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Bizquip were asked to devise a solution in Mt Anville secondary school to make a new Atrium space that had been constructed adjoining two Victorian buildings into a workable utilitarian space to accommodate students at exams, classes, assembly & mealtimes whilst at the same time allowing the entire space to be cleared for a whole school assembly in a standing position.
The Trama folding tables from Actiu being on castors were the perfect solution. Finished in a maple laminate they fold neatly into a recess on the back wall whilst the cantilever chair in 2 different colour finishes complement the overall appearance. They were supplied on trollies that allowed 30 chairs to stack on each thus allowing them to be easily moved in and out of position. There were 7 different colour finishes to choose from and the Architect picked lime green and sand that works very well with the wooden floor and brickwork on the original walls . The frame is sturdy yet light enough to allow the configuration of the 300 chairs in a minimum of time. Being a cantilever frame the protective strips on the frame help protect the floor from scratches also.
Click on images to enlarge
The DDRC is a purpose built centre that caters for arbitrations, mediations, conciliations and other ancillary activities such as seminars, hearings and talks. The centre required 5 mediation rooms, a large hearing room, a fully equipped multi- media room, a seating area at reception and a large arbitration room that can be divided into 2 separate mediation centres. The schedule of works was incredibly tight where we delivered on time and within budget.
We have recently completed the installation of over 925 workstations into the new Head Office of Paddy Power in Clonskeagh.
Set over 5 floors the total size of the building is 120,000 Sq ft and was completed on time and within budget well in advance of the clients planned relocation from 3 different buildings in Tallaght in early 2012. The tender process was set to international procurement standards and initially over 12 companies tendered for the project before it being brought down to 4 suppliers being asked to submit a series of mock up lay outs on site in Clonskeagh for ultimate client approval. Creative Space Services were the Project Managers and at each step of the process we engaged both with the client, CSS, the Architects and Interior design team led by Amy Shortall.
John Quinn led the Bizquip Project team ably assisted by Alison Behan who coordinated the ongoing CAD revisions, John Brady who managed the logistics and the on site supervision was managed by Robert Mackay. With up to 20 fitters on site during the fit out phase the process was a compliment to all who ensured it went so smoothly. The product chosen, from Actiu our Spanish Partner, ticked all the right boxes in terms of the special requirements of the client right down to a specially designed shaped 1400mm wide wave desk, unique to this installation As is evidenced by the accompanying images, the finished product has very clean sharp lines, white desking on a white metal substructure with white drawer units and grey storage all complementing one another.
Whilst the client did bring a significant amount of chairs that we had previously supplied they also supported our Irish manufactured chairs by up to a further 1000 units spread across visitors, meeting and operator chairs.
The project is one that has met with a number of compliments by client and visitor alike and we at Bizquip are immensely proud to have been selected to partake in this project and prove what we can achieve, in particular against larger multi national suppliers that indulge in the client being a number as opposed to a name!
Thank you Paddy Power for supporting Irish! From all 43 of us here in Bizquip.
After a lengthy tender process Bizquip Interiors were awarded the contract for the supply and installation of all loose office furniture to a Large sports Retail Chain Head Office.
With a short lead-time and tight budget Bizquip worked with it partners to supply a modern looking office on time and within budget.
Ordered in October 2010 and delivered in November 2010. 100 white panel end desks delivered ahead of time and to the customer's complete satisfaction. Reception and Canteen furniture were also added.
We recently completed this superb fit out for an Embassy in Dublin 2 The Ofifran reproduction furniture in walnut veneers has a large desk, return and credenza unit at the top of the room with a matching conference table and 10 conference chairs at the other end The buttoned tan leather seating all combine with the Art&Moble desking to produce a stunning visual effect in this large office and is a testament to the craftsmanship of the finished product.The installation was completed within one day on site and has met with significant positive comment by a number of visitors to the offices.
The clients brief was to bring their boardroom that is used on a daily basis for everything from internal meetings to international video conferencing up to date.This was achieved by giving the whole area a revamp to include a cherry veneer meeting table with full cable management and matching storage units, used to house video conferencing equipment.Chocolate brown leather meeting chairs, new floor/wall covering and electric remote control blinds were added to transform the room.This project was brought in on time and within the clients budget.
We first became involved with the promoters of the Clinic in 2001 when a preliminary budget for both the offices in the hospital as well as the 36 Consultant's suites was requested, and duly supplied.The project finished on time and within budget. The total building project was worth €100 million and Bizquip are proud to be associated with it.
We furnished the entire back office requirements, provided seating in all nursing stations as well as occasional seating and filing requirements. 12 different manufacturers were utilised in creating many unique consultant suites combining the very best of Italian design and Irish craftsmanship where possible.The modern building lent itself to a mixture of glass desking and pear with cherry veneer desks interspersed in the clinic. The canteen/dining area fit out is a blend of beech tables and chairs, whilst the conference room was an oak veneer table, banded and inlaid to client specification.
This project involved the complete refurbishment of the head office in Nassau Street.The project encompassed a new suite of Managerial offices and meeting rooms along with a break out area with a modern feel to it.Working closely with the architects, the end result upgraded the appearance dramatically and the entire project was conceived and delivered within an eight-week turnaround.
The Beacon Court complex in Sandyford is unique and special in many ways, not the least the entrance designed by John Rocha. Bizquip have furnished many different clients' offices in the various phases, one in particular is the developer, Sini Group.We completed a total turnkey facility by installing the partitions, designing the carpet tile logos and furnishing a rich cherry veneer throughout combined with black leather seating with cherry veneer framework.The end result is stunning and very warm in appearance.
This project involved the relocation of over 40 staff in 3 phases around their headquarters whilst refurbishment was carried out.A Call Centre was established using 6 person pods that made a significant improvement in staff working conditions and maximised the square footage of the building throughout.New seating and a better utilisation of filing space gave the company a modern make over on time and within budget.The boardroom was also refurbished in cherry veneer with matching cantilever chairs
The Headquarters for Bank of Ireland Asset Management is built on the Mespil Road site of the old Blood Bank.Over 550 staff relocated from a number of buildings over a period of 2 months.25 different companies were asked to tender for the furniture contract. 6 were short listed by the client and mock-ups were requested.Bizquip won the contract for all the desking, screens and pedestals using a Maple laminate desk and in particular one that is of Irish manufacture; of which we are very proud to mention.When the project was completed the building had the maximum floor occupancy in an open plan environment with an appealing colour scheme throughout.
In relocating 84 staff, Credit Card Services asked for a bright, open floor plan. Utilising wave screens with maple desking and silver metal trim the finished project achieved just that and the 1800 x 1400 work surface allowed staff to cope with increased workloads of paperwork.Since installation the floor plan has been changed 4 different times taking into account organisational changes but proving the flexibility of the Irish manufactured system furniture.
Formerly Drury Sports Management
An unusual floor layout ensures that this fit-out is visually unique.Complimented by 3 executive offices, with glass desking the open plan area of maple desking with grey fabric seating and screening gives a very definite corporate look to the finished product.The move took place over a weekend and the client is particularly pleased at the open feel to their work environment.
The IFSC subsidiary of this major German bank chose Embassy House in Ballsbridge as their H.Q.They chose birds eye maple veneer desking with glass privacy screens in the open plan area.For the executive offices they chose cherry veneer desking with an oak veneer banded and laid boardroom table.Bizquip co-ordinated the demolition of existing partitions, provision of new carpeting, total refurbishment all on time and within a pre-defined budget
Advanced Field Solutions wanted to create a 'unique' conference room facility in Leopardstown Office Park.By choosing a 'Palmberg' triangular shaped table of cherry veneer with black ash inserts and black leather and chromed side chairs the finished look is of sleek modernity and ideally suited for the clients specification of being able to demonstrate their software solutions on the three Plasma screens installed on the party wall.The installation of table and chairs took just three hours and certainly gives the client a finished project that is unique.
Stafford Holdings took one floor of a modern office block in Sandyford which was entirely open plan.Bizquip project managed a total fit out and as the before, during and after pictures depict a total transformation took place creating 8 cellular offices, a canteen, boardroom, and meeting rooms all of which only took a total of 14 days and was delivered on time and within budget.The reception counter in Oak veneer and the open plan desking in Maple gives a light feel to the offices whilst an oak banded and inlaid veneer table in the Boardroom can be dismantled for receptions or larger meetings.
Car Buyers Guide is a recent project that involved a full "turn key" solution ably managed by Bizquip.The building in Sandyford required a full fit out encompassing carpets, data and electrical cabling along with partitions, decoration and desking for 55 staff in an open plan environment.The desking layout enables the staff to interact and the break out area is fully utilised.Using a mixture of product from four different manufacturers in the project the move from their existing offices took place over a weekend enabling back to normal conditions on the Monday morning.The before and after pictures give a good indication of achievement.
Having been in the same offices in Blackrock for over 25 years the decision to move to The Courtyard in Sandyford posed a number of challenges for both Sheehan Quinn and Bizquip and a project management plan was put in place to ensure a smooth transition.In conjunction with our CAD design team a number of options were presented for approval and as can be evidenced from the photographs the transformation from before to during to after ensured that Sheehan Quinn were able to move in on time and within budget to a turnkey solution in an open plan environment giving a totally different workplace experience from the offices in Blackrock spread over 3 floors that had been outgrown due to their progressive expansion .The combination of Wengue finish in the management offices and meeting rooms contrasted well with the Maple finish in the open plan. The reception counter in particular combining glass and maple sets off the professional tone of the offices immediately upon entering the reception area.The relocation of client files was of paramount importance and as Auditors and Accountants a large quantity of files had to be accomodated hence the floor plan achieved this with clever use of wall space and the creation of an archival area whilst allowing live files to be accessible to the Audit teams at all times.Future expansion of the Practice has been built into the design and Sheehan Quinn have settled in well into their new offices and are delighted with the finished product.
