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Baseball America will release its Dodger top 10 list on Dec. 2. Baseball Prospectus, FanGraphs and Minor League Ball have yet to release their Dodger top prospect lists.
The Dodgers graduated a lot of quality players from the 2011 list: Jerry Sands, Dee Gordon, Kenley Jansen, Scott Elbert and Javy Guerra (who didn't make my Top 30). When losing that many good players, impact and depth are bound to suffer. The plus side is, the Major League team should thrive (in theory).
All players who have not reached 50 innings pitched, 130 at-bats in the Major Leagues and have less than 45 days of pre-Sept. 1 service time are eligible for this list. Ages are as of April 1, 2012.
Impact potential: C+
- The system is stacked with quality right-handed starters and outfielders. There isn't that one big-time prospect who really draws the attention of people around the game. Still, there could be a few quality Major League starters in the bunch.
Depth: C-
- The system is deep in RHPs and OFs. The system lacks quality infielders, though, the catching depth is a little better after some players emerged and some were acquired via trade and the draft.
Top 50 Dodgers' Prospects for 2012
1. Zach Lee, RHP (6'4, 190, 20 years old)
- Lee was the Dodgers' 2010 first-round pick and signed for a club-record $5.25 million. Many thought he was destined for LSU, but the Dodgers signed him on the last day. Unlike last season, the Dodgers have an unquestioned No. 1 prospect, and it's Lee. His legitimate four-pitch repertoire and mound presence give him the edge over the other players vying for the No. 1 spot. His fastball can touch 96 MPH and sits in the low 90s. His slider is along the lines of Chad Billingsley's cutter and has the makings of a plus pitch. His changeup is raw or advanced, depending who you believe. It has the potential to be a plus pitch. He also has a curveball, which could be a decent pitch in the future. In his first season, he performed well for the Great Lakes Loons. Going forward, he'll need to miss some more bats. The development of his slider/cutter and changeup are vital for his success.
2011 ranking: 4
2012 location: High-A Rancho Cucamonga/Double-A Chattanooga
2. Nathan Eovaldi, RHP (6'3, 195, 22 years old)
- Eovaldi was an afterthought to most before 2011. However, his strong showing at Double-A not only put his name back on the prospect radar, but also made him a legitimate prospect. Eovaldi uses a low-to-mid-90s fastball with lots of movement. His slider is below average and his changeup is virtually non-existent. Because of that, there are questions where he'll end up. Some think he can develop those off-speed pitches and be a legitimate middle-of-the-rotation starter. Others think if he works on his slider and ditches the changeup, he could be a nasty reliever -- possibly even a closer. His debut with the Dodgers last season was unexpected and he's slotted as the team's No. 4 starter at this moment (pending Hiroki Kuroda's re-signing or another free agent signee).
2011 ranking: 28
2012 location: Majors/Triple-A Albuquerque
ETA: Now
3. Allen Webster, RHP (6'3, 185, 22 years old)
- Webster started the 2011 season on fire, dominating the California League. He was so good he was called up to Double-A. In Chattanooga, he continued to pitch well until August. He had a string of three poor starts which really inflated his numbers. However, Webster still possesses a No. 2 starter ceiling. His fastball sits in the low-90s with movement. His curveball is his best secondary offering and has a chance to be a plus pitch. His changeup is much more advanced than Eovaldi's, which gives him a better chance of sticking in the rotation. At 21, he was pitching against competition mostly older than him. He could either start in Double-A if the Dodgers are afraid of sending him to Triple-A.
2011 ranking: 6
2012 location: Double-A/Triple-A Albuquerque
ETA: mid-2012
4. Garrett Gould, RHP (6'4, 190, 20 years old)
- Gould has always been one of my favorite prospects and he's back on track after a somewhat down 2010. He teamed with Lee and another Loon (soon to come) to form one of the best 1-2-3 punches in the Midwest League. His fastball sat in the high-80s-to-low-90s. If he wants to be a potential top-of-the-rotation guy, his fastball velocity needs to be in the low-90s. His off-speed offerings are solid, including the best curveball in the system. It sits in the mid-70s and has good bite. His changeup is an average pitch right now. He might need to develop a fourth pitch down the road. He'll be challenged in the hitter-friendly California League with a possible midseason call-up to Double-A.
2011 ranking: 13
2012 location: High-A Rancho Cucamonga/Double-A Chattanooga
ETA: late-2013
5. Angel Sanchez, RHP (6'3, 185, 21 years old)
- Sanchez seemingly came out of nowhere in 2011. The 21-year-old signed out of the Dominican Republic last year and had a stellar professional debut. He teamed with Lee and Gould to form a potent 1-2-3 punch in the Midwest League. His fastball has been clocked as high as 97 MPH and works in the low-90s. He has a solid curveball and changeup. With his stuff, he should be getting more strikeouts. He also needs to work on his control a bit. But it was his professional debut, so I think we can cut him a little slack.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: High-A Rancho Cucamonga/Double-A Chattanooga
ETA: mid-2013
6. Joc Pederson, CF/LF, (6'1, 185, 20 years old)
- The first non-RHP pitcher on this list, Pederson was an 11th-round steal for the Dodgers in the 2010 draft. He started last season with the Loons, and he struggled mightily (.160/.288/.160). He was sent to Ogden where he flourished. He had a .997 OPS and a surprising 24 stolen bases. His tools grade out as average across the board. He could improve in a few areas as he matures as a player. He's going to stick in center field right now, where he has average defensive tools. He could end up in either corner if he has to move. That would decrease his overall value a bit, but not too much.
2011 ranking: 16
2012 location: Low-A Great Lakes/High-A Rancho Cucamonga
7. Angelo Songco, 1B/LF (6'0, 195, 23 years old)
- One of my personal favorites, Songco had a breakout season in the California League. He led the league in total bases (310), doubles (48), was second in home runs (29) and RBI (114) and was third in runs scored (110). The league is hitter-friendly, but those are still solid numbers. Songco also improved against left-handed pitching in 2011, something he needed to improve upon from last year. Originally an outfielder, the Quakes moved him to first base in the middle of last season. He doesn't have much defensive value but also shouldn't be a liability in the field -- at 1B or OF.
2011 ranking: 22
2012 location: Double-A Chattanooga/Triple-A Albuquerque
ETA: late-2013
8. Shawn Tolleson, RHP (6'2, 215, 24 years old)
- Tolleson was regarded as a 30th-round steal in the 2010 draft, and he proved it in 2011. He had major success across three levels of the minor leagues. His performance in the Midwest League was downright silly: 19.8 K/9, 4.8 H/9, 8.25 K/BB ratio. He was promoted to Rancho and only had a 15.8 K/9 rate. He pitched the majority of the season for the Lookouts, where he had a 1.62 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, 11.2 K/9 and 12 saves. He uses his low-to-mid 90s fastball and a wipeout slider to accumulate all those strikeouts. He should get a taste of the majors in 2012, but I don't think they'll send him to Albuquerque.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Double-A Chattanooga/Majors
ETA: early-2012
9. Blake Smith, RF (6'2, 225, 24 years old)
- Another one of my favorites, Smith has plus raw power and plus defensive ability in right field. He had a great season in 2011, despite missing a good portion of it because of a sports hernia. His .898 OPS in the Cal League is impressive. He reduced his strikeout rate slightly (from 27.4 percent to 26.8 percent) and increased his Isolated Power (ISO) from .207 in 2010 to .275 in 2011. His arm is second to no outfielder in the system as he recorded 13 outfield assists for the Quakes. That is not surprising, seeing as some teams saw him as a pitcher in the 2009 draft. It'll be interesting to see how he handles advanced pitching, but with his raw power and plus defense, he could be an everyday big leaguer down the road.
2011 ranking: 15
2012 location: Double-A Chattanooga/Triple-A Albuquerque
ETA: late-2013
10. Jake Lemmerman, SS/2B (6'1, 192, 22 years old)
- Lemmerman is the Dodgers' best middle infield prospect. The fifth-round pick out of Duke in 2010 had a nice season for the Quakes and Lookouts. Unsurprisingly, he struggled more at Double-A than he did at High-A. However, all the tools are there for him to be a solid Major League player. He was touted for his glove coming out of the draft, but he's made a lot of errors. While errors aren't a great indicator of defensive ability, he does need to cut down on those if he wishes to stick at shortstop. Even if he does, he still might be a better fit at second base. He isn't going to hit for a lot of power, but he could end up being an ideal No. 2 hitter.
2011 ranking: 18
2012 location: Double-A Chattanooga/Triple-A AlbuquerqueETA: late-2013
11. Alfredo Silverio, LF/RF (6'0, 205, 24 years old)
- Silverio had a breakout season in 2011, leading the Southern League in total bases (289) and triples (18) while finishing second in double (42) and hits (163). He played a lot of center field for the Lookouts but he's destined for a corner -- left field, as his arm isn't strong enough for right field. It took a long time, but he finally broke out. Still, his plate discipline could use some work. If he improves that, he could be an everyday outfielder. He could be one of the first guys called up if the Dodgers need an outfielder.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Triple-A Albuquerque
ETA: late-2012
12. Chris Withrow, RHP (6'3, 195, 23 years old)
- Withrow could have the most potential of any player in the Dodgers' system, but his inability to throw strikes consistently has hampered his development. The 2007 first-round pick had a much better season in the Southern League after repeating it. Still, his BB/9 was up from 2010 (5.2 compared to 4.8) and his K/BB ratio dipped by .01 (1.74 to 1.73). His K/9 did rise (8.3 to 9.1), which is encouraging. His fastball sits in the low-90s and can reach the mid-to-upper-90s. His curveball is one of the system's best. After that, his other pitches aren't much to speak of. He could find himself in the bullpen if he doesn't put it all together this season.
2011 ranking: 10
2012 location: Double-A Chattanooga/Triple-A Albuquerque
ETA: late-2012
13. Gorman Erickson, C (6'4, 220, 24 years old)
