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University of Washington Alumni Association
Meet. Learn. Cheer. Travel. Act.
Columns Votes - March 2007
Alumni Vote: Who Has More Pride?
Selected Comments from Cougars
When you attend WSU, you get to experience the whole going away to college experience and live it up. You are more likely to form lifelong friendships at WSU. The majority of UW students live off campus; once class is over they are off back into the depth of the city away from campus. In Pullman, no matter where you live, you are never more than 10 minutes away from campus. You are more likely to run into friends and colleagues around town, which brings WSU students closer together. Having that type of atmosphere definitely made me feel at home away from home. Like the majority of WSU alumni, when I think of my time at WSU, I think of all the positive experiences I had and the great people I met, which make me proud of being a WSU alumni.
On the serious side, tons of students who go to UW live at home and drive to school. At WSU, 20,000 kids are stuck together in a town of 7,000, which centers around one thing and one thing only: WSU. Every building has signs in the windows, and every intersection has our logo in it. Pullman is WSU and our students and alumni love it there. We went there and our parents and grandparents went there as well. It was our home for 4-5 years. Huskies will always see Pullman as a second-rate cow town, just as we see the U-District as a drug-infested homeless shelter. If you are not a student or alumni you will never, and I mean never understand, what it means to be a COUG!
WSU is a more tight-knit school that institutes more of a sense of community. Half the students at UW go home on the weekends; you just dont see that at WSU. Also, a large portion of the UW-faithful in the Seattle area are just fans and have no ties to the school at all.
Cougars are immersed in a culture that really values its students, faculty, and friends of the university. Where else do faculty mingle with freshman or graduate students at the local coffee shops, jazz club, grocery store after hours? Where else do students come together to learn about themselves, their discipline, and their local to global community 24/7? Washington State University, of course!
Cougars went to school in the middle of nowhere, and hardly ever get any respect. They join together and rabidly promote all things WSU. Theyre attached to their college experience, because there really was just the university community. Its not like that at a metropolitan campus like UW.
Quite frankly, its the setting. In Pullman it is EXTREMELY university-centric where Seattle is obviously much more vast, enabling the students to become more immersed in other points of interest outside of university-specific activities.
Choosing WSU over UW was easy. Just driving the 300 miles to Pullman is full of anticipation. As you start on Hwy. 26, the WSU symbol is all along the highway. As you enter Pullman youve entered Cougar Territory. The town is centered around Cougar Life and creating school spirit! I love being a Cougar and wearing my crimson and gray. Its more then just colors. It was an amazing experience.
Growing up in Eastern Washington I have always been a part of a close-knit community, but Pullman is different. There is something about this strange little, yet big town. The minute you start your descent into town and see the sun breaking upon the beautiful red brick building on campus above you and the quaint little streets below you feel home. There is a connection that happens when you go to school in Pullman; even if you only know 10 people, you are connected to the whole student body in some way and this bond stays with you forever.
Cougars stay connected and win or lose, take a great deal of pride in the efforts of our athletes. We also respect the efforts of others and welcome them to our campus as respected guests. Pullman is our second home and not just a place to go to school.
The geographic isolation of Pullman is a major reason why. When you go to WSU, you are surrounded by Cougs, you become a Coug. When you go to UW, you are a Seattleite and probably go home on the weekends. It just isnt as strong a community as WSU.
Because we have a common bond! We go/went to a school where despite its educational/academic prowess, it tends to be outshined by its party school image. We are and always have been underdogs! Never given respect, never expected to do anything, go anywhere! We as a Cougar Nation have thus become one of the most close-knit alumni groups in the nation. We are humble (mostly) and we are appreciative and proud of everything COUGAR!!! Its all about the PASSION!!!
Coug alumni are a much closer group and proud of our school/traditions than UW alumni. Pullman is basically a college town, where everything you do and see is related to WSU. UW is nestled in Seattle, where many students live outside of the campus and dont affiliate themselves like we do with the Cougs. The roles would be reversed if UW was in Pullman and WSU in Seattle.
Many Cougars travel far and wide to be a student at WSU--across the state for most, and for others like me I came from two states away. You truly leave home and become an adult when you decide to become a Coug. You are away from the nest and comfort of everything you have known. Being on your own you are forced to decide whether you will succeed at this task or fail. Those who succeed--the alumni--feel a huge sense of pride and honor for what they achieved. Not only a world-class education, but entry into adulthood.
Cougar alums have more pride in their school. They understand what it means to have a community support the education, programs and athletics of their university unlike UW. There are too many other distractions in the Seattle area to truly build that community and university pride that WSU Cougars possess.
Cougs have a sense of camaraderie that is unmatched by most schools out there - especially those schools in big cities. In the Palouse, there isnt much to do outside of Pullman so wed stay on campus. Who you met, who you did things with were other Cougs on campus. This helped build long lasting connections and friendships and pride for our school that last a lifetime. You relied on each other to get through the cold winter months to keep each other going and entertained and went to sports events even if the team wasnt doing so hot that year. In big cities, college students tend to live off campus and go to the city to have their fun. Theres no doubt that both UW & WSU are great schools, but Cougar pride is untouchable, even in Huskies backyard!
WSU is great, almost all of the students love being there, and many stay for the summer. Alumni flock back to WSU after they have graduated because when you are in Pullman it is all about being a Coug. UW is very impersonal; it is a check box in your life, not an experience of your life. UW provides a great education in the classroom, but they cannot touch the life experience you get at WSU -- and very few colleges in the country can. My family has gone to school all over the Pac-10 (UW, OSU, UCLA, Cal, USC, and WSU) everyone became a Coug fan while I was there and are still is avid Coug fans. Being in Pullman galvanizes this pride. Even though I would agree UW probably provides a better education (though not by much), WSU is the best college because of the whole experience and pride you receive by being a Coug. Not to mention Cougs hire Cougs.
The Cougars have more pride because they have more at stake. We often feel as if we are looked down upon by the Huskies, which give us a bit of a little brother feeling. Additionally, it probably has something to do with the fact that WSU is a school where students live on campus and UW tends to be a commuter school. Its harder to get excited about your school when youre only there for classes. Cougs are pushed by their isolated location to make the best of it, which leads to going to athletic events, rallys and generally being INVOLVED in their school, whereas Huskies have the draw of everything else in Seattle to do INSTEAD of being involved...
Location, location, location. Pullman is a quiet, unique rural setting. While attending Washington State University there are very few distractions from what is truly a family of Cougars. In Seattle the students bleed into the larger context and tend to lose track of that sense of family and ownership on their campus.
I attended both UW and WSU at different times. I started my freshman year at UW and having grown up a Coug, I have to say that I was highly disappointed in the Huskies school spirit. It certainly wasnt what I would expect from a such a recognized university in terms of its athletics and academics. Upon transferring to Wazzu, I immediately came to admire both the student and alumni affinity for everything Cougars -- I immediately felt a part of the family. And thats a family Ill never leave.
Ill go ahead and keep this short and simple but I truly believe that one of the reasons why WSU students have the stronger pride is due to the fact that we all are bunched up and displaced in a small town in the middle of absolutely nowhere. As a result, we have nothing but ourselves and we end up seeing the same people everyday, either on campus, at the bars or even at the grocery store. The close proximity and the we are all in an island together mentality helps build the bond and feel of community amongst us in a much stronger effect and taking this into account, theres a greater sense of camaraderie and pride.
Cougars have a sense of pride based on a shared experience -- Huskies go to an insanely large school, spread out over a large city. Cougs are in a centralized location with a unified student body. Only people who have lived in Pullman and have experienced life at Washington State can understand true Cougar pride. I am a Cougar, and the daughter of a Husky. There is no pride at Washington, no unity among the alumni. When we go out in public (on the West Side, mind you), my dad in purple and myself in crimson, no one acknowledges his school gear, while I am stopped by alumni and strangers saying Go Cougs! Even today, Cougar alumni, even with smaller numbers, hold ten times the amount of pride held by any Husky alum. Perhaps, if the University of Washington treated its students more like people and less like numbers, Huskies would be able to have a quarter of the spirit Cougars do.
I have had numerous conversations with Husky fans, and the most common theme/question is How can you cheer for a team who always loses? This to me speaks to the core difference between Cougars and Huskies. To a Husky, pride is equal to winning. To a Cougar, pride is pride, regardless of winning, losing, ranking, etc. Cougars love their school, their town, their heritage, their teams, and each other regardless of who is top in the Pac-10 or who has a better record. Huskies are so easily dismayed by a losing season and give up on their teams readily. Cougars love their school and team, in the good times and the bad. That, to me, is what school spirit, what COUG spirit, is all about.
As an outsider who prefers the University of Oregon over both institutions, it would seem as though WSUs pride is derived from the standard assumption of elitism that is often exhibited by UW and its graduates. WSU is an underdog who sometimes lives in the shadows of its flagship sister. WSU students and alumni will not accept the assigned label of inferiority and therefore react by purchasing more license plates, eating more Cougar cheese and voting more often on on-line polls.
