text:
"So anyway, I told them before you got here, I said I'm glad we won this race in New York," Clinton told Ryan, when the two met backstage at a forum on the national debt held by the Pete Peterson Foundation. But he added, "I hope Democrats don't use this as an excuse to do nothing."Watching that clip, I felt that was staged for the camera. They're savvy enough to know where the media are. It was ABC News, backstage with them. So my question is, why did each of the 2 men decide that was what they wanted people to overhear? I'd say, first, that both men see themselves as the serious thinkers, trying to face and solve a real problem. The setting frames the message as: This is what the most serious and knowledgeable men from the 2 political parties say to each other when they are not playing politics for the camera.
Ryan told Clinton he fears that now nothing will get done in Washington.
"My guess is it's going to sink into paralysis is what's going to happen. And you know the math. It's just, I mean, we knew we were putting ourselves out there. You gotta start this. You gotta get out there. You gotta get this thing moving," Ryan said.
Clinton told Ryan that if he ever wanted to talk about it, he should "give me a call." Ryan said he would.
Now, Bill Clinton has chosen to criticize the Democrats for falling into complacency, coasting into the next election. He's displaying himself as the real man of action, who would rise above politics and work hard to forge solutions. (Of course, this display is politics.)
Ryan makes a corresponding display: He too is a man of action, rising above politics, putting himself out there. But he's also purporting to speak for his whole party. The Republicans are acting. The Democrats are digging in and resisting. Clinton then says "give me a call."
So, is Clinton selling out the Democrats, making them look bad and giving Ryan a boost? If he is, why would he do that? Does he somehow seem to represent the Democrats, saying, for them, that they don't or shouldn't want the paralysis, lighting a fire under them to act or at least giving them some cover, making it seem as though they do care about action?
Or is Clinton out there on his own, peeling away from some or all of the Democrats, perhaps creating some kind of opening for Hillary?


text:
Graceful Gardenia
We can't think of a better gift to let them know how much they mean than our Graceful Gardenia plant. Its beautiful fragrance fills the air while its delicate white flowers arrive ready to bloom in a deep blue planter with a matching white floral design. The best part of all? The smile on their face when she sees it came from you!

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Security firm Mandiant this week published evidence that it said ties the Chinese government to a six-year campaign of hack attacks that have compromised 141 businesses across 20 industries. Washington-based Mandiant's 74-page report covers only one of the dozens of cyber-espionage groups around the world, including more than 20 in China, that the company said use advanced persistent threats (APTs) -- including spear-phishing attacks -- to compromise their targets. Mandiant refers to the group in its report as "APT1."
"From our observations, it is one of the most prolific cyber-espionage groups in terms of the sheer quantity of information stolen," according to Mandiant's report. "The scale and impact of APT1's operations compelled us to write this."
[ Want more on U.S. cybersecurity defense? Read White House Cybersecurity Executive Order: What It Means. ]
Based on Mandiant's research, as well as reaction from security experts and the Chinese government, here's what's known -- and what remains in question -- about the activities of the APT1 hacking group:
1. Mandiant Traces APT1 Attacks To Shanghai
Mandiant's report wasn't notable for the fact that it accused the Chinese government of supporting APT attacks at U.S. businesses, but rather for the volume of evidence -- albeit circumstantial -- that it presented. Furthermore, Mandiant accused APT1 of not just being supported by the Chinese government, but actually part of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Unit 61398, which is an elite military hacking unit.
Mandiant's conclusions come in part from tracing IP addresses used in attacks to a specific, 12-story, beige building in the Pudong district of Shanghai, where Mandiant found that China Telecom had "provided a special fiber optic communications infrastructure." Mandiant also cited documents from China Telecom noting that the facility had been built together with Unit 61398, which the documents also referred to as "GSD 3rd Department, 2nd Bureau," which refers to the PLA General Staff Department's 3rd Department, which is -- again -- also known as PLA Unit 61398.
Adding to the intrigue, a BBC correspondent reported that he'd been briefly detained Tuesday after attempting to visit the building.
2. Symantec Says Attacks Began In 2006
Security software vendor Symantec said that the activities of the APT1 group, which it calls the Comment Crew -- because the group has hidden attack commands inside HTML comments -- began more than six years ago. "The report cites the earliest known public reference about APT1 infrastructure as originating from Symantec," according to a blog post from Symantec Security Response. "We have detected this threat as Backdoor.Wualess since 2006 and have been actively tracking the group behind these attacks."
According to Symantec, APT1's attacks often involve spear-phishing emails with such subject lines as "U.S. Stocks Reverse Loss as Consumer Staples, Energy Gain.zip" and "New contact sheet of the AN-UYQ-100 contractors.pdf." The attacks have targeted businesses in numerous industries, "including finance, information technology, aerospace, energy, telecommunications, manufacturing, transportation, media and public services," it said.
The Mandiant report, however, didn't break any new ground in the Comment Crew discussion. "There really wasn't much new that came out of that Mandiant report, except for them identifying a specific building and putting all these details on that in there," said former Gartner Group analyst John Pescatore, who last month became the director of emerging security trends at the SANS Institute, speaking by phone.
3. Chinese Government: Allegations Are "Baseless"
The Chinese government has dismissed Mandiant's allegations. In particular, the Xinhua News Agency -- which is the Chinese government's official press agency -- published a "commentary" Wednesday that dismissed the Mandiant report as "amateurish," saying its conclusions were "baseless and revealing," including its tying of Shanghai IP addresses to a specific Chinese government military unit, although it offered no evidence to refute the allegations.
"One does not need to be a cybersecurity expert to know that professional hackers usually exploit what is called the botnet in other parts of the world as proxies for attacks, not their own computers," according to the commentary. "Thus, it is highly unlikely that both the origins of the hackers and the attacks they have launched can be located."


text:
Johnny Depp is a prince among actors � a solid performer, unafraid to take on risky parts, friendly to his fans, accommodating to journalists. Well, accommodating if you can get to him. At last week�s press gathering for his new film �Transcendence� at the Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills, more than 100 feature writers requested some one-on-one time with him. Alas, he was only there for a few hours, and most of us � myself included � had to make do with the hopes of getting a couple of questions in when the microphone was handed to us at a crowded press conference.
In the smartly written science fiction thriller �Transcendence,� Depp plays Dr. Will Caster, a brilliant artificial intelligence researcher who, after an attempt is made on his life by anti-technology terrorists, has his mind melded into the Internet. Complications ensue.
I had two questions for Depp. Being a science fiction buff myself, I wanted his memories of which SF films knocked him out as a kid. I also knew that Wally Pfister, former cinematographer and now first-time director of �Transcendence,� shot a video for Paul McCartney�s lilting song �My Valentine� a couple of years ago, which featured Depp hand-signing to McCartney�s singing and string-syncing one of the coolest acoustic guitars I�d ever seen. I wanted own one of them. My (non-film-related) second question would be about the make and model of the instrument.
Alas, the press conference ended early; I was never handed the microphone. But as Depp was headed for the door, surrounded by handlers, I made a beeline to him and blurted out the question.
Me: �Johnny, what was that amazing guitar you were playing in the �My Valentine� video?�
Depp: �Oh, right, yeah, that�s a beautiful old guitar. It actually has two f-holes on the back.�
Me: �Who makes the guitar? I want to buy one.�
Depp: �Oh, man, umm, it�s Uni ... Uni-something. (He closed his eyes, trying to come up with the name.) Maybe Unitone? I think it�s a Unitone.�
Then his handlers pulled him out of the interview room. My question was asked, but catching him off guard, I got only a quasi, unsure answer in return. Hey, a good try. I went off to do other interviews, wrote a review of the film and, about four hours later, headed to the hotel�s business center, where I Googled �Unitone guitars,� but came up with nothing. Again, a good try, but you�ve got to know when to give up. I signed off, gathered up my papers, opened the door, walked out ... and bumped right into Depp as he was passing by, still surrounded by handlers, on the way to one last interview of the day.
He recognized me and let out a genuine, �Hi, how are you doing?�
Me, walking with him: �Great, but I couldn�t find anything called a Unitone guitar. Do you think it might have been another name?�
Depp (eyes closed tight): �Umm, umm, I can see it, but I just can�t remember. Are you staying here at the hotel?�
Me: �Yeah.�
Depp: �Will you be here tomorrow?�
Me: �Yeah, but I�m leaving pretty early, probably before you�re up.�
Depp: �Do you have a card? I�ll call home tomorrow and find out the name, then I�ll get it to you.�
Me (reaching for one of my cards): �Oh, that would be very cool!�
While I was doing that, he closed his eyes even tighter, reaching deeper, thinking to himself, �What IS that name?� Then he opened his eyes wide. He had it.
Depp: �Vivitone! It�s definitely a Vivitone!�
Me: �Great! Thanks! Isn�t it funny how the mind works? Just like the mind stuff that was going on in the movie. Oh, I really enjoyed the movie.�
Depp: �Thank you. I hope you find one of those guitars. It shouldn�t be too much trouble. I�m glad you dug the movie.�
Then his handlers pulled him into the interview room.
Author's note: After online publication, an astute reader (in Connecticut) noted that Depp was mistakenly thinking of a different guitar. The one he used in the video is a Weymann, not a Vivitone.
�Transcendence� opens on April 17.
Ed Symkus can be reached at email@example.com.


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ACL2 is a mathematical logic, programming language, and mechanical theorem prover based on the applicative subset of Common Lisp. It is an "industrial-strength" version of the NQTHM or Boyer/Moore theorem prover, and has been used for the formal verification of commercial microprocessors, the Java Virtual Machine, interesting algorithms, and so forth.
AI::GA implements a (hopefully) generalized genetic algorithm. It does this by using an array of allowed tokens as individuals. The user has to provide a fitness function. There, the actual representation is implemented. If you have a string of chars, you can simply join them. If you want to have real numbers, you should probably use a bitwise representation and calculate the real values in your fitness function.
AIBash is a project which aims to make Bash act more intelligently. It features typing error-correction and the ability to learn that certain file suffixes are associated with certain programs so that other programs are filtered out while pressing TAB. Other features are planned for the future.
