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Sunday, March 29, 2009
2009 TSX Wheelchair Curling Championship Wrap-up
Alberta, with Jack Smart at skip, Bruno Yizek at 3rd, Martin Purvis at 2nd and Bridget Wilson at lead, had beaten Manitoba in the morning semi-final 7-4 in a game that was not as close as the score suggests, Up 7-1 after 5 ends, they were happy to limit Manitoba to three points before running them out of rocks for the win. You can read our call of the game below.
If you were one of the many blog commenters who felt that BC, with their world championship skip, would have an easy path to the championship, you would have been wrong. Alberta began the final with a steal, with Jim Armstrong able only to limit the damage to 2 with his last rock. In the second, a lovely draw top 4 through a narrow port by Frank LaBounty for shot, was followed by an equally good Alberta tap of a front stone that limited BC to 1.
In the third, Jim Armstrong played awonderful angle raise to the button that stole a point and in the fourth, BC were first into the rings behind a rockpile out front. Alberta skip Jack Smart's attempt to retrieve the situation with a hit and stick for one, crashed allowing BC to steal 2 and go into the break up 4-2.
In the fifth, with Alberta sitting shot, BC tried a raise takeout that missed, but Alberta were unable to capitalise when their wide comearound for a second point was light. In the sixth Jack Smart tapped an Alberta stone into the four foot and it was BC's turn to be light on a draw, leaving the teams tied at 4.
Alberta succeeded in holding BC to one in the seventh and had hammer coming home. Jackie Roy draw to the button and Alberta's lead stone stopped top 4. Whitney Warren froze to shot stone and there was a succession of stones stopping short of the house. With skip stones to go, both teams used their time outs, BC throwing guards and Alberta trying to clear a way through to shot stone. Armstrong's final guard left Alberta with a yellow onto yellow onto blue onto shot stone yellow to sit two blue and win the game. He almost pulled it off, missing by no more than an inch.
Alberta coach Tony Zummack said afterward; "You play all week, through three playoff games, and it comes down to one shot and one inch." But he was proud of the way his team performed, and Martin Purvis, the alternate, who was thrown in at the last minute when Anne Hibberd was unable to travel, more than justified his selection.
For BC it was a nail-biting win but a deserved one. They had been played tough by Alberta, and were not always able to keep the front open as per game plan, but at the end of the final it was Alberta who was chasing. Coach Melissa Soligo said the last three rocks had been agonizing, but once again Team BC, this year chosen through a playdown rather than coach selected, proved they are still the team to beat.
At the evening banquet, Nova Scotia lead Nicole Durand, looking very glamorous in a red evening gown, was presented with the Sportsmanship Trophy, voted by all the curlers.
The All-Star team was kept secret from everyone until the banquet, with statistics from the final two draws withheld until the announcement. All positions were won by less than 2 percent. First up at lead was Bridget Wilson, followed by Martin Purvis at second and Bruno Yizek at third, all from Team Alberta. Manitoba's Chris Sobkowicz was the All-Star skip..
Though most people associate me with the blogging, it would not have been possible without my wife Cate's sterling work at the keyboard and her admonitions to stay focused and not be distracted by the constant stream of kibitzers passing by. Gord Stockdale, the head official was always in our corner, insisting that coaches and volunteers and even the local television cameraman not block our view of the action. And a special thanks must go to the coaches and players throughout the week who were always willing to share information and answer questions.
We couldn't have done this without everyone's cooperation in especially tight quarters, and we thank everyone who helped, from Stewart who went off to buy us 200 feet of much needed Ethernet cable, to organizing committee chair Trendal (Hubbly-Bubbly) Hubley-Bolivar who was a constant presence, and not forgetting Ian Readey for his fabulous photos.
Finally thanks to all our blog readers, especially those who took the time to express their appreciation for what we do. Wheelchaircurling.com and the blog are dedicated to making wheelchair curling the winter recreation of choice for wheelchair users, and your support makes the effort worthwhile.
126 comments:
Congratulations to Team BC....I find it odd that Alberta takes three all-star positions, and Manitoba the other, while BC outright wins the round robin, the Paige 1-2 game, and the final.....the last three games all against Alberta......Do ya think that Armatrong was looking at tougher shots, with a higher degree of difficulty (not accounted for in stats)?
I was always hearing about him having to continually bail out the situation he was left by, in particular his second and third.
NEVER have I seen an all-star team without two members of the winning team.....HOW DID THET WIN?????
I understand Jim had one bad game, where he didn't bail out his team, and that was their only loss in the week.
Congrats to Team BC and particularly Jim Armstrong
- March 29, 2009 at 4:21 PM
All-Star selection was done on the basis of round robin play only.
- March 29, 2009 at 4:35 PM
Same issue.....BC outright wins the round robin.......with no allstars
- March 29, 2009 at 6:23 PM
All star selection does not necessarily reflect the impact of players. That is why at the Brier, they now name an impact player....For instance, a lead of a team that is getting kicked time after time, will have to simply throw short rocks, and get a great percentage, while a team in a tight game will require a lead to throw tap-backs, come-arounds,etc. Simiarly, and I am sure in this instance, BC's second and third struggled, leaving skip with tough shots that are either made or missed, regardless of degree of difficulty.
- March 29, 2009 at 6:46 PM
So BC, Armstrong did what they had to do to win......congratulations, and to Jim, WHAT A SEASON!!!!!
- March 29, 2009 at 7:00 PM
I don't think we will ever see the accomplishments of Jim Armstrong in one season, ever again.....A world championsip and a Canadian championship, with different teams.
- March 30, 2009 at 10:59 AM
Once again, enjoy the media fall-out of Jim Armstrong.......without his presence, we would nave not had any media coverage. Luv him hate him (God kows why), he bring a promotional factor that cn not be close to evaluated.....He has always been the best ambassador that we could dream of.....what do you think. Eric, and for that matter, Collinda?
I understand that the Big Guy was once again, the Poster Boy of promotion.............
- March 30, 2009 at 2:57 PM
Surely every stakeholder (from sponsors to participants) understand what he does for the sport.......
Congratulations to Jim and his team, I just hope Whitney and Frank understand, that as multiple winners, they have had "extra help" with the professionalism of Jim Armstrong...and, no, you are not yet ready for Team Canada....thank the Big Guy for what he has done for you......
Enjoy it , but you should not be on Team Canada
- March 30, 2009 at 3:26 PM
Hey, Collinda....the last slam at Jim was from you before anyone was aware of his Back disability...what say you now????
- March 30, 2009 at 3:29 PM
One Second!!!!
Ever again, see what Jim has done. Chris Daw gained a National Championship and a Paralympic Gold in one season and no cried hurray for him.
Jim is the second guy to go down a trail that was all ready gone down. Let's not forget those who came before him and accomplished just as much, NO MORE then he has.
- March 30, 2009 at 4:35 PM
- Collinda Joseph said...
Hey Anonymous!
Chicken to put your name down?! Check your information. I was not the last one to write about the inclusion of Jim in wheelchair curling program. AND if you read what I wrote carefully - I said that there is no doubting Jim's ability to curl and to call the game. What I was critical of was the way that Jim got into the program. I also wonder if you paid attention to the scores of the national championships - Jim didn't curl 100% nor did anyone else. He played well, as did many other curlers. But he wasn't perfect. In fact, our team was the only team to beat him in round robin play.
And as another blogger stated, Chris Daw also won a national championship and a Paralympic championship in the same year. Let's put all this into perspective and not get so hung up on one individual doing so much for this sport. Many of us are being interviewed in newspapers, radio, television and working hard in our own provinces to advance the sport of wheelchair curling. Jim's not doing this all on his own and he would probably be the first to admit this. AND wheelchair curling was around before Jim Armstrong arrived - AND it will continue to grow once Jim Armstrong has left the sport!
- March 31, 2009 at 8:03 AM
william B...You may be TECHNICALLY correct, but with the level of play at that point, MOST National participating teams could have accomplished the same thing.
The specially unique part of Jim's accomplishment is that it wasdone with entirely different teams.
- March 31, 2009 at 8:29 AM
- . said...
I'm getting a little tired of the straw man argument that Jim Armstrong is resented, or that there's a refusal to acknowledge his contributions to wheelchair curling. Neither statement is true, so if that's all you have to say, you will have to find another forum.
- March 31, 2009 at 9:44 AM
Right on, Eric.....
Jim has no eligibility issues, and you cannot disallow him because of his expertise. Period.
- March 31, 2009 at 6:38 PM
You all can not remain blind sided by Jim. Yes; he has done alot but no more then the rest of the wheelchair curlers.
As for those who easily forget. Daw won 3 back to back championships, with 3 different teams 3 different coaches and won a silver and bronze at Worlds. No it may not a World championship but look at the in between. 3 World Cups, etc. etc. and not to forget the Paralympic title.
He laid the ground work for so many of the rest of you to follow including Jim. Fact is he was the one who helped Jim get started!!!!!
Yes, Jim is doing alot for the sport but come on, give some credit where credit is due.
I saw Daw last week play with a very weak and in expereiced team and he alone keep Newfoundland in all the games. The scores may not show it but they were way closer then they show or people expected.
Jim was never really challeged until the end game at which point BC almost screwed that up.
Look around people.....there is more then one great wheelchair curler out there.
And by the way, Chris Daw should be give a serious look at coming back to Team Canada....he has the experence, the ability and him added with Jim, Darryl and Ina would make for a Team I don't see being beating any time! EVER!
Let's look at what is right in front of us, but the right people togehter and forget the past, forget the present and look to the future and Own the pOdium in 2010
- April 1, 2009 at 5:21 AM
So why isn't Chris Daw still with Jim/Team Canada?Everyone knows it is not Chris's throwing ability...
- April 1, 2009 at 10:27 AM
Simply put, I believe it is the non-technical issues that have Chris on the sidelines. God knows, Team Canada could use one more thrower.
- April 1, 2009 at 12:24 PM
So, William B.,
Team Canada 2010 should be named shortly.....who should it be........
- April 1, 2009 at 2:04 PM
God knows team canada needs one more thrower?? did you look at the stats from the worlds.. Is team canada suppose to do better then being the world champions top 2second, second at lead etc... does anyone out there think the coaches picked the right team .... the sport is growing in leaps and bounds and everyone is getting a chance to play, we need to embrace it not turn it into minor hockey politics...........
- April 1, 2009 at 2:38 PM
Still need to choose a team o represent us.....
- April 1, 2009 at 4:36 PM
Chris S. could be at risk of being replaced, or will we go with two women on the startng lin-up?
- April 1, 2009 at 4:46 PM
If Daw can be controlled by Armstrong, he would make a great second for Team Canada
- April 1, 2009 at 5:54 PM
I think Mr. Daw has burned too many bridges with the present staff
- April 1, 2009 at 8:22 PM
I think Jim could control Chris, and get the best out of him....I can`t see Jim moving his now sidekick Darryl aside to make room for Chris, and I doubt Chris`s ego would let him play front end.
- April 1, 2009 at 8:37 PM
Oh Please;
Did you even take the time to talk to the guy ever.
I did....maybe you should all do that and think again.
I spoke with him and trust me, he was huge regrets, has apologized to ever one he can for his actions, etc.
This is not the same guy, he is married, gets along with ever one I saw and is very humble in his life and approaches to the sport.
As he put it, he is just happy to remain involved in what ever way he is allowed.
Come on people....let's get over the past , we all screw up....give this guy a second chance ...it would be good for the country....
no one else brings as much experience as Daw other then Armstrong.
Chris D,
and Sonja
would be an unbeatable team.
Maybe Daw is not the one with the ego problem. Look at the staff, are they really doing what is right. I understand that unless Chris S. had pulled himself that Sonja was not going in , and look how that could have been.
Is Joe really coaching any more, I think not Jim does more of that then Joe ever has.
- April 2, 2009 at 8:44 AM
I think you are on the right path, William.
I suspect Chris D would help from the promotional aspect as the guy who "hands the baton" to the new skip, and it would appear, friend, with no animosity or regret...simply an improvement to the team.
For what I understand of the political issues, Chris certainly did burn some bridges, but it DOES appear that he has really turned the attitude around.
If he is EVER going to get back to Team Canada, it best be while im is there, since I would suspect he is the only guy that can control Chris and DEMAND his respect for the betterment of the TEAM. One thing for sure, Jim will not allow ANYONE to interfere with His team, and, I believe that is the way it is.
As for coaching, I can see that Jim has his flavour on all aspects of the Team, but I still think that Joe gets the "final say"....could likely be only with Jim's blessing.....
I know Joe respects Jim's on and off ice persona...has been that way for many years.
It is a unique situation when the skip has more experience than the coach......but I cnnot imagine Jim simply taking over the Team.
That said, it is this unique scenario that may give Chris D a chance, since with merely the same staff as before, too much water under the bridge...too many scars....NONE of WHICH Jim had to endure, so no pre-conceived notions.
THAT said, oe and Jim go back to competitive able-bodied days, and I am sure they have had very candid conversations.
I do hope Chris does get another look.
Long-winded response, but ir actually is important enough since it does affect a life.
I would be interested in other people's thoughts
- April 2, 2009 at 9:00 AM
I think Chris D deserves another shot. He has put in a "two year suspension" for stupidity. That is almost like a drug ban!
- April 2, 2009 at 12:22 PM
I doubt anyone within the decision making circle will risk bring Chris back right before 2010. WHY SHOULD THEY? They just won the Worlds with a skip that is only going to get better with a team that he can nurture along, and improve them, as well. In fact, if I was the CCA, I would reject any suggestion to take any risk with such a move. They have invested a ton of money, and finally, have a result. Leave it be.
- April 2, 2009 at 12:48 PM
Unfortunately, I have to agree. Big Chris was master of his own destiny, found out he wasn't bigger than the Program, and now has his consequence. Maybe post-2010, but definitely not now.
I doubt even Jim's influence, if so desired, would not get him back immediately.
- April 2, 2009 at 2:05 PM
They are not going to tinker with a world championship team, the memories of the year have been great, the success of all wheel chair curlers has been great and from the coaching staff of all teams to the reporting on blogs from Eric and Company the 2008/9 season has been fantastic. The future will only be brighter.
- April 2, 2009 at 3:17 PM
Give Chris a shot. He is proven in pressure situations, which is what Jim and Joe are looking for, as the final missing piece....I would suggest that this experience is what Chris S. was lacking at the Worlds.
- April 2, 2009 at 3:25 PM
Well, with all respect, this year's world championship was a likely unexpected pleasant surprise for CCA.
They have maintained all along that pre-2010 was "work in progress", with everything geared to Paralympics. Peckham's buddy delivered ahead of schedule, but he has to do it again next year, and I am sure Jim wil be looking for the best support staff available, and therein lies a longshot chance for Chris D, replacing Chris S.
- April 2, 2009 at 3:40 PM
So, Eric, when will Team Canada be finalized?
I think pretty much everyone has accepted a chosen team for 2010, so who will it be?
I hear Wayne Ficek was very vocal about Team Canada in Halifax.
- April 2, 2009 at 4:39 PM
I heard about Wayne's rant when they were awarded the Ontario - N.Ontario trophy....I didn't hear if it was sincere.
Comments from someone that was there?
- April 2, 2009 at 4:57 PM
- . said...
My understanding is that Team Canada will be announced late this year when everyone on the high performance squad has been given a chance to show their form. Each of the 8 members have been told they start from scratch and each can press their claim to a place.
If Chris Daw could put up the sort of numbers (70& or more in the drills) then presumably he would warrant another look, all other things being equal, which they rarely are. Certainly Gerry Austgarden and Gary Cormack and Bruno Yozek will be anxious to press their claim.
It will be very interesting to see who gets carded in the cycle that begins in July.
