text: Crew Foreman in Tampa, FL Educational Requirements: High school diploma is required. Minimum 2 year degree/certification in Horticulture or related field is highly desired, but not required. Experience Requirements: Must have valid drivers license and good driving record Must pass drug test and background check Must have strong communication/customer service skills Must possess strong leadership and time-management skills Professional attitude and demeanor Ability to follow direction/instruction of Field Supervisor Ability to operate all landscaping equipment Knowledge of Fertilization and Pesticide applications Attention to detail Minimum 1 year experience as crew leader preferred Bilingual a plus Certifications in Horticulture, irrigation, or landscape technician a plus Special Requirements: The best candidates will demonstrate experience in the landscaping industry, whether in commercial landscape maintenance, golf course maintenance, grounds maintenance or other similar field. Candidates will have previous experience as a crew leader. All candidates must possess qualities of a strong work ethic, humility, cooperative team mindset and positive attitude. Date Available: 3/25/13 Application Instructions: Please email resume, and references to email@example.com to apply. The best qualified applicants will be contacted to conduct a brief phone interview and to arrange a time to meet at our office. Salary Range: $12-14 per hour to start based on experience. Benefits: Quarterly Performance Bonus , Paid Vacation. Comments: Green Expectations Landscaping is a full service landscaping company that specializes in commercial landscape maintenance including HOA's, community developments, hospitals, commercial real estate buildings, etc. We service all areas in the Tampa Bay area. Green Expectations Landscaping is a growing company seeking to hire an individual that is interested in growing with the company. Our plan is to grow rapidly and offers new candidates an excellent opportunity to advance because we hire from within. Our goal and commitment is to exceed our customer's expectations for service and quality each day, while providing opportunities for employees to meet their personal and professional goals.


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Many wedding and event videographers just won't shoot without a solid, shoulder-mount professional camcorder. They like the weight, the resistance, the steadying nature of a full-size package. Others love the free-form handycam approach, and they are convinced that small camcorders are the best for grabbing quick, unobtrusive, and intimate shots. But handycam can easily become shaky cam, as unwanted shakes, rattles, and rolls turn professional compositions into amateur and unwatchable video. Luckily, support devices for steady handheld video camera operation come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and prices.
Shooting on the Level Levelcam (left)is a new and interesting solution, recently developed by pro videographers specifically to reduce unwanted camera motion. It's a passive stabilizer platform, and it looks something like a boomerang (throwing it with a camera mounted may make for an interesting shot, but the technique is not necessarily recommended).
But this flat, small, lightweight (about 10 ounces) device will give you tremendous freedom of movement while shooting. Easily gripped with both hands, it can be held at almost any level for smooth, horizon-sensitive shooting. It can also be used simultaneously with a tripod, so you can switch from shooting handheld to being tripod-mounted in just seconds. Levelcam features standard screw-and-thread holes to mount not only the most common camcorders, but also shooting accessories like lights, wireless microphones, and DV hard drives (included screws or bungee cords can be used). It's rated for camcorders up to about six pounds, with the latest HDV, P2, HDD, and MiniDV camcorders included.
Levelcam is made from extruded plastic so as not to crack or splinter. It can be easily drilled, modified, or even flipped around (left-eyed) for your own personal shooting preferences. The Levelcam is now available for about $70.
High-End Support Help Priced at nearly 10 times that figure—around $6,500—the Artemis DV Pro FX from Sachtler (left) is a sophisticated active stabilizing system for DV and HDV shooters with a serious requirement for flexibility and control in any number of shooting environments.
Complete with a sled, vest, and arm, the DV Pro FX offers up a lot of the same camera support that top of the line steadicam-type systems provide.
The wearable DV Pro FX offers operators a range of controls over all adjustments, including dynamic balance, weight optimization, and the ability to add an appropriate amount of inertia to precisely stabilize mounted camcorders. Smooth camera moves while walking, running, or riding a moving vehicle or platform are easier when the camera is, in effect, being worn by the operator, thanks to a back-mounted cushion that spreads camera weight evenly and centers it on the operator's hips.
The DV Pro FX's advanced camera support arm uses interchangeable gas-spring cartridges to support different weights: 11.0–17.6 lbs.; 17.6–24.2 lbs.; and 22.0–28.6 lbs. The arm support is fully reversible for operation on either the left or right side of the body.
The streamlined black FX sled features a central post topped with a quick-release camera-mounting system. A battery compartment at the bottom of the post holds standard 14.4 V batteries from various manufacturers. As well, a 7" integrated LCD monitor can be mounted and adjusted to the system. It has 16:9 and 4:3 aspect ratio support, and automatically switches between NTSC and PAL depending on input.
Articulating Accessories Also supporting the work of videographers, with pricing and functions in between the basic operational simplicity of a Levelcam and the stabilizing sophistication of Artemis-like systems, are the articulating arm supports from companies such as Zacuto.
That company's new Zamerican line (left) of small, medium, and large articulating arms can be used to mount any number of accessories to the camera itself. The Zamerican Large comes with a Z-Release on both ends of the arm, for fast mounting and easy quick-release action. Flipping the Z-Release level locks or unlocks a device, with no screwing and unscrewing. Instead of the familiar 1/4" or 3/8" screws on either end of the arm, Zacuto uses standard 15mm rods on both ends. These rods slip into a whole line of Z-Release products that can be used to attach Panavision or other rods, c-stands, gator grips, cameras, and other lighting, grip, and shooting tools.
Last-Minute Lighting To quickly expand our July report on new on-camera lighting solutions for event video, here's some late-breaking news about recently released products that were missed last time.
Switronix Switronix has a new battery-powered LED light that can be driven by the same power source as the camera. The company recently introduced its XD-L56S, a 5600 K color temp LED light with a power draw of 6 V, but a reported output that's the equivalent of 20 W.
A line of adapters is available with the necessary cable connections to connect and power the XD-L56S via the light's side tap input from Series 7 (or Sony Type L) battery systems, compatible with most pro DV/HDV cameras. The light comes with both 1/4" thread and hot shoe mounting options. Street pricing is around $250.
Litepanels Litepanels has introduced its 1x1 4-Lite Kit (left), complete with four separate 1x1 LED fixtures with detachable mounting yokes, each with its own AC adapter/power supply, power cable, tripod stand, and set of color/diffusion gel filters—packed in a compact carrying case.
Available in daylight flood or spot and tungsten flood versions, the four heads can be used separately, though not for on-camera mounting. They come with stands, and can be mounted singly, and with standard TVMP receptacles as multi-panel configurations.
The 1x1 4-Lite Complete Kit is available now at an MSRP of $8,995.
iKan Again, not for on-camera mounting, but in small studio settings or confined spaces, the new SL100 Soft Box Light from ikan (left) provides nice fluorescent lighting in either daylight or tungsten temperatures. The unit weighs about 3.5 lbs. with the bulb; the box measures about 32" on the diagonal. It's priced at $249, which includes the housing, cable, soft box, and an 85 W compact fluorescent bulb.
Take Me to the Pilot Pricing information is now available for Tiffen's new Steadicam Pilot, a support system for cameras weighing up to about 10 lbs. At that weight, it's a slightly scaled down version of the the full-up pro Flyer model; but on long or uninterrupted shoots, it still provides optimum operator comfort and operational functionality.
Depending on configuration, Pilot prices start at $3,750. Camera power and video feed connection are built in, but different battery mounts and monitor sizes are available, including a choice of a 3.5" color 4:3 LCD monitor and a 12 V AA battery back, or a 5.8" 16:9/4:3 color LCD and V-Mount Anton/Bauer battery mounts.
The Pilot features a lightweight iso-elastic arm and low-profile vest, a sled with expandable 28" boom post, and a low-mass, three-axis positional gimbal for smooth and balanced video shooting. The camera mounting plate itself has numerous locking points and adjustments for easy re-balancing and operation.
Lee Rickwood is a media consultant and freelance writer.

