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Heterodoxy | February 1999
Justifiable homicide, in other words. There are some Americans who believe there can be a valid reason to shoot a cop between the eyes as he is lying defenseless on the ground. And it is so refreshing when they come right out and say so.
Such candor was not in evidence the night before at the Continental Airlines Arena in the Hackensack Meadowlands. At the press conference before the concert, Abu-Jamal's supporters maintained the fiction that some mystery gunman had done the shooting and that Abu-Jamal was an innocent bystander. That seemed to fool a good number of the television types. And as for the fans, they didn't really care. About 20,000 of them showed up to see an assortment of bands that included the Beastie Boys and Rage Against the Machine. As one young fan diplomatically put it before the show, "I wouldn't have cared if it was a concert for hating baby Jesus. I just wanted to see Rage."
During the concert, a rap star named Chuck D tried to lead the audience in a chant of "Free Mumia," but few joined in. And the audience actually booed Pam Africa, a member of a Philadelphia back-to-nature cult named MOVE with which Abu-Jamal was affiliated at the time of his crime. Africa, whose appearance suggests she has gone so far back to nature that she has just emerged from a mud puddle, is unleashed by Abu-Jamal's defense team periodically. Her obscenity-spiced tirades against modern society can alienate even rock fans. She is the one false note in an otherwise perfectly orchestrated PR machine that has made Mumia the martyr who would not die.
The concert raised about $400,000 for the Abu-Jamal defense team. They're going to need every cent. So far, Abu-Jamal's defense has been a courtroom disaster. Abu-Jamal's lawyers lost every one of their appeals in the land where this latter-day Moses slew his Egyptian foe, Pennsylvania. The prophet sits on death row, at the mercy of federal judges who are increasingly reluctant to reverse the work of state courts.
Abu-Jamal made a big mistake in timing. He shot a cop at the wrong moment in history, after the reintroduction of capital punishment but before the deconstruction of the American justice system by the O. J. Simpson defense team. Prior to the Simpson trial, prosecutors merely had to prove a defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. But in the post-O.J. era, deconstructionism reigns. Jurors are now aware that if they like the defendant enough they can convince themselves that nothing that occurred in the past is truly knowable.
This is the goal of Abu-Jamal's ever-growing contingent of celebrity supporters, which includes not only rockers but Hollywood actors such as Ed Asner and Mike Farrell. Most seem to be perfectly aware of the facts: that in the early morning hours of December 9, 1981, in Philadelphia, Abu-Jamal was found with his gun at his feet and a dying cop on the sidewalk nearby. But they have convinced themselves that the gun, the five shell casings in it, and the empty holster Abu-Jamal was wearing can all be explained away.
Abu-Jamal failed to do so at his trial in 1982. He offered the lame alibi that some mystery gunman had arrived on the scene in the midst of his encounter with police officer Daniel Faulkner. The mystery man somehow managed to shoot the officer as Abu-Jamal stood nearby and—though armed with a gun—did nothing.
As if the evidence weren't bad enough, Abu-Jamal fought with his court-appointed attorney. He kept insisting that he wanted as his legal counsel a non-lawyer by the name of John Africa, MOVE's founder. Abu-Jamal botched things so thoroughly that one reporter covering the trial wrote a long article wondering if the defendant had a death wish.
Abu-Jamal made a big mistake. He conducted a Chicago Seven–type experiment in political theater without a Chicago Seven–type defense team. A few years before Abu-Jamal's crime, Black Panther Joanne Chesimard took part in a shootout on the New Jersey Turnpike in which an officer was killed. But she's now living happily ever after in Havana, thanks to the efforts of the late William Kunstler and the absence of a death penalty at the time. After her conviction, Kunstler managed to get her moved to a medium-security prison. Two Panthers snuck in with guns and sprung her. Before long, she was in Cuba.
But Abu-Jamal is on death row. For keeps, it would seem. Kunstler, who was easily the No. 1 intellect of the Chicago Seven, is dead and so Abu-Jamal has had to settle for Leonard Weinglass, who was perhaps the eighth smartest member of the Chicago Seven. Weinglass has none of Kunstler's charisma or brilliance. He's a rather goofy-looking guy with thick glasses and a wavering voice that suggests he's trying to convince himself rather than his audience.
Weinglass has yet to win even a minor victory for Mumia in court, but he is a hit with gullible members of the media, as evidenced by the press conference before the concert. Before eighteen TV cameras, Weinglass repeated the usual bunch of lies and half-truths that make up the case for Abu-Jamal. Included was the usual nonsense about the fatal bullet not having come from Abu-Jamal's gun. In fact, it was a .38 caliber bullet and Abu-Jamal was carrying a .38-caliber pistol, as even the defense's own ballistics expert conceded at a 1995 appeals hearing in Philadelphia. Then there was the usual nonsense about a mystery gunman. And of course, the usual refusal to answer questions about why Abu-Jamal refuses to name that gunman or give any account whatsoever of the events of Dec. 9, 1981.
The reason for Abu-Jamal's silence is obvious: The mystery-gunman strategy is just a ruse to win a retrial. In a new trial, Abu-Jamal would be free to start all over again and admit that he shot Faulkner, but argue that he did so in self-defense. This would be a lie as well, but one that would be much easier to get past a sympathetic jury. At the time of the killing, Faulkner was fighting with Abu-Jamal's brother, who was resisting arrest after being stopped for a traffic violation. Abu-Jamal—in a coincidence that remains unexplained to this day—just happened to be across the street carrying his gun, for which he had a permit. In a new trial, Abu-Jamal could admit he shot Faulkner but argue that he did so in coming to the rescue of his brother. Weinglass has already laid the groundwork for this defense by suggesting that it was Faulkner who fired first (though eyewitnesses said otherwise).
This strategy has great potential, both from the angle of political agitation and in generating a sympathetic response from the largely black jury Weinglass hopes to face in court some day. At worst, it might lead to a manslaughter conviction, leaving Abu-Jamal free to walk out into a cheering crowd on the basis of the 17-plus years he has already served.
But to get that new trial, Abu-Jamal must keep up the pretense of a mystery gunman. And an intelligent observer will note the stubborn presence, in even the pro-Abu-Jamal scenarios, of Abu-Jamal's gun. And that, like the gun in the first act of a Chekhov play, it has to be fired by the end. Who fired it? The only logical suspect is the man who was carrying it.
But at this point in time, for Abu-Jamal to admit that he shot Faulkner dooms his appeal for a new trial. This leads to an amazing spectacle, one largely unremarked in the mass media: Thousands of people the world over will loudly proclaim that Mumia Abu-Jamal did not shoot Daniel Faulkner. Yet Abu-Jamal himself refuses to do so. This is something new in history. Hundreds of convicted killers have mounted public campaigns to prove their innocence. But Abu-Jamal is certainly the first to do so without denying he was the killer.
When the Mumia circus came to town, my newspaper, the Star-Ledger of nearby Newark, ran an editorial pointing out Abu-Jamal's obvious guilt. This prompted a fax from TV star Mike Farrell, who asserted that our editorial overlooked Abu-Jamal's statements that he did not shoot Faulkner. I have been searching unsuccessfully for such a statement for some time, so I called Farrell in Los Angeles to see if he knew something I didn't. But he could cite no such statement, though he has been working since 1993 to convince the world that Abu-Jamal did not shoot Faulkner.
Farrell was, however, well versed in other aspects of the case, and on the phone he seemed to be an affable sort. I pointed out to him that Weinglass had to have discussed the case with Abu-Jamal and would therefore be privy to Abu-Jamal's knowledge of the identity of any mystery gunman. Farrell admitted that he has had many conversations on the subject with Weinglass over the past five years. "Have you ever asked Weinglass whether Abu-Jamal shot Faulkner?" I asked.
Farrell sounded perplexed. "I don't know if I asked him that or not," he finally said.
I asked how he could account for the five empty shell casings in Abu-Jamal's gun.
"Maybe he had gone to target practice earlier in the day," Farrell said.
Maybe. Maybe on the night in question Abu-Jamal actually waved an empty gun at a cop who had a loaded gun. But then again, maybe not.
It turns out that Farrell is one of the more rational of Abu-Jamal's followers. Our newspaper also got a fax from Mark Lewis Taylor, a professor at the Princeton Theological Seminary who leads a 600-member group of pro-Mumia university professors. I called him and asked the same question. He admitted he hadn't ever asked Weinglass whether Abu-Jamal shot Faulkner, but went on to ask whether the question is relevant.
"When you say something as specific as 'I did not shoot Officer Faulkner,' you are accepting the terms of the charge," Taylor told me.
"Are you a deconstructionist?" I asked. He said no, but this entire exercise gives off a whiff of that philosophy.
I once cornered the elusive Weinglass and asked him to state for the record exactly what happened on the night Officer Faulkner took a bullet between the eyes.
"Well, we don't know," he replied with a straight face.
"Did you ever ask your client?" I asked. He refused to say. Obviously he has, however, and just as obviously Abu-Jamal knows what happened that night. So does Abu-Jamal's brother. And if either of them knew the truth about a mystery gunman, you can rest assured that every actor and academic from Hackensack to Hollywood would know about it.
This poses a problem for the Abu-Jamal defense, one that will almost certainly blow up into an international cause célèbre as Abu-Jamal moves ever closer to his date with the executioner. The problem lies in the gap between the myth being created for public consumption and the case that is now before a federal court. The nonsense about a mystery gunman works wonderfully as a fund-raising tool, but the judges keep laughing it out of court. In fact, Weinglass has mounted his defense so clumsily that he almost seems to be pushing Abu-Jamal into the death chamber. His performance during Abu-Jamal's last round of appeals in Pennsylvania in 1995 was typically incompetent. Weinglass put on the stand two recently discovered "eyewitnesses" to the officer's murder. One told of seeing a guy with "Johnny Mathis hair" pull up in a red car, shoot Faulkner, and then jump back in the car and drive away. The story had its flaws—none of the other eyewitnesses reported anything even vaguely similar—but perhaps this tale could have been the basis for a new trial.
However Weinglass also brought to the stand another witness who gave a totally different version of the killing. This one claimed the gunman jumped out of Abu-Jamal's brother's car, shot Faulkner, and ran away on foot. Abu-Jamal's role in the tragedy was to go over to the dying officer and listen as he asked for someone to tell his wife and children of the tragedy.
Faulkner had no children.
Each story was shaky, but a sharp lawyer would have at least settled on one.
I once followed a Philadelphia prosecutor around the courts for two weeks for a magazine story. Day after day, I heard criminal defendants give lame alibis. Most of these criminals were not particularly bright, but I never saw one so stupid that he offered two mutually contradictory alibis. That may be a first in the history of jurisprudence.
Weinglass is fooling a lot of TV stars and rock musicians, but he's not fooling the judges. He lost every aspect of his appeals in Pennsylvania and prospects are equally bad in the federal courts. The new Effective Death Penalty Act puts an end to endless federal appeals. Abu-Jamal will get just one, and it's underway right now. And unfortunately for Abu-Jamal, the federal courts are now extremely reluctant to intervene in cases that have already been thoroughly litigated in state courts. These days, federal reversals tend to be reserved for defendants from Southern states, where the trial and appeals process are swift and not particularly thorough. But Abu-Jamal has had not only his day in court, but seventeen years. Every conceivable appeal has been examined and rejected. And his case is not helped by the many bonehead errors he made while trying to act as his own attorney in the first trial.
If Weinglass is trying to keep his client alive, he's doing a miserable job of it. If, on the other hand, he is trying to create the perfect international poster boy for the drive to end capital punishment, then he's a genius. Abu-Jamal is no street thug. He had a middle-class upbringing and was on his way to a career in radio before he got mixed up with the MOVE cult. With his cute dreadlocks and his deep bass voice, Abu-Jamal is the liberal white person's ideal death-row inmate. The ease with which these people convince themselves of his innocence is a sight to see.
If the federal courts reject Abu-Jamal's final appeal, he will almost certainly be executed. The present Pennsylvania governor, Tom Ridge, is a law-and-order type who has zero sympathy for the type of people who gravitate to Abu-Jamal. He would sign the death warrant tomorrow.
But get ready for the howling. The shrieks of rage will be loud and long among Abu-Jamal supporters from Stockholm to Sydney. The actual moment of lethal injection will be reported around the world. Abu-Jamal will have turned himself into the Moses of a movement that may eventually wind up once again ending capital punishment in America.
The endgame should be intriguing. Will Abu-Jamal wise up and realize that he's being used as the wet dream of a bunch of Birkenstock-wearing '60s throwbacks hungering for a martyr? Will he go to his grave wrapped up in a second-rate alibi straight out of a true-crime paperback?
Or will he defy them all and admit the truth, reprising the statement that police say he made in the hospital emergency room after the shooting: "I shot the motherf— and I hope he dies"?
That would certainly shock a lot of showbiz types, but Pacifica radioman Habte Selassie would know exactly what he meant.