In my opinion, and I have no inside knowledge, the open position is at lead/alternate with Chris S, Gerry, Gary and Bruno competing for the slot if no one else at the Nationals caught the scouts eye. But a lot could change in the next eight months - illness, family commitments, loss of form, so it's not a done deal.
While Canada is probably way ahead of any other national program in resources, available talent and skill at skip, a gold medal will come down to performance on a given day, and wheelchair curling remains a game of misses. You can try but I doubt you can coach or spend that entirely away.
- April 2, 2009 at 5:05 PM
Great point, Eric:
I agree, that FOR 2010, it will turn around Jim, for all the right reasons, which, by now, I trust is a non-issue.
If you accept that premise, he will automatically choose his Tonto, Darryl, at third.
Provide Ina as a front-end stalwart, and we have two spots remaining.
Sonja, in my opinion, proved her worth as front-end/alternate, and then there was one spot......
Eric, let's get a new thread on Team Canada...I cannot believe they will leave the team unannounced through next fall....how many bodies to compete in Europe next season?
in 2007, they sent all thirteen (ironically, not Jim) to Europe in various line-ups.....I hope we will spend funds now fine-tuning, not evaluating.
Even Jim will benefit from more competition.
- April 2, 2009 at 6:42 PM
Eric, you suggest wild-card issues, which may negate a player...any inside knowledge???
- April 2, 2009 at 6:45 PM
Very insightful, Eric.....sure you have no inside knowledge? Not accusing, just would like to know what is fact and what is conjecvture.....
- April 2, 2009 at 6:48 PM
SAW this thread earlier...who would be TC 2009? They won, with or without a hiccup.
Let's start at a championship squad, and fine-tune.
Cannot be an issue at back-end (MAYBE DAW?????), and let's build from there, keeping the back-end happy.....
- April 2, 2009 at 6:56 PM
Okay, Eric:
You suggest that us bloggers that chose BC were right, but only marginally.
The fact is that Armstrong performed, could not do more, other than go undefeated, with a team that probably should not go undefeated...
Give him credit where credit is due....BC likely could have made a win in the field easy by playing Darryl, but for whatever reason, kept the competition competitive.
Good for Melissa and Jim, and congrats for doing it in such a way.
- April 2, 2009 at 7:22 PM
Look out next season, the rest of the World
- April 2, 2009 at 8:16 PM
Is there any real chance that Daw will be reconsidered????
- April 3, 2009 at 7:56 AM
Not this side of hell freezing over or the current team in charge being hit by flying pigs.
His place on the team was based on his ability as skip in a group without a replacement. His draw game was always his weakness, and this time round he would have to compete on his shooting ability, and not his physical presence.
Doesn't really matter whether he is a changed person or not, it's what have you done for me lately, and the answer to that is - not a lot.
- April 3, 2009 at 9:30 AM
Most interesting the comments yet again,
funny how those which are most vocal with the comments are still not willing to sign a name to it.
I guess that will happen when pigs fly 2.
- April 3, 2009 at 11:23 AM
The joy of anonymity is its spontaneity.
Chris, you have a fork in you, and you created your own issues when you should have opened your eyes and not your mouth.......that fork says that you, sir, are done like dinner.
- April 3, 2009 at 11:37 AM
Come on, if Armstrong is prepared to give him a shot, how about it?
I think, if his head has been rehabilitated, his shooting could help Team Canada
- April 3, 2009 at 12:14 PM
Sorry, I don't think Jim is in this to be a babysitter. Team Canada is HIS team, and he will be protective of it, as he was in the able-bodied game. He will require commitment from all players, and in return will commit to keep everyone focused.
Right or wrong, Chris D. would be too big a potential distraction.
- April 3, 2009 at 12:34 PM
Have the coaches or Jim been approached about bringing Chris back?
- April 3, 2009 at 12:58 PM
Jim is Chris's best (and,likely, only) shot........Maybe Jim should be asked.
- April 3, 2009 at 5:37 PM
Okay, people, let's get real.
Team Canada 2009, ignore it or not, have not hit the podium since 2006, when they backed into Gold (good on them).
Peckham recruits Jim Armstrong, needing some help with leadership...Chris Daw has caused so many issues, that no one will play with him.
They bring in Jim, no one really knows the extent of his disability, and gets axed by the WCF in 2007.
They reapply, with Jim showing up for evaluation, in 2008.
Meanwhile, Daw has "resigned" for personal issues in late 2007, likely to maintain his carding.
Once Jim has been approved for play, Daw is completely replaced by Armstrong, with Armstrong not bringing any of the headaches and interaction caused by the last few years.
Armstrong now leads the Team, no politics, and a dream for Coach Rea ......therefore, what do you think of Daw's chances?
- April 3, 2009 at 6:00 PM
Your future lies with Jim, and quite simply, having won the Worlds this year, without you, your options are limited at best, and even if Jim wants you, his bargaining is limited.
Your stock looked way better when Team Canada could not hit the podium in the past few years.
One year with Armstrong, and it is a new world.
- April 3, 2009 at 6:26 PM
Chris.....unfortunately, for you, Jim landed.
Your stock as a skip, good or bad, was reduced to zero, with Jim providing experience only dreamt of, and no baggage, in fact, to the contrary, Jim simplifies Joe's job, to yhe point that he probably does not even have to travel all the time with the team.
Their "unexpected" win this year cemented the team, and, unfortunately,it does not include you.
- April 3, 2009 at 7:19 PM
Well, interesting perspectives....
That you for you insightful comments regarding me and the program. Always a joy to read....
Jim is good for the prgram no doubt....
My place in the program (if any) will or will not be determined in time.
Thanks to you who support me and to those who don't thanks anyways for your comments thay make for great entrainment.
- April 4, 2009 at 5:46 AM
Oh sorry folks,
by the way, for those who won't play with me....
Thanks for playing with me over the last 2 years.....
Jo, Flex, DJ, Lanie, Ken, Collinda, Kaite, Mike, John, Brad, Mark, Jim, Darryl, Paul, the whole group of those who I help teach though the develop curling program.
Thanks to Danny and Gerry for the opportunity to continue with the program
Just needed to say thanks....
so thanks....
- April 4, 2009 at 5:50 AM
It seems you all have so much insight...
What are all these issues that Chris Daw has caused. You all keep say he has but no one has ever spoke exactly what all these issues are????
What are the Issues???
- April 4, 2009 at 5:53 AM
You know what, that is a great question...any chance that the "anti-Daw" sentiment is so deep-seated that no one knows or remembers the issues?
- April 4, 2009 at 10:03 AM
The past two posters have certainly hit the nail on the head. Everone seems content to "talk around" the Daw issue(s), yet, to my knowledge, no one, Chris included, have pointed out what the issues are.
It COULD be, but I honestly doubt it, that Chris and staff are mired in personality conflicts.
Seems that whatever the issues are, Jim bridges across them...or is Jim simply a little better alternative to Chris?????
Eric....any insight?
- April 4, 2009 at 10:31 AM
Knowing Jim from his able-bodied days suggest that he simply is not a "little better alternative".
I did not follow wheelchair curling before Jim started, but everthing regarding Mr. Daw seems to stem from some time earlier.
Jim brought the "missing link" to the program...experience, maturity, a quick learn on throwing (remember, he has only two seasons of throwing, and will get better), an entity that is easy to promote.
That said, I wonder, IF the Program had been operating on all cylinders, ie, with a competent skip, would the CCA have pursued him?
What is your opinion, Eric?
- April 4, 2009 at 10:48 AM
- . said...
My feeling is that wheelchair curling began as a private club, a small group of invited wheelchair users coached to represent Canada in international competition. It has only slowly, far too slowly in my opinion, moved away from that model.
There have been several personnel changes that drew public attention, but no official explanation from the participants or the CCA as the sponsoring organization.
There is now a great deal of public money being spent to support the national team and the sport in general, and it is only a matter of time before it becomes impossible to maintain a "need to know" position on matters of public interest.
Chris' disappearance from the national program, and Jim's inclusion in it are two examples of events that would have benefited from more frankness and public explanation.
I think there will be changes, but only after 2010. My hope is that the whole program will be re-evaluated and become more responsive to the people who are actually playing the sport across the country.
My aim in working on the website and this blog, has always been to evangelise the sport, to make it the winter recreation of choice for wheelchair users. I am less interested in gossip, especially anonymous gossip, but I do think the sport would benefit if the principals (and I am not a principal, merely a conduit) would take it on themselves to let everyine know the what and why of where we are and where we are going.
A last point - I would be far more tempted to answer questions if they were adressed to me in email.
- April 4, 2009 at 11:05 AM
Hello, Eric:
I would suggest that Jim's appearance is an obvious consequence of the then shortfall on the Team.....no leadership on ice, and no skip.
Chris's departure is, obviously, not nearly as clear, and obviously Jim filled the void that Chris left, as well as the void that he could not fill even if he were still part of the Program .....but why did he depart?
Was it simply to pre-empt his being cut?
- April 4, 2009 at 11:32 AM
So, Eric, would you be in favour of the National champion challenging Team Canada in a series, with the winner representing Canada?
- April 4, 2009 at 11:35 AM
- . said...
Ask the question: "Why does Team Canada as presently constituted, exist?"
The answer is to win medals at international competition in general and at the home venue for the 2010 Paralympics in particular.
There has been large sums of money and effort expended to ensure that as far as it is possible to plan and prepare, Canada wins gold in Vancouver.
There is no conceivable reason for Team Canada to exist as an entity separate from the National Championship unless it was conceived as the very best team Canada could put on the ice.
Therefore there is no possibility that Team Canada would be allowed to play against the national champions, for fear they might not win.
By the same principle, saying that no more than two Team Canada members could play on a BC provincial team, had nothing to do with equalising competition in BC or nationally. It was to protect the integrity of the coach selected Team Canada format against possible defeat.
People arguing for a Team Canada versus national chmpion match-up are, I suspect, thinking able-bodied curling, not wheelchair curling as it presently exists.
Team Canada is the embodiment of what the CCA on behalf of its sponsors says is the best possible team that Canada can put together. If in the future the national champion becomes Team Canada for a year, then they would and should take their chances against domstic challengers.
I have said for years now that while I understand that the CCA feels it is necessary to attempt to create a team of all-stars in the hope that it will meld together in time for gold in 2010, moving away from the regular curling model is destructive to wheelchair curling's prospects for long term growth.
Conjuring up a skip who has played for 50 years and for many at the very highest level, will probably mean the policy will pay off in terms of medals. But Jim's real contribution to the sport will come not through vindication of the selection process or the efforts of Own The Podium. It will come if he can encourage the game at the grassroots.
I think he has the interest and the drive to do that if he is given the opportunity.
- April 4, 2009 at 12:40 PM
Eric, I agree with you in the main. Jim was asked about defending the Team Canada model,and his initial indication was positive, POST 2010. I don't think anyone can argue that there is no chance for major change in the next 10 months, including bringing back Daw.
The only point that is a sticking point is that Jim would like to see a series of gamess...best of three or five, so that one accident in one game does not negate the entire system as we know it. I think the idea has merit, and something like that would be endorsed by Jim.
I doubt the concept is in the minds of the coaches, though.
It would be intersting if Jim carried the conept through against the wishes of his handlers.
I cannot imagine him accepting any more criticism of him or Team Canada if a play-off would negate the issue. The only other issue is what happens to the Team Canada players for Nationals? As with this year, we can't have Jim in a playoff against himself.....
- April 4, 2009 at 1:42 PM
So does Team Canada be disallowed from Nationals, and then compete against the winner?
Not criticizing, just wondering.
I think Nationas would be shorted without the likes of Jim, Bruno, and the two Chris's
- April 4, 2009 at 2:26 PM
Hey...great blog, now.....How about it......our Team Canada will be missing from next year's Nationals, due to a conflict with the Olympics...so, how about it....a CHALLENGE for Team Canada from the 2010 National winner....to be played in a best of five series by November, 2010....winner to represent Canada at the 2011 Worlds.....IF Team Canada wins easily (don't lose a game in the Challenge)....park it for 2 years, and all the staff keep their jobs until 2013....in time for 2014 Paralympics in Russia....
What say you, Eric????
You seem to have the ear of Ottawa...
Hw about approaching Jim, to start?
- April 4, 2009 at 5:39 PM
Interesting concept, Team Canada vs National winner....seems it answers both sides of the issue.....the "advantage" of a select side vs. a team that won their way there.
I agree, that it should be more than a one game play-off, which ASSURES the better team winning.
What do we do with Team Canada members for Nationals? (maybe nothing...they would have a bye to the new National Final....winner of the series is the real National Champion)
What do you think, Eric?
- April 5, 2009 at 9:25 AM
What happens to funding post 2010?
For that matter, what is funding like today? How much, and by whom, for what?
Shouldn't these questions get obligatory answers, Eric?
- April 5, 2009 at 9:46 AM
If Jim has the best interests of the entire wheelchair program at heart, and believes in the concept of building from the "ground up", rather than benefit filtering from the "top down"......will he consider resigning, if the CCA refuses to implement a Team Canada / National winner play-off post 2010?
He is the Profile guy, and I can't see the CCA ignoring him (or your view, Eric), if he is adamant about it.
- April 5, 2009 at 10:27 AM
- . said...
If the people writing the cheques felt that a national champion in the traditional sense would be a strong enough team to ensure medal success at world events, there wouldn't be a coach selected Team Canada.
Why then would they allow a Team Canada versus National Champion event?
This notion is a sidetrack away from the principle that part of the reward from taking up curling is that with skill and hard work and dedication and a little luck you can prove yourself best of your region, your province and your country.
Until wheelchair curlers themselves say they will not be bought off by the special treatment promised by membership of a national high performance squad, it won't change.
The sad thing about all the resources poured into the national team, is that in my opinion at least two of the teams at the nationals could have competed successfully against what were, after all, mainly club sides at the Worlds.
As I have said before Team Canada began as a private club, and despite the sincere desire by those in charge to do what is best for Canada's medal prospects (not the same in my opinion as doing what is best for the overall sport) it is still being run that way.
Wheelchair curlers, through their provincial associations, can change that.
In BC we had a very similar situation, and four years of lobbying and constant pressure pointing out the harm their selection process inflicted on the sport in BC, finally brought about change. That change was a political decision taken by the CurlBC Board, and change at the Team Canada level will only come about as a result of political action.
- April 5, 2009 at 10:57 AM
In BC we had a coach (Melissa Soligo), who, for whatever reason, tired of the selection process. My guess is that she was tired of the criticism by those not chosen, but would defend the fact that selection assured a stronger squad.
Her opinion would be interesting, since her BC Teams have enjoyed the most success.
- April 5, 2009 at 11:54 AM
Eric: In defense of the selection process, i don't know of anyone that was missed by the initial process in the group of 13 or 14. There MAY be one or two additions now, and they have said they are always looking for new talent.
If you accept the premise that Jim will be skipping Team Canada for the next while (who could or should replace him), why not hire him as a player/coach, and for now, let him scout out new talent?
He is knowledgeable, and, I am sure did not spend his time in Halifax with his eyes shut.
This would be a great transition from the players (on ice) and the present coaches.
I think this would also help to build the "team dynamics" since a player has some input into the final picks.
What do you think, Eric?
- April 5, 2009 at 12:09 PM
Back to the other issue, Eric, does funding occur or continue without winning results?
Probably not.
HOWEVER, at this point in time, I think you could pay Armstrong to skip any of the top few teams in Halifax and now convert them into International winners......how about letting Jim skip VARIOUS "club sides" at international bonspiels (there are many), and exposeing provincial teams to international experience.
