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80%20 Adair Wedge Bootie
Sorry, this item is sold out!
Looks like you've got more shoe shopping to do - have fun!
Looks like you've got more shoe shopping to do - have fun!
Item # 262366
Give your look a little southwestern sizzle with the Adair Wedge Bootie from 80%20. This wedge bootie is sure to set you apart from the rest.
- Textured leather upper
- Fabric southwestern print accents
- 4" covered, hidden wedge
- Rubber sole
- Imported
Tell us what you think!
Everyone has an opinion. Here's your chance to share yours! Be the first to write a review of this product and help your fellow shoppers pick the best of the best.

subset: commoncrawl


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By Brad Locke/NEMS Daily Journal
STARKVILLE – Mississippi State is off to a fast start, but its motor hasn't always been revved up.
The Bulldogs had issues their last two games in wins over Troy (30-24) and South Alabama (30-10). There were lapses in each game, especially on offense.
MSU punted on its first four possessions against South Alabama. Coach Dan Mullen said he noticed his team's focus and maturity slipping at times.
"I don't want to say we're not motivated for the games," Mullen said Tuesday, "but I even think during the games I see that, where we'll play a great offensive half and then a bad offensive half; and we'll play a great defensive half and then a bad defensive half."
"It is hard sometimes, you try to fight against the kids looking up at the scoreboard and saying, 'Hey coach, we're up big.' All of a sudden, a team comes back on you a bunch and you don't feel comfortable about it."
Tailback LaDarius Perkins admitted, "It's kind of hard to get up for games like that, but you can't let that affect you. That's not an excuse. You're always supposed to play up to your potential and everything, and you're not supposed to play down to anybody's level."
The No. 21-ranked Bulldogs (4-0) will have some extra time to work on that during this off week, and then must muster up the proper motivation for its Oct. 6 date at struggling Kentucky (1-3, 0-1 SEC).
Perkins doesn't see it as a problem.
"To me they're a good team, so we've got to come out and play our A-game."
Perkins on Walker list
Perkins was added to the Doak Walker watch list on Tuesday. That award goes to the nation's top running back.
Through four games, Perkins has rushed for 389 yards and five touchdowns.
"It's a pretty big deal. It's OK," he said. "I give all the credit to my offensive line and my teammates also, because it wouldn't be possible without them."
Injury updates
Mullen said tight end Malcolm Johnson, who's been out all year with a pectoral injury, is being upgraded to questionable for the Kentucky game. Mullen said last week he expects Johnson to be ready for the game.
Cornerback Cedric Jiles (broken hand) is doubtful; defensive lineman Devin Jones (sprained shoulder) is questionable; and starting right guard Tobias Smith (knee) remains questionable after missing the last two games, mostly for precautionary reasons.


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Bakuman 152: "Synergy Effect and A New Record"
(Brought to you by the guys at MRI)
Great chapter!
A chapter of seriousness with a kick of Hiramaru humor and you get the perfect Bakuman chapter. And it seems like Eiji thinks that Ashirogi's work is pretty damn good. Can't wait to find out the results.


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Sergio Rossi Suede Platform Pump
Sorry, this item is sold out!
Looks like you've got more shoe shopping to do - have fun!
Looks like you've got more shoe shopping to do - have fun!
Item # dsw12prod4700039
For iconic Italian fashion straight from the runway, think Sergio Rossi. The classic style of this suede platform pump makes it the perfect addition to your shoe collection.
- Suede upper
- Almond toe
- Fully lined in leather
- ½" hidden platform, 4½" heel
- Leather sole
- Made in Italy
- View more Women's Sergio Rossi Shoes
- Online Exclusive!
By: shoeminx
Location: Rocky Mountains
November 07, 2013
Beautiful....just not for me
"This shoe is gorgeous and very well made, as to be expected of Sergio Rossi. However it runs very narrow, even more so than the other Sergios I already own. So unfortunately it is going back. I would however still recommend it to others.....just not those with wider feet."
By: Coolty
August 23, 2013
By: LTNH
Location: San Diego, CA
August 16, 2013
"Very beautiful luxury heels but runs a little small"
By: beijosjen
Location: Los Angeles area
August 13, 2013
Perfect fall shoe!
"Classic pump in a lovely rich hunter green -- perfect for fall. They run a tad small -- order half size up, but they should stretch a bit with wear."
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Jessica Simpson Oscar Patent Pump
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Looks like you've got more shoe shopping to do - have fun!
Item # 221728
A beautiful, classic pump is always in style! The Jessica Simpson Oscar will take you from a busy day at the office to a fun night out with the girls.
- Patent leather upper
- Round toe
- 4" covered heel
- Rubber sole
- Imported
By: MaryMW
Location: CT
January 21, 2014
Pretty in Blue
"Saw these pumps and the store and the color was just amazing. I had to have them. Bonus - they are also very comfortable...and this is coming from someone who rarely wears heels."
By: eberg
Location: Seattle
January 18, 2014
Love JSimp
"I have this shoe in 4 or 5 colors already. It is basically the perfect shoe. The round toe is so flattering, the heel height is perfect, and the color is such a fun pop at the end of your outfit. I love the silver heel as well."
By: designinkd
Location: Maryland
December 19, 2013
Great, versatile shoe
"Great every day pump. This is my 3rd pair of the oscar pump and I just got another for my sister. Very versatile, you can dress them up or down. Love it in both the patent pump and suede. Super comfy and good to wear all day in the office or a night out on the town. Comes in a great selection of colors and I wouldn't be surprised if I got another pair."
By: AmandaDarlene
Location: Texas
December 01, 2013
"I love Jessica Simpson heels. She makes the most comfortable heels ever! The color is so vibrant on these. The picture does not do the silver heel justice. The height of the heel is perfect. These are very comfortable heels."
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Dedicated 10 Big D10 Fitted Hat
Dedicated Ten's "Big D10" Fitted Hat
Dedicated 10 creates apparel for those truly committed to the sport of bass fishing. The Dedicated 10 Big D10 Fitted Hat is designed with a big embroidered D10 logo on the front panel and "Dedicated Ten" stitched across the side. Made from Flexfit 210 premium fitted blanks, the Dedicated 10 Big D10 Fitted Hat is the definition of high-quality. Perfect for those who want to proudly display their angling prowess, the Dedicated 10 Big D10 Fitted Hat is sure to garner veneration wherever you go.
Apparel for the Dedicated Ten% who catch 90% of the fish. D10!
More From Dedicated 10 Headwear
Customer Reviews
Comments: These hats are simply the best flextfits on the market. Extremely comfortable and last a long time without getting bleached out by the sun! Awesome product from D10.
From: John: Cotati, CA 3/6/14
Comments: Really happy with my D10 hat. Shipped super-fast!!! Really glad TW carries this line!!! Excellent product for hardcore anglers!!
From: Craig: CA 3/2/14
Comments: Dedicated Ten products are the ONLY hats that actually fit my head. The flex fit and flat brim styles both have quality embroidery and actually fit true to size: no more headaches. D10 is the only hat I wear on the water.
From: Murph: Warrenton, VA 3/2/14
Comments: Follow up to my earlier review. I received another email from D10 apologizing for the error & offering to replace the hat for free. Today I received a new hat, a t shirt, & 6 stickers already and all free! Very happy with the way it was handled in the end and ready to continue to do more business with Dedicated 10!
From: Mike: Cape Girardeau, MO
Comments: Just received my order of Dedicated 10 products. All of the products look great and the hat is especially nice. I ordered the L/XL size and it fits really well. I am usually not a fan of flex hats but this one is perfect. It fits snug, not tight. The embroidery seems well stitched and very professional. Highly recommend Dedicated 10 products.
From: Theron: Arkadelphia, AR
Comments: Fits great but the Dedicated Ten that's embroidered on the side doesn't run anywhere close to parallel with the bottom of the hat on mine like it should. Looks like they got tired when they got to the "Ten" and began to trail off like someone making notes on a sheet of paper with no lines. Bummer. And their response when I emailed them-"Thanks Mike, I will let the embroider expert know!
thanks D10". Alrighty then.
From: Mike: Cape Girardeau, MO
Comments: I love this hat, I've been wearing the same one for 2+ years and it still looks good. Superb quality. I'm happy TW has picked up D10 and made their great products easily accessible to everyone buying tackle.
From: Jared: Santa Rosa, Ca


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Searched it up didn't see anything about this. So Basically this Thread is here for sharing Options on Demos, Theme's, PSN, or Game related to the PS3 and maybe recommand some game and Game news, Also share your PSN name here!
Now I got a PS3 for my Birthday and it came with the Playstation Move, So I had to try it since its like the Wii and I have to say it's pretty fun to play with and I tried it with Heavy Rain...Fricken Awesome!
Trying out MMA Demo now to see if it's worth it.
Add Me: tamerchris2