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A nearly century-old gatehouse at Mission San Juan Capistrano is undergoing a facelift that will transform the façade for the hundreds of thousands who visit the landmark every year.
The work is being done to make the historic mission, one of 21 in California, a coveted destination for local and regional visitors while preserving it for generations to come, mission officials said.
The three-year, $3.3 million Gatehouse Preservation Project includes a rehabilitation of the original 1919 gatehouse. There is also an improved group entryway, an enlarged public plaza with benches and bike racks, and a gift shop.
While many favor the mission's improvements, the Capistrano Historical Alliance Committee wonders if the gatehouse project is too big.
The mission's gatehouse project is the first private project of a larger city effort to reinvigorate and restore the city's historic downtown. The entire downtown plan covers 150 acres. The goal is to preserve and enhance the town center as the civic and commercial heart of the city. Designers plan to create a pedestrian-oriented public realm with "outdoor rooms" where people can congregate. The plan also includes ways to rebalance transportation and parking to coexist with pedestrian, bicycle, transit and equestrian access.
With the project nearing completion, the city's Planning Commission will decide on the sign program for the front gate that mission Executive Director Mechelle Lawrence-Adams said is in keeping with the mission's look. The brown hand-painted lettering was a point of discussion last week when the city's Design Review Commission reviewed it. The commission voted in favor of it, though one commissioner questioned whether it fit with the mission's historical context.
In early March, the plaza and group entry will open to the public.
The gift store, which will support the mission, should be completed by July.
More than 300,000 visitors each year come to the city to tour the mission. More than 50,000 fourth-graders statewide each year learn about its history by touring the grounds.
The Mission Preservation Foundation says the improvements will create a grander experience at the mission and will add to the downtown's historic renovation under way.
The foundation, which raised the money for the gatehouse preservation from private donations, is made up of businesspeople countywide. The group was founded by Tony Moiso, president and chief executive of Rancho Mission Viejo. It's now headed up by George O'Connell.
Restoration at the gatehouse, built in 1919, includes detailed work by art experts and has resulted in some remarkable discoveries, said Lawrence-Adams. Local craftsmen are using recycled tiles, stone and bricks to create its original look and to blend with the mission's architectural style.
Art experts unveiled a 20th century fresco while working on the inside walls, Lawrence-Adams said. The fresco has since been restored.
The mission's gift shop, which will have access from the public plaza, will help raise money to preserve the Sala building. This 18th-century building is the last of the original spaces at the mission in need of conservation. When completed, the Sala building will provide more museum space.
Despite its new construction, the gift shop is built to blend with the architectural style found in the mission, built in 1776.
Details such as hand-troweled finishes, hand-carved peeler logs, millwork, and stone are used to reflect the Great Stone Church, Lawrence-Adams said. To create greater authenticity, 1920s-era tiles salvaged from a Catholic church that burned to the ground will become the roof.
Inside the gift shop, guests can browse books and artifacts detailing the historical significance of the mission.
The shop will also sell crosses, jewelry, garden items and candles. Visitors who seek comfort at the mission can visit a devotional room at the gift shop where Gregorian chants will be played. The shop will close an hour after the mission closes to encourage visitors to linger and stay in town longer.
Not everyone is in favor of the changes. Members of the Capistrano Historical Alliance Committee question the changes in size at the front gate.
"The massiveness of the new entrance stops the eye and almost appears to be a barrier. So much of the charm of Mission San Juan Capistrano is captured in the old photographs, and for that, we are very grateful," Jerry Nieblas said. "However, we also realize that the prior entrance was small and updating was necessary to accommodate future museum space. The new entrance seems to block the visual invitation that existed before – there was a sense that the mission was connected to the community."
The mission's gate project coincided with a couple of the short-term suggestions in the downtown master plan, such as widening the sidewalk across from the mission, adding flowers, trees and streetscape furniture.
"Camino Capistrano will look more like a Main Street," said Laura Freese, former council member and proponent of the city's efforts for the new downtown plan. "There will be more trees, flowers and attractive lighting. People will be able to meander down the streets as well as sit quietly and take in the beauty of the city."
The history of the mission's gatehouse and surrounding walls reaches back more than a century. Admission to the mission in 1916 would have set you back a dime. And since the 1940s, not much has changed – until now. Starting in March, a new gateway entrance will usher visitors into the historic landmark where they can soon browse a new gift shop.
Contact the writer: 949-492-5152 or firstname.lastname@example.com or twitter.com/lagunaini

subset: commoncrawl


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Owning a pet is such a learning experience! Whether you have dogs, cats, or both as an only pet or part of a burgeoning brood, there's always something coming up (and a whole lotta poop).
So instead of sitting around wondering — or trying to ask the animal itself — just come on into the PetSugar Community and type your questions! We've just added an Ask the Community Anything box, so you have a quick and easy way to inquire away! Limited to 128 characters, get straight to the point and then get straight answers from all of us. While you're there, chime in with your opinions and advice about others' questions as well! (And, don't worry, there's still a Pet Peeves group for those lengthier tales.)
In fact, one reader is looking for some bikini help for her Ft. Lauderdale pooch while another is wonder why her Scottie is so hyperactive. If you have answers to these questions or any of your own, come on in and join the conversations now!


