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In 1992, Jimmy Breslin was grumpy. He was covering the Iowa caucuses and wandered into a candidate's headquarters. The volunteer at the front desk didn't know who he was. He harumphed that if Mario Cuomo were running for president, everybody in the room would know him.
And if things had gone about one game per month better, you'd be reading an intense, impassioned, incisive, insightful dissection of the National League Division Series right here, right now. But our candidate isn't on the ballot, so, like Breslin, we're just strangers from Queens covering a contest in which we don't really have a horse.
Therefore, it is with fleeting interest and shallow depth that Faith and Fear in Flushing presents its first annual visceral and uninformed playoff preview. I'll skip the National League because, quite frankly, I don't much care for any of the combatants, and concentrate on the circuit where our attention is forced to be focused.
Welcome, fellow NL'ers to the league where almost nobody wanted to integrate, where baseball hasn't been played as it's meant to be played since 1972 and where boatloads of Orioles and Blue Jays throw themselves at the feet of the most vile franchise in the history of professional sports after calling up and asking, "how many would you like against us in September and by what means would you like us to lose them to you?" Fortunately, there are three American League teams we can look to in the somewhat reasonable hope that one of them will rescue us from a fate worse than snow — a blizzard of goddamn ticker tape.
Should We Care? We have to. The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim are our de facto favorite team of all time starting Tuesday night and continuing for three to five games.
Have I Had A Spiritual Relationship With This Team, The Los Angeles Angels? Yes. As mentioned here from time to time, the Angels are my nominal favorite American League team, attributable to two events. The first game I ever saw at Yankee Stadium (after my dad took my tiny hand in his enormous mitt and secured us box seats behind home plate through his friends in the music business and Gus Mauch gave my tiny body a rubdown after which Mickey Mantle autographed my prepubescent coccyx…oh wait, that's Billy Crystal's life story) featured the Angels bashing the Yankees in 1986. And in October 2002, the Angels sent the Yankees home quicker than any post-season opponent since the 1980 Kansas City Royals. No matter how stupid their name, the Los Anaheims of Angel won my lifelong affection with that series.
Have I Been Where The Angels Play? Yes. I visited what was then Anaheim Stadium in 1996, before it was shrunken and faux-beautified. It reminded me of Shea but without the spit. I considered both qualities a plus. I took a picture of Stephanie with the Angels' bearlike mascot, genEric.
Have I Worn An Angels Cap? Yes. In 1986, I bought an adjustable mesh model at (genuflection alert!) The Stadium and wore it at (genuflection alert!) The Stadium without consequence. Yankee fans were pretty well beat down that year. I brought it out of mothballs in 2002. That's just an expression. There are no moths in this house.
Metigating Factors? The Angels beat us two of three in June but the one we beat them was quite possibly the best game the Mets played in 2005, a.k.a. The Marlon Anderson Game. Vladimir Guerrero, not Shane Spencer and Karim Garcia, was supposed to be our rightfielder in 2004, but that's all right for now because he's where he can do us some good. The ex-Mets on the '02 world champions, Alex Ochoa and Kevin Appier, are long gone. I don't think we have any reformed Mets in Anaheim at the moment. I'm a little annoyed that Chone Figgins edged Jose Reyes for the Major League stolen base crown but Chone Figgins is one of my favorite players in the American League to the extent that I keep such a list. It's pretty much him and Papi. That's the list. They stuck us with Fregosi, but 2002 wiped away that sin. Who did we trade to get him anyway?
Can They Do What We Need Them To Do? Knowledgeless afternoon radio host, national spokesperson for the unabashedly ignorant and vocal Yankee propagandist Mike Francesa fears the Angels most of all. This is the same media powerhouse who a week ago was pretty much guaranteeing the White Sox couldn't beat the Indians because the Indians needed those games and the White Sox would have nothing to play for. The White Sox swept the Indians. Despite that, the Angels can beat the Yankees. It is what our world has come down to. That and addressing Get Well & Get Lost cards to Braden Looper.
Should We Care? It's hard not to. The Red Sox are, after all, one half of the greatest rivalry ever. Ya got that? It's the greatest rivalry EVER. It's better than the Giants and the Dodgers even if the Giants and Dodgers have been going at it relatively evenly for more than a century. It's better than the French and the English, who fought a mere Hundred Years' War with a North American rematch in the 1750s. It's better than Pringles, which are stackable, and those bagged chips that are always broken and greasy, according to the Pringles commercials. The Red Sox and Yankees have been going at it tooth and nail, mano-a-mano, eyeball to eyeball as perfectly matched opponents since 2003. Now that's a rivalry.
Have I Had A Spiritual Relationship With This Team, The Boston Red Sox? Yes. In the summer of 1978, with the Mets on administrative leave, I picked up the cause of the Boston Red Sox in my little nook of Long Island. I became known to people I was just meeting for the first time as That Red Sox Fan. I was very cocky, very confident. Obviously, I read the bandwagon wrong. Absconded with to a Catskills resort on October 2, 1978 for a Rosh Hashanah weekend special, I walked by a group of Yankee fans watching the one-game playoff on a TV in the lobby while I was wearing my Red Sox cap. One of them pointed me out and I gave them the finger. So there's a little something there that goes beyond mere enemy-of-my-enemy stuff. 1986 kind of obliterated that, but I bled with them in 2003 and reveled in them in 2004. It smacked of frontrunning, but it was sincere frontrunning (besides, what's October for but to frontrun?).
Have I Been Where The Red Sox Play? Twice. The first game I ever saw that wasn't at Shea was at Fenway in 1985. It was me and Joel and Joel's friend Rich, White Sox at Red Sox. Tom Seaver pitched for the White Sox, which put me in a bind, finally getting to see a team I had always liked versus a pitcher I had always loved. I reluctantly went with the visitors. Back then, there were tolls every five miles on the Connecticut Turnpike. So tired had I become of tossing quarters into the machines that at one stop, I faked the toss and sped off. No authority chased me, but Rich wondered why I bothered with the fake. Fourteen years later, Stephanie and I saw the same two teams. Pedro pitched for the home side. The Red Sox scored 17 runs on his behalf. A townie woman behind me kept cursing out Lou Merloni anyway. What's not to love?
Have I Worn A Red Sox Cap? That was part and parcel of my 1978 identity. I was overjoyed that you could actually find a Red Sox cap in New York for purchase. It was at Herman's in Roosevelt Field. It was five bucks. I think it cost me a letter grade in social studies. The cap found its way to the top of our living room television last October. I refused to wear it, though. I wore it in 1978 and you see how well that went.
Metigating Factors? Olerud right now. Any team with John Olerud is to be respected and quite possibly revered, unless it's the Yankees (though Oly was thoughtful enough to come up with an oweee at a most opportune moment). Last year erased the offense I took that Red Sox fans rooted against the Mets in 1986. We got the Mookie ground ball back and Ken Burns could take a hike. When I visited a friend in Boston in the spring of '87, I ducked into a bar where some guys were watching the Mets and the Expos in the game of the week. "Who's winning?" I asked. "Who cares?" I was told. "It's only the Mets." Ahhhh…to be ruefully dismissed with a purpose. Mo Vaughn was a Red Sock before he was an Angel before he was a Met. I hold all three teams responsible. Manny Ramirez won't be traded to us this week. One of our intermittent but valued commenters is a Red Sox fan. There is common ground to be had.
Can They Do What We Need Them To Do? Of course they can. But there's the possibility they won't. Either way, Red Sox-Yankees III is a perilous and numbing possibility. Too many demented Bill Gallo cartoons ("Boston? Derek's BEAN there and WON that!") can come of it. I wish them the best if push comes to evil, and I wish them well in any event.
Should We Care? Only in theory. The last World Series they won came at the expense of the New York Giants, so it's been a while. Their cult keeps quiet, which is to their credit. A White Sox championship would serve to make the Cubs look even more ridiculous. Do we not like that? This is a team stocked with players who mostly haven't bothered to make their identities known to me. They knocked out the slightly less anonymous Cleveland Indians after being written off from first place, so something tells me they're not dead yet.
Have I Had A Spiritual Relationship With This Team, The Chicago White Sox? A little. I've always liked the way they're not the Cubs. They did have the good taste to pluck Seaver from us in '84 (less mad at them than the Blue Jays for signing Dennis Lamp from the White Sox, thus allowing Chicago to pick from the short-lived compensation pool, the one Cashen flung Seaver into so carelessly). Every time they're in the playoffs, they're new blood and I almost always root for new blood. But they never circulate for very long, so I've never gotten to know them well.
Have I Been Where The White Sox Play? Yes. On my first business trip to Chicago, I had it in mind to get to Wrigley Field, but the timing didn't work for me and they were a sizzling hot ticket. As it happened, the Sox were at home that same week, so I skipped the NutraSweet party at which I was supposed to be gladhanding and hopped into a cab at my hotel. "Comiskey Park," I said. The driver asked me if I was a sportswriter. I get the feeling very few guests went out of their way to find the South Side of Chicago. But boy am I glad I did. Plenty of good seats available. I loved Comiskey Park, the original Comiskey Park, then in its second-to-last year of existence. The place just reeked of baseball with the green and the arches and the history (and the fuh-GLAY-vin). It became my favorite ballpark ever. The driver had warned me that cabs didn't idle outside Comiskey, so I left the game early to ensure I could call a taxi and not be stranded there alone. Had to wait a couple of innings for one to arrive. I don't think it was mine, but I commandeered it. Comiskey was immortalized in the wonderful Baseball Palace of the World by Douglas Bukowski, a serious fan's diary of the joint's final season. The author promised to never step inside the next place to call itself Comiskey, a temptation I gave into twice in 1994 and 1999. It was depressing the first time given what had stood across the street for 80 years. The second time wasn't so bad. I nabbed my only foul ball ever, off the bat of Carlos Lee, for whom I carried a torch until this season when he started kicking the crap out of the Mets.
Have I Worn a White Sox Cap? One of the things that I loved about Comiskey was its intimacy, the way the upper deck wasn't cantilevered all the way back to the 'burbs. The thing I (and actual White Sox fans) hated about the second Comiskey when it opened was the way the upper deck reached for the clouds. Stephanie and I not only had very high, very steep seats on a sold-out Sunday afternoon, but it was hot-hot-hot, and Stephanie forgot to pack any headwear. So I was compelled to spend 15 bucks on a white White Sox cap with black pinstripes. She wore it that day, I wore it once in a while thereafter. I used to be into wearing caps from other teams just for the hell of it. I have a hard time doing that now with a clear conscience.
Metigating Factors? Timo Perez and Carl Everett are on this team, right? Good luck, Ozzie.
Can They Do What We Need Them To Do? Should it come down to White Sox-Yankees, well, that would be kind of disappointing because I'd hate to think the Angels can't do what we need them to do. But these Sox played those Skanks pretty well this year. I'm always wary of writing off teams the likes of Mike Francesa write off. On the other hand, I don't trust teams that rely on ex-Yankees like Orlando Hernandez and Jose Contreras. It's the same reason I don't put a lot of stock into David Wells with the Red Sox. Jim Leyritz made like he was the king of San Diego in 1998 and it didn't help the cause greater than ourselves one bit.
What The Fuck Are They Doing Here? Though not a playoff team and not even a recent Yankee opponent, Joe Torre and Alex Rodriguez had the gall to blame Buck Showalter for pulling several of his regulars from the Rangers' last game against the Angels. By not beating the Angels, the Rangers, to Yankee logic, were responsible for taking away the Yankees' home-field advantage on Sunday. Holy fucking shit. This organization knows no shame. The Yankees, I mean. The Rangers told Kenny Rogers to get lost. They're OK by me.
Yankees Suck. They shouldn't be here but they are. Yankees Suck. They will be tough. Yankees Suck. None of these four teams is overwhelming. Yankees Suck. I sure as hell hope the Angels beat them in the first round. Yankees Suck. If they don't, I sure as hell hope the Red Sox or the White Sox beat them in the ALCS. Yankees Suck. If that doesn't happen, there's a TBD National League team that will become my new favorite team of all time. Yankees Suck.
An easily overlooked October institution celebrates its tenth anniversary starting this afternoon. Toast the LDS at Gotham Baseball [1].


