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Home Siding from ABC Seamless Can Enhance the Curb Appeal of Your Home in St. Cloud, MN
For home siding that you can count on to provide your house in the St. Cloud area of Minnesota with superior protection from the elements and outstanding visual appeal, turn to the experts at ABC Seamless of St. Cloud. We've been installing our premium seamless siding for nearly 30 years, so you can trust that we have the expertise to get the job done right. We'll measure and cut our cladding onsite to the exact dimensions of your home, ensuring a perfect, seamless fit that excels at keeping out insects, dirt, moisture, and more.
Our ABC Seamless home siding is also more visually appealing than traditional cladding due to its lack of seams, which can be more noticeable and unsightly than many homeowners expect. Plus, you'll be able to choose from a wide variety of beautiful colors to complement the appearance of your St. Cloud, MN, home, including:
- Sandtone
- Mountain Cedar
- Mahogany
- Willow
- Desert Tone
- Canyon
- Sage
- Timber
- And more
Additionally, since our siding is made from thick and durable steel with a maintenance-free finish, you'll be able to enjoy protection from strong winds, impacts, and even flames for many years to come. We also back all of our home siding with a transferable lifetime warranty, so you can rest assured that your purchase is protected.
To learn more about having our team outfit your St. Cloud, MN, home with our premium siding, contact ABC Seamless of St. Cloud today.


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This week I worked on the hood details of my tall clocks – the plinths for brass finials. The parts are small. As I worked, I discovered that my handscrew clamps were often drawn into action. These clamps are a great way to hold small parts.
The center plinth had to be shaped with a small radius cut at the front and sides. The first use of the handscrew was to hold the two (one of each clock) plinths face to face so I could easily drill the front radius; one 3/8″ forestner bit cut and created a small 3/16″ radius. I then went to my spindle sander to form a similar radius on each of the two sides of the plinth.
After the radius was created, I had to remove the material left below and sanding away that amount was too time-consuming. Band saw, here I come. At the saw, I wasn't going to hold the plinth with my hand. Handscrew to the rescue. With the small part locked in the clamp, it was easy to trim the waste.
Two more uses for what should be a staple in the shop. And I find old clamps best, so shop auctions in you're looking to add handscrews to your selection.
The hood (shown below) is coming along great. I now need to begin final sanding and finish. Below is a look at the hood without the brass finials. I need to get those ordered. At $70 each, I'm not in a big rush.
Build Something Great!
Glen D. Huey

subset: commoncrawl


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Opinions about the legality of medical marijuana usually hinge on questions about whether marijuana is a gateway drug, or whether it encourages recreational drug use. Now a controversial new paper (unpublished and not peer-reviewed, but released for discussion), has added more smoke to the debate.
According to authors D. Mark Anderson and Daniel I. Rees, the passage of medical marijuana laws in 16 states have also helped to reduce traffic deaths. Can that be right? Does weed really reduce the speed?
The authors base their claim on statistics assembled using the the Fatality Analysis Reporting System, or FARS, which is a database collected by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Across the 16 states where medical marijuana has been legalized, it was found that traffic fatalities dropped by as much as 9 percent.
The FARS statistics do not prove that medical marijuana laws are the cause of the decrease in traffic deaths (such statistics can only provide correlation), but until now no research has been conducted to explain the relationship. Anderson and Rees offer up a couple of theories.
First, they suggest that marijuana is a substitute for alcohol consumption. Basically, if medical marijuana laws create an uptick in marijuana use, then perhaps people are smoking grass rather than imbibing in the drink. This should, in turn, lead to less drunk driving, which explains the drop in traffic deaths.
But are marijuana and alcohol substitutes? The authors looked at data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System and found that medical marijuana laws are associated with decreases in the number of drinks consumed, especially among 20- through 29-year-olds. Furthermore, after looking over data from the Beer Institute, they found that beer sales tend to fall after medical marijuana laws go into effect.
This first theory also relies on the assumption that driving drunk is more dangerous than driving high. For this, the authors note evidence that high drivers "reduce their velocity, avoid risky maneuvers, and increase their 'following distances,' suggesting compensatory behavior." A fair amount of other research also validates this claim. (Read this story for more on this.)
A second, purely speculative hypothesis suggests that because medical marijuana use is still not permitted in public, users stay at home to smoke rather than go out, thus getting in fewer accidents by default. If this theory panned out, it would at least provide reason for keeping marijuana use private.
While none of the evidence cited by the study is definitive (it's doubtful that proponents of medical marijuana legislation will begin citing driving safety as a key arguing point any time soon), it does provide a compelling anecdotal case. Perhaps, with more study, seat belt safety laws will end up finding a strange and unexpected bedfellow in medical marijuana laws.


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between a lock and a hard place
Urban spaces have shady places. Street smarts are key, but sometimes circumstances still conspire to place you in uncomfortable situations. That might even mean actual peril. It's important to be able to look after yourself, as there is little opportunity for backup when it comes to finding yourself in a bad location.Read More


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S1, E13: "Till we meet again"
Recalling the best moments of Joey and Joee together, we see their friends' last-ditch effort to save their relationship since they believe the two are meant for each other. Will this push the housemates to finally show their affection for each other?
Category: Single/Single


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Cash Drawer Basics (How to Choose an Electronic Cash Drawer)
There are many things to consider when buying an electronic cash drawer other than just price. A cash drawer is a core component of your POS system, so it is best to buy one that offers essential features and quality construction such as MS Cash Drawer, APG, or MMF brands, for example.
Important factors to consider when buying an electronic cash drawer are:
1. Footprint Size: How big of a cash drawer do you need? What generally determines this is (A) your other POS system hardware, and (B) how much room do you have at the POS system? If you are buying a cash drawer for a tablet based POS system, then it is generally best to get a cash drawer from 13"x13" (or smaller) up to 16"x16" (suggested maximum) footprint, for example.
If you are purchasing a cash drawer for a standard POS system (non-tablet based), then it would be best to get a larger size cash drawer from 16"x16" footprint on up. Also, be sure to measure your countertop first before you buy a cash drawer to ensure it will fit. If you are unable to install the cash drawer size you want on top of your counter, then consider installing it underneath the counter if possible. Most cash drawers have optional undercounter mounting brackets available.
2. Money Tray: Be sure your cash drawer has a removable money tray (also known as a 'till' or 'insert'). The leading cash drawer manufactures offer a removable money tray for most models. (Note, the micro cash drawers 10"x13" footprint or smaller generally do not have a removable tray option.) Having a removable tray allows you to easily replace and count money when employee shifts change. Furthermore, be sure the cash drawer tray has adjustable money compartments; this will allow you to effortlessly customize the tray for optimum usability. Most modern cash drawer money trays have adjustable compartments, but it is still always best to check first before purchasing.
3. Metal Money Holders: Ensure your cash drawer's money tray has metal/spring loaded money holders. Metal money holders are more durable than the cheap plastic ones. Some cash drawer manufacturers market their plastic money holders as a superior construction to the metal ones, and we are just amazed at how they can make such a statement!
4. Paint Finish: Try and get a cash drawer that does not have a standard 'powder coating' paint finish. A cash drawer with a standard powder coating paint finish tends to nick and scratch more easily. Most lower cost cash drawers have a standard powder coat paint finish; however, MS Cash Drawer (a premiere cash drawer manufacturer) offers a durable fired powder coat and paint finishes on different cash drawer models except for the Echo series.
5. Media Slots: A cash drawer with media slots is something to consider when purchasing. Most cash drawer models come with or without media slots. A media slot (just as ther name implies) is a slot in the front of the cash drawer that allows you to insert checks, receipts, etc without opening it. Deepening on the size of the cash drawer, it will have from 1 to 3 media slots. We highly recommend purchasing a cash drawer with media slots just for the convenience factor it offers the user.
6. Lock Functionality: Not all cash drawer locks are the same, so it is best to consider the type of lock you want before purchasing. Cash drawer locks are available in 2 to 4 'position' configurations:
- 2 Position: Electronic Lock & Electronic Unlock
- 3 Position: Electronic Lock, Electronic Unlock & Manual Control (Most Common)
- 4 Position: Electronic Lock, Electronic Unlock, Manual Control & Locked Open
The '3 Position Lock' is the most common type found on a cash drawer. Also note that if you are buying multiple cash drawers you can have them keyed alike as an option. Cash drawers are sold keyed differently by default, so be sure to request the keyed alike option before you buy; this is normally a special order and can delay shipment by up to 2 weeks.
7. Storage: This ties into section 5 above about media slots. Cash drawers have different storage capacity. This is additional storage space for receipts, checks, coin rolls, etc. If you plan to store a lot of coin rolls or other items in your cash drawer, then be sure to get a cash drawer that offers ample storage space. The MS Cash Drawer EP-107N2 or the MMF Media Plus are top picks for this requirement.
8. Bell: To ring or not to ring? Back in the day, all cash drawers came with a bell. This was the original low tech loss prevention at the cash register (the bell rang alerting all within earshot that someone opened the cash drawer). Since those days, cash drawers with bells are no longer common. This is because a computerized POS system tracks when 'no sales' are entered and by whom, and POS systems today can be connected to a camera, whereby, a photo is taken every time the cash drawer opens. That said, some still may want the old school bell, and there is nothing wrong with that. If you want a cash drawer with a bell that rings every time the cash drawer opens, then we recommend MS Cash Drawer; they offer a bell option for most of their cash drawer models at a nominal cost.
9. Interface Type: The most common type of electronic cash drawer is what's called a 'receipt printer driven' cash drawer. This means that the cash drawer will be operated by your receipt printer. Your cash drawer will connect to the back of the receipt printer via a custom RJ cable (looks like a telephone cable), and when the receipt printer prints, it will send a signal down the RJ cable to the cash drawer for it to open, simple process. So when you purchase your cash drawer, be certain that you also get the RJ cable. Some cash drawers come with the cable as standard, and for others it is an optional item.
Be sure to purchase a RJ cable that will work with your receipt printer brand. If your receipt printer brand operates in Epson compatible/ESC POS printer language such as Epson, Bixolon, SNBC, Citizen, and CRS printers, for example, then be sure to get an Epson compatible RJ cable for your cash drawer. If you have an Ithaca or Star Micronics receipt pointer, then get the corresponding RJ cable for them. Bottom line is: cash drawer RJ cables basically come in 3 different printer compatibility options: Epson, Star Micronics and Ithaca. (Please see video below for an electronic cash drawer connectivity demonstration.)
NOTE: In rare instances, a receipt printer driven cash drawer is not required. This will happen if you are not printing a receipt to a standard 40 column (3" wide or samller) receipt printer. In this instance, you may need a USB or Serial cash drawer, but, again, this is a very rare configuration. However, if you are uncertain of the cash drawer interface type you need, be sure to check with your POS software vendor first before purchasing.
10 . Additional factors to consider when purchasing a cash drawer:
- Cash drawers are non-intelligent devices, so they are compatible with most POS system installations.
- A heavier cash drawer generally means it is of higher quality.
- Just like other products, the more you pay for a cash drawer…the better the build quality and features.
- Cash drawers are usually only available in the following color variants: black, white, beige.
- We recommend purchasing one of the following brands: MS Cash Drawer, MMF Cash Drawer and APG Cash Drawer. There are many cash drawer makes and models available on the market today, and most of them are cheap and will break after a short period of time. It is best to purchase a cash drawer from one of the top brand name manufacturers listed above. They make quality products, have free after sales USA based tech support, and warranties range from 1-3 years depending on the model purchased.
If you need additional help choosing the right cash drawer for your business, please don't hesitate to contact one of our point of sale experts. You can also view the 2 POSCatch product presentation videos below to learn more about electronic cash drawers.
Additional Resources for You:
How the Heck Do I Connect My Cash Drawer?
POSCatch.com YouTube Cash Drawer Video Presentations:


