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Results tagged ' Hideki Matsui '
And the WINNER is…
For months, the talk centered on prized Japanese pitcher Mashiro Tanaka. He was highly touted as the most valuable free agent pitcher on the market. Of course, his free agency began slowly when there was doubt if his Japanese team would allow him to be posted, particularly after the posting fee was capped at $20 million. Nevertheless, Tanaka was subsequently posted, as we all know.
Almost immediately, the Yankees were regarded as the frontrunner. But given that any team to offer to pay the $20 million posting fee, it opened the field to any team that wanted to make a run at the latest Japanese import. Early on, there was talk that the Seattle Mariners would make a play for Tanaka. It was said that the Los Angeles Dodgers would not be outbid, and the Chicago Cubs were completely enamored with the idea of Tanaka headlining their rotation. The Los Angeles Angels and the Arizona Diamondbacks were other teams mentioned as strong possibilities.
I read that the Mariners were favorites because the team is predominantly owned by Nintendo and Los Angeles was cited because of its close proximity to Japan and its strong Asian community. There was talk that some team would make a surprise late bid, kind of like what the Angels when they signed Albert Pujols.
I never really expected the Dodgers to be "all-in". They had their own pending free agent to be in Clayton Kershaw and they couldn't make a ridiculously high bid without driving up their costs to retain Kershaw. They subsequently re-signed Kershaw to a $215 million deal, but I still didn't think they'd go hard after Tanaka. I did think the Chicago Cubs were a strong challenger for Tanaka despite prior rumors that he preferred a coastal destination. If I have learned anything with Major League Baseball, it's to never underestimate Theo Epstein.
But fortunately, when Tanaka finally made his decision, he was a Yankee. Almost instantly, the stories about his superior talent turned to questions about how he'll make the adjustment to life in America and how he is a #2 or #3 starter at best. Everyone is now quick to say that he does not have the talent of Yu Darvish, and I've seen the name "Kei Igawa" more than I'd care to in recent days. But still, this was a move that the Yankees HAD to make. With a weak farm system at the upper levels, they had no choice but to overpay for young pitching talent with solid upside. With the hype surrounding Tanaka (who went 24-0 in Japan last year), he also represents a gate attraction. With Tanaka in the fold, the Yankees become the second major league team to have two Japanese players in their starting pitching rotation (the first was the Dodgers with Hideo Nomo and Kaz Ishii). If the Japanese media made it a circus following Hideki Matsui, they'll have a field day following the trio of Tanaka, Hiroki Kuroda and Ichiro Suzuki.
The realist in me knows not to expect top of the rotation stuff from Tanaka. I know the Yankees want more, but I'd be very satisfied if he could give the Yankees what Kuroda has for the last two years. This is most likely Kuroda's last year, and it is good that Tanaka will have a year to spend under Hiroki's wing. I think that will greatly aid his transition to the United States and MLB.
I thought that it would take a contract of 7 years, $140 million to sign Tanaka. So, the Yankees did overbid in that regard. Today I saw an article that one GM speculated the next highest bid were the Cubs and D-Backs at $120 million. I really doubt the gap between the Yankees and the others was that great. The same source mentioned the Dodgers were at $119 million which doesn't make sense as everyone knew it would take $120 million plus to sign Tanaka. My guess is the Cubs and Dodgers were in the vicinity of $140 million plus. Not bad for a pitcher who has never thrown a major league pitch.
While I would still like to see an additional pitcher brought to camp, there is potential with a rotation that features CC Sabathia, Hiroki Kuroda, Masahiro Tanaka, Ivan Nova and Michael Pineda or David Phelps. If Pineda could possibly show the potential that caused the Yankees to trade for him (prior to the injuries), the rotation could be very strong. While I would not be opposed to seeing Bronson Arroyo or Ubaldo Jimenez signed, I think the Yankees need to focus on the infield. Yes, they've brought in San Diego's Dean Anna, signed Kelly Johnson, Brian Roberts and Scott Sizemore, and still have Eduardo Nunez but there are too many questions. What happens if Mark Teixeira struggles in his return, or Derek Jeter? Neither of those positions are air tight without getting into the holes at second and third. Jeter will be 40, and Teixeira is a notoriously slow starter. April could be a very challenging month.
My preference would be to find a decent third baseman so that Kelly Johnson could be the primary second baseman. But the team is probably enamored with the idea that Roberts is capable of rebounding from the injury filled years that have plagued him since 2009. Scott Sizemore is nothing more than camp fodder. One magazine I read said "But other than OK pop and a few walks, offers little even when healthy". Anna is nothing more than a potential reserve.
Catching and the outfield is set, but there is still work to be done in the infield and in the bullpen. I agree with the choice to anoint David Robertson as the closer, but there needs to be an insurance plan in place. Grant Balfour would have been a great option but he is now a Tampa Bay Ray once again. I don't want Fernando Rodney, but the Yankees need someone who is capable of closing games if Robertson is not up to the task. If Boston can find an elite closer as their fourth choice last year, there are potential arms that can be found. I really hated to see the departure of Boone Logan. Not much has been written about it, but I can only hope that Matt Thornton is a capable, albeit older, replacement. I know the team has long admired lefty Cesar Cabral so perhaps this is Cabral's year to take it to the next level. I'd also like to see Dellin Betances take advantage of his opportunity and become a force in the pen. I guess every team thinks they can follow the Tampa blueprint for bullpen success given how the Rays are always able to craft something out of nothing.
With pitchers and catchers reporting to training camp in a few weeks, I am sure that the transaction wires will be busy as teams, and most notably the Yankees, look to create playoff caliber rosters.
For the Yankees, while it will be great to see Brian McCann show up to become his orientation with the Yankee pitchers, the cameras and the reporters will be flocked around #19, Masahiro Tanaka, as he begins his pinstriped career. Time to build upon last year's 85 wins and return the Yankees to October baseball. With the commitment the Yankees have shown this off-season, it's clear their last move was not their "last" move.
Go Yankees!
Farewell to a Champion!…
Exit Stage Left…
A great Yankees career has come to an end with the retirement of former outfielder Hideki Matsui. It has been gone from the Bronx for a few years but he's certainly not forgotten. When he arrived in 2003, he immediately attracted the attention of New York. He had been well hyped as a Japanese superstar, and of course, everywhere he went, he was followed by a large pack of Japanese reporters.
As I remember his great career and those key clutch hits, I recall his Yankee Stadium debut in April 2003. I remember it was a day game, and while home for lunch (I was in a West Coast time zone), I had turned on DirecTV in time to watch "Godzilla" hit a grand slam in the 5th inning that powered the Yanks to a 7-3 win over the Minnesota Twins. If memory serves correctly, it was a gray day and Matsui's shot was one of those line drives that kept going (it wasn't a booming shot that you knew had been parked from the start).
Tuesday, April 8, 2003 at Yankee Stadium, Bronx, NY
|Minnesota Twins
|Jones, lf
|Guzman, ss
|Koskie, 3b
|Hunter, cf
|LeCroy, dh
|Mientkiewicz, 1b
|Cuddyer, rf
|Pierzynski, c
|Rivas, 2b
|New York Yankees
|Soriano, 2b
|Johnson, 1b
|Giambi, dh
|Williams, cf
|Posada, c
|Ventura, 3b
|Mondesi, rf
|Almonte, ss
|New York
|E-Pierzynski (2), Almonte (3). DP-New York 2. PB-Posada (1). 2B-Jones (4), Hunter (1), Posada (2). HR-Ventura (3), MATSUI (1) 5th inning off Mays, 3 on, 1 out. SF-Hunter (1). SB-Johnson (1). CS-Mondesi (1).
|Minnesota Twins
|Mays, L (1-1)
|New York Yankees
|Pettitte, W (2-0)
|WP-Mays, Osuna. T-2:36. A-33,109.
He finished his Yankees career as the MVP of the 2009 World Series. Time and again, he came up with the crucial big hits, and seemed to excel against the Yankees' key rival, the Boston Red Sox. As a Yankee, he hit 140 home runs with 597 RBI's. Including his 10 years in Japan and major leagues together, he hit 507 home runs. He represented the Yankees with the grace and dignity that he had with his prior organization, the Yomiuri Giants. I wish there had been room on the Yankees roster for Matsui the last few years but sadly it was not meant to be. He may have subsequently worn the uniform of the Angels, A's and Rays, but he will forever be a Yankee. I am hopeful he will return for future Old Timer's games at the Stadium as he is now engrained as part of the Yankees history and lore.
Where's Paul O'Neill when you need him…
While I have always liked outfielder Matt Diaz as a role player, it's hard to be enthused about his arrival in the Bronx. With no other additions, there's a huge drop-off from former Yankees rightfielder and now Cleveland Indian Nick Swisher to Diaz. The Yankees are banking a great deal that Ichiro Suzuki will be the player he was in pinstripes last year and not the Seattle Mariners version earlier in the season. Inevitably, as Matsui showed, there is a time when the ability to execute simply erodes with the passage of time and age. Given that Matsui is, in fact, younger than Ichiro shows that Ichiro is on borrowed time. I know his superior conditioning has much to do with his late career continued success, but Matsui was no slouch when it came to physical conditioning. I remain hopeful that GM Brian Cashman is able to bring a young outfielder with strong upside before spring training starts. Yes, it's easier said than done, but he's done it before and can do it again.
Well, 2012 is rapidly coming to a close and it will soon be 2013. Only January stands between now and the arrival of the Yankees in Tampa for spring training. So close, yet so far away. Hopefully, the Yankees will do something to enthuse the fan base in the coming days…
Happy New Year!
Forgiving Damon for that 2004 homer…
Sayonara, old friends…
This was a sad week for former Yankees stars as Hideki Matsui and Johnny Damon were designated for assignment by their respective teams (Tampa Bay Rays and Cleveland Indians). Matsui has subsequently been released and Damon's release is imminent. I doubt that either player will be picked up at this point in the season so it is most likely the sunset of both careers.
For Matsui, I think his original plan was to only play in the United States for three years but I am grateful that he extended his stay. He may not have been the "monster" player that he was in Japan (a/k/a Godzilla), but he knew and understood the power of the timely hit. Time and again, Matsui had a key hit to propel the Yanks to victory. He always seemed to rise to the occasion in the intense Boston-New York wars. In terms of character, he could easily stand in the same room with guys like Derek Jeter.
It hasn't been fun watching Matsui wear Angels, A's, and Rays jerseys, but he will always be Yankee.
