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For Kay Sargent and her global competitors, the flurry of new Vancouver office tower developments can only mean one thing — more business.
"We see Vancouver as having a tremendous amount of potential and growth opportunities especially with some of the new construction that's going on and maybe a little bit of the loosening up of the economy going forward," said Sargent, vice-president of architecture, design and workplace strategies for Teknion.
The international office systems firm is strengthening relationships with its Vancouver dealers and has already hired additional representatives for this market. "We noticed that Vancouver has a tremendous amount of opportunity and we want to position ourselves. We're probably doubling up our efforts in this market," Sargent said.
"We are seeing a 20 per cent increase in sales year over year since 2009 and anticipate the same growth this year and potentially higher numbers depending on consumer confidence and corporate spending," Sargent said.
Vancouver is largely a boutique market with most offices at just 3,000 to 5,000 square feet, but 1.5 million square feet of new office space is coming on line over the next two years as a result for four large new developments.
"In our industry, to have that much real estate coming on board at one time is outstanding. It's been a long time," said Joe Pettipas, senior vice-president with design firm HOK, who is expecting to increase his 14 Vancouver staff by as much as 25 per cent over the next two years.
Business will come not only from new construction but from property owners modifying and updating vacated buildings, Pettipas said. Downtown Vancouver has just over 20 million square feet of office space of which only four per cent is available, said Chuck We, Oxford Properties Group leasing director. The very limited availability has meant many large tenants have been unable to upgrade since the late 2000s and 90 per cent of downtown office space is more than 20 years old, We said. The last purpose-built office tower was Bentall 5 in 2007 and it is not LEED certified. The four new developments are all targeting LEED certification.
"This is the most construction we've seen since the early 1990s and designers are now able to take this opportunity to be more creative in these office spaces," We said. "Where five years ago, you were dealing with a company that was out of space and its main priority was finding more space for people, now you're seeing companies actually taking the time and effort to create a workspace that's going to differentiate them and attract and retain talent."
The interest in Vancouver is also driven by the "spotty" U.S. market, the Olympics, and the increasing need in Canada for businesses to be national, Pettipas said. Sargent said the equalling of the dollar is attracting U.S. manufacturers. And of course, Canada didn't get hit as hard as the U.S. in the recent recession.
One indication of the upcoming growth is that this year, Haworth, Steelcase, Knoll and Teknion have taken a combined 2,000 square feet in a prime location at the BUILDEX trade show at the Vancouver Convention Centre West, Wednesday and Thursday. "The big five office furniture manufacturers really haven't been (at BUILDEX) in more than a decade with any significant presence because the market hasn't dictated that they need to be here," said Paul Maryschak, BUILDEX show director. "A big part of it is the office building coming on line throughout B.C. including Surrey, the Valley, the interior because it's not just the private owners that are building, but the government too."
Furniture manufacturers and interior designers are expecting clients to spend somewhere between $35 and $125 per square foot on design, construction and furniture.
Most organizations are moving away from segregated private offices to creating community spaces that allow for serendipitous meetings and chance encounters, Pettipas said.
Even law firms are shrinking private offices by half to 120 to 150 square feet as need for individual space and physical storage decreases, Pettipas said, but the purpose is not to reduce the footprint, so much as to use space differently. "The impact of the cost of the space is now being rationalized against the benefit to the corporation," said Pettipas who placed the average interior spend at $125 per square foot reaching up to $200 per square foot.
New ideas include turning internal stairwells from a transportation medium into an area companies can use for collaborative spaces or "collision zones" where people can have random meetings and develop ideas and concepts, We said.
"I think we're at the rise of the human factor. We're just at the point where people are starting to realize maybe open plan is not right for everyone," Sargent said.
Heather Graham, a business development manager for global furniture manufacturer Haworth said: "We've heard rumours about up to 22 towers that are happening somewhere in Vancouver proper whether in development permit or approved and being completed by 2015." Haworth hasn't had a booth at BUILDEX in recent memory, Graham said, but is exhibiting this year because of opportunities in Vancouver.
BUILDEX has more than 425 exhibits and is expecting 13,000 trade attendees. The size of booths overall has increased as economic fears from the past couple of years is subsiding, Maryschak said.


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About TerpsFreak
Sorry, but there's not many bands out there capable of producing an entire album of material that I'm willing to listen to - much less pay for. Most albums are full of bloat and filler since the days when the labels used to actually invest in musicians - it was called artist development and today, that totally doesn't exist.
Anyone who would compare Apple to MS in the light of this article clearly has an MS agenda.
Fact: MS has a customer satisfaction rate of ~26% (their internal numbers)
Fact: Apple's customer satisfaction number consistently hover above 60%
Fact: When my 17" PowerBook G4, which I purchased in Feb, 2003, went down last month, Apple replaced the $1000 motherboard for $300 (AppleCare had run out long ago)
Fact: MS tried to charge my wife $300 for a new copy of XP when she lost her restore disks in a move even though she had proof of purchase (she loves the iBook I bought her after I chucked her Dell in the trash)
Fact: Initial 2007 holiday shopping reports show Apple products dominating consumer electronics purchases
This is a great company that makes great products. One of the reasons their products stand out has been Apple's ability to release new products without copycat competitors being able to discern what's coming around the bend and beating them to the punch with watered down rip-offs.
Some of Think Secret's reports threatened Apple's advantage in this regard and since Apple couldn't track down the source internally, they gave Think Secret a nice wad of cash to walk away ("amicable" = i got enough cash that I feel good about this deal). Win/Win.
Let's continue on with the #1 parenting method in the US which is increasingly disenfranchising our children and destroying the future of the planet.
How much do we pay those vapid fools in congress to run our country? How could anyone think it's ok to pass laws which further celebrate the ills of society? I don't know, but the odds aren't bad that the "butt wadd" in Nebraska who shot a bunch of people had parents who allowed the media to babysit him instead of actually paying attention to him.
if (vapid congress = less civil freedom) and (lazy parents = less civil freedom) and (evangelical right wing nuts = less civil freedom)
then (vapid congress + lazy parents + evangelical right wing nuts) = (group sent to colonize Uranus)
How can a company which averages a 26% Customer satisfaction rating (MS' internal numbers) stay in business?

subset: commoncrawl


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COOKEVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee Tech men's basketball team spent time with a second elementary school last Friday, sharing lunch time and reading stories to the kindergarten classes of Parkview Elementary School in Cookeville.
Two weeks ago, the Golden Eagles spent time at Capshaw Elementary, telling stories about the beginning of their basketball careers and handing out prizes to students. The trip to Parkview was structured a little differently.
The guys began the day by sharing the lunch hour with the students. Activities ranged from freshman guard DeOndre Haynes singing the ABC's with the children to seeing who could give 7-foot freshman center Eric Weisenbach (pictured above) a high-five while he was standing up.
"I honestly really enjoyed it," said Haynes. "I love being around kids. Something I've always tried to do since I was younger was to try and lead by example so younger kids could learn. Being able to go out there and help the kids and seeing them laugh was great."
Following lunch, the players were divided into groups and visited different classrooms for story time. The Tech players then entertained the children with impressive story-telling skills that kept the kids involved and captivated. Several children were eager to participate by answering questions and pointing out aspects of the pictures.
"It was a good experience," said freshman guard Ammanuel Diressa. "I haven't had many opportunities to do that kind of work. It felt good. I was pretty shy and nervous, but it was fun. The kids were great and really happy we were there. They were joyful when talking to us and were asking us all kinds of questions. It was a great thing to be a part of."
Like several other TTU programs, this is just the beginning for head coach Steve Payne's team as they plan to do a community or campus-wide volunteer event every week they are able. Payne emphasized exactly how important giving back to the community is for the Golden Eagles.
"We've always tried to be a part of our community," Payne said. "One thing we tell the kids we're recruiting is if all they do here, when they come to Tech, is play basketball, we've failed them and they've failed us. We have the kind of men that enjoy doing those things and its good to give back and provide the young people with someone to look up to."


