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HOUSTON - A teenager was beat to death by her brother at a home near Magnolia, Montgomery County Sheriff's deputies said.
Deputies said Estephani Boijseauneau, 17, was killed at a home on Marshburn near Glenwood about 12:30 p.m. Investigators said she suffered blunt force trauma to the head.
A witness to the beating said that the girl's 19-year-old brother, Jordan Abel Boijseauneau, beat her during an argument, detectives said. The witness, Jordan Abel Boijseauneau's 15-year-old girlfriend, was tied up with duct tape by her boyfriend during the assault, deputies said. Once she managed to cut herself free, she called 911 from a neighboring home, investigators said.
Jordan Abel Boijseauneau was found hiding inside a closet, investigators said. He suffered a self-inflicted stab wound and was taken to a hospital in critical condition, detectives said.
Friends of the victim and the suspect say they never knew them to argue or fight.
"I always seen them together," said Norma Veneros. "Nothing bad, they didn't do anything. I was really great friends with both of them, they were really great friends."
Veneros said Estephani Boijseauneau would have been a senior in high school and had aspirations to get a cosmetology license when she graduated.
"The last time I saw her she cut my hair," Veneros said.
The high school senior also loved babies and thought about becoming an ultra-sound technician.
"She was a real good person," said Veneros. "Quiet, really friendly, she was great."
Lt. Bill Bucks with the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office said the suspect is currently out on a parole after being arrested in Harris County a few months ago. Court documents indicate Boijseauneau was picked up by Tomball Police back in May and accused of sexual abuse of a child between the ages of 14 and 17 and for failing to identify himself to police. Court documents suggest he did about two weeks in jail before posting a $30,000 bond.
"We have been made aware that there was a possible suicide attempt in the Harris County jail in the last couple of months," Bucks said.
Copyright 2012 by Click2Houston.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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YouTube paid subscriptions now live, starting at 99 cents per month
0. phoneArena posted on 09 May 2013, 15:10
We knew it was in the works and today marks launch day for YouTube's paid subscription pilot program. Users were worried that their favorite YouTube channels would be switching to the paid model, but from the looks of the pilot channels, there isn't too much worry about that. Instead, the paid subscription channels are dominated by names you wouldn't expect to see (legally) on YouTube, like Sesame Street...
This is a discussion for a news. To read the whole news, click here
1. CivicSi89 (Posts: 349; Member since: 23 Jul 2011)
Oh brother....
2. Atlas (Posts: 158; Member since: 15 Apr 2012)
F*ck you YouTube... Well at least for now it isn't channels I actually watch except maybe 4oD.
11. Atlas (Posts: 158; Member since: 15 Apr 2012)
Well what, I don't want YouTube to turn into something like iTunes where you have to pay for EVERYTHING. Google, you're free and that's what I like about you, just let the ads give you your money instead of the people.
13. MichaelHeller (Posts: 2721; Member since: 26 May 2011)
Why would you even think that's a possibility? Only the top 5% of the most popular content on YouTube would be able to switch to paid subscriptions and end up making more money than with ad revenue.
As I've said many many times before, it's just like online news. Only sources at the very top, like NYT and WSJ, can put up a paywall and make it work. Everyone else has to stick with ad support.
28. Atlas (Posts: 158; Member since: 15 Apr 2012)
Fair point, as long as they don't mess with the community.
3. Malki (Posts: 68; Member since: 20 Feb 2013)
Dear youtube...go and f**k yourself.....
15. MichaelHeller (Posts: 2721; Member since: 26 May 2011)
Please read comment #13
4. stychill (unregistered)
I Honestly don't have a problem with it, the other people who commented are more than likely to be the type who pirate relentlessly regardless of how affordable the item they seek is. If you enjoy the content and want to watch, Pay the fee.
23. Reluctant_Human (Posts: 906; Member since: 28 Jun 2012)
It's not the pirating aspect. Its the combination of ads and fees on a sight that gained it's popularity on its adfree and most importantly free service.
Crap like that is why I PAY for Netflix over Hulu+. Not everyone is a pirate. People just don't like changes for the worse instead of better.
24. stychill (unregistered)
Now It's Owned by google, a business that's out to make a profit like every other business out there. It's not a nonprofit organisation, never was. The way i see it we go to work and give up our time mainly so we can be paid at the end of the week or whenever. Companies do the same when they have a product or a service, and like us they expect to make a profit off their labor. $0.99 to $2.99 isn't too steep a price to ask, provided what you get for that fee is of adequate quality.
25. Reluctant_Human (Posts: 906; Member since: 28 Jun 2012)
It always was a business with ad revenue and as much as the quick commercials they added annoy me, I understand that this is for added revenue and to pass it on the user uploading the video for his content. I can deal with it and understand where they are coming from.
The paid content seems stupid and redundant to me and many others that posted here from hugely obvious reason that Google already provides this service in their play store. This will only people off when they go to click on a video and asks them for a dollar.
I'm not gripping about the price. I'm gripping about the charge service in general when it comes to youtube. It takes away from what Youtube has always been and represents. This is equivalent to Parks departments adding billboards all over the park then eventually charging a dollar to get in as a subscription rate. It's not a lot of money but not where it belongs.
26. stychill (unregistered)
I guess i can understand where you're coming from, only time will tell if this will sink or swim.
6. james1 (Posts: 97; Member since: 16 Mar 2013)
They trying to suck every penny out us so they introduced paid subscriptions, like then ads weren't already bad enough!
16. MichaelHeller (Posts: 2721; Member since: 26 May 2011)
They can only suck the pennies out if you choose to pay.
7. zivan (Posts: 9; Member since: 29 Oct 2012)
Paid channel??? WTF.. NEXT PAID MAPPING..ANDROID ROYALITIES....YOU MADE ENOUGH MONEY WITH ADDS...kind of disappointed...
8. palmguy (Posts: 800; Member since: 22 Mar 2011)
Competition for iTunes
9. dragonscourgex (Posts: 307; Member since: 16 Jan 2012)
Price is cheap. But, I go to Youtube for community made content. I already have subs to Netflix and Hulu for my normal shows. Plus, I use Amazon on my PS3 for Movies. Have no need for another service such as this. Thinking about it...Google already have T.V. shows and movies covered in the Google Play store. Wouldn't setting up a paid subscription for Youtube Channels kinda pointless and redundant.
10. grahaman27 (Posts: 362; Member since: 05 Apr 2013)
like the article said, the paid channels include content that was not on youtube before-- entire episodes, I encourage this.
so everyone chill out about your precious youtube.
14. downphoenix (Posts: 3165; Member since: 19 Jun 2010)
I am not a big fan of this, but if Youtube can cut a deal with some major cable networks that I would like to have the channels for a la carte and can save myself money over buying a cable tv package, I wouldnt mind that a bit.
18. protozeloz (Posts: 5396; Member since: 16 Sep 2010)
I was thinking that same thing, with the money you spend on TV to get 12345567800 crappy channels and 5 you like you would just get the 5 and deal with it, plus no need to use a recorder if you "miss" a new episode, it would be ready to watch, I think free YouTube channels would still be free and only TV channels will tag along, adding even more value to Google TV
17. pongkie (Posts: 661; Member since: 20 Aug 2011)
that's a relief my cat videos are still free but I think the new service is expensive
19. microsoftnokiawin (Posts: 1263; Member since: 30 Mar 2012)
i don't mind that if they make TV like series on YouTube and TV shows on youtube for premium and leave the current youtuber's channel free that's all Good and it's only 99c a month 12 dollars a year
20. Timmehor (Posts: 599; Member since: 09 Mar 2013)
Not cool, not cool at all.
21. Shrihari (Posts: 102; Member since: 29 Jan 2013)
i dont care to watch it in youtube from now....pirate bay here i come....
22. antoninslejska (Posts: 5; Member since: 29 Aug 2012)
I had a look on the channels and I have seen 53 unavailable channels. It looks like I live in a bad part of world.
27. ZeroCide (Posts: 786; Member since: 09 Jan 2013)
Google will raise the price again in 3 to 6 months
29. locoboy808 (Posts: 53; Member since: 08 Oct 2009)
Now thats funny bye bye YouTube im deteing my account with you greedy guys