As for Damon, it is ironic that a player who played such a key role in the Red Sox breaking 'The Curse of the Bambino', plus the entire Caveman image, could become a valued Yankee. Unlike Matsui, I won't view Damon as a "Yankee" given his long tenure and success with other teams, but for his time in New York, he showed nothing but class and dignity. Like Matsui, he was a clutch player who seemed to excel in the bright lights.
Introducing Billy Beane's latest star pitcher…
With the apparent end of two great careers this week, I saw the opposite on a plane trip from Portland, OR to Oakland on Thursday. The guy I was sitting next to was excited to be flying to Oakland to see his son, Dan Straily, make his major league pitching debut for the A's on Friday night. He was proud to say that his son led all of baseball in strikeouts, and talked about the hard work his son had accomplished to get to this point. For the game, Straily didn't figure in the decision, but his performance was a success:
|Oakland Athletics
|D Straily
The A's won the game, 5-4, in 15 innings. I am sure that we've not seen the last of Mr. Straily. Here's hoping this is the start of a long and memorable career for Straily, his father and the rest of their family.
When in doubt, pick up a Pirate…
While the trading deadline was very active compared to recent years, it was another quiet period for the Yankees. As the now fiscally conservative Yankees had been preaching, they did not make any moves for expensive, short-term rentals. They picked up a need (third baseman Casey McGehee) to ensure that backup third baseman Eric Chavez is not over exposed to playing time while starter Alex Rodriguez is on the DL. It's a shame that Chavez is such an injury risk at this stage of his career, but I agree that it is best to limit his playing time for the good of his long-term health.
I thought the Yanks might try to make a move for a pitcher (someone like Ryan Dempster or Matt Garza) but it was clear that they would not overpay. Time will tell if they made the right decisions, but I still have concerns about the team's offense in the play-offs when every pitcher they face will be a #1 or #2 starter. But September should see the return of top pitcher Andy Pettitte and a fresh Alex Rodriguez so perhaps those will be the team's noteworthy "acquisitions" that boost team momentum.
Magic seems to be enjoying his new hobby…
The Los Angeles Dodgers have clearly re-emerged as a force in baseball with the new ownership group as they were the most active team in acquiring upgrades over the past couple of weeks (Hanley Ramirez, Shane Victorino and Joe Blanton). I guess they've gotten over the reign of Frank McCourt and have shown that they are back in the game. The San Francisco Giants are a strong team, but I think the Dodgers' moves will help propel them past the Giants to the NL West pennant. Good for Dodgers manager Don Mattingly who remains one of my favorite guys in Major League Baseball.
Nothing but crickets…
I was surprised the Boston Red Sox didn't make any moves. If there was a team that I had expected to make noise at the trading deadline, it was the Sox. I don't think they should give up quality guys like Jacoby Ellsbury or Jon Lester, but there were moves they could have made to give the team a jolt. I may not be a fan of the Red Sox so I might be biased in making this comment, but I hope that this is a 'one and done' season for Boston manager Bobby Valentine.
We've moved into August and the Yankees hold a 6 ½ game advantage at the moment, but admittedly, it's hard to get comfortable when that team in the rear view mirror is the Tampa Bay Rays. The next couple of months should be interesting. Let's win this thing!…
As Yogi once said, 'It's déjà vu all over again'…
The Return of an old Friend…
When I first heard the news, I kept looking for the tag that it was a joke. I did have to think about what day it was, wondering if we had somehow fast forwarded to April Fool's Day. But alas, the reports of Andy Pettitte coming out of retirement were accurate.
I am happy to see Andy back in Pinstripes, but it was still very surprising news. Of course, those close to Andy realized how much he missed the game when he was at camp for a few days earlier this month, but from the distant view of a fan, it just looked like he was enjoying spending time with the team. It sounded as though he was busy with his children's activities in Texas, and could only spend a short amount of time in Florida as a result. But of course, I didn't realize the soul-searching he was going through.
I do not believe that the one year lay-off will adversely impact Andy. I felt he left the game prematurely when he did, and this is no different than a pitcher out with injury for an extended period. The only difference is that Andy continued to pitch throughout the duration of the time away, aside from a short break he apparently took when it appeared there was no opportunity with the Yanks.
For Jorge Posada, I felt it was time for him to retire. But I didn't have that feeling about Andy. I think he can still be a very productive pitcher at this stage of his career. Granted, he is not a front of the rotation starter anymore, but he definitely strengthens the back end. The downside is the impact on the other pitchers fighting for the 5th spot in the rotation…Freddy Garcia and Phil Hughes. It also impacts the young pitchers who may have opportunities to pitch in the majors this year…Manny Banuelos, Dellin Betances, D.J. Mitchell, Adam Warren and others. Of this group, I am most concerned about Hughes. He has appeared to be in excellent mental and physical shape this year, and seemed to be primed to have a season reminiscent of his 18-win season a couple of years ago. Barring injury, does Pettitte's readiness in May or June mean that Hughes will be moved to the pen? More than likely. The odd man out appears to be Freddy Garcia. He could move into the role of long man, but paying Garcia $4 million to be the long reliever seems excessive for a team trying to cut costs as the role could easily be filled by a number of less expensive options with similar results.
But the positives of Pettitte's return outweigh the negatives. He is a champion and his competitiveness rivals guys like former Yankees pitcher David Cone. He won't be winning 20 games, but he'll win or at least put his team in the best position to win when he is called upon. I heard an interview show that talked about 'what if' Pettitte cannot return to being the pitcher he was before, and I trust those who say that Andy would stop the comeback before the Yankees would if he felt he wasn't effective. As the saying goes, 'Nothing ventured, nothing gained'. I wish Andy the very best on the comeback trail and I am looking forward to seeing #46 on the mound at Yankee Stadium.
The road to the Bronx is not paved with .065 hitters…
Like others, I am growing a bit concerned about the inability of Raul Ibanez to hit this spring. The phrase, "don't worry, he'll hit" just doesn't hold any water for a player the fans have no emotional attachment to. I didn't follow Ibanez closely during his Phillies career, but it seemed like he started slowly last year but still ended up with decent numbers by the end of the year. But every year is different, and at age 40, Ibanez is going to continue to regress. I am not sure if the best path is to wait to see if Ibanez comes around and supplement his at-bats in a DH rotation with Eric Chavez, Andruw Jones, and Alex Rodriguez, or if the Yankees should pursue another alternative via trade. Anything that is available on the market will have flaws so there are no easy answers. For whatever reason, the Yankees seem to be opposed to the idea of either Johnny Damon or Hideki Matsui returning. I'd probably bring them in for an open competition with Ibanez at this point. Then, at the end of spring training, may the best bat move north.
If I had been a fan of Ibanez for a number of years, then I'd feel differently. But since there is no history, I similarly have no patience. If Ibanez continues to hit less than .100 in spring training, then it's time to move on and find another option. If he can't hit in March, how is he going to be able to catch up to that Justin Verlander four-seam fastball in October?…
What did you say your name was again?…
I am glad to see that Clay Rapada is making the most of his opportunity to emerge as the second lefty option for the pen. When Rapada was released by the Baltimore Orioles earlier this year, I didn't think much about it. He quietly signed with the Yankees, and then another key left-handed option, Hideki Okajima, failed his physical. It seems like the Yankees are always looking for that second lefty and maybe Rapada can finally find his moment to shine. The Tampa Bay Rays seem to have very good luck in building strong bullpens from the scrap heap, so it would be nice if Rapada turned out to be an "Andrew Friedman" like move.
Peyton's Place…
It is interesting following the Peyton Manning story, but I haven't seen any teams emerge as a great fit for him. He's already passed on the Miami Dolphins, and he is apparently throwing for the Tennessee Titans, but I don't see the Titans, or the Denver Broncos, as an immediate threat to win the Super Bowl…with or without Manning. Perhaps the best fit might be the San Francisco 49ers. It would be great to see Manning in New Orleans given his family's history there, but Drew Brees isn't going anywhere so that's not a possibility. My team, the Minnesota Vikings, have so many problems beyond QB that they are not an option. Regardless of where Peyton lands, it will be weird to see him in a different uniform. I never could quite get used to seeing Joe Montana with the Kansas City Chiefs.
Keeping Ponder off his back…
With the NFL Draft just a month away, I am hopeful the Vikings retain their #3 pick (there's been talk of trading down to pick up additional picks). With QB Andrew Luck (Colts) and QB Robert Griffin III (Redskins) off the board, that leaves powerhouse offensive tackle Matt Kalil ready and able to join the Vikings to protect QB Christian Ponder for years to come. For a team that struggled with its offensive line last season following the ouster of longtime tackle Bryant McKinnie, Kalil seems to be exactly what the doctor ordered.
Courtesy of a friend:
Senior Citizen Texting Codes:
ATD: At The Doctors
BFF: Best Friend Fell
BTW: Bring the Wheelchair
BYOT: Bring Your Own Teeth
FWIW: Forgot Where I Was
GGPBL: Gotta Go Pacemaker Battery Low
GHA: Got Heartburn Again
IMHO: Is My Hearing-Aid On
LMDO: Laughing My Dentures Out
OMMR: On My Massage Recliner
OMSG: Oh My! Sorry, Gas
ROFLACGU: Rolling On Floor Laughing And Can't Get Up
TTYL: Talk To You Louder
FWIW! Have a great day!
Addition by Subtraction…
Whew, it's over…
On one hand, I do feel bad because there's no denying the talent in A.J. Burnett's arm, even if it has lost some of its zip over the past couple of seasons. If he had the mental fortitude of his good buddy, Roy Halladay, there's no telling what he could have done with his extraordinary gift. But it was the mental lapses in difficult situations, magnified on the big stage in New York, that led the Yankees to make the only move they could have made. So, it's exit Stage Left, or I guess Stage Right in Burnett's case, as he moves on to the Steel City.