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Written by Tony Ibrahim
27/04/2012 | 01:18 |
Category: BROADBAND
One in five homes have their WiFi network hacked and their computer interactions recorded with the aid of easy-to-obtain software, experts warn.
Tech blogger Stilgherrian agrees with such a contention, arguing Wired Equivalent Protection (WEP) passwords used to protect older WiFi hardware (routers) is an outdated security method.
"If your Wi-Fi is not secured, the Wi-Fi signal is not encrypted, so anyone can sit there with a receiver and record all your information," he told the SBS.
"The WEP password technique is no longer adequate - if someone wants to crack the password for your WEP it'll take him about ten minutes."
WEP security encryption was introduced in 1999 and was replaced four years later in 2003.
Procuring personal information isn't the only WiFi-related problem. WiFi looters could use your connection to commit fraud or download child pornography; the latter happened in the US and resulted in an innocent man being arrested and verbally assaulted by authorities.
Many just aren't aware their WiFi network relies on WEP security measures that are easy to breach because their old router appears to be working fine.
"They look at the technology and thinks if it's not broken don't fix it. The problem is, it doesn't look broken," says Stilgherrian.
"Is it working to defend your data against hackers? That's not something you can see until it's too late."
New setups make use of Wired Point of Access (WPA) and WPA 2 encryption techniques, but even these aren't infallible to hacks.
"WPA is actually pretty good, but it's always a matter of time," says Chris Gatford of 'ethical hacking' firm HackLabs. HackLabs tests the security of banks and other big companies.
"But if you make the time required to crack into the network onerous, then you'll discourage hackers," Gatford says.
Being an IT whiz is no longer a requisite for hacking a network with step-by-step guides flooding the internet.
In response to WiFi theft, Queensland police have introduced a 'war driving' campaign where they search for unprotected/poorly secured networks via a laptop while patrolling an area.
The fraud squad has also published a list of ways to protect residential WiFi networks on its website.
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GETTING READY 1. Cut out the green tops of the eggplant and wash. 2. In a large pot add in the eggplants and pour in the water till above the eggplant. Boil for 20 minutes. 3. Drain the eggplant from the hot water and place immediately in ice cold water to
Makdoos- Makdous- مكدوس
MAKING 1. In a pan add in the olive oil add in the chicken and season with black pepper and salt. Cook for 4 minutes. 2. Flip the side of the chicken and again season with salt and pepper. Cook for another 4 minutes. Set aside. 3. For making Salsa in a large
Chicken Tortilla
GETTING READY 1. In a pan pour in the water add in the salt and beet. Cover the pan and boil for 10 minutes. 2. Take out the beet and slice in half moon shape. Don t discard the water. 3. Wash the turnip and slice in half moon size. Set aside. MAKING 4. In a
Turnip and Beet Pickle
MAKING 1. Heat oil in a pan and add in the onion. Saut for few minutes. 2. Add in the chilies and saut again. 3. Stir in the zucchini pulp stir to mix well. 4. Season with salt and pepper. Turn the heat to low and cook for 10 minutes. SERVING 5. Garnish
Zucchini Pulp
GETTING READY 1. Preheat the oven at 450 degrees F. Grease the baking pan with the olive oil. MAKING 2. In a small ball mix together thyme and olive oil. Keep aside. 3. Spread the dough in the greased baking dish. 4. Pour in the thyme mixture and spread. Top
Thyme Pizza
GETTING READY 1. Soak the burghul in lemon juice for 20 minutes. MAKING 2. In a casserole dish take soaked burghul parsley onion jalapeno pepper and tomato. 3. Season with salt and pepper mix well. 4. Drizzle olive oil over it and mix all the ingredients well.
Tabouleh Salad
GETTING READY 1. Preheat the oven at 520 degrees F. Grease the baking pan and keep aside. MAKING 2. For filling In a small bowl take onion salt black pepper sumac cumin powder and olive oil. Mix well. 3. In a large bowl take spinach and mix onion mixture. Add
Spinach Pies
Easy to prepare vegetarian roasted carrot soup. GETTING READY 1. Preheat the oven at 350 degrees F. Grease the baking pan with olive oil. MAKING 2. In greased baking dish place the carrot and onion. Season with salt black pepper and oregano. 3. Roast in the
Roasted Carrot Soup
Chicken strips covered with Ranch dressing and then baked...easy and delicious. GETTING READY 1. Preheat the oven at 350 degrees F. 2. Wash the chicken breast. Cut into strips cover with olive oil. 3. Grease the baking dish with the olive oil. MAKING 4. Place
Ranch-Chicken Tenders
Pasta and cooked yogurt with beef . you may add garlic if you like...simple flavors and delicious. GETTING READY 1. For making slurry in a bowl mix together cornstarch and water. Keep aside. MAKING 2. In a casserole place the pasta and saut with oil. 3. Add in
Pasta With Cooked Yogurt
Egg Omelet Palestinian style. MAKING 1. In a large bowl break eggs and add in onion parsley and the spices. Whisk well all the ingredients. 2. Heat the oil in a saucepan. Pour in the egg mixture and cook flip the omelet and cook on the other side. SERVING 3.
Palestinian Omelet
GETTING READY 1. Wash all the vegetables and dice. MAKING 2. Place all the vegetables in a jar. Pour in vinegar. 3. Mix salt in the water and add in the pickle jar. Close the lid and let it sit for 3 days. SERVING 4. Serve Mixed pickles with Lentil and rice.
Mixed Pickles
Liver cooked with fresh cilantro onions garlic and pomegranate molasses. Easy and delicious. MAKING 1. In a pan heat the canola oil and add in the onion saut until translucent. 2. Add in the liver and mix with the onions until the liver changes color. Keep the
Tasty Liver
MAKING 1. Break the biscuits into pieces and place in a bowl. 2. In a separate bowl mix the condensed milk with the cocoa and set aside. 3. In batches add in the biscuits to the cocoa mixture and mix well. 4. Pour the mixture into a pan cover with plastic wrap
Lazy Cake
An easy to prepare meat dish with a great marinate that makes a very delicious sauce. GETTING READY 1. Place the steaks in a Ziploc bag and pout to thin. 2. In an airtight container take steaks and pour in the olive oil pomegranate molasses red vinegar and
Marinated Beef Strips
GETTING READY 1. Preheat the oven at 350 degrees F. Line a baking dish with the foil. MAKING 2. Place the pita breads over the lined baking dish and bake in oven for 15 minutes at 350 degrees F. 3. In a small bowl mix together tahini sauce yogurt garlic lemon
Hummus Fatteh
MAKING 1. In a bowl mix together olive oil chili lemon juice salt and garlic. Whisk well. 2. In a large bowl take fava beans and drizzle olive oil over it. 3. Microwave on high for 6 minutes. 4. Take out the beans and mash with a muddler. 5. Pour in the half
Mashed Fava Beans Dip
GETTING READY 1. Preheat the oven at 400 degrees F. MAKING 2. In a big bowl place the flour. Add in the dry ingredients and then add the water slowly. 3. Knead together all the ingredients. 4. Coat the dough with olive oil and cover it with damp cloth. Let it
Flat Bread With Herbs and Olives
MAKING 1. In a pot take cauliflower and fill with water. Season with salt and cumin. Boil for 10 minutes. 2. Meanwhile in a blending jar blend parsley onion and garlic together. 3. Strain the cauliflower. 4. In a bowl take eggs parsley mixture pepper all spice
Emmshat, Eggs and Cauliflower
MAKING 1. In a pan pour in the oil and add in the potatoes. 2. Make room in the pan and place chili in the pan. 3. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir the potatoes. 4. Pour in the egg substitute. Mix well with the potatoes. SERVING 5. Garnish the frittata
Eggs and Potatoes - Frittata
MAKING 1. In a blending jar take all the ingredients and blend well. SERVING 2. Serve Dill Relish with Cheese or Chicken and enjoy
Dill Relish
MAKING 1. In a bowl take eggs salt and pepper. Beat well to incorporate all the ingredients. 2. Heat a pan and add in the oil when oil is hot pour in the egg mixture. Adjust season according to taste. 3. Cook on one side and flip place the cheese slices over
Cheese Omelett
A very easy to make vegetarian lentil soup. GETTING READY 1. In a pot add in the lentils and pour the water place the pot over the stove. 2. Let the water boil and add in the vegetables. Lower the heat to medium low and simmer for 30 minutes. 3. Turn off the
Brown Lentils Soup
GETTING READY 1. Wash the rice and soak for 10 minutes. MAKING 2. In a pot add in the cooking oil and saut the onion until translucent. 3. Add in the fava beans and stir around in the pot to coat with the oil. 4. Drain the rice and stir in the pot. 5. Season
Broad Beans With Rice
MAKING 1. In a pan take 1 cup sugar and caramelize over the stove. 2. Add in the left sugar and pour in the water. Stir well. 3. Pour in the lemon juice mix well and let it boil for some time. Add in the rose water. 4. Place the bread in a casserole ladle the
Bread, Cream & Sugar Sweets
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|Posted by Allan Owen on December 27, 19100 at 14:27:52:
|In response to Re: improper venting
: : I have a basement bath which works great by itself. Problem is that the washing machine on the first floor sucks the traps dry when it pumps out. Is there a device that I can place in the washer drain line to prevent this, or should I rework the vent system?
: Is the washing machine on the first floor tied into the vent for the bath inthe basement?
|Replies to this post
|There are none.


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English | Français
Disclaimer: JCDA Oasis supports clinical decisions; however, it does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. JCDA Oasis is intended to serve as a rapidly accessible, initial clinical reference resource and not as a complete reference resource.
All statements of opinion and supposed fact are published on the authority of the author who submits them and do not necessarily express the views of the Canadian Dental Association.
The editor reserves the right to edit all copy submitted to JCDA Oasis.
Publication of an advertisement does not necessarily imply that the Canadian Dental Association agrees with or supports the claims therein. Furthermore, CDA is not responsible for typographical errors, grammatical errors, misspelled words or syntax that is unclear, or for errors in translations.


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NEW! Product Launch
3M introduces the new 3M™ Scotchkote™ Epoxy Coating 172.
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3M™ Scotchkote™, a specialist manufacturer of industrial paint and coatings, provides long term corrosion protection and finishing to assets operating in a range of diverse market sectors. Scotchkote Corrosion Protection Coatings are used to protect buildings, bridges, gas and water pipes, tanks, steelwork, transport infrastructure and trains.
3M introduces the new 3M™ Scotchkote™ Pipe Renewal Liner 2400. Its unique properties helps provide a cost effective solution to many of the problems common to potable water distribution systems.
3M™ Scotchkote™ Epoxy Coating 172 is a high performance 100% solids coating system developed to give long term corrosion protection with minimal down time and disruption during the application process.
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You are hereHantsweb HomeCouncil MeetingsCalendar of Meetings
Dates of meetings may be changed at short notice and therefore should you wish to attend a meeting or if you have any particular requirements, for example level access, please contact Democratic and Member Services, tel: (01962) 845751 or e-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com.
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This page was last updated on 9 May 2013. © Copyright Hampshire County Council 2017.


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Kravis Center
The Kravis Center, named in honor of Henry Kravis '67 and Marie-Josée Kravis, is composed of intimate indoor and outdoor meeting spaces, flexible classrooms, and academic research areas. The building's design creates exciting synergies among students, faculty, departments, and research institutes.
Designed by world-renowned architect Rafael Viñoly, the Kravis Center creates a defining architectural identity for CMC. Sunny terraces and breathtaking views of The Claremont Colleges and the San Bernardino Mountains set the stage for the growth of the College's collaborative culture in a visionary new facility.