subset: commoncrawl


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Marlins set to open spring vs. Hurricanes
By Joe Frisaro / MLB.com
JUPITER, Fla. -- Let the games begin.
The Marlins have been entrenched in going through the fundamentals since Spring Training opened on Feb. 16. Now, it's time for games to get underway.
The Marlins take on the University of Miami on Wednesday at 1:05 p.m. ET at Roger Dean Stadium.
Facing a college team or two has become a tradition for the club. The Marlins will start right-hander Angel Sanchez, who was acquired from the Dodgers last July in the Ricky Nolasco trade. UM is going with right-hander Javi Salas.
On Thursday, the Marlins take on Florida International University, also in Jupiter. Justin Nicolino will start for Miami.
The Grapefruit League season gets going on Friday against the Cardinals. Jose Fernandez will make his debut, with St. Louis countering with Carlos Martinez.
Against the Hurricanes on Wednesday, the Marlins will play some of their regulars. Many will get only one at-bat.
"It's a good day to give a lot of our younger guys a few at-bats in the game, and our regular guys will get in Friday," manager Mike Redmond said.
The college teams will be using metal bats.
In the past, the big league clubs were cautious of metal bats because of how much life they gave to the ball. But colleges now use BBCor bats, which don't have as much spring to them.
"I know the offense, statistically, is way down in college baseball," Redmond said. "That bat has made a huge difference. We're playing it as a game to get our younger guys in. I know our guys are excited to get a chance to play and see some of our young pitchers as well."
Redmond, Marlins still unclear about collision rule
JUPITER, Fla. -- MLB's new home plate-collisions rule has been met with both clarity and confusion at Marlins camp.
After months of speculation, catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia is glad that guidelines are now in place.
"I understand what they're doing, they're protecting the catchers," Saltalamacchia said. "They're trying to eliminate the dirty plays. I'm for that.
"From what I understand, it's basically going to be the same. You just can't block the plate without the ball. I always thought that was a rule to begin with."
Still, after reading the rule, manager Mike Redmond notes there is some confusion over how the rule will be interpreted.
"There are definitely still some grey areas to this rule," Redmond said. "I think the meat of it is good. The targeting of the catchers is winning over. But I still feel like we're going to approach this thing the same way as far as our catchers, how we set up.
"We set up and give them the back part of the plate so they can either slide into it or reach with their hand. You can still block the plate as long as you have the ball. And that's what we're going to do. I don't think it's a huge adjustment for us."
The basics of the new rule are:
• The catcher may not block the pathway of a runner attempting to score unless he has possession of the ball. If the catcher blocks the runner before he has the ball, the umpire may call the runner safe.
• All calls will be based on the umpire's judgment. The umpire will consider such factors as whether the runner made an effort to touch the plate and whether he lowered his shoulder or used his hands, elbows or arms when approaching the catcher.
• Runners are not required to slide, and catchers in possession of the ball are allowed to block the plate. However, runners who do slide and catchers who provide the runner with a lane will never be found in violation of the rule.
• The expanded instant replay rules, which also go into effect this season, will be available to review potential violations of Rule 7.13.
Redmond, a former catcher, still is unclear if the baserunner can lower his shoulder to dislodge the ball, if the catcher is standing at the plate. The way the organization hears it, runners will not be allowed to extend their arms in an attempt to pry the ball free.
"What I've told our runners, you've just got to slide at home plate, that's the way it is," Redmond said. "The catchers, once they catch the ball, they're going to be able to block the plate. It's going to be interesting to see how those bang-bang plays at home, the instinct plays, how they work."
From a technique standpoint, the Marlins are relieved their catchers won't have to reprogram the way they set up to receive a throw and apply a tag.
"The only grey area I see, maybe, is on the runner's side of it," Saltalamacchia said. "Knowing he may have to slide, but if the catcher is in the way, you want to score. That might cause some issues. Hopefully not. I don't think there is any clear-cut way. I think this is probably the best way it could have gone. There is not going to be a happy side, unless it stays the way it is."
Cishek tallies first save in simulated game
JUPITER, Fla. -- It was just a simulated game, but if the Marlins actually kept score, Steve Cishek would have notched his first save of Spring Training.
The Marlins closer faced four batters in a scoreless inning, recording one strikeout and one walk. For the most part, the sidearm slinging right-hander was sharp. He kept the ball down, induced some weak contact and threw strikes.
Even though Cishek is a closer who is focused on saving games, Tuesday's performance was a personal victory in many ways, mainly because it was his first time facing hitters since camp opened on Feb. 16.
Early on, he missed a few days due to a stiff neck, which occurred by sleeping awkwardly.
Cishek threw the final inning, facing Marcell Ozuna, Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Giancarlo Stanton and Adeiny Hechavarria.
Ozuna flied out to left, Saltalamacchia struck out on a slider. Stanton drew a walk, and Hechavarria tapped to third.
"I threw a lot of splits today against righties and lefties," Cishek said. "One that was terrible, the one I threw to Stanton that was in the dirt."
Before striking out Saltalamacchia, Cishek had a slider get away that caused Saltalamacchia to leap out of the way.
It was also encouraging that Cishek kept the ball down.
"That's my bread and butter; keep it down," Cishek said. "It was a good first one."
A year ago, Cishek posted a 2.33 ERA and he saved 34 of 36 chances.
Starting off the spring treating a stiff neck made Cishek eager to face hitters.
"I was just antsy," Cishek said. "This offseason went by quickly. After three weeks, I was ready to see some hitters again and just battle. It was definitely a lot of fun."
Worth noting
• Fernandez, the reigning National League Rookie of the Year, received some special attention on Tuesday. The 21-year-old ace was being followed by an MLB Productions crew, and he was wearing a microphone. On his cap was a GoPro camera to give a different perspective.
Joe Frisaro is a reporter for MLB.com. He writes a blog, called The Fish Pond. Follow him on Twitter @JoeFrisaro. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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My hair is a different color every couple weeks. I love dying my hair. The color I have now is my favorite color.
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Twilight<3 wrote:Haha, you might want to consider changing the title from "Dying to Die" to "Dying to Dye." It's a bit misleading... I thought this thread was for suicidal people and I was just like
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n April 1: Florida Telecommunications Relay, Inc. (FTRI) will be available at the Chattahoochee Public Library 2 p.m.- 4 p.m. to share an informative presentation and distribute free amplified phones to qualified Florida residents with a hearing loss or speech disability. For more information contact 1-800-222-3448 or 888-292-1950 ext. 232.
Backyard Container Vegetable Gardening Workshop:
• New Beginnings Assembly of God in Havana is hosting "Living an Extraordinary Life," to help attendees answer the question, "Can my life get any better?" The programs are being held on Sunday morningsat 10:30 a.m.. For more information, call 364-5137.
• Take it to the Streets Ministry Inc. hosts a community Bible study at Carter-Parramore Academy the first and third Monday each month at 7 p.m. Refreshments are served.
Old Time Havana Day is set for May 8, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in downtown Havana. The family-friendly event features old-timey demonstrations, games and activities from "back in the day," arts, crafts and food vendors, hayrides, pony rides, and an obstacle course. All shops and cafes will be open as well.
The Gadsden County Tobacco-Free Partnership encourages all local businesses to be smoke-free. For more information, call 386-2065 or go e-mail email@example.com.
The Gadsden County Tobacco-Free Partnership encourages all local businesses to be smoke-free. For more information, call 386-2065 or go e-mail email@example.com.
On the Move for Jesus conducts free GED classes from 6-8 p.m. each Tuesday and Thursday at Gretna Elementary School.
• On the Move for Jesus will hold revival services through April 30, beginning at 7 p.m. nightly.
A community-wide movie night, featuring the blockbuster, "The Blind Side," will be shown May 1 at 8 p.m. on the lawn at the Courthouse Square. The event is free and open to the public, and free soft drinks and popcorn will be served. Attendees are asked to bring a blanket or lawn chair. There will also be a free car wash at Hardee's from noon to 3 p.m. May 1. There is no charge and no donations are required.
The Gadsden County Veterans Service Office will be closed May 2-7 for staff training. The office will reopen May 10 at 8 a.m.
CHP Savvy Senior will host a program at Carver Heights Senior Center in Havana April 22 at noon on high risk medications for seniors, presented by pharmacist April Johnson.
Copyright © 2018
The Gadsden County Times is your source for local news, sports, events and information in Gadsden County and Quincy, FL, and the surrounding area.


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June (formerly June Cannon) and Kenneth married March 7, 1953. They are both retired government poultry graders, and Kenneth is currently a City of Dardanelle alderman.
They are the parents of Kerri Ball of Quitman and Rick Taylor of North Little Rock. The couple have six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.


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0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic.
Hey CraigWhen I first bought my WFO I went to Napa and did a weekend with Andrea Mugniani. I took my wife so it was more of a cooking "vacation" but I got to work the oven a bit and met some nice folks ( oh and lots of wine) We paid some pretty good cash ( check out her rates on her website). I would have no hesitation paying some more good cash to learn all that I could from someone like you. Heck I bet you could fill every weekend you wanted full of people just from this forum alone. If anything, it would certainly pay for your pizza habit and who knows what would turn up... Getting a bunch of pizza geeks around an Acunto with some good wine... sounds like a party to me. I'll be the first to sign up!Scot
Giving lessons does not pay very much...http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/12/15/the-rise-and-fall-of-a-pizza-making-class/Now, Craig could possibly make a nice little side business(time permitting) out of personal consulting with shop owners and wealthy home enthusiasts/ folks considering an NP restaurant. His credentials are well rounded and solid.But look out $$ if he did put his mind to opening his own full service restaurant. Lot of work though....
I would love to come down there sometime and learn from the master! Maybe make a little trip around the OU vs Texas football game? Craig do you have any hook up with tickets? Maybe come down on a Thursday and cook Friday then head off to the game on Saturday? I'm in!
Roberto's School at Keste is a 10 day program. Its $4500. While I am sure it is well worth the money, I just can't afford the 10 days off at this point in my life! I've heard that Craig's school is only 4 days, and we get to stay in yurts in the back yard. That sounds more doable! John K
adult beverages pizza making. wine, beer, bourbon, tequila, pizza. fire pit cigars rum.


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The first question:
Osho,You must have told us so many times already, but I still don't get it. What is the seed of desire? Is it only in the existence of mind? And how is the desire of the body for sex related to the mind?
The energy called desire has been condemned for centuries. Almost all the so-called saints have been against it, because desire is life and they were all life-negative. Desire is the very source of all that you see, and they were against all that which is visible. They wanted to sacrifice the visible at the feet of the invisible; they wanted to cut the roots of desire so there would no longer be any possibility of life. A tremendously great urge to commit total suicide has dominated humanity down the ages.
I have a totally different concept of desire. Firstly, desire itself is existence. Desire without any object, desire without being goal-oriented, unmotivated desire, pure desire, is existence. The energy called desire is the same energy as existence.
Desire has not to be destroyed, it has to be purified. Desire has not to be dropped, it has to be transformed. Your very being is desire; to be against it is to be against yourself and to be against all. To be against it is to be against the flowers and the birds and the sun and the moon. To be against it is against all creativity. Desire is creativity.
The Eastern scriptures are perfectly right when they say that God created the world because a great desire arose in him - a desire to create, a desire to manifest, a desire to be many from one, a desire to expand. But these are only metaphors; God is not separate from desire. Desire means a longing, a great longing, to expand, to become huge, to be enormous - as huge as the sky.
Just watch people, watch desires, and you will understand what I mean. Even in your ordinary desires, this basic thing is present. In fact what the man who wants to have more and more money really wants is not money but expansion, because money can help you expand. You can have a bigger house, you can have a bigger garden, you can have this, you can have that - your territory will be bigger, your freedom will be bigger. With more money you will have more alternatives to choose from.
The man who is after money may not know why he is after the money. He may himself think and believe that he loves money, but that is only on the surface of his consciousness. Go deeper into his unconscious, help him to meditate, and you will be surprised and he will be surprised to find that the desire for money is not really desire for money, it is the desire to expand.


