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Thursday, June 08, 2006
Net Neutrality - Important Enough For Another Post
Well, Nestor over at Bruins Nation has written an excellent piece on the subject going into more detail about the bill, who's behind it and what it all means.
Look, as I mentioned yesterday, while this isn't the usual "funny" we do on this site, it is important to be informed about it. Especially if you enjoy the MZone and all the other blogs and websites which could potentially be hurt by such a measure.
Oh, and as for the person asking in the comment section below who's going to pay for the fiber optics and infastructure of the ever-expanding Internet over the next 10 years? The answer is you, I and the other 46+ million broadband subscribers who pay AT&T, Comcast, Verizon and the other telecos $40-$75/mo. for our high-speed Internet service.
Can those companies afford it? Well, AT&T's net - not gross - income for the first quarter of 2006 was $1.45 BILLION. But, I guess when you compare such corporate income to that of Exxon-Mobil, maybe one can cry poor with a straight face. No wonder AT&T chairman Ed Whitacre says, "The Internet can't be free." Poor Ed.
6 comments:
Oh boy, I bet trial lawywers would love this law. Anytime a download goes a little slow.....LAWSUIT....Ka-Ching!!!!!!! Why government intervention is needed for one of the greatest communication innovations of our time I will never know.
- June 08, 2006 12:36 AM
I read somewhere that the gov't already gave them the money that was to be used for a fiberoptic or advanced network that they promised, but nothing has been done yet. And they are asking for money again. Maybe someone could fill in what i am missing here.
- June 08, 2006 9:01 AM
Great work Mzoners. Thanks for the info and links.
- June 08, 2006 9:47 AM
- Yost said...
You're welcome, Anon. Granted, it's not as useful information as the Scouting Report in our Blog Co-ed Showdown, but...
- June 08, 2006 10:57 AM
- BaggyPantsDevil said...
Great work Yost.
As with oil companies, the telcos are hardly "just getting by" or desperately in need of money stay out of the red.
If the internet was merely about commerce, it might not be such a big deal. Brick and mortar businesses pay more money for better locations so they can sell more goods, so it might be considered reasonable to expect online businesses to do the same.
However, the internet is more than just another place to sell stuff. The internet is also about the exchange of information and ideas. If the telcos are able to charge fees for preferential access to the internet, large corporations—who have the money to pay those fees—will most likely take up all that fast access trying to sell you something. Bloggers and individuals wishing to discuss political, economic, environmental, or religious issues will face the dilemma of paying the extra money to reach a wider audience or face being relegated to some sort of internet ghetto.
It's at that point that the internet ceases to be the beautiful thing it is now—where EDSBS has as much access to an audience as ESPN does—and turns into just another media outlet that spoonfeeds its brain dead audience and rams heavily promoted, prepackaged, and sponsored content down everyone's throats.
Want to read about what's going on in Iraq from someone who's actually there? Too bad, the bandwidth is being used up by the latest streaming add for Coca-Cola. Want to read the latest "Upon Further Review" over at MGoBlog? Sorry, you'll have to settle for the rather generic write up provided by ESPN since they paid for the preferential treatment.
Back when this country was created, politics were frequently discussed in taverns or the town square. These options aren't really feasible for Americans today. The town square is now a Super Wal-Mart and drinking and discussing politics can lead to duels and duels are bad. Plus, we have to drive home from the tavern now and that's definitely bad.
So, for Americans to remain a well informed electorate (or do I mean become a well informed electorate?)—which is necessary for any democracy to succeed—access to information, ideas, and having a place to discuss that information and those ideas actually is kind of important. As far as I can tell, the internet is the best—if not only—place for that.
Sure, a slowly loading page of a college football blog isn't going to be the end of freedom as we know it, but I don't want to go back to the days when I had no one to share the ups and downs of Michigan football with because I'm either living in the middle of nowhere or overseas. This internet thing brings people together—people who would never have known each other even existed—and that's a good thing (the occasional anonymous commenter notwithstanding). For it to end because someone had a bright idea on how to make even more money for an already profitable industry would be a crime.
As for Ed Whitacre, the last time I checked my fucking cable bill the internet wasn't free. And, considering you—Ed—pull in more than $19 million a year, I don't think AT&T is giving much complimentary bandwidth away. Bitch.
Now, if Ed ever Googles his name, he might actually read that. Behold the beauty of the internet.
- June 08, 2006 3:00 PM
Pretty interesting video about net neutrality. Kind of ironic that they're using a video -- which requires more bandwidth -- to get across the point. Still, I thought there were a few interesting points.
What do you guys think of the team this year? Tough road schedule. Three losses sounds about right.
- June 08, 2006 5:41 PM


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Wednesday Science Night presents
Nature: Clever Monkeys 7 pm on September 14th
Love, language, guilt, envy, generosity, secrets, lies and sophisticated society are not unique to humans. We share those complex traits with our relatives — the monkeys. Following along as the babies of two different species are reared, viewers learn how and what monkeys teach their young. Monkeys around the world rely on that knowledge to adapt to the remarkable variety of environments they now call home. Who are the cleverest monkeys? And how much of human experience do they really share?
Science Night: Clever Monkeys 9/14
Wednesday Science Night presents

subset: commoncrawl


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State Offers 2012 Remote Recreational Cabin Site Lottery
(Anchorage, AK) The Department of Natural Resources is pleased to announce Alaska residents may apply for the 2012 Remote Recreational Cabin Sites land sale lottery beginning Monday, March 12.
The Remote Recreational Cabin Sites program is in the tradition of Alaska's stake-it-yourself land sales. It allows eligible Alaska residents to stake a parcel of State-owned land in a designated staking area, lease the land until a survey and appraisal are completed, and purchase the parcel at fair market value.
A total of 225 staking authorizations will be awarded to successful applicants. Five areas are being offered in the Northern and Southcentral Regions: Albert Creek North, Teklanika III, Zitziana, Kakhonak Lake, and Aniak – Doestock.
The application period begins Monday, March 12, and ends at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, April 26.
The 2012 brochure and application forms are available free of charge at many DNR offices, by mail, or online at http://dnr.alaska.gov/mlw/landsale. There is a $25 filing fee and applications are accepted online, in person, by mail, or by fax.
Staking authorizations will be awarded by lottery if the number of applications exceeds the available authorizations for an area. The lottery drawing will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, May 8. Applicants do not need to be present to win. Successful applicants may begin staking cabin sites on June 8 and must finish by March 18, 2013.
The land offered is not easily accessible. These areas are best reached by plane or boat. Some others can be reached by ATV, snowmachine, or foot. Alaskans that have participated in recent years say that staking a parcel is challenging, fun, and personally rewarding, and it exemplifies the unique aspects of living in Alaska.
Information on DNR land sales is available online at http://dnr.alaska.gov/mlw/landsale. Follow DNR Land Sales on Facebook at http://facebook.com/alaskaland or on Twitter at www.twitter.com/#LandforAlaskans.
Please contact Marta Mueller, Natural Resource Manager, at firstname.lastname@example.com or call (907)269-8595 with questions or for additional information.