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Relevance ranks synonyms and suggests the best matches based on how closely a synonym's sense matches the sense you selected.
Complexity sorts synonyms based on their difficulty. Adjust it higher to choose from words that are more complex.
Length ranks your synonyms based on character count.
- lists
- blocks
Common words appear frequently in written and spoken language across many genres from radio to academic journals.
Informal words should be reserved for casual, colloquial communication.
noun building or enclosure for entertainment or sports
Synonyms for arena
noun building or enclosure for entertainment or sports
noun area of activity
noun area of activity
Concept Thesaurus for word arena1. Conditional antagonism
Synonyms - noun
- arena
- theater
- stare
- Colosseum
- race course
- bear garden
- ring
- Campus Martins
- seat of war
- field of slaughter
- trusting place (place of meeting)
- field
- walk
- boards (playhouse)
- Flavian amphitheater
- corso
- playground
- lists
- Champ de Allars
- battlefield
- Aceldama
Synonyms - phrases
More words related to arena
noun. location of military fights
noun. room for large affairs
noun. area of rule, responsibility
Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.Cite This Source


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A compulsory levy may still be necessary despite the Federated Farmers Bees Industry Group's (BIG) efforts in setting up a voluntary levy of $1 per hive to fund research projects vital for New Zealand's bee-keeping and honey industry. Other industry participants have been encouraged to do the same and the Honey Packers Association also agreed to a voluntary donation of $20 per tonne of product handled.
Following this resolution, the Bee Products Standards Council (BPSC) co-ordinated the funding drive and in July BIG and BPSC jointly wrote to all honey-related Risk Management Programme holders seeking a contribution.
BPSC chairman Jim Edwards says of the $102,762 already received, funding has supported the researches into Pyrrolizidine Alkaloides (PA's) found in Vipers Bugloss honey and C4 sugars. Also, $2683 was being transferred to the Trees for Bees project.
Unfortunately, to date not enough had been received to begin the development of honey standards.
BIG chairman John Hartnell said the response had been pleasing but there was still a section of the bee-keeping industry being disproportionally burdened.
"Some bee-keepers have been incredibly generous, but it continues to be the same names contributing while, disappointingly, many very successful businesses take the free ride option," Hartnell says.
"It just highlights the need for a compulsory commodity levy in the industry. Without it, it will always be a struggle to raise the funding needed for crucial research and market access work."
Hartnell said an approach had been made to primary industry funding body, the Agricultural and Marketing Research and Development Trust, for funding to employ a consultant to investigate the best overall structure for the honey industry. Part of that would be to look at how a commodity levy could be implemented and administered.
To contribute to the BPSC fund, contact Federated Farmers on 0800 327 646.


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Welcome to your morning dose of denim news, links, sales, and other irresistible tid bits of inside info! Catch up on what's happening (or totally not happening) and browse our personal picks after scanning the web this morning. Got a tip you think we should include, a sale you want to share, or a style you just saw and can't live without? Email us!
1. We were highly amused by the Imogene + Willie newsletter this morning: "This jolly red corduroy Levi's trucker jacket is identical to the one that Santa wears on his days off."
2. Today's the last day to get a big old heap of your holiday shopping done at Levi's—their 25% off discount expires tonight at 11:59PM PT! Use code SHOP25 at checkout.
3. Jean Touitou talks with Dazed Digital on the second collaborative season between the A.P.C. and Carhartt.
4. MiH Jeans has announced the launch of Jean.Machine—premium British denim for men, also available at Mr. Porter.
5. We're not even sure who would use this kind of thing, but we found denim-textured food service icons that are too charming to scroll past without at least slowing down for a look!
—Michelle Christina Larsen
Tags: A.P.C. and Carhartt, Dazed Digital, holiday shopping, jean touitou, Jean.Machine, levis jeans on sale, Levi's trucker jacket, mens denim, MiH Jeans, Mr Porter


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Gail Goodrich Player
Inducted in 2006
Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Inductee 1996
A fiery competitor, Gail "Stumpy" Goodrich was a major force in Coach John Wooden's emerging dynasty at UCLA. With his extraordinary court vision and excellent ball-handling ability, Goodrich led the Bruins to a three-year record of 78 wins and 11 losses and two National Championships in 1964 and 1965. He helped guide the LA Lakers to an NBA Championship in 1972 and a record 33 consecutive wins. Goodrich was a 5 time NBA All-Star.
Where They Are Now
Studio Analyst, NBA TV
Where They Were
University of California Los Angeles 1963-1965