The brief for the refurbishment for the Arts Café in The Newman building on the Belfield Campus was given by the client , Mr. Ed Ronayne of Ronayne Catering Ltd to their Architects , Tony Mullen & Associates and then on to Bizquip as the successful tenderer.The last time that the area had been upgraded was 6 years previously and one of the critical areas that Mr. Ronayne wanted to achieve was a total instant makeover all in a concerted time frame that in effect would transform the appearance as one walked into the Café.The lighting was always an issue as although there were sufficient windows , the specifying of and upgrading of the new lighting gave an instant effect of substantial light change.That coupled with the use if the Actiu range of new Bistro furniture in a mixture of bright different colour tones has ensured that the immediate impact when one walks in to the Café is totally transformed.The 2 different height and shaped white laminate tables with soft ergo edging make the cleaning contractors workload easier and are scratch resistant and on an aluminium weighted pod base are sturdy enough to withstand constant daily use for up to 18 hours.The chairs being stackable are also easy to move / stack and are made of a extra strength polycarbonate substance that is wipeable / washable and unique in its 2 tone appearance.Special sized Banquette seating areas were manufactured by Bizquip's upholstery workshop in accordance with the Architects design and the contract PVC covering was colour co ordinated to blend in with the Actiu seating.The tables were specially sized to fit in front of the Banquettes again all to the Architects specifications.As the images show the work in progress right through to the final busy Café in full use this is another example of how Bizquip working with the client and architect so closely can achieve an on time , within budget project that totally transforms an area that has seen a substantial footfall increase since it was reopened having seen a refurbishment programme of just 8 weeks.
When San Paolo Bank merged, took on a new identity and moved to new premises Bizquip were appointed to co ordinate the fit out of the new premises in Dublin 2 and as they were in essence 2 separate banks each with their own identity but one holding company so it was decided to furnish one side of the floor in a white bench system and the other side a beech standalone system both from Senator International. As the floor plan shows the 2 sides of the office combined give 2 very different work space environments and Matt Coffey the MD was very pleased with the outcome at the end of the project which was finished on time and within budget. A very bright and airy feel was accomplished in a large open plan scheme and staff feedback from the very beginning has been very positive.
When Fideuram Asset Management merged and moved to new premises, Bizquip were appointed to co ordinate the fit out of the new premises in Dublin 2 and as they were in essence 2 separate banks each with their own identity but one holding company so it was decided to furnish one side of the floor in a white bench system and the other side a beech standalone system both from Senator International. As the floor plan shows the 2 sides of the office combined give 2 very different work space environments and the MD was very pleased with the outcome at the end of the project which was finished on time and within budget. A very bright and airy feel was accomplished in a large open plan scheme and staff feedback from the very beginning has been very positive.
When Gala commissioned Bizquip to arrive at a bright appearance to their new offices having moved from the Digital Hub the layout of 9 and 7 person bench workstations in white laminate was deemed to be the best option. Installed in one day the 86 workstations plus canteen and executive offices was delivered within a tight time frame and budget and was a total greenfield site prior to installation as the images show. The bistro style furniture all from Actiu bring a bright appearance to the canteen area and the client has expressed satisfaction at a job well done.
When the client asked for a traditional cherry veneer look to their new offices in a modern office block in Sandyford the Cambridge range suited perfectly as is evidenced by the images shown. The unusual U shaped reception desk is complimented by the 2 excutive suites and the black leather settees finish off the appearance very well.
This Technology Company chose a wengue finish coupled with glazed and aluminium desk screens in Q House in Sandyford to achieve a very smart appearance in a modernist style in a very stylish manner. The black leather conference chairs complement the meeting room and the interior design shows off the combined colour scheme very well. This project was again finished on a very tight budget and in a short time frame and looks very well in its finished state.
This unique installation of Cambridge cherry veneer furniture in a traditional stud farmhouse setting is a classic example of how Bizquip in thinking outside the square can achieve a stunning appearance utilising all our interior design talents. The combination of old and new and blending in the ambience and homeliness of the offices into the house has achieved a unique installation and one we are justly proud of.
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CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility)Bizquip recognises the importance of conducting its business in a socially responsible manner. This is demonstrated in the way we deal with our employees, customers, suppliers and the communities in which we do business. Bizquip considers that corporate social responsibility is an integral element of good business management Read More
Directors: J. Leyden, G. Leyden | Registered No. 103199 Bizquip Limited 7-8 Burton Hall Road, Sandyford Business Estate, Dublin 18.


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Complex endocrinologic disorder resulting in chronic anovulation
PCOS, PCO, Stein Leventhal syndrome, hyperandrogenic chronic anovulation
Female only
In many cases, hyperinsulinemia leads to overproduction by the ovaries of testosterone and adrenal overproduction of DHEAS and androstenedione, which in turn leads to abnormal production of LH & FSH. This results in ovarian underproduction of estrogen, abnormal production of progesterone, overproduction of testosterone, amenorrhea and infertility.
appearance of many small cysts on ovaries, commonly called "string of pearls"
Note: appearance of such cysts alone is not enough for definitive diagnosis.
© Tracy Morris

subset: commoncrawl


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Happy St Patrick's Day! :)
Who DOESN'T love McDonald's Shamrock Shakes? They're delicious. However, you can easily make them at home!! ENJOY!
- 3 cups good quality vanilla ice cream
- 1 3/4 cups 1% milk
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Green food coloring if desired
- Blend all ingredients in a blender until completely thick and smooth.
- Pour into glasses and serve!
source: http://shine.yahoo.com/shine-food/its-that-time-of-year-again-make-your-own-shamrock-shake-at-home-2456979.html


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Results tagged ' Grant Balfour '
Rays are a AL/NL Hybrid Squad
And with that, the Rays will be totally comfortable playing by the National League standards since they have been playing that style of baseball since the first week in April. The Rays have been masters at executing and perfecting the sacrifice bunt, squeeze bunt and even the suicide squeeze, which have been National League staples among the N L squad's offensive arsenal.
But what was once considered a N L advantage with the American League teams sending their pitcher's into the batter's box for the first time this season, the Rays might have some special surprises awaiting their N L foes.
Sure heading into Houston we will first see Rays starter Matt Garza hit the mound to start the 14th season of Interleague play . And even with the Rays entering this season's Interleague schedule with a less than .500 record All Time (99-115), they have been a combined 43-29 since Rays Manager Joe Maddon , which is the sixth best record in the Interleague play format since 2006. And over the past two years, only the Minnesota Twins (26-10) own a better Interleague record than the Rays (26-11) coming into their series against the Astros.
But just because this is usually the first time they send their bevy of pitcher's to the plate, the Rays over the last two years have batted a Major League best .295 in Interleague play and their pitching staff has held their opponents to a .236 average, also best in the Major League. And even during their 2009 campaign into Interleague play, the Rays posted a 13-5 record last season which was beat only by the Los Angels Angels of Anaheim (14-4).
But playing in unfamiliar parks have been a bit of thorn in the Rays sides as they hold a 44-63 record in the National League ballparks, but they have begun to reverse that trend as they have gone 11-7 over the past two seasons in their strange surroundings.
But heading into the confines of Minute Maid Park with its train that moves throughout the outfield during Home Runs, and their unique Centerfield incline with their majestic flagpole in the center, this will only be the second time the Rays have ever wandered into the Astros home turf. But back in 2003, their last visit to Houston, the Rays did not leave with a great bit of Texas hospitality as the Astros swept them during contests from June6-8, 2003. And only one Rays player still remains on their roster from that 2003 squad, and Houston just happens to be his hometown (Carl Crawford).
But the two teams did meet during 2008 from June 20-22,2008 as the Astros took two out of three from the Rays with former Astros Brandon Backe beating the Rays in their "throwback jerseys on that Sunday contest. Surprisingly, all three of those game were one run contests that season. But there will be quite a few Rays who will have a crowd or two on hand during this road series as Rays starter Jeff Niemann, who will start the Sunday finale, Crawford, Rays set-up man Dan Wheeler, and Rays Pitching Coach Jim Hickey all have Houston roots. But the real treat might just be in how the Rays pitching staff does at the plate during this series.
The Rays pitching staff have been taking their turns in the Batting Cages over the last several weeks with several Rays pitchers showing they might just come out and surprise a few of us during the N L-slate of the Interleague this season. And starting with tonight's starter Matt Garza, who is a career 0-8 at the plate, but has been showing increased ease and poise at the plate in recent B P sessions with Rays Hitting Coach Derek Shelton.
And Garza has a bit of revenge on his mind as this will be his second start against Houston lifetime. But his last outing on June 20,2008 when he opposed Astros ace Roy Oswalt did not go well as he lost the decision 4-3. But Garza also brings in a nice 3-2 mark All Time in Interleague play with a special one-hitter in 2008 against the Florida Marlins.
And with no Designated Hitter in N L parks, the Rays might be at a distinctive disadvantage seeing that only 5 other members of the entire Rays pitching staff after Garza even have a Batting Average. We could possibly see Lance Cormier ( 5-46 .109 2 RBI ), Dan Wheeler ( 1-7 .143 ) make at least one plate appearance this series. But Rays Saturday starter leftie David Price owns a 1-3 .333 batting average, and last night's starter James Shields could get a go at the plate in the middle innings if Maddon wants to save his bench players for a late inning rally. Shield sports a 5-22 .227 average with 1 RBI. But the pride and joy of the Rays pitching staff hitters might be their "secret weapon" Rays long man Andy Sonnanstine who is a career 7-21 or .333 with 2 RBI.
But most Rays fans might remember his May 17,2009 clutch performance when a line-up card snafu had Sonnanstine batting in the 3-hole after a mix-up on the initial lineup card given to the Home Plate Umpire before that contest. For some odd reason, Rays Third Baseman Evan Longoria was suppose to be the game's DH, but was listed on the lineup card as a second Rays Third Baseman and was disqualified from the lineup. Sonnanstine responded with a 1-3 day with a RBI double.