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text: Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums :: View topic - Do you like sing??? Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums"The Internet's Meeting Place for ESL/EFL Students and Teachers from Around the World!" FAQ Search Memberlist Usergroups Register Profile Log in to check your private messages Log in Do you like sing??? Goto page 1, 2 Next Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums Forum Index -> Music View previous topic :: View next topic Author Message iswritingJoined: 11 Apr 2006Posts: 491Location: Japan Posted: Fri Jan 26, 2007 8:43 pm Post subject: Do you like sing??? I like sing a song very much So,I often go "Karaoke" with my friend I often sing "Namie amuro's song." She is my favorite singer Of course!! I sing another artist's song Do you like sing??? What song do you sing??? Please tell me Back to top sselinJoined: 06 Feb 2007Posts: 6 Posted: Sun Mar 04, 2007 9:33 am Post subject: i like sing but my voice too bad i wanna better voice Back to top SineliadJoined: 04 Feb 2007Posts: 6Location: Costa Rica Posted: Sun Mar 04, 2007 10:03 am Post subject: Hello hi!! iswriting I love to sing a lot of. I always sing. In my home I have a small "Karaoke", and I belive that my neighbors are to get tired of lisent to me singing; but I continue singing , is one of my hobbies. I usually sing Spanish songs and sometimes songs in English._________________ Back to top donkiyJoined: 31 May 2007Posts: 5Location: mie. japan Posted: Mon Jun 11, 2007 6:47 pm Post subject: Southern Cross I like the music southern cross. What music do you like? Back to top tomoheeiJoined: 11 Jun 2007Posts: 3Location: mie, yokkaichi Posted: Thu Jun 14, 2007 5:10 pm Post subject: me too (-v-) !!! I like to sing a song . I like "karaoke" I often sing "YUI 's song" and "BUMP OF CHICKEN 's song" I love "BUMP OF CHICKEN" !!! Do you know " BUMP OF CHICKEN " ?? Back to top ItoeJoined: 10 Nov 2008Posts: 12 Posted: Mon Nov 24, 2008 4:13 pm Post subject: Hello! Hello, nice to meet you. My name is Itoe and I am from Okinawa, Japan. I like sing a song, too! I often sing in my car or in my house's bathroom. So, I go to KARAOKE not much. my favorite singers are YUKI, CHITOSE HAJIME, AYAKA, AI *beep*, COCCO, AYAKA HIRAHARA and so on. I usually sing there songs. One of my friend likes to go to KARAOKE and she likes NAMIE AMURO's songs, too. Same as you. When she gose to KARAOKE, she sings AMURO's songs a lot. I think singing make we happy. At least singing make me happy in my case. Pleas enjoy singing a lot from now on! Back to top ystk1115Joined: 10 Nov 2008Posts: 4 Posted: Mon Dec 01, 2008 10:35 pm Post subject: Do you like a sing?? Hi Im a student of University in Japan. I like Karaoke!! But I can't sing without alcohol, because I'm a shy person so get drunk helps me to sing!! So I often go to Karaoke after Izakaya, when I go to there I already got drunk!! And I like J-Reggae!! Fire-ball, Syounan-no-kaze, and so on. I think J-Reggae heaps the mood, and very fun!!! When I go to Karaoke with many friends its very fun!! I often sing J-pop too, I like Mr. Children, Monkey Magic, Greeeen, and so on. Anyway, I think Karaoke is a good Japanese culture, so I want Karaoke to spread all over the world. Back to top F9750027Joined: 11 May 2009Posts: 8 Posted: Thu May 14, 2009 6:38 am Post subject: Yes! I like sing very much! I always go to KTV with my friends! Back to top coolstufferikJoined: 27 Apr 2009Posts: 12 Posted: Tue May 19, 2009 11:31 pm Post subject: Free Printable Music I am not so good at singing but I like to play instruments whenever I get some time. Back to top F9750008Joined: 17 May 2009Posts: 8Location: Taiwan Posted: Wed May 20, 2009 6:05 am Post subject: I like singing very much. When I stay home, I usually sing a song. I usually watch some channel about singing competition. I also like watching some channel about music and I can study some new songs from it. No matter style of songs all my favorite. I can chose appropriate style of songs according to my mood. Now, I am a member of chorus in this semester. So, I really like singing songs. Back to top Jenniferdu521Joined: 29 Mar 2009Posts: 72 Posted: Thu May 21, 2009 3:08 am Post subject: I like singing very much. It is my favorite hobby. I singing with friends in the Karaoke, I singing myself at home or on the way home. Ha, singing make me happy! Back to top ex547896321Joined: 18 May 2009Posts: 8 Posted: Mon May 25, 2009 6:08 am Post subject: I like singing.But,I don't have good sound.Whatever~If I want to singing,I'll do it!! Back to top Jenniferdu521Joined: 29 Mar 2009Posts: 72 Posted: Thu Jun 25, 2009 2:30 am Post subject: ex547896321 wrote: I like singing.But,I don't have good sound.Whatever~If I want to singing,I'll do it!! I also do not have a good sound, yeah, whatever! Back to top BluelesskyJoined: 01 Feb 2010Posts: 10Location: Thai Posted: Mon Feb 22, 2010 7:08 pm Post subject: I like I like to sing a song, but I'm not good when I sing. KRU ED Blue Back to top xXx_Perla_xXxJoined: 08 Feb 2010Posts: 8Location: Ecorse, MI Posted: Wed Apr 14, 2010 8:42 am Post subject: I LoVe to Sing! I sing when I'm happy, I sing when I'm sad, I always do it! It kinda sends my problems away, so I really do enjoy it. I believe that music itself it's a way of living. I only sang in public once, and it was amazing, but I'm pretty shy, so I don't think I'd ever do it again. Everytime I go to a Karaoke I'm the only one that doesn't sing! But I'm going to try though, at least once. Back to top Display posts from previous: All Posts1 Day7 Days2 Weeks1 Month3 Months6 Months1 Year Oldest FirstNewest First Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums Forum Index -> Music All times are GMT - 8 HoursGoto page 1, 2 Next Page 1 of 2 Jump to: Select a forum Student Forums----------------ComputersCurrent NewsCultureEnglish SchoolsFamilyFilm and CinemaFoodHealth and FitnessHelp CenterHobbiesHolidaysLearning EnglishLiteratureMaking FriendsMusicOpinionsPetsScienceSportsThe Strange and MysteriousTOEFL and Other English ExamsTravel You cannot post new topics in this forumYou cannot reply to topics in this forumYou cannot edit your posts in this forumYou cannot delete your posts in this forumYou cannot vote in polls in this forum Dave's ESL Cafe is maintained by the one and only Dave Sperling. 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by Hugh Hunter
Now running at Allens Lane Theater, "When the Rain Stops Falling" by Australian playwright Andrew Bovell is a remarkable play. Though at first confusing, you might do well to heed the advice of director Robert Bauer: "Sit back…let the play unfold before you."
If you do, "Rain" will reward. It is a mystery that begins in the future (2039) when Gabriel receives a phone call from his estranged son, Andrew. As Gabriel tell us, Andrew only wants to know what we all want to know: "Where do I come from?"
"Rain" answers Andrew's question by exploring the family's long history. An elliptical and non-linear approach to storytelling enhances the aura of mystery. By the time we finally meet Andrew and Gabriel again, we have our answers, but ironically they themselves remain in the dark.
"Rain" involves the interlocking fates of two families, spans four generations from 1959 to 2039 and bounces between London, England, and various sites in Australia. A horrific act lies at the heart of the story. (Sensitive to their origin as an English penal colony, Australian audiences might react differently to "Rain.")
"Rain" jumps around in time and place. Often, activities of ancestral family members form a ghostly backdrop to the present action, and in the course of the drama we see young and old versions of the two female leads at different points in time.
But by Act Two you get used to the play's conventions; scenes take on an entrancing power as the production gets convincing performances from its nine member cast: Eric Merlino, Julia Wise, Dante Zappala, Jesse Lehman, Carole Mancini, Jackie Sherman, Wayne Snover, Marjorie Goldman and Jeffrey Barg.
Playwright Bovell expands the scope of the play's core question. The script is replete with symbolism and makes continuous allusions to our philosophical and geographical history. Across the generations, characters regularly repeat the same statements, ask the same questions.
The production underscores this hypnotic repetition with intermittent rainfall and haunting incidental music by Philip Glass (sound, Kim Pelle). The stage is a simple kitchen; in different eras characters will clean or re-paint the white woodwork in the hope of altering the family's fate (set design, Robert Bauer).
So where does Andrew come from? When they finally meet at the end, Gabriel shows his son a bag of family heirlooms — a hat, a child's sandal. They carry real meaning for us but mean nothing to the father and son as they finger them in silence. And then we remember how we ourselves stare stupidly at our own family memorabilia, how empty and vaguely guilty they may make us feel. And we are startled to realize that with grand irony this play has doubled back to include us.
As Gabriel says, Andrew only wants to know what everyone wants to know: Where do I come from? The Allens Lane production of "Rain" is a stunning theatrical achievement.
Allens Lane is located at Allens Lane near McCallum in West Mt. Airy. "When the Rain Stops Falling" will run through May 18. Reservations at 215-248-0546.


text: Richard Ross with the dunk Rick Voight Southern Miss Defeats ODU In C-USA Showdown January 23, 2014 By ODU Athletics MBB vs USM - Recap MBB vs USM - Presser ODU Coaches/Players quotes ODU-USM box Photo Album NORFOLK, VA— Aaron Bacote scored 19 points and Richard Ross added 11 with nine rebounds, Neil Watson scored 28 points and Jerrold Brooks added 18 to lead the Golden Eagles of Southern Miss (17-3/4-1) to a 75-60 Conference USA victory over Old Dominion (9-10/3-1) Thursday night at the Ted Constant Convocation Center before a crowd of 7,549. The loss ended ODU's four-game winning streak, and knocked the Monarchs out of sole possession of first place. The game had five lead changes and six ties. ODU lead by as many as nine in the first half, 16-7 with 13:08 left after a three-pointer by Bacote who scored 14 of his 19 in the first half. Jerrold Brooks three-pointer with 8:28 left in the half gave USM a 23-20 lead which they kept until ODU freshman Jordan Baker hit a trey to tie the game at 32-32 with 1:12 left. Michael Craig, the C-USA Player of the Week then put the Golden Eagles up at halftime with a three-pointer with three seconds left. In the second half there were three ties, the last at 48-48 on a layup by ODU's Keenan Palmore with 11:38 left in the game. After a Matt Bingaya layup and free throw, ODU would rally again as Palmore would hit two free throws and a layup to give the Monarchs a 52-51 lead with 8:32 remaining, but Neil Watson drained a three-pointer for a 54-52 USM lead and the Golden eagles would outscore the Monarchs 21-8 the rest of the game. ODU shot .417 (20-48) from the floor and .350 (7-20) from three-point range. USM shot .442 (23-52) from the field and .571 (12-21) from three-point range. Watson was 6-for-10 from the field and 6-for-7 from three-point range along with a perfect 10-for-10 from the free throw line. ODU outrebounded the USM, 33-29 as Ross hauled down a game high nine, followed by freshman Denzell Taylor with six. Daveo Boardingham led USM with eight rebounds and Michael Craig added six. The Monarchs committed 17 turnovers and USM scored 32 points off of them. ODU returns to action Saturday night at home when they host the Green Wave of Tulane at 7 p.m. Saturday's game will be Televised and produced by Cox Communications with Ted Alexander and Dave Twardzik providing the play-by-play. The game will be aired on Cox channel 114 in Hampton Roads and 110 in West Point, New Kent and King & Queen counties. Nick Cattles will provide play by play on radio (ESPN94.1 )with Billy Mann and Rick Kiefner. In addition to Military appreciation night, ODU head coach Jeff Jones coached the game in his barefeet in support of Samaritan's Feet, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing shoes and proper footccare to underprivelaged youth in African nations.