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The 25 best new characters of the decade
Pac-Man and Mario owned the 1980s. Sonic, Lara and Snake took over for the 1990s. Their games are considered classics. Their names are timeless and iconic. Their images are burned into the memory of every gamer, even those who were born after the characters themselves.
Now we have another ten years worth of heroes, villains, sidekicks and love interests to occupy our imagination. Which, however, will remain there? Who will we still remember, love and endlessly discuss at the start of the next decade? And the decade after that? These are our 25 favorite characters of the 2000s, listed alphabetically. Agree, disagree and pick your own in the comments section below.
Alyx Vance (Half-Life 2)
Around the beginning of the decade, the conventions of videogame narrative said that action game NPCs must be unconvincing mechanical ciphers who move like tractors and talk like a broken Speak & Spell. Female ones should pout and constantly threaten to get their bangers out.
Screw you, conventions of videogame narrative! said Valve. We care not for your insidious fallacies. Were going to make a real girl!
And, much like the nerds in Weird Science, they did. Alyx behaves like an actual person, with all the corresponding strengths and failings. Shes determined and headstrong, but nuanced and funny. Shes stoic and badass when emotionally driven to be, but shes also vulnerable and unsure of herself. In short, shes a human rather than a stereotype, and one youll genuinely grow to care for without ever being manipulated into doing so.
Arthas Menethil (Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos)
He was once a mighty and honorable paladin, battling to save his people from the undead scourges of Azeroth. To succeed in his quest, however, he needed more power and to yield more power, he needed a sword cursed by his enemies leader. By the end of Warcraft III, Arthas had lost his soul to this blade, and his sense of self to possession by the villainous Lich King.
Whats riveting is that you witness this entire transformation, from good to evil, across multiple games and multiple genres. During his real-time strategy origins, you experience Arthas bloodlust firsthand as he orders his men to slaughter a citys innocent population in order to stop the spread of the undead. By the time you catch up with him in World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King, hes gone completely Darth Vader, gathering and marshalling the same forces he once sought to destroy.
Big Daddy (Bioshock)
How do you describe a world as unique, complex and brilliantly bizarre as Rapture? Easy just point at Big Daddy. This already iconic creature is a perfect symbol, and summary, of the BioShock paradox. Its scary and yet sad. Its overwhelmingly alien and yet disturbingly human. Its brutally vicious to strangers while lovingly gentle to Little Sisters. Its outer appearance is clunky and retro, but its inner genetics are the stuff of futuristic sci-fi nightmares.
Big Daddies also expose the hypocrisy of Andrew Ryans utopia. If these people moved underwater to escape the so-called slaveries of government, church and military, how can they then justify lobotomizing their fellow citizens, imprisoning them in monstrous diving suits and condemning them to pace the ocean floor for all eternity? This study of morality is what made BioShock a masterpiece, and this mystery is what makes the Big Daddy such a fascinating character. We cant wait to learn more, and get behind the helmet, in 2010s sequel.
The Boss (Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater)
The template for what Naked Snake/Big Boss would eventually become, The Boss is an enigma right up until Snake Eaters final moments. A legendary guerrilla fighter during World War II, shes introduced as Naked Snakes mentor, but their bond is actually much closer to an adoptive mother/son relationship. And thats why, when she betrays Snake and leaves him broken and bleeding, it nearly destroys him. But its all part of her final lesson to to her pupil: for soldiers, loyalty is an illusion. Friends one day will be enemies the next, and the only thing a true soldier can depend on is the mission at hand.
In every subsequent meeting, she attacks Snake, but never really seems to be trying to kill him. And every time they meet, you can always catch a little glimmer of something like sadness or tenderness through her cold, monotone exterior. The more we learn about her, the more tragic and effed-up The Boss becomes. And after Snake kills her in the games final, sad duel, he learns that shed been a double agent the entire time, resigned to go down in history as a traitor so as not to spark a nuclear war. Killing her was like killing a Colossus hard-won, but ultimately a hollow victory that haunted us for years.
Carl "CJ" Johnson (GTA: San Andreas)
Rockstar protagonists have become so fun and so memorable over the past decade, its hard to believe that Grand Theft Auto III starred a generic mute. Vice Citys Tommy was deliciously vengeful, but for us, the first breakout star of the series was a smart and resourceful kid trying to protect his family and escape the gangster path that drugs, poverty and corrupt police had forced him down. If you werent rooting for CJ within the first five minutes of San Andreas, you simply werent paying attention.
And yeah, his race was important, too. Even today, games pigeonhole African-American characters into the most obvious stereotypes and painful cliches. CJ certainly wasnt the perfect antidote to that trend he is a murderous criminal, rap producer and womanizer, after all but he was a big step in the right direction, with intelligent dialogue, noble intentions and more common sense than anyone else in the story.
He also signaled the start of Rockstars diversification workshop. Since CJ, weve played an Eastern European immigrant, a Jewish biker, a Chinese visitor and two Dominicans, one of whom is the business partner and bodyguard to a gay nightclub owner. Now if only the rest of the industry were so brave
Clank (Ratchet & Clank series)
Sidekicks are supposed to be comic relief. Theyre meant to break the tension with a hilarious catchphrase or stumble, slapstick-style, into obvious danger so that the real hero can rescue them again. Sidekicks can be crazier, funnier or cuter than protagonists, but they should never, ever upstage them.
Clank must not have gotten that memo, because we cant think of anyone who prefers the self-centered and smart-alecky Ratchet to the quiet, collected and effortlessly charming robot with cool powers and cooler personality. Most admirably, he doesnt try to steal the show from his lesser half which means, of course, that he automatically does.
But the best thing about Clank? The games developers understand our preference for the sidekick, and give us as many surprising opportunities to play him as possible.
Dante (Devil May Cry series)
The first real action hero of the PS2 era, Dante had the rare honor of changing action games as we understood them forever. His first outing seamlessly blended beautiful visuals with tight platforming and fast, balletic action, making Devil May Cry the first game to deliver the experience that Hong Kong movies had teased us with for so long. Even as DMC transformed notions about what games could be, though, Dante himself made a deep impression on gamers psyches. He was unforgettable in his red leather trenchcoat and long white mane, and packed dual pistols and a big sword. He was smart-mouthed, unflappable and able to deal easily with anything and everything thrown his way, even when those things included very large blades that ran straight through his torso.
The son of a heroic demon father and a human woman, Dante was a brutal mercenary anti-hero before that kind of thing was a trend, but he wasnt a stoic hardass, either; he was playful, cocky and loved to tease his super-serious enemies before cutting them to ribbons. He set the template for all subsequent smartass action heroes, and while his relevance seems diminished after a string of sequels that never really recaptured the first games spirit, his first explosive outing changed the course of videogame history for the better.
Francis (Left 4 Dead)
Armed with a shotgun and a sharp leather vest, Francis is ready to blast his way through the zombie apocalypse. But that doesnt mean the badass biker is happy about it. He hates planes. He hates elevators. He hates the woods. And you know what? He probably hates you, too. Thats exactly why we cant help loving the grouchiest survivor in the Left 4 Dead universe. Even after staving off hordes of flesh-eating infected, hes got enough vitriol leftover to hate on the philosopher and novelist, Ayn Rand.
Francis is also hilarious, with occasionally dimwitted one-liners that make Left 4 Dead as funny as it is frightening. Hearing him say with grim determination that the goddamn vampires wont beat him cuts through games tension like a knife. No wonder Francis is almost always the first character that players choose when entering a game lobby.
GLaDOS (Portal 1 & 2)
The cake is a lie. Weighted Companion Cube. Still Alive.
Portal is a lean, mean meme machine, and crucial to this astounding cleverness is GLaDOS, the murderous artificial intelligence that runs Aperture Labs test facility. Much of Portals joy comes from watching her programmed personality unravel as she repeatedly attempts to kill you and repeatedly fails. As she slowly but surely degenerates into a mess of mixed messages and cross purposes and as you methodically incinerate the components of her electronic brain you cant help but experience pity.
The ending song indicates that GLaDOS continues to exist in some form or another, so we hold out hope that one day soon well be treated to more of her manipulative shenanigans. And maybe well finally get a piece of that cake. We hear its delicious and moist.
HK-47 (Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic)
BioWares epic role-playing saga had the best characterization of any Star Wars game, before or since, and HK-47 was surely the most memorable cast member. At first he appeared to be the typically polite, C-3PO style droid until you dug deeper into the conversation trees and discovered his utter disdain for what he described as meatbags, nauseating piles of organs sloshing around inside a flimsy package of skin. Or, as you might know them, humans.
Over time, you realized just how psychotic HK-47 really was, with a preference to resolve nearly any problem with murder. Take him aside for a particularly lengthy conversation and you would discover his unsettling history, too, a past that involved working as hitman for a Hutt. Finally, if you paid close enough attention, youd learn that this seemingly harmless robot had eventually turned on (and executed) each and every one of his previous masters.
HK-47 assured you, of course, that this time would be different
King of All Cosmos (Katamari Damacy series)
This vengeful father figure provided much-needed context to Katamari Damacy, and kept the series fresh even as the gameplay remained essentially unchanged. Without his vast personage and wildly clumsy parties, after all, the tiny Prince would have no reason to roll Katamaris in the first place. He was always good for laughs, too, blurting out absurd insights, breaking the fourth wall and cutting you to pieces with eyeball lasers whenever you failed.
On a metaphysical level, the King helped remind us that the cosmos are a wondrous and chaotic place where logic doesnt always apply. He also proved that purple tights can be refreshingly masculine, when worn with the carefree flair of a supreme being. If there is a god calling the shots in our universe, we imagine this is as close as youll get to a peek inside its delirious head.
Kratos (God of War series)
Kratos is one of those characters that seems incredibly boring and generic at first glance. A bald, seething murder machine who sports cool swords tethered to his arms with chain whips, its easy to mistake his one visible emotion pure rage and singular fixation on killing things for shallow design. Spend a little time with Kratos, though, and youll learn that theres much more to him than wanton savagery, constant anger and a voice stuck somewhere between growl and roar.
In truth, Kratos is both an unstoppable force of nature and a broken, tragic man. Once a brave and respected general in Sparta, he sold his soul to Greek war god Ares in a moment of desperation, and was rewarded with a lifetime of servitude and torment. Tricked by Ares into murdering his own wife and daughter, Kratos spent years trying to atone for his mistake, grudgingly carrying out the orders of the gods in the hope that theyd eventually rid him of his pain. Instead, they elevated him to godhood and then betrayed him when he took his frustrations out on the rest of Greece, an act that drove him to declare war on Olympus itself. Kratos is cruel, brutal and an outright villain, but his story is so compelling, and at times so heartbreaking, that we cant wait to see how it ends in God of War III.
Master Chief (Halo series)
Hes the obvious choice for a list like this, but trust us, hell also be the most controversial. Master Chief barely talks! we can already imagine you shouting. He doesnt even have a personality! we hear you protest. And youre right.
Master Chiefs strength as a character, however, lies not in specifics. Hes a symbol and an icon, one that has broken through the boundaries of our hobby and into the cultural mainstreams consciousness. You can find him in toy stores and Times Square billboards. You can find him on t-shirts, French fry cups and Mountain Dew bottles. Hell, around the launch of Halo 3, you could find him practically anywhere, including a weekly GamesRadar feature that ran for nearly 50 straight weeks. Everybody knows about Master Chief not just gamers and increased exposure for the medium is always a good thing.
Plus, even haters have to admit the mask and suit are pretty badass.
Midna (The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess)
Despite a history that spans 22 years and dozens of games, The Legend of Zelda is remarkably devoid of memorable characters. In fact, we cant say we feel attached to anyone other than Link, Ganon and the eponymous princess, all around since the beginning. Then came Midna, a diminutive imp-lady that guides you around both Hyrule and the shadowy Twilight realm. She starts off as a grinning mischief maker thatd look right at home in The Nightmare Before Christmas, then through dialog and actions it becomes clear she has her own agenda. The question is, whos side is she really on?
Her constant berating makes her initially abrasive, though after a heroic act from Link, she opens up, reveals that she is the ousted, cursed Twilight Princess, and needs your help to regain her true form. Cue hours of puzzle solving and wilderness exploring, throughout which youre treated to more and more insight into her tragic fall from grace. When its all said and done, and her gorgeous true self is unveiled, you can feel the already strong connection between Link and Midna grow exponentially. In a series packed with amazing gameplay yet next to no standout characters, Midnas personal, emotional story radiated as brightly as the Triforce itself.
Miles Edgeworth (Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney)
In a perfect world, Miles Edgeworth would have been the hero of the Ace Attorney series. As children, both he and Phoenix Wright shared the same noble, idealistic goal of becoming defense attorneys to protect the innocent. Unexpected tragedy and the stolen life of a loved one, however, took Miles down a darker path a path completely consumed by the need to punish criminals, no matter what the cost. A gifted prosecutor was born, but a childhood dream died.
Although his peers misunderstand his motivations, and often cast him as the heartless villain, Edgeworth chooses to keep his past hidden. He doesnt seek pity he seeks justice. And while he is a proud man, he never lets that pride blind him from the truth, even when it means admitting defeat to Phoenix Wright.
Stoic where Phoenix is blathering, and complex where Phoenix is one-dimensional, Miles was created to act as a counterbalance to the protagonist but often ends up eclipsing him. Plus, hes a way better dresser.
Nathan Drake (Uncharted Series)
Some characters, like Master Chief or Marcus Fenix, are heroes: always capable, always resourceful, always confident, always in control of every situation. Nathan Drake, by contrast, is almost never in control of any situation. Hes always outgunned, outnumbered and outflanked, and continually finds himself in situations where hes at an absurd disadvantage hanging from a tall signpost in the middle of a plaza while surrounded by angry mercenaries, for example. Somehow, his quick thinking, plucky resilience and Rasputin-like endurance always pull him through unscathed, but watching him completely lose his shit in the meantime is always entertaining.
Nathans charm extends well beyond his uncanny knack for getting in over his head, though. A globe-trotting, treasure-hunting thief with an apparently inexhaustible travel budget, he begins each game with completely selfish motives, but by the end hes always saving the world from international supercriminals who want to unleash some ancient evil on the world for profit. He also has the good fortune to be paired with (mostly) female partners who act as ideal foils for his cocky swagger and apparent inability to take anything completely seriously, and the screwball patter that erupts between them is part of why Nathan, and his adventures, possess a depth and humanity that most videogame characters can only dream of.
Prinny (Disgaea: Hour of Darkness)
Everyone roots for the underdog, and when it comes to downtrodden characters, no one is as heartwarmingly pathetic as the Disgaea franchises Prinnies. Their delicate penguin-like bodies house the souls of mortal sinners and are highly combustible. Thats why youll often see their cruel master Etna using her Prinny slaves as disposable bombs, tossing them straight into the gaping jaws of death without a second thought. The poor little guys are constantly beaten and bossed around, with giant beads of sweat flying from their stressed-out brows how can you not sympathize?
Despite their weak constitution, though, Prinnies can also be molded into a fierce fighting force. Keep grinding to level them up and youll eventually wield an army of powerful Prinny captains, generals, kings and gods. Only the hardest of hardcore Disgaea fans will ever have enough patience, but trust us, constructing a team of nigh-invulnerable Prinny wimps is one of the greatest accomplishments possible in the world of turn-based role-playing games.
Pyramid Head (Silent Hill 2 onwards)
Of all the characters in this list, none are as complicated, brutal and downright disturbing as Pyramid Head. The games protagonist, James Sunderland, first encounters this bloody behemoth inside an apartment building, where its violently raping one of the other gruesome monsters. This implies that not only is this thing something to avoid, but its also so overpowering and dangerous that it can literally have its way with the other things that are trying to kill you. Frightening on the most primal level, for sure.
Beyond that, we find that Pyramid Head is a manifestation of James own guilt for murdering his wife. While the other enemies in Silent Hill 2 are feminine projections of James masochistic desires, Pyramid Head is an invincible masculine tormentor that will forever hound James for his actions. Its not until the end of the game that James realizes what the monster truly is, and comes to terms with his unforgivable crime. In doing so, James finally kills what was nothing more than internal strife. This gut-wrenching tale of denial, delusion and unending purgatory has cast a shadow so long, so powerfully dark that its been impossible for the series to top. Even the 2006 film used Pyramid Head in its most memorable scene (keep a barf bag handy). What other character has caused an entire series to tread water for nearly 10 years in attempt to catch up?
Sim (The Sims series)
The game gives them no name. No personality. No appearance. No motivation. No nothing, really, until you the player step in to fill out all the blanks. Yet the Sims have somehow managed to capture our hearts and imaginations more than any other customizable avatar this decade. Why? Because unlike the frozen-faced Miis or utterly generic Second Life residents, the Sims are not puppets. Once brought into being, they take on a life of their own. You create them, you often control them, but you can never fully predict them.
As a result, every aspect of your pet computer peoples existence takes on special significance. Friendships, weddings, affairs, babies, kitchen fires and extraterrestrial pregnancies can be forced, of course, but they also evolve naturally and spontaneously. No wonder so many fans keep Sim screenshot scrapbooks, then share them online like proud parents. And even less wonder that The Sims franchise has already sold at least 50 million games and expansions, generating roughly 2 billion dollars in revenue. Mario, you may soon be eclipsed.
Sly Cooper (Sly Cooper series)
Gentleman thief is an archetype thats woefully underrepresented in videogames, but at least well always have Sly Cooper to show us how its done. Quick-witted and nimble, Sly was a globe-trotting master criminal who was like Nathan Drake crossed with Solid Snake and divided by George Clooney, and while he always seemed to be in over his head, he always managed to keep one step ahead of his foes and his archnemesis/love interest, Inspector Carmelita Fox.
Inhabiting a brilliant cartoon world, Sly wasnt a total anti-hero; while he made his living pulling off elaborate heists, he only stole from other master criminals, some of whom even joined his crew down the road. (It also didnt hurt that Slys acrobatic platforming skills and increasingly devious bag of tricks made him a blast to play as.) He wasnt a loner, either, as his back was watched constantly by his childhood friends, gadgetsmith Bentley and their driver/strongman Murray (both of whom became a little less compelling once they were playable in later games). Still, their presence only made Sly look that much better, and because they genuinely cared about him as he did for them it made it a little easier for us to care about him, too.
Tim Schafer's Imagination
Awarded to the entire cast of Psychonauts, Brtal Legend et al
Nobody creates more memorable, legitimately funny characters than Tim Schafer, head of developer Double Fine Studios. Take Psychonauts: Your character a young boy who was raised in a circus and has psychic powers is actually the straight man. This is possible because of characters like Mr Pokeylope, a pet turtle who spouts seductive Barry White-style patter, and Dogen, a young Ralph Wiggum-alike who wears a helmet because his brain waves keep making squirrels explode.
But Schafers characters arent mere caricatures they have real depth, pathos and often tragic pasts. Psychonauts Milla is an ever-happy party girl with a secret that breaks your heart. Edward is a black-velvet artist so lovesick he cant paint. And if Brtal Legend takes flak for drawing too much real-world inspiration the Killmeister is Lemmy, Eddie is Jack Black, etc then wed like to meet the gothic angel who inspired Ophelia. And how can we forget Psychonauts Linda? Shes a giant, mutant, talking lungfish, and you will love her, because Schafer wants you to.
You can say we copped out by giving an award to the entire cast of two separate games. Wed argue it was the only way to give any other games characters a chance.
Tom Nook (Animal Crossing series)
At first glance, ol Nook is an adorable raccoon merchant on par with most of Nintendos cuddly creations. Delve any deeper and youll be subjected to his limitless greed that forever binds you (and the other furry citizens of Town X) to his cause. Right from the start, Nook dangles financial stability like a delicious carrot in front of you, forcing you into servitude and what seems like never ending debt. Oh, you can pay him back, but then hell add a level onto your house (without your consent) and boom, youre back in the hole with a pile of bills.
What a dick! Look at him, content with his life, indenturing countless passersby for his own gain. He frequently reminds you of your woes, usually with a cheery demeanor and not-so-subtle hint at the consequences of missing a payment. Youre never told this explicitly, but it sure does look like Nooks involved in some shady business, and hes passing his problems onto you. His mix of raccoon cuteness with the ruthlessness of a Wall Street tycoon has earned him not just a place in gamers hearts, but also the internet as a whole, having become the personification (and viral meme) of a deceptively devious character.
Pey'j (Beyond Good & Evil)
Sure Jade, the sexy, photojournalist/martial artist, is the star. But the real heart and soul of BG&E is her adopted uncle Peyj (pronounced page). A jolly pig-man, Uncle Peyj zips around on fart-powered rocket boots he invented himself and speaks with the warm-hearted bellow and simplicity of a stereotypical good old-boy. Uncle Peyj, as Jade calls him, seems at first to be just a caretaker of orphans and a handyman. However, when things go bad, he charges enthusiastically into the fray with one simple goal: Protect Jade, and everyone else as well.
Even as government conspiracies and an alien invasion take center stage, Peyj remains fiercely loyal despite the danger. By games end, hes been uncovered as a resistance spy, beaten unconscious, kidnapped, and even killed before being revived and rescued. The games final scene reveals hes also been infected by an alien virus, which hell no doubt nobly conceal until the sequel. But even after all of that, whos right at Jades side for the final battle? Peyj, making clear hed do it all again without a moments hesitation. That is what makes Peyj a fantastic character.
Well that and the fart-powered rocket boots.
Yorda (Ico)
She embodies feminine sweetness, innocence and maternal caring, though thats about as deep as her persona goes. Yorda is an idea more than a fully-realized character, and thats what makes her so appealing. Dont lie you had a crush on her, too. Shes the perfect archetypal damsel-in-distress, and it helps that shes in one of the best games of all time.
Dont assume that her shallowness and helplessness are anti-feminist qualities because, well okay, so they kind of are. But screw you if you want to deny us our male fantasy. Right, we know, women are as strong and independent as men. Still, in a statistically unproven yet generally accepted majority of men, there exists a natural paternal desire to suffer for the safety of others. That desire will be expressed, whether by getting our asses kicked in a fight (just being realistic), or by killing monsters and jumping on shit in a game.
And when Yorda finally proves her strength and carries her exhausted hero out of the collapsing ruins, its heart-melting. We could continue for pages on the topic of the paternal/maternal balance occurring here, but so this Freudian analysis of Ico doesnt get too weird, well skip to the point: we
Yuna (Final Fantasy X/X2)
Their romance is among the most legendary and heartfelt stories in gaming history, but its easy to see why Tidus fell for Yuna: her demure, girl-next-door cuteness was complemented by her ability to summon raging beasties to fight alongside her. She was compassionate, generous and dutiful to the end, ever willing to sacrifice herself for the greater good.
As such, her update in Final Fantasy X-2 was shocking. Shed lost half her skirt, picked up a pair of pistols and transformed from a reserved priestess into a seductive pop idol. Her sassy new attitude chafed with many fans, who felt it was too dramatic a shift in her personality. Whether you loved the new Yuna or hated her, the simple fact that she warranted her own sequel speaks volumes about how popular shed become.
But what about...
Doubtless you've your own favorite new faces from the last decade, and doubtless you're not about to shy away from sharing them below. For inspiration, check out GamesRadar's Ultimate Character Battle, or cool your enthusiasm with a review of The top 7... Most disappointing games of the decade.