- A 15th-round pick in 2006, Erickson finally broke out in 2011. His career hadn't been much to this point, but his time with the Quakes really put him on the map. He had a triple slash of .293/.379/.486 in Rancho and earned a promotion to Double-A. He started off hitting for some pop there before sliding a bit late in the season. Still, his power potential and plate discipline from the catching position are cause for optimism. He is unprotected for December's Rule 5 Draft and I wouldn't be shocked if a team took a chance on him. But he's the best catching prospect the Dodgers have and has some potential.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Low-A Great Lakes/High-A Rancho Cucamonga
14. Josh Lindblom, RHP (6'5, 240, 24 years old)
- After a couple failed years in the rotation, the Dodgers moved Lindblom to the bullpen. He had the most success of his career in this role. He had a good showing at Chattanooga (2.13 ERA, 1.04 WHIP, 11.5 K/9) and in Los Angeles (2.73 ERA, 1.04 WHIP, 8.5 K/9). He has a heavy, sinking low-90s fastball and a decent slider. He should be a fixture in a Major League bullpen for years to come. He has the ability to close, but with guys like Javy Guerra, Kenley Jansen and Eovaldi ahead of him, he'll be relegated to middle relief.
2011 ranking: 24
2012 location: Majors
ETA: Now
15. Scott Van Slyke, LF/RF/1B (6'5, 195, 25 years old)
- Tall and slender like his father, Andy, Scott had an MVP-type season for the Lookouts. His 45 doubles and .348 batting average led the league (minimum 300 at-bats) while placing second in on-base percentage (.427), slugging percentage (.595), OPS (1.022), total bases (272) and third in RBI (92). The biggest knock on him is his age and the fact he repeated the league. Still, he absolutely crushed left-handed pitching (1.143 OPS) and can play either corner outfield spot or first base. He could make his Major League debut later this year.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Triple-A Albuquerque/Majors
ETA: mid-2012
16. James Baldwin, CF (6'3, 190, 20 years old)
- Baldwin might be the position player with the most talent and potential in the system. His power/speed combination reminds many of Matt Kemp, including Logan White. He's yet to play above rookie ball ball, but that's common for a 20-year-old. He posted an .828 OPS with the Ogden Raptors. He hit 10 home runs in 196 at-bats, which was up from two home runs in 179 at-bats in his debut season. He also stole 22 bases in 27 attempts. There are two things he really needs to work on: his plate discipline (27:134 BB:K ratio in his career) and his performance against left-handed pitching (.183/.300/.367 in 2011). His defense in center field is good and he should have no problem staying there as he climbs the ladder. He should move up this list next season, as long as he progresses and doesn't regress.2011 ranking: 23
2012 location: Low-A Great Lakes
17. Steve Ames, RHP (6'1, 205, 24 years old)- Ames is another good relief prospect the Dodgers have in the minors. His 2011 season, while not Tolleson good, was pretty damn impressive. He pitched for the Quakes and Lookouts, posting a combined 2.06 ERA, 1.15 WHIP, 7.9 H/9, 2.4 BB/9, 12.9 K/9 and a 5.31 K/BB ratio. He, like Tolleson, uses a two-pitch arsenal to get guys out. His fastball can reach the mid-90s and his breaking ball is his out pitch. Also like Tolleson, Ames could find himself in Los Angeles before the end of the season.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Double-A Chattanooga/Triple-A AlbuquerqueETA: mid-2012
18. Leon Landry, CF (5'11, 185, 22 years old)
- I had really high hopes for Landry coming into the season, ranking him No. 9 in the organization. However, his 2011 season was a disappointment. He still has plenty of talent to turn things around, though. Despite his poor .250/.307/.360 slash line, he did steal 28 bases (albeit in 40 attempts) and struck out in just 12.1 percent of his at-bats. He also can pick it in center field. He's the best defensive outfielder in the system. I still see him as a poor man's Carl Crawford, but he'll have to make some strides this season. He might start at Great Lakes again.
2011 ranking: 9
2012 location: Low-A Great Lakes/High-A Rancho Cucamonga
ETA: late-2013
19. Chris Reed, LHP (6'4, 195, 21 years old)
- Reed was the team's first-round pick in 2011 and most fans were baffled by the move. The Dodgers wasted no time testing him, as he made his debut with the Quakes in High-A. He pitched in only three regular season games. He had a solid performance in the California League playoffs: 5 IP, 4 H, 1 R, 7 K. He profiles similarly to Aaron Miller -- both left-handed, both college pitchers, both tried as starters, both might be better as relievers. Reed has a low-90s fastball, a low-80s slider and a changeup. The Dodgers are going to try him as a starter, but I'm betting he ends up as a reliever. He could move quickly through the system.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: High-A Rancho Cucamonga/Double-A Chattanooga
20. O'Koyea Dickson, 1B (5'11, 215, 22 years old)
- Dickson was a 12th-round pick in the 2011 draft and wasn't given a great chance to succeed. However, he went to Ogden and showed he could hit a little, posting a slash line of .333/.402/.603. He hit a team-high-tying 13 home runs. His performance was surprising and it'll be interesting to see how he does as he moves up the ladder. This ranking might be a little aggressive, but I'm willing to stand behind it.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Low-A Great Lakes
21. Alex Castellanos, OF/IF (5'11, 180, 25 years old)- Castellanos was acquired for Rafael Furcal before the trade deadline and continued his torrid season. His performance gives hope that he'll be more than roster fodder. But right now, he's a man without a position. He played outfield exclusively last season, but the Dodgers are giving him some reps at first base. He's also played second- and third base in the minors. If he could nail down either second- or third base, that'd give him the fastest path to the Majors. He could see some time with the Dodgers this season.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Triple-A Albuquerque/Majors
ETA: mid-2012
22. Jonathan Garcia, RF (5'11, 175, 20 years old)
- Garcia started the season on fire, belting seven home runs and accumulating a .945 OPS in April. The only other month he had of an OPS better than .800 was June (.846). The other months did not treat him kindly. Still, as a 19-year-old in the Midwest League, Garcia showed signs of ability. Despite his small frame, he as some raw power. He just needs to do a better job of making contact. His defense is solid and his arm is good enough to stick in right field.
2011 ranking: 12
2012 location: High-A Rancho Cucamonga
ETA: late-2014
23. Pratt Maynard, C (6'0, 190, 21 years old)
- Maynard was the team's third-round pick in 2011. I thought he was the best choice, in terms of value, in the Dodgers' draft. He is a solid defensive catcher with some hitting ability. He probably won't hit for a lot of power, but he could hit well enough for a catcher. I expect him to be the team's long-term catcher if Erickson doesn't quite work out.
2010 ranking: Not ranked
2011 location: Pioneer Rookie League/Low-A Great LakesETA: mid-2014
24. Aaron Miller, LHP (6'3, 200, 24 years old)
- The 2009 first-round pick has dealt with injuries in his brief career, and 2011 was no exception. He had a decent ERA with the Quakes, but his peripherals told a different story: 1.62 WHIP, 9.8 H/9, 4.8 BB/9, 1.67 K/BB. Miller still has a low-90s fastball and, at times, a sharp slider. He also has a changeup, but it's easily his No. 3 pitch. He seems destined for the bullpen. He could be a power lefty out of the 'pen. He needs to regain his control if he wants to be a factor from here on out.
2011 ranking: 8
2012 location: Double-A Chattanooga
25. Scott Schebler, CF (6'1, 208, 21 years old)
- Schebler was one of the Raptors' best hitters this season and has the ability to play center field. His power/speed combination is intriguing, even though he stole only one base in 2011. There is one glaring negative in Schebler's game -- he struck out 97 times in 295 plate appearances (30.8 percent). He's going to have to improve upon that as he moves up the ladder.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Low-A Great Lakes
26. Logan Bawcom, RHP (6'2, 200, 23 years old)
- Bawcom is a lot like Tolleson and Ames and could move up the ladder just as quickly. He struggled just a tad when he was promoted to Rancho, but his strikeout rate didn't suffer. He had an 11.1 K/9 with the Loons and 11.6 with the Quakes in his first full professional season. The 2010 17th-rounder has a low-90s fastball, a slider and a changeup. He should get a full season at Double-A.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Double-A Chattanooga
ETA: mid-2013
27. Justin Boudreaux, SS (6'1, 190, 22 years old)
- Boudreaux was a 14th-round steal for the Dodgers in the 2011 draft. His debut was solid, but there's definitely room for improvement. He did go an impressive 17-for-17 in stolen base attempts and has surprisingly good plate discipline. If he makes it and stays with the Dodgers, his future could be at second base. But he's good enough to stick at shortstop.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Low-A Great Lakes
ETA: late-2014
28. Josh Wall, RHP (6'6, 218, 25 years old)- Wall, the Dodgers' second-round pick in 2005, was originally slated to be a front-of-the-rotation starter. However, after five years of starting, the Dodgers finally moved him to the bullpen. In that role, he had a lot more success. His fastball can get into the mid-90s as a reliever and a decent curveball and changeup. With his stuff, he should probably be missing more bats. He did have the second-best K/9 of his career in 2011 (7.5). He could be a late-bloomer/sleeper prospect.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Double-A Chattanooga/Triple-A AlbuquerqueETA: 2013
29. Scott McGough, RHP (6'0, 170, 22 years old)
- The team's fifth round pick in the 2011 draft, McGough enjoyed success in the Midwest League -- and that was after his promotion from Ogden, where he struggled. His 11.4 K/9 and 2.1 BB/9 are good-looking peripherals and he could be the next in the line of strong right-handed Dodger relief prospects.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Low-A Great Lakes/High-A Rancho Cucamonga
30. Tim Federowicz, C (5'11, 200, 24 years old)
- Federowicz was acquired as the main piece in the deal that sent Trayvon Robinson to the Red Sox (then subsequently the Mariners). He's been touted for his glove and could have a long and established Major League career. But he'll need to prove he can hit enough to be an everyday player. He was 2-for-13 in his brief debut. He could see significant time with the Dodgers this season, provided the A.J. Ellis/Matt Treanor duo doesn't work out.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Triple-A Albuquerque/Majors