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Polenta with Sausage Sauce
Posted on: 03-14-2010 by: The Experimental Gourmand
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subset: commoncrawl


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The Creators Project: Hi Jérémie. What are you working on at the moment?
Jérémie Rozan: Various projects: an endless piece of writing for someone, a short film, the opening of new Surface To Air spaces in Paris and Copenhagen, and the 2010 season of Uniqlo.
Sounds like you have your hands full. You work with some very luxurious and high-end brands. Overall, do they completely grasp the importance of cutting-edge technolgies?
Yes and no. Yes, because they think using technology in art is a good way to be different, which means being "rare," and therefore "luxurious." But when insiders tell me things like, "We'd like to make a good movie to create some buzz on the internet," it means nothing to me. A good movie is good movie, right?
You use different forms of technology in all aspects of your work. Do you view it as just another tool or has it become indispensible?
Technology helps me have a lot of freedom in my work; I can work faster on any idea I have at any moment instead of what I did years ago when I had to ask many professionals before beginning a project. Basically, technology helps me to know if an idea is good or not. But technology itself doesn't attract me that much. The major part of my ideas are not really linked to technology.
What technology is currently the most important to your work?
Probably the Red cameras that shoot at 4K high-definition resolution, which means they're two times superior than the basic cinema projection format. When you're filming you can basically do anything you want, because you know that everything can be changed at any time in postproduction.
What's your take on digital video (DV) cameras? Do they still have a place in this world of ultra-high-resolution filming systems that have eschewed the tape format?
I have as much affection for DV as I used to have for the CD. The texture is pretty funny, but it was basically a go-between format for the transition from film to digital. Today we have the opportunity to make movies using way better textures for the same amount of money. If you want to make a gonzo-report film, DV is the most efficient way to do it. But apart from that I think the format is already obsolete.
You've stated your fondness for 70s cinema many times in the past. What about the era is so attractive to you?
There's a theory that says we all love cinema because it's related to a moment where our brain is editing some truly lived or imagined sequences of life. I like this idea, so I like it when cinema technologies can create that sensation onscreen. I remember, for instance, the "SuperScope" process of Leone and Kubrick, Walter Murch's analog sound during the wedding scene of The Godfather, or even the everlasting and unfortunately never-seen Garett Brown Steadicam sequences in The Shining.
How do you see cinema evolving in the next decade in terms of technology?
You don't need to have a 35mm camera to make a movie anymore, and everyone seems to know, at last, that you can make a web movie with something other than a crappy DV camera. But the most relevant thing, I guess, is that technology created a form of entertainment in cinema, which finally has its own codes and its own cinéma d'auteur. I'm sure Roland Emmerich's 2012 is as important as Ben Hur for its time, but we have to differentiate entertainment cinema from classic cinema. There's nothing left to be invented in classic cinema except new characters and new stories. I'd like to live in a world where we could watch a movie without a screen, though.