The Artificial Knowledge Interface for Reasoning Applications (AKIRA) project aims to create a C++ development framework to build cognitive architectures and complex artificial intelligent agents featuring KQML, fuzzy logic, neural networks, fuzzy cognitive maps, and DIPRA. DIPRA is a distributed version of the BDI (Belief Desire Intention) goal oriented model.
ASpiReNN is a little C library (with Python bindings) which provides support for simple (leaky integrate-and-fire) spiking neural networks. It is primarily designed for highly recurrent networks, but it can also be used with multi-layer nets, though performance won't be the same. Though only Leaky integrate-and-fire (for the neurons) and Spike-Timing Dependent Plasticity (for learning rules) are currently implemented, adding new models shouldn't be too difficult.
The ATRACO Project is a prototype implementation of a trusted ambient ecology system that runs and manages activity spheres in an Ambient Intelligence Space. Activity spheres are realized by automatically discovering, selecting, and adapting smart devices (artefacts) existing in the space, according to user's preferences, customs, and activities. OWL ontologies are used for modeling user profile, devices, activities, and goal descriptions. Abstract plans are bound to specific devices, methods, and values through semantic matching.


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This is the privacy policy of Jagex Limited and any companies within our group (referred to collectively as "Jagex"). It applies to all of our websites/services (referred to collectively as "our websites") on which it appears.
"Jagex Product(s)" is used as shorthand for our online games including all Jagex websites used to play those games and products published by Jagex on behalf of third parties. The ongoing supply of any particular Jagex Product is not guaranteed.
"Personally Identifiable Information" is information that identifies you and can be used to contact or locate you in real life, such as your real full name, e-mail address, mobile telephone number, postal address or credit card information.
We are committed to protecting your privacy and take special measures to ensure the confidentiality of Personally Identifiable Information collected from or about you. This privacy policy explains how we collect, store and use such Personally Identifiable Information.
Please read this policy carefully. You must accept this policy in full in order to use our website or any Jagex Product (whether or not you are a subscriber). If you do not agree with this policy, or any part, please do not use our websites or any Jagex Products. Your using any of our websites or Jagex Products is treated as an acceptance of the version of this policy in effect at the time of your use.
We may change this policy at any time, and will post any changes made on the site. Please check it whenever you return to the site. We will treat your continued use of our websites or any Jagex Product as acceptance of these changes from their effective date as shown above.
If you have any questions about this privacy policy, please contact us by emailing email@example.com and do not use our websites or Jagex Products until you are satisfied and can accept this policy in its entirety.
2. What Personally Identifiable Information do we collect and store?
No Personally Identifiable Information is collected when you merely access the public areas of our websites.
We collect and store information which our users voluntarily provide via forms or otherwise on our Jagex Products, and in electronic or other communications with us. You may opt-out of providing any such information by simply choosing not to complete the form requesting the information, and hence choosing not to use that particular service.
For example:
Some users may not be eligible for certain elements detailed above, for example because there are restrictions on the collection of Personally Identifiable Information from those users.
3. What other information is collected and stored?
We use Cookies, collect and store IP-addresses, alphanumeric IDs and other unique identifiers in order to identify specific computers that access the Jagex Products. We identify and store the versions of Java and .NET (if any) on your computer along with your browser and operating system, and details of your device's hardware and software specifications.
For more information about Cookies, the information they collect and how to disable them, please visit our Cookies page.
We generate and store logs indicating usage of the Jagex Products such as activity in our games and public and private chat communications. This includes monitoring play patterns and anti-tamper checks which verify the correct internal operation of our software and are designed to spot abusive or inappropriate activities.
We may track your use of certain features and areas of the Jagex Products to help us improve them.
If our client software held on your computer fails, it sends an automatic error report to our server to help us fix it. This error report only includes information about the internal state of our own client software and which browser/java version it is running on. It does not include data from elsewhere on your system and so does not reveal Personally Identifiable Information to us.
We store 'save game' and 'game settings' information to enable us to provide a better games service in which your activities and achievements are remembered in the game, and we conduct polls to find better ways of serving the needs of our users.
4. Information about you received from third parties
If you access Jagex's Products through an integrated and approved third party then you are allowing Jagex access to certain information from that third party. The information you allow Jagex to access may vary per Jagex Product and across different third party platforms and is affected by the privacy settings you have on your computer or internet device and the choices you make with that third party.
By playing a Jagex Product through a third party site or application you are authorising Jagex to collect, store and use in accordance with this Privacy Policy any and all information that you agreed the third party could provide to Jagex through that third party site or application including Personally Identifiable Information.
5. What happens to the information provided/collected?
The information we collect may be used:
We care about protecting your privacy, and with the exception of the uses specified above or where you explicitly consent, we will not sell, transfer, rent out, share or disclose your Personally Identifiable Information to other companies.
6. Passing your personal information to third parties
We may supply your Personally Identifiable Information to external third parties who provide a service to us (such as fulfilment of orders placed for Jagex Product merchandise or to assist us in the supply of customer support) and purely for the purpose of that service.
We partner with a number of external payment service provider companies to enable you to make payment via a wide range of payment options. We share your billing information with such companies insofar as is necessary for the processing of your payment or to prevent or detect fraud. These companies have agreed not to retain, share, store or use your Personally Identifiable Information which we pass to them for any secondary purposes.
Your personal information may be transferred to, stored and processed in countries outside your country of residence both in and outside the European Union including the United States, and used for the purposes set out in this Privacy Policy.
You should be aware that the data protection laws of other countries may not be the same as the data protection laws of your country of residence. By submitting your personal information to Jagex, you agree to the transfer, storage and processing of your personal information as described in this section.
Please note that this privacy policy does not apply to any of your Personally Identifiable Information which is collected by the external payment provider companies themselves or to the websites or services of other companies to which we link or which link to us, or which provide goods or services to our users from their websites (such as co-branded, white label or affiliate sites or other sites selling Jagex Product merchandise). Please note that those companies (and not Jagex) are responsible for the information which they collect. Please check their privacy polices where appropriate.
We use external companies to provide and serve advertisements or other technologies on the Jagex Products (eg to collect website statistics or to enable sharing of buttons or widgets). These companies may use information (not including Personally Identifiable Information) about your visits to this and other websites in order to personalize advertisements on this site or other sites and/or to personalize certain features on our site and/or to provide anonymised aggregated statistics concerning use of our site or use of certain features on our site which are shared with other sites (eg buttons or widgets linking to our site). We do not have access to or control over cookies or other technologies that these third parties may use and the information practices of these advertisers and technology companies are not covered by this policy. If you would like more information about some of these practices and to know your choices about preventing this information being used by certain of these companies, please click here.
Furthermore, information collected from our users by third parties providing goods or services (including advertisements) at or via the Jagex Products may be shared by those third parties with us and stored by us for the purposes stated in this policy.
Be very careful before making or posting any communications whilst using Jagex Products. Certain information is visible to other players of the game including: public and private chat communications, the appearance of your characters and your experience points. Players who include you on their friends list can see which in-game world you are playing on. We may share Game Data with third parties, such as survey and data analysis companies, to help improve the products and services we offer to our players and improve the player experience. "Game Data" includes, but is not limited to, communications posted on Jagex Products and player communications. Game Data may contain Personally Identifiable Information.
If you have agreed on our websites, we may provide your email address to our business partners so that they can send you emails with details of goods or services which may be of interest to you including information about special offers or promotions.
7. Safeguarding your Personally Identifiable Information
We will only collect Personally Identifiable Information to the extent we believe it reasonably necessary to serve our legitimate business purposes, and will protect it using the same level of safeguards we use to ensure the security, integrity and privacy of our own equivalent proprietary information. In addition, we will take reasonable steps to ensure that third parties to whom we transfer any Personally Identifiable Information in accordance with this policy will agree to provide sufficient protection.
Note that while we strive to protect all our Personally Identifiable Information, we have all heard of data breaches in well-respected financial and governmental institutions and we cannot ever fully guarantee that such breaches will not happen. We will inform you of any material data breaches that we discover that may compromise your Personally Identifiable Information.
8. Jagex's privacy practices in relation to children
We do not knowingly collect or store any Personally Identifiable Information from children under 13. If a Jagex Product allows under 13s to create an account, Jagex will need to collect information that is reasonably necessary for participation in the Jagex Product, such as a user-name, password and a parent or guardian's email address.
If we become aware that we hold or have inadvertently disclosed any Personally Identifiable Information for any player aged under 13 (other than an irreversible hash of an email address username in a non-retrievable form), it will be deleted from our system to ensure the protection of the child's privacy.
Jagex will not require a user under 13 to provide Personally Identifiable Information in order to use Jagex forums or messaging features within Jagex Products. In addition, we enable users of Jagex Products to chat online through our products, but we take measures so that users under 13 cannot communicate personal information through this chat function. These measures include filters and post-submission moderation. Nonetheless, if you use the chat function within a Jagex Product and disclose Personally Identifiable Information, you should be aware that such information could be read, collected or used by other users. We strongly encourage you not to disclose Personally Identifiable Information (such as real name, email address, telephone number, etc.) about you or about any third party. Jagex is not responsible for the use of Personally Identifiable Information you choose to submit through Jagex Products.
If a Jagex Product asks you for your email address as your username and you are under 13, we will not store the email address. Instead the email address will automatically create an encrypted record on our system (known as a hash), which cannot be used by us to re-create the email address. Next time you login, you will be asked for your email address as your username. This will then automatically create a new hash which will then be compared against our existing records in order to allow you to log you in. We will not store your email address in any form that can be used to contact you, although you may be asked to provide your parent's email address.
On top of what we state above, we also have a number of provisions regarding the Personally Identifiable Information of children. These are that a parent/guardian has the right to review the information the site has collected from their child, have their child's Personally Identifiable Information deleted from the site and also request us to stop collecting further Personally Identifiable Information from their child in the future. This can be done through either faxing or posting us an affidavit, along with a copy of your passport or driving license, to the fax number or address below:
Jagex Ltd.