ETA: Now
31. Alex Santana, 3B (6'4, 200, 18 years old)
- Santana was the Dodgers' second-round pick in the 2011 draft and while he was overdrafted, scouts still like his potential and talent. As expected, he struggled in his debut as a 17-year-old. He hit only .238/.298/.339 for the Arizona League Dodgers. There's no need to rush him or expect him to move quickly throughout the system. He's already big for his age and could conceivably grow out of the position. But for now, he's the Dodgers' future at the hot corner.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Arizona Rookie League/Pioneer Rookie League
32. Ralston Cash, RHP (6'1, 197, 20 years old)
- Cash was the Dodgers' second-round pick in 2010 and despite a less-than-stellar debut, had some buzz about him going into the season. However, a hip injury kept him out for the entire 2011 season. He still profiles as a middle-of-the-rotation starter with his three-pitch arsenal (low-90s fastball, slider and changeup).
2011 ranking: 20
2012 location: Arizona Rookie League/Pioneer Rookie League
ETA: late-2014
33. Derek Cone, RHP (6'5, 210, 21 years old)
- Cone played in three different leagues in 2011 and didn't have much success at any level. He did have a strong 9.6 K/9 rate, but everything else was poor. Still, Cone has a lot of potential as a 31st-round steal in last year's draft.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Pioneer Rookie League/Low-A Great Lakes
34. Juan Rodriguez, RHP (6'5, 195, 23 years old)
- Rodriguez was another piece acquired in the Robinson deal and has electric stuff. Much like Martin, though, he struggles to throw strikes (though, not on that level). His fastball has been clocked as high as 100 MPH and has a slider to go along with it. If he could learn to throw strikes consistently, he'd be a nice option out of the bullpen.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Low-A Great Lakes/High-A Rancho Cucamonga
ETA: late-2013
35. Javier Solano, RHP (6'0, 177, 22 years old)
- Solano is an interesting character. He finished 2010 with the Lookouts but still found himself back at Rancho Cucamonga for the start of the 2011 season. He was later promoted to Chattanooga and pitched a tad better there than he did with the Quakes. He could be a middle relief option in a few years, but he needs to not give up as many hits as he has. His control is decent and he can get a strikeout when he needs to.
2011 ranking: 25
2012 location: Double-A Chattanooga
ETA: late-2014
36. Noel Cuevas, CF (6'2, 187, 20 years old)
- Cuevas was a nice snag in the 21st round of the 2010 draft. He actually began 2011 with the Quakes, as the club needed an extra outfielder. He then was sent to Ogden where he performed well, especially for a 19-year-old. He has a decent power/speed combination and plays a good enough center field to stick there defensively for a little while. He could eventually end up in left field.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Low-A Great Lakes/High-A Rancho Cucamonga
37. Ethan Martin, RHP (6'2, 195, 22 years old)
- Martin is turning out to be one of the biggest busts in recent Dodger draft history. Martin just simply cannot throw strikes. His career 6.1 BB/9 rate is proof of that. But when he does, he gets strikeouts (9.6 K/9). When he was curiously promoted to Double-A, he worked almost exclusively out of the bullpen and enjoyed more overall success, but still struggled. If the Dodgers were ever going to convert him to third base, now would be the time.
2011 ranking: 14
2012 location: Double-A Chattanooga
38. Jesus Valdez, SS/3B (6'3, 180, 20 years old)
- Another 2011 draftee, Valdez enjoyed moderate success in his first 23 professional games. He showed the willingness to take a walk and a little pop. He played nearly all his games at first base, but the Dodgers would be wise to try him at third base before they settle on first base.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Pioneer Rookie League
39. Cole St. Clair, LHP (6'5, 225, 25 years old)
- St. Clair is one of the Dodgers who is closest to the Majors and could very well see time there this season -- but maybe not with the Dodgers. He was left unprotected for the Rule 5 Draft and could be snagged by another team. His stuff isn't great, but it's good enough to post a career line of 3.42 ERA, 1.28 WHIP and 9.5 K/9.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Double-A Chattanooga/Triple-A Albuquerque
ETA: late-2012
40. Ivan DeJesus, 2B (5'11, 200, 24 years old)
- DeJesus began last season with the Dodgers but failed to make an impression on the team club. He spent most of the season in Triple-A and didn't earn a call-up in September. He apparently doesn't figure into the Dodgers' future plans. Still, he could be a serviceable utility man in the Majors at some point -- if he can learn to hit big league pitching.
2011 ranking: 21
2012 location: Triple-A Albuquerque/Majors
ETA: Now
41. Christopher O'Brien, C (6'0, 219, 22 years old)
- O'Brien definitely has enough bat to stick behind the dish, posting a .292/.358/.494 line in both Rookie Ball leagues. There are questions whether the 18th-round pick can stick behind the dish defensively. He could be destined for first base before too long, but for now, he'll stay behind the plate where the Dodgers could use the depth.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Pioneer Rookie League/Low-A Great Lakes
42. Brandon Martinez, RHP (6'4, 150, 21 years old)
- Martinez has been in the organization since 2009 and has improved every year. He's had a rough go of it so far, but he also has some ability. His fastball sits in the low-90s, his breaking ball is average and his changeup is a work in progress. If he could harness the other two pitches, he could raise his stock. He should pitch above Rookie Ball for the first time in his career.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Low-A Great Lakes
43. Kyle Russell, RF (6'5, 195, 25 years old)
- Russell has a ton of power potential and good defensive ability, but he can't shake the strikeout bug. He struck out in 35.6 percent of his at-bats in 2011 and while that was down from 2010, it's still not good enough to be a Major League regular. He got a late-season promotion to Triple-A and should begin 2012 there.
2011 ranking: 27
2012 location: Triple-A Albuquerque
ETA: late-2012
44. Yimi Garcia, RHP (6'1, 175, 21 years old)
- Garcia was signed out of the Dominican Republic at age 18 and enjoyed success in his profession debut. His second year, however, was not successful. He posted an ugly 7.04 ERA and 1.79 WHIP in 2010 before rebounding this season with Ogden. He struck out 12.2 batters per nine innings and could skyrocket up this list with a successful 2012 against advanced competition.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Low-A Great Lakes
45. Matt Magill, RHP (6'3, 190, 22 years old)
- The knock on Magill is his stuff wasn't going to play well as he moved up the later. While he didn't have a horrific season for the Quakes, he didn't have as much success as he did in 2010. His H/9 skyrocketed from 6.2 in 2010 to 10.1 in 2011. That was the main reason his numbers were inflated. His average fastball needs to be located with pinpoint precision to be successful. His off-speed stuff also needs to be located well for him to succeed.
2011 ranking: 11
2012 location: Double-A Chattanooga
ETA: late-2013
46. Tony Delmonico, 3B (6'0, 194, 24 years old)
- Delmonico was drafted as a second baseman, moved to catcher before finally settling in at third base. His defense there is solid, but he might not have enough bat to be a regular. He's a heady player and could very well reach the Majors as a utility player. He was a favorite of mine as a catching prospect, but he couldn't quite grasp the position.
2011 ranking: 30
2012 location: Double-A Chattanooga
ETA: mid-2014
47. Juan Noriega, RHP (5'7, 145, 21 years old)
- The shortest player in my Top 50, Noriega made his professional debut this year after being signed out of the Mexican League. In 17 Rookie Ball innings, he struck out 27 batters without giving up a run. Not bad for a guy who wasn't even in the organization before this season.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Pioneer Rookie League/Low-A Great Lakes
48. Red Patterson, RHP (6'3, 210, 24 years old)
- Patterson had a nice season in two levels of the minors, posting a 3.69 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, 7.7 H/9, 2.3 BB/9 and 8.9 K/9 rate. He's a classic junkballer with a fringe-average fastball and decent off-speed offerings. He's likely organizational depth at this point, but right now, he's decent organizational depth.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: High-A Rancho Cucamonga/Double-A Chattanooga
ETA: mid-2014
49. Stephen Fife, RHP (6'3, 210, 25 years old)
- Fife was the final piece of the Robinson deal and is the least likely to have a successful Major League career. He has average stuff and doesn't strike out enough hitters to have long-term success. He's in the mold of Magill, Patterson and Jon Michael Redding -- just a little more advanced.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Double-A Chattanooga/Triple-A Albuquerque
ETA: late-2012
50. Ryan Christenson, LHP (6'1, 185, 23 years old)
- Christenson hasn't had much success thus far, but the potential is there. I mean, he is left-handed after all. He needs to miss a lot more bats to have a chance at success. His career 10.9 H/9 isn't going to get it done. He has average stuff from the left side and could ultimately end up as a reliever.
2011 ranking: Not ranked
2012 location: Low-A Great Lakes/High-A Rancho Cucamonga
ETA: late-2014
2012 Top Rookie: Eovaldi
2012 Sleeper: Josmar Cordero
2012 Breakout Prospect: Wall
|Best Hitter for Average
|Angelo Songco
|Best Power Hitter
|Blake Smith
|Best Strike-Zone Discipline
|Ivan DeJesus
|Fastest Baserunner
|James Baldwin
|Best Athlete
|Joc Pederson
|Best Fastball
|Juan Rodriguez
|Best Curveball
|Garrett Gould
|Best Slider
|Shawn Tolleson
|Best Changeup
Best Sinker
|Zach Lee
Nathan Eovaldi
|Best Control
|Allen Webster
|Best Defensive Catcher
|Tim Federowicz
|Best Defensive Infielder
|Ivan DeJesus
|Best Infield Arm
|Pedro Baez
|Best Defensive Outfielder
|Leon Landry
|Best Outfield Arm
Best Five-Tool Prospect
|Blake Smith
James Baldwin
Projected 2015 Lineup
|Gorman Erickson
|First Base
|James Loney
|Second Base
|Jake Lemmerman
|Third Base
|Tony Delmonico
|Dee Gordon
|Left Field
|Andre Ethier
|Center Field
|Matt Kemp
|Right Field
|Jerry Sands
|No. 1 Starter
|Clayton Kershaw
|No. 2 Starter
|Rubby De La Rosa
|No. 3 Starter
|Chad Billingsley
|No. 4 Starter
|Zach Lee
|No. 5 Starter
|Allen Webster
|Kenley Jansen