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Earth : North America : United States of America : South (United States of America) : Kentucky
Kentucky [1] is a mideastern state of the United States. Its state capital is Frankfort. Attractions include horse racing and beautiful lakes. Kentucky is also culturally part of the American South. It is home to famous food, (Kentucky Fried Chicken) and music, (bluegrass) traditions.
Other destinations
Get in
By car
Kentucky is accessible by five interstates:
The state is also served by major controlled-access roads called "Parkways" administered by the state. These roads were all built as toll roads but have since become freeways, although the portions of these roads that will become part of the new I-66 and I-69 may become tolled again in the future. Nine roads make up the parkway system. All except the Audubon officially bear the names of Kentucky:politicians, but the full names are listed here because Kentuckians generally do not use the politicians' names to describe the roads or give directions.
By air
There are three large airports in the state. Louisville International Airport is served by several major airlines, including Southwest, Frontier, Delta/Delta Connection, US Express, United Express, American Airlines/American Eagle, Continental Express, and Midwest Connect. Cincinnati-Northern Kentucky International Airport, located off of I-275 near Hebron, is a major hub for Delta, and is also served by American Eagle, United Express, US Airways Express, Continental Connection/Continental Express, Comair, Delta Connection, and USA 3000. Lexington's Blue Grass Field offers direct flights from fourteen cities in the midwestern, southern and eastern parts of the country via American Eagle, US Express, United Express, Delta Connection, and Continental Connection/Express. The two smaller commercial airports in Kentucky are Barkley Regional (serving Paducah), served by Delta Connection, and Owensboro-Daviess County Airport, served by Great Lakes Aviation. The Ashland area is served by Tri-State Airport near Huntington, West Virginia. There are many other smaller, general aviation airports throughout the state.
Get around
Along with the interstates and parkways, Kentucky is served by many state and US routes:
State Parks
Wherever you travel in Kentucky, you are never far from one of 52 Kentucky State Parks. Each park has its own unique attributes, from shorelines to majestic mountains, from winding caves to enchanting woodlands.
Kentucky offers seventeen state resort parks, more than any other state. This wealth of resort parks, each featuring a full-service lodge and dining room, has given rise to our reputation as "the nation's finest state park system."
The Kentucky State Parks operate 24 recreation parks that offer a variety of activities for visitors, whether you have a few hours, a day or a week to spend with us. You can visit these parks and enjoy camping, fishing, golf, boating, hiking, picnicking, tennis, mini-golf, horseback riding, historic sites and much, much more.
State Historic Sites
Kentucky offers eleven state historic sites, where the unique and colorful history and heritage of our Commonwealth comes alive. You can also visit our many State "Recreation" Parks, many of which have their own history to tell.
Kentucky State Parks offer a great variety of species and settings for fishing. Anglers have a choice of largemouth and smallmouth bass, striped bass, trout, bluegill, crappie, catfish and many more kinds of fish at state parks. And for beginners, many parks have fishing equipment to loan to guests.
Kentucky is famed for bluegrass, bourbon, beautiful mountains and thoroughbreds. And, spurred by a renewed focus from the State Park system, golf now is becoming a larger part of Kentucky's recreational reputation. With 19 State Park golf courses, there is sure to be something for everyone.
There's plenty of water to go around for a swim at Kentucky State Parks. The parks operate more than two dozen swimming pools and 11 beaches at lakes. And during the winter, there are indoor pools at Lake Cumberland and Lake Barkley resort parks.
More than $2.5 million has been spent in recent years on improvements at campgrounds, which offer 2,600 improved sites. Reservations are now available for the campgrounds. You can enjoy campground activities such as entertainment, arts and crafts, mini golf, cook outs and nature programs.
The state parks oversee 15 marinas that offer pontoon and fishing boat rentals. The marinas also provide a variety of services including fuel, fishing licenses, ice and slip rentals. And many parks have canoes and paddle boats as well.
Kentucky State Parks offer nearly 300 miles of trails suitable for all levels of enjoyment. From the remote 45 miles currently developed on the Pine Mountain Trail State Park to the .5 mile self-guided interpretive trail through the Civil War redoubts at Columbus-Belmont State Park, there is an outdoor experience that will satisfy everyone!
Looking to explore some new surroundings with your favorite equine companion? Visit one of the scenic Kentucky State Parks horse trails and escape for the day. Or, spend the weekend at a "horse campground" for some cowboy time under the stars. You will find several parks are equipped with seasonal riding stables for the whole family to enjoy. Horse back riding is also an option at many private stables, and at the Kentucky Horse Park seasonally.
Stay safe
Get out
Kentucky is bordered by seven other states.


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I have an interesting piece of trivia.. just no idea how to word it as a question
I have an interesting piece of trivia.. just no idea how to word it as a question
Cricket Web's current Premier League Tipping Champion
- As featured in The Independent.
"Like queuing at the post office, or a cardboard cup of weak milky tea there is a quality of slightly clichéd but still beautifully reassuring Englishness about watching Cook bat"
- Barney Ronay
Do you want the players names first up, or want it all as a complete answer.... Can name the players, but need to ask questions to find out what the **** they have linked!
Q) Is the link to do with international football?
"All are lunatics, but he who can analyze his delusions is called a philosopher." - Ambrose Bierce
Langeveldt: I of course blame their parents.. and unchecked immigration!
GingerFurball: He's Austrian, they tend to produce the odd ****ed up individual
Burgey: Be careful dealing with neighbours whose cars don't have wheels but whose houses do.
Uppercut: Maybe I just need better strippers
Is it linked to actions in World Cup finals?
Is it to do with goals they scored?
Is it connected with converting penalties at world cups?
There are currently 1 users browsing this thread. (0 members and 1 guests)


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SIL Software Catalog
SIL has developed more than 60 pieces of software to support the work of its fieldworkers; most available to the public for free download. This on-line catalog contains product descriptions, download or purchasing instructions, and technical support information, including the latest SIL software Service Bulletins.
All Titles | Categories | Keywords | Platforms | Recommendations
Charis SIL Font
A serif, proportionally-spaced Unicode font optimized for readability in long printed documents
Doulos SIL Font
A Unicode font with a comprehensive set of characters needed for almost any Roman- or Cyrillic-based writing system (including IPA), whether for phonetic or orthographic needs.
Phonology Template Editor and Search Tool (PTEST)
Developed to assist with the phonological analysis of a Bantu language


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CHONBURI, Thailand -- Top-ranked Yani Tseng of Taiwan will try to join an elite group by winning an LPGA tournament for the third consecutive year when the Honda LPGA Thailand tees off Thursday.
Only nine golfers have achieved the feat -- with Annika Sorenstam successful on three occasions: the Michelob Light Classic, 1997-99; the Mizuno Classic, 2001-05; and the LPGA Championship, 2003-05 -- and Tseng is coming off the back of a second-place finish at the Women's Australian Open in Canberra last week.
"Hopefully I can be the 10th," she said. "I will try my best because I love this course. It's pretty good for a long hitter on this golf course. You can go for the par-5s on some of the shallow greens and you can stop the ball on the green."
The other eight players are Laura Davies (Standard Register PING, 1994-97), Patty Berg (World Championship, 1953-55), Betsy Rawls (Tampa Open, 1956-58), Louise Suggs (Dallas Civitan Open, 1959-61), Kathy Whitworth (Orange Blossom Classic, 1968-70), Sandra Haynie (Charity Golf Classic, 1973-75), Karrie Webb (Australian Ladies Masters, 1998-2000), and Lorena Ochoa (Sybase Classic, 2006-08).
Tseng beat 2010 winner Ai Miyazato of Japan by one shot on the Pattaya Old Course at Siam Country Club last year. She will play with Miyazato and Suzann Pettersen in the last group Thursday and hopes to improve on her putting from last week.
"I always play pretty consistently for four days and I just need the putts to drop more," Tseng said. "I feel good on my swing because I've been working so hard on it with my coach, so I'm very happy to see my swing be more consistent."
The tournament has attracted a solid field of top-60 players plus 10 invitees. They include teenaged New Zealand sensation Lydia Ko, the youngest LPGA winner at 15 years, four months in the 2012 Canadian Open, and Tiger Woods' niece, Cheyenne Woods.
Third-ranked Stacy Lewis is the only top-10 player from the United States in the field, and the 2012 LPGA Player of the Year said more Americans should be competing as it's a U.S.-based tour.
"I come to events like this and I realize that I am the top-ranked American, and it's a good spot to be in," said Lewis, who will be making her fourth appearance in Chonburi. "But I would definitely like more American players playing well with me. It's a Solheim Cup year and I think everybody is going to start getting on their games to kind of carry that flag.
"Right now it's me, but hopefully at the end of this year there are a couple more people up here."