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Gamertag: SplitSecondShot
I have CoD4, Rock Band (guitar only, my drum set broke), TF2, Fight Night Round 3, Gears, Forza 2, Halo 3.
Bring It On!
Nah, Waste of time.
Whatever, I'd kick all your asses
What? No PS3 Tournament?
What? No one wants to Wii?
AAAAAAHHHH, I was hoping one of these would happen when I used to be online constantly.... happy I came back haha, my GT is Cerebaton, I have Halo 3, Gears 1, Cod 4 & 5, PGR 3 & 4 aaaand L4D... think that's it haha, my fave is COD5 zombies, but i'm decent at most of them... and whoever it was that was wondering why people don't like halo 3 anymore, people don't hate halo 3, they hate the players haha =P
How can I resist something like this?
My GT is Fallen Angel 03.
You can find me on Gears of War 2, Soul Calibur 4 (I'll Voldo You), Halo 3, Armored Core For answer and 4, Call of Duty 4 and WaW, Ace Combat 6 (If anyone plays that..), Dynasty Warriors Gundam 2 (I can't believe I got hooked on that), and well... most games actually. I think I have all of the ones that matter. Except Street Fighter 4..
I fail at making signatures.
I'm in as well. GT is nelly13b and I'm usually on Gears 2 or Halo 3. I've GTA4 but I don't like the multiplayer system...and SF 4 is all about spamming specials, so yeah only GoW2 and Halo 3.
Props to Ravona for the awesome sig! Noel is the greatest and I challenge you to prove me otherwise!
MyAnimeList MyMangaList
hey gang! i'm so down for this
I have,
Halo 3, ODST
gears of war
and others
GT= Shogon 2
Ill join, I have street fighter 4 and COD 5
Gamertag: DHSUPREMACY
Zetta Recommends: Naruto, Claymore, Death note, Elfen Lied, Berserk, Monster, One Piece, Rurouni Kenshin, Bleach,
Gameboy: "Its better to fight with honor than be silent and shit bricks"
come see me!!!! halo 3 and odst...
of course the gamertag is jedijuck


