never forgets that the real heart of the movie is the characters. While Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto — as Kirk and Spock, respectively — were the standouts for me this time around, each of the actors chosen to recreate the crew of the USS Enterprise manages to pay homage to the original TV show and yet make the roles their own. Benedict Cumberbatch also turns in a deliciously chilling performance as one of the most famous villains from Trek lore, Khan. It was a risky decision to borrow from the most beloved classic Trek film, "The Wrath of Khan," but I think Abrams pulled it off in fine form. I can't wait to see what he brings to the "Star Wars" universe.
So, what are your thoughts on the movies released this summer? What did you like the best? What did you like the least?


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Cardinals In Action is a group of first-year students who share a common interest in community service. As a community, we create life-long bonds while learning to examine the meaning of our service. We strive to make service an integrated part of life. CIA is also a great starting point for leadership opportunities on campus.
CIA is a diverse group of people who have different interests, majors, familiarity with service, and much more. Our dynamic community makes CIA unique to the SVSU experience and encourages students to develop personal and organizational ties that will last throughout their years at SVSU, and beyond.
Benefits of the CIA:
CIA Camp:
Submission of an application is required for program participation. Apply Now!


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Check out what's new at Lanie + Lola!
1. Chevron Initial and Name Print $10
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5. Polka Dot Initial and Name Print $10
The prints are offered in different colors and sizes. Click on the links to the listings above to see how easy it is to get a print in colors that will fit your space!
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2009 H1N1 swine flu virus, TEM
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tags: West 42nd street/Times Square Subway Art, The Onset of Winter, subway art, NYC through my eye, photography, NYC
The Onset of Winter.
Artist: Jack Beal (1999).
West 42nd Street/Times Square glass tile mosaic art #1
as seen on the mezzanine for NYC's Times Square stop at Broadway and 41st for the 1, 2, and 3 trains.
The pair of 7'x20′ glass mosaic murals, entitled "The Return of Spring" and "The Onset of Winter", depict various New York City street scenes and were paintings translated to mosaics by Artistic Mosaics Travisanutto of Italy. They were first unveiled to the public at the Gallery of Modern Art in Udine, Italy, in 1999 and 2003 respectively. "The Return of Spring" depicts construction workers and other city dwellers in front of a rendering of an original IRT subway kiosk. The scene depicted in "The Onset of Winter" is a crowd (some with faces of the artist's friends) watching a film crew record a scene of a woman entering the subway, as the first snowflakes of winter come down on the background New York skyline.
I have photographed tile artworks from several NYC subway stations now, so far, all are westside Manhattan subway lines; including the West 66th street/Lincoln Center Station (1 train), West 34th Street/Pennsylvania Station (A, C & E trains), Chambers Street (A & C trains), Houston Street (1 train), Pennsylvania "Penn" station (1, 2 & 3 trains) [subway art archives] and, my favorite subway station of all, the American Museum of Natural History station at 81st and Central Park West (B & C trains) [AMNH archives].