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Crown, Clay's Market, Proctor Bottom, Greenvalley Middle School
PM SHUTTLE South Man Pre-K, Man Elementary, Buffalo
ELEMENTARY AM Mac's Auto Parts, Town of Man, Ellis Bottom,
Pick up Pre-K students at Man Elementary and take to South Man
Madison Creek, Earling, HS, MS, South Man, Lyburn, and
Madison Creek, Earling, Taplin to South Man Grade and Man
MMS's website serves as a resource to the community and beyond, in order to provide current information about our school, access to staff, and opportunities to deliver interactive services. The website serves as an interactive resource/communication tool, a source of current information about the school for parents, students, and staff, and an outreach medium to the community and beyond.
MMS makes every effort to ensure that published information is accurate and current. However, MMS makes no claims, promises, or guarantees about the absolute accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the contents of this web site and expressly disclaims liability for errors and omissions in the contents of this web site. Any person or entity that relies on any information obtained from this system does so at their own risk. This applies to staff blogs.
MMS is not responsible for and does not control or guarantee the content from linked/external sites.
Copyright © 2020 Man Middle School


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power turbine lubrication system failure during start up
power turbine lubrication system failure during start up
On one plant, we have a GE aero derivative gas turbine driving a generator. On the lubrication system of the gas turbine (power turbine) the oil pumps are failing to deliver the required supply pressure to the turbine during start up and system is not stable.
The relief valves at the discharge of the oil pumps with return to reservoir do not have a by pass. Could this be the reason that the system is not able to ensure the needed pressure level for supply of oil during turbine start up ?
What kind of functional checks can be done to troubleshoot this problem?
Thank you for any help.
RE: power turbine lubrication system failure during start up
Uh, check the dipstick on the oil tank?
Consider the possibility that the lube oil pumps are worn out, and not capable of maintaining the required pressure.
I'd expect the turbine controls to have sensors for lube oil pressure, that would be arranged to shut down the turbine when the pressure falls off.
... which could also happen if there's not enough oil in the supply tank; i.e., start the pump, draw down the level, and the pressure falls off, etc.
How does the lube oil get to the tank once it's gone through the turbine bearings? Is there a pump that could be off, or a filter that could be clogged?
Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA
RE: power turbine lubrication system failure during start up
as Mike H mentioned I have also seen a low level go lower as the volume of oil needed increases (oil in transient in the drains) and the suctions become exposed.
the "funniest" problem I had was contiminated oil resulted in foaming during rolling and "liquid" oil level dropped below suction
could you provide your control diagram showing lubrication?
RE: power turbine lubrication system failure during start up
How long has the problem been occurring?
Once running, what are lube oil levels?
RE: power turbine lubrication system failure during start up
"I'd expect the turbine controls to have sensors for lube oil pressure, that would be arranged to shut down the turbine when the pressure falls off." correct.
I will check the return line to reservoir as you suggested.
I need to look for a control diagram.
RE: power turbine lubrication system failure during start up
Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA
RE: power turbine lubrication system failure during start up
Valuable advice from a professor many years ago: First, design for graceful failure. Everything we build will eventually fail, so we must strive to avoid injuries or secondary damage when that failure occurs. Only then can practicality and economics be properly considered.
RE: power turbine lubrication system failure during start up
• The relief valves are most likely full-flow valves. These can be built with cuts in the seats to allow a certain amount of flow to keep the lines flooded and warm. If your system was designed with valves that do not have cut seats, and valves with cut seats have been installed, this would reduce the available capacity.
• I assume you have already tested the relief valves. If they are full-flow valves that have to be tested and adjusted in service on the actual oil system where they will operate. These should be tested and adjusted with the same oil they will see in service and at normal operating temperature. If they were adjusted with cold oil, they may pass more oil at full temperature.
• I assume that the pressure control for the system uses a combination of spill-back control valves and in-line pressure control valves. They valves should be checked to make sure that they are operating correctly and they the pressure references used to control those valve are properly located.
• The spill-back pressure control valve probably has a bypass. That bypass could be partially open or leaking by.
• On initial start-up, there may be additional oil demand as lines are filled, overhead lube oil run-down tanks are filled and automatic shut-down valves are pressurized and actuated. It might be possible to run both lube oil pumps during this transition to provide additional oil until normal, steady-state conditions are reached.
• The lube oil pumps probably have basket strainers in the suction lines. They should be checked and cleaned.
• There is probably a pressure equalization line between the two oil filters and oil coolers. Before start-up, all of the spare filters and coolers should be flooded, vented and pressurized. Otherwise, a small stream of oil would be diverted through this equalization line.
• The main lube oil filters could be restricting the flow if there has been any change made such as going to finer filters elements to improve filtration.
• Some of the systems use a "kidney loop" filter which diverts a small stream of oil and passes it through a much finer filter and then dumps it back into the reservoir. If this filter was blown out or assembled incorrectly, it could be diverting a stream of oil back to the tank.
• In addition the full-flow relief valves, some systems also have traditional PSV (pop valves). These could be leaking by.
• If the tank is equipped with a breather vent or flame arrestor, it could be plugged up. As the system draws down the tank level to fill all of the needed lines and equipment, the tank needs to draw in air. If the breathers or other vents were plugged up, this could result in loss of pump performance as the tank developed a vacuum with the drop in oil level.
• As noted above, the lube oil pumps could be worn out. But, this is very unusual in clean lube oil service. If any work has been done to the pumps, they could be assembled incorrectly or otherwise defective.
Without a system diagram, it is difficult to be more specific. Some time has passed since your original post. Have you determined the problem yet?
Johnny Pellin
RE: power turbine lubrication system failure during start up
Check the rotation direction of your oil pumps and motor amps as a preliminary, before the obvious suction and discharge strainers and possible jammed relief valves
Offshore Engineering&Design


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Weekend links 35
Oct 24, 2010
Marian Bantjes designs the cover of the latest Creative Review and there's a feature about her work inside. • "…the question: 'was Shakespeare gay?' strikes me as so daft as to be barely worth answering. Of course he was. Arguably he was bisexual, of sorts, but his heart was never on his straight side." Don […]
Posted in {animation}, {art}, {books}, {collage}, {design}, {film}, {gay}, {illustrators}, {magazines}, {music}, {occult}, {painting}, {sculpture} | 3 comments »


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If it's Christmas, I must be making my most requested Graham Wafer Christmas Bark. ( It is second only to my Chocolate Chip Oatmeal cookies - click here for the recipe). I just made a batch for a cookie exchange and I think the only reason I was invited was for my bark.
So here is the recipe - simple, quick and delish!
In a sauce pan over medium heat, melt 1 cup of butter and 1 cup of brown sugar. Bring to a boil and stir for 3 minutes. ( I set a timer as soon as it starts to boil as this is a critical step to success).
Pour over the crackers and spread evenly with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 375 degrees for 6-8 minutes until the entire pan is bubbling. Watch closely as it can easily burn if left too long.
Remove and turn the oven off. Sprinkle 1 package of semi-sweet chocolate chips on top and return to the oven for 30 seconds. Remove and smooth the chocolate. Top with ground pecans and place in the freezer. When hard, peel off the tin foil and break into pieces. For best results, store in the freezer and serve immediately.
For our cookie exchange, I packaged the bark in cone shaped cello bags and tied them with a pretty pink organza ribbon and added a sprig of cedar and a glass ornament.