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Debate about the economy and jobs, issues the three candidates running in the 2nd Franklin District race for state representative say are important to voters, has been eclipsed by fallout from multiple law enforcement investigations.
The Democratic incumbent accused her Republican challenger of cocaine possession in August. The Athol police chief determined the allegation was false. But questions raised by that investigation — which includes the unauthorized release of a confidential police report — spawned a probe about possible police misconduct.
State Rep. Denise Andrews, D-Orange is being challenged by Susannah M. Whipps Lee, a Republican from Athol who is chairman of the board of selectmen. Richard F. Schober Jr. of Templeton is running as an independent.
Northwestern District Attorney David E. Sullivan's office confirmed last week his office is investigating, but declined to discuss what he is looking into. State Attorney General Martha Coakley's office referred the matter to the district attorney. Athol Police Chief Timothy Anderson had requested the probe.
Ms. Andrews had contacted police and said she was told by an informant in the Athol Police Department that Ms. Lee had allegedly purchased cocaine, and a police officer went to her home and took the drugs from her after police received a call from a person who claimed to have sold the drugs to Ms. Lee.
After an investigation, the chief determined the allegation was unfounded. The chief is investigating whether a member of the Athol Police Department provided Ms. Andrews with the alleged cocaine possession information.
In interviews, the candidates were asked what they think are the key issues.
"Jobs, the housing crisis and quality of education" are the biggest concerns, said Mr. Schober, 55.
He was laid off in January, from Zen Entertainment, based in Las Vegas, when the Framingham office closed, and he is collecting unemployment compensation.
"I am a working-class person; I know what it is like to worry about job security, and when a job is lost, I know what it is like," Mr. Schober said. "The other two candidates are very successful businesswomen outside of government life. Neither of these candidates, I think, can truly understand what it's like for what the majority of the residents of this district have to go through."
He said, "With a strict two-party system, Republican and Democrat, voters have to choose between two extremes. There is a huge moderate void. Only an independent can fairly and impartially represent the majority of the people of the district."
Ms. Lee, 43, said, "The reason I chose to run is because we have been inadequately represented by Ms. Andrews. I don't think she speaks for the people of the area, and I think her taking a job at a multinational company in New Jersey was dishonest; although she did disclose it to the Ethics Commission, she did not expose it to the people of her district; and I felt that was dishonest."
Genevieve Fraser, 66, of Orange, who finished last in the four-person Democratic primary, filed a complaint against Ms. Andrews with the state Ethics Commission in March, alleging that the state representative's employment with the Swiss-based pharmaceutical company Novartis International AG is a conflict of interest while serving in office.
The Ethics Commission determined the Fraser complaint was unfounded — "based on our understanding that the subject has filed the requisite disclosure with the House of Representatives," Ms. Fraser said the state told her in a letter signed by senior investigator Katherine E. Gallant in May.
Ms. Andrews resigned her position at Novartis in March.
Ms. Lee said economic development and jobs are the most important issues facing residents in the district.
"As the owner of a small but successful corporation, I know how to build jobs, I am a job creator," she said.
Ms. Lee is co-owner with her siblings of Whipps Inc. of Athol, a manufacturer of water and wastewater-related equipment.
The company has "more than doubled (its) workforce in the past four years — four of the most difficult economic years in memory," she said. The company has 62 full-time employees.
"Just about the only economic development in Athol has been at my company," Ms. Lee said.
"Clearly the top issues are jobs and economic development — people are still struggling to obtain work," said Ms. Andrews, 53.
"I come from 30 years of business experience, building world-class jobs. I know how to build collaboration and I know how to get deals done and protect what is important to people."
The incumbent said she has been spearheading a 10-year economic development idea in collaboration with business and community leaders. involving the Second Franklin District Economic Development Advisory Council.
"What I bring from the private sector is concept, execution and sustainability; there are many great ideas that if not executed do not help anybody," Ms. Andrews said.
She said the council is hoping to put in place "east-west commuter rail, from Greenfield, to Athol, to Leominster to Boston."
The incumbent said the project involves finding ways to boost tourism to the region and is focused on increasing the area's agricultural food processing capacity.
"What we are trying to get in Athol is the farm to market systems (and) to integrate tourism investment and work, the question is: how do we improve … tourism."
On the police, attorney general and district attorney investigations, Ms. Lee said: "The people of the 2nd Franklin District deserve better than Denise's pattern of dishonesty … and her false allegations to police about me."
Ms. Andrews said, "It goes back to: did or did not an incident happen? I don't believe that question has been properly addressed.
"I want the attorney general to find out … and based on those findings (determine) what is the appropriate remedy," she added. "The fact is information got out to the public that should not have. … I will stand by my professional standard and not break confidentiality."
Mr. Schober said, "Denise Andrews' actions ... have essentially eliminated her as a viable candidate."
He said, "Susannah Whipps Lee, on the other hand ... is playing the role of victim when, in fact, this was probably the best thing that could have happened to her campaign. … The unfortunate outcome of this mess is that voters are being denied the opportunity to choose from a full field of qualified and electable candidates."
The first debate is scheduled a 7 p.m. tomorrowOct. 10 at Narragansett Regional High School in Templeton. A second debate is planned at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 18 at Athol Town Hall.


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For the amateur "Office" accountants out there, it's been two weeks since the last installment of the great workplace comedy and we'll have to wait one more long week until the first of the final three shows with Steve Carell – not to mention the beginning of Will Ferrell's much-ballyhooed four-episode stint.
If those are too many numbers for even portly Dunder Mifflin Sabre bean counter Kevin to digest, you might not want to bother tallying the growing constellation of stars set to appear in the May 19 post-Carell season finale. Ray Romano, James Spader and Catherine Tate reportedly are the latest guests slated to join Ricky Gervais and Will Arnett.
Our math is generally fuzzy and some variables remain unknown, but this all seems to be adding up to one of the oddest – and potentially greatest – sendoffs in TV history.
The run-up to Carell's departure after seven seasons playing bumbling office manager Michael Scott, it's safe to say, is unlike anything in TV history. Other classic ensemble sitcoms like "Cheers" and "MASH" thrived after losing major characters – but the actors always left at the end of the season, not in the middle of the replacement arc. Whatever the intention, having Carell's Michael Scott checkout before the season finale only seems to have intensified the hoopla – especially with the infusion of big-name talent seen, to varying degrees, as auditioning as replacements.
U.S. & World
It seems unlikely Ferrell, Gervais or Romano would join the show – as great as each would be – given their other pursuits. Arnett would be a strong choice, but he's reportedly already committed to a pilot being produced by NBC and Lorne Michaels. Spader, who played one of the weirdest bosses in movie history in "Secretary," showed a talent for the wry in "Boston Legal" that would serve him well at "The Office." Tate, a comedy star in her native UK, is basically an unknown quantity here and would bring a fresh take.
But all the office overcrowding only emphasizes the void Carell is leaving after nearly 150 episodes of playing an unlikeable character – at least on paper – whom the audience grew to love even as he regularly teetered towards self-destruction, a man-child propelled by impulse and emotion.
Sometimes, Michael Scott gets it right – as in the most recent episode, when he proposed to his beloved Holly, aided by his office family, amid tableau of candles and a downpour from the water sprinkler. The scene, sweet, silly – and soggy – proved one of the finest and most satisfying in the show's history.
We're looking forward to more memorable moments, especially from Ferrell and Gervais, co-creator of the original UK version of the show, who returns as grating paper company manager David Brent. That the duo, Romano and other notables are visiting Dunder Mifflin Sabre, for whatever period of time, is a tribute to Carell.
However the rest of the season plays out, the only thing we can count on is that Carell and his Michael Scott will remain a part of "The Office" long after they're gone.
Hester is founding director of the award-winning, multi-media NYCity News Service at the City University of New York Graduate School of Journalism. He is the former City Editor of the New York Daily News, where he started as a reporter in 1992. Follow him on Twitter.


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Civil War Malarkey
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Joys of Irish Humor
Wolverine Café posting of January 25, 2005
During the Civil War, a soldier in the all-Irish 69th New York Regiment approached General Thomas Meagher, a hero of the Irish revolt of 1948.
"Gin'ril, sor", began the private, "would ye be afther grantin' me a furlough? Me wife's that sick, an' she nadin' me to look afther the children."
"Now that's a quare wan, indade," replied General Meagher. "The chaplain towled me, ownly this mornin', that he as a letther from your wife, askin' us not to send you hoe. She says ivry time you go home on lave, you're afther getting' dhrunk, and you you bate her an' frighten the children."
The soldier scrutinized his commanding officer's face for a long moment before he answered.
"Faith, Gin'ril, an' the two most splendid liars in the army right here in this room", he snapped. "I was niver married in me life!"
From the
Joys of Irish Humor
by Henry D. Spalding.
April 11, 2019
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The V–2 rocket was the brainchild of German Wernher von Braun's rocket team in the early part of World War II, and was used to bomb London with devastating effect.
Operating at a secret laboratory at Peenemünde on the Baltic coast, the V–2 rocket was the immediate antecedent of those used in space exploration programs in the United States and the Soviet Union.[1] A liquid propellant (LOX/ethanol) missile some 46 feet in length and weighing 27,000 pounds, the V-2 flew at speeds in excess of 3,500 miles per hour and delivered a 2,200-pound warhead to a target 500 miles away. First flown in October 1942, it was employed against targets in Europe beginning in September 1944. By the beginning of 1945, it was obvious to von Braun that Germany would not achieve victory against the Allies, and he began planning for the postwar era.
The weapons were an extreme concern for the Allies, who had no defense against them. The only way to prevent a V-2 from hitting its target was to destroy it before it was launched. This was typically done by fighter-bombers or, for large compounds, strategic bombers such as the B-17.
More slave laborers died manufacturing the missiles in underground factories than were killed by the missile attacks.[Citation Needed]
After the war, the United States used the V-2 as the prototype for missiles such as the Jupiter.