As a WSU graduate and UW employee, I must say that the Cougs definitely have more school spirit and an unwavering pride in our college. To be fair, I did marry a Husky, my best friend is a Husky, and I work for the UW, but my heart belongs to WSU. I think that because Pullman is so college-centric, the students there HAVE to bond together, they HAVE to form one tight-knit, cohesive community, or else we would have died of boredom. There is NOTHING to do in Pullman besides go to college and be a part of the collegiate lifestyle. Crimson and gray is forced upon you the moment you enroll because there is nothing else there! The town of Pullman IS WSU, the city of Seattle is NOT UW. UW is a very small part of the city, but WSU makes Pullman. Pullman is a magical town and a universe all its own. Those who werent a part of it will never understand, but those of us who WERE a part of it will ALWAYS live it. I bleed crimson and gray.
As a current student of Washington State University I have experienced everything Cougars All my friends and I show up to sports events 5+ hours before the doors even open to try and get the best seats. For the recent basketball games some of my sorority sisters were in line at 4 a.m. and the doors did not open until 5:30 p.m. On Friday and Saturday nights when youre walking around campus and Greek Row everyone that you see you give a high-five and shout Go Cougs as you pass. WSU students are completely dedicated to our school and our pride.
Two prominent factors come to my mind when searching for an explanation as to why WSU alumni tend to display school pride more avidly than their UW counterparts. The first involves regional pride. Much of WSUs student population comes from Eastern Washington, whereas the UW student body comes from a much more diverse regional background. (In particular, there are many more foreign students attending UW than WSU.) WSU students view their school as an icon of regional pride. In contrast, many people go to UW purely because of the institutes academic reputation--and not due to any intrinsic pride at being a Husky. The second major factor involves the nature of the two universities campuses. WSU is located in a very small town in the middle of wheat fields; there is very little to do off campus. As a result, most students are heavily involved in on-campus activities which tend to foster long term school pride. In contrast, the UW campus blends almost seamlessly into the surrounding city life of Seattle. The numerous shops, restaurants, and other attractions offered by Seattle tend to pull students off campus...and lessen school pride by providing more of a connection to the city itself than to the university.


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Support Staff
Donna Kidwiler
Donna grew up in historical Harpers Ferry and is a lifetime resident of Jefferson County. After her retirement of 23 years with Jefferson County Schools, she joined the staff of Fellowship Bible Church as administrative assistant and finance manager. She has been a member of FBC since it's inception in 1992. Donna graduated from Blue Ridge Techincal & Community College in 2007 with an Associates Degree in Accounting and is currenlty pursuing her Bachleors Degree in Business Management & Accounting.
Donna married her childhood sweetheart, Monte Kidwiler, of Bakerton, WV, on September 18, 1971 before moving to Columbus, Mississippi, where Monte served in the USAF for 4 years. They now live in Bakerton and have resided there for 28 years. They have two children, Monte Jr. and Monica and are blessed with 11 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.
Donna has served in children's ministries at FBC for 5 years as a volunteer and as an Olympian Coach and looks forward to helping with Sunday School this fall and helping out at the Bakerton Independent Bible Church in Monte's hometown of Bakerton.
Donna loves quilting, music, traveling, flower gardening, and helping Monte with their two horses. She mostly loves serving her church and spending quality time with her family and friends!
Richard Beddow
Full-time at Fellowship as the Property Supervisor since 2007, Richard is knowledgeable in the building trades and is a master mechanic. Growing up in Jefferson County, he attended Fellowship Bible Church in its early years. He now resides in Gerrardstown with his wife, Ladeana, and their two children, Vanessa and Mitchell.
Richard and Ladeana, who grew up in Inwood, WV, were married in 1994. Ladeana is a teacher with Berkeley County Schools and is currently finishing her Master's Degree with Shenandoah University. Vanessa attends Musselman High School and enjoys the high school swim team, show choir, tennis, and photography. Mitchell attends Musselman Middle School and enjoys playing Little League baseball, football, riding his motorcycle, and hunting with his dad.
Richard is an avid outdoorsman, loving hunting and fishing. He very much enjoys coaching Little League baseball and tinkering with automobiles in his auto shop at home.
Michelle Palmer
Michelle is a lifetime resident of Jefferson County, and been a faithful attender of Fellowship Bible. She is our church secretary and you will hear her voice when calling the church office. Michelle has worked for Fellowship Bible Church since 2004. She and her husband, Joe, have twin girls, Ashley and Faith.
Clint Cavender
Clint was employed as full-time custodian at Fellowship Bible Church in October 2011. He takes pride in his work and wears many "hats"! He was born in Rockville, MD where he lived until 1974; he then moved to Adamstown, MD where he graduated from Frederick High School. He currently resides in Harpers Ferry.
Clint has two children, Kristie and Michelle, and 2 grandchildren, Ethan and Liam. He is a master plumber, loves Nascar, hunting, golfing, and playing games with his family.


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Hang tight!
Recipe by NAUSHEE
"It is easy to make and something different. Try it!!!"
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3 cups
1 1/2 cups
uncooked long-grain white rice
1/4 cup
vegetable oil
1 tablespoon
garlic paste
1 tablespoon
ginger paste
1/2 cup
tamarind paste
1 pinch
ground turmeric
salt and pepper to taste
1 1/2 teaspoons
sesame seeds
fresh cilantro, for garnish
Tasted totally sour. No-one in my family would eat it. I would not recommend to anyone, ever. Unless you are fond of tammarind. No seasame at all.
Very good. I love strong flavors, and this was absolutely delicious and was an excellent accompaniment to a chicken curry dish I made. Cut back the tamarind paste a bit if you prefer a less sour taste.
2 Ratings
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Rice with Sesame Seeds
Serving Size: 1/8 of a recipe
Servings Per Recipe: 8
Amount Per Serving
** Calories: 234
** Calories from Fat: 67
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About Us
Jane Addams Senior Caucus is a multiracial, grassroots organization led by concerned seniors in the Chicago metropolitan area. We cross neighborhood, racial, religious and socio-economic lines to find common ground upon which to act on our values. Through leadership development, organizing and popular education, we use the power of our collective voice to work for economic, social and racial justice for all seniors and our communities.
Jane Addams Senior Caucus has about 500 members from diverse background fighting for social justice. We know that seniors are valuable to our community and that seniors coming together can improve their lives and be active in civic life.
The issues we work on come from the concerns of our members. Presently our issues include the preservation and creation of affordable housing, improving in-home health care and ensuring on-site social workers in senior buildings.
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Maternity Ward
Melissa Leddy became a mama, to Little G, in the summer of 2011. Every Tuesday, she shares her "learn as you go" insights about first-time parenthood.
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If I Could Do It Again
Reflecting on a past experience, it can be tempting to think, "Man, I should have done this; I wish I'd done that." Of course, in the moment, we often do the best we can with what we have, sans the benefit of hindsight. I've been looking back on the beginning of Little G's life, considering […] [Read More]


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PRESCOTT, WI (WTAQ) - Who made the world's longest bratwurst?
There's a dispute over that question in northwest Wisconsin.
Last Saturday, Ptacek's IGA in Prescott cooked up a sausage just over 52 feet long – and the owners arranged to break the World Record Academy's mark of 47 feet set a year ago by a restaurant in Chicago.
The event had lots of media coverage. But reporters soon began hearing from folks at Dallas in Barron County. They've cooked a brat over twice as long for the past 4 years with little media publicity, and no effort to register it as a world record.
Last Saturday, a 135 foot brat was cooked and served at the Dallas Oktoberfest – the same day as the Prescott event.
Ann Lee said she looked into registering the Dallas brat as a world record, but it cost too much.
Pat Ptacek was also upset at having to pay $1,900 to register his brat with the World Record Academy – but he felt the accomplishment needed to be recorded, so he paid.
Also, the folks in Dallas don't use a bun – and Ptacek understood that the record brat would need a bun, so arranged to have one made.


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As the NFL Scouting Combine kicks off this week, another important date is rapidly approaching. NFL Free Agency begins on March 12th, and while the Falcons aren't expected to be big players in the free agent market, the front office have their work cut out for them. They need to free up money to not only give themselves roster flexibility and sign their new draft picks, but also to keep some of their own soon-to-be free agents. A list that includes William Moore, Sam Baker, and several key role players. And that's not even including trying to potentially bring back Brent Grimes and Tony Gonzalez, if he decides to return for one more go. It's not easy letting go of players who have been great on and off the field, and sometimes even fan favorites. The best franchises do it and the Falcons won't be any different, at least if they want to keep up their winning ways. A few items and players regarding the cap situation…..
