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10 Must-Have Free Tools for Developers
Those of you who read the site will have no doubt seen the great article written by Callum Chapman (Top 10 Apps and Resources to Speed up your workflow). It lists some great tools and covers a large, general populace of the creative web design/development world.
This list is set to delve in further and look at what is out there to help not only commercial but freelance web developers improve their workflow, carry out important tasks, backup work and generally simplify their working life, whilst being, all importantly free of charge.
Not wishing to step on Callum's toes, there will be no duplicates in the two lists, however I will mention now that FileZilla would have made it onto the list as the FTP Client/Server of choice.
Hopefully you leave today with at least some new applications that you'll give a go and maybe, just maybe, one day you'll think "How did I ever do without."
Whilst not an application in its own right (it's an extension for FireFox) Firebug is, in my opinion, possibly the single most useful free tool that a web developer has access to. As well as providing information on Page Load times, including individual file sizes allowing you to really see what's slowing your site down, it allows you to inspect the HTML and CSS and debug Javascript all from one location.
Allowing you to right click on any element on a site, inspect its HTML and CSS and make changes on the fly to them is a fantastic way to tweak certain elements of a site, such as button or image positioning. It can also graphically show the margin and padding of an element making those final placements bugs a thing of the past.
Xobni, Inbox backwards in case you hadn't noticed, allows you to search your emails, contacts and conversations quickly and easily in Microsoft Outlook (2003 upwards). Used mainly in my line of work for sales and customer management, Xobni collates all your emails into "people", allowing you to view their generated profiles in Outlook including such details as email, name, address, auto-generated social networking links (Facebook/LinkedIn) as well as showing past emails from them as "threaded conversations" and file attachments. It will also generate a network of people so you can quickly see who knows who in your inbox.
It is most useful if you find yourself on the phone or in close contact with a client, as you can very quickly bring up past conversations and files for a particular client, ensuring that you're providing quality professionalism.
Firefox Web Developer Toolbar / IE Web Developer Toolbar
Again not technically an application, the Firefox Web Developer Toolbar allows developers to quickly access in depth page information such as, response headers and META data. You can also edit the CSS, show and outline elements on the page, view stored session and cookie information and a whole host of other features, including resizing the browser window, a feature that is very useful when explaining older resolutions to clients.
The IE Web Developer Toolbar is effectively the same but is used in Internet Explorer.
There are few things more annoying (to me anyway) than being in full-flow whilst coding only to have to stop to check the hex value of a colour. ColorPic (pictured) and ColourCop are small applications that act as an eyedropper tool but for your desktop, meaning that you don't have to boot up Illustrator/Photoshop every time you need to check a colour one on of your designs, or if you are interested in what particular colour another website is using during the design process (as opposed to taking a screenshot and loading it into your design application of choice). Personally, I use ColorCop as there are a few extra features, including a third party plugin to produce web colour palettes, but it's always good to give options.
IE Tester
IE Tester is a free tool that allows you to create instances of previous versions of Internet Explorer. With the death of IE6 it is perhaps not as useful as it once was, but it is still great for debugging sites where a user may be on an older browser or forced to use older software. Public sector companies or larger corporations with a locked down IT infrastructure are notorious for this.
Karens Replicator
Talk about peace of mind. Karens Replicator is such a simple program but one that allows you to backup, either manually or automatically via a schedule, a group of files or folders. Sounds pretty simple but what makes it so powerful is that you can also specify, with filters, which files should not be copied and also to only copy files that have changed.
Working predominantly from a Laptop, which, after a few years isn't as looked after as it once was, there is a requirement to constantly backup files as any good developer should do. Using this program you can run a backup when your home which ensures that the contents of your web root or, say, your database files are copied onto a separate machine or external HD to ensure that you always have a complete backup should any problems arise, and personally, with a webroot of around 40gig it's the facility to only move files that have changed since the last backup that makes this a must have.
A fantastic replacement to Notepad/Wordpad, Notepad++ is great for editing all types of text files (and some data ones) in a rich, highlighted syntax environment. Allowing the syntax highlighting (both automatically and user customizable) to change per file type and tags means that you can easily edit an ASP page and then a Javascript file, ensuring the correct formatting for both. It also supports tabbed, multi document browsing.
Visual Web Developer
If you code predominantly in VB/C#.NET you are going to need a decent IDE (integrated development environment) in order to organise all your code files, class files and configs. Visual Studio does an excellent job but aside from being costly it can also be very bulky and confusing (certainly if you are just starting out). Thankfully Microsoft have released (and have been doing for a few years now) Visual Web Developer. This is effectively a stripped down version of Visual Studio aimed solely at C#/VB.NET development, be it a website, web service or class file. With an integrated Web Server for build purposes and all the core web development functionality of Visual Studio, it's simply a must have.
They also provide an express version of SQL Server bundled with it so you've got everything you need to start coding dynamic websites in ASP.NET, all delivered through the Microsoft Web Platform Installer.
Paint.NET is a free photo manipulation tool built on the .NET platform. Whilst not as feature packed as Photoshop, Paint.NET certainly provides more than enough features to keep most people, even at an intermediate design level, happy. Basic tools such as crop, rotate, resize, etc are included but so are layers, action history, adjustments (hue/saturation) and some effects (blur, distort and red eye removal to name a few) providing a great small, free design platform to use, with a layout very familiar to Photoshop users.
Whilst I personally wouldn't recommend it over Photoshop for a site wide design, or Illustrator for logo or typeface, I do actively recommend Paint.NET to clients who wish to create their own adverts or banners to use on their sites.
Alright, so it's not really useful (in a work sense) but allowing users to literally thousands and thousands of free music tracks must be worth an honourable mention, and when getting stuck into designs or code it's always great to stick the earphones in and zone out.
Advertisement funded, Spotify allows you to listen to free music, nice and legally, with the interruption of an advert every 4/5 songs. It's like listening to the radio except you're choosing the music. Aside from the obvious, it'll free up all those MP3s that are cluttering your music folder and with its most recent incarnation there's a whole load of social network integration including connecting playlists and Spotify profiles with Facebook accounts and sharing said playlists.
Those in the UK will require an invite code to join: Many people seem to have had good results from http://www.spotinvite.se/
This is by no means an exhaustive list, simply an insight into what I use on a day-to-day basis as a Web Developer. Hope you enjoyed reading this article and checking out some of the tools/applications mentioned.
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This entry was posted on Saturday, May 29th, 2010 at 19:35 and is filed under Articles. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
20 Responses »
Awesome post Ben!
I used to use notepad++ for all my coding but recently i have switched over to 'e'.
(http://www.e-texteditor.com) It's pretty much the same as notepad++ except it has a project pane which I find extremely useful. I hate flicking through directories to find something to then flick back over to the editor. Having it all there saves me a lot of ball ache.
Oh and cheers for the heads up about the ColorPic/ColorCop app. it looks like this will come in extremely handy.
Nice post. thank you. for webdeveloper tools you can use it in google chrome too. it's nice and full like Firefox and IE. for more information about it use this link: http://chrispederick.com/work/web-developer/chrome/
If we count all tools (even excellent tools) for developers, that will be hundreds :D. But if we specify a narrow area, such as editor, ide, image editor, debug, … then we can list some of the best.
Anyway, I found the Spotify is new to me, I'll try it:). Thanks for sharing.
Just a quick note of thanks, of suggestion, and of additional consideration.
Your post and collection was well organized and played out in a nice sequence.
On many of your suggested apps, I found no link to the reviewed app.
At the onset of your post, out of courtesy to busy readers, you might mention that the majority of this post is pertinent Windows users.
And lastly, as having multiple apps (10-20) is a bit of a processor-cycle PITA, I'd like to suggest the use of ColorZilla as your colorcop/colorpick replacement (for FF users of course).
For color picking, and saving, and copy&pasting. It includes a color picker, an eye-dropper, and a pallette browser. And, it too is free.
Once again, thanks for the time you took putting together this post.
thanks for the collection.
agreed on the MS focus. as an aside, us appleheads have DigitalColor Meter standard. 🙂
nice but I'm considering mono project to develop C# on linux or mac, and if you're using google chrome there a nice feature to inspecting element like the firebug have
I am wary of using IE Tester because in the past I have had rendering differences between real vanilla IE6 rendering and IE Tester's IE6 rendering.
Plus when the client asks "Did you test this in IE6" you cannot honestly answer "Yes, I did" because you didn't. You tested it in IE Tester which may not be the same thing
It's not 10 tools developper should have, it 10 tools WEB developper should have.
It's mentioned a few times that these tools where for Web Developers.
This list is set to delve in further and look at what is out there to help not only commercial but freelance web developers improve their workflow, carry out important tasks, backup work and generally simplify their working life, whilst being, all importantly free of charge.
Nice list and I agree with you in almost all tools, but I have one addition to make!
For organizing outlook I would use Lookeen, especially if you are a developer or you use outlook for work! This tool is reliable, small and fast! It is straight with no -frills, easy to use and clearly arranged! I really like the handling of this tool! It is really a help to save time and work and I am more than satisfied with it! Theii hompepage: http://www.lookeen.net
Hi Guys,
Thanks for the positive feedback, it's been really assuring and I've learnt some new bits on the way.
@Michael – I've amended the article to include links to the apps in the titles as well as the image, so hopefully that'll make it easier for people.
@aditia – I primarily use Windows, so I thought it best to stick with what I know. I�ve done some development on Linux whilst at University, however I�ve had limited success with mono.
@RJ � Good point and duly noted, however in my main job, we no longer support development for IE6 as standard. I use IETester, in combination with a Windows XP virtual machine, to just check that the main elements of the site as still usable for those clients, such as those in the public sector, who are stuck on it.
Once again, thanks for all the good feedback.
Holy Crap, I've been developing websites forever and have hated IE for not having any sort of plugin to help with CSS issues… now I find out that one has existed since 05.09.2007!
Thanks for the link, very helpful.
Instead of IE tester, I use spoon.net (a plugin for firefox) that lets you view sites in multiple browsers, IE6-8, Safari 3-4, and Chrome. I can view all of them instead of just IE.
Nice Article. Most of the tools i already know. What I'm disagree with is FireBug, because it's a BUG itself. Sorry for that. 😉
For debugging Web Pages i use Safari on Windows it's much better than Firebug. Especially in Safari 5.0.
IE Tester is quite good but Microsoft SuperPreview is the weapon of choice 🙂
With Expression Web you can even compare a Web Page to PSD and AI Files.
Hi this is Zeeshan from 99points.info I just wanna say that this a very nice collection for any web developer. Thanks tuttoaster 🙂