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Say No to the North American UnionPosted: September 23, 2014 Filed under: Uncategorized | Tags: Canada, constitution, free trade, john birch society, John McManus, Mexico, NAFTA, NAU, North American Free Trade Agreement, north american union, President Clinton, The John Birch Society, trade pacts, World Trade Organization, WTO 3 Comments
Say No to the North American Union
by JBS President John F. McManus
The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) won congressional approval in late 1993. Signed by then-President Clinton, the pact, has contributed to one million manufacturing jobs lost and many hundreds of closed factories.
But the loss of jobs and factories hasn't been the only casualty. When NAFTA was being considered, both Henry Kissinger and David Rockefeller, two eager proponents of eventual world government, made clear in their published statements that the pact was only a stepping stone toward the larger goal of uniting Canada, the United States, and Mexico into a North American Union (NAU). And creation of a formal NAU would be a step toward the "new world order" that each desires. Effective work by The John Birch Society and some allies prevented realization of the plan to sacrifice national independence in favor of the NAU.
But the enemies of national independence never sleep. At a recent gathering of the Texas-Chihuahua-New Mexico Regional Economic Competitiveness Forum held in El Paso, Texas, Congressmen Beto O'Rourke, Joaquin Castro and Henry Cuellar – all Democrats from Texas – stated their hopes to create more ties with Mexico. And Congressman Bill Owens (D-N.Y.) who represents a district bordering Canada added his hope that a similar expansion of ties can be made with Canada.
Mr. Cuellar pointed to energy production in the three North American countries. He wants to "put Mexico, Canada, and the U.S. [into a relationship] that will be the new Middle East of the world." Energy production, of course, can continue and grow without sacrificing the independence of each of the countries. Simply stated, there is no need to give up national sovereignty in order to produce energy.
A report about the El Paso meeting provided by Newspaper Tree stated: "But with regional economies and markets across the planet becoming increasingly competitive in a globalizing and urbanizing world, the notion of building upon a stronger North America in a post-NAFTA hemisphere was clearly on the lawmakers' minds."
The American people must be made aware that the NAFTA pact, as costly as it was regarding jobs, also contained in its 1,700 pages numerous additional entanglements such as NAFTA judicial panels whose decisions supersede the rulings of our nation's state and federal courts. There can be little doubt that the intention of the globalists includes having a newly created North American Union crush independence here in the same manner that it has been crushed for 28 European nations by the European Union. Members of Congress must be told by constituents that keeping our nation away from entanglements such as the proposed NAU is imperative.
For more on the agenda behind free trade agreements, read "International Merger by Foreign Entanglements" by JBS CEO Arthur Thompson. Check out a review of it here.
Mr. McManus joined the staff of The John Birch Society in August 1966 and has served various roles for the organization including Field Coordinator, Director of Public Affairs, and now President. He remains the Society's chief media representative throughout the nation and has appeared on hundreds of radio and television programs. Mr. McManus is also Publisher of The New American magazine and author of a number of educational DVDs and books.