Some think that the Falcons will be able to get by with restructuring contracts and a few others that are expiring and not have to make hard choices. That may be true, but Thomas Dimitroff will have to put on his magicians hat because it just doesn't seem plausible this time around. There are several reports in regards to the Falcons cap current cap situation, but its generally considered to be really tight. A general consensus is the Falcons are somewhere between 1 and 2 million above the cap. While it doesn't sound that bad, especially compared to some teams like the Redskins and Cowboys who are way over the cap, it's not that good either.
First, the Falcons must have money to free up to keep William Moore, who just made the Pro Bowl, and Sam Baker. Dimitroff has done an superb job of keeping his core together and these are two that he will definitely want to keep. Moore is one of the few young pieces to build around on defense and represents one of the most stable positions on the team (safety pairing with Thomas DeCoud). There was even a report that Moore wants to test the market. While that was from a random St. Louis Dispatch writer with his own "sources," it probably does at least mean he wants to be paid well after his best season as a pro. And while Baker can't seek Jake Long money, he also turned in his best season protecting Ryan's blind side. TD can ill afford to lose two key cogs and simultaneously try to plug holes while creating more.
Moore and Baker are just the biggest names, but there are a slew of others players like Chris Owens, Vance Walker, Garrett Reynolds, Antone Smith, Chris Hope, and a handful of others that have been invaluable role players in the Falcons immense success. While it appears that Lawrence Sidbury may be on his way out for some terribly unknown reason, it will be awful to see him succeed elsewhere, particularly with the Falcons anemic pass rush. Moore, Baker, and the players mentioned above will cost many millions alone.
All the players listed will cost way more than the Falcons currently have and that's leaving out two of the biggest names: Brent Grimes and Tony Gonzalez. Dimitroff and Co. have made it abundantly clear that they want Gonzalez back at all costs and obviously will pay him what he wants for one more run. He made $5.9 million dollars in 2012 and so he'll at least want that at a minimum, and probably more to be honest. Even though no decision has been made, it does seem that the more time that goes by, the greater the likelihood of him returning.
Where the issue with Gonzalez is a certainty (it's all up to him), the decision on cornerback Brent Grimes is much less settled. Dimitroff used the franchise tag on him to the tune of $10.21 million dollars in 2012. He was supposed to form a deadly trio with Asante Samuel and Dunta Robinson. The former Shippensburg product was then lost to a season-ending Achilles heel injury in game one. The Falcons would obviously like to keep him and he won't be seeking the huge contract he was looking for pre-injury, but it seems impossible the Falcons can keep all three. If by some miracle they do, it will cost plenty.
While the Falcons won't be huge spenders in free agency, they will at least be looking at some players to fill the gaps, for nothing else than depth. Some believe they may look at running backs, others think defensive tackle and defensive end, and still others think linebackers in free agency could get a look. They may not spend any in free agency, but Dimitroff will likely at least want the option if the right deal comes along.
They will also need money to ink their draft picks as well. The players contracts have been capped and they won't have to pay the amount a top 5 pick would require, but this looks to be one of the first years that Dimitroff has all his draft picks and any compensatory ones added, which some are speculating at up to four. >>NOTE: Determining contracts, cap hits, and cap space is a very inexact science since details and rules are hard to come by. Thanks to Spotrac.com for the best attempt at "Cap-ology."<<
One common mistake (made by yours truly) is to just go by what contracts are coming off the books. For instance, some might think that Brent Grimes $10+ million franchise tag paired with Tony Gonzalez's almost $6 million and a few others would net almost $20 million in space. However, you have to go by the cap hits scheduled for the upcoming season, which vary wildly from year to year. Michael Turner, for example, counted $7 million against the cap last year, but is scheduled for a whopping $8.9 million hit in 2013. Even with tens of millions due to come off the books, it is more than made up by players receiving escalators in 2013.
One final factor in creating cap space is the issue of what's called dead money. It is essentially any money that is due to a player when they are released. It can be represented by both guaranteed money or any signing bonus still owed. The worst example is Ray Edwards. The Falcons still owe him $4.65 million in 2013 from his contract, even though he was released mid-season. That money is lost and can't be recouped or re-used in any fashion. Much of who gets cut will be determined on how much is owed vs. how much could be saved.
2013 Cap Hit – $8.9 million
Still Owed – $2 million
Potential Savings – $6.9 million
This one seems like as close to a lock as it gets. Turner has been one of the greatest running backs in franchise history in only 5 short years, but all good things come to an end. He showed major signs of slowing down and doesn't fit the new offensive scheme as much as other running backs. Turner, as much or maybe even more than Matt Ryan, deserve all the credit in the world for what he's done for this franchise. When all is said and done, he may even hang from the rafters of the Georgia Dome in the Ring of Honor. However, its simply time to get younger and more explosive in the backfield. His cost vs. potential savings make it a no-brainer.
2013 Cap Hit – $9 million
Still Owed – $1 million or $3 million
Potential Savings – $8 million or $6 million
After Turner, no name gets mentioned more than Robinson as a potential cap casualty. It's no secret that Robinson hasn't lived up to his enormous 6 year / $57 million dollar contract with $25.5 million of it guaranteed. In fact, only Matt Ryan is scheduled to make more than Robinson in 2013. It would seem to be a lock, but his contract is pretty confusing to comprehend.
On one hand, he has $25.5 million guaranteed and going purely by yearly cap hits, he's only owed $1 million more in guaranteed money. That obviously would be a huge savings of $8 million towards the cap. However, it says he also is owed $1 million per year in signing bonuses over the next three years. In that case, the Falcons would have to pay him $3 million to cut him and would save around $6 million. There's also the issue of him receiving $7 million in unidentified "miscellaneous bonuses" in 2010. Either way would save a pretty significant amount towards the cap. Of course there's the issue of how to fill the hole that his release would create.
While he's not been an All-Pro corner, he has been extremely solid, coming off his best year in Atlanta under new defensive coordinator Mike Nolan. They could try to keep Grimes, but he wouldn't come extremely cheap either and it would be a pretty big injury risk. They could roll with Robert McClain, but there's no guarantee he's ready to be a full-time starter. They could look in free agency, but all of them would have highly inflated prices. They could go through the draft, but they already have a list full of high needs. It's doubtful he would renegotiate his contract again after doing so last off-season. Going purely by numbers and savings it makes a lot sense. Figuring out how to fill the new hole, however, is a lot harder, especially for an area that performed pretty well.
2013 Cap Hit – $5.2 million
Still Owed – $500k
Potential Savings – $4.7 million
No Falcon has been more of a rock than DT Jonathan Babineaux. Drafted in 2005, the former Iowa Hawkeye has spent his entire career with the Falcons and is one of the only players remaining before Smith and Dimitroff took over. He will turn 32 in October, but had one of his better years in 2012, collaring 31 tackles, 4 sacks, a forced fumble, and an interception. It would be hard to part with Babineaux for many reasons, not the least of which is that he's still performing well. The d-tackle also showed his versatility in being able to play defensive end, which could be a huge asset in a potential move to a 3-4.
Much of the decision will reside on how much they want / need to save and how much they want remake their defense. On the other hand, Babineaux is in the last year of his contract and wouldn't realistically be a part of the Falcons defense going forward. Also going back to the fact that the defensive line has been one of the Falcons biggest problem going on 5+ years, and it may simply be time to move on a year early. The DT is also one of the few candidates that would cost very little to release and offer big savings in return.
2013 Cap Hit – $7.156 million
Still Owed – $1.5 million
Potential Savings – $5.656 million
Why in the world would the Falcons even consider cutting Abraham, their only source of any pass rush the last 6 years? That's a good question, because despite the Falcons getting a new defensive coordinator with a new scheme, they still had no pass rush outside of Abraham. As mentioned in previous posts, it's frankly unacceptable at the job this entire staff has done getting any pass rush whatsoever besides Abraham in 5 full seasons, draft picks, free agents, and off-seasons.
Any potential release has more to do with the Falcons future than it does with Abraham and his production. #55 is still performing at a high level, notching 10 sacks in 2012 without any help whatsoever, per the normal. And when he got hurt right before the playoffs, it showed how truly vulnerable (and pitiful) the Falcons pass rush was / is. The former Gamecock will turn 35 in May and the only reason a release could occur is if the Falcons feel they need a major overhaul with their front seven and a complete break from the past, including Abraham and Babineaux, would be needed. If you know Mike Smith, however, you can bet that won't happen.
2013 Cap Hit – $6.05 million
Still Owed – $4.65 million
Potential Savings – $1.4 million
This one's pretty much a non-starter from the beginning. While Clabo may not have been the best tackle in the NFL, letting him go just makes no financial sense. He was guaranteed $11.5 million and has only been paid $6.85 million of that so far. Just letting him go would create almost $5 million in dead money, while only saving barely over a million. If this a year from now it may be a different story, but now it makes no sense.
