text:
Thank you so much for your comments on my last post about the 1923 Needlecraft magazines. I absolutely love reading old magazines/books and I'm so glad you enjoyed some of the ads and text as much as I did.
Our Saturday Morning Sampler Club started this past Saturday at my favourite quilt shop. I signed up thinking this was a 6 month club but its another 12 month one! Hopefully I can manage to get to more of the sessions this time around, I ended up missing so many last year (twice I was in the hospital!) that I gave up on it and still have a box full of pretty little fabrics and a few blocks and nothing else. I need to hunt online for some 4 1/2" blocks and 10 1/2" block patterns to try to finish this one.
I picked our 1/2 m cuts of 6 fabrics for this year's club and hard as it was, I managed to get some 'blues' in there this time. I realized everything I pick out is green/gold/red and I'm really trying to get away from having always picking out those colours.
And I worked hard on our Christmas SAL this past weekend, working on a Prairie Schooler Santa on 20 ct khaki lugana. I didn't get him anywhere near finished, as so many of the blogging ladies managed to finish theirs, I was disappointed. He's been tucked away until the last weekend in February for the next SAL.
Last night while watching Prison Break and 24 (love those shows!) I did get started on my next block for Houses of Hawk Run Hollow. This is actually the first block in the piece. Of course it stitched up wonderfully with the use of my wonderful magnifier. Why on earth didn't I start using this sooner?
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Saturday Sampler
Thank you so much for your comments on my last post about the 1923 Needlecraft magazines. I absolutely love reading old magazines/books and I'm so glad you enjoyed some of the ads and text as much as I did.
Posted by Wendy at 8:41 am 13 comments
Labels: Houses of Hawk Run Hollow, Saturday Sampler, Xmas Stitch-Along
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Needlecraft in 1923
On Saturday, hubby and I drove to Cambridge to visit an amazing antique market. It was huge, 30,000 square feet, and we spent hours there looking through all the amazing things there. Even more amazing, to me, was seeing household articles that I remember as a little girl, and thinking hmm, these are now antiques?!? What does that make me?
I did find 2 sewing boxes filled with some cool little goodies, one with a ton of wooden spools of thread, and the other with odds and ends that used to fill ladies' sewing boxes.
I indulged in these 2 issues of a issues of Needlecraft Magazine, one dated April 1923 and the other December 1923. Of course I had to buy them! The original price was 10 cents and today's price $5.00, still cheaper than any current magazines on the rack today.
Most of the patterns inside are for household items ~ surface embroidery for tablecloths, crocheted edgings for table runners, one article describes a dining-room set (cloth and napkins) with "Graceful Decoration in Cross-Stitch Embroidery". But there's no pattern and a very simplistic picture of the finished product, and in fine print how to send away for the items described as "white butcher cloth for 6 napkins, unstamped, with Penelope canvas, and working-chart of cross stitch design, 70 cents, floss to embroider 44 cents" . I'm guessing that was pretty pricey, since the magazine itself was only 10 cents originally.
The paper in these magazines is very fragile, not much thicker than newspaper quality, and most of the pictures are in black and white. I found the ads to be fantastic reading though, if I squint hard enough, I can read the really fine print in most of them.
Some dress patterns for the discerning ladies, only 12 cents each! The description of dress design in the bottom right hand corner even offers that it can be " made in an Hour" and is "cut for 16 years" (I don't get that part, it looks like a huge dress for a 16 year old to wear).
Imagine my surprise on finding this ad for DMC. No mention of price, though, I'm curious to wonder how much ladies had to pay for it then.
It seems people were worried about brighter, whiter smiles even in 1923. No one liked "dingy film-coats" and the ad describes in significant detail how this comes about (yuck - that's what is going on inside my mouth?) This ad is for Pepsodent....hmmm, toothpaste?
And in 1923, ladies were concerned with their weight. Somethings never change! Although its remarkable even today to think that it was possible to lose 53 lbs. in 9 weeks, that's almost 6 lbs. a week! And this was apparently achieved by "Mrs. Bayliss, a well known young matron of social elect" not by starving, but simply listening to "Wallace's records but ten minutes a day". This ad offers a free 10 day trial, there's no mention of cost in this ad, just to "let the scales decide", mail in the coupon, and your first week's record will be sent to you. I would love to hear this record, its too bad I'm 84 years too late to get my free copy.
And my favourite ad has to be on the last page, a gorgeous ad for Jello. They sure don't make ads like that any more!
Posted by Wendy at 10:39 am 14 comments
Friday, January 26, 2007
Be Happy and more alphabets
I finished Shepherd's Bush Be Happy freebie really quickly. This was my first time working with 10 ct Heatherfield fabric and it seemed really odd to be making such huge stitches. But it was really a nice break from the 40 ct fabric that I'm using for the Carriage House Samplings Alphabet. The 3 buttons are from a Dress it Up package and I think they work well in this piece.
And I added 'C' and 'D' to the alphabet. I was struggling though with D last night and finally hubby pulled out a light magnifier for me to use. I tried this a year ago, the first time I tried 40 ct fabric and hated it. I found I could stitch much easier without it. But I'm now a year older and obviously my eyes are even that much older, so once I got myself in a comfy position and found the best way to manoeuvre the magnifier, I finished up D without any more trouble.
It looks like this magnifier is going to find a steady home next to my stitching chair ~ especially with the new Neighbourhood RR on high linen counts.
Carol (Garden of Stitches) has organized 2 groups for new neighbourhood RR's and done an amazing job with arranging 18 stitchers into groups. She is creating a new blog for us and I'll put in a link as soon as its started.
And this is the first weekend of the Christmas Ornament Stitch-Along. I think I'll work on a Prairie Schooler Santa that I have been wanting to do, I have my pattern and fabric waiting for me! Click on the link if you want to join us, or see what everyone is working on.
Posted by Wendy at 8:21 am 19 comments
Labels: CHS Alphabet, Shepherd's Bush, Xmas Stitch-Along
Thursday, January 25, 2007
6 Weird Things...
Each player of the game starts with "6 Weird Things about You"People who get tagged need to write in their blog 6 weird things, as well as state the rule clearly.In the end you have to choose 6 more people to be tagged and their names.
1. I'm a news junkie. While I'm working (and surfing the net, reading blogs, online shopping) I have the TV on with the news, either CBC World News, the BBC or CNN. Then whenever I get a hold of a 'real' person, I love to talk their ear off about current events.
And I have also recently become hooked on The View. I love the opening when the 4 hosts talk current events and give their opinions on what is going on. I've been missing it recently, so I just started TIVO'ing it so I can watch it later in the day (and fast forward through all those commercials).
2. When I'm driving alone, I play music very LOUD! And sing along, as loud as I can, but as long as the music is loud enough, I can't really hear myself....because I couldn't carry a tune if my life depended on it.
3. I love watching hockey games (okay not so weird I guess since I'm Canadian), baseball games but can't stand to watch them on TV. Way too boring and the commentators drive me nuts, especially since I tend to stitch while watching TV.
4. My idea of a good meal is hitting the local Tim Horton's for a coffee and toasted Everything bagel with herb and garlic cream cheese....and lately cucumbers and tomatoes on top! And when I really want to live dangerously, I'll order some Tim-Bits! (donut holes? ...yummm very delicious)
5. As soon as I buy anything cross stitch related (or really even craft related)....I'm dying to buy something else (my daughter offered this one up). I can just never seem to have enough!
6. I have a strange new addiction to Ginger Altoids! I really have no idea why, they taste just terrible but I love them. And I'm dying to finish the candies, so I can use the tin to make something. But I just can't throw the candies away? In fact I have a hard time throwing anything away!?!
Whew, that was hard, I'm sure I have at least 600 weird things and I'll think of them later, but for now that's all I could come up with!
And I'll tag whoever reads this and wants to play along. Just let me know so I can visit your blog and learn a little more about you too!
Posted by Wendy at 8:54 am 9 comments
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Two more Prairie Schooler blocks!
I finished off 'A' last night and 'B' was actually done over several months last fall. I don't think I ever got around to putting a picture of it on here. It seemed to take forever! That means only 2 left.....Y and Z. And then I can start putting my quilt together!
I bought my fabric for the quilt last fall, its from a Moda fabric line called 'Bound to the Prairie' - very appropriate name I thought and the fabrics tie in perfectly with the PS blocks. I wanted to start putting a few of the blocks together but they need a good cleaning after my hours of pawing at them. I searched all my cupboards, and I couldn't find my treasured bottle of Orvus anywhere. I have a sneaky suspicion hubby didn't realize the value of this strange looking stuff and tossed it. Luckily Ann now carries it in her shop and was able to bring me a bottle at our last stitching get-together. So now my blocks will get a nice refreshing bath to clean them up.
Speaking of....Ann is soon on her merry way to the Nashville needlework show! She has so kindly offered to pick up any items we might (ahem) need and of course top of my list is the Ackworth Friendship Book by Ellen Chester of With My Needle. There may be a few other things that I need, its going to be difficult to keep this list short enough.
We have some very cold weather coming out way....time to get those socks knitted up!
Edited to add: Here is my Prairie Schooler album!
Posted by Wendy at 7:50 am 14 comments
Labels: PS blocks
Monday, January 22, 2007
Some pictures to share
Nick and his pals went snowboarding Saturday afternoon/evening. He's on that hill somewhere, but I can't pick him out!
And here are a couple of pics that hubby took of the sunset on his drive home. Amazing colour - it looks more like a fire than the sun!
Posted by Wendy at 7:50 am 9 comments
Labels: Pictures
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Neighbourhood RR
I put the last few stitches into Anita's RR last night and here is my offering. Its a Homespun Elegance design called Summer House Sampler. I accommodated it slightly and it fit in perfectly with the 70x50 block.
