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Welcome to the Offseason
First off, congratulations to the New York Yankees on becoming the 2009 World Series champions (and for making me look smart by coming through on my prediction of them earning baseball's biggest crown in six games).
That was a great Fall Classic. Cliff Lee's mastery in Game 1. Chase Utley's power surge, tying Reggie Jackson's 1977 mark of five World Series homers. Johnny Damon pulling off a solo double steal to ignite a late rally and help the Yankees take a critical Game 4. Godzilla going off for six RBIs in the clincher in the Bronx.
Now, it's officially the offseason. With the baseball season in the books, it's time to look ahead. In 15 days, teams can begin offering contracts to any free agent they choose. Until then, teams have an exclusive negotiating window with their own free agents.
For your Toronto Blue Jays, they list of free agents include catcher Rod Barajas, shortstop Marco Scutaro, shortstop John McDonald, first baseman Kevin Millar and catcher Michael Barrett. Millar will not be back in 2010 and it's a safe assumption that Barrett will also follow him to the open market.
Jays general manager Alex Anthopoulos has maintained that the team has interest in retaining Barajas, Scutaro and McDonald. Will Toronto bring all three back? My educated guess is no. A lot depends on what direction the Jays take this year, and Anthopoulos will likely shed light on that this weekend.
Scutaro is coming off a career year and is eligible as a Type A free agent — something the Jays did not count on. That means Toronto would receive a pair of compensation picks if he signs with another club. Barajas is a Type B free agent, meaning the Jays would receive one sandwich compensation pick if he signs elsewhere.
As for McDonald, he rarely saw action in 2009 until the end of the year, when Scutaro was sidelined with a foot issue. It made sense to keep McDonald on the bench — given the season's turned in by Scutaro and second baseman Aaron Hill — but he might want to see if there is a team out there willing to offer more playing time.
There are a number of other issues still unsettled — the future of ace Roy Halladay being front and center in the direction of the Blue Jays. Toronto will also likely be looking to upgrade its offense this winter and some rotation and bullpen help might not be a bad idea, either. It all depends on how much cash the Jays decide to spend.
Stay tuned…
18 Comments
(CNNMoney.com) Adding up the dollars and cents. Applying a Society of Baseball Research metric, the Yankees were actually more efficient with their payroll this past season than were the hapless cross-town Mets, Cleveland Indians and basement-dwelling Washington Nationals.
The World Champs were only slightly less thrifty with their salaries than the Chicago Cubs, Houston Astros, and Kansas City Royals, all of whom missed the playoffs.
By those calculations, the Yankees paid $3.2 million per "marginal victory." That's nearly twice as efficient as the Mets, who only won 70 games despite their $149 million payroll and paid $5.8 million per marginal victory.
In addition, a rough estimate of the team's revenue in 2009 shows the Yankees cashed in on their success more than any other team. Multiply the number of people coming to games by the average ticket price ($73),and the Yankees took in about $270 million this season, or $69 million more than they shelled out for their payroll.
Looks to me like if we want the Jays to spend with the Yanks, we'd better be prepared to support them, the way Yank fans support their team.
I hope that Antho has the foresight to let short-stop and catcher go to free agency. Imagine getting a first round pick and two sandwich picks for these two players. It must be getting close to Christmas!
The following is from mlbtraderumors and is reporting a potential swap between the Jays and Diamond Backs.
12:31pm: Nick Piecoro of The Arizona Republic reports that the two teams are discussing a Snyder for Lyle Overbay swap. He mentions that it's "unclear how far along the trade talks are."
10:05am: MLBTR has learned that the Blue Jays and Diamondbacks are in trade talks for catcher Chris Snyder.
Snyder would be a good fit for the Jays, who have catcher Rod Barajas eligible for free agency. The 28-year-old Snyder hit .200/.333/.352 for the D'Backs in a season marred by a back injury (he had surgery in September). Presumably the Blue Jays' doctors would have to check him out before a deal could be completed. The other issue would be money – Snyder is owed $11.25MM over the next two seasons. Snyder received the contract on the strength of his '08 season (.237/.348/.452) but has since lost the starting job to Miguel Montero.
What do you guys think?
In 2008, presumably before Snyder was hurt, he hit .237/.348/.452 with 22 doubles, 16 hr's and 64 rbi's in 115 games.He hit a little better with risp and hits .282 with bases loaded and he's 28. He's also only had 1 error in the last 3 years. A definite upgrade from Barajas (particularly OBP)-if he's healthy and a much better return for Overbay that expected.
AA held his conference call today to outline his long term strategy and direction. A summary of the call can be found here http://www.battersbox.ca/article.php?story=20091107163524374
You can listen to the 35 minute call here:
Now that he has finally spoken — the speculation regarding Antho can stop. It is now clear that he is committed to re-building, and that, through the draft and trades. I am glad to see Antho take this direction. I finally have some hope.
I think the most important aspect of the Overbay trade, gs mentions, is not so much what we get back, but that we would be making a spot for LIND. This clears a spot for RUIZ or Dopriak at DH. I really hope that we can move Overbay. The change would be good for him and the team. Now, if Antho could somehow move DOC for a handsome package in return, and somehow move Vernon, that would be great. Keep in mind, we do not have to keep what we get back for Vernon (e.g., Bradley) we could also move what we get back in return if there are other suitors.
There are multiple things I like about the direction Alex is taking. First, beefing up the scouting and player development to be the best in baseball. We used to have the best scouts and player development guys-that's how we won in the past, its nice to see that emphasis come back.
Second, the withdrawal for the Pacific rim and re-focus on Latin America. We have some interesting prospects from Latin America in the system already, I look forward to us finding those real gems like Felix Hernandez in the future. The thing that really works for us in this region is the lack of the draft. We find them and can sign them as long as they're 16 years old. In addition, the American players agents like Scott Boras are not yet that active in the region, so even the very best prospects don't get more than 5-7 million singing bonus.
Third, I am pleased to hear no more free agent contracts that drag us down like Thomas, or Ryan, until we need that last piece or two in order to win. Fact is there are no easy steps to winning, its one piece at a time.
Fourth, it's refreshing to be told of player operations at the time or even before the time they actually happen. What a change that is from JP, stating Ryan had a back issue.
I must say, I also like Alex's enthusiasm. I agree with him that as this team builds and starts to compete, the fans will come back in droves. There is no better place in baseball to be, but in the dome with 50,000 fans yelling their lungs out. With the roof closed the sound is absolutely deafening and acts as a 10th player on our team. It was magic back in 92/93 and I look forward to getting back to that again.
For the first time in a long time, it's now exciting to be a Blue Jays fan again. I look forward to these kids coming up in future years and establishing themselves, like Lind and Hill, and I also am pleased Rogers has committed the funding to keep them as they mature and become stars-a long term winning formula for sure.
Burt, I'm not one who wants Lind at 1st, because if we do that we leave either Ruiz or Dopirak out of the lineup. I'd like to see Dopirak/Ruiz share time between DHL and 1st base and keep Lind in left field with Snider in right. I don't buy what Cito stated in not having Snider and Lind in the outfield at the same time. Snider will become a good right fielder, and Lind is already a better outfielder than Johnny Damon is or Manny Ramirez-two guys who roamed left field while their teams won the series.
Bring Snider and Lind in early to spring training and spend 20-30 days with the two of them improving their defense. I'd like to see a lineup that includes Hill, Lind, Encarnacion, Dopirak, Ruiz and Snider-6 guys who can all hit 25-30 home runs and drive in 75-100 runs per year. Sounds almost Yank type, doesn't it.
I also am thinking (maybe too optimistic), that Wells will recover in 2010-the question is how much? That being said, if he does, he will become more valuable in a trade that he is now, so it might make sense to trade him at the trade deadline than now.
I am hoping when we trade Halladay, we get **** with high obp and some speed who can handle the lead off role. The guy I really wanted was Alcindes Escobar, but since the Brewers already traded Hardy, I don't see them parting with Escobar, so possibly Brandon Wood or Jed Lowrie.
That **** should read a short stop.
The great part about this trade is that Overbay will be gone. It's just a bonus that AZ is throwing in Snyder. Really, if they can get a bag off balls for him they should pull the trigger. PULL THE TRIGGER NOW!
I get the feeling Chris Snyder didn't pass the Jays medical. A back operation, particularly the one he had is difficult to recover from. I hope I'm wrong because trading Overbay is the right move to make-even if we give him away for no return.
just saw it on jordans twitter! Jays will explore the possibility of getting russel martin!! that would be awesome!
I would prefer to see Arencebia be given a chance to be the regular catcher. Martin, IMO, is way over-rated. However, since he is a Canadian and a (former) name, I could see Arencebia being forced to play behind him. Sure, Arencebia needs to learn the ropes, but I would like to see him mentored by someone that will not hinder his progress in assuming the number 1 catcher's position.
GSJays, What do you think of the Jays bringing Back Hinske for 3b???
Griffin is reporting that the Rangers feel that they were "lied to" at the trade deadline regarding Halliday. Can anyone shed some light on this???
stansburp-nope-only time to bring Henske back is when we're close to winning-he's a good luck charm-Boston, TB and NY. I like EE at 3rd, hoping Butter can improve his throwing-but if he's healthy next year-I'd bet he hits 30 hr's for us. He has power plus, probably will never hit for high average.
Burt-they were dealing with JP-he lied to everyone. The story was JP told them Doc would consider a trade to Texas and Doc would not go to Texas and told JP that. Problem was, Texas actually thought they'd got Halladay and made no moves on other pitchers so by the time they found out the truth it was too late to move elsewhere. I'm thinking of starting a fund to buy JP season tickets in Texas-do you think he's like that as-say a farewell present? Only problem is, I doubt if he'd ever have the nerve to attend a game there. lol
Latest rumor-Overbay to the Mets and Bradley to the Jays-I wonder if that means the Wells deal is still alive with Chicago?
Jays claim 28 yr. old short stop Mike McCoy from Colorado today. Gotta like this move. McCoy hit .307/.405/.400 for Colorado's AAA last year AND stole 40 bases. Limited power, but with that OBP and stolen base number-could be a nice fit.
From Battersbox.com
Dopirak is playing winter ball in Venezuela and is hitting .292/.389/.542 with Magallanes. He's hit six doubles, six homers and 27 RBI while drawing 17 walks against 27 strikeouts. Las Vegas hitting coach Ken Joyce says the right-handed hitting Dopirak "has raw power you just can't teach and there's no question he'll get to the big leagues if he continues to swing the bat the way he is".