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Breathe easy, Ryder Cupfans. Medinah will be ready, according to PGA of America executive Kerry Haigh, who walked the course Friday.
"I think we're going to be in good shape," he said. "Obviously the summer stress has had its effect a little bit on the fairways, but overall we're expecting the golf course to be in outstanding condition."
Several of the fairways, including the 18th, had spots that were brown and patchy as recently as two weeks ago.
"The greens and rough already are in very good shape," Haigh said. "And in the next 2-3 weeks, with cooler weather, we're expecting the fairways to pop back."
Jeff Sluman said much the same. The Hinsdale resident and assistant captain to Davis Love III said Monday: "We're not playing the Ryder Cup today … I expect the golf course to be perfect."
Now inside five weeks of the Sept. 28-30 event, Haigh walked the 18 on Friday with Curtis Tyrrell, Medinah's golf course operations chief. They examined the fariways' rough patches and discussed the plan for turning brown into green. They reviewed the path players and caddies will take from hole to hole and supervised the fixing of divots and ballmarks and leveling of sprinklers by the grounds crew.
"At this point," Haigh said, "it's all down to fine detail."
Haigh's title at the PGA of America is Managing Director of Championships and Business Development. He's in charge of setting up courses for the PGA Championship and will tag-team with Love on Medinah's setup.
None of that will be seriously contemplated until Sept. 4, when Love unveils his four captain's picks.
And asked about the 15th hole, a drivable par-4 that can play as short as 280 yards, Haigh pointed out that based on "wind strength and wind direction," the tee can be altered between Friday and Saturday's morning and afternoon matches.
Love has made one thing clear: He will not have U.S. Open-style deep rough.
Said Sluman: "Hacking out of the rough is not so exciting. Birdies and recovery shots are very exciting for the crowd and fun to watch."
Twitter @TeddyGreenstein


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The Dodge Ram 2500 is the three-quarter-ton version of Dodge's full-size Ram truck. The beefy pickup officially debuted in 1994, when Dodge changed the name of its previous heavy-duty pickup truck from the Ram 250 to the Ram 2500.
Like other Rams, the Ram 2500 sports a muscular shape, prominent grille, and available four-wheel drive. Hydro-formed frames, a short- and long-arm independent front suspension with stabilizer bars, and a choice of two powerful engines help the Ram 2500 perform heavy-duty hauling and towing tasks.
Early Ram 2500s come with regular cab and Quad Cab body styles and three possible engines: a 5.2-liter V-8, 8.0-liter V-10, or 5.9-liter Cummins turbodiesel V-6. Dodge later replaced the extended Quad Cab with a Crew Cab and added a larger Mega Cab.
In 2003, Dodge replaced the standard Ram 2500 engine with a 5.7-liter, 383-horsepower Hemi V-8 and upgraded the diesel engine to a 6.7-liter Cummins that produces 350 horsepower.
As of 2012, Dodge offers the Ram 2500 in five trims: the ST, SLT, Laramie, Laramie Longhorn, and Power Wagon.
The Dodge Ram 2500 is best known for offering heavy-duty capabilities and a smooth ride.
When paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, the Ram 2500's 6.7-liter turbodiesel V-6 is rated at 350 horsepower and a best-in-its-class 800 lb-ft of torque. Opting for the turbodiesel allows the pickup to tow a maximum trailer weight of 15,500 pounds and haul a maximum load of 3,190 pounds.
Despite its heavyweight design, the Ram 2500 manages to offer a comfortable ride thanks to its hydraulic cab-to-frame mounts, longitudinal leaf springs, solid rear axle, and, in four-wheel drive models, a five-link coil-spring rear suspension.
The 2012 Dodge Ram 2500 comes in a variety of trims, cab styles, and bed lengths. Regular cab models seat up to three people, while Crew and Mega cabs seat up to six. The Mega Cab offers additional interior cargo space.
Regular cab models are available in ST and SLT trims; Crew Cabs in ST, SLT, Laramie, Laramie Longhorn, and Power Wagon trims; and Mega Cabs in SLT, Laramie, and Laramie Longhorn trims. Regular cabs are offered with a long eight-foot bed, Crew Cabs with the choice of an eight-foot or 6-foot, four-inch bed, and Mega Cabs with a 6-foot, four-inch bed.
The Ram 2500 comes with a front-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive system. All 2012 Ram 2500 models come standard with a 5.7-liter, 383-horsepower V-8 mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Buyers can upgrade to an available 6.7-liter turbodiesel V-6 that produces 350 horsepower and either 650 lb-ft of torque (when paired with a six-speed manual transmission) or 800 lb-ft of torque (when paired with the six-speed automatic).
Features on the base-level ST regular cab include 17-inch steel wheels, a black grille, black bumpers, halogen headlamps, a locking tailgate, vinyl upholstery, vinyl flooring, a tilt-adjustable steering wheel, air-conditioning, a 12-volt power outlet, a 40/20/40-split front bench seat, an electronic vehicle display, a six-speaker audio system with CD player, and (in the Crew Cab only) power accessories.
Upgrading to the SLT trim adds chrome-clad wheels, chrome trim, a sliding rear window, heated power-adjustable folding mirrors, cloth upholstery, keyless entry, power accessories, and satellite radio availability. SLT extended-cab models can be outfitted with the Big Horn package (called the Lone Star package in Texas), which includes fog lights, different headlights, a chrome grille, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, and a universal garage opener. An Outdoorsman package upgrades SLT models with the diesel engine, polished alloy wheels, two-tone paint, a body-color grille, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, tow hooks, a limited-slip rear differential, a 115-volt power outlet, and power-adjustable seats.
The Power Wagon trim prepares the Ram 2500 for off-road tasks by adding all-terrain tires, skid plates, tow hooks, a 1,200-pound-capacity winch, a front anti-roll bar, electronically locking differentials, fog lamps, and rooftop running lights.
The top-level Laramie trim offers polished alloy wheels, leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, heated front seats, power-adjustable seats with driver seat memory settings, power-adjustable pedals, rear parking sensors, Bluetooth, and a premium nine-speaker surround sound system with MP3 playback. The Laramie Longhorn adds the Laramie's features, plus rear parking assistance, remote start, a navigation system, ventilated front seats, and unique bumpers.
The Dodge Ram 2500 debuted in 1994 with a new name and a muscular new look. Early Ram 2500 models come with a 5.2-liter V-8, 8.0-liter V-10, or 5.9-liter Cummins turbodiesel engine. In 1998, a Quad Cab with a bigger backseat and rear-hinged doors joined the regular cab and Club Cab styles. Dodge eliminated the Club Cab in 2000.
Dodge revised the Ram 2500 for the 2003 model year, introducing a standard 5.7-liter V-8 Hemi. The V-10 engine was eliminated after 2003. In 2006, Dodge restyled the 2500's interior and added a Mega Cab to the lineup. The 5.9-liter turbodiesel engine received an upgrade to a 6.7-liter version in 2007.
The Dodge Ram 2500 received another facelift in 2010. Dodge retuned the pickup's suspension, replaced the previous generation's Quad Cab with a Crew Cab, and offered interior conveniences such as leather upholstery and a navigation system on these models.
2011 Dodge Ram 2500
Truck, Utility/Offroad
The Dodge Ram 2500 is a heavy duty truck with a well-deserved reputation of being a real work horse.
2010 Dodge Ram 2500
The 2010 Ram Heavy Duty is an all-new model with a completely new interior, exterior, and chassis. Powertrains largely carry over from 2009, though the 5.7-liter V-8 receives more power. The 2009 models made 355 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque, 2010s are good for 383 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque.
2009 Dodge Ram 2500
Manufactured in the U.
2008 Dodge Ram 2500
2007 Dodge Ram 2500
If you are looking to do some serious towing or hauling, there's simply no substitute for a heavy-duty pickup model like the 2007 Dodge Ram 2500.
2006 Dodge Ram 2500
The 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 is a large, tough truck designed to provide a lot of power, haul large payloads, and get the job done.
2005 Dodge Ram 2500
The 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 is smooth and refined, especially compared to its previous generation.
2004 Dodge Ram 2500
The three-quarter ton 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 pickup truck is part of the third generation.
2003 Dodge Ram 2500
The Dodge Ram 2500 receives a major update for the 2003 model year.
2002 Dodge Ram 2500
The 2002 Dodge Ram Wagon 2500 is a three-quarter ton passenger van powered by a base 3.
2001 Dodge Ram 2500
The 2001 Dodge Ram 2500 is a second-generation pickup truck manufactured by Daimler-Chrysler under the Dodge brand.
2000 Dodge Ram 2500
1999 Dodge Ram 2500
The Dodge Ram 2500 pickup has been turning heads since its 1994 redesign.
1998 Dodge Ram 2500
The 1998 Dodge Ram 2500 provides a full-size pickup truck sold by Chrysler under the Dodge brand.
1997 Dodge Ram 2500
The 1997 Dodge Ram pickup trucks are divided based on the standard engine size.
1996 Dodge Ram 2500
Rugged, powerful, and built for heavy-duty work, the Ram line of pickup trucks is the most prominent brand released by Dodge.
1995 Dodge Ram 2500
Known for its unadorned, boxy exterior design, the 1995 Dodge Grand Caravan remains a popular choice due to its reliability and outstanding list of standard features and excellent available options.