I am hopeful that the new and less-pressurized environment will allow Burnett to pitch more like the guy he was in Toronto with the Blue Jays. If that happens, it will be a win-win for both the Yankees and the Pirates. Granted, the two "prospects" the Yankees acquired in the Burnett trade (pitcher Diego Moreno and outfielder Exicardo Cayones) are considered low-level, but the salary relief for the Yanks (Pirates absorbing $13 million of what's left on Burnett's remaining $33 contract) is a positive. Even for the almighty Yankees. If neither Moreno or Cayones ever develop into major league talent, it was still a good trade for the Yankees. So, anything out of either of those players would be a bonus.
Of course, the haters will come out in full force if Phil Hughes fails to seize the opportunity and Freddy Garcia proves he overstayed his welcome by one year. But even in that worst case scenario, I'd prefer to see the talented arms in the farm system get the audition.
The Yankees will apparently sign both third baseman Eric Chavez and outfielder Raul Ibanez once the Burnett trade is finalized. Those are two good pieces for the 2012 squad. I like the idea of an Ibanez-Andruw Jones tandem at DH, with occasional time for Alex Rodriguez. Ibanez may not be the slugger he once was, but with 20 homers in Philly last year, he proved he can swing it on occasion. For sentimental reasons, it would have been nice to see the return of either Johnny Damon or Hideki Matsui, but Ibanez is clearly the better choice.
He did it the RIGHT way in more ways than one…
Pitcher Tim Wakefield has been a long-time nemesis as the member of the Yankees' arch rival, but it was still sad to see him call it a career. I know, it was time, and there's always the chance the Red Sox call his number later in the season if they need help, but he leaves the game as a champion. The city of Boston and the Red Sox organization are very privileged to have one of baseball's most charitable and classiest individuals in the game as one of their own.
Both Wakefield and David Ortiz proved that anything can happen after they were both released by their previous organizations but flourished with the Red Sox in the major leagues. It gives me hope for guys like Preston Mattingly and others. Wakefield makes for an incredible role model, and hopefully, he'll continue to be a fixture in baseball in some capacity.
The Los Angeles Vikings didn't really sound very good any way…
Finally, the Minnesota Vikings have a tentative stadium deal. Like the Burnett trade negotiations, this has been drawn out through eternity. I know, there are still many hurdles to be cleared before actual construction begins, but at least it was the first positive move forward for the Vikings. As a Vikings fan, there's always been the fear in the back of one's mind that the team would decide to move to greener pastures in Los Angeles (much like the Minneapolis Lakers did years ago). The tentative stadium deal would keep the Vikings in Minneapolis, as opposed to a suburban area like Arden Hills. Hopefully, this deal will get passed by the city and state, and will ensure that the Vikings are in Minnesota…and Minneapolis…for the long haul.
Wanted: Big Production, Little Paycheck…
Joe says it so it must be true!…
So now even manager Joe Girardi is expressing interest in a left-handed bat! Joe's joined the club of us overly intelligent, know-more-than-Brian Cashman fans! LOL! Just kidding. But it is interesting to see a key Yankee figure express the need for additional help. With free agents Raul Ibanez (wow, I almost typed Mondesi!), Hideki Matsui, and Johnny Damon lurking on the sidelines, GM Brian Cashman recently indicated the Yankees would pursue help via trade.
It will be interesting to see how this plays out. Obviously, the Yankees need to unload a pitcher. With three starters vying for the #5 spot in the rotation (Freddy Garcia, A.J. Burnett, and Phil Hughes), it's clear that this is going to end badly for one or two pitchers. All things considered, I think you have to put Phil Hughes in the rotation. The Yankees HAVE to prove that 2010 was not a fluke (or not). Plus, Hiroki Kuroda, at 37, is not destined to be a long-term Yankee. Sure, the Yanks could go hard after Cole Hamels or Matt Cain as a replacement following the 2012 season but I still subscribe to the 'dance with the one who brung ya' theory. Well, at least until he proves us wrong. I know, the leash is overly long, but Hughes is still young, and he can still be a force in the rotation. He'd certainly be cheaper than either Hamels or Cain in the foreseeable future.
So, where does that leave Burnett and Garcia? I think Garcia is the best option to plant in the bullpen as the long man and #6 starter in the event of injury in the rotation…at least until Dellin Betances and/or Manny Banuelos are ready later in the year. This means shipping Burnett and lots of money to another team is probably best case scenario. Trading Hughes would be foolish since the return, following his poor 2011 season, would be under market value. Plus, Hughes has more long-term value to the team than Burnett. There's no way the Yankees re-sign Burnett at the expiration of his contract. He'll see the same door as Jason Giambi with a slight push from behind.
But, and that's a big but, what does Burnett bring in trade? He is not going to bring a young slugger, that's for sure. More than likely, it would only be someone else's albatross, ala Alfonso Soriano. I still think one of the available free agents is the best option for the left-handed bat, but I am sure whatever move Cashman makes will be the best one for the organization.
Wanted: Someone who's butt can withstand splinters…
As for the additional infield bench support to accompany Eduardo Nunez, I still would really like to see the return of Eric Chavez even though Bill Hall's name has been mentioned more frequently as of late.
"Buck, we really need to be the focus of the tabloids"…
I have to admit that I am surprised to see the teams mentioned as possibilities for Manny Ramirez. No, I don't want Man-Ram calling 161st and River home, but the teams mentioned…Oakland A's, Baltimore Orioles, and Toronto Blue Jays…seem like odd fits for a guy that has to spend 50 games on the suspended list. With the emphasis on youth in Oakland and Baltimore, I'd question whether having Manny on the team is worth it in terms of the negative impact he can have. Younger players are far more impressionable, and no team, even the Blue Jays, need a distraction. Maybe Manny can still swing it. I acknowledge that he was once the most feared hitter in the AL, but I don't think he'll ever be close to the hitter he once was. Age sucks, but it happens to us all…
A funny thing happened to the Phillies on their way to the World Series…
Edwin Jackson to the Washington Nationals on a one-year deal was a good move for the Nats. Outside of the New York Mets, the NL East is a scary division. Yeah, the Philadelphia Phillies have the Big 3 (Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, and Cole Hamels), but there are too many other question marks to make them the clear favorite. I don't think the Miami Marlins will win the division but they'll make noise. The Braves, the Nats. That's a tough division. Then, there's the Mets…
Go, boston?…
With a New York-Boston Super Bowl upon us, it's weird that I, as a Yankees fan, find myself on the Boston side of the battle. That seems so wrong on so many levels. But it is what it is…go Patriots!
His name is easy, it's Champion!…
Thanks for the memories…
Although Prince Fielder had other ideas, today was Jorge Posada Day. On a day when the Milwaukee Brewers' talented free agent signed an unexpected 9-year, $214 million contract with his father's former team, the Detroit Tigers, a Yankee Legend called it a career. So, while Tigers fans are rejoicing, the Yankees Universe is united in sorrow to see the end of a tremendous career.
It was time. Although I knew that Posada could still hit, he was ill at ease at DH and he was no longer the consistent clutch hitter that he had once been. He could have held on for a few more years in a more limited role, but I am grateful that he recognized that it's best not to overstay your welcome. It would have been awful to see him put on a Rays, Marlins or Mets uniform. I am sure that we would have quietly supported him, but now this way, he bled pinstripes from beginning to end. I value and appreciate the untarnished career. Don Mattingly may call Dodger Stadium "home" these days, but he's still a Yankee. The same holds true of Posada…once a Yankee, always a Yankee.
In the late 1970's, my favorite Yankees were catcher Thurman Munson and closer Rich "Goose" Gossage. I truly did not believe that I'd ever see two players as great as those two legends. Of course, the great Mariano Rivera has eclipsed Gossage's career, but Posada has certainly earned the right to stand in the same room with Munson, Yogi Berra, Bill Dickey and Elston Howard. It's ironic that long-time projected replacement Jesus Montero and Posada officially exited the Yankees on back-to-back days, but the position seems to be in capable hands with Russell Martin until future star Gary Sanchez is ready for the major leagues.
I wish Jorge the very best in whatever he decides to do next. Selfishly, I'd like to see him stay in baseball as he'd make a great future manager. I love people who are passionate about what they do, and Jorge lived and breathed passion every day. He is the type of guy that you'd want to go to battle with so long as he was on your side. The immediate thought is probably to spend some quality time with his family, but hopefully, he'll be back in Major League Baseball as a coach sometime in the not-so-distant future.
Hip, hip, Jorge! :)
If he is following his father's footsteps, when does he become a Yankee?…
Speaking of Fielder, I was shocked when I heard that the Detroit Tigers had signed the prolific young slugger. There were constants reports of possible signings by the Texas Rangers and the Washington Nationals, and the occasional links to passive teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers, but I have to admit that I did not suspect the Tigers. Of course, I didn't foresee the Angels signing Albert Pujols but I suppose when you are talking about $200 million, it's probably best not to tip your hand.
Photo ops for game winning hits…is that too much to ask for?…
I thought the Yankees and the Tigers were searching the same pool for an effective, low-cost option to DH. While I wanted the Yankees to sign Johnny Damon, I knew that he had enjoyed his time in Detroit and there seemed to be some level of interest there. Obviously, the Fielder signing takes the Tigers out of the market for someone like Damon or Hideki Matsui. But based on comments that Yankees GM Brian Cashman made earlier in the week, it sounds like a free agent slugger is Plan B. Plan A apparently involves the trade for a young, controllable hitter. I am sure that type of move is predicated upon moving a contract like A.J. Burnett's even if it means packing a few extra dollars in his suitcases. My fear is that a trade could cause the loss of someone like Dellin Betances or Manny Banuelos which I'd hate to see. I am not sure what quality hitter is available and the market seems to be drenched with potential salary dumps. I wonder if Cash has his eye on a certain player. Still, I'd go the cheaper route and sign Damon, Matsui, or Raul Ibanez to a short-term deal. If the team offense struggles early on, the Yankees could potentially make a move in July for a veteran hitter. I am not sure that there is a young position player out there with the potential of pitcher Michael Pineda that could be had for a relatively inexpensive cost.