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jesus christ i hate you trapezoid, that was the scariest picture of carrot top i've ever seenand good lord here i go again photoshopping dave gilbert again.. this is the 3rd time it's like i have a secret crush on him.. or at least want to see him harmed, judging by these entries i keep makingeric
* Gilbot V7000a feels lucky that he doesn't have any real picture with Dave.
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It's official, Nasty Gals definitely do it better. And, we're not just talking about street style or home decor — the L.A.-based company has unleashed another all-star lookbook, and it's jam-packed with killer outfit inspiration. But, we'd be silly to expect anything less from Sophia Amoruso, the brains behind the e-tailer empire. She's already published a print magazine and has launched a crazy-successful in-house label — and to think, it all started with a little eBay shop!
Now, in her latest lookbook, she's taken this season's MVT (Most Valuable Trends), and peppered in a bit of vintage nostalgia in the form of windbreakers and satin jackets. The athletic-inspired shoot runs circles around any editorial competition, thanks in part to the location (New Mexico's White Sands), strategic sequins, and a badass boom box. Oh, and it doesn't hurt that model Naomi Preizler was a true team player, making gym attire look 100% glam.
And you know what they say: If you can't beat 'em, might as well join 'em! So, take a peek at the snaps and be prepared to witness what may be the best treadmill motivation on the planet.
Photo: Courtesy of Nasty Gal


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Choose a wedding photography package that meets your needs
Once you have selected a photographer to shoot your wedding ceremony, the next step is to choose which photo package to go with, since many wedding photographers will offer different bundles at various price points. These packages should include the number of pictures to be offered, the mix of printouts and digital files, the length of time that the photographer will be available and more. Sometimes the choices can even include makeup artists and hairstylists if you choose.
Commonly, a simple bridal photograph deal doesn't contain lots of extra items. It should commonly provide photographs of the husband and wife kissing after exchanging wedding vows and exchanging rings, cutting the wedding cake together with each other and the collection photos of relatives and buddies, which usually is somewhat standard for a lot of marriage ceremony. Now this elementary wedding photography bundle is fairly low-cost but it's a good idea to complement this by getting your friends and relatives to utilize their own cameras to take more photos. It can definitely cost more however utilizing more than one wedding photographer at the marriage ceremony will lead to a lot more photographs shot and much more chance at capturing quite a few fantastic experiences.
While you move up different packages out there, the greater services should be able to give you a videographer that will take your special day on movie which may be extra special compared to the fundamental service of some prints as well as fewer photographers on the day. Still higher-priced packages can incorporate prenuptial or engagement photos shot weeks or several weeks before your wedding reception. This sort of photography package deal can sometimes include a slide show of your pics to be shown in the course of the wedding ceremony party.
In picking your actual bundle you need to choose what types of shots you want shot. As an example, are you interested in shots of the new bride getting dressed, why not a number of candid images of the bride and groom as they are planning for the special day or even special images of the parents and also grandpa and grandma of the special couple. Another essential concern to contemplate is definitely the destinations of the pictures. Travel time period also need to be taken into consideration when selecting the wedding photography arrangement. Nearly all products usually consist of getting pictures taken in your home, and then going to the chapel then traveling to the wedding celebration. With respect to the destination of each wedding venue, this can accumulate a lots of drive time in which photographs are not being taken, resulting in further package.
We often think so much about what happens on the wedding day and getting that set up correctly that it's easy to loose site of the end product. When the day has passed and perhaps you've returned from your honeymoon, the process of preparing your wedding album is already underway. Choosing which photos to include is always a challenge as to include one means leaving another out. A professional wedding photographer can help you here. Firstly you need to know that you can choose from album selections that represents your taste, style and budget. Any limitations on how many prints can be included can be overcome by provision of a memory stick or CD with more selections. You may prefer a digital package or a classic leather bound story book album, or something in between. Be sure to check out the photographer's website for options here and have a clear understanding of what you get for your money. A professional wedding photography service usually allows you to view in private your pictures taken on the day. This allows you to decide which one s will be printed and included in your chosen wedding album. The first reflection on your wedding album is a terrific and most gratifying moment for the bride and groom, especially when your photographer has taken the time to make it really smart through professional attentiveness.
With regards to the photographer you're looking at; it should be easy to get a photo album, one or two larger sized wedding party shots and even have your wedding day pictures placed on a disk or memory stick in some electronic digital form. Whatever you decide and require or perhaps would like it is essential to talk about it together with your wedding photographer to get a package deal that may be great for both you and your price range. You only need to know what you wish and just how much you'll have to put in to find the most suitable wedding photography package.
Don't let wedding planning take away your joy
The period after engagement brings a lot of joy and excitement to couples but this becomes short-lived due to the hassles and stress of wedding preparation. Running around looking for wedding service providers and vendors can put a strain on a couple at a time when they are supposed to be enjoying their love.
Trying to do everything by yourself as couple can be very exhausting due to lack of knowledge on professional vendors and suppliers. Make sure you don't let wedding planning take away your joy by hiring the services of a wedding planner.
Why should you hire a wedding planner?
You get time to enjoy love
Getting the services of a wedding planner gives you time to enjoy love right after your engagement. With a wedding planner, the stress of planning and coordinating a wedding is taken away from you because you have someone to run errands and coordinate vendors and service providers on your behalf.
You get professional services
Wedding planners are trained to do the job and have the necessary experience required to organize and plan a wedding. A wedding planner knows the basics of wedding planning and how to select the right planners to make your wedding a success. Couples may not have the knowledge to choose professional service and this is where a wedding planner comes in to make sure the couple gets the best.
Help you in working with a budget
Wedding planners work on strict budgets set aside by a couple. Once you give a wedding planner your budget, they make sure they work with it to give you the best wedding. If you are working with a limited budget, its best to delegate the job to a planner who will help you work around it. Wedding planners are also able to work with big budgets giving you value for your money.
Solving crises
In the process of wedding planning, crises are likely to occur or things may not go as planned. The work of a wedding planner is to solve crises and looking for alternatives in case things go wrong during the event or in the course of planning. Solving a crises as a couple may be difficult because of lack of professional knowledge on how to go about it.
Bringing creativity
Creativity in wedding planning is very important. This involves making your wedding stand out of the ordinary weddings. Wedding planners are well trained and have a vast experience in making weddings look as creative as possible. This is not the same planning your own wedding without knowledge regarding creativity.
Decision making
Making decision among various options can be difficult especially when you want to make an instant choice. Wedding planners always know the best decision to make depending on your wedding theme and what you want the wedding to look like. Making decisions on your own can bring a lot of pressure and this adds to unnecessary stress during wedding preparation and planning.
A wedding planner helps you in saving time
Wedding planners can plan a wedding within a very limited period of time. This is because this is what they do for a living so they dedicate their time into planning your wedding. This is different from planning your wedding or friends assisting you in planning. Friends may get busy with their own work and you may also get busy making it difficult to plan.
Fulfilling your dreams
Wedding planners listen to your dream wedding expectations and they make it their job to fulfill those jobs. They work hard to make sure that they fulfill whatever you have imagined your wedding to be. They know how to get the right services and skills that will make a difference in your wedding. Wedding planners know that by fulfilling your dreams they are building their portfolio and creating great referrals for themselves.
Providing advice when you are stuck
There are many things concerning service providers and events management that a couple may not know. The work of a wedding planner is to provide the couple with professional advice that will help them in making reasonable decision regarding their wedding. This avoids wasting resource spend in going for substandard services and choosing the wrong vendors.
Rustic wedding locations are the hot trend right now
There was a time when a "rustic" locale meant welcome to nowheresville. You wouldn't even think of traveling there let alone plan a wedding in that location. The tides have definitely turned and one can find the term "rustic chic" bandied about everywhere now. Rustic wedding locations are hot right now and prospective brides and grooms can't seem to get enough of them.
The result is sweet because every day we have new designers and event planners come up with innovative new ideas for rustic weddings, one more unique than the other. At the time when simple lines and minimalistic designs rule the market, the popularity of the rustic style is quite a pleasant surprise. The Mason jar wine glasses, bare wooden tables with mismatched vases, wildflowers adorning the venue add a lot more personal touch than a big generic hotel ballroom.
From country estates to lake houses to farms with barn-turned-wedding-venues, these locations create a quaint, charming effect on the entire event. Instead of a tightly bound and over coordinated affair, one will find more textures and color to the décor. The arrangement is more unique and organic, matching with the individualist trend that dominates the millennials. Along with its more refined cousin, vintage, the rustic style is definitely here to stay.
Despite the simplicity, however, rustic does not always cheap. In fact, it can be quite a surprise to see how much time and effort is needed to pull off the rustic style and make it appear naturally quaint.
So, why are rustic wedding locations so hot right now? Here are some reasons for their popularity:
- They offer a more relaxed environment
- It offers more room for customization so every wedding is unique
- Fast paced life means more people look forward to peace and quiet, even for weddings
- They often match with destination wedding plans, combining two unique ideas for one great wedding
- It is very environment friendly which is a big hit with the planet lovers.
The last point is actually a huge consideration. Rustic wedding planners are often re-purposing or "up-cycling" items from the local scene as well as from the family attic stash to use as décor or theme accessories. Use of natural organics is a common action as well. This is a smart and clean way to take care of the environment and reduce trash, while saving loads of décor expenses. Since rustic weddings take place in natural settings, and often in well-preserved locations, taking care of the premises and preventing natural damage is an important criterion.
If you are still wondering why rustic wedding locations are hot right now, just consider the incredible fusion opportunity they present. This is more than brides mixing it up for their own ensemble or the bridesmaid dresses. More than anything they use these exotic locations to create unique themes for their weddings, fostering a wonderful celebratory style. From using vintage and mismatched china and vases, there is multi-dimensional depth to the décor and ambience. More people tying the knot want the fun eclectic feel and wonderful country chic stamp on their special day. What's more, despite being hot and in demand rustic wedding adapt easily to flexible budgets. They are sweeter and more diverse than an ordinary wedding theme, which blends chic and comfort seamlessly.
Here are some features that prevail upon the rustic wedding trend:
- Burlap, lace, twine in abundance
- Cowboy (and girl) boots
- Plaid, wool and linen
- Checks and suspenders
- Moss covered monograms
- Lots of sweet tea
- Mason jar with wildflowers
- Homemade wedding cake on wooden cake stand
- Homemade desserts and pies
- Rustic chalkboard/wooden cocktail and menu sign
More often than not, rustic weddings are held on a private property that belongs to a near or dear one. There is a stronger bond between the venue and the wedding, with the connection to the family's history enriching the day. It makes the event more special and personal, imbibing the emotions and energy of everyone into the very air. It makes for a more sentimental and heartwarming day, with indelible memories for all. Now that you know why rustic wedding locations are hot right now maybe it will help you decide on what kind of theme you want for your special day.