2013 Cap Hit – $3.5 million
Still Owed – $3 million
Potential Savings – $500k
Anytime the cap savings debate comes up, the most common thing to do is to look at who had a tough time in the playoffs. Like Chris Owens a few years ago, Nicholas is likely taking the brunt of the blame for a larger and deeper flaw. The tight ends ran wild in the playoffs, both Zach Miller and Vernon Davis, and Nicholas was the easiest target. Davis had success against the Packers and Ravens as well. The former South Florida Bull may have had a tough time, but he also led the team in tackles in 2012. The Falcons need to add depth and competition in the off-season, but the financial cost vs. reward make it a non-starter like Clabo.
2013 Cap Hit – $3.433
Still Owed – $2.066
Potential Savings – $1.3 million
Biermann signed a decent contract last year worth about $3 million a year. Biermann had a good year under Nolan's new scheme, but is still struggling to find a permanent position. Like others, Biermann is a great Falcon and his contract wouldn't yield any savings. Biermann's not an every-down defensive end and probably needs a permanent move to linebacker. His contract does project him to be an every down starter somewhere.
Cap Hit – $2.01 million
Still Owed – $1.1 million
Potential Savings – $910k
This really wouldn't be saving a ton of money, but would rather be a move based on principle. While almost a million isn't something to sneeze at, the Falcons will probably keep him around for depth for another year, but based purely on performance, Jerry should make way for another player to get his shot. Easily Dimitroff's worst pick in 5 years, time is up for him to turn some "mythical corner" even including injuries. He'll likely get another year, but that doesn't mean he should.
Complete Atlanta Falcons 2013 Cap Hit List @
1) Simple Cut – who should stay and who should go?
2) Are any big names due to go?
3) Should the Falcons pursue both Gonzalez and Grimes?
4) How much money do the Falcons need to clear?
5) Turner: stay or go? How should he be replaced?
6) D. Robinson: stay or go? Who fills hole?
7) Babineaux: stay or go? Replacement?
8.) Abraham: stay or go?
9) Any names left off the list that should be on it?
10) Has Dimitroff done a good or poor job with contracts to date?
11) Should trades for any players be entertained?
12) How crucial is this upcoming draft?
February 21st, 2013
11:30 am
Good morning Cage…
An excellent piece my brother. Well presented, well thought out, and on message. So let's begin the process of provoking thought.
I am going to start with point ten first, then take a pause for a few, and then come back for more discussion.
Has Dimitroff done a good or poor job with contracts to date?
Let the prosecution submit two statements into the record for review as I answer that question.
Exhibit One.
Dimitroff directs all aspects of football operations with the Falcons and working with Head Coach Mike Smith has final authority over all personnel decisions related to the signing of free agents, the selection of players in the draft, trades, and related decisions. He will also handle coordinating other football-related activities with Coach Smith.
It would appear that TD's role is that of scout in chief; find the talent, evaluate the talent, select the talent.
Exhibit Two.
Rich McKay is in charge of all business operations for the Falcons. This includes the departments of Finance, Marketing, Ticket Sales, Facilities and Logistics, and Services. In addition to his duties of running the day-to-day business operations of the Atlanta Falcons, McKay is also heavily involved with Mr. Blank to develop plans for a new stadium in downtown Atlanta as the team nears the expiration of its current lease at the Georgia Dome.
The TeePee would submit that IT IS still Rich McKay that serves as the keeper of the checkbook for the Atlanta Falcons given these descriptions.
Exhibit Three.
Note also that after three years of being "stripped" of his General Manager titl, the 'President" was promoted to the position of President and CEO, a gift of even more power, at least in title if not in deed. It is in my opinon, a clear distinction.
It would appear that TD's role is that of scout in chief; find the talent, evaluate the talent, select the talent.
RM then pays the talent and CFA Smith is then supposed to integrate the talent.
February 21st, 2013
12:01 pm
How much money do the Falcons need to clear?
On this question, the TeePee responds with the following. I would say that the "Real Process, Part III" needs to begin this offseason. It is the opinion of the TeePee that the Falcons should seek to clear as much as $20 to $25 million dollars. If the numbers provided by D3 are correct (and I am sure my brother carefully researched them), this could be accomplished by the following moves. I warn you in advance that this is the most controversial proposal the TeePee has ever advanced.
I would immediately release Michael Turner, Dunta Robinson, Jonathan Babineux, John Abraham, and Peria Jerry. These moves alone would save $25.2 million dollars this season.
Yes, I am calling for an implosion and a youth movement. Why?
I am more about the future than I am about the past or the moment. This team has gone as far as it is going to go with this current roster. They can not finish the job; whether it is scheme, management, or a combination.
Pass rush and the inability to stop the run were liabilities. The only way we are going to improve those areas is to get stronger, bigger, and younger at the point of attack. Babs and Abe do not offer that anymore.
A cornerback with real skills, a press man to man corner is needed in the secondary. And Robinson is not that guy. The price paid is simply not worth the results we have seen from him.
Jerry…enuf said.
Turner has given the Falcons a very solid career. But it is clear that the conditioning and the drive are diminishing. And it is time to get a more versatile, more dymanic presence in the running game. I love JR32 but he is simply too small to take the everydown pounding he would be subjected to as a every down back. He is invaluable as a change of pace back (i.e., Kevin Faulk back when NE was winning titles frequently).
February 21st, 2013
12:05 pm
How much money do the Falcons need to clear? Part II
Grimes and Gonzo. Let them both walk.
Spend the money on the future, not a band aid. Between the two, should they come back, the Falcons would need to spend a TeePee estimate of at least 7 to 11 million dollars to retain the services of both. That is a lot of money for two players; one coming off significant injury, and the other, an asset but one that can and must be replaced sooner rather than later. Not that I am anti-Gonzo; I am pro addressing other more critical needs on the team. And the money used to retain Gonzo could and should be first and foremost, allocated to those needs.
February 21st, 2013
12:11 pm
Great stuff D3, thanks for getting us through the "lull"
1) My cuts would be: Turner, Robinson (especially if it's the 1 mill instead of the 3), Abe (if we switch to a 3-4, otherwise we still need him)and possibly Babs although I would like to see him stay and play 5 technique at a reduced cost, wouldn't care if we kept him though, he's solid.
2)Plenty of big names on the list I mentioned
3)I say they should keep TG88 if he wants to come back, Grimes maybe at a reduced rate if they cut Robinson
4)Hard to put a # on how much they need to cut, since I don't know the rookie wage scale or who we might go after, obviously we need enough for our rookies and to resign Moore, Baker
5)Turner's time is up. He should be replaced in the draft and w/ what we already have on the roster w/ JQuizz, Snelling. I like an RB in round 2 if Stepfan Taylor, Eddie Lacey are there, or the cat from Oklahoma State in the 3rd or 4th round
6)DRob is too expensive for what we get from him, cut him, fill it w/ Grimes (at the right price or if there's anyone available via trade or FA that makes sense)
7)Babs– I could really go either way, I like him and think he plays to his contract, it would be nice if he'd re-up at a more cap friendly #, but I wouldn't expect it, I think he'd make a good 5 technique if we switch to a 3-4 like I hope.
8)I think Abe should go if we swtich to a 3-4, otherwise he's our only 4-3 end, we'd have to keep him. Just too costly.
9)None that I can think of
10)I would say Dimitroff has done pretty good, although I'm no expert on these things, the only areas that have hurt us are ray edwards and drob's contracts, but to be fair many people considered them good moves until the underperformed, can't be right all the time
11)I am dreaming here and I don't want to sound like a douche bag who thinks we should trade for the dream team, BUT if we could swing a trade for D.Revis for a 2nd round pick and find a way to get him locked up in a 5 year contract that we could work in our cap (not sure if that's possible), then that would be the ultimate coup for our team, again, I'm reaching and don't expect this to happen. Otherwise, if a team is looking to dump a quality big NT that can help us, that'd be nice too, most likely nothing will be available to us that would make sense.
12)Draft will be crucial. Especially if we switch to a 3-4 (a theme for me, I know), we'll need the personnel, also, we'll need a RB.
Go Falcons!!!
February 21st, 2013
12:17 pm
Clabo can be retained and if the opinions of the TeePee matter, he should be immediately moved inside to right guard with Lamar Holmes inserted at right tackle.
This, IMHO, is a not brainer situation with allows us to fully integrate Holmes into the offense while extending the servicability of Clabo for the remainder of his contract provided he stays healthy.
Bierman is being totally wasted in ATL. This dude is much more than just a quality reserve. I want to be clear. The defensive end experiment should be over for this player.
The TeePee believes strongly that he is the answer to a portion of the issues that we have at linebacker. He has range, speed, and is solid in the open field. The TeePee think he has all the tools needed to be an effective middle linebacker or play the strongside linebacker position if given the chance.
This upside and his youth (27) as well as no history of injury bode well and warrant his retention.
The opposite is the way feel about Stephen Nicholas. He is a quality reserve at best and an outstanding special teams player. His weaknesses in pass coverage are glaring and must be remedied. I keep him on the roster simply because we have nothing (AND I MEAN NOTHING) in terms of linebacker depth.