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Mujica's clean inning a bright spot in Game 2
Cardinals reliever hopes to leave September struggles behind
By Jenifer Langosch, Jonathan Mayo and John Schlegel / MLB.com
PITTSBURGH -- In a mostly forgettable 7-1 loss to the Pirates in Game 2 of the National League Division Series on Friday, the Cardinals singled out Edward Mujica's performance as something to remember -- and, they hope, something to build on.
In his first appearance of the postseason, Mujica pitched a quick and clean ninth inning. He retired the side in order on five pitches, marking the first time Mujica had pitched a hitless full inning since Aug. 26.
"We needed him to throw a clean inning," manager Mike Matheny said. "[It] was nice to see the kind of swings he had. That's the kind of swings he's had against [him] all season long. He's had such a strong year. It was something we were hoping to be able to get him out there and feel good about himself, because we don't know how [his role] is going to play out moving forward."
Mujica, too, was encouraged by his performance, but was particularly pleased by the results he got when throwing his rarely-used slider. Twice, catcher Yadier Molina called for a first-pitch slider; both times, it induced an out.
According to Fangraphs, Mujica threw his slider just 4.4 percent of the time this season. Not since 2009 has he cracked the 10 percent threshold. But with Mujica's split-changeup running flat for much of September, the implementation of another pitch could help him keep hitters from waiting on the changeup.
"I think they got a little bit surprised," Mujica said. "New weapon."
The Cardinals are still feeling their way through finding the right spots to use Mujica, who was scored upon in six of his 10 September appearances. Certainly, they would like to work their former closer back into a key role, but he will have to continue to prove he is ready for that before such opportunities arise.
"September is gone. October is here," Mujica said. "I've cleared my mind and have prepared myself physically and mentally to pitch in October."
Slugger Adams opening eyes with his glove
PITTSBURGH -- With the body of an offensive lineman and a powerful swing that socked homers at an astounding rate down the stretch, Matt Adams might be seen by many through a one-dimensional lens.
But to anyone watching him pick Neil Walker's sharp one-hopper in the third inning Friday, along with a few other solid plays in the first two games of the National League Division Series, it's clear the Cardinals' hulking first baseman has been working toward being more than just a big bat.
"It's good to be able to make those plays," Adams said. "It's sweet, because we have such a great coach in [third-base coach Jose] Oquendo. He's the one who's really helped me get to the next level."
Adams hopes his work over the past couple of years continues to pay off as he subs for injured All-Star Allen Craig. He might still be a work in progress, but the progress is visible.
"When I first got drafted, the biggest thing was getting my hands ready, because I was a catcher and obviously didn't take a lot of ground balls in college," Adams said. "But then I really started up with footwork drills to get my feet faster, and I kept working on that the next couple of years.
"I know when my feet are right, my hands are going to be in the right spot."
Plus, Adams knows he's not alone out on the field. He's got Oquendo helping him with his every move, and he can follow the lead of one of the game's top catchers in Yadier Molina.
That's how Adams can make a pick like he did in Game 2, when he robbed Walker of extra bases.
"That one, I paid attention to Yadi and saw him moving inside, and Jose told me to come toward the line a little bit," Adams said. "He got around on that cutter and pulled it pretty good, and I was in the right spot."
Cards' Miller getting used to new role in 'pen
PITTSBURGH -- Manager Mike Matheny had a decision to make when putting together his rotation for the National League Division Series. When Lance Lynn's experience got the nod over rookie Shelby Miller, that pushed the 22-year-old right-hander to the bullpen.
After a season that saw Miller make 31 starts and throw 173 1/3 innings, the change in routine has taken some getting used to.
"It's different, but my job is to pitch out of the bullpen," Miller said. "I've accepted the role and want to help the team win."
Miller appeared in Game 2 of the NLDS, allowing a solo homer by Starling Marte in the Cardinals' 7-1 loss to the Pirates. He knows he needs to be back and ready to go should the need arise in Game 3 on Sunday, a bit of a departure from his routine as a member of the St. Louis rotation.
"That's the biggest adjustment, pitching back-to-back days," Miller said. "I won't be out there for a long time, pitching in shorter stints, unless something happens and I have to pitch long relief. I haven't been told what my role is exactly. I just have to make sure I'm ready."
Miller hasn't fared too well against the Pirates during an otherwise outstanding season that should garner at least a few Rookie of the Year votes. He went 0-4 with a 5.32 ERA in his four starts against Pittsburgh, allowing 29 hits in 22 innings. His last outing against his division rivals, coming at PNC Park on Aug. 31, was his worst of the four; he allowed five runs on eight hits in just 4 1/3 innings. It's quite possible that track record figured into the decision-making process of who to start and who to push into the bullpen.
"I'm sure they had some history," Miller said. "The other four guys starting are unbelievable pitchers. I can't be upset. We believe in all of them."
Hindsight obviously can alter perspective, with Lynn's poor performance in Game 2 leading many to think Miller should have gotten the ball instead. Miller isn't going to go there, instead preparing for the immediacy of adjusting to being a relief pitcher, at least for the time being.
Miller sees it as a step in the right direction, considering he didn't start the 2012 postseason on the active roster. He was added to replace an injured Jaime Garcia, appearing in two games during the NL Championship Series in relief, an experience he could draw from during this postseason run.
"It's not my call, there's nothing I can do about it, but I'm not upset," Miller said. "I might start in the next series, but I have to accept [my role]. I'm just happy I'm on the roster. Last year, I wasn't really on the roster."
Jenifer Langosch is a reporter for MLB.com. Read her blog, By Gosh, It's Langosch, and follow her on Twitter @LangoschMLB. Jonathan Mayo is a reporter for MLB.com and writes a blog, B3. Follow @JonathanMayoB3 on Twitter. John Schlegel is a national reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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Due to the lapse in government funding, the information on this website may not be up to date, transactions submitted via the website may not be processed, and the agency may not be able to respond to inquiries until appropriations are enacted.Updates regarding government operating status and resumption of normal operations can be found at http://www.usa.gov.
Notice Number: NOT-GM-05-100
Key Dates
Release Date: November 1, 2004
The purpose of this notice is to announce the termination of the NIGMS Program, " Supplements for the determination of high-resolution structures ", http://www.nigms.nih.gov/funding/pa/high_resolution.html. The purpose of the program was to encourage, through administrative supplements, the determination of atomic level structures by laboratories not normally engaged in structure determination. As a result of the success of this program, the increased availability of major facilities with excellent user support, and the development of more "user friendly" structure determination methods, the goals of this program have largely been achieved. In light of this fact, and given current increased budget stringencies, NIGMS has decided to discontinue this program effective immediately. Investigators may still apply for competing supplements for the purpose of adding high resolution structure determination to the goals of existing projects and are also encouraged to include structure determination, where appropriate, as part of their competing research grant s applications.
Weekly TOC for this Announcement
NIH Funding Opportunities and Notices
Department of Health
and Human Services
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
9000 Rockville Pike
Bethesda, Maryland 20892


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Most people wouldn't walk into their office job wearing neon colored eyeshadow, glitter eyelashes, and animal print everything. A lot of beauty experimentation (and self-expression) happens on the tiny canvas that is the nail. You can wear all those above looks on your nail and if your boss doesn't like it, you can take it off right away with just a little nail polish remover!
Since we're operating on a budget, we do our "nail art" at home a lot more than we wish, but in the process we've gathered together this list of our Top 10 Funky Nail Looks You Can Do At Home.
10. Animal Print
This is the easiest nail fix out there! Many nail companies are putting out stick-on nail polish with fun patterns. Sephora has a good brand, but we swear by these Sally Hansen Salon Effects. They last longer than normal nail polish and don't require any dry time–just a steady hand.
Mix and match animal prints for fierce nails like those above!
9. Glitter Crescent
Instead of doing glittery tips like everyone else, reverse the process: put the glitter in the crescent part of your nails. Just combine a regular nail polish and a chunky eye catching glitter.
Our favorite color combo? This dark black-green from OPI called Suzi Skis In The Pyrenees and a few layers of Sephora's Only Gold For Me.
8. Mismatched Toes
Have trouble telling your left from your right? Or just love things quirky and mismatched? Painting your toenails two different colors is a subtle way (you can hide your toesies!) of being a color rebel.
We suggest two colors that are nothing alike for ultimate impact. This six color set of Neon colors from Kleancolor will give you plenty of mix and match options!
7. Mixed Metallics
We love the mirror quality of the mixed metallics of this manicure. While this is definitely a professional mani, with a little creativity you can simulate this look with different metallic colors for Sally Hansen's Chrome collection.
6. Nude Crescent
If you want relatively normal nails, but want to add a little edge, take note from this manicure–leave the crescent of your nail nude while the rest is a bright, flattering red.
We love this super bright red color Red My Fortune Cookie from OPI.
5. Abstract Stripes
This look is glamorous, artistic, and way easier than it looks. All you need is a dark base color for your nails and a nail art pen. Nail art pens make it easier to make fine lines along your nails. Try an abstract stripe look which gives you more freedom to mess up. Hey, the line doesn't have to be straight!
Get the same look with this black Sally Hansen Hard As Nails and silver nail art pen:
4. Random Color Nail
We've seen girls all around town rocking this look and we think it's adorable. Choose any two colors, pick symmetrical nails on each hand, and paint them a different color from all the rest of your nails!
3. Polka Dot Toes
This look can be achieved the same way the Abstract Stripe look is achieved above. Just put on a dark base color, like the Sally Hansen black and create precise polka dots with a nail art pen. Use a tiny piece of paper as a ruler once the base color is dry and go in a horizontal or vertical direction.
2. Nude Glitter
Maybe this isn't necessarily "art," but we love the pairing of a chunky full-finger ring with a light coat of almost-nude glitter.
The combo of this gold-pink from OPI with this filigree ring from Nasty Gal is both flirty and funky.
1. Ombre Nails
OK, you might be thinking what we first thought when we saw this nail style, "I do this all the time…on accident!" Which we think is the main perk of the ombre nail. The lines can have a more "tie-dye/watercolor" effect so you have a lot more room to mess up.
Just use three complimentary colors that are just a few shades different than each other like these punchy purples above.
- What is your favorite DIY nail art trick? Let us know in the comments!


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Mix the boundless energy of Manhattan's creative community with the elegance associated with London's more gentlemanly residents and you get an idea of the rag & bone vibe. Run by two Englishmen in New York, Mr Marcus Wainwright and Mr David Neville, the brand's aesthetic is a refined take on classic American casualwear. In Mr Wainwright's words, "It's about merging a downtown New York aesthetic with English tailoring, to make everyone look and feel more polished and refined."
This summer Messrs Wainwright and Neville have created an exclusive nine-piece collection just for MR PORTER. It's like a rag & bone greatest hits album, with Mr Wainwright explaining that, "All" the looks in this collection are based on signature rag & bone pieces." The new range contains most of the things a man will need to see him through the season, including khaki shorts, a plaid button-down shirt, lightweight jeans, cotton and linen shirts, a waistcoat, summer trousers and a safari-style blazer. The range will take a man from a weekend by the ocean (whether in Montauk, Mougins or Marbella) straight into a Monday morning business meeting.
When asked what it was that they were reaching for with the collection Mr Wainwright replied, "A smart look that's effortless - that's an element in all our collections. It's about feeling good in what you wear."


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Sign Up
The following guidelines and procedures apply to all BSA unit, council, and national program activities involving bicycling.
All unit, district, council, and national event activities must be supervised by a mature and conscientious adult at least age 21 who understands and knowingly accepts responsibility for the safety of children in his or her care, who is experienced with the skills and equipment involved in the activity, and who is committed to compliance with these BSA safety guidelines.
Biking is strenuous. Long treks and hill climbing should not be attempted without training and preparation. For Scouting activities, all participants must present evidence of fitness with a complete health history from a physician, parent, or legal guardian. The adult supervisor should adjust all supervision, discipline, and protection to anticipate any potential risks associated with individual health conditions. In the event of any significant health conditions, proof of an examination by a physician should be required by the adult leader.
All cyclists must wear a properly sized and fitted helmet approved by either the Snell Memorial Foundation, CPSC, or ASTM standard. Layer your clothing for warmth on cool days so you can avoid chilling or overheating. Cover up for sun protection on clear days.
When the program activity is a bicycle expedition or trek, the buddy system must be used. When a program element emphasizes individual performance skills, one buddy observes while the other takes his turn. In competitive activity where the buddy concept cannot be applied practically, all activity must be directly observed by the adult supervisor. (Youth members should be taught that biking with a buddy is best. When biking alone, apart from Scouting activities, youth members should be encouraged to tell someone their route, schedule, and destination before departing.)
Ride with the traffic flow, as far to the right as is safe. Avoid curbs, storm drains, soft or loose gravel on shoulders, and other hazards.
Obey all traffic laws, signs, signals, and street markings. Watch for changes in road conditions. Ride only one to a bike. Do not ride after dark. No stunts -- trick riding is only for professionals who use special equipment. Yield to motor vehicles even if you think you have the right-of-way. Never hitch a ride on another vehicle. Keep your head and ears open and do not wear headphones while riding.
Look left, right, back, and ahead before turning. Stop and search all directions when entering a street from a driveway, parking area, sidewalk, or alley. Signal all turns using universal hand signals. Walk your bike through or across busy intersections.
Ride only a bike that fits you. Select a bike that permits you to put both feet on the ground while standing over the top tube. The handgrips should be no higher than your shoulders or lower than your seat.
Every bike needs a horn or bell and reflectors (front, back, and sides). Items should be carried only in baskets, in saddlebags, or on a rear carrier rack. If you must ride in traffic, a bike- or helmet-mounted mirror is recommended. For long trips, a bike-mounted container for drinking water is recommended.
Keep your bike clean and well maintained, especially the brakes and drive chain.
Open street racing is dangerous. Race only with supervision on marked courses that have been set up to exclude other vehicle or pedestrian traffic, to eliminate fall hazards and minimize collision risks. Clearly define "start" and "finish" points.
Plan both the route and timing of bike trips to avoid heavy traffic and hazardous conditions. Biking is unsafe on wet pavement and on windy days. Plan for at least hourly rest stops and a maximum of approximately six hours on the bike per day.
All participants should know, understand, and follow the rules and procedures for safe biking, and all participants should conscientiously and carefully follow all directions from the adult supervisor.