Provincial associations could underwrite such a venture, with a much better assessed result than anthing else.
- April 5, 2009 at 12:19 PM
The above blogger has a GREAT idea. All provincial associations should be able to budget on trip per year. The teams get a hands on sense of what it takes to win, get a specific strategy tutorial from the best in the world (Armstrong) in a truly on-ice(way more beneficial) experience. It also answers the problem of the CCA keeping a hand on who is out there for future assessment.
- April 5, 2009 at 12:55 PM
This is a very interesting idea. I believe the CCA has been keeping Chris Daw on retainer in the past, so ther should be at least some funding around even now.
It seems like a nice meld between all stakeholders.
What is your thought, Eric? It seems you believe in Jim's commitment to the sport.
- April 5, 2009 at 1:03 PM
I'll bet the CCA would not allow Jim to participate in such an idea....which means it must be a great idea....your comments, Eric?
- April 5, 2009 at 1:11 PM
What makes anybody think Jim would even consider such a scheme?
I certainly see the merit of the concept. Armstrong is the only one-ice guy that could be analytical enough to make it work, but who says he would do it?
- April 5, 2009 at 1:17 PM
Any merit to this type of provincial training, Eric? Seems it brings the elitist attitude of the CCA a little closer to the "back to basics".
- April 5, 2009 at 1:31 PM
Okay, Eric:
You are the voice of wheelchair curlers......
does this kind of scheme have merit?
Obviously, this has no chance without Jim's approval........does seem to link the selected to the rest of us......
- April 5, 2009 at 4:41 PM
This seems to have some merit in improving the competitve aspect across Canada......
Does it make sense to you?
- April 5, 2009 at 5:00 PM
Who has the "_____'s" to approach the CCA?
Financing........CCA has some, provincial associations have some.....and players could pay for their airfare, or whatever......
the winner?......all of us....IF we do well, why have a select team?
If not.....we have had a GREAT experience, and now know where we have to go..........
- April 5, 2009 at 5:13 PM
I think it is a GREAT IDEA......every prvince that gets involved has a true barometer to see how they measure up, and CCA sees where there are rising, or existing stars....
- April 5, 2009 at 5:18 PM
We HAVE TO take the sport to the next level....numbers and competitive look......
We have, it appears, Jim Armstrong available........let's use what we have friendly to us...he may not be around for the long term, so why not take advantage of his notoriety while we have him?
If he is for our sport, there is an opportunity that should not be missed, as it is available.....
Let's force the CCA to use "their guy" for our advantage.....
- April 5, 2009 at 5:32 PM
Why doesn't the CCA just give Jim control of the program?
The probable result?
He would be a player/coach...on the short term (pre-2010), none of the staff are compromised.....he starts to REALLY check out potential additions to the new Team Canada pool...IF (and likely financing diminishes post 2010) CCA has a concern for continuity that will work post 2010, leave it with a guy that has been well established...remember Jim was president of the World Curling Players Association when they went head to head with the CCA...
Eric, comment, or endorse.
- April 5, 2009 at 5:50 PM
An interesting concept....I would like to beieve that the CCA does not control Jim....as I understand it, he is still not on the CCA payroll...let's test the water while we can.......At least have him available for each and every provincial association for a week-end session.....I understand he did this in Regina this year, and look at their results.....
- April 5, 2009 at 6:17 PM
Okay, Eric, reality check......
does this make sense at any levelÉ
It is not enough to simply sat the CCA will dismiss this, as against their principles.
I appears that Jim Armstrong is an advocate for our sport, and why not utilize his charisma and influence.....
I think the CCA would embrace such a plan, if for no other reason than to show their `interèst...
Let`s take advantage of the politics, and not just be lost in rhetoric....
- April 5, 2009 at 6:29 PM
why would this concept at least not be floated with the CCA?
There is no downside, and the CCA and us anti-selection both get what we want..
- April 5, 2009 at 6:35 PM
Your position?
Alternatively, please provide Jim Armstrong's contact email address.
- April 5, 2009 at 6:41 PM
- . said...
I was living in California at the birth of the ADA (Americans With Disabilities Act) that stated it was a matter of principle that wheelchair users (and others) not be denied the rights of citizenship afforded non-wheelchair users.
There were all sorts of arguments why this was not possible, but the decision was decided on principle, not practicality, understanding that practicalites are always accommodated when they have to be.
National team selection (like BC team selection for me) is a matter of principle. There is no principled reason why wheelchair curlers cannot be treated like regular curlers when it comes to national team selection, desire for medals notwithstanding.
- April 5, 2009 at 6:52 PM
So, Eric. let's bridge the chasm with the CCA, and put it to them that we are happy to accept "their guy" as an intermediary and enjoy his ability to bridge the gap....or is Jim's interest simply li service?
- April 5, 2009 at 7:09 PM
Okay, Eric......why not pursue this with the CCA.....and if so, will you float it?
- April 5, 2009 at 7:33 PM
I think we all may be over-thinking the issues. We have a sport that has enoyed international status likely long before the support at grassroots would substantiate it.
Let's accept that as an axiom, and work to improve this.
Like its status, we have been provided, at this point, with one athlete of notoriety, Jim Armstrong.
We likely have a limited window of opportunity to utilize, what actually is, a CCA decision of inclusion.
By accident, we inherited a guy that has proven his interest in athletes, with his time with the World Curling Players Association.
Let's not lose the opportunity, and put it to him to launch this proposed CCA-athlete venture, to the betterment of the provincial / regular athlete.
It may be a time that is limited, so let's not miss the opportunity.
Eric, what do you think?
- April 5, 2009 at 7:58 PM
Please, Eric,
I asked earlier for Jim's email or phone number
- April 5, 2009 at 8:04 PM
do you agree, in principle?
If so, let's canvass Jim, and, if that goes well, hit the CCA.
No downside, in my opinion
- April 5, 2009 at 8:26 PM
It is time to allow Jim to show his support, and us to support him.
The Newfoundland team were certainly picking his brain in Halifax, and he seemed for than amenable to the questions.
Why not use him?
The CCA wheelchair staff certainly weren't there.
Let's press this and see what, if anything, we have available.
- April 5, 2009 at 8:49 PM
Have to agree, Eric....
no downside in pressing the CCA
- April 5, 2009 at 9:14 PM
Is this viable, Eric?
Seems we should strike while the iron is hot....use Jim while we can
- April 5, 2009 at 9:23 PM
Eric, I agree.
We have a unique situation, when the skip of Team Canada could also coach.
We should see if a mentor program, in some form, could be developed, would be made available.
I understand that Jim actally went to Regina last fall, on Curl Saskatchewan's invitation.
- April 6, 2009 at 7:26 AM
I have to think any plan that gives back to provincial associations would be readily embraced by the CCA......
how would one incorporate the plan?
- April 6, 2009 at 8:38 AM
I believe a mentorship program would be very well received by the CCA.....who will ask?
- April 6, 2009 at 10:43 AM
Enough discussion....what is your thought, Eric?
- April 6, 2009 at 12:50 PM
I am sure Jim, (or Darryl, for that matter) would make themselves available..........
- April 6, 2009 at 6:10 PM
- April 6, 2009 at 11:39 PM
A CCA mentorship program?
Sounds pretty proactive for them
- April 7, 2009 at 8:04 AM
Where do you stand, Eric?
- April 7, 2009 at 10:29 AM
With the CCA, if it is not Howard or Martin, who cares?
- April 7, 2009 at 11:00 AM
what is your position?
I think this would be an opportunity for Team Canada to give bac to us wannabees, and get some insight into what they get in their training sessions.
- April 7, 2009 at 12:13 PM
The CCA has a discover curling program in place and has for 3 years now.
Most new teams have come out of that program.
Chris Daw has been doing the mentorship/development program and Jim went to Sask. after Chris had broken his hip and was unable to attend.
Dennis Moulding went on the same ground to Quebec.
The program has also secured funding, developed wheelchair curling and visual impaired curling as well.
The development program has been a resounding success, hats off to Danny L. at the CCA, Chris Daw for all his work, that most of you readers are unaware he has been doing for years. Hats off to Jim, Danny , Gerry P. and Chris for the continued promotion of the sport.
What I think most of you all need to be aware of is that people like Chris Daw, Jim Armstrong , and the CCA have been working very hard behind the scenes for years.
Just because some of you don't see everything all the time in the public eye does not means GOOD people are not working to make sure the sport is gorwing and developing.
I say congratulations to Jim, and the CCA and Chris Daw. All of these people take alot of abuse on these boards and are given very like credit for the work they do.
In particular the likes of Jim Armstrong and Chris Daw
Like them or not they do a GREAT JOB!
- April 7, 2009 at 12:22 PM
I don't think this is the type of Program envisioned. As I read this thread, I think there is more of an interest in mentorship of potential, or existing provincial champions.....the "next step", if you will......more of a bunch of "competitive camps"....fine tuning deliveries, a little more sophisticated strategy, ice-reading, adapting a game plan to suit you players, etc., including the possibility of travelling to a wheelchair event with Jim...time management,etc.
In all fairness to Chris, the only guy to provide the "advanced package" would be Jim...
- April 7, 2009 at 12:46 PM
Any person or team can call Danny at the CCA and request a clinic be
held throught the Discover curling program.
DOes any one know that the CCA has a program which will allow them to
get $3000 off the purchase price of a new wheelchair?
(Moderator adds: Eric is looking into whether this program is still available)
- April 7, 2009 at 1:08 PM
An advanced clinic and a beginners clinic has been available for years....
People need to research what is in pre-existance before they ask for what is already there.....
and to add....no ones has or does ever give Chris credit for what he knows or deos for wheelchair curling. Look beyond the rumors people he has been fighting for all of you for years....
- April 7, 2009 at 1:50 PM
Once again, the suggestion is a new, advanced program for existing players, rather than an entry level program
- April 7, 2009 at 4:05 PM
With all due respect to Chris, he could not provide a true advanced clinic. If he is still providing them,then I fear they are very self-limiting.
Ask Chris how much he has learned from even limited exposure to Jim
- April 7, 2009 at 4:34 PM
Yes, an advanced program could ONLY br provided by accredited coaches (not likely) or Jim..wy Jim?
Because coaches cannot provide that intuitive transition from competitive able-bodied to wheelchair strategy and priorities. You have to, in my opinion, have thrown for something that matters (a championship)from a wheelchair to understand the transition.
There is NO ONE that can provide this, other than Jim Armstrong...The next question is, as asked earlier, would he?
My bet is that he would, subject to availability.
Eric, your comments?
- April 7, 2009 at 4:47 PM
You know, maybe the earlier blogger has a point.
How about Chris and Jim doing a two level clinic?
hris has done a lot of them, and Jim could fine tune on the more sophisticated stuff. Chris would get a re-introduction to the gam as it has improved, and everyone gets an opportunity to upgrade.
- April 7, 2009 at 4:52 PM
Dear Readers,More like hi all;
Ummm....... Well I am not sure how to respond to this. So I will leave it like this, Jim brings a ton of experience, there is no doubt about that. However, I think that it is unfair to believe Jim is the only person that can bring anything to this program of any importance. Weather it is advanced or not, we must all rely on the experts which are available regardless of who it is. We need to remember Jim, himself is still learning this game and replys on a ton of people in conjuction with his experience to better position himself and the teams he plays with. I think that it is unfair to almost burden Jim with what is almost being imposed as a set all to be all to wheelchair curling. I am not opposed to Jim infact I have more than imbraced his involvement but remember Jim is one person within an elemant which is vastly growing with every person who is willing and able to contribute.
You the bloggers yourself,should know this.You have come up with some great suggestions which should be reviewed, you have come up with idea's on how to improve the selection process, the national championship process, team canada representation and even Eric himself has given suggestions on how the game should be played. I applaud you all!! But lets now forget this is not one person, this is a group of individuals with a set of collective thoughts and passion for how to improve a sport, lets not tunnel our vision, reach outside the box and embrace every oppurtunity by every individual weather we like it or not.
Joe Rae, Wendy Morgan, Gerry Peckham and Danny have all made lasting contributions, as have the players which are current and past to the developement of this sport. Let's not forget that everybody and yes even you reading this can make a change, as long as we all work together.
These are my thoughts, like them or not!!!
- April 7, 2009 at 7:23 PM
Question to the reader:
Have you ever been to an advanced Clinic that Chris has run?
I was at one in Halifax with Chris Daw and Helen Radford and it was very advanced and no where close to self limiting.
Let's remember that Chris Daw does not have free rain to go run clinics. All materials are checked , rechecked and even supervised by the CCA's top people like Helen Radford. I found the clinic and the materials very useful in advancing my ability to play!!!
- April 7, 2009 at 7:28 PM
As indicated earlier, Helen Radford does not have "chair experience". Nor does Joe Rea. Therein lies the problem.
Chris Daw has the "chair experience", but not the strategy for the game now (or then, for that matter).
Lots has changed in the past couple of years.
The ONLY person with "chair experience" and strategy is Jim Armstrong.
I don't see any argument to this.
- April 7, 2009 at 11:14 PM
I would suggest that if you attended a clinic run by Chris and deemed it as advanced, then you are a newbie.
One of the reasons the CCA pursued Jim was in anticipation of his understanding of the wheelchair strategy, since that is where the program had a huge void.
This is not a slam on Chris, just the reality of the situation, wich has been resolved.
Contact Peckham and ask him directly. It is so very obvious.
- April 7, 2009 at 11:20 PM
Sorry, Chris:
ou know that trying to have a non play
You know yourself that there are strategic aspects of this game, ice-reading, etc. that simply is not part of your game. No slam at all, just a cold, hard fact.
You would also agree that a non-playing coach is very limited in what he can do to fine-tune your release and set-up.
So would you not agree that the best source for all would be Jim Armstrong.
I am not suggesting the ONLY source, but the best "one stop shopping"?
- April 7, 2009 at 11:35 PM
Come on, Chris:
I doubt your contract with the CCA will be renewed, since you are no longer an intregral part of Team Canada.
Yur poorly veiled attempt to discredit the job that Jim could do will not save your contract in my opinion.
Why don't you contact Jim and split the load...you handle newbies, and Jim handles advanced strategy and delivery.
- April 8, 2009 at 8:19 AM
Our sport will be limited until the lid comes off the "old school" of teaching.
Why do you think Team Switzerland has Russ Howard as a coach?
It develops the game with new ideas (to the Swiss).
The game, Chris, has developed to the point where you (as you know) could learn a lot from Jim, as well.
- April 8, 2009 at 9:10 AM
The synopsis of the situation.
Armstrong is a student of our game, much like he was in the able-bodied game.
He brings an analytical and fresh look at the sport.
I am sure Joe Rea listens to him now.
He will have new and innovative suggestions that would have to be considered.
He is the only player with the transition experience to provide valid insight into the "senior" level of play.
Can anyone argue?
- April 8, 2009 at 9:26 AM
Your silence is truly deafening...what say you?
- April 8, 2009 at 9:36 AM
Jim brings an appropriate analytical approach to strategy and will adapt this as necessary.
NO ONE has the experience to understand so much of the intuitive aspect that is necessary, other tha Jim.
Sorry, Chris, for now, the game has passed you by.
- April 8, 2009 at 11:49 AM
Why will Jim (or Joe allow it) to spread his strategy and technical expertise to people that he may have to beat?
- April 8, 2009 at 12:12 PM
- . said...
To those asking what I think, I have added a new post. In a nutshell - we need far more wheelchair curlers if we are going to attract serious attention outside of winning medals. And we need to raise the general level of competitive play way above where it is now for the experience of a Jim Armstrong to be especially useful.
I suspect Jim is still working through his ideas on how to improve the wheelchair game, and how his experience could best be put to use.
And notwithstanding the fervent advocacy of his supporters, I will be inspired when the new Chris Daw demonstrates, as I am sure he is capable of doing, the ability to build something in NL outside of his own playing career.
- April 8, 2009 at 12:37 PM