And after that I was in a baking mood, so I made up a batch of Everything But the Kitchen Sink cookies. These cookies have, well, a little bit of everything in them: chocolate chips, raisins, walnuts, coconut, oats, and so on. 6 dozen were made and I think there are still 3 dozen today. I have a hungry family!
Today is bright and sunny but cold and Nick has plans for snowboarding today, his second time this week. Luckily the ski hills are only a 20 minute drive away but I am hoping to get there with the camera to take some pictures of him. Its such a pretty area and the only place that is completely snow-covered. Although our backyard was looking nice until the dogs hit it this morning.
Oh and one more pic:
These are one we made at the guild meeting on Wednesday night - the first one is a scissor point fob ~ the blue thingy is what will go on the pointed ends of scissors and the lobster claw clips on the scissor handles. The smaller one is a needle threader fob. I think I'll look for a few larger, prettier beads to put on and redo the top one, especially since I messed up a little with the end. Cute things though and its nice to play around with beads too.
Posted by Wendy at 9:28 am 14 comments
Labels: Guild projects, Neighbourhood RR
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Scruffy Stu
Ever have one of those really lazy feeling days? Well it seems Stu is having them most days, although he does perk up considerably for a walk. Its far too icy out there right now for us to even consider that. So he has his messy winter coat and a very dirty face from ? last night's dinner?
No real stitching to report from here, although I have pulled out a quilt I was working on last year and I have gotten a few more blocks put together. I finished a round robin for the embroidery guild which I'll hand off tonight.
And I have a rant about Michael's. I went in this afternoon to pick up some floss, it was on sale 3 for $1 which is a really good price any more. And armed as I was with my 40% off coupon, I decided to indulge in a cool quilting book. This was a second one in a series, the first one I had taken out from the library last year some time. The price listed on the back was $26.95, so 40% off and I was laughing. Until that is, I got to the cashier. The book scanned in for $44.95!!! I kindly pointed out that the price listed was $26.95, which no other price showing anywhere and I was informed that was the US price, the Canadian price was $44.95! However what a bonus I was getting with getting $18 off with my coupon, the cashier pointed out. Outrageous!!! Why wasn't the price we pay listed? As the book is being sold in a Canadian store, I expect to see a Canadian price tag. And even with the exchange rate added on to $26.95,the book should have been around $32.00.
So stupid me, I bought the book anyways but when I got home, I thought no way am I going hand my money over to Michael's so easily. I checked online, and found the same copy at Amazon.ca for $19.60 so it looks like they will be getting my hard earned dollars instead. I've already taken the Michael's book back and ordered from Amazon. Jeesh. It looks like I'll be buying my floss from Michael's and that's about it in the future.
Time to get off my soapbox....and ready for dinner.
Posted by Wendy at 5:27 pm 11 comments
Labels: Dogs
Monday, January 15, 2007
Be Warm
Although we had a quiet weekend, I really didn't get too much stitching done. My eyes were bothering me far too much with the dreaded dry eye syndrome. I remembered too late, after prying my eyes open on Saturday morning, that I haven't been running the humidifier in my bedroom and this hot heated air in the house has done me in. So in between the irritated scratchy feeling, I have bouts of my eyes watering as if I'm crying. Needless to see I look a little raccoon-ish right now, and gridding Christmas Elegance was out of the question.
I did get out on Saturday with Marg, to our favourite quilt shop in Uxbridge, called Quilter's Cupboard and we signed up for the Saturday Morning Sampler.
I finished up a small Shepherd's Bush piece, from the Be-Attitude series from last year. This is called Be Warm and seems very appropriate for this January weather - we are having freezing rain today. I used some buttons called Dress It Up and they match very nicely. I think I'll try to finish this into a small pillow, hopefully I can find some fabric in my stash. And, with my thanks to Heather (Quilt or Stitch), I have the SB freebie Be Happy which she so kindly sent to me.
Posted by Wendy at 8:36 am 16 comments
Labels: Stitching
Friday, January 12, 2007
UFO time
I guess Marj talking about digging out her poor Fairy Idyll out of the depths of UFO'edness, made me remember I had a Mirabilia of my own hidden away somewhere. Yes way up out of sight, on top of my china cabinet. Christmas Elegance actually ended up somewhere high because she is on scroll rods (my first ever piece on scroll rods) since I wanted to save myself from beading despair at the end of stitching and doing the beading along the way. Which is actually why this poor thing became a UFO, I ran out of beads! What a poor miserable excuse really. One of the cheapest things to buy and I just never got around to buying any more?
So here she is, I'm determined this time not to let her languish any more with the dust bunnies on the china cabinet. I still don't have this beads I need, but I also remembered that I need to do a little gridding in the background for all the snowflakes (more beads) that need to be placed, and I found it next to impossible to count fabric threads on this dark fabric.
Can I encourage anyone else to bring out a poor UFO to join mine?
Posted by Wendy at 8:46 am 19 comments
Labels: Mirabilia
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Chatelaine Mystery X
Here it is - Part I is finished. Its hard to tell in the picture but its very, very shimmery with the gold and silver Petite Treasure Braid. There are a lot of 'holes' but this is where the Swarovski crystals and beads will be added.....when its finished. As you can also see from the pic, I work with a very tight fitting hoop and there is no way I am going to risk crushing one of these beauties with it.
Now I can't wait until February 1st and Part II!
Posted by Wendy at 9:34 am 13 comments
Labels: Chateline Mystery X
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
Enabling Alert!
I have to share this picture of one of the new releases coming from With My Needle, and the description copied over from their website:
The Ackworth Friendship Book is an accordion-style book of Quaker motifs
from Ackworth School in northern England. There are 10 stitched pages. Each set
of pages forms a pocket in which you can store special treasures.
On my model, I stitched the front and back book covers, and eight of my
friends each stitched a page and "signed" her page with her initials. You can do
the same or else stitch the entire book yourself.
Posted by Wendy at 10:42 am 14 comments
Labels: Stitching
Pictures, pictures...
On Sunday I hosted my stitching get-together for our group and I don't need to say how much fun we all had. Of course as you can see from the pictures, there was a little more than stitching going on, Linda was needlepointing, Nancy and Marg were knitting, Marsha was eagerly catching up with her RR to pass along, and Ann and Anita were enticing us all with their amazing over-one stitching prowess. And I did a little stitching on my PS alphabet block and had a knitting lesson from Nancy on 'turning a heel'. Marg showed off her quilt for which she took first place in the Uxbridge Fair and her Christmas sampler which she worked on for the past year. Darn, I didn't get pictures of those beauties. Plus she got a priceless lesson in using her new 5-piece set of Brittney needles. Oh, and we did a lot of eating, too!
My sock is looking more like a sock these days:
Posted by Wendy at 8:13 am 5 comments
Labels: Stitching get-together
Friday, January 05, 2007
My 100th post!
Pretty cool how Blogger keeps track of these things, I almost didn't believe this is my 100th post! Blogging is so much fun and I love how encouraged I feel to take progress pics of my various works-in-progress, which I never used to do. It is my goal this year to try to get more interesting pictures for my blog. There are just so many creative people out there, its constantly amazing to me when I see the incredible pictures people take and read about the fantastic things they are working on.
So far so good with my New Year's resolutions, although the first week of January isn't up yet! And (gulp) there are so many sales at the OLNS's going on out there.
Over the Christmas break I did manage to put a few stitches in to my woefully ignored Houses of Hawk Run Hollow and as I promised myself, here is an update:
I finally got the third block done (actually the house on the upper left in the pic) and I really enjoyed stitching on this piece again. I hate to say when I first started this.....poor thing really was shuffled down to the bottom of the WIP pile. I know a lot of people are already working on Village of Hawk Run Hollow which is on my wish list, but I don't dare get it yet. And I had heard rumours about a Folke of Hawk Run Hollow being released. I just can't get these masterpieces stitched quickly enough!
Tomorrow will be a tidying up day to get ready for my stitching get-together on Sunday. Everyone is meeting here at 12:00 pm for our potluck lunch and then an afternoon of stitching with my great stitching friends! Isn't that something great to look forwards to? I promise some pictures.....
Posted by Wendy at 4:34 pm 15 comments
Labels: Houses of Hawk Run Hollow
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
Chatelaine Mystery X arrived!
It came...it came! So its a day late, its here and I finally got see all the pretty silkies. Just a very small package but you know what they say about good things and small packages. European Cross Stitch really outdoes themself with packing these kits together - everything in floss-away baggies, and even a pack of piecemaker needles thrown in. I had fun looking all the silkies over, sorting through and putting them away in my new project tote which I had been saving for this. And luckily too I think the fabric I had stashed away will be perfect for this.
So I was well armed with all my print-outs from the Chatelaine group, instructions, colour keys, Section I print-outs including the enlargements that I finally figured out how to do, settled into my big easy chair with my OTT lite, and suddenly I was lost. The design starts off in the very centre, which was labelled "C" and I had no idea what "C" was supposed to be? So back to the drawing board ( or computer in this case ) and I was about to ask the Yahoo group, when I saw that 2 members have already posted pics of their completed sections! Whoa, talk about turbo charged needles! But it saved me asking a silly question, as the C section was left unstitched as were all the little 'b' sections.
So I was merrily back on my way again....and 2 hours later, not a lot to look at, but it was so much fun. I really hated to pack it away for the night, but it had been a long day, my first back at work.
Did I mention how much I enjoyed stitching with these silks??? Ahhhh......