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Member of the European Commission, Responsible for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries
Conference "Portugal e o Mar, a nossa aposta no século XXI
Ladies and gentlemen,
It is an honour to be at your conference on behalf of President Barroso. He was unable to be here today and has asked me to convey to you his sincere greetings. You are aware of his personal commitment to promoting Integrated Maritime Policy. Recently at his first "State of Union" speech to the European Parliament, he pinpointed the maritime sector as a prime source for new growth, employment and social cohesion, as a pillar to Europe 2020.
Personally I would like to add that it is an honour to be here considering Portugal's proud maritime heritage spanning centuries.
The conference of today illustrates perfectly that you have never lost sight of the huge benefits that your long and varied coastline and your sea area can bring to maritime and coastal communities and beyond.
I understand that this morning, his Excellency President Cavaco Silva called on Portugal to consider the sea - and the wealth that can derive from it - as a national priority.
This call is not lost on me. I stand before you today to present some concrete actions that we are taking at EU level to contribute to this goal.
Ladies and gentlemen,
Maritime policy is now facing its most difficult test to date.
It is called on to play a full part in pulling Europe out of the ongoing economic downturn, providing it with the economic and social backbone to help it stand strong in the face of future challenges.
I firmly believe that there is scope for the oceans, seas and coasts to provide new economic activities based on exploration, utilisation, innovation and technological development.
In this case, the Integrated Maritime Policy (IMP) can bring concrete and valuable benefit to the European economy as a whole but also to the maritime sectors in our Members States.
The economic potential is there as well as the political will. Now it is time for action.
Let me begin by what we have done so far.
Building our new integrated approach of maritime affairs we used a cornerstone: Better knowledge of the seas and oceans. This is an absolute need.
Today we definitely do not know enough on marine and maritime issues. We know more about moon surface, than the bottom of the Mediterranean.
Yet, our ignorance leads to uncertainty. Uncertainty leads to rising costs. And risings costs leads to inactivity.
To break this vicious circle and because the EU seas and oceans deserve the most comprehensive understanding, the European Commission last month adopted the "Marine knowledge 2020", an initiative which aims to establish a feature network of accessible, compatible and timely data about the status of our seas and oceans.
Better marine data will help the decision makers to reduce uncertainty.
I know, for example, that Portugal faces the consequences of Climate change in terms of sea level rise and coastal erosion either in the islands or along the Atlantic coastline.
Let's take the example of the reduction of uncertainty with the help of better marine knowledge in the future sea level rise.
A study concerning London, the Netherlands and Venice, three places which have to invest a lot to combat this phenomenon demonstrate that the savings are:
But a better knowledge of the marine and maritime issues will not only help the public authorities to spend less or the private sector to invest in a better way. It will also contribute effectively to the protection of the marine environment. Actually a successful implementation of the Commission Marine framework strategy directive or the future outcomes of the Biodiversity summit, - that is ongoing in Nagoya (Japan), - depend greatly on our progresses, in the field of Marine research and science.
I would like to call, in that context, that I announced at the beginning of September together with the Commissioner for Research and Innovation, the launching of a new research programme for seas and oceans of 45 million € for 2011. This program will notably focus on "Marine microbial diversity" and the "Multi use of offshore platforms".
Today here, I have the opportunity to announce officially that yesterday the Commission adopted a new Communication on the "Integrated Maritime Surveillance" which sets out concrete steps to enhance the effectiveness and cost efficiency of monitoring European Seas.
We want to bring together the Member States' - as well as European Union agencies - across all maritime sectors, to allow for the exchange of maritime surveillance data, held by all of the concerned authorities.
This increased cooperation would also help cope more efficiently with real time events at sea, in order to improve our prevention and response capacities.
Every one of us recognize that with a more accurate awareness and knowledge of the seas, the dramatic consequences of an accident such as Deepwater horizon in the Gulf of Mexico would have been if not avoided, at least strongly reduced.
The integration of Maritime Surveillance will give us the right and efficient tool to protect our maritime interests against all types of threats - be they safety and security of shipping, oil spills, and trafficking, smuggling or illegal immigration.
I would like to thank Portugal for its active participation in European Maritime Surveillance and particularly in the pilot project launched by the European Commission to promote the integration of surveillance by national authorities in the Mediterranean and Atlantic approaches "Blue Mass Med" project.
The European Commission granted € 4 Millions to finance this pilot project. It aims to define the architecture of the future European wide Maritime Surveillance Network that will allow the interoperability among all Maritime Surveillance Systems. This can also be connected with the "Blue belt" the EMSA program for the Sea without barriers already launched by the Commission last September.
Let me move now to another topic. We say a lot about blue growth and jobs.
To that end I launched last May a study, which aims to analyse their drivers and the policy measures required to make these scenarios a reality. This means identifying areas where more basic or applied research efforts are needed prior to commercialisation, or where generic innovation trends and technological developments are needed.
We must continue the sustainable development of industries such as tourism, and marine renewable energies.
In June the Commission set out a new political framework to promote "Europe as the world's No 1 tourist destination" in order to identify how best to promote responsible, high-quality tourism that will deliver sustainable jobs. I shall be following and contributing to this initiative very closely, as it is of great economic significance for us all – and not least to Portugal.
Marine renewable energy systems also have the potential to fuel growth. The winds, waves, currents and tides off Europe's shores represent a vast, clean energy resource that we have yet to tap into properly. Offshore wind energy is developing fast, and with wave and tidal energy, we could go a long way towards meeting our energy and climate goals.
With a renewable energy target of 31% for 2020, Portugal is a key market for the development of marine renewable energy. If successfully exploited, these new power sources could trigger investments, contribute to better interconnection between grids and create new jobs in coastal areas.
You see that our building policy has already started to deliver in a considerable number of ways. But it needs uninterrupted financial underpinning to be effective and operational during the remaining years of the current Financial Perspective up to 2013.
For that reason, last month, I proposed and the Commission adopted a proposal for financial resources to take us up to 2013. If the European parliament and the Council agree, € 50 Millions will be available to support our actions and make our policy durable.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The maritime sectors I've just mentioned a few minutes ago, energy, shipping, tourism, fisheries… are engaged today under our eyes in an increasingly tough competition for marine space. I do believe that maritime sectors should benefit from a better management of this space. Maritime economies need a tool that enables them to grow sustainably.
This is why I plan to come forward next year with a proposal for action on Maritime Spatial Planning in order to promote rational and sustainable use of the sea, balance different interests including the environmental aspects and improve the quality of decisions.
This tool could lead to significant economic effect. We know that maritime spatial planning could accelerate investment in two maritime industries which have a vital interest in the reduction of conflicts of interests at sea: wind farm and aquaculture.
Accelerating investment in these two activities with Maritime Spatial Planning by 1, 2 or 3 years is likely to generate between € 60 Million and over € 600 Million in 2020.
At the same time, Maritime Spatial Planning can highly reduce the costs of running the economic system, the so-called "transaction costs". A recent Commissions study demonstrated that, depending on the level of conflicts of interest one has to face, a reduction of 1% in transaction costs led to positive economic effects ranging from € 170 Million to €1.3 Billion.
Theses figures are impressive. They are based on assumptions and should be interpreted with care, but they offer promising perspectives.
The IMP will continue to respect the specific conditions of every European sea basin and adapt policy measures accordingly. After the publication of maritime strategies for Arctic, for the Baltic Sea and for the Mediterranean, we are presently hard at work on a Communication on the Atlantic in close dialogue with coastal Member States and regions. This new sea basin strategy will be ready in the first half of 2011.
Work on the strategy has been that much easier, thanks to Portugal's work with France, Spain, Ireland, and the UK to develop a common contribution by Member States. This ambitious strategy for the Atlantic aims to maximise sustainable growth of its maritime economies and coastal regions. And beyond Europe, the strategy will have to recognise the Atlantic's specific qualities: namely that it is home to European outermost regions, the door towards the Americas and Africa.
The Atlantic has a long coastline and separates the continent from its islands. Hence our continued efforts on short-sea shipping and on the Motorways of the Sea should be maintained.
In the past years, two significant Marco Polo projects connecting Portugal with the Paris region and with Italy, received funding under the EU's Marco Polo Programme. Both projects avoided more than 1,2 billion ton-kilometers of goods to be transported by road over a period of 3 years and this contributed to environmental benefits of more than 31 million euro. Furthermore, two maritime services linking Portugal with Italy and Northern Europe respectively have found their origin as Motorways of the Sea pilot projects.
We are also following with great interest the success story of the cruise industry in Europe. In this context, I took note that Lisbon has joined the "Atlantic Alliance", a network of Europe's prime cruise destinations.
So, one has to admit that a lot has been done and a lot is ongoing. Ta all those who argue that we have a heavy and too ambitious agenda I would answer with a phrase from Fernando Pessoa:
"Tudo vale a pena quando a alma não é pequena" ("Everything is worth it, when the soul is not small")


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WASHINGTON — Austen Ivereigh, author of an upcoming book on Pope Francis, says it will help explain the Pope's pastoral approach to North Americans and Europeans, who may not understand his Latin-American roots.
Before his election, Pope Francis "had already been thinking very deeply about the Church and the way that the Church interacts with the world for a very long time," Ivereigh explained to CNA Oct. 16.
What is "dramatic" about his papacy thus far "is that he's able to implement" the "program" that sprung forth from these thoughts.
Ivereigh is writing the book, which will be published by Henry Holt, likely in 2014. Ivereigh is a British journalist and has served as a press secretary for the archbishop of Westminster.
He is also founder and coordinator of Catholic Voices, a group that trains Catholic laypeople to present the Church's teachings in media outlets.
Ivereigh explained that Pope Francis' vision "needs to be understood, above all, in the context of the Church in Latin America."
Because many in Europe and North America have a different understanding of the Church's role in society than do Latin Americans, "people in Europe and America are struggling to understand him."
"People are still asking, 'Who is he? How does he think? What does he want?'; because, in a way, what Francis is doing is not recognizable to the prosperous cultures of Europe and North Americans."
"I hope to be the bridge between Latin America and the rich north" of Europe and North America, Ivereigh added on his hopes for his forthcoming book, which has yet to be titled.
For his investigation into the Pope's background, vision and pastoral style, Ivereigh, who conducted his doctoral thesis on the Catholic Church and politics in Argentina, will travel to Buenos Aires for a month for further research and to encounter "people who knew him, but people also, above all, who can really explain his vision and where it came from."
A New Idea of What a Pope Is
"What we're seeing in Francis is a new idea of what a pope is," Ivereigh said, explaining that Pope Francis' "informal, warm, human directness," "spontaneity" and "his pastoral approach" are "very, very typical of the Church in Latin America."
Ivereigh added that, in North America and Europe, Catholics are "trying to understand what status the Pope's comments have" and what doctrines the Pope is speaking to.
Instead, the "Pope is the world's first parish priest," bringing a pastorally focused approach rather than a doctrinally focused approach to the papacy.
This understanding is influenced by Pope Francis' Latin-American roots, Ivereigh explained.
"I think the main factor is that "el pueblo" — the people of God — are the majority, and they are the poor" in most of Latin America.
"I think that changes the way the Church relates to society, because the starting point of the Latin-American Church is that the people they are addressing are poor and mostly uneducated," shifting focus to pastoral matters and a modeling of Jesus rather than theological understanding.
This has lead to Pope Francis' "understanding of how to speak" to many of the pressing questions of today's society in an engaging manner. Pope Francis has "the capacity that he has to identify with the wounds" of society, which enables him to have a dramatic pastoral effect, Ivereigh said.
"He is, in a sense, reframing" the public's view of the Church.
Much to Learn
Ivereigh added, however, that there is still much to learn about how the Pope's background formed his theological and pastoral vision, how it has influenced his change from a relatively reserved archbishop to an outspoken and charismatic pope, and how it relates to what Ivereigh called Pope Francis' "defining moments."
"The first moment was his first few days after the election, by rejecting what one might call 'the papal monarchy'" and establishing his own style.
At World Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro, it "became very clear to us who were there that this was the launch of the papacy"; and while at World Youth Day, Pope Francis "put flesh on the idea of a Church for the poor and of the poor."
Most recently, in a September meeting with cardinals, it "became very clear that the ambition for the reform of Church governments was very great indeed."
"This is a papacy that will really implement the collegiality" of the Second Vatican Council, Ivereigh said.
He added, however, that, just how this pastoral emphasis on "the love and the mercy of God" emerges, will be something to continue to study as the Argentinian's pontificate continues.