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Best earbud match for Cowon players...?
So... I'm quite happy with my Koss Porta Pro, since is the best cost-benefit around Brazil and sturdy enough to a clumsy guy like me. But sometimes, when I'm dressing a suit to more social events, I wish to listen something when I'm on my way there (don't have a car yet) and look good with it.
Best match for a suit...? Earbuds! Low attention and easy to put in a normal pocket... but I don't enjoy sound isolation. Streets in my city requires double attention.
Here is the thing: I'm a old tiger when it's about earphones, headphones, etc etc... I'm quite aware about most of the stuff around, unfortunately, only by reviews... Brazil isn't the best place to find such things for test, like Hippo or any other more obscure product or something like.
What you guys recommend?
Budget: nothing above 200 dollars... I'm not rich, but willing to invest in quality.
Location: Brazil (but I can import!)
Category: earbuds (if possible, WITHOUT sound isolation or BAD sound isolation)
Primary location of use: All-around... mostly while commuting
Preferable SQ or Sound Signature: Vibrating bass (I don't know the right term) simulating a subwoofer effect, but vivid, great for orchestrated music
Media: Eclectic. But most of them are orchestrated music and eletronic as well.
Source: A Cowon player. Thinking about i10 or a Z2.
Thanks for your time!
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UPDATE: Budget around 150 dollars...
I don't think you need to spend so much these days on good sound quality, some of the lower priced IEMs sound dam good! I tested the MEE M31s with my cowon i9 and was impressed with their bass. I think that most people who love bass with good midrange and spark in their treble reproduction would be happy with them. By now mine have been sold mine because I don't like them for use during high activity sports, although for other uses I truly enjoyed them. That said I've seen them from $21 to 35 dollars and at this price range they're hard to beat. Here's amazon pricing and a while back I did write this review. Good luck in your search and let us know what you end up buying and how you like them ...
abi >> | Forum Rules | Glossary | Why Rockbox | FLAC or MP3? | irc
"So are the M31s a misers dream for bass lovers?
I would say yes to those looking for good bass response, plenty of punch, roar and thunder in the low end without losing any serious pace in the other frequencies. They come across as lively and fun to use beating out many other contenders in the sub $50 dollar price range bringing out the miser in all bass lovers ".
My best and first contender for an nice earbud is this for now! But one of them is this one:
Do you (or anyone) have any tips about this one?
He said he doesn't want isolation, so that pretty much excludes IEMs. While some IEMs like the M31 and Panasonic RP-HJE450 are ported, they still isolate somewhat. For less isolation, get traditional earbuds like the Sennheiser MX880 or MX580, or Yuin PK2 or PK3. The traditional earbuds don't have such great bass though. The RPHJE450 has plenty of bass.
Last edited by JK98; 12-07-2012 at 01:24 PM.
Why don't I like ribbon cables? Well they're hard to wear over the ear which cuts down or eliminates cable microphonics and if worn up front, they do produce unwanted cable noise. They also do not coil up as compact as standard cable IEMs.
abi >> | Forum Rules | Glossary | Why Rockbox | FLAC or MP3? | irc
I thought i could add to this thread instead of making a new one since the topic is almost identical.... hope you don't mind Azfargh?
So i have a Cowon player and have always been in the bracket $120-$200 IEM's and never been in the position to experience the higher end.
it's not so much a question of portability anymore, and i would consider closed headphones if recommended. i'd like to also note that i will not be getting a portable amp.
I spoke over the phone to a guy from a shop about this topic, and my question was about the Ultimate Ears triple.fi 10 pro's being marked down from $749 to $375. I was told that they're phasing out their UE products due to them being bought out and having inferior products.
He did recommend either the Shure SE535's or the Sennheiser IE 80's, both being $399 and $444 respectively
One more thing... anyone familiar with WHSLE.BIZ? i did a search for prices on the S IE 80's and they have them for $220! pretty decent discount, and shipping is $18 to Australia, but are they reputable?
Whats more i'm wondering about closed headphones and if you need an amp to drive them, or are certain ones viable with a Cowon?
Price-range: $300-$500
Location: Australia, i have a preference to buy from http://www.minidisc.com.au/ but i'm flexible on that
Category: IEM's or even closed headphones (i don't know much about the latter and am here to learn
Primary location of use: Commuting and minor physical activity(cleaning the house, gardening, work etc)
Preferable SQ or Sound Signature: Bass is important, but in the context of quality. It doesn't have to stand out or be able to go very loud. I like the subtle-ness of bass in Jazz. likewise with the mid-range and ambient spectrum. I'd like it to go loud, but not at the sacrifice of SQ
Media: Electronic music thats not popular. I love minimal, ambient, experimental, some elements of DnB and dubstep, atmospheric music, Jazz, stuff from late 60's 70s like the Beatles and Pink Floyd, and good old Radiohead even. But my bench mark for testing out Sq would be Aphex Twin, Boards of Canada and defiantly Autechre with their sonic and lush soundscapes
Source: A Cowon J3
Thank you, and again, i hope you don't mind that we share this thread
Well... for cost-benefit with bass-driven sound and good audiophile quality, the basic: Koss Porta Pro is the pick. For considerably all-round great sound quality, also the basic Sennheiser PX 100-II... the design is quite sexy.
Now, if you are setting the bar for the medium-weight categories... the sennheiser IE 80 is already a great choice. But also I've heard well about Phonak Audeo PFE 132... says that is very accurate for instruments sounds and also delivers a nice bass... ranging from 250 US dollars.
I strongly recommend small headphones or iem... not exactly for portability, but much more for fashion aesthetics... closet headphones usually are big and only street wear match better with this kind of headphones. Believe me... having a good time looking bad by increasing the size of the head to the sides isn't the best feeling... smaller and simpler designs can match with a much larger clothing repertoire.
I have no info about closed headphones, but based on my old tests from cheap professional DJ headphones, I was able to make it work with my oldie Iriver T10 (was 5 years ago).
I would definitely say Blox TM7. They blow all other earbuds out of the water. Amazingly detailed with huge soundstage and pretty good bass.
Unfortunately Blox only make them in small batches which sell out quickly. You can keep a lookout there for news: http://bloxearphone.com/
With shipping included you can get a pair for $148.
Sennheiser recently released MX985 which replaces their former high end earbud model MX980. I've got the MX980 and it's almost as good as the Blox TM7. The bass is slightly less well defined and the fit is worse, but otherwise the MX985 is a good option.
A great entry earbud is Yuin PK2. You can get it from around $50 (up 'til around $75). The sound is airy and the soundstage is expansive. They are far from bass heavy but bass is pretty well definied. The best bet is to look on Ebay for the PK2.
DAP collection:Cowon D2 & X5, Creative Nomad Jukebox 3, Zen Touch & ZV:M, iRiver H140, Kenwood HD20GA7, HD60GD9 & MG-G708, Rio Carbon & Karma, Sansa Clip+ & View, Sony NW HD5, Victor XA-HD500 & XA-V80-W
Earphones:too many to mention...
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Cajuns On The Road To Face New Mexico St.
Louisiana's Ragin' Cajun men's basketball team is back on the hardwood on Friday evening, as coach Bob Marlin's squad will be in Las Cruces, New Mexico for a non-conference match-up with the New Mexico St. Aggies.
Louisiana is coming off of a 76-66 non-conference win over Southern-New Orleans on Wednesday at the Cajundome, a win that pushed the Cajuns to 2-2 on the year, while New Mexico St. stands at 2-3, after defeating Northern Mexico, 67-37, on Wednesday.
The Cajuns are led by freshman center Shawn Long, who is averaging 15.0 points, and 8.5 rebounds per game, while sophomore Daniel Mullings paces the Aggies, at 15.4 points, and 6.2 boards a contest.
Louisiana leads the all-time series, 10-4, with New Mexico St. capturing a 82-76 win over UL back in December of 2010, the last time the two schools met.
Tip-off time is scheduled for 8:30 pm.
You can hear all the play-by-play action on Sports Radio ESPN 1420, and espn1420.com, as well as Hot 107.9, and 1079ishot.com, beginning with the pre-game show at 8 o'clock.


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LOS ANGELES (AP) — In James Gray's "The Immigrant," a dismal tale of survival in 1920s New York, Joaquin Phoenix shifts through a gallery of identities, from savior to cad to pitiful loner. His performance — often improvised with co-star Marion Cotillard — is masterfully layered, though his character wasn't initially written that way.
"The character, as written, was much more of a brute," says writer-director Gray, who was inspired to pen "The Immigrant" after learning that his Russian Jewish relatives came to Ellis Island in the '20s.
In the film, Phoenix portrays Bruno Weiss, a charming deceiver who preys on defenseless women at risk of being rejected by immigration agents after arriving at Ellis Island. Bruno offers to save them but lures them into prostitution once he moves them to his apartment. The Polish Ewa Cybulska (Cotillard) is his latest victim.
But despite the circumstances, Cotillard had decided Ewa wasn't going to be a pushover, and Phoenix had decided Bruno wasn't going to back off.
"(Cotillard) had not only emotional strength, but a physical strength," says Phoenix, sitting next to Gray in a sun-splashed meeting room at a Los Angeles hotel. "There were times where she was like, 'Why would I go into this apartment with him?'" Phoenix recalls.
"No matter what I did, she just looked at me like 'I see right through you.' For a month it was just struggling trying to find a way to manipulate her and nothing worked," the actor says.
"He improvised a lot of great stuff," says Gray, 45, of Phoenix's performance. "You need to give an actor like him the freedom to roam and find things that are beautiful and unexpected. He can give them to you. But there is no question that a whole host of moments of tremendous anguish are going to come into play because he's involved."
Phoenix gets agitated whenever Gray compliments his acting skills and work ethic. At one point during the interview, he gets up, lights a cigarette and starts pacing across the room. He then locates a dry erase board and writes "SHUT UP" with a red marker. This gets a rise out of Gray, who confirms the two are always like this.
Long-time collaborators, Phoenix and Gray have worked on four films together, including "The Yards," ''We Own the Night," ''Two Lovers," and "The Immigrant." And Gray continues to pursuing Phoenix to act in his films because, the director proclaims, "He's the best actor we've got right now."
But Gray says that when he and Phoenix first began working together, "I didn't think he was the best. There would be stretches of brilliance . but he didn't have all of the confidence that he has (now). I felt his work reached another level somewhere around the mid-2000s."
It was around this time that Phoenix won the Golden Globe for his portrayal of Johnny Cash in 2005's "Walk the Line." He's been nominated for three Academy Awards for "Gladiator," ''Walk the Line" and "The Master" but has yet to win an Oscar.
After working together for so many years, Phoenix's methods are still a mystery to Gray. "You have more control over your instrument now, wouldn't you say?" Gray asks the actor, who quickly replies, "Nope."
"I'm going for less and less," Phoenix adds. "I'm going for out of body. I don't really want to be in control. The very best scenario for me is hearing 'cut' suddenly and going 'The scene is over?' I don't really want to be aware of it, inside of it and controlling it."
Follow Jessica Herndon on Twitter at: https://twitter.com/SomeKind