subset: commoncrawl


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When your team can't beat an 8th seed in the most important series of all, with home ice advantage don't take it out on others.
Take it out on Bernier Madoff - he "stole" the Cup from you
Still heated at the outcome esp with the snub of the Gionta call and the Kopitar push but t'is all good
CONGRATS, To my Eastern Conference Champs!
Last edited by Gata; 06-21-2012 at 12:04 AM.
That "banner" is gonna look marvy when the NHL takes over the Devil Dogs next month for failure to make their bank payments due on the Newark Slumdome and moves them to Quebec or Atlanta or back to Kansas City where they might have more than 5000 total fans
Sent from my SGH-T679 using Tapatalk 2
Means little in the long run since.with no fans and a bankrupt owner...they'll probably be moved or conttacted within a couple of seasons
NY has only one NHL franchise same as it's been for 80+ years
Sent from my SGH-T679 using Tapatalk 2
It makes little sense to me how you bad mouth trolls, when you're by far the biggest Rangers Troll I've encountered on the Internet.
Sour Rags Fans .
Last edited by Gata; 06-21-2012 at 11:43 AM.
Jeff Vanderbeek, the controlling owner of the Devils, could complete a deal by the end of next month to erase most of the teams debt and bring in new minority owners, according to two people with knowledge of the negotiations.
Vanderbeek has had a term sheet for new investors on his desk since the end of May, these people said. The document, a copy of which was obtained by The New York Times, explains that the investors infusion of cash will help pay off debt on the team and Prudential Center, and will raise working capital. It does not list the name of the new investors.
In recent months, the team has been focused on repaying about $77 million that is overdue to its banks, which is only a portion of overall team and arena debt. The term sheet, which was dated May 27, three days before the Devils opened the Stanley Cup finals against the Los Angeles Kings, promised that new investors would get a so-called put option after five years that would allow them to sell their shares in the team to a third party.
In addition, the term sheet said, Vanderbeek will invest $10 million to take an additional stake in the team, but his contribution has been modified since then. He controls 47 percent of the team, and while it is unclear whether the extra shares will make him a majority owner, Vanderbeek is expected to remain the controlling owner.
Since the term sheet was issued, Vanderbeek has been able to refinance and restructure much of the total debt of about $178 million. That part of the deal is almost complete, which is allowing Vanderbeeks financial adviser, Three Ocean Ventures, to move to raising equity from investors who have already been identified, according to the people with direct knowledge of the deal.
The term sheet also specifies that a compensation committee that includes the major shareholders be created to approve player contracts of more than three years that are worth more than $7.5 million after the first year, and which increase overall team payroll. The captain Zach Parise, goalie Martin Brodeur and defenseman Bryce Salvador are among the players who are set to become unrestricted free agents July 1.
On the eve of the Stanley Cup finals, Commissioner Gary Bettman said that Vanderbeek is working to both refinance the debt on the club and equity raise, and he appears to be fairly confident that he can pull this off in the next few weeks.
Bettman added, Since Ive been in touch with the banks on a regular basis, we seem to be on track.
Bettman has more than a rooting interest. The N.H.L. advanced the Devils $10 million from the teams share of the leaguewide revenue pool, which includes income from the sale of television rights. The league has denied that it plans to take over the Devils if the team fails to complete a new agreement.
Bill Daly, the leagues deputy commissioner, declined to comment on the terms of the proposed deal that Vanderbeek is weighing. The team also declined to comment.
But the Devils deep playoff run brought in $32 million in extra revenue, which has given Vanderbeek breathing room to seek a better deal. The team has sold 1,500 new full season-ticket packages for next season, and the renewal rate for existing season-ticket holders is nearly 95 percent, compared to 84 percent last year.
In November, Forbes valued the team at $181 million, the 20th-most valuable franchise in the N.H.L. The Devils are one of the most indebted teams in the league, with debts worth 100 percent of the value of the club, Forbes said.
Taptalk in your ass.
Stefan Matteau, 29th overall pick by the New Jersey Devils...
Son of former Rangers Super Star aka ( Class of 94') Stéphane Matteau


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Frugalista Stampede Crashes Target's Website
A horde of foamy-mouthed "frugalistas" took down the website of corporate megalith Target for several hours this morning, when Italian knitwear brand Missoni launched its 400-piece "Missoni for Target" collection. I won't lie, I am not above this. I, too, visited Target.com this morning, seeking a pair of zig-zag patterened shoes I saw in the Missoni for Target lookbook. My greed for reasonably priced footwear crashed Target.com.
Racked reports that the desperate among us can circumvent the crash by using Target's mobile site. But are you really ready to sink that? [AP, Bits, Racked]


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Apigee has launched the API Exchange, which allows a smartphone mobile app provided for one telecommunications company to connect with the services of another telco.
In effect, through the exchange, an application originally designed for one provider can be used in a different service area to deliver the same functions through another supplier. For example, if you regularly use an AT&T app to move photos in its home territory of New Jersey, you can do the same thing in London, even though the nearest AT&T tower is far over the horizon.
An API exchange has the effect of extending the reach of mobile applications across service suppliers without requiring application developers to know the specific APIs of each one. The API provides a controlled gateway into a set of services sought by consumers.
The smartphone or mobile device application providing the service is often developed by an independent third party, familiar with one or a few providers' API programs. That's been a barrier in the past, as developers have been forced to select the carriers of their most likely customers and then design exclusively for them.
In addition, Apigee API Exchange includes billing services so that both the telco that has originated the customer and the company supplying the actual service share in the revenue generated. That business enabler makes the API Exchange something like the Visa payment service: one neutral clearinghouse for consumers who wish to use many different restaurants and retailers, Apigee officials said.
[ Learn how an API helped Walgreens build its consumer photo business. See Walgreens' Prescription For Photo Profits: Public API. ]
Such an API exchange will potentially have a long-range effect on Android and other mobile application systems, though it will leave the sizeable iPhone customer base largely unchanged. iPhone users will still go through an Apple-controlled API set for iPhone and iPad application services.
The Apigee API Exchange seeks to allow developers to develop once, and then let the Apigee exchange select the correct API for the service sought through a target telco.
"We believe that in the app economy, data is the currency. We want to make sure data flows among API providers without any problem," said Bala Kasiviswanathan, head of product management for the exchange.
The exchange is still more potential than reality. There are literally hundreds of wireless carriers that could participate -- and should to make it work as advertised. Apigee has started with AT&T, Vodaphone, Deutsche Telekom, Orange and Telefonica, and many other wireless carriers are watching the exchange's launch.
Apigee is already building on some hard experience. Its GSMA OneAPI Exchange, launched in February based on the Apigee API Exchange, is the successor to the failed Wholesale Applications Community (WAC) initiative, an attempt to create a neutral API platform among wireless carriers. It addition to getting something that works for telcos, the exchange must offer the tools and technologies favored by independent developers so that application builders will use it. The WAC failed to gain traction in the latter group.
WAC resources were sold to Apigee last July, and soon after, it received $20 million in venture capital to build out a cross-company API exchange, although the telecommunications industry wasn't named at the time as its initial target vertical industry. Others will follow, said Chet Kapoor, CEO of Apigee, with healthcare and travel likely follow-up candidates.
An API management platform is offered by several companies, including Mashery, WSO2 and Layer 7. But Apigee has ignored distractions and aimed for the cross-company platform, hoping to steal a march on the competition and capture key telecom players as its customers. It announced the OneAPI Exchange on March 28, after a period of intense development.
It was a period that left some observers wondering why the firm seemed so inaccessible. Forrester Research released its first Forrester Wave report on API managers on Feb. 5, covering the previously mentioned firms, plus Intel, IBM, Vordel and 3 Scale, but not Apigee. The report's author noted, "Apigee declined to take part in this Wave due to a stated lack of company resources, although it otherwise met the evaluation criteria."
Its March 28 announcement included a statement of support from AT&T VP of innovation Abhi Ingle. He said the exchange "will empower developers to easily integrate AT&T network services and intelligence into their apps more quickly ... The exchange delivers important API interoperability that we believe will extend network innovation and reach for operators worldwide."
The GSMA is an industry trade group that originated in Europe, and sponsors the annual Mobile World Congress held in Barcelona. GSMA set out to create a cross-provider API platform that would serve all carriers in Europe. The initial attempt failed but was renewed with U.S. participants as the WAC platform assets moved into Apigee. Apigee includes a number of Microsoft veterans, including Kasiviswanathan, who have experience in dealing with the programmer community. Michael O'Hara, CMO of the GSMA, said the group plans to continue working with Apigee on the exchange.
In preparation for the March 28 launch, Apigee added offices in Bangalore, London, Detroit, and Austin, Texas.


text: Jeanine Peters-Kennedy, an assistant professor of Anatomic Pathology, works four to six weeks per year as a clinical dermatologist. She received her DVM from the University of Georgia in 2000 and completed residencies in anatomic pathology and dermatology training at Cornell. She is board certified by the American College of Veterinary Pathologists (and the American College of Veterinary Dermatologists.