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Over the weekend, 60 Minutes correspondent Mike Wallace died in Connecticut. Wallace, a star of that CBS news magazine for 40 years, stood out because of his seeming willingness to ask anybody anything. In 2005, he sat down for an interview with Steve Inskeep.
CBS Newsman Mike Wallace Dies At 93
By editor • Apr 9, 2012


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How to Market Your Website with Meaning
How to Market Your Website with Meaning
Marketing your website with more meaning doesn't mean you need to dive through the depths of your domain . Sometimes the most succinct way to market your website with meaning is to simplify. Here are some other ideas to think about:
- It's not all about you.
Approach your marketing from the standpoint of what you have to offer. Potential clients do not want to hear exclusively about you and your company, no matter how much you may think they do. Let's say that you manage a local sports bar and grill. Rather than focusing on company history, how about empowering your customers to talk about your award winning nachos? Everybody loves nachos. And when you showcase happy customers, your marketing is no longer all about you. Remember that your business is about your customers and what you have to offer them. Not the other way around.
- Add value when possible.
Make sure to place the content on your website in an organized, simple way. Add content that provides value to your customers rather than information that will just sit for readers to sift through. Simplicity with your content allows your customers to have an easier time navigating your website and results in a better user experience. Consider adding tips, how to's, or a blog with interesting stories. The stories that are compelling and have an emotional tie-in will keep readers coming back to your site. This often results in higher sales volumes over time.
- Have a meaningful purpose and a goal
It seems obvious but many businesses fail to understand why they're marketing…or even worse, why they're in business in the first place. If you went into business because there are no other nachos like yours in the area, put it front in center in every customer touch point. Make it abundantly clear that your nachos are so good it's worth the plane trip from Nashville for the treat. This is a simplified example. If you have a deeper reason, you can use that too. Just make sure that your deeper reasons for going into business is conveyed in a relatable, accessible way.
- Create useful content
If you've advertised in the past and it didn't work, it may be because you're now competing with content marketing. Content marketing will continue to dominate because it can generate a high amount of traffic that often yields higher sales than any paid advertising. The content that you create for your website is the backbone of your marketing. Useful, relevant content reaps rewards. And it's a great way to drive visitors to your website.
- Show your humanity
Make sure your conversations don't sound stiff and contrived. Make small talk occasionally and don't be afraid to gently stray from the main topic occasionally. This connects you and your business to your customers in a more authentic way. Take the time to interact and thank your customers for listening and sharing your content.
Explain what your business does in an easy, relatable way and try not to overthink the meaningfulness of your approach. It's often better to have a simple website that explains the basics than to have a convoluted mess that leaves more questions than answers. When you put a strategy in place from the start and direct more meaning to your domain, you allow new customers to nosh on those award-winning nachos and spread the word. Now, that's some nifty meaning behind your brand.


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To the Editor:
The other day, watching some replays of the March on Washington in 1963, I was telling my eldest daughter about how, when the bus I was on left Boston, I waved to my husband and my three little children, then three, four, and six, and I was not necessarily sure that I would ever see them again. After the fact, we know the March was peaceful. Before the fact, we did not know what might happen. My daughter asked me point blank, "Mom, why did you go?" and I answered spontaneously, " Moral Indignation."
Moral Indignation about the way people were being treated. Those circumstances required a response from me, one person among what turned out to be hundreds of others.
Listening to John Kerry last week, I heard the same moral indignation. I also heard it when President Obama spoke the next day. I thank both of them for understanding and expressing the strong sense of moral indignation that the use of any chemical weapons should provoke in all of us.
Growing up in Holland, I heard horrible stories from my parents about the gas being used in the First World War. I experienced the German occupation in Holland during the Second World War and learned about the terrible atrocities perpetrated in the concentration camps. War is the most inhumane action used by human beings against each other. By now, 2013, there should be war no more. We know enough, we should have learned enough, to settle all our differences by other means.
But that is not the case. I fully support President Obama in his need and wish, in humanity's need, to not let this use of chemical weapons go unchallenged and unpunished. I trust his judgement, savvy, and smarts to know what specific action to take. Just like in the March on Washington, we do not necessarily know what the consequences of such action may be, but our moral indignation has to be stronger than our fear of possible consequences.
The president carries a heavy burden. I hope and trust that the country in the final analysis will be with him and that we have not yet been so degraded by violence that there are no longer any limits left. Thank you, President Obama, for setting a strong moral compass.
Alida J. O'Loughlin
Vineyard Haven


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Originally published on November 23, 2013 5:07 pm
After a fierce bidding war, FX spinoff cable network FXX won the rights to make all seasons of TV's longest-running scripted show, The Simpsons, available for online streaming. It may be the largest TV syndication deal ever. Anthony Breznican, a senior writer at Entertainment Weekly, says the deal shows how networks are trying to capitalize on the "binge watching" trend. The deal gives FXX the right to air more than 500 episodes of The Simpsons, now in its 25th season on Fox.


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Trevor McEachron Scores Gamewinner to Lead ODU to Victory in Stihl Classic
By ODU Athletics
Sept. 13, 2002
The 27th annual Old Dominion Stihl Soccer Classic got off to an exciting start as ODU's Trevor McEachron (Woodbridge, VA) scored the game-winning goal with just 2:30 left in the game to lead the Monarchs to a 2-1 win over Georgia State in front of 723 enthusiastic fans. Coastal Carolina led off the event with a 4-2 victory over William and Mary.
Attila Vendegh (Bratislava, Slovakia) set up McEachron for the score with a line drive corner kick from the left which allowed McEachron to leap above the crowd and stick the ball in the right side. The Monarchs trailed 1-0 for more than half the contest but Vendegh was able to put in his own goal in the 69th minute. The CAA Player of the Year took a pass from Kevon Harris (Kingston, Jamaica) and dribbled through two defenders and fired the equalizer. That tally was Vendegh's second and Harris's third assist of the year.
The Panthers went into halftime with 1-0 lead after Bruce Holt broke a scoreless game when he found the back of the net with a driving shot past goalie John Connelly (Rockville, MD). However, Old Dominion came out of halftime with more intensity and controlled the flow of the game for the majority of the second period. They held a 18 to 9 shot advantage while GSU had six corner kicks to ODU's 5. Connelly again played well in goal in his second consecutive start making two saves and helping the Monarchs control the ball.
In the first game of the evening, Coastal Carolina scored the game's first four goals and held off a late William and Mary charge to win 4-2. Joseph Ngwenya scored two goals and added two assists, taking part in every one of the Chanticleer's goals. Mike Littlefield chipped in with the other two goals.
The Tribe answered with two goals just minutes apart but it wasn't enough. Carlos Garcia assisted on the two scores that came with about ten minutes remaining but the Coastal defense made their early lead stand.
The Stihl Classic continues on Sunday when Georgia State meets William and Mary at noon before Old Dominion entertains Coastal Carolina at 2:30 in the finale.
Scoring Summary GSU vs. ODU
Shots: GSU 9, ODU 18 Goals: GSU 14:09 Holt ODU 69:14 Vendegh from Harris ODU 87:30 McEachron from Vendegh
Corners: GSU 6, ODU 5 Saves: GSU (Wood) 4, ODU (Connelly) 2 Fouls: GSU 17, ODU 18 Cautions: ODU 43:00 Y Kaila GSU 46:00 Y Hargather
CCU vs W&M
Shots: CCU 13, WM 23 Goals: CCU 7:59 Ngwenya from Owen CCU 17:03 Littlefield from Ngwenya CCU 47:42 Ngwenya CCU 67:28 Littlefield from Ngwenya WM 78:12 Bean from Garcia WM 80:10 Scherder from Garcia
Corners: CCU 2, WM 5 Fouls: CCU 13, WM 11 Saves: CCU (Sanders) 4, WM (Upton 3) Cautions: CCU 40:00 Y Moore WM 40:00 Y Garcia WM 67:00 Y Brown


