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Rays are a AL/NL Hybrid Squad
And with that, the Rays will be totally comfortable playing by the National League standards since they have been playing that style of baseball since the first week in April. The Rays have been masters at executing and perfecting the sacrifice bunt, squeeze bunt and even the suicide squeeze, which have been National League staples among the N L squad's offensive arsenal.
But what was once considered a N L advantage with the American League teams sending their pitcher's into the batter's box for the first time this season, the Rays might have some special surprises awaiting their N L foes.
Sure heading into Houston we will first see Rays starter Matt Garza hit the mound to start the 14th season of Interleague play . And even with the Rays entering this season's Interleague schedule with a less than .500 record All Time (99-115), they have been a combined 43-29 since Rays Manager Joe Maddon , which is the sixth best record in the Interleague play format since 2006. And over the past two years, only the Minnesota Twins (26-10) own a better Interleague record than the Rays (26-11) coming into their series against the Astros.
But just because this is usually the first time they send their bevy of pitcher's to the plate, the Rays over the last two years have batted a Major League best .295 in Interleague play and their pitching staff has held their opponents to a .236 average, also best in the Major League. And even during their 2009 campaign into Interleague play, the Rays posted a 13-5 record last season which was beat only by the Los Angels Angels of Anaheim (14-4).
But playing in unfamiliar parks have been a bit of thorn in the Rays sides as they hold a 44-63 record in the National League ballparks, but they have begun to reverse that trend as they have gone 11-7 over the past two seasons in their strange surroundings.
But heading into the confines of Minute Maid Park with its train that moves throughout the outfield during Home Runs, and their unique Centerfield incline with their majestic flagpole in the center, this will only be the second time the Rays have ever wandered into the Astros home turf. But back in 2003, their last visit to Houston, the Rays did not leave with a great bit of Texas hospitality as the Astros swept them during contests from June6-8, 2003. And only one Rays player still remains on their roster from that 2003 squad, and Houston just happens to be his hometown (Carl Crawford).
But the two teams did meet during 2008 from June 20-22,2008 as the Astros took two out of three from the Rays with former Astros Brandon Backe beating the Rays in their "throwback jerseys on that Sunday contest. Surprisingly, all three of those game were one run contests that season. But there will be quite a few Rays who will have a crowd or two on hand during this road series as Rays starter Jeff Niemann, who will start the Sunday finale, Crawford, Rays set-up man Dan Wheeler, and Rays Pitching Coach Jim Hickey all have Houston roots. But the real treat might just be in how the Rays pitching staff does at the plate during this series.
The Rays pitching staff have been taking their turns in the Batting Cages over the last several weeks with several Rays pitchers showing they might just come out and surprise a few of us during the N L-slate of the Interleague this season. And starting with tonight's starter Matt Garza, who is a career 0-8 at the plate, but has been showing increased ease and poise at the plate in recent B P sessions with Rays Hitting Coach Derek Shelton.
And Garza has a bit of revenge on his mind as this will be his second start against Houston lifetime. But his last outing on June 20,2008 when he opposed Astros ace Roy Oswalt did not go well as he lost the decision 4-3. But Garza also brings in a nice 3-2 mark All Time in Interleague play with a special one-hitter in 2008 against the Florida Marlins.
And with no Designated Hitter in N L parks, the Rays might be at a distinctive disadvantage seeing that only 5 other members of the entire Rays pitching staff after Garza even have a Batting Average. We could possibly see Lance Cormier ( 5-46 .109 2 RBI ), Dan Wheeler ( 1-7 .143 ) make at least one plate appearance this series. But Rays Saturday starter leftie David Price owns a 1-3 .333 batting average, and last night's starter James Shields could get a go at the plate in the middle innings if Maddon wants to save his bench players for a late inning rally. Shield sports a 5-22 .227 average with 1 RBI. But the pride and joy of the Rays pitching staff hitters might be their "secret weapon" Rays long man Andy Sonnanstine who is a career 7-21 or .333 with 2 RBI.
But most Rays fans might remember his May 17,2009 clutch performance when a line-up card snafu had Sonnanstine batting in the 3-hole after a mix-up on the initial lineup card given to the Home Plate Umpire before that contest. For some odd reason, Rays Third Baseman Evan Longoria was suppose to be the game's DH, but was listed on the lineup card as a second Rays Third Baseman and was disqualified from the lineup. Sonnanstine responded with a 1-3 day with a RBI double.
And with Sonnanstines first step into the batter's box, he became the first AL pitcher to be in the lineup in an AL ballpark since Chicago White Sox pitcher Ken Brett stepped in the box on September 23, 1976 against the Minnesota Twins. On that date, Sonnanstine also became the first Rays pitcher to ever head to the Batter's box in an AL home game, plus was the first Rays pitcher to ever bat at Tropicana Field.
Because of that hitting success, Maddon used Sonnanstine again on May 23,2009 as a Pinch Hitter against the Florida Marlins at then Pro Player Stadium, he then again stepped into the box on June 21, 2009 against the New York Mets at Citi Field. During those appearances, Sonnanstine became only the second Rays pitcher following James Shields example from his June 28,2008 appearance against the Pittsburgh Pirates in Three Rivers Stadium. Sonnanstine also pinch ran on June 6, 2009 in a AL game against the New York Yankees and scored a run for the Rays.
But after the aforementioned five Rays pitching "hitters", the rest of the Rays Bullpen and starter have laid golden goose eggs to a tune of going 0-19 lifetime during Interleague play. Rays starters have combined for a 6-38 mark or a .157 average combined, but Wade Davis has never made an appearance yet in a Major League batter's box. The Rays Bullpen (including Wheeler, Cormier and Sonnanstine ) have gone 13 for 93 or a .140 Batting Average in Interleague play. Hopefully we will not have to see Rays relievers Randy Choate (0-5), Rafael Soriano (0-4), Grant Balfour (0-1) or Joaquin Benoit (0-9) make plate appearances during this series.
8 Comments
What's great about the Rays right now is they're playing small ball AND big ball. They hurt the Yanks in the first game with all their running. In last night's game they were hitting for power. Tough combo!
I was talking to a friend who was an ex-Porfessional boxer the other night and he remarked how the Rays seem to be able to put combo together and duck and miss the big swings that normally put teams on the canvas.
And it is true, they can bob and weave with the best of them right now.
But they can also mix it up with jabs, crosses before the upper cut takes you to the canvas.
Ding, Ding!
Rays Renegade
I totally see them as an NL team. Focus on pitching, defense and being able to do the little things hitting wise… moving guys along… station to station… running… it's a beautiful thing and they're doing it the best right now no question.
As Mel Brooks said in "History of the World, Part One" , "Sometimes it's good to be the King".
But with that come the pratfalls and attacks from nowhere that seem to tarnish and bring some embarassment to all who follw them.
But I am glad to support and be able to see the "home team" for those 81 games a season.
And I totally agree, "Baseball is the greatest game on dirt."
Rays Renegade
Small ball, big ball…the Rays are doing it all this year! They look very, very scary and being a team with so many tools, they are going to have an amazing year.
Your Rays have really put it together. You are definitely having a fun ride. Congratulations.
This weekend is the test to see if they pass that final exam, or fail.
But that is the rush and the anticipation of the Interleague format. Not only does it give fans of both teams a chance to play and see opposing Leagues styles of play performed in front of them, it exposes a larger segment of the game's stars to fans who might not know them if not for Interleague exposure.
Surely Astros OF Michael Bourn and the Rays Carl Crawford will get some additional AllStar votes because fans in Houston and Tampa Bay will see the similarities and the positive of these two Houston natives as they play against each other this weekend.
Going to be fun!
Rays Renegade
I should not get any congrats.
I am just the conductor on the Rays bandwagon that is shines and spiffy for any fan to join anytime.
Seriously, it is one of those epic things that sometimes those who work hard and sweat get rewarded.
It is too early to speculate or even fantasize without remorse.
But, it is going to be another fun time no matter what.
Rays Renegade


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I know the board had their meeting today and was on webcast... I think they were gonna talk about 2013 rally... did anyone watch... just wondering if next years location was announced. Does anyone know and if so, where?
I know the board had their meeting today and was on webcast... I think they were gonna talk about 2013 rally... did anyone watch... just wondering if next years location was announced. Does anyone know and if so, where?
Bye bye 2006 F650 GS for a 2011 F650 GS.
Salem Oregon State Fairgrounds July 18-20, 2013.
Wow, Oregon must be a hit. 2001 and 2010 were in Redmond, Oregon and now, 2013 in Salem. It is a beautiful state. I made the 2001 National. I've got a year to think about Salem. Planning Missouri for now.
BMWMOA Life Member
AMA Life Member
300,000 BMW miles and riding
Karen says we are going, Only 40 miles from the grandbabies, her . But. 2,400 mi from home, me
Never been to Oregon, but I am planning to visit now in 2013! Should we start the weather discussion thread now?
Weather history for Salem, OR.
Pick your date.
Great news.
Who is the Rally Chair?
Martin. BMW MOA Ambassador.17748
BMW MOA Charter, Life member.
Valley BMW Riders. British Columbia.
Mid-July weather in Salem is typically warm and dry. Expect temps from the mid 60s to mid 80s. It's usually a bit cooler at the coast or in the Cascades at higher elevations. July is a comfortable month in the Willamette valley.
2009 BMW R1200RT (Shaun), 2004 MINI Cooper S (Gromit), 2006 BMW X3 (Wallace)
Until I retire the west coast is a tad out of reach. Company policy is five weeks of vacation a year, but max of two weeks at a time. Hardly leaves any time for exploring the area unless I slab it there and back.
So for now, west coast rallies are something to look forward to when I'm stuck at home and my wife tells me to go play in the street.
'12 R1200GSA for solo rides
'10 R1200GSA with Hannigan dual sport sidecar for rides with Tulliver
Sounds great, I hope I can arrange to get my bike out there and fly to meet it.
Oregon again??? I'll be staying east of the Mississippi...
Lifes too short to ride an ugly Motorcycle
Darn! 2,702 miles and I need to be within a day of an ill wife.
'You can say what you want about the South, but I almost never hear of anyone wanting to retire to the North.
BUT, I am surprised by the selection, second one in Oregon, such a short time from Redmond? I figured Colorado or North/South of there to be in order again. I like Oregon, always a fine choice. Many won't make it, however from the East, if they came to Redmond and Redmond was VERY fine a rally. Just too soon for many, I'm afraid to ride far west to see the same stuff. Hope not, because the state has sooooooo much to offer, all great. Randy
Nope, was just there two years ago. It was a great rally but too soon for me. Hopefully the RA will be more central / South US
The thing about traveling is, you never want it to end and you can't wait to get home.
I answer to Roy, Chief, or Sarg.
04 R-1150-RT current bike. 94 R-1100-RS74,383, Sold, 78 R-80/7, K.I.A by a D.U.I
Just an hour and a half to the Pacific. Great choice. Nothing beats riding on the Oregon Coast! Spent thirty five years in state of Washington. I will be there!
"All my life I wanted to be somebody. Now I realize I should have been more specific."