Posted by Wendy at 11:28 am 14 comments
Labels: Chateline Mystery X
Monday, January 01, 2007
Happy New Year!
Yawn......is it really 11:00 am already? Time for a nap soon?
Yes we had a very late night with friends....but I am at the computer with my eyes only half open, very eager as I was to download the first part of Chatelaine's Mystery X.
But I can't start it yet as my kit hasn't arrived. All my mailman stalking did me no good as my poor little kit never arrived in time for me to fondle and play with the silkies until the big day today. But I now have downloaded Part I, figured out somehow how to enlarge through Adobe, and have all the sections neatly tucked away.....waiting. And I'm drumming my fingers on the desk as I am itching to make a start on something. Its an annual tradition for me!
Our Blackbird SAL is ready and waiting but the start time has been staggered as so many of us were already anticipating other starts for January 1st. So I think we have all agreed to have Part I finished by January 31st. And meanwhile I'm in such a quandry as to what to pull out to work on. Although I know these tired eyes can't cope with too much today. Its such a bright day, I may just have to get outside and see if I can get a rousing long walk in with the doggies instead.
The house is quiet as we went down from 7 to only 3 yesterday. Kelly and Chris left at noon for New York to spent New Year's with his mother. I did manage to get in my New Year's pictures of all of us and here is my favourite one of my 3 babies:
Posted by Wendy at 10:58 am 10 comments


text:
Astros learned much in rocky 2013 season
Castro emerged as All-Star; promising young arms stepped up in Majors
HOUSTON -- The Astros' first season in the American League proved to be one of the most difficult and challenging in the franchise's 52-year history, with the club losing a team-record 111 games, including the final 15 games -- also a franchise record -- to end the season.
Perhaps not many expected the Astros to lose quite as many games as they did, but those in charge viewed the season through a larger scope in terms of their rebuilding process. The Astros had kids handling key positions on the diamond and had abundant young arms on the mound with the goal of finding out who can play and who won't be a part of the future.
As a result, the Astros went 25-51 against the AL West, including 4-15 against division champion Oakland and 2-17 against in-state rival Texas. Conversely, they proved to be a thorn in the side of the Angels (10-9) and the Mariners (9-10).
Along the way, they discovered they had a legit third baseman in Matt Dominguez, they found a potential dynamic player in outfielder Robbie Grossman and were thrilled with what starters Jarred Cosart, Brad Peacock and Brett Oberholtzer did in their first shots in the rotation. Young relievers Josh Zeid, Kevin Chapman, Chia-Jen Lo and Josh Fields also proved to be capable hands in their Major League debuts.
Of course, playing so many youngsters -- 14 players made their debut in 2013 -- meant the Astros took some lumps. In essence, it was probably the Astros' final season in training wheels. There's nowhere to go but up for the Astros, who will be a year older and more experienced in 2014.
Here are the Astros' top five storylines from 2013:
5. Owner Jim Crane expands the payroll.
After years of trading away their experienced, high-priced veteran players in exchange for prospects in an effort to beef up the Minor League system, the Astros reached the point in their rebuilding plan where it was time to spend some money.
No, Houston wasn't going to be a player in the Robinson Cano sweepstakes, but owner Jim Crane and general manager Jeff Luhnow made a commitment to spend some money in an effort to be more competitive. The Astros ended 2013 with a payroll of about $13 million, which was easily the lowest in baseball.
The words of management proved not to be lip service. Within a five-day span in early December, the Astros traded for Rockies outfielder Dexter Fowler, who's set to make $7.35 million in 2014, and signed starting pitcher Scott Feldman and reliever Chad Qualls to multi-year deals. And with the Astros still wanting to add another veteran reliever and another bat, the Astros were ready to add even more payroll.
4. Reid Ryan named president of business operations.
There is perhaps no more recognizable name in baseball in Texas than Ryan. Nolan Ryan is a Hall of Famer who played nine of his 27 years in Houston and tacked on five more in Arlington at the end of his career before being inducted into Cooperstown as baseball's all-time strikeout king.
His oldest son, Reid, didn't make it too far on the field, but off the field he's been tremendously successful. After Ryan founded and ran the Triple-A Round Rock Express and Double-A Corpus Christi Hooks, the Astros hired him in May to run their business operations in a wildly popular move among Houston fans.
The affable Ryan soon became a familiar face at Minute Maid Park, interacting with fans and listening to their concerns and suggestions about the Astros -- the team Reid grew up cheering for while growing up in nearby Alvin.
During the 1980s, Ryan was a bat boy for the Astros while his father was a pitcher. He later pitched in the Minor Leagues for two seasons (1994-95) in the Rangers system after being selected in the 17th round of the 1994 June Draft.
Ryan was previously president and CEO of Ryan-Sanders Baseball, which owned and operated Corpus Christi and Round Rock. Corpus Christi is an affiliate of the Astros, and Round Rock is an affiliate of the Rangers after previously serving as the Double-A and Triple-A affiliate of the Astros.
Reid Ryan's hiring and the departure of Nolan Ryan with the Rangers began speculation that the Ryan Express could return to Houston someday.
3. Astros set the Major League strikeout record.
It didn't take the Astros long to gain the label as a strikeout-prone team in 2013. They struck out 56 times in the season's first four games, putting them on a record pace that continued through most of the season. Houston wound up striking out a Major League-record 1,535 times, breaking Arizona's record of 1,529 set in 2010.
Chris Carter, who was acquired in February from Oakland, struck out a club-record 212 times, which was the third-most in Major League history. Adam Dunn whiffed 222 times in 2012 and Mark Reynolds struck out 223 times in 2009.
But Carter wasn't the only culprit. Jason Castro (130), Brandon Barnes (127) and Brett Wallace (104) each topped 100 strikeouts, and Carlos Pena (89) and Rick Ankiel (35) were strikeout machines before they were sent away in the middle of the season.
The Astros added Carter, Pena and Ankiel in a move to increase power, and Carter did wind up hitting 29 home runs despite striking out in 36 percent of his plate appearances.
2. The emergence of All-Star catcher Jason Castro.
He was the first Draft pick of general manager Ed Wade and scouting director Bobby Heck during their time in Houston, and Castro finally blossomed into the player most expected he would become with a breakout 2013 season.
Finally healthy after missing the entire 2011 season following major knee surgery, Castro had arguably the best offensive season by a catcher in Astros history. A two-time AL Player of the Week and an AL All-Star, he hit .276 with 18 homers and 56 RBIs in a career-high 120 games. He missed the final month of the season after having a cyst drained in his knee.
Castro set club records for catchers in homers, doubles (35), slugging percentage (.485) and OPS (on-base plus slugging percentage, .835), and his 1.067 OPS in August ranked third in the AL behind MVP Miguel Cabrera (1.162) and Mike Trout (1.090). He also made strides defensively.
1. Several of the club's top prospects arrive in Houston.
Astros fans had been reading since the club's National League days about the talented prospects the team had acquired through the Draft and trades over the last few years, and they finally got a chance to many of them in a Major League uniform in 2013.
The Astros had 14 players make their Major League debuts in 2013, including some of their top prospects. At the top of the list was Cosart, who made his debut July 12 at Tampa Bay and flirted with a no-hitter. He wound up making 10 starts, going 1-1 with a 1.95 ERA.
Lefty Oberholtzer was just as impressive, going 4-5 with a 2.24 ERA in 10 starts, including a pair of complete games. Then there was rookie Peacock, who went 4-3 with a 3.64 ERA with six quality starts in his final nine outings. Cosart, Oberholtzer, Peacock and fellow rookie Paul Clemens posted a combined 2.70 ERA in 35 starts from July 12 to the end of the season.
The Astros also got a glimpse of rookie relievers Zeid, Chapman, Lo and Fields, as well as young third baseman Dominguez and rookie outfielder Grossman. With more prospects on the way from baseball's best farm system, the future looks bright.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
These are a set of diseases whereby the sufferers experience short bouts of muscle weakenss or even total body paralysis, but are completely conscious. It's caused by abnormalities in the ion channels of the muscles.
The triggers for these episodes are:
- carbohydrate-rich meals
- exercise
- fasting
- stress
- excitement
The treatment is usually via medications to help stabilize potassium levels, and are often targeted to the specific subtype of Periodic Paralysis based on gene type.
The disease is also hereditary--if a parent has the disease, their kids have a 50% chance of inheriting the condition.