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A running discussion on the Cincinnati Reds and everything else in the baseball universe.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
2008 Season Preview: The Bullpen
Not to mention, it seems like whenever the Reds are good, it's due in large part to a very strong bullpen. Whether it was the Nasty Boys in 1990 or the more recent vintages featuring Scott Williamson, Danny Graves, Stan Belinda, and the absurdly underrated Scott Sullivan.
Krivsky made a big splash this offseason by signing Francisco "Coco" Cordero to a very large multiyear contract. Given how few innings relievers work, it is a questionable way to spend such a large portion of your payroll. However, given how ineffective the bullpen has been and how that has demoralized the team, the move is understandable, even if not entirely defensible.
Now that the makeup of the bullpen has finally been settled, we can take a look at what to expect in 2008.
Closer: Francisco Cordero
2007 Stats
IP: 63.1, ERA: 2.98, WHIP: 1.11, K/BB: 86/18, SVs: 44
2008 Projections
Bill James: IP: 61.0, ERA: 3.69, WHIP: 1.33, K/BB: 66/24, SVs: 33
ZIPS: IP: 70.0, ERA: 3.34, WHIP: 1.26, K/BB: 80/27, SVs: n/a
Francisco "Coco" Cordero was easily the best closer available on the market and Krivsky wasted no time in locking him up, as he moved quickly and decisively to address the problem. In addition, the Reds weakened the Brewers by signing away their closer.
Cordero was truly dominant last year, but time will tell if he can be that dominant again in 2008. It is clear that 2007 was the best year of Cordero's career, so it'll be interesting if he can continue to perform at that level. A complete dropoff seems unlikely, as Cordero has had good season before, so he should at least be solid.
Coco is strictly a two pitch pitcher. He throws a high velocity fastball and a nasty slider. Last year, his fastball averaged out at 96.1 MPH and his slider averaged 88.8 MPH. Coco threw the fastball 50.4% of the time and the slider 49.6% of the time.
Cordero's high strikeout/low contact rate style is the ideal fit for the Reds, who play in a homer friendly park with a porous defense. If Cordero can dominate the 9th, then Weathers and Burton will be left to handle the 8th and 7th innings respectively. The Cordero signing bumps everyone else down a role, so it could have a significant trickle down effect on the 2008 bullpen.
Overall, the Coco signing addressed a huge need and may go a long way towards addressing the team's biggest weakness of the past few years.
Setup: David Weathers
2007 Stats
IP: 77.2, ERA: 3.59, WHIP: 1.21, K/BB: 48/27, SVs: 33
2008 Projections
Bill James: IP: 75.0, ERA: 3.84, WHIP: 1.35, K/BB: 54/31
David Weathers continues to defy the odds and I'm hoping he can do it again in 2008. You'd think that at SOME point, he'll lose effectiveness. At SOME point, he'll become a liability, rather than an asset. However, despite all predictions and prognostications to contrary, Weathers just keeps going and going and going.
I don't foresee Weathers losing any effectiveness because he's moved up from the 9th inning to the 8th inning, but maybe this is the year his age catches up with him. Then again, maybe not. I don't know how Weathers continues to be so effective, but he certainly does.
For the Reds sake, 2008 had better not be the year that he loses it.
7th Inning Guy: Jared Burton
2007 Stats
2008 Projections
Bill James: IP: 40.0, ERA: 4.28, WHIP: 1.48, K/BB: 33/19
It really is a tale of two halves with Burton. In the first half, he struggled just like you'd expect from a Rule V draftee. However, in the second half, Burton really exploded onto the scene.
In the first half, Burton pitched only 8.2 innings and posting a 5.19 ERA with a 9/7 K/BB ratio. The Reds took advantage of every opportunity to put him on the DL and get in some "rehab" work in the minors. When Burton got back after the All Star break, he was a different pitcher. He posted a 1.83 ERA in 34.1 innings with a 27/15 K/BB ratio. He was dominating and really helped solidify the Reds bullpen.
On an even more positive note, some of the guys doing analysis of pitch data think Burton's fastball has such good velocity and movement that it's most accurate comparable is Mariano Rivera's cut fastball. Whether or not that's accurate, the fact that it is even being mentioned in the same sentence is a positive.
It'll be interesting to see which Burton we get in 2008. It's hard to imagine him being as successful as he was in 2007, so a small step backward is probable. However, if his control improves a tick, then he could be just that could, which would go a long way towards solidifying the Reds bullpen. There may not be a more improvement pitcher in the Reds bullpen this year.
Middle Relief: Jeremy Affeldt
2007 Stats
2008 Projections
Bill James: IP: 200.0, ERA: 4.46, WHIP: 1.46, K/BB: 150/97
Jeremy Affeldt is an interesting pitcher. I've had my eye on him for quite sometime, because he has a tremendous arm. He could be a power lefty, which is a rare commodity in the game today. He's a got a very good fastball and a nasty, sharp breaking curveball. In addition, he gets a high percentage of groundballs. He's got everything he needs to be successful, but he just doesn't ever command it well enough to be actually be successful.
Obviously, the Bill James projection is based on Affeldt being a starter, so maybe he would fare better if he were programmed to be a reliever. Regardless, the Reds need Affeldt to be successful in 2008 for his production, but also because a good season would likely increase his Elias ranking and net the Reds a compensatory draft pick after the season.
As it stands, Affeldt always seems like a pot about to boil over. He managed to keep a lid on it last year long enough to have decent success, but there's no guarantee that he won't just boil over in 2008. In fact, pitching in front of the Reds defense may be just detrimental enough to ensure that Affeldt cannot be successful in 2008, as his margin for error is non-existent.
Affeldt could be a bust in Cincy or he could finally put it altogether and become a dominant force in 2008. If I had to bet, I'd lay money on the former over the latter, but crazier things have happened.
Middle Relief: Todd Coffey
2007 Stats
2008 Projections
Bill James: IP: 50.0, ERA: 4.86, WHIP: 1.46, K/BB: 36/15
Todd Coffey is baffling. He really is. He's one of those guys who SHOULD be better than he is. One of those guys who has a good strikeout rate, good walk rate, and good GB/FB ratio. He's got all the harbingers of success, but never gets the success itself. There are a select few others in this category, including Dave Bush, Jeremy Bonderman, and arguably Matt Belise. However, none of them ever quite live up to what we think they should.
This offseason, Coffey lost a significant amount of weight. Last year, he was pitching at 264 lbs, but at last weigh-in was at 248 and shooting for 240.
When year in and year out you struggle, ANY change is cause of optimism. You don't want every thing to keep staying the same, as they likely wouldn't lead to new results. However, Coffey's weight loss gives us a reason to hope that 2008 will be the year that he finally puts it altogether. The year his heavy fastball and even heavier GB/FB tendencies pays off huge for the Reds.
The Reds desperately need someone to step up and be the 4th quality reliever in the bullpen. It would be great if it were Todd Coffey, as he should be exactly the type of pitcher the Reds need. Whether it'll happen remains to be seen, but maybe a more fit Coffey is a more effective Coffey.
Lefty Specialist: Kent Mercker
2006 Stats
2008 Projections
Bill James: N/A
Mercker was out of baseball in 2007 due to a brain aneurysm and his recovery is just a great story. However, this leaves us with no projections for him, but perhaps the most important number on Mercker is 40, which is his age.
At this point, I guess we have to consider Mercker to be a lefty specialist, though his performance against lefties over his career isn't all that much different than against righties (OPS vs. L: .712, OPS vs. R: .770).
It's interesting that the Reds chose to keep Mercker over Mike Stanton. If the Reds looked at Stanton this spring training and saw no sign of him turning things around, then I applaud the decision to eat his salary. It's not beyond the realm of possibilities that it was his IPED use that made him effective in the recent past and it certainly didn't help his image in Cincy, so maybe we should be thanking George Mitchell. However, it seems odd that the Reds would decide to cut him loose and then replace him with a lefty who is no better bet for success.
Am I mistaken, or is Mercker a very comparable player to Stanton? Both left-handed relievers who are at the very tail end of their careers. Each a bit of a long shot bet for success in 2008. So, if you have the same player, but one makes $3M and the other the veteran minimum, then wouldn't you want to roll the dice that the $3M man will bounce back enough to enable you to not have to eat the entire contract?
I'm glad Stanton is gone, but I just wonder about dumping him without having an appreciable upgrade ready to take his spot.
Middle Relief: Mike Lincoln
2004 Stats
2008 Projections
Bill James: N/A
This one is a true head scratcher. Mike Lincoln has never been a consistently effective reliever, so I'm really not sure what he's doing in our bullpen. I'm not going to spend much time on Mr. Lincoln, because I don't think he's going to be around very long. He seems like a likely bet to be replaced by Josh Roenicke, Pedro Viola, or Matt Belisle in the near future.
Lincoln had Tommy John surgery in July of 2004 and an additional surgery for an elbow debridement in 2005. So, on the positive side, maybe he's just now recovered enough to be a positive member of the bullpen. However, his career 5.4 K/9 and 3.3 BB/9 don't exactly instill a lot of hope.
The most pertinent fact about Lincoln's presence in the bullpen may well be that it is a sign that our bullpen isn't as good as we hoped it might be. In fact, at this point, I have to question how improved it really is over the 2007 version.
This is our new and improved bullpen? Is it even any better? I suppose we could conceivably have 3 quality relievers instead of just 2, but it's still very clear that this bunch will walk too many and struggle too much to be a top bullpen. We've got some live arms in the bullpen (i.e. Affeldt, Coffey), but I'm just not sure the pitchers to whom they are attached have any idea what to do with them.
Maybe Burton will continue to dominate like he did in the 2nd half, Coffey will take a step forward, Affeldt will continue to successful walk his fine line between effectiveness and train wreck, and Mercker will find the fountain of youth. But, in the end, there just seems like too much risk and too many "ifs" at work here.
As it is currently configured, I'm really not sure this bullpen is playoff caliber, so hopefully Josh Roenicke and Pedro Viola can come up and make it 5 deep, instead of just 3. If not, this could be another long year in the Cincy pen.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Reds 2008 Season Preview: Starting Rotation
The rotation has a stud #1 starter, a solid veteran, two rookies with lightening in their arms, and one veteran filler. It's an interesting combination, but there are still 3 question marks. It'll be interesting to see how it all plays out, but it's impossible to know what we can reasonably expect out of Cueto and Volquez and it's impossible to like what we can reasonably expect from Josh Fogg.
#1 Starter: Aaron Harang
2007 Stats
IP: 231.2, ERA: 3.73, WHIP: 1.14, K/BB: 218/52, Hits: 213, HRs: 28
2008 Projections
Bill James:
IP: 240.0, ERA: 3.90, WHIP: 1.28, K/BB: 203/64, Hits: 244, HRs: 29
IP: 221.0, ERA: 3.87, WHIP: 1.23, K/BB: 196/52, Hits: 219, HRs: 26
What more can really be said about Harang?
He's a stud, plain and simple. He combines a high level of performance with a heavy workload, so the sheer volume of quality innings he provides is of inestimable value for the Reds. The Reds weak rotation and poor bullpen of years past would each be exponentially worse without Harang.
It's remarkable to think that the Reds got him from the A's in the deal for Jose Guillen.
Harang is the most important player to the present and future of the organization. If you really want to give yourself nightmares, imagine where the Reds would be if Harang were to get injured (knock on wood). There is a lot of optimism over the Reds, but one injury to Harang and they are back in the dark ages. He's that important.
Given how consistent he is, it's no surprise that both Bill James and ZIPS expect more of the same from Harang, which is music to the ears of Reds fans.
#2 Starter: Bronson Arroyo
2007 Stats
IP: 210.2, ERA: 4.23, WHIP: 1.40, K/BB: 156/63, Hits: 232, HRs: 28
2008 Projections
Bill James:
IP: 209.0, ERA: 4.09, WHIP: 1.32, K/BB: 143/62, Hits: 214, HRs: 25
IP: 200.0, ERA: 4.37, WHIP: 1.36, K/BB: 130/56, Hits: 216, HRs: 25
Arroyo is a key pitcher in the Reds rotation. Ideally, in 2008 he'll prove that he is closer to the 2006 version than the 2007 version. If the Reds are going to make a serious push this year, then they need Arroyo to be good. The Reds already have 3 question marks in the rotation, so both Harang and Arroyo need to deliver.
If Arroyo can pitch at his 2006 level, then Harang and Arroyo combined will provide 400+ innings of top notch pitching production. Unfortunately, I don't have faith in Arroyo like I do with Harang. That said, I'd be happy if he could match the Bill James projection. By this time next year, Arroyo will likely be pushed back to the #3 or even #4 spot in the rotation.
I'm hoping for a nice bounce back season, but expecting Arroyo to be our 3rd best starter behind Harang and Cueto.
#3 Starter: Johnny Cueto
2007 Minor League Stats (A+, AA, AAA)
IP: 161.1, ERA: 3.07, WHIP: 1.12, K/BB: 170/34, Hits: 146, HRs: 11
2008 Projections
Bill James:
Cueto was truly astonishing in 2007. He was dominant at 3 separate levels of the minor leagues. The competition level kept increasing, but it didn't matter as Johnny just kept mowing them down. Spring training this year was just more of the same, second verse, same as the first. Johnny just continued to get it done.
The very fact that he is going to open the year in the rotation speaks volumes. The Reds have an organizational culture that is unaccustomed to good young pitching, so Cueto had to be very good in Spring Training to overcome the team's hard earned mistrust of young pitchers.
Cueto has great stuff and good control, but his ability to carry over his success against MLB hitters will be determined by his command. His ability to hit his spots inside the strikezone has been called into question at times and MLB hitters don't often miss location mistakes. Overall, the future is supernova bright for Cueto and may mark the end of the Dark Ages of player development in Cincinnati.
#4 Starter: Edinson Volquez
2007 Stats
IP: 209.0, ERA: 4.09, WHIP: 1.32, K/BB: 143/62, Hits: 214, HRs: 25
2008 Projections
Bill James:
IP: 178.0, ERA: 5.21, WHIP: 1.49, K/BB: 141/77, Hits: 188, HRs: 31
Volquez has certainly gotten off on the right foot in the Reds organization. His spring training has been almost as impressive as Cueto's and his strong K/BB ratio shows a nice blend of power and control. However, I still have questions as to whether he's succeeding on the back of the fastball/change-up combination. If he is, that may not be sustainable the second and third time around the league.
To be successful in the rotation, Edinson needs to have an effective breaking ball. He has to have a pitch that can change the eye level of hitters. He needs an offering that works in two planes. MLB hitters are simply too talented to be fooled by straight pitches time and again. If all they have to worry about is the speed of the pitch and not the break, then it's only a matter of time before they get the timing down.
Volquez has an electric fastball and an impressive changeup, but his success will still be driven by his breaking ball. If he can command his curveball, then he could be a very effective starting pitcher. If not, then he's likely headed for a career in the bullpen. It'll be interesting to see if Edinson can carry his Spring Training success into the regular season.
#5 Starter: Josh Fogg
2007 Stats
IP: 165.2, ERA: 4.94, WHIP: 1.53, K/BB: 94/59, Hits: 194, HRs: 23
2008 Projections
Bill James:
IP: 181.0, ERA: 4.97, WHIP: 1.43, K/BB: 104/62, Hits: 196, HRs: 27
IP: 152.0, ERA: 5.27, WHIP: 1.51, K/BB: 77/51, Hits: 178, HRs: 21
Josh Fogg is Josh Fogg. His strikeout rate is too low, his walk rate is too high, and he won't get the benefit of the elite Colorado Rockie defense. I hope I'm wrong, but this has the look of a "Miltonian" disaster.
Too many baserunners via the walk, too much contact from the low strikeout rates, and too little range from the defense. It all adds up to a lot of baserunners allowed and a lot of runs allowed.
Unfortunately, it's hard to imagine the Reds having more than 3 quality starting pitchers in 2008. Cueto and Edinson will have their ups and downs, Fogg should be well below average, Arroyo will probably be a solid #3 starter, and Harang should be in the running for the Cy Young yet again.
Will that be enough for the Reds to make a big playoff push in 2008? I have my doubts, but time will tell.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Reds 2008 Season Preview: Outfield
LF: Adam Dunn
2007 Stats
.264/.386/.554/.940 in 522 ABs with 40 HRs, 107 Runs, and 103 RBIs.
2008 Projections
Bill James:
.251/.386/.537/.923 in 566 ABs with 43 HRs, 107 Runs, and 103 RBIs.
.239/.366/.498/.864 in 524 ABs with 36 HRs, 94 Runs, and 103 RBIs.
Dunn continues to be a lightening rod for discussion. I'm not sure there is a more polarizing figure in the majors today. The crown formerly belonged to Barry Bonds, but his forced exile has made Dunn the likely successor.
I suppose the reason for it is that Dunn, more than any contemporary player, straddles the divide between traditional scouting and statistical analysis. To watch him play is to see an awkward fielder with a poor arm and an inability to make consistent contact. To look at his stats is to see a massively productive player who combines power and patience like few other players. So, in essence, your view on Dunn depends on your larger view of baseball.
One thing I've been watching is the possibility of an early decline from Dunn due to a reliance on "old player skills." Bill James first suggested the idea that young players whose value is driven by power and patience will likely decline earlier, as they are less equipped to deal with a slowing bat or the loss of a step. A player with a myriad of skills or with a surfeit of speed can better deal with aging. In short, Rickey Henderson can afford to lose a step, but Adam Dunn cannot. Ichiro can afford a slightly slower bat, but Adam Dunn cannot.
Dunn has yet to demonstrate any sort of decline, but if he does slip a notch then he could decline in a hurry. While he has been and continues to be very productive, I wouldn't be in favor of giving him a long term deal, as he seems the type whose production could fall off the table in a hurry.
For 2008, it seems like more of the same, though the Bill James projection is much more optimistic than ZIPS. The Reds will have a difficult decision to make after the season on Dunn and his production next season will go a long way towards helping them decide.
CF: Corey Patterson
2007 Stats
.269/.304/.386/.690 in 461 ABs with 8 HRs, 65 Runs, and 45 RBIs.
2008 Projections
Bill James:
.267/.309/.424/.733 in 439 ABs with 13 HRs, 63 Runs, and 47 RBIs.
.257/.295/.402/.697 in 495 ABs with 14 HRs, 70 Runs, and 65 RBIs.
At this point, it seems like C-Pat is a "stone cold, lead pipe" lock to be the opening day centerfielder. How the hell did that happen? Honestly, I'm not sure, but evidently Dusty works in mysterious ways. Jay Bruce is on the verge of following Chris Dickerson to the minors, while Freel and Hopper have been marginalized as viable everyday players. Given the way events have unfolded, I'd actually be surprised if C-Pat isn't the starting centerfielder.
On the positive side, Patterson can run and play solid defense. On the flip side, he probably brings the worst everyday player on base percentage in the majors to the table. He also makes inconsistent contact and doesn't bring much power to the table. All in all, he's a Dusty guy and the best that can be hoped for is that Dusty doesn't use him as the leadoff hitter.
Unfortunately, there's really no more appropriate way to kick off the Dusty Baker era than having Corey Patterson get the first AB of the year.
RF: Ken Griffey, Jr.
2007 Stats
.277/.372/.492/.868 in 528 ABs with 30 HRs, 78 Runs, and 93 RBIs.
2008 Projections
Bill James:
.263/.353/.487/.840 in 495 ABs with 29 HRs, 72 Runs, and 84 RBIs.
.272/.346/.480/.826 in 427 ABs with 23 HRs, 62 Runs, and 81 RBIs.
There isn't much left to be said on Ken Griffey Jr. He's one of the best players to ever pull on a pair of spikes. Unfortunately, his time in Cincinnati just never worked like it was supposed to work, which is a remarkable statement given how well things started.
The Reds made a winning trade to acquire him and signed him to a below market contract rate. Given that, how could it NOT have worked out? It's almost inconceivable, but it's been something just short of a disaster since he arrived. At this point, the fairytale is very unlikely to end happily ever after.
Even if Griffey manages to avoid the injury bug that has plagued him, his level of production has fallen off. He can still be a very productive player, but he's not the game changer that he once was. Personally, I think Griffey Jr. has gotten more than his share of unfair criticism during his time in Cincy, but maybe he can lead us to the postseason in 2008 and change the baseball climate in Cincinnati. That wouldn't be such a bad legacy for Jr.
OF: Norris Hopper
2007 Stats
.329/.371/.388/.759 in 307 ABs with 0 HRs, 51 Runs, and 14 RBIs.
2008 Projections
Bill James:
.309/.353/.350/.703 in 220 ABs with 0 HRs, 29 Runs, and 16 RBIs.
.291/.330/.340/.670 in 382 ABs with 1 HRs, 51 Runs, and 30 RBIs.
While I'm not as high on Hopper as some, he has begun to grow on me. In fact, I'm intrigued by his ability to get on base while rarely hitting the ball out of the infield. It's a unique skill, but one that might actually be sustainable. At the very least, I would prefer to see him get the opportunity, but guys like Hopper have to fight for every last ounce of respect. One would think that Hopper deserved first crack at the starting centerfield job based on his performance in 2007, but, unfortunately, Dusty didn't see it that way.
For some players, shaking the label of "bench player" is one of the most difficult things to do. This may have been Hopper's best chance to lay claim to the title of "everyday player" at the major league level, but it's a chance that seems to have slipped through his fingers. At the very least, he's a backup who can handle all three outfield positions and do an admirable job of setting the table.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Reds 2008 Season Preview: Infield
C: David Ross
2007 Stats
.203/.271/.399/.670 with 17 HRs, 32 runs, and 39 RBIs
2008 Projections
Bill James: .233/.311/.458/.768 in 330 ABs with 19 HRs, 50 RBI, and 38 Runs.
ZIPS: .203/.275/.369/.644 in 187 ABs with 8 HRs, 24 RBI, and 18 Runs.
After a breakout out 2006 season, the Reds made Ross their full time starter only to see him regress significantly to the mean. While the regression certainly should have been expected, that doesn't necessarily mean that it was. I'd be curious to know what the Reds expected to get out of Ross in 2007.
By now, it should be obvious to everyone that 2006 was the exception, not the rule on Ross. However, Ross could still be an effective player for the Reds in 2008. In fact, the Bill James projection would make him a very effective player in 2008.
In 2007, Ross had an abysmally low BABIP of .228, which should only improve in 2008 right along with his batting average. Given that Ross (69%) has a lower career contact rate than Adam Dunn (72%), he's never going to challenge for a batting title. But, he should be a bit better than he was in 2008. Interestingly enough, Ross actually saw his strikeout rate decrease from 2006 (30.4%) to 2007 (29.6%).
Overall, Ross should be a bit better 2008 season, falling somewhere in between his strong 2006 and poor 2007. The power is legitimate and the batting average should rebound to the .225-.230 range. While he'll never be confused with Johnny Bench, if Ross can hit .230, then his power and solid defense should prevent him from being a complete liability behind the dish.
1b: Joey Votto
.321/.360/.548/.908 in 84 ABs with 4 HRs, 11 Runs, and 17 RBIs.
2008 Projections
Bill James: .307/.388/.533/.920 in 460 ABs with 24 HRs, 71 Runs, and 81 RBIs.
ZIPS: .281/.357/.466/.823 in 556 ABs with 23 HRs, 55 Runs, and 88 RBIs.
Joey Votto has been one of the Reds top prospects for the past couple of years and finally got his opportunity to play at the end of 2007. In his brief cup of coffee, Votto provided a tantalizing glimpse of the future and justified the faith of the Reds nation.
As long as the Reds give him an opportunity to play and don't try to change him too much, then he should be productive. However, if Dusty tries to change his approach at the plate and turn him into more of a Corey Patterson type hitter, then Votto will be a disappointment in 2008. Baker mentioned not liking Votto's approach at the plate, because he didn't like to see called third strikes. Unfortunately for Dusty, Votto struck out 15 times in 2007 and only 1 of those was a called third strike. His approach at the plate is very strong and certainly doesn't need to be altered by Dusty Baker.
The Reds need to just "set it and forget it" when it comes to Joey. Plug him into the lineup and let him do his thing. If they do that, then they'll like the results.
2b: Brandon Phillips
2007 Stats
.288/.331/.485/.816 in 650 ABs with 30 HRs, 107 Runs, and 94 RBI.
2008 Projections
Bill James: .268/.316/.438/.754 in 630 ABs with 23 HRs, 90 Runs, and 79 RBI.
ZIPS: .271/.325/.435/.760 in 568 ABs with 21 HRs, 87 Runs, and 79 RBI.
Phillips undeniably had a very strong year in 2007, but often times big steps forward are followed up by small steps backwards. It would seem that projections are adhering to this maxim. At the very least, I would really expect Phillips' on base percentage to fall below .330 in 2008. He doesn't have good on base skills and benefited from 12 HBP in 2007, which pushed his OBP up over .330. Unless Phillips can better his .288 batting average, he seems likely to post a very low on base percentage in 2008.
Overall, I tend to agree with these projections. Phillips does many things very well, but a step backward seems much more likely than a step forward. It would also seem unlikely that he'll repeat his 30/30 season, which was largely a function of his high number of ABs and his low number of walks.
Phillips should be very solid in 2008, but a step backward shouldn't be unexpected.
3b: Edwin Encarnacion
2007 Stats
.289/.356/.438/.794 in 502 ABs with 16 HRs, 66 Runs, and 76 RBIs.
2008 Projections
Bill James: .287/.355/.476/.831 in 494 ABs with 19 HRs, 66 Runs, and 79 RBIs.
ZIPS: .291/.361/.460/.821 in 506 ABs with 18 HRs, 70 Runs, and 78 RBIs.
And, yet again, the countdown begins for Edwin's break out season. It seems every year people are predicting big things from Edwin and every year he doesn't provide them. So, once again, people are predicting big things from Edwin and maybe this is FINALLY the year. However, I've tempered my expectations, which are now more in line with the listed 2008 projections than any breakout performance.
For me, the presumption has flipped on both Matt Belisle and Edwin Encarnacion. For each, I waited two or three years for them to put up the kind of numbers that were expected. However, at this point, I no longer expect the breakout year to arrive, but rather just another mediocre one. I'll no longer play Charlie Brown to the Lucy of Belisle and Edwin, so 2008 will not see me taking yet another big swing at the football. For now, I'll expect the worst and wait for them to prove me wrong.
SS: Alex Gonzalez
2007 Stats
.272/.325/.468/.793 in 393 ABs with 16 HRs, 55 Runs, and 55 RBIs.
2008 Projections
Bill James: .254/.308/.416/.724 in 425 ABs with 13 HRs, 51 Runs, and 55 RBIs.
ZIPS: .257/.317/.417/.734 in 432 ABs with 14 HRs, 57 Runs, and 58 RBIs.
Alex Gonzalez was a big surprise in 2007, as he exceeded all realistic expectations and yet fans still weren't satisfied. A-Gon was stellar at the plate, posting his best career offensive season. In addition, his defense was quite solid, plagued only by a few more errors than usual. However, he displayed good range and turned the double play very well.
All in all, Reds fans should be very pleased if A-Gon replicates his 2007 season. However, he is likely to regress to the mean a bit, as his bat just isn't as good as it was in 2007. Given that Reds fans weren't satisfied by A-Gon's career year and that he's unlikely to match that production in 2008, expect the calls for Keppinger to be frequent.
Inf: Jeff Keppinger
2007 Stats
.332/.400/.477/.877 in 241 ABs with 5 HRs, 39 Runs, and 32 RBIs.
2008 Projections
Bill James: .321/.380/.430/.810 in 365 ABs with 5 HRs, 49 Runs, and 36 RBIs.
ZIPS: .307/.360/.408/.768 in 449 ABs with 6 HRs, 60 Runs, and 48 RBIs.
Keppinger was a true surprise in 2007. Last offseason, Krivsky made a series of moves that seemed very odd and illogical at the time, but ultimately netted the Reds Jeff Keppinger. Keppinger seems like he could just roll out of bed and hit .300. His bat control and ability to make consistent contact are truly first rate.
In 2007, Keppinger had more walks (24) than strikeouts (12). In 241 ABs, Keppinger struck out only 12 times! His Contact % was 93%, which is better than Ichiro. While his lack of secondary skills does temper his value a bit (in fact, Keith Law argued that he was one of the most overrated players in baseball last year), he's a nice player for an all or nothing Reds offense.
Batting average is driven largely by putting the ball in play, as a ball cannot find a hole if it is in the catcher's mitt. Strikeout kings like Adam Dunn and Richie Sexson aren't going to be able to post high batting averages. However, Keppinger is a player who will consistently put the ball in play and will have a high average as a result. He brings a new dimension to the Reds lineup which at times can be too one dimensional.
It'll be interesting to see how the Reds get his bat into the lineup, as Baker doesn't have faith in Keppinger's ability to handle shortstop over the long run. Accordingly, he seems destined to be a utility player and spot starter. He hasn't been with the Reds long, but he's been there long enough to become a fan favorite.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
For your eyes only....Johnny Cueto in Action
Cueto is ready and he NEEDS to be in the rotation out of spring training. He's got electric stuff and tremendous command. If he breaks camp with the Reds, there's no doubt in my mind that he would be the Reds second best starting pitcher behind only the great Aaron Harang. Cueto has comparable stuff to Homer, but his command makes him much more effective. Johnny could be the pivotal man for the Reds and their chances for success in 2008.
Back up the Truck...Bruce should be returned to Triple-A
Well, sadly, it's time for Jay Bruce to return to the minors. His play has been inspired and his exuberance appreciated, but in the end the Reds still need to return him to the minors. As good as Bruce has been, he's still been outdone by Johnny Cueto. Unfortunately, there's only room for one of the two on the team right now and it has to be Johnny Cueto.
Under the MLB rules, a team controls the rights to its players for the first six years of his career. The first three of which are years where the team can dictate the player's salary and the final three of which involves salary arbitration to determine player compensation. After six years, the cost control is gone and the free agent market awaits.
If the Reds were to keep both Jay Bruce and Johnny Cueto on the MLB roster coming out of spring training, then it is very likely that Homer Bailey, Joey Votto, Jay Bruce, and Johnny Cueto all will be eligible for free agency after the 2013 season. In 2007, Homer and Joey played enough to earn, respectively, 0.041 and 0.027 years of service time. So, just like Cueto and Bruce, they would need to be at the MLB level for the next 6 full seasons to earn enough service time to hit free agency. While it's fantastic to have all this impact rookie talent in the mix, the Reds need to manage it in order to get maximum value. It would be foolish for the Reds to put their four top prospects on the same service time schedule, as it would reduce the opportunity to retain all or even the most of them.
As it stands, it's unfortunate enough that the Reds will likely have three top prospects on the same schedule, but adding the top prospect in baseball to that mix would be foolhardy. By keeping Jay Bruce in the minors for a few months of 2008, the Reds would ensure he gets a bit more time to polish his game and delay the start of his service time clock. If they did so, they could bring him up mid-season and delay his impending free agency until after the 2014 season.
The Reds have done a great job of drafting and developing talent, but they need to ensure that they get the most out of it. Given that the Reds aren't likely going to be able to send Votto and Bailey down long enough to delay their free agency date, it comes down to a choice between Bruce and Cueto. As good as Bruce has been, Cueto has been better. Cueto is the talk of the Grapefruit League and he needs to be in the Reds rotation when they break camp. Unfortunately, that means that they'd be better off putting Bruce in the minors to start the year.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Trend Spotting....Is that an African or European Swallow?
1) Teams are unwilling to pay millions of dollars to league average starting pitchers.
The trend only began to reveal itself in the latter portion of this offseason, as the market changed quickly, pulling the rug out from several veteran pitchers. Josh Fogg terribly misread the market when he turned down an offer of $5M for 2008 from the Rockies and was forced to settle for a $1M contract from the Reds. As bad as it is for him, he still fared better than Jeff Weaver and Kyle Lohse, pitchers who are still out of work.
The market has completely dried up, as teams are looking more and more towards inexpensive young talent to carry the load. Even the Axis of Evil tandem of the Red Sox (Clay Buchholz and Jon Lester) and the Yankees (Joba Chamberlain, Phil Hughes, and Ian Kennedy) are relying more on the cost efficiencies inherent in younger players.
It's a trend not likely to change any time soon. As long as the cost for players with 0-3 years of service time remains astronomically low, rookies and prospects will see their value continue to skyrocket. A young player who provides equivalent production to an established veteran is SIGNIFICANTLY more valuable, as his production comes at a fraction of the cost. The young player's production is much more efficient and in the modern game, the most efficient organizations win in Major League Baseball.
As long as the upper reaches of the pay scale continue to out pace the artificially constrained lower end, the value of prospects will rise and the value of expensive veterans will fall.
All of which leads to our second point:
2) Players with less than 3 years of service time are not happy with their salaries.
The younger players have become aware that they are getting the fuzzy end of the lollipop and they aren't happy about it. This offseason, players like Prince Fielder, Cole Hamels, and Nick Markakis have failed to get multiyear contracts from their organizations. Instead, they've seen their contracts renewed at bargain basement prices, as is the organization's right under the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
Here are some quotes bouncing off the walls of spring training ballparks:
Prince Fielder on having his contract renewed for $650,000: "I'm not happy about it at all," Fielder said. "The fact that they've renewed me two years in a row now. There are a lot of guys with the same amount of time I have who have done a lot less than me and are getting paid a lot more. But my time is going to come and it's coming quick, too."
Cole Hamels, on having the Phillies renew his contract for $500,000: "It was a low blow."
Nick Markakis after having his contract renewed for $450,000: "We couldn't come to an agreement with anything, so we're just going to take it and get renewed. That's just how the Orioles feel. I don't have much of a choice. I'm just going to have to deal with it."
The escalation at the upper range of the salary structure is now putting pressure on the lower end of the pay scale. You can see the effect in the pay for the lower range veteran ballplayers, as not many have to settle for $1M anymore. However, the star players with only 0-3 years of service time cannot join in on the booming salaries, as their pay is restricted by the terms of the CBA. The rising tide of increased revenue is raising all salary boats in MLB, with the exception of the boat containing the young star players, which is chained down. It's obvious that players the caliber of Prince, Cole, and Nick don't like making significantly less than their peers, especially while they are in the process of drastically outperforming those peers.
Given the dissatisfaction expressed by the stars with less than 3 years of service time, it seems likely that the MLB minimum salary will be revisited and revised in the next round of collective bargaining. The MLBPA will likely push for increased salaries at the lower end of the service time spectrum, which will bring the MLB universe back into balance. Perhaps the best way to get this done is for the MLBPA to agree to a restriction on what can be paid to draft choices, in exchange for MLB conceding to an increase in the salary range of players with 0-3 years of service time.
The value of younger players has skyrocketed over the past several years, largely at the expense of league average veterans. Changing the financial structure of the game to increase the cost of the younger MLB players, while reducing the cost of unproven draft picks, could tip the scales back the other way towards the veteran players.
If younger players cost more, then their production will be less efficient and they will become a bit less valuable, which will again drive up the value of veteran players. So, league average pitchers will be able to find jobs and prospects will once again be available in trade deadline deals. However, until that time, the value of a top notch farm system has never been higher, which means that the Reds player development efforts are peaking at the exact right moment. Yet another reason to be optimistic about the direction of the Redleg organization.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Reds Outfox Everyone by Signing Juan Duran!!!
The Reds today signed 16-year old Juan Duran out of the Dominican Republic. While most organizations didn't think that Duran was eligible to be signed until July 2, the Reds uncovered that under the rules they could sign him now. Even Duran's agents were under the impression that he had to wait until the start of the international free agent signing period (July 2 to August 31), but the Reds were correct and as a result they have brought Duran into the organization.
Duran is only 16 years old, but he already stands 6"6' tall and weighs 190 lbs. He bats right, throws right, and has almost unlimited power. Some scouts already have his power at 80 on the 20-80 scouting scale.
Here is what the Reds had to say about Juan Duran:
And, here is what other organizations had to say:
Buckley and Arias were both with the Blue Jays when the team drafted outfielder Alex Rios as an 18-year-old with the 19th overall pick in the 1999 draft.
"He compares favorably, only he's bigger and stronger at this age than Rios was," Buckley said. "He's more physical, and he has shown some of the same feel for hitting that Alex displayed."His body and offensive ability stick out like a sore thumb," Arias said. "In batting practice, he was just hitting them over the trees in our complex, hitting them out to center and right-center field. You can tell just tell from the way the ball jumps off his bat.
"I've never seen a 16-year-old with this type of ability. I talked to some people in the Dominican Republic who crossed paths with Vladimir Guerrero at that age, guys who have been scouting in the Dominican for more than 20 years, and they said they've never come into contact with a bat like this. He's got 80 power potential (on the 20-80 scouting scale) and just gets tremendous loft. In my opinion, in terms of his bat and his body, he's a better overall package than Angel Villalona. We wanted to change the perception in the baseball industry that Cincinnati is a cheap organization. We want to get back to being the Big Red Machine."
Another AL international scouting director said his team was also interested in Duran.
"We liked him," another AL international scouting director said. "We saw him as a corner outfielder, big, long-limbed, real bat potential. He's definitely a guy a lot of people liked."
One National League international scouting director compared Duran's body to that of a young Juan Gonzalez.
"He might end up being in center field because he's a plus runner. It's all going to come down to how big he gets and if he slows down," the scout said. "He's going to put on some weight, so whether he retains that speed will tell if he ends up at a corner.
"He's got some bat speed, and the power will come from the bat speed, but it all comes down to how thick he grows."One AL international scouting director called him "one of those guys who don't come around very often."
"He's got all the tools," he said. "He's a pretty good player, very advanced for his age. I think it was a good investment. He's a good athlete, he has above-average power right now and he has a chance for 80 power (on the 20-80 scouting scale). He demonstrated every ability that you like to see in a kid. He's a very outgoing kid, good swing. There's no doubt about his approach, bat speed and power . . . he has all the common denominators you like to see, good balance, rhythm and a pretty good idea of what to do at the plate.
"If he has to go to a corner (outfield position), he certainly has the power to go there. But right now I'd give him every opportunity to play center field because he's light on his feet and has a good idea how to play out there. He's probably 6-foot-6, 195 pounds, somewhere in that area, so he could gain a whole 40 pounds with no problem. You look at this guy, and you hate to compare guys to major league players, especially at his age, but he could be a young Dave Winfield in the making."
Obviously he's young, but he seems to be an impact prospect at least equivalent to Drew Stubbs and Devin Mesoraco. So, once the big four prospects graduate from the Reds system, Duran may help form the next wave of top tier talent. In fact, he could conceivably be our #1 prospect in the near future. Given his age, he's clearly got a lot of developing to do, but the Giants signed Angel Villalona as a 16-year old out of the Dominican Republic and Baseball America just rated the now 17-year old as the team's #1 prospect.
Unfortunately, the Reds forfeited their 2nd round pick in the 2008 draft because they signed Francisco Cordero. It would have been their 1st round pick, but since they select in the first 15 picks, that draft pick is protected. However, this signing helps offset the lack of a second round pick. In fact, given Duran's skill-set, the Reds essentially added another 1st round pick to the farm system.
This is exactly how the Reds need to operate in order to be competitive at the Major League Level. It's important to draft well, but it is also vital to supplement that talent with international prospects. If you can acquire two impact prospects in the draft and two via international free agency each year, then the farm system will always be in good shape. It's not enough to just draft well any more, as the best farm systems have a blend of prospects acquired from the draft and those signed internationally.
All in all, it's hard not to feel great about the Reds organization on a day like this. It's just another example of the Reds renewed emphasis on player development, which should help make the Reds a successful MLB team for a sustained period of time.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Spring Training Notes
1) The Alex Gonzalez injury means that the Reds are likely to need another shortstop to start early in the season. One would think that Jeff Keppinger would be the easy, logical choice. However, today's starting shortstop brings a shudder down the spine. Instead of anointing Keppinger the starter and letting him play at short, Dusty instead gave Juan Castro the start and Adam Rosales the mop up duty. It seems very odd that Keppinger only played first base, especially since Adam Rosales is very unlikely to be a shortstop at the MLB level.
2) Jay Bruce continues to what he has always done. Crush the baseball. The level of competition doesn't seem to matter, as Jay Bruce can rip them all. He could roll out of bed in the dead of winter and hit. And, Reds fans, he's ours for years to come.
3) Ken Griffey Jr. and Adam Dunn each hit their first homerun of the spring off of Zach Duke. Duke set the world on fire in his rookie year, but now serves as little more than an important example of pitchers needing to strikeout more than 5.0 per nine innings to be effective. At this point, his low strikeout rates seem likely to doom his career.
4) Josh Roenicke could steal a spot in the bullpen with a stellar spring. My gut tells me that he needs more polish, but performances like today could push him to the MLB level. He pitched one inning, allowing no base runners and striking out 2.
5) The infamous "Trade" between the Reds and the Nats has done nothing but ruin the careers of just about everyone involved. Kearns and Lopez have been disappointments in Washington and Billy Bray and Gary Majewski have been disasters for the Reds. Bray can't get healthy and Majewski has been a gas can in Cincy organization. I have high hopes for Bray, but he needs to get healthy in a hurry. At this point, Majewski with his 40.50 spring training ERA is on the verge of becoming irrelevant.
6) It is nice to see Rosales moving back up the defensive spectrum, as that can only increase his value. His bat isn't going to be enough to handle firstbase, but if he can play a more challenging defensive position, then his prospect value increases.
7) While Norris Hopper is the clear option in centerfield if Jay Bruce heads back to the minors, it is good to see the Reds giving Chris Dickerson a look. He is one of the best athletes in the system, but a lack of consistent contact has plagued his development. However, he can certainly be of use if he can increase his contact rate.
Reds Injury Problems
Interesting news out of Reds camp yesterday. Alex Gonzalez had been sitting out early this spring training with a bruised knee, but additional tests have now determined that he is actually suffering from a compression fracture of the left knee.
What's truly strange about it is that Alex Gonzalez didn't start a single game after September 12th last year because of a bone bruise in the same knee. Now, I haven't heard any definitive word, but I think there is a good chance that he wasn't suffering from a bone bruise at the end of last year, but rather the more serious injury that was recently diagnosed.
It may well be time for the Reds to get serious about the medical care that is provided throughout the system. In the modern game, teams like the A's, Red Sox, and Padres have taken to maximizing the efficiency in all their baseball operations. They look at every aspect of their operations and determine the best way to maximize the effectiveness of that department.
Their efforts have extended to injuries, which can really reduce the efficiency of production obtained per dollar spent. If you can reduce injuries, then you'll get more for your money, which is key to the success of every organization. The A's have had good success using what they call a "pre-hab" program, which was implemented under former pitching coach Rick Petersen. It involves a workout and throwing regimen that is specifically designed to target the muscles used in the pitching motion, which helps reduce injuries to a pitcher's arm.
This detailed and effective program is seemingly in direct contrast to how the Reds operate. I remember an incident a few years ago that I still haven't heard explained. Aaron Boone was dealing with a "sprained knee" and missed some time, but eventually made his way back onto the field. He lasted about three innings before his knee buckled and he had to leave the game. After the game, it was revealed that Boone had a torn ACL in his knee. Given the limited amount of time that he was on the field, it seems likely that he was dealing with a torn ACL the entire time and that it was misdiagnosed by the Reds medical staff. If that is truly the case, then it is difficult to understand how they could have overlooked such a commonplace sports injury.
When you add in the struggles the Reds have had with injuries to their pitching prospects (Ty Howington, Chris Gruler, Richie Gardner, etc), Ken Griffey Jr.'s injury struggles, and the possible incorrect diagnosis of Alex Gonzalez's knee injury and it becomes difficult not to question the manner in which the Reds run their training and medical staff.
Given the amount of money being invested in baseball players, the value of keeping them healthy continues to skyrocket. A $10M player isn't worth much if he can't stay on the field, so it may be time for the Reds to re-evaulate and possible overhaul the way they prevent, diagnose, and treat injuries. As a mid-market team, it's important to get the most production per dollar spent and if the Reds aren't keeping their players on the field, then they aren't getting enough value per dollar to be competitive. I'm not a medical professional, but it hardly seems like the Reds are doing enough to keep their players healthy and productive.