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I've asked before, but never seem to get anywhere...
Whenever I watch shows like "The Universe" and "How the Universe was Made" and "Through the Wormhole" and so on, they always mention, and sometimes play, sounds from different objects in space. I remember one episode playing the sound file of what a black hole might sound like.
I'm not completely sure of the process to get the sounds (you can't hear a scream in space, after all), but I think it has something to do with converting radio waves or light waves or some other kind of waves to sound waves and playing those back... or something...
What I do know is that I want these sounds. I do have some of the sun, a quasar, Saturn's rings (so dang cool)... even the Big Bang itself. But I know that more is out there. I've already heard what a black hole might sound like from of those space shows, but I can't find anything outside of YouTube, and I'd rather have non-MP3 files, to be honest. I'd love to get a sound file of a supernova, more of the sun, and I heard yesterday on YouTube what the earth might sound like from space:
(He does link to where he got that sound file, but the link is dead).
Does anyone know of a website that collects all the different sounds that have been produced from waves, preferably in an uncompressed format like .wav?
Please help...
Views: 349
I found some for you -- do you know about these?
They don't have any of the sounds I'm looking for...
Interesting and unexpected. That was the big bang? http://staff.washington.edu/seymour/BigBangSound_2.wav
I know, right? Surprised me, quite frankly.
I mean, it's probably not an entirely accurate representation of what it might have sounded like if sound waves could've traveled within a medium from it (I imagine it'd be a hell of a lot louder, for one thing... millions of times louder than any lifeform could actually handle). But I bet it's the closest we'll get to getting an idea of what it could have potentially sounded like.
I highly reccomend this:
It consists of the electromagnetic recordings of the planets, as recorded by Voyager, transcribed into audio.
It is also available on Itunes, if you're into that, and is *totally* worth the money.
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No. 90,197
1. Interpretation of a statute is a question of law, and an appellate court's review is unlimited. An appellate court is not bound by the district court's interpretation of a statute. When a statute is plain and unambiguous, the court's duty is to respect the intention of the legislature as expressed.
2. For all felony cases, except those involving cases addressing child support and restitution, extension of the duration of probation may only be accomplished under K.S.A. 2003 Supp. 21-4611(c)(8) pursuant to a modification hearing and a finding of judicial necessity.
3. Absent a knowing and voluntary waiver of the statutory right to a hearing and a judicial finding of necessity, as required by K.S.A. 2003 Supp. 21-4611(c)(8), an order to extend probation must fail unless such a hearing is conducted and the required findings made.
Appeal from Johnson District Court; JAMES FRANKLIN DAVIS, judge. Opinion filed July 23, 2004. Reversed and remanded with directions.
Steven R. Zinn, deputy appellate defender, for appellant.
Steven J. Obermeier, assistant district attorney, Paul J. Morrison, district attorney, and Phill Kline, attorney general, for appellee.
Before GREEN, P.J., JOHNSON, J., and C. FRED LORENTZ, District Judge, assigned.
LORENTZ, J.: Frank Edward Freeman, Jr., appeals the revocation of his probation.
Pursuant to a plea agreement, Freeman was convicted of one count of possession of cocaine in return for which another charge was dismissed and the State agreed not to oppose a downward dispositional departure to probation. On October 5, 2000, Freeman was sentenced to an underlying term of 28 months' imprisonment and then placed on probation for a term of 12 months.
In August 2001, Court Services Officer Natalie Harbin filed an order with the court extending Freeman's probation to April 5, 2002. Both Harbin and Freeman signed the order, and a judge signed it on the following day.
On January 24, 2002, the State filed a motion to revoke Freeman's probation, alleging several violations. Freeman responded with a motion to dismiss for lack of jurisdiction, contending the probation had not been properly extended because he was not afforded a hearing. The trial court found it had jurisdiction to revoke Freeman's probation because Freeman had waived his right to a hearing when he signed the extension. Thereafter, the court did revoke the probation and ordered Freeman remanded to custody to serve his underlying sentence.
Freeman first argues that he was denied his right to due process because the order extending his probation was entered without the benefit of a hearing as required by K.S.A. 2003 Supp. 21-4611(c)(8). He claims he was never told that a hearing was an option and denies he could have knowingly and voluntarily waived a right of which he had no knowledge.
Resolution of this issue requires interpretation of K.S.A. 2003 Supp. 21-4611(c). Interpretation of a statute is a question of law, and an appellate court's review is unlimited. An appellate court is not bound by the district court's interpretation of a statute. When a statute is plain and unambiguous, the court's duty is to respect the intention of the legislature as expressed. See State v. Maass, 275 Kan. 328, 330, 64 P.3d 382 (2003).
K.S.A. 2003 Supp. 21-4611(c) governs the duration of probation for all felony cases. K.S.A. 2003 Supp. 21-4611(c)(8) provides for extension of probation and reads as follows:
"The court may modify or extend the offender's period of supervision, pursuant to a modification hearing and a judicial finding of necessity. Such extensions may be made for a maximum period of five years or the maximum period of the prison sentence that could be imposed, whichever is longer, inclusive of the original supervision term."
For all felony cases, except for those involving cases addressing child support and restitution, extension of the duration of probation may only be accomplished under subsection (c)(8) pursuant to a modification hearing and a finding of judicial necessity. State v. Gordon, 275 Kan. 393, 405-06, 66 P.3d 903 (2003).
It is undisputed that, as required by the statute, Freeman was entitled to have the question of his probation extension discussed at a hearing. It is also undisputed that Freeman was not afforded a hearing. The question for our review, then, is whether Freeman properly waived his right to a hearing.
It is important to note that the right to a hearing afforded pursuant to K.S.A. 2003 Supp. 21-4611(c)(8) is statutory rather than constitutional. Still, we believe that any waiver of that hearing must be both knowing and voluntary as is the case with other waivers. See State v. Luna, 28 Kan. App. 2d 148, 154, 12 P.3d 911 (2000), aff'd in part and vacated in part 271 Kan. 573, 24 P.3d 125 (2001). The New York state courts have affirmatively noted that where statutory rights are conferred, they may be waived as long as an inquiry establishes that the waiver is knowing and voluntary. See People (Sinclair) v. Warden, 152 Misc. 2d 928, 933, 579 N.Y.S.2d 981 (1991); see also Com. v. Byrne, 833 A.2d 729, 736 (Pa. Super. 2003) (defendant may knowingly and voluntarily waive a statutory right if waiver is key in obtaining a bargained-for exchange with the government).
"Knowingly" is defined as, "[w]ith knowledge; consciously; intelligently; willfully; intentionally. An individual acts 'knowingly' when he acts with awareness of the nature of his conduct." Black's Law Dictionary 872 (6th ed. 1990). "Voluntary" is defined as "[u]nconstrained by interference; unimpelled by another's influence; spontaneous; acting of oneself." Black's Law Dictionary 1575 (6th ed. 1990). We do not see anything in the record to suggest that Freeman was coerced in such a way as to render his agreement with the extension of his probation involuntary. The issue, then, is whether Freeman's waiver was knowingly made.
The order Freeman signed to extend the period of probation contains the following language:
"The signature of the defendant below indicates the defendant's agreement to this request for an extension and his acknowledgment that he has a right to seek counsel in this matter."
The order made no reference to the statutory language requiring a hearing and a judicial finding of necessity. Harbin testified that she never told Freeman that he had the right to a hearing. She simply made sure he was aware that if he wanted to speak to an attorney before he signed it, he could.
When arguing the jurisdiction issue before the trial court, Freeman's attorney claimed that Freeman could not have waived a hearing because he was never informed of that right in the first place. We agree. Informing Freeman that he had the right to speak with his attorney before signing the order wholly omits the crucial information that Freeman was entitled to a hearing and a judicial finding of necessity before his probation could be extended.
We conclude that absent a knowing and voluntary waiver of the statutory right to a hearing and a judicial finding of necessity, as required by K.S.A. 2003 Supp. 21-4611(c)(8), the trial court had no jurisdiction to extend Freeman's probation.
In his appeal, Freeman also argues the trial court erred by ordering him to serve his sentence rather than placing him on assignment to community corrections supervision.
This issue is moot as a result of our decision on the first issue on appeal and will not be addressed.
Reversed and remanded with directions to release Freeman from custody.