text:
Family of teen killed by Conroe officer wants outside investigation
The family of a 19-year-old man fatally shot by an off-duty Conroe police sergeant in July wants an outside agency to help investigate the case, saying information the family has learned about the death is not consistent with accounts from Conroe police.
Ryan MacLeod, who is representing the family of Russell Rios, said Monday he asked the Texas Rangers for help.
"It is not appropriate or just for the Conroe Police Department to handle the investigation," MacLeod said.
The state agency hasn't received the request yet. Texas Department of Public Safety spokesman John Sampa said the agency evaluates such requests and then decides whether to take action.
Rios was shot to death about 7:20 p.m. on July 31 near a Walmart at 1407 N. Loop 336 W,
Moments earlier, authorities were told that loss prevention officers were trying to detain a shoplifting suspect. That person ran, which got the attention of an off-duty Conroe sergeant, who went after him into a wooded area.
The two got into a "violent struggle" and Rios "began choking the sergeant to the point the sergeant feared he would lose consciousness," according to a news release from Conroe police.
MacLeod requested an outside autopsy, which he said stated Rios was shot in the back of the head.
"The public has been told that (Rios) choked an officer," MacLeod said. "Mr. Rios was shot in the back of his head right above the base of the skull. The bullet stopped right at the skull."
"We have questions," he said.
MacLeod identified the Conroe police sergeant as Jason Blackwelder, who they said is on paid administrative leave.
Conroe police Chief Philip Dupuis said he could not release information about the case.
He also said the family has the right to request an outside investigation.
A Montgomery County medical examiner said he could not release details about the autopsy until the investigation is complete.
Rios' father said Monday his goal is to know the truth.
"The number one thing that we would like is have justice done for my son," Juan Cuyun said.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Updates: AccessChk v 5.03, Autoruns & Autorunsc v 11.22, ProcMon v 3.0, PsList v 1.3
Accesschk v5.03: The -l switch, which has AccessChk show detailed security descriptor information, now reports the object owner as well as security descriptor flags.
Autoruns v11.22: This release of Autoruns fixes a bug in the XML output structure, jump-to-folder functionality for scheduled task entries, and fixes a buffer overflow triggered by very long registry paths.
Process Monitor v3.0: This update to Process Monitor, a real-time file, registry, process and network monitor, adds bookmark support so that you can flag specific lines in a trace for easy reference later. Shortcut keys enable you to move quickly between bookmarks and you can even add bookmarks to existing trace files. You can also convert a highlight filter to an include filter and shortcut keys move between highlighted lines. Finally, process Monitor now records process environment variables and current working directory for process start events (thanks to Dmitri Davydok for his contribution) and displays the names of new Windows 8 file system control codes.
Pslist v1.3: This release fixes a rounding bug that caused Pslist to report lower than actual CPU utilization when used with the -s option.