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In Europe's classiest capital we'll tiptoe through the palace of Maria Theresa and be dazzled by the Hapsburg crown jewels. Then we'll picnic on the Danube, nibble strudel in an old world cafe, blush at slinky Art Nouveau, and waltz to the three-four beat of Johann Strauss.
Visit the Website: http://www.ricksteves.com
Episode #409 / Length: 26 minutes


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|I'm a student. How do I find out about part-time or summer jobs at Caltrans?
College and high school students should talk to their School Placement Coordinator about getting any state job, including Caltrans jobs, during the summer and also for work experience credit. The California Community Colleges Foundation (CCCF) creates and distributes student job announcements to appropriate campuses.


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So many absolutely fabulous men! Love this thread. Thank you all for sharing!
So many absolutely fabulous men! Love this thread. Thank you all for sharing!
this is what being queer is all about, if it weren't for men like this ,I'd be straight, probably.
one of the worst tragedies in life is being forgotten by some one you can never forget!
Last dude would be perfect without shaved pubes. Mmmmm so stocky.
Who is this guy ? I think I saw him before.
Check out those low hangers.
I'm starting to see a lot of shaved pubes and manscaping in these pictures...not a good sign.
Can someone please for the love of all that is sexy in the world ID that 450 man
Someone please id that sexy man with the 450 written on his body!
Hot men all of them
anyone ID 450 yet?
Good God, this is a sexy thread!!!! Can't even pick a favorite post!
This thread needs to be used more


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Hamilton, Greinke remain on Rangers' radar
GM Daniels exploring 'opportunities to upgrade' in effort to win championship
By T.R. Sullivan /11/29/12 5:36 PM ET
ARLINGTON -- Outfielder Josh Hamilton remains unsigned as a free agent. It was the first topic brought up to general manager Jon Daniels on a media conference call Thursday afternoon.
"It's about the same as our last conference call a couple of weeks ago," Daniels said with a trace of weariness in his voice. "I've maintained contact with [his agent] Mike Moye. I think the interest has been consistent and so has the process that we agreed to in Spring Training when we tabled negotiations. Josh is going to test the market and when he's done that, he's going to circle back to us. He's still doing that.
"I think it's worked out well for us. We're sorting through our options as well and I would think it would start moving a little bit here shortly."
The options the Rangers are sorting through include free-agent pitcher Zack Greinke. He and Hamilton are the two best free agents on the market, and the Rangers have interest in both.
Right now there is no clear indication where either one will land but the Rangers remain possibilities for both as the Winter Meetings get ready to start on Monday in Nashville, Tenn. The Rangers have also made it clear that they will not wait on Hamilton if another opportunity presents itself.
"That's still the case," Daniels said. "If we're in a spot and we've got a decision to make based on the timing, we'll make that call. If we run into a situation where we have to push our timetable up with Josh, we'll do that. We're not there yet."
Clearly Greinke is the one free agent who could make the Rangers do that. The Rangers currently have a rotation of Yu Darvish, Matt Harrison, Derek Holland and Alexi Ogando. Martin Perez ended the season as the fifth starter but Daniels, without getting into specifics, left open the possibility of adding starting pitching.
"You're always looking out for starting pitching ... always looking to upgrade," Daniels said. "Do we have to? Not necessarily. It's something we're looking at."
Greinke is not going to come cheaply, not after Matt Cain signed a six-year, $127.5 million contract with the Giants at the beginning of this past season. Greinke could go beyond that, if there are enough teams involved in the bidding. So far, the Dodgers and the Angels have been identified as the Rangers' prime competitors, but others could be lurking.
Daniels said the Rangers do not have a specific philosophy for how far they are willing to go in money and length of contract for a high-end free-agent starting pitcher.
"The shorter and cheaper the better," Daniels joked. "We evaluate everything on an individual basis, each individual player and circumstances. We consider all factors you can imagine and go from there."
The Rangers still have Colby Lewis and Neftali Feliz, who are both coming back from major arm surgery. The Rangers are hoping Lewis could be back by June 1. Feliz could be a couple months after that but it will be as a reliever, at least for next season according to Daniels. Neither pitchers' situation impacts the Rangers' offseason planning.
"We have to put the club together not counting on them," Daniels said.
If the Rangers are able to sign Greinke, it would likely mean that Hamilton will not return. That may be the case even if Greinke signs elsewhere. Daniels said that if Hamilton departs, that does not mean outfield becomes a bigger priority for a team that is still trying to find a catcher and bullpen help.
"Not necessarily," Daniels said. "Not necessarily. I think we're very comfortable with David Murphy and Nelson Cruz on the corners and with Leonys Martin, with Craig Gentry, with Julio Borbon and Engel Beltre on the roster. If Josh isn't back, I don't know if it's a situation where we need to add an outfielder. We may but it's not necessarily our first priority."
The other factor in the equation is rookie infielder Jurickson Profar. The Rangers are considering the possibility of Profar playing a more prominent role, which could mean Ian Kinsler moving to the outfield. The Rangers haven't broached that possibility but Kinsler has already stated that he would be open to it.
As far as Profar being given a more significant role, Daniels said, "It's still up in the air. It's a possibility, something that's been talked about among us. It's not set in stone. It depends on some of the other things we're talking about. But he's capable of doing that.
"Everybody has to earn their opportunities. If young players are going to play for us, it's going to be because we feel they can help us win and they can complement our core and become a part of the core."
These are questions the Rangers hope to have answered in Nashville, or at least a better understanding of where they are headed. Daniels said he expects activity to start accelerating in the next 10 days to two weeks.
The Rangers have other questions with catching still looming large. Daniels admitted there are not that many attractive catching options on the market this winter. They continue to have discussions with Mike Napoli and they have some interest in free agents A.J. Pierzynski and Russell Martin.
"I'm not sure we'll find our long-term answer to catching this offseason," Daniels said. "It's too early to say. There is a limited supply as far as guys who are available. We're still looking at our options."
That could be a suggestion that the Rangers aren't willing to commit beyond a two-year deal to the catchers who are available. But it's clear the Rangers have to find somebody and Daniels declined to say if the club will be able to reach an agreement with Geovany Soto.
They are trying to work out a contract with Soto that would avoid an arbitration hearing later this winter and 11 p.m. CT on Friday is the deadline to tender contracts to players. If the Rangers can't work something out with Soto, there is a possibility they could non-tender him and let him become a free agent.
"I don't have anything to announce there," Daniels said.
The Rangers haven't had much to announce this winter but Daniels made it clear his goal is to put together a team that can compete for a championship in 2013. The "win now" philosophy is still in place.
"We've looked at a variety of things to improve the club," Daniels said. "Some are relatively minor, some of them involve giving our young players a chance and some are bigger moves. Some are a combination of them all.
"We're not going to turn over the club. We're in a situation where we have a good club, a good core. We like our team. We've got some opportunities to upgrade and we're looking into them."