subset: commoncrawl


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Ok, so it isn't 2000 anymore, the Attitude Era is long gone, the WCW isn't around, and Rock and Austin aren't here. So much has changed in the wrestling world in the past 10 years.And its somewhat obvious that some of the posters here still watch wrestling. Not that its a problem, well thats what this is for.
Anyway, we can use this thread to talk about whats going on in the WWE/TNA/Whatever you watch right now. Who your fav wrestlers are, what your thoughts on the current product are, etc...I'll start.
So what do you guys think about the current "PG" era of the WWE?


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Peter Fenn Democratic media consultant :
My guess is it is all about the money. Advertising rules, especially with the critical younger demographic, and the networks want to go with their regular prime time money-making programs.
It is odd, though, since viewership of the 2008 conventions, especially the speeches by the presidential and vice presidential candidates, was the highest ever. Maybe the networks believe they can air these speeches and regular programming - they can have their cake and eat it too.
There is no question that public anger with politics, the abysmal rating of Congress, the blitz of negative ads and the rise of super PACs is taking its toll on the public's interest.
Nevertheless, just because there is cable news and the internet does not mean the networks should shrink from their responsibility to broadcast these conventions.


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Safeway and Big Lots on Jefferson Boulevard closing
By Monica Stark The Safeway on West Capitol Avenue and Jefferson Boulevard will be closed by the end of the month, Wendy Gutshall, director of public and government affairs, Safeway Northern California More »
West Sac Kids Give Back
Local children help homeless with creation of cheer packs By Michele Townsend Three years ago, a boy from West Sacramento told his mom that he wanted to do something for the homeless. More »
Westmore Oaks 6th graders built solar suitcases for Kenyan students
By Monica Stark Sixty students in Ms. Garcia's science club elective at Westmore Oaks built six solar suitcases and sent two of them off to a school in Kenya—a learning experience that More »
Get free fruit trees (apple, plum, Asian pear or peach) by attending workshop
West Sacramento residents may receive free fruit trees from The City of West Sacramento, if they first attend a tree-care workshop from 6-7:30 p.m. on either Feb. 5 or March 5 at the community center, 1075 West Capitol Avenue. Call 617-4620 to sign up.
Fruit trees specially selected for this program include Fuji apple, Santa Rosa plum, 20th Century Asian pear, D'Anjou pear and Babcock peach.
For information, visit www.westsactrees.org.
Copyright News-Ledger 2014
'Neighborhood court' coming to West Sac: model follows SF and Davis
By Steve Marschke
News-Ledger Editor
The concept of "neighborhood court" is soon to West Sacramento.
Those accused of certain low-level crimes will have a chance to exchange a court appearance and possible conviction for a chance to negotiate a resolution with a group of local volunteers and a facilitator in "neighborhood court."
Yolo County District Attorney Jeff Reisig told the News-Ledger that the program focuses on "restorative justice" – a concept that cuts across cultures and across the centuries. A modern version of these citizens' courts is now in operation across the causeway in Davis. It will launch in West Sacramento during the next few months.
The Yolo County version of the neighborhood court follows San Francisco's model. Reisig said that he has personally watched the Bay Area model in session.
"We have tweaked it a bit to make it more 'restorative,'" Reisig said.
"Restorative justice is really just a way of having an individual accept responsibility for the harm they've cause to the person or community, and finding a way to make it right. It's all about accountability – making the victim whole."
This approach is based on "positive, not punitive," he added.
The neighborhood court model heading to West Sacramento will involve recruiting citizen volunteers to work with a trained "facilitator." Together, they will meet with alleged offenders and try to hammer out a deal that fits the crime.
To get to neighborhood instead of criminal court, the defendant in a low-level crime – a misdemeanor or infraction case – has to agree to go. In Davis, such cases have included those accused of public drunkenness, vandalism or simple assault.
The victims of the alleged crimes can, if they wish, show up to tell the perpetrator exactly how the crime affected them.
According to an official report of the Davis neighborhood court, victims often appreciate that opportunity. Also, allowing the victim and the offender to communicate can be an effective way to prevent new offenses. One anonymous victim was quoted in the report as saying the victim/offender conference was very satisfying:
"I enjoyed the positive outcome and insightful process," the battery victim was quoted. "I learned a lot and it provided me with an opportunity to improve my patience."
"The program is totally voluntary," explained Reisig. "If somebody is arrested by the police, they can go through the normal process and go to court. Or, if this is an option, they can go to the neighborhood court. If an agreement is reached between the neighborhood court and the offender, there's a group called the Center for Intervention that monitors the contract."
That organization – under contract with Yolo County – monitors the deal. The offender pays a "small fee" to be monitored, but won't be turned away from the program for being unable to pay the fee.
If the offender fulfills his obligations – say, by volunteering a certain amount of community service hours erasing graffiti – the case is closed. There's no criminal conviction.
If the offender drops the ball, he or she can end up back in "real" court to face the charges. At the moment, reports Reisig's office, the Davis and UC Davis communities report having held a total of 153 neighborhood court conferences. 95 of those offenders have completed their contract, 28 more are in the process of doing so, and two offenders have dropped the ball.
What kind of offenses has the Davis neighborhood court been handling?
"Keep in mind, Davis is a very different community (from West Sacramento) because of the college students," Reisig commented. "You have a lot of alcohol-related problems. Most common, maybe, are public drunkenness and alcohol possession."
Other offenses eligible for neighborhood court include petty theft, vandalism, public urination, noise violations, battery and resisting arrest.
For a theft conviction, says the Yolo County report, an offender might be told to write a four-page essay on the impacts of shoplifting, along with an apology to the store he or she stole from. To answer a charge of public urination, the offender may agree to spend three hours with a local graffiti abatement team.
West Sacramento may see its neighborhood court addressing a different mix of offenses, although the mix may also include alcohol, he said. To be eligible for neighborhood court, not only does the crime have to be a small one, but the offender can't be on probation or parole, can't have a criminal history and can't be facing other criminal charges.
Local service organizations and nonprofits will be invited to become involved so that offenders serve their penance by performing unpaid public service.
The search for West Sacramento neighborhood court panelists and facilitators begins Feb. 20, with a public workshop from 7 to 9 p.m. at the library (1212 Merkley Avenue). Recruitment and training will follow. The volunteers will serve on a single city-wide court.
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Copyright News-Ledger 2014
A book, in a plain brown wrapper
The local library branch invites you to take a chance. Try a "blind date" with a book: there are a number of titles wrapped mysteriously in brown paper, so you can check one out and take it home to find out what you have. The library is at 1212 Merkley Avenue.
Copyright News-Ledger 2014
How one woman opts out of holiday madness: Daryl's column sheds some light
With another lengthy holiday season finally behind us, I am reminded of a friend who doesn't think too highly of the Christmas holidays and is always thrilled when they are completely over. And she gets especially upset by the fact that they seem to start earlier each year.
"It wasn't even Halloween yet," she told me the other day, "and all the same useless garbage they sell every year during the holidays was already popping up in all the stores, not to mention all the items that were marked `sale' when in reality they weren't truly on sale at all. The whole holiday season has become much too commercialized and I simply refuse to participate in Christmas anymore."
"What do you mean?" I asked with interest.
"Well," she explained, "a few years back I just decided that enough was enough. I was sick of slaving away making Christmas cookies and spending countless hours in crowded shopping malls picking out gifts that just got returned anyway. Plus it was really starting to cause problems for me and my husband."
"Christmas?" I asked, wondering how my favorite holiday could possibly be detrimental to a marriage.
"You see," she continued, "most men just don't realize how much time and effort goes into making the Christmas season the merry old time it's supposed to be. They don't have to do all the shopping, the cooking, the stupid Christmas cards, the thank you notes, nothing. In fact, once the football season is underway, I can't get my husband to do much of anything. You're not like that, are you?"
"Of course not," I lied.
"For instance," she said, "just before Halloween, I took the grandkids over to the local pumpkin patch and I had to chase after them all by myself because my husband's favorite football team was losing by 150 points and he still couldn't get off the couch because he was sure they were going to make a miraculous comeback. Anyway, we always seem to have lots of fights during the holiday season and when we started throwing Christmas ornaments at each other a few years ago, I knew I had to do something."
"So what did you do?" I asked with interest.
"Well," she said matter-of-factly, "now that the kids are all grown and on their own, my husband and I simply don't do Christmas anymore."
"You're kidding?"
"Nope. No more lighted reindeer in the yard, no outrageously expensive Christmas tree to take up half the living room, and best of all, no having over a bunch of relatives and cooking a big dinner for people I can't stand for more than a few hours at a time. We don't even exchange gifts."
"Really?" I asked in awe. "You completely ignore Christmas?"
"That's right, except for going to church, of course. You ought to try it. It's heaven."
"But I don't think I've ever heard of anyone totally ignoring Christmas."
"Believe me, more people are doing it every year. We even leave town. In fact, next Christmas we are going on a cruise. Have you ever been on one?"
"No, I haven't," I admitted.
"Well," she said with excitement in her eyes, "you just float around on a huge boat with all the comforts of home and then every now and then it pulls into a port and you get to spend the whole day going in and out of all these cute little shops. It must be wonderful!"
"Well," I said, knowing that my friend is extremely weight-conscious , "I don't think you want to be taking one of those Alaskan cruises."
"Why do you say that?" she asked with interest. "It's actually right up there on top of our list."
"Well, a friend of mine went on one and said that they served her five meals a day, including lots of fancy desserts, and that she gained ten pounds and came home fat as a cow."
"Ten pounds?" said my friend with horror. "You can't be serious?"
Quickly realizing I had said the wrong thing, I decided to try and change the subject, but for some reason, the following words came tumbling uncontrollably out of my mouth:
"You know, I just read somewhere that there's this new scientific study which shows that women – particularly those of European descent like you – are actually designed not only to store fat, but to resist losing it. In fact, it turns out that women have an enhanced ability to accumulate fat and are supposed to maintain at least a two-to-one fat-ratio to men. You see, these scientists were dissecting these female gorillas, and underneath all that furry skin, particularly around the thighs, they found this really impressive layer of fat. So they asked themselves why that should be and they came up with this new theory – that women just aren't supposed to have thin thighs, narrow hips and flat stomachs. Apparently women were given a body shape by evolution designed to store fat for lactation and hard times. Now, unlike rabbits, who average only four percent body fat because a slow rabbit is a dead rabbit, women are…..
"Stop it!" she suddenly shouted.
"But all I'm saying is that it's just not fair for society to hold women to a low-fat standard of beauty and that you ought to be able to eat anything you want on your holiday cruises."
Although she didn't say so, I got the distinct impression that had a Christmas ornament been available, she would have thrown it at me.
Copyright News-Ledger 2014