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This sound is a remix of freesounds created by 833-45, aikighost, Andrew Duke, digifishmusic, dobroide, ERH, Freed, hanstimm, jesges, Jovica, Koen, kotatsu, patchen, suonho (see COMPLETE LIST of sounds here http://www.cm-gallery.com/FleX/Docu/Touchpad/PTH-13-Ref.htm). This remix CAN BE PLAYED interactively together with other Freesound remixes of this kind using Adobe Shockwave player (see http://www.cm-gallery.com/FleX/freesound/TPD/Freesound Touchpad (Vapor Trails 3 by Freed).htm). Check it out - it's fun! If you would like to comment on the idea of FLEXIBLE GROOVES realized with Freesounds, visit http://www.freesound.org/forum/viewtopic.php?t=4465.
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From The Greeley Tribune (Eric Brown):
To keep Colorado agriculture up and running, the state's 50year water plan must include smarter municipal use of the resource, in addition to conservation efforts by farmers and ranchers, Colorado Agriculture Commissioner John Salazar said Tuesday in Greeley. Salazar, a member of Gov. John Hickenlooper's taskforce in creating the comprehensive, longterm water plan, said Coloradans, who each consume about 120 gallons of water per day, need to more closely resemble Australians, who use 36 gallons per day, if they want local farmers to remain capable of growing their food. Water-storage projects, too, must be part of the state's 50-year water plan, which is in the works now and is expected to be complete by 2015, Salazar added.
On the opening day of the threeday Colorado Farm Show, Salazar, joined by Colorado Deputy Agriculture Commissioner Ron Carleton, gave his "State of the Union Address Regarding Colorado's Water Issues."
Water and weather are among the main topics of discussion this week.
Salazar's presentation followed a "Drought Roundtable Discussion." Needless to say, Salazar said in an interview following his presentation, a "massive" cooperative effort will be needed to prevent the 600,000acrefeet shortage that's expected to hit Colorado by 2050. A self-described optimist, Salazar said he believes it can be done, but it will take compromise from everyone, including the farmers and ranchers who attended his presentation.
Crop growers will need to implement the latest irrigation technologies and take other conservation efforts.
To free up water for agriculture producers, cities must make the transition to xeriscape lawns, and "build up instead of build out" — a method of municipal growth that makes water reuse easier, and can amount to water savings of 50 percent or more.
"In developing our longterm water plan, we really need to take a hard look at what people are doing elsewhere, like Australia," Salazar said.
This month, the U.S. Department of Agriculture designated 43 of Colorado's 64 counties, including Weld, as disaster areas due to ongoing severe drought conditions. Additionally, the state's snowpack in the mountains — the source of most irrigation water used by Colorado producers — was 67 percent of historical average for this time of the year. Statewide, reservoirs are only about twothirds full, and some are empty, Salazar said. He said some water experts are telling him that Colorado needs 120-140 percent of historic snowpack the rest of the winter and into the spring just to get back to normal.
"I'm an optimist," he said. "I believe the snows will come in February and March."
Farmers will find out today if Salazar's optimism is warranted, during state climatologist Nolan Doesken's weather outlook.
From The Greeley Tribune (Eric Brown):
Colorado State University climatologist Nolan Doesken hoped he'd taken up all of his speaking time Wednesday at the Colorado Farm Show with historical climate data, and wouldn't have to continue and deliver the weather forecast for which his audience had assembled. "D'oh," Doesken said jokingly, looking at his watch after rehashing the effects of the 2012 drought. "Unfortunately, we still have time."
Northern Colorado farmers and water providers need normal snowfall this winter and spring to get reservoir levels back to normal, after last year's drought forced water users to consume much of the water that was in storage. However, at this point — about midway through winter — there's only about a 10 percent chance of that happening, according to data shared by Doesken.
Doesken said snowpack in the South Platte River basin is likely to amount to about 75 percent of historic average by spring's end.
In the Colorado River basin — where Front Range farmers and water users also get some of their water — snowpack is expected to amount to only about 80 percent of average. That's at least a step up from where numbers are now.
According to the Natural Resources Conservation Service, snowpack in the South Platte basin on Wednesday was only 53 percent of average, and snowpack in the Colorado basin was 66 percent of average. Statewide, snowpack is at 72 percent of average.
The present and forecasted snowpack numbers are much higher than where they were last year. At the end of May, statewide snowpack was only 2 percent of average.
Because 2012 brought record heat and record-low precipitation, ag producers and residents depended heavily on stored water from reservoirs to grow their crops and irrigate their lawns. At the beginning of the year, statewide reservoir levels were about 68 percent of average, according to NRCS numbers, and with extended drought into the growing season, water experts say, some reservoirs could empty, and some farmers would have little water with which to grow crops. For that reason, farmers and ranchers were hoping for plentiful rain and snowfall in recent months to get things back to normal.
Similar to forecasts given recently by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration climatologist Klaus Wolter in Boulder, Doesken said the three-month weather outlook calls for more of the same — hot and dry.
However, while snow is expected to be limited, the weather could bring surprises, Doesken said. In one past year, Doesken said, snowpack was lower than it is now, but, because of large snow storms, was well above average by the end of the spring. "You never know," Doesken said. "We'll hope for the best."
More infrastructure coverage here.


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All quotes tagged Iuk On The Move
(1 quotes found)
"We are going to begin club teams in the fall. Men's basketball and women's volleyball... the first two sports as [IUK] moves to NAIA....We [IU Kokomo] will... follow all regulations of the NAIA to make sure that.. we will be able to apply and be in a conference. Our hope is to do one year of club and the following year [2012]to join the conference. (Feb.17, 2011)"


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By Tracee Davis on Thu 12/13/2012 11:16am
Posted in
The City of Sheridan has recently considered building additional railroad tracks in order to re-route coal trains around, instead of through, the heart of town. Sheridan Mayor, Dave Kinskey, said they're also beginning to consider what would become of the old tracks and railyard if the trains are diverted.
The city has agreed to conduct a secondary study to examine potential alternative uses for the resources currently in place.
Researchers are interviewing key stakeholders in the community to get an idea of possible secondary uses for the current rail yard.