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|Peña, Jorge
|Crane, Jonathan
|Capinera, John
|Duncan, Rita
|Kendra, Paul
|Ploetz, Randy
|Mclean, Stephen
|Brar, Gurpreet
|Thomas, Michael
|Cave, Ronald
Submitted to: Florida Entomologist
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 7/12/2011
Publication Date: 12/15/2011
Citation: Peña, J.E., Crane, J.H., Capinera, J.L., Duncan, R.E., Kendra, P.E., Ploetz, R.C., Mclean, S., Brar, G., Thomas, M.C., Cave, R.D. 2011. Chemical control of the redbay ambrosia beetle, Xyleborus glabratus, and other Scolytinae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Florida Entomologist. 94(4):882-896. Interpretive Summary: The redbay ambrosia beetle (RAB) is an exotic wood-boring insect that vectors a fungal pathogen responsible for laurel wilt disease. Laurel wilt has caused high mortality in native redbay and swampbay trees in South Carolina, Georgia, and north Florida, and now poses an imminent threat to avocado production in south Florida. While chemical control of RAB is not viewed as the primary solution, immediate control tactics are needed by Florida avocado growers. A scientist at SHRS worked collaboratively with the University of Florida to conduct field and laboratory tests to evaluate efficacy of contact and systemic pesticides for RAB. Among the contact insecticides tested, zeta-cypermethrin+bifentrin and lambda-cyhalothrin+thiamethoxam provided the most consistent control. Fenpropathrin, crylite Na Al fluoride, and lambda-cyhalothrin+thiametoxam reduced beetle entry on treated avocado trees. Acetamyprid+Li 100 and the mixture of imidacloprid+cyfluthrin reduced RAB entry on treated swampbay trees. This information will be used by avocado growers and homeowners for improved management of the beetle vector, which will help control the spread of this lethal plant disease.
Technical Abstract: The redbay ambrosia beetle, Xyleborus glabratus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae), is an exotic pest of Lauraceae in the southeastern U.S. This wood-boring insect vectors a lethal fungus, Raffaelea lauricola, the causal agent of laurel wilt disease. The vector-pathogen complex is responsible for extensive mortality of native Persea trees in South Carolina, Georgia, and northern Florida, and now poses an imminent threat to the avocado (Persea americana) industry in south Florida. While chemical control of the vector is not viewed as the primary solution, control tactics should be made available to Florida avocado growers. Field and laboratory tests were conducted using avocado logs, potted avocado trees, and field grown swampbay trees (P. palustris) treated with contact and systemic pesticides. In general, zeta-cypermethrin+bifentrin and lambda-cyhalothrin+thiamethoxam provided the most consistent control of Scolytinae as contact insecticides, while methomyl, malathion, bifenthrin and endosulfan were more variable in results. Fenpropathrin, cryolite Na Al fluoride and lambda-cyhalothrin+thiametoxam showed less beetle entry on treated avocado trees than on the untreated control trees. Acetamyprid+Li 100 and the mixture of imidacloprid+cyfluthrin resulted in fewer entrance holes in swampbay trees; however, no statistical differences were observed in disease severity on treated versus non-treated avocados or swampbay. Linear regression models between the number of RAB holes per tree (x) and LW disease severity (ya) and between RAB entry holes per tree (x)and recovery of R. lauricola (yb) were both significant.


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Has anyone out there been down this road? They say it's a faster and more
pleasant way to get to Mt. Rushmore than I-90. Can anyone fill me in, how is it? Gas stations, Hotels, camgrounds, etc?? I was thinking of seeing the Little Bighorn Battlefield and then high tailin it over to Devil's Tower........Thanks, Don


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Photographer's Note
How are you, Europa!
I took this picture on January,30. But this picture is very eloquent and so actual for today.
We don't remember so strange spring.
Somebody said we have seen demo-version of the spring on February and we must to prolongate a license, hehehe.
All the best wishes, my friends!
Critiques | Translate
emka (117003) 2013-03-25 23:51
Hi Serghei, I am glad to see you. I was afraid you are bored with the site.
I like this view of our globe under snow. It is indeed very strange march. We still have snow and frost in the night, but during the day it melts, so I hope we will have Easter and not Christmas.
WArm regrads
Mondaychild (378) 2013-03-26 1:22
Hello Serghei,
a photo like a weather forecast. Snow to the Sahara and to Arabia. This morning I heard on the radio that the migratory birds on their way to Europe turn back to Africa.
The "icy" atmosphere with cold colors in your photo underlines the effect.
I am freezing when watching this photo - even though I am sitting next to the radiator!
Let´s hope Spring will come soon! The real Spring!
holmertz (66108) 2013-03-26 3:29
Hello Serghei,
This is a very telling and rather amusing photo, although I doubt that North Africa and most of Saudi Arabia are actually hit by the cold weather. But having Russia and Scandinavia hidden under the snow seems quite correct.
Kind regards,
jcpix (14024) 2013-03-26 4:25
Hi Serghei,
It has to defrost at some point, yeah? :) We've had some crazy weather here in the U.S. as well, Old Man Winter just doesn't want to let go in a lot of places...and yet here in Arizona we're already plenty hot! I might be one of the few, but I'm not looking forward to summer at all! Glad you spotted this fun little scene, it really does look like a weather forecast map, and the blue tones certainly reinforce the cold season. Stay warm, have a great day.
All the best,
Sergiom (98718) 2013-03-26 5:16
Bonjour Serghei
Une petite neige qui ne durera pas très longtemps surtout si le soleil s'en mêle.Ironique de constater que la neige se trouve au nord du globe.
Bonne journée
erhan1958 (15873) 2013-03-26 5:40
selam serghei
March winter, according to me
quiet, peaceful, beautiful photo from krasnokams
i miss there
jhm (169706) 2013-03-27 4:59
Hello Serghei,
I am a little bit elder than you I can me not remember a long winter as winter 2012-2013, every night get we frost in Belgium, the snow is not everything disappeared to today.
It is indeed very strange march.
Excellent composition, pleasant colours. TFS.
Best regards,
No_One (4) 2013-03-27 5:00
Hi Serghei
A very apt image indeed, here in ireland it is snowing quite heavily, and making hourneys difficult, Strange for this late in the year!
Beautiful shot, this globe looks very fine with the snow upon it like this. Its almost like Nature thought that it would draw the arctic circle on the globe , but got a little carried away :)
All the best
- To fritzi007: Hallo, Wolfgang, (1)
by serp2000, last updated 2013-06-26 08:19


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Swing Dance
Date: Thu. 21 Feb, 2013 8:00 pm - 10:30 pm
Duration: 2 Hours 30 Minutes
Location: SAC
Weekly Swing Dance held in the SAC hosted by the New Mexico Tech Ballroom Dance Club. Everyone is welcome. Lessons are held before the dance most nights. 8 to 10:30 p.m.


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The LA Galaxy season may be over, but LA Galaxy Insider Adam Serrano will spend the next few weeks offering an evaluation of each member of the squad. VIEW CALENDAR
The LA Galaxy Player Ratings will begin with players who appeared in the least number of games this season starting with goalkeeper Brian Rowe and concluding with Sean Franklin who played in all 34 of the club's regular season games. There will also be an evaluation of head coach and general manager Bruce Arena and his moves at the conclusion of the list.
We will have two to three evaluations per day and focus on what each player did well, what they need to improve on ahead of next season as well as a select thought from the player on their performance and a rating from myself out of four stars.
POSITION: Right Back
APPEARANCES IN ALL OFFICIAL COMPETITIONS: GP: 43 [6 in MLS Cup Playoffs, 5 in CONCACAF Champions League], MIN: 3677, G: 0 A: 9 [4 in Playoffs]
RESERVE LEAGUE APPEARANCES: None
HIGHLIGHTS: During a rollercoaster ride of a season, Sean Franklin was the club's lone constant. By appearing in all 34 regular season matches and starting all but one, the right back set club records for games played (34), games started (33), and minutes played (2,937). The archetypical offensive right back, Franklin was not only effective in defense, but in the attack as well. Franklin registered all five of his assists during the final four months of the regular season. In the postseason, he didn't miss a beat by earning four assists with the most important coming as he fed Juninho, who fired in a cross to Omar Gonzalez for his goal in the 60th minute of MLS Cup.
LOWLIGHTS: Franklin endured a bumpy start to the 2012 season as he struggled along with the rest of his Galaxy teammates during the early season skid. Despite his speed and guile, Franklin found himself unable to contain opposing attackers while finding himself unable to provide contributions to LA's attack. This led to midseason switch to right midfield, but after the success of Hector Jimenez and the signing of Christian Wilhelmsson, Franklin found himself back at his familiar right back position.
HIS THOUGHTS: "If I had to rate my season, it'd probably be a B- because at the beginning of the year, I wasn't playing the way that I wanted to play. Towards the second half of the season, I was able to play a little bit better, both by being more effective offensively and sharpening up things on the defensive side. I'm pleased and happy with the second half of my season, but I wish I had a full season of playing great, but it's all about how deal with playing bad and getting out of the funk. I had some issues with my hamstring and I was just pleased with how I battled back and was able to help my teammates."
The 27-year-old right back may have had his struggles, but he proved to be the Galaxy's ironman by appearing in every one of the club's MLS regular season and all but one of their postseason matches. By the time the postseason rolled around, Franklin's early season troubles were forgotten as he delivered a stellar performance on both sides of the ball. In 2013, the Galaxy will need more from Franklin both as a defender and attacker, but most importantly as a leader. Heading into his sixth year in MLS, Franklin will likely be called upon to nurture LA's younger players while also becoming a leader along the back four.
Adam Serrano is the LA Galaxy Insider. Read his blog at LAGalaxy.com/insider and contact him at email@example.com


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Let the New Mexico Rail Runner Express take you to your destination. Spanning 100 miles from Santa Fe to Belen through the beautiful Rio Grande Valley, the train corridor has 15 stations, operating seven days a week.
Click on the station name from the list below to view detailed station information, including bus connections and area attractions.
Download printable weekday schedule in PDF format.
Effective on Monday, April 24, 2017.
The Rio Metro Regional Transit District is committed to its Title VI obligations. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color or national origin in the delivery of service. To obtain more information on our nondiscrimination obligations or to file a Title VI complaint, visit our Title VI web page, or contact us at:
Rio Metro Regional Transit District
809 Copper Avenue NW
Albuquerque, NM 87102