220 Cambridge Science Park
Milton Road
United Kingdom
Phone number: 0844 588 8880
The affidavit has to be signed by and in the presence of 'notary public'. This is someone who is qualified and has the legal authority, to administer oaths. Upon receipt of this, we will be able to action your request. Specifically, the affidavit must state:
If you are submitting an affidavit for a child that is under 13 years of age, then please do not include any of their Personally Identifiable Information. If you do include any Personally Identifiable Information of the child, your submission is your express consent for Jagex to receive and store the Personally Identifiable Information as reasonably necessary to fulfil your request.
9. Review and correction of information from our records
If for data protection purposes you are concerned that the Personally Identifiable Information which we hold about you is not accurate please see our Data Protection Policy.


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GroupOffice is a groupware suite that takes your office online, implementing online collaboration and CRM. It allows you to share projects, calendars, files and email online with co-workers and clients. It is easy to use and fully customizable. It also features synchronization with PDAs and Outlook.
CryptoHeaven offers secure email and online file sharing/storage. Its main features are secure and highly encrypted services such as group collaboration, file sharing, email, online storage, and instant messaging. It integrates multi-user based security into email, instant messaging, and file storage and sharing in one unique package. It provides real time communication for text and data transfers in a multi-user secure environment. The security and usability of CryptoHeaven is well-balanced; even the no-so-technically oriented computer users can enjoy this crypto product with very high level of encryption.
gPodder is a Podcast receiver/catcher written in Python and pyGTK. It manages podcast feeds for you, and automatically downloads all podcasts from as many feeds as you like. If you are interested in Podcast feeds, simply put the feed URLs into gPodder and it will download all episodes for you automatically. If there is a new episode, it will get it for you. It supports download resume, if the server supports it.
Podget is a simple podcast aggregator optimized for running as a scheduled background job (i.e. cron). It features support for downloading podcasts from RSS and XML feeds, for sorting the podcasts into folders and categories, for importing podcast URLs from iTunes PCAST files and OPML lists, automatic M3U and ASX playlist creation, and automatic cleanup of old podcasts. It also features automatic UTF-16 conversion for podcasts hosted on Windows servers and includes the ability to handle authentication for premium podcasts.
GNUnet is a peer-to-peer framework with focus on providing security. All peer-to-peer messages in the network are confidential and authenticated. The framework provides a transport abstraction layer and can currently encapsulate the network traffic in UDP, TCP, HTTP, HTTPS, or direct 802.11 (WLAN). GNUnet supports accounting to provide contributing nodes with better service. The services built on top of the framework include anonymous file sharing and a virtual network providing IPv4-IPv6 transition via protocol translation over the P2P network.
EGroupware is a Web-based groupware suite. It contains many modules, including Calendar (personal calendar and group scheduling, notifications and alarms), Mail (IMAP only), InfoLog (todos, notes, and phone calls linked to contacts/CRM), Contacts (an address book for storing and sharing contact information), ProjectManager, Tracker (bug or incident tracking), TimeSheet, SyncML, CalDAV & CardDAV support, and SiteMgr content management
aria2 is a utility for downloading files. The supported protocols are HTTP(S), FTP, BitTorrent, and Metalink. It has a powerful segmented downloading ability, downloading a file from multiple sources and multiple protocols and utilizing your download bandwidth to the maximum. It supports downloading a file from HTTP(S)/FTP and BitTorrent at the same time, while the data downloaded from HTTP(S)/FTP is uploaded to the BitTorrent swarm. Using Metalink's chunk checksums, aria2 automatically validates chunks of data while downloading a file like BitTorrent.
NBFW is a patch for Samba which allows a Samba server which is running on a masquerading firewall to masquerade netbios packets from a private LAN to a public LAN. With NBFW, computers on the private LAN show up in the browselists and can browse the public LAN. With sufficient OS support (such as Linux portfw or natd) it's possible to access the shares of the computers on the private LAN from the public LAN.
A PHP class to decode email messages.
A REST API for performing DNS queries over HTTP.


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Saturday, December 30, 2006
Know Your Foe - USC
History – USC was founded in 1880 with 53 students and 10 faculty members. The school was actually founded as a Methodist university. In 1879, Judge Roberty Widney led a board of trustees that received a gift of land from three Los Angelinos - Ozro W. Childs, a Protestant horticulturist; former California governor John G. Downey, an Irish-Roman Catholic pharmacist and businessman; and Isaias W. Hellman, a German-Jewish banker and philanthropist. In addition to the land, Ozro, John, and Isaias (I love those names) established an endowment that would support the school. The first graduating class of three – including a female valedictorian – received their diplomas in 1884.
The school has grown to an enrollment of 33,000 students, evenly split between undergrads and grad students, about half the students are from out of state, and it is the largest private employer in the city of Los Angeles.
Location – Los Angeles, California. Not quite Mount Pleasant, Iowa City, or Madison. Los Angeles is the second largest city in the U.S., and the and at just under 4 million, it's population is 41st in the world. L.A. County has just under 10 million residents. It's big enough to house another major university (UCLA), just about the entire film, TV and recorded music industries, and it sets many trends that the nation follows, for good and for bad. Some of its communities are as well known as most cities: Beverly Hills, Bel-Air, East L.A., Hollywood, Westwood, Venice Beach and the San Fernando Valley. The Mediterranean climate – where the average temperature varies from only 65 to 82 degrees – has long since been an attraction to people moving there as well as visitors.
Nickname - Trojans. Despite being a rather common nickname in high schools and at lower levels of NCAA competition, USC is one of only two Division I football teams with the Trojan monicker (Troy State being the other). And boy, do they love their Trojans at USC. The students are known as "Men/Women of Troy." One of the major campus landmarks is the Trojan Shrine where a statue of Tommy Trojan is displayed. It's a life-sized bronze statue of a Trojan warrior sculpted by Roger Noble Burnham and was unveiled in 1930. Inscribed on the pedestal are the qualities of the ideal Trojan: "Faithful, scholarly, skillful, courageous, and ambitious." I guess O.J. had some of those qualities.
Trojans hasn't always been the nickname of USC, though. Until 1912, the sports teams were known as the Fighting Methodists or the Wesleyans, though neither name was official. It's interesting to wonder if the USC football team would have even come close to their history of success if they'd kept either of these names. The Trojan name actually came about in defeat. During a track and field meet with Stanford, USC was eliminated from winning after only a few events. However, the team didn't give up and ended up losing by just a little. Afterward, Los Angeles Times sportswriter Owen Bird wrote that the USC team "fought like Trojans," and the name was officially adopted soon after.
Mascot – Traveler, a live horse. Traveler is a white steed that carries a "Trojan warrior" - usually just some kid from Orange County whose dad gave seven figures to SC - into the stadium. It's actually been one of the great traditions in college football since it began in 1961. They are currently using Traveler VII. Before the L. A. Coliseum was renovated in the 1990's, there was a running track around the filed that proved to be a perfect area for Traveler to trot during the games. But with the removal of the track, and with just about every celebrity in town- and Snoop's posse - on the sideline during games, the riding has become much more treacherous for Traveler, and he even had a minor accident with a spectator in 2000.
But Traveler wasn't the first mascot for USC. Believe it or not, a campus mutt named George Tirebiter was the mascot starting in 1940. Yes, the dog was so named because he went around campus chasing cars. There's even has a statue in his honor on campus.
Colors – Cardinal and Gold. For the first 15 years, USC's color was gold. I guess it was too early to have more than one color. During that time, the College of Liberal Arts had its own color, cardinal. In 1895, the university had a crazy thought and decided to actually have TWO official colors, so cardinal and gold it was. The color scheme isn't the most unique. After all, Michigan's already faced one opponent with the exact same combo this year - Minnesota - and another with a very similar scheme, Central Michigan. USC's not even the only school in the Pac 10 with the color scheme as Arizona State is pretty much same, though they emphasize the gold part more. But when I see the cardinal and gold color scheme I think of USC. Maybe it's because of their greatness on the field. Or maybe it's how they've barely changed their uniforms over the years. Or maybe because it looks so good on the Song Girls. Whatever the reasone, USC's colors are perfect for USC.
And do we have to mention how this is the fourth straight game for Michigan against an opponent with red - or scarlet or crimson or cardinal - as part of their color scheme? Red is just far too common in college sports. But we'll allow it for USC. Their version is perfect.
Logo – Interlocking S and C. Though it's a pretty standard style - and not even all that unique - it works for USC. When anyone with any knowledge of college football sees the USC logo they think of the Trojans. No one out there would confuse it for South Carolina, or Siena College. Of course the logo on the helmet of a Trojan head also screams USC. The helmet has changed only once since 1971, when in 1992 the Trojan head was updated, showing the neck with the head turned as opposed to a pure profile. Whether it was the strained neck , or the tie to San Diego State and the loss to Fresno State, USC was back to their traditional version the following year. The only other change has been a return to a gray facemask in 2001. Prior to having the Trojan on the side, which started in 1972, USC had no logo on the cardinal helmet.
Fight Song – Fight On. If you're one of the few college football fans who can't hum this song, watch the Rose Bowl. I guarantee that by the end of the first quarter you'll be humming it. And you won't be able to get it out of your head until April. The band plays it. A lot. But it's a great song, even if overused. Composed in 1922 by USC dental student, Milo Sweet for a Trojan spirit contest, the words are simple, and the whole thing is only five lines long. The playing of Fight On, with Traveler running around the stadium, and the Song Girls swinging their arms to the tune, with the "V for Victory" sign made with their fingers brings chills to all USC fans. Well, maybe not all the Hollywood bandwagon jumpers they've picked up over the past few years, but certainly the hard core fans.
A mention has to be made here about the Trojan Marching Band, which is also known as The Spirit of Troy. Though the history of the band goes back to the formation of the university in 1880, the modern Trojan band took shape in 1970 with the arrival of Dr. Arthur C. Bartner and his unique "drive-it" style of marching. The band is perhaps the most famous of college marching bands, having performed at the Academy Awards, appearing with OutKast at the 2004 Grammy Awards performing Hey Ya!, and being in numerous TV and film productions. Plus, in 1979, the band recorded the title track for Fleetwood Mac's Tusk album which went platinum. No other collegiate marching band has ever received a platinum album. The so-called "Greatest Marching Band in the History of the Universe," is yet another ingredient that makes USC football what it is.