February 21st, 2013
12:22 pm
Should trades for any players be entertained?
Simply put, no. The players out there that fill pressing needs for the Falcons would come at too steep of a price for a team that will be actively (over the next three years) signing its own stars to extension that will be considerable (i.e., Ryan, Weatherspoon, Jones).
February 21st, 2013
12:27 pm
CUT turner , abe, robinson, jerry, baker, grimes.Screw moore cant cover…….. draft young players and keep it moving
February 21st, 2013
12:33 pm
Replacing Robinson?
I say give McClain or Charles Mitchell a shot. Yes, backup safety Charles Mitchell. He has CB skills from his college days and was very effective in zone coverage. Could be a sleeper.
February 21st, 2013
12:34 pm
A break now….see you on the other side with more discussion and thoughts.
February 21st, 2013
1:10 pm
Great Thursday Cage!
Nice little topic I thought and I'm sure there will be some controversy on this one and heated debate, but one thing that really struck me about the whole process is the fact that, due to contracts that were already made, you can't just go through with a meat cleaver and cut whomever you want just because they're being overpaid or not living up to par. It's all about how much money can be saved?
Sure, it would be lovely to give Nicholas and Robinson the axe and get all the money, but sometimes it just makes no sense whatsoever to release guys. There has to be some savings in place or otherwise it makes no financial sense. Sometimes you have issues like Ray Underwear, but those are extreme cases and all of these are good guys on and off the field.
It also struck me how few of players that would actually save us money. It more or less comes down to a handful of players that makes it worth it: Turner, DRob, Abe, and Babs. That's really it. Another thing you have to consider is how you go about replacing them if you do release them and that's another big one.
A true Risk/Reward/Replacement argument.
February 21st, 2013
1:18 pm
SW – I believe the TeePee is correct that Rich McKay controls the purse strings and TD evaluates and selects the talent. As I recall, one of McKay's purported strengths is cap management. When TD was hired I think I remember reading that one of the main reasons for not letting McKay go was his expertise in dealing with contracts. TD had little experience in that area and AB trusts McKay to handle the money.
February 21st, 2013
1:18 pm
D3 @1:10…points noted.
February 21st, 2013
1:20 pm
Time, your memory is as lethal as an AH64 Apache. Well done, friend.
February 21st, 2013
1:23 pm
In the coming weeks, I will offer solid, concrete proposals to justify each guy that I called for the release of. Again, a great topic and as you said, a spirited, civil debate lies ahead.
February 21st, 2013
1:25 pm
The old NFL adage is to let a player go a year early than a year too late. Babs is the only one that gives me pause. There is also another saying, if you don't worry about the short term, you might not need to worry about the long term. As I said, other than Ryan, Roddy, and JJ, we can turn the entire roster over….However, I think we take a few steps backward it we cut hard, we ready for that?
February 21st, 2013
1:32 pm
Thanks SW.
If this evaluation of the roles of TD and RM is correct, such a situation requires a great deal of coordination. Everyone has their role, but no one has the ability to work in a vacuum. If all parties are not on the same page, such a dynamic can quickly become problematic for any number of reasons.
February 21st, 2013
1:33 pm
You nailed it right there. I do not think the Branch has the guts to make those tough choices. But I do believe the time has arrived. And I honestly do not think the drop off, especially defensively, will be a great as what we have endure the last three years.
I think that this draft is perfectly suited for TD to do what he does best; find gems in the most unlikely of places.
February 21st, 2013
1:40 pm
Time, assessment noted.
February 21st, 2013
2:13 pm
We should probably re-sign Ryan to a more cap-friendly deal this offseason, too, giving us even more room.
I don't think cutting Bab and Abe will suddenly make our back-up D-linemen any better, so that means spending $$ on those positions in addition to replacing the 2 vets,(3 adding Jerry) which amounts to a total overhaul. Nolan, like most coaches, may want to bring in his "own" guys, guys more scheme-specific. That's fine, but it's still a massive change….
February 21st, 2013
2:16 pm
I would cut Turner, Dunta and Abraham and save 18.5 mil. I would restructure and extend Babs at least another year. Move Clabo to RG and have open competition for RT. Keep the rest as cutting then nets no real savings.
February 21st, 2013
2:16 pm
the 4 comp picks (some are predicting we'll get) could be huge. The way the mocks and big boards are currently stacked(subject to change after the combine) we are looking at some rare talent falling right into our laps in the first 3 rounds, at least…..
February 21st, 2013
2:16 pm
What up, Cagers. Just checking in since I've been away a while. As much as I love my team, an extended break from Falcons-related news has been helpful.
I'm still reluctant to wrap my head around all of this draft/free agency/salary cap stuff in detail, but at the very least, I don't think we should bother keeping Grimes. Improving our pass rush will lessen the need for us to focus on the secondary, where we have a good amount of depth anyway.
Rather than making a ton of recommendations and predictions, though, I'm really just interested to see what happens. I think it's possible to take care of all of our glaring positional needs, but I'm curious about how (and if) it will get done.
February 21st, 2013
2:19 pm
I can see Dunta and the stay puft man. In a 3-4, babs could be pretty useful as the DE. If we do go 3-4, ABE is iffy. I think Travian Robertson, the Octopus and Massaquo could develop into very useful players. Which is why we need to draft a huge butt NT. and a pair of super quick LB/S hybrids. Add in a quick, pass catching RB who can leap like Walter P and we are set.
February 21st, 2013
2:28 pm
SW — Totally agree, except for one part (and I know it sounds crazy, but here goes…….)
The Fact
We have to clear space and there's simply no denying that in any form or fashion. We have to try and re-sign a slew of guys we want to keep: Moore, Baker, Owens, Reynolds, McClain, Palmer, etc., etc. Supposedly, TD and Co are considering the franchise tag for William Moore. Guess how much that would be?……………….almost $7 million dollars. For those that think that getting rid of Turner alone will be enough, think again. And we have to sign a ton of draft picks, not to mention free agency. And, oh yeah, there's the issue of Tony Gonzalez who would require at least $6 mill to return.
The Cuts….
Michael Turner – $6.9 million + Jonathan Babineaux – $4.7 million + John Abraham – $5.6 million + $1 million above the cap + Peria Jerry – almost $1 million = That's roughly about $19 million right there. Could we decide to keep either Abe OR Babs? Yes, but that puts us closer to $14 million and I simply don't think it's enough.
Breakdown coming next…………..
February 21st, 2013
3:38 pm
Does this really need an explanation? Nope. Thanks for your awesome service, maybe a Ring of Honor is awaiting you someday. But for now, it's so long, farewell, best of luck to you, the time has come…….maybe even a year too late.
I am fully aware that this won't happen because A) Smitty and his lovefest for veteran security blankets, B) it won't save that much money in the grand scheme, and C) did I mention Smitty? However, that doesn't mean it shouldn't happen for no other reason than to cut ties with the worst draft pick in 5 years. The dude has had plenty of time to turn it around and HAS NOT. Some may argue that the deal with Baker turned out well with time. WRONG! Baker had good production in 2009 and 2010. Jerry has NEVER had anything worth a d@mn except injuring his own teammate in a meaningless game. This one is about moving on and giving someone, ANYONE else a shot. We are set with Peters, Walker, and Robertson, but the other two spots should be given to two other players. It's more of a symbolic move than anything else. If Abe and Babs go, than Jerry sure as the hell does too. He would save almost a million. G-O-O-D-B-Y-E!!!!!! Don't want to hear the depth argument, because we should fill that need through the draft and free agency.
Like the next one on the list, this is a tough one. He's been a great Falcon and has been there through thick and thin (The McKay / Sick / Prictrino / Lil' Jimmy Mora Era) and been a rock for this franchise. He had a great year last year and would "like" to keep him, but the time has come for this defense to be overhauled. Sure, would love to keep Babs in a move to the 3-4 as a 5-technique, but what would that entail…..1 year, 2 max? And here's the thing that I keep coming back to over and over again on defense: the defense in it's infinite "rebuilding" project has failed miserably. Outside of the turnovers, this defense is literally indistinguishable from that 2008 defense. As SW said, they just couldn't get it done this past year, unable to hold a 17 point lead at home when the Dome was going absolutely nuts (the loudest I've EVER heard it). Is it all their fault? No, but it's time blow this thing up and start over. And I think Nolan is the man to do it. It would be one thing if we had all the money in the world to re-sign all our guys, but as we know well, it is NOT the case. Like Turner, love the guy and he'll go down as one of the best Falcons (maybe the most under-appreciated of all time), but it's time to move on. Peters, Walker, and Robertson give us a solid core and a Jesse Williams / John Jenkins / Kawaan Short / John Hankins, coupled with a FA signing for depth and don't forget about PS guy Micanor Regis, turns this unit into one of youth and strength to build around.