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Kotsay returns to Padres with one-year deal
Veteran outfielder eager to help hometown team 'in any capacity'
By Corey Brock / MLB.com
"There was no secret that I wanted to come back and play here," Kotsay said on Wednesday, the day his one-year deal with the Padres became official.
Kotsay, who turns 36 on Dec. 2, passed his physical and agreed to a one-year deal worth $1.25 million to return to San Diego, where he played for three seasons from 2001-03.
"We are elated to bring Mark back to the Padres," Padres general manager Josh Byrnes said in a statement. "His versatility and leadership will be invaluable for our club."
MLB.com takes a glance at each position entering the Hot Stove season.
• SP: Plenty of mid-tier arms
• RP: Closers flood market
• 1B: Pujols, Prince elite
• 2B: Thin but reliable
• 3B: Aramis the lone big bat
• SS: Attention on Reyes
• OF: Bargains available
• DH: Ortiz the top target
Hot Stove Tracker
A veteran outfielder of 15 big league seasons, Kotsay said he lobbied hard to return here last winter, either as a player or as part of the front office. When the Brewers offered him a one-year deal, he jumped at the chance.
All while hoping he could return to San Diego, where he has owned a home since 2003. He and his family live north of downtown in Rancho Santa Fe in a home they purchased in 2007.
Kotsay, a left-handed hitter who has played all three outfield positions and first base, has a career .278 batting average and hit .270 last season for the Brewers. Kotsay got a start during the National League Championship Series against the Cardinals in Game 3 and hit a home run off Chris Carpenter.
"We had a special club," Kotsay said of the Brewers. "But at this point, all signs pointed to coming back to San Diego. It's tied to multiple things -- my family is here and it gives me a chance to be part of an organization that's growing.
"I still have multiple friends in this organization. I even think the clubhouse staff is still the same. I'm excited."
Three of Kotsay's former teammates -- Trevor Hoffman, Brad Ausmus and Mark Loretta -- are a part of the Padres' front office as special assistants. Kotsay also has a relationship with Padres CEO and vice chairman Jeff Moorad, who was Kotsay's former agent.
Kotsay first joined the Padres days before the start of the 2001 season as part of a five-player deal with the Marlins. He had his best season in San Diego in 2002, when he hit .292 with 17 home runs and 61 RBIs.
"We had a lot of fun in that stadium and made a lot of great memories," Kotsay said of Qualcomm Stadium, the Padres' home before they moved into their downtown digs of PETCO Park in 2004.
The Padres will likely use Kotsay as a bat off the bench and someone who can play the corner outfield spots as well as first base on occasion.
Among the Padres' needs this offseason was addressing their bench in order to give manager Bud Black more options. The Padres also wanted to improve themselves offensively against right-handed pitching.
Kotsay is a career .280 hitter against righties.
Last season, the Padres ranked last in the Major Leagues in batting average against right-handers (.229), 29th in on-base percentage (.301) and 30th in slugging (.340). The Padres also ranked 28th in baseball in pinch-hitting (.161).
"I'm here for the club in any capacity, whether it be first base, giving a guy a day off, the outfield, pinch-hitting or helping young guys mature," Kotsay said.
"All in all, I want to be a positive influence."
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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Bake Up a Doggone Delightful New Year!
I'm ready to ring in the new year, North's ready to ring in the new year . . . but are you ready to ring in the new year? I stumbled upon this fun recipe for doggy muffins called New Year Delights. I'll definitely not be awake in time to bake them up tomorrow morning, but I'm thinking of whipping up a batch tonight before I head out. To get your pooches ready for 2008 with this sweet recipe,
New Year Delights
From PetPlace.com
2 tablespoons honey
2 3/4 cups water
1/4 cup unsweetened chunky applesauce
1/8 teaspoon vanilla
1 egg, slightly beaten
3 cups whole-wheat flour
1 cup all purpose flour
1 cup dried apple chips
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon nutmeg
Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a bowl, mix together honey, water, applesauce, vanilla and egg. Add flour, apple chips, baking powder, cinnamon and nutmeg and mix thoroughly, scraping sides and bottom of bowl to be sure no dry mixture is left. Spoon into greased muffin pans so that each cup is three-quarters full and bake for approximately 1 hour until lightly browned. Cool and store in an airtight container. Makes 12 muffins.


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As founding members of Aerosmith, Steven Tyler and Joe Perry have long established themselves as rock legends and are already in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Now, their songwriting will be honored as the duo gets inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame as part of the 2013 class.
Tyler and Perry have written dozens of hits over the band's 40-year career, so it's about time they got recognized for it. Tyler's distinctive voice and hooks combined with Perry's many signature riffs have made Aerosmith one of rock and roll's most beloved bands.
"With scores of multi-platinum albums, Aerosmith continues to inspire generations to get their wings, to get a grip and to just push play," the Hall said in a press release, referencing three of Aerosmith's biggest albums.
The 2013 Songwriters Hall of Fame class also includes Mick Jones and Lou Gramm of Foreigner, "Downtown" songwriter Tony Hatch, "Love Is A Battlefield" songwriter Holly Knight, and Eagles songwriter J.D. Souther. The ceremony takes place June 13 in New York City.
— Matt Dolloff, 100.7 WZLX


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Brooke Vermillion
Fifth Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney David Gibbons filed felony criminal charges Nov. 16-23 against these individuals in Pope County Circuit Court:
Cases assigned to Circuit Judge Dennis Sutterfield:
Harold McCune, 35, South Columbus, Russellville - Failure to appear (Hot check violation).
Shawn Lee Lewis, 27, Shady Point Drive, Conway - Failure to appear (Leaving the scene of an accident with personal injury, DWI).
Christopher L. Qualls, 21, Brownstone Place, Atkins - Failure to appear (Domestic battery, terroristic threatening).
Cases assigned to Circuit Judge John Patterson:
April M. Hubbard, 25, East L Street, Russellville - Failure to appear (Theft of public benefits).
James Christopher Rowland, 22, North Parker Road, Russellville - Failure to appear (Possession of a controlled substance second offense).
Christopher Thornebury, 25, Price Boulevard, London - Hot check violation ($670).
Roy D. Grossley Jr., 42, Greenville, Miss. - Hot check violation ($795).
Louann Sanders, 24, Landrum Road, Quitman - Hot check violation ($1,500 and $50).
Misty Leann Snider, 32, Avenue 2, Atkins - Hot check violation ($250 and $10).
Marriage licenses were issued Nov. 18-23 to the following couples by Pope County Clerk Don Johnson:
Justin L. Spear, 31, of Dover and Alice Ananda Weaver Seyle, 23, of Russellville.
Travis Wayne Corbett, 28, and Trinity Roxanne Buchanan, 26, both of Dover.
Paul Mitchell Tilley, 45, of Dardanelle and Kelly Leah Smith, 30, of Dover.
Jeremie P. Myers, 29, and April M. HaulMark, 20, both of Russellville.
Juan Francisco Jimenez, 24, and Jasmin Griffis, 18, both of Atkins.
Daniel Ray Hottinger, 21, and Jessica Renee Merry, 19, both of Russellville.
Adam Martin Core, 20, and Brandi Louise Jackson, 18, both of Russellville.
Christopher Michael Minnie, 24, of Hattieville and Dorothy Claire Evans, 23, of London.
Ronnie Earl Southard, 39, and Jessica Aiko Ramsey, 27, both of Newbern, N.C.
William R. Tidwell, 52, and Carolyn K. Jones, 58, both of Russellville.
Divorces were granted between Nov. 18-23 to the following couples in Pope County Circuit Court:
Wilma L. Geisler and David C. Geisler.
Mark Wayne Austin and Tamara Coraine Austin.
Robert Byrum and Sandy Chronister.
Teresa Heimann and Gregory Heimann.