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ROSWELL, Ga. - Thursday night, the Hoops in Overdrive event got started on the campus of Roswell (Ga.) Centennial High School in the Atlanta suburbs. While Friday's action will be headlined by a rematch of Winter Park (Fla.) High and the nation's No. 1 player, Austin Rivers, and stacked Alpharetta (Ga.) Milton who won last week's meeting at the City of Palms, Thursday's action was highlighted by a meeting of future SEC foes.
As it turned out, neither Tennessee-bound Kevin Ware or Georgia-bound Kentavious Caldwell disappointed as assistant coaches from each program looked on.
Thursday's top performers
Kevin Ware, SG/PG, Rockdale- A superb body-control athlete with a great first step, lateral quickness and tremendous bounce, the 6-foot-4 combo guard actually got off to a rough start. He had some silly turnovers and just seemed rushed. However, he canned a running 30-footer at the first half buzzer while getting fouled and it changed everything. During the second half he was under control, found teammates for easy buckets and scored whenever needed.
Because of his first step and size, he can get the ball into the paint or between five and 12 feet of the rim whenever he wants to. As he develops his pull-up game and gets more consistent with floaters and short jumpers he will be a load for anybody to guard. Defensively he's got vast potential and should excel in Tennessee's press. We had him for 17 points and seven assists in a really nice outing.
Kentavious Caldwell, SG, Greenville- The 6-foot-5 shooting guard's team plays with tremendous effort and they are very athletic. But, they don't run a lot of sets and rely a lot on whoever gets the ball across half court putting up a shot while the other four guys go and chase the ball if the shot is missed. More often than not, it's Caldwell who takes the shot and he finished with 35 points on 15-31 shooting from the floor.
Because of the rushed style of play, many of his shots are taken with poor balance and hurried. But it's what he needs to do because his team just doesn't have many other scorers. Caldwell is already known as an impressive jump shooter with range and that still rings true. But, what was impressive is how well he's developed his game off of the dribble and how hard he attacks the bucket. He crashed the glass, and played with great energy and a sense of urgency as well. The main thing that could hold him up when transitioning to college is that he's very skinny and has to add a lot of strength because he's already getting bumped all over on the high school level. Regardless, this is a kid who deserves a spot in the McDonald's All-American game.
Craig Sword, SG, Carver- It wasn't the most impressive of starts for the 6-foot-2 combo guard as he looked sluggish and not at all into the game early. Turns out, he and his team had played two games on Wednesday and bussed in until four in the morning to make their Thursday tip so there was good reason to be sluggish. During the second half, though, the four-star junior sprung to life swishing back-to-back threes, driving for a dunk, making a pull-up jumper and getting to the rim with ease while scoring 23 of his 27 points in a 10 minute or so flurry of action. He's an instinctive player with fast-twitch athleticism and as good a first step as there is in the class of 2012. He listed Mississippi State, Alabama, Auburn, Georgia, Missouri, Tennessee and Kentucky as interested parties.
More Thursday notables
Roquez Johnson, PF, Carver- An unsigned senior post player, Johnson gets a lot out of his 6-foot-6 frame. He's got lean strength, a great set of hands and is a quick leaper who tracks loose balls in and out of his area. On offense, he attacks the rim and has a nose for getting to the glass. Looks to be a potential spring pickup for a mid-major in need of an energy guy.
Justin Tuoyo, C/PF, Lovejoy- It's a shame that high school refs don't often let young big guys grind it out or play with aggression on the glass. Because of some ticky-tack fouls, the 6-foot-8 center never really got going. Still, it's easy to see that he's a high level rebounder and a shot rejector who is happy to board and play defense and get his offense where he can. Tuoyo listed offers from Virginia Tech, VCU, Alabama, Georgia and Virginia.
Darion Clark, PF, Rockdale- A member of a loaded Atlanta Celtics 2012 group that features several ranked players, the rugged and athletic 6-foot-6 power forward may have been overlooked a bit during the summer. Wednesday, he was a stud in the lane scoring on aggressive takes to the hoop, strong post moves and even a few short jumpers. He rebounds, runs and plays with great energy on both ends of the floor. Apparently, he's not too shabby at the game of football either.
Final Thursday notes from Hoops in Overdrive
Montgomery (Ala.) Carver sophomore wing Jeremy Johnson looks like he has potential on the basketball floor. However, it's not likely that he'll wear high tops in college. The 6-foot-5 small forward is a potential big-time football recruit as a quarterback/athlete. … Lovejoy (Ga.) High features several athletic and aggressive players. When star junior Justin Tuoyo was sidelined with two quick fouls, 6-foot-5 senior power forward Justin Green stepped up big. He was an athletic presence in the lane and on the glass and did a nice job of scoring on the interior. … Moorhead State is getting themselves a high level athlete in 6-foot-4 wing Will Bailey. A bit of a wild man, Bailey has a high running motor and he's all over the floor looking to make plays. At times, he relies on his athleticism a little too much but he's a guy who should end up making a pretty significant impact before his college career is over. …
One of the hottest shooting guard names in the country is Bernard Thompson. A 6-foot-3 senior at Conyers (Ga.) Rockdale County, Thompson is in the midst of a big final campaign. He's got good athleticism, a fine looking stroke and can bury jumpers off of the dribble … Finally, Montgomery (Ala.) Carver needed somebody to carry the load offensively early and 6-foot-2 point guard Ron Smith did a fine job. A good looking point guard prospect with size and confidence, he scored on drives to the rim, found teammates and even buried a few threes before being sidelined with a wrist injury. Technically, he's a senior but will be heading the prep route and is being listed as a member of the class of 2012. … Among the programs we saw represented in the building by assistant coaches were Tennessee, Georgia, UAB, Alabama, Winthrop, Charleston, Nebraska, Murray State and Winthrop. The lone head coach we spotted was hard working Georgia Southern boss Charlton Young.


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Omg terrible
Yes. Let's make sure Melo gets even MORE looks.
So he can brick a 3 and a layup within 5seconds of one another.
damn how clutch is melo??? lol... can't believe you guys want the ball in that scrubs hands
wow no Novak?
"I'm more concern how Melo is gonna play with Lin" Joe Budden
This team ain't goin any where w/o Melo and Stat start playing some defense, and go for rebounds. I hate these bastards at the moment.
im done, IM DONE.
the Knicks should have never shortened their name. They should've just kept it the way it was, the New York Knickerchokers
I remember that game. It was against Spurs..
Wtf Why Did Melo Foul? Why Go For A ****ing Three This Is Retarded
Get rid of D'antoni. Foul when you're down four and 48 seconds left? ARE YOU STUPID
wow MDA.
Is that what you drew up for us in the timeout!? THAT WAS THE PLAY!?
Get the ball to anthony and somehow let him jack up a contested 3?
You can just see how Lin and the others HAVE to give the ball to him and it just KILLS our offense. Makes us so predictable.
Sorry but Melo isnt kobe, wade, dirk, lebron or Rose. We don't need to give him the ball because he isn't playing like any of the before mentioned players.
Let the team win the game. We don't need these stars.


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What's the best way to freeze food you need for cooking?
Freezing Food Staples
Related Articles
Using a Freezer Effectively
Avoiding Freezer Burn
What Foods Don't Freeze
Freezing Potatoes
Freezing Food for Long-Term Storage
We recently have been given a new-to-us upright freezer. I'm very excited about putting it to good use, especially as our current freezer is small and overflowing.
There have been several posts lately asking about how specific foods can be frozen for long-term storage. Does anyone know of a post or a website that has an extensive list of foods that are good for freezing and directions for freezing them? I would really love to look at a resource that talks extensively about freezing foods for storage.
Does anyone have information on freezing dried beans, rice and grains, flours, pastas, potatoes, yeast bricks? I try very hard to buy "ingredients" instead of insta-food. If possible, these are some things I'd like to freeze and start keeping on hand. My understanding is that potatoes freeze poorly, so how do frozen hashbrowns and frozen fries get made?
A Great Resource for Freezing Food
A great resource on freezing food safely is the USDA. It offers a lot of help with instructions and which containers to use for freezing and canning.
Talk to Local Extension Service About Freezing Food
Every state with a land grant university has an Extension Service. They have very useful information on a whole range of topics. Check the phone book under local county offices or search for their website. A great website is extension.org. This is a compilation of Extension information from all across the country.
Food that Freezes Well
Depending on the climate in your area, humidity, insects, etc., it should not be necessary to freeze dried beans, peas, pasta or rice. Yeast in any form can be frozen and thawed before use. Flour and grains may be frozen if insects or mold are a problem. Mashed potatoes freeze well, but home-freezing of hash browns or French fries may not produce good results. Commercially frozen food generally has preservatives added to retard spoilage.
Packaging Makes All the Difference When Freezing Food
Dried beans, rice, grains and uncooked pasta all freeze great. I freeze yeast bricks, opened with the yeast poured into jars. Freezing not only keeps any pantry critters away, but it also keeps the food fresh. Cooked pasta is another thing. It does tend to soften in the freezer, but we don't seem to mind. Pasta works best in a combo dish like lasagna or mixed with a lot of sauce.
We freeze a variety of soups and stews with potatoes. The potatoes do get soft and a bit watery, but in the soup, that's not such a problem. Hash browns and French fries are usually partially pre-cooked and coated with a fat of some sort to preserve their freshness. There are many websites on freezing foods. Just do a search for "freezing food" and you will get thousands of hits. Some sites focus on freezing fruits or vegetables and some are more specific to freezing convenience food. University extension publications (both online and in print) offer a wealth of information as well.
No matter what you freeze, packaging makes all the difference. Use containers designed specifically for the freezer and remove as much air as possible. I like to suck excess air out of bags with a straw.
Bev C
Good Book About Freezing Food
The best place to find how to freeze (or can or dry) food items is a current Ball Blue Book of Preserving. It's about $8 and well worth the price. Here's the description from a website selling the book (kitchenkrafts.com): "A classic American guide that offers fresh solutions for modern-day, busy lifestyles. Both beginners and seasoned canners alike should have this book on-hand for ready reference for just that reason. Includes instructions for preserving food by canning, freezing and dehydration. Provides easy-to-follow canning instructions, instructional graphics, helpful hints, beautiful photographs, and over 450 recipes. Softcover, 124 pages."
Cheryl in Oakland, MD
Preparing Potatoes for the Freezer
I can give information on freezing potatoes. When my potatoes start having spuds on them, I cut them into French fries. I fry them until they just start to brown and then cool them off on a cookie tray. When cool, I transfer them into a resealable bag. The same is true with hashbrowns except that you cut them the size that you want and then add seasonings like onion and bell pepper. Just before they brown take them out and cool off on a cookie tray. Bag the same way.
Mashed Potatoes Straight from the Freezer
I recently discovered that you can mash potatoes ahead of time and then put mounds of them in muffin cups. After freezing them, pop them out and into a freezer bag. They taste great and are a big time saver when we need to eat supper on the run. (I added a bit of milk in mine when I mashed them before freezing.)
Since I haven't mastered canning, I also make freezer jam. You can freeze gallons of milk, but you better pour a bit out for head space as it expands once frozen. You can do loaves of bread too, but I would double wrap them in another bag before freezing.
Take the Next Step:
- Get cash back on the groceries you buy. Checkout 51 can show you how!
- Continue to trim food costs by visiting our food & groceries section to get tips and tools for keeping more of your hard-earned dollars in your pocket.
Share your thoughts about this article with the editor.