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Chemical Spill Pollutes Shanxi Politics
After a dangerous chemical spill polluted north China waterways–and delays in reporting it raised the specter of the second cover-up of an industrial accident in weeks in Shanxi province–the problem is seeping into the political system.
In the latest incident, nine tons of a 39-ton spill of the chemical aniline from a plant in Shanxi flowed by river deep into neighboring provinces before local authorities went public with the news. Days earlier, Shanxi authorities conceded officials in another part of the province had also taken their time in disclosing a deadly Dec. 25 railway tunnel cave-in that killed eight workers.
The aniline discharge killed fish in the Zhouzhang River. When news of the spill was made public on Saturday, five days after the incident, the Hebei province city of Handan shut off water supplies for many residents. State media said the pollution was detected in Henan province as well.
The political damage may be more long-lasting than the risk to human and animal health from the aniline, which is used in dyeing, agriculture fertilizers and rubber manufacturing. News of cover-ups in China increasingly prompt searching for someone to blame and Shanxi now has a top official with widespread name recognition: Li Xiaopeng, the son of an unpopular former Chinese premier, Li Peng. The younger Mr. Li became acting governor of the province late last year after a career in the power sector, which gorges on Shanxi coal for its electrical plants.
State media said Mr. Li expressed contrition about the railway tunnel collapse, which occurred just as he was assuming his new office. He visited the site and promised a full investigation.
Now blame is falling onto Mr. Li for delays in reporting the chemical spill, though there is no evidence top levels of the provincial government were aware of the accident when it took place. On Sina's Weibo microblog service, one writer said Monday that Mr. Li "should resign as an apology to the people."
So far, clear political fallout from the chemical spillage has been localized to the city of Changzhi , where the initial spill was detected on Dec. 31. It was blamed on faulty equipment at a plant run by state-owned Shanxi Tianji Coal Chemical Industry Group. The company sacked four of its employees.
Zhang Bao, Changzhi's mayor, appeared at a news conference early Monday to explain delays in informing the public.
In his nationally broadcast comments, Mr. Zhang said that the initial reading of a 1.5 ton spill appeared manageable by the company. But officials failed to realize how poor company management, faulty equipment and open rainwater drains would conspire to send the chemicals into the river.
"[We] never imagined that such a small accident could turn into a big environmental pollution incident," Mr. Zhang said.
James T. Areddy; Follow him on Twitter @jamestareddy https://twitter.com/jamestareddy
A previous version of this post incorrectly said the Hebei province town of Handan was in Henan province and that pollution had been detected in Hunan province, rather than in Henan.
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Yost praises Tejada but stands firm behind Moustakas
KANSAS CITY -- Manager Ned Yost has admiration for veteran Miguel Tejada's contributions off the Royals' bench, but he has no immediate plans to use him more at third base.
Tejada has occasionally spelled the struggling Mike Moustakas against left-handed pitchers, and he entered Saturday batting .323 in 14 games. He has seven RBIs and has hit two home runs, including one in Friday night's 5-2 loss to the Angels.
"That was a beautiful swing he put on that ball," Yost said. "You go back and look at the replay, and it was gorgeous."
But Yost is firm in his belief that Moustakas, who was back in the lineup on Saturday, will emerge from his .174 start this season. There's also uncertainty that Tejada, who turned 39 on Saturday, could return to regular duty and continue to be productive.
But could Tejada see more action?
"We'll just get down the road and see," Yost said.
Perez returns to Venezuela after grandmother's passing
KANSAS CITY -- The Royals will be without catcher Salvador Perez for the next few days.
Perez returned to his home in Valencia, Venezuela, on Saturday after learning of the death of his maternal grandmother. He'll be placed on the bereavement list on Sunday and can remain there for three to seven days.
The Royals are bringing up catcher Adam Moore from Triple-A Omaha during Perez's absence. Moore is hitting .190 with five home runs and 12 RBIs in 24 games for the Storm Chasers.
Moore got into four games for the Royals last September and hit a home run in his first at-bat. Overall he was 2-for-11 (.182).
Perez was sitting out Saturday's game, giving his bruised right hip a chance to heal further, when he learned of his grandmother's passing. He left immediately for Venezuela.
He had been expected to return to the lineup on Sunday in the series finale against the Angels.
Getz ejected after close play at first base
KANSAS CITY -- Royals second baseman Chris Getz was ejected from Saturday's game against the Angels in the wake of a close play at first base.
Getz was called out by umpire Marty Foster to complete a double play that ended the fifth inning. With runners at first and third, Getz grounded to second baseman Howie Kendrick. When Getz was called out on shortstop Erick Aybar's relay to first, manager Ned Yost and Getz protested the decision.
If Getz had been safe, Mike Moustakas would have scored for a 1-1 tie. As it turned out, that was the last pitch made by Angels starter Billy Buckner in his five innings of a 7-0 victory.
"That was huge. It was a good turn by the guys," Buckner said." I had a feeling that was about as far as they wanted to extend me today, but I didn't feel [tired]."
Foster is the same umpire who made the controversial safe call on the Angels' Mike Trout in Friday night's 5-2 Royals loss, ruling that Getz missed the tag.
After the play on Saturday, Getz was in the field for the top of the sixth but had some choice words for Foster as he left between innings.
"It was obviously some frustration, maybe a little bit of carryover from the night prior," Getz said. "Close play at first base. He had it one way, I had it another. I said some things, he didn't like it, tossed me and that was the end of it."
It was the second ejection of Getz's career. He was replaced by Elliot Johnson.
Dyson hoping to begin running program this week
KANSAS CITY -- Center fielder Jarrod Dyson said Saturday his recovery from a high ankle sprain is progressing well.
Dyson was injured May 15 against the Angels when he scaled the outfield wall attempting to grab a Mike Trout home run.
Dyson started wearing a boot on Friday for hitting and throwing drills, but he has not started running yet. He is hoping to start a running program next Tuesday.
"With a high ankle sprain, you can't really rush it," Dyson said. "You've got to make sure you are able to go out there and help the team. I'm not going to say I want to be 100 percent, but if I'm close, then I am ready to roll."
Since that game, the Royals have lost seven of their last eight games, including back-to-back losses to the Angels on Thursday and Friday.
"It's real hard because you always feel like you can help out every night and you are sitting there on the shelf and you can't do anything about it," Dyson said. "You cheer them on and hope they get the job done. Right now, we haven't been doing a great job, but we can't hang our heads. We've got a lot of baseball to go and we've just got to move forward."
Dyson is eligible to return on May 31, but his tentative return is set at two or three weeks, according to manager Ned Yost. Dyson was batting .268 before the injury with eight runs off 11 hits before the injury.
Duffy to begin rehab assignment Sunday
KANSAS CITY -- Danny Duffy, who underwent Tommy John surgery last June 13, will start his Minor League rehab assignment on Sunday.
Duffy will pitch four innings for Double-A Northwest Arkansas in San Antonio. A third-round Draft pick for the Royals in 2007, Duffy made 26 starts with a 6-10 record before he was placed on the disabled list last May.
"I'm wanting him to work it at his own pace," manager Ned Yost said. "He's doing really fine in his rehab and I want him to continue it and there will come a time down here in the near future where he is going to be ready. We will just wait for that time."
Felipe Paulino who had the same surgery last July 3, is currently in a throwing program at the team's Minor League facility in Surprise, Ariz.
Royals briefly shuffle coaches as Eiland returns home
KANSAS CITY -- Royals pitching coach Dave Eiland will be out of the staff rotation for a couple of days as he returns to his Florida home to attend his daughter's confirmation.
Bullpen coach Doug Henry is moving into the dugout to handle the pitchers and Steve Foster, the Royals' former bullpen coach, is returning to that post for two days. Foster is currently the organization's pitching coordinator.
Eiland is expected back for Monday's game against the Cardinals.
Dick Kaegel is a reporter for MLB.com. Kathleen Gier is an associate reporter for MLB.com This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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We have all heard the saying It takes two to tango. A dance with just one partner willing to learn the steps and follow the music is awkward, but when both partners are invested in learning and working together, the dance becomes fluid and natural.
The dance of dog training requires the same sort of teamwork. Most dogs are more than happy to work with their people, but they need partners who are willing to learn about training and follow a few basic principles. That sort of cooperation between dog and human helps build a solid partnership.
Here are six important tips to help you form a better team.
Set goals You are far more likely to be successful at training if you set specific goals and keep track of your progress. Its difficult to feel a sense of accomplishment when youre not clear about what you have been working toward. Obedience trainers incorporate goals into the formal class structure, but if you are home schooling your dog, you will need to write up a specific schedule of training goals.
Work out the logistics before you begin training Be prepared to train by gathering rewards and training aids before you begin. For instance, timing is critical when you are trying to teach a new behavior, so have your dogs rewards ready to go in a treat bag or in your hand before you begin. This will help your dog connect the dots between cause and effect much quicker. Also, be sure to have any training aids that you might need, such as a long lead, treat bag or tennis ball. Being successful at training means being prepared.
Be consistent No one works well when the rules are applied erratically. If you let your dog jump on you most days but reprimand him for jumping on you when youre dressed up, theres not much chance that he will figure out what you want from him. Good training happens when you think things through, develop a training plan and then stick to that plan consistently.
Be prepared to adjust your training methods When you and your dog hit a snag in training, its helpful to have a few alternatives in your bag of tricks. Adjust your training style (get more animated, for instance), find a new way to motivate or try a different sort of reward. If your dog is having trouble understanding what you are trying to communicate, try adding hand signals to your verbal commands.
Remember that failure is learning, too Your dog is learning a foreign language being taught by a completely different species. Give your dog a clear command and allow him time to respond. Trust that he will do his best. Be patient, and allow your dog to fail. This gives you the chance to teach your dog how to be more successful. Think of failure as a training opportunity.
Keep a positive attitude Dogs are incredibly perceptive to our moods. By working to remain upbeat, you always will put a positive spin on your training methods. Keep it fun. This is as important for you as it is for your dog.
He is your friend, your partner, your defender, your dog. You are his life, his love, his leader. He will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of his heart. You owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion. Author unknown
Julie Winkelman is a certified pet dog trainer and a certified dog trainer. Reach her at www.alphacanineacademy.com.


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Two very fertile recruiting territories are Michigan and Maryland. Some of the nation's best players have come from those two states over the years and the class of 2005 in Michigan and Maryland are loaded with some amazing talent.
While The Michigan Top 20 definitely has several four-star prospects, The Maryland Top 20 is home to the top player in the nation, Derrick Williams.
Williams, ranked as the top player by Rivals.com and the top athlete, headlines the top 20, which also features five Maryland commitments. The Terps have reeled in major pledges from White Plains Lackey running back Morgan Green and Hyattsville DeMatha defensive back Anthony Wiseman.
Green and Wiseman are ranked as the state's No. 4 and No. 5 players, respectively.
The No. 2 player in Maryland is Melvin Alaeze. The nation's No. 1 strongside defensive is a five-star recruit, just like Williams. Alaeze has scholarship offers from a who's who in college football.
"Melvin is a grueling tackler who sets up his opponent properly before delivering the pushing hit," Randallstown assistant coach Evan Murray said.
"He reads and reacts to O-linemen with ease and has the confidence and attitude to disrupt combo blocks, traps, zones, and various blocking schemes. Melvin does an excellent with his hands using rips, swims, and club techniques when needed. "
The Michigan Top 20 is led off by five-star running back Kevin Grady of East Grand Rapids. Grady, who is 5-foot-10 and 230 pounds, rushed for 2,507 yards as a junior and 2,075 yards as a sophomore. He is already committed early to the Michigan Wolverines.
"You almost have to pinch yourself, because he's so good," East Grand Rapids coach Peter Stuursma said. "The biggest thing about KG is that he wants to be great, and he has made himself into the real deal. He's an elite player and worked hard to get to that point, but he is such a humble kid. He's like a son to me."
Jackson athlete Antonio Bass, Muskegon defensive tackle Terrance Taylor, Lake Orion receiver Ryan Allison and Marshall quarterback Evan Sharpley round out the top five. Sharpley, who is heading to Notre Dame, is the only one other than Grady to commit in the top five.
Both Michigan and Michigan State have gotten off to good starts in state.
Along with Grady, the Big Blue has a commitment from Orchard Lake St. Mary's defensive end Chris McLaurin, ranked as the No. 9 player in the state. The Spartans have commits from the No. 6 player in the state, linebacker Andrew Hawken, and the No. 8 player, offensive lineman Joel Nitchman.
The Oregon Top 10 features one of the nation's top defensive tackle prospects – Portland Grant star Ndamukong Suh.
Suh, who is 6-3 and 276 pounds, is being heavily recruited by Arizona State, California, Duke, Miami, Nebraska, Oregon, Oregon State, Washington State and many others. He earned honorable mention all-state honors as a junior, and he's just starting to reach his long-term potential.
"He's quick off the ball and is able to overpower opposing linemen with ease at the high school level," Rivals.com West Region analyst Greg Biggins said.
"He has a tendency to play too high at times and can also lose track of where the ball is but he's a very aggressive player who pursues well from sideline to sideline."