And with Sonnanstines first step into the batter's box, he became the first AL pitcher to be in the lineup in an AL ballpark since Chicago White Sox pitcher Ken Brett stepped in the box on September 23, 1976 against the Minnesota Twins. On that date, Sonnanstine also became the first Rays pitcher to ever head to the Batter's box in an AL home game, plus was the first Rays pitcher to ever bat at Tropicana Field.
Because of that hitting success, Maddon used Sonnanstine again on May 23,2009 as a Pinch Hitter against the Florida Marlins at then Pro Player Stadium, he then again stepped into the box on June 21, 2009 against the New York Mets at Citi Field. During those appearances, Sonnanstine became only the second Rays pitcher following James Shields example from his June 28,2008 appearance against the Pittsburgh Pirates in Three Rivers Stadium. Sonnanstine also pinch ran on June 6, 2009 in a AL game against the New York Yankees and scored a run for the Rays.
But after the aforementioned five Rays pitching "hitters", the rest of the Rays Bullpen and starter have laid golden goose eggs to a tune of going 0-19 lifetime during Interleague play. Rays starters have combined for a 6-38 mark or a .157 average combined, but Wade Davis has never made an appearance yet in a Major League batter's box. The Rays Bullpen (including Wheeler, Cormier and Sonnanstine ) have gone 13 for 93 or a .140 Batting Average in Interleague play. Hopefully we will not have to see Rays relievers Randy Choate (0-5), Rafael Soriano (0-4), Grant Balfour (0-1) or Joaquin Benoit (0-9) make plate appearances during this series.
Choate is Alone on Leftie Island
Steve Nesius/AP
But you also got to think of the extra stress and responsibilities thrown upon Choate from the first day of the 2010 season to be "the Man" when it comes to leftie situations and that his mixed bag of results have come with limited options for Rays Manager Joe Maddon.
Left-handed relievers are a rare breed in Major League Baseball, and held as a commodity unlike gold by some teams like the Rays who have always tried to salvage and use left-handed relievers to their advantage.But right now with the struggles of Choate, and Howell still about a month away from rejoining the Rays, the left-handed duties are looking more stressful by the day.
And before Choate's recent problems he was considered a great asset and possible weapon against left-handed batters. But after appearing in 5 of the Rays first 9 games and only surviving 2.1 innings while surrendering 7 runs on 9 hits for a 27.00 ERA, Choate needs to stay out of his head and eliminate any other internal damage. And watching him pitch, you do not see any tell-tale sign of him either signaling or telegraphing his pitches, but this is not the same reliever who posted a 3.47 ERA for the Rays in 2009.
In those situations, Choate posted a .111 average which was a superior mark for a reliever. Overall in 2009, lefties hit .144 against Choate while right-handers managed a robust .321 average. He was definitely a lefties weapon for the Rays, and a right-handers dream at the plate.So was it really surprising after Choate posted a 1.13 ERA in 7 appearances this Spring while also showing some signs of control issues with 3 walks in his 8 total innings. But nothing showed the signs of what would happen to him so early in 2010.
Choate looked effective in his first two appearances against the Baltimore Orioles at home when he threw for 1.2 innings and threw 12 strikes in his 17 pitches. Choate seemed in line and ready to provide great leftie situational relief appearances. But then on April 10th against his old team, the New York Yankees, Choate last .2 innings and 24 pitches but walked from the mound after giving up 5 hits and 4 runs to boost his ERA towards 15.43. And sometimes these situation happen during a season, but little did we know what was still on the horizon for Choate.
Mike Carlson/AP
Then again he took the mound against the Yankees on April 11th and this time lasted only 6 pitches while giving up 2 runs on 2 hits, one being a 2-run shot by Yankee catcher Jorge Posada in the sixth inning. That ballooned his ERA to 23.14 for the season and some concerns quickly mounted as to the lack of left-handed depth on the Rays Bullpen roster. Worst of all is the fact that both sides of the plate have feasted on Choate early this season with both left-handers ( 3 hits, 4 runs) and right-handers ( 6 hits, 3 runs) each showing high level of effectiveness against the Rays lone leftie option.
And with Wednesday nights 2-run shot by Baltimore left-handed pinch-hitter Luke Scott, Choate has now given up 2 Home Runs in back-to-back appearances. He gave up a total of 4 Home Runs over his 61 appearances last season. The event also boosted Choate to a 27.00 ERA, which have some within the Rays Republic both nervous and skittish about his effectiveness early this season. But the Rays do have a few viable options within their farm system right now, but might not consider them because of injury concerns or certain players needing more of the minor league maturation process before they are maybe considered later in 2010.
Sure there is the "waiver wire/ air miles traveler" leftie R J Swindle who seemed to be on a rollercoaster ride between Milwaukee, Cleveland and Durham for most of the end of 2009 before finally coming back into the Rays fold this Spring But Swindle is currently on the Durham Bulls Disabled List and he needs to show some relative progression towards health and pitching stamina before the Rays could even consider him a left-handed option this season. Swindle might be a viable option late in the season, but right now he would just be a liability.
And currently the shelf is mighty bear in Durham for left-handers as only big man Heath Phillips is the only other leftie on the Bull staff, but Phillips is actually a Bull starter and is not even adjusted towards relieving, even at the Triple-A level right now. And even at Double-A Montgomery, Darin Downs is still not ready for the aspect of promotion as a leftie reliever, and leftie Jake McGee who most Rays fans thought might have the fats track to the majors as a reliever has been stretched out and will again be a starter for the Biscuits.
So the Rays farm system has no viable options at this time to adequately bring up a left-handed reliever. But the free agents and trade aspects are there for a possible deal if the Rays lose their confidence in Choate before Howell returns in mid-May.
Mike Borcheck/ SPTimes
Whatever the future holds right now for the Rays, they have to be concerned since their only option to facing left-hander is basically in a pitching funk. Fellow Rays relievers Lance Cormier and Grant Balfour have 0.00 ERA against left-handers this season, but they have only faced 4.2 innings of work against lefties in 2010 and it might not be an adequate measure as to their overall seasonal effectiveness.
It might seem a bit 'ackward" and "goofy" right now for the Rays Coaching staff to have their total vote of confidence on their lone leftie right now, but then again….lefties have been fighting this leftie-rightie fight for a long, long time and are still in the right baseball frame of mind.
Rays Bang Out an Opening Night Victory
Got to admit, that was the way to throw an Major League Baseball Opening Day gig last night. From Tampa Bay Rays players coming out and meeting us at the Rotunda Gate 1 location at 4 pm, to the explosions on and off the field, if this doesn't get Rays fan excited…then this region is in for a heartache. But what better way to get a community pumped up for the first journey into the Trop. of the Evil empire than to have a Walk-off 2-run double produced by one of your marque players.
So with that in mind, and with me still emotional tired and drained from the whole episode, let's take today as a "photo blog" day and I will throw a few photos up for the fans who were not at the Trop. to see what might have happened in their absence. I have to admit to everyone, when I moved in October 2009, I think I lost my 3.5X Telephoto lens, so you will have to squint and look at thing s a bit out of focus until my new lens arrives from Miami (hopefully by Friday).
But it was all about the pomp and circumstance of Opening Day today with several new additions to the Tropicana Field scene, and even a few new looks to the ballpark that I will show you in the next few days. But different this season is the fact I will not have my laptop with me during games at this time, but that might change in the near future if a few good things happen, like a real job (lol).
When I got to the stadium at 3 pm today, I was the first person standing in the Season Ticket holders line at Gate 1, and was quickly bombarded by Rays friends and ballpark buddies talking about the uypcoming season and just renewing friendships. I even got yelled at by a friend who sit in the Upper Deck for my April Fool's Day joke, and another baseball buddy in the Rays front office commented on that post too later in the day. But today was all about seeing the 25 members of the Rays surge towards their goal of getting back to the playoffs in 2010.
But there were also some new sight on the field during the Rays Batting Practice as Rays outfielder Gabe Kapler was showing off his new glove that featured a Columbia Blue dyed "U-pocket" on his fielding glove, and a bit of Columbia Blue trim along the inner seams of the glove. It reminded me of the color scheme that ex-Rays infielder Akinora Iwamura did with his glove over the past few seasons. I will try and get a better shot of the glove today as Kapler was in a bit of a hurry yesterday and I did not get an "up close" look at his new mitt.
Rays RP Grant Balfour was also sporting a Columbia Blue T-shirt under his BP sweatshirt that read "Defend The Trop" with a black AK-47 situated in the middle of the shirt. It was produced by the Cowbell Kid in 2009 and given to Balfour, who is an honorary member of the Cowbell Security Force now. Another example of the right attitude can produce amazing results.
I liked the way that the Rays today incorporated the smoke and fire elements in their pre-game festivities, but it ended up producing a smoke and haze within the Trop that had to be a definite obstacle for both teams outfielders during the game. At one point, it seemed early in the game that Rays centerfielder B J Upton had to make an instant change in his path to the ball before collecting it over the shoulder that would have had Willy Mays shouting his name.
Over the past two Rays seasons they have used the propane fire pots more in a vertical display before the Opening Day festivities, but this season that had some very interesting variations on the flames paths, and also a nice addition of the Rays blue and yellow to bring out a different feel, but also a collaberation of the Rays color scheme.
And Rays injured reliever J P Howell even came out for a little bit today to sit with his Rays Bullpen mates before going into the Rays dugout and watching the rest of the game. I was talking with Howell before the game and he is feeling the shoulder getting stronger and the wrokout program developed by Rays Strength & Conditioning guru Kevin Barr and Rays Head Trainer Ron Porterfield is showing fast imporvement in Howell's mobility, but he is still on track to be out until possibily May 15th.