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Do You Want the $15,000 Curved TV?
The curved TV is coming to the U.S. but it will cost as much as a small car. Is it worth it? Scott Austin joins digits. Photo: Getty Images.
This transcript has been automatically generated and may not be 100% accurate.
... I ... read tea these are coming to the US can you afford one Wall Street Journal tech editor Scott Austin joins us now to talk about it ... and down yet again city of fifteen thousand dollars that got into my laundry is there to your this today the death of Helmsley has this new TV and costs fifteen thousand dollars late tells about the concept of race yet so this is the kind of the the newest version of televisions that with ... the poultry ... clear screens of his career ... and this is that when LG Electronics and Samsung and other TV makers hope to Canada's next generation of course ... they cost a lot of money right now because the screens themselves ... I it's very difficult to manufacture them ... I and so ... LG Electronics is actually selling them starting today ... at Best Buy ... map for fifteen thousand dollars you can start ordering them ... the next couple of weeks of pre orders ... there is it's it's about saying cost of the Carson ... in the big question is whether the steep these of course will be adopted ... in the future they make use ... of these new kind of screens ... with the industry calls OLED switches is Coca organic light emitting diodes it's ... a it's a type of screen that ... the visual clarity is better ... you can make the screens thinner than LCD screens that were all he's to ... calm ... right now again ... the maker of these ... makers of these displays are having trouble pulling down those costs so ... it's going to take ... probably a few years for before we it's you know when to put into the photos of each of these to me it looks like set of IMAX their homes many and on the water unlike ... you know for the TV geeks out there obviously resolutions of different sizes of a friendly team like ... the size of the two colors and ... can keep the CBI grows and grows the light of these bigger than that been the largest flat screen TV ... in this one in particular is fifty five inches and no but ... I'd I mean they are more expensive of course ... because of those displays which are much thinner ... aam is a light or TV overall ... you are ... you're going to get a better cut power use ... by energy use out of it ... ALM so you know they're a lot of advantages of the sides that the ... cost is that the right thing right ... on these TV Xeon Baca now ... do we need a curved screen ... I you know a lot of people to complain ... when you fish with plasma televisions were sitting ... on top of the side may be a party that can see the screen as well so maybe the curved screen will help ... I'd also help with glamour ... right ... you know the other thing that ... strikes me is that you know in the TV world Samsung has been sort of you know ... the leaders took over from Panasonic and I was going on Panasonic was leader Samsung and oh I don't owe a lot homes ascent from Phoebe's this is from LG right so is Samsung jumping on this bandwagon are or not ... yes and and try to brighten up because they both LG and Samsung showcase of these curved TV Z for solid consumer electronic show ... in Las Vegas earlier this year so Samsung ... has also started selling these only in Korea though you can only buy them and in South Korea ... this is the first time I with LG ... that these are key these are available here in the US ... I would expect Samsung to do the same thing but ... you know again it's kind of a gimmick right now somebody who has a lot of money was really interested in having the first current TV ... MS may buy it ... I aam to buy I it's going to take a several years ... if the industry even really and consumers really adopt ... not only curve televisions but these new locally the screens ... what's also interesting is that ... this curve and flexible screens are likely coming to smartphones to Samsung's of a wedding to be on the honor trend the sort of flexible screens we also heard about three D ... TV a couple years go on that that ... that NFL today debut through the next three D there may be the Betamax flats to have some blood to come back and tells about it when the prices ... can be afforded by people on earth ... that's the thing ... to do one or more bouts of curved screen TV is other coal


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Saturday, January 28, 2012
8:00 pm
San Diego, CA
A Hammer, a Bell, and a Song to Sing
The San Diego Rep - Lyceum Stage
79 Horton Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101
phone: 619-544-1000
Price: $37.00
Purchase tickets onlineclick here to purchase tickets
website: www.sdrep.org
On the San Diego Repertory Theatre's Lyceum Stage!
A timely and moving theatre production celebrating the role of music in times of social change, starring Dave Crossland, Vaughn Armstrong, and Jim Mooney. Produced by the San Diego Repertory Theatre and written by the cast and director Todd Salovey, this musical features over 25 songs from various periods in American history and runs through January 29. It's also Dave's theatrical stage debut!
Standard Seating - $37
Premier Seating - $42
Parking in Horton Plaza can be a bit confusing, so allow plenty of time for wandering through the parking lot~