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<script type="text/perl" language="perl">
my $text = $document->createNode('p');
$text->{'value'} = 'Hello World';
the full DOM API (including most of DOM2), things like dynamically append and reappend element nodes to different locations within the document. XUL::Node allows you to print elements very easily, but it doesn't let you mess about with that document once its been rendered. Some good documentation on this sort of stuff is along the lines of is to have a look at seamonkey's XPCONNECT ability and the python/ruby xpcom bindings.
What would it mean... well say for example you've got a javascript event that fi
I suppose what i mean is, that XUL::Node is very dependant on their being an external engine which does lots of different bits and bobs. There's also this issue that you're using 2 extra layers (HTTP+JavaScript) which means that it's more prone to error.
We've been doing something similar my current employer, but more on a HTML basis as posed to an XUL one and there are quite a few limitations to the RPC mechanism... for example:
How do you make the software interact with external devices such as barcode


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I have a 2 way trust between 2 forests with a single domain.
If I use PsgetSID from the domain controller in domain B, I can resolve SID to a user object from domain A.
If I try PsgetSID from any server that isnt a dc in domain B to try and resolve the same SID to a user object from domain A, it fails with 'The trust relationship between this workstation and the primary domain failed.'
Usually that message I just reset the secure channel with netdom but with this happening when trying to resolve a SID from the other domain I am not 100% sure what this means.
I have verified DNS works and can resolve the domain and domain controllers.
I have tried some nltest and netdom verify commands and nothing has pointed me to the next breadcrum to check.
Any troubleshooting hints or guides to check? Most every google search with that error doesnt really relate since its not trying to resolve the sid of the domain the server is joined but the trusted domain.
Still troubleshooting this.
Ran wireshark on the a member server in domain B when running psgetSID against a SID from domain A.
All communication was between domain B member server and domain B domain controller. I was hoping to find some blocked ports.
I'm still looking into this.
Some more reading suggests I should look into the trusts some more. I did not originally set this up and admit my trusts knowledge is very rusty.
Is the DC the client is communicating with a GC? I believe resolving foreign SIDs is one of the functions of a GC.
So interestingly enough it was DNS.
At first glance it seemed fine.
I tracked down using MS Network Monitor where the lsass requests were going.
A DC I hadnt tested.... I starting doing simple domain.us nslookups to see it was resolving and pinging correctly.
Come to find out it wasn't. A simple fix and that fixed the entire issue...


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Streaming LIVE from Bolivia!!!!
Posted on by Lindsey Talerico-Hedren in Conversations
The Bolivia bloggers streamed video LIVE last night, August 4, from Cochabamba. Thanks so much for hanging out with us and asking questions. And if you missed it, we have the entire chat recorded here.
Read more posts from the Bolivia bloggers team.


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What Instructors Say About Learning Communities
About living together:
"Most of the students who live together have commented that the residential component is one of the strongest aspects of being in the LC and that they wouldn't want it any other way. Although most of the LC students have bonded very well, the residential group has become very close."
About the transition to Purdue:
"An LC allows for a dimension of trust when beginning to study at a university that students and teachers need. With such trust comes the ability to challenge in constructive ways, a necessary component of learning."
"Since they are in the same classes and get the opportunity to participate in outside activities with each other as well, these students have been able to create a very comfortable and supportive learning environment for each other. Such bonding and support among the students make it likely that they will adapt more easily to life on this campus."
"The students form an amazing bond with each other that serves as a support system. They work together on assignments (when allowed) and frequently study together, which seems to support academic success."
About student/instructor relationships:
"We [instructors] know them and they know us, which helps since many students are afraid that they will just be a number at a big school like Purdue. Knowing a smaller group of students helps us to know specific situations, which allow us to do a better job with them, plus they are more comfortable coming in to ask questions since we have already built that rapport."
"The LC experience has seemed to allow students to become more comfortable with each other, their instructor, and their advisor. They also seem to have a better opportunity to form study groups and friendships. Plus, they have a lot of fun!"
"The students also get to know their teachers better, to see them as real people (at least I hope they do), and they come to realize it's okay to ask questions. I think all students in the first-year should be part of some sort of learning community."


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Another company joins data center rush
Another company has joined the foray into purchasing sites in Loudoun County's famed Data Center Alley.
Columbia, Md.-based Corporate Office Properties Trust officially purchased 34 acres in Ashburn Jan. 15.
COPT purchased the land, located near the intersection of Gloucester Parkway and Loudoun County Parkway, from St. John Properties.
According to the news release from the Loudoun Department of Economic Development, the new campus will serve an investment-grade Fortune 500 company. There are plans for two buildings on the property. COPT plans to start construction on a 200,000-square-foot building early this year, and construction on a second, 115,000-square-foot building by mid-2014.
"We are pleased to be able to meet this customer's need in Northern Virginia, one of COPT's strategic markets," stated COPT President and CEO Roger A. Waesche, Jr.
COPT Senior VP of Government Services Chuck Fiala said in the press release, "We were very impressed with the professionals in Loudoun County and the way they have embraced this project. They've been responsive and thorough, and we look forward to a smooth construction process."
Loudoun's large and growing data center industry has eight million square-feet of space already constructed or currently under construction. Constructed data center space has more than tripled since 2000, according to the Loudoun Department of Economic Development.
Up to 70 percent of the world's Internet traffic passes through Loudoun's data centers each day. The county is home to industry leaders such as Facebook, Microsoft and Amazon.
Loudoun County Department of Economic Development Assistant Director Buddy Rizer explained, "This area of Loudoun County is close to the backbone of the Internet, as well as to Dominion Virginia Power's Beaumeade substation. In addition, there's infrastructure for connection to Loudoun Water's reclaimed water system, which offers data centers operational savings."
In 2012, close to three million square feet of data center space was added to Loudoun's existing 4.5 million square feet of data centers.
The idea that 3/4ths of the world's internet traffic flows through Loudoun is a joke. If that was the case, the internet would have to be designed in a Hub and Spoke method, with Loudoun being the hub and everybody else the spoke. Loudoun is a major internet hub, but it doesn't handle a majority of the world's traffic.
The transformation of Loudoun County from when I worked at Dulles in 1967 is just jaw-dropping. Back then, Route 28 was just two opposing lanes and now it's, what, half-a-mile wide? Good grief!!!
**hear ;)
@RH Understood. And nope, not the same person!
I often here the statistic that 70% or 80% or even more of the world's internet traffic goes through Loudoun data centers. But when I say this to people elsewhere, they laugh it off! Especially folks on the west coast and Asia. Anyone know where this can be validated. I think it's an impressive stat.
ashburnfella, was referring to the comment by mephisto, so unless you are the same person, just ignore…..which is really what I should be doing to the comments on this board and others on this site!!!
Nope. Not skipping to the comments. Definitely reading the article. Just hoping for some meaningful dialog about the actual subject matter and not pounding the author. Sound fair to you RH?
Do some of you people just not read the article, just skip to Post a comment. Where does the writer state that the companies are HQ here? Since he was talking about data centers that what I assumed he meant about MS, Amazon, etc, you people need to get a life.
I'm actually a little surprised to see the DC line of business still booming at this clip, with the advent of VMWare. I guess it's mostly infrasturcture type equipment?
@Citizen - who cares? Is it really that much of an issue? What is your confusion exactly? My take is that "officially purchased" means that the land has been purchased and is on the record as such. i.e. not pending, or under contract or prospective. Hopefully that settles your confusion.
If we keep building data centers, we might need to build a nuclear power plant to feed all those servers. I'm sure Dominion Power is loving it.
While we're on the subject of improving the author's writing…
Sorry, Loudoun isn't home to Amazon. We have an Amazon data center—one of many the company operates worldwide—in Loudoun, but Seattle is home to Amazon and Microsoft and Costco and Nordstroms and Eddie Bauer and Starbucks and….well, you the idea.
Little old lady "CitizenWhoVotes", maybe they were thinking about it and decided to officially buy it. The writer didnt write buy officially. They wrote "officially purchased." They signed the agreement.
Whats the problem?
"Columbia, Md.-based Corporate Office Properties Trust officially purchased 34 acres in Ashburn Jan. 15." That sentence is confusing. How does someone buy "officially"? Is it possible to buy unofficially?
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[Sri Lanka Bloggers] To Sri Lanka with World Vision
Laura Tremaine -- or Hollywood Housewife, as her readers know her -- is going to Sri Lanka with the World Vision blogger team in just a few days.
Following the Bolivia Bloggers trip last year piqued her curiosity, and this year, she has decided to take the leap. Read her thoughts as she prepares for her trip, and follow her journey as we learn what really happens when you sponsor a child through World Vision.
* * *
I'm excited, terrified, and humbled to tell you that this month I'll be a part of the World Vision blogger team headed to Sri Lanka.
I've never done anything like this before. I've never much thought about doing anything like this before.
Last year, a group of World Vision bloggers went to Bolivia. As it happens, I was also invited on that trip, and I was relieved to say no quickly because of my pregnancy.
But a few of my favorite bloggers were on that trip -- including Rachel Held Evans and Nish Weiseth -- and I read their posts from afar, and I couldn't quite shake a feeling.
When World Vision contacted me regarding the opportunity to visit Sri Lanka and see firsthand the relief work there, I didn't have a single reason to turn them down. And I looked for one…
Read the rest of the post on Laura's Blog.
Make sure to check back for continued updates from the bloggers as they prepare for the trip, and follow along from August 26 through 31 as we blog in real time from Sri Lanka.
If you've missed any of our other posts introducing Sri Lanka blogger trip participants, read them here:


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Welcome to Victorian Treasures by Mary! My name is Mary Bogumilll and I am the proprietress of Victorian Treasures by Mary. I would like to take this opportunity to tell you a little about myself.
All through my childhood, I was surrounded by creative women...my mother and grandmothers. Nana DeHart taught me to use a treadle sewing machine and patience. Dandaw Wedekind wove baskets, made jewelry, and just about anything she could imagine -- and let me help and learn at her side. Mom, of course, was a perfectionist about sewing and doing her crafts so there was always something to do. I started making my own doll clothes when I was about six!
My love of Victorian came from our family connection with the Benninghoffen House in Hamilton, Ohio which is now a museum, and where I was allowed to go behind the ropes to try on the original clothing and hats.
My obsession with the clothing of the Civil War happened June 19, 1999 when I went to my very first reenactment -- Grant vs. Lee in Virginia! I remember to the day since there was no turning back after that event! There were about 90 Sutlers and I visited each one at least twice, some of the three times, and decided then and there that I wanted to create the wonderful garments I saw for someone just like you.
I do a considerable amount of research about this time period and I collect original pieces from underpinnings to outerwear, millinery and periodicals and use the same construction techniques and materials (or as close as possible) in my creations.
My promise to my customers is that I will strive to the best of my abilities to create your items to fit well and be as outwardly accurate as possible. (Unless otherwise agreed upon, all seams are machine finished to prevent fraying.) I use the most common historical technique of construction which is flat or where the lining and fashion fabric are treated as one piece. Skirts (except for ball gowns) have a 6 to 12 inch dust or mud panel inside and hem tape. Bodices are boned and eyelets are hand sewn.
I prefer to do a personal fitting where muslin is cut and fit to the torso which is included in the construction price. There is no discount when a fitting is not done.
There will be additional charges for trims, some notions, hand finishing seams or anything out of the ordinary or more elaborate designs than what is shown.
I look forward to working with you in the near future.
Your Obedient Servant,
Mary Bogumill


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congratulations, your block looks wonderful!
thank you. I am loving this hobby called quilting.
plesse tell me what an HST ruler is. I have difficulty getting the line corner to corner.
thank you
plesse tell me what an HST ruler is. I have difficulty getting the line corner to corner.
lynn - This is what it looks like http://www.junetailor.com/Assets/PDF/JT-732_halfsquaretriangles_instructions.pdf. got mine yesterday and love it, had already cut out the blocks but made marking and then cutting after sewing much easier.
"I'm just a poor soul who's intentions are good. Oh, Lord, Please don't let me be misunderstood."
Debbie (dear1953)
Very pretty Debbie. Sorry you had so much trouble.
Lynn - I found it on ebay for half that pice on JuneTaylor store - pd $12.63 with S/H.
Lynn - love the colors on your blocks - so bright and friendly looking. Very nice!
As you can see I get bored easily and keep changing the Needle Case Whimsies as I call them. the ladies get a kick out of the new ones Icome up with for them to sell. It is a game.
I finally finished the block. If I can find the information on making the big heart I may make it also.
Ti2, those are beautiful!
Debbie, I'm the Ripping Queen!! Don't you go trying to steal my title!! Your blocks look really nice...very pretty!
Debbie very pretty block . good job.


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Hello everyone !
The Beer Team would like to extend an invitation to all BMW Clubs planning to attend Sedalia to consider working a shift at the BG, and have a good time meeting people. With Missouri so central, there must be many of you planning on coming, and doing so as clubs. Bring your banner and hang it up while you pour the beer. Let everyone know who you are! We already have Team Minnesota signed up. So let's hear from you !!
Of course, individuals are also more than welcome. Just come !
"The beer must flow!!
Thank you all in advance, for all past and future help.
Jim Faucher aka MAD DOG
National Beer Garden Chair


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MISSION VIEJO – A deputy with 13 years of experience was in serious but stable condition after losing control of his patrol car and crashing into a light post early Monday morning, officials said.
The deputy, whose name has not been released, was thrown from the patrol car from the impact and suffered a head injury. He was initially said to be in critical condition, but sheriff's officials said he was responsive.
Investigators believe speed, a wet roadway surface and foggy, misty conditions all contributed to the crash.
The crash occurred about 3 a.m. while the deputy was driving south on Marguerite Parkway, near Vista del Lago.
Based on a preliminary investigation, members of the department's major accident reconstruction team believe the deputy was not wearing a seatbelt while driving between 70 and 75 miles per hour on a roadway that was wet due to nearby sprinklers in foggy and misty conditions that may have impacted visibility, said Capt. Jim Rudy, who oversees the department's South Operations.
The normal speed limit for that stretch of Marguerite is 45 mph, Rudy said. The Sheriff's Department has a policy requiring that seatbelts be worn in moving vehicles, Rudy added.
The deputy had reportedly not been assigned to a call by dispatchers at the time of the crash.
"There could have been self-initiated activity," Rudy said, though it was not determined if that was the case.
The deputy joined the department in 1999 and was assigned to patrol Mission Viejo in 2008.
Crashes involving the Orange County Sheriff's Department are often investigated by the California Highway Patrol, a common practice to avoid the appearance of conflict of interest.
The Sheriff's Department has a policy of asking CHP to investigate crashes that involve deputies when they involve additional vehicles, or a fatality, said Gail Krause, spokeswoman for the department.
In this case, she said, the department could investigate the crash in-house, she said.
Asked if any other agencies were called to investigate the crash, Rudy said, the department decided to keep the investigation within the Sheriff's Department.
The crash shut down both sides of Marguerite Parkway for more than four hours. The street was reopened around 9 a.m.
The deputy was being treated at Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo.
Contact the writer: email@example.com or 714-704-3788


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There is no way that Rex starts Sanchez at home on Sunday. He just cant.
Last edited by sec.101row23; 12-18-2012 at 10:55 AM.
The reason for starting Mcelroy should be to win games and to understand as much as you can about him before this offseason. We need to find a QB and if they think McElroy has no chance at starting next year, then get rid of him. At least we'll get a couple of games to help make that determination.
Mark Sanchez gives this team its best shot at a top 10 draft pick.
He better start.
Feel bad for Jet Nation.
Stuck with Suckchez due to $$$$$$$$$ next year.
Tebow isn't the answer and has another couple of years.
McElroy is an unknown.
They have to find out what McElroy brings to the table. They already KNOW what the other 2 QB's bring. No playoffs so the worst that can happen by starting McElroy is improving draft position.
Jets probably won't draft a QB early in April but sign one that's already on a roster somewhere.
What a Muckin Fess
There is no way Sanchez starts on Sunday. As a matter of fact, I think Tebow and McElroy dress.
Who cares that Sanchez is on the team next year. People act like they HAVE to start him due to that fact.
He'll be here because of the money, but he'll absolutely not be starting.
Oh how I wish this SD game was still on national TV so the FO can be embarrassed again.
If Sanchez does go---I'm going to remember Sanchez him as the guy who was handed a loaded team and then had it drop out on him piece by piece until he was no longer good enough to lead it.