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Habemus papum! My sister sent these words in a text the afternoon of March 13. I was home with a sick child, so I jumped up to turn on the TV, wondering if I was too late to see the new pope appear. The crowd was still waiting, and together my son and I watched as history unfolded: the first Hispanic pope, first Jesuit pope in history walked out onto the balcony over St. Peter's Square.
Now, I am not the emotional type. I don't cry very easily and I'm not easily surprised, but ever since that early text, I've been surprised over and over by this man from Argentina, our new holy father, and I do believe that he will continue to surprise us. As a student of Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuits, and as a bilingual person serving in the Hispanic community, Pope Francis embodies many of the things I hold dear. But I feel most compelled to write about his spirituality as a Jesuit.
What is a Jesuit? We have all heard the stories about Jesuits being academics, running universities and preparatory schools all over the world. We have also heard the stories, not always flattering, about their theological exploits, and that sometimes the brightest thinkers among them find themselves at odds with Rome. Yet few people know, that from their inception in the 1600's, the Jesuits have made a sacred vow of obedience to the Holy Father, to go wherever in the world the demand was greatest, no matter how dangerous, no matter how far, to preach the gospel. Ignatius called his group, "La Companía de Jesús" (The Society of Jesus) to emphasize that they traveled in the company of the Lord. Men of action, they had wanted to go to the Holy Land, but when access to the holy land was denied them by the political situation at the time, Ignatius boldly led the charge: 'If not Jerusalem, then the World!' It was out of apostolic zeal and love of holy Church that they vowed obedience to the pope!
There is another fact about the Jesuits that is often not reflected in secular culture. Their most essential vocation is one of meeting Christ in prayer. This profound encounter with Christ is the basis upon which their life of action and service is built and sustained. Jesuits do not maintain prayer through monastic living, but through periodic intense days of retreat that Ignatius himself designed for his brothers and for anyone who desired to become an agent of the gospel in a weary world. These days of retreat are called The Spiritual Exercises. In the Exercises, one goes through a rigorous set of gospel reflections and faith meditations that are crafted to lead the human person to a profound understanding of the cosmos and one's place in it. But Ignatius conceived of the cosmos in a way that transcends even the modern understanding of its boundlessness and vast scope. For very early on in his conversion period, he received a graced understanding, a vision if you will, of this cosmic reality. He spent the remainder of his life reaching out to his fellow Christians, so filled with desire was he, that they too be convinced of the Great Works of God and the importance of each individual doing his or her part, all for the Greater Honor and Glory of God, ad majorem Dei gloriam (the Jesuit motto).
It is easier now, to understand how a Jesuit could take the name of St. Francis of Assisi. For Francis loved the whole order of the created world and saw the very connectedness of all reality.
As we gather to pray for our Holy Father, at this moment of his inaugural Mass and the beginning of his papacy, let us open our own hearts to feel the call of Christ: the call to encounter and the call to action.
Ad majorem Dei gloriam!
Copyright 2013 Julie Paavola