So glad to see that Rays Bullpen Coach Bobby Ramos is again down in the Bullpen area for the 2010 season. During most of the Rays Spring Training schedule, Ramos was either doing Third Base duty, or helping out on the Rays bench learning some more tricks of the trade. Ramos would not tell me if he is heading towards a possible Bench gig in 2011, but he is still taking out the Rays line-up cars every game, since he is riding a 12-game winning streak when he performs that pre-game duty.
Also something new at the Trop. this year is Raymond, our faithful Rays seadog has produced a new coat over the Fall and Winter and came out tonight with a shiny new coat that produced multiple sparkles and shimmering highlights. Either that or the Seadog finally began using conditioner on his coat for a healthier look in 2010.
Rays new $7.5 million closer Rafael Sorinano did have a rude awakening tonight against the Baltimore Orioles as he got into trouble early and got bailed-out on a brilliant play at the plate on a throw by Rays Third Baseman Evan Longoria. Soriano was releived as Longoria's throw kept the Orioles from again tacking on a few runs and gave the Rays a chance to come back in the bottom of the ninth for the victory.
I had my camera going nuts last night and thought I might have caught Rays pinch-hitter Kelly Shoppach's blast that popped off the Baltimore outfielder mitt and moved towards the yellow line on the railing in Left-Centerfield. But as you can see, it did not come out perfectly, but it did put two men on base, and if it had gone above that nice little yellow line on the fly…The game would have ened 15 minutes earlier.
Got to admit, I am getting slower in my old age becuase I did not pick up the ball in flight here on Carl Crawford's 2-run Walk-off Double, but then again I was trying to keep moving to get around the errant Rays ballboy that did not want to stay in one place while I tried to gather in a picture that would sum up the game's event….I will try again. Dang you Ballboy!
But really this picture says it all. And what was so amazing is the discussion I had with Rays Radio Host Rich Herrera before the game about we need to again get those "magical small moment
s" back into the Rays game plan in 2010 to get off to a great start and force someone else to hustle and keep up witrh us in 2010. And the way the Rays employed their confidence and their strive to produce those runs last night shows that maybe a few sparks fromn that 2008 spirit might still be alive and well within the hearts and souls of the Rays players.
I do not have a photo of the event, but again Rays catcher Dioner Navarro is getting pretty stealthy when it comes to the post-game shaving cream pies. Carl Crawford was doing a interview with Todd Kalas by the side of the Rays dugout when a swiftly moving Navarro came out of the tunnel and just missed planting the towel filled with shaving cream onto Crawford's face. Navarro ended up pushing most of it onto Crawford's uniform right shoulder, but you can not discount his effort.
But in the end what was important was the "W" last night. And in an interesting twist of fact here, Crawford's 2-run double was the Rays 13th hit of the night to highlight a victory in the start of their 13th season, and of course, Crawford wears number 13 for the Rays. Nothing unlucky aboiut that number last night, and i have a feeling Rays fans will be looking for that 1 and 3 combination ( Sean Rodriguez (1), Evan Longoria (3), plus the always swifty number 13 to bring another win tonight as the Rays send starter Matt Garza to the mound. God I love this game!
Remembering the Rays and Gameworks Events
Over the past couple of Tampa Bay Rays seasons that Rays Season Ticket holders have seen some of their past " advantages" going by the wayside. We used to get one of every promotional item, plus had an end-of-the-season Team Photo Day with the Rays players to get memorable photos to put on our face book pages or computer screensavers. We were a bit spoiled at times and got used to getting the "star" treatment from the Season Ticket Sales Department at every turn.
But in the last several years the goodies have gotten pushed into bag "A" or Bag "B", with limited promotional items, plus the omission of most of the kid's items tend to make a few of my nephews and distant cousins sad that they could not get special Rays toys for their Christmas stockings. But with the recent closure of a Centro Ybor institution, another Rays budding tradition is left by the wayside…never to happen again.
When the Gameworks family-friendly arcade closed their doors after spending 10 years upon the landscape of the small cultural center of Ybor City. So I want to take today's blog posting to remember some of the events and times I remember at the Centro Ybor landmark that I will miss more for the faint echoes of young Rays fans and their familes taking a night out with Rays teammates and celebrating as a true Rays Republic.
I can still remember attending a long ago Rays Christmas party for local youth from the Boys and Girls Club at Gameworks where ex-Rays Toby Hall and Seth McClung spent most of the afternoon playing carnival type games and race simulation events with the kids laughing, smiling and giggling at the big players trying to keep up with them both on the screen and running around the arcade area. With presents and food and games galore, I do not think anyone, including the Rays players went home without an ear-to-ear smile on their faces.
But the scene that still stays deep within my mind is not the photo of me helping myself to the yellow chocolate sauce fountain, but of Rays outfielder Jonny Gomes holding court at the end of the bar just to the left as you entered the arcade. Gomes was in hid element that night, shaking hands and hugging friends, plus raising a toast or two to the Rays success. And hidden just a few feet behind Gomes was Maddon who was sitting there with several fans discussing all kinds of things besides baseball and seeming to really enjoy himself. But the best part was seeing Rays players like Scott Kazmir playing an NBA video game with a younger Rays fans and getting his booty kicked, but loving every minute of it.
And the 2009 event was a standing room only affair with almost double the crowd, and double the fun as most of the Rays players from that day came out including every member of the Rays rotation. From Matt Garza trying to be slick and getting beaten time after time on the Dance, Dance Revolution machine, to Grant Balfour's fiancee' kicking all comers' brains-in on the Dance, Dance Revolution machine, including reliever Randy Choate. It was a great time where fans and players got to mingle and bring some of that special chemistry that Rays have with their fans.
And maybe it is true that all good things come to an end sometimes, and that you got to truly treasure your moments within the game of baseball for the future telling of great tales and adventures. And you can bet Gomes, Kazmir and Jackson have taken these memories of Gameworks with them as they left for other Major League Baseball venues, and hoped that their new teams would also embark on these same types of great inter-mingling player/fan activities.
It is a time I that is near and dear to my heart, because as an ex-football player, I always cherished these special times with the team's fans to not only take photos and talk about other things outside of baseball, but to show the "human" side of ourselves to those same fans.
But this Rays team is certainly one of the most open and fan-friendly teams I have ever seen around baseball. They respect the way the fans support and try and use noise either by cowbells or their voices to show audible support for the team. And the many home-made or professionally-made signs by Rays fans show they have their players back.
Rays Pitching still has Question Marks
The only thing right now keeping Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Wade Davis as a question mark entering the final weeks of the Spring is Davis himself. Davis could have made some movement towards silencing his critics, and possibly securing his fifth spot in the rotation with a good outing, but instead Davis stubbed his toes. And that lackluster outing has added fuel to the fire that Davis might not be with the Rays on April 6th for the Home Opener and might be headed down to Durham for a month or so to regroup.
And before his last outing, the idea of the Rays sending Davis down to stop his Major League service clock seemed to be the only logical reason to ship Davis back to the minors until at least the middle of May and sticking with Mr "Plug In", Andy Sonnanstine on the Rays roster. The versatility of Sonnanstine right now might lay heavily on their upcoming fifth rotation decision as Sonnanstine could effectively switch from Bullpen or staring positions as needed until either Davis or J P Howell are again shown to be a positive move for the club.
And it was only last Spring that Davis also took himself out of the thought process for the battle for the Rays fifth spot in the rotation in 2009 with another similar bad outing at the wrong time. But this year, after a great late season campaign up starting games for the Rays, it seems that Davis had his future with the Rays in 2010 firmly in his pitching hands. And with Sonnanstine not flinching at all, but showing his resourceful nature and rebounding effectively from a bad 2009, it seems that the Rays could, should and might send Davis back for a month to push his service clock back a season.
And this move is totally reminiscent of the way the Rays pushed Third Base prospect Evan Longoria back to Durham in 2008 for a small period of time before Longoria was then brought up weeks later due to an injury to Willy Aybar. But with the Rays recent injury bug there is speculation that both could make the Rays roster without incident this Spring and push away the competition for the fifth spot. Which poses a few questions to me. If both starters make the roster, with one pitcher doing spot duty as a long reliever, will that reorganize the overall chemistry and roles of the Rays Bullpen, with the exceptions being closer Rafael Soriano and Dan Wheeler?
And if Sonnanstine is given the additional slot on the Rays 25-man roster, does that mean that Joaquin Benoit doesn't have a realistic chance to make the Rays roster? There have been moments where Benoit has looked like his former Rangers heydays, and others where he has looked like he is still seeking the answers. But Benoit has done exactly what the Rays have asked of him, and is currently tied with several relievers in total game appearances this Spring, plus Benoit has looked extremely good over the last week. Could Benoit be peaking at the right moment to get in the mindset of the Rays Coaches as the clock winds down this Spring?
And with Howell out for at least a month, could fellow lefties Heath Phillips or even Carlos Hernandez get a chance again at the Major League level to occupy Howell's spot in the Rays Bullpen, then bring about some major decisions by the Rays when Howell returns. Or could the Rays take their chances and try to sneak either pitcher through waivers and back to the minors upon Howell's return?
Howell's injury brings up the new thought of both Davis and Sonnanstine staying up with the big club, but could the move compromise the Rays Bullpen's overall integrity a bit. With Sonnanstine joining the motley crew, could the move force former long reliever Lance Cormier into Howell's old role on the short term, or do the Rays hope that Benoit can assume Howell's role of facing hitters from both sides of the plate, and leave Cormier to mostly specialized rightie roles, or as a second possible long reliever?
But then there is another Bullpen question that some people have been mumbling about since late in 2009. Could Rays reliever Grant Balfour be a problem or could he be hiding something? Balfour has been decreasing his overall pitch velocity and looking pretty vulnerable to hitters over the last several months of 2009. Could he just of had a weak arm also towards the end of 2009 from his overuse in 2008 and 2009, or could he just have run out of tricks and the hitters are wise to him now? And again this Spring, Balfour has not had the best Spring again here in 2010 showing either he is a slow starter, or maybe the 2008 season's magic might have finally left his fingers.