Academics – Long known as the "University of Spoiled Children" (19% of admissions are still associated with legacy preferences), or the "University of Second Chance," USC has changed its reputation over the past couple of decades. In the latest U. S. News Ranking of America's Best Colleges, USC is tied for 27th, with North Carolina and Tufts. Surprising to most Californians, this is only six slots behind prestigious Cal-Berkely, and only one spot behind UCLA. How has USC made this academic improvement? They used the oldest trick in Hollywood. Well maybe the second oldest since they didn't sleep with a producer to move up. No, they used money. Big time money. USC is the only university to receive five separate gifts of at least $100 million, including $175 million from Star Wars impresario George Lucas. The donation to the then-renamed School of Cinematic Arts, helped solidify that school's top-notch reputation. It is probably USC's most famous school, and grants degrees in screenwriting, film production and film producing and has added an Interactive Media Division for studying video games, virtual reality, and mobile media. Other USC schools that are highly regarded include the Marshall School of Business, the Leventhal School of Accounting, and the School of Architecture.
Athletics – Although most college sports fans would think of football when they think of USC, the Trojans have had great success elsewhere. USC men and women's teams have won 84 NCAA titles, which ranks third all time. This doesn't even include USC's 11 football championships since the NCAA doesn't grant those titles at the Division I level. Since 1912, USC is the only university in the world to have a gold medalist at every summer olympiad. In fact, USC has had more Olympic athletes than any other university in the world. The Trojans won at least one national title of some kind in 26 consecutive years from 1959 to 1985. In addition to the 11 football titles, USC has won 26 men's track and field championships, 16 men's tennis and seven women's tennis titles, and 12 baseball championships (twice as many as any other school). And, not surprisingly, the Men and the Women of Troy have each won six NCAA volleyball titles.
Famous alums – This is the most impressive list of any of Michigan's opponents. Hell, it could be the most impressive list of any school in the country. And though it's heavily weighted to the entertainment industry, it runs the gamut. From hugging and love expert Leo Buscaglia to Neil Armstrong, the first man on the moon. Space, bitches. Space, indeed. The list also includes world famous architect Frank Gehry, L. A. Lakers owner Jerry Buss, General Norman Schwartzkopf, humorist Art Buchwald, and Judge Wapner. In the business world, USC alumni include the CEOs of Trader Joe's, Korean Air Lines, MySpace, J. D. Power and Associates, MGM Mirage, Citigroup, Costco, Emmis Communications, and the Willliam Morris Agency. And then there's the entertainment industry. USC has given us Ron Howard, Michael Landon, George Lucas, John Singleton, Marlo Thomas, Robert Zemeckis, Will Ferrell, Herb Alpert, Mark McGrath, John Ritter, Tom Selleck, Cybill Shepherd, Forest Whitaker, and John Wayne. And, of course, there's murderer hunter O.J. Simpson.
The Game – With two standout defenses, and a pair of inconsistent offenses, this one looks to be a low-scoring affair. But so did the tOSU game. Though the scoring won't get as out of hand as it did on November 18, there will be more points in Pasadena than most people expect. And Michigan will score more of them. MICHIGAN 27, USC 20.
71 comments:
- Sports on a Schtick said...
Great "Know Your Foe" segment. I think I learned more about USC just now than I have in the 3+ years I've been there.
And OJ was ambitious. Two birds with one knife... err stone.
Regardless, should be a good game on New Year's Day. At least that's what ESPN keeps saying.
- December 29, 2006 3:01 AM
- Play Tusk! said...
Bravo! Well done guys! Pretty impressive research!
- December 29, 2006 3:39 AM
Bonus Fact: Dr. Bartner went to UM, and learned under your own legendary director Revelli.
This was a great read!
- December 29, 2006 4:27 AM
Great read, well done.
I appreciate you mentioning how much the school has changed recently. I know both teams are bummed about being in the Rose Bowl (weird isn't it) but this should be a good match up.
- December 29, 2006 4:49 AM
All that and no mention of their cheeleaders? Um, hottest in all the land. I love when they do their little cheer to the fight song so their chests sway to and fro. Ah, love that!
- December 29, 2006 8:53 AM
Another great Know Your Foe, Benny. I especially liked the part about George Tirebiter. I can just picture some frat boys saying, "Somebody go find George - we've got a game tomorrow."
A pampered pooch like UGA probably doesn't leave anyone's site once the season starts.
Both USC and Michigan have a lot to live up to - given that the last two Rose Bowls were two of the best ever played. Since they have both contributed so much to that legacy, it's fitting they should have the first opportunity to try and top it.
This is a very evenly matched game. For those who support the bowl system over a playoff, this is Exhibit A.
- December 29, 2006 8:57 AM
I call bullshit!
An analysis of USC without any shots of the ladies in sweaters is bush league (no pun intended).
- December 29, 2006 9:16 AM
- Gator1377 said...
USC 27 Michigan 17
2nd real opponent Michigan has faced, same result. Sorry.
- December 29, 2006 9:54 AM
- Andy said...
This will be the 3rd Rose Bowl I have attended against USC. I can tell you that their song has already started pinging around in my head. Uggggggggg
- December 29, 2006 10:15 AM
- Andy said...
It didn't take long for gator1377 to overtake Anon Buckeye poster as the most hated regular poster on this blog. Idiot.
Do you think that he will go away after Florida gets rolled by tOSU in the BCS game ?
BTW, nice work on your blog. I hope you didn't spend your entire day off from Burger King working on it...
- December 29, 2006 10:20 AM
- Yost said...
Amen, Andy.
- December 29, 2006 10:28 AM
Anyone want to bet that a USC song girl will cheer when UM scores?
- December 29, 2006 10:55 AM
Hey our song girls cheer for everybody!! That's just the way they are. But gotta love 'em!
Enjoyed the reveiw (even the OJ jokes weren't too bad).
I'm looking forward to the Rose Bowl. FIGHT ON, Beat Michigan!
- December 29, 2006 11:10 AM
- Yost said...
See, this is what a great college football game should be -- cheering your team on, some good natured jabs but respect on each side.
- December 29, 2006 11:14 AM
- Andy said...
Amen, Yost.
- December 29, 2006 11:26 AM
I didn't mean any disrespect to the song girls, if that's what it sounded like. I enjoy seeing them on the sidelines.
- December 29, 2006 11:31 AM
- Rex Cramer said...
Great review. It brought back some facts I hadn't thought of since I was a student. This traditional Rose Bowl match up is awesome - just as it should be (though I wish it were for the MNC).
While I grew up as an SC fan, in an SC house, I've always been a fan of Michigan too. Of course I think USC will prevail, but I wish you guys the best.
Oh, when it comes to the band and our fight song, don't bother to resist it. It will only make it worse.
- December 29, 2006 11:50 AM
Baa dadadada da da daaa, ta daaaaa!
Bum bum bumbumbum bum bumbumbum
Baa dadadada da da daa, ta daaaaa!
- December 29, 2006 12:08 PM
Out of OSU's four ranked opponents, only two were arguably any good. Let's justify that with a quick look at Iowa and Penn State.
Iowa bowed to football powerhouse Indiana, lost five of their last six games, and finished unranked at 6-6. They never beat a ranked opponent, despite a winnable game against #16 Wisconsin. Kirk Ferentz's popularity bulb dimmed pretty quickly after a decent 2005 season.
And Penn State? They, too, failed to beat a single ranked opponent. Their wins include Akron, Youngstown State, Minnesota, Northwestern, Illinois, and Temple. Their best win was probably over Purdue. The win-loss record of the other teams they beat is far from impressive. (Northwestern only won 2 conference games; Michigan State and Illinois only won 1. The name "Temple" says it all for that team. And Youngstown State and Akron -- well, we won't go there.)
And let's not forget defense. Who is Ohio State putting up the numbers against? Only Wisconsin, Texas and Michigan offer Top 25 defenses:
Wisconsin is #3 in Total Defense with only 16 TDs, but their defense has played the worst offensive teams in the country.
Michigan is ranked #6 in Total Defense, but suffer from the same problem: a bevy of weak opponents. (See below.)
Penn State: ranked #16 against the same terrible batch of teams.
- December 29, 2006 12:11 PM
- Yost said...
If you read this board, you know we welcome all points of view, even those critical of Michigan. What we don't appreciate are trolling assholes.
As such, you've lost your privileges here and your posts, as you've noticed by the other asshole comments you put up but have now disappeared, will now be deleted.
- December 29, 2006 12:12 PM
Only slightly on the record and only slightly threadjacking-
With regards to the interlocking SC - yes, unfortunately most of US sports enthusiasts recognize it as the Southern Cal emblem, and no, no one would confuse that particular emblem with the University of South Carolina (despite what Southern Cal lawyers claim), but South Carolina's football team did use the interlocking SC first- pictures of the 1902 football team show them having it on their jerseys. Today, only So Car's baseball team use it and it's different than the 1902 emblem I think. As for the moniker, "USC", the Univ of South Carolina was founded 79 years (1801) before Southern Cal, but then we were known as South Carolina College, and South Carolina College became the "University of South Carolina" after the Civil War in 1866; still 12 years before Southern Cal was founded. But, this is all good for yapping about, and Cock fans may pat ourselves on the back and feel slightly when the media use SC and USC, but we admit, the world outside South Cackelacky still knows USC and SC to refer to the Univ of Southern California. Frankly, I'd be delighted to let them use any damn emblem/logo/name originally belonging to South Carolina for a chance to trade with them their prestige and academic and athletic accomplishments.
For now, we'll have to earn our accolades instead of trading up for them- and it all starts today when we take on that mighty powerhouse Houston in the Liberty Bowl (I cannot understand why we even accept those types of bowl bids except it does give Spurrier's O another month of practice before next season).
Oh, and Gator1377 - I still say you guys keep it close and I hope you win, but you make it damn tough to root for the Gators, that's for sure.
- December 29, 2006 12:20 PM
gatorboy has been over at WeAreSC spewing his vitriol as well...