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Kit Carson Mountain > Outward Bound Couloir > Climber's Log
Outward Bound Couloir Climber's Log
[ Sign the Climber's Log ]
|Early Spring
Date Climbed: Apr 26, 2009
|A group climb with 4 other friends including Cheeseburgler (Craig), Gabe, Stephanie and Jin, Gabe's uncle. Met Ted & Christy Mahon on top. Great climb. Short but I'd agree with Sarah. This is not a 'steep' snow climb in my book. But fun none-the-less!
|Posted Mar 6, 2013 7:28 pm
|Airy but solid
Date Climbed: Jul 25, 2009
|I climbed this in conjunction with Kit Carson and Challenger Point. After coming over from Challenger, I hit Kit Carson and then down climbed towards the start of Kit Carson Avenue but instead went left towards Columbia Point. I went up a small gully and through a windowed rock and to the top of the Outward Bound Couloir. From here, I followed cairns to the very first gully that goes straight up the fin in between Kit Carson and Columbia Point. At the top of this fin I realized that I maybe went too high but stuck with the route and did some class 5 down-climbing to the next section of the fin and then up to the top of the fin where it connects to the actual mountain. From there it was relatively simply class 3 stuff similar to Crestone Needle. I was unable to locate the plaque on the summit.
|Posted Jul 28, 2009 1:08 am
|What an aesthetic and direct route!
Date Climbed: May 11, 2008
|Under the current conditions, I'm not sure that this climb warrents Roach's "steep" designation. I didn't measure the slope, but it didn't feel like it exceeded 45 degrees. Near the top (Kat Carson - Columbia saddle), we took the narrow left hand branch and some easy mixed climbing put us directly under the summit. The exposure here was serious and the slabby, steep rock was covered in slippery, powdery snow in places so we protected the remainder of the 3rd-4th class climb. I was shocked when I popped up directly on the summit! Very cool. To descend, we reveresed our route. Downclimbing the couloir was relatively easy. For future reference, this was a huge snow year in the Sangres. Typically there is less snow this time of year.
|Posted May 12, 2008 3:48 pm


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text:
What are the job responsibilities of a General and Operations Manager? What does an individual in this position get paid in Oregon?
Here is the position summary for General and Operations Manager as found in BLR's Salary Finder:
Plan, direct, or coordinate the operations of companies or public and private sector organizations. Duties and responsibilities include formulating policies, managing daily operations, and planning the use of materials and human resources, but are too diverse and general in nature to be classified in any one functional area of management or administration, such as personnel, purchasing, or administrative services. Include owners and managers who head small business establishments whose duties are primarily managerial.
In Oregon, the midpoint of salaries reported for the position (50th percentile) is $90,821. The 75th percentile (the rate below which 75% of salary data falls) is $129,195. The 25th percentile (the rate below which 25% of the data falls) is $64,211.
Get full salary data for General and Operations Manager, including data for your industry, geographic region or metro area and employer size. Get full access to your detailed salary information now!
How much should you pay a General and Operations Manager?
Compensation.BLR.com, a leading provider of compensation data, scores this job as exempt (not entitled to overtime). According to Compensation.BLR.com's rate ranges, grade 38 has a minimum of $70,130. The midpoint is $93,507, and the maximum is $116,884.
How much should an employer be paying a General and Operations Manager in Oregon? It depends on many factors, but the most important are the experience and skills of the employee or applicant. Answer these questions: How much experience does he or she have? How highly skilled is he or she? Then, use the table below. Interpolate as necessary.


text:
After pain-free BP, LaRoche set for return
By Bill Ladson / MLB.com
PITTSBURGH -- After playing two rehab games with Class A Advanced Potomac and Double-A Harrisburg, Adam LaRoche rejoined the Nationals on Saturday and took batting practice with the team without any problems.
LaRoche is currently on the 15-day disabled list because of a right quad strain, but he will be activated to play on Sunday, according to manager Matt Williams.
"I got to test it in a game the last two days between Potomac and Harrisburg," LaRoche said. "I can't really feel it. I can't even say that it's just tight or even sore. I didn't feel it at all. I'm really surprised that it was gone. As bad as it hurt and from what we could see from the MRI, I didn't think with a week off it would make it go away."
LaRoche's biggest test came while he was with Harrisburg. One of the Senators hitters almost hit LaRoche in the dugout with a flying bat. LaRoche got out of the way quickly and knew he was ready to play.
"There was a left-handed hitter up and the [hitter] swings and he let's go of the bat and it's flying at LaRoche in the dugout," Williams said. "He ducked and got out of the way. He felt good about that. The bat hit a Gatorade cooler and ripped the nozzle off. He had Gatorade all over his back, so he is ready to go."
LaRoche was one of the hottest hitters on the Nationals when he was placed on the disabled list on May 11, hitting .319 with five home runs and 21 RBIs.
"Hopefully, that's a boost for us. We are glad to have him back," Williams said about LaRoche.
With LaRoche coming back, the Nationals optioned infielder Zach Walters to Triple-A Syracuse. The Nationals want him to get consistent at-bats in the Minor Leagues.
"He is a young player and he has been pressed into action because of [our need in the big leagues]. It's important for him to get at-bats," Williams said. "He did some really good things for us, but it's good for him to get back down and get some consistent ABs."
Strasburg discusses rash of arm injuries in league
PITTSBURGH -- Nationals right-hander Stephen Strasburg is not a doctor, but he was asked why so many pitchers were having Tommy John surgery lately. Strasburg didn't mention any particular player, but he is concerned about how future pitchers are being used at a young age, especially during travel ball season, which is played year round.
"Even during the offseason, I go watch my buddy's travel team and the team they are facing, they bring this kid in," Strasburg said. "It's December and he throws 120 pitches in four innings. [There is this other kid] who threw 190 pitches in 14 innings in high school. That whole mindset of travel ball and high school, it's becoming such a year-round sport. Pitchers at 9 years old are exclusively pitchers, not playing any other positions. For me, at that age, I played other positions, too.
"I think that whole change of it has become more of a job at a younger age and kids not understanding or having the resources of learning how to take care of their bodies. You see these kids, they feel great and never get sore, so they keep throwing. It's like taking money out of the bank and not putting anything back in."
Strasburg had Tommy John surgery in 2010, but it had nothing to do with him pitching year round. He sprained his medial collateral ligament on the second to last day of the 2009 Arizona Fall League season and it affected his ability to prepare for the 2010 season. Strasburg couldn't run or lift weights with his lower body. In fact, he couldn't do anything until four weeks before Spring Training.
It seems unbelievable because he was dominant in the Major and Minor Leagues in '10. Who can forget his Major League debut against the Pirates on June 8, 2010? He allowed two runs in seven innings and struck out 14 batters. His last game was Aug. 21 against the Phillies that year.
"I didn't have my legs under me when I got called up," Strasburg said. "You have so much more adrenaline going on. You are not used to it. You are reaching back on every pitch, trying to make every pitch better. You don't need to go and try to throw 100 [mph] every time. You are out there trying to do it, especially with the young guys. They might be able to. Locating the fastball a little bit better, try to change speeds a little bit more -- just understanding the situation will definitely help you. Having veterans in the clubhouse, I've been able to learn those things. In the course of the season, it adds up."
Strasburg also said he didn't take care of his arm during off-days while he was in the Minors.
"I was throwing every single day until I got called up. The plan was to condition my arm and get it in shape. As you know, during the course of the season, guys use the off-day to their advantage. It's great not to pick up a baseball and recharge your batteries."
Gio throws on flat ground without discomfort
WASHINGTON -- Nationals left-hander Gio Gonzalez threw on flat ground for the first time since he was placed on the disabled list this past Sunday because of left shoulder inflammation. He threw for only a few minutes, but didn't complain about discomfort in the shoulder.
Gonzalez will throw on flat ground again Sunday at PNC Park. Manager Matt Williams didn't give any timetable as to when Gonzalez will be activated from the disabled list.
"He'll stretch it out a little bit more tomorrow and look to getting back on the mound," Williams said.
Bill Ladson is a reporter for MLB.com and writes an MLBlog, All Nats All the time. He also can be found on Twitter @WashingNats. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


text: Is there a way I (we?) can make the leather grip tacky again? Mine has become very slippery after re-gripping my racket a few times using the same leather, and the grip is new. I removed it to make adjustments to the over-lap twice and adjustments to the butt-end - twice, I think - and since then it became so smooth and slippery. Any suggestions? I play with leather and no over-grip. BTW, for more info, grip is Gamma leather, brand new. Haven't played yet and it has already become very smooth and slippery.