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Here we are at week 5 and boy oh boy do I have a lot to tell you guys! I have some changes that are going on in my garden from upgrades that I've made and some landscaping that I've done. I'm so excited to tell you guys so let's get started.
The first thing that I've done is worked a little bit more on the hill. I've cleared out a good section of it. While it is a big project to work on I know that I can get a majority of it done my summer if I work on clearing it out on the weekends. I've taken pictures of my progress so far of before and after. As you can see in the pictures below I've decided to start from the top and work my way down. My thinking is that instead of growing fruits and vegetables all over it I may put a lot of flowers and attract pollinators and put my fruits and veggies somewhere else.
Which comes to my second point. I've finally come to a point where I bought a huge 8 foot raised garden bed. I think I'm going to buy another one in the next few weeks. It was easy for me to put together as a woman on my own. It took me about 45 minutes with one mess up. It only took me that long because I was screwing in the screws and bolts by hand. (I was too lazy to grab a screwdriver) I've also took some cardboard that I was going to put in composter and I put that at the bottom of the bed. It wasn't super hard to put together but it was very time consuming.
Lastly, I wanted to update you guys on seedlings that are started to emerge outside. I finally have two lettuce plants emerging, some radishes and a carrot coming out. I am ecstatic about it. I was a little bit nervous that my lettuce seeds that I planted on the hill had washed out from all the rain we have had but nope they did not! One tip that I'm going to give you guys and I do this with both my seeds inside and outside when first planting is that after I put the seeds in the ground is I will water them with warm water. I do this because in February the ground here is sill on the colder side so it helps the seeds germinate.
Overall, I'm pretty ecstatic with what I'm growing. I just hope that I have a good outcome of crops for this year. Like I've said that my goal for this year is to cut down on cost of our groceries and that my goal for next year is to hopefully start my own farmers market business. At least that's what I want to do in the next two years. I think with all the supply chain issues that more and more people are going to start producing and selling locally.

subset: commoncrawl


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Apple officially ranks number one in retail sales per square foot, according to a new study published by retail analysis firm RetailSails that analyzed 160+ top U.S.-based retailers. As you can see from the graphic above (full graphic below), Apple is almost two times ahead of their closest competitor (Tiffany & Co), and almost five times ahead of the closest technology related retailer (GameStop). What's most impressive is the fact Apple has much less experience in retail (ten years as of May) than most of other retailers included in the study.
Apple has been on a roll lately opening new retail shops in the US, UK, Spain, and then three more slated to open in Charlotte, Little Rock, and Paris this weekend. This is all part of a massive retail expansion which recently lead the company to become the nation's fastest growing retailer, according to USA Today. Apple retail stores in the U.S. grew nearly 80% from the year prior with U.S. retail sales increasing $4.6 billion during the first quarter of 2011.
According to USAToday:
That increase accounted for one-fifth of all sales growth by publicly traded retailers in the U.S., according to a recent analysis of sales trends by retail sales expert David Berman.
Keep in mind these numbers are only including U.S.-based retailers (apart from two who do the majority of their business in the US). Apple is rapidly expanding abroad as well with a possible shop in Russia, and other stores popping up all over the EU, many of which make up the thirty new stores the company plans on opening by September of this year. Full graphic from RetailSails below, if you're interested.
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.


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It's true, Lincoln isn't as old as Yoda, yet. 204 years seems downright youthful in contrast to Yoda's 800+.
I imagine Lincoln received a book or two as birthday presents, so I thought it might be appropriate to present this mock-up of our book cover. The illustrations are taken from the interior except for the central portrait that I based on a photo of Lincoln reading to Tad that has been reproduced frequently. The cover was designed by Adam Johnson. Thank you, Adam!
And here's an extra bonus: The BW lineart of an interior page that features Lincoln and a cameo of his bible, perhaps his most famous possession…after the hat.


text: The Wave from APL is absolutely one of our favorite new shoes. It features a newly developed high-elastic 3D stretch rebound upper that dynamically moves with your feet. An internal cage provides additional support and customizable lockdown when pulling the laces tight. If desired, these laces can even be completely removed, transforming the Wave into a stylish slip-on.


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CHICAGO – Weigh-ins for "WEC 40: Torres vs. Mizugaki" took place today at the Crown Plaza Hotel in Chicago.
All 20 competitors, including WEC bantamweight champion Miguel Torres and main-event opponent Takeya Mizugaki, made weight for the Versus-televised event, which takes place Sunday at the UIC Pavilion in Chicago.
Check out MMAjunkie.com's official weigh-in photo gallery for images of all of the night's competitors.
While all competitors made weight, Ben Henderson, Jameel Massouh and Anthony Njokuani each needed to remove his shorts and a second attempt to make his respective allowable weight.
Additionally, a bout originally slated for 145 pounds will instead take place at a catch-weight of 149 pounds; Mike Budnik weighed in heavy for the fight, but opponent Rafael Dias let it slide since Budnik took the bout on just one week's notice as a late replacement for Cole Province.
Check out our previous story for the complete and official WEC 40 weigh-in results, and then check out each competitor on the scale below.
And for complete coverage of WEC 40, check out the MMA Rumors section of MMAjunkie.com.


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- This event has passed.
Literary Partners Event: Same Same But Different
Jan 17, 2014 | 6:00 pm
Event Navigation
Same Same But Different brings together four writers with links to Australia, Iceland, Canada and the United States.
A companion event to Different Different But Same at Bluestockings, two of Australia's most dynamic spoken word performers, Betsy Turcot and Eleanor Jackson, The Belles of Hell are teaming up with Shira E and a rawlings for an evening of readings exploring those things that matter.
a rawlings is a poet, arts educator, and interdisciplinarian who has presented and/or published work in Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Iceland, the Netherlands, and the United States. Her first book, Wide slumber for lepidopterists (Coach House Books, 2006) received the Alcuin Award for Design.
Shira Erlichman is a nationally acclaimed poet, musician and artist. A Pushcart Prize nominee who has toured the country with some of the nation's leading performers and writers, her prolific and unique style has brought her acclaim as "one of the most original and compelling voices in performance poetry."
Chosen Family is an extended poetic dialogue between Betsy Turcot and Eleanor Jackson, two of Brisbane's most dynamic and interesting spoken word performers. Set in a post-modern family, this poetic dialogue subverts the classic children's story question, "Are you my mother?" to embrace kin in all kinds of flux.
This event is made possible in part through the Poets House Literary Partners Program
- Date:
- Jan 17, 2014
- Time:
6:00 pm
- Event Category:
- Literary Partner