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Darice Metallic Elastic Cord is stretchable yet sturdy. The cord possesses a shiny metallic color and is perfect for stringing beads, embellishing crafts, or wrapping gifts.
Each package contains 20 yds. of cord. The cord is 1/32 in. thick.
Each package contains 20 yds. of cord. The cord is 1/32 in. thick.
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text: 1989: AMERICAN EXPRESS. Every year since 1989, an exclusive, real-time consumer panel of viewers have been rating all the Super Bowl ads and crowning a winner. Here's a look back at the top-rated ad from each year: Dana Carvey and Jon Lovitz go to the Super Bowl Ñ one takes a Visa card, the other, American Express. American Express1990: NIKE. Sports announcers call an imaginary game with star athletes from different sports (including Michael Jordan, Bo Jackson and John McEnroe). Nike1991: DIET PEPSI. People around the world, from African tribesmen to British butlers, sing Ray Charles' Diet Pepsi jingle, "You've got the right one, baby." Diet Pepsi1992: NIKE. Bugs Bunny and Michael Jordan join forces to battle basketball bullies. Nike1993: MCDONALD'S. NBA legends Larry Bird and Michael Jordan match fantastic shots from unlikely places. McDonald's1994: PEPSI. A chimp, also a party animal, breaks out of the laboratory and heads for the beach. Pepsi1995: PEPSI. A boy on the beach trying to get the last drop of his Pepsi sucks himself right into the bottle. "Mom, he did it again!" his sister yells. Pepsi1996: PEPSI. A fictional Coca-Cola driver is caught on a security camera trying to grab a Pepsi. The cooler shelves tumble down and dump Pepsi cans into the aisle. Pepsi1997: PEPSI. Grizzly bears dance to the Village People's YMCA. Pepsi1998: PEPSI. A man sky-surfs and goes one-on-one with a goose. After sharing stunts, they share a can of Pepsi. Pepsi1999: ANHEUSER-BUSCH. Two Dalmatians separated at birth are reunited. Anheuser-Busch2000: ANHEUSER-BUSCH. Budweiser Movie dog Rex motivates himself with an imagined chase of a Budweiser beer truck, which ends in a blind leap of a hedge, face-first into a parked van. Anheuser-BuschCedric the Entertainer pitched Budweiser in a Super Bowl ad. Now he'll ask for final answers as host of 'Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.' Anheuser-Busch2002:ANHEUSER-BUSCH BUD LIGHT.A wife lures her husband to their bedroom with the promise of a cold Bud Light. Romance, and the husband, go out the window, however, when he dives for the beer and slides by on their satin sheets. Anheuser-Busch2003:ANHEUSER-BUSCH BUD LIGHT.In the winning ad for Bud Light, a real zebra is substituted for a football referee (called "zebras" because of their striped shirts). The real zebra officiates a football game played by Anheuser-Busch's famous Clydesdale horses. Anheuser-Busch2004:ANHEUSER-BUSCH BUD LIGHT.With an ad featuring a painfully preppie dog walker, Anheuser-Busch took top honors again. The dog walker's pedigreed border collie is outperformed by a working stiff's mutt that bites the yuppie's crotch to get him to give up his Bud Light. Anheuser-Busch2005:ANHEUSER-BUSCH BUD LIGHT.With an ad featuring a scared skydiver, Anheuser-Busch walked off with top honors. The skydiver is so scared he won't even jump to go after a six-pack of Bud Light - so his friend and the pilot bail out to go for the beer. Anheuser-Busch2006:ANHEUSER-BUSCH BUD LIGHT. Star of the No. 1 ad in 2006: a refrigerator stocked with Bud Light that has the ability to disappear to keep unwelcome guests from grabbing the brew. The fridge disappears via a revolving wall that, unbeknownst to the fridge's owner, spins it into the adjoining apartment. For the guys next door, it becomes the "magic fridge" Ñ an idol to be worshipped. Anheuser-Busch2007:ANHEUSER-BUSCH BUDWEISER.The winning ad featured a group of computer-generated crabs on the beach bowing down at the altar of an ice chest filled with Budweiser. The red ice chest with two Buds for antennae looks like a giant crab Ñ which a crab army worships as the sun sets behind it. That's the kind of gentle, visual humor folks apparently wanted most this year. Anheuser-Busch2008:ANHEUSER-BUSCH BUDWEISER.Dalmatian becomes personal trainer to a dejected draft horse eager to make the Clydesdale team pulling the famous Budweiser beer wagon. Anheuser-Busch2009: DORITOS. For the first time, it wasn't an ad agency that created the best-liked Super Bowl commercial. It was two unemployed brothers from Batesville, Ind. "Free Doritos" features a guy who shatters a vending machine with his crystal ball after predicting free Doritos for everyone in the office. Doritos, Frito Lay2010: SNICKERS. Snickers took the top prize with an ad starring octogenarian actors Betty White and Abe Vigoda in a rough and tumble football game that ultimately gets both of them tossed on their fannies. Snickers2011 (tie): DORITOS. For the first time, two ads tied for the top ranked ad in USA TODAY's Ad Meter. Both ads starred dogs acting like people. Doritos struck marketing gold by using its now-familiar formula of letting its customers create ads and the winner featured a guy who pays big-time for teasing a hungry pug dog with Doritos. Doritos2011 (tie):ANHEUSER-BUSCH BUD LIGHT.The other ad to win was by Anheuser-Busch. A Bud Light ad featuring a dog sitter who gets the canines to cater his party helped put the beer giant back in the winning column. Anheuser-Busch2012 USA TODAY Ad Meter contender: A 120-pound Great Dane buries the family cat and then bribes the owner to keep mum by supplying him with Doritos. DoritosThe 2013 Ad Meter winner: Budweiser's Clydesdale ad. Budweiser2014: BUDWEISER 'Puppy Love' ad. Budweiser2015: BUDWEISER ad meter winner 'Lost Dog.' BudweiserLike this topic? You may also like these photo galleries:Replay1 of 282 of 283 of 284 of 285 of 286 of 287 of 288 of 289 of 2810 of 2811 of 2812 of 2813 of 2814 of 2815 of 2816 of 2817 of 2818 of 2819 of 2820 of 2821 of 2822 of 2823 of 2824 of 2825 of 2826 of 2827 of 2828 of 28Last SlideNext Slide


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UAlbany's "World Within Reach" Speaker Series Features Entrepreneur and Philanthropist Russell Simmons, Oct. 13
ALBANY, NY (October 4, 2012) — Russell Simmons, hip hop mogul and co-founder of Def Jam Records headlines the World Within Reach Speaker Series on Saturday, October 13, at 7 p.m. in the University at Albany's SEFCU Arena.
Media mogul Russell Simmons, who will speak at the University on October 13.
An entrepreneur and philanthropist, Simmons is the featured speaker for the 6th installment of the Student Association speaker series. The event caps off UAlbany's Fallbany Weekend.
Four years ago, UAlbany's Student Association conceived and organized the World Within Reach Speaker Series, designed to bring world leaders and thinkers to campus. To date, it has featured philanthropist and AIDS spokesman, Earvin "Magic" Johnson Jr.; former President, Bill Clinton; former U.S. Secretary of State, Colin Powell; Barbara Walters; and Howard Dean and Karl Rove.
Simmons, 54, co-founded Def Jam Records with Rick Rubin in 1984. Since then, Simmons has developed Rush Communications and Phat Farm, as well as Def Comedy Jam, for which he earned a Peabody and Tony Award. He is also known for his activism, recently assisting U.S. Rep. Dennis Kucinich (D-Oh.) in his re-election campaign.
The world- renowned businessman is the seventh speaker as part of the series that is produced by the UAlbany Student Association. For more information on tickets to the Russell Simmons event, go to the UAlbany Student Association's website.comments powered by Disqus
For more news, subscribe to UAlbany's RSS headline feeds
Educationally and culturally, the University at Albany-SUNY puts "The World Within Reach" for its more than 17,300 students. An internationally recognized research university with 118 undergraduate majors and minors and 138 graduate programs, UAlbany is a leader among all New York State colleges and universities in such diverse fields as criminal justice, information science, public administration, social welfare, business and sociology. With a curriculum enhanced by 500 study-abroad opportunities, UAlbany launches great careers. Visit UAlbany's extensive roster of faculty experts, and for a database of images, visit UAlbanyPhotos.