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Last Friday I found myself in Google's London HQ, talking about cool problems with a bunch of engineers. The so called "onsite interviews".
The saga started a few months ago with two phone interviews.
Then Google sent me a "What to know in onsite interviews" email.
And here I was, completely unprepared, having the time of my life just chiling in the awesome parlour they have going at the reception desk (inside a very confusing building … who puts a reception desk on the top floor anyway?)
A disclaimer: some say they had to sign NDA's and stuff. Nobody mentioned to me personally that any of this was a secret. And hey, only ~25% of onsite candidates get hired, there are 30,000 employees – that means 120,000 people have seen what happens.
It's not a secret.
The interviews
There I was, lounging in a comfy leather chair. Just when I was thinking "Fuck, I blew it. I knew I shouldn't have been 5 minutes late!" my recruiter came in through the door and apologized – her office is across the street nowadays and it takes a while to get to the main building.
She walked me through a series of doors, swiped her keycard a few times, quipped about the epic naming scheme for the interview (meeting?) rooms. Named after cornerstone computers of history, most recently The Watson.
I found myself in a small white room. Nothing more than a desk, a small whiteboard, a phone and a huge LCD screen. Hell, the holding room at the police station I was once taken to as a teen was bigger.
Apparently I drew the short stick and got the smallest whiteboard available as well. Maybe they knew I was short and just wanted to make me comfortable?
A few moments later, my first interviewer came in. Said hello, and went right to business.
The Questions
There were only three things anyone cared for:
- ability to solve problems you've never heard of
- Big-O and efficiency
- no whiteboard coding, that means catching all off-by-one errors
I especially loved the insistence on solving all problems cold. At one point I said Oh cool, I've heard of this problem before and the engineer immediately swapped it out for a new one.
As a result the whole experience was much more fun – it felt like solving a series of interesting little coding puzzles that are easy enough to be solvable in full and at most optimal within ~30 minutes, but are juuuuust hard enough you actually have to rack your brain a little bit to get them.
Lexical knowledge? Forget about it, whenever you don't know something, they just wave you on and say it's not really important. And you can tell it doesn't matter. They don't even write it down in their notes that hey, there's this little thing you couldn't remember off the top of your head.
My questions were a mix bag of designing systems and algorithms
- there used to be a list of questions here, but I took them out after being informed that they don't actually have hundreds of questions available to ask people
- they were essentially questions similar to those you might experience in a high school (or possibly college) programming competition
Those were the interesting questions anyway, sprinkled between these were explanations of A Recent Interesting Thing You Did ™ – makes me giddy I gave three different answers to this question. Just to avoid talking about the same stuff all the time 🙂
Oh and I guess there were some lexical questions, like what is a singleton and how you'd get rid of it, how do closures function and how does a DNS lookup work.
How I did?
Honestly, I have no idea how I did.
Sure, I solved all the problems. With the exception of one, I even came up with the most optimal solution on my own. And I managed to catch all the off-by-one errors and corner cases and everything.
But it doesn't really matter how well I did, what matters is how many others did better than me in all those little nuances like how quickly it took to solve a problem, how much you communicate and so on … so it's really hard to say.
What I can say, however, is that it was one of the most fun days I've ever had and I deeply regret the fact there were only five interviews. Everything was over with much too quickly …
But at the end of the day, I didn't even get the answer to my main question: "What's working at Google like, really?" (seems like they aren't allowed to talk about this, you get canned responses when asking)
So I still don't know if Google is a place I would want to work at, but my god the lunch was amazing. If they extend an offer I might accept for the food alone!
PS: A coffee lab is where Googlers drink their caffeine inside the building
Related articles
- Whiteboard Friday – Interview with Google's Maile Ohye (seomoz.org)
- No Terminator-style overlays in first batch of Google Glasses (news.cnet.com)
- Replicate Google's Panda Questionnaire – Whiteboard Friday (seomoz.org)
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After years of endless calls, emails, tweets and Facebook posts about fanatics longing for a box of Lucky Charms with only the "magically-delicious" marshmallows, General Mills is giving in.
"Share a photo of yourself holding an imaginary box of Lucky Charms on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram between October 14 and 18 using #Lucky10Sweepstakes," the brand's blogger wrote.
Biz Markie helped promote the marshmallow madness by rapping the sweepstakes' instructions in a remix of his song "Just a Friend."
U.S. & World
Stories that affect your life across the U.S. and around the world.
"Marshmallow only," Markie raps in the video. "The best part of the cereal. In your heart you know it's really oh."
Fans can share a photo of themselves on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram until Oct. 18 with the hashtag #Lucky10Sweepstakes.
This isn't the first time big business turned to social media to promote exclusive items. In September, Starbucks pumpkin spice latte lovers were able to use a "fan pass" with a secret password to obtain the autumnal drink before its release date.
#Lucky10Sweepstakes "The Lucky Charms King" pic.twitter.com/GQEMGhNgHg
— Sydney Howell (@Sydney_K_Howell) October 15, 2015


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Earning Mileage
Star Alliance Airline Partners
You will find it even easier to maintain your card status because miles flown can be credited to your Infinity MileageLands card account when you travel on any Star Alliance member carrier's operating flight (Star Alliance connecting partners HO's operating flights can only be counted as award miles), and count toward your tier level status, or use miles for redeeming awards.
- Miles awarded are based on the actual distance between origin and destination (TPM) published by IATA and the ticket fare purchased. Mileage will be credited to your account within 2 weeks after the flight is completed.
- Register your Infinity MileageLands membership number at the time of reservation or upon check-in.
- Miles can only be credited after the flight is completed. The award, charter and special offer tickets etc. are not applicable for mileage accrual.
- For mileage accrual on a code-share flight:
- Infinity MileageLands miles credited on a code-share flight marketed and operated by Star Alliance carriers are based upon the operating airline and their equivalent fare class, which may be different from the class shown on your ticket or the miles you earn on flights operated by EVA Air. Some tickets may not be eligible for mileage credit or the amount of credited miles may be fewer than shown.
- Infinity MileageLands miles are not credited on code-share flights operated by non-Star Alliance airlines.
- Miles credited are determined according to the ticket fare purchased, not the actual class flown.
- Retro claim for Infinity MileageLands miles can be made by presenting or sending travel documentation, i.e. passenger ticket coupon and boarding pass, to the nearest Infinity MileageLands Service Center up to six (6) months after the flight is completed. Or you may visit EVA Air's website (www.evaair.com) by using "Claim Missing Miles" function. It may take 3-4 weeks for Infinity MileageLands miles to be credited to your account after the retro claim request is made.
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H&M Fall Lookbook 2012
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For its Fall '12 lineup, H&M marries the art of minimalism with high-impact detail. It's another covetable collection from the retailer, this time finishing streamlined silhouettes with bursts of color, statement print, and decadent accessories — and there's something for everyone in this batch of goodies. From the slickest kind of pencil skirt, finished with leather and adorned with peplum, to a perfect wooly cocoon coat, this crew of separates is as fit for the cool-girl as they are the sophisticate, with a palette of rich autumnal burgundy, gray, and flashes of metallics that speak decidedly to the season. As if the moody hues aren't enough, the cozy fabrications from mohair to tweed, bouclé, and jacquard will have you feeling Fall in no time flat. Click on for the complete lookbook.