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The change in the sun's location during sunrise and sunset over the course of a year is explained through this student-lead NASA eClips segment. The resource also includes a lesson that contains a pre- and post-test, and an activity using the Frayer... (View More) model. The Real World series of NASA eClips™ connects classroom mathematics to 21st century careers and innovations and are designed for students to develop an appreciation for mathematics through real-world problem solving. (View Less)
Featuring a new student-produced interactive whiteboard presentation, this eClips Spotlite video is designed as a tool to enhance students' conceptual understanding of the science of seasons. The accompanying interactive lesson follows the 5E... (View More) model, provides background information, and include a pre- and post-test. (View Less)
This collection of 160 math problems covers the 20 science topic themes presented by the NASA/JPL Year of the Solar System (YOSS) website, covering the solar system, planets, the search for life, and robotics. Examples of topics included are: scale... (View More) of the solar system; asteroids; comets; moons and rings; volcanism in the solar system; ice in the solar system; water in the solar system; the Sun, transits and eclipses; astrobiology; magnetosphers and more. It is intended as a mathematics supplement for the science content presented at the YOSS website, and features grade-appropriate and Common Core State Standards-based math problems based on science content for grades 3-12. (View Less)
Materials Cost: Free
In this activity, students will examine line plots of NASA data and see that the sun heats up land, air, and water. Students will practice drawing conclusions based on graphed data of cloudy vs. clear sky observations. The lesson provides detailed... (View More) procedures, related links and sample graphs, follow-up questions, extensions, and teacher notes. Designed for student use, MY NASA DATA LAS samples micro datasets from large scientific data archives, and provides structured investigations engaging students in exploration of real data to answer real world questions. (View Less)
Materials Cost: Free per student
In this data analysis activity, students connect the idea of the tilt and orbit of the earth (changing of seasons) with monthly snow/ice data. The lesson includes step-by-step instructions for use of the MY NASA DATA Live Access Server (LAS),... (View More) guiding students through selection of a data set from a location of their choice, importing the data into a spreadsheet, creating graphs, and analyzing data plots. The lesson provides detailed procedures, related links and sample graphs, follow-up questions, extensions, and teacher notes. Designed for student use, MY NASA DATA LAS samples micro datasets from large scientific data archives, and provides structured investigations engaging students in exploration of real data to answer real world questions. (View Less)
Materials Cost: Free per student
This is an activity about the relative sizes of the Earth and the Moon and the distance between them. Learners will inflate a balloon to the approximate size of the moon in relation to a standard globe. They will then hypothesize as to the correct... (View More) distance between the two and begin to calculate angular size. This is Astronomy Activity 1 in a larger resource, Space Update. (View Less)
Materials Cost: Free
in this science-based storybook, students learn about seasonal migration of hummingbirds as they are exposed to the scientific process. Students Anita, Simon and Dennis and the rest of Ms. Patel's class research when the hummingbirds have gone and... (View More) when they might return. The book is one of a series in the Elementary GLOBE unit designed to introduce students to the study of Earth system science (ESS). Each book has companion learning activities that complement the science covered in each story. Together, the books form an instructional unit that addresses ESS and related subjects (e.g., weather, water, seasons, soil, and aerosols). The GLOBE Program is a worldwide, hands-on, K-12 school-based science education program. (View Less)
This chapter provides an overview of the science of studying the Earth system, with a focus on understanding the connections among phenomena that can be traced through the energy, hydrological and biogeochemical cycles, on a range of time and... (View More) spatial scales. A section on seasonal cycles deepens student understanding of environmental data collected using GLOBE protocols. GLOBE field protocols and learning activities connected to this chapter are found in the Earth system science section of the GLOBE Teacher's Guide. (View Less)
Materials Cost: Free
The purpose of this kinesthetic activity is for students to learn the relative motions of the Earth, Sun and Moon. Awareness of these different motions is needed to develop an understanding of the causes of the day/night cycle, the seasons and the... (View More) cycle of lunar phases. This resource is from PUMAS - Practical Uses of Math and Science - a collection of brief examples created by scientists and engineers showing how math and science topics taught in K-12 classes have real world applications. (View Less)
Materials Cost: Free per group of students


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Featured Fabric Collection – Aster Manor by Three Sisters for Moda
One Moda Jelly Roll
3/4 yard backing
20" by 34" batting
1/2 yard binding
Six buttons
Trim away the excess batting and make bias binding to bind the Jelly Roll Cover Up.
Place the Jelly Roll Cover Up over your sewing machine and position and pin the ties in place. Pin one set of ties on the front end and two at the back end. Attach the six ties in place, securing each of them with a button.
Latest posts by Margot Languedoc (see all)
- Moda Love Pincushion - January 4, 2010
- Jelly Roll Cover Up - November 11, 2009
- Sugar Cookies Table Runner - February 18, 2009