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Have you noticed that restaurants that offer prix fixe dinners, that is three courses for X-amount of dollars, where the prix fixe menu almost always feature a roast chicken, varied pasta offerings and fish, which is most often salmon. Salmon is one of our most loved fish and its neutral flavor is the perfect backdrop for a variety of seasonings. I love salmon in so many ways, with Asian marinades grilled with skin on, en papillote—a parchment cage, or poached and served with a vegetable sauce and on and on. I also love it simply prepared and served with lentils. This is a marriage that will suit many for its healthful pairing.
Broiled salmon Portuguese style couldn't be easier to prepare. The fish is seasoned with finely chopped shallots, salt, pepper and fresh thyme leaves, slivers of butter (the butter could be an option if you prefer) and a drizzle of olive oil. Lemon juice is added half way through the brief broiling and voilà—a delicious salmon dinner.
Lentils come in a variety of colors such as green, brown, red, yellow and black. Most common are the German lentils in shades of brown or green, but most cooks prefer the French dark green lentils from Le Puy, available at specialty stores, because they simply taste better. Finish with poached pears or baked apples or nothing at all.
This truly simple preparation has to become a household favorite. Minimally seasoned yet yields maximum flavor. Just broil and serve!
Serves 4
4 center cut salmon fillets, about 6 ounces each, skin removed
2 shallots, finely chopped
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1. Place filets on a heatproof stainless serving platter spaced about one-half inch apart.
Divide chopped shallots and spread over the fillets, then sprinkle each one with salt and pepper and drizzle with olive oil. Pull thyme leaves from stems and divide equally over the salmon fillets. Divide butter into 4 thin slices and place on each filet. Can prepare to this point up to an hour ahead.
2. Preheat broiler
3. Place salmon filets under the broiler for 3 to 3 1/2 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle on lemon juice. Return to broiler for
2 to 2 1/2 minutes longer for rare to medium doneness. If you would like it more done cook for another minute or two.
This savory and satisfying lentil stew is sweetened with a bit of carrot and shallot.
Serves 4 to 6
1 1/2 cups dried green or brown lentils
3 shallots, finely chopped
2 large cloves garlic, finely chopped
2 to 3 carrots cut into small dice
2 celery stacks thinly sliced
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
Pinch red hot pepper flakes
2 ripe tomatoes, peeled, seeded and chopped
2 to 3 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley
2 to 3 teaspoons red wine vinegar
Extra-virgin olive oil for serving
1. Put the lentils in a 5 to 6 quart soup pot; cover with 6 quarts cold water and bring to a boil. Skim off any foam that rises to the top. Stir in the shallots, garlic, carrots and celery. Season with salt and pepper to taste and stir in the red pepper flakes. Adjust heat to medium low and simmer the stew gently until lentils are tender, about 25 minutes.
2. When the lentils are cooked and water is evaporated add the tomatoes and parsley and stir to mix. The stew can be prepared ahead to this point. If preparing several hours ahead, cool and refrigerate in a suitable container. If refrigerated bring to room temperature and reheat, stirring occasionally, until the stew is properly hot, taste for salt and pepper and season with vinegar and a drizzle of olive oil atop each serving.


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Electronic sounders are audio signalling devices for use with intruder, fire alarm and industrial signalling systems.
How do electronic sounders work?
An electronic sounder is connected to an alarm circuit, forming an integral part of the system. At the heart of the circuit is a thermistor (temperature sensitive resistor) that will trigger the sounder in case of, say, a fire or smoke.
Electronic sounders will usually be mounted on a wall within open areas or passages and corridors. They are manufactured from tough housing material such as plastic, polycarbonate and stainless steel to provide high levels of durability and resistance to environmental conditions.
Most electronic sounders can be set to different frequencies and tones and are compatible with majority of emergency and fire signalling tones used throughout the world. A volume control inside the unit, when fitted, enables you to select the maximum sound output to suit the installed environment.
What are electronic sounders used for?
Electronic sounders are designed to meet a broad range of alarm applications where distinctive warnings must be given for emergencies such as fires.


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3 police officers killed, 2 injured in Canada shooting; manhunt continues
MONCTON, New Brunswick >> Three police officers were shot dead and two others injured Wednesday in the east coast Canadian province of New Brunswick, officials said. Authorities were searching for a suspect.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police in New Brunswick confirmed on its Twitter feed that three officers were dead and two others had sustained non-life threatening injuries. Police spokesman Paul Greene confirmed the deaths.
The RCMP said on Twitter that they were looking for 24-year-old Justin Bourque of Moncton. The police force tweeted an image of a suspect wearing military camouflage and wielding two guns.
Danny Leblanc, 42, said he saw the shooter in the distance Wednesday evening, wearing a camouflage outfit and standing in the middle of the street with his gun pointed at police cars.
The construction worker said he believed it was an RCMP officer until he heard a burst of automatic gunfire coming from the man's gun.
"That guy was standing on the road afterwards and he was looking towards us," he said.
He said he quickly retreated into his home and remained there with his family. At one point a neighbor posted on social media that their kitchen window was shattered by gunfire.
Leblanc, who was in contact with friends on Facebook, said few people on his normally quiet street were sleeping as they awaited word at midnight on whether arrests had been made.
Word that police had been killed shocked the city, Leblanc said.
"It's devastating. I don't know if he was on a hunt for them, or what," he said.
Police said Wednesday night they believed the suspect was at large in a Moncton subdivision. Police had a number of roads in the city blocked and traffic was backed up on major arteries across the city.
Drivers were also asked to stay out of the area.
Moncton Mayor George LeBlanc urged all residents to pay strict attention to the RCMP warnings.
"The police and other emergency personnel are working under extremely difficult conditions and need our complete cooperation. Stay home, stay safe. If you cannot get home, seek out a friend or family and remain there until you are advised otherwise," LeBlanc said in a statement.
Such violence is rare in Canada, particularly on Canada's East Coast.
The Horizon Health Network, a provincial health authority, said on its Twitter feed that two patients were taken to Moncton Hospital with gunshot wounds.
Theriault said earlier the search for the suspect was concentrated around two streets.
Sean Gallacher, who lives near the area where police were concentrating their search, said he heard what he now believes were gunshots but initially thought his daughter had dropped some toys on the floor above him.
"I was downstairs and heard a few bangs," said Gallacher, 35.
Canadian Public Safety Minister Steven Blaney tweeted that he was "shocked by the tragedy" and that his thoughts and prayers were with frontline RCMP officers.