John Abraham
I know I should be checked into an insane asylum for saying he should go, but really, he's been our only pass rush for 5+ years. I really feel bad for the guy because he's never gotten any help at all and has been a beast through hundreds of double-teams and holding. The question probably goes something like this: why do you get rid of your best and only pass rusher and how the hell do plan to replace him? That's a question that's not easy to answer, but honestly, it's time to figure it out and stop this BS band-aid approach. The Colts just let go of Dwight Freeney and he was 33 years old. Abraham will be 35 in a few months and despite his big sack numbers, Abraham doesn't always show up in the biggest of games. Out of his 10 sacks: 3 vs. Oakland, 1 vs. KC, 1 vs. SD, 2 vs. Arizona. That's 1/2 vs. the terrible AFC West and 70% including AFC West + Arizona. This is in NO WAY meant to blame him whatsoever. It's really not. He's had ZERO help since he's been here in Atlanta. As I mentioned in the post, this really has not very much to do with him and everything with the massive failure the defense has had since 2008. Simply time to overhaul. Same as Babs.
February 21st, 2013
5:04 pm
D3 – Agreed on letting Nolan have significant input into the defensive personnel and scheme. It makes no sense to bring in a DC like Nolan to fix the defense and then dictate the scheme and personnel he has to work with. Let the man do what he does best and give him personnel that fit that scheme.
February 21st, 2013
5:22 pm
Good eve Cage
Cuts . Grimes – Babs – Robinson – Jerry – Turner
Keep Abraham He needs help but I just don't see the team getting any body to come in and feel his shoes this year . If he gets some help in the draft he will still produce this season . I totally disagree on letting him go this year . Next year yes
Falcons need to do there homework and get RB and a TE in the draft but focus mainly on defense 1st.
Tony G the more I think about it let him go if it will free up the cabbage . But it might hurt them to be in the hunt this year . The Birds have a tougher schedule than last year ahead of them
February 21st, 2013
5:28 pm
It looks like the Birds are gonna try and keep TG tho . From what I have seen and heard !!!
So if he says he will play then there is know doubt in my mind that he will play
February 21st, 2013
8:16 pm
Maybe the compliments get old, but you brother are THE MAN. No way we'd get through the offseason doldrums without ya.
1) Who gets cut with no questions asked? Michael Turner, Dunta Robinson, John Abraham, and Peria Jerry. The first three guys are all about the money savings and the need to "move on" from pricey bandaids. Jerry is all about "bust" and the need to free up PT and a roster spot.
My only "bubble" guy is Jonathan Babineaux. It could be worth it to keep him because we're so thin at the position when it comes to any level of effectiveness, but thinking that way is what has caused us to hold on to Abe so long, a position I've felt was wrong a couple years ago. So, Babs goes too.
2) Turner's name would be the biggest of the bunch, followed by Abe.
3) The Falcons should pursue neither. Why? Neither is the key to going further than we did this past season. There is no denying the continued production of Tony Gonzalez. While it's a divided and touchy subject, I feel this way about him – you don't pull out all the stops to keep him, but if he wants to come back you don't tell him no…but don't pay him what he you did last season.
Grimes – there are or at least should be major questions about the supreme athleticism that allowed Grimes to do what he did in 2009/2010. However, it's a "what have you done lately" League…and that even goes for guys who are multiple pro-bowlers…not just guys who had a good year or two.
I would not want to be whomever has to evaluate Grimes' physical abilities. That person's opinion is going to determine what Brent is worth. Franchising him backfired in possibly the worst way it could have – we paid $10 mil + for absolutely nothing. Nobody could see that one coming, but it doesn't take away the sting of it when that money could have gone elsewhere. Hindsight and all that notwithstanding, Grimes could earn 4 to 6 mil per year somewhere. Doesn't have to be Atlanta.
4) Unlike some others around here, I'm not capologist. I'll go with what some of my superiors in this venue are saying – something around $20 million +.
5) Should have been cut last week. Replaced? No. Not in the technical sense. We don't need to go after another "feature back" unless we decide to do so in the draft. Even then, it's better to find somebody that does what Quizz Rodgers can't or has skills in more abundance in certain areas (speed) than Quizz does. It will be more cost effective, draft or otherwise, to find a complimentary player…an "option" if you will, than it will be to find and name a "main man" at the RB spot.
That said, if the right guy comes along via the draft…in the right spot…you snag him quick.
6) This might turn out to be a bit tricky, but you do what you have to. In a lot of cases, when asking yourself whether you cut a guy, you have to ask yourself WHY you should let him stay. In Robinson's case, his physical play and run support is good to have.
But he doesn't cover so well and on top of that if you're holding on to a CB because of his run support, then you either don't know what your real problem is or you're still hooked on expensive band aids.
DRob goes. Robert McClain has in my opinion earned a starting spot somewhere at CB. Terrence Johnson was resigned to a "future's contract" for a reason…he's depth. Don't know how good he is or how much he can/will play. Keep Chris Owens as well, draft another CB, get another in FA.
7) Babs goes. That ain't easy for me to say. We almost guaranteed to experience some growing pains as this goes along, but that is life. Corey Peters needs to work hard to get back to pre-injury form, Vance Walker should get more playing time (he's earned it), Time to get Travian Robertson some real time in the fire. I realize late round draft picks usually require some development over time. Well, it's TIME to get him some real TIME in there.
You can continue to pay millions for what you got last season or you can save that money and very possibly get similar results out of younger player. Have confidence in your staff to get these guys ready to play. A veteran DT in FA is not out of the question, though it calls for some careful spending. It's a foregone conclusion that the position should be well-addressed in the draft as well.
8 ) One of the biggest "bandaid" cases on the team. There is no need to pay full-time starter money to a guy who can't stay healthy all season in spite of being on a limited snap count. Time to let go, and there need not be a lot of discussion on it. Those who understand this already understand why. Those who don't, my not understand what the problems are on the defense and how Abe doesn't fix those. Just sayin'….
9) Meh…probably, but not worried about that right now.
10) Not convinced this is all Dimitroff's doing. Again, I'll bow to the more educated opinions of others.
11) Possibly. Especially if they involve draft picks (preferred) or reasonable contracts of guys who fit a position of need/depth.
12) Quite crucial. Last year's draft could go a long ways towards fixing positions of critical need along the OL. Time will tell of course, but you have to think that the higher picks (Konz, Holmes) were intended for just that. This year's draft has the same possibilities/opportunities. Problems along the defensive Front 7 can be addressed, with more to be done on the OL.
February 21st, 2013
8:24 pm
Time is Now,
Nolan should have a better handle on who can do what for this defense. He had to be a quick study for last season…something I think a lot of folks may not have realized. He had to put a bandaid on something when he wasn't even sure where all the bleeding was coming from.
However, I think it's a bit foolish to think that we won't be going forward with some of the same "how do we cover this up" approaches. Even if we drafted all defense and only went with defense in free agency, we couldn't be guaranteed to fix everything.
What we need to do is graduate from bandaid application to field dressing. Surgery will take time.
Along that line of thinking, I say let Nolan have a very strong influence on the positions and corresponding player types that he feels/knows would best help us "get there."
If we do better adding a LB for "Year 1″ impact early in the draft and a DT for rotational depth and development in the 3rd round, then so be it. If it's the other way around, so be it. Same goes with free agency…
February 21st, 2013
8:50 pm
Big Ray – agreed.
February 21st, 2013
8:53 pm
Now, does it make sense to take a defense devoid of top talent and drop our most productive players? We have not invested in high draft choices, and if we start pinching pennies hoping the draft fills the immediate void….idk, it does not seem what a team who has immediate SB aspiration does. We have to keep someone, if not 2 on defense….which ones is the debate.
February 21st, 2013
9:15 pm
D3 – Thanks for providing some insight into the significant cap issues we will face this year. Thanks also to you, SW, and others, for your observations on the cap issues coming when we re-sign our core players going forward. Being aware of these complications will help us understand the choices our team makes going forward (whether we agree with them or not).
February 21st, 2013
9:24 pm
Any horses around here? I smell straw….
February 21st, 2013
9:27 pm
Time is Now,
One thing about the cap issues and "core players" revolves around a serious question. Who do we consider to be core players, and for how long are they core players?
I think that answers or at least begins to answer some of the questions about cutting guys.
February 21st, 2013
9:36 pm
Big Ray – "… for how long are they core players?"
My guess is that TD, based on his coming up through the ranks with the Patriots, will be inclined to cut ties with an aging player a year too early rather than a year too late.
February 21st, 2013
9:38 pm
Well BR, who replaces all these guys? That is not straw, that is a rational question. We really think a cut rate D is what wins SBs? You notice the D that won the SB this year?
February 21st, 2013
9:44 pm
Time, that is he trick, who has a year left, who does not. Obviously we need to ge younger, but we are not hoping to improve on 4-12. Anything less than a SB is a bust, we just can't indiscriminately every defensively guy with a high cap and rebuild around beirman at a new position and expect to improve.