There are still many pitching questions left to be answered, but the Rays have said that a definite decision on their 2010 rotation will be coming soon. One highly probable suggestion is to flip-flop current the 3 and 4 starters Jeff Neimann and David Price to break up the right-handed heavy Rays front of the rotation. Something that was unique for the Rays in 2009 was their addition of the second leftie when Price finally joined the Rays mid-season rotation so the Rays could break up the righty-lefty batting order match-ups during every series, but with Scott Kazmir now gone, only David Price remains in the Rays rotation.
The move would effectively eliminate a lefty dominant line-up for an entire Rays opponent's series, and break up any chance of another teams getting into a hitting rhythm against the Rays by possibly facing three right-handers in a row. Big decisions, hard decisions. But then again, that is why the Rays brass get paid the big money.
My personal hopes are that the team uses Benoit effectively in the Rays Bullpen to begin the season, with Sonnanstine as the fifth starter for about a month. That would give Benoit a chance to show he still has the stuff to compete at the Major League level. When Benoit is on the ball, he is simply magical on the mound. And this move could also effectively buy the Rays an added year of Davis's services, plus give the team more time to showcase Sonnanstine's talents if they decide they might want to seek a trade, or they could simply send Sonnanstine back to the minors as a insurance policy against further pitching injuries.
Whatever the Rays decide, the team has to effectively decide what the roles Rays player's like Benoit, Cormier and leftie Randy Choate will perform before they can streamline their thought process and make an adequate and concise decision. This might be the final season the Rays have this much offensive firepower for awhile, so the team needs to make the right adjustments and the right moves to counter that offense with a great pitching staff and effective Bullpen in 2010.
Rays Manager Joe Maddon is famous for using the quote, " Starting pitching sets the tone of the game." If the team doesn't find the right solutions to shore up their back-end of the rotation, it will just fester into a situation every 5 days for the Rays. Davis and Sonnastine have to provide that comfort and confidence level over the next few days for the Rays to begin their final decision process. But with a swift decision, it also sets up the Rays pitchers to get into a rhythm now, even before the season begins and adjust accordingly to their rotation slots.
The Rays had a few setbacks recently on their pitching front, with Howell going down this weekend and question marks still surrounding several Bullpen 2010 roles and abilities. But in the end, the Rays have to do what is right for the team to fulfill their quest to again play deep into October. With both sides of the ball clicking for the Rays, the sky could be the limit in 2010, but quickly even that scenario can falter if an injury bug decides to hit the team, or a starter falters early….but then again, that is why we play 162 games before crowning a Division Champion.
Maddon has One More Math Problem to Solve this Spring
And the final direction this 2010 Rays team takes in 2010 will be heavily based on this mathematical breakdown, even before their Home Opener on April 6,2010. And this simple math problem might say a lot about how solid and confident this Rays Coaching staff, and Maddon feel about the key elements of their 2010 squad before firmly heading into the Rays 13th Major League Baseball season.
One statistical breakdown remains unsolved, and it will definitely define the early roster of this team. This one still undecided simple mathematical conclusion could become the balancing fulcrum towards the realizations of multiple scenarios for possible failure, or ultimate success going into the 2010 season. For these two sets of simultaneous and sequenced numbers will decide the final set-up of the Rays roster. How the Rays split their 2010 roster into their "13 & 12″ segments will be a huge indicator of how the Rays perceive their team's strengths coming out of Spring Training, and into the early divisional firestorm with American League East ramifications starting with Game 1.
How Maddon and his staff decide if they want to start the season with 13 pitchers and 12 bench players or vice versa will be an early tell tale sign to the confidence level this Coaching staff has with its roster, and its solution towards early challenges.
For the Rays can not have a downward spiral in the month of April, like in 2009, when the Rays went quickly towards an unpredictable 9-14 early record, and put themselves in "catch-up" mode for the rest of the season. How this Rays squad separates their personnel into those "13-12″ splits might be a instant indication if the Rays organization believes their pitching will need to get the "upper hand", or if the hitting/fielding players will get the chance to man that "13th seat" at the table.
But you can count on more than a few players trying to force the Rays hands and have their names put in ink onto that "13th" numbered roster spot this Spring. These young and hungry players will do everything humanly possible to make the Rays staff's decision tougher, and hope to make it lean towards their names with an impressive performance during Spring Training. And the ultimate reward just might make their first Opening Day MLB roster.
If the Bullpen pulls it together and borderline relievers like Winston Abreu and Dale Thayer make the roster, it could tilt that invisible line towards the team ultimately carrying 13 pitchers. And even the addition of former Rays starter Andy Sonnanstine thrown into the pitching mix, either in the Bullpen, or as a possible fifth starter. This could throw the whole equation quickly into the pitching sides favor early on this Spring. But that in itself presents an interesting and complex decision all by itself.
With returning fifth starter Wade Davis and Sonnanstine squaring off in the only battle this Spring for a starting job, could the eventual loser of that battle just be sent packing to another team like Jason Hammel in 2009, or could they just be sent down to Triple-A Durham knowing they might be the first call-up of the season?
I have a feeling right now Maddon and his Pitching Coach Jim Hickey might be leaning towards extending that "13th slot" towards a pitcher, but there are also going to be some tough and interesting decisions to be made in the Rays infield and outfield mix that might make that entire pitching situation moot.
We already know that outfielder Matt Joyce is going to try to prove once and for all to the Rays Coaching Staff and Maddon that he deserves that Rightfield slot going into the season, and maybe for the next several years. And even if Joyce wins that spot (which I think he does), it is small factoring process compared to the highly competitive dogfight that will ultimately decide the fate of the Rays second utility guy between Reid Brignac and newcomer Sean Rodriguez.
And maybe Brignac's roster "pop-ups" to the majors in 2009 might have given the Rays staff more of an comprehensive book on Brignac's abilities coming into this Spring, and possibly Brignac's scorecard already has a few penciled-in notes and scratches from the Rays Coaching staff, while Rodriguez is a blank slate with everything to gain heading into the Spring Training games.
Sure Rodriguez was a key trade component of the Rays trading left-handed starter Scott Kazmir to the Angels in late July 2009, but this will be the first time most Rays fans and the Tampa Bay media will get an extended chance to see what the kid can do……now or in the near future for the Rays.
If more than one of these young players like Joyce, Rodriguez, Brignac or even Elliot Johnson makes a lasting impression that they "have to be" on this roster, this could ultimately shake up the preconceived notion of 13 pitchers and twist the equation quickly towards 13 bench players. And that scenario has a very distinctive possibility of happening this Spring. These numbers games for the first time in Rays short history, might effectively come down to total game day performances and not the foresight predictions on their talents, or a daily growing maturity in their abilities to play at the Major League level.
But, the wrist injury to Aybar might be one of the biggest question mark still unanswered totally into this first set of Grapefruit League games. If he is down and out for an extended time, or even gets put on the 15-day Disabled List to start the regular MLB season, the Rays could keep an extra bench player down with the Rays instead of sending them to the minor league camp or even up to Durham.
So there might be a lot of day-to-day evaluations and recommendations discussed with Rays Head Trainer Ron Porterfield in the next week or so to see if there is a viable option of Aybar playing before the Major League season begins, or they shut Aybar down from hitting drills and let him effectively rehab back into game shape before pressing this same numbers issue again during the Rays season.
And if Aybar does go on the D L, it could also be a bit of a last gasp of making this roster for one of the reliever fighting it out to become a Rays Bullpen member, or could evolve into a chance for the loser of the Sonnanstine/Davis battle to be kept on the Major League roster as a possible long reliever like Lance Cormier.
My personal gut reaction is that the Rays seem to want to do everything in their power to try and keep Sonnanstine up at this level, but if he falls into that 13th slot and Aybar comes back, he would be the first to fall from the 25-man roster. You already know that Rafael Soriano, Grant Balfour, Cormier, Dan Wheeler, Randy Choate (leftie specialist), J P Howell along with Wade Davis, James Shields, Matt Garza, David Price and Jeff Niemann take up 11 pitching spots before even considering Abreu, Thayer or Joaquin Benoit as a Bullpen option.
That would leave a possible one viable slots, with a second up in the air right now if the Rays want to carry 13 pitchers. You could pencil in Sonnanstine into one of those two spaces, but with him and Davis both having minor league options, they could always be sent down with the adage that it came down to that "13th " spot. And even with Thayer and Abreu showing mixed results at this level, you have to think of the two, Abreu would get a longer look based on his 2009 MiLB.com designation as the Triple-A Reliever of the Year.
But not going in Abreu's favor is his short stint with Cleveland in 2009, when he seemed to imploded a bit on the mound and almost started an all out brawl in a game versus Seattle. But both relievers have paid their minor league dues and could force the Rays hand and send Sonnanstine to Durham, even with great outings this Spring.
This is only my scenario of the whole situation and is only my personal glance into the Rays possible decision on this issue. I see the loser of the Davis and Sonnanstine battle to be immediate trade bait offered before MLB rosters finalize and if a good trade option can not be found, the loser of the fifth rotation battle will be sent back to Durham knowing they are the first starting pitcher recalled by the Rays.
I think there are a few NL teams that would jump on Sonnanstine if he has a great Spring, but there is still time to see about his 2010 situation. I truly feel that Joyce will win his battle for Rightfield, and will platoon with Ben Zobrist to begin the season until Joyce shows he can hit left-handers with consistency, then it open another can of worms for the Rays as to a final playing position for Zobrist.
Out of the infield battle, I see Sean Rodriguez maybe having a slight edge right now, but I feel it is Brignac's job to lose since he has the confidence and skill level to play at the Major League level. And if Aybar does go on the D L , they both could get a realistic shot to make the initial Rays 25-man Opening Day roster. But I also think in the end, the Rays will shop Brignac and he could be somewhere else either before the 2010 season, or within the first few months of the season.