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Remarks of
Commissioner John Moran
Federal Maritime Commission
Before The
National Industrial Transportation League
Chicago, Illinois
March 12, 1999
I want to thank the National Industrial Transportation League for the opportunity to participate in today's seminar. Before I begin my remarks, I want to acknowledge the important contribution to the implementation of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act made by the League and sponsors of similar seminars to help prepare for May 1.
I have had the pleasure to work with the League on a number of occasions and this is not the first time I have been asked by the League to make some public remarks. I remember that a number of years ago, Ed asked me to address a group of his members. By chance, I was addressing a group of carriers later that same day. It will surprise no one that I had two different texts. My remarks for the League clearly acknowledged the gospel according to shippers -- "In the beginning, there was cargo." Of course, my speech to the carriers acknowledged the holy writ for vessel operators - that the ultimate act of creation was a ship. And the shipowners said at the end of God's work, "It is good."
I hope that now, however, I can use one text for everyone. A text stating that cargo and ships - and labor and intermediaries - need each other and the freedom to cooperate and enter into commercial relationships of mutual benefit.
The Ocean Shipping Reform Act - the Legislative Process
If you think about it, this theme of cooperation and mutual benefit is the key to the success of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act.
The legislative effort began in a sense of frustration - frustration that the regulatory framework of the Shipping Act of 1984 did not allow carriers, shippers, and intermediaries to enter into flexible, creative, market-driven relationships. The vision was that the freedom to negotiate and cooperate for mutual commercial benefit would lead to benefits for everyone and a more efficient transportation system.
Vision may get the debate started and a bill introduced, but seldom will vision alone get legislation enacted. Cooperation and compromise is usually required to achieve legislative results. That was true for the Ocean Shipping Reform Act. At almost every step along the way, logjams were broken and obstacles were overcome only when parties saw that it was in their mutual interest to negotiate, cooperate, and achieve a mutually beneficial compromise. As a long-time student of the legislative process, I know how difficult this was. Congress, the President, and all of the involved stakeholders deserve a great deal of credit for getting this law to a successful legislative conclusion.
The Rulemaking
Congress passed the Ocean Shipping Reform Act, the President signed it, and the Federal Maritime Commission gets to implement it. And this is where I enter into the picture. As a Commissioner, I was fortunate to have a role in looking at the law, determining what Congress and the President intended, and translating that intent into workable regulations.
As I went through the rulemaking process, I tried to determine what Congress intended to achieve. I concluded that, if not clear in every bit of statutory language, the overall intent of the legislation was simple and clear -- a competitive and efficient ocean transportation system is fostered by placing greater reliance on the marketplace.
In promulgating the rules, I believe Congress intended the Commission to:
Congress did not leave the Commission much time to finish this work. The President signed the legislation on October 14, 1998, and the effective date is a little more than six weeks away. The Commission realized that the proposed rules would require substantial revision, but we believed it was more important to get something out for comment than to delay publication in an effort to refine the proposed rules. As a result, the public's participation in this rulemaking process was critical. A primary reason the Commission successfully completed the rulemaking in time for the May 1 deadline was the response and participation of the private sector in the rulemaking process under very tight deadlines and during a holiday season.
I believe that the rules approved by the Commission substantially achieve what Congress intended when enacting OSRA. While I am not going to discuss the rulemaking at length, I would like to spend a few minutes on what I consider to be several important, controversial, and interesting elements of the rulemaking.
Service Contracts
The single most important pro-competitive element of OSRA is confidential service contracting. Congress intended this to be the de-regulatory centerpiece of the act. In promulgating regulations, the Commission needed to be especially sensitive that its rules and regulations did not impose rigid regulatory restrictions, burdens or costs that would hinder or discourage the use of service contracting. The filing procedure for service contracts needed to be simple, speedy, and straightforward to use. The requirements needed to allow the use of off-the-shelf, generic and widely-used technology, enabling users to file information without the additional burden or cost of converting information to a mandated system or form. While the Commission needed to ensure the ability to search and retrieve information, we needed to achieve that goal without adding additional costs or burdens on filers, which would discourage the use of service contracts.
The Commission staff worked very hard to develop a system that met these needs. I am very satisfied that the rule approved by the Commission substantially achieved our goals. The final rule provides for an Internet-based service contract filing system that will permit contract filers to use "off-the-shelf software" to file service contracts utilizing standard word processing formats. The Commission staff is working very hard to make sure this system in place and operating by May 1.
Voluntary Guidelines
One of the most important, difficult, and controversial issues raised was how to address the use of "voluntary guidelines" by carrier agreements. This issue raised a number of conflicting policy considerations under OSRA.
The proposed rules included a provision that would have limited voluntary guidelines to "procedures" between shippers and carriers and not to arrangements and procedures among discussion agreements between carriers. Now, I do have concerns about discussion agreements and the possibility that, under certain market conditions, carriers might abuse the antitrust immunity to undermine confidential service contracting. However, after carefully considering the issue, I decided to vote against the proposed rule for several reasons:
Bonding for OTI's
The Commission approved a substantial increase in the financial security required for ocean transportation intermediaries. In comments submitted during the rulemaking, a number of commenters raised concerns about both the added costs and the lack of justification in the record for the increased bond levels. I agreed and voted against this across-the-board increase.
I am not opposed to raising the financial security requirements if warranted and justified. But, I believe OSRA requires the Commission to carefully consider and justify regulatory requirements. The Commission should carefully examine each and every regulatory cost or burden and ask several questions:
I do not think we sufficiently explored the potential impact of the increases on the affected small businesses or how it would affect competition. I would have preferred developing a more adequate record on the potential impact on small businesses or its effect on competition before raising the bond amounts.
After OSRA
Activities at the FMC
So, where do we go from here? Well, there are several OSRA-related activities for the FMC to pursue:
The Challenge for the Private Sector
But, if the Commission has done its job right, the main focus will now shift to the marketplace to see if OSRA works as intended.
The purpose of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act was to "let the genie out of the bottle." It is intended to allow a fuller and more dynamic play to those forces which were already transforming ocean transportation. I hope that the FMC has done its part to unleash entrepreneurial creativity and allow businesses to find new cost-savings, efficiencies, and opportunities to provide service or have commercial needs addressed. I read daily press articles about what may happen under OSRA and the possibilities, permutations, and the opportunities seem open-ended.
I began these remarks talking about how a vision got this whole thing started and carried it through the legislative process. As the quote goes, "What is past, is prologue." The critical test for whether OSRA will be a success or failure will not happen at the Federal Maritime Commission. It will happen with you and whether you implement OSRA in the marketplace with the same vision of commercial freedom and cooperation for mutual commercial benefit with which the law began.
Thank you for opportunity to talk with you all today. I was glad to be a part of rulemaking process and I look forward to future challenges at the Commission. But I am most excited to see what happens where it counts the most -- in the marketplace.
This site is an official U.S. Government Website


text:
DOT Breath Alcohol Screening
DOT-regulated organizations are required to carry out drug and alcohol testing that meets the department's standards. This includes breath alcohol screening.
ARCpoint Labs of Limerick nationwide employ collections specialists who are well-versed in DOT requirements for alcohol screening. Let us be your solution for accurate, compliant alcohol testing.
Trained Breath Alcohol & Screening Test Technicians
Part of the way that ARCpoint Labs of Limerick upholds DOT standards is through training and employment of Breath Alcohol Technicians (BATs) and screening test technicians (STTs). These individuals provide instruction and assistance with alcohol screening and provide breath alcohol testing by operating the alcohol screening device properly.
Our BATs and STTs can interact directly with your employees and provide an instant screening result to you.
ARCpoint Labs of Limerick staff are knowledgeable about the collections and testing procedures outlined in 49 CFR Part 40 and subparts J-R, including:
- Usage of the Federal Alcohol Testing Form (ATF)
- Allowed testing sites, equipment, and supplies
- Confirmation of alcohol screening
- Problems that may arise during alcohol testing
- Responsibilities of service agents
BATs and STTs at ARCpoint Labs of Limerick are also fully aware of processes for correctly administering tests and cleaning equipment to ensure complete accuracy of results.
Learn More About Our Testing Services
For more information about our DOT breath alcohol screening services, contact ARCpoint Labs of Limerick today!


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What's Included
About This Organizer
Bartow History Museum is a local museum that preserves Bartow County and Northwest Georgia history. It educates a diverse community of students and visitors about this unique heritage, and celebrates a sense of place through exhibits, programs, and outreach activities with the community.
Organizer Info
Bartow History Museum


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The son of Lonnie Caldwell and Maggie Freshour Caldwell, he was born Dec. 28, 1918, in Hempsted County. He was retired from Atkins Pickle Company.
He was a member of Atkins First Baptist Church and a charter member of Atkins Riding Club.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Lonnie Caldwell, grandson, Jeremy Grace; and seven brothers and sisters.
He is survived by his wife, Hilda Caldwell; two sons and daughters-in-law, Jimmy and Brenda Caldwell, Ray and Gayle Caldwell and Dana Caldwell all of Atkins; 18 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. today at Lemley Chapel.
Funeral services will begin at 10 a.m. Monday, April 1, 2013, at Atkins First Baptist Church with Rev. Jeff Cheatham officiating. Burial is at Childers Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Jim Ennis, Dalton Ennis, Steve Riley, Randy Allen, Rusty Allen and Jim Sargent.
Honorary pallbearers will be Atkins First Baptist Church Faith Men's Class.
Memorials may be made to Atkins First Baptist Church, care of Dorothy Wiley 305 Ave. 2 N.E., Atkins, AR 72823, or Arkansas Department of Health Hospice, 404 El Paso, Russellville, AR 72801.
Online obituary and condolences are available at www.lemleyfuneral.com.


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pulled the wraps off a new notebook officially today called the XPS 15z. This
machine is aimed right at the Apple MacBook Air and is going after the users wanting
high style and a very thin profile in their notebook. The 15z features GeForce graphics
and a slot-loading optical drive. An optical drive is something that some
machines give up in an effort to be thin.
The XPS 15z notebook starts at $999 and can be
ordered today. The notebook has Core i5 and Core i7 processors from the second
generation of the Core line available. The computer weighs in at 5.54 pounds
and is under an inch thick. Dell claims the 15z is the thinnest 15-inch PC on
the planet -- it has a resolution of 1366 x 768 standard with a 1920 x 1080
resolution screen as an option.
The notebook can be had with up to 8GB of RAM and uses the Intel HM67 chipset.
Two GPUs are offered on the 15z with the GeForce GT 525M with Optimus technology
and 1GB of RAM -- the same GPU is also offered with 2GB of RAM. Power comes
from an 8-cell 64WHr polymer battery.
The notebook has a 1.3MP HD resolution webcam with digital array mic for video
chat and recording. Wi-Fi 802.11 a/g/n is integrated along with Bluetooth 3.0
and Intel Wireless Display tech. The XPS 15z has HDMI 1.4, Mini DisplayPort, and
Ethernet ports. It has three USB 3.0 ports and an eSATA port. A 9-in-1 memory
card reader is integrated as well. The chiclet keyboard is backlit and spill
resistant. The trackpad supports multi-touch with gestures.
dimensions of the notebook are 0.97" x 15.15" x 10.25".
Engadget got hands on the new XPS 15z for a review. The first thing Engadget reports
is that the 15z is actually a bit thicker than the 15-inch MacBook Pro
(remember Dell said thinnest PC). Engadget thinks the machine is decent enough and will win some
shoppers, but it's not a game changer and corners were cut to get the low