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Article and photos © copyright 2004 by Roy Hersh
|Niepoort's Lodge in Vila Nova de Gaia
The opportunity to enjoy a late spring weekend tasting of fine and rare wines made the trek to Florida well worthwhile. Upon disembarking from the plane in Miami, the 40 degree temperature differential was immediately apparent. With constant sun, a rarity in the Pacific Northwest at this time of the year, this American oasis felt like another country. More important, I was headed to my favorite wine event of the year, along with my brother and a close knit group of wine lovers that periodically get together for a weekend's worth of total wine immersion. I was looking forward to trying many exceptional wines, but in truth, it was the last tasting of the weekend, Ports by Dirk van der Niepoort, which I was most excited about.
The fun begins with a Friday night bash which is always billed as an "once-in-a-lifetime" wine tasting. We're never disappointed. Commencing again on Saturday morning, "wine at 9" is met with anticipation and energy ... by most. During the next eight hours, there are three stunning, vertical tastings of 15-20 vintages apiece, followed by a formal wine dinner prepared by a celebrity chef, with specially selected wines to match each course. On Sunday morning, there is one more tasting for those that can peel their eyes open and figure out how to operate the elevator. Sunday's affair has always been reserved for a memorable Burgundy vertical or dessert wine extravaganza and this year was no exception.
The weekend wine warriors who attend this annual Floridian fiesta have successfully developed the stamina and focus required to survive such an onslaught of fabulous wines. These elaborate one-of-a-kind wine weekends are paneled by the winemakers and/or owners of the world's best wine properties. Special guests of honor have included Michael Broadbent, Robert Parker, Jancis Robinson, Matt Kramer, Serena Sutcliffe and Clive Coates amongst the luminaries.
The founder, Dr. Robert Maliner, is one of America's foremost wine collectors and his "connections" around the world are legendary. "Dr. Bob," as we fondly refer to him, passed on the baton a couple of years ago to Arlette and Robert Cataldo. They have done an exceptional job and have not missed a single beat. In my humble opinion, this remains the best annual wine weekend held in the USA, period.
This year's star-studded lineup included names like Roumier, Egon Muller, Chateau Palmer and the finest offerings of the vineyard Richebourg. Knowing that Port maestro Dirk van der Niepoort was scheduled to attend was, at least for me, the icing on the cake. Dirk offered a deep vertical tasting of mostly old Colheitas, a pair of Garrafeiras (explained later) and a handful of great Vintage Ports, including a pair of 2003 component cask samples. Since most great Port tastings emphasize Vintage Ports, the Niepoort theme was a welcomed departure and a tremendous opportunity to try wines that are very difficult to obtain.
We had old and scarce vintages like 1900. To put one of the Niepoort Colheita Ports we tasted into historical perspective, the grapes were picked just two months after the US Civil War's Battle of Gettysburg, from the exalted Port vintage of 1863. What was great about this tasting was the depth of the knowledge of the audience and the very thought provoking questions that were being asked of Mr. Niepoort. Dirk's easygoing style, along with his inviting and open interaction with the audience, was most appreciated by all. This was one fun morning!
|Dirk van der Niepoort
It was also great to hear about and taste Niepoort's progress with his dry white and especially his red wines, which are at the forefront of the Douro's premium red table wine revolution. I have tasted these on several occasions ... the Niepoort Redoma white and red as well as his amazing Betuta from various vintages. This weekend offered the opportunity to try something new to me, Niepoort Charme which is 100% foot trodden in lagar (stems included) and is every bit the equal of Niepoort's sensational Betuta, which has risen to the apex of the Douro red wine movement. Despite the brilliance of the Betuta, in fact, I liked the, which are so precious to him and his family. I have seen these demijohns Charme just a bit better.
It was good to learn that the tradition of the lagar is something near and dear to Dirk, and about the importance of the demijohns on their perch in the rustic cellar situated in Niepoort's Lodge in Vila Nova de Gaia. They are worthy of shelf space in a museum, which in a way, is exactly what the Niepoort Lodge's wine cellar is. It was a privilege to gaze at the ancient glass demijohns (explanation to follow) that are lining the wall with wines from a variety of vintages from the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Dirk worked with his father Rolf, for many years, and under his father's tutelage, he became an avid young apprentice. He was devoted to the wines and vineyards of the Douro, artisan blending techniques, and the finer nuances that distinguish great Port from the rest. Niepoort is not one to change his own winemaking or blending philosophy just to please wine journalists or critics. He is true to his own instincts, regardless of those whose opinions may differ.
Dirk's main emphasis is on creating wines with a focused sense of balance. Many writers use the word "freshness" when describing his style, but that word has been utilized in just about every article about Dirk. I believe it is the impeccable equilibrium and grace though, that is his significant point of difference in every bottle of table wine and Port on which he places his name. What more needs to be added? Solely, Dirk's passion.
Back to the Port tasting now, and the specific wines of the Niepoort lineup, which will follow in a moment. Greatness starts in the vineyard and Dirk has avidly sought to purchase properties in recent times, since his ancestors never did. His three properties are going to be the backbone of all his fortified Ports as well as his red and white table wines. Some possess old vines that reach 120 years of age. He still purchases grapes from respected farmers, but once his new plantings reach fruition, Niepoort will rely more on his own grapes.
|Niepoort Bottles in Shop
In Vila Nova de Gaia, the wine is not just left in the cellar to mature. It is nurtured, and Dirk makes sure to top off his Colheita and Garrafeira Port with the wines from the exact same vintage (to make up that which is lost to evaporation, a.k.a. "the angel's share.") There are others that take shortcuts, but Dirk is focused on quality, regardless of cost.
Now, let me explain exactly what Garrafeira and Colheita styles of Port are, as these wines were a big part of the tasting.
Garrafeira Port - This is a very rare style of Port and many Port lovers have never even heard of it; even fewer have ever tasted one. Literally the word garrafeira (pronounced: gah-rah-FAY-ruh) translates to bottle cellar, private wine cellar or bottle rack in Portuguese. Do not confuse this with the word garrafeira you may find on your typical table wine in Portugal. In that scenario the word "garrafeira" typifies a Reserve wine, but has nothing to do with Port.
Garrafeira is an elegant style of Port made from the grapes of a single harvest, like a Colheita and therefore has a vintage date on the bottle. But "garrafeira" is its own special category. Dirk said that today, Niepoort is the only producer still making this category of Port. Otherwise, I have only read of Ferreira and Real Companhia Velha (Royal Oporto) having ever made garrafeira Ports.
After aging in wood for three to six years the wine is transferred to glass demijohns ("bon bons") which can vary (in the Niepoort Lodge) from seven to eleven liters apiece, and continues aging in glass. This type of aging adds a unique character known as "cheiro has garrafa" (translates to: savour or essence of the bottle) which is derived from prolonged direct contact with the glass demijohns. Further aging in the demijohns, sometimes for well over 50 years; helps to produce a seamless, smooth Port that is delicate, fresh and possesses great finesse.
|A couple of Niepoort's Famed Demijohns
Port oxidizes far more slowly in glass than in wood. There is no definition of what a garrafeira Port is to taste like, (the IVDP does not even define it) but it is easiest to think in terms of a combination of the silkiness of an oxidative tawny style of Colheita with the opulence of Vintage Port which is reductive, as a bottle-aged wine, for lack of a more apt distinction.
Dirk's great grandfather obtained these extremely rare demijohns during the late 19th century but they were produced in Flensburg, Germany ca. 1780 and it has been suggested they were possibly used for the storage of beer. There are nearly 200 of them that line one huge wall in the Niepoort cellar in Gaia. The wine is then decanted from the demijohns, removing the sediment and then is bottled into 750 ml bottles. They are then left to age in the Lodge until ready for sale. Just to show how historically rare these Ports really are, Niepoort's Garrafeiras were produced only eight times of which I am aware: in 1931, 1933, 1940, 1948, 1950, 1952, 1967 and 1977.
Colheita - (pronounced Coal-yAte-a) is pure and simply put, a Tawny Port where all grapes are from one harvest. In Portuguese, the word "Colheita" actually means "harvest" and can be construed therefore to mean vintage as well. The wine has to mature in cask for at least 7 years by law, but 8 years is not uncommon and the wine may actually spend as many as 50 or more years maturing in wood. It is essential that the bottling year of the Colheita is clearly stated on either the front or back label of the bottle, along with the words "matured in wood" or "aged in cask." These are further clues that the bottle is not a Vintage Port. Caveat: the wines must be of outstanding quality going into the bottle because aging alone, will not make a decent wine great.
The marketplace has normally been very small for Colheita. Until the past decade, rarely was this style of Port found outside of Portugal where wood-aged Ports are market favorites. It has been gaining popularity here in the United States since the latter half of the 1990s and a key market is Holland, where lots of Colheita Port is consumed. They may come on the market more frequently than vintage Port, yet there is less Colheita produced than Vintage Port (Colheitas = less than 1% of all Port produced and VP = approximately 2%).
Conversely, Colheitas in general are less expensive than Vintage Ports from the same year, but there are some very special and rare Colheitas which can cost a small fortune and more than their VP counterparts. Each new release must be approved by the Port Wine Institute before it can be exported. Niepoort Colheitas are reputed to be soft, elegant and to have a smoky character. Although I have not been around when Colheitas have been bottled young, it is my opinion that the Colheitas which are not fined or filtered do improve in the bottle. Some Port experts do not think that Colheitas improve in the bottle, but Dirk van der Niepoort, the contrarian, does. One would find it is impossible to disagree after tasting his wines
Some bottlings can be found where the British Shippers have called this style "Reserve Port" or "Port of the Vintage", instead of Colheita. These limited bottlings should not be confused with Vintage Port, even though the label is vintage dated. Many wine novices nevertheless think of "Reserve" in the typical connotation used for domestic wines in America and elsewhere. Someday the nomenclature of "Reserve" will be addressed by the wine powers that be. In the USA, a Reserve really has no legal status and is more of a marketing ploy to suggest a greater level of quality. Do not be fooled, albeit there are some wineries that do put their higher quality juice into reserves. Some of the best known producers of Colheita besides Niepoort, are Kopke, Burmester, Quinta do Noval, Offley Forrester, Rocha, Calem, and Barros.
|An old Niepoort in hand
For those that have persevered to this point, thank you for bearing with me. Here now are the tasting notes:
1987 Niepoort Vintage Port - medium-dark ruby color, offering violets in a very fragrant floral bouquet, with mostly sweet red berry flavors and a distinct spicy character. Showing good potential for aging from this under appreciated vintage. There were a small number of very well made wines in this year. This is certainly a VP that can be enjoyed in its youth and will also be drinking well over the next fifteen to twenty years. Not a huge wine but very well balanced and it shows minimalist intervention and a fine finish. 92 pts.
1987 Niepoort Colheita - showing butterscotch color, sweet and somewhat simple now but will age well for the long haul; as it really is too young to have expected it to have developed the great nuances that are typically depicted by Niepoort's older Colheitas. It is smooth and very silky with great aromas of pralines and caramelized sugar. The textural pleasure is impressive for this young of a Colheita. The '87 has fine well-knit structure and will get much better and provide further complexity to the already lengthy finish. Buy now and cellar, as this will reward patience. It was a rare treat to compare a Colheita and VP from the same producer, from an identical vintage. 94 pts.
2000 Niepoort Secundum Vintage Port - extremely dark purplish-ruby showing its youth with herbal notes and providing vibrant, purity of boysenberry and blueberry flavors with a touch of spice. This is a very masculine, powerful, yet approachable wine with ripe tannins. It is not a "second label" of Niepoort regardless of the name Secundum. It was Dirk's idea to make a VP that can be consumed now or while collectors wait for their "classic Niepoort's to age in the cellar. I believe this well-balanced Secundum will age for 15-30 years and be at its berry best ca. 2020, The vigor and length are highlighted on the flavor filled finish. 92 pts.
2001 Niepoort Secundum Vintage Port - I have enjoyed the 1999 and 2000 Secundum VPs, but this is even a darker inky purplish black colored VP. It possesses riper fruit, possibly the best of the trio ... and this is still just a toddler. The 2001 version shows somewhat fat and incredibly fresh with overt, puckering tannins. It provides deeply concentrated, sweet blue and blackberry fruit with a hint of anise. Deeply concentrated with a well interwoven acid attack and showing more subdued tannins then its 2000 predecessor. It is still quite primary in nature, and like a cask sample it delivers in-your-face fruit but manages to show the underlying structure. It can certainly be enjoyed now but two more years will help this to sort out some of its baby fat. My favorite Secundum to date. If you are new to collecting Vintage Port, this is a "Roy's recommendation." 93 pts.
2000 Niepoort Vintage Port - although this is even sweeter than the Secundum, it is a very different type of Vintage Port. This Niepoort is quite a dark crimson color that only begins to show the greatness of this wine which was mostly foot trodden in lagar. I love watching the development here and have tasted it every six months since it was bottled. Presently a bit closed but not yet fully shut down, it is a massive and unctuous Port with puckering tannins that will provide great grip for your grandchildren's drinking pleasure. It offers surprising complexity given it's youth and its greatness comes from deft balance every bit as much as from the dark berry flavor profile. It is still my favorite VP of the entire 2000 vintage and will eventually take its rightful place alongside legendary Niepoort VPs such as 1927 and 1945. I scratch my head and wonder how many of the Port pundits missed this one. This Port will cellar for at least five decades, and is certainly one of the 3 greatest wines from the Niepoort stable in the past century! 97+ points today.
1994 Niepoort Colheita - bottled 2003 - burgundy color with some orange-bricking on the rim. This is still pretty primary and showing lots of ripe, yet softer red fruit flavors and will be a fantastic Colheita in time. The tawny and nutty characters will develop in 5-10 years and continue to gain in complexity for decades. This may be the youngest Colheita I have ever tried and I would like to try this again down the road a little bit (especially alongside the '94 Niepoort VP). Obviously, the grapes came from a great vintage and that can only add to the future of this wine. 93 pts.
1988 Niepoort Colheita - bottled 2002 - Compared to the 1987 the 1988 fell a bit short for me. It does not show the focused structure nor complexity of the '87 Colheita and although tasty, the 1988 is just a simple Colheita and I would opt for the wine from the previous vintage. 86 pts.
1979 Niepoort Colheita - I lost most of my notes on this wine while typing on the return flight after the tasting. It was bottled in 2003. Possessing vibrant and subtle dried yellow and red fruits, with a tantalizing candied nutty nuance on the finish. N/R due to loss of the balance of my TN. I guess I will just have to try it again.
1977 Niepoort Garrafeira - the 1977 is still a mostly dark reddish-brown and showing the signs of a more tawny color, although unlike most Ports, the color of Garrafeira does not matter according to Dirk. In contrast to a Colheita the Garrafeira style of Port (translates literally to bottle cellar, in Portuguese) it ages 3-6 years in wood, then it is transferred to glass demijohns that hold between seven and eleven liters of Niepoort (large bottles, depicted in the accompanying photos taken less than a year ago) that were produced during the 18th century. These distinctive bottles are precious and priceless today. According to Niepoort, they are the only firm making Garrafeira Port today. The 1977 will be bottled soon then released in about a decade's time, to allow them to resettle after going from demijohn to bottle. Dirk was very generous and what we tasted was bottled specifically for this event. This garrafeira shows great potential for such a young version. Even though shipped well in advance, this 1977 has the typical "bottle sickness" that a Garrafeira can show.... which like Brettanomyces, can be a unique, if not desirable quality. The nose offered a slightly salty, high-toned Verdelho Madeira-like aromatic profile, What I liked most about this Port was the idiosyncratic flavors and layers of complexity. Although many detected VA in this wine, the oxidative notes will disappear in time, (prior to release) and will provide an even finer, and uniquely Niepoort style of Port. It will certainly be worthy of purchasing it on release. 94 pts.
|A 1970 youngster
1970 Niepoort Vintage Port - initially, upon opening this wine the color is a very brilliant orange-tawny hue. This dramatically changes when decanted for a number of hours. It becomes a generous medium ruby color with an orange rim. This VP was not part of the formal tasting, but was included as dessert at Saturday night's excellent wine dinner. Additionally, I had a few glasses of this rich and lively wine at varying times during the weekend as it is not found easily in the USA. I only had it once before, while in Portugal at a dinner with the Niepoort family. The 1970 has some lush cherry fruit and mocha lingers on the finish. This is an evolved 1970, yet is still quite vibrant and atypical in comparison to some of the other great names from this exquisite vintage. Other tasters found this to be more youthful than I did. I enjoyed its development and complexity and put it in the top 6 wines of the exalted '70 vintage. Dirk's father Rolf was the winemaker and he should be very proud of this wonderful VP. 95 pts.
1962 Niepoort Colheita - This wine spent 40 years in pipe, (large oak casks) so it is no surprise that it appears orange in color with a showing of ruby only in the meniscus. Aromatically, the 1962 is a nicely nuanced and very expressive Port. I enjoyed the sweet almond and caramel notes that emanated from the glass which were lively and refreshing. Although I did like this wine, it fell short for me in terms of body and texture, as it was very light in weight and the finish was simpler and slightly short and did not measure up to many of the finer Niepoort wines we tasted this morning. 85 pts.
1952 Niepoort Garrafeira - bottled 1974 - light tinges of ruby in the heart of this wine that mostly showed well-evolved color. Initially there was a minty note that I did not detect in any other wine today, with a gentle dose of VA showing that will delight Madeira lovers. It shows what a properly aged Garrafeira can achieve, with concentrated flavors and good length on the finish. In comparing the two Garrafeiras side-by-side, although still not even ready for prime time, I believe the promise of the 1977 significantly outshines this Port. That speaks volumes about the younger wine and does not detract from my appreciation of this one. 91 pts.
|Garrafeira in Demijohns
1934 Niepoort Colheita - bottled 1972 - caramel color and showing intensity of fruit and a touch of VA that adds character to this wine. I loved this Colheita and to generalize, of my top 5 Colheita Ports of all time (three of which are Niepoort) the vintages are all from the same decade: 1934, 1935, 1938 and two from 1937. Anyway, this Niepoort shows tangy acidity from the reduction and also provides added complex layers of sweet hazelnut, butterscotch and toffee flavors that just swirl around the mouth providing a luscious, textural and hedonistic high. The finish on this '34 is incredible, as it shows a slightly dry and nutty Madeira-like, warm and silky aftertaste. This is one of the finer and most memorable Colheitas I have drunk. 97 pts.
1900 Niepoort Colheita - bottled 1972 - Aromas are nutty with some slight VA and roasted nut and dates. Some prune and figgy flavors and some pure vanilla extract on the delicate finish. This Colheita offers a great deal of structure and the off-dry, zesty sweetness of a Verdelho. Layers of complexity rush over the palate with delightfully smooth juice and yet it is still such a vibrant wine considering its age. I wish I could wake up to this Port every morning. 96 pts.
1863 Niepoort Colheita - was bottled for the first time in 1972 into demijohns and then bottled and recorked 3 years ago. It is the oldest Port in the Niepoort lodge and my second time trying it. Coincidentally, I have had five different Ports and Madeiras from this particular vintage. Dark and Mahogany like in color, with such vibrancy that one would never guess this could be over 150 years old. It was produced during the heart of the Civil War (Gettysburg took place that year). I was most impressed by the dense, concentrated fruit but more so by the lively acidity of the wine. This is not a shy, wall flower either. It provides a unique intricacy and tertiary, savory flavors which were quite sweet but had such wonderful nuances of toffee, caramel and a lovely smooth nuttiness. The finish was as decadent as any Colheita or VP I have tasted. A very special wine and an unforgettable experience. For those just learning about older Port, I have had my share of duds from the 1800s too, so just because they are old... certainly does not mean they will be good. I always pay attention to the acidity in these old Ports. 97 pts.
|Speaking of old bottles
2003 Cask Samples - Please note that these two barrel samples of Niepoort Port from the 2003 vintage, might be considered for approval at the IVDP (The Port and Douro Wine Institute) as Vintage Port. Due to a very warm growing season, high alcohol and over ripe grapes were prevalent in the vineyards. Sorting was an arduous task and that is why I did not taste the over ripeness here. A large percentage of over ripe or shriveled grapes were removed totally. Dirk thinks this is his best vintage Port ever made. He believes they may eventually be as great as Niepoort's 1945 VP in time. That is a heck of a statement, coming on the heels of the fabulous 2000 VP he made.
1st wine - Grapes are from the Tua River area, not far from Quinta dos Malvedos. Inky black in color with aromas of crushed flowers, especially violets but also cherry and a big whiff of spirit which is to be expected in a Port this young. So very fruit forward, with great concentration of fruit and color. It is showing extremely soft at this point and the tannins are almost imperceptible. With its sweet purity of fruit and soft mouth feel, this is far more approachable than the second wine which is clearly used for the backbone and structure.
2nd wine - This has the big attack with moderate acidity and mouth puckering tannins so pronounced it clearly would be the structural component of the blend. More herbal and spicy aromatically and it is a bit drier with more grape skin flavors and plum. The grapes are from 80 year old trellised vines, grown in smaller parcels, that are field blends. The fruit here is clearly less vibrant than the first cask sample and much more subdued. Dirk did a quick blending of the two and it was clear how well these two fit together.
What an enlightening experience. Dirk's passion shines brightly and the wines reflect the light!
July 2004