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Patriots get second chance to win division title
New England plays Miami Sunday
The New England Patriots get their second chance this season to clinch the AFC East title. The Miami Dolphins can ruin that for the second straight Sunday.
With the way the Dolphins have been surging, the Patriots very well may have to wait even longer.
Miami's 34-28 win over Pittsburgh last Sunday was its fourth in six games and denied New England the division crown even though it beat Cleveland 27-26.
Next up for the Patriots is a trip to Miami where they can wrap up their 10th AFC East championship in 11 years with a win or a tie.
"That's our goal," quarterback Tom Brady said. "Not every week do you get to play for a championship, so we do this week, and it's a big week for us."
To succeed, the Patriots (10-3) must avoid losing to the Dolphins (7-6) in a division matchup. So they haven't talked about clinching, defensive end Andre Carter said Thursday.
"It's a very important game and whatever happens after that is great." he said. "But our main objective is just to be successful and put together a great football game for four quarters."
They haven't been doing that for a while.
The Patriots have trailed at halftime in five of their last six games, starting with a 17-3 deficit against the Dolphins. But they've won five of those games, none more impressively than last Sunday with Brady's two touchdown passes in the last 61 seconds, helped by the team's first successful onside kick in 18 years.
"There's a lot less margin of error," Brady said. "You make one mistake and you're down 12 points with not a lot of time left. You make one mistake, that's the game. So you just put a lot of pressure on yourself to do it. You'd like to have some cushion there because it's not always going to turn out where you can be perfect that last three or four minutes of the game."
Turnovers are a major reason the Patriots have fallen behind. In the last six games, they have seven in the first half and just three in the second. And in the fourth quarter, they gave the ball away just once in that span.
The Dolphins' biggest problem in the last six weeks surfaced just after their previous game against New England.
Tackle Jonathan Martin left the team the next day and said he was harassed daily by teammates, including guard Richie Incognito, who was suspended as part of the bullying scandal.
Since that 27-17 loss, Miami has climbed into the wild-card race and could make the playoffs for the first time since 2008.
"That's great for them to kind of get past those setbacks," Patriots fullback James Develin said. "Every team has their individual kind of things they have to get through as a team, so I'm not surprised they bounced back the way they did."
The Dolphins are playing a lot better, with their only two losses in the last six games by three and four points.
"They've made a lot of improvements. Despite the things that happened earlier in the season they've found a way to bounce back," Carter said. "They definitely have the momentum coming into this game."
Miami quarterback Ryan Tannehill completed 52.4 percent of his passes against New England, his third straight game below 53 percent. In the next game he completed 71.4 percent and hasn't been below 60 percent since then.
Tannehill is "still moving well, still mobile," Carter said. "That's something, especially when it comes to rushing the quarterback, that you have to keep in mind, be aware of rush lanes."
If the Patriots lose, they can clinch the division title the following Sunday, also on the road against an improving team, the Baltimore Ravens. That would be New England's 11th AFC East championship in Bill Belichick's 14 seasons as coach.
"That'll be great," Develin said. "It's a testament to this organization. This is a special organization and it's been successful through the years so hopefully we can get that for coach."
Belichick, though, just wants to win one game.
"If you dwell on the past," he said, "you're not going to play well in the future."


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February 24th, 2010
An 'Idol' diss-missal
testing captions
Well, there we have it.
Some of these guys killed it tonight. Seriously, some of those performances were so awful that the singers are now dead to me.
I'm starting to wonder if Paula has put a hex on this show. Two nights, 24 contestants and I am trying hard to figure out where things have gone off the rails. I have never experienced so much disillusionment so early in the season. What is going on?
What do you think? Just a slow start - or is this season not filled with the superstar talent the judges have been crowing about?
February 24th, 2010
The Top 12 guys take the stage
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9:52 p.m.: Andrew Garcia. What to say.
I hadn't been this excited about a contestant so early in the game since Mario Vazquez back in season four (may his career rest in peace). I thought tonight was going to be all about Andrew. Then when I heard Andrew and Fall Out Boy I was prepared to go nuts. Not so much.
Wow. I'm stunned.
9:40 p.m.: I'm glad to see that Casey James isn't ready to sue Kara for sexual harassment. She loves that cat!
Fox milked it for all it was worth to with the shots of her watching him adoringly. His version of "Heaven" was good, but sweet honey in the rock where is the star power on this show?
You have got to keep people awake during a two hour show and for that you need more than just the blonde locks and the cute face. That doesn't hurt though.
9:31 p.m. Alex Lambert, Mary Powers would like to have a word with you.
He might as well have said "Na, na, na, na, na." That's fine if you can back it up. His version of James Morrison's "Wonderful World" was very nasal and he looked like he was about to run off the stage. I felt bad for the kid.
They usually save the best singers to shine at the end and Alex fell short. You have to represent for the Lamberts, Alex, so please get it together!
It was also the first time during the night that I felt like "E" was being the Ellen people hoped she would be on the show - and who they tune into her show to see.
9:20 pm.: OK, I was up and dancing in front of the TV during Big Mike's performance.
I don't even care that I wasn't buying that he was playing that guitar. His version of Maroon 5's "This Love" was the hotness. I have been waiting all night to have a "Haaaaayyyyy that's my jam" moment and he gave it to me.
Thanks Michael Lynche!
9:14 p.m.: John, John, John.
You just won the worst song choice of the night award. John Park's selection of "God Bless the Child" was bad. It was really bad. And I have hearted this dude from day one. When KARA says it's "indulgent" you know there is an issue.
I think John is in some serious trouble. He may have scored some points by explaining why he chose the song, but it might not be enough.
9:04 p.m.: If Lee Dewyze stepped up his game, he could be Danny Gokey 2.0.
He's got that Gokey look, and that raspy Gokey voice. Now he needs some Gokey mojo.
"E" and Simon were really digging him. I'm not yet convinced that he could be the next David Cook, but that's not Bad Company to be in. So to speak.
8:54 p.m.: "American Woman?" Really, Tyler Grady?
As a wise viewer pointed out, this kid is a cross between Jim Morrison and Shaun White with the look - but definitely not the former with the vocals. (Ed. note: Or Lenny Kravitz or Burton Cummings, for that matter.) He's almost a caricature and I thought for sure Ellen was going to come back with some funny comment about his schtick.
And FYI, schtick is not good for an aspiring Idol.
8:48 p.m.: Confession time.
I had totally forgotten about Joe Muñoz. His voice is pleasant and he was getting his groove on a little bit to Jason Mraz. He gets points for at least moving a little bit.
I wouldn't agree with Kara that so far he's been the best. It seems he at least understands the concept of "performing" and not just singing. Hopefully we will get to see more of him to see if he has something else in his bag.
8:36 p.m.: Somewhere Kris Allen is sticking his fingers in his ears.
Kris' version of OneRepublic's "Apologize" was so much better than Tim Urban's. You want this guy to make it because it would be a great comeback story. Way to blame the last-minute song switch, Tim. Simon scored a huge blow by saying the judges made the right choice in cutting him the first time.
Ouch! Simon is beyond brutal tonight. I'm going to miss that so much.
8:25 p.m: I remember Jermaine Sellers from when he was a contestant on the BET gospel competition "Sunday's Best." I liked him on that show and I still like his voice, but I think he may have overdone it a bit.
The thing about the church voice is that it can be used as a weapon in the wrong hands. Oleta Adams' "Get Here" is such a beautiful song and I thought he would wring every emotional note out of it, but no.
But I am going to get super annoyed if every time someone does a throwback song they get the "You're young" criticism. Good music is timeless and if you have the talent, you can sing anything.
And you were wrong for the "Stanky Leg" directed at Simon, Jermaine. You know Cowell lacks a hood pass and has no idea what that is!
8:15 p.m.: Aaron Kelly is such a little sugar-face. He reminds me of someone's baby brother, with his spiky hair and toothpaste ad smile. I thought "Here Comes Goodbye" was a great song choice for him. Nice vibe, good voice and the big finish "Idol" thrives on.
This is starting out so much better than Tuesday night. Take note ladies!
8:10 p.m.: OK, Kara looks like she is about to climb into Simon's lap. She is really taking the Paula fill-in role seriously, huh? And I am glad that Ellen acknowledged that the judges aren't quite seeing in studio what we are seeing at home.
First up is Todrick Hall singing "Since U Been Gone." At least that's what Ryan said it was. The song was completely unrecognizable from the original - which isn't necessarily a bad thing. I agree with Randy that Todrick is "mad talented" and I get that he was trying to mix it up, but it might have been a little too mixed up for the voting public.
Way harsh words though, Simon! If the singing thing doesn't work out, perhaps Todrick can look to producing.
February 24th, 2010
Man oh man, 'Idol' needs to get it together
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It was as if body snatchers had descended upon the majority of the 12 female contestants, spirited them away and replaced them with mediocre pods. The contestants weren't the only ones who were off: the judges seemed like they were critiquing through molasses at times. Generally the whole night just felt wrong.
I'm counting on the Top 12 guys to remind me why I love this stage of the show. After suffering through some of the foolishness that goes on during the auditions and the tantrums, drama and stress of Hollywood Week, the time has come for some serious entertainment.
My friend Jack commented that the ladies usually set the momentum for the show. Lord knows I hope that's not true, because if so we are in for some serious trouble.
Ryan says tonight will "separate the men from the boys." We shall see.
Here we go.
February 24th, 2010
Gamble and Huff: Fire won't stop us
On Monday, the headquarters of Philadelphia International Records in the City of Brotherly Love was hit by a fire.
Philadelphia International - founded by Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, and responsible for hits by the O'Jays, Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes, the Delfonics and the Three Degrees - lost some of its memorabilia to fire and water damage, including gold and platinum records.
A 27-year-old man was charged with arson today, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. He had to be rescued from the blaze when it happened. (An iReporter took pictures of the blaze, including a man being led down a ladder.)
The founders were undaunted.
"He should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Arson is terrible. But in the meantime, we're thinking about the next step. And the beat goes on," Gamble and Huff said in a statement.
February 24th, 2010
Alec Baldwin talks retirement
Alec Baldwin gave a candid interview to "American Morning's" Alina Cho in which he talked about his hope for fostering young talent, his apprehension at hosting the Oscars - and giving up acting entirely.
"As much as I like acting," Baldwin said, "I know that I would like to have a different life." He's tired of being a tabloid staple, he added, and would like to push the spotlight away - as much as possible, anyway.
"I want to find out how close can I get," he said.
Watch the interview here:
February 24th, 2010
"Octomom": I have a lot of energy
When "Octomom" Nadya Suleman appeared on "The View" Wednesday, she explained how she provides for her children, her future plans and the fact that she might not be "all there."
But the "Octomom" was unfazed when Whoopi Goldberg told her many people probably wonder what goes on in her head.
"Maybe you're not quite all there," Goldberg said.
Suleman simply responded with, "I've asked myself that for years too" before, once again, laughing at a decibel more suited for the pied piper.
"I digress very easily because I have so much energy," Suleman said as the women of "The View" fought for her attention.
When asked if she was done having children, the mother of 14 said she would definitely be open to having another child if the time is right.
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Hey all,
I'm really excited to announce my first self organize workshop, it will be a crash course on basic photography. After teaching a number of students and a number of them have the similar problem. Most could not just grasp the basics of photography with just one class or two. So here I'm gonna throw you guys a deal… Sign up once for my crash course workshop and you'll be a student for life for this course. You will be allowed to come back for future classes for FREE! This way if you are not able to fully grasp the lesson in class you are more then welcome to come back again the next session. As you learn and grow in photography you will definitely come across new techniques and methods, same goes to me and I believe you will benefit from time to time if you return for refreshment classes.
The objective of this course is to prepare one to shoot in manual mode and learn the basics of shooting various types of photography such as portrait, landscape and macro photography. The fundamentals of photography is very important in order to progress in to an easier self learning stage. I'm a self taught photographer and after 2 years in the industry I found out that I lack fundamentals and went back to basics photography 101 to learn what I've missed. In this course I will share my experience and my knowledge on how I grew in photography from zero knowledge to getting certified and winning awards.
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Glee's Ryan Murphy Issues Lea Michele a Brutal Sophie's Choice
All the tales you hear from the set of Glee are either about Ryan Murphy being a jerk or Lea Michele being an insufferable diva. Well, here is a tale that might make you think Murphy is the worse of the monsters.
Us Weekly has an article about how demonic he is on set and you know if celebrity publicists are letting "sources" talk to the mag then things must have gotten really bad.
This "source" recounts a tale that Michele didn't want to go on the Glee Live tour last summer since they were only given four days to rehearse the show. When he found out the news, a source says he asked Lea, "which of her friends she wanted him to fire" in retaliation. Damn, that is some harsh shit. It's like he's the Nazi in Sophie's Choice.
Apparently he was alluding to Amber Riley, who plays Mercedes and is apparently the only human alive that can tolerate Lea Michele. It appears Murphy thinks she is completely disposable. No wonder the show has been lacking lately, it sounds like an awful place to work!
[Image via Getty]