text:
Thanksgiving will be at the McSudermans this year, and we've just finished laying out the menu to please various palates and cooking talents. This is a three-cook show, with a cameo from my husband; my mother, sister, and I all contribute about as much to the process. Here's the menu, which was composed amidst solemn promises that we "aren't going to overdo it this year". And indeed, in an excercise of heroic restraint, I see that we've kept it down to four vegetables this year. Plus, y'know, soup. And cranberry sauce.
Tomato soup with parmesan foam
Deep fried turkey legs
Slow-cooker buttermilk chive mashed potatoes
Cranberry bread
Cranberry sauce
Ginger glazed carrots
Braised peas with lettuce and mint
Baby bok choy, szechuan style
Creamed onions
Pumpkin pie
Apple pie
Pecan bars
What are you doing for the holiday? Recipe swapping encouraged.


text:
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Tokyo? http://prntscr.com/1cvwpy
WHAT girl from Boston?
Quote from: Candi Lee on June 30, 2013, 10:05:15 PMTokyo? http://prntscr.com/1cvwpyCandi can you please PM me the link to the poster and tell me why you think it is Tokyo?? PM please...
Alan Li @TheAlanLi 3minWent to the famous fish market and shiboya mall place. I saw Amazing Race in the making too! #tokyo
Phil just tweeted saying Enjoy the celebrations #Canada @NoOppWasted
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text:
Facebook Not Sleepless in Seattle
Now that the ribbon has been cut and the finger sandwiches have been devoured, Facebook's new Seattle office is open for business.
The social network has officially joined other Silicon Valley companies that are finding it valuable to have satellite offices in the Northwest, the home to Amazon and Microsoft.
Other companies with offices in the area include eBay and Zynga. Google has two (one for either side of Lake Washington, I guess).
Facebook VP of Engineering Mike Schroepfer, who addressed employees and government officials at the office, overlooking the Space Needle, said the company was unsure what it would find when it decided to enter the region two years ago.
"But in two years, there's been a clear demonstration of the capabilities of the people in Seattle," he said.
Ari Steinberg, who moved to Seattle in July 2010 to start the office, said it had grown from just him to 90 employees. The larger office, which they just moved into 10 days ago, has room to grow to 175 — making it by far the largest development center outside of Menlo Park. So far, the group has worked on projects such as the iPad and iPhone apps and voice calling.
After short welcome speeches from Senator Maria Cantwell and Rep. Jim McDermott, Steinberg was a little less formal, telling stories about how an employee once moved his desk into the bathroom, and when he moved it back he found a fake column — complete with an outlet — installed in his spot.
As a reminder of the last office, that column was moved into the new digs (see photo at left).
The office is located just north of downtown Seattle, basically in the same neighborhood as Amazon, which has slowly been taking over for the past year. As Schroepfer rightly pointed out, once Amazon completes three new office towers — at one million square feet apiece — Facebook may no longer have a view of the Space Needle.
But that's another eight years off, so they have some time.
Here's a short tour of the office on the 18th floor, including a shot of Cantwell signing the Facebook wall. Unlike the company's headquarters, you won't find professional graffiti, but there are two Starbucks (well, kind of).