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As is the custom with the annual State of the Union address, President Barack Obama's visit to the U.S. House of Representatives on Tuesday was rife with handshakes, hugs, kisses, timed and politically infused applause choices, and policy positions personalized by people whose stories are by turns inspiring or heart-wrenching. That is all to be expected and worth about as much as the airtime it receives.
The more meaningful components of the speech revealed that Obama is frustrated with Congress' inaction on just about everything, and he intends to go it alone where he can. The trouble is, his reach is far shorter than necessary to meaningfully address such significant concerns as income inequality, which is one of Obama's top priorities in 2014.
Vowing to use the powers his chief executive status affords him, Obama took the bully pulpit to urge cities, counties and states to increase their minimum wages, while also applauding businesses who pay workers more than the $7.25 federal law currently requires. And to show he is serious about increasing the minimum wage – something Congress has refused to do since 2007 – Obama will sign an executive order giving federal contractors a minimum wage of $10.10 an hour. That figure has been proposed as the new national wage floor, but Republicans in Congress have blocked efforts to pass legislation setting the rate.
It is a strong symbolic move that indicates Obama's commitment to action that helps low-wage workers meet their basic financial obligations, but it does little to meaningfully address the growing income inequality in the United States.
At $10.10 an hour, workers will not be launched to the middle class. At just more than $21,000 a year, that wage will bring workers a step up from the $15,080 that the current minimum wage grosses, but it is not a fix-all that fully addresses the issue that "if you cook our troops' meals or wash their dishes, you should not have to live in poverty."
Nevertheless, Obama's promise is a symbolically meaningful one, as is Speaker of the House John Boehner's response.
"Let's understand something: This affects not one current contract; it only affects future contracts with the federal government. And so I think the question is, how many people, Mr. President will this executive action actually help? I suspect the answer is somewhere close to zero," said Boehner, R-Ohio.
That may be, but Boehner and his crew have done even less to address the problem, other than consistently say "no" outright to federal minimum-wage increases. So Obama is ahead of the game with his approach.
The same can be said for his plan to create an investment bond – a MyRA – that offers a no-risk way for Americans to save for retirement. Again, the step is significant in that it makes investment accessible for those to whom it might not otherwise be. But it is largely symbolic for the fact that workers who are not saving for retirement are likely doing so for lack of means – not lack of investment opportunities.
For what these and other executive actions promised Tuesday lack is Obama's willingness to back these values with executive action that signal his commitment to action despite congressional gridlock and the partisanship at play. That is not without considerable value at a time when significant action is needed.
It may not be enough to address the problems that too many Americans face, but it is far from nothing – and could work to force bigger, bolder steps from a chastened Congress eager to work with the president to improve the state of the union. Would that it could.


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Commentary on Barbe F, Duran-Cantolla J, Sanchez-de-la-Torre M, et al. Effect of continuous positive airway pressure on the incidence of hypertension and cardiovascular events in nonsleepy patients with obstructive sleep apnea: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA 2012;307:2161-2168.
JCSM Journal Club summarizes new clinical evidence related to Sleep Medicine from a number of journals. It is a recurring feature of the Journal. The editorial staff regularly assesses newly published medical literature related to Sleep Medicine and features papers that are important for Sleep Medicine clinicians.
Is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy better than no therapy in reducing the incidence of hypertension or cardiovascular (CV) events in a cohort of nonsleepy patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)?
Randomized, controlled trial; no placebo CPAP used. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00127348.
Randomization was performed using a computer generated list of random numbers in the coordinating center and results were mailed to participating centers in numbered opaque envelopes.
Primary outcome was evaluated by individuals not involved in the study and who were blinded to patient allocation. Patients, investigators, and the statistician were not blinded.
median 4 (interquartile range, 2.7-4.4) years.
14 academic medical centers in Spain.
725 adults (mean age 51.8 y, 14% women) who were diagnosed with OSA with apnea hypopnea index (AHI) ≥ 20 events per hour and Epworth sleepiness score (ESS) ≤ 10 were randomized. Subjects with previous CV events were excluded. However, patients with a history of hypertension were not excluded (50% of the sample were hypertensive at baseline).
Patients were randomized to receive CPAP treatment or no active intervention. All participants received dietary counseling and advice about sleep hygiene.
The primary outcome was the incidence of either systemic hypertension (among participants who were normotensive at baseline) or CV events (among all participants). The secondary outcome was the association between the incidence of hypertension or CV events (nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, transient ischemic attack, hospitalization for unstable angina or arrhythmia, heart failure, and CV death) and the severity of OSA assessed by the AHI and oxygen saturation. The sample size was calculated assuming that the incidence of hypertension or new CV event in this population over a period of 3 years would be 10% annually; 345 patients per group were needed to detect a 60% reduction in incidence of new hypertension or CV events (90% power, 2-sided α = 0.05, assuming 10% study dropout).
83% complete (only patients who received the allocated intervention were included in analysis of primary outcome).
A total of 147 patients with new hypertension and 59 cardiovascular events were identified (Table). In the CPAP group, there were 68 patients with incident hypertension and 28 CV events. Of the 357 participants in the CPAP group, 127 used CPAP < 4 hours/night (36%). In the control group, there were 79 patients with new hypertension and 31 CV events. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in the primary outcome.
Risk for incident hypertension or cardiovascular event
(more ...)
In adults with moderate to severe OSA and no symptoms of daytime sleepiness, CPAP therapy did not reduce incident hypertension or CV event compared with no active therapy.
Instituto de Salud Carlos III (PI 04/0165) (Fondo de Investigaciones Sanitarios, Ministerio de Sanidad y Consumo, Spain), Spanish Respiratory Society (SEPAR) (Barcelona), Resmed (Bella Vista, Australia), Air Products-Carburos Metalicos (Barcelona), Respironics (Murrysville, Pennsylvania), and Breas Medical (Madrid, Spain).
Ferran Barbe, M.D., Email: email@example.com
The effect of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) on hypertension and cardiovascular (CV) events is complex and only partly understood. The Joint National Committee on Hypertension lists Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) first on the list of treatable causes of hypertension 1, and randomized-controlled trials have tended to show that CPAP improves hypertension in OSA patients 2. But many questions remain, including whether or not nonsleepy hypertensive patients benefit from CPAP and whether or not there is a dose response effect. To address these issues, this productive group of Spanish investigators randomized over 700 patients to CPAP or usual care, and followed them for about 4 years. For the group as a whole, there were no significant differences in a modified intention-to-treat analysis. In a post-hoc analysis those who used CPAP at least 4 hours a night had statistically (and clinically) significant reduction in blood pressure and CV events. About two-thirds of those randomized to CPAP used it at this threshold. It is unfortunate that these meticulous scientists took the "glass half empty" approach, and probably even more unfortunate that they lacked the resources to undertake a larger study or longer follow-up period, which they acknowledge "might have been able to identify a significant association between treatment and outcome." Additionally, the inclusion of patients with pre-existing hypertension, and not including an estimate of CPAP compliance in their initial sample size calculations might have further compounded the problem of insufficient study power.
Well-done, randomized controlled trials like this one are rare in our field, and the authors were able to make a couple of other notable observations. The first has to do with correlates of CPAP adherence; in this large cohort, adherent patients were heavier, had bigger necks, were more likely to be hypertensive, and had more severe sleep apnea, and hypoxemia. In other words, they were sicker. These investigators also noted that the patients randomized to CPAP were less likely to lose weight than those in the control group, validating suggestions that CPAP certainly does not promote weight loss 3. With regards to characteristics of OSA subjects that developed CV events, the degree and duration of hypoxemia predicted adverse events better than Apnea Hypopnea Index (AHI), yet again confirming that the AHI is probably a less important metric than Oxygen Desaturation Index (ODI) or time below 90% SaO2.
My take on this paper is that CPAP works, sort of like birth control pills do. You have to use it. And it's important to remember that sleep apnea is a multi-organ disease. Cardiovascular consequences are important, but OSA is associated with many other consequences, including Metabolic Syndrome, cerebrovascular accidents, cognitive dysfunction, motor vehicle crash, mood disturbance, and death. To decide that CPAP shouldn't be used in nonsleepy patients on the basis of this study disregards the likely benefits of CPAP for many other conditions.
Phillips B; Shafazand S. CPAP and hypertension in nonsleepy patients. J Clin Sleep Med 2013;9(2):181-182.
Chobanian AV, Bakris GL, Black HR, et al., authors; Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation,and Treatment of High Blood Pressure; National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute; National High Blood Pressure Education Program Coordinating Committee. Seventh report of the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure. Hypertension. 2003;42:1206–52. [PubMed]
Haentjens P, Van Meerhaeghe A, Moscariello A, et al., authors. The impact of continuous positive airway pressure on blood pressure in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: evidence from a meta-analysis of placebo-controlled randomized trials. Arch Intern Med. 2007;167:757–3. [PubMed]
Redenius R, Murphy C, O'Neill E, Al-Hamwi M, Zallek SN, authors. Does CPAP lead to change in BMI? J Clin Sleep Med. 2008;4:205–9. [PubMed Central][PubMed]