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Dr. Gregory Prastacos Appointed Dean of the Howe School of Technology Management at Stevens Institute of Technology
Hoboken, N.J. – Dr. Gregory Prastacos, Rector and Professor of Management Science at the Athens University of Economics and Business (AUEB), has been appointed Dean of the Wesley J. Howe School of Technology Management at Stevens Institute of Technology. The appointment is effective February 15, 2012.
"As the market demand for professionals with technology skills increases, Dr. Prastacos brings international experience to strengthen Stevens' pivotal role as a technology-centric, global business leader at the epicenter of the corporate world. His background in strategic leadership, teaching and research, combined with his deep understanding of the importance of technology and his enthusiasm, vision and drive for excellence make him the ideal candidate to raise the profile and increase the footprint of the Howe School," said Dr. Nariman Farvardin, President of Stevens.
As a professor and administrator at AUEB for more than 30 years, Prastacos was a powerful agent of change, advocating for academic excellence and continuously launching innovative and impactful curricula and research programs. As rector, he led a major international expansion, significantly enriched the university's academic programs, improved the finances of the university, and initiated new corporate social responsibility activities. His other major accomplishments included the founding of AUEB's MBA International Program, which is internationally ranked among the top MBA programs worldwide, and the founding of AUEB's Management Sciences Laboratory, which is considered a leading European research center.
"Dr. Prastacos is an experienced and dynamic thought leader who is committed to strengthening the Howe School's leadership position at the intersection of business, management and technology," said Dr. George Korfiatis, Provost and University Vice President at Stevens. "With a wealth of university executive leadership experience as well as countless scholarly contributions to the field of management, he has demonstrated – in research and in practice – tremendous ability to nurture and build institutions."
Prior to joining AUEB, Prastacos taught at Columbia University and the Wharton School. He has also held visiting appointments at numerous international universities and business schools. He is an internationally recognized scholar in the field of operations research, making seminal contributions in operations management and supply chain management, as well as significant contributions in finance, business strategy, human resources management, innovation and organizational change in the information economy.
Prastacos has received many distinctions and awards for his contributions to the field of management including: The First World Prize in the Practice of Management Science (Edelman Award), awarded by the Institute for Management Sciences for significant contributions in inventory management and logistics and their applications to health care delivery systems; the Honorary Medal for significant achievements in Operations Research by the Institute for Management Sciences and Operations Research; and election as a Fellow of the Washington Academy of Sciences for significant contributions in Operations Research and Applications in Health Care Management. A frequent keynote speaker at major conferences, he has also led more than 25 major research projects, published eight books and contributed more than 60 papers in international academic journals and edited volumes.
Prastacos has also served as an advisor to government organizations and a consultant to private industry. He launched the OMAS SA management consulting company, which became a market leader in decision support systems, business intelligence systems, data warehousing and customer relationship management. The company later merged with Deloitte & Touche Consulting, where Prastacos served as Chairman of the Board until 2002.
"Business education is at a crossroads where business leaders are expected to personally possess broad knowledge across business and technology. The Howe School is well positioned – in terms of its curriculum and programs, its history, its industry links, and its location minutes from New York City, offering countless opportunities and partnerships – to capitalize on this direction. I am thrilled to be joining Stevens Institute of Technology and look forward to continuing to recruit, prepare and inspire the next generation of business leaders," said Prastacos.
About Stevens Institute of Technology
Founded in 1870, Stevens Institute of Technology, The Innovation University™, lives at the intersection of industry, academics and research. The University's students, faculty and partners leverage their collective real-world experience and culture of innovation, research and entrepreneurship to confront global challenges in engineering, science, systems and technology management.
Based in Hoboken, N.J. and with a location in Washington, D.C., Stevens offers baccalaureate, master's, certificates and doctoral degrees in engineering, the sciences and management, in addition to baccalaureate degrees in business and liberal arts. Stevens has been recognized by both the US Department of Defense and the Department of Homeland Security as a National Center of Excellence in the areas of systems engineering and port security research. The University has a total enrollment of more than 2,350 undergraduate and 3,600 graduate students with almost 450 faculty. Stevens' graduate programs have attracted international participation from China, India, Southeast Asia, Europe and Latin America as well as strategic partnerships with industry leaders, governments and other universities around the world. Additional information may be obtained at www.stevens.edu and www.stevens.edu/news.


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Resource for K-9 classroom teachers and physical education specialists as well as health fitness instructors and youth program leaders.
Instructor Judy Notte is a full-time elementary school teacher in Vancouver, British Columbia. A certified fitness professional with the American Council on Exercise (ACE) and a three-star presenter with the International Dance Exercise Association (IDEA), Notte has given presentations on youth fitness and wellness nationally and internationally. Her articles have been published in IDEA Source, IDEA Today, and The Runner. Notte has been recognized as a Nike Fitness Athlete and as a Rick Hansen Role Model. She received her master's degree in curriculum studies from the University of British Columbia.
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ELKO, Nev. (AP) - A 23-year-old man has been convicted of a lesser charge of involuntary manslaughter in the shooting death of an Elko woman last year.
The Elko Daily Free Press reports Matthew Deacon smiled when a jury returned the verdict Friday night in the June 15 shooting of Casey Jo Tervort outside his home.
He instead could have been convicted of first- or second-degree murder.
Members of the victim's family were visibly upset after the verdict was read. Tervort's sister ran out of the courtroom weeping.
Police say Deacon admitted he fired the shot that killed Tervort after the two argued at a trailer park June 15.
But Deacon insists he did not do it on purpose. He maintains the shooting was an accident caused by his shotgun's "hair trigger."