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We have seen Sandy Alderson wear several hats during his short tenure as Mets' general manager. Some results have been good, while others have been lacking.
Alderson gets high marks for ridding the Mets of the stagnant culture they had with Oliver Perez and Luis Castillo. He gets kudos for unloading the contracts of Carlos Beltran and Francisco Rodriguez, and avoiding the payday of what would have been a big contract for R.A. Dickey.
For them, he received highly-rated prospects Zack Wheeler and Travis d'Arnaud, both of whom could be factors this season.
It's also a plus that he negotiated the buyout of Jason Bay – which eliminated a hovering distraction – and for letting Jose Reyes leave. The latter decision was good, although the methods could have been cleaner and more public relations sensitive.
Bay became expendable because he did not hit, and it didn't matter that the Mets didn't have a major league player ready to take his place. It will be interesting to see what Alderson does this winter if Ike Davis and Ruben Tejada don't produce this summer.
Alderson has not done will in piecing together the bullpen and outfield, nor has he succeeded in building depth in the rotation is the wake of Johan Santana's injury, Dickey's departure and letting Mike Pelfrey go while arms were needed.
We have seen Alderson operating in several roles, but we have not yet seen him as a buyer. The Mets are promising they will have the resources this winter to enter the free-agent market.
Wherever Alderson has been – Oakland and San Diego – he's operated with restraints. And, it has been that way in his stay with the Mets.
If you're willing to drink more of the Kool-Aid and believe the Mets will be active this winter, you won't be alone wondering what Alderson might accomplish.
If the first two weeks are any indication, he has a lot of shopping to do:
The Mets are two-deep in their rotation with Matt Harvey and Jon Niese, both of whom are being relied on to produce more than their current track records. Alderson has not brought up Wheeler for both economic and performance reasons. There's no guarantee what he will do when he arrives. The Mets easily need at least two starters.
The bullpen remains a serious question. Most bullpens in today's game are a patchwork creation and the Mets are no different. There will be arms available, but the better ones are more expensive.
The current outfield is wearing a Band-Aid when a tourniquet is required. Am I the only one who envisions an entirely different outfield next spring?
If Davis and Tejada continue to underachieve, to what degree will Alderson be patient with them? Does he chase other players, while at the same timing limiting his options in other areas?
These are the dilemmas and questions faced by a buyer, not someone who operates on the cheap. Will be finally see Alderson as a buyer? The first test will be in late July.


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On Our Radar: Making Pink Slips Less Painful
Pink slips are never pleasant, but some countries make the ordeal even more painful. EFinancialCareers says the U.S. is the least layoff-friendly country, followed by Switzerland, as labor laws favor the employer. France, Italy and Holland require much more generous farewell packages. —Melissa Korn
Working at home these days? As great as it can be for you — no commute, easy access to the fridge, the ability to fold laundry while participating on conference calls — it might be even better for your employer. Aetna Inc. is saving millions of dollars on real estate costs now that 47% of its employees work at home, reports the Wall Street Journal. — Lauren Weber
The Atlantic examines wacky Silicon Valley workspaces, replete with slides, tech-product vending machines and grazing goats. The catch: many of these social workspaces may be tough for introverts. (Plus: A slideshow of tricked-out tech workspaces) — Rachel Emma Silverman
Only a handful of women has made it into the top tiers of finance; including Sallie Krawchek, who's been mentioned as possible head of the SEC; Ina Drew, who resigned from JPMorgan Chase in May; and Mellody Hobson, president of Ariel Investments in Chicago. Businessweek profiles another member of that small club, Fidelity Investments' Abigail Johnson, who they call "the most powerful woman in finance." — Allison Lichter
And finally…
Fast Company has a guide to how to ask better questions. Among the tips: Don't ask multiple choice questions and don't fish for a certain answer. — Rachel Emma Silverman


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It makes no sense to me, I might have the crappiest cable in the world (I'm going to do some rewiring this weekend, wish me luck) but luckily I have super internet and they work for me for some reason.
i have verizon fios everything works fine for me
There are a few matchats up and they work!http://www.cbs.com/innertube/player.php?cat=167244&vid=&format=&auto=0
And I get Don/Nick twice on mat chats
3 more added ~An equal partnerhttp://www.cbs.com/innertube/index.php?src=email&vid=175882&format=wmvNate & Jens cash shortagehttp://www.cbs.com/innertube/index.php?src=email&vid=175874&format=wmvScenes from an airporthttp://www.cbs.com/innertube/index.php?src=email&vid=175866&format=wmv
An equal partner is the same video as "Disecting Nate and Jen" for me
was the 2nd last elimination station the one where the teams went to the finish line last season?
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