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Team Review: Doug Risebrough Style
Jonathan Willis
January 27 2009 07:24AM
I don't know how many OilersNation readers follow the official Hockey Operations blog of the Minnesota Wild. I'd guess the answer is not many.
In any case I do, because Minnesota has some of the most compelling online content available at any of the official sites. The Hockey Operations blog has pieces written by the general manager and members of the hockey staff, and while they don't reveal everything, what they do reveal is generally worth reading. Take the team review that Doug Risebrough published last week.
Risebrough's a career hockey man -– he's been the GM in Minnesota since the team entered the league, and had a long career with Calgary and Montreal (winning four Stanley Cups with the powerhouse Canadiens team of the late-70s). He became an assistant coach in Calgary after retiring, and would subsequently take the role of Head Coach and then General Manager. As GM of the Flames, he was fairly unsuccessful; Calgary never made it past the first round of the playoffs during his tenure, and he was on the wrong end of the massive Doug Gilmour trade with Toronto. His history with the Oilers has been mixed; as a player, Legends of Hockey relates this anecdote:
Risebrough was especially good at playing the agitator. He was a chippy, hard-nosed, aggressive pest known for his two-handers and ability to pot his share of points. He once threw an Edmonton Oilers sweater on the ice and shredded it with his skates.
After getting fired in Calgary, Risebrough spent three seasons (1996-99) in the Oilers organization as VP of Hockey Operations before taking the job in Minnesota.
Since Risebrough's obviously a bright guy, and made his team review public, I thought it might be of interest to review the Edmonton Oilers in the same manner (with the only change being that instead of posting last year's record at the all-star break, I've pro-rated the numbers from all of last season). Last year's numbers are italicized.
2007-08 | 2008-09 Record: 23-20-3 | 24-19-3 Points: 49 | 51 WC Standings: 9th | 6th Goals For: 132 | 132 Goals Against: 141 | 138 Goal Differential: -9 | -6 Goals For Rank: 17th | 14th Goals Against Rank: 26th | 23rd Powerplay: 21st | 17th Penalty Kill: 5th | 28th ES Scoring: 27th | 12th
The record this season is nearly identical to last year's pro-rated record, with a two-point shift resulting in a three-spot move in the conference standings, but the way that it's happening has shifted dramatically.
On the surface, goals for and against are nearly identical to last season, but the reasons for the performance could not be more different. Last season, the Oilers were among the worst even-strength teams in the NHL. They've moved up fifteen spots in even-strength scoring (for and against). The power-play has experienced modest improvement, going from 21st in the NHL to 17th.
Still, despite all of these improvements, the team is running in place, and it only takes a look at one number to explain why. The penalty-kill, which has been a great strength on virtually every team of the Lowe/MacTavish era, has been a disaster. Let's take a closer look at the penalty-kill statistics for this season and last season.
2007-08 | 2008-09 Percentage: 84.7% | 76.3% Times Shorthanded: 206 | 198 Times SH Rank: 21st | 16th Goals Against: 31 | 47 Goals Against Rank: T-7th | T-25th
The Oilers aren't an especially disciplined team, but they've made some modest improvements in that department from last season. Despite being shorthanded eight fewer times, they've allowed 16 more goals.
Let's compare the performances of this season's most used players to their counterparts last season, starting with the forwards:
All Numbers/60: TOI | GA | Corsi | BlocksOn 2007-08 Reasoner: 3.10 | 4.49 | -49.4 | 23.6 Moreau: 2.78 | 5.17 | -58.6 | 14.7 Stoll: 2.67 | 6.92 | -66.7 | 20.8 Horcoff: 2.54 | 5.79 | -63.2 | 22.7 Brodziak: 2.49 | 4.82 | -48.2 | 23.2 Pisani: 2.45 | 5.24 | -55.9 | 14.4 2008-09 --- --- --- --- Horcoff: 3.08 | 9.08 | -99.5 | 22.5 Brodziak: 2.79 | 7.50 | -74.5 | 19.0 Moreau: 2.60 | 11.54 | -86.6 | 19.4 Pisani: 2.24 | 1.79 | -98.3 | 16.1 Reddox: 1.06 | 9.88 | -103.7 | 29.6 Cole: 1.05 | 1.26 | -73.3 | 26.5 Cogliano: 0.97 | 6.89 | -81.3 | 16.5 Penner: 0.94 | 8.86 | -104.9 | 25.1
Looking at the Time On Ice numbers, there's been a difference of approach this season. Last season, MacTavish had six forwards that he used a lot when they were healthy, which meant that most of the season he was running with two pairs of forwards (because most of the players on that list had significant injuries over the course of the year).
This season, the plan seems to have been to use Horcoff-Brodziak and Moreau-Pisani, but with Pisani's injury the second set of forwards has seen a mixed bag of players with Moreau, with four players all hovering around the 1:00/60 mark.
The negative Corsi number has shot up between this year and last by a tremendous amount. Some of that is due to rule changes (the negative Corsi number for teams across the league has increased), but much of it is a result of allowing more shots. Brodziak and Cole stand out as players doing a fine job at reducing the number of shots against, while Ethan Moreau would seem to be doing a decent job despite the amount of goals being scored on his watch.
It's been suggested that this year's unit blocks fewer shots than last season's, and while superficially the total number of blocks looks close, it really isn't. The block totals from last season came on far fewer shots; in other words, the percentage of shots being blocked has dropped. Using Horcoff as an example, last season 63.2 more attempts (shots, missed shots and blocked shots) were made against than for, with an average of one block per every -2.8 Corsi. This season, he's averaging one block per every -4.42 Corsi.
If we use a weighted (for ice-time) average down the line, we get the following ratios for this season and last season:
2007-08: .36 Blocks/ -Corsi
2008-09: .23 Blocks/ -Corsi
In simpler terms, this set of forwards is about 33 per cent less likely to block a shot than last year's set of forwards.
To sum up, I see two significant weak spots among the forwards on this year's penalty-killing unit:
- Allowing far too many shots against
- A decreased willingness to block shots
Personnel would seem to be part of the problem; Marty Reasoner was the best player on last year's team (and among the best in the league) both in allowing fewer chances against, and in being willing to block shots he faced. The decision to let him walk as a free agent over the summer was a mistake. Jarret Stoll on the other hand, was among the worst players on last year's unit in both categories, so it would seem reasonable to conclude that his absence isn't one of the primary factors in the decreased efficiency of the penalty kill.
Without knowing what's happening behind the scenes, it isn't possible to conclusively say that coaching is part of the problem, but the numbers would seem to indicate that a greater emphasis on shot-blocking (historically a strength for MacTavish-coached teams) would help the penalty-killing unit.
All Numbers/60: TOI | GA | Corsi | BlocksOn 2007-08 --- --- --- --- Souray: 3.77 | 3.68 | -44.7 | 25.1 Staios: 3.71 | 4.15 | -52.9 | 19.9 Greene: 2.54 | 7.20 | -65.3 | 20.6 Gilbert: 2.40 | 4.88 | -58.0 | 21.1 Smid: 2.30 | 6.03 | -64.7 | 20.9 Pitkanen: 1.93 | 3.94 | -57.2 | 19.2 Grebeshkov: 1.13 | 8.96 | -51.5 | 23.1 2008-09 --- --- --- --- Staios: 3.52 | 8.71 | -93.0 | 19.4 Souray: 3.45 | 7.91 | -89.3 | 22.1 Gilbert: 2.48 | 8.05 | -87.0 | 22.0 Grebeshkov: 1.89 | 6.06 | -86.4 | 22.0 Strudwick: 1.36 | 7.35 | -102.9 | 27.0 Smid: 0.91 | 8.21 | -69.8 | 14.4
A quick glance at these numbers would seem to indicate that the same problems observed among the forwards are also prevalent among the defense. Since the numbers are team numbers, that isn't surprising. There's also some difficulty with sample size; a much greater percentage of the game is played at even-strength than on the penalty-kill, so the numbers are inherently weaker.
With those caveats, however, the loss of Matt Greene would appear to have limited impact. Greene was the worst defender used last season in goals against, negative Corsi, and blocks per negative Corsi.
It is worth noting that the most used defenceman on the PK this season, Steve Staios, has the worst goals against average of any defenceman, and also has the lowest number of blocks per negative Corsi. His Corsi number is better only than the little-used Jason Strudwick. Last season, Staios trailed only Souray among commonly used penalty-killers in these categories. It would seem reasonable to conclude that the drop-off in his play at even-strength from last season to now extends to the penalty-kill as well.
2007-08 SA | GA | SV% Roloson: 157 | 18 | 0.886 Garon: 160 | 13 | 0.919 2008-09 --- --- --- Roloson: 196 | 24 | 0.878 Garon: 109 | 17 | 0.844 Deslauriers: 54 | 6 | 0.889
This is the other place where there's been a huge change in quality. Mathieu Garon last season had a pretty average five-on-five save percentage. On the penalty kill, however, he ranked second in the league among goalies with more than 25 games (behind Dan Ellis of Nashville).
Fast-forward to this season, where Garon's numbers dropped off the face of the Earth shorthanded. Garon's even-strength save percentage is actually better than the number he posted last season, but the huge decline in his penalty-killing numbers dropped his save percentage overall. It's probably worth questioning if Garon's decline was hurting the penalty-kill, or if the penalty-kill's decline was hurting Garon –- I'd guess a little of both. Roloson's save percentage is down a touch from last season short-handed, so I'd imagine that the Oiler brass felt Garon was the bigger piece of that equation, which is the biggest reason he was traded.
In Conclusion
I would suggest that the Oilers would be well-advised to make improving the penalty-kill their chief priority. The trade of Garon would seem to imply that they felt he was a big part of the problem, but even if they're right about that, they can't afford to stand pat. I'd suggest the following list of changes:
1. Trade for an elite penalty-killing forward.
This team misses Marty Reasoner a lot, but players of his ilk are generally easy to acquire on the trade market. There isn't any excuse for failing to upgrade the personnel in that area, and little excuse for allowing Reasoner himself to walk this past summer.
2. Reduce Steve Staios' level of responsibility.
Staios, one of my personal favourites on this team, has looked shaky for much of this season. Injuries, age, personal situation; whatever the reason for the decline, it's highly visible five-on-five, and the statistics (and common sense) would seem to indicate that it's also a cause for concern on the penalty-kill. The reduction in Staios' ice-time could be accounted for by increases in responsibility for Tom Gilbert and Denis Grebeshkov.
3. Make Erik Cole an integral part of the unit.
The revolving door on the second set of penalty-killing forwards should end. Erik Cole's numbers are consistently good (in context with the rest of the team) and are far superior to those of Penner and Reddox, neither of whom should be playing short-handed. This change, combined with the addition of another penalty-killing forward, would give MacTavish three reliable tandems: New Guy–Brodziak, Horcoff–Pisani, Moreau–Cole.
4. Re-emphasize shot blocking
The drop-off in blocks is noticeable to the eye, and when looking at the statistics it's evident as well. It's been well documented that MacTavish has made shot-blocking a priority for this team in the past, but it wouldn't surprise me if all of the injuries this team has suffered over the past few years has altered that approach. Whatever the reason, this team is blocking less shots short-handed, and it would seem to be an area they could improve on.
Thanks for the tip on the Ops Blog. I'll check it out.
January 27 2009, 08:25AM
Jonathan Willis wrote:
The decision to let [Marty Reasoner] walk as a free agent over the summer was a mistake.
I thought so at the time, and for more reasons than just his shot-blocking and face-off capabilities. Still, Brownlee had this to say last week:
RobinB wrote:
I might have mentioned Reasoner, but unless I fell down the stairs and hit my head that day, not in the context of him being a candidate to come back.
I wonder why Brownlee would say that; I don't know if it would be feasable or if Reasoner would welcome the opportunity, but Marty took a lot of pieces with him when he left and his stats this year show that he still carries them with him. While Reasoner-style players are available on other teams as well (as JW pointed out above), I think Reasoner himself could be a very affordable play-off rental for the Oil this year.
@ Ender the Dragon: No questioning Marty's contributions from my end. Unless I'm mistaken, the comment you cite came in response to somebody suggesting I'd said the Oilers might be looking at getting Reasoner back for a third stint. I have heard no such thing from anybody with the Oilers.
(with the only change being that instead of posting last year's record at the all-star break, I've pro-rated the numbers from all of last season). Last year's numbers are italicized.
It is hard to prorate them, when their best stretch of the season came in the last 20 games when they went 14-5-1. That makes the numbers much more misleading I would suspect.
a gm mentioning ev goals/60? has this happened before?
January 27 2009, 09:04AM
@ RobinB: Perhaps I misinterpreted the context. In the previous thread regarding Lacavlier, I just posted Reasoner's numbers with a brutal Thrashers team this year. He's looking very attractive as a guy to have with you on a play-off run. I was just mulling over what we might have to offer to an organization who's obviously a seller even at this point in the season.
@ Ender the Dragon: I might ask the Oilers if they've contemplated the same thing. Like I said, I haven't heard his name -- and with a popular guy in the room like Reasoner, there's a good chance his name would trickle out from one of the players if they'd heard anything.
January 27 2009, 09:33AM
@ RobinB:
Robin, if I haven't said it enough, I really enjoy having you on this site. As WG alluded to yesterday, the fact that you are willing to ask these kinds of things on the Nation's behalf really speaks as to what kind of guy you are. And the offer you made to Swany and his kid last week; nothing but class. Much appreciated, sir.
January 27 2009, 09:58AM
Robin and Gregor are kicking around here so here's something for them: can you ask someone if it's an org directive to no longer look to block shots? Is Willis's hunch correct and a list of injuries has made the team shy about blocking shots and/or the coaching staff loathe to stress that old art?
Also, yes, bring back Reasoner as a rental.
Why the heck not? It's not like the Thrash not to lose any more games to call off the season, either. Let's get the guy back post-haste.
On point about the PK is the following Face Off % from the last 2 years (from NHL.com)
08/09 FO% 56.5% (32nd overall) 07/08 FO% 55.1% (33rd overall)
08/09 FO% 52.3% (65nd overall) 07/08 FO% 52.8% (58rd overall)
08/09 FO% 52.2% (66th overall) 07/08 FO% 50.6% (90th overall)
08/09 FO% 51.6% (78th overall) 07/08 FO% 51.5% (74th overall)
Adding another 4-5% in the faceoff cirle would help immensely with the PK number. The rule change of the face off always starting in the defensive zone for a penalty is hurting the Oilers.
Careful Nation... Bringing back Reasoner would validate MacT's stand on his necessity; thus proving MacT IS competent, and DOES understand how to use his assets. Who do you think MacT could pair with Reddox and Reasoner on the first line?
January 27 2009, 10:55AM
Chris wrote:
Who do you think MacT could pair with Reddox and Reasoner on the first line?
Chris, that's not nice. Slightly humourous, I'll give you, but still uncalled for. If you want to hack on someone, aim for the target with the big head pictured in the next WG post . . .
January 27 2009, 11:12AM
Dang it Willis. We are going to hire you out as a special consultant to the NHL. I of course will take a 89% managment fee - but you will be entitled to a danish on Monday mornings.
You break it down like no other. Even if you are telling me that Reasoner is the solution to the problem and taking my main man Staios off the ice - I still salute you.
January 27 2009, 11:21AM
Great article Jon. When you address issue #1 I think you'll also address issue #4 at the same time. Just some marginal improvement in this area (a couple of goals over the final 36 games) may make the difference between a playoff date with San Jose/Detroit in Round 1 or Calgary/Chicago.
Amazing Article Willis, it spells everything out for the reader quite nicely.
January 27 2009, 02:23PM
@Jonathan Willis
If Reasoner - or another face-off winning facsimile of him - were to come to the Oilers, wouldn't the SH forward pairings of New Guy-Cole, Horcoff-Pisani, Brodziak-Moreau be better? This would put a decent face-off centre on each line, and keep Brodziak-Moreau in tact (if they're still together - I can't keep up with the MacBlender).
Very interesting read J.W. I also thought the bullet points were pretty close to being bang-on, sans the #1 option.
It does not change or sway my stance on Reasoner whatsoever. Trading an asset for player you let walk away for nothing over the summer, & who is a upcoming UFA, specialized PK'er who brings nothing to the table 5on5 except a lack of speed & physicality, is only subtraction by addition IMO.
There are better, younger, faster & financially comparable guys out there to get if it gets to the trading of an asset for 1 of those types of players at any point this season.
Good read, very interesting. When Reasoner left, I never batted an eye....it seemed like an "oh ya he's gone, but we got soooo much talent now....." then when Stolly got dealt, I understood, but thought, I bet he's gonna light it up and we will regret that trade....
Here we are just coming outta the break and we'd be a totally diferent team if we had even a decent Pk. Think how many points not letting 15 goals in would equal....Maybe a shot at knocking Calgary Lames out for the Division....CRAZY, a CracT Team with a brutal PK....
January 27 2009, 06:22PM
Great post J. Willis. That Risebrough is a genius.
January 27 2009, 06:47PM
Seriously Willis. How on earth does your wife let you have so much time for this? That would have taken me a week to come up with that. Share the secrets...
Great read as always. What's on the menu for tomorrow?