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[Beneath The Radar]
The current situation in Iran is perfectly analogous to what's going on here in the United States.
The vast majority of the people want a common-sense approach to domestic and world politics, while the old guard, stuck in the blind animosities of the past, are determined to promote and exploit those animosities for their own end, and at any cost - including the misery and death of their own people.
In Iran the old guard is represented by Mahmoud Ahmadinejad; in the U.S., Dick Cheney and Rush Limbaugh. In Iran they are called jihadist, while in the U.S. we refer to them as "conservative" members the Republican Party.
Like the jihadist in the Middle East, Republican wing-nuts claim to be acting on a mission from God.
Also like their counterparts in the Middle East, these GOP leaders believe that the end justifies the means, which leaves them free to lie, cheat, steal, torture, and kill innocent people.
Their primary method of operation is to take a germ of truth, then infuse it with false conclusions and lies to poison and inflame the minds of the people to act against their own interest. Just like the jihadist, they specialize in using the people's own ignorance against them in order to divide and conquer.
It seems that the people of both cultures have said enough is enough.
Due to unprecedented corruption during the Republican Administration, and the belief by many Americans that they'd been robbed of both the 2000 and 2004 elections, in the 2006 election the people voted Republicans out of office by the largest numbers in a generation.
Then in a more graphic break with the past, in 2008 Barack Obama was voted into office as the first African American president of the United States. The people of Iran are currently in a struggle with their old guard as well. They too believe that a desperate and corrupt old guard has attempted to steal their vote.
It's still too early to determine the outcome of the struggle between the will of the people and the jihadists in Iran, since as we speak, there's rioting in the street, and Iran's Guardian Council --the old guard-- has agreed to examine possible election irregularities.
Here in the United States, the Republican Party has embarked upon a scorched Earth policy, and a strategy of divide and conquer. Their primary goal seems to be to sabotage the nation's recovery by keeping the people divided. Thereafter, if they're successful, they intend to regain power by simply saying, "we told you so."
Thus, they've dedicated their existence to making Americans suffer for the next four years.
A Clear example of the Republican Party's method of operation can be seen in the activities of Rabbi Nachum Shifren. Rabbi Shifren has become a perennial Republican candidate for the 26th District of the California State Senate. I first came into contact with him when he began to contact many of us in the Black press with a message of working to improve the Los Angeles Unified School District.
Republicans always build their lies on a germ of truth - after all, who could possibly disagree that we have a dysfunctional educational system.
But like many Republican wing-nuts, the hubris of his racist mindset has caused him to underestimate the intelligence of the Black community. He actually thought he could ingratiate himself with Black writers through flattery. He would never try such a ploy with a White journalist.
Essentially, he came to me and said, he felt the need to approach because of my "exceptional" insight. He was sure that with my "keen intelligence" I would be able to relay his message to those in the community who weren't bright enough to see the big picture.
In other words, I'm a credit to my race.
I had long since researched the Rabbi, so I was fully aware that he was a rabid ultra-conservative who had been a strong supporter of Pat Buchanan, and had been all but banished from the Jewish community. But one should never try to out scream a fool. You listen to them carefully - very carefully.
And this is what I heard:
He said, "There is nothing more corrosive to the fabric of our city than hatred based on race. But let's get real. We don't then overcompensate by hiring LAPD officers that are 4 feet, 10 inches tall! We don't go and hire officers that have rap sheets, or are otherwise unqualified. The racism here is absolutely overt! The thinking goes like this: let's just get anybody in there, as long as they're a certain skin color..."
He added: "Eric, I reached the boiling point when I was stopped by a woman officer that was shorter than her 9mm. I attended a Neighborhood Council meeting in West LA in which the 'captain,' a female officer, addressed the group. I looked at another officer present and remarked how this 5'6'', 150 lb woman could be the captain. He told me that many male candidates had been passed over for the position."
When I asked him to substantiate his claims he responded with opinions and anecdotes. I pointed to him that while diminutive female officers are not what those of our generation have come to expect, I can think of very few instances where these young women have been overpowered by thugs.
On the other hand, I can think of a number of instances where physically oversized, but intellectually diminutive, thug police officers have assaulted and in some cases killed innocent citizens. So I'd rather see brains over brawn any day.
Regarding the question he had posed related to the 5'6" 150lb female officer, I pointed out to him that his question alone betrayed a mindset that I found quite troubling.
I asked how he knew whether the female captain wasn't actually twice as qualified as all of the male candidates that she'd competed against, to which, I never got a response.
I pointed out that he had based his assessment of the captain on purely his own opinion of what should and should not be. Thus, he'd betrayed a tendency to base his conclusions on less than informed and highly subjective opinions - the very same kind of opinions that caused many to conclude that Blacks should never be placed in positions of responsibility, or that Jews should never be trusted.
But here's where I lost patience with him. He said the following:
"But who in the corrupted Black leadership will call for a moment of silence for those African Americans murdered in racially charged ethnic cleansing by radical Hispanic gangs? Now that we need to discuss 'racism' in America by those that want to marginalize African American citizens, where is Attorney General Eric Holder? Will he step up and do his job? Or is he also in bed with the Reconquista crowd, paralyzed by political correctness."
The above statement pointed out his true colors.
It was a thinly veiled use of the murder of Stephen Tyrone Johns at the Holocaust Museum to promote the Rabbi's political agenda. Black people are also being killed by Black gangs, but he wasn't concerned about that. His only intent was to slander the Obama Administration, and cause a division within the Black and Hispanic coalition that's making it impossible for Republicans to be elected.
How much does Shifren really care about Black people?
Listen to the poison that he's feeding the young people in a speech before the Silicon Valley Young Republican Federation: "Multi-culturalism will be the nail in the coffin for our country . . .. There are a substantial number of Black and Latino educators and Administrators who will stop at nothing until they have seen 'the last gasp of White America.'"
Spoken like a true Jihadist.
To read more commentary by Black Star News columnist Eric Wattree please visit
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The Field Investigator (FI) directly supports national security and suitability investigations, focusing on performing background investigations on behalf of government clients. Investigators will conduct interviews, retrieve records, conduct research and prepare reports of investigations in compliance with federal standards, all laws, and other required federal agency regulations. Investigators type comprehensive reports summarizing facts obtained from these field source interviews and record information and submit for quality review and completeness. The work location will normally be in the field conducting investigations but may, at times, require reporting to a field office for meetings or training. Field Investigators engage in dialogue on a regular basis with managers and representatives at contractor facilities, various U.S. Government organizations, and law enforcement agencies to develop and maintain effective and cooperative working relationships. Casework is performed throughout the geographic area of responsibility with travel to various places of employment, residence and educational institutions. Travel to other geographic locations (by car or plane) also may be required as needed.
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The Field Investigator will be responsible for scoping and briefing casework to determine areas of investigative coverage required in accordance with applicable directives and investigative standards and conduct record checks to meet investigative requirements and obtain factual information from a variety of personal and record sources to produce a report of investigation containing all pertinent facts of an individual's background and character, in accordance with government guidelines and instructions. Characteristics of the position include managing the batching and bundling of leads and general assignments to promote efficiencies and control costs to SCIS. Self-discipline, organizational skills, and writing ability within a metrics-driven environment are critical distinguishing elements of the position.
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Three years ago, an editor at NBC's web site approached me with an idea for a blog on California's governance crisis. He thought there was room for a site that took the state's problems seriously -- but that went beyond the usual woe-is-me stories and offered solutions for California's budget, political and school systems.
In the early spring of 2010, those discussions prompted NBC to establish Prop Zero (an earlier name that involved an earthquake metaphor was jettisoned). It was an experiment. I agreed to be lead blogger, with the goal of expanding on themes of my about-to-be published book, California Crackup. I did not have high expectations -- I thought we'd be lucky if Prop Zero made it through the primary elections in June 2010.
To my surprise, Prop Zero survived through that election -- and through the election of Jerry Brown as governor, through 2011, and through two more elections this year. Over the past three years, we've offered thousands of posts from leading authorities on California within the NBC universe (your lead blogger has contributed 1,512 posts, the NBC computers tell me). Terrific editors at NBC stations in LA, San Diego and the Bay Area shaped the site and in many cases saved your lead blogger from himself.
U.S. & World
News from around the country and around the globe
It has been a wonderful run. But after this election, I was exhausted, and had come to feel like the blog had run its course. NBC, which had supported Prop Zero strongly despite its relatively small audience, saw things the same way.
The state is in a different place than it was three years ago -- still facing profound challenges and governance problems, but with different leaders, a different political context, and different burning issues. After a rash of ballot measures and reform efforts, we may be entering a lull in efforts to fix California -- and those efforts were a focus of this blog. And on a personal level, I'm eager to focus more time and energy on my rapidly expanding duties at Zócalo Public Square.
So with this post, Prop Zero says goodbye. And thank you. And in so doing, we offer, from three years of daily published work here, five tips for the road that Californians must walk.
5. California governance is way too complicated. Some things, like the budget deficit, seem to have improved in California. But the system is too complicated for even well-informed Californians to undertand. Prop Zero did its best to try to explain that complexity, and sometimes we succeeded. But Californians are a busy bunch, and they can't self-govern unless the state gets a system that follows common sense principles.
4. Avoid scapegoating. Prop Zero took all sorts of people to task here -- governors, state lawmakers, unions, corporations, local governments, the media -- but no one person or group is responsible for what's gone on in California. Again and again, we've seen that citizens themselves, often through their votes for ballot measures, have created many of the hardest-to-solve problems in California governance. Understanding this state's dysfunction starts with looking in the mirror.
3. Think big. Most proposed solutions for California reforms are narrow and small -- the top two primary, redistricting reform, temporary tax increases, pensions. But as we've shown here, none of these small changes add up to the very much. The state needs bigger, bolder fixes -- in part because the state has never properly designed a system of government. California government is a product of patches and fixes and little manuevers. It doesn't really hang together. What's required is a moment of design -- through a constitutional convention or some similar process.
2. California, for all its problems, still defines the future. The state government may be a mess, but the state is an amazing place of greath strengths. Half of all venture capital in the country is invested here. We're globally oriented, and doing well compared to other states in areas such as tourism and trade. Our politics, for all their problems, are among the most open in the country, and we have an increasingly diverse electorate that embraces an inclusive brand of discourse and politics.
1. We can fix this. Californians are fully capable of giving themselves a better governing system. The state never had Founding Fathers who designed a proper constitution. Indeed, our 19th century constitutional conventions were civic disasters -- disasters run entirely by men. Today's diverse population can put the state on a sounder footing -- if we understand what the problems are, and can design fixes that are big enough to meet our challenges.
That's it. Thank you again. And see you down the road.
Lead Prop Zero blogger Joe Mathews is California editor at Zocalo Public Square, a fellow at Arizona State University's Center for Social Cohesion, and co-author of California Crackup: How Reform Broke the Golden State and How We Can Fix It (University of California, 2010).
Send us your thoughts via Twitter @PropZero or add your comment to our Facebook page.