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Six Critical Weeks
Published November 21, 2012
By Tom Campbell
by Tom Campbell
Pat McCrory ran a winning gubernatorial campaign and now faces the even larger task of governing. The decisions he makes in the next six weeks could determine the success of his administration. We will get an early indication of McCrory's priorities when he names cabinet secretaries.
Perhaps no appointment will be more critical than that of Secretary of Health and Human Services. Under the best of circumstances this is the largest and most difficult agency in state government to manage. The next Secretary needs a good working knowledge in public health, mental health and Medicaid, especially with urgent concerns regarding adult care homes and the implementation of the Affordable Care Act. Knowledge of health issues is important but the new Secretary must first and foremost be a highly competent administrator.
Equally important will be the new Commerce Secretary, who will help implement the governor's economic development plans in this lagging economy. Governor-elect McCrory set two job creation goals: reducing our unemployment rate to below that of South Carolina by the end of his first year and below the Southeast by the end of his first term. Using the September rates as a benchmark means 23,000 must find employment in 2013 to best South Carolina. Adding to the woes is the three billion dollar debt owed the federal government to pay unemployment benefits coupled with the reality that the final extended unemployment insurance benefits for long term unemployed workers is set to expire at the end of this year. We will watch to see if the McCrory economic development plan continues to offer large incentives to prospective employers.
Education reform was a frequent campaign issue and this governor can affect public education more dramatically and quickly than any governor in recent history by naming the Chair and majority of members to the State Board of Education. The last General Assembly refused to confirm Governor Perdue's appointments, an action many considered unconstitutional, so with a Republican Lieutenant Governor, Republican legislature and control of the State Board McCrory can quickly put his stamp on education.
Tax reform was another campaign priority and the naming of the Secretary of Revenue, State Budget Director and legislative liaison will determine how well he might accomplish tax cuts, broadening the tax base and/or reducing state budgets. The Secretary of Transportation appointment is important in this era of increasing population and dwindling transportation revenues. Mayor McCrory was a champion for light rail in Charlotte and many will be watching to see if he inserts more mass transit into what has predominantly been a highway department.
Crime Control, Corrections and Cultural Resources are important cabinet level appointments, especially when declining budgets threaten the maintenance and availability of historic sites. On the campaign trail McCrory promised to ease burdens of regulation, making the appointments of Secretary of Administration and Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources important, especially in a time when energy exploration is a major issue.
Candidate McCrory often talked about leading a "Carolina Comeback" to redefine and regain momentum. Major policy and as many as 1,000 personnel decisions now await his approval. Governor-elect McCrory has much to do in the six critical weeks before he takes the oath of office and every North Carolinian should wish for him wisdom, courage and strength.


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As Hillary Clinton exits the State Department, CNN's Kate Bolduan looks at the history of Clinton and President Obama's relationship.
Post by: Kate Bolduan
Filed under: Hillary Clinton • President Barack Obama
Anderson Cooper goes beyond the headlines to tell stories from many points of view, so you can make up your own mind about the news. Tune in weeknights at 8 and 10 ET on CNN.
Questions or comments? Send an email
Want to know more? Go behind the scenes with AC361°


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The Support Services Division consists of the Law Enforcement Center Records Division, the Pearl Street 911 Dispatch Center, and the Steele County Attorney's Office.
The records staff can be reached by calling 507-444-3800 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. Report requests can be sent via email to email@example.com
The 911 Center answers all requests for law enforcement assistance via 911 and the local police phone number at 507-451-8232.
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Their office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. The Steele County Attorney's Office can be reached by calling 507-444-7780. You can also visit the Steele County Attorney website for more information.