February 21st, 2013
9:50 pm
MB – it is, and has to be, a big picture decision. I feel confident that TD will attempt to provide the personnel, within the financial constraints of the system, that the coaching staff thinks they need to give them the best chance to win ballgames. Successful teams over the long term have to constantly tweak their roster. Some of these tweaks must necessarily involve aging players who make big bucks. That's life in the NFL.
February 21st, 2013
9:56 pm
Agree time, someone is going, but gutting it is a huge risk, not a risk that a team with SB aspirations makes unless we have some guys waiting in the wings, but we just assume we will find guys who can step right just does not make sense.
February 21st, 2013
10:03 pm
I think Babs, and drob stay, abs and grimes goes. Jerry gets one more year. You will see some restructures on offense…..
February 21st, 2013
10:06 pm
I think the coaching staff knows more about what they have, and what they need, than we do. We are fans. Part of our job is to speculate about how to make our team better, because we care. But we also have to live with the decisions our front office and coaching staff make. It is futile to get too attached to our own plan, as we don't get to make those decisions. But arguing about it passes the time…
February 21st, 2013
10:10 pm
100 percent agreed time….teams always find a way to keep who they want and get their draft signed. TD knows his stuff. But somebody is getting cut, ot getting a payout.
February 21st, 2013
10:24 pm
Just a little night pop-in Cagers…………
One thing that's getting lost is the fact that it's not that we necessarily "want" to get rid of any of these guys, but the shear fact that we HAVE to, if we want to have any money whatsoever. Sure, Turner is a lock, but $7 mill above a cap gets eaten up in a hurry.
I started noticing that when I started looking closely at these contracts. Even the practice squad guys get $550k and you wouldn't think that adds up, but with 40 or so players on the roster and a bunch of practice squad guys, it goes quick. Especially when 5-8 players make up about 50% of your cap.
Just signing our draft picks alone will need some clearing.
AJ Jenkins signed a 4 yr(s) / $6,947,534 last year as the 30th pick in the draft with a $1.26 cap hit. Just that alone will require some cap clearing. Not to mention all these guys we likely want to re-sign: Moore, Baker, Owens, McClain, etc, etc.
More tomorrow.
As UB says…………Nytol!
February 21st, 2013
10:28 pm
Aundry Bruce #6 in all time busts…..an for the record I was his neighbor when he pulled the bb gun on the pizza guy.
February 21st, 2013
10:31 pm
Interesting little tidbit to end on…………
ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that the NFL is considering changes to its off-season calendar that would move the Combine to March, the start of free agency to April and the draft to May. The NFL is also considering having all 32 teams start training camp on the same day.
The players' union would have to approve such a radical change to the calendar, but the NFL may be able to persuade the players to buy in with an argument that it would increase revenue — some of which is shared with the players — and make the Combine, free agency and the draft bigger events.
It's worth wondering whether the owners are also thinking that moving back the offseason could give them more breathing room if they expand the regular season to 18 games and move the Super Bowl from early February to late February.
For NFL fans, the draft is often viewed as the halftime of the offseason, but the reality is it's really not the midpoint of the offseason at all: It comes less than three months after the Super Bowl, but with more than four months left before the start of the regular season. Moving the draft back a month would position it as a true halfway point between the Super Bowl and Week One, and potentially make it an even bigger offseason event.
They may not be perfect, but this is why the NFL is superior to every other sport, including college football. They are masters of making their sport a year round event and don't settle until that happens. If you really think about it, there's really only a few complete "dead zones" in the NFL calendar: few weeks after Super Bowl (which we're in), but that's quickly changed by the Combine and Free agency. Another is the span between May and June after the draft, but most of the times people are going on vacations, enjoying the outdoors, etc. However, I would concur that May would probably be better for the draft (at least in terms of of captive audience) because there's so much going on in April: Braves, College spring practice, The Masters, etc. I used to hate the move when they changed the draft to Thursday night, but now I love it because it's a whole weekend of draft enjoyment and debauchery. And also gives me a great reason to take a 3 day weekend……… sssssssssshhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!
Nytol, for real!
February 21st, 2013
10:51 pm
Watching top 10 nfl busts…
Andre Ware
Heath Schuler
Larwence Phillips
Art Sleezster
Andrey Bruce
Tim Couch
Rick Mirer
The Boz
Tony Mandrich
Ryan Leaf…..not sure how Jamarcus Russell misses this list.
February 21st, 2013
11:43 pm
February 21st, 2013
11:54 pm
The idea that the Falcons are in reality going to cut all (or even most) of these guys is preposterous. We know better. But somebody WILL get cut.
The idea of discussing such a possibility in the fantastical realm of a blog is not preposterous.
The idea that we can get further with largely the same key personnel, same schemes, etc is worse than preposterous. It's called insanity.
February 21st, 2013
11:59 pm
Don't at all see the point of keeping Peria Jerry. Least productive of all DTs. Can't stay healthy and when he is, can't produce.
Fans of production would be able to understand this. Dude doesn't even get snaps, hardly. There has to be a reason for this, no? Give the playing time to Travian Robertson and draft somebody to replace him. It wasn't a good pick in the first place.


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An estimated 1 in 7 Americans experience some extent of anxiety or fear of the dentist, and for many, it prevents them from receiving regular care that is vital for their dental and overall health. Dr. Daniel Strader is helping his local Dallas, TX patients overcome their fear and anxiety of the dentist by now offering oral conscious sedation during office visits.
July 2, 2014 /MM-prReach/ —
An estimated 1 in 7 Americans experience some extent of anxiety or fear of the dentist, and for many, it prevents them from receiving regular care that is vital for their dental and overall health. Dr. Daniel Strader is helping his local Dallas, TX patients overcome their fear and anxiety of the dentist by now offering oral conscious sedation during office visits. With oral conscious sedation, patients can now enjoy a relaxing, comfortable dental visit with little memory of the treatment after it is completed.
"Dental anxiety or fear is a very real thing for many of our patients, but oral conscious sedation is helping to change their perception of dental care and best of all, encouraging them to show up for treatment rather than putting it off," said Dr. Daniel Strader, sedation dentist in Dallas, TX. "This treatment is helping us provide better smiles for more patients, even if they once had a fear of the dentist."
Patients who are good candidates for oral conscious sedation are given a sedative prescription by the dentist prior to their scheduled appointment. The sedative can be picked up at any local pharmacy and taken one hour prior to the office visit. During treatment, patients under oral conscious sedation are still responsive, but are in a deep state of relaxation and are not as aware of sounds, sights, and smells of the dentist office. The sedative lasts for the duration of the appointment and patients are generally drowsy for a few hours after treatment. However, once the effects of the sedative have worn off, patients remember little about their dental treatment.
Oral conscious sedation is a great option for patients with dental anxiety or fear, but also for those who have difficulty getting numb, a sensitive gag reflex, or for those who need multiple procedures completed in one office visit.
In addition to providing sedation services and various restorative procedures, Dr. Strader also provides a variety of cosmetic procedures. He is a preferred Invisalign dentist in Dallas, TX for patients who seek a straighter smile without traditional metal braces. Dr. Strader is also a Dallas, TX dental implants dentist for patients seeking a more permanent solution for missing teeth. For those who experience jaw or facial pain, Dr. Strader is a qualified TMJ dentist as well.
Dr. Strader is proud to be a third generation dentist in his family who serves patients in the Dallas area. He has been practicing dentistry for more than 35 years and is a graduate of Baylor Dental School. Beyond his formal dental degree, Dr. Strader is highly involved in continuing dental education, and makes it a point to receive additional skills and training each year. He has completed credits at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, the Las Vegas Institute for Dental Studies, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and the Pankey Institute. Dr. Strader has received numerous awards and recognitions for his expertise in dentistry, having been bestowed The Honorable Order of Goodfellow by the Texas Dental Association, and also being nominated as one of "The Best Dentists in America" by The Consumer Research Council.
To learn more About Dr. Strader and the sedation services he and his staff offer at Dallas Designer Smiles, please visit www.2grin.com and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucmJSdBhDzU.
For more information about us, please visit http://www.prreach.com/pr/7894
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Great slippers, very well made. These were a gift for my son-in-law who loves the furry lining but also the heavy duty sole so he can walk outside and get the mail!
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Credits & Info
- Uploaded
- Apr 4, 2012 | 11:16 PM EDT
If you liked this, check these out!
Author Comments
the story of a boy that has a pure heart in a world full of heartless monsters, he run for his life from a heartless without knowing he's real power, part one, part 2 is in process, hope you like it :)
esta es la historia de un joven que tiene un corazón puro en un mundo lleno de monstruos sin corazón , el corre por su vida de un sincorazón sin saber su poder de verdad, esta es la parte uno, parte dos esta en proceso, espero les guste :)
Rated 5 / 5 stars April 25, 2012
very nice story and music keep going
Rated 4 / 5 stars April 6, 2012
Overall well animated, my kudos for your progress!