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Fall... in love
You dont have to be alone this winter
By now, your summer fling is either nearing an end, you're thinking about taking the relationship to the next level, or the thought of spending the holiday season alone is depressing the heck out of you. Luckily, Springfield and central Illinois host an array of autumn activities and locales that are perfect for one last romantic rendezvous or laying the groundwork for a lifetime of love and devotion.
Wishing on a star just might put a twinkle in your
eye if you and the luminary of your life visit a Star Party at the University of
Illinois at Springfield. The parties, which UIS has hosted for three
decades, are held each Friday (depending on the weather) at 8 p.m., and run
from Sept. 5 to Oct. 25. Call 206-8342 for information. Not counting your
date, the heavenly bodies that are viewable from the roof of UIS'
Brookens Library this fall include: Jupiter, the moon, ring nebula, and
coupled stars Alberio and Mizar.
Also, Hill Prairie Winery kicks off its Harvest Festival and Fish Fry on Saturday Oct. 4 in Oakford (23753 Lounsberry Rd.; 635-9900), north of Petersburg. For $5 a piece, lovebirds can sip spirits to the tunes of acoustic band The Mudbugs Unplugged and, later, Kilborn Alley. On Sunday, Oct. 5, classic rockers AntoneDeRocchi and Jim Wicker perform. Doors open at noon each day. Each Sunday through Oct. 26 a different band is also featured at the winery. Visit www.hillprairiewinery.com for complete event info, events, and a wine list.
Over in Monticello, the idyllic environs of Allerton Park include 1,500
acres of gardens and nature trails. And what's more romantic than the
great outdoors? Allerton's Music in Nature concert series continues
through the fall with Irish and folk bands Motherlode and Exorna on Sept.
20 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The Oct. 11 concert series event presents an
opportunity to get close to your significant other when Allerton hosts
Halloween-themed scary ghost storytelling, which begins at 7 p.m. If Mother
Nature is successful at playing matchmaker during your visit, Allerton also
rents space for weddings, receptions, and other
special events.
If your animal instincts are telling you to walk on
the wild side, then take your boo to the zoo. Springfield's Henson Robinson Zoo, home to
over 300 animals, is open every day this fall except Thanksgiving and the
day after. Besides providing an excuse to chat about the birds and the
bees, the zoo hosts a number of activities this fall, including a
fundraiser to benefit the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Amphibian Fund
on Sept. 27. Tickets to the walk cost $20-$25.
Springfield parks are another great way to enjoy fall with the object of your affection. Located in the heart of Springfield, Washington Park is home to a botanical garden, the beautiful music-making Rees Memorial Carillon (in case you're in need of inspiration), two lagoons, secluded wooded areas, and lots of trees to watch turn colors.
On the north side of town, Lincoln Park, offers all the beauty of Washington Park and contains the Nelson Center, which houses two skating rinks. Nothing quite breaks the ice better than watching your date fall down on it. Parks also feature concerts, movies, and other activities throughout the fall. Check with the Springfield Park District for updates at www.springfieldparks.org.
Lastly, and admittedly a little on the unconventional
side, Nov. 4 is Election Day. So why not go with your date to the polls? Democracy is hot
– and there is no better way to profess one's adoration of
another than by exercising one's own civic duty. Romeos and Juliets
can go here to find where they should vote:
Contact R.L. Nave at firstname.lastname@example.com


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Photos from the KLRU Community Screening of local productions. Community members had a chance to meet with producers and hosts of their favorite programs plus tour the KLRU studios.
Monthly Archives: October 2009
ACL on The Newshour
Watch The Newshour tonight for a story on Austin City Limits' 35th anniversary. The segment is scheduled to air during tonight's (10/20) episode which airs at 6 p.m. on KLRU.
Check out The Newshour's coverage online at pbs.org/newshour
Review: Masterpiece "Endgame"
Program: Masterpiece Classic "Endgame"
When: Sunday, October 25, at 8 p.m. (repeats on KLRU-Q Monday, October 26, at 8 p.m.)
Endgame is the true story of the covert discussions that led to the release of Nelson Mandela, the end of apartheid, and the eventual first democratic election of 1994.
Michael Young, played by Jonny Lee Miller, is a UK businessman who brings together the Afrikaners and members of the African National Congress (ANC). Chiwetel Ejiofor stars as Thabo Mbeki, the man who would eventually succeed Mandela as President. Ejiofor does an excellent job of capturing the internal conflict of Mbeki, mirrored by the conflict within the ANC at the time. Professor Will Esterhuyse, representing the Afrikaners, is portrayed by William Hurt. As always, Hurt delivers. The man has never given anything but an outstanding performance and this film is no different. The scenes between Mbeki and Esterhuyse, documenting the evolution of their relationship, are captivating, particularly the scene in which they discuss the origins of fear.
Also notable is Mark Strong who is sufficiently evil as Dr. Neil Barnard, one of the many men who greatly underestimated Mandela.
Finally, Clarke Peters's quiet performance as Mandela is inspiring. I remember watching the release of Mandela in 1990 as an elementary school student. Almost 20 years later, the recreated scene of his walk with Winnie had me in tears. Knowing how it all ends does not lessen the impact of this moment in human history.
— Malaika Naulls
About the reviewer: Malaika Naulls is an intern with KLRU and in her fourth year of the JD/MBA graduate program at the University of Texas. When she's not being an academic masochist, you can find her…sleeping.
ACL day in Austin October 17
To commemorate the 35th anniversary of the first taping of the award winning PBS series AUSTIN CITY LIMITS, Mayor Lee Leffingwell has declared October 17 "Austin City Limits Day." The date recognizes the show's very first taping, which took place on October 17, 1974 and featured the iconic Willie Nelson. To mark the honor KLRU and ACL will stream the original episode in its entirety for one month. For more information visit the newly launched austincitylimits.org. And, on November 15, ACL will again present a very special episode with Willie Nelson, in a joint performance with Austin legends Asleep at the Wheel.
Watch the proclamation ceremony:
AUSTIN CITY LIMITS: "Great Music. No Limits." Now the longest-running music series in American television history, ACL showcases popular music legends and innovators from every genre. In addition to being honored by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum as a rock and roll landmark, AUSTIN CITY LIMITS is the only television program to ever receive the National Medal of Arts, the nation's highest award for artistic excellence. Still to come in this exciting anniversary season are shows with Kenny Chesney, Pearl Jam, Elvis Costello, The Avett Brothers, Mos Def and more.
Highlight 10/18 to 10/24
One of Earth's most abundant mammals is now on the brink of extinction. Sunday at 7 p.m., follow a team of experts who are working to protect rhinos from poachers and nurse this species back to a healthy existence on Nature.
Masterpiece Mystery! at 8 p.m. Sunday investigates the murder of a small-time criminal that leads Lewis and Hathaway to a prominent Oxford don-turned-celebrity atheist, who years earlier had been the intended target of a botched murder attempt.
Latin Music USA is a fresh take on our musical history, reaching across five decades and across musical genres to portray the rich mix of sounds created by Latinos and embraced by all. Learn all about the Chicano wave Monday at 8 p.m. Chicanos–Americans of Mexican descent–have always been part of the United States, and their music tells a uniquely American story. The final episode of the series, at 9 p.m., focuses on Latin pop. With an all-American appeal, Latin Pop conquered the music world, while Reggaetón went from an underground Puerto Rican sound to the top of the dance charts.
Hear Bill Cosby, Marc Anthony, Geraldo Rivera, and other family, friends and colleagues pay homage to the late mambo and Latin jazz legend Tito Puente on Voces, Monday at 10 p.m.
Monitor lizards, the largest lizards to walk the planet, are blurring the lines between reptiles and mammals. NOVA follows expert lizard hunter Dr. Eric Pianka as he tracks the elusive creatures through Australia's heartland with cutting-edge "lizard cam" 7 p.m. Tuesday.
Frontline producer/director Michael Kirk discovers early warnings of the economic crash 8 p.m. Tuesday, revealing an intense battle among high-ranking members of the Clinton administration and uncovering a concerted effort not to regulate the derivatives markets, which would become the ticking time bomb within the American economy.
Immigrants from around the world flocked to work in the mines in Butte, Montana—but what they blasted out of the 10,000 miles of tunnels was more than just copper. It was the rise of unions and multinational corporations, and the seeds of the current debate over the environment 9 p.m. Tuesday on Independent Lens.
The Power of the Poor 10 p.m. Tuesday tells the story of how a small group of economists helped defeat Peru's Shining Path terrorists, pressured the government into making legal reforms on poverty and, in the process, became repeated targets for bombing and assassinations.
Bursting on to the international scene in 1999 as the 18 year-old wunderkind conductor of the Simon Bolivar Youth Orchestra of Venezuela, Gustavo Dudamel has taken the classical music world by storm and will become the new music director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic in fall 2009. Join the opening night festivities on Great Performances 7 p.m. Wednesday.
See how art adapts and changes over time on Art in the Twenty-First Century at 9 p.m. Wednesday. Go into the world of art transformation with filmmaker Paul McCarthy; photographer, filmmaker Cindy Sherman; and painter, sculptor, photographer, and batiker Yinka Shonibare.
Knoxville native Kenny Chesney has parlayed his average-guy/beach bum persona into a long line of hit singles, multi-platinum albums, sell-out arena tours and a staggering number of ACM and CMA awards. See a classic Chesney performance on Austin City Limits Wednesday at 10 p.m. and Friday at 9 p.m.
Artist Julie Speed talks with Evan Smith on Texas Monthly Talks Thursday at 7 p.m. about the stories behind her art, her life in Austin and a book about her work.
Downtown at 7:30 p.m. Thursday follow a group of Austinites as they enjoy downtown Austin on less than $25 a day and journey to the bowels of the Austin History Center and meet the keepers of the past.
Test the best ways to keep your brain in peak condition on Life (Part 2) at 8 p.m. and discover mechanics of aging as you step into "empathy suits" designed to simulate how it feels to be older at 8:30 p.m.
Catch the third episode of Winemakers Thursday at 9 p.m. and see what happens when a diverse group of twelve men and women head into one of the most uniquely challenging and rewarding professions in the world: the business of making wine.
From the well-known landmarks to the completely obscure dives and hideaways, join host Chet Garner on Austin Daytripper at 9:30 p.m. Thursday as he takes you on an adventure throughout Central Texas and then gets you back home before dark.
Evolving at a furious rate, Bird blends rock, pop and electronica in his polyglot stew. His latest album Noble Beast, Bird brings his knockout stage presence to Austin City Limits for his debut performance Saturday at 7 p.m.
In Performance at the White House: Fiesta Latina
In Performance at the White House: Fiesta Latina airing tonight (10/15) at 7 p.m. on KRLU is a concert hosted by the President and Mrs. Obama on the South Lawn of the White House that celebrates Hispanic musical heritage. The program includes Marc Anthony, Jimmy Smits, Pete Escovedo, Gloria Estefan, José Feliciano, George Lopez, Thalía, Tito "El Bambino", the Bachata music group Aventura, and the Chicano rock band Los Lobos, with Sheila E. leading the house band.
Spirituality and Happiness focus of this week's 2nd Half of Life
As your PBS station, it is KLRU's mission to bring people together around important issues. KLRU does this through various educational and outreach initiatives. This fall, KLRU will present 2nd Half of Life, a six-part series airing weekly on Thursday nights at 8 p.m. beginning October 8 and running til November 12. Created for one of the best-educated, healthiest, and most privileged generations in American history — the Boomers — the series aims to help people reinvent life after the age of 50. Additional resources at KLRU's 2nd Half of Life Web site at klru.org/2ndhalfoflife 2nd Half of Life is made possible thanks to our sponsor Seton Family of Hospitals and in cooperation with the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services.
This week:
Back-to-back episodes of Life (Part 2) at 8 p.m.
Up first, are Americans truly becoming more spiritual as they age – and are they sincere, or just hedging their bets? Then, people of all ages discuss what makes them happy.
Madeleine Albright & Gail Collins TMT tapings
Join KLRU in the studio for two Texas Monthly Talks tapings on Friday, October 30.
First, Evan Smith talks with former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright. This taping starts at 9:45 a.m.; doors will open at 9 a.m. RSVP for the Madeleine Albright taping here.
Nest, Smith sits down with New York Times columnist and author Gail Collins. This taping starts at 11:45 a.m.; doors will open at 11 a.m. RSVP for the Gail Collins taping here.
Frontline "Obama's War"
Preview of the October 13 episode of Frontline "Obama's War" airs at 8 pm Tuesday or watch online at http://video.pbs.org
Meet Evan Smith, Tom Spencer and more
KLRU Community Screenings presents a night with the producers on Tuesday, October 20. Producers and hosts from KLRU's award-winning local productions Texas Monthly Talks and Central Texas Gardener will preview the new seasons of their shows, answer questions about what it takes to make each show and talk about their favorite moments. KLRU will also present clips from a new local show called Austin Daytripper and let attendees tour the Central Texas Gardener set. The free screening starts at 7 p.m., doors open at 6 p.m. and Q&A will immediately follow the screening.
Please RSVP here by noon October 20.
KLRU Community Screenings made possible with support from Austin Community College.