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Here's the place to post a quick note about what you are running in 2013.
Share whatever details you have and we will get it updated on the most amazing 2013 race calendar you've ever seen for our group.
For example:
Date: Jan 28th
Race: Texas Half:
Event URL: http://www.texashalf.com/
Distance: 13.1 Miles
Location: Dallas, TX, USA
Goal Time: 1:49:59
Don't worry if you don't have or don't want to share a goal. We'd still love to hear about what you are running.
If the event has a website please do let us know what the link (URL) is. It's nice to see the details of all the cool races out there!
So let's hear it folks - where is everyone racing in 2013?
Peter - going to be the first to post 3 years in a row?
2017 Goals1) Run more than 231 miles2) Be ready for HM in the spring
Date: Feb 9th
Race: Frostbite Half Marathon
Event URL: http://www.musiccityhalfmarathon.com/
Distance: 13.1 Miles
Location: Lebanon, TN
Goal Time: 1:20:00
Date: March 9th
Race: Tom King Classic
Event URL: http://www.tomkingclassic.com
Location: Nashville, TN
Goal Time: 1:18:59 (NYC Marathon qualifying time)
Date: April 27th
Race: Country Music Half Marathon
Event URL: http://countrymusicmarathon.com
Goal Time: 1:30:00 (running as a pace group leader)
Nashville, TN
an amazing likeness
Date: May 11, 2013
Race: 5/3 River bank Run
Event URL: http://www.53riverbankrun.com/
Distance: 25k
Location: Grand Rapids, Mi USA
Goal Time: 1:53
Date: May 11, 2013
Race: 5/3 River bank Run
Event URL: http://www.53riverbankrun.com/
Distance: 25k
Location: Grand Rapids, Mi USA
Goal Time: 1:53
(just moving a copy of this entry over to the 2013 section so I don't miss it...)
I've done my best to live the right way. I get up every morning and go to work each day. (for now)
Date: March 17, 2013
Race: New Bedford Half Marathon
Event URL: http://newbedfordhalfmarathon.com/
Distance: 13.1
Location: New Bedford, MA
Goal Time: 2:00:00 but that might be changed depending on training
"I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order." John Burroughs
Share whatever details you have and we will get it updated on the most amazing 2013 race calendar you've ever seen for our group.
Now you're just mocking me...
...and that's totally fair.
Now you're just mocking me...
...and that's totally fair.
Just building up the hype my friend.... building the hype!
Goal Time: 1:22:59
Date: March 17th 2013
Race: Shamrock Half Marathon (technically it's the Anthem half)
Event URL: http://www.shamrockmarathon.com/
Distance: 13.1 miles
Location: Virginia Beach, VA
Goal time: 1:34:59
My running blog
Goals | sub-18 5k | sub-3 marathon 2:56:46!!
Date: April 28th
Race: St. Luke's Half Marathon
Event URL: http://stlukeshalfmarathon.com/
Distance: 13.1 miles
Location: Allentown, PA
Goal Time: Finish (it's my first HM)
Date: 1/19/2013
Race: Shrimp and Grits 5K
Event URL: http://charlestonmarathon.com/weekend-events/shrimp-and-grits-5k/
Distance: 3.1 miles
Location: Charleston, SC
Goal Time: <22:00
Date: 2/9/2013
Race: Save the Light Half Marathon
Event URL: http://www.actioncarolina.com/stl.html
Location: Folly Beach, SC
Goal Time: 1:45:00
Date: 2/24/2013
Race: RockNRoll NOLA Marathon
Event URL: http://runrocknroll.competitor.com/new-orleans
Distance: 26.2 miles
Location: New Orleans, LA
Goal Time: ????
Dad on the run.
Date: Feb 17th
Race: Mercedes Half Marathon
Event URL: http://mercedesmarathon.com/
Location: Birmingham, AL
Goal Time: 2:15:00 (First HM)
My parents said I could be anything when I grew up, so I decided to be Awesome!
From the Internet.
Date: April 28, 2013
Race: Wallis Sands Half Marathon
Event URL: http://www.wallissandshalfmarathon.com/site7/
Location: Rye, NH
Goal Time: Totally not sure yet - it's my first and I'll set a goal closer to the actual date.
I blog now. It's still a work in progress.
Date: Feb 17th, 2013
Event URL: http://mercedesmarathon.com/
Location: Birmingham, AL
Goal Time: 1:50:00 (3rd HM)
Date: April 6th, 2013
Race: Oak Barrel Half Marathon
Event URL: http://www.oakbarrelhalf.com/
Location: Lynchburg, TN
Goal: Buy a bottle of Jack Daniels when I'm finished
Date: May 5th
Race: Pittsburgh Half Marathon
Event URL: http://www.pittsburghmarathon.com/
Location: Pittsburgh, PA, USA
Goal Time: 2:11:00
Date: August 4th
Race: RNRl Pittsburgh Half Marathon
Event URL: http://runrocknroll.competitor.com/rnr-pittsburgh
Goal Time: 1:57:54
RNR Pittsburgh was cancelled - BOO! Need to find another half for August or September...
Date: April 14th
Race: Corvallis Half Marathon
Event URL: http://corvallishalfmarathon.com/
Location: Corvallis, OR, USA
Goal Time: 1:59:59 - will likely adjust up or down during training


text: Coordinated School Health Programs (3 cr.) P: HPER-H 352 or HPER-H 414 with C or higher. Focuses on the coordinated school health program (CSHP) model components, and coordination. Includes the relationship of CSHP to health and education policy. Emphasis on practical application of organizational principles and school health strategies for addressing current student and staff health issues.


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Dr. Robert M. Kroll reviews medical content for Healthwise, a nonprofit organization with a mission to help people make better health decisions. He specializes in the area of stuttering and other disorders of fluency and has maintained an active practice for over 20 years. Dr. Kroll headed the Clarke Institute of Psychiatry's Speech Pathology Program in Toronto, Ontario, for 23 years and is a past recipient of the Honors of the Ontario Speech and Hearing Association. Dr. Kroll is the Director of the Stuttering Program at the Speech and Stuttering Institute in Toronto and teaches in the Graduate Department of Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Toronto in Toronto, Ontario.
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- Williams
Maldonado and Bottas confirmed for Williams
- Feature:
'Both drivers are very strong in their own right'
- News:
Senna saw Bottas announcement coming
- Drivers:
- Valtteri Bottas
- |
- Pastor Maldonado
- |
- Bruno Senna
- Teams:
- Williams
Williams has confirmed Pastor Maldonado and Valtteri Bottas will be its drivers for the 2013 Formula One season.
The news had been expected for some time, with Bottas stepping up from the reserve driver role to race driver and taking the place of Bruno Senna.
''In Pastor and Valtteri we have two of the most exciting talents in motor racing and I am especially excited about what 2013 can bring for Williams," team principal Sir Frank Williams said. "Pastor has always demonstrated remarkable pace and this year has seen him mature as a racing driver. Valtteri is quite simply one of the most talented young racing drivers I have come across and we expect great things from him in the future. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our departing driver Bruno Senna for his hard work over the past year and wish him the best of luck going forward.''
Maldonado continues at the team for a third consecutive year and is hoping to build on his first victory at the Spanish Grand Prix earlier this season
''I'm really enjoying my time with Williams and I was obviously very happy when I was told that I would be continuing with the team in 2013. 2012 was a memorable year for me with the win in Barcelona and we made a big step forward in terms of performance. I have a lot of confidence in the team and hopefully next year will see us move even further up the grid and taste more success.''
Bottas has driven in 15 free practice sessions for Williams this year and was the GP3 champion in 2011.
''It has always been my life-long dream to compete in the Formula One World Championship. To do so with one of the most legendary teams in the sport is incredibly special. I've really enjoyed my three years with Williams so far and feel very at home here so my goal was always to stay for 2013 and progress to a race seat. I'm looking forward to getting my Formula One career started and enjoying a lot of success with Williams.''


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The rumor that the Steelers might be ready to trade Ben Roethlisberger is "totally, totally false", a source told CBS' Jason La Canfora. Last Sunday, the NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported that "Ben Roethlisberger is not happy. [He's] incredibly frustrated with the direction the franchise is headed."
Rapoport added that the Steelers might consider trading Roethlisberger if they could replace him with a "franchise quarterback" in the 2014 draft. (The Steelers reportedly had a scout in attendance for Tajh Boyd's game on Thursday night.)
La Canfora's source said there is "zero truth" to that idea. For his part, Roethlisberger denied repeatedly last week that he would seek out a trade.
"I want to stay. My family wants to stay. I want to finish my career here. I've always said that," Roethlisberger said Friday on WDVE-FM, via ESPN.com. "I hope that's very clear to everybody. When someone is a source and they're unnamed, they have an agenda, and that agenda is not winning football games and not helping this team. And whoever the agenda is coming from, they're not helping us. They're hurting us.
"There's no way it's coming from in the building because, if it is, they would come talk to me. I think my résumé speaks for itself on what I've done in the past -- winning championships and football games."
Roethlisberger is due to make $12.1 million in base salary next season and $11.6 million in 2015, the final year of his current contract. That's well below the top deals at his position -- AFC North rival Joe Flacco, for example, is averaging $20 million per year on his new contract. Roethlisberger also restructured his contract prior to this season to save the Steelers some cap space, taking his base salary from $10.6 million down to $2.6 million and converting the remainder to a prorated signing bonus.
Though the Steelers are just 3-6, Roethlisberger's on pace to post one of his best statistical seasons ever. He's currently on pace for 387 completions and 4,504 yards, both of which would be career highs. His QB rating of 87.6, though, is his lowest since 2008, which also happens to be the last season he played all 16 regular-season games.
The Steelers did draft Oklahoma's Landry Jones with the No. 115 pick last draft, but there's been no indication yet that the franchise is grooming him to be Roethlisberger's eventual replacement.
Since the trade deadline has passed, any deal of Roethlisberger would have to wait until after the season concludes. But Big Ben said after his team's win over Buffalo last Sunday that any such rumors were "completely unacceptable.
"[This is] one of the most B.S. stories I've ever heard."


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|Strategic Planning
Event Type: General Workshop
Date: 6/21/2012
Start Time: 9:00 AM
End Time: 12:00 PM
Ready to begin building a long range plan? Join fellow librarians for four seminars. Each seminar includes basic instruction for directors and planning committee chairs. Use statistics, usage patterns, community responses and standard group tools to develop a long range plan for the public library. Each seminar will include assignments and peer feedback as participants begin planning in their towns.
Location: Midstate Library Service Center, Berlin - Conference Room
Registration Ends: 6/8/2012 at 12:00 AM
Other Information:
DOL Certification credits: 3 per session.Contact: Mara Siegel
Contact Number: (802) 828-2727
Presenter: Christine Friese/Michael Roche
Status: Closed
|Please Note
We're sorry. The registration deadline was 6/8/2012 at 12:00 AM.


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May 8, 2013 - submitted by Nicole, Mexico
Q. Hey Oracle! I just got a new female dog and I would like her name to be something related to Coldplay... Do you have any ideas of a good name? :)
The Oracle replies:
I don't think it's all that important for dogs to have gender specific names as long as it's not totally ridiculous - like Sarah for a male.