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This is not an offer for credit and should be used for estimation purposes only based on the information you provided. You should not base your decision on this estimate alone. Title, registration, tax and other fees, and personal circumstances such as employment status and personal credit history, were not considered in the calculations.
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TESCO keep surprising, with yet more Scottish ales surfacing. And, best of all. One of them is a Broughton. If you haven't read them already, then make your way over to my reviews of three other Broughton, and you'll see why I'm so excited. Old Jock Ale, Black Douglas and Champion Double Ale are some of the most consistently outstanding that I've reviewed. Each one scoring in the 4-4.5 range. And all from the Scottish Borders Broughton Ales. This one is called Border Gold and I can hardly wait to crack open the bottle and get to the fun part.
Much the same formula for the bottle and label has been stuck to here as with the three others, so I won't go into too much detail here. Especially as you really must read my reviews of the other Broughton bottles. The same style of front label features a roundel, sided by illustrations of hops and the Scottish Saltaire. Inside the roundel appears to be a portrait of a female monarch. Mary Queen of Scots perhaps? As usual, it will probably be explained on the story on the other side of the bottle.
Also on the front is something that should catch your eye. An A.B.V of 6.0%. That should make that that this drink is at least strong enough. And it's something I like about Scottish beers and ales. No compromise on the alcohol front.
Turning the bottle around and the story is where you'd expect it to be.
The story behind the front illustration is as tenuous as it was for their other bottles. This one revolves around legend that gold from the streams of the Yarrow Valley, somewhere near the Broughton brewery, was used to make a wedding ring. And that that wedding ring was for Mary Stuart, the Queen of Scots. A ha! My historical hunch was right. It is still an undeniably round-about way of printing her portrait on the label of a gold ale.
The second paragraph goes into some detail about the drink itself. According to the label, we can expect a golden colour. A clean and full malt flavour. And a crisp, hop after taste. As usual, it'll be interesting to see how close that gets to reality.
Over on the other side are the small-print details and barcode. Sadly, it confirms that we're back to a 500 millilitre bottle. No full pint of drink here unlike some beers. In a small box on this side, it also describes itself as "Organic Ale". That's something I'm starting to see on an increasing number of bottles from small breweries. Is that actually appealing to anyone out there?
The 6.0% volume gives this bottle 3 of your UK alcohol units. And it contains water, malted barley, hops and yeast. That's it from the outside. Finally, time to try Border Gold.
As you can see, I head a little trouble with the head. Maybe I poured it too quickly. Or the bottle had been shaken. Or it was intended to froth up like that. But a few short minutes after this photo was taken it died down, so it wasn't a problem.
The colour is dark gold. Roughly what was promised. The smell is as complex as I had hoped for. In there are hints of the malt, the barley and the hops. It's a good mix. And not too overpowering either.
The taste is sharper than I was hoping for. Much more bitter than I was expecting. And it's not as malty as promised on the label. What does appear as advertised is the 'hop flower' aftertaste. Which I found to be rather too sour for my taste.
I'm not sure what to make of Border Gold. I don't much care for the taste. But those who like bitter probably would do. The quality is again in evidence. Even though I don't much like the taste, it still manages to be very drinkable. This poses a challenge for the rating.
I'm going to rate this lower than any other Broughton because I couldn't get over the taste. But it's still a high-quality, easy to drink ale. This is one for fans of bitter flavours, I think.
Rating: 3.7
Have you tried Border Gold? What did you think?
Comments, ideas, suggestions and insults below please.


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Today Intel put out a strong Q3 earnings report on the back of record processor, chipset, and flash shipments. Revenues in the third quarter weighed in at $10.1 billion—up 15 percent year-over-year, and up 16 percent versus the second quarter of this year. Wall Street responded positively to the news, with INTC up 5 percent in after-hours trading.
Part of the uptick in the stock was no doubt due to Intel's gross margins of 52.4 percent, up from 46.9 percent in Q2. These aren't the highest gross margins that Intel has seen (margins have gone north of 60 percent in the past), but anything over 45 percent is good. Intel attributes the increase in margins to a combination of record-setting microprocessor unit shipments, low microprocessor unit costs, lower 45nm production start-up costs, and write-offs for manufacturing costs. In a conference call after the earnings were announced, Intel suggested that margins next quarter may improve by up to five points, taking them up to 57 percent.
Intel CEO Paul Otellini also told analysts that the Asia-Pacific region set volume records, with the USA and Europe also showing strong demand.
Intel mainly has its Mobility and Digital Enterprise groups to thank for the revenue increase, with revenues from the mobile segment up 20 percent and revenues from the Digital Enterprise group up 12 percent. Mobile is especially hot, and Intel expects to see 30 percent year-over-year revenue growth from this segment as the company ramps up 45nm production and moves silicon into more and more mobile devices.
Within the Digital Enterprise and Mobile groups, microprocessors set volume records this quarter. The quad-core ramp-up was especially strong, as was the uptake of the most recently launched vPro products. Intel also reaffirmed in the call that its 45nm "Penryn" products are still on track for a November 12 launch.
Microprocessors weren't the only product that set volume records. Chipsets set records as well, with the Santa Rosa mobile platform being particularly successful. Intel sees the chipset volumes as an indicator of further microprocessor volume growth, since chipsets go onto the motherboard before microprocessors do.
Intel's once-troubled flash unit has also turned around, setting volume records of its own.
Part of Intel's profit picture is in reduced operating costs, some of which are due to layoffs. Intel has 12 percent fewer employees than it did this time a year ago, and 2 percent fewer than the second quarter of this year. The company plans to continue the layoffs by cutting 2,000 more employees.


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Former President Bill Clinton, who successfully outmaneuvered Republicans over a government shutdown in the 1990s, said Sunday that President Barack Obama is right not to give ground to the GOP this time around.
Clinton, knocking Republicans for using the threat of a shutting down the government or not increasing the debt limit to delay Obama's health care reform law, said on ABC's This Week that "the current price of stopping [a shutdown] is higher than the price of letting the Republicans do it and taking their medicine."
The House passed a bill Saturday night that would continue to fund the government, while also delaying implementation of the health law for a year. The measure is dead on arrival in the Senate, and Obama has promised to veto it if passed anyway.
"You can't negotiate over that," Clinton said. "And I think he's right not to."
Barring a last-minute deal, funding for most government operations expires at midnight on Tuesday. The nation is scheduled to reach its borrowing limit next month.


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Poundland is being accused of sexism after 'booby' and 'booty' shaped sweets were spotted in its stores.
The marshmallows cost 50p, and encourage buyers to "be gentle" and "squidge" their "cheeks".
The packaging features the image of a woman clad in a revealing bikini, and describes the breast-shaped chews as "a cracking pair".
The i newsletter cut through the noise
'Corporations create and profit from sexual objectification'
The products gained criticism online after they were spotted by Gemma Aitchison in Bolton, who posted a series of photos to Twitter and expressed her dismay at the find, wondering why there was "no sign of any male things to sexually assault."
"Why do we have candy like this, usually made for children?" she wrote.
"What exactly are you trying to say with these products, Poundland, to the families who come in store?"
"I know they are marshmallows and I understand that marshmallows aren't the end of the world," Aitchison continued, "but I also know that sexual objectification is linked to violence and, for companies, profit."
"Corporations create and profit from sexual objectification but don't want any responsibility for it. We need to call them out on this."
Anger online
Fellow social media users chimed in with their disgust.
One tweeted, "Seriously? Who signed off on this new product launch and have they been sent their P45 this week?"
"I'm absolutely flabbergasted that anyone though these names and illustrations were in any way acceptable. Like something out of an Ann Summers catalogue," wrote another.
"So damaging to normalise such appalling sexism and objectification. Dear lord Poundland, it's still 1972 in your stores."
'We won't force you to buy it'
Poundland have responded by saying they're not forcing customers to purchase the offending confectionery, adding, "We think it's OK that sometimes we don't always get it right for everyone."
"Frankly it's impossible to do that," a spokesperson from the company told the Mirror Online.
"Just because someone doesn't like something we do, we believe that doesn't give them the automatic right to stop us doing it," they said, claiming that there may be "thousands of other people who like it.
"It's fine for you to look the other way and ignore it. If something's offended you, we won't force you to buy it."