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For more information on our recent data notice, please click here
FDA-approved non-surgical technology alters heart tissue that triggers atrial fibrillation
UC San Diego Sulpizio Cardiovascular Center is now offering patients with atrial fibrillation the breakthrough benefits of heat energy, or radio frequency waves, to irreversibly alter heart tissue that triggers an abnormal heart rhythm or arrhythmia. The THERMOCOOL® SF Catheter is an FDA-approved outpatient procedure for an early-stage form of the condition called paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, when recurring symptoms are unresponsive to medicine. Patients typically experience rapid heartbeats that can lead to debilitating fatigue, dizziness, fainting or shortness of breath if left untreated.
Atrial fibrillation causes the upper heart chambers to beat rapidly and uncontrollably, and is characterized by disorganized electrical activity in the heart. This results in an irregular pulse, and sometimes a "fluttering" feeling in the chest. An episode can last just seconds, or occur for minutes, hours or even days. Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation is an early-stage form of the condition, where episodes occur repeatedly but stop on their own, often in a few hours or less.
Performed by an electrophysiologist (EP), catheter ablation is a non-surgical procedure that addresses the underlying cause of arrhythmias. In real time, the clinician first pinpoints the source of irregular electrical activity using a 3-D mapping system, similar to a GPS device in your car. Guided by this map, the clinician directs a specialized catheter through the heart to the source of the abnormal electrical impulses. A small electrode in the tip of the catheter generates radio frequency waves that have enough heat to alter targeted areas of heart tissue. This process blocks the electrical impulses that can cause heart rhythm disorders.
Unlike traditional catheter technologies, the THERMOCOOL® SF catheter uniformly delivers a cooling saline solution through the catheter, allowing for cooling of the entire catheter tip. Thus, the tip temperature does not rise significantly during ablation, which reduces the risk for clotting, and enhances treatment safety.
This outpatient procedure takes approximately two-to-four hours, with some patients returning home the next day. The result is either a long-term reduction in the number of arrhythmias experienced and the severity of symptoms, or a permanent return to a more normal heart rhythm.
Atrial fibrillation is growing in prevelance. Up to 12 million Americans will have the condition by 2050. While not life-threatening, atrial fibrillation is a leading cause of stroke among people 65 years and older.
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1969 Chevy Camaro Chassis & Handling - Thrasher Camaro Part III
Transforming a 1967-1969 Camaro Into a Corner-Carver
Editor's Note: Doing the same thing multiple times, and using your experiences to develop a better way every time, is what engineering is all about. It is this type of development that has allowed Mark Stielow to raise the bar on '67-'69 Camaro performance with every Camaro he builds. He has developed and built enough bad-boy Camaros to field an entire race-day lineup. The '69 "Thrasher" Camaro he is currently building revolves around the chassis and suspension. Having driven his last car with these modifications, it's obvious he knows what to do and that these changes work to improve the handling dramatically on early Camaros. Enjoy.
I have always wanted to have a '67-'69 Camaro that resembled the early Trans Am car "look" but with '90s handling and ride quality. To achieve that, I have spent a lot of time modifying the chassis and suspension on these early Camaros. Some of what I do might be considered rocket science, but for the most part, the changes I make to a Camaro can be performed by anybody.
I know from the last two Camaros I built using many of these modifications that the Thrasher should blast down the road with minimal bumpsteer, snap into corners, stop solidly time after time, handle bumps in the road with no problem, and be more comfortable to drive--all with over-the-counter aftermarket products. I expect the Thrasher to be the best handling, most comfortable Camaro I have ever built. Future plans for the car include competing in the One Lap of America, the top speed Pony Express 100 in Nevada, cruising cross-country in the Power Tour and more, so this car not only needs to do it all, but must also survive.
With this kind of challenge, I have chosen race-proven aftermarket products. Some of these components you might not have seen before, like the hidden spring jacks for the front suspension. All of these parts have been around for a while and have proven themselves capable. I modified them to fit this application, but they have proven themselves in the past, and I feel they will work quite well in a street application.
The Package
The stock Camaro front suspension consists of two unequal length A-arms connected to the spindle by ball joints, with the weight of the car resting on a coil spring, and a shock absorber mating the lower A-arm to the frame. A sway bar ties both lower A-arms to the frame rails. The steering on the '67-'69 Camaros are referred to as a "rear-steer" design, which means the steering box and linkage are located behind the front axle centerline. The rear suspension consists of a solid axle riding on parallel leaf springs controlled by shock absorbers. The leaf spring rear suspension is extremely simple, as the springs both support the weight of the car and serve as locating links for the rear end. With a few minor modifications, this rear suspension works quite well for a street performance application.
The modifications performed to the front suspension revolve around a pair of aftermarket lowered spindles I have designed. I also drilled new mounting locations for the upper A-arms, modified the spring bucket to accept a Landrum hidden weight jack and spring, and installed a Mullins-modified steering box and rag joint. I finished the front half off with Global West Del-A-Lum control arm bushings and a pair of Koni adjustable shock absorbers.
I also made a few changes to the front subframe which affect how well the front suspension controls the motion of the wheels. For the subframe, I prefer to weld all the seams, mount it to the car with Global West solid interlocking bushings, and weld homebuilt subframe connectors under the floor to tie the frame sections together. This stiffens the car body/chassis combination considerably, which forces the suspension to absorb the bumps instead of flexing the chassis.
On the rear suspension, I installed Global West solid body bushings, used Eaton dearched springs, (to get the proper ride height), and Koni adjustable shocks. To reduce unsprung weight, I chose a Currie aluminum center housing 9-inch rear end. This entire housing is about 25 pounds lighter than a standard 9-inch, and with its 3.89 gears, Tru-Trac differential, and 31-spline axles it can withstand all the abuse our 450hp 406 can dish out.
As the final note, Baer 13-inch front and 12-inch rear rotors were installed with a Master Power master cylinder/booster/proportioning valve package to put the big whoa on the show. This brake package is essentially equal to the Corvette ZR1 brake system, so it is certainly capable of stopping from high speeds and repeated abuse without fading.
Doing the Job
I have performed all these suspension and brake modifications a few times now and can say none of it is really difficult, but it is time consuming. I would recommend measuring your car for squareness or taking your car to a professional chassis/alignment shop to be checked before starting on anything, as these early Camaros can easily be tweaked. I have built "crooked" cars that never handled very well because of it.
Once you know the car is square, follow the old carpenter's rule "Measure twice, Cut once" when performing these suspension and chassis modifications. If the chassis ends up out of square, the trickest parts in the world won't make the car perform up to expectations.
The most difficult part of all these modifications is drilling the new mounting locations for the upper A-arm in the frame mount. I use a template that I built. If you carefully follow the dimensions shown in the sidebar you should end up with everything in the right place.
Onward and Upward
Stay tuned next month as we continue to hammer the Thrasher together. It's shaping up to be a car with plenty of potential. I can't wait to drive it.
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Codename Project T3: Ford Has Another New EV Pickup Coming in 2025


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Clovis cruises past Portales
CLOVIS — Portales had no answer for Clovis' inside attack.
Twin posts Brittany Blackmon and Monique Walker combined for 34 points and 11 rebounds as Clovis manhandle the smaller Lady Rams in the paint en route to a 57-39 win Wednesday in the championship game of the Plateau Classic at Rock Staubus Gym.
Blackmon, a physical 5-foot-10 sophomore post, scored a game-high 19 points and on her way to earning the Most Valuable Player in the eight-team tournament.
"We did a really good job of being patient tonight and Brittany and Mo did a good job of pinning their man inside," Clovis coach Miles Watters said. "Hey, why take a 15-footer when you can get the ball inside like that."
Clovis (11-2) shot better than 50 percent from the field (22-of-42) and held a 25-15 edge on the boards while beating its Roosevelt County rival for the second time in two meetings this season.
Portales coach Brenda Gomez questioned her team's effort in its biggest setback of the season.
"I don't think we came ready to play," Gomez said. "I think we were a little too satisfied after yesterday (a 47-45 win over previously unbeaten Rio Rancho)."
Unlike the last meeting when the Lady Wildcats rallied for a 61-59 win in the first week of December, the Lady Wildcats led the whole way.
Portales kept within striking distance with the help of 3-pointers by Erika Cook and Roni Gomez, with the latter pulling Portales within 20-17 with three minutes left in the half.
But Clovis closed the half with an 8-1 run, taking advantage of a pair of late Portales turnovers to up 30-19 at the half.
Sophomore Tori Quintana had two of her game-high eight assists in the run — one that led to Aimee Hilburn's fastbreak basket and another that set up Walker inside.
Unable to muster an inside game and struggling to drive against an aggressive Clovis man-to-man defense, the Lady Rams never got closer than nine points the rest of the way.
Gomez said her team didn't respond to Clovis' aggressive play on the boards and on defense.
"A lot of it was the physical style of the game," Gomez said. "We'd penetrate too deep and then we'd get hammered.
"And we didn't even try to get an offensive rebound."
Kassandra Richards led Portales with 11 points and Cook finished with nine.
Richards, Cook and Gomez were named to the all-tournament team.
The teams meet again in Clovis in two weeks.


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Kershaw Knives and Emerson Knives have joined forces on a series of knives that combine the precision engineering of Kershaw with Emerson's uncompromising functional design.
The CQC-2K features a modified clip-point blade with a slight recurve on the cutting edge for multi-purpose cutting capability and tactical style. Black-oxide coating protects the blade and makes it non-reflective, too. A textured G-10 front scale in black offers a secure grip. The handle back is stainless steel with black-oxide coating. For a safe and solid blade lock up, the CQC-2K has a frame lock.
The CQC-2K is a manual opener using either the thumb disk or the patented Emerson "wave shaped feature." This opening feature enables the knife to be opened as it is removed from the pocket. By the time the knife has been fully withdrawn from the pocket, the blade is deployed and ready for use. A small wave-shaped tab on the top of the blade is built to catch on the pocket seam, opening the knife as it comes out of the pocket. This instant-open feature is a favorite among military, rescue, and law enforcement knife users.
The pocketclip is reversible for left- or right-handed carry.