Here's to a good game with lot's of mutual respect...
You're all invited to drop by the WeAreSC tailgate if you can find it since the Rose Bowl parking is such a cluster eff...
- December 29, 2006 12:33 PM
I think Michigan and/or USC could beat Florida. That's the real joke about the whole thing.
p.s. Johnny Wrangler: I don't think anyone thought you were dissing the song girls, just stating fact. I hope they cheer for Michigan after their only touchdown on Monday.... hehehee.
- December 29, 2006 12:50 PM
Good one trojan mike. We'll see what happens in the "Pissed Off Bowl Game" according to Dallas Sartz.(http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20061228/SPORTS0201/612280403/1131/SPORTS0201) About a third of the page down. I think it will be the best of all the BCS and all other bowl games just because the teams are evenly matched.
- December 29, 2006 12:55 PM
How are they evenly matched? Please explain.
- December 29, 2006 1:01 PM
Bravo Zulu, M-Zone, on a great post.
You're treating this match-up the way it should be treated: the two most storied programs in our respective conferences meeting in the Rose Bowl for what (at least for a while) seemed to be an annual tradition. Not to mention, you guys have the classiest fan base I have ever experienced.
Best of luck in the game (though not too much luck), and regardless of the outcome, here's hoping for a rematch in next year's BCS NC game!
Fight On!
- December 29, 2006 1:02 PM
- Andy said...
.....the two most storied programs in our respective conferences....
(clearing throat)....Que angry wolverine hating buckeye fan....
- December 29, 2006 1:12 PM
How many people here actually attended the school that they root for?
- December 29, 2006 1:18 PM
- Andy said...
- This comment has been removed by the author.
- December 29, 2006 1:24 PM
USC, class of 1994
(I have the student loans to prove it!)
- December 29, 2006 1:26 PM
- Andy said...
How stupid can you be ?
Both the ND and Wisconsin wins are quality wins no matter what you want to think.
How about USC beating the crap out of SEC finalist Arkansas 45-10 ?
I leave you with this final thought before I ignore you forever...
The University of Florida football team has ventured outside the southeastern part of the country a total of 8 times in the past 30 years.
In those games, the Gators are 0-7-1.
1976 Sun Bowl vs. Texas A&M : Loss
1979 @Houston : Loss
1982 Blue Bonnet Bowl vs. Arkansas : Loss
1983 @USC : Tie
1987 Aloha Bowl vs. UCLA : Loss
1989 Freedom Bowl vs. Washington : Loss
1991 @Syracuse : Loss
1995 Fiesta Bowl vs. Nebraska : Loss
Here is to the memory of Lawrence Philips and Tommy Frazier. Good luck against the Bucks.
- December 29, 2006 1:27 PM
anon 10:01
Both have good receivers(Manningham and Arrington vs. Jarrett and Smith), solid QB's(Henne-61.7 comp.% Booty-61.9%), UM has an edge at RB, both D's are good(SC probably has an edge at DB), and both offenses are tied for points scored/game(30.2). However UM runs more and USC passes more.
- December 29, 2006 1:28 PM
- Andy said...
B.A. Michigan. 1988.
I have the balding head, beer belly, and a ticket stub from 1987 Rose Bowl loss to (John Cooper's) Arizona State to prove it.
- December 29, 2006 1:32 PM
Hi Johnny,
Thanks for answering my question...but your explanation can used for many teams playing each other in a bowl. My point is that unless teams play the SAME EXACT SCHEDULE, good teams cannot be compared to each other.
- December 29, 2006 1:34 PM
I keep reading about Michigan playing for the AP title...does anyone think this is possible? And how would it be justified?
- December 29, 2006 1:40 PM
anon 10:34
Point well taken. I guess I mean UM and USC are statiscally similar.
- December 29, 2006 1:43 PM
- Andy said...
I keep reading about Michigan playing for the AP title...does anyone think this is possible? And how would it be justified?
It can't be justified. Period. No matter what happens in the Rose Bowl, Michigan can't hide the fact they lost to the Bucks. Either outcome in the BCS game is bad for the Wolverines.
Ohio State win = Buckeye national Champs.
(if by some strange quirk) Florida wins = Gator National Champs.
Rest assured - the SEC lobby will work overtime to ensure they get both titles.
I will try to be the first to sell tshirts and bumper stickers on ebay that read:
Auburn 27
National Champs 17
- December 29, 2006 1:49 PM
So Andy...the Gators would get no credit for beating OSU, something UM has not done for 3 years even though UM never played Auburn?
- December 29, 2006 1:55 PM
Nice synopsis!
Although, some of the famous athletic alumni deserve some recognition - Baseball greats like Mark McGuire, Randy Johnson, Mark Prior, Barry Zito, Morgan Ensberg, etc...Football greats like Ronnie Lott, Marcus Allen, Anthony Munoz, Lynn Swan, Frank Gifford, Rodney Peete, etc...and Basketball greats like, well, you know, we've had some.
Oh, and don't forget: It's not "Southern Cal"...we hate being associated with Cal. Any previous references to that God forsaken name by the school were typos.
And, because I love to tease fellow posters (out of love)...
Jim: "Cock fans may pat ourselves on the back and feel slightly..."
Do you keep a straight face every time you talk about your team?
- December 29, 2006 1:59 PM
1994 BS Chemical Engineering, So Car
2000 ME Civil/Environmental Engr, So Car
Gator, I mean anon, did you even attend college (yet)?
Andy, don't throw degrees of separation games out there unless you're making it fair game. SoCal had a horrible loss on their plate as well. In fact they loss to more unranked teams than the top entire half (maybe 2/3) of the SEC combined- just to point out a meaningless, nth degree of separation anecdote. By the way, Florida also beat Arky- at a time when the McFadden Travelling He-Man Tour was hitting its stride. I certainly don't blame you bringing it up though just to show Gator/anon the bs behind his logic.
- December 29, 2006 2:00 PM
- Andy said...
Sure. The Gators would get a ton of credit - including a NC.
My comments are not based on my belief that Michigan should be in the BCS game. My comments are based on the fact that the human system for "selection" is messed up. That coupled with the fact that the Gator fans that post here have proven to be complete idiots -- lead me to my current bitter role rooting for the Big 10 and tOSU.
- December 29, 2006 2:04 PM
loss = lost
slightly = slighted
And yes GttRB, having the nickname "Cocks" is pretty funny for us. There was a push a few years back to do away with that abbreviated nickname, but as you can imagine, it made it's supporters even more vocal with it.
Yost - you really need to push the "Kicking is for Pussies" t-shirts in Clemson and you'll make some money. Anyone watching that debacle on right now? HAHAHAHA I love it!
Andy - no offense meant with my previous post. I just re-read and realized it sounded strong.
- December 29, 2006 2:06 PM
- Andy said...
None taken.
My wife is a Gamecock. I loved Columbia back in the day.
- December 29, 2006 2:09 PM
The point is that Michigan is not more worthy than Florida to play in the title game and vice versa. And it is impossible to prove who is better unless they play each other or play the SAME EXACT SCHEDULE. But most of the country has a problem with the whining that came out of Michigan when Florida was chosen.
- December 29, 2006 2:16 PM
- Andy said...
But most of the country has a problem with the whining that came out of Michigan when Florida was chosen.
I guess the moral of the story is it is alright to complain before the event to influence the outcome...like Urban Meyer (something about not recognizing the champion) rather than Carr (saying that he was disappointed) waiting until it was decided.
- December 29, 2006 2:27 PM
Good exercise of troll-control. Though I do think that Gator1377 would have gone back under his bridge after Jan 8 anyway.
- December 29, 2006 2:29 PM
I think Carr didnt "politic" because he really would have looked like a loser after Tressel, (BEFORE the UM-OSU game), came out and said that the loser should not get the rematch. He had the guts to say that and Carr did not.
I did not realize that to Michigan fans and Kirk Herbstreit, that the college football season ended on Nov 18th, while most schools still had to finish their season.
- December 29, 2006 2:36 PM
OSU class of 2010 here.
- December 29, 2006 2:37 PM
"I think Carr didnt "politic" because he really would have looked like a loser"
Had you stopped your sentence there, it would be closer to the truth. Those who do campaign do look like classless losers. Carr wanted no part of it.
- December 29, 2006 2:57 PM
To get back on track here, great finale to "Know Your Foe." I must admit, while I didn't like the media blowjob USC got the last couple of years (and still by Mark May), I don't really have that much of a problem with them. Here's to a great game on Monday and with us coming out as the victors!
Go Blue!
- December 29, 2006 3:02 PM
Jim, I'm watching that piece of shit game right now. God, when does the real bowl games start again?
Great "Know Your Foe" guys.
- December 29, 2006 3:05 PM
"But most of the country has a problem with the whining that came out of Michigan when Florida was chosen."
1. If you are trying to characterize the reaction of Carr to the decision as whining, you're way off-base. He's said it was a disappointment; he's said "we have a system...I've said all along the system would speak and it has;" he's said he believes that, had USC not lost, UM probably would have remained #3. The last was said matter-of-factly and not in the context of some larger argument about why UM got screwed. So... no whining there.
2. If you are talking about the UM fanbase reaction, well, I think it is pretty clear that most of the country is unhappy with the BCS, and much--if not most--of the country agrees that UM got jobbed this year. So...
- December 29, 2006 3:08 PM
- TitleIX said...
Shit Benny, yet another amazing post.
I hope you are valued this much in your paying job!!!
and at the risk of being called pretentious...
3 degrees: 1988, 1992, and 2006
all that and boobies too
life is grand :-)
- December 29, 2006 5:24 PM
Correction to the main post: This will be Michigan's 20th appearance in the Rose Bowl Game. Our record is currently 8-11.
- December 29, 2006 5:29 PM
Michigan did not deserve to play in the national championship. OSU does. Michigan lost when it counted and did not win its conference. Besides the game would settle nothing: if Michigan won it would be a toss up as to who is national champs and it may end up being split and I OSU won it would not prove anything becuase they have already beaten the girls, (Michigan). As it stands now, it is conference champ against conference champ.......LSU fan.