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As of 9 a.m. Wednesday, traffic was slow on U.S. 50 westbound near Rowe Boulevard, due to an accident.
Accidents were slowing traffic on Ritchie Highway and Walton Avenue in Anne Arundel County and Beaconsfield Road near Honeygo Boulevard in Baltimore County.
Monument Street is closed between Wolfe Street and Patterson Park Avenue in East Baltimore, due to sinkhole repairs. Maryland Transit Administration bus 35 has been diverted.
Until further notice, the No. 14 bus stop located northbound on Crain Highway at Furnace Branch Road has been temporarily relocated due to construction.
The Maryland Transit Administration is warning patrons of the MARC Penn line to expect delays due to signal problems between Bowie and Washington following Tuesday's storms.
There are no other delays reported on area transit systems.

subset: commoncrawl


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David Burke Kitchen brings creative, inventive culinary style to downtown New York. Imaginative reinterpretations of classic American cuisine are combined with a focus on regionally-sourced ingredients paying homage to the craft of cooking and sharing rustic style dishes. David Burke Kitchen opened in February 2011 and is located at The James Hotel New York.
Learn More


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You'll never find a better explanation of how not dead-set in his ways head coach Claude Julien is — and in fact does make changes when necessary — than what general manager Peter Chiarelli said today during a pre-Stanley Cup Final press conference at the TD Garden today.
"Well as much as you see the changes that he does on the ice, there is stuff that goes on too behind [the scenes] as far as changing the way a player plays on that specific line and that can be subtle. But I know for a fact that can happen and I've seen it before my own eyes this past series.
"As far as making changes on the ice, he's, we talked about [Rich] Peverley and [Chris] Kelly, how many times did you see those guys get put onto a line when you needed a faceoff? You put a good defensive situation, something that we've all seen, but it was a conscious effort on the part of the coaching staff and the management group, was to get [Zdeno] Chara and [Dennis] Seidenberg those heavier minutes, to really put them in to a strong shutdown role. Prior to, I think we made the change after Game 2[vs. Montreal]. … And really, they've blossomed and allowed the other D to settle more comfortably into their roles. So, that's from the defensive perspective.
"From the forward prospective, you've seen Rex [Mark Recchi] get spelled a little bit and then he came back really strong, almost scored the go-ahead goal, he had a couple of shots there and I thought he was skating well. You see Peverley and those guys switch a little bit, and you see [Tyler] Seguin get dropped into certain situations. And he's another one, I know has been a hot-button topic. I thought he played really well last night. And he had obviously the great game [Game 2 vs. Tampa Bay]. But he had the great game, and then I thought it dipped a little bit, but the last two games I thought his play has come around again.
"So he's moved up the line-up. You see Greg Campbell get up the line-up. So I commend Claude [Julien] and his staff for doing that. It's a double-edged sword when you hear all the water cooler talk about this and that line combination, we should do this and that. Well often times, the momentum, the capital that you've accumulated on a certain line, you can throw it all away by making a certain change too. And I understand that you don't always have to stick with the same lines and you should. But it's a fine line and I thought Claude did a good job."
As far as playing different on different lines, Chiarelli is obviously talking about the more offensive role Brad Marchand took over the course of the season and the different roles Peverley and Kelly have had to play depending on their line assignment. There are others too, I'm sure.


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Penn State Officials Lose Pretrial Motion on Perjury
HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) - Two weeks before former assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky is due for sentencing, the Penn State administrators who looked into complaints about his behavior a decade ago are getting some bad news about their own criminal case.
A judge in Harrisburg on Wednesday issued a ruling that keeps in place felony perjury charges against Tim Curley and Gary Schultz, the school officials facing trial in January.
The defendants are still awaiting a ruling from a Dauphin County judge on whether to throw out the other charge they face, failure to report suspected child abuse. Curley is the school's athletic director on leave. Schultz is retired as vice president.
Sandusky is scheduled to be sentenced Oct. 9 on 45 counts of child sexual abuse. He maintains his innocence.
Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All rights reserved. Material may not be redistributed.


text: All incoming students are expected to participate in the orientation program offered at the beginning of each academic year. The program includes opportunities for worship, discussion regarding the educational and multicultural emphases at McCormick, social gatherings, and times to become acquainted with classmates, returning students, and faculty advisors. Registration for classes also takes place during this period.


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Born in Florida, Carter received a rigorous but conventional training as a classical guitarist with Bruce Holzman at The Florida State University before falling in love with the earlier plucked instruments and the world of historical performance. Following initial guidance from Pat O'Brien in New York City, he travelled to London as a Fulbright Scholar where he studied the Lute with Nigel North and quickly established himself as one of the leading players on old instruments.
Concert tours and festival appearances followed, throughout Europe, Asia and North and South America both as an orchestral player and as a chamber musician and soloist with his own group, The Palladian Ensemble. Carter has an extensive discography (including 10 CD's with the Palladian Ensemble) and has featured on numerous recordings of the Academy of Ancient Music and The English Concert, for both of which he acts as the principal lutenist. He is also an enthusiastic teacher and is Professor of Baroque Studies and Lute at The Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London.
2005 saw a new development in Carter's career as his exploration of the world of the Baroque Guitar led to the release of his first solo album which has been widely praised and named in the Gramophone 'Critic's Choice' list for 2005. This will be followed by a new disc with music for Baroque Guitar. Future plans include recordings on the 19th century Guitar as well as the complete Lute works of Vivaldi.


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Rhodes Town Travel Guide
The Parthenon © Nathan Hughes Hamilton
Fun in the sun while on holiday in Rhodes Town on the north point of the island centres on the UNESCO World Heritage-listed walled medieval city that clusters around the ancient harbour of Mandraki. This ancient labyrinth of narrow streets and alleyways constitutes a tourist's paradise, with all the required trappings for a good time, including an art gallery and several museums.
Rhodes Town is a wonderful resort area for those interested in history and archaeology as it holds treasures from ancient Greece as well as remnants of the Byzantine legacy. The Turkish occupation of Rhodes is commemorated with a Venetian-styled Byzantine mosque, the Mosque of Suleiman, and the popular and well-used Turkish baths, in a 7th-century Byzantine building.
The sprawling new town houses most of the travel agents, bars, discos, nightclubs, and numerous tavernas, and is best explored at night. The long stretch of beach in Rhodes Town is popular during the day with holidaymakers and has deckchairs, umbrellas and showers available.
Apart from its many historical wonders, Rhodes Old Town offers some exciting shopping: the medieval and charming look of the old streets complements the traditional wares in the numerous shops and stalls and there is something for everybody, from traditional local jewellery to pottery. Rhodes Old Town also provides a range of modern souvenirs and antique goods. You can buy good Greek wine and traditional Greek olive oil, among other foodstuffs. In Rhodes New Town there are plenty of high-end and designer shops for those who want to shop in earnest.
Rhodes has everything from the quaintest traditional eateries to Starbucks; its popularity has ensured a vast variety of restaurants. The range of restaurants ensures that visitors can indulge in fine dining or keep things budget-friendly.
As one of the liveliest and most popular islands in Greece, Rhodes provides a varied nightlife with dance clubs, bars and bouzouki clubs. Additionally, there are a number of dance theatres for those looking for a different type of entertainment. Faliraki resort has a famous party scene and is very close to Rhodes Town; although, the Rhodes New Town will attract many revellers in itself. For those who want to stick to the atmospheric Old Town there are many great restaurants and traditional entertainment venues in this area and it is a joy to explore at night.
Rhodes Town has a lot of historical attractions for visitors. The Street of the Knights is particularly intriguing, following the course of an even older track that once led from the Acropolis of Rhodes to the harbour, where stood the legendary Colossus. It now features buildings that were constructed in the 16th century as clubs for Knights belonging to the Order of St John. Each was the inn of a different 'tongue' (the knights belonged to different national groups) and the facades of the buildings reflect the relevant architectural details. The Byzantine remains, including the mosque and Turkish baths are also fascinating.
When visitors tire of historical sightseeing they can retreat to one of the lovely beaches nearby. Scuba diving and surfing are popular watersports and there are many other forms of watery fun to choose from.
The only real downside of this exceptionally interesting town is how crowded it gets in summer; if you cannot abide crowds you will not enjoy a summer holiday here. It can also be a bit confusing to find your way around Rhodes Town, which is infamously labyrinthine.
Things to see in Rhodes Town
Acropolis of Rhodes
The ancient Hellenic acropolis of Rhodes sits high on a hill in the western part of the city, and once consisted of a…


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Next Meetup
What we're about
We define skepticism as an evidence-based approach to claims. Responsible skeptics accept or reject claims on the basis of evidence, and remain open to reconsideration should new evidence emerge. To paraphrase Skeptics Society (http://www.skeptic.com/) president Michael Shermer, the skeptic's goal is neither to debunk nor disbelieve, but to know.
Salt City Skeptics is more of a social group than an educational or activist one. One evening each month, we gather for (optional) food and drink. There is no program or agenda; we simply visit. It's an opportunity for rational thinkers to meet, get acquainted, catch up, and remember they're not alone.
If the person next to you moves to another seat, don't take it personally. Topics are all over the board, and it's not unusual for people to move around in order to take in as many conversations as possible.
We call the evening Drinking Skeptically, though that's something of a misnomer. The venue has a full menu with salads, entrees, et al, and offers soft drinks (even water!) besides beer and wine. Many people order nothing at all, and no one looks at them funny.
The evening may sound like utter confusion. Fair enough. Some love it, some don't. Why not join us and see for yourself? Here are the details:
DAY AND TIME: Second Wednesday of the month, 7-ish p.m. till 9:30-ish.
WHERE: Fiddler's Elbow, 1063 East 2100 South, Salt Lake City (801-463-9393). Must be over 21 or over, ID required. They are strict about that.
FOOD AND DRINK: There's a full menu, but ordering is optional. Enjoying one another's company is mandatory.
PROGRAM: Don't be ridiculous. We sit down, we open our mouths (usually all at once), and let chaos reign.


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'Firefly' | 2002-2003
White hat: Capt. Malcolm "Mal" Reynolds, portrayed by Nathan Fillion (above center), leads the ragtag crew of his spaceship, Serenity, in this short-lived space western from "The Avengers" and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" director Joss Whedon. Though Mal and his crew steal, smuggle and scavenge to keep their bucket of bolts flying, they follow a Robin Hood-style code of honor, and they protect their own, securing their status as white hats. Black hat: Though Mal and his crew face off with a slew of baddies across the 'verse, the real black hat in this series is the Alliance, a central federal government that runs the core planets and aims to assert its control on the less-civilized border planets. Agents of the Alliance are on Mal's tail throughout the series, and the corrupt bureaucracy proves itself a forbidding foe.
Michael Lavine / Fox
Copyright © 2018, The Morning Call


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While sunbathers are still hitting the beaches and there's nary a sign of fall, red-and-green tinsel and Christmas ornaments are already crowding store shelves as retailers jump-start the holiday season. Tony Castro in the Daily News.
Although it flies in the face of holiday traditionalists, Christmas in September is just another sign of recession-weary retailers going all out to attract cost-conscious consumers.
The Kohl's store in West Hills set up its second-floor Christmas display in mid-September, with shoppers eager to scope out potential bargains.