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text: SAN FRANCISCO PUBLIC LIBRARY COMMISSION Minutes of the regular meeting of Thursday, January 16, 2003. (As approved amended March 20, 2003 – amended text in contrasting typeface) The San Francisco Public Library Commission held a regular meeting on Tuesday, February 20, 2003 in the Koret Auditorium, Main Library. President Higueras called the meeting to order at 4:05 PM. The following members were noted present: Commissioners Coulter, Higueras, Steiman, Streets, and Strobin. Commissioner Bautista was excused and Commissioner Chin's arrival was expected to be delayed. Agenda Items: 1. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE January 16, 2003 COMMISSION MEETING 2. EXCELSIOR BRANCH DESIGN RECOMMENDATION 3. BOND PROGRAM MANAGER'S REPORT 4. RICHMOND BRANCH PROP. 14 APPLICATION 5. CAPITAL CAMPAIGN FOR BRANCH LIBRARIES 6. PUBLIC COMMENT 7. ADJOURNMENT 8. APPENDIX A APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE JANUARY 16, 2003 COMMISSION MEETING Public comment: An anonymous member of the public commented that the Minutes did not report details of the discussion of the Approval of the December 19th Minutes s noting that the minutes were reported as amended but that there was no correction of a cited grammatical error nor were Commissioner Coulter's characterization of this person's previous comments concerning Martin Paley reported. Mr. Ed Regan commented that his remarks were accurately reported. Mr. Peter Warfield objected to the Minutes lack of detail in the reported discussion of his comments concerning interim library services stating that the Library had broken a promise of case by case consideration of interim branch services by providing alternatives instead. Commission comment: President Higueras inquired if Commissioner Coulter felt his comments concerning the anonymous member of the public's remarks were properly reported. President Higueras also suggested changing Mr. Warfield's reported comment to clarify that Mr. Warfield had said that the Library had broken a promise to provide interim services. The Commission Secretary proposed to again review the tape of the discussion of the Minutes at January 16th meeting to see if any revision of the December 19th Minutes was warranted. Motion: Commissioner Streets, seconded by Vice President Steiman that the January 16, 2002 Minutes be approved as amended. Action: AYE 5-0 (Coulter, Higueras, Steiman, Streets, and Strobin) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AGENDA ITEM #2 EXCELSIOR BRANCH DESIGN RECOMMENDATION Bond Program Manager Marilyn Thompson introduced discussion of the conceptual design proposed for the Excelsior Branch Library. Ms. Thompson noted that a uniform Public Review Process had been presented to the Commission in January of last year. This process was incorporated into the Design Excellence Program & presented again to the Library Commission in May. It prescribes a minimum level of public design reviews plus a design critique by a panel of peers for each project in this Bond Program. Ms, Thompson reported that the Library had sponsored three neighborhood meetings about library design for the Excelsior Branch renovation, where multiple options and specific plans and materials were discussed. A conceptual design developed from these discussions was now to be presented to a panel of peers for review and comment, then additional public comment, and concluding with review, comments, and possible approval by the Library Commission. The Bond Program Manager pointed out that the Excelsior Branch Library Renovation is a $3.6 million dollar renovation. Ms. Thompson noted it included a seismic upgrade, disabled access elements, technology upgrades, electrical and mechanical improvements, enlarged staff areas, new interior finishes, and a minor 200 square foot addition. Ms. Thompson then introduced Senior Architect Philip Sowers from the Bureau of Architecture, Department of Public Works, Deputy City Librarian Paul Underwood, and peer panel members, planner Hillary Gitelman, architect & interior designer Bryant Rice and architect David Hobstetter, to begin the presentation. Phil Sowers then presented the proposed conceptual design (design documents attached). Deputy City Librarian Paul Underwood then presented the Library's response to the design. The Deputy City Librarian noted that the Library's plans were based in the needs assessment that underlay the proposed building program and led to the proposed design. Mr. Underwood pointed out that three key goals, fully integrating the branch library into the community with more Spanish and Chinese language materials and services for all age groups, improving access to technology by providing additional computers and computer training, and revitalizing the branch library as a community focal point with improved services for children, teens, as well as space for seniors formed the basis for the basis for the plan. The Deputy City Librarian next discussed the steps taken to revitalize the branch's collections noting that while its size would decline from 46, 800 items to 44, 471 that the range of materials provided would better meet the identified needs of the community using the branch. The Peer Panel then presented its Design Review Critique. Mr. Rice pointed out that the project was primarily an interior renovation and called attention to the relocation of programs spaces and the proposed furniture layout that could facilitate multiple uses. Mr. Rice urged simplifying the panels in the central gabled area, the design element giving the building character and suggested larger light fixtures hung off the ridge bream to emphasize the space. Mr. Rice found the overall plan a good improvement and recommended more playful interesting treatment of details. Mr. David Hobstetter recommended efforts to improve the exterior detail to make the building more transparent, disliked the extension of the office space proposed, and suggested that the gabled window be emphasized and more glass be used. Mr. Hobstetter suggested a stronger entry statement and recommended a simple palette of colors in keeping with the period architecture of the building. Mr. Hobstetter also recommended attention to the window treatment noting that square bay windows are more visually accessible. Ms. Hillary Gittleman found the design good and lauded the careful process used to gather input into the design. Ms. Gittleman called attention to the interesting challenges in renovating the existing design and noted that the Mission Street façade needed more attention. Ms. Gittleman suggested strengthening the front door/façade elements in the design and suggested more glazing in the staff corner. Ms. Gittleman recommended playing to the rhythm of the existing building and found the proposed rear designs with more glass and sliding doors were successful. Commissioner Chin joined the meeting during the peer panel presentation. Public comment: An anonymous member of the public mentioned that explanatory documents were not listed and recalled that the design review had been postponed twice noting that this person had received a notice about the design review provided by the Friends &Foundation indicating to this individual who was really in charge. This individual called attention to the distribution of the Excelsior Community meeting minutes in December and suggested that the reduction in the book collection had not been noted. Mr. David Hooper, an Excelsior neighbor, commended library staff's willingness to discuss possibilities in renovating the branch, but disagreed with and noted that moving the staff workroom could reduce wall space. Mr. Hooper felt that he could do without the window seating and suggested if done that the bottom glass be opaque. Mr. Hooper appreciated the proposed improvements in the entry area and called attention to the noise levels from Mission Street suggesting double doors to reduce noise. Mr. Ed Regan was excited about the new branch and called for more hours of services and the addition of a pamphlet room in the renovated branch. Mr. Tony Sacco, President, New Mission Terrace Association, and longtime library user, found the proposed layout good but expressed his strong belief that libraries are for books. Mr. Sacco noted that low income children without home access to computers could take books home, not computers. Mr. Sacco called attention to the long history of knowledge in books and the ever-changing nature of technology. Mr. Sacco urged that computers not be added to the branch in place of books. Ms. Rebecca Silverberg, recommended against lengthening the windows in the staff area and urged greater efforts be made to keep noise levels down. Ms. Silverberg then read a letter (copy attached) from the Excelsior District Improvement Association urging that the Library rename the community room at the Excelsior Branch Library for neighborhood resident, civic and community leader, small businessman, and former Commissioner and President of the Library Commission Walter Jebe and called for creation of a window box display of historical memorabilia. Mr. Peter Warfield expressed dismay with what he found to be a lack of mention of books in the presentation. Mr. Warfield complained that informational materials were unavailable in advance of the meeting and found the plan reduced book space, a reference desk, and reading tables. Mr. Warfield urged that it not be approved. Commission discussion: Vice President Steiman noted that it would be inaccurate to simply ascribe the reductions in seating and books at the branch to computers noting that a number of factors including the need for seismic safety and to make the building fully accessible that led to the changes. Vice President Steiman further observed that computer services were a vitally needed resource in the community. Vice President Steiman commended staff for its efforts to find ways to add back books into the branch collection through the suggested modifications of the proposed designs. Vice President Steiman expressed concerns with the planned use of carpeting suggesting that hard surfaces might be more practical. Commissioner Chin suggested that adding additional shelf height could provide more space for books. Commissioner Strobin recommended sound-reducing glazing on the windows to further reduce noise. Mr. Sowers and the Deputy City Librarian addressed Vice President Steiman's concerns with use of carpeting and explained why it was the preferred alternative. Ms. Hildreth noted that carpeting was required on the cellular flooring planned for the branch and that use of such flooring was vital in allowing for expanded connectivity in the branch in the future. In response to a question by Commissioner Streets Ms. Hildreth noted that library users wanted both more books and more access to computers. The City Librarian noted that computer access was very important in low income communities without home access to computers. Ms. Hildreth noted this plan proposed additional computers and a revitalization of the branch book collections to make it more dynamic and responsive, especially in expanded access to Chinese and Spanish language materials the community needs. Chief of Branches Donna Corbeil spoke for branch staff in reporting the extensive review and consideration given to providing additional electronic resources as well as home work assistance and word processing for both youth and seniors. Ms. Corbeil reported that branch staff was working to tailor the collection to what users wanted. Commissioner Coulter recalling previous history expressed concern that any reduction in book collection size provided an opportunity for demagoguery by those with personal political agendas and urged staff to consider alternatives to add back more books. Commissioner Coulter called attention to alternative service provisions envisioned by the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) and suggested that in view of the problems likely to result from reducing book collections staff should consider adjusting the circulating and reference collection and trading off seating for more shelf space. In response, Mr. Underwood noted that the shelving was at the recommended maximum height and that assistance was planned to be provided to disabled users needing materials out of reach. Mr. Underwood noted that there was a need to balance the expressed needs of the community with the fixed dimensions of the building. In response to a suggestion by Vice President Steiman, Mr. Sowers noted that there was not enough money in the budget to consider enclosing the terrace space. In response to questions by President Higueras, Mr. Sowers discussed the seismic retrofit and building ventilation aspects of the proposed design in some detail. He also informed President Higueras that the proposed solar roof panels could be expected to provide energy for 35 to 40% of the building's electrical needs. President Higueras recommended more work on the Mission Street façade to make it more celebratory and suggested consideration of a vestibule to reduce outside noise penetration. President Higueras commented that he was skeptical about the window seating, that the program space was hidden in the back, and recommended angling stacks to increase transparency and install skylights in spaces with access to windows. President Higueras further noted that he would be anxious to see how the details of the conceptual design were resolved to maximize the limited space available as well as address concerns and suggestions raised by the peer panel and the Commissioners. In answer to a query by Vice President Steiman, Mr. Underwood noted that the program room could be used for additional seating and that it would also be equipped with laptop computers on roll out carts to provide for training classes and homework help. President Higueras noted that the Commission wanted the Mission Street façade improved. Commissioner Coulter requested staff investigate ways to address the book collection size issue. Motion: Commissioner Chin, seconded by Commissioner Strobin, that the proposed design concept of the Excelsior Branch Library be approved with the understanding that peer review panel and Commissioners' comments would be taken into consideration as the design is further developed. Ms. Thompson proposed, as with the Mission Bay Branch, to present the next more detailed design to the Commission for its review. President Higueras noted that he would expect to see why or why not comments and suggestions raised during the review were used in the next phase of the project design. Action: AYE 6-0 (Chin, Coulter, Higueras, Steiman, Streets, and Strobin) President Higueras called a brief recess at 5:55PM The Commission returned to session at 6:07PM. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AGENDA ITEM #3 BOND PROGRAM MANAGER'S REPORT Ms. Marilyn Thompson, Bond Program Manager reported that there would be no informational presentation at this meeting. She then outlined the Regular Reports, the Budget Report, a Schedule Report, a Site Acquisitions Report, an Active Projects Report, and a Community Outreach Update. Ms. Thompson called attention to the current Budget Report (copy attached) dated 2/20/03 and then recapped changes made in past months. She noted that last month the budget report reflected action taken by the Commission to increase the Ingleside site acquisition budget by $455,000, which came from Program Reserve. The Program Reserve was reported to be $5,074,500.The Bond Program Manager called attention to expenditures and encumbrances through January 31 totaling $10,266,784. Ms. Thompson next reported on the schedule dated 6/20/03 and noted copies were attached to last month's Commission meeting minutes. She reported that each page showed one phase and all new construction was listed together. Ms. Thompson noted that there had been no changes to the schedules since June 2002. The Bond Program Manager additionally reported that as soon as San Francisco Redevelopment Agency (SFRA) issued a revised schedule for the redesign of Mission Bay , these schedules would be updated. Ms. Thompson also mentioned as possible future schedule changes resulting from a revised strategy on Prop 14 applications. The Bond Program Manager next presented a Site Acquisitions Report beginning with a status update on the Glen Park Branch. Ms. Thompson reported a resolution was drafted for the Clerk of the Board requesting approval of the Purchase and Sale Agreement. Ms. Thompson reported that the Planning Commission had denied an appeal to the Negative Declaration on 12/5/02 , which was appealed to the Board of Supervisors, which denied that appeal on 2/4/03 . The Bond Program Manger commented that the Library was currently working with the Developer to finalize the plans & specifications that define the purchase. Ms. Thompson reported design review of interior tenant improvements could occur sometime this spring or early summer. Regarding the new Mission Bay Branch, Ms. Thompson noted that the Board of Supervisors approved the Purchase and Sale Agreement. The Bond Program Manager reported that the Public Art Selection Panel has selected an art proposal and the Design Excellence Peer Panel had reviewed the schematic design. Ms. Thompson noted however, that the base building, originally expected to break ground this January had been delayed by SFRA. The Bond Program Manager informed the Commissioners that because of the recent downturn in office rental market, SFRA had determined that the office component of the project was no longer financially feasible and requested the developer to re-design the project. This Ms. Thompson reported would delay construction about 6 to 9 months. The Bond Program Manger noted that the Library was participating in the redesign meetings with SFRA & the architects. Ms. Thompson reported that the contractor, Cahill Construction, would issue a Guaranteed Maximum Price when redesign is complete. Regarding the Portola Branch, Ms. Thompson reported that the SFUSD Board approved the sale of the property in November 2002 and that the Library was preparing a Prop 14 (State Library Bond) application for the 3rd cycle due 1/04. Ms. Thompson noted a survey and appraisal were complete and that a geotechnical report was underway. The Bond Program Manager reported two community meetings and a community survey completed and noted that the CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act) process requesting a categorical exemption was underway. Ms. Thompson reported on the juried competition to choose an architect for the project held last month, which included public posting of the entries and a community ballot. The Bond Program Manager announced the selected entry was prepared by the joint venture Stoner Meek with Noll & Tam Architects. Ms. Thompson reported that the Library was entering into contract negotiations that should be complete in the next two months. Ms. Thompson then updated the status of the Ingleside Branch, noting that in December the Library Commission had approved forwarding the purchase of the Sunset Auto property to the Board of Supervisors. The Bond Program Manger reported that a survey, toxics investigation, geotechnical report and appraisal had been completed. Ms. Thompson noted that Department of Public Health had issued a closure letter clearing the property and that the Library was preparing a Prop 14 application for the 3rd cycle due 1/04. The Bond Program Manger then reported a CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act) determination request to Major Environmental Review had been submitted. She next noted that a juried competition to select an architect was held last month, which included public posting of the entries and a community ballot. Ms Thompson announced the selected entry was prepared by the joint venture Fougeron Architecture with Group 4/ and that the Library was entering into contract negotiations that should be complete in the next two months. Concerning the proposed new Visitacion Valley Branch, Ms. Thompson reported continued investigation of the feasibility of purchasing the Supermarket site at Leland & Rutledge. The Bond Program Manger reported that a community kick-off meeting and community survey had been completed. Concluding her Site Acquisitions update, Ms Thompson noted regarding the Systemwide Support Services center at 190 9th Street that the property sale closed in November and was reflected in the expenditure columns of the budget report. The Bond Program Manager then reported on active projects beginning with Richmond . Ms. Thompson noted that the staff would present a 2nd cycle Prop. 14 (State Library Bond) grant application to the Commission for its review and recommendation of approval to the Board of Supervisors later in the agenda, which is due 3/28/03 . Ms. Thompson reported that the Library had presented the most recent plans to the community on February 13, where they were well received. Ms. Thompson noted that City planning staff had issued a CEQA determination for the project, finding it categorically exempt under Class 3 (new construction less than 10,000 sf) & Class 31 (reconstruction of historical resource in a manner consistent with Secretary of the Interior's Standards). Ms. Thompson reported that the proposal from artist Scott Donahue was selected February 14 at a public meeting of the Art Selection Panel and that it would go on to the Visual Arts Committee and the full Arts Commission for final approval. She noted that the artist's proposal is for two mound-like bronze maps to be installed on the exterior, 9th Avenue side. Concerning the Excelsior Branch Ms. Thompson reported that design work as continuing on schedule with the next steps after peer review determination. Concerning the Noe Valley Branch, Ms. Thompson reported that a library plan of service and building program were being developed for the architect's use and that a Spring design intensive will be held in the community, a mini-version of the Richmond workshop to investigate options available on this tight site with so many historic concerns. The Bond Program Manger reported that the Library had entered into contract negotiations with architect & historic preservationist Carey & Co. Marina - We are developing the plan of service & building program here as well. Ms. Thompson reported that a community meeting was held 1/21, to introduce the architect Tom Eliot Fisch in joint venture with Field Paoli and review the plan of library service. Concerning the Parkside Branch, the Bond program Manager reported that the Library had entered into negotiations with the architectural firm of Thomas Hacker Associates. She noted that in light of extensive community comments and a petition, staff planned to proceed with conceptual design only, and determine the extent of project that the current budget will allow in March or April. Concluding her report, Ms. Thompson highlighted several other issues, noting that RFQs for design services for the first 8 renovations & first 2 new projects had been issued and selections made. Ms. Thompson reported that an RFQ for interior design services program-wide was advertised and a selection had been made. Concerning the Quarterly Report for September thru December 2002, Ms. Thompson reported that it had been published, distributed, and was also available in the back of the auditorium. The Bond Program Manger reported that the Board of Supervisors had appointed a Citizens General Obligation Bond Oversight Committee that had asked the Library to present its methods for bond reporting to them on March 3. Ms. Thompson noted that no upcoming library sponsored community meetings were confirmed and that the Minutes from January's community meetings were available calling attention to Ingleside and Portola community meetings held 1/18 and a Marina community meeting held 1/21. The Bond Program Manager also called attention to available copies of the BLIP Advisory Committee minutes of 1/8. Ms. Thompson noted that the website had been up and running since October of 2001. She further reported it continued to post as much information as possible at www.sfpl.org , the branch improvement link from the home page. The Bond Program Manger reported that the fifth edition of the newsletter would be available soon. Public comment: An anonymous member of the public suggested that there was a $1 million overrun to the cost for site acquisition and suggested that the reports be made available in larger typeface. This person expressed a wish that more details noted in outline were reported. Mr. Peter Warfield complained that explanatory documents were not available prior to the meeting and that this was a disservice to the public as the report covered a large amount of material. Mr. Warfield expressed interest in hearing more concerning developments with the Mission Bay Branch and expressed puzzlement concerning why there were questions regarding elimination of planned office space in a project he had understood to be for senior affordable housing. Commission comment: President Higueras suggested that Ms. Thompson include bullet points in future slide presentations of her report. In response to questions by President Higueras, Ms. Thompson reported that bidding for the Excelsior Branch was still planned for the 2nd quarter of 2003 but noted that that could change. President Higueras suggested Ms. Thompson schedule an informational presentation concerning how ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements influenced library design for a future meeting. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AGENDA ITEM #4 RICHMOND BRANCH PROP. 14 APPLICATION City Librarian Susan Hildreth presented a detailed overview and discussion of the Plan of Service, Needs Assessment, and Building Plan included in a draft Prop. 14 State Library Bond application prepared for the Richmond Branch Library. Ms. Hildreth noted that a review copy binder of the full application containing the Application, the Needs Assessment, the Plan of Service, and the Building Program was located at the rear of the auditorium and a full copy of the Application and supporting documents would also be available for public review at the Library Commission Office. The City Librarian noted that the proposed plan would expand the size of the Richmond Branch by 4, 000 sq/ ft. providing space for a new teen center and program space as well as making the building fully accessible for disabled users including new accessible restrooms. Ms. Hildreth pointed out that should the proposed Prop. 14 (State Library Bond) application be successful, state bond funds would pay 65% of $8.4 million cost of the project. The City Librarian noted the cost breakdown as $5.1 million from Prop. 14 funds, $2.7 million from Prop A (1988), $261,000 for FF&E (furniture, fixtures, and equipment) not allowed to be funded with bond monies from the Friends & Foundation, and a $50,000 public art and relocation budget. Ms. Hildreth remarked that these figures fell within the budget scope for this project. The City Librarian recommended that the Commissioners approve the application and request that the Board of Supervisors approve the proposed Prop. 14 Application so that it could be submitted by the March 28th deadline for the 2nd cycle Prop. 14 grant applications. Ms. Thompson next presented an extensive overview (copy attached) of the proposed approved design for the Richmond Branch Library that resulted from extensive neighborhood input. Ms. Thompson called attention to each of the building's elevations and discussed aspects of the design changes in the Wintergarden and 2nd floor designs. Deputy City Librarian Paul Underwood then provided a detailed discussion of the Plan of Service and Building program reflecting the findings of the Community Needs Assessment. Mr. Underwood noted that the plan identified the Branch as a community focal point and leading civic institution, a community gathering place, greenspace, and a children's play area. The Deputy City Librarian called attention to the plans to expend children's and teen services, increase the branch collections including increases in the availability of more Chinese and Russian language materials, provide a display area for neighborhood history, expand access to technology, and create welcoming space for senior citizens. Public comment: An anonymous member of the public recalled promises of more space for books when the Main Library was built and questioned the exact size of the proposed increase in branch collections. This person commented that they expected any promise of increased collections to be true. This person further expressed reservations concerning the likely success of the Prop. 14 application and questioned the lack of availability of supporting documents. Mr. Peter Warfield expressed disappointment that he had been unable to review the Prop. 14 application documents prior to the Commission meeting. Mr. Warfield felt it was a disservice to the public that documents were not available to study prior to the Commission meeting. Mr. Warfield commented that those who spoke for books had been brushed aside and suggested that in his view there was significant support for making more books the top priority in the proposed branch renovation Commission discussion: Commissioner Coulter found the proposed design an elegant plan and expressed happiness that an expansion of the Branch's collections was being proposed. Commissioner Coulter noted that everyone, the Commissioners, staff, and members of the public were supporters of books, and that it was unfortunate that some chose to create and exploit false concerns about the Library's book collections and in order to demagogue on the issue. Commissioner Coulter expressed the Commission's support for and appreciation of the dedicated hard work staff had made in developing this plan. In response to a query by Vice President Steiman, Mr. Underwood noted that the branch staff was very pleased with the revised plan that incorporated many of their suggestions and had so informed the community. The City Librarian then reviewed for the Commissioner how highly competitive she believed the proposed plan for the Richmond Branch Library would be noting that it would be the 1st Prop. 14 funded renovation of a "Carnegie" library. Additionally, Ms. Hildreth noted that also favoring the application was that the plans called for expansion with space available for more future expansion and that the branch was located in a neighborhood of very great ethnic diversity both important criteria in the Prop. 14 regulations. Commissioner Chin responded to those citing their interpretations of surveys by noting that there were many other voices that were not heard in surveys. President Higueras pointed out that in every branch there would be a struggle to balance competing needs and that the Commission trusted the professional skills of library staff to reconcile these needs. President Higueras suggested that expanded access to computers was the reality for modern libraries and that the bias in making decisions regarding collections should be to serve community needs. Motion: Commissioner Chin, seconded by Commissioner Streets that the resolution requesting Board of Supervisors approval of the proposed Prop. 14 (State Library Bond) application for the Richmond Branch Library be approved. Action: AYE 6-0 (Chin, Coulter, Higueras, Steiman, Streets, and Strobin) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AGENDA ITEM #5 CAPITAL CAMPAIGN FOR BRANCH LIBRARIES Mr. Glen Ramsky, Friends & Foundation Board Member introduced the Friends & Foundation of the San Francisco Public Library's proposed Capital Campaign for the Branch Libraries. He noted that after extensive discussion and detailed planning the plan as approved by the Friends & Foundation Board was being presented to the Commission seeking its advice, guidance, support and participation. Friends & Foundation Executive Director Martin Gomez then introduced Kathy Bella to present in greater detail (copy attached) a proposed 5 year strategy for the proposed Capital Campaign to raise $16 million for FF&E (furniture, fixtures, & equipment) for the renovated and newly constructed branch libraries. Mr. Gomez then outlined the likely campaign expenditures and well as the campaign's structure. The FFamp;E Executive Director reported that this would be a grassroots campaign in each of the 24 neighborhoods and discussed the Campaign's proposed schedule and goals. Mr. Gomez noted that a Campaign Cabinet and Honorary Committee was currently being recruited and sought suggestions for potential members from the Commissioners. Mr. Gomez then outlined the "neighborhood flag" proposal conceived by Commissioner Coulter and planned to develop concurrently with the campaign. The Friends & Foundation Executive Director concluded his presentation with a summary of plans for ongoing monitoring of progress of the Campaign and campaign policies. Public comment: Mr. Ed Regan suggested that branch libraries have tables so that one could stand and read as well as high backed comfortable chairs. Mr. Peter Warfield raised questions regarding the administrative overhead costs charges to the campaign and questioned when the library would receive funds raised during the campaign and what public accounting would be made of them. Commission discussion: Commissioner Coulter lauded the campaign's good start and urged that the Friends & Foundation not let the current recession deter their efforts noting that $35 million was raised to equip the Main Library during the last recession. Commissioner Coulter pointed out that conducting widespread grassroots campaigns were by their nature more administratively costly but that such efforts to involve the community were important. President Higueras noted that development of a clear process for how funds for FF&E would be allocated would be important and urged the Friends & Foundation to work closely with library staff to insure a smooth process. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AGENDA ITEM #6 PUBLIC COMMENT Ms. Debra Nieman, Friends of Noe Valley, commended library staff for being very cooperative in involving the neighborhood in planning for her branch and suggested that the Library consider the Recreation & Park Department's model for gathering public input into its long range planning. An anonymous member of the public noted the extensive use of PowerPoint presentations and further discussed Commissioner Coulter's comments concerning this person's public comment on the Fuhrman Trust. Mr. Ed Regan suggested that Library public service hours be expanded from 6AM until Midnight 7 days per week 365 days each year and suggested that the lower floors of all the new branches be strengthened so as to allow a second floor to be added. Mr. Peter Warfield seconded the previous request for tables that allowed one to read while standing as well as free standing bookcases. Mr. Warfield thanked the Commissioner who had asked who would be responsible for choosing the furnishing in branches. Mr. John Burket lauded the commitment and very hard work of City Librarian Susan Hildreth and Deputy City Librarian Paul Underwood to prepare plans for the branch library renovations. Mr. Burket also commended Richmond Branch Manger Tim Williams and his staff for working with neighbors to achieve a plan pleasing to all. Commissioner Chin left the meeting at 7:45PM -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AGENDA ITEM #7 ADJOURNMENT Motion: Commissioner Coulter, seconded by Commissioner Steiman that the meeting be adjourned. Action: AYE-5-0 (Coulter, Higueras, Steiman, Streets, and Strobin) The meeting was adjourned at 7:53PM . Michael Housh, Commission Secretary 3/21/03 Please note: These are draft Minutes subject to change by the Library Commission. Copies of Commission Minutes and handouts are available in the Office of the Commission Secretary, 100 Larkin Street , San Francisco , CA 94102 The number of members of the public who spoke anonymously at this meeting: 1 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Appendix A Library Commission meeting of January 7, 2003 The Public Comment Summary Statements included in these Minutes are authorized by San Francisco Administrative Code Section 67.16.. These summary statements are provided by the speaker. Their contents are neither generated by, nor subject to approval or verification of accuracy by, the San Francisco Public Library Commission. The number of members of the public who spoke anonymously at this meeting: 1 Public comment available for viewing in PDF format


text: What Smart Investors Know Smart investors take the time to separate emotion from fact. Share | Have A Question About This Topic? Name Email Address Question Thank you! Oops! Related Contents Where Is the Market Headed? We all know the stock market can be unpredictable. We all want to know, "What's next for the financial markets?" A Primer on Dividends A company's profits can be reinvested or paid out to the company's shareholders as "dividends." Keys to Investing for Retirement There are some key concepts to understand when investing for retirement.


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by Mark Jagord, sports information assistant
MILLEDGEVILLE, Ga. – The Georgia College softball team (26-10, 5-5 PBC) and Flagler College (19-23, 7-7) both ended the day with .500 Peach Belt Conference (PBC) records by virtue of a Bobcat sweep Sunday at the Peeler Complex. Freshman Carly Lewis (Seymour, Tenn.)(12-6) tossed 10 2/3 innings of shutout ball on the day, as Georgia College won 8-0 and 14-7.
Lewis went the distance in the first game and allowed just one hit with five strikeouts in five innings as the Bobcats evoked the eight-run rule after five. She then entered the second game down 7-0 and helped propel a 14-run unanswered comeback, allowing just five hits with three strikeouts in just under six innings of work. Combined through two games, the freshman gave up six hits and struck out eight.
In the first game, the Bobcats got a five-run second inning and then added three runs in the fifth for the win with eight different players scoring. Three players had two RBI apiece, while two others had two hits each.
The leading hitters for Georgia College in the first game with a pair each were senior Whitney Okvist (Kennesaw, Ga.) and freshman Faith Flanders (Dublin, Ga.), while adding two RBI each were sophomore Kristen Brooks (Brunswick, Ga.), sophomore Taylor Campbell (Warner Robins, Ga.) and junior Kristen Humphries (Columbus, Ga.), with the latter two homering in the first game.