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[Added 1-14-2009 by Bill No. 2008-14[1]]
The preservation of sites, structures, and districts of historical, archeological or architectural significance together with their appurtenances and environmental settings is a public purpose in Charles County.
It is the further purpose of this article to preserve and enhance the quality of life and to safeguard the historical and cultural heritage of Charles County by preserving sites, structures, or districts which reflect elements of cultural, social, economic, political, archeological, or architectural history; to stabilize and improve property values of such sites, structures, or districts; to strengthen the local economy; to foster civic beauty; and to promote the preservation and appreciation of such sites, structures, and districts for the education and welfare of the residents of Charles County.
This article is adopted pursuant to the provisions of Sections 8.01-8.17 of Article 66b of the Annotated Code of Maryland, as amended.[1]
Editor's Note: Said article was repealed by Acts 2012, 426, effective 10-1-2012. See now the Land Use Article, § 8-101 et seq.
For the purpose of the historic area zoning, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings respectively ascribed to them:
- Any exterior change that would affect the historic, archeological, or architectural significance of a designated site or structure, any portion of which is visible or intended to be visible from a public way, including, but not limited to, construction, reconstruction, moving, or demolition.
- All the area of the grounds and structures thereon which surrounds a historic site or structure and to which it relates physically or visually. Appurtenances and environmental settings may include, but not be limited to, walkways and driveways (whether paved or not), trees, landscaping, pastures and crop lands.
- A certificate issued by the Historic Preservation Commission indicating its approval of plans for construction, alteration, reconstruction, moving, or demolition of an individually designated historic site or structure or of a site or structure within a designated historic preservation district.
- The architectural style, design, and general arrangement of the exterior of any historic structure, including the nature and texture of building material, and the type and style of all windows, doors, light fixtures, signs, or similar items found on or related to the exterior of an historic structure.
- A permit issued by the Department of Planning and Growth Management upon receiving a certificate of approval from the Commission for all projects that the County conducts, assists, licenses, or permits that affect properties within a designated historic preservation district or individually designated historic sites or structures.
- An area which contains historic of sites, structures, which are significant as a cohesive unit and contribute to the historical, architectural, archeological, or cultural or aesthetic values within Charles County. An historic district shall include all property within its boundaries as defined and designated by the County Commissioners.
- Any willful neglect in the maintenance and repair of an individually designated historic site, or structure, or a site or structure within a designated historic preservation district, not including any appurtenances and environmental settings, that does not result from an owner's financial inability to maintain and repair such historic site, or structure, and which results in the deterioration of the foundations, exterior walls, roofs, chimneys, doors, or windows, so as to create or permit a hazardous or unsafe condition to exist.
- The process of reproducing by new construction the exact form and detail of a vanished structure, or part thereof, on or near the original site as it appeared at a specific period of time.
- The process of accurately recovering the form and details of a property as it appeared at a specific period of time by means of removal of later work and the replacement of work missing from that period.
- Work that does not alter the exterior fabric or features of a site or structure and has no material effect on the historical, archaeological, or architectural significance of the site or structure.
- An area which possesses historic, architectural, archeological, or cultural significance to Charles County, the state, or nation.
- A combination of material to form a construction that is stable, including but not limited to buildings, stadiums, reviewing stands, platforms, stages, observation towers, radio towers, water tanks and towers, trestles, bridges, piers, bulkheads, wharves, sheds, coal bins, shelters, fences, and display signs visible or intended to be visible from a public way. The term "structure" shall be construed as if followed by the words, "or part thereof."
Historic Preservation Commission. The County hereby creates a commission to be called the "Charles County Historic Preservation Commission."
Membership. The Historic Preservation Commission shall consist of seven members appointed by the County Commissioners:
Members shall be residents of or work in Charles County;
Each member shall possess a demonstrated special interest, specific knowledge, or professional or academic training in such fields as history, architecture, architectural history, planning, archeology, anthropology, curation, conservation, landscape architecture, historic preservation, urban design, or related disciplines;
The special interest requirement can be satisfied by either formal training in one or more of the fields or active membership in a preservation related organization;
The specific knowledge requirement may be satisfied by formal post-secondary education, employment or practical experience in one or more of the above-listed fields;
The professional or academic training requirement may be satisfied by, at a minimum, two years' experience as a professional or a Bachelor's degree in one or more of the above-listed fields;
At least two members of the Commission shall possess professional or academic training in one or more of the above listed fields in accordance with the minimum professional requirements of the United States Department of the Interior for certifying local governments under 36 CFR Part 61.
To satisfy the above membership requirements, one member may be appointed from the Charles County Site Design and Architectural Review Board, two members may be appointed from the Charles County Historical Trust, and one member may be appointed from the building industry, the Charles County Chamber of Commerce, the agricultural industry, historic property renovation, or the citizenry at large. However, if this composition of membership is not possible for any reason, only requirements (1) through (3) above will apply to membership on the Commission.
Terms. Commission members shall be appointed for terms of three years, except that the terms of the initial appointments shall be staggered so that three members shall serve terms of three years, two members shall serve terms of two years so that no more than three appointments shall expire in a given year. Commission members may be reappointed.
Commission officers. The Commission shall elect, from its membership, a Chairperson and Vice Chairperson. The Chairperson and Vice Chairperson shall serve for one year terms and shall be eligible for reelection.
Vacancy. Any vacancy in the membership of the Commission caused by the expiration of a term, resignation, death, incapacity to discharge duties, removal for cause, or any other reason, shall be filled for a new term, or for the remainder of the term for which there is a vacancy, as the case may be, in the same manner as provided herein for the appointment of the initial members of the Commission.
Any vacancy on the Commission shall be filled by the Charles County Commissioners within 60 days.
In the case of expiration of term, a member may continue to serve until the member's successor is appointed.
Unexcused absence at three consecutive meetings shall constitute resignation by the member and shall create a vacancy.
Removal for cause. A member may be removed from the Commission for cause, upon written charges, by the Charles County Commissioners.
Compensation. Commission members shall serve without compensation, but may be reimbursed for actual expenses incurred in the performance of their duties, provided said expenses are permitted by the budget and approved in advance by the Department of Planning and Growth Management.
Meetings. The Commission shall hold such regular meetings and hearings as necessary to discharge its duties. Any interested person or representative of an interested person may appear and be heard at any public meeting conducted by the Historic Preservation Commission.
Staff. Consistent with the County's policies and procedures, employees may be assigned to the Commission, and such services and facilities shall be made available as the County deems necessary or appropriate for the proper performance of its duties.
The Historic Preservation Commission shall have the following powers and duties:
Direct studies, reports, and surveys to identify historical, archeological, or architecturally significant sites, structures, and districts that exemplify the cultural, social, economic, political, or architectural history of the County, state, or nation;
Accept and use gifts for the exercise of its functions, consistent with the County's charter, ordinances, resolutions, local public law, policies and procedures regarding the acceptance and use of gifts by public officials;
Prescribe appropriate rules and regulations for transaction of its business;
Accept and review applications for designation of local historic sites and districts, and forward recommendations to the Planning Commission for its review and recommendation to the County Commissioners;
Review and process applications for certificates of approval;
Recommend for adoption by the County Commissioners rehabilitation and new construction design guidelines and criteria for construction, alteration, reconstruction, moving, and demolition of designated historic sites, structures, and districts which are consistent with the Secretary of the Interior's standards for the treatment of historic properties (36 CFR Part 68). Guidelines may include design characteristics intended to meet the needs of particular types of sites, structures, and districts, and may identify categories of changes that, because they are minimal in nature, do not affect historic, archeological, or architectural significance, do not require review by the Commission. These guidelines shall be used in the Commission's review of applications;
Purchase or accept historic preservation easements on designated historic structures or sites and, when deemed appropriate by the Commission, sites or structures located in, or adjacent to, a designated historic district, consistent with the County's Charter, ordinances, resolutions, local public law, policies and procedures governing the acquisition of easements;
Make recommendations to the Department of Planning and Growth Management and to the Planning Commission, as appropriate, on the course of action in the event of demolition, preliminary subdivision plan review or site development of land containing a local historic site, structure, or district as it relates to its preservation or commemoration;
Undertake any other action or activity necessary or appropriate to the implementation of its powers and duties or the implementation of the purpose of this article.
The Historic Preservation Commission may request that the enforcing authority institute any of the remedies and penalties provided by law for any violation of an ordinance or resolution adopted under this article.
The County Commissioners of Charles County may designate boundaries for sites, structures, or districts of historic, archeological, or architectural significance consistent with adopted criteria for such designation according to the procedures outlined in this article.
Designation procedure. Upon application, the Historic Preservation Commission, after making a full and proper study, recommends any area within the limits of the County for designation as a site, structure, or district of historic, archeological, or architectural significance. The Commission may also recommend boundaries for such sites, structures or districts. The recommendations shall be submitted to the Planning Commission for their review and forwarded to the County Commissioners for approval or disapproval.
Criteria for designation. The following criteria are to be considered when making a determination to designate as historic a site, structure, or district. Any application that is deemed by the Historic Preservation Commission not to meet the criteria for designation does not need to be forwarded to the Planning Commission for further consideration.
National Register of Historic Places. The site, structure or district under consideration must meet the criteria necessary to be placed on the National Register of Historic Places; and
Historical and cultural significance. The historic site, structure or district under consideration:
Has character, interest, or value as part of the development, heritage, or culture of the County, state or nation;
Is associated with events important to the past;
Is associated with persons important in the past; or
Has the potential to provide important information about history or prehistory.
Architectural and design significance. The historic site, structure or district under consideration:
Designation of an historic site or structure shall not result in the loss of otherwise buildable lots at the time of preliminary subdivision.
To ensure that the otherwise permissible density may be achieved the Planning Commission may:
Approve an adjustment to the minimum lot size;
Grant one transferable development right for each otherwise buildable lot;
Approve the use of open space within the boundaries of the historic site, structure, or district; or
Recommend the purchase or acceptance of a conservation easement on portions of the property or on otherwise buildable lots.
This provision shall not be interpreted or used as a means to recover base density that may be lost due to the application of other requirements during the normal subdivision review process.
Application form for historic designation.
The Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties form or the National Register of Historic Places nomination forms shall serve as the application form for evaluation of historic, archaeological, and architectural significance.
Applications should document how the site, structure, or district meets the criteria for evaluation and should include slides, photographs, orientation map, site plan and, if relevant, drawings.
Applications for creation of a historic district or a historic site shall include a map showing proposed boundaries, an accurate description of those boundaries, and a statement of justification for the proposed boundaries.
It is the responsibility of the applicant to present completed materials for a district and evidence of support by the owners of a majority of the properties in the proposed district, unless review is initiated by Historic Preservation Commission action.
For individual sites or structures, it is the responsibility of the applicant to present evidence that the owner of the site or structure consents to the historic designation, if the applicant is not the owner of record of the site or structure.
Public meeting. Applications for designation shall be evaluated at regular public meetings of the Historic Preservation Commission, upon proper notification of the owner, applicant and interested parties. The public meeting shall be held within 45 days of application submission. Any public meetings may be adjourned to a specified time and place that is announced or posted at the public meeting. Any interested person or representative of an interested person may appear and be heard at any public meeting conducted by the Historic Preservation Commission. Subsequent public hearings will be held within 45 days of the close of the open public record.
Notice. At least two weeks prior to the scheduled public meeting, the Historic Preservation Commission shall send written notice of the date, time, and place of the meeting to the owner(s) of the historic site, structure or structure within a district and to those agencies, organizations, and citizens that the Commission feels may have an interest in the proceedings.
Designation removal. Should a historic site, structure or district no longer meet the above criteria, the designation may be removed by legislative action of the County Commissioners after receipt of a recommendation from the Historic Preservation Commission. Should a local historic site, structure or site or structure within a local historic district have received County-authorized or -administered preservation grants, loans or special property tax incentives, the County Commissioners may require that those funds received through grants, loans or tax incentives be reimbursed in full to the County prior to the site being removed from local historic site, structure or district designation.
Application for certificates of approval.
Prior to the construction, alteration, reconstruction, moving or demolition affecting the exterior of a designated site or structure or a site or structure within a designated district, the person, individual, firm, or corporation proposing to make the change shall file an application for a certificate of approval for permission to construct, alter, reconstruct, move, or demolish the site, or structure.
The scope of this subsection is limited to such a proposed construction, alteration, reconstruction, moving or demolition:
Where the proposed exterior change affect the historic, archaeological or architectural significance of the designated site or structure or the site or structure within a designated district; and
Where any portion of the proposed change is visible or is intended to be visible from a public way.
Every application shall be referred to and considered by the Commission at a public meeting for acceptance or rejection.
An application which is identical to a rejected application may not be resubmitted within a period of one year after the rejection.
No certificate of approval shall be granted until the Commission has acted thereon as hereinafter provided.
Application review.
In reviewing applications, the Historic Preservation Commission shall give consideration to:
The historic, archeological, or architectural significance of the historic site, or structure and the relationship of the exterior architectural features of a site or structure to the remainder of the site or structure and to the surrounding area;
The general compatibility of the proposed exterior design, scale, proportion, arrangement, texture, and materials to the site, structure or designated district, if applicable, and to the surrounding area; and
Any other factors which the Commission deems to be pertinent.
The Commission shall consider only exterior features of a site or structure and shall not consider any interior arrangements or features.
The Commission shall not disapprove an application except with respect to the several factors specified in Subsection B(1) above.
The Historic Preservation Commission shall strictly judge plans for sites or structures determined by research to be of historic, archeological, or architectural significance. Unless the plans would seriously impair the historic, archeological, or architectural significance of the surrounding site or structure, the Historic Preservation Commission may not strictly judge plans for a site or structure of little historic, archeological, or architectural significance; or involving new construction. The Historic Preservation Commission is not required to limit construction, reconstruction, or alteration to the architectural style of any one period.
If an application is submitted for construction, reconstruction, or alteration affecting a site or the exterior of a structure or for the moving or demolition of a structure, the preservation of which the Commission considers to be of unusual importance to Charles County or of unusual importance to the state or nation, the Commission shall attempt to formulate an economically feasible plan with the owner(s) of the site or structure for the preservation of the site or structure. Unless the Commission is satisfied that the proposed construction, alteration, or reconstruction will not materially impair the historic, archeological, or architectural significance of the site or structure, the Commission shall reject the application, filing a copy of its rejection with the Department of Planning and Growth Management.
If an application is submitted for construction, reconstruction, or alteration, or for the moving or demolition of a site or structure that the Commission considers to be of unusual importance and no economically feasible plan can be formulated, the Commission shall have 90 days, from the time it concludes that no economically feasible plan can be formulated, to negotiate with the owner and other parties in an effort to find a means of preserving the site or structure. In the case of a site or structure considered to be valuable for its historic, archeological, or architectural significance, the Commission may approve the proposed construction, reconstruction, alteration, moving, or demolition despite the provisions of this section if:
The site or structure is a deterrent to a major improvement program which will be of substantial benefit to Charles County;
Retention of the site or structure would cause undue financial hardship to the owner; or
Retention of the site or structure would not be in the best interests of a majority of persons in Charles County.
Commission decision. The Commission shall file with the Department of Planning and Growth Management a certificate of approval certifying its approval, modification, or rejection of each application and plans submitted to it for review. Work shall not be commenced on any project until such a certificate of approval has been filed and the Department of Planning and Growth Management shall not issue a historic area work permit or building permit for such change or construction unless it has received such a certificate of approval. The failure of the Commission to act upon a completed application within 45 days from the date the completed application was filed shall be deemed to constitute automatic approval of the proposed changes unless an extension of this forty-five-day period is agreed upon mutually by the applicant and the Commission or the application has been withdrawn.
Upon failure, neglect, or refusal of the property owner or other responsible party to obtain a certificate of approval, the Commission may request that the Department of Planning and Growth Management institute any of the remedies and penalties provided by law for such violations as outlined in Article I of the Charles County Zoning Ordinance.
Alterations to sites, structures and environmental settings. Staff shall be authorized to issue certificates of approval for alterations to sites, structures and environmental setting that will not significantly change the exterior features of a historic site or contributing structure within an historic district or its environmental setting and that will have no significant effect on its historical, architectural, cultural, or archeological value. Certificates of approval decisions will comply with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation, where applicable. The above category shall be determined by the Historic Preservation Commission and outlined in the adopted rules of procedures.
General policies. The Commission may, if it so chooses, review all certificates of approvals administered by staff at the next meeting. Property owners shall retain a right of appeal to the Commission from staff sign-off, as will property owners within the area of notification. Staff shall refer an application to the Commission if any uncertainty exists as to whether the application meets the criteria for issuing a certificate of approval.
Nothing in this article shall be taken or construed to prevent:
Maintenance that does not alter the exterior fabric or features of a designated historic site, structure or a site or structure within a historic district;
Customary farming operations; or
Landscaping which will have no material effect on the historic, archeological, or architectural significance of a designated historic site, structure, or a site or structure within a historic district.
Protective maintenance of historic sites, structures or sites and structures within districts shall be maintained to meet the minimum requirements of the Charles County building codes.[1]
The Commission may designate the Maryland Historical Trust to make an analysis of and report recommending the preservation of sites, structures, or districts of historic, archeological, architectural, or cultural significance within Charles County. The report may include proposed boundaries of sites, structures, or districts, as well as recommendations for the identification and designation of particular sites, structures, or districts to be preserved.
In the event that any party is aggrieved by a decision of the Commission, the party has the right of appeal to the Board of Appeals. Appeals must be filed within the time provided in the rules of the Board.
The provisions of this article are severable. If any provision of this article is held unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, the decision of the court does not affect or impair any of the remaining provisions.
This article shall not apply to any applications for Zoning Map amendment, special exception, preliminary subdivision plan, final subdivision plat or site plan approval that are initially filed before the effective date.