- December 29, 2006 6:33 PM
- Yost said...
I also graduated from Michigan, although I don't know what that has to do with a Know Your Foe post.
- December 29, 2006 6:37 PM
UCLA had 5, count them, 5 losses when they beat USC. Yet somehow USC remains in the top ten after such a defeat? It was made worse for USC last night when UCLA lost to FSU. What is Michigan going to look like when SC beats them.....
- December 29, 2006 6:39 PM
OSU will crush FSU
- December 29, 2006 6:41 PM
Why the MTU Huskies deserve a shot a OSU:
Michigan Tech beat
Findlay who beat
Charleston WV who beat
West Liberty St who beat
Duquesne who beat
Fordham who beat
Albany NY who beat
Lehigh who beat
Villanova who beat
James Madison who beat
New Hampshire who beat
Northwestern who beat
Iowa who beat
Iowa St who beat
Missouri who beat
Mississippi who beat
Vanderbilt who beat
Georgia who beat
Auburn who beat
- December 29, 2006 6:45 PM
Of topic, but last night at the Holiday Bowl I corrected a Cal fan who said "Go Big Blue" when he saw my Michigan sweatshirt, he seemed confused when I sternly (yet politely) informed him that diehard Michigan fans will not allow any of our traditions to be bastardized by ESPN. I informed him that true Michigan fans will only accept a cordial "Go Blue" from others. I then asked him to kindly pass along this new information to all of his friends. Go Blue!!! and thank you for your time.
- December 29, 2006 7:20 PM
Go Big Blue!
- December 29, 2006 7:45 PM
- Conquest Chronicles said...
Great work as always guys!
I linked it up on Conquest Chronicles.
- December 29, 2006 9:54 PM
- nathanp2112 said...
Benny, thanks for the unexpected reminder of one of my favorite memories - Dec 29, 1992 Freedom Bowl - Fresno State 24, USC 7. I can still hear the USC-leaning announcer in Anaheim Stadium: "Will the lady who left her 11 children in the parking lot please pick them up? They're beating USC 24-7".
Thanks for the memories.....
- December 29, 2006 10:40 PM
Execellent Post on USC.
Here is the history behind the one glaring weakness:
In 1967, seven young women were selected as the first USC Song Girl squad. These talented students walked onto the field of the Los Angeles Coliseum to cheer on the Trojan Football Team to victory, starting one of the most storied traditions in the history of collegiate sports. Some forty years later, after numerous National Championships for both the Football Team and the Song Girl squad (also known as the USC Song Leaders), the women, now numbering twelve, look resplendent as ever in their trademark white uniforms trimmed in Cardinal and Gold. The Song Girls, who perform three dozen new dance routines each year, appear at all football games as well as basketball and volleyball games. In addition, the squad appears at rallies, university and alumni functions, and conducts its own Junior Song Girl camp. Media appearances include both television and radio programs and commercials. The squad also performs internationally. The squad has traveled to Italy, Austria, France, Hungary, Czech Republic, Japan, China and Australia. The Song Girls, together with the USC Trojan Marching Band, are the most visible public face of the University, and function as the ambassadors of spirit and good will for the Trojan Family.
As for those who think that South Carolina is USC, remember that S. Car didn't become the University of South Carolina until they redid their charter in 1906. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/University_of_South_Carolina
- December 30, 2006 12:34 AM
I posted the history of the Song Girls, but please feel free to post some pictures of our women in their sweaters.
In fact, please do.
- December 30, 2006 12:43 AM
U-M MBA student class of 2008
It is okay for anyone, student or non-student, graduate or non-graduate to root for U-M, USC, or any other school for that matter.
Certainly anyone who pays taxes in the state of Michigan has a vested interest in U-M (among other schools).
Just my 2 cents.
-Frequent reader and occasional anon poster.
- December 30, 2006 2:08 AM
Anon 9:34 - Nice try, but you're wrong re: when South Carolina College became University of South Carolina - it was way back in 1866, not 1906. To use your link (and thanks for the link) read the first sentence in the third paragraph under "History". They were opened and closed a couple different times after the Civil War, once being called an Ag and Mechanical school, once being deemed a liberal arts school, etc. A lot of this had to do with Ben Tillman - who despised the University of South Carolina and who was later instrumental in the creation of Clemson University.
All of this is fine and dandy like hard Christmas candy, but I'm the first to admit that the world generally thinks of Southern Cal when they they read the letters, "USC".
I laugh at Southern Cal's adamant attitude that they are USC, they own the interlocking SC letters emblem, and no one better dare use those initials, ever. I thought it was the University as a whole, but it is not, just the Trojan athletics department and their legal office. They even have rules forbidding the use of those "trademarks" by student organizations on campus without written, special permission, signed, and counter-signed in triplicate. Funny people. Great school.
I also leanred a lot about Univ of SOuthern California after reading this edition of "Know your foe". I had no idea that they were as well thought of academically, but now I know and am impressed.
- December 30, 2006 10:45 AM
- Erik said...
I have to be nitpicky and mention that both Arizona State and the University of Minnesota have as their second color maroon, not cardinal. As an ASU student, I gladly throw up on the color cardinal.
A fine writeup, though. It shall be a glorious matchup, worthy of Rose Bowls of old. None of this BCS horseshit screwing things up, if you squint your eyes a little.
- December 30, 2006 4:47 PM
- Ungar Kelt said...
I would much rather that Michigan face USC in the course of an 8 or 16 team playoff. It is a great matchup, but essentiall meaningless.
Of the 31 bowls, 1 actually means something. Until the fans revolt and quit getting so excited about these games, nothing will change.
Bah Humbug.
- December 31, 2006 11:46 AM
vujWell said, UK. While I believe bowls can benefit recruiting, booster support, etc., the risk for a favored team in any bowl, but the big one, seems to far outweigh the rewards. Take Clemson-Kentucky, Clemson had nothing to gain by beating Kentucky, nothing whatsoever, but everything to lose with the loss. Same thing with Texas-Iowa, BC-Navy, SoCar-Houston, and a host of others. Basically, you get a small school that gets up for the game, a big school that doesn't, and it's just not a fun game to watch for anyone. Kind of like a mid-week game in college baseball. Little schools knock off powerhouses all the time in midweek games because they throw their stud pitcher against the mid-week pitcher for the big team, because the mid-week game doesn't mean squat to the big team as long as they do well in the following weekend conference series. In a way, this also points to a problem in a playoff system. Would Michigan or OSU hold back the starters to save injuries in the Big Game if both of their spots in the playoffs were finalized already? Maybe a bad specific example, but hopefully I fumbled through my point enough.
- December 31, 2006 1:38 PM
- san francisco values said...
Jesus Christ! It was nauseating enough to have to read about them, but then you misspell "Berkely?"
Come on.
- January 02, 2007 12:51 PM


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The Nintendo 3DS arrives in Europe and North America over the weekend but Jeff and Garnett have already been playing with the new handheld for a week. Their impressions of the hardware and some of the launch games fill most of the opening Whatcha Been Playin? section but there's much more to come includine Crysis 2, Shogun 2, Mortal Kombat, and Patapon 3. Shacknews's own Jeff Mattas and good friend of the show Christian Spicer round out the cast this week and brought their A game for the Warning where the group covers game criticism, behaviorism as applied to discovery in games, and more. All that, plus this week's videogame news in the Front Page and Finishing Moves make this a can't miss show.
Weekend Confirmed Ep. 53: 03/25/2011
Subscription Links:
- Subscribe to Weekend Confirmed in iTunes
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If you're viewing this in the GameCenter application, you can play Weekend Confirmed Episode 52 directly.
Weekend Confirmed comes in four segments to make it easy to listen to in segments or all at once. Here's the timing for this week's episode:
- Whatcha' Been Playin Part 1: Start: 00:00:00 End: 00:29:52
- Whatcha' Been Playin Part 2: Start: 00:30:40 End: 01:01:34
- The Warning: Start: 01:02:40 End: 01:34:46
- Featured Music "All My Life" by David RuffinJr.: 01:34:36 End: 01:38:02
- Front Page news: Start: 01:38:02 End: 02:13:11
This week's Featured Music comes from the supremely talented David Ruffin Jr. In the past years, highly touted music publications such as Rolling Stone, The Source, and Rap Pages have labeled David Jr. as "talented and is up-and-coming". However, perhaps his most thrilling moment in music came when he heard a world wide, multi-platinum song, called...Gin & Juice. A Hip-Hop Classic now! A song that Dr. Dre, T-Green, Snoop, and he collaborated on and recorded together. David Jr. recently relocated to Los Angeles in an attempt to get some recognition for his latest creations. David credits his father, along with current soloist, Joe and 80s crooners, Alexander ONeal, James D-Train Williams, and the great Marvin Gaye as the major influences on his style of singing.
Pick up a copy of his new CD "All My Life" at CD Baby. You will not be disappointed. And keep up with the latest and greatest from David Ruffin Jr. on ReverbNation, facebook, and twitter.
Original music in the show by Del Rio. Get his latest Album, The Wait is Over on iTunes. Check out more, including the Super Mega Worm mix and other mash-ups on his ReverbNation page or Facebook page, and follow him on twitter
Jeff can also be seen on The Totally Rad Show. They've gone daily so there's a new segment to watch every day of the week!
Remember to join the Official Facebook Weekend Confirmed Page and add us to your Facebook routine. We'll be keeping you up with the latest on the show there as well.
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Red Sox look to rebound behind Farrell in 2013
By Ian Browne /12/31/12 10:00 AM ET
BOSTON -- For the Red Sox, a new year has a lot more to do with just the calendar. Take a look at the organizational charts in the offices on Yawkey Way, and changes are everywhere.
For the second straight season, Boston has a new manager. John Farrell brings a lot more familiarity to the equation than Bobby Valentine did a year ago, and the Red Sox are hoping that makes a huge difference.
There are newcomers in the outfield (Jonny Gomes and Shane Victorino), at first base (Mike Napoli, whose three-year, $39 million contract is still pending), shortstop (Stephen Drew), closer (Joel Hanrahan) and in the rotation (Ryan Dempster).