My fear with the Yankees offense, while they have produced, is they do not strike fear in the hearts of opposing pitchers. When Robinson Cano is in the groove, he is as good as anybody in the game. I know that Curtis Granderson had a near-MVP season last year, but I'd be surprised if teams planned their strategy around him. Yes, Alex Rodriguez was once the best player in the game, but he is a couple years removed from domination. Injuries have held him back and while he certainly has the potential to have a few more power seasons, he carries a big "if". It would be great if Mark Teixeira could get back to the hitter he was a couple of seasons ago. Up and down the lineup, outside of Cano, there are questions. I am pleased with Granderson but I want to see him do it again before he has my complete trust.
It would have been foolish for the Yankees to pursue Fielder. Even if they have the money, it just doesn't make financial sense to tie the organization to the player for the next decade at that kind of money. It makes me sick to think the Yankees pay A-Rod more than the Angels pay Pujols or the Tigers will pay Fielder. When A-Rod leaves the ballpark, I bet he pops the Dire Straits' Brother in Arms into his CD player, listening to "Money for Nothing"…
A Sad Day lies ahead…
It was mentioned today that Mariano Rivera might be the next Yankees great to call it a career, possibly as soon as the end of the upcoming season. I'm telling ya, that's going to be a day that I cry like a baby. Rivera has been my favorite among current Yankees and it will be a tough day when #42 simply walks away. I am glad that 162 regular season games and a few play-off series in October stand in the way of that dreadful day.
If Everybody Cared…
This is off-topic, but I am excited to have a ticket to the upcoming Nickelback concert tour, Here and Now. This will be my third Nickelback concert in three years. So far, I've seen them in two outdoor amphitheaters (San Jose, CA and Concord, CA) but this time I will be seeing them inside (in May at Target Arena, home of the NBA's the Minnesota Timberwolves). I have also enjoyed Seether and they will be one of the opening acts. It should be a great show!
Amare, Carmelo and Fid…together again…
My next event at Target Arena, which will be my first visit to the facility, will be to cheer on the New York Knicks when they come to Minnesota to play the T-Wolves in February. Hopefully, the Arena won't be rocking like it will with Nickelback when the Knicks come to town. In fact, I hope it's eerily quiet. Score one for the away team!
No Fan of DH by Committee…
All I want are a few home runs…
Lately, more has been written about the potential of the Yankees signing someone like Raul Ibanez to fill the void at DH. Given all available options, he is probably as good as any, plus he most likely would understand his role if he was offered and accepted a contract with the Yanks. He's still got some pop in his bat, and he could occasionally take the field when/if needed. I am not overly enthused about a former Phillie being on the team, but Ibanez is a former teammate of A-Rod's from their Seattle days together.
It would be preferable to see a former Yank, i.e., Hideki Matsui or Johnny Damon, if for no other reason than what they've already accomplished in pinstripes. I recognize that Ibanez might be the better fit in 2012, even if he is pushing 40.
In his days with the Montreal Expos, Vladimir Guerrero was one of my favorite players but at this point, I don't really see him as an option.
He looks great…in a different uniform…
Whatever the Yankees do, I hope they are successful in moving A.J. Burnett. This one is tough, because I was so in favor of his signing when he first came to the Yankees. I always admired his arm when he played for the Florida Marlins and later with the Toronto Blue Jays. He's largely been a disappointment since the successful 2009 voyage. There have been flashes of brilliance, but more times than not, his performances have ended on a disappointing note. Some guys are better served in less pressurized environment, and Burnett would probably excel in a place like San Diego. If Burnett doesn't make the starting rotation, I think he would be a distraction to the team in the bullpen. Therefore, best case scenario would be to move Burnett. Of course, that means he will be accompanied by lots of cash to pay his freight, but sometimes its addition by subtraction. Sadly for Burnett, that time is now.
"Manny being Manny"…
As for the rotation, my preference is to give Phil Hughes the opportunity to either grab hold of his place on the team or perhaps prove that it is time for him to seek employment elsewhere. If the latter situation occurs, Dellin Betances should be ready to step in to fill the void (or Freddy Garcia, if he is kept on the roster). Manny Banuelos will probably make noise this year, but he'll probably not surface on the major league level until late this year. Now, if Banuelos comes to Tampa this spring with a 'refuse to lose' mentality and takes the job (much like Michael Pineda did last year with the Seattle Mariners), so be it. Banuelos is the eventual star of the rotation, with Pineda.
Striving to be regular contributors to the daily Transactions column…
I was surprised to see the Boston Red Sox trade starting shortstop Marco Scutaro to the Colorado Rockies. It's being said that the move was made to free payroll to sign a free agent pitcher like Roy Oswalt or Edwin Jackson. Personally, I think it was a move to set up another move, in addition to rebuilding the rotation. I would be surprised if the Red Sox broke camp with the tandem of Mike Aviles and Nick Punto as their starting shortstop. I keep hearing that a trade for the Marlins' Hanley Ramirez is out of the question, but somehow I could still see that happening. Whatever happens, I do expect the Sox to break camp with a quality shortstop, in other words, someone not named Aviles or Punto…
The Prince of Bel Air?…
It's too bad that the Los Angeles Dodgers are still an organization in a state of flux until new ownership can take over. It would make so much sense for the Dodgers to go after free agent first baseman Prince Fielder, and it would be a move that would help begin the healing process for the Dodger fan base, who have suffered under the reign of Frank McCourt. A lineup that includes Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier and Fielder would certainly steal some thunder from the Albert Pujols-led Angels.
There's still a lot of drama to unfold before pitchers and catchers report next month. The Yankees and Mariners should finally be in position to announce the Jesus Montero-Michael Pineda trade early this week. Hopefully, that will open the gridlock at DH and set the stage for other moves that will hopefully produce the 28th World Championship in franchise history. Whatever happens, I am ready for some baseball…
Wanted: Clutch Hitter – Only the experienced need to apply!…
Although there have not been any official explanations for the DH plans this upcoming season, there's been reports that the Yankees are content with a rotation to include Alex Rodriguez, Andruw Jones and Derek Jeter, with Eduardo Nunez sliding around the infield filling the holes. My concern last season and it gave me a bad feeling heading into the play-offs that the Yankees had missed the clutch bats they enjoyed when Johnny Damon and Hideki Matsui were on the roster. Damon's home run in the 2004 ALCS helped propel the Boston Red Sox to a comeback victory over the Yankees, and propelled the Sox to their first World Championship since the days of Babe Ruth. I've heard minor league slugger Jorge Vazquez mentioned as a possibility, but I am with those who believe that he skills do not translate to the major league level.
In my opinion, the Yankees need to do something. I am not looking for a $10 million slugger who would command 90% to 95% of the DH at-bats. I am content with someone who could take the majority of the at-bats, allowing for the A-Rod/Jeter rotation, and would know and accept their role. That's why I feel that either Johnny Damon or Hideki Matsui would make complete sense. I know the Yankees want to limit their payroll at this point and I get that. But if the difference in making the World Series or not was an additional $5 million, would it not be worth it? Yeah, yeah, it's not my money and $5 million is a lot of money. But when you are spending $210 million, what's $215 million? Wouldn't the return on a championship more than replenish the difference? The Yankees have options and I know that's why they are not in a rush. I've even heard Raul Ibanez' name mentioned and would agree that he would be a viable option. I guess I have greater affection for guys who have proven they can win in pinstripes.
It's funny but the Philadelphia Phillies look like geniuses for signing Jim Thome early in the off-season. At the time, it looked like a bad fit. Maybe he stays with the Phillies, but they could actually move him for something at this point given the DH desperation that exists for a number of teams besides the Yankees (like the Detroit Tigers, for example). If GM Ruben Amaro could somehow swing Thome for a decent prospect, he'd build upon his legacy as a great general manager.
It will be interesting to see how the coming weeks play out, but the Yankees clearly need a guy who can come through in the clutch. Now more than ever…
If he is older than dirt, what does that make me?…
Congratulations to Jamie Moyer for his minor league contract with an invitation to spring training with the Colorado Rockies. I was really surprised when I heard that Moyer intended to make a comeback following his recovery. At 49, the odds are probably against him, but you have to love his no-quit mentality.
Sometimes good fans are the difference…
Similar congratulations go to reliever Joel Zumaya, who signed with a quality organization (the Minnesota Twins). Ironically, it was at Target Field where Zumaya's elbow exploded a couple of years ago. I remember when he was hailed as THE flamethrower in the league, and was a huge part of the Detroit Tigers bullpen. It's anybody's guess what kind of pitcher he will be going forward, but it would be good to see him recapture success for an organization that deserves better than last year's 99 losses. With the departure of Joe Nathan and the inconsistency of Matt Capps, there's certainly going to be opportunity with the closing and set up roles for the Twins.
It was a bit hard to imagine Zumaya throwing from the mound at Target Field this morning as the temperature reading in my car read -10 degrees in downtown Minneapolis. The weathermen were reporting that with the wind chill factor, it felt like -38. In weather like that, it's hard to imagine that the lights of Target Field will be back on in just a couple of months. While I admit that the 16 degrees I experienced in Winnipeg, Manitoba a few weeks back felt much colder, there's no question that in temps like this you just want to go from your heated house to your heated car to your heated work. This past summer, I was in Phoenix when it was in the 120's. All things considered, I'll gladly take -38 in Minneapolis as opposed to 122 degrees in Phoenix. I don't care that it's paradise in Arizona right now…
Deux Sorianos?…
Back to the Yankees, I've wondered if some kind of deal involving the Chicago Cubs would work. The Yankees want to unload A.J. Burnett, and he'd clearly benefit from a change of scenery. He'd also be more effective in the National League at this point. I wouldn't say that the pressure would be less in Chicago, but I think A.J. could more himself. Conversely, the Cubs have an albatross with Alfonso Soriano. Soriano could still be a fairly productive DH at this point in his career. Not that I want to give two rosters spots to over-paid, under-productive Sorianos but it would be a potential solution. I think I can speak for most Yankees fan when I say that we've rode the Burnett train about as far as we care to. Now that Michael Pineda and Hiroki Kuroda have all but pushed Burnett out of the rotation, a win-win trade with the Cubs would certainly make sense.