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It's time for
MARKET MONDAY for August
LINK UP RUNS THRU August 15th
Market Monday is open to all sellers that sell the following categories:
Cottage style, Vintage and collectible items, handmade arts and crafts, supplies, etc.
No drop shipping sites such as Zazzle are allowed. Any links deemed unrelated will be deleted.


text:
Awesome. We're meeting this Thursday from 7:30-11 in Venice Beach, CA. Let me know if you can make it.
You running pathfinder? I'm a player looking for a group!
Hi Wecome to pin and paper games we have a openning in owr group in oak cilff you are wecome to check us out


text:
Rogers Communications
2018-12-06 17:48:18
Author: Tim Cummins
This series of three articles tracks the continuing development of the contract management role and purpose. It illustrates that, over a ten year period, there have been significant changes in the strategic importance of contract management as a competency. This is true in both public and private sector.
Change is challenging and increasingly there is a question over the balance between individual expertise and organisational capability. In other words, is the future of contract management that it will flourish as a professional discipline, or will it rather become an activity which is embedded across the organisation? It is likely that the answer will be a mixture of the two and indeed that a key role of the contract management professional will be to ensure the delivery of capability through appropriate empowerment and technology deployment.
In reading this paper, you are encouraged to give thought to the activities that are identified and to examine whether they are a) relevant within your organisation and b) performed effectively.