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Rotation dreams a family matter for Peacock
As prospect makes bid to be Astros starter, parents have front-row seats
By Brian McTaggart / MLB.com
KISSIMMEE, Fla. -- Before Astros prospect Brad Peacock met with the media after throwing three scoreless innings against the Phillies on Sunday afternoon, he took some time to chat with his father. After all, family comes before anything else.
That's especially true in the tight-knit Peacock household, where playing baseball, breathing baseball and traveling thousands of miles to watch baseball have been a way of life.
Peacock, who's battling for a spot in the Astros' rotation a month after a trade shipped him to Houston from Oakland, made a good impression in his fourth -- and clearly his best -- outing of the spring against a stacked Phillies lineup, drawing praise from his father.
"He was excited," Peacock said of his father, Jerry. "He was pumped. He was more pumped than I was."
Jerry Peacock retired 10 years ago at the age of 54 after 31 years as a police officer in Greenacres Police Department in Lake Worth, Fla., in part to be able to watch his son's career unfold. He's traveled everywhere from Sacramento, Calif., to Harrisburg, Pa., to Syracuse, N.Y., to watch his son live out his dream, calling it a dream of his own.
The elder Peacock's preferred method of travel and sleep for much of his son's career was an enclosed utility trailer that he'd park anywhere he could find a spot, including a Wal-Mart parking lot, a Minor League field or even a friendly stranger's yard. Now he and his wife, Jacyne, log miles in a Class C motor home.
"I really wanted to watch him play baseball and everything, because he started showing some signs of making a career out of it," Jerry Peacock said. "It's everybody's dream, and I've met thousands of people from California to Maine, and they really envy what I'm able to do -- to go and watch my son step up the ladder and work his way up, hopefully to the big leagues at some point. Hopefully this year."
Brad Peacock, 25, is with his third organization in three years, having been drafted by the Nationals in 2006, traded to Oakland in '11 as part of the Gio Gonzalez deal and acquired by the Astros as one of three players in last month's Jed Lowrie trade. Peacock is ranked No. 10 among Astros prospects by MLB.com.
"I love it here," Peacock said. "It's a great place to play, and I'm really excited."
The Astros see Peacock as one of their starters of the future, and outings like Sunday give them hope that future is soon. He dazzled for the Nationals when he got a taste of the Majors at the end of the 2011 season, and a disappointing '12 in which he was 12-9 with a 6.01 ERA at Triple-A Sacramento provided some lessons.
"My confidence was definitely down toward the end of the year," said Peacock, who's taken up a sinker this year to throw when he needs a grounder. "I really don't know how to explain it. I never went through something like that. It's a good learning process, and I took it to heart and I prepared myself even more this year. Hopefully it works out."
Astros general manager Jeff Luhnow said Peacock has top-of-the-rotation stuff.
"He had an unbelievable year two years ago, and last year the results were more mixed," Luhnow said. "But the stuff is there and we believe he's got the potential to be a good starting pitcher at the big league level. He's still young, and he still has a lot of upside."
Peacock leaned on family more during his struggles of a year ago, and it was usually a heart-to-heart conversation with his mother that helped him see the light. Jacyne Peacock coached her son's Little League team when he was 10 years old and was the one firing the thousands of Wiffle balls to him in the family's backyard in Palm Beach, Fla.
"We were just there for moral support," she said. "If he wanted to talk, he'd talk to us, and sometimes he didn't want to talk. We would just tell him to learn from it, so we consider last year to be a learning year. He learned a lot."
Another important part of the Peacock family dynamic has been his grandparents. His maternal grandfather, James S. Paul, still attends as many Spring Training games as he can at 91 years old.
"I would say I think he's made every Spring Training game that Brad has pitched in this year," his mother said. "That's been really nice."
Jacyne Peacock, who's semi-retired, is now more likely to make road trips in the motor home than she was to rough it in the utility trailer that Jerry once called home. But for Jerry Peacock, a chance to sleep in his own bed, even if it was in a trailer equipped to haul a lawnmower, was the ultimate in comfort.
"I was fortunate with all the years I worked for Greenacres and all the support I had from my in-laws to be able to take some time off, and so is she," Jerry Peacock said. "That's what we're doing at this point in our life. We may go back to work some day, but right now we're just chasing baseball."
Peacock could be in the Astros' starting rotation on Opening Day or he could begin the season at Triple-A Oklahoma City. Whatever the location, his parents will be there.
"It really is a dream come true," his mother said.
Brian McTaggart is a reporter for MLB.com and writes an MLBlog, Tag's Lines. Follow @brianmctaggart on Twitter. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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Infectious Diarrhea in Horses
Dr. Nathan Slovis shares information about the causes and diagnosis of diarrhea in foals and adult horses.
Photo by Kevin Thompson/The Horse
Equine Enteric Coronavirus
Emerging virus or incidental bystander? Dr. Nicola Pusterla of UC Davis shares insight into this infectious disease.
Photo by Erica Larson, News Editor
Fact Sheet
Prebiotics and Probiotics
Prebiotics and probiotics are dietary supplements for horses to help prevent or treat certain illnesses.
Clear and Present Danger: Reduce Your Horse's Disease Risk
March 23, 2017
Use this four-step plan to keep equine infectious diseases in check.... Read More
Do Probiotics Help Prevent Foal Diarrhea?
January 22, 2017
The probiotic researchers tested had "disappointing" results, but not all studies have yielded negative results.... Read More
Knottenbelt: Fecal Blood Test Opening Diagnostic Doors
June 05, 2014
Learn how one vet believes the test can help improve diagnostics for a number of horse health conditions.... Read More
Purdue to Host 2014 Horseman's Forum on Feb. 8
January 05, 2014
The program includes lectures on feeding senior horses, saddle fitting, moon blindness, bandaging, and more. ... Read More
Coronavirus: A Cause of Enteric Disease in Adult Horses?
November 12, 2012
Coronavirus--common in foals--could be associated with enteric disease outbreaks in adult horses.... Read More
Preserving Feces to Improve C. perfringens Diagnosis
June 19, 2012
Freezing or inhibiting fecal samples from diarrheic horses allows C. perfringens detection for weeks longer.... Read More
Clinical Outcomes of Large Intestine Thickening (AAEP 2011)
March 25, 2012
Researchers find large intestinal thickening could indicate multiple diseases in addition to colic.... Read More
UK Equine Showcase Presents Young Horse Research
March 22, 2012
The UK Equine Showcase held Jan. 20 focused on young horse heath, including infectious disease and deworming.... Read More
New Bolton Center Offers Testing for Foal Diarrhea
February 14, 2012
The Microbiology Lab at Penn Vet is offering a panel of assays to streamline testing for foals with diarrhea.... Read More
Enteric Bacteria: Can Healthy Horses be Carriers?
July 11, 2011
Could a healthy horse in one's own backyard be a disease risk for other horses?... Read More
Clostridium difficile: Advancements in Understanding
July 03, 2011
One of the most dangerous organisms that can sicken horses is the bacterium Clostridium difficile.... Read More
Bad Horse Bugs
June 01, 2011
Horse owners and vets must use antimicrobials responsibly to help reduce bacterial drug resstance. ... Read More
Antimicrobial-Associated Diarrhea in Equine Referral Practices (AAEP 2010)
March 12, 2011
Veterinarians commonly treat many equine infections with antimicrobial drugs to achieve resolution. However, in some cases, the antimicrobials themselves induce gastrointestinal disturbances with subsequent diarrhea. "This unfortunate side effect of ... Read More
What's New in the NICU? (Horse Neonatal Intensive Care Unit)
January 01, 2011
The neonatal intensive care unit, or NICU, is that special place in a veterinary clinic where premature, critical, and newborn foals receive intensive, round-the-clock care. The NICU handles everything from breathing problems to heart conditions... Read More
Diarrhea a Side Effect of Antibiotic Administration
May 15, 2010
Any antibiotic administered orally, intramuscularly, or intravenously can theoretically cause acute diarrhea; however, some antibiotics are more likely than others to upset a horse's gastrointestinal tract.... Read More
Infectious Diarrhea in Horses: Determining the Cause
March 15, 2010
Multiple clues can help a practitioner determine the cause of infectious diarrhea or colitis in adult horses, including the farm's history of previous outbreaks, geographic location, and season.... Read More
Colic Surgery: Preventing Postoperative Diarrhea
November 13, 2009
A diarrhea treatment might also be useful for preventing diarrhea in horses recovering from colic surgery, said researchers in a new study.
"Diarrhea following colic surgery is common with certain conditions such as... Read More
Management of Horses with Diarrhea Reviewed for World Equine Vets
October 30, 2009
Bacteria such as Salmonella or Clostridium can wreak havoc on a horse's gastrointestinal tract, causing massive losses of water, electrolytes, and proteins. The result? Diarrhea. A smelly, watery, life-threatening... Read More
Lawsonia: Emerging Concern for Horse Industry
October 01, 2009
PE (Proliferative enteropathy) is caused by the obligately intracellular (can only survive in cells) bacterium Lawsonia intracellularis, which causes an unusual pathology: intracellular growth causes proliferation of the cells lining the SI)... Read More
Diarrhea Prevention in Hospitalized Horses a Delicate Bacterial Balance
August 20, 2009
Diarrhea acquired while staying in a hospital, termed nosocomial diarrhea, is an unfortunate risk when hospitalizing a horse, but there are steps owners and veterinarians can take to help prevent disease.
There are many reasons wh... Read More
Causes of Diarrhea in Horses (Beyond Salmonella)
August 01, 2009
Human Strain of Clostridium Difficile Reported in Quarter Horse
May 13, 2009
The same strain of Clostridium difficile that causes illness and death in human hospitals was reported in a 14-year-old Quarter Horse, according to a paper published in May issue of the Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation.... Read More
Toxin Test Might Identify Horses with Diarrhea that Could be Debilitating
April 14, 2009
Early identification of a toxin produced by the diarrhea-causing bacterium Clostridium difficile, in the feces of horses with diarrhea might help identify which horses are at risk for developing serious disease, report... Read More
Testing for Clostridium difficile (AAEP Convention 2008)
February 25, 2009
Clostridium difficile bacteria can cause severe, sometimes fatal colitis in horses. When a horse develops severe diarrhea (particularly if blood is present), C. difficile might be suspected, but veterinarians must confirm the infectio... Read More
ACVIM Conference Highlights
October 01, 2008
What do nutritional supplements, infectious diseases, and snake bites have in common? All were considered "hot... Read More
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Farm Call: Your Questions Answered
Foal Heat Diarrhea
Q. Can you please tell me what foal heat diarrhea is, and what causes it? Some people say it's because of the mare's hormones being transferred in her milk during foal heat, but other people have said that is an old wives' tale.


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Sorry for this, but I agree with Pins. Indigo is always the way forward (except with black shoes, yuck)
Indigo jeans don't look right in my head. Brown and burgundy both go great with grey imo.
Go the whole hog and post up some pics of combos. If you can be arsed, obv
Sorry for this, but I agree with Pins. Indigo is always the way forward (except with black shoes, yuck)
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just picked up these and dont know what to wear on the top half colour-wise (im in australia so its spring/summer):
Plain white vests / t-shirts would be cool.
I also kinda like the idea of a purple tee with the orange ones and an orange tee with the purple ones.
just broght these for holiday next week. thinking of getting some boat shoes but not sure about upper body.
Hey All
I have a waist length cool leather jacket that I bought a few years ago.Its really nice,but dont wear it enough.
Want some outfits to wear it with been working in my head.Can I wear it with brown boots?If you wear brown boot I like to wear a matching belt.Does a black leather jacket not look wrong with a brown belt?
I do no like wearing a lot of color, most especially neon or pastel ones. For me it's just all dark and light colors. But I do like the shaded brown neck tie. It could give accent to your top.
"The only real elegance is in the mind; if youve got that, the rest really comes from it."
My interests are drawn to just online clothes shopping
I just bought a pair of grey jeans from Zara. They are slim but not super skinny. They look really good with white vans but absolutely no idea what to wear upper half or what colours go with grey and white. Anyone any ideas?