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Pickett Burying Ground
The Pickett Burying Ground was the first to be dedicated as a resting-place for the dead in the town of Charlotte. In the year 1812, about one-fourth of an acre, on Lot 60, was set apart from the farm of John Pickett for that purpose. It is situated at the southeast corner of the four corners in School District No. 1, and opposite the school house, in the "Pickett Neighborhood." It has now been in use for over seventy-seven years. Samuel, the father of John Pickett, and the ancestor of the Pickett and Cleland families of Charlotte, came to the town in 1811. He died December 19, 1812, in the fifty-seventh year of his age, and he is believed to have been the first person buried there.(1)
The oldest head-stone erected in the town is here, at the grave of Polly Anderson. She died December 23, 1813, in the forty-seventh year of her age. The grave-stone is the work of no mean artist, though made of rough material, quarried from the natural ledges of the county. The following lines are inscribed upon it:
"Withdraw my friends,
Dry up your tears,
For here I lie,
Till Christ appears."
Here lies buried Clarinda Atkins, who died December 20, 1815. She was the wife of Amos Atkins. He and Stephen Jones were the first settlers in the town of Gerry. Two soldiers of the Revolution are interred in this ground - John Cleland, Sr., who died February 16, 1827, and Caleb Clark, who died May 17, 1837. They were the ancestors of the Cleland and Clark families of Charlotte. John Pickett and John Cleland, Jr., well-known pioneers of the town, are also buried here. In all, about fifty-five persons are interred in this burial place. February 26, 1867, John Pickett, nearly fifty-five years after he dedicated it to the public, first executed a deed to "The community of School District Number One, in the Town of Charlotte, and all others living in the surrounding towns wishing to use the same for burying purposes." It is designated in this deed as the "Pickett Burying Ground." Before the execution of the deed, at a town meeting held March 7, 1848, Eliakim Barnum, John Pickett, and Robert P. Robertson had been elected trustees by the inhabitants of the town, to have charge of the ground.
(1)So says Darius Cleland, the oldest resident of that part of the town of Charlotte.
Source: Page(s) 8-9, History of Evergreen Cemetery. by Obed Edson. Sinclairville, New York, Press of the Commercial, 1890.


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The quarterbacks continue committing and the latest one, Cord Sandberg, is Sporting News' No. 100 player on its Top 125 player rankings.
Sandberg, a 6-foot-2 lefty from Manatee High School in Bradenton, Fla., said Monday night that he will play at Mississippi State.
"I've always wanted to play in the SEC," Sandberg told 247Sports.com. "And I love Coach (Dan) Mullen's offense and how he develops quarterback. So I knew for a while now where I wanted to go and it was an exciting day. Coach Mullen was pretty excited, too, when I told him."
Sandberg also had offers from Arizona, Auburn, Baylor, Clemson, LSU and Missouri, among others.
He is rated a three-star prospect by 247Sports.com and four-star QB by Rivals.com.
The Bulldogs weren't finished with Sandberg. On Tuesday, athlete Gabe Myles from Starkville High School pledged committed to Mississippi State. He is listed as a dual-threat quarterback and cornerback by 247Sports.com and is a consensus three-star prospect. He is expected to play in the secondary at MSU.


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21 Oct 2013 10:30:41 AM
Kron Gracie Wins ADCC 2013 Tournament – Will He Turn to MMA Next?
(On the other hand, a noodling business venture with the Diaz brothers seems pretty tempting.)
Kron Gracie, son of family champ Rickson Gracie, won gold in the -77kg weight class of the 2013 ADCC tournament this past weekend. The ADCC is like the Olympics of submission grappling, with the world's best meeting every two years to decide weight class champs as well as an open-weight champion.
Gracie won all four of his matches by submission, joining the elite ranks of former champions to have done the same like Marcelo Garcia and second cousin Roger Gracie. Kron beat UFC veteran Andy Wang in his first match, Gary Tonon in his second, J.T. Torres in his third and rival Otavio Souza in the finals.
Before competing at Metamoris II this past summer, Gracie told CagePotato that he has been training MMA with the Diaz brothers for some time and plans to make the transition to MMA in the near future. Gracie is supposed to have a super match at the World Jiu Jitsu Expo next month but it will be interesting to see what he decides to do in 2014.
Will Gracie decide to leverage his now champion status in the submission grappling world or walk away and make a name for himself in MMA? How much of a sense of urgency does he feel to focus all of his attention on developing a well-rounded MMA game?
Only time will tell but we'll certainly bring you updates as they occur. For the time being, enjoy Kron's 2013 ADCC matches against Tonon and Souza after the jump.Read More DIGG THIS


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Election Update: In the Nov. 6, 2012 election, Proposal 1 was voted down, meaning that the emergency manager law, also known as Public Act 4, was eliminated. The primary impact of this law had been that an emergency manager could recommend to the state that they amend a local government's collective bargaining agreements in order to cut costs. Now the state may only appoint an emergency financial manager, who would not have this power.
Mackinac Center analysis indicates this proposal would do the following:
- Nullifying the state's Emergency Manager law reinstates the old Emergency Financial Manager, where the state can still appoint a receiver over a local government unit. This measure, therefore, would not impact concerns about local control.
- The most substantial and change from the old Emergency Financial Manager law was adding the emergency manager's power to recommend that the state amend a local government's collective bargaining agreements. Employee services and benefits are a major expense in most local government units. Voting yes on the referendum would maintain this avenue for cutting costs.
- The state already has numerous provisions to keep local governments away from insolvency prior to appointing a receiver. These include requirements to balance budgets, what are essentially advances on state assistance, and special loans to local governments in need. Thus an emergency manager is not appointed unless the municipality is on the verge of bankruptcy, which would jeopardize pensions and finances over which an emergency manager has no authority.
- A referendum is asking for voters to approve or reject a piece of legislation. Thus, voting "yes" on the referendum approves the law while a "no" vote nullifies it.
Mackinac Center
Publications on This Proposal
In the News
Study Finds Rejecting Proposal 1 Will Not Preserve Local Control, but Will Affect Powers Given to State-Appointed Managers of Local Governments in Financial Crisis
Michigan Capitol Confidential
Teacher Layoffs Not Caused By Lack of Cash - Emergency managers working to eliminate long-running deficits, improve school districts
A City At the End of Its Rope - Allen Park strikes out with subsidized film studio; can't get concessions from government unions and is forced to request an emergency manager
The Problem With Allen Park - City owes tens of millions from government planning attempts gone bad; requests an emergency manager
Teacher Union Prez: Stronger Emergency Financial Managers Will Be "Just Like Being in the Slave Days"
Click here for the 100-word Prop 1 summary to appear on the Nov. 6 ballot.
Click here for the complete language of the proposed amendment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a "yes" vote on Proposal 1 mean?
Voting "yes" on a referendum lifts the suspension on the legislation in question. In this case, voting "yes" on Proposal 1 will reinstate the Emergency Manager law, Public Act 4 of 2011, while voting "no" will nullify the legislation.
Does this law newly allow the state to take-over a local unit of government?
The state can appoint an emergency manager to operate a local government only if the unit is facing a financial emergency and does not have a plan to resolve its conflict. The state mandates that all governments in Michigan balance their budgets, and nearly every government meets this mandate or has a plan to eliminate their deficit. When governments are facing fiscal problems, the state can assist them by raising money and borrowing from future revenue sources to help pay their bills. But some governments are resolute on fiscally unsustainable courses, in which case the state may appoint an emergency manager.
There has been an emergency manager law since 1988, but the 2011 law grants greater authority to the appointed emergency manager.
Even before that, Michigan courts have appointed receivers to control local governments that had substantial financial problems.
Ecorse: The Fall and Rise of a Michigan City
What can an Emergency Manager do that an Emergency Financial Manager cannot?
There are a couple of changes to the state law guiding the powers of an emergency manager. The emergency manager can set aside staffing restrictions etched into collective bargaining agreements and charters, amend government contracts and remove pension fund trustees if the pension plan is underfunded.
Perhaps the most meaningful change is the ability to amend government employee collective bargaining agreements in certain situations. (See Sec. 19(1)(k) of the law for details.)
Additional sections of the new law make explicit powers that were implicit under the old law. These include utilizing all the powers of local officers and elected officials, to consolidate government services, and to work with creditors to restructure debt.
The state attorney general stated after the petition putting Public Act 4 of 2011 up for referendum was certified that the state's old law, the Emergency Financial Manager law (Public Act 72 of 1990) would be reinstated. This has been happening as the previous Emergency Managers have been reauthorized as Emergency Financial Managers.


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The Essentials
Jessica Ann
Location: Vallejo, California
Birthday: March 04th
Height: 5'1"
Weight (lbs): 105
Measurements: 32C-24-34
Ethnicity/Nationality: Filipina
The Interview
Where are you from? And, are you currently living there? If not, where are you currently living?
I am currently from Vallejo, CA but now residing in San Francisco, CA.
Does your personality match your Zodiac sign? Describe.
My personality somewhat matches my zodiac sign, Aries. I am very outgoing and hotheaded at times. I'm also very passionate as well
What would you say are your strengths as a model?
I take direction well and I try to keep my body in shape.
What is your best beauty secret?
Always wash your face.
Where can we see you?
What are your future plans (long term goals)?
My future plans are to become a pharmacist and live a happy life with my family.
Do you drink? If so, what do you drink? If not, why do you not drink?
I don't drink anymore because I don't need to drink to have fun. I'm awesome. JK.
What is the best present you received? What is the best present you gave?
The best present I've ever received
Where (restaurants) do you like to eat? What do you order? Why?
I LOVE sushi restaurants and I like to order sweet and spicy rolls.
What do you do on your spare time?
I go to the gym in my spare time. And I love to take naps!!...and eat, and go out in the city.
How do you keep in such excellent shape? Explain your daily/exercise routine.
Exercise routine is always different but I do cardio almost every day.
Are you big on first impressions? What do you first notice on a man?
First impressions are everything. The first thing I notice on a man is his smile then his eyes...then his body.
What's on your travel itinerary? Are you planning to go to any events in the future and/or vacation with your family, friends or 'significant other'?
I want to go back to Hawaii soon. As for events, I'm not sure. I always plan that last minute.
How would you like your boyfriend to propose to you?
I'm not picky with this as long as he makes it romantic in his own way.
What song would you like played on your wedding night? Why?
Something non-traditional like Clair de Lune would be a choice.
Any shout-outs or last words?
I would like to thank all those who support me and who have always had my back.