Yeah, you and what bank?…
If I'm Cole Hamels, I am going for free agency in the fall of 2012. Don't even talk to me about an extension! If the Texas Rangers will lay out $110 million for an unproven, albeit very highly talented, pitcher, there's no question what a championship performer like Hamels can command on the open market.
I choose you, no, maybe you…
I am glad that Bartolo Colon was able to find a home with the Oakland A's, but admittedly, I am glad that he is not returning for an encore performance in the Bronx. I am not quite sure with what happened between Colon and the Arizona Diamondbacks (he apparently agreed with them and then reneged, ala David Wells a few years ago), but I am sure he had his reasons for why Oakland was a better fit. But I guess those reasons didn't include W's…
Those pesky Nats!…
As for the ongoing Prince Fielder sweepstakes, I just wish the Washington Nationals would put one of those ridiculous Jayson Werth type contracts in front of him and get him signed. I'd be surprised if the Texas Rangers were financially able to sign both Yu Darvish and Fielder but stranger things have happened. I really don't want to see Fielder in for Mitch Moreland on the defending AL Champions. I still think the Los Angeles Angels, thanks to Albert Pujols and C.J. Wilson, are a better team in the AL West, with or without Fielder on the Rangers, but I certainly do not want the potential roadblocks to a Yankees World Series getting stronger.
First base at Yankee Stadium will forever mean Lou Gehrig to me until the day I die, even if I didn't personally get to see him play. For what I have seen, Don Mattingly is the epitome of greatness. I was a bit skeptical when Tino Martinez took over for Mattingly, but he played the position as well as anyone could have following the footprints of #23. I loved the signing of Mark Teixeira and he was a prime reason for the Yankees success in 2009, but after a couple of disappointing seasons with the usual stone cold starts, something has to give. Defense alone at first base is not enough. Not that I want to go back to the days of Giambi (great bat, not-so-great glove), but Tex needs to dedicate himself to an improved performance in 2012. I know that we'll have to deal with the usual sluggish start, but he needs to show that he can be more like the 2009 Teixeira than the 2011 version.
Well, I am at this end of this post, but I see that GM Brian Cashman still has much work ahead of him before we start talking about games at Legends Field…
Disappointment replaced by Optimism…
After some thought, I've come around…
Now that I've had time to digest the Friday night whirlwind that brought pitchers Michael Pineda and Hiroki Kuroda to the Bronx, my initial disappointment was evaporated. Don't get me wrong, I love the power potential of Jesus Montero, and I know full well that he'll be as devastating against the Yankees as Jay Buhner was if not more. But I recognize that from a position of need, a top of the rotation starter is better than a player without a position.
Ever since I first heard Jesus Montero's name, it always included a statement that he'd eventually have to find a new position because he would outgrow catcher. The obvious moves would be to either first base or left field, but last time I checked, both of those positions were occupied by long-term tenants. Putting an offensive juggernaut at DH is great for offense but it does nothing to help with the defensive aspects of catching or learning a new position. With Russell Martin in the fold for the foreseeable future, there was no way that Montero would gain the starting position at catcher. Martin's ability to handle the pitching staff is simply too important to the team even if his bat is nothing remotely close to Montero.
With Montero, I was always worried about the other young Yankee catchers. Of course, there's Francisco Cervelli on the active roster. If Montero were to take the backup catching job, where would that leave Cervelli? Most likely playing for the Twins, backing up oft-injured Joe Mauer or someone like that. I like the defensive reports that I've heard about both Austin Romine and Gary Sanchez, but if their path was clogged by Martin and Montero, where did that leave them? Sanchez needs more time in the minors, but Romine is nearing major league ready status. With an injury or two, I fully expect him to get his chance to make an impression at Yankee Stadium in 2012. The trade of Montero ensures that Romine will get his major league opportunity with the Yankees so that's a good thing. He doesn't have Montero's bat (who does?) but good defense is essential for championships.
Maybe just tell us who the Yankees haven't talked to…
As for the DH slot, it seems like the Yankees have expressed interest in about everyone. There have been reports they've spoken to the agents for Carlos Pena, Johnny Damon, and Hideki Matsui. There are pros and cons with all three players, but whoever the Yankees bring on board will have to share time at DH with Alex Rodriguez, Andruw Jones, and Derek Jeter so I'd be okay with any of the three. I've always liked the clutch bats of Damon and Matsui, and the swing for the fences power of Pena is nice even if the average is hovering slightly above the Mendoza line. With all the reports that the Yankees only have a $1 million or two to spend on a DH, I half expect a report that they've talked to Reggie Jackson! Okay, that might be a stretch, but I'd consider letting 'all or nothing' slugger Jorge Vazquez. He does deserve a shot. If not, the Yanks should cut him loose and let him pursue a team that will.
If Jorge Posada had embraced the DH role last year, he'd be on his way back to the Bronx for an encore performance…
Upon second thought…
As for the pitching staff, my initial prediction about the rotation order was flawed. I recognize that Micheal Pineda is the clear #2 in the rotation. I've seen Ivan Nova slotted at #4, but I'd still keep him at #3 at least until he gives reason to drop him in the order. I think Kuroda is a great addition, but he has to adjust to the American League in the most difficult division, while moving from a pitcher's ballpark to a park that is less forgiving. So, I'd give Nova time for pinstripes served and put him ahead of Kuroda. After the former Dodger, it's anybody's guess who will win out…Phil Hughes, my personal favorite; Freddy Garcia, probably the better choice among the pitchers in terms of consistency; and A.J. Burnett, the candidate for most likely to depart the Bronx if the Yanks can find a willing trade partner that wants Burnett…and a boatload of cash to pay that ridiculous salary. What happens if either Manny Banuelos or Dellin Betances pitches "lights out" in training camp? This is going to be an interesting battle.
He's really a cousin of Alcides and Kelvim Escobar?…
Back to Friday night's trade, I was a bit dismayed when I saw that pitcher Hector Noesi had been included in the trade. I kept hearing that his ceiling was the back end of the rotation but there was something that I liked about the pitcher. At first, I didn't know anything about the "other" Mariner included in the deal, Jose Campos. But since the initial report of the trade, I've come to realize that he has great potential. At 19, he's 6'4" and throws in the mid 90's. He'll more than make up for Noesi and fits a better timeline in terms of being major league ready given the high level pitching prospects already in the organization (Banuelos and Betances, for example). The Curtis Granderson trade has been labeled as a 'win-win-win' for all concerned. Hopefully, this M's-Yankees trade will meet a similar fate.
What would I expect Bobby V to say?…
Contrary to what Bobby Valentine may think, the Yankees are a better team today than they were last Thursday. But, I recognize the Boston Red Sox are not done yet. They signed former Dodger pitcher Vicente Padilla today (a guy I loathe personally) and there's rumors they could go after Roy Oswalt if they can move payroll. I still think Boston could be a player for Cubs starter Matt Garza given Theo Epstein's knowledge of the Red Sox minor league prospects. Whether Ben Cherington or rather Larry Lucchino would trade with Epstein is another matter. Still, I think there are changes to be made on both the Yankees and Red Sox between now and training camp. Last year, I saw a Red Sox friend predict 118 or 119 wins for Boston. Teams look great on paper, but as they say, the 'proof is in the pudding'!
Moneyball II, starring Jorge Garcia…
It's hard to think of the Oakland A's signing former Yankees starter Bartolo Colon as a low-cost, high reward "Moneyball" kind of move. At 39, I don't think there's really any upside to Colon at this point and in my opinion, he's not capable of sustaining a full season of starts. I'd rather have Gio Gonzalez or Trevor Cahill in the rotation, but I guess since those are no longer options, they have to look at the scrap heap that served the Yankees so well last season.
Yes, I know the way to San Jose!…
Speaking of Oakland, I do hope they are successful in their desire to move to San Jose. As a former San Jose resident, I think it's very exciting for the city and its metro area to be on the verge of landing both the A's and the NFL's San Francisco 49ers, to go with the NHL's Sharks. I saw that A's owner bought the famed Hotel Sainte Claire in downtown San Jose. He already owns one hotel in San Jose so I guess you can't read too much into it, but he's definitely positioning himself for the growth and excitement that San Jose could see in the coming years. I'd be happy with a Stanley Cup Championship this year, but that's a little off-topic…
I really don't forsee another 99 losses when you place character first…
I was a little surprised to see the Minnesota Twins sign former Detroit Tigers flamethrower Joel Zumaya. He suffered his devastating arm injury at Target Field in 2010. So, in terms of Karma, you'd think that he'd avoid Target Field like the plague. But I read comments in this morning's paper about how he was touched by the reception he received from the Twins fans as he left the field that fateful day. Stories like that certainly make me feel honored to be a Minneapolis resident, but I was still surprised by Zumaya's decision. I wish him the best as he begins the Comeback Trail. Hopefully he can get back to the level he was before. For the Twins, with Joe Nathan in Texas and Matt Capps scheduled to close games, they need Zumaya as the pitcher he once was and hopefully will be again.
When it's tough being the son of Donnie Baseball, come home to the Bronx!…
Before I go, I want to say that I am really hopeful that the Yankees organization proves to be a blessing for former Dodgers prospect Preston Mattingly. I've always heard what a great athlete he is/was when he was younger. I don't know what happened through his time in the Dodgers and Indians organizations and I realize that he is getting a bit long in tooth for a prospect, but I really hope that he can find some level of success with the Yankees. It would be very cool to see Mattingly make a debut at Yankee Stadium at some point in the future. Who knows if it is in the cards, but being a late bloomer is not outside of the realm of possibility when it comes to someone with his bloodline.
It's hard to believe that we are just a month away from training camp. I'm excited and looking forward to a great season.