In the second game, two different Bobcat pitchers gave up a combined seven runs off seven hits before Lewis took control of the game. The team immediately responded with an eight-run second inning to take an 8-7 lead. The Bobcats had three more two-run innings to reach 14.
Six players had a pair of hits each, while Okvist led the pack with three hits in the second game. Having a pair of hits were freshman Danielle Bernstein (Cumming, Ga.), freshman Savannah Chapman (Cumming, Ga.), sophomore Lacey Najafi (Suwanee, Ga.), Humphries, Campbell and Brooks, with the latter adding a home run.
Sophomore Abi LeRoy (Dublin, Ga.) and Campbell led the way in RBI with three each, while Bernstein and Brooks scored three runs apiece. Brooks also had the only stolen base on the day.
Georgia College will resume PBC play with a doubleheader tomorrow, March 31 against No. 3 Armstrong Atlantic State University starting at 3 p.m. at the Peeler Complex.
The Georgia College Department of Athletics, two-time winners of the PBC Commissioner's Cup, sponsors 11 varsity athletic programs at the NCAA Division II level. As a Division II program, Bobcat Athletics prides itself on balancing the life of the student-athlete, evidenced by the teams' multiple appearances in post-season competition as well as documented academic success and community-service involvement. Sign up at @GCBobcats on Twitter and Facebook for up-to-the-minute reports, and visit GCBobcats.PhotoReflect.com to purchase photo prints from home athletic contests.


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I need a new kind of love spell, please, asap!!!
Posted 14 October 2002 - 06:45 PM
We both were wondering if there is a positive love spell out there that could make our love stronger, unbreakable. Something to that degree anyways. I do have the candles, just need to know what to do, etc.
Posted 14 October 2002 - 07:06 PM
Posted 14 October 2002 - 07:22 PM
Why don't you start to weave the cord to be used in your handfast(are you tying the knot)?
Hint-Start small and expand(like your love for eachother)
Posted 14 October 2002 - 08:23 PM
He totally understands my love of ghost hunting, and he is going to take me to many of the haunted cemetaries!
But that will be after we check out much of the Blues bars first, LOL!!!
All of this is occurring sometime next year. We have some issues with other things to iron out first however.
I am sooooooo glad I finally found the one I love-he is my heart, my life and my soul...why the other day, after a big :-*, I said, "You had my heart, now take my soul" and he said I am his soul!!! AWWWW!! This guy is so incredible!!
Anyone wanna see what he looks like?? I'll post his picture! (even tho there is a huuuuuuge difference in age, it does not matter to me at all, and it does not bother him...I'm 34, and he's 51) I feel so incredibly lucky!!!
Posted 16 October 2002 - 05:05 PM
One thing about Neworlins... if you are going ghost hunting there, don't go during Mardi Gras. It seems that they downplay the ghost thing during that time of year...
The ghost tours were closed and some of the sites were too. However I did get a Horse and Carriage driver to take me to Marie Leveau's tomb. (she was the voodoo gueen on New Orleans) It was Too Kool.
When we arrived at the cemetary, I said to the driver, "aren't you coming in with us?" His eyes go real BIG and he said "I aint goin in there, I don''t knows nobody in there"(grin)
Posted 17 October 2002 - 06:56 AM
Posted 18 October 2002 - 07:59 AM
The chances of finding true love in a lifetime are in my estimation one and sometimes mabey two times in a persons life. There is no mistaking it when it comes but there are also variables in its fruition.
The person feeling the same way you feel is not a given. It doesnt always happen that way. Time has a way of revealing the truth and its the only true test.
You choose who you love ( and I say choose very carefully ) and the process of demonstrating love is being loyal to that person and putting that person first in all things. This is an unselfish act that few people are truly capable of performing.
Selfishness and foolish pride are the destroyers of love and all it represents.
Being unselfish is a work that is constantly in progress. It takes vigilance and perserverence and tons of paticence.
This is my take after 38 years anyway. :
Posted 18 October 2002 - 09:41 AM
You are much better than Oprah... :-* Well said. Oh, to be the lucky one who finds true love. I wish everyone could be as happy; especially when you find your true mate.
Posted 18 October 2002 - 10:56 AM
This is all I am asking for is something to make our bond stronger. He really truly is my "missing half", my soulmate. I feel it so strong when he is around me, and when we're apart.
Posted 19 October 2002 - 05:39 PM
Posted 23 October 2002 - 05:56 AM
I am officially engaged today, to my true soulmate...he has been right under my nose the whole time! I love this man with every fiber of my being, and he feels the same about me.
We both were wondering if there is a positive love spell out there that could make our love stronger, unbreakable. Something to that degree anyways. I do have the candles, just need to know what to do, etc.
Perfer et obdura; dolor hic tibi proderit olim. --Ovid--
Posted 23 October 2002 - 01:01 PM
If it isn't broke don't fix it right?
Posted 23 October 2002 - 02:36 PM
I am new to all this wicca stuff and i was reading back thru all the info on here ( and theres lots of stuff to get thru : ) but I am confused. Someone is asking for a luv spell but in one of the other posts back somewhere on this board somebody posted that to do a lluv spell was evil because it made someone go against their natural will ??? so is it okay to do evil if you are wiccan? I dont understand and I feel like a big dummy
Posted 23 October 2002 - 03:38 PM
SpiritChaser, it seems as if you already have what you have been looking for, so enjoy. If anything will bring you closer together it will be the quality of the time you two spend with each other.
Posted 25 October 2002 - 04:53 AM
LOL Pan ;D
If it isn't broke don't fix it right?
Perfer et obdura; dolor hic tibi proderit olim. --Ovid--
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The main reason that WP is the most popular blogging platform today is because it is dead-simple to use. While an importer for WP has been marked as "Done" for version 2, what steps are the devs taking to ensure that the UX of eCMS is at the same level or better as that of WP. keep in mind that I am looking at this from the perspective of a non-techy.
I'm new to Elefant cms/framework, but from my perspective, I see wordpress more like a PRODUCT and Elefant more like a TOOL to make your own product that fits your real needs. But that's my perspective and I'm new to elefant
Elefant and Wordpress are visually very different, but arguably just as easy to use. Elefant isn't a blogging platform with a CMS tacked on though, instead we try to provide the best UX for all user types, including developers, designers, and systems administrators (automating backups and upgrades, for example).
If you compare frameworks, while WP is simple enough it is also messy and bloated in a way that can't be cleaned up (not without breaking thousands of apps). So for developers, it provides a sub-standard experience. If you compare templates/themes, you'll see Elefant is much cleaner and simpler to built themes for as a designer. The only advantage WP has here is familiarity for those designers that already know it, but to a new designer Elefant ought to be easier in that regard as well.
However, it wasn't really until Elefant 2 that we've focused on the end user as much. It started as more of a framework and became a full-fledged CMS afterwards, so much of the information and marketing on the website needs to be rewritten (I'm working on it) to showcase the CMS and demonstrate how it works for end users. That's probably the biggest hurdle for new users at the moment, and something that will improve in time for the Elefant 2 launch.
And if there are areas of the UX that you think can be made better or are causing confusion, I'd love to know what they are so we can improve that :)
My suggestion wasn't from the perspective of coders, but that of the end-user. Joe and Jane user of WP wouldn't know what to do with a CSS or PHP file, but they can install it and start blogging in a few minutes.
But I understand that Elefant is still in the early stages. My suggestion is just a reminder, so we can start thinking about how to make Elefant attractive to more people.
The last bit of my comment was meant to be about end users, which are now a big priority for Elefant in my thinking :) The biggest issue is information (documentation, marketing message, etc) geared towards non-techies, which right now is almost nonexistent but will change soon.
Another aspect of end user experience is the limited availability of themes. I'm no proper designer, so the themes I've made so far are hardly going to woo someone over from WP's millions of themes, but that's another area I'd love to see improve. Hopefully the new homepage and Elefant 2 launch will attract a few designers to the community and our theme options can expand so new users can simply install a custom theme, maybe an app or two (all from the GUI), then spend their time producing content and not worrying about markup or code.
Hello. Talking about Themes, I've created new theme based in bootstrap. I've included some new features to the bootstraper theme..I've added a responsive menu to it and some others default javascripts (googlecodepretiffy, modal, tabs, alert, etc)..and the possibility to add custom styles in custom-styles.css, leaving the core of bootstrap untouched/pure so designers can easily upgrade to new versions of bootstrapp.
My question is how Can I share it to the community? Thank you
Ah yes, it looks like the docs on sharing themes are woefully out of date...
If you think the changes you've made should be included in the existing bootstrap theme, then the best way would probably be to fork its project on Github, make your changes to your fork and commit them, then create a pull request which is Git terminology for "take my changes and merge them into the main codebase" :)
If you think it's best as a new theme, then creating a Github project for it would be your best bet, then share that here and I can add it to the themes page (eventually, I want to build a self-publish option for apps and themes). You can base it on the files in an existing theme's repository for examples of the elefant.json and composer.json config files.
If you're new to Git, then Github's apps for Mac and Windows may help ease the learning curve :)
I think that in my country is very growing demand for websites simple and light but with some special management (often growing).
For my modest experience Elefant is the best I've tried but I am convinced that, would receive a strong boost if it had a builder like this: http://codecanyon.net/item/codeigniter-admin-pro/4693643
Could it be that there is already and I have not yet discovered.
We don't have anything quite like that yet, although we do have some tools that can help you generate the CRUD interface for an app from the command line, like this:
./elefant crud-app Article id title byline summary body
This creates an app in
apps/articles that you can customize as needed. You can edit the generated database schema then import it via:
./elefant import-db apps/articles/conf/install_sqlite.sql
With those two commands, you'll get a working CRUD app under Tools > Articles, although you'll have to customize it from there by editing the generated files.