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Question by missjoy54751: What does this new health care law mean for uninsured people who need coverage?
My son was just denied health coverage from a private insurance company. He needs medical insurance. I heard that this new law will do away with 'pre-existing conditions.' He recently had surgery on his hand from a stabbing. Will this new health care law go back and help pay for the surgery and anything he needs such as physical therapy?
Best answer:
Answer by Age of Reason
None of it goes into effect until the Pres signs it. Then your son shops around for the best deal.
No it is not retroactive and will not pay old bills. Your son should apply to his state for assistance from the Victims Fund.
Give your answer to this question below!
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A new report, "A Manager's Guide to Evaluating Citizen Participation," by Tina Nabatchi, an assistant professor at the Maxwell School at Syracuse University, is designed to help answer these questions.
Dr. Nabatchi says "Two types of evaluation are relevant for assessing citizen participation:"
For each, she provides a series of steps to take, which she says "represent practical, non-prescriptive tools, designed to summarize and organize the essential elements of program evaluation as they pertain to citizen participation."
Dr. Nabatchi also offers examples of places where evaluations have made a difference, including Pinellas City, Florida, Seattle's Neighborhood Planning Program, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Do evaluations make a difference? Past evaluations of the District of Columbia's "Citizens Summits" that demonstrated the effectiveness of engaging neighborhood-level citizens may have contributed to the current mayor sponsoring a "One City Summit" slated for February 11th.
A helpful appendix in the report even provides action-ready evaluation design worksheets.


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Walters' slow start costly in loss to Royals
MINNEAPOLIS -- P.J. Walters couldn't put together the start he was looking for and greatly needed -- and he was his toughest critic.
Walters exited in an early six-run hole -- yielding two of the Royals' four homers -- and the Twins never recovered in a 9-3 loss on Friday night at Target Field.Full Game Coverage
MINNEAPOLIS -- P.J. Walters couldn't put together the start he was looking for and greatly needed -- and he was his toughest critic.
Walters exited in an early six-run hole -- yielding two of the Royals' four homers -- and the Twins never recovered in a 9-3 loss on Friday night at Target Field.Full Game Coverage
Walters labored through three innings, giving up six runs on six hits, including a three-run blast to Billy Butler in the first. Walters' ERA vaulted to 6.03 after his brief outing -- which came on the heels of an even shorter start on Saturday at Cleveland, where he lasted just two-thirds of an inning.
"He was getting behind in the counts and couldn't put the ball where he wanted to," Twins manager Ron Gardenhire said. "His fastball was kind of drifting. ... One of those where you're hoping he finds it and you're giving him as much as you possibly can, but we ended up being in a 6-0 hole."
The right-hander didn't make any excuses after the game and immediately noted his shortcomings, especially in back-to-back poor starts.
"That's two in a row where I hadn't done my job," Walters said. "Falling behind, obviously, last week it was walking guys, today it was falling behind and giving up hits. Either way it was two bad ones in a row. I've got to come back and straighten some things out.
"We all have games where we struggle, everybody in the league has them. I've just put two in a row together. In my eyes that's unacceptable. To the team, I'm sure it is, too."
After rain delayed the start by 26 minutes, the Royals got to work quickly. With one out, Butler belted a mammoth shot to center, scoring Alcides Escobar, who walked, and Eric Hosmer, who singled up the middle.
The Royals added another run in each of the next two innings. Alex Gordon hit an RBI single up the middle to score Lorenzo Cain, who led off the second with a double to left. In the third, Mike Moustakas hammered the Royals' second home run off Walters to the second deck in right-center, scoring Butler, who singled in his second at-bat.
The Twins didn't get on the board until the fourth inning, already with a 6-0 deficit. Justin Morneau hit an RBI double down the right-field line to score Josh Willingham for the first run. Three batters later, Brian Dozier drove in Morneau with a double down the left-field line. Trailing, 6-2, Pedro Florimon was robbed of a potential two-run hit, when David Lough made a spectacular diving catch in right to end the inning.
"That was huge for them," Dozier said. "Just by [Royals pitcher James] Shields' reaction on the mound, it took a lot out of us because we had a little momentum going. I thought for sure that it was at least a double for Florimon. ... Obviously, they hit the ball well and had a few home runs, but looking back, they had four or five diving plays that could have turned the game around."
In the fifth, Twins center fielder Clete Thomas joined the home run party with a solo shot to the right-field plaza area to make it 7-3.
Twins right-hander Anthony Swarzak took the mound to start the fourth in relief of Walters. After a 1-2-3 third inning, Swarzak gave up the Royals' third home run of the night to Hosmer, who nailed a solo shot to right as he jumped on the first pitch to make it 7-2. Swarzak gave up another home run to Hosmer in the seventh, a two-run shot that extended the Royals' lead to 9-3.
Swarzak worked four innings, allowing three runs on five hits with three strikeouts.
Shields went 6 1/3 innings, allowing three runs on eight hits with no walks. He also struck out five, including four of the first five batters he faced, as the right-hander earned his first win since April 30.
"It's definitely a big weight taken off," Shields' said. "The two-month anniversary was coming up on not getting a win. But this team has been grinding all season long. We've won the last six of my [starts] and I have no doubt we're going to keep going up from here."
The Twins managed a small threat in the eighth, but couldn't scratch any runs across against the Royals' bullpen. Lefty Bruce Chen started the inning and loaded the bases on a Willingham walk and singles by Morneau and Oswaldo Arcia. Right-hander Aaron Crow replaced Chen and got the final two outs to end the threat -- including Moustakas' snag of a Dozier line drive up the third-base line.
"He came out of nowhere," Dozier said. "He's got awesome range over there, he plays third base really as good as anybody. He's a friend of mine, so I thought he was going to let it slide for me. I guess not."
Kelly Erickson is an associate reporter for MLB.com.


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The world economy and especially the economy in the U.S. is a hot topic. The poor economy is the reason cited by many companies from auction giant eBay to massive consumer electronics retailers like Best Buy and Circuit City for falling profits.
So far, the GPU industry is maintaining its growth, which is an impressive feat. The latest figures are in from Jon Peddie Research (JPR) on the overall GPU industry for Q3 2008. JPR reports that more than one third of computer systems shipping today use multiple GPUs accounting for some of the increased growth in the market. In Q3 2008 111 million GPUs were shipped, that is up from 91 million GPUs shipped the same quarter of 2007.
In Q2 2008, 94 million GPUs were shipped. Those numbers represent a growth of close to 18% quarter-to-quarter and 22.5% compared to last year. JPR reports that almost all GPU makers grew over the quarter. Only SiS saw a loss and Matrox didn't grow at all.
AMD showed the biggest quarterly growth with a 33.8% gain from 18.1% on Q2 2008 to 20.6% this quarter. Intel still holds the most market share at 49.4% compared to 47.3% last quarter. NVIDIA grew 4.4% to a market share of 27.8% for Q3 2008.
In the desktop GPU market, Intel shipments grew giving it a 43.9% share of the market compared to NVIDIA's market share decline to 32.6%. AMD gained market share growing to 20.3% for the quarter. In the notebook market Intel saw its shipments drop one point to 56.2% of the market NVIDIA's share dropped to 21.8% from 23.6% in Q2 2008. AMD grew at the expense of Intel and NVIDIA from 17.9% share in Q2 2008 to 20.9% share in Q3 2008.
Dr. Jon Peddie said in a statement, "The third quarter is seasonally up as OEMs place orders for chips to build inventory for the holiday season. However, this quarter was up more than any other for some time, and in spite of suggestions of a recession that started last Q4. Desktops increased seasonally and notebooks enjoyed quite significant gains."
NVIDIA is coming on strong though and thinks that its new 9400M GPU for the notebook market could grab it up to 30% of the notebook market. The new NVIDIA GPU has already replaced Intel's parts in the MacBook line and is looking to oust Intel graphics from other computers coming to market as well. NVIDIA and Apple claimed that the 9400M GPU offered about five times more performance than the Intel GPUs that had been used in MacBook systems.
If NVIDIA can deliver on its goals for the 9400M, we may see a new landscape in Q4 2008, traditionally the biggest quarter for computer makers. With the slowing economy, many might expect to see drops moving into the holiday season. However, consumer electronics is one of the only product categories expected to see growth in shipments over the 2008 holiday season, which is widely expected to be the worst holiday season since the early 1990's.
However, Intel has vowed to do what it takes to get the business back that NVIDIA has taken. Perhaps a new Intel GPU will come soon that offers performance on par with NVIDIA's offerings.