It is funny how two of the Rays past "utility" guys, Aybar and Zobrist based on their great seasons in 2008 and 2009 will play a part so deep into the Rays decisions in 2010. But that just goes to show you the improved depth and wealth of talent sitting in Port Charlotte right now, just at the Major League camp level.
Some people consider the number "13" to be mostly evil with no redemption for any good. But that same number "13" for one Rays player this Spring Training season will be a blessing, and a chance to show they have what it takes to survive and play daily at this level of the game. Whoever gets that coveted "13th" spot in 2010, no matter if they are a Rays pitcher, or field player, they will know internally that they survived one of the most competitive Rays Spring Training camps.
It might not seem so tough to some of the Rays fans watching the workouts and drills, but this Spring's competition level has been raised very, very high, and the final Rays player to grace that "13th" spot decision has to consider himself lucky indeed, for they get a chance to grow with this Rays team as they again set their sights on games in October.
Rays 2010 Fan Fest Photo Blog 2 of 2
One of the biggest reasons so many fans came out to the Tampa Bay Rays 2010 Fan Fest on Saturday was a chance to chat and get autographs from their favorite Rays players in advance of the 2010 season. Also on hand were a few of the Rays minor league prospects invited to the Major League camp that started on Friday. The number of fans seen entering the building on Saturday definitely showed that the enthusiasm and the excitement is very much still alive within the Tampa Bay area for their team.
And there were a few big name players like Carl Crawford, Ben Zobrist, new comer Sean Rodriguez sent to the Rays in the Scott Kazmir trade in 2009 and Rays 2009 scapegoat Designated Hitter Pat Burrell. The autograph day went pretty uneventful accept for some late arrivals from players, and some people grumbling about the absence of Rays shortstop Jason Bartlett and leftie Jake McGee. I still have not heard a word on Bartlett, but McGee missed the event due to his wife Morgan going to a local hospital, but she has since been released and McGee is back with the team at the Port Charlotte complex.
But there were more than whispers from a few of the Rays Season Ticket holder I spoke to on friends not renewing their seats or even people downgrading from multiple seats to singles for the 2010 season. But the reality is also there that a small bulk of that inflated number in 2009 was for people who wanted to secure 2008 Playoff tickets and bought seats in the inexpensive sections of Tropicana Field to get guaranteed seating for the Rays playoff run. But there is a anticipated hope of people getting into the flow after Fan Fest and purchasing one of the many ticket packages or options for the upcoming season.
And there were members of the Rays Sales Department all over Tropicana Field ready and willing to discuss or show seating options to people all during Fan Fest. There are options starting as low as $ 273 (Friday or Sunday plan) and rising depending on the seat location. And beginning this Friday, February 26,2010 at 9 am, individual game tickets will go on sale to the general public for the first time in 2010. Another popular option is the Saturday game package that will include every game for the Hess Express /Rays Concert Series that start at $ 331 for T.B.T. Party Deck or Upper Deck Reserved seating.
And again in 2010, the Home Plate Club prices seems to have gone down a tab, so if you should win the Florida Lotto in time for the Rays season, you could purchase a seat in the All-Inclusive area starting at $ 13,256. And even as the Rays season Ticket numbers have dropped, it had to be anticipated by the local economic struggles and also the 2009 Playoff package ticket holders not renewing their seats for 2010. You can be sure within now and the beginning of the season, the Rays will announce some additional ticket options and also attractive promotions and events to get the Tampa Bay residents to come out to the Trop. for more games in 2010.
And as usual, the autograph lines seemed to begin to get congested almost immediately as people bought their silver wristbands then stood in line almost two hours before Evan Longoria first stepped onto the first table location just after 12 pm. By the time he had stepped into his seat, the line formed around the white plastic chain links and circled out into the Rightfield Street hallway down past the Dipping Dots booth and almost to the Rays Carnival Games for the kids.
And there were all sorts of interesting items brought up to the players to sign this year. One fan, Christin Manfredo actually had new Rays catcher Kelly Shoppach sign her 1,000th autographed baseball during Fan Fest, with Rays prospect catcher Nevin Ashley becoming the 1001st autographed baseball in Manfredo's collection. And there was the usual oversize baseball bats and small scale batting helmets for players to sign, but the one item that caught my eyes was the oversize World Series ticket that were given to several players during the day.
Everyone always asks who is sitting right there with me in my section. Well, here we see Michael, who sits in Section 138, Row C Seat 1 giving Evan Longoria one of the State Farm Home Run Derby balls from 2008 to sign. Longoria took some time looking at the ball and remarked that it looked like it was actually hit, possibly by him during the event. It is a great collectible ball for Michael's collection. Another item that came up just after Michael to Longo was an actual gold-colored fielding glove that looked a lot like the Golden Glove model glove on the trophy that Longoria will be presented at a Rays game in 2010. One of the great things about this event is seeing some of the fantastic collectible items fans have obtained during the past season from auctions, sales and even events like Fan Fest for the guys to sign.
People were complaining all day long about players getting to the Trop. late for their signings and not staying past their times to appease fans. I know that certain players had transportation delays on their travels up from Port Charlotte, while others had logistical situation going on with their belongings and equipment getting to Port Charlotte ahead of them on Saturday. For some reason, B J Upton took a huge blunt of this backlash, but he was not the only player who was delayed and did not stay any additional time to sign for fans.
And some Rays fans were quick to notice he was texting between signatures and also checking his phone a bit not aware of his transportation logistic situation. But then again,
when you are sitting at a table above the general public, they can see you every move and action and can develop negative opinions and reaction quickly based on your overall mood and attitude to the fans. Upton is excited to begin a new chapter in 2010 and is healthy for the first time in a few years. He has reached out to new Hitting Coach Derek Shelton for advice and has seen the errors of his ways in the past with his nonchalant base running and quiet demeanor. I think he is going to have a breakout year in 2010.
Gabe Kapler to me has become one of the greatest " at ease" fashion sense guys on this team. And I mean that as a compliment. Here we see him in a great black hat and a pair of Chuck Taylor sneakers that seems to show his laid-back attitude and approach to this team. But he is also one of the guys who get into a "zone" during game day and is a constant figure helping other players both on and off the field. Kapler is one of those guys on the edges of the Rays roster in 2010 who could be beneficial to the Rays return to the playoffs in 2010.
Most people know these two guys as one of the best First Basemen offensively and defensively in the Major Leagues, and the other is the Senior Director of Promotions for the Rays. But Carlos Pena and Brian Killingsworth also have another "Kevin Bacon 6 degrees of Separation" moment". Both were also members of the Wartham Gatesman who won the 1997 Cape Cod Baseball League Championship. Funny story, Killingsworth actually called me on my cellphone the day we got Pena and told me about the signing. I still marvel at that moment I knew the Rays were bound for the playoffs with a guy like Pena behind the scenes.
One of the great thing I love about Rays Fan Fest is the way Rays Radio Network guru Rich Herrera gets time with the players to talk about the upcoming season, or even put an exclamation point on some issue. It was great how he started chatting about the limited edition Carlos Pena T-shirt being sold by the American Red Cross and the Save The Children Foundation.
Herrera told the crowd how the back of the T-shirt lists all the accomplishments Pena has accumulated since his arrival here in 2007. About Pena's 2007 Comeback Player of the Year Award and Silver Slugger Award, his 2008 Gold Glove, and his 2009 selection to the All Star game. But Herrera was quick to mention the one award Pena is most proud of is his selection as the Tampa Bay recipient for the 2008 Roberto Clemente Award.
Most people know that this award is given annually to the player who combines outstanding skills on the baseball diamond with their devoted work within their team's community. Pena was actually honored to be presented his nomination by Roberto Clemente Junior during a ceremony at Tropicana Field on September 3,2008. As part of the Roberto Clemente nomination, Major League Baseball made a donation in Pena's name of $ 7,500 to Fundacion Lumen 2000, a Christian Foundation which provides foster care for children. Pena and his wife, Pamela, also donate school supplies, medicine and equipment to this foundation annually.
I have notice a weird pattern lately in the family units of players within the Rays roster. It is fascinating to me the number of "twos" associated with Rays players and their children. There seems to be a wild Rays parallel, especially in the Rays Bullpen where 4 players have two children. Included in that list is Dan Wheeler (2 boys),Randy Choate (2 girls), Jeff Bennett (2 girls) and Dale Thayer (see above photo).
But the duo's do not end there as First Baseman Carlos Pena (1 boy,1 girl), Outfielder Gabe Kapler (2 boys), Starting Pitcher Matt Garza (1 boy,1 girl) and Catcher Dioner Navarro( 2 boys) all celebrate the "2's". But it can go one step further as First Base Coach George Hendricks, Senior Advisor Don Zimmer and Vice President of Communications Rick Vaughn also have two children in their broods.
There was also a another wild moment behind-the-scenes as several members of the Rays showed up wearing some unconventional head gear for the autograph signings. From Rays starter James Shields, who should get the nod for the 2010 Home Opener against the Baltimore Orioles rocking a white cap, to new closer Rafael Soriano coming down the aisle dressed in black and gold and listening intently to his I-pod on the way to the signing table. Some websites around the Internet did not see his ensemble in its entirety. So the above photo is what he wore into Tropicana Field before he took the stage wearing the Rays new "Sky Blue"-themed alternative jersey.
And most of the Rays were in a really giving mood during Fan Fest. At one point, before Grant Balfour went over to the Season Ticket holder Photo area, he came down from the table and signed for a few minutes with a few more fans before heading over by the Leftfield foul pole to participate in the photo op for the Season Ticket holders only. But even as they were coming and going, several Rays players,including Upton posed with fans for pictures as
they were ascending the aisle to go back into the Clubhouse area following their autograph signing times.