text:
Not all mosquitoes are created equal.
Just step outside and meet up with a species that hasn't shown its face—nor its sting—much recently, and certainly not in the abundance we're seeing now.
Of the 60 species of mosquitoes that live in Michigan, a few belong to the class known as floodwater mosquitoes. Remember the heavy rains of August? The fruit of that flooding has arrived.
Dr. Edward Walker, a Michigan State University professor who studies mosquito biology and control, said the most common floodwater species in this area are Aedes vexan and Aedes trivittatus.
"Both of those are on the wing now in very large numbers," Walker said. "It's all a consequence of the rainfall patterns we've had in August."
Trivittatus is the smaller of the two and Walker guesses that's the one irritating people in this area. Many species appear a little wishy-washy about their dinner; not so with the aggressive trivittatus.
"They just hone right in and let you have it," he said. "There's no reticence."


text:
It's not that I didn't enjoy anything about "Blame it on the Alcohol" — I actually did. Coach Beiste alone could have sold me on this show, and she wasn't alone; there was also Brittany dancing her extremely fine behind off – and doing the splits! – as well as Santana doing body shots off her also-very-fine abs.
And it's not even that the bi-curious Blaine storyline was the most horrible thing in the episode – no, that honor goes to Rachel's truly terrible, nightmarish, ghastly, frighteningly ugly green party dress.
But you've gotta admit, Rachel's dress set the bar very, very low. And the Blaine and Rachel kiss thing still just barely crawled over it.
"Blame it on the Alcohol" is based on the extremely radical concept that some teens drink alcoholic beverages to excess. I went to an all-girls Catholic school, and we had more students show up under the influence on a daily basis than McKinley High, so I'm not sure what's got Mr. Figgins' boxers in a bunch about it, but bunched they were. He called Will into his office to ask him to have the Glee Club come up with a song for "Alcohol Awareness Week," to help educate teens about the dangers of "giggle juice," AKA "the wet devil."
He blames this trend on new alcoholic beverages marketed at children, and also songs glorifying binge drinking such as those performed by "Ke, dollar sign, ha," probably the most awesome thing Figgins has ever said.
Will agrees to get the New Directions kids behind the event. Then he tries to set things right between him and Emma, by giving her a housewarming gift for her and Carl. They catch up a little bit, and Will says he's not dating anyone. Emma says he should be, and Sue breaks in, suggesting Will needs to join Alcoholics Anonymous because he's clearly a "future alcoholic," a continuing theme of the whole episode that never quite gels.
Emma grills Sue on how she came to be coaching New Directions' competition, Aural Intensity, and she said that "the chipper homosexual" who used to coach them had a terrible fall down the stairs – which we see in flashback was caused by Sue herself giving him not one, but two, mighty shoves, resulting in a brain-swell injury from which he may, or may not, recover..
I'm assuming for the sake of not throwing something at the TV that she's lying to them. My "cartoon violence" vs. "real violence" analysis can only go so far.
Rachel is sitting in the choir room despondently plunking piano keys, when Puck strolls in. "Sup, my hot little Jewish American princess?"
"What do you want, Puckerman?" she snaps.
Turns out he wants to use her house for a Glee Club party, because her dads are out of town – on the Rosie O'Donnell cruise, which does beg the question: Why would they go on that without Rachel? Anyway, she shoots him down, saying that her dads trust her.
Now look, I've recapped for you through thick and thin, but I cannot recap the song about her headband Rachel sings to Finn. I just can't.
When it's over, she realizes she can't write a song because she hasn't lived, and flounces off to tell Puck she's changed her mind about the party.
Then we get one of those awesome split-screen phone calls, where everyone decides whether or not they're going to the party. Brittany and Santana are together (yay!) and Mercedes is pushing Artie. Santana says she'll only go if there's alcohol, because she couldn't stand a Rachel Berry party sober.
"But it's Alcohol Awareness Week," says Brittany.
"Precisely," Santana replies. "And I'm aware of how much fun alcohol is."
Puck agrees to score the booze, and the party is on.


text:
My family wanted to come to
Orlando for our vacation this year. Coming here allowed us to visit my wife's dad
and step mom. We don't see them very
often since they moved to Florida.
And my daughter was most excited to visit the Harry Potter part of the
Universal Studios theme park. That was a
dream come true for her. Me, I'm just
happy to be with my wife and kids as they're having fun. I could do without the theme parks and the
crowds. I don't care for all that. I
don't like crowds. Not at all. I'm too much of an introvert to enjoy the
crowds. But since we'd chosen Orlando
for our vacation, I decided that I would make the most of the opportunity.
After spending two days with my family at Universal Studios and the Islands of
Adventure, I went (by myself) to visit the Holy Land Experience themepark.
Things I Learned at the
Holy Land Experience
Theme Park
1) Everyone in the bible had a Bedazzler.
Stupid plaster baby Jesus…
2) The fifth Gospel is the Gospel according to Mel Gibson.
There are no thrill-rides at The Holy Land Experience. There are no exotic animals. But there are shows, several shows throughout the day in half a dozen venues within the relatively small park. The highlighted daily show is the live drama The Passion / We Shall Behold Him an hour long portrayal of Jesus' "agony, death, resurrection, and glorious return!" I found it to be a bewilderingly unfocused production, with pre-recorded music playing at painfully loud volume and cast members shouting and running about the stage at random.
And many of the scenes and lines of dialogue were lifted from Mel Gibson's movie The Passion of the Christ. There was the black robed "Satan" figure that followed Jesus from the
garden of Gethsemane to Golgotha. The flogging sequence included the line
spoken by one of the Roman soldiers in Gibson's movie "he embraces his own
cross" and had Jesus' mother and Mary Magdalene mopping up the blood.
And on weekends (Fridays and Saturdays – the park is closed on Sundays) after 5:00 the public is invited to come to the park – free admission – to watch Mel Gibson's passion movie on a gigantic LED screen.
And on weekends (Fridays and Saturdays – the park is closed on Sundays) after 5:00 the public is invited to come to the park – free admission – to watch Mel Gibson's passion movie on a gigantic LED screen.
was crowded Jerusalem
Actually this may have been the most authentic thing about the Holy Land Experience attempt to recreate a biblical atmosphere. The streets and walkways of the park were narrow and crowded filled with people speaking in a variety of languages. I think that if they'd had had more money the designers of the park would have made it larger, but the park is tiny by comparison with the other nearby theme parks. The only thing missing were the animals.
4) I'm not as cynical as I could be, but I'm trying
I went to the park recognizing that, for me, it was an ironic sort of pilgrimage. I went to the park knowing that I am critical and cynical and maybe more than a little jaded. I went knowing that I have absolutely no respect for the park's owners, Trinity Broadcast Network (TBN). But I went trying to have a "holy land experience" at the park despite myself. I didn't succeed too well. But there were two highlights. (Well not maybe not that much… but something like highlights…)
cenacle is located within a concrete recreation of the caves of
Qumran). At fifteen minute intervals groups are
ushered into the darkened chamber and invited to share communion with
Jesus. It's grape juice and stale
crackers with a 2nd rate actor, but if there is such a thing as
transubstantiation then perhaps Jesus was present even in those feeble
elements. (and I got to keep the souvenir wooden communion cup...)
I heard my own thoughts echoed in the voice of a dissatisfied woman behind me. "This isn't accurate. This is not a recreation of the first century…" And there I was trying to release my own disgust with much of what passes for Christianity in
Bibleland by Daniel Amos, 1994
We're going out to Bibleland
by a Motel 6, and a burger stand
oasis there in the desert sand
We'll play all day on the Family Plan
in Bibleland
There's a fifty foot cross and a pearly door
a lions den where the lions roar
a manger scene on a revolving floor
a leper and a christian book store
in Bibleland
And something beautiful, something clean
behind the shabby bible scenes
Something real that built a dream
called Bibleland....
Midgets dressed up as Peter and Paul
a Christian rock band by the wailing wall
that Goliath guy makes us feel so small!
takes a half an hour just to see it all
It's Bibleland
A river of life and a pit of doom
Noah's arcade and an upper room
Canoes cross the
Jordan, there's an empty tomb
and three shows daily starring Debby Boone
in Bibleland
In the ruins and the waste
lurks the shadow of a perfect place
the mark of God on a stranger's face
in Bibleland


text:
Did you feel the 4.4 Los Angeles Earthquake Monday morning? Show us where by adding a pin to this map.
If you have a story to tell or suffered any damage, add that information to your locations description.
You can add points by other using the pin button and clicking on your location, or type your address in the search bar. Then click on the pin it creates and select "Add to Map."
To add points, click on "view larger map" or use this link: https://mapsengine.google.com/map/edit?mid=zkRLVh-7XO_8.kGZkSfzdaOvQ