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Audio on demand
These are modern dreamtime stories!
Stephen Hagan, Gordon Syron and Sam Wagan Watson
Who You Callin' Urban? forum, 6 July 2007
The ways the 'active' Indigenous voice has changed the representation of Indigenous cultures from urban areas in museums and keeping places is explored by Indigenous artist Gordon Syron, poet Sam Wagan Watson and writer Stephen Hagan.
Who You Callin' Urban? forum
- Who you callin' urban?Vernon Ah Kee, Bronwyn Bancroft, Richard Bell, Wesley Enoch and Dr Anita Heiss
- These are modern dreamtime stories!Stephen Hagan, Gordon Syron and Sam Wagan Watson
- Writing onto public record our storiesMichael Aird, Stephen Hagan, Christine Hansen and Professor Peter Read


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ROCKVILLE, Md. (AP) — Montgomery County firefighters would receive a nearly 20 percent raise over the next two years as part of a new agreement between their union and County Executive Ike Leggett.
The Washington Examiner reports the raise for firefighters would be the largest raise for unionized county workers if the County Council approves three new labor contracts.
The council is expected to vote next month as part of Leggett's $4.8 billion budget. County union workers would see a 13.5 percent raise. Police officers would see a 14.7 percent raise. Firefighters would get 19.5 percent.
Fire Chief Richard Bowers says the increase is warranted because employees had to endure a four-year wage freeze.
Most council members agree raises are deserved. But Councilman Phil Andrews says a smaller increase would be more sustainable.
(Copyright 2013 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)