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We human beings sometimes impart our characteristics to other animals, a habit like anthropomorphism. Through the ages, we have conjured up creatures like the Centaur, which was half man and half horse, and the Mermaid, a combination of woman and fish. We have even humanized insects, producing a creature that Charles L. Hogue of the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County calls "Bugfolk."
There aren't, however, many bugfolk, because it's hard for humans to imagine themselves in something as lowly as an insect. Some of the early bugfolk in human history were merely humans with wings. One of the earliest was the Greek Goddess Psyche who represented the soul. She was depicted as possessing butterfly wings.
Yet Jiminy Cricket is the most recognizable of the bugfolk. Jiminy, that lovable little creature with top hat and umbrella, played a starring role in Disney Studio's film "Pinocchio." Except for his small size and his ability to sing, Jiminy exhibits few insect characteristics. However, viewers of the film have little doubt that Jiminy is indeed … cricket.
Modern cartoonists have made good use of bugfolk. Hart uses ants frequently in his B.C. comic strip. Hart's ants live in anthills, are sometimes zapped by anteaters and have insect-like antennae protruding from their heads. When it comes to legs these "antfolk" are more human than insect. Instead of six legs, the insect compliment, these creatures have two arms and two legs. That's probably the way it should be since the ants in Hart's comic strip are beset with all kids of human problems that they address with the full range of human emotions.
Gary Larson is the king of modern cartoonist when it comes to use of bugfolk. Such creatures are commonplace in his Farside cartoon. Larson's insect characters cover a wide range of types and are anatomically correct with antennae, six legs, two or four wings, mandibles and distinct body segments. However Larson's insects are folk, because they walk upright and talk. His bugfolk frequently address issues pertinent to insect life such as shedding of the exoskeleton or food habits, but always with the moral issues that only we mere mortals can appreciate.
Bugfolk are showing up in increasing numbers today to help us see ourselves and even get us to consider some profound truths. Of course the real question of a truth learned from a bugfolk is whether the truth was from the insect or the human portion of the creature.


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Reviews, reviews, reviews...
FreakScore is a weighted average of all aggregated professional and user review scores.
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out of 10 based on 74 scores.
The Sony DCR-SR100 offers top of the line image quality in a
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Join our ESPN.com college football experts for a live blog from SEC media days. We'll have highlights, pictures, videos and interviews with SEC players and coaches from Texas A&M, Kentucky, Mississippi State, Tennessee, Auburn and Arkansas live from Hoover, Ala.
Join us beginning at 9:30 a.m. ET by submitting your comments and questions. See you there. You can also view all the action on ESPNU or WatchESPN.com.
Here is our live blog of Day 1 in case you missed it.


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Internships, Jobs, Volunteering
Looking for a job?
There are many environmental jobs and different types of careers than what you may be aware of. CLICK HERE to go to our environmental jobs website.
How about an internship?
There are many organizations offering internships. They are an opportunity to gain skills and experience, and you may be able to academic credit or $$$. CLICK HERE to go to our environmental internship website.
Consider volunteering
Volunteering can give you valuable experience, and employers look for those who have shown the commitment involved in volunteering. CLICK HERE to go to our volunteer website.
What is proactive learning?
There are opportunities for learning in addition to your ES courses. They could make a difference in landing the job you want. CLICK HERE to find out what they are and which ones makes sense for you.
Keep in mind you can always ask your adviser about these opportunities.


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- Biography: Major General Thomas Green, CSA (1814-1864)
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- Another take on President Abraham Lincoln's Assassination
- Creek Indians in the American Civil War
- Civil War Vets Help Popularize The National Pastime
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- On this date in Civil War history: April 9, 1864 - Battle of Pleasant Hill
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Tag Archives: Sharpsburg
This Week in the American Civil War: December 28, 1864 – January 3, 1865
Information courtesy of the Minnesota Civil War Commemoration Task Force (www.mncivilwar150.com and "Minnesota Civil War 150" on Facebook) Major Highlights for the Week Wednesday December 28, 1864 Confederate Lieutenant General John Bell Hood's Army of Tennessee completed their crossing of … Continue reading
Posted in 1864, 1865, This Week in the Civil War Tagged 1864, 1865, Abraham Lincoln, Alabama, Arkansas, Army of Northern Virginia, Army of Tennessee, Army of the James, Bainbridge, Beaufort, Benjamin Butler, Bentonville, Caruthersville, Decatur, December, Franklin, Franklin-Nashville Campaign, Georgia, Hardeeville, Hillsborough, January, John Bell Hood, Kentucky, Leighton, Lexington, Mechanicsburg, Minnesota Civil War Commemoration Task Force, Mississippi, Missouri, Mobile and Ohio Railroad, Okolona, Oliver O. Howard, P.G.T. Beauregard, Paint Rock Bridge, Petersburg, Pond Springs, Richard Taylor, Richmond, Russellville, Savannah, Sharpsburg, South Carolina, Tennessee, Tennessee River, Tupelo, Ulysses Grant, Virginia, Washington DC, White House, William T. Sherman Leave a comment
2013-2015 Civil War Reenactment Calendar
NOTE: We receive a lot of requests for information on Civil War reenactment events throughout the country. Below is a listing of events to assist people in their search for an event near them. This Week in the Civil War does … Continue reading
Posted in Events, Reenactment Tagged 100th Birthday Committee, 136th New York, 136th New York Volunteer Infantry, A Wilderness Evening, Aldie, Aldie Mill, Alexandria, Andersonville, Andersonville National Historic Site, Annapolis, Antietam National Battlefield, Appomattox 150, Appomattox County Historical Society, Arkansas, Atlanta Campaign, Bacon Creek Station, Baldwin City, Ball's Bluff Battlefield Regional Park, Battery Wagner, Battle for Chattanooga, Battle of Black Jack, Battle of Cheatham Hill, Battle of Chickamauga, Battle of Fort Branch, Battle of Fort Crawford, Battle of Iuka, Battle of Marshall, Battle of Olustee, Battle of Utoy Creek, Bauer Park, Bay City, Bell of Louisville, Belle of Cincinnati, Bentonville Battlefield, Big Pool, Blackford County, Blue-Gray Alliance, Bonnieville, Bost Grist Mill, Brandy Station, Bristoe Station, Bristow, Brooksville, Brooksville Raid, Bruce Boxleitner, Buckland Farm, Burwood-Morgan Mill, California, Camp Jefferson, Camp Nelson, Camp Nelson Civil War Heritage Park, Camp Wildcat, Camp William Penn, Cape May, Cedar Creek, Celebration Belle, Charleston, Checotah, Cheltenham Township, Chickamauga National Battlefield Park, Christmas in Camp, City County Park, Civil War, Civil War 150, Civil War Annapolis, Civil War Christmas, Civil War Events, Civil War Foodfest, Civil War reenacting, Civil War Reenactment, Civil War Reenactments, Clinton, Clover Hill Village, Cold Spring Village, Colonial Planation, Columbus, Columbus-Belmont Park, Concord, Connecticut, Cornersville, Cowtown, David Carpenter, Detroit, Droop Mountain, Durham, Ellwood, events, Fairfax, Florida, Fort Benton, Fort Frederick, Fort Harrison, Fort Huger, Fort Oglethorpe, Fort Sanders, Fort Shenandoah, Fort Ward, Four Oaks, Franconia, Frederick County, Fredericksburg, Friends of Honey Springs Battlefield, Friends of Wilderness Battlefield, George G. Meade, Georgia, Gettysburg, Gettysburg Remembrance Day, Glen Allen, Greenbush, Guyandotte, Hallsville, Hamilton, Harpers Ferry, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, Harris-Kearney House, Hartford City, Haunted Battlefield Tour, Hempstead, Henry County, Hermann, Hermann Farm, Hernando Historical Museum Association, Historic Fort Wayne, Holland, Hollywood Cemetery, Honey Springs, Illinois, Illumination, Indiana, Iowa, Iuka, Jacksonville, James River, John Brown's Raid, John Wilkes Booth, John Wilkes Booth Escape Route Bus Tour, Kansas, Kansas City, Kelly's Ford, Kennesaw, Kennesaw Mountain, Kennesaw State University, Kentucky, Kilpatrick's Breakthrough, Knoxville, Lairdland Farm House, Lake City, Lamoni, LaMott, Laurel Hill Cemetery, Lee's Summit, Leesburg, Letchworth State Park, Lewisburg, Liendo Plantation, Little Rock, Little Rock Campaign, London, Lookout Mountain, Luminary, Luray Caverns, Luray Valley, Madison, Manassas Gap, Marshall, Maryland, Massachusetts, Meadow Farm Museum, Media, Michigan, Middle Creek, Middletown, Middletown and Hummelstown Railroad, Military Ball, Millwood, Mine Run Campaign, Minnesota, Minnesota State Capitol, Missionary Ridge, Mississippi, Missouri, Missouri Town 1855, Moorpark, Mount Zion Historic Park, Mountain Cove Farms, Museums by Candlelight, Nash Farm, New Jersey, New Market, New York, Newburyport, North Carolina, North Pinellas County Scout Sertoma Club, North-South Skirmish Association, NSSA, Oak Brook, Ohio, Oklahoma, Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park, Orange County, Orchard Knob, Pamplin Historical Park, Patrick Gorman, Pennsylvania, Petersburg, Petersburg National Battlefield, Philadelphia, Poplar Grove National Cemetery, Port Arthur, Portage, Prairie Grove, Prestonburg, Prince William County historic Preservation Division, Princeton, Redley Creek State Park, Reed's Bridge Battlefield, Reenactments, Rice, Richmond, Richmond National Battlefield Park, Ringgold, Ringgold Gap, Sabine Pass, Sayler's Creek Battlefield Historical Park, Sharpsburg, Smithfield, Soldiers National Cemetery, South Carolina, Spirit of Peoria, St. Albans Raid, St. Paul, Stanhope, Surratt House Museum, Tennessee, Texas, Thanksgiving 1863, Thanksgiving in the Trenches, The Long Road Home, United States Colored Troop, USCT, Van Raalte Farm, Vermont, Virginia, Virginia Museum of the Civil War, Walker County, War Between the Tastes, Warrenton, Warrenton-Fauquier Heritage Days, Washington DC, Washington State Park, Waterloo Village, West Virginia, Westport, White House of the Confederacy, Wichita, William Lloyd Garrison, Winchester, Wisconsin, Zoar 1 Comment
This Week in the American Civil War: June 24-30,1863
Information courtesy of the Minnesota Civil War Commemoration Task Force (www.mncivilwar150.com and "Minnesota Civil War 150" on Facebook) Major Highlights for the Week Wednesday June 24, 1863 Confederate Lieutenant Generals James Longstreet's and Ambrose Powell Hill's corps of the … Continue reading
Posted in 1863, This Week in the Civil War Tagged 1863, 1st Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, Abraham Lincoln, Ambrose Powell Hill, Andrew G. Curtin, Andrew H. Foote, Arkansas, Army of Northern Virginia, Army of the Potomac, Bayou Boeuf Crossing, Big Springs Ranch, Bradyville, Braxton Bragg, Cashtown, Chacahoula Station, Christiana, Donaldsonville, Emmitsburg, Fairfield, Forsterville, Fountaindale, Frederick, George B. McClellan, George G. Meade, George Gordon Meade, Gettysburg, Gettysburg Campaign, Goodrich's Landing, Guy's Gap, Hanover, Harpers Ferry, Harrisburg, Haymarket, Henry W. Halleck, Hudson's Ford, II Corps, J.E.B. Stuart, James Ewell Brown Stuart, James Longstreet, John Buford, John Reynolds, Joseph Hooker, Jubal Early, Judson Kilpatrick, June, Kentucky, Knoxville, Lake Providence, Louisiana, Madison, Maryland, Maryland Heights, McConnellsburg, Middle Tennessee Campaign, Middleton, Middletown, Minnesota Civil War Commemoration Task Force, Mississippi, Missouri, Mount Plantation, Muddy Branch, Neosho River, new Windsor, New York City, Nicol's Mills, North Carolina, Offutt's Crossroads, Pennsylvania, Potomac River, Richard Ewell, Robert E. Lee, Rockville, Rover, Russellville, Salem Depot, Seneca, Sharpsburg, Sporting Hill, V Corps, Vicksburg, Virginia, Washington, Westminster, William J. Colvill, William Rosecrans, Wrightsville, York Leave a comment
This Week in the American Civil War: October 1-7, 1862
Information courtesy of the Minnesota Civil War Commemoration Task Force (www.mncivilwar150.com and "Minnesota Civil War 150" on Facebook) Major Highlights for the Week Wednesday October 1, 1862 Disturbed since the Battle of Antietam about the status of the Army … Continue reading
Posted in 1862, This Week in the Civil War Tagged Abraham Lincoln, Army of the Potomac, Bardstown, Battery Robinette, Battle of Antietam, Big Hill, Bolivar, Braxton Bragg, Brown Hill, Chewalla, Corinth, Davis's Bridge, Don Carlos Buell, E.O.C. Ord, Earl Van Dorn, George B. McClellan, Harpers Ferry, Harrodsburg, Henry W. Halleck, Jackson, Kentucky, Martinsville, Maryland, Minnesota Civil War Commemoration Task Force, Mississippi, Nashville, Ohio River, Perryville, Pocahontas, Ruckersville, Sharpsburg, Shepherdstown, Sterling Price, Tennessee, Ulysses S. Grant, Virginia, William Rosecrans Leave a comment