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this is a discussion within the Saints Community Forum; http://www.profootballweekly.com/PFW...ispers1827.htm Word is former Cardinals offensive coordinator Jerry Sullivan is expected to talk with New Orleans, Miami and Baltimore about being a WR coach. Sources say Saints head coach Jim Haslett is interested in adding Raiders CB Charles Woodson to ...
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PFW Whispers and NFC South Report
Word is former Cardinals offensive coordinator Jerry Sullivan is expected to talk with New Orleans, Miami and Baltimore about being a WR coach.
Sources say Saints head coach Jim Haslett is interested in adding Raiders CB Charles Woodson to his lineup because he likes the edge Woodson brings to a defense.
We're told the only way Saints CB Dale Carter returns to New Orleans next season is if he is willing to play for the league minimum.
We hear that one of the knocks on LSU head coach Nick Saban in Falcons camp was the rumor that he isn't a team player and likely would demand too much power if he was hired in Atlanta.
With former 49ers offensive coordinator Greg Knapp becoming the new Falcons' offensive coordinator, the rumor that free agent WR Terrell Owens will also end up in Atlanta has picked up instant steam.
Our sources in Seattle say the violation of a team rule that resulted in rookie FS
Ken Hamlin not starting in the Seahawks' playoff game in Green Bay is more than just a little concern, considering the off-the-field problems Hamlin experienced in the college ranks at Arkansas.
The Packers are still considering whether power DE Joe Johnson should be brought back in 2004. Johnson is due more than $6 million in base salary, but Green Bay has been pleased with the performance of Aaron Kampman and Chukie Nwokorie since Johnson went on the injured list.
Jan. 12, 2004
The Saints finished 8-8 and missed the playoffs for the third year in a row, but don't expect any sweeping changes this offseason. Sources say head coach Jim Haslett is tired of all the turnover that has occurred on his roster over the last two offseasons, and he hopes to keep the current group together (for the most part) to allow them to grow as a team. Two years ago, the Saints decided to rid their locker room of some problem players and allowed OT Willie Roaf, DT La'Roi Glover and RB Ricky Williams to depart. Last offseason, the housecleaning continued with DT Norman Hand, OT Kyle Turley and S Sammy Knight moving on. This year, Haslett doesn't believe his roster needs many major changes and is only looking to tweak things here and there. The way we hear it, Haslett has been holed up with other members of the front office since the end of the regular season as they look to evaluate everyone who might be available and really pinpoint the pieces that would be the perfect fit in the Saints' playoff puzzle. But the key for Haslett will be not to mess with the core group of players and allow the ballclub a bit more continuity than in the past.
Jan. 12, 2004
The Panthers expect to have most of their team back intact next season, and we hear two of the stars of their run to the postseason likely will be re-signed by March. QB Jake Delhomme went from free-agent acquisition to starting quarterback after the first half of the first game of the season, and sources say the team will make an effort to extend his contract and make sure he is paid at the level of an NFL starter. WR Steve Smith also is expected to ink a deal relatively quickly, although the Smith situation could come with a few more problems than Delhomme's. Smith has said before that he believes he should be paid on the same level as other top wide receivers, but his production really hasn't been at the same level of the top pass catchers in the game for very long. The Panthers are willing to reward Smith for a stellar season, in which he made 88 catches for 1,110 yards and seven touchdowns, but they aren't going to be offering him Randy Moss-like money. If Smith demands such a contract, the Panthers will be willing to let him walk if another team is interested in signing him as a restricted free agent.
Jan. 12, 2004
The Falcons surprised everyone by naming Jim Mora as their new head coach, and we hear the decision to go with Mora was pretty much owner Arthur Blank's alone. General manager Rich McKay was very high on LSU head coach Nick Saban, but it is believed that McKay had to work hard just to get Blank to agree to interview Saban. After Mora's second interview with the team  the first time Blank was involved in the meetings with Mora  it became clear that Blank was sold on the 49ers' defensive coordinator. The decision to hire Mora so quickly also marked a change in plan for McKay, who said prior to the team's first interview with any candidate that the Falcons would let the entire hiring process run its course before making a decision. McKay believed that the job was one worth holding open for a candidate, but it looks as though Blank's decision to go with Mora won out. As it is, the hiring hasn't been very popular with the fans and media of the team, with local sports-talk radio shows lighting up with complaints about the team not hiring a minority candidate or giving Saban more of a chance.
Jan. 12, 2004
Sources are calling the decision to hire former Raiders senior assistant Bruce Allen to replace Rich McKay as general manager of the team as the last move to sever all ties to the McKay-Tony Dungy era. Allen worked with head coach Jon Gruden when both were in Oakland, and we're told the Bucs wanted to bring in someone who understood Gruden's attitude and lack of patience and was willing to work to make Gruden happy. Allen knows Gruden is a workaholic, and the son of Hall of Famer George Allen has been described as the best possible fit for the job. Although Allen has been given complete control of the team, we're told Gruden likely will have the biggest input when it comes to personnel matters. It also looks like the team will continue with its policy of bringing in older players rather than trying to build on the shoulders of youth.
Jan. 12, 2004
Although criticism of head coach Mike Martz and QB Marc Bulger was the hot topic of conversation following the Rams' wild double-overtime playoff loss to the Panthers, an equally disturbing factor in the crushing defeat was the team's awful defense against the run. Carolina rushed for 216 yards on 41 carries  a high for any opponent during Martz's head-coaching tenure in St. Louis  as Rams defenders were consistently outfoxed on a variety of running plays and overpowered by the Panthers' offensive linemen. The performance certainly won't help defensive coordinator Lovie Smith in his pursuit of a head-coaching job. As for Bulger, who regressed as the game wore on, our sources believe the widespread proclamations at presstime that he will return to being the backup behind Kurt Warner are premature. Look for the Rams to let the smoke clear this week before launching into a serious analysis of the team's future.
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Build Your HighlanderExplore Highlander
1. Models & Option Packages
{{ ( bp.data.models | filter: bp.api.filterByTransmission | filter: bp.api.filterByDrive ).length }} Model Available Models Available
2. Colours
3. Accessories
Accessory Pricing includes estimated installation fees. See Pricing Details
For more information on featured accessories, contact your local Toyota dealer.
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featured discounted
4. Protection
Extra-Care Protection
Your Toyota already comes with a comprehensive 3-year/60,000km warranty. You can also purchase supplemental coverage for long term worry-free driving.
Road Hazard Protection
When purchased from your Toyota Dealership, Road Hazard Protection can cover the expenses involved in repairing or replacing a flat tire or replacing damaged alloy wheels caused by covered road hazards. Coverage period from 1-7 years. At participating Dealers. See your Toyota Dealer for details.
Wear Pass (Lease Only)
The Wear Pass plan ensures that you do not face extra charges at lease end by protecting against damage beyond what is considered normal everyday use. For more details contact your Toyota dealer.
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You can print the pdf summary and bring this to a dealership or now.
Vehicle Purchase: offers valid from November 1, 2018 to November 30, 2018, are not retroactive and apply to new Toyota vehicles only when purchased/leased from a Canadian Toyota dealership. Excludes commercial fleet and daily rental transactions. Limit of 3 new retail purchases per customer per 12 month period. Toyota vehicle must be purchased, registered and delivered between November 1, 2018 to November 30, 2018. Customers must be an Aeroplan Member prior to the completion of the transaction. Offer subject to change without notice. Some conditions apply. See your Dealer for details


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Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Ripping Friends Vehicles and More
3 comments:
LOVE these drawings John. Also since I'm the only commenter here, I was just want to say the ripping friends gimmick of making kids rip their dad's newspapers and stuff, always made me laugh~ you really know how to thrill kids. XD Thanks for the amazing atmosphere and uniqueness of these drawings!
- sammiepants said...
Hey John K! I wasn't quite sure how to get in touch with you other then posting a comment on your blog. I have a question for ya. My friends from back home in Niagara Falls Canada have a small local bar band called the Ripping Friends, and they play "all your 2nd fav. hits" Since I do caricatures here in Vegas, they asked me if i could make a gig poster for them, playing their instruments, in the style of your characters. How do you feel about this? Obviously I would pass this on to you in a heartbeat if I thought it might be something you'd be interested in. Also I don't know how ethical it would be for me to do this for them without asking you if you wanted to do it first, and at least get your blessing if you don't.... so, would you be interested? I'm afraid their budget might make you cringe. but please, send me your thoughts. Your Fan, Sam. email@example.com
- sammiepants said...
Hey John K! I have a question for ya. My friends from Niagara Falls CA have a small local bar band they named after your cartoon, the Ripping Friends, and they asked me if i could make a gig poster for them, playing their instruments in the same style. Would that be okay with you if I tried to mimic your style and characters in this caricature? *formalities*