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GRAMMYs On The Road At SXSW With Eve 6 And Blackalicious
The Recording Academy Texas Chapter played host for GRAMMYs On The Road At South by Southwest during the conference's 26th annual installment from March 9–18 in Austin, Texas. The Chapter conducted exclusive backstage interviews with artists participating during the music portion of the conference, including punk/pop group Eve 6 and rap act Blackalicious.
Eve 6 discussed the band's evolution, social media, favorite GRAMMY moments, and their forthcoming album, Speak In Code, among other topics.
"We kind of never really stopped," said vocalist/bassist Max Collins. "We took on slightly different forms here and there with different bands and projects, and then had the realization that we are Eve 6 and there's this tremendously awesome and valuable fan base out there that's interested in hearing what we do. So why are we calling ourselves these weird other band names when we can just be Eve 6?"
Eve 6 were formed in Southern California in 1995 by Collins and guitarist Jon Siebels. The group added drummer Tony Fagenson and, after graduating from high school, released their self-titled debut album in 1998. The album climbed to No. 33 on the Billboard 200 and was certified platinum on the strength of the hit single "Inside Out." Horrorscope followed in 2000 and peaked at No. 34 on the Billboard 200 thanks in part to the teen anthem "Here's To The Night." The trio released It's All In Your Head in 2003 before parting ways. The band reformed in 2011 and will release their first album in nine years, Speak In Code, on April 24.
Blackalicious' discussed music mentors, musical influences, current projects they're working on, their career goals, and biggest career moments, among other topics.
"Throughout our career we've always been about building on a foundation," said Blackalicious' Chief Xcel. "For us [that's] making classic hip-hop that just builds on all of our influences."
Formed in Davis, Calif., by Gift of Gab (Timothy Parker) and Chief Xcel (Xavier Mosley) in the early '90s, Blackalicious' sound features the "positive" side of hip-hop, with lyrics that are often spiritual and uplifting showcases. In 1994 the duo released their debut single "Swan Lake" on Solesides Records, garnering attention from the underground rap community. In 1995 Blackalicious released their first EP, Melodica, followed by a second EP, A2G, in 1999. The following year the group released their full-length debut album, Nia. Blazing Arrow followed in 2002 and featured guest appearances by Ben Harper, Rage Against The Machine's Zack de la Rocha, the Roots' ?uestlove and the late Gil Scott-Heron. The album peaked at No. 49 on the Billboard 200. Their most recent release, 2005's The Craft, peaked at No. 5 on Billboard's Independent Albums chart and featured a guest appearance by GRAMMY-nominated artist Marsha Ambrosius. Blackalicious are currently working on a new album, scheduled for release in November.
Come back to GRAMMY.com tomorrow for more exclusive backstage interviews from GRAMMYs On The Road At SXSW.


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Free warranty
Wow! A whole year of free waranty.
Quick, let me send all my personal details. I've sent my credit card details as well just incase they need to "process" my prize, as they usually do.
Where is the Paris Hilton angle?
Our very own John Lettice was very pleased with himself earlier this afternoon since he'd just been handed a shiny new Beemer 5 series and a whopping $850k. Yes, we know what you're thinking - "That's completely ridiculous, why on earth would BMW give away a car and a big, big suitcase full of cash?" Well, it must be true, …
Wow! A whole year of free waranty.
Quick, let me send all my personal details. I've sent my credit card details as well just incase they need to "process" my prize, as they usually do.
Where is the Paris Hilton angle?
He may not be the proud owner of a new BMW + cash but he's still a 'Lucky Email Owner'.
I never get lucky email to own.
Whatever happened to superior Bavarian engineering. Even Skodas come with 3 year warranty these days.
Why are they picking on Stamford, it's a lovely part of the country and only an idiot would think that
22 Garden Close,
Stamford Lincs,
United Kingdom
Mind you I live in Belgium, so what do I know...
Surely the promise of ANYTHING free from BMW is enough to show that this email is bogus??
Im curious. How do they convert that information into cash?
Theres no account info or bank details or anything.?
Hmm me thinks this car is also made in Lagos. Even "American" made car's built and shipped to the US come with a 5 to 7 year bumper to bumper warranty. but the suitcase of cash is probably to cover all the repairs that will fall outside of the one year warranty. Lastly since it has not been spoken yet. Where is the I/T angle on this?
With the details they have asked for, they can get credit, be it cards loan etc.. all against the senders name.
This is what everyone forgets, It's not just bank details they need.
If you're curious, why not send off your details - See if they can manage it.
You would think that only one prize of this magnitude would be offered. Then again, if there is more than one winner (based on how many emails went out) it would likely bankrupt the company. Now if Microsoft would send out these offers and add in $800k+ of loot to all the email addresses listed it might work, they DO have a bunch of cash.
Let's see: New headline: "Microsoft cash award might bankrupt company" Put your short sales in now. Stock will go down.
Ah.... two scams in one. Where is the PDF file and audio track.
yeah, and it's interesting that whenever I want something from the bank, they check and double check and triple check whether it's me and indeed me changing my (and only my) address. So one definitely wants to ask the question of: HOW. (not looking for an answer here, I think everyone gets my point)
Check out "419 eater" on google... it's a site where people bait the scammers, pretending to be taken in by the ruse, then publish the finished bait on the forums. Most education :)
You can bet there'd be an 'admin fee' to pay somewhere along the line if you were so extraordinarily stupid to try to claim this unbelievable prize.
... All a scam....
...I can't get a free BMW to go with my millions of dollars that I'm going to get from the guy who's trying to get all his money out before it gets nabbed by the government..
.. And all those mortgages I've been approved of, what about them???
Oh this is all so disappointing..
This scam is obviously aimed only at coke dealers, pimps and middle managers.
Where's the IT angle? It's an email claiming the recipient has won a prize. Google "Advanced Fee Scam".
It's a 419 variant, therefore an IT issue.


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This past weekend [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]Aerosmith[/lastfm] drummer [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]Joey Kramer[/lastfm] made an appearance on the season finale of The Simpsons. It's not his first visit to Springfield either. He and the band played Moe's when it went under the name "Flaming Moe's" for one episode in Season Three.
Although it's impossible to find on a map, Springfield's been a popular stop over the years for bands ranging from the [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]Beatles[/lastfm] to [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]Metallica[/lastfm], to [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]U2[/lastfm].
1. The Ramones in "Rosebud" (Season Five)
Mr. Burns confuses the band for the [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]Rolling Stones[/lastfm] at his birthday party and orders Smithers to have the [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]Rolling Stones[/lastfm] killed.
2. Red Hot Chili Peppers in "Krusty Gets Kancelled" (Season Four)
After Krusty the Klown's show gets canceled, the Simpsons recruit his celebrity friends, including [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]Red Hot Chili Peppers[/lastfm], to appear on a comeback special.
3. U2 in "Trash of the Titans" (Season Nine)
Homer decides to run for sanitation commissioner. As part of his hapless campaign, he hijacks a [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]U2[/lastfm] concert to get his message across.
4. The Rolling Stones in "How I Spent My Strummer Vacation" (Season 14)
Homer goes to a rock fantasy camp run by the [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]Rolling Stone[/lastfm]s' [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]Mick Jagger[/lastfm] and [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]Keith Richards[/lastfm].
5. Metallica in "The Mook, the Chef, the Wife and Her Homer" (Season 18)
Otto spots the [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]Metallica[/lastfm]'s broken down bus and offers them a ride, which they kindly decline. They do take a ride from Hans Moleman though.
6. Aerosmith in "Flaming Moe's" (Season Three)
The band hits the stage after being offered free pickled eggs by Moe and proceed to play "Walk This Way."
7. R.E.M. in "Homer the Moe" (Season 13)
Unhappy with the uppity clientele that Moe is trying to attract with his bar makeover, Homer starts up a competing pub in his garage and invites [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]R.E.M.[/lastfm] to perform.
8. The Who in "A Tale of Two Springfields" (Season 12)
Homer splits Springfield in two, forming the poorly managed New Springfield. As a way to make the other Springfield jealous, Homer fools [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]the Who[/lastfm] into playing a concert for New Springfield.
9. The Beatles
Ringo Starr in "Brush with Greatness" (Season Two)
Ringo responds to Marge's fan letter form 1966.
George Harrison in "Homer's Barbershop Quartet" (Season Five)
In a spoof of "Meet the Beatles" Homer's singing group hit is big and then unravels. Homer meets [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]George Harrison[/lastfm], but it more interested in the brownie he's eating. It ends with them singing on the rooftop of Moe's bar as Harrison passes by and shouts "It's been done!"
Paul McCartney – "Lisa the Vegetarian" (Season Seven)
[lastfm link_type="artist_info"]Paul McCartney[/lastfm] and then-wife Linda McCartney appear at the roof of the Kwik-E-Mart to give Lisa guidance of being a vegetarian. In the end they ask her if she like to hear a song, Lisa is thrilled and agrees.
10. Green Day – "The Simpsons Movie"
The band headlines the Duff beer summer concert, giving a punk rock makeover to the show's theme song. The crowd gets rowdy and revolts when the band wants to talk about the environment, and they go down with their stage which is devoured by the town's toxic river.


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Ok, so looking at the knicks needs, outside of the obvious need for a 2nd legitimate superstar scoring option *cough*MELO*cough* we need two things. a Big that can run the floor, space well, defend and rebound and a back up PG option to lead the second unit and give Felton (or billuos) a rest.
Now there are a lot of guards in the league and not all of them are built to run in this system. As we are also looking at staying flexible in terms of the cap, we are looking for a relatively cheap option.
I think the best case scenario for the Knicks was TD getting it. But it appears he is much more of a combo guard option leaning more on the SG side of things.
Who else is out there that falls into our niche? a cheap servicable back up PG that isn't going to mess with the chemistry or the offensive flow, preferably an above average perimeter defender.
I have heard Chris Poohon's name thrown out there. I don't like this option for a few reasons. 1. he gets paid more then he deserves. 2. His individual play and decision making is questionable (not good for a pg) 3. he knows the system but was really only able to get anything going with D.Lee if we want a 2nd unit leader it should be someone who can get wing players involved more. 4. he is turnover prone.
So can someone else provide me with some players to watch out for? I know houston has a few guard that i'd like, but outside of that i'm drawing a blank. thoughts?