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Apr 06,2009
In Fashion: Made in the shade; sunglass trends spring-summer 09
by Sharon Mosley
Your sunglasses are the windows on the fashion world — the one accessory that can change your cool vibe instantly. The latest in eyewear trends are hitting the stores right now.
But while the fashion factor may play into what sunglasses you wear, it's also important to choose quality eyewear that will protect your eyes. That means shades that filter out 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays, according to Susan Martonik of The Vision Council, a nonprofit trade association representing eyewear manufacturers.
"You should also consider wearing fuller wraparound frames as another way to protect your eyes from sun damage," Martonik adds.
And what's the hottest trend in eyewear now? "Round shapes are huge," says Martonik. "They are everywhere."
Martonik also predicts that bright colors in frames and lenses will be big trends for the coming season. "Eyewear is really making a bold statement now," she says.
Take a peek! Here are the new eyewear trends for spring and summer 2009 from The Vision Council:
— Go Preppy: For all those who love clean-cut suits reinvented with graphic patterns and colorful twists, the new eyewear is essential to pull it all together. Try round specs in traditional black and tortoise or architecturally inspired sunwear to two-toned shields. Consider aviators with metal or plastic accents and a pop of color to punch up your look.
— Loosen Up: With a season full of drawstring pants, big shirts and comfy cardigans, it's hip to sport sunglasses in oversized square or retro shields with dark or colored lenses, which keep the whole casual look chic. Color-gradated frames or cool blues, blacks, browns and metal hues tie it all together.
— Fly High: For the jet set guy who enjoys the ethnic influences of current fashion — mixing bohemian-embroidered cottons with tribal colors — the exotic look in sunglasses is key. Try rimless or semi-rimless frames, vintage-inspired sunglasses, and mirrored or gradient lenses in deep and earthy colors with details on temples like leather, bamboo, wood or animal skin.
— Go Global: Fashion designers are creating a culture clash, mixing everything from safari jackets to harem pants to maxi dresses to cowboy hats. Eyewear gets in the global mix, too, embellished with leather, animal prints and intriguing patterns. Update frames with tribal pigments and radiant color-tinted lenses, sharp angles, cutout brow bars and detailed temples.
— Rock 'n' Roll: Bring out your inner wild child with eyewear that has a hard edge — match with those modern minis, skinny pants and zippered jackets. Retro and future influences combine to shape up in square lenses, contrasting hues, oversized styles and dramatic shapes. Check out the graphic patterned shades in black and white, electric colors and intricate metal details.
— Get Romantic: If you're not a rocker chick, but prefer more ladylike frills and feathers, then you'll love the round or oversized shades in classic neutral frames like tortoise, white or Lucite with colored lenses. To add a girlish twist, choose pink accents or frames with fun and flirty details, such as lace and bows.
Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association.


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MANILA, Philippines (AP) — Relatives and supporters of 58 people massacred in the Philippines in the country's worst election violence held protest marches Friday to mark the third anniversary of the carnage to demand a speedy trial for nearly 200 suspects and an end to political killings.
The protesters carried mock coffins to represent the victims, including 32 media workers, of the Nov. 23, 2009, massacre as well as dozens of other journalists killed in the Philippines since 1986.
Harry Roque, a lawyer for the victims, said he is pushing to shift the focus of the trial to members of a powerful political clan that allegedly masterminded the massacre instead of waiting for the presentation of the evidence for multiple murders against all of the accused.
Only 103 of 196 accused are in custody, including clan patriarch and former Maguindanao provincial Gov. Andal Ampatuan Sr., who allegedly masterminded the massacre, his son, Andal Jr. who witnesses say was among the gunmen, and several other sons and relatives. They have denied the murder charges.
The wife and female relatives, lawyers and supporters of Ampatuan's political rival, Esmael Mangudadatu, were en route to file his candidacy in provincial elections when gunmen allegedly led by Andal Jr. stopped them and led them to a hilltop clearing where they were mowed down and hastily buried in mass graves.
All 32 media workers who were in their convoy were gunned down, making it the worst killing of journalists in the world.
"You can never finish everyone at the same time, and you can never wait until everyone is finished before you come up with a judgment ... because there are so many victims, so many accused," Roque told The Associated Press in explaining why he wants verdicts against the political clan members first.
He cited the Nuremberg Trial after World War II where only about two dozen were tried despite the millions who were killed.
He proposed reducing the number of the accused "to those who took part in the shooting, those who took part in the planning." As an example, he said firing police officers who did not prevent the killings would be "punishment enough."
Since the trial began in January 2010, more than 260 twice-weekly hearings have been held and only 81 people have been arraigned. One of the principal accused, former regional Gov. Zaldy Ampatuan, another son of the clan patriarch, has not yet been arraigned.
Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said the defense was delaying the trial by filing motions questioning the presentation of evidence and witnesses. In all, 110 witnesses have testified. Prosecutors say at least six witnesses, potential witnesses and their relatives have been killed since the trial started in an attempt to suppress testimony.
The Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility, a media watchdog, said the trial needs to end in justice for the victims or "encouraged by the glacial pace of the trial and uncertainty of the culprits ever being punished, the killers of journalists and political activists will continue to kill with impunity."
The U.S.-based Human Rights Watch has criticized President Benigno Aquino III for not dismantling militias and private armed groups such as those utilized by the Ampatuans.
"Three years since the horrors of the Maguindanao Massacre, the trial crawls along, half of the suspects remain at large, and the victims' families still face threats," said Brad Adams, Asia director at Human Rights Watch. "Yet the larger problem is that the Aquino administration has done next to nothing to disband the rest of the country's private armies."
Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said the Aquino administration, which took office in 2010, has urged the judiciary to "expedite the process without, of course, sacrificing due process."