text:
I am currently an International Affairs Fellow with the Council on Foreign Relations, working as Advisor to the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Combating Terrorism. I am on leave from my position as Assistant Professor at the University of Northern Iowa in the Department of Political Science, teaching courses related to International Relations, International Security, Foreign Policy, and Terrorism.
My research focuses on military organizations and civil-military relations, primarily in the developed world. During my fellowship I hope to carry out research specifically on issues relating to micro-level incentives for creativity and flexibility among military personnel, the relative efficiency of contractors and uniformed personnel, and other policy-related problems.
I am Co-Director of the Center for International Peace and Security Studies at UNI, and the Political Science Department's coordinator for undergraduate research, encouraging undergraduates to learn about research methods and to practice excellence in writing. I have recently been named to the Council for the Inter-University Seminar on Armed Forces and Society.
Here is my CV
I can be reached by e-mail at email@example.com

subset: commoncrawl


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News - Afghanistan
President Hamid Karzai is leading a high-level Afghan delegation on a three-day official trip to Washington to meet President Barack Obama and discuss security and economic issues.
President Karzai will hold separate meetings with President Obama and other high-ranking US officials to discuss various key issues, a statement from the president's office said.
"The discussions to be held by the high-level delegation of Afghanistan in this visit would mainly focus on security, economic and political transition processes, equipping and strengthening of Afghan security forces, the peace process and talks on bilateral security agreement between Afghanistan and the United States of America," the statement said.
President Karzai is also scheduled on Tuesday to visit Asadullah Khalid, head of the National Directorate of Security (NDS), who is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital in the United States.
Asadullah Khalid, who survived a suicide attack at an NDS guesthouse in Kabul on December 6, incurred serious injuries to the lower part of his body.
He was taken to the United States for treatment on December 15.
Karzai is accompanied on this trip by Foreign Minister Dr. Zalmai Rasoul, National Security Advisor Dr. Rangin Dadfar Spanta, Minister of Defense General Bismellah Mohammadi, Minister of Finance Hazrat Omar Zakhilwal, Chairman of the High Peace Council Salahuddin Rabbani, Director of Transition Commission Dr. Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai and Chief of Staff to the President Abdul Karim Khuram.


text:
DIY Decor Ideas: Paint Acorns for Fall Tablescapes
Home Stories A to Z
Leaves, branches, gourds, and acorns are ingredients that add a natural touch to a tablescape. For a bit more sparkle and pizzazz (and a way to keep the kiddos entertained for a few hours) color some autumnal nuts with craft paint for a seasonal centerpiece that'll liven up your table.
Beth had her boys hunt for acorns, and then she baked them on a low temperature for a few hours to kill any critters inside (you can also freeze them). We love that she decided to paint them with one coat; the color isn't totally opaque and adds a lovely rustic feel to the candy-colored acorns.
For more photos and instructions, head over to Home Stories A to Z.
(Image: Home Stories A to Z)
9 Comments
I love this idea.
Cutest idea ever.
I enjoy them in there natural state. Why do we think we have to paint everything. Just sayin...
Great idea!
I like them!
Very sweet! This is something the kids would enjoy. Thanks for the tip about baking or freeing them as my immediate concern was about critters.
I wish I'd have baked the ones I collected, as they were the source of the disgusting tiny white worms I found in my kitchen today. These are adorable.
Love this!
@pinnacle - those were maggots. Happened to me the first year I collected acorns for decor. I was completely ignorant to the fact that flies' lay their eggs inside acorns (somehow) and the larve climb out when they are hatched. The influx of flies in my house led me to the source. Gross!


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Impossible to delete ics on outlook 2011 with an office 365 account
Asked on Mar 14, 2014 - 06:43
I have outlook 2011 for mac installed
I downloaded the ICS file from the website and now i cannot delete it.
on outlook for mac i cannot find the ics calendar so i cannot delete it
can you help me please ?
All responses
Replied on Mar 14, 2014 - 13:29
Hello Pynson,
Please try to unsubscribe from the Todoist calendar in Outlook's Calendar section or delete the calendar that was added from the file. It should be clearly displayed as a separate calendar.
Best regards,


text:
"This special day is like something I am never going to forget," says dad, Alejandro Alvarez.
Alejandro and Jhontee Dietz kick off the New Year with a new baby girl. Diamond was born at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center at 5:09 am, making her the first baby of 2013 in St. Joseph County.
"I had no clue she would be the first," says mother, Dietz.
Dietz says it was a surprise, since her due date wasn't until January 9. "I was actually doing my hair in the bathroom and getting all ready to go to his brother's party and started feeling a little bit of pain and I said 'ok we're going to the hospital first."
Even then, this couple wasn't expecting a baby.
"The nurse came and said you gotta stay tonight and I was like 'ok here we go!" says Alvarez.
Diamond already has two brothers, but the couple says they're excited to have a little girl.
"I'm just ready for playing dress up. Gotta play dress up! You can't do that with boys," Dietz.
"We have a pretty nice daughter. She's quiet, but she had a lot of energy when she came out. She came out crying and kicking," says Alvarez.
Diamond was 6 pounds 15 ounces and the parents say they're thankful she's healthy.
"She's very beautiful," say Alvarez.
While Diamond was the first St. Joe County baby, two other Michiana newborns actually beat her into this world.
Andrea and Todd Cripe welcomed their son Hudson Lee at 3:41 am at Goshen Hospital.
"He came really quick and everything went well. So we're just happy to have him here. We just feel blessed to have a healthy baby and a New Year," says mom, Andrea Cripe.
We found a baby that was born even earlier than Diamond and Hudson. A baby girl named Kamryn was born at the LaPorte Hospital at 12:58 am.
WSJV-TV FOX 2858096 County Road 7, SouthElkhart, IN 46517
Switchboard: 574.679.9758News Phone: 574.679.4545Station Fax: 574.294.1267Email: email@example.com


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Rare Tuna & Tomato Bruschetta
The other day I got the chance to go and fish Mewstone – which is and island out in the middle of no where off the very remote South coast of Tasmania. I had never been there before and was pretty blown away by it all. It is a totally different world down there. Huge shear cliffs rising stright out of the ocean, birds, seals and tuna as far the eye can see. We mainly went down to chase Stripey Trumpeter but they weren't having a bar of it. Luckily there were schools of tuna jumping around the boat and they were a lot more cooperative.
With all the awesome tomatoes kicking around at the moment I thought I would do something pretty simple and fresh with tuna.
Ingredients (For 2 servings)
4x Slices of bread (I used the 2 pound loaf from Jackman & McRoss)
10-12 Slices of Tomato
2 Tbs Capers
1/4 Salad Onion sliced very finely
150gm Fresh Tuna
Olive Oil
Pepper and Salt
Clove of Garlic
White Vinegar
1. Place the onions in some vinegar and a pinch of salt an hour before you want to eat them.
2. Bring the tuna to room temperature by leaving it out for 30 mins before cooking. Season and sear all side in a hot pan and let sit for 10-15 mins before slicing into 5mm portions.
3. Toast the bread ina griddle pan and rub with garlic.
4. Fry the capers in some oil until crispy.
5. Assemble the dish by placing tomatoes, tuna and onions on top of the bread and sprinkle with capers. Season well and finish with some rosemary infused olive oil.
I know I'm not going to say it's shit, but I can really recommend this one – was bloody good.
Seafood Plate with Tartare Pesto
We finally had some good weather (not windy that is!) the other day, so I took the opportunity to put the boat in the water. My plan was to try and catch a shark but the engine was playing up so I stayed inshore – probably a good thing considering I was by myself.
Anyway the fishing I did have was excellent. Flathead, whiting, salmon and calamari were coming in thick and fast – so fast I was home by lunchtime. Because I had a few different species I decided to do a bit of a platter/mixed grill for tea.
Tartare Pesto
4 Tbs Pine Nuts
1/2 Clove of Garlic
About 1 cup Parsley
3 Tbs Dill
3 Tbs Tarragon
2 Tbs Capers
4 Cornichons
1/4 Preserved of a Lemon (Peel)
1 Anchovy (Optional)
1 Tbs Dijion Mustard
2 Tbs Spring Onions
1/4 Cup White Vinagar
2/3 Cup Olive Oil (Approx.)
Salt to taste
Throw everything in the food processor minus the oil and while blitzing, slowly add the oil. You want this quit runny because you kind of use it as a sauce. So add more vinegar and oil if required. Also if the tarragon is a bit over powering add more parsley.
For the Fish:
Flathead: Flour, egg and bread crumbed. Also picked some in white vinegar, dill salt and pepper and a pinch of sugar.
Whiting: Just cooked whole under a really hot grill.
Calamari: Dusted in rice flour and salt and white pepper. Also did some butter and garlic.
Bruny Island Oysters
Went down to Bruny yesterday to check out the accommodation for my sisters boyfriend's new business. We had big plans to go and get/shoot some oysters from a friends farm but the tide was too high so we ended up just buying these and having them natural. Hopefully we get some better tides later in the week so I can head back down.
Fresh Bagels with King Island Triple Cream Brie and Huon Smoked Salmon
Recently the manager at my work went to King Island and asked everyone if they had any cheese requests as he would be visiting the factory store. I ordered two wheels of Seal Bay triple cream brie, one of which I gave to a friend who just had a baby, the other sitting in the fridge waiting for me to decide the best way to make the most of it. I considered baking it to oozy goodness but I think that might have been a little over the top. In the end I decided to bake some bagels and have it with Tasmanian smoked salmon (the packet variety – unlike Sam I don't/can't make my own) and fresh little radishes from Salamanca market.
The bagel recipe is so very simple and easy and not time consuming at all.
4 cups of flour (I used Callington wheat flour light sifted)
2 tablespoons of yeast
1 ½ teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 ¼ cups tepid water
Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl to form a dough, then knead on a floured surface for around ten minutes or until smooth and even. Cut the dough into eight equal portions and place on a flour-dusted tray in a warm-ish spot for twenty minutes.
Preheat the oven to 220 celcius.
At this point you can do the traditional rolling out of the bagel (like here) or you can be lazy (and probably very wrong) like me and press a hole through the middle of each ball with your thumb. Let them sit another twenty minutes.
Put a large pot of water on to boil, the once boiling place the bagels in and cook for one minute before turning over and cooking another minute. Take them out of the water with a slotted spoon and place on a lightly oiled oven tray, sprinkle the top with poppy seeds and place in the oven. Cook for ten minutes before turning them over and cooking a further ten minutes. Allow them to sit and cool before eating.
Serve with soft triple cream brie (I probably could have had the cheese softening a lot longer) and Tasmanian smoked salmon. I personally prefer the Huon Aquaculture classic but that's just me.
Scallop Pasty with Saffron Pastry
I've had the idea in my head for a while now to make and saffron puff pastry and use it for seafood pies – so I did. This is the first time I have made puff pastry from scratch. If you haven't made it before I reckon don't bother – it's a pain in the arse – just buy it. However I suppose you have to make it if you want to put saffron in it.
Anyway….with the commercial scallop season maybe drawing to a close soon I thought I would make some scallop pasties.
For the Saffron Puff Pastry
Just use a standard puff recipe like this but into the iced water bleed around 10 saffron threads.
For the Filling
250g Fresh Scallops
16x Spears of Asparagus
Juice and Zest of 1 Lemon
Pepper and Salt
Fresh Thyme
1 Cup of Grated Mozzarella
1. Roll the pastry flat to about 5mm thick and using a large soup bowl cut out circles of pastry.
2. On one side of the circle of pastry, leaving 1 cm around the edge for when you fold, place a little cheese, then 4 spears of asparagus cut to the length the of the pastry, 5 or 6 scallops, pepper and salt, a few thyme leaves, a sprinkling of lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice and a little more cheese.
3. Then wash with egg around the edge of the pastry, fold over, then press down with a fork to seal. Prick the top of the pasty to let steam out.
4. Refrigerate for half and hour then put in an oven at 200 C for about 25mins or until golden.
5. Serve with tomato relish – you might want to add a bit of extra vinegar to your relish as the pasty is pretty full on.
Makes 4