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Just about two weeks after his successful first title defense, UFC flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson has his next assignment.
Johnson (17-2-1 MMA, 5-1-1 UFC) will face John Moraga (12-1 MMA, 2-0 UFC) in April at the TUF 17 Finale in Las Vegas. The Las Vegas Review-Journal on Monday first reported the news, and UFC officials later confirmed the matchup.
Sources close to the Johnson camp also confirmed the fight to MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com). The event takes place in Las Vegas and airs on FX, FUEL TV and Facebook.
"Mighty Mouse" most recently appeared at UFC on FOX 6, where he survived a tough second round against John Dodson to recover and cruise to a unanimous decision in the event's headliner.
The 26-year-old Johnson, who trains out of AMC Pankration, became the UFC's first flyweight champion at UFC 152, where he won a split decision against Joseph Benavidez in the unofficial final of a four-man tournament created to crown the division's first titleholder.
The champ is on pace to fight four times this year.
Moraga gets the title shot on the strength of two straight wins in the octagon. He debuted this past August with a first-round TKO of Ulysses Gomez, then followed up with a third-round submission of Chris Cariaso at UFC 155 that won him a $65,000 performance bonus.
Including his UFC wins, Moraga, a product of Arizona Combat Sports, boasts a seven-fight win streak.
For more on The Ultimate Fighter 17 Finale, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.
(Pictured: Demetrious Johnson)


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Pastor: Bergdahl's parents 'really hurt' by outcry
The former pastor of the parents of a soldier released from Taliban captivity after almost five years said Friday they have been hurt by allegations that he was a traitor and by the outpouring of anger toward their family.
"They have been really hurt," said Pastor Phil Proctor of Sterling Presbyterian Church in Sterling, Virginia. "They're trying to keep their heads down."
Proctor said Bob and Jani Bergdahl were surprised by interviews they have seen with former platoon mates of their son Bowe Bergdahl. Some of the soldiers told media outlets they didn't support the exchange of five Taliban officials that led to his freedom.
"This very much hit them as a shock and I'm not sure anybody's got the full story," said Proctor, who is urging prayer and compassion for the family.
Proctor said the Bergdahls, who live in Idaho, have yet to speak with their son, who is currently recovering at a military hospital in Germany.
Bob Bergdahl, who has a full beard and spoke briefly in Pashto during a White House news conference, has spent the past five years trying to identify with the culture of his son's captors, Proctor said.
"Well the beard thing, and the Pashto, Bob felt from the get-go if there was going to be a diplomatic solution that it was kind of on him to do it," Proctor said. "He felt like as Bowe's father he could reach out and try to speak directly to various people and he did so."
Proctor said he was the family's pastor in 2003 in Boise and has remained close with them ever since. He spent time with them after their son was captured and they came to Washington, D.C., to meet with officials.


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From a product management perspective, the three major critical success factors for building online applications are Adoption, Distribution ,and Value. Notice that functionality is not on the list & I will explain why. Also, you may think I am having a product management conversation, but as with any good marketing, it has to be rooted in economics. More importantly, focusing on customer acquisition costs.
Unless you have are building your online application as free-ware without a way to monetize the relationships (there are a good number of Silicon Valley garage & VC backed companies still doing this, also a good number of IPhone apps), then eventually you have to figure out how to make money from the application that you are building. Even if you are creating a free application to drive distribution, but you assume that at some point that you will sell something, upsell something, or advertise something; then you probably need to have thought though these issues.
1. Adoption – in a previous post, I discussed why adoption trumps functionality in Web 2.0 applications http://rosenhaft.wordpress.com/2009/05/21/in-web-2-0-software-adoption-trumps-functionality/ Bottom line is that without users, web 2.0 collaboration cannot occur. You can look at the ecosystem of twitter or facebook apps to get an idea, but it works on a micro-level, as well. If you don't get a significant percentage of your available population to use your application, it isn't very valuable. With near zero distribution costs on the internet, the real price is customer awareness. You have to capture their attention and interest; otherwise the value of collaborative applications is marginalized.
2. Distribution – If you are distributing your application, you would assume ubiquitous distribution, but the problem is that so does everyone else. I had coffee with a CEO recently who told me that there wasn't a great deal of competition for their application, but when I went online to do research, I found at least 25 or so competing applications. The direct competitiveness was questionable, along with the quality, but even if you gave it away for free; it would be difficult to break through the noise without significant marketing $'s OR a partner that could distribute the application. In essense, you need a "big brother" partner to assist you in breaking through the noise so that you can overcome the barriers to market entry. The partner provides the ability to differentiate from the crowd, gain awareness, and creates an assumption of quality. This can be a technology platform vendor (Iphone, Facebook, Microsoft, Sony, etc) or it can be an industry brand that the customers already buy a complimentary offering. Giving away a free application to drive distribution is also a good strategy, as long as it is part of a larger strategy.
3. Value – you have to provide more value than the prospective user will give; whether its there time, money, attention, relationships, etc. This sounds simple, but when you take into account market segmentation, competitive factors, and other market noise, it isn't as easy. Let's assume that you are servicing a vertical market with a very cool web-based application that allows the customer to save 20% off their transaction costs & shave 2 hours per user a week on a particular process. No brainer, they should value this application at least $1,200 per user per month, we should charge them $600. We are done, let's go to market…. right? Wrong!
Pricing the application is more complicated than that when you take into account the switching costs from things they are doing today, competitive offerings, customer acquisition costs, exist costs, etc.
- You find out they are using an old windows application that they have been using for 12 years. 20% savings doesn't really mean much to the people using it day-to-day.
- The business owner has an annual contract for support that has another 9 months left on it so the 20% isn't as attractive as you would think.
- The legacy application does not have the ability to easily export the 12 years worth of data to your web application. So, even though you have used the latest technologies for creating your API, it requires professional services to transition them. Wipes out the 20% savings in the first year.
I could go on, but when you begin to think about how to launch a new web 2.0 application, even though it seems like a game-changer for the market, there are legacy issues that need to be thought through. "Build it and they will come syndrome" has tripped us a good many new improved software applications.
It is hard and costly to simplify the adoption, distribution, and value proposition, right? Yes and no. If you ask the market and potential customers, you will incur costs and time to understand and overcome the potential roadblocks, but the risk mitigation is priceless.
Some simple advise to close on:
- Go where customer is, not where you think they are… Customer perception is your reality…
- It is easier to sell to companies that have money… don't be afraid of competition or large markets, but do your homework. Smaller, niche markets also can produce more revenue is the pain is greater.
- Customers buy from the company that is easiest to do business fromwith… registration, price, package, etc.
- Distribution on the web is about finding relationships to reach likely customers in buying mode…
- Value is identifying pain, "must have" versus "nice to have" – we are all overwhelmed with choices, where do we focus is prioritized based on our perceived needs. Even opportunities are based upon perceived pain.
- Emotional connection play a large part in impulse, attention, switching costs, substitutions, opportunity, & empathy – all of which play a part in buyer behavior
The single biggest mistake I see companies make in launching new online applications is that they do not think through the factors outside of their immediate control. If you had enough warning that you were going to crash your car, you could change direction or avoid a potential wreck. Involving distribution partnerships and customers earlier in the product development cycle is exactly the way to identify potential "app killers" and allow you to make that "killer app".


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So POM is something that I'm on the fence about. They didn't send me any samples but I instead scored a container at an expo that I worked. Regular POM is okay but it's a little tart for my taste. I do like the nutrients and how it benefits you post run, but gulping it down makes my little taste buds cringe. I like my drinks sweeter so regular POM isn't my fave.
So the sample I got was POM blueberry. I didn't even realize it wasn't regular POM until I got it out of the fridge to pour it the other day and imagine my surprise when I realized that POM was mixed with one of my most beloved berries, the blueberry. I was super excited to try this wonderful treat that I didn't even know existed! After going to their site I also found out they have a POM Cherry too, I will for sure have to try that!
And let me tell you, it was TASTY! I loved it! I think mixing it with blueberries took off the tart taste that I wasn't particularly fond of and made it completely awesome! I know POM is pretty expensive and that's why I mentioned I'm on the fence about it. I think it's a great juice but shelling out that type of money for a juice isn't something that I would normally do, especially if I'm not totally sold on the flavor, but the new blueberry one is great and I will definitely be picking up some when I want a special treat. :)
This morning I FINALLY had a decent run. I ran with my new watch and felt decent the entire time. I was running fairly fast and besides my calf being a little tight from my sloth life, I was really pleased with how easily it all 'came back'. I ran part of the Long Beach course and it reminded me of my wonderful race and how far I've come since then. It made me almost excited to start thinking about Camarillo and made me realize that yes, I can run still.
So this weekend is the Grand Prix! I am so excited and I'm sure I'll have a huge recap sometime next week. Tomorrow though it's back to the Adoption posts!