Fernando Perez even took a moment out to come by my seat and tell me he read a bit of my posts during the off season, which really caught me by surprise. I had forgotten I told him about my blog following his poetry article back in 2009, and he advised me he likes my "personalized" view of the game and the actions. Got to admit, when you have a graduate of Columbia University in Creative Writing tell you he likes your stuff… I was on cloud nine the rest of the day. Fernando, in advance, got to tell you, I am also a huge fan of your articles and I am still going to push you to join MLBlogs.com and submit some stuff….You can count on that!
But this was also a time for some "old Friends" to reunite as former Rangers teammates Jaoquin Benoit and Carlos Pena chatted for a bit before Benoit and Rays Bullpen Coach Bobby Ramos made their way to the stage for their 4 pm autograph times. There were a lot of chuckles and writing down of information between the three of them before Ramos and Benoit descended for their time at the autograph tables. And as was custom for every Rays game since he got here, Ramos gave me a salute as he entered the blue-screened area for the signing. I am a lifetime fan of Ramos, and it is not just for the sideline Salsa displays either.
And the Rays organization has to be proud of its fan base that still had the roped off areas full and awaiting autographs at 4 pm. This is a great sign of the energy and the commitment this region has towards Major League Baseball. And it is also fitting that Maddon did not leave the signing table until everyone in the "Table 1″ line had their chance to come up and get their signatures. Even as the overhead lights began to dim within Tropicana Field, Maddon and his two Coaches stood their ground until the last fan got their items signed. Maddon did the same thing in 2009, and I suspect he will do it every season he is here with the Rays. And that is another reason to love him as this team's manager.
As you can see by this last photo, the time is quickly upon us to begin our nightly patronage of all things Rays related. And those 45 days will seem to simply fly by as the Rays begin game within the next week or so. Once the team begins their Grapefruit schedule the days will pick up steam until that last Florida Home game at Tropicana Field against the New York Mets. And then with one more trip up to Durham, North Carolina to play the Triple-A Champion Durham Bulls, it will be only a matter of hours before we again assemble for another Major League Baseball campaign, and a drive towards playoff glory again.
Even with all of the outside distractions and riff-raff going on within this Tampa Bay area, the one constant is that the Rays play a brand of baseball other teams are now adapting for their own squads. They always say that imitation is the ultimate form of flattery. If that is true, then the "Rays Sky Blue" jerseys might be a great addition as expectations rise and the sky is the limit in 2010.


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Cook County Deprives Defendants of a Public Defense
Category: Blog
Chicago, IL, May 1, 2013 In courtrooms across Cook County, a Chicago Appleseed investigation has confirmed, defendants are being denied a public defense solely because they have posted bond to get out of jail. The denials come without a constitutionally required hearing on the defendants finances. In some cases, indigent defendants who post bond and do receive a public defense then have their bond money withheld to reimburse the Public Defenders Office.
Pro Bono Opportunities from the Collaboration for Justice: Chicago Appleseed Fund for Justice and the Chicago Council of Lawyers
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Chicago Appleseed is a social impact research and advocacy organization which uses multidisciplinary research to identify community injustices, and to develop and advocate for practical solutions. Chicago Council of Lawyers is a public interest lawyer organization which advocates for a fair and effective administration of justice. Together, the two organizations comprise the Collaboration for Justice focusing on the areas of Criminal Justice Reform, Judicial and Lawyer Ethics, Immigration Court Reform, Payday Lending Reform/Economic Inclusion, and Family Law. The Chicago Council of Lawyers works independently of Chicago Appleseed in its efforts to evaluate judges for the purpose of educating voters.
SAVE THE DATE Join Appleseed and Chicago Appleseed Fund for Justice for the PILLARS OF JUSTICE AWARDS RECEPTION
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Join Appleseed and Chicago Appleseed Fund for Justice for the PILLARS OF JUSTICE AWARDS RECEPTION Wednesday, March 20, 2013 6:00 pm 9:00 pm House of Blues 329 N. Dearborn Street, Chicago, IL 60654. HONORING: Richard C. Godfrey (Kirkland & Ellis, Appleseed Board Member), Kenneth L. Schmetterer (DLA Piper), and Lawrence Wojcik (DLA Piper)
Collaboration for Justice: An Update
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The Chicago Council of Lawyers and the Chicago Appleseed Fund for Justice collaborate on issues that affect the administration of justice in Cook County. Click the link to read more about the Collaboration for Justice.
Chicago Council of Lawyers Releases its Judicial Evaluation Results
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The Chicago Council of Lawyers has released its judicial evaluation results for judges seeking retention on the November 6th ballot and for judicial candidates seeking to fill judicial vacancies in the November election.
Chicago Council of Lawyers Speaks Out on the Judicial Election Tomorrow
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2012 Annual Luncheon of the Chicago Appleseed Fund for Justice and the Chicago Council of Lawyers
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Thank you for supporting our Annual Luncheon! We appreciate your generosity and continued partnership as we move forward with ground-breaking research and advocacy on social justice and government effectiveness issues that have a deep impact on the Chicago-area community. Our 2012 Annual Luncheon held on October 3, featured keynote speaker Professor Randolph Stone addressing the urgent need for reform of the criminal justice system. We honored Kimberly Foxx with the Commitment to Justice Award for her tireless work on Juvenile Justice in the Cook County States Attorneys Office. Also, several of our Pro Bono Counsel received the Special Recognition Award for their assistance to Chicago Appleseed in reaching our goals for systematic reform through the Center for Judicial Performance and Integrity, the Immigration Court Reform Project, and the Community Justice Program.
Discussing Diversion in Cook County: A Starting Point for Employing Diversion Strategies
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Diversion tactics such as early case evaluation, bond court improvements, and enhanced pretrial assessments of defendants have been effectively used in both Brooklyn and Philadelphia; one result of this public forum is that the stakeholders in Chicago articulated their hope to achieve these goals as well. What remains unclear for Cook County is how the stakeholders will go about affecting this change.
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Chicago, IL -- Cook County public safety leaders gathered at a public forum at Roosevelt University on Wednesday, June 27 to discuss ways the County has and will continue to divert nonviolent offenders out of jail and the criminal justice system altogether.


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A former political candidate who shot a homeless man was back in court on Thursday.
In November, Hiram Lewis was arrested for intimidating the same people who arrested him in June.
His problems started six months again when he shot Stephen Bogart in the leg at his Clay County home, located in Procious.
"You can believe it or not. I'm not crazy. I was just doing the lord's work and trying to help a homeless, what he said to be a Marine Corps Veteran," he said.
Lewis said the shooting was in self-defense.
"I locked him out of my house. He busted my door down, broke it down and tried to kill me and I wounded him. I could have killed him. I dropped the gun from his head to knee at the last second. That was out of grace," he said.
Lewis appeared in front of Judge Richard Facemire for a bond revocation hearing.
The hearing was a result of his most recent charge, intimidation of a state's witness.
Lewis is accused of threatening Sheriff Randy Holcomb to drop his felony charges in the Bogart case.
He has been charged with two felony counts; malicious wounding and wanton endangerment.
Lewis denies the claims, but prosecutors tried to revoke his bond and throw him in jail anyway.
The state also asked the judge to make Lewis undergo a competency evaluation to see if he's even fit for trial. This notion is something Lewis said is ridiculous.
"In this case, the state is the one who is incompetent, and they are questioning my competency?"
The judge granted the competency evaluation but didn't revoke Lewis' bond.
Facemire said he doesn't think Lewis is a danger to society. Lewis will be able to stay on home confinement until he has to appear in court again.
His competency evaluation hearing hasn't been scheduled yet.


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ok I didn't have 1/2 of the ingredients--only an orange and 1 yellow onion-- and it came out great. Plus I am not very good at reading directions, but I loved the idea Here's how I made it: Squeezed the juice from orange into sauce pan, added soy sauce and squirt of lime juice, drop of sesame oil. Reduced those down. In seperate pan sautee julian cut onions with a little olive oil and 1/4 of orange juice reduction until clear. Sear salt and peppered tuna steaks in pan with onions both sides until cooked to desired temp. Remove tuna. Pour the rest of the orange juice reduction in with onions and caramelized. Place caramelized onions on top of tuna. I placed tuna on bed of pesto pasta. Sweet, tangy and yummy.
Grilled Tuna Steaks with Pineapple Salsa
More From Cooking Light
Recipe Time
41 Minutes
Nutritional Information
Amount per serving
- Calories: 243
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated fat: 0.6g
- Monounsaturated fat: 2.3g
- Polyunsaturated fat: 1.5g
- Protein: 31.4g
- Carbohydrate: 17.8g
- Fiber: 1.7g
- Cholesterol: 57mg
- Iron: 1.7mg
- Sodium: 538mg
- Calcium: 49mg
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons lower-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1/2-inch-thick rings
- 1 medium red onion, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices
- Cooking spray
- 4 (6-ounce) tuna steaks
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 3/8 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 serrano pepper, seeded and minced
- 4 mint sprigs (optional)
- 1. Prepare grill to medium-high heat.
- 2. Boil orange juice in a small saucepan 15 minutes or until reduced to 1/4 cup. Transfer to a small bowl; stir in soy sauce.
- 3. Place pineapple and onion on a grill rack coated with cooking spray. Grill 5 minutes on each side or until the onion is tender. Remove from grill; let stand 5 minutes. Coarsely chop, and transfer to a bowl.
- 4. Brush both sides of fish evenly with oil; sprinkle evenly with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Place fish on a grill rack coated with cooking spray; brush with half of juice mixture. Grill 3 minutes; turn fish over. Brush fish with remaining juice mixture; grill 3 minutes or until desired degree of doneness.
- 5. Add the remaining 1/8 teaspoon salt, remaining 1/8 teaspoon pepper, basil, and next 3 ingredients (through serrano) to pineapple mixture; toss. Serve with fish; garnish with mint sprigs, if desired.