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AF PDG NCO '13-'15 Flashcards
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Inside are thousands of flashcards, all aligned for those testing for the NCO version, designed to help you study with ease.
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*View flashcards specific to a given section via our index, or shuffle flashcards to get a more realistic testing experience.
All content assembled and QA'd by active duty Air Force officers.
(59 stars)
Just flash cards. No multiple choice. Crashes often. It does have many questions.
(59 stars)
Some flashcards seem to be dated, but when your waiting for an appointment and have a couple extra minutes this is a handy application to have.
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Would not load. Tried uninstalling then reinstalling and still wouldn't load. Don't waste your money
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Very good cards and easy reading format. You can jump to any section you want and the cards are written in good format. Excellent study tool. And I have to say that this company has earned my business. They are very professional and quick to fix anythin
(59 stars)
When I open the app nothing shows up. Update, uninstalled and reinstalled. All is good now.


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Risk Management for Sub-Contractors
|Description: In this session strategies and tactics for protecting the sub-contractor from claims for defense and indemnity will be discussed. The discussion will focus on the law with regard to additional insured and the steps a sub-contractor can take to avoid the shift of loss to that sub-contractor.
|Instructor(s): David M. Lewin, J.D., Tribler Orpett & Meyer, P.C., Chicago, IL
Michael P. McGawley, CSP, II in One Contractors, Inc., Chicago, IL
|Level: I


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Last Wednesday I spent the night in Chicago with Pop Evil and a bunch of radio people and music industry types, for the "Listening Party" of their new album. The new Pop Evil album called "Onyx" comes out May 14th, and shit...it is amazing.
To me, Pop Evil is 5 different individuals. Sure they are in this band together, and spent endless hours on the road together...but they are all QUITE different, and that comes out in the new album. Styles, influences, chances taken, sticking your neck out when it matters most, I was blown away.
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Real Rock Radio, 104.9, the X. That is what we say today, You may call it 104.9, The X, WXRX, The Rock Station... we don't care just as long as you know The X and Rock. The station signed on in 1990 as a Rock Station and has remained that way for 24 years.Thanks for stopping by.
Copyright© 2002-2014 WXRX. All Rights Reserved.


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Hawthorn Woods
On Tuesday, Dec. 4, at 11:54 p.m., Hawthorn Woods police made a traffic stop at Old McHenry and North Milton roads. Douglas T. Brown, 23, of 477 E. Lake Shore Drive, North Barrington, was charged with possession of cannabis, possession of drug paraphernalia, improper lane usage, and driving under the influence-alcohol/drugs. He was released on a personal recognizance bond with a Jan. 9 court date.
Criminal Damage to Property
Kildeer police took a report on Saturday, Dec. 1, that ComEd utility boxes at East Cuba Road and Lakeridge Court were spray-painted.
On Dec. 4, Kildeer police received a report from a resident on North Boschome Circle of wire fraud. The report involved wire transfers to unknown persons with a loss of $21,145. Police are investigating.


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Missing man told his wife he'd be right back
ANCASTER — Tim Bosma told his wife he would be right back. He was taking two guys out for a quick test drive in his Dodge Ram pickup when he left on Monday night.
Timothy Bosma was reported missing to the Hamilton Police Service on May 6 in the Ancaster area.
ANCASTER — Tim Bosma told his wife he would be right back.
He was taking two guys out for a quick test drive in his Dodge Ram pickup when he left on Monday night. They'd arranged to meet him at his rural Ancaster home after he'd posted a 'For Sale' ad for the truck on Kijiji and Auto Trader.
The men had come all the way from Toronto, Bosma told his wife, Sharlene.
She got a quick look at the two visitors as the three men left, just before 9:30 p.m. — her husband dressed in dark blue jeans, work boots and a long-sleeved shirt.
She hasn't seen him since.
Yesterday, after physical searches and social media campaigns failed to bring the missing 32-year-old man home, police announced that the homicide unit had taken over the investigation.
"If it's an unusual missing person, we are to be involved. This has unusual circumstances right at the onset, so we got involved … last night," said homicide Sgt. Matt Kavanagh.
Police are now looking for the two men who left with Bosma, and who they believe are responsible for his disappearance.
Both are described as white men in their early to mid-20s.
The first is about 6-foot-1 and 170-180 pounds and unshaven with short, light to medium brown hair. He was wearing blue jeans and a long-sleeved orange shirt with running shoes.
The second is around 5-foot-9 with a small to medium build. He had dark hair and had a red, hooded sweatshirt pulled up over his head.
Bosma had told his wife they were from Toronto, police said.
It's unclear how the men arrived at the home, though posts on social media suggest the two were dropped off by a third man in another vehicle.
"It is possible other people were involved, we know nothing about those people," Kavanagh said.
The truck a 2007 black Dodge Ram 3500 pickup with licence plate number 726-7ZW — has been flagged to border agencies, and alerts have gone out to police forces across the region.
Police believe it was the truck, not Bosma, the suspects were after.
There has been no sign of the truck since Monday. Bosma had his cellphone with him, police said, but it has since been turned off.
Hundreds of well-wishers have posted messages of hope and encouragement on social media since news of his disappearance broke on Tuesday.
"Please pray for my family ... Tim has a wife and baby girl that needs him here," Stephanie Bosma Brooksbank wrote on Facebook yesterday.
Few details were available about Bosma yesterday. The family lives in a big new house on Trinity Rd. in Ancaster. The couple — married just three years — and their child are members of the Ancaster Christian Reformed Church.
Through a family friend, Bosma's family declined to speak to the media yesterday.
His face was splashed on social media again yesterday, as family and friends scrambled to get the word out. Flyers were delivered across the GTA, and dozens of trucks were parked out front of the family's home as volunteers combed the neighbourhood.
Police, as well as the canine unit, were also actively searching the rural area.
The investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with information regarding Timothy Bosma's location is asked to contact Detective Greg Rodzoniak of the Homicide Unit at 905-546- 4863 or to call Crime Stoppers.
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Nike Air Griffey Max II Kids' Shoes
The Griffey Max II is the newest model of the Griffey trainers that keep the legend alive. This model features a number of significant traits that set it apart from all of the others. The predominately nubuck upper gives you with a fresh look that lasts. Max Air units located in the sole provide unbeatable cushioning and the ultimate impact response, and the lasting impression is the Griffey logo on the heel.
- The Griffey Max is the signature shoe of the legendary Ken Griffey Jr. aka The Kid.
- Nubuck upper with yellow accents
- Max Air unit in the sole
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WFP is urgently mobilising relief staff and supplies in order to provide urgent aid to thousands affected by Saturday's massive earthquake near Yogyakarta, Central Java.
WFP will lead a rapid emergency assessment team to the disaster area, together with partner agencies WHO, UNDP and Unicef.
With food supplies in the disaster area expected to run out in the next 48 hours, the Agency is already loading up eight trucks, ready to deliver at least 80 tons of fortified noodles and high energy biscuits on Saturday and Sunday to earthquake survivors.
WFP is drawing on food stocks stored in Jakarta, Surabaya and the town of Solo, which is a three hour drive from badly-affected Bantul, the main disaster centre (see sidebox). Solo was also hit by the earthquake.
Thousands of survivors, whose homes were destroyed in the 6.2 Richter Scale quake, are sheltering in the 10 IDP camps established in Bantul district or staying outside due to the risk of aftershocks.
Urgent Priorities
The UN Disaster Management Team has listed tents, tarpaulin and plastic sheeting as urgent priorities, together with food aid and medical supplies.
WFP is diverting a 30-seat STOL aircraft from its operation in Aceh due to depart early Sunday morning for the crisis area, flying in 16 medical staff and 2000 kilos of medicines.
In addition to food, the humanitarian response's immediate priority list includes medical supplies, field hospitals, clean water, shelter, tents and plastic sheets.
Emergency assessment
On Sunday, WFP is leading a rapid emergency assessment team to the disaster area, together with partner agencies WHO, UNDP and Unicef.
The team, which will carry medical and food supplies diverted from existing aid programmes, will be forced to travel some eight hours/500 kilometres by road -- unless the badly cracked runway at Jogyakarta airport opens in time.
In addition, WFP has sent a three-member team from Surabaya (the eastern end of Java) to establish potential relief food needs; they are due to arrive in Jogyakarta on Saturday evening.
The roads leading to the affected area are reportedly passable, but their condition will also need to be rapidly assessed.
WFP efforts to urgently mobilise additional trucks in Jakarta have been successful due to assistance from TNT - a global provider of express, mail and logistics services and a long-standing humanitarian partner of WFP, which provided similar assistance immediately after the Indian Ocean tsunami.