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UNHCR is not responsible for the content and availability of non-UNHCR websites. Content displays in a new window.
Council Decision of 21 February 2006 on the conclusion of the Agreement between the European Community and the Kingdom of Denmark extending to Denmark the provisions of Council Regulation (EC) No 343/2003 establishing the criteria and mechanisms for determining the Member State responsible for examining an asylum application lodged in one of the Member States by a third-country national
and Council Regulation (EC) No 2725/2000 concerning the establishment of 'Eurodac' for the comparison of fingerprints for the effective application of the Dublin Convention
21 February 2006 | Publisher: European Union: Council of the European Union | Document type: Regional Legislation


text:
This is the impervious carry on with a built-in stand for comfortably viewing a tablet while waiting during the inevitable delays encountered while traveling. The hard-sided 22" suitcase�made from the same shock-absorbing polycarbonate-composite used in automobile bumpers�has a stand near the handle that props up a tablet in portrait or landscape mode, holding it at eye level for reading, watching movies, or surfing the Internet while seated. The stand fits virtually all tablets and locks the device into place, sparing users from the arm strain of holding up the screen or the stress of fighting fellow travelers for elusive table space. When it is time to board, the telescoping aluminum handle collapses and locks with one button, and the lightweight suitcase hoists easily into an airplane�s overhead bin. A lined interior keeps belongings organized with a zippered divider. With four swiveling wheels and a combination lock. Silver. 22" H x 14 1/2" W x 10 1/2" D. (6 lbs.)
Lifetime Guarantee
The Tablet Stand Carry On comes with The Hammacher Schlemmer Lifetime Guarantee. If this product ever disappoints you, for any reason, you may return your Hammacher Schlemmer purchase for exchange, credit, or refund.
Should you have any questions, we are available seven days a week (8:00 am – midnight EST). Please call 1-800-321-1484 to speak with a specialist or email us at firstname.lastname@example.com to receive a response within three business hours or less.
May we recommend:
COPYRIGHT © 2018 HAMMACHER SCHLEMMER & COMPANY, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. W103147 E. 57th ST • NEW YORK, NY • 10022 • 1-800-_321-1484


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one large white onion, chopped
fuckeloade of diced garlic
three pounds of course-ground beef, sirloin + chuck mix
two cans of Goya beans, one pink, one red
olive oil
half cup rye or whisky
one bottle porter
five dried guajillo chiles
five dried ancho chiles
three dried chipotle chiles
ten dried arbol chiles
two teaspoons cumin
two teaspoons coriander
two teaspoons oregano
two teaspoons black pepper
two bay leaves
two large cans crushed san marzano tomatoes
diced white onions and grated Spring Brook Farm Vermont Tarentaise, for garnish
Here's the chiles. Remove the stems and seeds from the guajillos, anchos, and chipotles. Remove the stems from the arbols. You can keep as many or as few of the seeds from the arbols as you want, as they contain much of their heat (the other chiles are very mild). Rinse all the chiles off in cold water, and then reconstitute them in a pot with a few cups of boiled water after turning off the heat, stirring occasionally for about a half hour.
Here's the meat, porter, and rye. The butcher was so pleased with his sirloin + chuck mix, that he popped a chunk of the raw ground meat in his mouth while he was weighing it out!
Sautee the onions and garlic with the cumin, coriander, oregano, and black pepper in plenty of olive oil until the onions and garlic are really soft and starting to caramelize.
Put all the reconstituted chiles and plenty of the chile tea into the blender and blend the living fucke out of itte.
Add the meat to the pot, turn the heat to high, and sautee the meat until it is browned nicely.
Deglaze with the rye and porter.
Add the blended chiles and bring to a boil.
Add the tomatoes and the bay leaves, salt to taste (taking account of the planned reduction in volume while cooking), bring to a boil, and then turn down to a low-medium simmer. Depending on how liquidy it is at this point, you should decide whether to cover the pot or not. This batch was pretty liquidy, so I simmered with the lid off so that it would reduce and thicken nicely. Continue to simmer with occasional stirring for at least two hours, and preferably more. Mine simmered for about four hours.
About one hour before you are ready to eat, add the beans, draining all of the bean juice first. Continue to simmer until you are ready to eat. This picture is after it's done and ready to eat. Add salt if needed.
Serve in a bowl, garnishing with onion and tarentaise. This fucken shittee was motherfucken delicioso!!!!


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I'm having a hard time getting my head over this mental fence. My website supports CGI & Perl, but I'm having a hard time setting up the most basic form mailer process.
I know there's a few different steps involved.
The form sends the informaiton to a script/program to get formatted.
Another script/program sends the informaiton to me.
Seems simple enough...maybe I'm getting dodgy websites.
Somebody want to help me out with some basics, possibly even showing me a complete, fully working form-to-email process(bare bones)? I don't want to rely on free web mailers anymore. ZERO versatility..and what if the mailer location goes under? Heh, woops.
I'd like to write myself, and configure, and expierment, etc....but I can't seem to get even that far.
Help/guidance please


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Padres deal Ludwick to Pirates at Deadline
Outfielder headed to Pittsburgh for player to be named or cash
By Corey Brock / MLB.com
Ludwick, who is hitting .238 with 11 home runs and a team-best 64 RBIs, was shipped to the Pirates for a player to be named later.
Ludwick, who turned 33 on July 13 and can play left and right field, will be a free agent following the season. He's making $6.775 million this season.
Ludwick was in the original starting lineup for Sunday's game against the Rockies, but he was later scratched.
"I had everything on, ready to go," Ludwick said, smiling.
Instead, Ludwick found himself heading back to the National League Central, where he spent parts of four seasons with the Cardinals from 2007-10.
"I'm going to another team that has a chance to make the playoffs," Ludwick said. "I'm going back to the NL Central, a division I'm familiar with and a ballpark where I've done pretty well."
The Padres obtained Ludwick on July 31 of last season as part of a three-team and four-player deal. The hope was that Ludwick would give the Padres another middle-of-the-order bat for the pennant run and to ease the burden on Adrian Gonzalez.
Ludwick hit .211 with six home runs and 26 RBIs after the trade, and admitted in Spring Training that he was pressing too much and that his swing got "too loopy."
"Unfortunately, I sort of stunk up the joint last year," he said.
While only with the Padres for one calendar year, Ludwick certainly made an impression on his teammates.
"I think other than David Eckstein, he's [Ludwick] as professional a teammate as I have been around," said Padres catcher Nick Hundley. "His ability to come to the park every day and no matter whether he's going or if he's going bad ... he's still a great teammate.
"He never complains, he never pouts, he goes out there and plays hard and he plays hurt. There are just a lot of things he brings to the table as far as being a great clubhouse guy. Those are the kind of guys you want on your team."
San Diego general manager Jed Hoyer said that trading Ludwick "clears up a spot for a young player to get some at-bats." On Sunday, that player was Kyle Blanks, who was added to the lineup when Ludwick was scratched.
Hoyer also indicated that outfielder Aaron Cunningham will be at PETCO Park on Monday for the start of a series against the Dodgers. Cunningham is hitting .329 with nine home runs and 63 RBIs this season with Triple-A Tucson.
Oddly enough, the Padres open a three-game series in Pittsburgh on Friday, which will give Ludwick a chance to face his former teammates.
"We had a great group here, but it's unfortunate we didn't win," Ludwick said of his time with the Padres. "Bud Black ... I don't know if there's a better manager to play for. I will never say anything bad about this organization."
Corey Brock is a reporter for MLB.com. Keep track of @FollowThePadres on Twitter. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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"The third party Wii U controller that claims to be a remote, classic controller and pro controller must infringe on several Nintendo patents. But is it any good?" - Wii U Daily
That just looks awkward as hell. Just make a snes wiiu controller.
I've heard of a few technical issues with the buttons and compatibility. Still looks nice though; I want to try it for myself at some point.
I've been using this controller to play Xenoblade Chronicles on my Wii-U.
I had been looking forward to playing this game for a long time, but when I heard you could not backwards play using the gamepad or pro controller, I was super disappointed. I hate that wii controller you have to plug into the Wii-Mote to be wireless.
I then came across this controller which is compatible with Wii&Wii-U. It was the answer to my prayer to play an upscaled Xenoblade. I instantly fell in love with the design and as I don't buy 3rd party controllers, I was really surprised at how comfortable it was to hold.
It's not a perfect controller, but if you have a Wii-U and want to play games like Xenoblade, Monster Hunter and The Last Story, this controller is fantastic. It is also handy that it can double as a wii-mote as it makes it easy to get from the Wii-U menu, and into the Wii Menu. (if the lights don't come on in the wii menu, you just have to push the reset button.)
For that particular use in mind, i'd review @ 8/10
No thanks. I'm shooting for the Nyko Pro Commander Wii U controller.
I will stick with the stylish Gamepad *stares daggers at the ugly controller*