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"Our goal is YOUR PEACE OF MIND"
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Phone: 888-506-1131
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Helping Asbestos Victims Since 1974
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School Action for Safety and Health (SASH) Program
California school districts face a number of occupational safety and health issues. In some cases, school districts have been fined by Cal/OSHA when health and safety issues result in violations of Cal/OSHA standards. Maintenance and operations departments and other school employees are working to address these problems.
CHSWC has established a Schools Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) model program, the California School Action for Safety and Health (SASH), to help schools statewide improve their injury and illness prevention practices. The program will include training and resources to enable schools or school districts to develop or improve IIPPs and to make other health and safety improvements that will help protect school or school district employees from injuries and illnesses on the job. The target audience will focus on K-12 schools and school districts at high risk of occupational injury and illness.
For more information about the SASH Resource Center at LOHP at UC Berkeley and the Southern California training partner, at LOSH at UCLA.
How the SASH Program Helps Schools
The School Action for Safety and Health (SASH) Program is a statewide initiative to help school districts reduce the high rate of work-related injuries and illnesses among school employees.
The SASH program offers:
- A free training program to help build the capacity of district-level health and safety coordinators to be resources to other employees and develop an injury and illness prevention program to identify, prevent and eliminate hazards.
- Written materials that support injury and illness prevention activities.
- Problem-solving assistance provided in an ongoing manner by a statewide resource center.
- Once participants complete the training program, trainees become "SASH Coordinators" for their district and receive a certificate from the Commission on Health and Safety and Workers' Compensation and the University of California.
- SASH Free Training for School District Employees flyer
- School Action for Safety and Health (SASH) Brochure
- Schools are workplaces too! United for Safety poster
- Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) Template
- School Action Safety and Health binder
- Preventing Injuries from Student Behaviors: A Health and Safety Tip Sheet for California Paraeducators
- Online Health and Safety Resource Guide for School Employees
The SASH Program thanks the following agencies and organizations for their involvement in shaping the SASH Program activities and materials:
- California Association of School Business Officials (CASBO)
- California's Coalition for Adequate School Housing (CASH)
- California Department of Education
- California Federation of Teachers (CFT)
- California School Employees Association (CSEA)
- California Teachers Association (CTA)
- Contra Costa County Schools Insurance Group
- Keenan & Associates
- North Bay Schools Insurance Authority
- San Diego County Schools Risk Management JPA
- Schools Insurance Authority
June 2017
Quick Links
- CHSWC research reports
- Current CHSWC Annual Report of programs and data
- Guidebook for Injured Workers
- Guides about filing workers' comp claims
- Carve-Out/Alternative Dispute Resolution
- Young Workers and Workers' Compensation
- Meetings, What's New and Subscriptions to CHSWC
- Frequently asked questions about workers' comp for employers


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Welcome, we are Aquatec - Water Purification Specialists
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Aquatec is committed to our shared environment. As a progressive and innovative leader in water purification, Aquatec promotes sustainable processes in the manufacture and installation of our equipment. We consider this environmental stewardship an essential investment in our customers, our team and the wider community.
Contributing to a Better World
Aquatec's commitment to our planet:
- To reduce the environmental impact of our manufacturing and installation processes
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- To cut the amount of plastic waste – before and after manufacture and installation
Why Purify Water?
Our scientifically-advanced range of Aquatec Water Purification and Filtration Systems are specifically designed to provide you with pure and safe water whilst protecting our shared environment. It improves your health, stops you wasting money and energy and lowers your carbon footprint.
Why purify water with Aquatec? Because you, like us, are committed to the environment as well as your own health and well-being.
At Aquatec, we only use plastics that are food grade, contain no toxins and are designed to be 94.9% recyclable. Our team will always carefully plan appointments to limit harmful fuel emissions by avoiding undue traffic.
Aquatec empowers its customers and staff to strive for a better and safer environment by:
- Reducing your own carbon footprint by removing the equivalent of 1˝ cars from the road every year
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Aquatec's commitment to building a better tomorrow means that we are in the process of developing:
- A unique Rain Water Harvesting System
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Interested in reading more, then why not check out our Environmental Blogs on:


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Floyd-search question
Last night I was trying to find the NK SD bread that jmonkey posted and for the life if me I couldn't locate it. That got me thinking that if you made a suggestion and framework for all posting a recipe to include key words it would be a big improvement in the results. Maybe you could include a key word box at the bottom of the body box I am typing now.
As the site gets larger this could become a great recipe and help source on the Internet. Volume equates to ad revenue in a good way. Just my humble opinion.


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Cell Phone Spy Software Call Recording With The Support Of Spy Software
For ethical monitoring and cellular hacking, there are several active software applications that have been established which in a way support the urgent needs of service users. If you are a parent then you are bound to be familiar with cases of cyber crimes and bullying that are prevalent in recent years.
To protect their wards from such cases and secure their privacy, it becomes very essential for parents to monitor their cellular activities. Be it through effective mobile tracking services or call recording facilities, people have been able to gain necessary convenience with regard to such phone tracking applications in recent days.
Even in the business and corporate industry, most professionals have been subjected to severe privacy interruptions for the fear of information leaks. Though, it is quite justified, there are several people who prefer to have their cellular activities confidential.
Active call recording application
With the active support of cell phone spy software call recording application, achieving such goals and urgent needs have become easier and more flexible. Hence suiting commercial interests and parental worries, such effective phone apps have offered necessary services in the long run.
The user friendly app can help you to protect your child against cyber bullies and other unforeseen circumstances. For those who want to confront difficult situations in an easy manner can resort to active cellphone tracking systems and deal with cases with better and foolproof evidence. Even if you get suspicious of any harmful activity at home or workspace, then mobile phone spy software for call recording is quite suitable.
Be it to supervise your professional employees, preventing theft or closely monitoring your wards, such spyware applications are regarded to be an ultimate solution. Besides web activities and call logs, they also have an additional call recording application. They are able to record all the incoming and outgoing calls silently and remain undetected.
These recordings have been encrypted on the target device and encoded in MP3 file. The recorded files are usually uploaded with the help of a secured server channel. Presence of an active user- friendly panel helps them to a great extent as they are able to listen to the recorded calls. The cell phone spy software call recording is hence regarded to be an ultimate solution to keep timely updates on mobile activities.
Automated central dashboard
As all your recordings are uploaded to your dashboard in an automated manner, most service users have been able to listen to the recordings directly. By reducing the scope of cyber leaking and addressing security concerns, such call recordings is said to be quite important. It is due to such reasons that much value and significance have been attached to them.
With the help of smart mobile tracker installation systems for easy call recording, people have been able to gain their requirements in a successful manner. In three simple steps, interested service users are able to get access to the overall cellular activities of their children, company employees and others.
The only thing that you are required to do install such active applications for call recording by quick login and view tracking data and calling activities. Hence there are considered to be highly successful with regard to call recording facilities.
You Can Download: Cell Phone Spy Software Call Recording With The Support Of Spy Software


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He was considered one of the most compelling poets of his time, if not one of the most important poets of the Twentieth Century.
|T.S. Eliot
Thomas Stearns Eliot was born on September 26, 1888 in St. Louis to Henry Ware Eliot and Charlotte Champe Stearns Eliot. He was a sickly child and spent much of his time reading. He began writing poetry when he was fourteen. His first poem, A Fable For Feasters, was published in the Smith Academy Record in February 1905. That same year, his poem Song was published, along with three short stories.
|Harvard Writeup
|Ezra Pound
Eliot attended Harvard from 1906 to 1909, graduated, and worked for a year as a philosophy assistant. He then spent a year in Paris, returning to Harvard in 1911 to study Indian philosophy and Sanskrit. In 1914, he left on a traveling scholarship to Europe, just as WW I began. He began attending Oxford that autumn. Eliot loved London and met several influential people there, including Ezra Pound who promoted Eliot at literary events and gatherings. Pound called Eliot a poet "worth watching."
|Vivienne Haigh-Wood
|Vivienne Eliot
In June 1915, Eliot married Vivienne Haigh-Wood, a dancer, in London. The marriage was unhappy, partially due to Vivienne's health issues and the fact she spent most of her time away, trying to recuperate. In 1933, Eliot arranged a legal separation from Vivienne. In 1938, she was committed to the Northumberland House Mental Hospital where she died in 1947.
Eliot later said that one of his most famous poems, The Waste Land, published in 1922, was the result of his negative state of mind while married to Vivienne. The poem sought to juxtapose beauty and ugliness with monotony and horror.
The Lovesong of J. Alfred Prufrock was the poem that made him famous. Written in 1910, it was published in 1915 by Poetry magazine. Composed in the style of the Modernist movement, the poem is written in a stream of consciousness style, allowing the reader into the mind of J. Arthur Prufrock as he searches for love. The Times Literary Supplement reviewed it in 1917 but did not give it high marks.
|Plaque Outside of Firm
|Eliot & Farber Staff
In 1925, Eliot joined the publishing firm Faber and Gwyer, which later became Faber and Faber. In later years he became a director of the firm. He worked there until his death.
Eliot loved living in London, and at the age of 39, became a British citizen. That same year, 1927, he also converted from the Unitarianism religion and entered the Anglican Church of England. His writing took on a religious bent from this time on.
Eliot was also known for his poems, Gerontion, The Hollow Men, and Ash Wednesday, along with seven plays. In 1948, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for what he viewed as his masterpiece, Four Quartets, written in 1943.
In 1949, King George VI bestowed upon him the Order of Merit, one of England's highest awards.
Eliot received many other awards including a Tony Award in 1950 for Best Play, The Cocktail Party, the Legion d'Honneur in 1951, the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964, and two posthumous Tony Awards, in 1983, for his poems used in the musical Cats.
|Eliot and wife Valerie
In January 1957, Eliot married Valerie Fletcher, his private secretary, and finished out his life in a more tranquil, domestic relationship.
|Plaque in Church
|T.S. Eliot
T.S. Eliot died on January 4, 1965 of emphysema. He was 76. Eliot was cremated and his ashes interred in the church at St Michael's in East Coker, England. East Coker was the village that his ancestors had left to go to America. A plaque hangs on the church wall with a quote from the Four Quartets: "In my beginning is my end. In my end is my beginning."
~ Joy


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Volunteers needed for Grandma's Marathon
Duluth, Minn -- If you have always wanted to experience Grandma's Marathon but running just isn't for you, then volunteering is the perfect solution.
About 1,000 positions remain for next month's marathon events - scheduled for June 20-22. Join the Grandma's Marathon volunteer team and help make the race's 37th annual celebration an event to remember.
Volunteer positions include areas such as traffic and spectator control, water station assistance, medical services, course entertainment, race packet pick-up and finish area activities.
Service organizations, large groups and individuals are all welcome and encouraged to participate. Each volunteer receives an official T-shirt, refreshment tickets and an invitation to the Grandma's Marathon Volunteer Party on Sunday, June 30 at Grandma's Sports Garden.
"This event would not be possible without the terrific help we receive from our thousands of dedicated volunteers. We are so appreciative of the tremendous support we receive from the community members," said Scott Keenan, executive director of Grandma's Marathon.
To volunteer, complete and submit the online form at www.GrandmasMarathon.com. Call (218) 727-0947 for more information.