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Kershaw fans seven as Cruz returns with power
Starter allows two earned runs in three innings; four Dodgers drive in two
By Ken Gurnick / MLB.com
GLENDALE, Ariz. -- Luis Cruz returned from a case of food poisoning to homer as the Dodgers had three multiple-run innings to beat the Angels on Thursday, 10-8, at Camelback Ranch in Glendale, Ariz.
Dodgers starter Clayton Kershaw struck out seven with no walks in three innings, but also was charged with three runs (two earned) on six hits. Jerome Williams, who figures to be a long reliever, started for the Angels and was charged with five runs (four earned) in two innings.
Ted Lilly made his first appearance for the Dodgers since undergoing shoulder surgery last year and pitched two innings, allowing a solo home run to Howard Kendrick, who had three hits, scored three runs and drove in two.
Cruz -- who had to be hospitalized Wednesday -- joined Alfredo Amezaga, Mark Ellis and Elian Herrera in driving in a pair of runs each for the Dodgers. Peter Moylan and Josh Wall pitched scoreless innings.
Angels center fielder Peter Bourjos, looking to prove he can handle an everyday job, struck out three times, while non-roster reliever Hiroyuki Kobayashi, fighting for a bullpen spot, pitched a scoreless inning. Brad Mills was roughed up for four runs in two innings for the Angels, while Chad Cordero, the former Nats closer trying to return to the Majors after nearly two years away from the game, gave up a run on a double and a bloop single and struck out two in his second inning of the spring.
Up next for the Dodgers: The Dodgers play split-squad games on Friday at 12:05 p.m. PT, with Hyun-Jin Ryu starting at Tempe, Ariz., against Jered Weaver and the Angels, live on MLB.TV, and Zack Greinke opposing Casey Kelly and the Padres in Glendale, Ariz. But the real news could be made by center fielder Matt Kemp, who said he's planning to make his first exhibition appearance since October shoulder surgery in the game against the Padres.
Ken Gurnick is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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1. We get our first glimpse of "real" vampires in this chapter. What was your impression of them as a group and as individuals? Did you connect the fact that their red eyes had to do with the type of blood they drank?
I thought they were scary as hell. I was impressed by Laurent however, in that he seems more civilized than the other two nomads. I did think that their red eyes had to do with the fact that they drink human blood rather than animal blood, but I still don't understand why that is. Both types of blood are red, so I don't see why the Cullens have golden eyes.
2. To me, the book takes on a second sort of plot right here with the emergence of Bella being hunted and put in danger by someone other than Edward. Up until know, the book had a much different feel and rhythm. Do you get the same impression or did you feel something different?
I totally got that same impression. Up to that point, it seemed that the book was more character-driven, which I really loved. I love exploring the relationships that people have and the complexities of personalities. It seemed that once we get to this chapter though, the book becomes action-based. Everything gets really fast, and emotions run a lot higher.
3. On page 383, Alice says that there is another option than just running away, which angers Edward into saying, "There-is-no-other-option." What's your take on this moment and what do you think that other option is?
I wasn't thinking about it at the time, but maybe Alice was talking about making Bella a vampire, right then and there. If Bella was turned into a vampire, she would hold nothing for James anymore. That's exactly what happened to Alice.
4. Do you think that Bella had the best plan? Do you think things would have worked out better had they gone with Edward's plan? Considering how things worked out, do you have suggestions over what they should have done differently at this point?
I think Bella did have the best plan. Edward's plan wasn't well-thought out enough. He was acting in the moment and all he could think of was protecting Bella. He wasn't thinking about protecting Charlie or their reputation. Bella's plan covered those areas a lot better. I think maybe they could have gone somewhere besides Phoenix, because then her mother wouldn't have gotten involved at all. James wouldn't have been able to use her home video tapes as bait. They should have gone to Denali, where more vampires could have helped.


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I know, I know. I want him gone as badly as you do. I'm just as sick of watching him loaf around the court and just as sick of the empty offence. But I don't think it's time to trade him. Not yet.
It's not a matter of untapped potential, or finding a niche or a role on the team. No, he's going to be traded at some point (or at least I pray to every god ever conceived that he will). It's about what he could bring back in a trade now versus what he could help bring back at a more opportune time. Now let me be clear here, I don't know when that time will be, or even if it happens to be right now and we simply don't know it. But unless Bargs is being traded to help bring back an all-star or a franchise player, then what's the point?
I'm sure a lot of you will reply that simply removing Bargs is addition by subtraction, and you're probably not wrong. I get the logic of just getting rid of him for whatever spare parts a team is willing to concede, and if you can get a legit player, then great. But consider that just about every time a team is forced to deal their all-star centrepiece, whether it's because they're unhappy, or likely to bolt, or their current team can't afford them, the package going the other way consists of a good but not great player and a bunch of picks and/or young players.
For Harden it was Martin.
For Deron it was Harris.
For Dwight it was Afflalo.
For Paul it was Gordon.
And so on.
Obviously there are exceptions, like Atlanta dumping Joe Johnson for cap relief, but you get the point. When trams are forced into a position of having to deal, that's what they look for: youth and a player that GMs can point to as helping to fill the void (both on the court and on the books).
For the Raptors, who likely aren't going to be bad enough to land a franchise player through the draft (this year's crop doesn't feature such a player, even if they do select first), and likely aren't going to attract one in free agency, dealing for one might be the only way. And if Bargs isn't part of the deal, then how would it get done? You presumably wouldn't want to give up DeRozan, Fields and Amir are hardly the kind of contracts a GM would want back, and Jose's cap-eating deal is gone after this year. Those are the only contracts on the books that could help facilitate a big trade, except for Andrea's. And to me, Andrea's deal is tailor-made for this kind of trade: 2 years left after this one, at a decent price for a guy that can pretend to be your first or second option while you rebuild. Most importantly, including him in any deal of this kind reduces the amount of youth you'd have to send back.
These kinds of deals often seem impossible or unlikely, but they happen all the time. Nobody saw the Harden or Deron Williams deals coming, but they happened because increasingly teams want to get something back for players they know might leave. So as unpopular as this opinion is likely to be, keeping Bargs around until an opportunity presents itself might make a lot more sense long-term than simply dumping him for whatever you can get this year. The Raps aren't going to be playing for anything significant this year or next, so there's no rush to rebuild (or at least there wouldn't be if the GM had job security).
So I say keep Bargs in the back pocket until it's time to pounce. I can put up with him for another season or two if it helps to finally bring the type of player back that you can actually build a team around.


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Welcome back to The Queue, WoW.com's daily Q&A column where the WoW.com team answers your questions about the World of Warcraft. Adam Holisky be your host today.
I might be wrong with this one, but I think World of Warcraft is just a game. I mean, it's something we all do in our spare time, and have fun with, right?
And it doesn't really matter, because at the end of the day everything is just pixels on the screen.
But maybe I'm off base here, and WoW isn't a game. Maybe it's real. What is real? Is there a spoon? I see dead people.
Retadinman asked...
"Why are draenei hated so much? The "lorelol" retcon wasn't really that big, but since my main character and posting avatar on the Forums (who are the same) are draenei, I get a lot of hate. Why is this?"
Welcome back to The Queue, WoW.com's daily Q&A column where the WoW.com team answers your questions about the World of Warcraft. Adam Holisky be your host today.
I think there's a legitimate academic discussion that can take place over the draenei retcon and the associated lore. Retcons are something that should typically be avoided, and Blizzard deservedly should take some flack for it. Of course, this is an ongoing tale, and it could be considered that the draenei are just another chapter in the book, that sort of thing. But, so go the arguments...
Now, the part about people giving you crap for rolling a space goat? They're just being immature and forgetting this is a game. There's a certain segment of the WoW community that gets all up in arms over their class and race, and take anything that's against them as a personal insult. It's just a game, we forget that all too often. Even though you're not personally insulting them by playing a draenei, they take your very presence as a problem, particularly in lore discussions. My advice? Ignore them.
RogueJedi asked...
"Why hasn't Blizzard shut down any more gold sites?"
We don't know, first of all. Secondly, Blizzard has gotten sites shut down in the past, but we don't know under what pretenses they were shut down, and any speculation we throw out there would be potentially slanderous, so we want to avoid that.
Remember that Blizzard's ToS, which says gold selling and buying is against the rules, is not the law. For a site to be forced to close, it has to be against the law civially or criminally. We don't know the specific situations in relation to the law, and we likely will never know, so it's best just to not say anything we don't know much about.
And everyone who says that Blizzard takes a cut from the gold selling sites is lying, there has never been any evidence of that, and any suggestion otherwise is proposterous.
Hyacinthe asked...
"Is Blizzard seriously not planning to itemize things for bear tanks?"
Because the druid kit does not rely on the defense stat and takes much from core and universal stats such as agility, stamina, and armor, there does not need to be gear specifically tuned to druid tanks (although there is some). Instead, druid tanks roll with rogues and cats. This isn't a bad situation, and is about equal with the other classes. Warlocks, mages, and shadow priests roll together (more or less). DPS paladins, warriors, and death knights roll together (more or less). Plate tanks roll together (more or less). And healers... well... healers are just nuts and roll on anything that they need -- same with hunters.
Remember, it's not about the gear, it's about the way your class interfaces with the gear.
Alex started the discussion...
What's your favorite WoW site, besides WoW.com?
Like Alex, I visit a ton of sites every day, and have several hundred in my RSS reader. On a daily basis I find myself visiting MMO-Champion, WoWWiki, and Wowhead. There are about 30 or so that I'll visit once a week, and another 50 that I'll frequent at least a few times a month. I'm working on a very large list of WoW resources for everyone, and that should be posted in the next couple days.
Have questions about the World of Warcraft? The WoW.com crew is here with The Queue, our daily Q&A column! Leave your questions in the comments and we'll do our best to answer 'em!


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Tiger Woods' ex-girlfriend thinks the storm surrounding the golfer's admission of infidelity "will only make him stronger," People.com reported.
Irene Folstrom, 35, dated the golfer while they were undergrads at Stanford. They broke up when he left the school and turned pro after his sophomore year.
"He is an ironman. He gets thru adversity. Those other players, they better watch out," she said of Woods' eventual return to golf.
Folstrom hasn't spoken to Woods in more than 10 years, but she thinks he deserves a second chance, according to People. She explained that a mutual friend in closer contact with the golfer assures her that he is dedicated to repairing his relationship with his wife, model Elin Nordegren. "He is willing to do whatever it takes to salvage his marriage and his reputation and his professional life," she says.
"It was a complete surprise because the Tiger I know would never have done anything like this," she said. "He has so much self-control and is so disciplined. When he married Elin, I thought he would settle down ... I don't know where it fell apart.
She said he never cheated on her and remembers Woods as a "dork" who was "scrawny and wore thick glasses" who didn't have "a lot of female attention."
But she also recalled Woods as a focused athlete who was up at 6:30 a.m. practicing his game. "He had an immense amount of self-control," she said.
"He was never a party animal, never reckless," she said. "He was always very guarded of himself and his friends. He kept his circle very tight and that's the way it is right now."
Folstrom said she "supports him 100%." And while she doesn't approve of his prowling, she is confident that he'll soon return to dominate the golf course.


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Hi Everybody,
My name is Jonathan, and I ride a K1300GT. I am planning on a ride to a business conference in Toronto from Cape Coral Florida. I have planed for 4 Days to get there (May 23 - 26th) and 4 days to get back (May 31st - June 3rd). This is an open invitation for suggestions on routes, stop overs / hotels / bed & breakfasts, company if (you want to ride a section of the journey with me), comments, or experiences that you may have to contribute. My son lives in Buffalo, so at least one leg will be through Niagara Falls or the Peace Bridge. I am considering possibly traveling via the Blue Ridge Parkway. I am also considering traveling via Detroit. I look forward to hearing from you my fellow members.
Yours Truly,