Following Boston's worst baseball summer since 1965, general manager Ben Cherington knew that he needed to shake things up.
So here are the new-look Red Sox, who will surround a familiar core of David Ortiz, Dustin Pedroia, Jon Lester, Jacoby Ellsbury and Clay Buchholz.
Will Middlebrooks should also be a huge part of what Boston accomplishes. The third baseman was on his way to a stellar rookie season before breaking his wrist in August.
While the Dodgers got Zack Greinke and the Angels landed Josh Hamilton, the Red Sox focused on moves that were a little more subtle in nature.
"We're trying to add to the team and improve the team in as many areas as we can without being as focused on the headline and being as focused as we can on improving the team and building the roster in as many areas as we can," said Cherington. "We're trying to build as deep a team as we can and filling the clubhouse with guys we can believe in and building the team that way. We're going to continue to try to do that. The proof will be in the pudding. We'll see if we can execute it enough."
After making the American League Championship Series four times between 2003-08 and winning two World Series over that span, the Red Sox are now at a point where they've gone four full seasons without winning a postseason game.
But the tradition-rich franchise is hungry to return to top-contender status.
For the Red Sox, perhaps there is nowhere to go but up after a 69-93 nightmare in 2012. But there are some key questions going into 2013, including the following nine.
1. Will Lester bounce back?
Who was that left-hander who went 9-14 with a 4.82 ERA in 2012? Believe it or not, it was Lester, who had pitched like an ace the previous four years. The Red Sox didn't go out and get another ace this winter, so they need Lester to get back to what made him successful in the past. Lester's return to prominence will start with fastball command. But he will also need to regain the feel for his cutter. If he accomplishes those two things, the most important thing of all will return -- his confidence. Being reunited with Farrell -- Boston's pitching coach from 2007-10 -- should help Lester as much as anyone on the team.
2. Can Ortiz stay healthy?
For the first time in years, contract security is not an issue for Ortiz. The Red Sox signed him to a two-year deal. At the age of 37, Ortiz won't have to play for his next paycheck, but he does need to stay healthy. When Ortiz went down with a strained right Achilles last July, Boston's offense never recovered.
Some athletes begin to break down in their mid to late 30s. Ortiz will be out to prove he doesn't belong in that group.
3. Will Farrell hit the ground running?
In some ways, this seems to be a perfect setup for Farrell and the Red Sox. He left Boston for two years and gained invaluable experience in Toronto. Farrell acknowledges he did a lot of learning up in Canada, and perhaps the Red Sox will benefit from that on-the-job-training. After such a disappointing 2012, the Red Sox badly need the type of cohesion from the manager's office they had during most of Terry Francona's eight-year tenure.
4. Bounceback years for Victorino, Napoli?
When the Red Sox went after Victorino and Napoli as two of their main targets this winter, they did so because of their track records -- not the down years they both had in 2012. Both players had some physical issues, but don't want to use excuses. Sometimes a player can become energized by playing at Fenway Park on a daily basis. The Red Sox think that Victorino and Napoli both have the type of personalities that will thrive in Boston. But will their bats follow suit?
5. Can Middlebrooks avoid a sophomore slump?
Before a 96-mph fastball shattered his right wrist on that fateful night in Cleveland last August, Middlebrooks had evolved as the biggest bright spot in an otherwise disappointing season for the Red Sox. He could be on the cusp of stardom, but for now, Boston simply wants Middlebrooks to keep improving. As with any second-year player, Middlebrooks will encounter opposing pitchers who now have scouting reports to exploit his weaknesses. It will be up to Middlebrooks to turn the tables and make the pitchers have to readjust.
6. A return of the Angels' Lackey?
In his first two years with the Red Sox, John Lackey was unable to display the consistent form that once made him one of the best right-handers in the AL. Now that he's fully healthy following Tommy John surgery, the hope is that Lackey will have the same life in his arm that he had during his best years with the Angels. This would be a big boost for a Boston rotation that enters the year with some unpredictability.
7. Will Bailey perform well in new role?
The Red Sox never got a true glimpse of Andrew Bailey in 2012. Their former closer was hurt in Spring Training and didn't pitch until August, so the jury is out on whether he has the stuff to compete at a high level in the AL East. Bailey definitely has the East Coast mentality it takes to succeed, but he won't have a chance to prove he can return to top form in the closer role, which the Red Sox handed to Joel Hanrahan upon trading for the right-hander shortly before the New Year. The question is if Bailey can stay healthy enough to put up good numbers and give the Red Sox the sense of security they need in the late innings.
8. Will Doubront take the next step?
For the first four months of last season, Felix Doubront looked like a dependable middle-of-the-rotation starter. But he hit a serious wall in August and had a hard time emerging from his slump. With a full year of experience as an AL starter, Doubront should be able to raise his game another level in 2013. If he does, the rotation could go from a question mark to a strength for the Red Sox.
9. What will become of Bard?
Daniel Bard tried to transition from reliever to starter last year, and it went worse than anyone could have imagined. Not only did Bard find himself out of the rotation and back in Triple-A by June, but his confidence and mechanics were shaken to their core. Bard never got right in 2012, and he will be one of the pet projects of new pitching coach Juan Nieves for '13. Farrell should also be invaluable in trying to resurrect Bard, given his past history with the hard-throwing righty. When Bard is going well, he's a dominant setup man.


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Welcome disc golfer! You can login or create an account.
Questions? Call us: (785) 258-2494
The Innova Champion Dyed TeeBird is an overstable fairway driver and one of Innova's most accurate and reliable disc golf drivers. It has a combination of straight flight, high glide and good speed that make it accurate and long flying both upwind and downwind. It is a very versatile driver, excellent for pin-point accuracy, distance and sidearm. It is the preferred fairway driver of 12 time world champion and Hall of Famer, Ken Climo. Brother to the Innova TL (see below). 21.2 cm diameter
It is a great choice as a utility driver, headwind driver, sidearm driver, for hyzer shots, flex shots, and thumbers.
|150 Class - 175 grams
|DX Glow
|150 Class - 175
|Champion Dyed
|Champion Metal Flake
|165 - 175
|150 class - 175
|Echo Star
"The TeeBird should be a staple of every golfer's bag. When new, it flies straight with a smooth hyzer finish. As it gets beat up it flies straight with very little deviation from its flight path." - Mike Solt
If you are looking for a disc with
more Glide, try the Archangel
more Turn, try the Eagle
more Fade, try the Banshee
For Comparison:
The TeeBird+ differs from the TeeBird in that it is made from the Plus Mold. The angle of the rim under the disc was changed in that It angles outwards slightly more than the regular rim which is more of a 90°angle to the bottom of the disc. This slight angling of the rim allows a smoother release. Everything else is the same. There is a limited supply of The Plus Mold TeeBird. Try it before they are gone! 173-175 only
The TeeBird-L fairway driver is straight. The TL is the brother of the reliable TeeBird. The "L" stands for "Less Overstable" and "Longer". This disc has the same great speed and glide as the TeeBird, but is straighter flying with less fade at the end of the flight. If you are looking for a straight flying maximum fairway driver, the TL is the answer. The TL+ combines The TL's neutral flight with the easy-release plus rim, making this an ideal disc for almost any fairway shot. Beginner friendly. 21.2 cm.
It is a great choice for a first fairway driver, tight fairway driver, placement driver, turnover shots, and beginner disc golfers.
The TL+ differs from the TL in that it is made from the Plus Mold. The angle of the rim under the disc was changed in that It angles outwards slightly more than the regular rim which is more of a 90°angle to the bottom of the disc. This slight angling of the rim allows a smoother release. Everything else is the same. With it's easy-release rim, the TL+ comes out clean. The plus rim and the TL's neutral flight make this disc easy to throw for straight drives. It could be the ultimate smooth fairway driver.
Speed 7, Glide 5, Turn 0, Fade 1
"Bar none, the greatest disc golf driver I've ever owned. Indestructo plastic, a wonderfully versatile neutral flight that satisfies my need for a fairway driver or a sidearm control shot. The CE TL consistently finds the putting circle. Simply put... THE TL NEVER LETS ME DOWN!!" - Gregg Hosfeld
"My true love of the Fairway Drivers. Yes, it's slower, but it's accurate. I trust many shots with this disc." - Des Reading


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Style # 206550
A basic suiting essential, this bebe pencil skirt features classic slit at back, hidden zipper and the perfect length to accomplish any task. Comes fully lined. Constructed from a wrinkle-resistant luxury fabric that retains form and structure. Match it with a peplum blazer and a pair of classic pumps.
- 86% triacetate, 18% polyester.
- Center back to hem: 22" (56 cm).
- Dry clean.
- Imported.
- Model is 5'9" and is wearing a US size 6.
Rated 5 out of 5�by 1 reviewer.
Rated 5 out of 5�by loveshoppingg love it i was wary at first, because i'm so picky with clothes. but this skirt is amazing. it runs slightly tight on the waist, which i prefer. i got it in a size 0, and it fits great. highly recommended. December 18, 2012
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West Columbia Tankless Water Heater Contractors
Tankless water heater installation services in West Columbia, TX are highly recommended for homeowners who need a way of heating the water in their house. You will find that our particular water heaters are very eco-friendly and will provide you with long-term savings, which is something that every homeowner wants. It is very important that you keep in mind that our West Columbia tankless water heaters last a very long time and are known for being extremely reliable, so you can count on yours to last over the years.
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Another reason why so many people love West Columbia tankless water heaters is that they are very safe and clean, so you won't need to worry about the accumulation of rust like with traditional tank water heaters. While it is true that you are going to end up spending a little bit more on one of these models, it is well worth it when you consider all of the benefits that are associated with tankless water heaters in West Columbia, TX. As long as you take the time to do your research into these tanks, you will be able to get exactly what you need. Most tankless water heaters in West Columbia, TX are extremely energy-efficient, so you will save money on your utilities over the years.