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United States Olympic Curling Team Trials
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I know that Windows 2000 supports multiply monitors.
But I'm wondering whenever it can make it that each display will be able to run independently. For example, if I plug in a second set of mouse and keyboard, 2 users would be able to use the same computer simultanously.
Or does anybody knows of any utility which can do such thing?


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VertMarkets has partnered with recognized training providers to bring you the most comprehensive network of environmental and pollution educational programs. As a VertMarkets subscriber you will receive a 5% discount on the distance learning programs below.
Simply use the coupon code: VertMarkets.
Environmental Risks: Construction Risk.com Report Case Summaries (2 hours)
This 2-hour online course contains case summaries of six court decisions involving design professionals or contractors who performed environmental remediation work or encountered environmental conditions on job sites and incurred risk or liability as a result. Other cases that are discussed include potential Superfund liability of an engineer, suits against remediation engineers and contractors, asbestos liability of a construction contractor, and the question of whether damages are covered under a commercial general liability policy.
Erosion & Sediment Control (8 Hours)
This 8-hour online course will present an erosion and sediment control design manual and require the student to employ design standards that are applicable to construction projects anywhere. The erosion of soil during construction activities arguably presents the most significant source of water pollution in the U.S. There should be little argument that it is certainly the most preventable. Over the past two decades, significant progress has been made in the development of best management practices designed to both prevent erosion by diverting storm water and to treat sediment-laden runoff prior to its discharge from the construction site.
Erosion and Sediment Control - An Overview (4 hours)
This 4-hour online course outlines the principles and practices of erosion and sediment control. It provides you with information needed to develop a comprehensive erosion and sediment control plan, as well as how to select and install the correct sediment control devices in the field. Topics covered include; The Natural Erosion Process, Predicting Soil Loss, Rules and Regulations, Storm Water Runoff, Stable Channel Design, Sediment Control Practices, Vegetative Soil Stabilization, and Developing Sediment and Erosion Control Plans.
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This 6-hour online course reviews the Army Corps of Engineers Engineering and Design - Groundwater Hydrology Manual. This basic course covers such topics as subsurface distribution, groundwater forces, confined/unconfined aquifers, hydraulic conductivity, storage, transmissivity, general flow equations, flow nets, pumping wells, porosity, specific yield, groundwater studies, field investigation methods, computer modeling, and surface water/ground water interactions.
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Britain's Telegraph Media Group (TMG), publisher of The Daily Telegraph and The Sunday Telegraph, has instated a metered digital subscription model for international visitors to its website and users of its apps. The new system, modeled on that put in place by The New York Times last March, lets readers from outside the UK view 20 free articles per month before they hit the wall. Here's what we know so far:
Who: Readers situated in Britain, you may breathe a sigh of relief— TMG claims that it has no plans thus far to charge you for content. The new modus operandi affects only far-flung Telegraphites.
The Telegraph is the most widely read quality daily national newspaper in the UK, according to the latest National Readership Survey, with 9.23 million readers across print and online platforms.
What: International readers who have exceeded their 20 article quota are offered two options.
1) The £1.99 ($3.20) /month "Telegraph Web and Mobile Pack," including unlimited website and mobile app access, or
2) The £9.99 ($16) /month "Digital Pack," offering the same plus iPad access to the Daily and Sunday Telegraph.
Readers will be given a month-long free trial before having to commit to either plan.


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While the vast majority of us couldn't be happier with our new iPhone 5s, a number of users who decided to purchase the black & slate model have noticed that its anodized aluminum finish is prone to chipping and scratching. Unfortunately, it's not an isolated issue affecting a certain batch of black devices, either — it appears to be affecting them all.
Could this be an issue Apple quickly needs to address? No. Apparently not. According to the company's senior vice president of worldwide marketing, Phil Schiller, those chips and scratches are "normal."


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He could opt-out of his contract (player option), something that might be advisable considering the upcoming CBA and his stellar performance once he joined the Bucks.
Although I see the Bucks doing everything in their power to get him back, any chance the Raptors could get him? I think he's a pretty good player at the spot (borderline all-star). He did reject our offer a few years back and went to Sacramento, but I hope that doesn't affect anything.
I personally would rather have him on the Raptors than Joe Johnson.


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Summaries of EU Legislation
Summaries of EU legislation: direct access to the main summaries page.
- Archived: true
Commission opinion COM(1997) 2010 final [Not published in the Official Journal]
Commission report COM(1998) 709 final [Not published in the Official Journal]
Commission report COM(1999) 512 final [Not published in the Official Journal]
Commission report COM(2000) 712 final [Not published in the Official Journal]
Commission report COM(2001) 700 final - SEC(2001) 1755 [Not published in the Official Journal]
Commission report COM(2002) 700 final - SEC(2002) 1411 [Not published in the Official Journal]
Commission report COM(2003) 675 final - SEC(2003) 1208 [Not published in the Official Journal]
Treaty of Accession to the European Union [Official Journal L 236 of 23.09.2003]
In its opinion of July 1997, the European Commission expressed the view that there were no major problems in the field of research and technological development or with regard to the information society, the objectives of which Slovenia could possibly realise earlier than most CEECs. With regard to telecommunications, the view taken was that Slovenia could achieve a level comparable to that of certain Member States in the medium term, provided that competition was rapidly liberalised in all sectors.
In its October 1999 Report the Commission considered that approximation was under way. It was noted that Slovenia's telecommunications network was developing gradually. Nevertheless, it was still vital that the liberalisation process be speeded up.
In the Report for 2000 the Commission noted that certain progress had been made in this area.
The October 2002 Report noted that further progress had been made in the field of science and research and that Slovenia had made some progress in the field of telecommunications and significant progress in the postal sector.
The November 2003 Report states that Slovenia partially meets the commitments in the field of telecommunications. Slovenian legislation essentially meets the commitments in the field of postal services. In the area of science and research, Slovenia meets the requirements arising from the accession negotiations.
The Treaty of Accession was signed on 16 April 2003 and accession took place on 1 May 2004.
Research and technological development (RTD) activities at Community level, as provided for in Article 164 of the EC Treaty (former Article 130G) and the Framework Programme (Article 166, former Article 130I), are aimed at improving the competitiveness of European industry and the quality of life, as well as supporting sustainable development and contributing to the development of other Community policies.
The European Association Agreement between the European Union and Slovenia provides for cooperation in these areas, notably through the participation of the Associated State in the Framework Programme. The White Paper on the countries of Central and Eastern Europe and the internal market of the Union (1995) includes no direct measures in this field.
The objective of Community telecommunications policy is to eliminate obstacles to the efficient operation of the Internal Market in equipment, services and telecommunications networks, to open foreign markets to Community enterprises and to make modern services available to citizens and enterprises in the European Union. These objectives must be achieved by harmonising standards and conditions for the provision of services, liberalising the terminal equipment, services and networks markets and adopting the necessary regulatory measures.
The European Association Agreement stipulates that improvements in standards and practices in the field of telecommunications and postal services, and the standardisation, regulation and modernisation of the infrastructure to Community level must be achieved through cooperation. The White Paper places emphasis on the rapprochement of rules, networks and services and on the measures to be taken to progressively liberalise the sector.
Research and technological development (RTD)
The Community acquis does not need transposing into national law. However, the compatibility of the general legal order with the Community acquis needs to be ensured. In 1999, the total amount spent on research was about 1.45% of GDP.
Since August 1999, Slovenia has been effectively associated with the Fifth Framework Programme of Research (1999-2002) and with the Euratom Framework Programme. Slovenia has opened its corresponding research activities to enterprises, researchers and universities from the Member States. It has also expressed interest in being associated with the Sixth Framework Programme (2002-2006).
In March 2002, Slovenia adopted a programme of measures to promote entrepreneurship and competitiveness for the period 2002-2006. In the science and research area, it defines the rules concerning requirements, methods of selection and funding of development projects proposed by inventors. Slovenia continued with the harmonisation of the support mechanisms for companies involved in R&D activities and the development of new technologies.
In 2003, the policy and legislation of Slovenia in this field are in line with EC guidelines. Moreover, the present level of gross domestic expenditure on research and development is approaching the EU average. As stated in the 2003 report, Slovenia will be in a position to implement the acquis as from its accession.
Slovenia has made definite progress with telecommunications, more particularly in the liberalisation of the markets for services and alternative infrastructures: decrees have been adopted on the granting of licences to use radio frequencies for mobile telephone and message handling services and for the technical requirements placed on mobile cellular systems. Moreover, four licences have been issued to internet access providers.
A single licence for UMTS was awarded in November 2001. Steps have been taken towards tariff rebalancing and reducing the interconnection tariffs. Penetration in mobile services has reached 69%. There are three GSM operators. Fixed network penetration has reached 41%. Network modernisation has been completed and price rebalancing is well advanced.
The Telecommunication, Broadcasting and Postal Services Agency was established following the passing of the Telecommunication Act in May 2001, the Mass Media Act in April 2001 and the Postal Services Act in April 2002, with responsibilities to regulate the telecommunications, broadcasting and postal sectors.
Much of the regulatory framework and institutional structure is in line with the acquis. However, the situation in the UMTS area is not satisfactory in terms of ensuring free and undistorted competition. Slovenia should also endeavour to implement adequately the provisions of the Telecommunications Act, especially concerning operators with significant market power. Efforts to strengthen the administrative capacity of the National Regulatory Authority also need to be stepped up.
In 2003, Slovenia achieved a satisfactory degree of transposition of the acquis adopted in the period 1998 to 2002. However, work needs to be continued with regard to:
- notification requirements;
- promotion of new technology;
- obligations of operators with significant market power versus other operators;
- the rules on legal interception.
The new regulatory framework on electronic communications adopted in 2002 has not been fully implemented, either. An improvement in the conditions needed to ensure fair competition in the telecommunication market, in particular for fixed lines, also remains a priority in order for Slovenia to complete its alignment with the acquis.
Information society
In spring 2002 the Ministry for the Information Society drew up a national programme to prepare Slovenia for the information society as a policy document for public administration, economy and civil society. It brings further alignment with the eEurope+ action plan (1) for candidate countries. It aims to prepare a legal and regulatory framework for e-business at the infrastructure and services level, to promote the use of information technologies, and to promote the development of services in public administration, economy and civil society.
Postal services
The Postal Act of 1997 brought Slovenian legislation in the postal sector partially into line with the acquis, but differences remained. Further action were needed to ensure complete liberalisation of postal services. It is for this reason that the Slovenian Parliament adopted the new Postal Services Act in April 2002, aimed at bringing about alignment with the acquis through a number of provisions allowing the liberalisation of the postal market, offering equal opportunities and guaranteeing access to the public postal network. It is also aimed at expanding the scope of universal postal services. Following this Act, a decree was adopted in June 2002 setting up an independent regulatory body within the Agency for Telecommunication and Broadcasting, to cover postal services.
During 2003, Slovenia took various measures aimed at completing alignment with the First Postal Directive (accounting rules, thresholds for the reserved services, authorisation and licensing system, operation of the compensation fund and tariff schemes). Slovenia has also adopted legislation aimed at transposing the Second Postal Directive. It has already implemented the new thresholds for the reserved services.
(1) The eEurope+ action plan is aimed at speeding up reforms and modernisation of the candidate countries' economies, encouraging capacity- and institution-building, improving overall competitiveness, and strengthening social cohesion. It was launched by the prime ministers of the candidate countries at the Gothenburg Council (15-16 June 2001).
Last updated: 13.02.2004