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If there was the fun, cool uncle of government agencies, NASA would have to be it. Not only does he have an amazing job (landing robots on Mars), but Uncle Nasa also gives us cool gifts. Not like stupid Uncle Department of Agriculture, who's always trying to pawn off corn husk dolls and garden trowels. Uncle Nasa gives video games.
And this batch of games Uncle Nasa has is pretty impressive, and, even better, free. The games include the first official NASA game for a console, the very clearly named Mars Rover Landing. The game uses Kinect to read your body motion to control the game (I say that like there's any other way Kinect games work. Maybe it measures your sweat salinity?). The game is divided into the three stages of Curiosity's landing: entry into the Martian atmosphere. aeroshell ejection/chute deployment, and, best of all, the Skycrane landing.
I tried the first two stages at JPL this weekend when I covered the landing. Maybe it was the overall excitement of the event talking, but it was pretty fun. The atmospheric entry part was the most novel and satisfying, the actions of moving to keep the saucer-shaped aeroshell in the entry corridor feeling quite natural. Well, as natural as using your body to control a flying saucer can be. It's fun, and for free, absolutely worth a download.
For your PC or Mac, NASA has several interesting offerings at their Explore Mars! site. The games there are all browser-based and 3D, leveraging the Unity plug-in. They tend to be less action-oriented and more exploratory. The Free Drive one is especially interesting because it's really close to the actual driving simulator and training systems used at JPL. The rover in the Free Drive is Scarecrow, the mobility test rover (named so because like the Ozian counterpart, it lacked a brain).
The terrain in the game is actual data from Mars orbiters, with no vertical exaggeration or anything. It's about as good a representation of the Curiosity landing site as you can get. It's a game, but not ten years ago this would have been an incredible scientific tool. Seriously, if you had a time machine you could probably make Carl Sagan crap his corduroy pants if you showed him this.
There's lots of good stuff here, and the quality of it all is very high. This doesn't feel like some municipal-thrown together attempt to fool a kid into learning. The UI is slick and well-thought out, the 3D is smooth and detailed. These look great. You'll be surprised how much time you can waste in, say, the Learn About The Rover game, moving it around and seeing the camera views update, making the arm move around, all that.
So go ahead and waste some time. Tell your boss NASA said it's okay.


text: Henry David 0 Posted January 28, 2007 Report Share Posted January 28, 2007 Hello Songfactors. In the interest of conservation of resources to slow Global Warming, we have recycled some air space being used up by @ 3500 replies to this topic. I have saved several previous posts here to keep continuity! Please join me as we celebrate the freeing of this essencial space into the universe! In response to Laurie35451 First, I must unwind. Laurie35451 In response to phil Sit down on your behind. phil In response to Laurie35451 Relax from the daily grind. Laurie35451 In response to phil I cried and whined. phil In response to Laurie35451 You should have declined Crazy Don In response to phil In West Virginia there's coal to be mined. Laurie35451 In response to phil The contract has been signed Link to post Share on other sites


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Articles in Sangiovese and Dessert Wine
Panton Vineyard Sangiovese
by Panton Vineyard on
A glimmering ruby colour, lifted cherry and olive aroma with a hint of spice. The palate is fresh and floral with very fine fruit tannins. This savoury wine is a delight to enjoy with tomato based pasta dishes or a simple pecorino cheese.... Read full article
Panton Vineyard Rosé
by Panton Vineyard on
Made from our Sangiovese grapes, this bright, clean rosé has many attributes of that variety; a rose petal aroma, summer berries and red cherry fruit with an overlay of fresh earth. The dry, clean finish with a natural acid line makes makes it an esp... Read full article
Rahona Valley Late Harvest Riesling
This style is rather more like a German Auslese style; it is very sweet and proudly intended to be a rich, dessert style wine. Sometimes Auslese styles have Botrytis influence but not in this case. It features riper citrus notes on the nose, nudging ... Read full article


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I came back from a meeting with my Dominican liaison this morning to find that our dog has been busy in his crate. All that is left of his martingale collar is a strip less than 1 ft and the metal parts to it. Not only did he chew it up, he ate it. We just got that collar on Tuesday night, so it lasted 3 days.
I would guess that he discovered that part of the collar with the D ring, which when pulled pinches the collar tighter and which can be seen as a handy "short leash." Yeah, the part can extended and be long enough to put in mouth and chewed. Lovely. How often do do see a dog chew a collar off of his own neck?
Back on the choke chain collar he goes. Maybe the Martingale was only supposed to be used in training and not to be left on?
spoke too soon
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Posted by seeking_something at 10:13 PM 0 comments Links to this post
Labels: doggie
look, ma, no buckles
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Posted by seeking_something at 12:50 PM 0 comments Links to this post
Labels: doggie
random photo
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Posted by seeking_something at 8:44 AM 0 comments Links to this post
Labels: photo
bad owner
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Man, my Labrador Retriever is the stupidest dog I have EVER owned. Not in the sense that he has no intelligence, but in the sense that he doesn't give flip about anybody or anything. He has zero discipline (though he is most EXCELLENT at refraining from using the bathroom in his crate). I'm giving him until two years old before I make any real demands. In the meantime, the primary rule is that he use the bathroom in the designated area. He's been very good at pooping there. But since I gave him more freedom the past few days (the fence being almost halfway up and the vinyl mesh sufficient barrier), he's taken to urinating where ever. So back on the leash he goes.
I am reminded of the English trainer's motto: There are no bad dogs, only bad owners. Sorry, I forgot her name. OK so I may be a bad owner, but in comparison to all the German Shepherds I've had and the Golden Retriever, he IS the stupidest (most disobedient) of them all. And no, there isn't enough time and space to list all the stupid things he does.
Posted by seeking_something at 10:19 AM 0 comments Links to this post
Labels: doggie
knock down furniture
Need furniture that you can knock down flat for transport? Check out Playatech. It's fun for folks like myself for whom "some assembly required" = fun.
Posted by seeking_something at 9:47 AM 0 comments Links to this post
Labels: links
Oops. I have just now noticed that I have comments on my blog. Apparently I forgot to update blogger where to send comments. Sorry folks, that I have not responded. I'm so used to my blog having no response that it was just business as usual for me. I wonder how far back I have to go?
Posted by seeking_something at 9:17 AM 0 comments Links to this post
Can you believe I am still working on that one section of the fence? I had stopped working on the house to concentrate on the fence. And yet it is still not done.
A while back, I had finished the post extensions. It was done with hand tools. You can see it installed. Definitely not as good as I had hoped, but it's the best I can do with what I have. Oh, and I did have to buy a bunch of tools for working this project, but I tried not to spend too much money, hence the hand tools.
Also, I had to replace one of the poles. Both my fence and the neighbor's was fastened to that pole. Anyhow, it took a day but I got it done.
I have most of the rails up and have started installing the pickets. I have discovered that the pickets are not "square," resulting in gaps between them. It's been like a puzzle figuring which two boards adjacent to each other would result in the smallest gap. With about 1/3 of the pickets up, I am now trying another route. I will shave off (hence shape the picket) the pickets where needed to give me less gap. So basically, the pickets will be shaped to fit the one next to it. I have also discovered that the pickets I have put up have shrunken. I know I had put them up right next to each other, but the ones I've put up weeks ago now have no points in which they touch. So undoubtedly, they have shrunken. The wood filler which I had put in the holes and sanded down are now bulging out, since the wood around it has shrunken. If imperfections are "character," this fence has plenty of character.
Posted by seeking_something at 8:38 AM 0 comments Links to this post
"no" to the death penalty
Thursday, June 12, 2008
One person stood up the other night, admitted to probably being a bad Catholic, and expressed that they support capital punishment. This person has had a loved one murdered.
First off I must say that I cannot begin to imagine this person's pain and suffering.
The Church says that everyone has the right to act per their conscience. Corollary to that is every person who is able has the responsibility to search for truth, to research the matter and to pray on it.
I don't think there can be greater injustice than what happened to Jesus. Yet he didn't seek capital punishment.
"Well, I'm not Jesus."
Right. But he's our model.
On a different occasion, I heard from Kerry Max Cook who was wrongly convicted and was on death row. His was a brutal experience. Our justice system is imperfect. In fact, I bet every human institution is imperfect. Anyhow, it means that every now and then, we throw somebody on death row who is innocent. Kerry said he'd like the perps to fry too, but having his mom or sister fry alongside the perp is a price he isn't willing to pay. Having the death penalty means that you or any of your innocent loved ones may be on death row and wrongly executed. It's like having a bear trap that every now and then traps a toddler, but you take that risk because you want the bear.
Posted by seeking_something at 12:25 AM 3 comments Links to this post
Labels: death penalty
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
Sparky. Hit the link to see Sparky in action. Aw...
Makes me want to start collecting push puppets.
Posted by seeking_something at 8:25 AM 0 comments Links to this post
big crucifix
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
Posted by seeking_something at 7:39 AM 0 comments Links to this post
Labels: photo
No, you're not Catholic
person A: I thought you said you were a member of St. xx (Catholic church).
person B: Oh, yes, I'm a member of both St. xx (Catholic church) and (names a protestant church).
Posted by seeking_something at 7:33 AM 0 comments Links to this post


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