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Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Unsteady footing
Today, after a month of deliberation, I withdrew from my graduate program. I can explain my reasoning. But I need some time first.
In other news, why is it almost Labor Day? I feel like this summer went by so incredibly fast. I have not made it to the pool once this summer. And my yard. Oh, my yard! There were so many big ideas for this summer. A fire pit. A garden. A Japanese maple. Planting grass in the giant hole, where there once stood a gigantic ugly tree stump. Pressure washing the stone facade. Installing house numbers. None of these things happened. I am waist-high in weeds--trying to let go of my inner perfectionist as I learn to be content with the chaos that surrounds me. Wish me luck.
7 comments:
- Kyla Roma said...
Oh sweetie! I hope that you're doing alright. Enjoy the chaos and try to ride it out- I'm excited to hear where you're laying the groundwork for a new path for yourself.
ps - school is so exhausting, I'm sure whatever you're working on will be a lot more fun :)
- August 17, 2010 at 3:48 PM
- alyssa said...
I feel you on the WEEDS! My backyard is full of them too. Ugh, so much work! Totally feel your pain, house stuff takes way longer than you expect!
- August 17, 2010 at 10:39 PM
- Sarah said...
Hope you are doin ok. i know you had your reasons, sometimes life takes interesting turns
- August 17, 2010 at 11:55 PM
- Melissa Maris said...
I can't believe summer is almost gone, either!
Whatever your reasoning for dropping out of school, I'm sure it was the right thing to do. You have to trust your instincts on this kind of stuff!
- August 18, 2010 at 4:23 PM
Dropping out of grad school is probably a good decision. Most programs are really a waste of time unless you were really taking a specific training. Comes a time to live you life and enjoy on your own terms.
- August 19, 2010 at 11:41 AM
I had SO MANY plans for my back yard. But now it's to that point in the summer where I just don't care anymore. And the weeds - I'll try again next year. They can have this year.
- August 19, 2010 at 4:31 PM
- Erin said...
Good luck darlin. I am sure everything will work out for you, and everything does happen for a reason. If you spent a month thinking about it, then it was the right choice. As for summer projects, I got to none of mine either. Boo.
- August 20, 2010 at 10:32 AM