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Review - Hooked on Phonics Learn to Read - Dan
For more info: http://www.tryhookedonphonics.com We have received hundreds of testimonials from parents who have used Hooked on Phonics over the years and want to share their story. Our educational specialists have teamed up with award-winning artists and authors to create the best Hooked on Phonics Learn to Read yet. Hear what Dan has to say about the new Hooked on Phonics Learn to Read.
Length: 00:46


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Yamaha DTX450K Electronic Drum Kit with Amp, Stool and Sticks
Yamaha DTX450K Electronic Drum Kit with Amp, Stool and SticksDetails
The Yamaha DTX450K Electronic Drums have every element designed specifically for newer players in a powerful yet user-friendly package. An upgrade to the basic DTX400K kit, it features a kick-drum pad, upgraded snare pad and upgraded hi-hat controller. This pack also comes with a drum monitor, stool and sticks so you have everything you need to get playing straight away.
Product Ref: 33698View Full Description
Buy on finance from £16.19 per month Finance from £16.19 per month
Please note: This is only available where all items in the order are dispatched in a single delivery.
To make it as easy as possible for you to get the gear you want, we offer a range of instant finance options. If you spend £250 or more online, you can choose to pay over 48, 36 or 24 months. The majority of decisions are given instantly, so you could get your new gear sooner than you thought!
Representative Example
To help you understand how our finance options work, the examples below are based on a total order value of £250:
|Deposit to Pay
|Total Payable
|Classic Credit 48 Months 14.9%
|No Deposit
|48 months: £6.83
Final payment: £6.83
No settlement fee
|Classic Credit 36 Months 15.9%
|No Deposit
|36 months: £8.65
Final payment: £8.65
No settlement fee
|Classic Credit 24 Months 18.9%
|No Deposit
|24 months: £12.41
Final payment: £12.41
No settlement fee
How to Apply
Applying for finance couldn't be easier - if your order totals £250 or more, simply proceed through the checkout as normal, then select Pay by Finance on the payment page, then click the orange APPLY FOR INSTANT FINANCE button. This will start your application with V12 Retail Finance, our finance partner, and completing this form should take approximately 10 minutes.
You should get an instant answer on whether your application has been successful, though in some rare cases V12 may need to look at the application in more detail.
Please note: This is only available on orders placed via the website consisting of a single delivery, and is not available in store or via phone currently.
Full DescriptionView Full Description
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Flexible and Versatile Design
The new Yamaha DTX450K Electronic Drum Kit provides unprecedented quality, flexibility and usability. Yamaha's acclaimed acoustic drum heritage and leading music technology expertise deliver professional performance at a totally new price point. With its onboard training functions and high levels of connectivity, the DTX450K is designed to expand the drumming experience for a whole new generation of aspiring drummers.
Fast Track Your Drum Skills
With a completely new module, rack, and pads the small and compact DTX450K has been wholly designed with newer players in mind. Especially good as a learning tool for new or developing drummers the DTX450K has a host of onboard training functions and user-friendly features. The training functions on the DTX450K help propel you on your way to drumming proficiency.
Training Functions Built-In
These fun, engaging and effective warm-ups and games include "Groove Check", helping perfect your timing with on-screen markers of early or late beats, "Rhythm Gate", where the drum kit silences out any off time beats alerting you instantly to any mistakes, "Groove Tracker", which helps beginners pick up the beat and "Fast Blast", a new challenge to test the chops of even advanced players! There's also a spoken grading system to encourage you along your drumming path, all of which are easily operated using simple back-lit function buttons.
True Yamaha Playability and Feel
With more than 45 years in the drum business Yamaha are no strangers to the importance of playability. Using their knowledge and experience Yamaha have designed the DTX450K to meet the real needs of drummers and provide a natural response with solid durability and authentic stick rebound. The rubber surface prevents stick slippage making it easy to practice single, double and triple strokes.
Redesigned Module
With a completely new module, durable steel rack, and 7.5" drum pads the small and compact DTX450K has been designed from scratch for the entry level market. The DTX450K's overall size and the design of the toms provide a comfortable drumming experience for newer players, while the TP70S snare pad supports open and closed rimshots. The KP65 kick pad plays quietly while giving a very natural feel. Add to this the large 10" cymbals plus hi-hat and you have a drum kit that feels great, is fun to play and is a valuable practice tool. The dimensions of the DTX450K and the real bass drum pedal action are also designed so that the skills learned can be easily transferred onto an acoustic drum kit. But of course, the beauty of a digital drum kit for a beginner is that you can practice in silence until you're ready to show off your skills!
Create Your Own Drum Kits
Boasting some of the highest quality sounds in its class, the DTX450K's built-in sound module houses stereo recordings of real drums, cymbals and percussion that respond dynamically to your touch for true musical expression. Highlights include classic milestone sounds from the history of drumming including legendary drum tones from some of Yamaha's most acclaimed acoustic drum kits.
Find Your Perfect Sound
The DTX450K comes with ten professional quality drum kits that are ready to play straight away. For those seeking extra creativity, draw from the selection of 169 sounds to create custom kits to match your own style. The DTX450K gives you the freedom to experiment with everything from heavy double bass kits to explosive dance kits and save your favourite ten in the memory slots for instant recall later.
Connect, Upgrade and Expand Your Kit
The USB connection allows you to control VSTi drum libraries and enjoy recording into DAW software such as Cubase. Yamaha's Music Software Downloader also allows you to import new songs with new Apps due to be launched in 2013, designed to work alongside the DTX450K, so just as your skills are growing and you're ready to progress further new interactive learning experiences will be available. There is also the option to add an additional crash cymbal pad when you're ready for more of a challenge!
Perfect for Home Studio Use
A true breakthrough with Yamaha quality at this price point this DTX450K system is sure to become a firm favourite amongst beginners, drum tutors and schools. With a range of professional features, the DTX450K is also compelling as a practice kit for more advanced drummers or for musicians recording in home studios.
Included AccessoriesSubZero DR-30 Drum Monitor
This is a superb quality, full range monitor suitable for a wide variety of applications. The balanced sound from the 10" and 3" speakers allow this amp to be used effectively on electronic drum kits that need the extra high and low frequencies, as well as an excellent choice for synths, stage pianos and even acoustic guitars. The 2 band EQ allows you to tailor your sound whilst the send and return features allow you to connect any outboard equipment such as reverb or other effects units.Drum Throne Stool
With high-quality features such as double bracing, chrome finish hardware, a comfortable padded seat and full height adjustment, the Drum Throne Stool by Gear4music guarantees you a comfortable drumming experience.5A Wood Tip Drumsticks, Pair
A pair of quality wooden drumsticks by Gear4music are also included.
Yamaha DTX450K Electronic Drum KitConfiguration:
- Snare: TP70S 7.5 inch 3-zone pad
- Tom: 7.5 inch pad
- Floor Tom: 7.5 inch pad
- Bass Drum: KP65 pad with FP6110A footpedal
- Hi-Hat: 10 inch pad
- Hi-Hat Controlling Unit: HH65 controller (full open/ full closed / half open / foot splash)
- Crash Cymbal: 10 inch pad
- Ride Cymbal: 10 inch pad
- Width: 240 mm
- Height: 188 mm
- Depth: 68 mm
- Weight: 0.5 kg
- Total: 169
- Snares: 23
- Kicks: 21
- Toms: 36
- Cymbals: 31
- Hi-Hats: 16
- Percussion: 42
- Drum Kits: 10 (all of which may be edited and overwritten)
- PAD (mini stereo audio)
- AUX IN (mini stereo audio)
- Click Tempo: 30 to 300 BPM (Tap Tempo and Voice Guidance functions)
- Click Beat: 1/4 to 9/4
- Power Supply: PA-130 or equivalent
- Power Consumption: 5W
SubZero DR-30 Drum Monitor
- Power Output: 30W RMS 1.0 THD into 8 Ohms
- Speaker: 10" Woofer 3" Tweeter
- Inputs: E-Drums, Line
- Controls: 2 x Volume (one for each input), LOW, HIGH, Return level, Send Level, On/Off
- Input Sensitivity: Normal 80mV, F = 1Khz.
- Noise: -50dB (Gain Max)
- Dimensions: 390mm (W) x 360mm (H) x 400mm (D) (15.3" x 14.1" x 15.7")
- Weight: 15kg
The product price includes 6 years' warranty and 180 day money back guarantee.
However, the Gear4music extended warranty scheme provides an enhanced service, and is designed to offer a higher level of protection than many 'free' warranties offered by some retailers and manufacturers.
The highlights of this enhanced warranty service are:
- Warranty is extended to 6 years from the date of delivery.
- Our Money Back guarantee is extended from 30 days to 180 days (terms apply after 30 days)
- Collection and delivery costs are included for the first 2 years
- Claim 50% cash back on the cost of the policy after 6 years if it has not been used!
- Warranty is transferable if the item is re-sold
- Loan or replacement equipment will be provided if the product isn't repaired within 30 days
- If an item can not be repaired, a similar alternative product or cash discount (as defined in this policy) will be offered
- The policy can be cancelled within 30 days, and at any time after that for a pro-rata discount
Please note that this extended warranty is currently only available on products sold within the EU or EEA, and is subject to the terms and conditions as detailed on the extended warranty certificate provided.
For customers in outlying areas of the country, the price of the Extended Warranty may be marginally higher, due to the potential for higher collection and redelivery transport costs.
This enhanced warranty is in addition to the standard Gear4music and manufacturer warranty policies, and the Gear4music terms and conditions of trade. No statement or condition of sale contained within these terms affects or restricts your statutory rights as defined under the Consumer Contracts Regulation 2014.
Once the product is delivered, you have 180 days to decide that you definitely want to keep it. If you decide it is not suitable for any reason, you can return it back to us for replacement or full refund, including standard delivery charges.
All Products are new unless stated, and include a minimum of 2 years warranty.
Some items are only eligible for money back guarantee if they are returned to us unused and sealed in the original packaging, and in the case of software, unregistered. These items include:
- Software
- CDs & DVDs
- In-ear Monitors
- Earplugs and Ear Protection
- Mouthpieces, Reeds etc… for Woodwind and Brass instruments
- Mouth / Lip Care Products
We are unable to accept returns of any custom made items designed to work together as a unique package, such as computer system built to a customer's personal specifications. Exceptions may only be possible with prior agreement of the vendor, and may be subject to a cancellation fee.
If you also purchase items that do not qualify for free delivery, some delivery charges may be applied to your order which will be shown in your shopping basket.