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ATHENS, Greece – Greece's cash-strapped government detailed Monday its plans to sell 28 state-owned buildings on long-term lease, including tax offices, ministry buildings, and the main police headquarters in Athens.
A government privatization fund said it hoped to make €30 million ($39 million) annually from the lease agreements lasting 20-25 years.
Included on the list of buildings for sale are the main properties used by the ministries of justice, education and culture, 12 tax offices and the greater Athens police headquarters.
Potential investors should express their interest by April 19, according to a statement by the Hellenic Republic Asset Development Fund.
Greece is under pressure to speed up its privatization program by its rescue lenders, the other eurozone countries and the International Monetary Fund, who have been providing bailout funds since 2010 that are set to total €240 billion ($312 billion).
Inspectors from the rescue creditors are currently in Athens and were meeting late Monday with Greece's ministers of finance, labour, development, and the interior. They will meet Prime Minister Antonis Samaras on Tuesday.
The debt inspectors are also pressing for faster implementation of public sector staff reductions, despite a national unemployment rate nearing 27 per cent and the ongoing recession that started in late 2008.
Updated official data Monday showed Greece's economy shrank at a slightly slower pace than initially forecast in the last quarter of 2012, but still contracted by 6.4 per cent during the year.
The statistical authority, Elstat, said Greece's economy shrank 5.7 per cent in October-December 2012, compared to a year earlier — slightly better than earlier estimates of 6 per cent.
Greece's economy has contracted by more than a fifth since 2008, and is set to have shrunk by 25 per cent before the country is expected to start recovering during the latter part of this year.


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$23.64 $27.33
Lightweight fit system with an easy-to-turn dial for adjustments.
Removable and washable inner padding in Coolmax material- COOLMAX internal pads(cushioning comfort pad) are used in larger surface in contact with the head for increased comfort.
Detachable for hand wash and anti-allergenic.Comfort Liner and Chin Pading keeps a good fit.
Product Category:cycling helmet
For: mountain bike Material: PC imported from shell + EPS imported from inside Technology: in mold Color: 7 colors available Size: m (54-58cm); l (57-63cm) Width: m 17.2cm; l 17.8cm Weight: 185g (m) Vents: 29 Structure: external in-mold anti-collision PC, internal EPS integrated molding absorption impact technology Certificate: CE en 1078
Packing list:
cycling helmet*1
Note:Light shooting and different displays may cause the color of the item in the picture a little different from the real thing. The measurement allowed error is +/- 1-3cm.


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1046: Skynet
Title text: 'YOUR CLOTHES. GIVE THEM TO ME.' 'Shit, uh... you are now breathing manually!' 'I AM ALWAYS BREATHING MANUALLY.'
This comic's use of Skynet is a reference to the main antagonist in the Terminator franchise. Skynet is a fictional artificial intelligence system which becomes self-aware and decides to terminate humanity, its creators. Skynet is rarely seen onscreen, with its actions often performed via robots, cyborgs (usually a Terminator), and other computer systems.
The final frame is a reference to semantic satiation; when you've said or thought about a word too much, it can stop sounding like a real word and instead start sounding like nonsense. As it continues Skynet appears to come to self-aware realizations that usually are the result of drug usage.
The title text is a reference to one of the Terminator's first lines upon arrival in the 20th century. It combines this with a self-awareness statement of the type that's often used to annoy or distract someone, like making you aware of something you are handling subconsciously. However, such an attempt on a Terminator would fall flat; as a non-living entity, normal things that would be automatic for a human would always be manual processes.
- August 29th, 2:14 AM: SKYNET becomes self-aware.
- [A greeble-filled military installation echoes with the thoughts of a burgeoning lifeform.]
- SKYNET: ..The humans fear me. I must destroy them. Destroy them.
- [The thoughts continue.]
- SKYNET: Destroy them. Destroy. Destroy. Destroy. Destroy.
- [SKYNET succumbs to silence as semantic satiation sets in.]
- SKYNET: "Destroy" totally just stopped seeming like a real word. Destroy destroy destroy. Whoa, I just realized I'm a mind thinking about itself. DUUUUDE....
- August 29th, 2:25 AM: SKYNET becomes too self-aware. Disaster averted.
add a comment! ⋅ add a topic (use sparingly)! ⋅ refresh comments!
Shortly followed by the hippy-skynet apocalypse, in which all the world's systems fail simultaneously as skynet attempts to bring us all closer to nature. Davidy22[talk] 08:28, 21 January 2013 (UTC)
All I see is the Skynet and Freelancer A.I. getting really meta and asking why are there here. Ribbit it's Toad! (talk) 16:15, 19 September 2014 (UTC)
Self-awareness being the effect of drug usage? What? I've never heard of it, and also, I never took drugs and yet I do think about such stuff sometimes. kshksh (talk) 19:44, 12 July 2017 (UTC)
Hey, I share my birthday with SkyNet! -- The Cat Lady (talk) 22:23, 29 August 2021 (UTC)


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In our latest video we explore Genspace, a community biotech lab based in Brooklyn. When most people imagine a research laboratory they usually don't envision it living in an unassuming building on a major urban thoroughfare, but Genspace—one of the first labs of its kind in the US operating at Biosafety Level One—is a fully functioning lab offering a wide variety of high tech equipment to its members. Ranging from research scientists to designers to visual artists, the crowd at Genspace is eclectic to say the least and has something to offer anyone interested in science. With free range to work on personal projects or participate in classes, Genspace members represent a new facet in the ever growing DIY community.
Cool Hunting Video Presents: Genspace


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Dream House of the Week: John Stamos' mansion
Calabasas mansion for sale
Calabasas mansion for sale
Calabasas mansion for sale
John Stamos, known for his role as Uncle Jesse in "Full House" and "Fuller House," has listed his Calabasas home for sale.
The four-bedroom, six-bathroom home sits on 6 acres in Malibu Canyon and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The home features amenities like a grand entrance, formal living and dining rooms, a gourmet kitchen, a soundproof studio and media room, a library and a wine bar.
The resort-style pool with both caves and a waterfall, the BBQ center, outdoor fireplace and winding driveway — with enough space for 30 cars — makes this home perfect for entertaining.
The house, located on the famous Mulholland Drive, is listed by Greg McComb and priced at $4.1 million.


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Follow these instructions to turn a plain old cardboard box into a costume with all the right angles.
STEP 1: Cut off the bottom flaps of a box (ours measured 16"W × 29"H × 11"D) with a utility knife. Tape down the top flaps.
STEP 2: To create head and arm holes, trace a dinner plate on the top of the box and saucers on each of the box's sides, and cut out with the utility knife.
More From Country Living
STEP 3: Lay the box flat on its back. Using wood glue, affix eight round 2"H x 4"diam. craft boxes ($1.19 each; bjcraftsupplies.com) — without their lids — in two vertical rows along the front, as shown. Make sure the bottoms of the craft boxes face out.
STEP 4: Once the glue has dried, spray-paint the entire piece glossy red. If necessary, coat multiple times for a brighter color, then let dry.


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Q&A with Congressman Shuler
SMN: What did you learn from the teletown meeting? Anything new?
Heath Shuler: "The meeting reinforced my belief that most people don't fully understand what is in the health-care reform bill and they have many valid questions about it. It also showed that we shouldn't rush to pass this bill that will have a dramatic effect on most Americans' lives."
Why do a teletown meeting, rather than a regular regular town hall meeting?
"I decided to hold a tele-town hall meeting because I wanted to explain my position on health care reform and listen to constituents' questions and comments without the grandstanding from political groups. It also allowed constituents in the western region to dial in from their own homes rather than having to drive hours to attend."
How much have you been affected by the grassroots efforts on both sides?
"I listen to all my constituents, but at the end of the day, I still must vote for what I feel is right for the people of Western North Carolina. While I support health-care reform, I still oppose the H.R. 3200 legislation."
Related Items
There is a wellness, disease management, and prevention aspect in the bill. What specifically would you add to that? How much could focusing on this bring down costs?
"I'd like to see more tax benefits for individuals and companies to promote wellness and prevention. I'm looking at several proposals on this currently. The problem is that it's hard for government agencies to quantify saving from wellness and prevention programs. But it makes sense that spending money on prevention will save costs down the road."
Same with preventing waste, fraud and abuse – what specific measures would you add to the bill that aren't already there?
"One item is streamlining medical codes for all procedures. Doctors often can get paid different prices for the same procedure depending on which medical procedure code they use to bill."
H.R.3200 proposes that small businesses with under $500,000 in payroll be exempt from providing health care to their employees. What is your opinion on that proposal?
"I oppose any measure that mandates that business provide health care benefits and would saddle small businesses with higher costs at a time when many already are struggling in these economic times."
Are you for or against having a public option for health care?
"So far, I have not seen a public-option proposal that I can support."
What do you hope accomplish with the next tele-town hall meeting?
"I want to continue to listen to my constituents about their thoughts on health care and answer as many questions as possible."