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Reviews | Write a Review
PNY's Elite Performance SDHC cards are the latest high speed flash memory cards from PNY. They are rated Class 10 and feature a new Ultra High Speed (UHS-1) data bus for incredible transfer rates with read speeds up to 95MB/s. These cards are compatible with SDHC host devices ranging from the latest hi-megapixel cameras and HD camcorders to hi-end DSLRs and laptops.
* Based on PNY's internal testing; performance may vary depending upon host device. Not all SDHC host devices can achieve up to 90 MB/s sequential read speeds. 1x = 150KB/sec.
** For Flash Media Devices, 1 megabyte = 1 million bytes; 1 gigabyte = 1 billion bytes. Actual useable capacity may vary. Some of the listed capacity is used for formatting and other functions, and thus is not available for data storage.
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Affordable and effective, that's all I needed. Delivery was lightning fast. Beats paying twice as much at the store.
Click here for the latest FAQs, Help & Tutorials, Downloads, and Brochures & Manuals.


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Night in the Tropics
The success of National Aviary's annual Night in the Tropics fundraiser really took off this year. A sold-out crowd of 650 had a hot time meandering through the Aviary, admiring the exhibits and sampling Pittsburgh restaurants' food, cocktails, and desserts as they went.The "fun, casual celebration of summer," as the Aviary's media relations manager Laura Ellis described the fête, grossed a sizzling $50,000. Photos by Megan Wylie.Read More


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NFL, teams offer support for players in crisis
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) Brady Quinn can't help but wonder whether he missed something in the final days of Jovan Belcher's life.
Could the Kansas City Chiefs' quarterback have listened better to his teammate? Could he have noticed a change in the linebacker's temperament? Did Belcher utter something under his breath that may have let on that he was capable of killing his girlfriend and himself?
"When you ask someone how they're doing, do you really mean it?" Quinn wondered. "When you answer back, are you really telling the truth?"
The murder-suicide last Saturday raised similar questions among players and coaches across the NFL. In an era in which physical safety is of paramount importance, it's become clear that ensuring the emotional well-being of the men who play the game is just as essential.
"The relationships you have with people face-to-face, on a daily basis, kind of get brushed aside for everything else that's out there," Quinn said. "A lot of times people hide their issues, their problems. They don't talk to anyone until it's too late."
This past July, the NFL established an emergency hotline that operates 24 hours a day and connects players, staff and family members in crisis with mental-health professionals who are not affiliated with the league or its teams. The group, which provides a similar service to the Veteran's Administration, is required to keep its conversations confidential unless the individual calling indicates they may harm themselves or others.
Robert Gulliver, the NFL's chief human resources officer, said "absolutely, players and staff are taking advantage of the opportunity" provided by the hotline.
Gulliver couldn't say whether Belcher had called, citing its confidentiality policy, and could not provide any data that indicates how much it is being used. But Gulliver did say that what happened to Belcher may cause the NFL to consider more offerings in the future.
"Mental health continues to be, in general society, an area that often has a stigma attached to it," Gulliver said. "We're trying to change that culture and break down that stigma and show people that mental is part of total health."
That stigma is pervasive in the NFL, where a macho culture has been long ingrained.
In numerous interviews with current and former players, The Associated Press found many who said they would refuse to seek support for various reasons. Maybe their issues would get back to their coaches and affect their playing time or their contracts. Maybe their teammates would view them differently.
Several players indicated that the same attitude that carried them to the NFL – that in some ways they are indestructible – makes it difficult for them to reconcile needing outside help.
"In all my years playing football, I've never really seen a guy come out and say he needed help with this or he was having issues with this," said Rams offensive tackle Wayne Hunter, who's in his ninth year in the league. "Guys, including myself, generally keep our personal issues to ourselves."
Hunter said that when he was with the Jets, he took advantage of a team psychologist who provided support. Otherwise, he leaned on teammates.
"It was nice to have another set of ears other than the team psychologist," Hunter said. "The psychologist analyzes and sometimes over analyzes – I'm talking generally speaking – and they give you what they think is a right answer. But going to a friend gives you another perspective, gives you his side and a more personal side."
Then there's the tight-rope between offering help and prying into personal lives.
"A football locker room is a microcosm of the rest of society," said Rams defensive lineman Chris Long. "When do you come up and help somebody out and when do you feel like you're intruding?"
Browns coach Pat Shurmur and Cowboys coach Jason Garrett both reminded players this week to seek help, whether their problems are with drugs and alcohol, their professional life or things happening at home.
"You have to make clear that there is no judgment involved," Garrett said. "We're not judging you. We're helping you. We're here to help."
The NFL has numerous programs to help players and personnel deal with everything from personal and family relationships to the proper use of firearms. They begin even before athletes play a single down in the NFL with symposiums at most college all-star games, and continue with the NFL scouting combine and a three-day rookie boot camp that is required of any player selected in the draft.
The NFL's security team often works with local and state law enforcement to address issues and questions that players have with guns. The league also has a mandatory life skills program for all players and coaches, along with a 12-week Rookie Success Program that first-year players must complete.
"The resources the league and the teams offer are always good," Chiefs offensive lineman Ryan Lilja said, "it's just up to guys to take advantage of it."
Too often, that doesn't happen.
"Literally, I said I'll get down on my hands and knees and beg you to do this because it's the most important thing there is," Garrett said. "There's no issue that you have in your life that we can't somehow solve in some way and in some way make it better. I just say that from the bottom of my heart, because you never know what guys are going through and you just want to let them know they have a place to turn."
Chiefs linebacker Derrick Johnson, who was close to Belcher, found himself asking in the days after the shootings whether there was something he could have done. Like Quinn, Johnson wondered whether his teammate was giving off signs that something was amiss in his personal life.
Ultimately, Johnson said, the shootings may serve as a wake-up call to people everywhere to put down their cell phones and start having real conversations.
"We need to talk to each other more as men, not as football players," he said. "Generally men don't talk about their feelings. They don't cry. They don't show their emotion. As a teammate, we have to do more."


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So you want to relocate to Asia Part 5: Japan and the Korea
This is no April Fools joke, I have never been to Japan or Korea. They are both top destinations on my list of places to go. So, will get there soon enough since I'm much closer now than before.
I have read a lot about Korea and Japan, below is the condensed version with resources from around the web.
Note: Korea here refers to South Korea only.
Best Selling Point: Korea and Japan are both advanced economies in Asia with unique Asian cultures
- Japan is a member of the original G7 of world most developed economies (high standard of living)
- Korea is the 14th ranked economy in the world by nominal GDP (high standard of living)
- Japan and Korea both have their own distinctive culture, language, and way of life that is unique in Asia
Worst Selling Point: mmmm, I'm not sure if there is one here but below are some of what I have heard
- Living in Japan can be rewarding but socially isolating if you do not learn some Japanese and make an effort
- Japanese people drink a lot, so do Koreans
- Japan is earthquake and tsunami country!
- Korea's neighbor is North Korea, who knows what is going to happen there next
Below is a selection of sites on Japan and Korea for relocations
Next installment will be the final process or system to approach moving to Asia. There are so many different perspectives, but hopefully mine will be the simplest and the most efficient. We shall see!


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What Happened When Rambus Got Greedy
from the potboiler dept
I hadn't been following the Rambus patent lawsuits too closely, but Fortune has an article that really is fascinating. Rambus was not only greedy, but very sneaky and arrogant at the same time. They went to standards meetings, and basically took whatever people were talking about and amended various patent applications to include those things. They also lied about the patents they were working on, and tried to spin that by saying they never lied about patents that were issued. This isn't just a case of bogus patents - it's a case of intentionally modifying patents based on information from other companies, to try to gain reverse ownership of the entire industry.


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Course summary: Taught during the first seven weeks of the Spring semester, this laboratory course introduces students to use of the scanning electron microscope (SEM), as well as associated techniques and equipment. Successful completion of the course allows students continued access to the SEM for research projects in subsequent semesters.
Course description: Scanning electron microscopes permit the examination of surface features of cells, tissues, and non-biological materials at high magnification. In this hands-on course, students learn how to prepare specimens for electron microscopic study, and how to use the SEM to examine and photograph these specimens. Techniques to be used include tissue fixation, critical point drying, materials polishing, specimen coating, and x-ray microanalysis. The theory behind these techniques and use of the SEM also will be considered. At the end of the course, students with no prior experience will be able to prepare specimens, align an SEM, and obtain secondary electron (SE) micrographs. This course is ideal for students interested in independent research in the sciences. This course does not count towards the Biology major. Enrollment limited to 8. (1/2 credit).
Format: For the first three weeks of the semester, the course meets for one lecture/lab period PLUS one additional lab session per week. For the balance of the course, the course meets for one lecture/lab period per week, but students should plan to invest the time equivalent of at least one additional lab period every week in order to practice the techniques. More time is beneficial!
Prerequisites: Pre-reqs include patience, persistence, AND permission of the instructor. A laboratory course experience such as Biology 152 is helpful but not necessary.
Instructor: Ann Lehman, Director of the EM Facility


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Designed with a unique flair and departure from the norm, AVE-SIX furniture
collections always invite their customers to set trends, not follow them. With our
mantra, "furnish YOUR lifestyle," AVE-SIX furniture pieces are innovative and eye-
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AVE-SIX Home Office Furniture line are innovative and sure to be an immediate
hit with furniture lovers and aficionados of fine furnishings everywhere. As is the
case with all AVE-SIX furniture pieces, the new collection is functional, stylish and
a welcome addition to any home or office.


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Eventos do Azure
Confira o que está acontecendo em sua área
IoT is the next big thing that has made the world sit up and take a look at. One fundamental requirement of building a solution for Internet of Things is the ability to receive and process millions of data points from a wide variety of devices, and be able to perform real time querying on that.
This demo will take you through a IoT scenario where an application is continuously monitoring temperatures of rooms in a building through sensors ranging in 100,000's and adjusting the Air conditioning of each room accordingly. The application is built completely on Azure's scalability platform including Eventhub, the latest component on Azure.
Onde: Índia
Quando: Thu, 05 Mar 2015 09:30:00 GMT
Thu, 05 Mar 2015 09:30:00 GMT (UTC)
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