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Sheshaght Roortaghys Heear
If you would like any club kit or information about Club matters or events please
contact:- Rosie on 408450 or Louise on 456217.
If anyone has or would like to send in reports and photo's from events that our athletes have taken part in could they please email email@example.com and I will do my best to get them on the club web site.
NSC training
Training sessions at the NSC every Mondays from
5:45pm - 7pm.
Training will be delivered by UKA level 2 coaches covering all aspects of athletics. Please wear appropriate clothing to suit the weather conditions and bring a drink.
Indoor athletic sessions
Indoor Athletics sessions every thursday evening 6pm - 7pm in the QE2 sportshall and gym. £2 per session
Local fixtures
5 October Western 10
11 October Junior Fell Running Champs - Peel Hill
25 October Winter Hill League Round 1
15 November Winter Hill League Round 2
13 December Winter Hill League Round 3
Athletics QEII High School
Athletics Coaching and Officiating Workshops
See www.iomaa.info/courses.htm for details.
If you need any further information contact email@example.com or call Trevor on 688576.
Any club members interested in being considered for this years Island Youth Squad who are in the U/13 and U15 age groups this season (school years 6-9) need to complete a YDL Athlete Details Form and return asap. If you have any questions please see any club coach.
Congratulations go out to Helen Taylor and Danaa Callow on completing the Liverpool half marathon both setting personal best times for the distance, Helen Taylor finished 4th in her age group in a time of 01:36:51 and Danaa finished 34th in the same age group in a time of 01:53:39. The ladies say that the last 4ish miles were tough going running into a head wind, but they enjoyed the every minute of the race. Well done to all the other Manx runners who took part and for all the monies raised for their charities, in particular Northern AC runner Nikki Boyde who finished 1st in the same age group in a time of 01:26:12.
Well done Helen
Helen gets 2014 off to a great start pictured above still smiling after completing the Leinster Management 20 mile run in a time of 2hrs 38mins, 1st lady and 7th overall.
Ramsey Firmans Run
Winners 2014
Well done to Western Athletic Club husband and wife team Aaron and Joanne Schade on yet another fine performance in this years Firemans run series pictured above at the awards evening. For full round up of results visit www.iomnac.co.uk
Ascot Hotel 2014 10k
Helen gets 2nd lady in time of 44mins 37secs folowed by Ellen Kneen in 3rd with a time of 46mins 53secs in windy conditions.
In the mens race club runner Chris Kneen recorderd a fine 3rd place in a time of 35mins 46secs and Jason Cochrane in a time of 45mins 5secs
Well-done to Jason Moore and Will Morris on being selected to represent Merseyside in the recent English schools X-country.
Danaa & Helen still smiling
Summer Track and Field League 2015 . All re-newing members must complete the new membership form click here to download
Well done to all our Island athletes who ran in this year's Virgin Money London Marathon, in particular our club runners and runner's from the west.
Helen Taylor 03:29:24
Geoff Rice 03:30:01
Jonathan Wild 04:18:34
Ray Harmer 04:21:30
Simon Hill-Anderson04:48:35
Mark & Estelle Spiers 03:36:15 & 05:03:40
To Quote...
"Running a marathon is an experience that's difficult to put into words, how you describe the physical and mental challenges of the 26.2-mile race to those who have never ran one. Well finishing a marathon isn't just an athletic achievement. It's a state of mind; a state of mind that says anything is possible. The thirst you feel in your throat and lungs will be gone minutes after the race is over. The pain in your legs within days, but the memories of your finish will last with you forever. "
Geoff & Helen
Click on image for further details on how you can help.
Dave Phillips Memorial Road Run Series 2014
Well done to all the runner who ran in round 3 of this years series.
Big thank you to all our marshals and officials on the night, also to Murray and Stan for some fine photographs and video footage. Click here to see Murrays coverage and Stan's photos here
Well done to everyone who took part in this first round, and for all the positive feedback about our new course. Spread the word to others and we will see you all again next year and maybe a couple of extra dates
Many thanks to the girls for doing the buffet afterwards and to our sponsor Ray Faragher for his support and for presenting the prizes.
Provisional results can be found here
Sponsors for this year's series
The Isle of Man Junior Athletics Squad
Congratulations to all our young athletes who competed in the first round of this years YDL competition and won by an amazing 180 points you are all stars, and thanks to all the officials and helpers for taking the team.
Pictured above is the full team on your right and our club members who were selected to represent the Island.
They are from left to right Dhoona, Aalin, Abby, Harrison, George and Alex.
To see how they and the rest of the team got on click on the following button.
Well done to all our islands athletes who competed in the first round of this years Northern league. The Island sent two teams and you can see how they all got on below.
Match 1 results
May 4th 2014
Lancashire Athletics Championships 2014
Just like to say a big well done to all our islands young athletes who entertained us over the two day of this years Lancashire championships with many of the medals returning home to IOM. To Western Athletic Club athletes you are all stars bringing home your fair share of the spoils, personal bests and stories to be told. It was a pleasure taking you all as you were all well behaved and gave your events every ounce of your energy in every event you competed in. Thank you.
Match 2 Results
June 7th 2014
Great North Run 2014
Well done to Western Athletic Club athletes Lisa and Jonathan Pugh and the rest of the team John Edward Kelly, Neil Withers, and Dot Tilbury who ran in this years Great North Run tomorrow raising funds for Cancer Charities.
If you want to sponsor them click here all amounts greatly appreciated so get behind the team and this great cause
Fixture Dates:
Round 1 -Sunday 19th October 2014 hosted by Manx Harriers at Ballanette, Lonan Results here
Round 2 -Sunday 9th November 2014 hosted by WAC at QE2 School, Peel Results
Round 3 -Sunday 7th December 2014 hosted by NAC at Crossags Farm, Ramsey Results
Round 4 -Sunday 18th January 2015 hosted by Manx Harriers at Ballanette, Lonan (includes Champs)
Round 5 -Sunday 8th February 2015 hosted by WAC at QE2 School, Peel
Western 10 mile road run & Julie Brew Memorial 10 mile walk
Well done to all the competitors who took part in this years events, with a good turn out in both the run and the walk. A big thank you to all who helped officiate and marshal and man the drinks stations who without your support each year these two events couldn't take place and to Peel Football club for letting us use their clubhouse for the presentation afterwards and the ladies for providing the food.
Many thanks to our sponsors of this years events The Creek Inn and Kirby Park Garden Centre.
New Beginners/Novice running group
Have you ever wanted to start running to keep fit but don't know where to begin, then maybe we can help. Every Monday evening we will be meeting to encourage new beginner/novice runners on how to run. We are going to meet at the house of Manannan Museum Peel, car park at 6:25 pm for a very informal but hopefully fun introduction into running. Please wear light coloured or reflective clothing and suitable footwear.
It will be taken by two UKA licenced coaches Moira Hall and Barry Moore for further details you can contact Barry on 456108.
£ no Fee
Intermediate/advanced running group
For the for intermediate/advanced runner we hold another session on a Wednesday evening once again contact Barry for further details.
£ no Fee
Athletic Conditioning workouts
NSC Monday evening conditioning training: from 5:45pm until 7pm taken by three licenced UKA coaches Lousie Kneen, Robert Parslow and Sharon Cain. Covering all aspects of athletics aimed at year7 athletes upwards, so for a fun enjoyable approach to training come and give it a go.
£ NSC fee
Indoor Athletics
Indoor Athletics every Thursday evening from 6pm until 7pm
4 - 10 year olds in the Sportshall
10 year olds upwards in the GYM
£2 fee
Conditioning workout
Saturday morning conditioning session will recommence after October half term and will be held every two weeks. Meeting at the Creg Mallin car park at 10am. Please remember to bring a drink and suitable clothing depending on the weather conditions. Sessions are aimed at year 7 upwards.
£ no Fee
Race walking technique and training in the west - meet on Saturday mornings at the House of Manannan Museum, Peel 10am till 11.30am. Licensed coach in attendance. Contact Bridget Kaneen on 497594 for further information.
£ no Fee