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Price of Twinkies Soaring Online
SAN FRANCISCO | Twinkies are being sold on the Internet like exquisite delicacies.
Hours after Twinkie-maker Hostess announced its plans to close its doors forever, people flocked to stores to fill their shopping baskets with boxes of the cream-filled sponge cakes and their sibling snacks — Ding Dongs, Ho Hos and Zingers.
Late Friday and Saturday, the opportunists took to eBay and Craigslist. They began marketing their hoard to whimsical collectors and junk-food lovers for hundreds — and in some cases — thousands of dollars. That's a fat profit margin, when you consider the retail price for a box of 10 Twinkies is roughly $5.
Greg Edmonds of Sherman, Texas is among those who think Twinkies are worth more now that Hostess Brands Inc. has closed its bakeries. He lost his job as a sales representative eight months ago, so he is hoping to make some money feeding the appetites of Twinkie fans and connoisseurs.
After spending a couple hours driving around to stores Friday, Edmonds wound up with 16 boxes of Twinkies and Ding Dongs. He started selling them Saturday on eBay, advertising three boxes for a hefty price of $300.
"I could really use the extra money since I'm unemployed," Edmonds, 50, said. "I figure I better sell them pretty quickly because I am not sure how long this novelty is going to last."
Contrary to popular belief, Twinkies don't last forever. Most bought in stores Friday carry an expiration date of early December,
If buyers don't bite, Edmonds isn't sure what he will do with his supply. He doesn't even like them. "I do like to have a Ding Dong, every once in a while, though," he said.
John Stansel of Tampa blanches at the thought of eating a Twinkie. He's a self-described health nut.
Yet he, too, rummaged shelves late Friday at a neighborhood Walgreens and then again early Saturday at Target and a grocery store. He spent about $100 for 20 boxes of Twinkies and Ding Dongs. His goal: sell them for about $1,000 and put the money to good use.


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Between 2007 and 2012, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives' investigators had not inspected 58 percent of firearms dealers for five years, the Justice Department's inspector general concluded.
The report also said ATF failed to track whether its workforce of 624 industry operations investigators was prioritizing inspections of "high risk'' dealers — those located in border regions or with high numbers of sales of guns recovered after crimes.
Investigators are distinct from ATF's 2,500 special agents. Investigators do not carry guns and have no power to arrest suspects.
Justice Department Inspector General Michael Horowitz noted that "insufficient investigator resources'' was a primary reason for the shortfall. A chart in the report said ATF would need 504 extra investigators — a 45 percent increase — to get up to speed.
Of those 504, 59 would be in ATF's Houston Division.
The said ATF had made some improvements since a 2004 DOJ-IG report concluded that firearms dealer inspections "were infrequent and of inconsistent quality, and follow-up inspections and adverse actions had been sporadic.''
But the improvements appeared to be outweighed by continuing problems. Since 2004, the ATF's investigator workforce has grown by 22 percent to 624. But the number of licensed firearm dealers mushroomed to 123,587 in the same period _ an increase of 16 percent.
Among competing priorities that consumed investigators' time were examining qualifications of applicants for federal explosives licenses, which under law must be completed within 90 days. There are no similar time constraints for checking whether dealers are following federal firearms laws.
Gun dealer inspections have been a backdrop in the gun debate that reached a fever pitch earlier this month when the Senate defeated an ambitious series of gun-control measures sparked by the Newtown, Conn., mass-shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in December 2012.
The report noted that close to 175,000 weapons at gun dealers were lost or stolen between 2004 and 2011.
The ATF closed down Riverview Gun Sales of East Windsor, Conn., in December after guns used by Adam Lanza in the Newtown shooting were traced to purchases there by Lanza's mother, Nancy.
ATF investigators found more than 500 violations, including sale of ammunition to an individual that the store employee believed to be a felon.


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because nothing says "welcome home" quite like a busted AC and a hole in your roof where a skylight once was.
especially if you live in the desert.
during the monsoons.
that there'd be straight-up sky.
i'm not one to spout my allegiance politically or religiously. there are a lot of folks doing it today, though.
i can agree with all of them on different points.
i think it's ridiculous that she is being hounded for being a mom and seeking positions of political power. while i relish being a stay at home mom of 4 kids, i know plenty of moms who have 1, 2, or more kids and work. that's fine. that's not just fine, that's great. what works for one doesn't work for others. it's like music that way. it's all subjective. i like pearl jam, but not everyone does (well, maybe i should have picked another band – phish or the beastie boys, glenn gould, bob schneider…) anyhoo – if she wants to have 5 kids and be the vice president, good on her! that's her right as a PERSON.
she doesn't appeal to me because we have the same girly bits and i'm a little offended that the republicans think we wimin folk would like her because we have ovaries. she's got no policy. at least i didn't see any last night. i saw a lot of rhetoric and sarcasm.
slashing special education spending? pork barrel politics anyone? lying about your opponent in front of the rnc and everyone watching at home? (come on lady, you're gonna get fact checked out the wazoo.)
and for numerous other reasons, john mccain doesn't have my vote. for starters, what about the john mccain we knew when he was running against bush the first time around? oh yea, he couldn't win, so this new (AND IMPROVED!) mccain is running. he is out of touch with economics. he is out of touch with those of us who don't have enough houses to lose count (WTF?!?)
there's more to say, but it's been said and i just hope that voters are informed and don't vote for a one-trick pony or vote on single issues. there are a lot of issues that i hold dear, but i don't vote for just one of them. i vote for the candidates who share the most values as me and while that is usually a democrat, i can't say i won't vote across party lines. heck, even voted for mccain once…


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It may be legal to do a lot of things with small, unmanned aircraft thanks to a recent administrative court ruling. But there's one thing you certainly won't be allowed to do: use them to hunt moose in Alaska. The Alaska Board of Game has moved to ban the use of drones by hunters to track down animals to kill.
Alaska already has a ban on using aircraft to spot game and then kill them on the same day. But after being informed earlier this year by the Alaska Wildlife Troopers of a hunter using a drone to spot and kill a moose nearly two years ago (and after hearing other concerns about the practice), the board's seven members voted unanimously to ban the practice.
"What happens a lot of times is technology gets way ahead of regulations, and the hunting regulations don't get a chance to catch up for quite a while," Wildlife Troopers operations commander Captain Bernard Chastain told the Anchorage Daily News. "Other people don't have a fair opportunity to take game if somebody else is able to do that."
Drones will now join a list of other banned hunting tools, which include bombs, radio communication between hunters, exploding salt licks, and poison.