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Bucs sign two more Draft picks
By Tom Singer and Steven Petrella / MLB.com
PITTSBURGH -- The Pirates signed two Draft picks, eighth-rounder Neil Kozikowski and 22nd-round pick Henry Hirsch, scouting director Joe DelliCarri announced in a press release Friday. Both will report to rookie ball in the Gulf Coast League.
Kozikowski, a right-hander out of Avon Old Farms School (Conn.), committed to Virginia Commonwealth, but opted to sign with the Pirates instead. At a lanky 6-foot-4, his fastball sits in the high 80s but has reached 92.
"I think there's a lot of upside for him, he's long and lean with an easy delivery," Avon coach Rob Dowling said after Kozikowski was selected. "I've seen him hit 92 with minimal effort."
Hirsch, a righty, earned third-team All-Northeast-10 honors by finishing the season 4-3 with a 3.81 ERA in 59 innings at the University of New Haven. He had 60 strikeouts.
The Pirates have now signed 18 players from the 2013 First-Year Player Draft.
A Locke for the All-Star Game?
ANAHEIM -- Competition for spots on the National League All-Star pitching staff will be intense, as usual. Perhaps a couple of facts concerning Pittsburgh lefty Jeff Locke will bend Bruce Bochy's ears as the Giants/NL manager rounds out his roster.
One, the Pirates have never had a rookie pitcher make the All-Star team. It is true that Locke is not officially a rookie, but he missed that rank entering this season by one inning -- so an All-Star selection would help remove some of the sting from that close call, since otherwise the Bucs' current ace would be a frontrunner for the Rookie of the Year Award.
Two, while there are plenty of other worthy candidates for the All-Star staff, none of them come close to this Locke distinction: In his six wins, he has allowed one run in 38 innings, an ERA of 0.24 that ridiculously would have actually gone down to 0.20 in seven wins had the 1-0 lead he'd bequeathed in Cincinnati on Wednesday held up.
Those are some crazy numbers.
"I'm made aware of those things, and they lead to some nice little accolades," Locke said, "but otherwise stuff like that doesn't do much for me. I just know that I feel good. I'm awful happy with everything that's going on -- as long as I can sustain it for these guys right here. That's my main focus."
But trotting out to the Citi Field baseline to be introduced as an All-Star ...
"Obviously that'd be such an honor," Locke said. "At the same time, my main focus will always be here. Doesn't matter how good your first half is; the team needs a whole year from you."
Sanchez becomes eighth No. 1 pick on Bucs
ANAHEIM -- And then there were eight -- former No. 1 Draft picks in the Pirates' clubhouse, that is, with Friday's arrival of catcher Tony Sanchez.
Sanchez, the fourth-overall selection in 2009 and the Pirates' 14th-ranked prospect, was called up from Triple-A Indianapolis before Friday night's series opener at Angel Stadium, with right-hander Brandon Cumpton being optioned back to the Indians in the corresponding move.
Sanchez made a gleeful entrance to the clubhouse that already included No. 1s Andrew McCutchen, Neil Walker, Pedro Alvarez, Bryan Morris, Jason Grilli, Travis Snider and Gerrit Cole, hugging his way to his locker.
"I'm trying to be as happy as possible," he explained. "How can you not be happy walking into a clubhouse like this, being in a situation like this? It's tough for me not to enjoy what I'm doing."
That said, Sanchez's Major League baptismal has already been a series of false starts.
He was first recalled by the Pirates in mid-May, but on that occasion never left the so-called taxi squad, and returned to Indianapolis without being officially added to the roster.
Friday's recall was more official, but there was another immediate snag: The Pirates wanted his right-handed bat to DH against the lefties they will see during this stretch of Interleague games in American League parks. So Sanchez was due to make his debut start in Saturday night's game against Angels southpaw Jason Vargas -- except Vargas has just gone on the DL, and righty Jerome Williams will instead make the start.
So Sanchez may have to wait until Tuesday -- when lefty Joe Saunders is due to face the Bucs in Seattle. Of course, because the Pirates still have catcher Michael McKenry to back up Russell Martin, Sanchez can come off the bench in the interim, with manager Clint Hurdle now having at his disposal a bat that had produced a .306 average, nine homers and 35 RBIs in 55 Triple-A games.
"We looked for ways to firm up our lineup against left-handed pitching," Hurdle said. "Sanchez also allows me to have both McKenry and Martin on the field without blinking an eye."
"I'm very proud of where I am now, and how I feel at the plate and behind the plate," Sanchez said. "It's the type of confidence you want to take into a call-up like this."
First number, last word
2-14: Pirates' record, entering this series, since 2011 on the West Coast (San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco).
"We like to call it 90-10. It's still a number that grabs everyone's attention. Most people look at radar guns, and when someone hits it, you know something's happened from the reaction. And what does it mean? That they're throwing really fast." -- Hurdle, on rhe 100-mph fastball, considered to be on reserve in Cole's repertoire.
Worth noting
• The Monday off-day between this series and the upcoming two-day set in Seattle gives the Pirates a couple of options for Wednesday's start against the Mariners: If he is not needed to provide long relief in the games against the Angels, Jeanmar Gomez will likely come off the DL to make that start; otherwise, if Gomez has to be activated earlier, Cole will take the ball on what would be regular four days' rest.
• Outfielder Jose Tabata (strained oblique) played his first rehab game with Indianapolis on Friday, going 1-for-3 in five innings of action.
• Lefty Wandy Rodriguez (tight left forearm) is slated to make his first rehab start for the Indians on Sunday.
Tom Singer is a reporter for MLB.com and writes an MLBlog Change for a Nickel. He can also be found on Twitter @Tom_Singer. Steven Petrella is an associate reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