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Wysing Arts Centre, Eastside Projects, New Contemporaries, S1 Artspace, Spike Island and Studio Voltaire, invite applications from artists for The Syllabus; a new programme that will support ten artists across ten months.
Starting in June 2015, The Syllabus will provide selected UK based participants with a series of intensive seminars at each of the partner venues; to encourage enquiry into individual participants' work, offer practical guidance on surviving as an artist, and offer ongoing access to curatorial and other staff at the partner organisations.
The Syllabus has been developed for artists with the input of established artists who have a connection to each of the partners and who will continue to contribute to its development and delivery; Celine Conderelli, Andy Holden, James Langdon, Charlotte Prodger, Niki Russell, Keith Wilson and others.
The Syllabus aims to reach artists from a wide geographic spread within the UK and, mindful of the current economic climate and changes within higher education, offers an intensive and cost-effective learning programme - please read the downloadable PDF for information on costs.
The programme is structured around six seminars which all participants are required to attend. The seminars are themed and will offer time for discussion around topics alongside critical feedback sessions on work. Seminars last between two and four days. At the end of each seminar a task will be set that participants will need to develop ahead of the next seminar. This could include a reading list or a work related task. During periods between seminars, texts and reading lists will be uploaded onto a shared web page which will also allow discussions to be continued remotely. In addition, each participant will be offered mentoring to enable their individual practices to develop.
The benefits of the programme, which Wysing is co-ordinating on behalf of the network include: an intensive programme of seminars that have been devised by artists in association with each of the partner organisations, one to one contact with staff at the partner organisations, individual mentoring across ten months and the opportunity to develop within a cohort of ten peers.
To apply, download a PDF of the Information For Applicants here.
Applications need to be made online via Submittable.com – You will need to provide:
A statement on why you would like to participate in The Syllabus (max 500 words)
A general statement on your work (max 500 words)
A current CV
A selection of 6 images or other relevant material (video, sound etc or links to websites hosting material such as vimeo or youtube).
The deadline is 12midnight, Friday 20 February 2015.