Perfect sound choice in my eyes (or... ears, to be correct) and an interesting storyline, though it is a tad bit emo, but not too much.
Since this is obviously one part of a longer story, I would like to see a prequel (what or who is this heartless demon? why is he chasing the boy?) and also a sequel (why is the girl saving the boy? Where does she bring him to? what will happen next?) .
hahahaha yes, I will continue with the story, and well.. yes some people will see this a little bit emo but this is like.. gotic, that is almost the same xd but Im not a emo hahahaha tankyou for the coment :)
Rated 4 / 5 stars April 5, 2012
I liked the story the music and the graphics,
very good animation.
Rated 3.5 / 5 stars April 5, 2012
I'm clueless...So I'll rate it on the animation.
A bit choppy, but like you said, your getting better. Maybe you should try to expand your plot an add in like, a prologue in the beginning. You get a 3.5/5, or a 7/10. Good show.
Rated 5 / 5 stars April 5, 2012
beautifull graphics!... and most intriguing story!...


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A Hallsville family had almost given up hope that their precious dog would ever find his way back to them, but with the help of a man over 80 miles away, their pup is safe at home nine months after he went missing.
Bigfoot, a brown and white Akita, went missing in November 2012. The Sullivan family has owned him since he was a puppy. Elayna Sullivan says Bigfoot usually cools his paws at her husband's business in Longview.
"Our customers love him and he loves the air conditioned office in the summer," says Elayna.
One weekend, the family decided to take a trip out to their property in Hallsville and brought Bigfoot along. When the family came outside the next morning, their dog was gone. They initially thought Bigfoot chased feral hogs off the property and gotten lost, but after searching the area for weeks they found no sign of the pup
Elayna says she posted ads on Craig's List, Facebook, and multiple classified ads in hopes of finding their dog. She also called animal shelters in Longview, Hallsville, and Marshall hoping someone had picked Bigfoot up. Lost Dogs of Texas even made a flyer for the missing dog, which the Sullivan family posted in local businesses.
"I had a very nice lady in Hallsville who had seen the flyer at Dairy Queen call me wanting to help look for him. She would call every few days with any new info she had," recalls Elayna.
Six months after Bigfoot disappeared, the Sullivans had almost given up. The family figured their loving dog might have been hit by a car or killed by another animal. In an effort to move on, they adopted a dog from the Humane Society, but just one month later that dog was hit by a car and killed. Elayna says her husband was devastated and had given up.
On August 13, Joseph McDowell of Texarkana contacted Elayna and told her he thought he might have her dog.
"I actually laughed at him. It had been nine months since we lost him and it wasn't likely," says Elayna.
Joseph sent her a picture of the dog and Elayna says she tried to stay calm just in case it wasn't him. He sent a second picture that included the dog's face and she knew she was looking at Bigfoot. The traveling pup had shown up at Joseph's grandparent's home in Jefferson, over 30 miles away. He took Bigfoot home, but had a feeling that there was probably someone out there looking for him. Jospeh found Elayna's ad and gave her a call.
"I'm not sure how far he had to go back because I don't remember the last time I posted it," explains Elayna.
Joseph's mother Cecilia McDowell and his sister volunteered to meet the Sullivan family at a Jefferson restaurant. Bigfoot immediately recognized her husband's truck as they pulled in the parking lot and started barking in excitement.
"Cecilia was waiting outside with her daughter with Bigfoot on a leash," recalls Elayna.
Bigfoot is now back home in Longview after a stay at the veterinarian's office. His miles of travels left him with a bad case of fleas and an infection.
As for the Sullivan family? They're just glad to have their pup back home.
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text: Sale Red Charlotte 100% Wool Area Rug Item #: 113918 $199.99 $184.99 Ship to Home Rug measures 7 ft. 9 in. x 5 ft. Made of 100% virgin wool Handmade in India Features a floral print Shades of red, cream, pale yellow, brown, and green Rug pad not included Professional cleaning recommended This item is available at Kirklands.com only, not available in stores. This item is no longer available for purchase.


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Defense Firms' Anti-Corruption Efforts Scrutinized
Multinational pressure group Transparency International has published a study claiming that two-thirds of the world's biggest defense companies "do not provide enough public evidence about how they fight corruption." The group says that its Defense Companies Anti-Corruption Index studied the 129 biggest defense companies worldwide with a combined revenue of over $500 billion. Transparency International estimates the global cost of corruption in the defense sector to be at least $20 billion per year, based on data from the World Bank and SIPRI. It claims that the top leadership at defense companies "do not publicly speak up enough on the importance of preventing corruption."
Only 34 of the 129 companies provided internal information on their anti-corruption systems for the study. Transparency International says it analyzed publicly available information on the others. It found that 60 companies "provide very little evidence of having basic systems in place to prevent corruption and instill strong ethical values." The group therefore places them in the lowest two bands of a six-band rating system that it devised.
Only one company–Fluor–merited inclusion in the top band, by virtue of its "extensive" anti-corruption systems. Another nine companies had "good" systems and were placed in the second band–Accenture, BAE Systems, Fujitsu, Hewlett-Packard, Meggitt, Northrop Grumman, Serco, Thales and United Technologies. Major aerospace exporters placed in the lowest band because researchers could identify "very little evidence" of anti-corruption systems included Antonov, China's Avic, General Atomics, Irkut, IAI, Kawasaki, Kharkov, Patria, Russian Helicopters, ST Engineering (Singapore), Sukhoi and United Engine.
The study includes a foreword from Lord Robertson, the British politician and former secretary-general of NATO. "To the despair of many trustworthy people working in the sector, defense has maintained a reputation for dishonesty and corruption," he wrote. But, he added, "as governments toughen their attitudes toward corruption, having a reputation for zero tolerance will be a distinguishing asset for a defense company."
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11:11 - One Minute Wish
One of our favorite local artists, Kelly Lynn Jones of Little Paper Planes, passed along the details of this special event taking place next Tuesday, November 11. Although folks in San Francisco will be gathering at Dolores Park at 11:11am and 11:11pm that day, this is something that anyone, anywhere, can participate in. So what is it exactly?
The organizers are hoping to observe a full minute of silence, during which everyone makes their own wishes. It is their hope that "the alignment of numbers and synchronicity of people coming together for a common mission can remind us that together we can realize the true affect that positive thinking can have."
What we think is especially cool: The whole thing will be documented through photographs and writing. A list of wishes will be kept at the event, and you can email yours if you can't make it there. According to Kelly, "there will be a site eventually where people can enter their wishes and then they will all be included in a book form and a possible exhibition in the future." In the meantime, if you want more details, send an email to 1111wishlist[at]gmail.com
Image: "Verlin" print by Melissa Moss, available at Little Paper Planes
13 Comments
Is Kelly Lynn Jones responsible for the painting above the post? It's gorgeous! I'd love to know more about it if you have any info.
The eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month -- remembrance day for those of us who still remember what veteran's day was once all about. Poppies are so lovely this time of year.
i live at 1111...
eldest of 11 (children)...
11:11 pacific time, GMT, or your local time?
veteran's day, yes, i remember...
Hi Griffin - The print is by artist Melissa Moss. You can purchase it in Kelly's shop:
Sorry,. I'll be too busy remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice so that others are able to live in a free and democratic society and partake is such frivoulous activities.
There are 525,599 other minutes each year that people can make wishes. personally I make mine when I blow out my birthday candles.
In Canada it's Remembrance Day, as first declared King George V, on 7 November 1919. In downtown Toronto, most people wear red poppies on their coats for the week or so before. There is a formal ceremony in Ottawa that includes the reading of "In Flanders Fields."
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved, and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
Lest we forget.
Thank you, Anh-Minh. And thanks, Platypus, for posting that poem. It's been way too long since I read it and it brought tears to my eyes as it always has. Thanks again.
My wish will be that the District of Columbia War Memorial will be restored.
worth a visit...i walked through this cemetery in Normandy with a WWII veteran in 1965, and visited again as an adult, just after 9/11.
i will never forget that there are broken hearts and sons and fathers and brothers and uncles and best friends...all buried beneath identical crosses and stars...many with no heirs, a truly silent generation.
Um that time is reserved for something else... (see comments above) -- pick another one folks.
11/11 on 11th hour... tis Remembrance Day.
Wear your poppies over your heart. Lest we forget.
bclynn, I haven't seen poppies distributed since I was a child.
I don't think people would even know what they were for anymore. :-[
Jean --
Pity. I reside in Canada and everyone wears the poppy, beginning at least two weeks before Nov. 11 - Remembrance Day (or Veterans Day for US).
The poppy is symbolic of a very important time of year... see platypus comment above.
We shall remember...
My boss and I walked over to the memorial I mentioned above. It's in worse shape than when we went in the summer. She found a poppy in the bushes, so I'll be ready next year.