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Join the USF Dance Generators for a special ocean-themed performance live on the Piazza stage!
Dance Generators company members range in age from their teens through their eighties. Through dance, the company shatters commonly held stereotypes about aging, and creates bridges between people of all ages. Dance Generators show audiences that people who have been in motion for over 50 years bring unique qualities to dance. Through physical, musical and theatrical performance, the company shows that people at any age can be physically and artistically vital. Through individual and group expression, movement, ideas and stories are shared that transcend age differences.
Under the direction of Natalie Greene and Kristen Greco, Dance Generators West is a part of the University of San Francisco's Department of Performing Arts & Social Justice.


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Ping Wang, MD
My total approach to family medicine combines personalized care and, as part of the Beaumont system, advanced technology. But the real difference is the time and energy my staff and I spend on getting to know our patients and treating them as people first.
Family Medicine
Does Not Treat
Chronic Pain
Special Services
Department of Transportation (DOT) Physical
Faculty Appointments
Assistant Professor, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine
Faculty Member, Family Medicine Residency Program, Beaumont Hospital, Grosse Pointe
Beaumont Affiliation & Years on Staff
Grosse Pte (5 Years)
Royal Oak (8 Years)
Troy (5 Years)
Board Certifications
American Board of Family Medicine
Medical Center of Fudan University (fka/Shanghai Medical University) (1993)
Bon Secours Hospital, Family Practice
PCMH - Patient-Centered Medical Home Designated Physician (2013 - 2014)
PCMH - Patient-Centered Medical Home Designated Physician (2014-2015)
Languages Spoken
Insurances Accepted
Website: www.beaumont.edu/neighborhood-family-medicine
Neighborhood Family Medicine
29245 Ryan Rd #300
Warren, MI 48092
Phone: 586-578-0222
Fax: 586-578-0211
Find a Doctor - Terms and Conditions of use
Beaumont's Physician Referral & Information Service was developed to link you with private physicians who have certain staff privileges at Beaumont Hospital and are accepting new patients. There is no cost to you or the physicians for this service. The following physicians match the needs you have expressed.


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Elmwood Communities
Elmwood has been in operation for over 35 years and has an impeccable reputation for providing the highest standard of care for our residents. Since opening its doors in 1972, Elmwood Centers, Inc., a family-owned and operated residential and healthcare organization, has continued to grow and expand into a variety of neighboring communities in northern Ohio.
Elmwood offers many different career choices and invites you to join their team of experienced professionals who do what they love to do and feel as enthusiastic about where they work...Elmwood. Because Elmwood believes their employees are the most important asset to the organization, Elmwood strives to select the best person for the role and invites those interested in a healthcare career with Elmwood to apply in person or by using the convenient application form found below.
Applications can be returned to any Elmwood Community, by mailing to: HR Dept., 430 N. Broadway St, Green Springs, OH 44836, or by faxing to 419-639-2519 (Attn: HR Dept.)


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What does BSTF mean in Police?
This page is about the meanings of the acronym/abbreviation/shorthand BSTF in the Governmental field in general and in the Police terminology in particular.
Brooklyn South Task Force
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Winds: Calm
Dear Mayor Haddix,
I don't believe we have formally met, and I should rectify that. But I'm writing now to express my hope that you will be taking your place on the regional transportation planning group with enthusiasm and openness to ideas once believed to be unpopular.
There is a knee-jerk response among elected officials here that regional mass transit is not welcome in Fayette County, that we don't need it, and that it will bring crime to the area. You are in a perfect position to help dispel those notions and show leadership in bringing Fayette into the 21st century. Read More»
Listen. Hear that? These evenings when it's cool enough to have a window open, around midnight, take a moment and listen for an owl.
Traffic is light and humans are mostly indoors at this time of day, so one may surmise that an owl feels safe enough to come out and vocalize in the quiet darkness. Step outside and listen.
What a piece of work an owl is.
Let me introduce to you one of the really interesting members of the bird family, Strix varia, or the barred owl. Colloquially he is called a hoot owl; I call him a hootie owl. Read More»
This week's column is highly personal. If "personal" bothers you, stop reading now. I intend this to celebrate the power of a single word: Manageable.
For the first few years, I wouldn't call my demon by its rightful name. When you may be in the grip of an incurable disease, what's a little denial? Can't make things worse or better. Read More»
Call it a motto or a mission statement, the C.J. Mowell, Jr. family lives it, and has since 1964. C.J.'s late father was the Carl J. Mowell in the company's name, and C.J. was the son. Now a third generation is the son, David. Read More»
"One day is just like another when you're retired and it's too hot to do anything outside." Dave speaks from the couch, where he reads between naps. His daily outing is Driving Miss Sallie to work out at Curves, by golf cart.
So when he said he wanted to drive to a small airport about 25 miles south, I felt obliged to keep him company. After all, it was Saturday and I was tweaking the column I had started, due Friday. I was practically done. I could afford to take a break. Read More»
In Sunday's paper, two adorable little blondes in frothy blue dresses are seen rollicking in puddles after a rainstorm. They were at a Butterfly Festival, and could almost be taken for butterflies themselves.
The photo drew me in, but their names held my attention. The 5-year-old is Happy and her 2-year-old sister is Coco Bluebell. At least that's what the cut-line says; I hope they are real. They are unusual without being cumbersome and should stand up to use for years. Read More»
For the life of me, I don't get why technically savvy people recommend dusting the insides of a computer with propellant-driven canned air. Maybe it's because they've never been household engineers, a.k.a housewives.
Any household engineer knows that blowing air into dusty corners merely stirs up the dirt and drives it into other nooks and crannies. Why did they invent vacuum cleaners but to pull dust up into a canister, safely secured until it could be emptied outside the house? Read More»
Remember "The one-hoss shay," an Oliver Wendell Holmes poem about an open carriage built by the deacon who used only the strongest, most hardened materials? Every component was exactly as strong as every other. That chaise wasn't about to wear out, but everything in it would break down at once.
One hundred years to the day after it was completed, it collapsed into splinters:
"[I]t went to pieces all at once, –
All at once, and nothing first, –
Just as bubbles do when they burst." Read More»
Our German daughter Mary really wanted us to join her when she has vacation time this year. As it turns out, we ran into some staggering expenses and simply couldn't afford it this year.
Among her suggestions for a shared vacation: Oaxaca, Mexico, where a medical group was soliciting for people to participate in studies, all expenses paid. We all but begged her not to apply – this was when drug violence was really flaring up in Mexico earlier this year – and were relieved beyond words when she wrote and said she missed the deadline. Read More»
Just about the time you're convinced that your editor doesn't read your stuff, he chides you for miscrediting a quotation and sends you back to the dictionary. No wonder I sometimes "forget" to copy him when I send my column in.
But a "misassigned" quotation in last week's Pulitzer-worthy epic about armadillos caught his eye. This is one of those situations in which something is defined not by what it is, but by what it isn't. Read More»


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Oh fraud, how could we live our lives without it! Here now comes a list of financial crime cases out of federal court in Manhattan and Brooklyn that we have had the keen pleasure to follow so far this year. And as we read, we must pause from time to time in awestruck admiration at the inventivenes ... More >>
His fingerprints are all over the recent economic collapse
The Taliban conduct a night ambush against U.S. troops on January 24. A commenter on this YouTube video wrote: "holy cow, tracer rounds are so cool!" Yeah, really cool. What a Sunday in sports and terror: Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer fought to the death in a Grand Slam final, and so did the Pit ... More >>


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April 26, 1977 in Putnam Valley, West Point, NY
Biography:Born April 26th, 1977, muscular young actor Tom Welling is a former construction worker and soccer player who admits his indifference to comic books. After a few modeling jobs, he guest starred opposite Amy Brenneman on a few episodes of the CBS drama Judging Amy. In 2001 he was cast as the... Full Biography


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My daughter entered this school two years behind in math. Now, in only two years of attendance, she is a year ahead. The fact that the school is arts-focused doesn't in anyway lessen the other academic standards.
ACMA IS AMAZING. Sure, we're poor , that's who we are. Quirky and weird and brilliantly artistic and smart. Everyone is so close and we're not blood, but we're like a big family. Teachers and students also have good relationships and if your child wants a place to explore and see what they are capable of, then ACMA is where you need to be. Careful, don't take it for granted. ACMA is happy and weird and wacky, you are given the freedom you yearn for, but it is only a place for people that can be serious when it is required and that can be themselves when no seriousness is in fact required. In the last 6 years, all ACMA Seniors have graduated and gone onto a secondary learning place. Most of our students are qualified to go to places like Summa. I'd rather be Da Vinci than Einstein.
The combination of small size and a focus on a particular track (in this case, arts, music, dance) attract passionate and committed students, faculty, staff and parents. The challenges include an old facility, no lockers, poor cafeteria building, almost no sports & PE. But great people focused on their passion will always trump a nice building with a generic program. But facilities do help and the performing arts center due in Fall 2009 will help the program bloom.
This school has provided an amazing academic setting for my 8th grade son. The high academic expectations and the sequential arts curriculum has given him a pre-professional arts experience in a very caring environment. We came from a private school to ACMA. The school is small and that is part of the great experience.
Good school, but the kids can be very immature to others. The highschoolers can be the definition of bullies to the middleschoolers. Dont recommend it because of the horrible experience you could potentially have. Okay education.
This is a really great school for people who wouldn't fit in at othre schools and who want to express their creativity. The diversity is really great.
While this school is great for performing arts they are demanding alot from Junior High students without evaluating each students potential. It is sad that it has to struggle like this as it could be one of the greatest schools in this area. My daughter will be going for her second year, but she will not go for high School as she wants an International Baccalaureate type program for her high school years. For a magnet academy there is a severe lack of Organization in the way that the school runs. I believe taht alot of this is based on space. There are no lockers and they don't have the solid state of affairs that you would expect to find in this type of school.
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The Community Rating is the school's average rating from its community members (e.g., parents, students, and school staff). The highest possible rating is five stars; the lowest is one star.
11375 SW Center St
Beaverton, OR 97005
Phone: (503) 672-3700
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