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Professional Work
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Category Archives: Winter
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Report on Canada so far
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It Snows!
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Be Cultured
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A beautiful Saturday
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It Starts
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Posted in Dancing, Winter Tagged Dancing, Winter 2 Comments
Brr and Iceskating!
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Dawn of a New Week
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Posted in Internet, Uncategorized, Winter Tagged Bridge, Computers, Dream, Snow Leave a comment
Odds and Ends
Today it was snowing with big snowflakes. Of course, I'm excited about the prospect of snow! But it wasn't predicted, and I had to ride my bike in it… and I'm also tired, after having spent a late night grading … Continue reading
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Finally, Snow!
Wednesday, and it's snowing. Beautiful! It was really nice to awake this morning to see little white flakes falling outside. There was snow yesterday, but very brief and very light. Today, it's been snowing for a goodly number of hours. … Continue reading


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112 Main Street,
Patterson, LA 70392
985-395-4905 | 800-256-2931 | Fax
Website | Email
Website | Email
Property Description
Enjoy one of the fastest growing outdoor activites, birdwatching, with an abundance of opportunities to spot over 300 known species of birds throughout the Cajun Coast by car or by boat.
Travel down Stephensville Road off Hwy. 70, visit the Brownell Memorial and Carillon Tower, travel along Cotten Road in Patterson or take a swamp tour into the Atchafalaya Basin for a close-up view of the natural enviroment. Eagles can be sighted between October through the end of April.
- Birding
- Natural Wildlife Viewing
- Swamp Walks
- Hiking/Nature Trails
- Lakes, Bayous & Rivers
- National Wildlife Refuges
- State Park
Guest Information
- Family Friendly
- Meeting/Tour groups welcome
Suitable for Ages
- All Ages