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Major difficulties with a used Gigabeat S (WMP won't detect)
Hey everybody. I bought a gigabeat S (specifically an MES30) from amazon.
First off, I think it might be a test version. All the references online to the Gigabeat S list it as an MES30VW. The designation on the back of mine is simple MES30, which isn't unusual, but there are other things odd too.
When powering up from switching the battery off, it shows a Zune logo with a huge TEST in a red box across the top.
It's also "missing" labels on the lower navigation buttons (looks like a +) but has them on everything else. I remember a review mentioning that some of their buttons were unlabeled.
Most importantly, it's missing several menu options that the user manual refers to, including the "restore factory settings" option.
I've been having fits getting WMP11 to detect it, though I've gotten the drivers installed and it shows up in my computer and in device manager. I've tried WMP 10 and 11 to no avail. I tried to get my laptop to detect it as well, but it didn't load the drivers from windows update, and I didn't expect a much better experience on the laptop.
I got this player to put rockbox on it, since I know that devices that use MTP annoy me to no end, and I think it could be a good player, if I can ever get it to work.
I'm not using a USB hub, the player itself shows "initializing" then "connected" and stays "connected" until I disconnect the USB cable. I just can't get WMP or anything else(the firmware updater and beastpatcher) to detect the device.
I've tried using WMP10, installing WMP11 with/without the player attached, checked/changed the file permissions in the regkeys HKLM\...\enum, tried applying the patch referred to about WMP11 hanging when detecting a device.
As it is now, if I attach the device with WMP running, WMP doesn't acknowledge it. If I attach the device, then start WMP, WMP hangs forever.
1) Is this a weird pre-release/prototype player?
2) Am I missing something, or is there something else I can try? I suppose I can do all this on the laptop too, or try to do it in OpenSUSE(linux), though I'm a novice in that OS.
3) Does anyone know what was "installed" from the original CD, or where to find the contents of that CD? I'm guessing it was an MTP patch for WMP10, but I'm not sure, and I can't find the cd anywhere. Even though windows picks up hardware drivers on its own, that doesn't mean that WMP has what it needs. The manual mentions needing to have the install CD to load the player to WMP10.
4) How do I do a hard-reset to factory settings? The procedures I've found say to hold the left arrow and start buttons while powering on, but that does nothing. I've tried the "left" and "previous screen" buttons.
I worked in IT for a few years, so I am pretty capable, but I'm at my wit's end, especially with all the intentional ignoring of the products by microsoft and toshiba.
For now, I'm walking away until later today or tomorrow.
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Download Foobar2000 or MediaMonkey and see if the device is recognized. WMP gets no luv around here,...it's was and always remains crap.
As for the Zune logo,...sounds like you got a device someone attempted to put the Zune hdd players FW on. You might be in trouble there, unless you get the original FW for the gigabeat and get it to reinstall. That's what I did when I had issues with a corrupt drive. It work fine after that,...and it's on vacation with a buddy in Hong-Kong still.
It's not showing up in MediaMonkey. I love foobar! I didn't know it did portable devices though; do you need a plugin?
I think the MTP protocol/drivers/files are whacked, but don't know how to check other than verifying that the files exist in \system32\drivers and \system32.
By original firmware, do you mean the gbs_update_1_3_us.exe file from Toshiba, or is there an older version?
Also, this OS looks exactly like the zune an old girlfriend had. The navigation style and the background. Is there supposed to be a background and such on the gigabeat?
My firmware version reads "Version 1.1 (242) TEST" (newline) "Hardware: 0.0" "Built at 7:39:05am 8/17/2006 by REDMOND\xblds"
The firmware screen has "zune" in the upper left and a big zune logo +"zune" on another line. Nowhere in the firmware does it say gigabeat anything.
I think someone put zune firmware on this gigabeat, or that this is some sort of whacked out prototype.
Ok, so someone definitely has loaded up some Zune firmware.... I was able to get the device to go to firmware-restoring recovery mode by sort of following http://www.ehow.com/how_6831243_dele...-firmware.html . I held the "back", center, and "left" buttons.
NOW, the device shows up in mediamonkey. Still doesn't show up in the toshiba firmware recovery utility, which is what I really want to happen, or in WMP.
Beastpatcher couldn't detect it, only my nero fast burning plugin (maybe beastpatcher works through windows media player).
Sendfirm is currently sending NK.bin from the gbs_update_1_3_us Toshiba firmware update/recovery tool. Will update later.
foobar2000 doesn't work with MTP devices. It needs to see a drive letter to work. There's no MTP plugin for it either.
I'm guessing like TDS someone did some hacking on yours. That was fairly common at that time when it was thought the Zune/Gigabeat was a potential iPod killer. Not only that, a HDD that size was considered huge and more than a few people wanted to be able to freely access it. I know I did.
MusicBee can see the file system of a Zune but my experience is that it can only delete. The one time I did that it screwed up the MTP environment and I had to wipe it then use the Zune software to restore access.
When I tried looking at the MTP environment of a Zune in Linux the results were the same. I could see it but the only interactions I had were negative. There's always the chance the Gigabeat will be different if the encryption on the connection is different. You could try fire up a Linux Live CD and try your luck.
You could try installing the Zune software to see if that can address the player. If you truly dislike Microsoft as much as you've said I'd save that as a last ditch effort. The Zune software installs deeper than any other I know.
I have it on an beater system that I don't use for much of anything else. I won't put it on a machine I use for anything serious. It's much better behaved than what it was at at one time but I got smoked by it a couple of times. I prefer not to take that chance again on my main machine.
A Glossary For Newbies Why Rockbox? FLAC or MP3? How To Ask Questions The Smart Way
Well, the really aggravating thing is that I bought this in "like new" condition from amazon.
Does anyone know more about the program sendfirm? I sent the toshiba NK.bin and Recovery.bin, but neither did anything to change the behaviour of the device. It's still loading up to the "connect your device and restore the Zune firmware with zune software".
I'm sending the pmboot_secure.bin now. That's the entire contents of what the Toshiba firmware recovery/update software self-extractor contains.
I had a clutch archos jukebox player w/rockbox and 100gb, car charger (and auto-pause/resume when turning the car on/off).... if only they hadn't used solder as a structural connection, I'd still have it.
All right, so apparently sendfirm is doing something. I'll head over to rockbox archives/faq to read more into it.
As of now, I have the player still booting into recovery mode every time, but it appears as a 1gb device in WMP11 and in MediaMonkey. Still not recognized in beastpatcher afaik, though trying to load the rockbox bootloader this time is taking a long time - maybe something is happening.
If anyone can guide me as to how to load the original (or any) gigabeat firmware onto the device to get rid of the zune firmware, using sendfirm, I would be much obliged. The Toshiba restore tool won't recognize it as a gigabeat, I think because of the wacky zune firmware.
I can't think of anyone that's been here recently that would know much of anything about installing Rockbox on a gigabeat S. I think that if you're going to find anyone that could help with sendfirm it would be either on the Rockbox forum or irc:/rockbox. Someone there may have more information on how you can get around the Zune start up screen.
A Glossary For Newbies Why Rockbox? FLAC or MP3? How To Ask Questions The Smart Way
I ended up just putting the Rockbox loader & file folders on the gigabeat when I did it (I think?). And I believe it worked immediately. Try using either the Rockbox installer, or just wiping the hdd and reinstalling the FW afterwards. I had to wipe,...but I no longer remember the exact steps. It was a few years ago,...I personally found the player to be 2 buggy.
As for buying it on Amazon, I'd return it and file a complaint. You got a used test device,...not cool.
I'll probably wind up returning it after all. I was really looking forward to a slick player, but after reading more about battery issues and all this idiocy with firmware and the terrible MTP connection mode, I'm regretting my decision.
I'll return it if I don't get it working in the next few hours.
I personally had so many issues with the player I Rockboxed it just to get it to be stable. Even then it gave me issues,...I was hoping you'd manage to get better results. Return that sucker!!!
All right, I was able to find the "original" v1.2 firmware from toshiba by following their link for the v1_3 updater and changing the 3 to a 1. The new link is effectively http://cdgenp01.csd.toshiba.com/cont...ate_1_2_us.exe
This 1_2 version was able to load some gigabeat software that actually booted up into the proper firmware. I'm going to email the seller and ask where they got the device, because it seems like it has some weird zune bootloader on it that I can't get around. Even though it's loading the gigabeat software, it's still displaying the zune logo and red-boxed TEST when it loads up from a hard-off.
Bahahaha, rockboxed it just to get more stability? That does not bode well. I'll email the seller now.
AAaaaand, I'm done.
I did find a most useful utility at http://www.aibohack.com/giga/ that restored the "original" 1.1 firmware.
Thanks for the help!
So, done meaning fixed the FW issues, or decided to return it?
Have you managed to find a fresh battery for your new/old Gigabeat S? I have purchased and installed three different "new" batteries on my S30 and got 0.5 to 4 hours of music play. I suspect all the batteries being sold on ebay and elsewhere (at least the ones I bought) were manufactured in 2006, and lithium ion batteries have a 3-4 year shelf life.
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