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" Brand: Absolut / Type: Vodka "
* Prices may differ from that shown
Absolut Vanilla Vodka offers a unique and sweetened vodka which is very easy to drink! It is universal in the fact that it can be drank straight as the vanilla flavour overpowers the strength of the vodka if it was served alone. It can be added to cocktails to offer a sweeter taste, a porn-star martini is a great example on how this is used with bitter fruit juices to offer a bitter sweet concoction.
It is very sweet with coke and such other sugar filled fizzy drinks. You would probably appreciate the taste more with Coke zero or diet coke/Pepsi.
The bottle is very sophisticated, served in a frosted class with a unique twist lid.
This is my favourite spirit due to the versatility, sweetness and how easy it is to drink. I normally hold my breath when I drink vodka due to the strength but this is by far a better alternative.
A vanilla flavoured vodka from Absolut.
The vanilla flavour is strong enough to make the vodka less harsh so I can drink it without a mixer but it is still vodka so is a very strong tasting drink. There's a caramel flavour in the vodka as well and it's nice to find this flavour under the vanilla and actual vodka taste.
I like Absolut Vanilla vodka because it has got such a nice sweet flavour. It's hard to mix because the vanilla taste is overwhelmed by strong mixers, I tried it with orange juice once but that covered the taste of the vanilla completely. Coca Cola is nice mixed with it but not Diet Coke because that gives the vanilla a funny taste. Plain mineral water takes off the heat of the vodka and makes a nice long drink with ice.
It has got 40% alcohol so you shouldn't drink too much of it, it is easy to be loose with it though because it tastes so nice. It gives me a very bad headache the next day so I always remember that and never drink enough to get too tipsy. The vanilla flavour gets very rich after two glasses and then I think it gets sickly and that is usually the time when I decide I have had enough and switch to another drink, I like to drink Absolut vanilla vodka with a meal when I am dining out but not with food at home. When drinking it outside the home I have it over lots of ice and allow the ice to melt very slightly.
I like the bottle and it has hardly changed since I first started buying it ten years ago. It was one of my favourites for a few years but now I think it is too hard to mix so do not buy it very often, I like to add it to hot chocolate but that is only when I already have a bottle and would not buy it just for doing that.
4 Dooyoo Stars.
Absolut Vanilia Vodka is part of the Absolut Vodka range and is 40% abv (80% proof). The Vodka comes in a clear glass bottle with white writing on the bottle indicating that the vodka is imported and that Absolut have been blending and producing vodka since 1879. Absolut Vanilia is made from natural ingredients, rather that flavouring as is there case with other products on the market. The vodka does not contain any added sugar.
Absolut Vanilia in available in supermarkets and off-licenses and a 700ml bottle can be purchased from Amazon for £19.99 plus £4.95 p & p (October 2012).
The Vodka is not coloured, which is clear from the looking at the bottle. The vodka is smooth to taste, has a nice warming, vanilla, butterscotch finish and unlike some cheaper vodkas does not taste unnatural or of chemicals, the use of real ingredients really does make the vodka pleasant to drink, on its own over ice and if added to a mixer, I usually just use a diet lemonade, it adds a nice addition to the drink, plus it makes it longer. When consumed neat the vodka is good to drink and it does not leave a nasty after taste or make you feel like you are drinking neat alcohol.
The vodka smells full of vanilla and is very rich and creamy on the nose, it has very strong aroma that just makes you want to drink it, but the strength of the aroma does not impair the overall flavour and as you drink it you are treated to warm butterscotch flavours that warm you up inside on a cold day and make you feel a little light headed if consumed in large quantities.
Overall, if you like vodka I would recommend giving this a try, it's a nice twist on a pretty well known brand, it mixes well and can be used in all the usual ways, such as drinking it neat, adding to a mixer or in a cocktail. The price is fairly reflective of other similar brands and the bottle looks good too.
Super premium Swedish Vodka blended with vanilla. A clean intense aroma.


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"The Blessings Course made me realize how sacred life is, how sacred every breath you take is, and how beautiful it is to belong to this incredible family of the Art of Living." The Blessings Course offers an experience of abundance, contentment, and fulfillment. These qualities are natural to all of us; through unique processes and guided meditations, the course brings them to the forefront of our experience. Fulfillment is a beautiful quality of consciousness. It gives one the ability to bless and be an instrument of healing. A blessing is always given to others, not for oneself. Being able to bless is a complete expression of a caring and sharing attitude, of being available to serve and bring peace and harmony to those who seek your help. The blessings that you offer can change a person's life. Many people have reported miraculous experiences.
- Three Art of Silence Courses


text: New video - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VZ4PsNCTKnA&feature=youtu.be My first 3 of my shots I see that the racquet face is perpendicular to the court at the end of the take back all the way through contact, which resulted in a double bend hit (like http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cnnKt_SeJ6s or http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXWks8yvRJQ, minus the fact that his racquet starts the upward part of the take back closed). From other videos of me goofing with friends, the double bend seems to be how I normally hit. And when not trying to force "pet the dog" (like the first video), I guess I didn't really do it at all. That's probably why sometimes I would wind up for a kill shot and send it flying long, since the racquet face was never closed in the first place and any supination on top of that perpendicular racquet face position would open up the racquet face. The last 3 I had the racquet more parallel to the court during the same time frame described above, which resulted in a straight arm hit. I can see that the first 2 straight arm shots are reminiscent of my first video – my arm was moving at the same speed as my body, not being pulled by it. I believe this is because both incoming balls were around knee level, just like a lot were from the first video. The last one was different though, and I gave a signal to the camera to watch this shot specifically. As I was going through the different suggestions I've been given throughout that night, this was around the point I started to focus on swinging with the butt cap first to the ball. This shot felt different than all the others, and I remember how loose my arm felt right before contact (when I led with the butt cap) through contact. For that last shot, I'd like to point out a few things I think I did to improve from the first video an what I still could improve on - Improved: slightly more open stance (though not as good as other shots in the video), not forcing the racquet face to point behind me (kept at about 45 degrees), swinging at the ball with the butt cap, contact is made about as far out as possible Can still improve: loading on outside leg (again, not as good as other shots in the video), starting the swing from the body (will give more ssc), maybe a more federer/nadal-esc shortened back swing (more of a 45 degree straight down drop instead of a circular motion) Also, stroke 2 and 3 seem to me to be pretty similar, but the second shot would have sailed long. Can you tell me what you think the differences are that would have contributed to this are? I can see these: -elbow is slightly more bent during the follow through on the 3rd stroke -ball is lower at contact on the 3rd -swing path is more linear on the 3rd On a lot of pro's bent arm swings I'm seeing that their elbows are still kept bent still after contact so their arms wrap around their body/neck really fast, where my elbow is extended as far from my chest as possible since my arm is almost straight out and pointing at the hitting wall. But then here's Roddick www.youtube.com/watch?v=V-D32RwsD_w and it looks like he's killing the ball, and his elbow and arm are more straight out like mine. Is this a swinging through vs. swinging up difference? And what is Murray doing to get his arm to go from straight to bent right before contact, is he swinging literally straight up and over on the ball? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f-7ZZXUBrl8 BTW, in http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-R3PJaev3AA , do you think he'd hit with a straight arm if he didn't supinate right after petting the dog and kept the racquet face parallel to the court through most of the stroke?


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Ithaca College Gospel Music Festival Invitational
The Ithaca College Gospel Music Festival Invitational is directed by Dr. Baruch Whitehead and Dr. Janet Galvan.
Every year, students from many areas across the eastern seaboard come to participate in celebrating and demonstrating their talent and love for Gospel music.
Since 2006, world class guest clinicians have been invited to work with these students, including Linda Hall, Anthony Leach, Raymond Wise, William and Rosephanye Powell, Donald Dumpson, Glenn Burleigh and Diane White. As a part of this festival, students participate in a weekend of rehearsals with many esteemed choral directors and guest clinicians, as well as a concert with the Ithaca College Chamber Orchestra, directed by Dr. Jeffrey Meyer. The concert takes place in the James J. Whalen Center for Music in Ford Hall.


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Tickets for A's ALCS games to go on sale Friday
By Jane Lee / MLB.com
ANAHEIM -- A's single-game tickets for potential American League Championship Series home games at the Coliseum will go on sale Friday, the club announced Wednesday morning.
Tickets will be available at 10 a.m. PT and can be purchased at the Coliseum box office or by calling 877-493-2255. However, fans are strongly encouraged to purchase tickets online at oaklandathletics.com.
The A's plan to make use of dynamic pricing on all games to accurately set and adjust ticket prices in real time. Any tickets purchased for games not played are refundable.
The club has not yet determined whether to open the third deck for ALCS games, as it will do for AL Division Series contests. But if ticket demands are as high as they have been for ALDS games, the decision should be an easy one.
The A's sold out the first two levels for ALDS home games in two hours, prompting them to announce they'll remove the upper-level tarps to bring in an additional 12,000-plus fans. With the upper deck open, minus the peak of Mount Davis, capacity will be 48,146. Normal capacity is 35,067, which is what it was for the ALDS last year when the Tigers came to town.
Tickets are still available for ALDS games.
A's could get Freiman back for final series
ANAHEIM -- First baseman Nate Freiman has made steady progress in his rehab from an abdominal strain in recent days, giving the A's confidence he could be available off the bench for this weekend's three-game set in Seattle.
He could even get a start come Sunday, with lefty James Paxton scheduled to pitch for the Mariners.
"He did well yesterday and didn't really feel it at all," manager Bob Melvin said. "So he'll take batting practice in the cage today."
Freiman began Wednesday morning in Anaheim taking 60 swings off a tee, saying afterward, "Everything feels great. That's very encouraging for me."
Unfortunately, as the rookie Freiman noted, the A's have an off-day in Seattle on Thursday, but he joked he may try to sneak into Safeco Field or scope out a local batting cage to get in some work in advance of the club's final regular-season series.
Even if healthy, Freiman isn't guaranteed a spot on Oakland's postseason roster, particularly because of Daric Barton's continued production at first base. Moreover, should the A's face Detroit in the American League Division Series, as it sets up now, they'll be facing four right-handed starters, lessening the need for an extra right-handed bat like Freiman's.
He hasn't played since Sept. 16, going just 2-for-12 in his previous six games, grounding into four double plays in that time. But he's still batting .306 on the season vs. lefties, with 48 of his 50 starts coming against them.
Worth noting
• In an attempt to rest at least one regular a day in the final week of regular-season play, with the division already clinched, manager Bob Melvin gave third baseman Josh Donaldson the day off for Wednesday's series finale in Anaheim.
Donaldson went 0-for-4 on Tuesday night, snapping his 28-game streak of reaching base safely via hit or walk. It was the longest streak by an A's player over the last five years. He hit .364 with 11 doubles, six home runs and 20 RBIs, along with 17 walks, during the streak.
• Yoenis Cespedes remained at designated hitter for a ninth straight time Wednesday, though he remains on track to return to left field on Friday in Seattle, barring any setback with his right shoulder.
Jane Lee is a reporter for MLB.com. Read her blog, Major Lee-ague, and follow her on Twitter @JaneMLB. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.