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New media channels and data raise agency profits
Brands and direct and digital marketers get candid about the challenges and opportunities
Now that the recession is arguably over, direct marketing agencies are in an especially fortunate position. Given their efficiency and accountability, they're poised for success in the data driven digital marketing revolution — and business is finally beginning to grow, according to many agency heads. At this time last year, the chief executives at direct and digital agencies were cautiously optimistic as revenues began to gain ground after the recession.
This year, as Direct Marketing News interviewed executives at many of the leading firms, the message we heard over and over again was one of growth.
Growth does not come without its challenges. Agencies these days are expected to do more with existing resources. "Shrinking budgets in some markets are causing media shifts, as are so-called 'digital dimes from direct dollars' where channel spending may shift, but the amounts spent on each channel are not the same," says Gary Skidmore, president of direct marketing at Harte-Hanks. "Clients simply expect more for less."
More than half of marketers are asking agencies to look for ways to cut costs internally this year, according to the Association of National Advertisers' sixth annual spending survey published in April. Marketers are asking agencies to create marketing platforms that address strategic goals, rather than simply designing campaigns. From CRM, e-commerce and database management to mobile and social media platforms, RFPs now require that agencies build out platforms that take a long-term approach.
"Marketing that is a set of campaigns bearing no relation to the consumer context no longer breaks through," says Daniel Morel, CEO of Wunderman. "We are learning how, when and where to engage consumers through their conversations, experiences and passions," Morel adds.
Customer-centric experiences
Christa Carone, CMO of Xerox Corp., says that agencies need to take "a cross-media approach to more relevant and customized programs that are less about selling to customers and more about engaging them to start the sales cycle." For Xerox, this means "using our marketing insights and data to define more personalized approaches that really cuts through the clutter."


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No Thunder
Yesterday, San Diego got thunder and lightning and rain. It was very exciting. We haven't had that in so long! I don't think we've had in since 2007 at least.
I love thunder. I love the rain. It's been cloudy for about a week, and we've barely had any rain. But yesterday it finally rained and rained in broad daylight. It is so much fun to be stuck inside listening to the thunder and the rain.
To me, thunder is a work of God. I don't really care about a scientific explanation for it; to me, the thunder is a display of God's incredible power. I just love it. I love the low rumble, and then the loud BOOM! It's amazing.
We get it here so rarely that it's a really big thing. I wish San Diego had more thunderstorms, though it does drive the neighbors' dogs crazy.
Well, there is one thing I can tell you: the Padres do not have any thuder. Nor do they strike like lightning. Rather, they are the ones getting zapped by lightning. They are dead in the water right now.
Don't ask me how it happened. I'm a Padres expert, but I can't explain how they came home with a nine-game winning streak there and got swept by the Phillies. I can try to explain it, but I don't know what's going on in the clubhouse. I don't know what's going through these guys' heads.
Maybe it's just that the Phillies were way too good for us. They were out-hitting us and out-pitching us, so that might be an explanation.
Maybe they just have lost their bats. Maybe they are tired. Maybe they…I don't know. I have no idea what is wrong with this team right now.
Chris Young gave up three runs in six innings. I guess that's a good start, but with the way we've been hitting, that's not good enough. Greg Burke gave up two runs, but Gregerson and Mujica were good.
David Eckstein drove in our first and last run in the bottom of the eighth. We only had six hits in the entire game and lost, 5-1.
Before the game, Scott Hairston was put on the 15-day DL. Will Venable was called up from Triple-A. I bet he wasn't too excited after the game. He went 0-for-4 with an error. Poor guy.
And Jake is still sick. And thankfully, we have an off-day today. We need it. We need to step back and get our heads together!!
Well, they do.
I haven't been able to listen to the games because of other commitments, and I don't really mind. I don't want to listen to this pathetic baseball. Not at all. They had better get it together SOON.
We're going to be playing the Diamonbacks for four starting tomorrow. We'll just have to see how we do. We're 25-28 right now, 11 games behind. Hmmm…
So I participated in the chat with Heath Bell yesterday. It was really cool because it was raining and thundering while I was doing it. He only answered two of my questions, but the rest of the questions were great. You can read the whole chat transcript here, but I'll share a few of my favorites:
sabathia23: Is this actually you or is it the computer?
Heath_Bell: Yeah this is actually me. I'm not a computer. I'm sitting here in my "That's How I Roll" shirt.
s4rwg3: Heath, would you consider doing a Taco Bell commercial? Do you even like the food there?
Heath_Bell: I would love to do Taco Bell commercials. I'd like to throw a couple of fastball burritos at the Taco Bell chihuahua.
mohammed92: What was your favorite moment in a Padres uniform?
Heath_Bell: My favorite moment as a Padre is when Trevor Hoffman got his 500th save. I was able to set him up for that. When we went out to congratulate him, me and David Wells carried him around on our shoulders.
Hahaha, Heath is a crazy crack-up. He's hilarious!! All through the chat, he kept throwing in hints to vote for Adrian. I thought that was really cool of him. One question was about his nicknames, and he threw in that Adrian's nickname is "Gonzo" and Scott Hairston's is "Scotty" and that we should vote for them. So, I finished my voting during the chat and I wish I had more email addresses to vote with. I want to get Adrian to the All-Star game so badly!!
As a closing to this entry, I wanted to share a picture of last night's sunset. Though we didn't see the sun for most of the day, it did come out near the end.
(photo credit: me)


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On this day 15 years ago, the Chicago Fire selected defender C.J. Brown first overall in the 1998 MLS Supplemental Draft.
Having spent the 1997 season with the San Francisco Bay Seals in the USISL D3 Pro League, Brown impressed then D.C. United head coach Bob Bradley as the Seals fell to the defending MLS Cup champions at the tournament's semifinal stage.
Brown would of course go on to be part of all six of the club's domestic titles and currently holds the Fire record for most competitive (372), regular season (296), playoff (25) and U.S. Open Cup appearances (25) amassed over his 13-year career in Chicago.
Last season, Brown forever wrote his name into Fire history as he became the seventh member of the Ring of Fire, joining Bradley, Piotr Nowak, Frank Klopas, Lubos Kubik, Peter Wilt and Chris Armas in the club's Hall of Fame.


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Representatives from Wells Fargo are quickly distancing themselves from a "Harlem Shake" video made by bank employees that has gone viral on YouTube and gotten more than 150,000 hits. A spokesperson for the bank says the company does not approve of the video, which was shot inside a Buckhead branch.
The video features a man in a ski mask dancing in the lobby of a Buckhead Wells Fargo branch in front of a woman who appears to be a costumer.
That moment is followed by the break typically associated with "Harlem Shake" videos and the man is joined by dozens of dancers in costumes, one of whom is wearing a Colt 45 bottle costume.
The bank released a prepared statement in response to the video's popularity that has put an even larger spotlight on the event.
"This was something that our team members participated in on their own time. It was not approved by the company and Well Fargo did not produce the video."
There are countless examples of the dance craze posted on online websites, including the Georgia Aquarium and UGA students.
A c spokesman said the bank employees filmed the video after hours and doesn't believe it's consistent with the corporate image the bank is trying to project.
The company has not released any statement regarding the employees that participated in the video and so far no discipline by the bank's top brass has been announced.
You can see the video in this report, sans music, from WXIA.


text: Over the last few days I've started to narrow in on the big cliffhanger ending of Plagues of Night. I've known about the ending for a while now, but today it go me thinking about past Trek Lit cliffhangers. What are your favorites? Feel free to include both end of chapter and end of book ones. Since we're discussing the ends of books I think it's pretty obvious there'll be big spoilers here. The top two that come to mind for me are the attack on Kira and Ro at the end of Olympus Descending and the destruction of the first Excalibur at the end of Dark Allies. Dr. Ree biting Troi in one of the Destiny books was a pretty great shocker too.