text:
Christmas memories on Calhoun Street
Bill Humphrey was a dear man who tried his best to be tough and gruff. He and his wife Mickey lived down the street from us at Kelly barracks. On days when weather permitted, he would walk past our house from corps headquarters, where he served as the commanding general's exec.
I loved him to death, but he could be a pain.
Taking President Carter's energy conservation to heart, he would detour through our quarters turning off lights and even went so far as to go to his next door neighbors' and unplug their outdoor Christmas decorations. It didn't matter a bit to him that this was the home of his boss, who fortunately had a sense of humor and who marched right back over and unplugged the Humphreys' Christmas tree.
Bill gave a great imitation of a curmudgeon when I rang his doorbell one holiday season and asked how many paper bags he and Mickey wanted to put out for the Roosevelt Village Christmas Eve luminaire celebration.
"We'll light them as soon as it gets dark," I said.
"Do what?" he growled.
I explained that after they were all lit, we'd walk around the neighborhood, sing carols and maybe have a glass or two of gluhwein on the way.
Bill never could pronounce my name and called me Laura May.
"Laura May," he said firmly, "I am not going to put out one of those things. Not me."
"Well," I said, sticking to my conviction that everyone should participate, "we'll just put them out for you."
You have probably already guessed that as soon as we came near his quarters with the makings for the luminaires, here came Bill, his usual grouchy self, ready to help.
When we moved to Myrtle Island, I was stumped. On the entire island, there were maybe seven full-time households. Not exactly a lot of people for a right long expanse of road.
Aha. We would move "Operation Luminaire" to the center of Bluffton. We would line Calhoun Street with luminaires.
And we did.
Scott's sold us paper bags, the Ulmer family provided sand and the Boy Scouts were able helpers.
We must have used a zillion matches trying to get all of those candles lit.
But, at last, on Christmas Eve, when the sun went down and the luminaires glowed from one end of Calhoun Street to the other, it was worth every backbreaking moment.
With song books and flashlights in hand, we headed down the middle of the street.
There wasn't a car to be seen.
In front of dark, empty houses we sang at the top of our lungs, "We Wish You a Merry Christmas."
And until we got near to Highway 46, right at the Martin House, there wasn't a person who came to the front door.
Then, surprise, surprise, some "carolees" became "carolors" and came out to walk with us, their voices fresh and strong.
With children in baby buggies and in wagons, with parents hoping the night air would make little ones sleepy so Santa could do his thing and with frozen noses and numb feet, we gathered together in front of the Church of the Cross that cold December night.
"Joy To the World," we sang in harmony, Pressana Grant's powerful voice joining ours as in the luminaires' glow, we sent our Christmas wishes loud and clear across the May River.
Even the Grinch would not have dared to say, "Bah, humbug."
Annelore Harrell lives in Bluffton and can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com.


text:
W.W. Smith Charitable Trust Staff Visits Cheyney Campus
April 9, 2014
pictured l. to r. - Asst. VP Larry Green, students Aaron Yancey and Amir Abner, W. W. Smith Charitable Trust representatives Paralee Knight and Michelle Montgomery, and students Nyshia Saunders, Aisha Harris, and Anwar-Nasser Mathis
Several Cheyney University W.W. Smith tuition-assistance scholarship recipients welcomed Michelle Montgomery, Grant Administrator, and Paralee Knight, Sr. Client Associate for Philanthropic Services of the W. W. Smith Charitable Trust on April 9. Earlier in the day, they had taken a tour of the Aquaponics facility and the new Science Center campus with Director of Development Andre′ Dixon, before joining the students at Carnegie Hall.
"This scholarship means so much to me," said sophomore Anwar-Nasser Mathis. The 20-year-old accounting major is the second person in his family to go to college and it helps him pay the bills. "I lost my parents back-to-back in 2010 and 2011 to cancer," he explained. "This helps me enormously to get through school."
Montgomery visits many universities as part of her responsibilities as a grant administrator. She noted, "The best part of meeting with the students is learning what their goals and aspirations are and knowing that the scholarships help."
Other student awardees included Amir Abner, Nichel Bryant, Chad Kendall, Jeremy Evans, Fatima Jackson, Lavonnia Swain, Allen Showell, Nyshia Saunders, Jay Tucker, Aisha Harris, Aaron Yancey and Obafemi Ajayi.
Cheyney University has received $1.6 million in scholarships from the Trust over the past 36 years. Mr. Dixon noted, "Support from The W.W. Smith Charitable trust has enabled hundreds of students to secure financial assistance and graduate from the University. Without the support of the Trust, a college education would be impossible."
The W. W. Smith Charitable Trust is one of the largest private supporters of the University. The private foundation established by philanthropist William Wikoff Smith has made funds available for student financial aid for more than 60 years. The Trust encourages the renewal of the scholarship aid for more than one year. Many students receive a grant for multiple years beginning their freshman year.


text:
DETROIT - Detroit is sitting on the edge of financial collapse again.
The city's top lawyer is suing to stop Detroit from entering into a financial stability agreement with the state of Michigan. The claim is that Michigan is in default to Detroit and that the state has not paid the city enough in shared revenue for years. It's to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars.
The state of Michigan wants the lawsuit pulled immediately because of bond financing. The state floated Detroit $80 million to refinance bonds. That must be completed by the end of June. If there is no financial stability agreement in place by then, the state will take money that was meant for Detroit to pay off the bond financing.
The lawsuit is being called a legal strategy. A top municipal attorney told Local 4 it is absurd and a total misrepresentation of the city charter, and utterly doomed to fail. The attorney wanted to remain anonymous.
Former Detroit City Councilwoman Sheila Cockrel agrees.
"I think there are very serious consequences to this situation and I think that really one of the biggest dangers here is that the way that this, what I think is preposterous, legal strategy is being executed by the corporation council's office," Cockrel said.
Detroit Mayor Dave Bing released a statement Thursday night, but did not respond to interview requests.
"My team is working closely with the state to mitigate any negative impacts on my administration's plan to financially stabilize the city," the mayor's statement read. "We want this matter resolved expeditiously for the sake of the citizens of Detroit."
Bing has scheduled an emergency meeting with City Council for 10 a.m. Friday.
Copyright 2012 by ClickOnDetroit.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