I think there is a growing demand for simple but beautiful websites in general. I also think the developer/designer roll has shifted to more of a consultant than so much a tried and true developer of the past. People can build their own sites in weebly or WordPress now for nothing. Elefant is giving designers/developers the ability to build a fresh new system from the ground up that doesn't have all the clutter of WordPress. i don't completely agree with WP being so "user" friendly for clients. I still have many clients that won't update their sites because they don't understand WP. Back in the days of pre 2.5 WP was very user friendly but since 2.9 and up it is just getting more and more cluttered.
Simple but beautiful websites is what we all want, but blogging is what we all do. We no longer write letters to our family and friends, but send emails, chat on social networks and blog. And no platform makes it simpler to blog than WP.
To say that you have "clients that won't update their sites because they don't understand WP" is bothering on FUD. I don't even have to think about updating any aspect of WP, whether it be WP itself, a plugin or theme. It's all point-and-click.
From purely an end-user, non-geek perspective, managing WP couldn't be simpler. It's that kind of point-and-click user-friendliness that I'm hoping we achieve here.
Now, from the developer/designer perspective, WP is another story. So if you can give that group a sane and sensible framework that's resource-friendly, while making it very user-friendly to non-geeks, I think you've got a winner.
I'm thinking about migrating http://linuxbsdos.com over, but I'm not that good at coding. I can mess with a few lines here and there, but writing my own code from scratch is not a skill I have.
If there are ready-made apps to replace the WP plugins I'm using now, the HTML/CSS stuff I can take care of.
So let's keep things straight and honest. The core of ElefantCMS is better than that of WP, but for the vast majority of WP users, ElefantCMS is still a work in progress.
I demo WP from time to time, I really like the design of the admin back-end. At present, I think Elefant--as a minimalist DIY framework/CMS--has a slightly different target audience than WordPress.
IMO the admin is currently Elefant's weakest spot; rather than the top admin menu bar I'd much prefer a persistent full-page interface. Some sort of visual distinction between core/installed apps would be helpful. A drag & drop page tree that always lists all site contents--whether hidden/public and including any app-generated pages (wiki, Lemur, etc.) would be fabulous...see ProcessWire for an excellent example of a comprehensive, yet simple, admin.
@Winstontaneous, completely agree with you, but I don't think the devs here are specifically targeting a specific group. At least I hope that's not their goal.
Imagine if Jobs at targeted geeky types with the iDevices.
So yes, a persistent full-page admin interface will make a big difference.
Great conversation here guys :)
I'm not sure I agree that a full-page admin interface as the main admin interface is the way to go, or is necessarily any easier to use. In my experience training non-techies in the past, the more similar to their actual website things can be, the easier the time they have with it.
Everyone knows how to browse a website, especially their own website, so that's usually the most logical way to have them find a page. From there (in Elefant's case), we place an edit button next to whatever content is editable. For other pages, there's also the Tools > All Pages screen.
A persistent tree view also has the problem of not mapping one-to-one with your actual site, since some pages may be disabled or not included in the navigation structure, which is why we went with the two column approach in Tools > Navigation.
I do think the Elefant toolbar is too simplistic long-term, but I think we can come up with improvements to make it more of a configurable mini-dashboard and keep the website view underneath instead of moving to a full-page admin interface. There was some discussion around that a while back on here, but I don't seem to be able to find it at the moment...
Anyway, I'm glad we're throwing ideas around about this. It's important to consider, and Elefant 2 will be out soon, then our focus will then be switching to what Elefant 3 will look like :)
I really like the current admin interface of Elefant and will never give up the edit button next to the contents to be modified. They are very appreciated by my users. The only thing I miss a little, is a tool to create forms and grid directly from the admin menu. An application like form-builder but oriented to DB. I still know little about Elefant and every discovery is a pleasant surprise. I take this opportunity to thank all the contributors.
From my experience with customers, the edit Buttons next to the editable item are much more intuitive then a fullscreen admin Panel a la WordPress. Especially, if you have more than just one big body textfield.
I personally like the clean and minimalistic style of the admin Interface, but it's sometimes lacking the little elegance, that makes the difference between 'less is more' (in a Mies van der Rohe sense) and 'plain simple'. (I hope nobody is taking offence, because it's not ment in an offensive way). That's why I think it's best to stay with this paradigm of minimalism and finetune the edges away. (Like e.g. Return to the page you came from when you hit the 'Website' link in the admin bar and not the Homepage, or have a preview button, that hides all the edit Buttons, so you can see what the page looks like without logging out)
I'm really a bit sad that I don't have the time to be involved as much as i used to (Kids change everything ;-) But i'm happy to see that the community flourishes, the way it does.
And by the way: I do also believe that a set of stylish kickass themes would attract a lot of poeple. Elefant already has a lot to offer, and many poeple would stick to it, once they see how flexible it is and how easy to use.
Those are great suggestions betaman!
The preview that exists now is only for web pages, but it would be good to add support for blog posts and other content types, and maybe a toggle that turns the edit buttons off and on for the current page.
I'll have to get creative about how to track the current page everywhere except in the admin layout, and use that to dynamically set the website link so it returns to the right page. Hmm... :)
What about using a cookie to store the last 'non-admin' page?
Had to modify the admin layout slightly, but a cookie and a couple lines of code seems to do the trick:
That's cool :-) Its a small feature that nobody will ever precieve, because it feels so natural :-)
I also did some small stuff on the adminbar :-) I'll make a pull request..
Cheers betaman


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Silver Outranks Gold
Silver Outranks Gold
At the start of the American Revolution, officers in the Continental Army wore no rank insignia; it soon became apparent that some means of identifying the officers was required. As an expedient, field officers were ordered to wear red cockades on their hats, captains wore yellow or buff and lieutenants were provided with cockades of green.
In 1782 Washington implemented a system where epaulettes would be worn by officers as indicators of rank: major generals wore epaulettes with two stars on each shoulder, brigadier generals epaulettes with one star on each shoulder, field graders a plain gold epaulette on each shoulder, captains wore a single epaulette on the right shoulder, and subalterns wore one on the left.
In 1821 this practice was abolished in favor of using chevrons to denote rank. Chevrons for officer rank did not last long (except at West Point, where they're still used today to designate cadet officer rank), and in 1832 epaulettes came back. (This was also when the spread eagle was adopted as the insignia for full colonels.) Infantry officers wore silver epaulettes; all others wore gold. For example, an infantry colonel wore a gold eagle on his silver epaulette, and all other colonels wore silver eagles on gold.
In 1836 the shoulder strap replaced the epaulette on field uniforms. It had a border of silver or gold depending on the color of the epaulette it replaced. The leaf and bars appeared at this time, but the colors were not fixedofficers wore gold insignia on silver-bordered shoulder straps and vice versa. In 1851 all epaulettes and shoulder strap borders became gold and the insignia on the epaulettes were silver. Majors and second lieutenants wore no rank insigniathey were distinguished only by the type of fringe on their epaulettes. Rank insignia on shoulder straps were silver for all officers down to and including lieutenant colonels; captains and first lieutenants wore gold insignia.
When epaulettes were abolished in 1872 and replaced with shoulder knots which had no fringe, it was necessary to devise some insignia to distinguish the majors from second lieutenants. So the gold leaf was adopted to denote majors, and that's why lieutenant colonels wear silver leaves and majors gold. At the same time the color of the bars for junior officers was changed to silver. The second lieutenant still wore no insignia, and was only distinguished by the shoulder strap or knot.
Finally, in 1917 the second lieutenant got some "respect" and the Army decided to adopt a new insignia for him. The plan called for the least disruption to other rank insignia, so it was decided to follow the color precedent established in devising major's insignia and adopt the gold bar for the second lieutenant.


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Hey T-Shirt fanatics, welcome to my 2010 Holiday Gift Guide series! I feature some of my favorite T-shirt related items and even some things beyond T-shirts that I simply just love and would like to recommend to all of you. If there's something that you think would fit in this list then please feel free to link to it in the comments! Enjoy and please feel free to share on Twitter using the Hashtag #GiftGuide.
I'm not a big book person, but there are times when I love to just sit back, relax and enjoy a good ol' book. More recently, I've been spending more time reading books using my trusty iPad. Needless to say, if you've got a friend or family member that you know loves to read, then infuse some of your T-Shirt passion into their love for books by picking them up one of these amazing gifts.
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6. Threadless released a couple of Comics-on Tees T-Shirts. I believe there are three diferent issues that you can grab, with more expected in the future. Threadless Comics-on Tees Series [click T-Shirt below to go to product page], Prices: $10-15.
7. Tees is one of my favorite T-Shirt related books. It's got an excellent collection of T-Shirts and brand profiles. It's a must read for any T-Shirt fan. Still not convinced? Read my review here. Tees Special edition: The Art of the T-Shirt by MAKI Design, Price: $36.00.
You might also want to consider:
I can't get enough of my iPad. It's always in my backpack. I bring to work. It's the perfect lunchtime companion. It's the best couch device ever. And for bookworms, not only will they have access to books in Apple iBookstore, but they will have access to every book available in the Kindle Bookstore. You've got the best of both worlds with the Apple iPad. I'm currently reading The Zombie Survival Guide: Complete Protection from the Living Dead and loving it (I must add that this is the perfect book for the zombie enthusiast). I use the 64 GB Wifi edition and I absolutely adore it. Apple iPad (64GB, Wifi), Price: Starting at $542 on Amazon.