Master Cabinet Ma19410 CR 319 Brazoria, TX 77422
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Hernandez Rodolfo Jr9347 Fm 1459 Rd Sweeny, TX 77480
Comfort Air105 N Main St Sweeny, TX 77480
Roto-Rooter PlumbersBrazoria, TX 77422


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Falderal wine master to speak at forum
Paul Kovacich, wine master at Falderal Winery, 131 Third Ave. W., Hendersonville, will speak at the Winemakers Forum from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 6 at the A-B Tech Enka campus in Candler, near Asheville.
The forum is sponsored by the college's BioNetwork BioBusiness Center and French Broad Vignerons. The forum is designed for wine makers at all levels of experience, and attendees will be grouped based on personal experience — beginner, experienced and advanced. Each level will participate in three moderated forums. Forums will explore issues such as materials, grapes, resources, testing procedures, managing wine development, sanitation, blending, bottling, corkage and aging. Kovacich will join eight other experienced wine makers and growers to present at each forum session.
French Broad Vignerons is an organization formed by local vintners and growers that promotes viticulture as a tool for economic development in the mountain counties of Western North Carolina.
The cost of the forum is $25. Attendees must be 21 years old or older. Registration is required. Visit www.abtech.edu/ce/ registration to register. Call 828-693-7676 or visit www.falderalwinery.com for more information.
NC Beer Month observed in April
This April is the first North Carolina Beer Month, and Sylva's Heinzelmannchen Brewery will tap into the fun with four initiatives for beer lovers.
North Carolina Beer Month was created to showcase the state's burgeoning craft beer scene, which now includes more than 75 breweries. Margo Metzger, public relations manager for the N.C. Division of Tourism, said the idea has been fermenting for some time.
"We have been promoting craft beer for several years now and saw this great momentum building," Metzger said. "We definitely thought craft beer was hot."
Brewmaster Dieter Kuhn crafts exceptional ales at Heinzelm�nnchen Brewery. Open since 2004, the brewery specializes in alt beer made in the warmer regions of Germany. TripAdvisor.com recently ranked Heinzelmannchen sixth among the Top 10 brewery tours in the nation, just behind Samuel Adams and Sierra Nevada.
Visit ncbeermonth.com for more information.
Flat Rock Tailgate Market to open May 2
The Flat Rock Tailgate Market will reopen from 3 to 6 p.m. May 2 in the parking area behind the Cherry Cottage and next to Hubba Hubba Smoke House along Little Rainbow Row.
This is the seventh year that the market has been in operation, and it will continue every Thursday through October.
The market will feature locally and regionally grown seasonal produce using primarily organic or chemical-free agricultural practices. Some offerings on opening day will include perennials and herbs, baked goods, jellies, beef, pickles, maple syrup, seafood, goat cheese, cow cheese, eggs, fresh and dried flowers, hummus and pesto, fresh salad greens and some early seasonal vegetables.
Along with most of the old favorites, there will be some new additions to the market this year. A wide variety of plants, fruits and vegetables will be added as the growing season progresses.
To obtain a vendor's application or for more information, call Molly Sharp at 828-698-8775, Cheryl Stippich at 828-693-0781 or Saundra Poces at 828- 698- 8149.
Earth Fare launches community initiatives
Earth Fare, the healthy supermarket, has launched a new community-focused website connected to a community rewards program at www.EarthFare. com.
Earth Fare's first community campaign asks customers to stop by for its Sunday Burgers for Bucks event, join the conversation on Facebook and start saving as a part of its Tomato Bank rewards program.
When the community reaches all three of these goals, Earth Fare will provide $1,000 for physical education equipment to neighborhood schools in each of its 30 markets across the Southeast and Midwest. Check out the new website at www. EarthFare.com.
Season's spring chef's tasting on Thursday
Season's Restaurant at Highland Lake Inn, 86 Lily Pad Lane, will host its Spring Chef's Exclusive Tasting at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, featuring music from Paul Bowman. The cost is $65 plus tax and gratuity for the world cuisine or $85 plus tax and gratuity with beverage pairings. The evening's dining experience begins with a carrot and ginger bisque with crisp baby turnips, creme fraiche, and dill jus with the optional pairing of the 2011 J. Christoph Riesling from Mosel, Germany, to complement.
The appetizer is a coldsmoked sea scallop, seared over avocado puree with a fennel and citrus slaw and grapefruit emulsion. The pairing for this course is a 2011 Nora Albarino, Rias Baixas from Galicia, Spain.
Following is the pea and carrot salad. Pea tendril salad tossed with mint, lemon vinaigrette and Easter egg radishes with goat's feta puree and carrot sphere will be paired with the 2010 Vergert Du Sud Viognier, from the Rhone region in France.
The two entrees for the evening are Benton's prosciutto-wrapped halibut, an oven-roasted halibut and aged country ham with a Tabasco hollandaise, pommes anna, sauteed asparagus and pickled red pepper, complemented by a 2011 DeLoach Chardonnay from Russian River, Calif., and a Moroccanspiced loin of lamb, seared over sweet potato puree and local Swiss chard, accompanied by turmericscented yogurt, lamb jus and sweet potato threads paired with a 2009 Haraszthy Amador Zinfandel from Foothills, Calif.
Dessert will be a strawberry shortcake consisting of macerated, local strawberries over a flaky biscuit with buttermilk rhubarb ice cream and a candied lemon chip with the optional pairing of Season's house-made white sangria to complement.
Reservations are required. Call 828-696-9094 or visit hlinn.com/ news for more information.
April classes at Blue Ridge Bakery
The Blue Ridge Cooking School at the Blue Ridge Bakery, 400 S. Broad St., Brevard, will host cooking classes from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on these dates in April:
u Tuesday: Fun with pasta. Students learn to use butternut squash and broccoli rabe lasagna for pasta. Also, students will make penne with radicchio, spinach and bacon and a pesto out of pistachio nuts. For seafood lovers, there will be a spicy seafood pasta with lemon, chile and mint. Cost: $35.
u April 4: Authentic Mexican class. Susan and Elvira will teach students how to make the perfect chiles rellenos, chicken tacos and homemade guacamole along with a Tres Leches cake for dessert. Cost: $35.
u April 9: Cajun feast class. Students will prepare shrimp and oyster po' boys with homemade remoulade, gumbo, red beans and rice, and top it off with a plate of Bananas Foster. Cost: $35.
u April 16: A trio of Italian breads: whole wheat pizza dough, focaccia with carmelized onions and ciabatta bread that is crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. Cost: $35.
u April 23: The cooking with booze class. This lesson starts with dessert, Irish Car Bomb Cupcakes. From there, the class will make Wisconsin-style beer cheese soup, pork fillets in dark ale and a champagne risotto. Cost: $35.
u April 24: Guest Chef Sylvia Anton of Eclectic Person Chef in Charlotte will host this class. She will teach students how to cook some eclectic dishes from all over the world. On the menu is a Latin ceviche, a French-inspired dinner en pappilote (cooked in paper) and Vietnamese spring rolls. Added bonuses for the evening include a white sangria and a few tips on how to set up a buffet at home. Cost: $45.
u April 30: Turkish delight class. Students will make a classic Turkish spice rub called za'atar and a classic roasted red pepper sauce harissa, both of which go beautifully with lamb or chicken. Also, prepare a pilaf with chick peas and dried fruit, salmon marinated in a cilantro sauce and cilantro-scallion bread. Cost: $35.
Call 828-883-8444 to make reservations or for more information.
Morsels: March 27
Falderal wine master to speak at forum


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Ao (S) - Page 13
Naruto-Arena forces you to select 3 characters when you start a new game. This page gives you an overview of all characters available in the Naruto-Arena game. Not only can you view each character's skills, you can also discuss the characters by posting comments.
Ao (S)
Ao (S) is a hunter-nin of the Hidden Mist Village and a skilled sensor. Ao is a veteran shinobi who has been in many battles, one of his spoils of war is the byakugan he possesses.Requirement to unlock: Mission: The Veteran of The Mist
Stolen Byakugan
Ao uses his Stolen Byakugan and gains 5 points of damage reduction for 3 turns. During this skill Ao will deal 10 damage* to any enemy that uses a non-mental skill on him.
Cooldown: 3
Chakra required:
Classes: Chakra, Instant, Ranged*
Sensing Barrier
Ao uses Sensing Barrier on 1 enemy dealing 25 damage. That enemy will not be able to reduce damage or go invulnerable for 1 turn.
Cooldown: None
Chakra required:
Classes: Mental, Ranged, Instant
Byakugan Seal
Using Byakugan Seal Ao will counter all non mental enemy skills used on him for 1 turn. All countered enemy's skills will cost 1 additional random chakra for 1 turn. This skill is invisible.
Cooldown: 2
Chakra required:
Classes: Chakra, Instant
Reactionary Defense
This skill makes Ao (S) invulnerable for 1 turn.
Cooldown: 4
Chakra required:
Classes: Physical, Instant
Related subjects:
page 13,
NARUTO © 2002 MASASHI KISHIMOTO. All Rights Reserved.


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by Butch Lazorchak:
Quick quiz: Is the employment outlook for librarians growing or shrinking? The answer depends on what you call a "library job."
"BLS view doesn't describe too many of the librarians, archivists and museum professionals I know. Just for kicks, let's compare the BLS librarian description to the job area of Computer and Information Systems Managers, which O*Net describes as having a "bright outlook" (projected to grow at a rate of 29% or more this decade):
Consult with users, management, vendors, and technicians to assess computing needs and system requirements.
Stay abreast of advances in technology.
Provide users with technical support for computer problems.
Assign and review the work of systems analysts, programmers, and other computer-related workers.
Evaluate the organization's technology use and needs and recommend improvements, such as hardware and software upgrades.
Funny…that list looks a lot more like the job descriptions of the librarians I know!


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Plaice, European – Iceland, Bottom Longline
European Plaice is a species of flatfish found throughout the coastal waters of Europe and is widely distributed in Icelandic waters. European Plaice grow at moderate rates and can live for over 20 years.
The overall abundance of European Plaice in Iceland is at moderate levels, but populations have been declining over the last century and are likely overfished.
While the majority of European Plaice in Iceland are captured using Danish seines and bottom trawls, a small percentage of fish are taken in the bottom longline fishery. This fishery results in relatively little damage to the seafloor and some bycatch of juvenile fishes.