text:
Read the full story here Web Link posted Tuesday, October 23, 2007, 3:06 PM
Town Square
Memorials slated for 19-year-old woman killed in car crash
Original post made on Oct 24, 2007
Read the full story here Web Link posted Tuesday, October 23, 2007, 3:06 PM
a resident of Highland Oaks
on Oct 24, 2007 at 12:47 pm
I want to tell Laurel's parents how sorry I am that their daughter has passed on. My heart and prayers goes out to you. My daughter, Ashley went to school with Laurel and there is a lovely picture of Laurel, Ashley and an unidentified woman in Ashley's keepsake book. God Bless you Laurel, may you rest in peace.
a resident of Bridle Creek
on Oct 25, 2007 at 8:36 am
To Laurel's parents...Prayers are abundant in this community for Laurel and your family...I hope that if any comfort is to be found it is that we know God is taking excellent care of Laurel in his loving arms....She is up there on our side...God bless you...a Pleasanton mom..
a resident of Golden Eagle
on Oct 26, 2007 at 7:56 am
Although I love Pleasanton, I really hate Foothill Road...I have seen may lives taken here and feel that all people not just teen agers need to slow down... just the other day I was on my way to pick my son up from Foothill at 9PM and in the evening I tend to slow down because it is dark in some critical spots.. the car behind me crossed over to the other lane to pass me ( I was going 40 miles an hour) which in acceptable. Anyway, he had to hit his breaks hard as he was going back into my lane because a car came out of Foothill Knolls and was turning left onto Foothill, causing me to break as well... can you just see how stupid people are!!!!!Take it easy..life will be short if you don't... enjoy the scenery and make sure if you want to be stupid go kill yourself and not take innocent people with you.......Our prayers go to the family... my son was also a 2006 graduate of Foothill and knew Laurel, it saddens us to see another young life taken.
a resident of Happy Valley
on Oct 29, 2007 at 10:01 am
I knew laurel personally and loved the girl. I knew katie, the one driving the car also, and they were both really sweet girls. If laurels parents read this i hope they know their daughter really enjoyed life. She had few regrets and really did live it to the fullest. I never saw laurel not having a good time. my prayers are with her family and all her close friends who i know are going threw a hard time.
a resident of Downtown
on Nov 6, 2007 at 10:28 pm
under the influence
The First Time I Saw The Light ( it was the last time)
I'm lying on my back.
Beneath the wheel of my Cadillac.
My skull is cracked.
I'm seeing stars.
If I survive, I'm seeing bars.
And I can feel my legs beneath me,
both folded backward completely,
but I don't see my left shoe
next to me. I see a rescue.
The EMT is putting gloves on.
Everything I see there's blood on.
I'm about a breathe and a half
from death...
and, yes, I know,
it's a miracle I'm not dead yet.
Still... without divine intervention,
I will expire in this
dirty roadside trench an'
I see I'm right where I belong.
I had it coming all along.
I see I was wrong,
should've spent the night.
Now I'm fighting for my life.
I'm seeing visions of
faces of everyone I love.
Experiences I have known
have cornered me here all alone,
sending me back~~~~I see memories flash~~~~
I see me grab the keys,
sneaking out the back.
I hear the motor starting up,
no second thoughts.
I hear me saying bottoms up
and then I'm off.
I hit the strip,
with my cigarette lit,
lookin' down on everybody
like I'm "the s---".
Lookin' up,
hookin' up
with the windshield first
and I curse
as I feel my forehead burst.
It gets worse...
As I hit the dirt,
back broken at the hip...
you know that s--- hurt.
Through the smoke and commotion,
I see a crowd of strangers
gathered around.
I look to my left
and all over the ground
I see
the shattered remains
of my drink of choice.
Hearing nothing,
but the sound of my voice...
so close to dying...
I begin to convulse.
The paramedic's struggling
to find a pulse.
I try,
but I can't breathe.
I'm gonna die,
but I can't believe it...
No Lord! THIS CAN'T BE!
The lungs in my chest
have both collapsed.
My lifetime and deathtime
have both elapsed~~~~~
I crawl slowly out from beneath.
I'm lookin' at a young cat trapped underneath
a heap of twisted metal.
My body shudders... imagining the pain
that this man has suffered.
I realize then that the face is mine,
as I begin to lift off
into space and time.
Bleak outlook for me.
There will be no tomorrow.
My legacy will be
that I lived in the bottle...
and died in it.
Why was I so thick headed?
If I could go back
I know that I would not be headed
to my grave so young.
SOMEBODY learn from this, because you cannot, you WILL
not return from this.
because you're right where you belong
a resident of another community
on Nov 9, 2007 at 11:22 am
I am so sorry, just received the call today from your cousin I am sorry I didn't know until this morning.
a resident of another community
on Nov 9, 2007 at 11:22 am
I am so sorry, just received the call today from your cousin I am sorry I didn't know until this morning.
a resident of Highland Oaks
on Mar 5, 2008 at 12:53 am
I personally knew Laurel and she was a beautiful and caring girl! I have been friends with her since 7th grade, which adds up to 7 years of knowing eachother. Laurel and I graduated together and Katie as well. I miss Laurel terribly and cry almost every day because I miss seeing her and being around her. She was truly a amazing girl with a heart of gold. My life has literally been a wreck since she died. I am constsantly reminded of her everywhere I go. We both attend Las Positas and we always would see eachother, now I will never see her again and it hurts. She would have graduated at the end of this semester and transferred to San Diego State. When I see grad stuff at school it makes me upset knowing she was one of those people who would have been graduating and I would have been there cheering her on!! I met her mother recently and she is a very kind woman. I told her her daughter was a beautiful girl inside and out, this made her cry and thank me. She talked with me a while and asked how I knew her and I said we graduated together. She was very gracious and I will never forget that moment. She grabbed my face and made me promise her to be safe, and I told her I would. Her mother has been through hell this past few months and year. She just beat breast cancer and then loses her only child. I'm so devestated for her, I just wish there was anything I could do to help. I realized I could help by telling her how amazing Laurel was. Whether it was storys or jokes or whatever. My condolences go out to her whole family especially her mother, father and 4 half siblings. Laurel was a great girl and I will miss her the rest of my life. Sleep Tight Baby Girl, I love you and miss you always, may you keep us safe always!!
a resident of Highland Oaks
on Oct 20, 2008 at 8:07 pm
As I drove past the curve on Foothill today, I glanced over at the signpost as I often do, and saw the word "Laurel". I checked the date mentally, and realized that it was a year ago today. May all who loved Laurel find some solace in her memory today, especially.
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Oct 26, 2008 at 11:06 pm
A year has passed and missing Laurel doesn't get any easier.


text: Transmaterial, a book edited by Blaine Brownell, covers "materials, products and processes that are redefining our physical environment." The book is filled with surveys of metaeffective materials. The chapters include: ultraperforming materials, multidimensional, recombinant and transformational materials. The entire book is available as a PDF File (11MB). See this review from World Changing for more information.


text:
Apologies - FinderPop has a problem patching 32-bit apps under 10.7. I'll release a fix for this tonight. Sorry!
- 18.104.22.168 - fix 10.6/10.7 issue with unused-menubar popup when PopChar is active
- MacOS X 10.7 Lion compatibility
FinderPop now requires authorisation when installing on 10.6 or 10.7 - it installs the Scripting Addition (osax) into
/Library/ScriptingAdditions instead of in your home directory's ~/Library/ScriptingAdditions
- Work around that pesky OS X Preference Pane Bundle Caching problem
- Don't immediately switch the Finder frontmost when checking for control-free popup in 10.6/10.7
- Assuming everyone is happy with this version (tell me if not!) it will be released as FinderPop 2.4.
Previous fixes:
- Basic Lion compatability - FinderPop now requires authorisation when installing on 10.6 or 10.7 - it installs the Scripting Addition (osax) into /Library/ScriptingAdditions instead of in your home directory.
- Control-free popup now works more reliably in the 10.7 Finder, as does clicking in "List View" windows
- Updated localisations for the new "Aliases in Italics" checkbox - thanks to all the localisers!
- New click-in-unused-menubar code for 10.6 and 10.7 ("Lion") - thanks to Rene for testing this
- When "Use custom icons" is turned off, apps now appear with a generic application icon rather than as a folder (err, whoops)
- Bump maximum number of Recent Items to 16 (this was already the max, I just added 13, 14, 15 and 16 to the popup menus)
- Labels and Cmd+Option "Info Window" on Snow Leopard Finder, incomplete but it's a start.
- Fixed a number of longstanding alias bugs
- Italicised Aliases now possible via checkbox in Appearance pane
- Labels displayed for aliases use the alias's label, not the target's.
- Some 10.7 "Lion" compatibility (thanks, Rene)
- Folders with .fp-ignore files inside are ignored (I just installed Office 2011 and wanted FinderPop to completely ignore my previous Office 2008 install.)
- Fix 64-bit Cocoa "unused menubar" check - no longer causes a crash in Photoshop if you choose 'Invert Selection' (thanks to Dave for the prod - I wasn't restoring the OpenGL context properly!)
- Fix 64-bit Cocoa "unused menubar" check so it obeys the "must-be-control-click-in-menubar" setting
- Ignore .plugin files when creating "All Apps" submenu (for items ending in '---a'.)
- Add 'quit' AppleEvent handler to finderpop-daemon. A forum user was having problems with FinderPop apparently causing a hang on shutdown/restart/logout. This may help matters.
- Fix a Snow Leopard bug spotted by cowicide where clicking-and-holding on an alias didn't pop up a Contents menu when it should have.
- Fix a bug where ctrl-clicking on an alias A to a folder B would mistakenly allow you to move/copy/alias A into B's children.
- Improved German localisation - thanks Hajo Bass who sent me the improvements back in August and I'm only incorporating them now - sorry!
- More complete Italian localisation - thanks Mauro Ferreri and Nello Martuscelli
What remains to be done:
* Contextual Menu Support in apps other than the Finder on Snow Leopard
If you're installing this over a previous beta, you'll have to restart or logout for it to take effect.
As usual, if there are any issues with this, reply here in the forum!


text: For sale in the UK only please Hi guys, I'm selling 2 18x20 K95's for a friend. They are both grip 3 and strung with Babolat Hurricane Tour and Xcel at 58bs. One is 7/10 and the other is 8/10 with just a few paint chips and scuffs to the bumpers, absolutely no structural damage to them. Looking for £55 each or £105 for the pair inc postage. Any questions or further info email him m_byford (at) yahoo (dot) co (dot) uk


text:
At this week's meeting of the Sheridan County Fair Association, Facilities Director Melissa Albrecht showed off the association's new website to board members. A recent update brings with it a brand new calendar program, a video of the association's modernization plan and more.
Albrecht explained how the website is different from the previous one.
Albrecht said the fair association will also be able to sell advertisements because of the recent upgrade, which could bring in revenue to the association's general fund.
The association also discussed the beautification of the entrance to the fairgrounds and are looking into options for new sign at the entry way. Board members voted unanimously in approval of a proposal to buy a new utility vehicle - which would replace one that does not work.
People can visit the SCFA's updated website here.


text:
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A few of the services provided are . . .
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A call to The Danberry Co.'s Relocation Division will put you in touch with this service where you will find:


text:
Early voting starts today ahead of a Nov. 8 special election.
Secretary of State Mark Martin hasn't offered a prediction on how many of the state's nearly 1.54 million registered voters will cast a ballot in the Nov. 8 special election, or the early voting leading up to it.
The $575 million bond issue is part of a scaled-back part of a plan lawmakers approved this year to tackle billions of dollars in unfunded highway needs across Arkansas.
A recent University of Arkansas poll showed strong support for the proposal. Sixty-three percent of those surveyed said they supported the proposal, while only 28 percent opposed it.