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Send notes to the Connection at firstname.lastname@example.com or call 703-778-9416. Deadline is Friday. Dated announcements should be submitted at least two weeks prior to the event.
Franconia United Methodist Church, 6037 Franconia Road, Alexandria, will have a sermon series through Feb. 21 at the 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. services, based on Bishop Robert Schnase's book "The Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations." Each of the five practices has a biblical underpinning and is structured to provide practical ideas. The church is also having a free Pancake Dinner at 6 p.m. on Feb 16, and an Ash Wednesday Service at 7 p.m. on Feb 17. 703 971-5151 or email@example.com.
Sydenstricker United Methodist Church, 8508 Hooes Road Springfield, has scheduled several community events for February. Contact www.sumcdisciples.org or 703-451-8223.
* Haitian Relief Sock Hop. on Saturday. Feb. 13, 6:30 p.m., with games, snacks and more, sponsored by the Family and Children's Committee at the church. Donations accepted to support Haitian Relief.
* Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper. on Tuesday, Feb. 16, 5:30 p.m., served by the church youth to mark the beginning of Lent.
* Sweetheart Dinner. Saturday, Feb. 20, 6 p.m., including dinner and entertainment. Reservations requested.
* Blood Drive. on Sunday, Feb. 28, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., will be in the church's Hottle Hall. Call to reserve, walk-ins also welcome.
Burke Presbyterian Church is participating in the Church World Service (CWS) humanitarian relief efforts to help the victims of the earthquake in Haiti. The public can help CWS in its urgent disaster response by assembling and donating a hygiene kit or a baby kit. BPC is a collection point for the kits. To create a kit, visit either www.BurkePresChurch.org and click on "Haiti Relief" or visit www.ChurchWorldService.org and click on "Hygiene Kit" or "Baby Kit." Both of these sites provide specific instructions on how to assemble a kit. Drop off kits at Burke Presbyterian Church, located at 5690 Oak Leather Drive, Burke. Phone the church office with any questions at 703-764-0456.
Renew Your Wedding Vows on Valentines Day on Sunday, Feb. 14, 11 a.m., at Messiah United Methodist Church, 6215 Rolling Road, Springfield. The sanctuary will be decorated for a wedding and this opportunity to reconnect with God and your spouse in a meaningful way. The church will sell flowers for "brides" to carry in the service. A nursery is available for age 2 and under, and Sunday School classes for age 3 through sixth grade. Immediately following the service, couples are invited to a wedding style reception in the Fellowship Hall. Bring wedding albums to share with others, enjoy a light snack and wedding cake.
Messiah's Marriage Matters Ministry will also offer the six-week class "Dream Team: Building Unity in Marriage," on Sundays, Feb. 21-March 28, 9:30 a.m., and on Wednesdays Feb. 24-March 31, 7:15 p.m. Free child care will be available. Register at 703-569-9862.
Praise Service at Springfield United Methodist Church, 7047 Old Keene Mill Road, Springfield, on Sunday, Feb. 14, at 9:15 a.m. All are welcome. Come sing, enjoy coffee and donuts and praise God. 703-451-2375 or www.springfieldvaumc.org.
Congregation Adat Reyim Shabbat and Prayer Service for Haiti. 8 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 19 at Adat Reyim, 6500 Westbury Oaks Court, Springfield. Join a special Shabbat service offering prayers and support for Haiti. Mrs. Mompoint of the World Ebony Network, a Haitian native and founder of Faibien Corporation, will speak about the recent tragedy and hopes for the future. adatreyim.org or 703/569-7577.
Accotink Unitarian Universalist Church, 10215 Lakehaven Court Burke, will show "The Gay Marriage Thing" on Friday, Feb. 19, at 7:30 p.m., with a discussion to follow. The film strives to show a different side of the issue than documentaries or newscasts have. With an array of opinions from church, state and everyone in between, this is a film that family members can watch together. This is a free non-religious service open to the public. 703-503-4579 or www.accotinkuuc.org.
Congregation Adat Reyim Purim Carnival. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 21 at Adat Reyim, 6500 Westbury Oaks Court, Springfield. Join Adat Reyim for games and prizes, arts and crafts, traditional Purim hamentashen treats, moon bounces and more. Lunch will be available and Purim costumes are welcome. Buy tickets early for $15 for 31 tickets or $30 for 64 tickets. Tickets purchased at the event will be .50 each. Sponsored by the Congregation Adat Reyim Preschool. adatreyim.org or 703/569-7577.
Burke Presbyterian Church, 5690 Oak Leather Drive in Burke, will host a Lenten Quiet Day 8 a.m.-8 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 23. The day's offerings include a Morning Retreat at 9:30 a.m. with Ann Kulp, Spiritual Director from Shalem Institute, as well as guided devotions in the Meditation Room at 9:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m, and 7:30 p.m. including communion. The labyrinth will be available all day for self-guided prayer walks. Breakfast breads, soup, cheese, crackers, fruit, coffee and tea available throughout the day in the Inner Narthex. www.BurkePresChurch.org or 703-764-0456.
Franconia United Methodist Church, 6037 Franconia Road, Alexandria, needs volunteers for Phoenix Rising to help prepare and deliver meals for the homeless along the Route 1 corridor. Meals will be prepared on Feb. 25 at 6:30 p.m. and delivered on Feb. 26 at 5:30 p.m. Contact 703 971-5151 or email@example.com.
Series for Returning Catholics is offered by St. Mary of Sorrows Catholic Church for eight Tuesdays beginning March 2 at 7:30 p.m. at 5222 Sideburn Road, Fairfax. This program, called Landings, offers a supportive environment for sharing and discussing one's faith and future in the Church. 703-830-4708 or email@example.com to register.
Senior and junior high school youth from Burke Presbyterian Church will present the musical Hula Hoops & Halos on March 4-7 at Burke Presbyterian Church, 5960 Oak Leather Drive in Burke. Admission is free. Donations accepted. A complete meat loaf dinner will be served 6:15 -7:15 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Dinner is $12 adults, $6 ages 2-12 and under 2 free. E-mail email@example.com. for show times and seat reservations. www.burkepreschurch.org/musical.
The Cranford United Methodist Women's 110th Year Annual Ham & Oyster Dinner will be 4-7 p.m. on Saturday, March 20, at Cranford United Methodist Church, 9912 Old Colchester Road in Lorton. The menu includes fried oysters, baked ham, potato salad, cole slaw, deviled eggs, green beans, applesauce, rolls, beverages and desserts. All proceeds from this dinner go to mission work with women, children, and youth. Contact 703-339- 5382.
Messiah United Methodist Church is located at 6215 Rolling Road, Springfield. For more information, call 703-569-9862 or visit www.messiahumc.org. Sunday Worship is at 8:15 a.m., with Holy Communion every Sunday; and 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m., Holy Communion on the first Sunday of the month.
One God Ministry Church, 4280/4282 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax, has launched a new Web site with news, events, training, conferences, fellowship programs and more. Sunday School is at 10 a.m., Sunday Worship Service at 11 a.m., and Wednesday Prayer Service at 7 p.m. Women's, Men's, and Youth Bible Studies are on the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. A Spiritual Gifts Service is the first Friday of every month at 7 p.m. One God Ministry has ministries for youth, men, women, couples, music and singles. 703-591-6161 or www.onegodministry.org.
Lord of Life Lutheran Church presents Financial Peace University, a video-based small group study that teaches families how to beat debt, build wealth and better manage their finances. Contact Arlene K. Darke at Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 5114 Twinbrook Road, Fairfax. 703-323-9500 or email@example.com.
New Women's Bible Study meets at Jubilee Christian Center on Tuesdays, 9:45 a.m.-12 p.m. The study will focus on "Spirit, Soul, and Body" by Andrew Wommack. $10 per person. Nursery provided for registered children. 703-383-1170 or www.jccag.org.
The Fresh Fire congregation meets every Sunday for a service at 10:30 a.m. Pastor Sackey and his congregation invite all to participate in preaching and teaching, praise and worship, in a Christ-centered ministry. Fresh Fire International Center meets at the Chinese Martial Arts Building, 8426-B Lee Highway, Fairfax, opposite the BMW Fairfax; entrance is in the back. 703-815-8950.
Faith Communities in Action meets the first Wednesday of every other month from 2-4 p.m. at the Fairfax County Government Center, Conference Rooms 2 and 3, 12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax.
The Baha'i of Fairfax County Southwest offers "Interfaith Devotions: World Peace and Unity" for the general public on Saturdays. These free devotional gatherings meet at the Pohick Regional Library, Room #1, located at 6450 Sydenstricker Road, Burke, 22015.
International Calvary Church Sunday services in English are at 9:45 a.m., Korean services at 11:30 a.m. and youth services at 11:30 a.m. Sunday School classes in English are at 11:30 a.m. and children's classes at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday Bible study and Youth Meeting are at 8 p.m. and Friday Prayer and Youth Meeting at 8:30 p.m. 5700 Hanover Ave., Springfield. 703-569-1918.
St. Leo the Great in Fairfax hosts "Night of Praise" the first Saturday of each month, featuring praise music and Eucharist adoration at 7 p.m. Located at 3704 Old Lee Highway in Fairfax.
The Immanuel Bible Church MOPS group meets every Monday 7-9 p.m., at Immanuel Bible Church, 6911 Braddock Road, Springfield. MOPS is a group for pregnant or parenting mothers of children from infancy to kindergarten. 703-922-4295 or www.MOPS.org.
The Shalem Institute free monthly prayer opportunities. Time together, devoted to relaxation, the presentation of different prayer practices, silence, journal keeping and small group sharing. No experience is required and participants may attend regularly or drop in. Donations accepted. Meet on the third Monday of the month from 7:30 p.m. at Providence Presbyterian Church, 9019 Little River Turnpike, Fairfax. www.shalem.org or 301-897-7334.
The following is a list of events at Mount Calvary Baptist Church, 4325 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax:
* Bible study and Prayer Service every Tuesday starting at 7 p.m.
* Sunday School at 9:30 a.m., except for the fourth Sunday of the month, when Sunday School is at 9 a.m.
* Sunday morning service at 11 a.m.
* Commonwealth Care Center ministry every first and third Thursday night. Call 703-273-1455.
Congregation Adat Reyim offers services Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 9:30 a.m. and Wednesday at 7:40 p.m. Hebrew school is available on Sunday at 9 a.m. and Sunday and Mondays at 5:30 p.m. Preschool is Monday-Friday at 9:30 a.m. Located at 6500 Westerbury Oaks Court in Springfield. 703-569-7577 or www.adatreyim.org.
Beth El Hebrew Congregation has services on Fridays, 8:15 p.m. and on Saturdays, 10:30 a.m. The temple is located at 3830 Seminary Road, Alexandria. Religious school is on Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings. Adult learning opportunities take place throughout the year. Tot Shabbat is on the first and third Saturdays. Kolot Shabbat, a musical service, is the first Friday of every month at 7:30 p.m. 703-370-9400 or www.bethelhebrew.org.
First Baptist Church of Springfield has Sunday services at 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m., Sunday school at 9:15 a.m., Hispanic worship service at 9 a.m., Korean worship service at 2 p.m., and an Ethiopian service at 12:15 p.m. The pastor is Jim Weaver. Church is located at 7300 Gary St., Springfield. 703-451-1500 or www.fbcspringfield.org.
Clifton Presbyterian Church, located at 12748 Richards Lane, Clifton, offers Sunday worship services at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. 703-830-3175.
St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church, located at 6720 Union Mill Road, Clifton, conducts Sunday masses at 7:30 a.m., 8:45 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. It also offers a Saturday vigil at 5:30 p.m. and a Wednesday Latin mass at 7 p.m. 703-817-1770 or www.st-andrew.org.
Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 8304 Old Keene Mill Road, Springfield, offers casual worship services on Saturday evenings at 5:30 p.m. featuring contemporary music. More traditional services take place on Sunday mornings at 8:15 and 11 a.m. Sunday School is at 9:45-10:45 a.m. for children. The church also offers discussion groups for adults. 703-451-5855.
Kirkwood Presbyterian Church, located at 8336 Carrleigh Parkway in Springfield, supports a Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) program on the first Wednesday of each month. Meetings are 9:30-11 a.m. at the church. All mothers and children are welcome. The program provides mothers an opportunity to get to know other mothers through discussions and craft activities. Adults in the MOPPET program will care for the children. Cost is $3 per session. Register at the church or call 703-451-5320.
JCCNV Mother's Circle program, for women who are not Jewish but are raising Jewish children. Free education in Jewish rituals, practices and values, while respecting the participant's choice to retain her own religious identity. Jewish Community Center of Northern Virginia, 8900 Little River Turnpike in Fairfax. Contact Laurie Albert, 703-537-3064 or firstname.lastname@example.com.
RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) is for people interested in becoming Catholic or learning about the Catholic Church. A group meets Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, 3704 Old Lee Highway, Fairfax. Sessions are in the Old Parish Hall. All are welcome. Call Martha Malloy at 703-273-5369.
The Jewish Social Services Agency, 3018 Javier Road, Fairfax, offers a variety of family programs. Call 703-204-9100 for details or to register.
Metropolitan Community Church of Northern Virginia, located on 10383 Democracy Lane, Fairfax, presents worship services on Sundays at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. and choir practice (open to all) on Tuesdays at 7:15 p.m. www.mccnova.com or 703-691-0930.
Church of the Nativity offers a free general bereavement support group open to all adults on the first and third Thursday of each month 7:30-9 p.m. The church is located at 6400 Nativity Lane, Burke. Call 703-455-2400, ext. 17.
Arabic Bible Baptist Church is located at 5424 Ox Road in Fairfax Station. Pastor: Tony Ghareeb. Call 703-273-5599 or e-mail email@example.com.
The Fairfax Church of Christ sponsors a 16-week Divorce Recovery support group every Monday at 7 p.m. at the church. The Fairfax Church of Christ is located at 3901Rubgy Road, Fairfax. 703-631-2100 or www.fxcc.org.
A casual worship service with a praise band is at 9:45 a.m. at Sydenstricker United Methodist Church, 8508 Hooes Road in Springfield. www.sumcdisciples.org or 703-451-8223.
St. Matthew's United Methodist Church offers Crossroads, a new 'come as you are' worship service each Saturday evening at 5 p.m. at 8617 Little River Turnpike, Annandale. www.stmatthewsumc.org or 703-978-3500.
Truro Church MOPS would like to invite all mothers of preschool-aged children to join MOPS for relevant speakers, small group time with other moms and food. The group meets the second Thursday of every month, at Truro Church, located at 10520 Main St., Fairfax, in the church fellowship hall on the lower level. Call Amanda Qreitem at 703-222-2332 or e-mail firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Using credit cards may cause rise in gas station prices
Credit card fee on top of Wisconsin's gas tax blamed for price increase
While more Wisconsin motorists are using credit cards to pay for gas at the pump, using that card may actually be driving up the price of gas in the state.
Erin Foy pays for her gas using her credit card. "It is much more convenient," she said. "I hardy ever carry cash."
And when asked whether it cost her any more to use her card, Foy said: "Not that I know of. Not on my bank statement."
Not on her statement, but it is costing convenience store owners, among others.
Del Singh owns three Waukesha County gas stations. He said that he and other merchants pay credit card companies an interchange fee every time a card is swiped.
"If gas is $4 a gallon, we're paying 10 cents in credit card fees," he said.
Wisconsin's 32.9 cent per gallon gas tax is among the highest in the country. Because credit card companies impose their fee on the total sale, they could stand to earn up to $10 million off the fees attached to Wisconsin's gas tax alone.
The Petroleum Marketers Association has been fighting the credit card industry over the interchange fee for years. An MPA spokesperson said money made off the state tax should be returned to the Wisconsin Transportation Fund, similar to other gas tax fees.
Officials in the credit card industry argue that it is the price of convenience -- a negotiated fee that actually helps draw customers to merchants.
While the fee technically comes out of the merchant's pocket, in many instances it eventually gets passed on to the consumer through higher prices.
"That's money out of our pocket," Singh said. "We have to price our fuel to not only stay competitive but to make a profit as well, or at least try to make a profit."


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RENTON, WASH. - Seattle Sounders FC announced today that midfielder Mario Martinez has been called in by the Honduras National Team for a November 14 friendly against Peru at BBVA Compass Stadium in Houston, Texas.
Martinez, 23, has 21 caps for Honduras, including four recent World Cup Qualifiers, and he also participated in the 2012 London Olympics. He scored the winning goal in Seattle's Western Conference Semifinal Series against Real Salt Lake last week, sending Sounders FC to its first Conference Championship.
Martinez will return to Seattle on Thursday. FIFA regulations require that a club release a player for a 48 hour period for a friendly.
Sounders FC hosts the LA Galaxy on November 18 in the second leg of the Western Conference Championship. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. PT on the Xbox Pitch at CenturyLink Field.