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| WMU News
KALAMAZOO—What do satellite photos of cloud vortices, Saharan sand dunes, a vast alluvial fan in China and a population explosion of phytoplankton have in common? They've all been made into intriguing pieces of art by imaging specialists in the Upjohn Center for the Study of Geographical Change at Western Michigan University.
Now, just in time for Christmas, prints of 15 of these photos will be on display and available for purchase during Kalamazoo's Art Hop from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7, at Urban Modern Hair, 223 S. Kalamazoo Ave.
The 15 images are part of a larger exhibit called "Earth Tones: Pigments & Textures of Earth From Space," which includes 27 pieces. Each piece in the exhibit has been artfully color enhanced, printed out in high resolution, and expertly matted and framed.
The Upjohn Center created the exhibit as a promotional display to demonstrate the quality and variety of digital representations of Earth. It is using the proceeds from selling Earth Tones prints to support employment and training for WMU students seeking careers in the field of geospatial technology.
The satellite scenes come from U.S. government sources, particularly NASA and the U.S. Geological Survey. Each scene has been color-enhanced to bring out the inherent beauty of Earth's topography and some of its meteorological phenomena, as captured by satellites orbiting miles above the planet.
Art lovers many purchase any of the 27 Earth Tones prints at a cost of $500 each. The images are printed on archival paper with ultraviolet ink and are intended to last up to 100 years. They measure 24 inches by 24 inches and come professionally framed and matted. To place an order, contact the Upjohn Center at firstname.lastname@example.com or (269) or 387-3364.
Upjohn Center for the Study of Geographical Change
The Upjohn Center creates hyper-accurate archival digital facsimiles of maps, atlases, aerial photographs, drawings, and oversized books and materials. The only facility of its kind in the world, it opened in 2005 through the generosity of Edwin E. and Mary Upjohn Meader and is named for the pharmaceutical pioneer W.E. Upjohn.
The center is expressly designed to nondestructively image the huge body of rare and delicate maps and aerial photographs from the pre-digital age. It does so using one-of-a-kind scanners built for its high-security, limited-access and climate-controlled space in WMU's Welborn Hall. Upjohn Center clients include educators, universities, government agencies, public and private collectors, and members of the general public who want to digitally preserve materials or who need to image and access geospatial documents in modern ways.
For more information, visit wmich.edu/ucgc.