My Notes
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Grilled Tuna Steaks with Pineapple Salsa Recipe at a Glance
- COURSE: Main Dishes
- CONVENIENCE: Entertaining
- MAIN INGREDIENT: Fish
- DIETARY CONSIDERATION: Low Saturated Fat
- COOKING METHOD: Grill
- PUBLICATION: Cooking Light
More Recipes Like This
Grilled Tuna Steak with Fresh SalsaOxmoor House
Tuna Steaks with Grilled Scallions and TomatoesReal Simple
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The Iowa Department of Transportation is now offering a Boy Scouts of America "Prepared For Life" license plate.
The Iowa Secretary of State's office will be the sponsoring agency for the new license plate, according to the press release.
The application to request a Boy Scouts of America license plate is available at all Boy Scout Council offices and websites in the state.
At least 500 paid applications are required to be submitted prior to the manufacture and distribution of the new plates.
All proceeds from the extra fees will benefit the Iowa Boy Scouts.


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- Goldy
- uploaded: Jun 27, 2011
- Hits: 317
Lord Stirling, Tim Alexander talks about the situation in Libya, and the world.
6 comments
Heretikos June 28, 2011 1:00:58 AM CEST
%u201CWe are fighting nothing other than al-Qaeda in what they call the Islamic Maghreb. It%u2019s an armed group that is fighting from Libya to Mauritania and through Algeria and Mali.%u2026 If you had found them taking over American cities by the force of arms, tell me what you would do?%u201D %u2013 From a letter sent by the Libyan leader Muammar Qadhafi to the US president Barack Obama.RIP Saif Al-Arab Gaddafi. Fuck NATO. Your death will not be perpetuated as justified in my presence for as long as I live. My prayers are with Giddafi as he faces the invasion of of his free country.
Kuergun June 27, 2011 5:20:10 PM CEST
If we can stop our brothers ,sisters, fathers and mothers who are in the armed forces. Persuade them that they are sheep being led to the slaughter and bringing all of us with them. Then and only then will we have a chance. But as long as we have idiot people who feel powerful in a uniform who feel they can save there country we will all die. There are to many "rambo's" out there who believe in there country so much so they have become "deaf, dumb and blind" to the truth. These soldiers who are brain washed when they join up, cant and wont believe the people they think they are protecting. The proof is when troops were sent to Iraq and Afghanistan they believed they went to kill terrorist. But in the end they saw no terrorist. Right now in Libya a straight forward civil war is in progress and it is illegal for any other country to intervene. But because it has not gone to plan and Gaddafi is still in power they decided to do the job themselves. This of coarse is called "helping the innocent people". I wonder if a civil war broke out "again" in the USA would they like some other country to bomb there people and land? The secret to all this is 1) don't believe what they say about terrorists and 2) do what they are doing and take control of our armed forces. THEN WE WILL WIN.
Brawk June 27, 2011 11:47:40 AM CEST
fear mongering at it's best...but the reality remains that the economy of the world is in the crapper, so a war is what the banksters use historically to fix the problem, kill off some population, make some armaments, make some cash, fix the economy temporarily and do it all over again. What's sad is that people just don't care.
Ufosarus June 27, 2011 6:29:52 AM CEST
who gives a dam about the music! its not looking good out there guys :(
Bcgolddigger June 27, 2011 3:05:14 AM CEST


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Open-Faced Eggplant-Olive Sandwiches
Yield: 4 servings (serving size: 1 sandwich)
More From Oxmoor House
Recipe Time
Cook Time:
Prep Time:
Nutritional Information
Amount per serving
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 8.2g
- Saturated fat: 0.7g
- Protein: 10.1g
- Carbohydrate: 22.0g
- Cholesterol: 11mg
- Iron: 1.2mg
- Sodium: 637mg
- Calories from fat: 36%
- Fiber: 1.2g
- Calcium: 194mg
- 3 tablespoons light Caesar dressing, divided
- 4 (3/4-inch-thick) slices eggplant (about 1/2 pound)
- Cooking spray
- 1/4 cup tomato and basil pasta sauce
- 4 (0.7-ounce) slices reduced-fat Havarti cheese, sliced
- 4 (1.1-ounce) slices Italian bread with sesame seeds, toasted
- 1/4 cup chopped pimiento-stuffed olives
- 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and drained
- Preheat broiler.
- Brush 2 tablespoons dressing evenly over both sides of eggplant slices.
- Place eggplant on a foil-lined broiler pan coated with cooking spray; cook 8 minutes. Turn and spread pasta sauce evenly over eggplant; cook 7 minutes. Place 1 cheese slice on each eggplant slice; cook 1 minute or until cheese melts. Top each bread slice with eggplant.
- Combine olives, capers, and 1 tablespoon dressing; sprinkle evenly over each sandwich.
My Notes
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Open-Faced Eggplant-Olive Sandwiches Recipe at a Glance
- COURSE: Sandwiches
- CONVENIENCE: Family
- CUISINE: Italian
- MAIN INGREDIENT: Vegetables
- DIETARY CONSIDERATION: Meatless
- COOKING METHOD: Broil
- OCCASION: Autumn
- PUBLICATION: Oxmoor House
More Recipes Like This
Brie Toasts with Eggplant MarmaladeCooking Light
Mini Nicoise SandwichesHealth
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Clemson, SC (Sports Network) - Clemson women's head basketball coach Itoro Coleman has been relieved of her duties.
The Lady Tigers' season came to an end with Thursday's loss to NC State in the first round of the ACC Tournament. Clemson finished the 2012-13 campaign with a 9-21 record, including a 5-13 mark in ACC play.
"I want to thank coach Coleman for her hard work and dedication as Clemson's head coach," Clemson athletic director Dan Radakovich said in a statement on Friday. "She has represented Clemson University with dignity and class, dating to her days as a player. However, after an evaluation of the program, it is time to make a change. We will begin a national coaching search immediately."
The Lady Tigers went 25-63 (10-38 ACC) during Coleman's three years guiding the program.
Coleman starred for the Lady Tigers from 1995-99, helping the team reach four ACC Championship games and make four NCAA Tournament appearances.
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Fiserv EFT Solutions
2 people found this helpful
"work 50 hours and still be considered a slacker "
- Comp & Benefits
- Work/Life Balance
- Senior Management
- Career Opportunities
I worked at Fiserv EFT Solutions
co-workers are great.; if they are able to get out of their cubes.
you are expected to work over your 40 hours, expected to work weekends or are considered a slacker. some managers use threats and intimidation tactics to keep their group quite. open door policy is encouraged, but if used, it will be held against you.
17 Other Employee Reviews for Fiserv EFT Solutions (View Most Recent)Sort: Rating Date
"Workplace Culture "
- Comp & Benefits
- Work/Life Balance
- Senior Management
- Culture & Values
- Career Opportunities
I worked at Fiserv EFT Solutions full-time for more than a yearPros
The Express Client Service group in Portland, OR was an awesome team to work with. Management always finding ways to improve work life in a positive and dynamic work environment.Cons
Medical benefits are not great.RecommendsPositive Outlook
2 people found this helpful
"Process over results. Mediocre benefits, disconnected management, expensive health care, frequent re-orgs, low morale. "
- Comp & Benefits
- Work/Life Balance
- Senior Management
- Culture & Values
- Career Opportunities
I have been working at Fiserv EFT Solutions as a contractor for more than a yearPros
I'm lucky enough to work in a showplace office where a the majority of executives and senior leadership work; the facilities are nice even if they are showing their age; and the cafeteria serves the best food of anywhere I've ever worked. Bring bug spray if you work in other offices. You do get to work from home pretty often. If you're the type who likes to keep their mouth shut and do as-told, you will do well at this company by simply following process and making friends with a few key long-term employees.Cons
Extremely heavy process footprint. Project quality is measured by adherence to process; budget/schedule variances and level of re-work are secondary considerations. Adherence to process is prioritized over common sense or even quality of end-results (opposite of most companies). Every project must go through multiple toll gates and governance reviews - projects which would take 4-6 months in other companies literally take years to complete at Fiserv. Project re-scopes, cost over-runs, and schedule delays are extremely common. Lower and middle management has built a set of processes and reporting structures that hide these problems.
Process and governance developed in a vacuum. Most of the company's internal business and operational processes are developed without input or feedback. The corporate Governance board is staffed with brand-new managers only 1-3 years out of college or long-term line and project managers who have never been promoted, very few in-between --- those who are least-qualified to develop best practices. The governance board and other gatekeepers feel strongly that they are the team who really runs the company and often say so out loud in public meetings.
Excessive middle management layers and constant re-organizations. Re-orgs happen several times a year, with at least one major re-org per quarter. Politically well-connected individuals move up quickly while others languish, which has led to a large core of long-term employees in junior-to-middle management - many of whom started with the company straight out of college and have never worked anywhere else - being promoted well past the Peter Principle. A large number of junior and middle managers are still in the same roles after 20+ years, having created overly-complex and undocumented business processes to ensure they're secure in a role where don't have to work very hard or contribute anything new. Easily 10-15 percent of middle managers across the organization perform functions that could be duplicated by an automated spreadsheet extract or scheduled process within Remedy and/or Clarity/SAP.
Poorly-trained technical staff. The level of technical knowledge and experience is generally fair-to-mediocre, especially among middle managers and long-term employees.Most operational units are much more interested in controlling their work intake queue than in producing high-quality or on-time results. Technology decisions are made based on what's easiest for a given team's work load, or what products the staff is most familiar with, rather than on what's best for the company's long-term technological competitiveness. Data centers are touted within the company as "state of the art facilities" while they are actually designed and built around mid-1990's to early-2000's era principles.Advice to ManagementAdvice
Break the insular and self-reflective culture. Re-train or re-assign any manager who's been at the same level for 20 years or more (there are an awful lot of those in this company). Provide more-extensive training for the technical staff. Focus layoffs and restructurings on those who've not grown or progressed (clean out the excessive layers of middle management) rather than following the "last hired first fired" mentality.Doesn't RecommendPositive OutlookNo opinion of CEO