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WASHINGTON — After games, when the Celtics board their charter plane for a late-night flight, most players and staff members nod off in the darkness.
But Brad Stevens rarely — if ever — sleeps. The rookie head coach instead flips open his laptop and starts watching game film, his face illuminated by the screen's electronic glow.
"He'll be watching film that whole plane ride," said his wife, Tracy. "I think he's slept on the plane maybe once all season. If they're flying, he's working."
He might sleep for a bit when they arrive at the team hotel, but often, one of the team's video coordinators will be at his door with new film early, perhaps by 7 the next morning.
And Stevens, whose Celtics play the Washington Wizards at the Verizon Center here Wednesday, then will brew a cup of black coffee and begin another session, reviewing a past game, studying an upcoming opponent, or both.
"You could probably call me at any point in the day, and I'll be watching film," Stevens said recently with a laugh.
It's the habit of a coach whose first job at Butler University involved spending hours upon hours with three VCR decks in the film room, where he edited tapes.
But for as much film as Stevens devours, he has been equally impressed with how much Rajon Rondo watches, too.
"He probably watches more film than most NBA players," Stevens said. "Almost like a football player, with how much film he watches."
And Stevens has come to enjoy breaking down film with his cerebral point guard.
"You sit in the film room, you're talking about something that is part of a system, but there are things that he sees within an action that may or may not have been a part of the original plan," Stevens said.
Rondo's film habits are extensive, involving both his iPhone and iPad.
"I have a guy that sends me film before every game of other teams on my phone," Rondo said. "He also sends me film of my minutes after the games."
Either that night or the next morning, Rondo said, he'll review the footage, which can take 5-10 minutes. What's he looking for? "Everything, everything," he said.
"The way I run, the way I go through a pick, if I hold my follow-through — just my entire game."
Kwame Graves, the Celtics' coaching associate and head video coordinator, also sends film to Rondo's iPad via Dropbox.
"At the end of the game, I'll look up his minutes, and then the way we split it up, we can use when he's in, when he's out, and then put it all in one movie and then put it in his Dropbox," he said.
Graves said he has been feeding Rondo film for about five seasons — and that Rondo requests as much as any Celtic, if not more. Rondo also requests more than just footage from a previous game.
"I remember him saying he wasn't finishing around the basket as well, so I took some stuff from last year and showed him all his makes around the basket last year," Graves said.
Rondo said his film habits began years ago at Eastern High School in Louisville, where he played for Doug Bibby.
"I have to give him credit for that," Rondo said. "I don't know if guys were doing this in high school, but in high school we watched a lot of film. Nowadays, kids might be doing it, but this is 12, 13 years ago, and we were always watching film."
Bibby said film is a huge part of his program for two reasons: so that his players could learn the game better and so that they didn't think he was wrong if he told them they had made a mistake.
Either way, Rondo, whom Bibby described as a visual learner, became hooked.
"He used to break down film with me," Bibby said. "Sometimes I would even come in the locker room and he was watching film before games." But why?
"I just always wanted to be ahead, and then obviously tendencies caught up as far as guys and what they like to do," Rondo said. "But I always wanted to know other teams' plays. I loved to steal the ball."
Along with his athleticism, big hands, and long wingspan, learning the opposition's plays helped Rondo be in prime position to pick off a pass. He called this tactic "jumping" an opponent's play.
"In high school, it's easy to jump a play because it's obviously not as fast, and in the pros, it's completely different," Rondo said.
But Bibby said "jumping" plays led Rondo to sometimes abandon whatever defensive scheme his team was running so that he could try for a steal.
"He would watch film and he would know every play the other team is running," Bibby said, "and I liked it because we would win, but I was like, 'Rajon, you're not going to be able to cheat every play. You've got to able to know how to play off the ball.' I used to always get on him about cheating the play. But he was that good about doing it. He really was."
When asked about jumping plays, Rondo laughed and said, "Yeah, I've gotten better about that."
Still, he ranks as one of the league's best thieves, leading the NBA in steals in 2009-10 (2.3 per game) while ranking in the top five in two other seasons.
Rondo now views all games — NBA, college, whatever — with an analytical eye.
"When I watch a game," he said, "I break it down and see what kind of passes guys should have made, when they should have shot the ball . . ."
Tubby Smith said Rondo carried that habit to the University of Kentucky, too.
"That's what you can appreciate and that's what you love about Rajon," said Smith, the former Kentucky head coach who is now coaching at Texas Tech. "He's putting in the time behind closed doors."
"He's always watching something," Stevens said. "He's always talking about it. He's always thinking about it. He's a student of the game."
Baxter Holmes can be reached at email@example.com.


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Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Little Brother (Young Cambodians share stories of their lives and show talent through film)
Eighteen young Cambodians recently shared personal stories about their lives and opinions in films that they directed and edited themselves. Their first-ever productions were made during a five day OneMinutesJr. workshop held in Peam Ro district, Prey Veng province over the Water Festival holiday and hosted by UNICEF and Save the Children in Cambodia.
Nine girls and nine boys aged between 12 and 17 took part in the event which is part of an international arts-based initiative called 'the OneMinutesJr.' started in 2002 by UNICEF, the One Minutes Foundation and The European Cultural Foundation to give young people, especially those who are underprivileged or marginalised, the opportunity to have their voices heard and to share their ideas and viewpoints on the world.
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So in a fun little twist of fate, I ended up winning a free Gold Pass to Affiliate Summit West from CopyBlogger. I will be in Vegas Monday and Tuesday and would love to meet up! Ping me via Twitter, LinkedIn, email (rickgalan at gmail dot com), or leave a comment and we'll set something up. Or if you can't make it, I would love a suggestion for who you know that will be there that I should meet. Should be a good time!
Incidentally, I have been on a roll lately with winning contests online. I won a sweet little Netbook from Andy Beal and Trackur, and now a ticket to Affiliate Summit. If you know of any other contest to enter, let me know. I'm a sure thing!
Hope to see you out at the Summit!


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This Blog focuses on Ancestor Stories, both the stories themselves about my family's ancestors and discussions of where they come from and how to prepare and share them. These stories may be non-fiction or fiction – we will always tell which is which, of course. Also see my KINNICK blog and The HOMEPLACE Series Blog, left sidebar, scroll down.
Friday, November 2, 2012
Follow Friday - Explore Stats, not my usual thing
Follow Friday - Explore Stats, not my usual thing
I don't normally spend much time on stats of my writings on the web. However, I've had an usual series of events recently, in my Squidoo.com writing platform, that has given me an opportunity to take a second look.
My lens (viewpoint webpage) "Explore Your Family History" was given the top honor of the Platform (founded by Marketing Guru Seth Godin) as "Lens of the Day" (LOTD) - running as number one on the site for 24 hours… on October 25; really neat. It got (and I'm using October 31 stats) 911 visits - with 298 Likes, to date.
Within the body of the lens, I included a Poll Question: "How far back in your family do you already know some family stories?"
Here are the results, to date:
4.2% - I really don't know any
4.2% - I've never really thought about it before
56.6% - Great-grandparents and before
27.7% - Grandparents
5.4% - Parents
1.8% - My own only
Total votes - 166
I personally answered each of the couple of hundred comments left on the lens. While some were from folks that have done family history extensively, on their own or with other family members, there were many, many with the comments like: I want to do this, but don't know how; Never seem to find the time; Wish I knew where to get started, etc.
For them, I created a follow-up lens: "7 Step Guide to Family History Study".
I request your comments on two areas: 1) Do you have thoughts on the stats? Do they seem normal and reasonable to you? Are there areas of concern, if this were your lens?
2) Your reaction to the two lenses, themselves.
P.S. These were created for a NON-family history and genealogy audience, generally, by the way. There are only a dozen or so in the audience who also write specifically on family history among their writing. So, in a way, I am 'reaching out' to new folks in the area - unlike my readers here on this blog.
Thanks for comments - here, on Facebook, Google+, or on your own blog.
Families are Forever! ;-)
Posted by Dr. Bill (William L.) Smith at 3:00 AM
2 comments:
Dr. Bill,ReplyDelete
Congratulations on the Lens of the day recognition. I didn't know about your Squidoo platform. It is really excellent.
Best wishes,
Biff Barnes
@Biff: Did I see you on Squidoo? It is a very interesting platform. I'm having a ball. Need to work on my novels, and Family History book, but I like variety! ;-) Thanks for the note!ReplyDelete
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Top Brockton Community Colleges
- For the 2020 school year, there is 1 top community college in Brockton, Massachusetts, serving 7,905 students.
- The average community college acceptance rate in Massachusetts is 73% (view national acceptance rates).
- Minority enrollment is 34% of the student body (majority Black), and the student:teacher ratio is 27:1.
Top Brockton, MA Community Colleges (2020)
- College Location Students
- One Massasoit Boulevard
Brockton,  MA 02302
7,905 students
Recent Articles
Thanks to modern technology, students can now attend class from the comfort of their homes. While online courses were once deemed inferior to lecture halls, the stigma has seemed to fade as technology advances and becomes a greater and greater part of a standard academic curriculum.The virtual classroom is here, but are online college courses right for you?
The role of community colleges in the world of higher education has expanded over the years and, as the country works to recover from the coronavirus pandemic, they may be more important now than ever. Read on to learn more about the changing role of community colleges.
Colleges across the country are struggling to recover from the massive upheaval to the 2019-20 semester wrought by COVID-19. Housing refunds and slashed budgets are bound to have long-term impacts for the institutions that survive. Some experts suggest community colleges may be the best equipped to ride out the storm and may have the greatest impact in helping America recover.