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Chinchillas require a high fiber diet and should be offered grass hay (such as Timothy hay or other low calcium hays such as orchard grass, oat hay, or meadow hay) free choice (available 24 hours a day). Hay should be the main component of their diet. Fresh clean water must be available at all times.
The cage should allow the chinchilla to move around a lot, as they are very active, agile, and acrobatic animals. Multilevel cages, similar to those designed for ferrets, work well, as long as there are no areas where a chinchilla could get its limbs or feet caught. Most owners house one or two pets in a cage; often the two pets are mates. Chinchillas require a dust bath for normal grooming. Cages should be emptied and cleaned at least weekly with soap and water.
Chinchillas can make fun, enjoyable pets. The chinchilla is a rodent closely related to the guinea pig. They originate from South America where they live in the Andes Mountains.
Generally speaking, chinchillas are fairly hardy animals. However, they do have several unique problems, and understanding these problems will allow you to better care for your pet and minimize future health care problems. These include fur slip, antibiotic sensitivity, teeth problems, heat stroke, skin problems, and dust bathing for normal grooming.
Common conditions of pet chinchillas include bite wounds, respiratory diseases, overgrown and impacted teeth, gastrointestinal stasis, bloat, diarrhea, skin problems, and heat stroke. Any deviation of your chinchilla's behavior from normal should be a cause for concern and requires immediate evaluation by your veterinarian.
Eimeria spp and other coccidial organisms can infect rabbits with a disease called coccidia, especially young and recently weaned rabbits. These organisms live in rabbit intestines and also can infecting the liver. They're species or host specific, meaning they only live in rabbits.
Cytology is the microscopic examination of cell samples. These samples may sometimes be collected from the surface of the lesion under investigation, but more often, the sample is obtained by use of a special needle.
Diazoxide is used to treat certain tumors (insulinomas) in ferrets and to treat low blood sugar secondary to excessive insulin secretion in dogs.
Encephalitozoonsis is an infection that can affect the kidneys, eyes and nervous system of rabbits. It's caused by an organism called Encephalitozoon cuniculi or E. cuniculi, a small microsporidian parasite that's intracellular (it has to live within another cell).
Common conditions of pet ferrets include diarrhea, intestinal foreign bodies, parasites, heart disease, and various types of tumors. Any variation from normal should be a cause for concern and should be immediately evaluated by your veterinarian.


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BAGHDAD (AP) — To the first-time visitor, Baghdad might seem like a normal city. Well, almost normal: Pockmarked buildings and pervasive checkpoints serve as a stark reminder of the violence that nearly tore the country in the decade following the U.S.-led invasion, which began on March 20, 2003.
Today, the Baghdad Zoo is a popular destination for families wearing their finest clothes and enjoying spring weather before the temperature climbs. Nearly 10 years ago, the zoo's staff fled just before Baghdad fell to U.S. troops. All but 35 of the animals died. Later, an American platoon set up a small base at the zoo, where they protected the facility from looting while it was rebuilt.
Abu Nawas Park, where orphans sniffed glue and slept beneath American tanks, now too is a haven for families and a place for die-hard soccer players to practice in the afternoons.
The Iraqi National Museum lost countless treasures during a chaotic period before Americans moved in to secure it. Today, the grounds are under renovation. Fewer than half of the antiquities have been recovered.
The Karrada district is a bustling commercial hub of shops and restaurants that stay open late into the night. During the bloodiest stretch of the war, these shops were shuttered by sundown.
The Iraqi capital and the people who live here still bear scars, some invisible.
On March 14, 2013, a series of coordinated bombings struck the Justice Ministry and killed dozens. Hours after that attack, a man sat in Firdous Square and watched his three children play, running circles around the pedestal that held Saddam Hussein's statue before U.S. Marines pulled it down. None of the children had even been born when the war began. But when an explosion shook the square from yards (meters) away, they didn't even flinch.


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24 Dec 2014 06:44:23 AM
Worst Christmas Ever: The 15 Most Depressing UFC Items Currently Available at UFCStore.com
(This is a Tank Abbott professional wrestling action figure produced and sold by the WWE. Spoiler alert: It is easily a much better Christmas present for the MMA fans in your life than ANYTHING on this list.)
By Seth Falvo
From ugly t-shirts to video games with comically deformed characters, MMA fans don't exactly have a ton of half-decent options for Christmas presents. So it should probably go without saying that if you see that one of your presents is from UFCStore.com tomorrow morning, you should just throw the damn thing in the trash without opening it. Trust me, whatever is inside of that box is a Christmas tragedy the likes of which would make Agatha Christie blush.
The UFC's official shop is not only littered with exactly the ugly, trashy, tasteless merchandise that you'd expect to see the Eddie Justbleeds of the world own, but also some incredibly confusing, useless products that suggest that maybe the UFC isn't fully comfortable catering to said Justbleeds. I mean, for a company whose fan base is constantly measuring its collective dick, you'd think they'd be selling things like a UFC Belt Sander instead of a hyper-masculine UFC Shoe Bag.
So it's in that spirit that I'll be ranking the fifteen most depressing UFC items that you can currently buy — or, likely, receive as a Christmas present tomorrow — from UFCStore.com. Two rules: Number one, only UFC and UFC Gym brand items are eligible for inclusion, because as much as I'd love to include this eyesore, I'm not nearly enough of a masochist to rank every last item that awful place has up for grabs. And number two: It isn't enough for an item to simply be extremely ugly, pointless, overpriced, dated or just plain stupid. No, for an item to make this list, it has to be that magical brand of awfulness that actually makes you feel sad and empty upon seeing that people are being asked to pay money in order to own it. Now that that's out of the way, let's begin our trip to the Island of Misfit UFC Merchandise…Read More DIGG THIS