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Here's a great tip from Donna Ida to take with you on your next denim shopping endeavor. Jeans with whiskers (especially of the subtle, natural-looking variety) can add some depth and dimension to your jeans' crotch and hip area, and help you avoid looking wider and "blocky". If you're trying to look slimmer from the front, take this tip into consideration, and check out some great whiskered washes below.
1. Current/Elliott The Beatnik Jeans 2. Rag & Bone/JEAN Skinny Jeans 3. Paige Denim Skyline Skinny Jean
Tip via Donna Ida.
—Michelle Christina Larsen
Tags: denim shopping, Donna Ida, look skinnier, look thinner, make hips look smaller, slimming jeans


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Today I'm lucky enough to have the author Benedict Jacka on the blog. He is the author of Fated which I loved and reviewed HERE. He was nice enough to answer some questions and the publisher is offering up one copy of Fated to one lucky person!
Thanks so much for being on my blog Benedict! Fated was such a pleasure to read and I am very eager for more of Alex!
The world you've created in the books is fascinating and I'm curious, where did you draw on your inspiration for it? (Authors often hate this question but I can't seem to stop asking it. I've gotten such great answers in the past!)
No problem – glad to be on here!
I can see why they'd hate the question – it's a hard one! For the Alex Verus series, about half of it comes from all the books, films, series, and games I've ever watched or read. The other half comes from the setting – my childhood growing up in London and the sense of the city. It's hard to put into words, but there's something about London which makes me think of stories and magic.
When it comes to Alex, do you see yourself in him at all or is he totally different from yourself?
Hmm . . . tricky one. We're probably more similar than different. I used a lot of my personality traits as a starting point for Alex's character, but they've developed in a different way since they're all filtered through his (much more violent) history. We do have the same sort of approach to solving problems, though.
What was the biggest obstacle you've had to overcome when writing?
*laughs* Getting rejected over and over again! Writing's not a job for the easily discouraged. I'm not even going to go into how many books I had rejected before Fated was published, but let's just say it was a lot!
The road to publication is definitely a long a difficult one!
Do you have a favorite character to write?
Probably Alex himself. His personality's a natural fit to mine and so it's very easy for me to figure out what he'd do in any situation. Also, I love coming up with ways for him to use his divination magic to get out of whatever overly-lethal trouble he's in this time.
Oh yes, I think I would have fun figuring that out as well!
Or a character that's particularly difficult to write?
Deleo's scenes were very hard. This is because she's insane. Since I'm not insane (as far as I know) it's tricky to put myself in her shoes. Luckily she snaps back and forth between psychotic episodes and periods of lucidity so at least she has some spaces where she's not full-on-crazy.
In Fated do you have a favorite scene and if so can you give my readers a bit of a tease?
Ooh, hard to choose. Maybe Alex's final confrontation with Khazad. It's probably the darkest and the most vicious scene in the book, but it shows Alex's character really well – both his vulnerability (Khazad plays with him in a very cruel cat-and-mouse fashion) and also his dangerous side (Richard picked Alex as an apprentice for a reason).
We're lucky enough that you have three books from the Alex Verus series coming out this year. I love that it is being done more often because quite often a year between books results in me losing interest. If it's only a few months then I'm still excited and eager for more of the world and characters. How did you get lucky enough for that happen? Did you have three books already finished when they sold, or how did it all come about?
It was actually a publishing decision by Orbit, for the reason you just described – it's a lot easier to build up momentum for a series if it's getting released at three-month intervals. I wrote the first draft of Fated all the way back in 2008. In 2009 I started to get interest from Orbit, in 2010 I rewrote it, and in the same year I was offered the contract for all three books and got to work on Cursed and Taken. Fated's been sitting waiting for publication for a long time!
And the three books come out this year but will there be more of Alex Verus in the future?
If I have any say in it, definitely! I'm plotting out Alex Verus #4 at the moment.
Can you tell us anything about what will happen in Cursed, the next Alex Verus book, or is it still a secret?
A lot of Cursed is about the relationship between Alex and Luna – although probably not in the way most readers are going to be expecting! There's a lot more about magical creatures and their place in the world (especially Arachne) and we get to see an item that's referenced to in Fated, along with exactly what it can do.
Okay, so if you lived in Alex's world what would you like to be, or what ability would you like to have? I have to say that Alex's seer ability was far more useful then I would have ever imagined… it helps that he's a fast thinker too though, not everyone would be able to all that he can do, that's for sure!
Hehe, everyone has a different answer to that one. Probably air magic, just for being able to fly. Although Alex's abilities might just be more useful in the long run!
I see that you've traveled a bit but you always end up back in London. Of the other places you've lived, or even just visited, which was your favorite and why?
Probably China. I spent half a year there in a small city in Anhui province. It was the first time I'd spent a really long time in a completely different culture and it was quite an experience – especially since there were 200,000 people in the city of whom about 5 were from outside the country! Luckily I speak a little Mandarin but it was still very very different from what I was used to.
I'm an eclectic reader, but I love unique worlds with characters that POP, what book (or series) do you recommend?
One that I read when I was much younger that's always stuck with me is The Book of Night with Moon by Diane Duane. It's an urban fantasy written back when hardly anyone knew what 'urban fantasy' meant, with a set of wizards trying to save New York from a multi-universe threat involving an invasion by dinosaurs. Oh, and the main characters are all cats. If you're an animal lover and a fantasy lover, you'll like it!
Thanks so much for being on Benedict! I'm looking forward to reading much more from you. And one day I'll travel to London and I'm hoping that you'll 'just happen' to be having a book signing right at that particular time so I can get my books signed. Or you could always have a US tour too. 😉
Heh, I'd love to have a US tour – maybe it'll happen some day! If you ever do come to London look me up so I can plan a signing in advance. And thank you for the very nice review and for doing this interview. I'll keep on writing the Alex Verus series – hope you'll keep on reading them!
I will most definitely let you know if I can make it to London, it's been a dream for a very long time! And I can't wait for more Alex!
In the meantime, I have a blog (http://benedictjacka.co.uk/) that I update regularly with a series called the Encyclopaedia Arcana that describes the background to Alex's world, as well as news and reviews and updates – the most recent is an email exchange between me and Jim Butcher. If you'd like to find out what's going on with future books, take a look!
About Fated:
Alex Verus is part of a world hidden in plain sight, running a magic shop in London. And while Alex's own powers aren't as showy as some mages, he does have the advantage of foreseeing the possible future—allowing him to pull off operations that have a million-to-one-chance of success.
But when Alex is approached by multiple factions to crack open a relic from a long-ago mage war, he knows that whatever's inside must be beyond powerful. And thanks to his abilities, Alex can predict that by taking the job, his odds of survival are about to go from slim to none…


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