text:
OCEAN CITY – Though some might be upset with the process, the result ended up being the same as originally proposed: MGH Advertising will design Ocean City's new website for approximately $178,000.
After a surprising motion proposed at Tuesday's work session by Councilman Doug Cymek that was quickly seconded by Councilwoman Mary Knight to go ahead with MGH's proposal to redesign the currently outdated www.ococean.com site, the council passed it in a 4-3 vote with members Joe Hall, Jim Hall, and Margaret Pillas in opposition.
The council was originally scheduled to vote on a neutral website that would be used as "model site" for companies to bid on in the Request For Proposals (RFP) process that is used for any project paid with town money exceeding $10,000.
Ironically, the same councilman that motioned for it to go to an RFP, changed his mind and gave his nod to MGH's original proposal for just over $178,000. Cymek, who is new to the council after his victory in the October election, researched Tourism Director Mike Noah's memorandum to the council outlining seven potential sites that could be used for the RFP and came to the decision that MGH was the best for the job and the price was right.
"After contacting the company that designed the majority of the sites that were listed in [Noah's] memo, I find the MGH price is very much in order, and I would feel very much at ease with making a motion that we proceed with them based on our prior relationship with them, and now knowing that their price is a fair one," said Cymek.
Though no one on the council feels that the current website should remain unchanged, some felt that the amount of money that a new site designed by the city's advertising agency, MGH, warranted a proper bidding process.
The most vocal against MGH's original proposal was Joe Hall, who echoed his continuing disdain for the way this issue has played out so far.
"My understanding of Doug's original motion was that we were going to develop an RFP for a site that would meet our needs," Joe Hall said. "I think I just sat down to a sales pitch for the original proposal, and heard nothing about the RFP that the motion respectfully asked staff to provide."
Noah and Assistant Tourism Director Deb Travers addressed the council on their findings in coming up with seven websites to decide upon in choosing an RFP and expressed a real concern about finding one that would have every feature that Ocean City wanted or needed in a website.
"We found that they were all custom to what they wanted," said Noah, "none of these sites have everything that we want, and the majority of them use their ad agency to design their website," Noah said. "We would love to have a site like Bermuda's, but we'd need a whole new food tax to pay for the $400,000 price tag."
It also became apparent that no one, even the motion's harshest critics, questioned the job that MGH would do, but rather were upset at skewing the usual process.
"I was prepared to vote for Charleston's website to be the RFP, and I thought that would be fair to choose an RFP site to be fair to MGH as they already brought a proposal before council that I thought was premature," Councilwoman Margaret Pillas said. "I want to see what else is out there and what makes the town and business community excited and if that's MGH, then great, but until then, my hand won't go up."
Mayor Rick Meehan tried to provide candor to the discussion several times acknowledging the council's "tough decision" citing that it was a move that was supported unanimously by the Tourism Commission, which has representatives from all major stakeholders in the town such as the Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association and the Chamber of Commerce.
"This is a process that started back in August, and you'll see in your packets, that you have signed letters from all these department heads approving this proposal from MGH. It's not just about the dollars, it's about the product that we are going to get in the end, and how it's going to represent us and our main industry of tourism," he said.
This whole process started back in late summer at a Tourism Commission meeting when several members asked Andy Malis, president of MGH, to do a proposal for a new site. Some on the commission, admittedly, like Pillas, thought that Malis was going to come back with a quote rather than a proposal.
"At the tourism commission, I thought I was voting for us to get information about updating our site, and to see what was out there, I didn't think they were going to do a whole proposal," said Pillas.
Either way, the process seemed to be the biggest thing in question here, and not the outcome, which everyone agreed was needed. It could be argued that the deciding factor inevitably came down to when the new site was going to get done and the endorsements from the various stakeholders represented in the Tourism Commission as echoed by Council President Joe Mitrecic.
"No. one, the people who wrote these letters fought for years to get the advertising budget raised and they are willing to allocate this money to MGH because they think it's that important," he said. "Number two, anyone we did hire to do this site would have to work directly with MGH to get the information about us, and MGH wouldn't do that for free. If we RFP'd it, we'd have to hire a consultant and we'd prolong the process and spend more money in the long run."
Councilman Lloyd Martin, who missed the majority of the discussions on this issue while on safari in Africa, said, "we need to get a site up and running this year, because you know that everyone is booking on the Internet nowadays. What this does is put the pressure on MGH to do a good job as their contract is expiring in July. If they want to keep their contract, they'll do a good job. This is going to be a tough year and we are going to need a good website this year."
The website may not solve all Ocean City's problems as stated by Councilman Jim Hall, who said "we could have a million dollar website, but it's still going to be a tough year", but at the very least the problem about who will design the website has been solved, albeit in a close and controversial 4-3 vote.


text:
Estornel's probably best known for his work as Maetrik, the pseudonym he uses for heavy, cavernous, occasionally ominous techno that would likely fit right in on the soundtrack of some particularly dark and esoteric sci-fi flick. There's little gloominess to be found on Life Index, though; the album is devoted to the relatively simple pleasures of straight-up house. While it may be more immediately pleasing and easier to get one's head around than the average Maetrik track, it's not exactly Top 40 material either, as Estornel's slow-burn version of house is rubbery, super deep and, very often, beautiful. It's also steeped in something else—soul.
That soul occasionally shows itself in self-evident fashion; "Vibe Your Love," for example, is more or less an elegant cover version of Stevie Wonder's "For Your Love" (complete with full lyrics), its emotive piano chords punctuated by odd, ascending bursts of what sounds like heavily treated vocal snippets. Elsewhere, the soul is implied: The chugging "Sleazy E" layers congas and a gorgeous, Eastern-tinged synth line over its funky-ass "Billie Jean"-style bassline, for instance, while the elegiac "Love You Mama" transforms from pastoral techno into a deep disco-funk groover. (Rather charmingly—and a bit bizarrely—that track also boasts a vocal steal from the 1970 AM-gold classic "Precious and Few" by Climax.) "Silo" adds staccato horn bursts to the template; "You & Me" overlays its strutting throb with a Detroit-esque chord progression right out of the Kevin Saunderson playbook; the otherworldly "Arise" ventures into lightly acidic, deep-bleep territory.
The set reaches its finale with "Bring It Back," a beautiful sigh of a cut, only slightly marred by the hackneyed "Detroit, bring it back / Chicago, bring it back" spoken-word lyrics. Truth be told, though, it's hard to argue with the sentiment; it's a heartfelt moment in an album brimming with them. As a bonus, the album is wonderfully recorded—every element is crystal clear, yet warm, thick and rounded throughout—and will undoubtedly sound great heaving through the speakers of a top-tier sound system.
Published /
Fri / 28 Jan 2011
Words /
Bruce Tantum
Tracklist /
01. Gravy Train
02. Sleazy E
03. The Feelin
04. Silo
05. You & Me
06. Vibe Your Love
07. Your Style
08. Arise
10. Dexter's Flight
11. Bring It Back


text:
In Reply to: The proverbial buffalo posted by john on April 16, 2010 at 18:04:
: : : : : A quick question - I'm translating a contemporary British novel, and ran into this sentence: "He will have to run headlong into it, like the proverbial buffalo into the storm." This seems to refer to some well-known idiom, but I can't think of any that would fit the bill. Any ideas?
: : : : You said the author is British, right? And there aren't any buffaloes native to Great Britain. Well, there are in the U.S. (although not in the northeast, where I live), and I've never heard such an expression. I can imagine buffaloes, like musk oxen, facing a storm, especially when protecting their young, but "run headlong" suggests a situation I'm not familiar with.
: : : : I do have a suggestion. Just translate what the author says, and don't worry about whether it makes sense or not.
: : : SS is of course right when he says there are no Buffalo in the British Isles, but then there are no lions or elephants either, and the Brits have phrases involving those...
: : : Having said that, I have never heard the phrase either, so if it is a genuine proverb it is presumably a fairly obscure one.
: : : I am led to suspect the original writer was using the word 'proverbial' in a 'loose' (ie 'wrong') sense, rather in the way some people use the word 'literally' when they actually mean nothing of the sort.
: An odd behavioural trait of the North American Bison (buffalo) is to stand and face into a storm rather than seeking shelter or turning away. With the thickest part of their coat being at the front and their massive head and shoulders to block the wind, this stance helps to protect their core temperature. I have heard the phrase "like a buffalo in a snow storm" to mean facing a challenge head-on rather than shying away or turning your back. This is the connection although it seems a little garbled. I can see no good coming from actually charging headlong into a prairie blizzard, even if I was a buffalo. That conjures up a sense of being foolhardy or fighting a battle that can't be won (farting against thunder?), instead of being steadfast.
I believe John when he says he has heard the phrase, "like a buffalo in a snow storm." The U.S Government (by way of the U.S. Cavalry) spent more than half a century trying to destroy all the buffalo on the continent. I'm surprised that there was enough interest to coin a phrase about buffalo behavior.
As to heading into the wind during a storm, I had the notion that that was a common behavior among bovines generally, even if there was no storm, but just a noticeable breeze. In any case, it's hard to imagine that prairie-swelling buffalo had any shelter to seek.
Not that I wish to flog a dead horse, but David has correctly pointed out that Brits have phrases referring to lions and elephants (although surely not many). There was a time when the sun never set on the British Empire, including lands where the lion and the elephant roamed. I have never heard, however, that the British flag ever flew over the North American prairie.


text:
Theme 1: My quest to find the BEST vegan Pad Thai and vegan chai in Portland.
Two of my favorite things. This is pretty self-explanatory. I've been on this quest since I've moved here, and thought since I'm searching anyway, I might as well document my experiences to help others! I would provide reviews and photos of the area's offerings and probably post some recipes too.
|Oh man. This is the best Pad Thai: From Vientiane in West Philly.
Theme 2: My experience as a veganic gardener in the Pacific Northwest.
I love gardening. And have started documenting my journey from turning a weed-infested outdoor space into the lush permaculture paradise I hope it will be one day. This is a pretty expansive theme and would cover everything from before/after photos of our patio project to instructional planting posts to product reviews to recipes made from homegrown ingredients and more. Like the doggle photos? Well, there'd be more of them in this approach!
|Little tomato seedlings from last year.
Whichever theme I go with, I will likely have "random post" days, where I'd post a recipe or a chair makeover or photos from a trip to the coast. Also, during the Vegan Month of Food, you can expect a departure from the regular theme and instead find recipes galore.
So, what do you think??


text: My pals over at Industrial Toys have just released a glimpse of one of the enemies you'll face in Morning Star, the video game I am working on with them. Meet the Renfield. Yes, he looks goofy. He is goofy. He can also totally murder your ass several times. I know from experience, y'all. Come learn a little bit about him at the Industrial Toys site.