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The Bonneville Salt Flats are disappearing, but they can be saved with your help!
It's not very often that political issues are brought up in car magazines beyond the Editor's Page. We've reached such a significant point in time, however, when the gloves have come off and we as hot rodders and Americans have no choice but to look Washington in the eye and not blink.
The cold fact is, the Bonneville Salt Flats (BSF) are vanishing. Not in the "save some endangered microbe" kind of way, but in the "not gonna be around at all in a couple years" kind of way. It's hard to imagine a place so vast and covered with so much white on the surface as being endangered, but the truth is there's no more than 3 inches of salt crust left on the surface and most of the racing area is less than an inch thick.
The good news is, as this article goes to press, the racing community, through the Save the Salt Coalition is working with the mine owner, Intrepid Potash Wendover, to save BSF. The details are still being finalized, but the parties have pledged to join forces to permanently reinstate a salt replenishment program. Salt removed from Bonneville to obtain potash will be replaced in the same amount, or more.
The history of land speed racing at Bonneville goes back almost 100 years to 1914 when Teddy Tezla! set the first land speed record there driving a Blitzen Benz to a speed of 141.73 mph. The Flats proved to be the perfect place for land speed trials, and by 1949 the Southern California Timing Association (SCTA) organized the first Speed Week as an annual gathering of those looking to push the boundaries of automotive and motorcycle performance.
Legends like Mickey Thompson, Art Arfons, and Craig Breedlove staked their claims in the history books there, and more than 600 have added their names to the famed 200-mph club roster. It is the rarest of places where, in the two-mile-long pit area, a rookie with a 130-mph banger can be pitted next to a multimillion-dollar entry, borrow
tools or parts back and forth, share water and snacks, and have the time of their life without any class snobbery. It is truly the last and best form of amateur racing where the only prize is a piece of paper or a red hat. That rare place is now disappearing.
The BSF is part of an ancient lake basin which is filled with salt deposits. Much of the land, including the BSF, is managed by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM). In the early 20th century, the racing community discovered
that the salt surface was perfect for setting land speed records. Mining companies also discovered that salt from the BSF and other areas of the basin could be processed to remove potash and other valuable minerals–which only amount to about 2.7 percent of the total salt. The two activities worked in harmony for generations until it was observed that salt from the BSF was being depleted.
During the recently completed Speed Week, PHR had a chance to talk with longtime Bonneville racer and Save the Salt Coalition member, Russ Eyres. Russ has been coming to the land speed mecca for 50 odd years and has personally seen the transformation. "The BLM's geologists admit that there was a map that shows the zones of thickness, and the main thickness of what we call the Race Surface Playa. At one time, the thickest spot was 6 feet. Then as you went o! to the edge, it got down to a foot thick and they didn't bother to measure anything thinner than that. Now there isn't a place anywhere where we race that is more than 3 inches thick. Anywhere. The salt that we're standing on [in the pit area] is only about3/4-inch thick. That salt out there [on the five-mile long course where a streamliner just passed by at 280 mph] is about 5/8-inch thick and is so chewed up we'll have to move the course at the end of today." As the conversation continued, it was clear from the enthusiasm of those in and around Eyres' pit, this was a very personal and emotional matter.
The truth is, potash mining plays an important role in the American economy. Potash is a critical component in fertilizer, which accounts for about 85 percent of its use. It is also used in aluminum recycling, industrial water treatment, fire extinguishers, and a number of other industries. At issue is the need to provide a harmonious environment for mining and racing.
The BLM noticed a degradation of the BSF as early as 1952. To its credit, the BLM has removed over 104,000 acres from mineral mining of potash, salts, and other salines in the BSF area. Nevertheless, the BSF continued to shrink in size and depth over the coming decades.
In 1997, the racing community worked with the previous owner to solve the problem. Understanding the historical importance of the BSF, the mine owner pursued a five-year salt lay down replenishment program. Once they had extracted the potash from the briny salt mixture, the leftover salt brine would be pumped back to the BSF where it would dissolve in the waters that cover the basin during the wet season. Fresh salt crystals would form as the surface water evaporated during the hot months and salt water from the underground aquifer would percolate to the surface.
During the five-year program, the Salt Flats increased in thickness and hardness and the project significantly improved the aquifer, which supports the salt crust volume. A BLM report credited the program with replacing the
4.2 million tons of salt estimated to have been removed during the five-year project, while providing a net addition of 2 million tons of salt to the shallow brine aquifer.
That project's success was only half the story. It also demonstrated that the racing community, potash mining industry, and BLM could work collectively toward common goals. Unfortunately, when the five-year agreement
expired, the BLM did not extend the agreement to the successor mining company, Intrepid. To its credit, Intrepid voluntarily continued a salt replenishment program, and now having become aware of the plight of the BSF, wants to partner with the racing community and BLM on a permanent program.
Putting the issue in context, Eyres observed the importance of joining forces. "They are the largest potash producer in the United States. Potash is important for fertilizer. It's important for food supplements. We simply want to partner on a replenishment program to restore the BSF to its previous condition. If we don't fix it, in five years there won't be enough salt left to have another Speed Week."
As Intrepid steps forward to implement a program, it is useful to consider the BLM's role. For generations it has not met its responsibility to protect an area designated as both a "National Landmark," a "Special Recreation Management Area" and an "Area of Critical Environmental Concern." These designations require the BLM to take appropriate actions to preserve this unique visual, historic, and geological resource.
Eyres says, "They've been telling us since 2001 that they are reviewing the current mining plan. This is 2011–10 years later. During the intervening time, they have refused to allow us to review documents or assure us that an upcoming Environmental Assessment (EA) will provide adequate protection." The draft EA is supposed to be issued in the immediate future, providing the first opportunity for public review and comment.
As noted, a number of prominent racing community organizations have formed the "Save the Salt Coalition" to work with Intrepid and the BLM. An agreement with Intrepid is forthcoming, but some intransigence on the part of the BLM remains.
The Coalition contends that for decades, the BLM has neglected its obligations under law to protect the Salt Flats. The Coalition is now seeking tangible action. Here are two examples of how the BLM can help fix the problem: 1) Dedicate all monies received from leasing fees, licenses, or other funds toward restoration of the Bonneville Salt Flats; and 2) Identify other sources of high quality salt that can be transported and deposited on the Salt Flats. These steps will help the BSF retain its position as the most beautiful, unique, and fastest place on earth.
You can help Save the Salt by visiting the SEMA Action Network website (www.SEMASAN.com) and clicking on the "Save the Salt" link (www.SaveTheSalt.com). You'll find easy and quick ways to contact your local, state, and federal representatives as well as the director of the BLM. Send them a short message telling them who you are and that the BLM needs to takeimmediate action to restore the Salt Flats. The whole deal takes literally about two minutes,and you'll have made a huge di!erence. While you're there, make sure you also check thedetails on current salt conditions, history, coalition members, and donation information.


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REGISTER for the next 6 week series Starts Sept 4 2018 at Pilgrimage of the Heart Yoga in Normal Heights, San Diego | Tuesdays 10am - 11am
Family music & yoga for kids 6 weeks - 3 years old
Seed & Song Family Music & Yoga weaves together the benefits of mindful movement, active music making, and enriching experiences that promote your child's social, physical, language, and emotional development. Our unique curriculum is designed by board-certified music therapists, yoga teachers, and mothers to allow you as a family space to grow together.
$108 for all 6 classes + Guest Pass + Free Egg Shaker