text:
/* crypto/hmac/hmac.h */ /* Copyright (C) 1995-1998 Eric Young (firstname.lastname@example.com) * All rights reserved. * * This package is an SSL implementation written * by Eric Young (firstname.lastname@example.com). * The implementation was written so as to conform with Netscapes SSL. * * This library is free for commercial and non-commercial use as long as * the following conditions are aheared to. The following conditions * apply to all code found in this distribution, be it the RC4, RSA, * lhash, DES, etc., code; not just the SSL code. The SSL documentation * included with this distribution is covered by the same copyright terms * except that the holder is Tim Hudson (firstname.lastname@example.com). * * Copyright remains Eric Young's, and as such any Copyright notices in * the code are not to be removed. * If this package is used in a product, Eric Young should be given attribution * as the author of the parts of the library used. * This can be in the form of a textual message at program startup or * in documentation (online or textual) provided with the package. * * Redistribution and use in source and binary forms, with or without * modification, are permitted provided that the following conditions * are met: * 1. Redistributions of source code must retain the copyright * notice, this list of conditions and the following disclaimer. * 2. Redistributions in binary form must reproduce the above copyright * notice, this list of conditions and the following disclaimer in the * documentation and/or other materials provided with the distribution. * 3. All advertising materials mentioning features or use of this software * must display the following acknowledgement: * "This product includes cryptographic software written by * Eric Young (firstname.lastname@example.com)" * The word 'cryptographic' can be left out if the rouines from the library * being used are not cryptographic related :-). * 4. If you include any Windows specific code (or a derivative thereof) from * the apps directory (application code) you must include an acknowledgement: * "This product includes software written by Tim Hudson (firstname.lastname@example.com)" * * THIS SOFTWARE IS PROVIDED BY ERIC YOUNG ``AS IS'' AND * ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE * IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE * ARE DISCLAIMED. IN NO EVENT SHALL THE AUTHOR OR CONTRIBUTORS BE LIABLE * FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, EXEMPLARY, OR CONSEQUENTIAL * DAMAGES (INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, PROCUREMENT OF SUBSTITUTE GOODS * OR SERVICES; LOSS OF USE, DATA, OR PROFITS; OR BUSINESS INTERRUPTION) * HOWEVER CAUSED AND ON ANY THEORY OF LIABILITY, WHETHER IN CONTRACT, STRICT * LIABILITY, OR TORT (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE OR OTHERWISE) ARISING IN ANY WAY * OUT OF THE USE OF THIS SOFTWARE, EVEN IF ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF * SUCH DAMAGE. * * The licence and distribution terms for any publically available version or * derivative of this code cannot be changed. i.e. this code cannot simply be * copied and put under another distribution licence * [including the GNU Public Licence.] */ #ifndef HEADER_HMAC_H #define HEADER_HMAC_H #include <openssl/opensslconf.h> #ifdef OPENSSL_NO_HMAC #error HMAC is disabled. #endif #include <openssl/evp.h> #define HMAC_MAX_MD_CBLOCK 128 /* largest known is SHA512 */ #ifdef __cplusplus extern "C" { #endif typedef struct hmac_ctx_st { const EVP_MD *md; EVP_MD_CTX md_ctx; EVP_MD_CTX i_ctx; EVP_MD_CTX o_ctx; unsigned int key_length; unsigned char key[HMAC_MAX_MD_CBLOCK]; } HMAC_CTX; #define HMAC_size(e) (EVP_MD_size((e)->md)) void HMAC_CTX_init(HMAC_CTX *ctx); void HMAC_CTX_cleanup(HMAC_CTX *ctx); #define HMAC_cleanup(ctx) HMAC_CTX_cleanup(ctx) /* deprecated */ int HMAC_Init(HMAC_CTX *ctx, const void *key, int len, const EVP_MD *md); /* deprecated */ int HMAC_Init_ex(HMAC_CTX *ctx, const void *key, int len, const EVP_MD *md, ENGINE *impl); int HMAC_Update(HMAC_CTX *ctx, const unsigned char *data, size_t len); int HMAC_Final(HMAC_CTX *ctx, unsigned char *md, unsigned int *len); unsigned char *HMAC(const EVP_MD *evp_md, const void *key, int key_len, const unsigned char *d, size_t n, unsigned char *md, unsigned int *md_len); int HMAC_CTX_copy(HMAC_CTX *dctx, HMAC_CTX *sctx); void HMAC_CTX_set_flags(HMAC_CTX *ctx, unsigned long flags); #ifdef __cplusplus } #endif #endif
|Add build results for Windows 32 bit with VS 2010


text:
(a) In lieu of lawful money of the United States, any person, firm or corporation may compensate employees for services by cash order which may include checks, direct deposits or money orders on banks convenient to the place of employment where suitable arrangements have been made for the cashing of the checks by employees or deposit of funds for employees for the full amount of wages.
(b) Whenever a person, firm or corporation discharges an employee, or whenever an employee quits or resigns from employment, the person, firm or corporation shall pay the employee's wages due for work that the employee performed prior to the separation of employment on or before the next regular payday on which the wages would otherwise be due and payable: Provided, That fringe benefits, as defined in section one of this article, that are provided an employee pursuant to an agreement between the employee and employer and that are due, but pursuant to the terms of the agreement, are to be paid at a future date or upon additional conditions which are ascertainable are not subject to this subsection and are not payable on or before the next regular payday, but shall be paid according to the terms of the agreement. For purposes of this section, "business day" means any day other than Saturday, Sunday or any legal holiday as set forth in section one, article two, chapter two of this code.
(c) Payment under this section may be made in person in any manner permissible under section three of this article, through the regular pay channels or, if requested by the employee, by mail. If the employee requests that payment under this section be made by mail, that payment shall be considered to have been made on the date the mailed payment is postmarked.
(d) When work of any employee is suspended as a result of a labor dispute, or when an employee for any reason whatsoever is laid off, the person, firm or corporation shall pay in full to the employee not later than the next regular payday, either through the regular pay channels or by mail if requested by the employee, wages earned at the time of suspension or layoff.
(e) If a person, firm or corporation fails to pay an employee wages as required under this section, the person, firm or corporation, in addition to the amount which was unpaid when due, is liable to the employee for two times that unpaid amount as liquidated damages. This section regulates the timing of wage payments upon separation from employment and not whether overtime pay is due. Liquidated damages that can be awarded under this section are not available to employees claiming they were misclassified as exempt from overtime under state and federal wage and hour laws. Every employee shall have a lien and all other rights and remedies for the protection and enforcement of his or her salary or wages, as he or she would have been entitled to had he or she rendered service therefor in the manner as last employed; except that, for the purpose of liquidated damages, the failure shall not be deemed to continue after the date of the filing of a petition in bankruptcy with respect to the employer if he or she is adjudicated bankrupt upon the petition.
FindLaw Codes are provided courtesy of Thomson Reuters Westlaw, the industry-leading online legal research system. For more detailed codes research information, including annotations and citations, please visit Westlaw.
FindLaw Codes may not reflect the most recent version of the law in your jurisdiction. Please verify the status of the code you are researching with the state legislature or via Westlaw before relying on it for your legal needs.


text:
Salaam and Greetings of Peace:
Happy New Year 2010 to all my Brothers and Sister of every faith and race and creed around the world! May God bless you all this year with health, happiness, wisdom, and love, so that we may better serve God by serving His creation. I can think of no better resolution for the New Year than to try and live up to these true words:
Everybody can be great…because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love. – Martin Luther King, Jr.
Ya Haqq!


text:
New Research Shows Digitization Results In Routine Lock-Down Of Public Domain Books
from the what-about-our-rights? deptThe public domain is supposed to be what we receive in return for, and after the expiry of, time-limited, government-backed intellectual monopolies that are granted to creators. As Mike noted recently, that neat equation does not reflect today's reality for copyright, where the situation is so complicated that it requires a 52-page handbook to determine whether or not something is in the public domain.
But the situation is actually far worse than that, because the public is being denied access to many works that are unambiguously in the public domain because of new restrictions being placed on them when they are digitized. That's something that Techdirt has discussed before, but such stories have been largely anecdotal. Research from New Zealand provides us with more detailed information of what's going on:
In order to establish the extent to which digitized public domain books are being restricted, a sample of 100 pre-1890 books was selected from the New Zealand National Bibliography (NZNB). This sample was chosen on the assumption that these works had entered the public domain under New Zealand copyright law. Each book in the sample was searched for within six online repositories: Google Books, Hathi Trust, Internet Archive, Early New Zealand Books (ENZB), New Zealand Electronic Text Collection (NZETC) and Project Gutenberg. In addition, Google and Bing searches were conducted for all sample books that could not be located within these repositories.Here's what the researchers discovered:
The findings of this research suggest that a high proportion of digitized public domain books are being restricted by online repositories. Out of a sample of 100 public domain books, only three are hosted by repositories that do not impose any form of usage restriction. Furthermore, 48 percent (24) of all digitized books [50 out of the 100 public domain sample] are hosted by a repository that restricts or blocks access, with the most restrictive repository limiting or blocking access to 91 percent (21) of sample books within its collection.They also managed to pinpoint the key problem:
Almost all access restrictions applied to public domain books within the sample were the result of repositories using a process of estimation to assess copyright status. Within the sample, a one-minute search located accurate biographical information about authors two-thirds of the time. This task takes a fraction of the time required to digitize a book, which involves 30 minutes to scan 500 pages (Kelly, 2006).A solution is the following:
Digitizers should incorporate the sourcing of copyright information within the overall process of digitization, and copyright estimation should only be used as an option of last resort. Furthermore, copyright estimation periods should better reflect statistical norms regarding the actual duration of copyright protection. The current estimation period of 140 years, used by Google Books and Hathi Trust, is far too conservative. If hosted under this policy, 47 percent of sample books would be restricted. This is despite the fact that all books with locatable biographical information were confirmed as being in the public domain for between 30 and 132 years.This goes back to the problem of determining whether a work is in the public domain or not. Because that can be complex, those carrying out the digitization of works simply assume the worst, just to be on the safe side. That's something that needs to change, otherwise we risk losing not just the benefits of digitized public domain works, but also our undoubted rights to access them freely.
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Filed Under: archives, books, copyright, ebooks, libraries, lockdown, new zealand, public domain