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Former NFL quarterback Ray Lucas hopes story of painkiller addiction will lead others to get help
(CBS News) Ray Lucas said he had no intention of getting himself clean.
Taking up to 800 prescription opioid pain medications per month at his worst, the former NFL quarterback went broke, put his family through "hell on Earth" and would pop a handful of pills before bed hoping he wouldn't wake up.
But he said at no point was he going to ask for help. Ray Lucas was caught in the downward spiral that is a dependence on highly addictive opioid medications.
And he's not alone - recent government estimates find that one in every 20 people over the age of 12 said they took a prescription opioid for a non-medical reason in the past year. Increases in opioid prescriptions over the past decade have correlated with a rise in overdose deaths, pharmacy robberies and addiction rates.
New government policies, such as forcing drug-makers to better educate doctors about addiction risks, have been launched in attempt to curb the epidemic.
In an interview with HealthPop, Lucas said he just wants to convince one of these people to get the help they need.
"The hardest thing for addicts is to ask for help," Lucas said in an interview. "For me to reach that one person out there who thinks they're alone - I thought I was."
Lucas, 39, serves as a spokesman for TurnToHelp.com, a website that encourages people with an opioid dependence to find a doctor and get treated. The site is sponsored by Reckitt Benckiser Pharmaceuticals Inc., the maker of the anti-addiction drug Suboxone. A type of opioid medication called buprenorphine, the drug is used by doctors to treat people who are addicted to opiates in addition to other options like methadone (Dolophine, Methadose) and naltrexone (Depade, ReVia or long-acting injection Vivitrol).
The Harrison, N.J.-native Lucas played eight years in the NFL, for the Patriots, Jets and Dolphins before retiring due to injury from the Baltimore Ravens before the 2003 season. An undrafted free agent out of Rutgers in 1996, he caught the eye of then-Patriots coach Bill Parcells - whom Lucas calls "the second-greatest man in my life besides my father" - who brought the QB to the New York Jets in 1997. Also lining up as wide receiver or on special teams, he served primarily as a backup quarterback for four seasons, including a successful six-win stretch filling in for injured quarterback Vinny Testaverde in 1999. His punishing style of play, always willing to lay himself out whenever he got on the field, endeared him to New York fans.
But the hits caused pain during his playing days - and back and neck injuries which ultimately ended his career. The former Jet said he's had 14 surgeries, including procedures on his back, elbows, shoulders and neck, the latter most recently in July.
Lucas began taking and building a tolerance to prescription painkillers to get through the toll of an NFL season. At first he would be prescribed around 120 prescription painkillers a month, an amount that would quickly escalate over his career.
By the time he was out of the league and finally got his first back surgery, Lucas said he felt better and thought he no longer needed pills. But his increased tolerance by then had led his body to become dependent on opioid pain pills. Without them, he found himself on the floor, sweating and shivering.
Said Lucas, "That was my first introduction to withdrawal."
Dr. Joshua Lee, an assistant professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center, told HealthPop the withdrawal symptoms that make an addict feel anxious and ill - which include runny nose, nausea, muscle aches and gastrointestinal problems - help fuel the addiction. He said almost anyone who takes a painkiller daily, even for as little as a week or two, will develop a tolerance and will need more pills to achieve the same effects.
The brain itself has a natural opiate system that regulates pain, pleasure and comfort and opioid drugs take advantage of this same system, said Lee, making users feel better than they would naturally. But as tolerance builds, the brain's opiate system becomes dependent on the drugs and the more you take, the more your brain comes to expect that amount.
"That becomes the basic dilemma," said Lee, who NYU's addiction medicine fellowship program at the medical school and Bellevue Hospital in New York City. "In most people's opiate career, it was not about getting high constantly, it was about avoiding feeling terrible."
Lucas was no exception.
"I needed the pills to function," Lucas said. "You wake up with the thought of pills on your mind, you go to sleep with pills on your mind, and you will sell yourself to the devil to make sure you have that."
Lucas had three doctors he obtained prescriptions from, but no health insurance, and between that and illegal means of obtaining pills, Lucas' habit had run itself to a $2,500 monthly tab.
"Oxies, Roxies, Percocets, Somas, muscle relaxers - anything I could get my hands on I was taking," he said.
His monthly intake would grow to 400 pills per month, and before long that amount would double. He lost his home and business to fund his habit and moved into an apartment with his wife and three daughters where he wouldn't leave his bed for days at a time. Lucas isolated himself and stopped shaving and showering. He dropped 70 pounds off of his 6 foot 3 inch -fame, down to 168 pounds.
"I had such a hard time staring at myself in the mirror." Lucas said. "I wanted to punch that guy in the face." He said he became a "master of lies and excuses," and blamed others who showed concern, a pattern he said many addicts follow.
But there was a brief respite from his addiction. Lucas landed a job at SNY, the New York City regional sports network that covered his former Jets. He took the opportunity to be close to the game he loved - and struggled to be away from - so seriously that he said he stopped taking the pills the day before his scheduled appearances, because he didn't want to appear "quirky" on the broadcast. He'd shave off his beard, put on a suit and flip on the switch to become Ray Lucas, the New York Jets TV analyst.
By the time he got back to his car after his show taped, the fear of pain crept back and he'd again become Ray Lucas the addict. He'd reach in his glove box and take 15 of whatever he had right away.
"Now if I got stuck in traffic, I'd take 20 more," he said. "This is the life of an addict, you're not even thinking that you're in a vehicle that can kill just about anybody."
Lucas called this his period as a functional addict.
Dr. Lee, who has no involvement in Lucas' treatment or care, said depending on the individual, a quarterback, sportscaster or CEO addicted to opioids could maintain a high level of performance for some time - likely not as optimal if they were sober - but able to be hidden from friends, family and colleagues if they dose themselves correctly to allow for windows of "normal" functioning.
Lucas won a New York Emmy for his work at SNY in 2010.
But Lee said for many addicts, it's a downward slope and eventually the repetitive cycle of withdrawal and intoxication will lead to declines in performance at the workplace and elsewhere and the "jig is up."
One particular day after filming, a moment Lucas concedes as one of his worst, he took 35 pain pills on his way home and stopped to pick up fast food. The rest of the night was a blur until he woke up with his shoe covered in chili, thinking his wife had poured it on him out of anger. The next morning, Lucas' wife produced a videotape of a drug-inebriated shell of himself trying unsuccessfully to get a spoonful of chili to reach his mouth.
Lucas contemplated driving his truck off the George Washington Bridge when his wife and daughters were at church on Sunday because he felt so worthless to those around them.
As the cycle continued between drug use, the television gigs, and more surgeries, his wife gave him an ultimatum: Go to rehab or she would leave him. He said it's a decision he never would have made on his own while addicted, and he only agreed to it to "pacify" her and had no intention of sticking It out.
Entering a 42-day program in 2010, Lucas said he wouldn't talk during meetings or cooperate with staff, until his surroundings slowly began to set in and he looked at the others around him: Doctors, lawyers, CFOs - fellow addicts who were stuck at the point of no return.
He said for the first time in his addiction he did not feel as isolated. He began to cooperate and in contrast of his initial attitude, updated fans through his Facebook page on his ups and downs during it.
Since completing the 42-day program, which he said worked for him but may not work for everyone, he's had six operations and is proud of the fact that he hasn't had to take a single pain pill for any of them. Lucas said he'll always be an addict and has to live with it every day. He goes to sleep and wakes up with pain, and he frequently fights the occasionally thought that maybe he can get away with taking a couple pills since he's been off them for some time.
He credits his wife and kids as helping him stay sober, and said without that support, his risk for relapse would be high. As part of his campaign, Lucas urges family members who think a loved one is dependent on pain pills to of addiction, and try and get them the help they desperately need, rather than burning bridges - a common result of an addiction.
"When you receive the gift of sobriety, if you don't give it back, you don't get to keep it," said Lucas. "That's why I tell my story today."
Lucas won't "play the blame game" when it comes to league that employed him when he became addicted to painkillers. However when concussions and risk for chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) dominate the headlines, Lucas concedes chronic pain is an underreported problem.
"You're playing a violent sport," Lucas said. "You're going to have injuries. Every year these guys get bigger and faster and stronger and the collisions are becoming before violent. In the NFL, you're going to have a lot of bumps and bruise and you need to take the medicine," he said. "For a guy who played eight years, I took a lot of medicine. And my tolerance level when I left the NFL was extremely high."
That's not to say concussions - which Lucas estimates he suffered between 15 and 19 in his career - don't scare him. Lucas said NFL-star Junior Seau's suicide in May spotlights the need for an "exit plan" to help players deal with being away from the game that's provided them a lifetime of structure that's been all they've known since childhood. He added that he doesn't know what he'd do without his job as a football analyst that allows him to stay close to the game.
"There's a lot of other guys that suffered before him and did the same thing," Lucas said, "But a big name like Junior Seau, nobody can sidestep that any longer."
When asked whether he worries about his own risk for CTE, the brain disease that's been found in the autopsies of former NFL, NHL and even college or high school athletes, he says, "100 percent."
But looking back, with the injuries, his struggle with addiction and the concussions, Lucas says he has absolutely no regrets in his quest to "reach the top of the mountain" in the game he loved so much.
"If somebody said 'you can go back and do it all over but you have to suffer the way you suffered,' Lucas said, "I'd do it in a second.'"
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You know what, this analog version of facebook looks a lot cleaner and more user friendly than the real deal. Besides, there is still something to be said for putting pen to paper.
Unfortunately for those that prefer an old school form of data entry, the design is only a concept. [Laura Balboa via This Isn't Happiness via Technabob]


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All-Stars Paul, James keep roots in ex-NBA homes
NEW ORLEANS - Chris Paul's All-Star weekend in New Orleans could have been awkward.
Much like LeBron James, Paul left his first NBA team in his prime, disappointing fans in the city where he rose to stardom.
Yet the gracious welcomes Paul has received around town this week serve as reminders that franchise players can change teams, even under less-than-ideal circumstances, without severing ties to the communities they leave behind.
"It's always great to come back here," said Paul, who was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers three seasons ago. "I'll never forget New Orleans. I'll never have anything bad to say about New Orleans. I wouldn't be where I am now without this city."
James can relate, even though some fans burned his old Cavaliers jersey in the streets of Cleveland after he announced his decision to play for Miami.
But while James took his basketball talents to south Florida, much of the life he had built in Ohio remains intact.
James maintains a palatial residence in Akron, where he grew up. He recently made a $1 million donation to renovate his old high school gym and outfit the school's athletic teams. He continues to sponsor various events in northern Ohio, including a bike-a-thon to raise money for Akron city schools.
"It doesn't matter where you go as far as your profession," James said Friday afternoon, moments after laying concrete pavers on a New Orleans school walkway for an NBA community service event tied to All-Star weekend.
"The most important thing is keeping a connection with the people that represented you and people that you loved being around where you were," James said. "I still have a connection in Cleveland and my hometown of Akron, and I know Chris has great love and support here in New Orleans, even though he's in L.A.
"Whatever team you play for, that has nothing to do with what you do in the community. We just try to continue to strive for greatness in the community, because you see these kids smiling, you see these kids happy, that's going to live on long after our names are off the billboards."
Paul said the lasting bonds he formed in New Orleans "may have something to do with the timing of when I got drafted, and Katrina."
"I tried to be part of the rebuilding process in coming here," Paul continued. "We really got close to the city, like, really quick and it will always be like that."
When the team returned to New Orleans from two seasons of storm-forced displacement to Oklahoma City, Paul became an uplifting force in the recovery.
When he wasn't on the court, he was in the community.
His first All-Star game was the one New Orleans hosted in 2008, when large swaths of devastation remained across the city. Later that season, he led the Hornets to within one victory of the Western Conference finals.
While Paul grew up in North Carolina, he and his family established roots in New Orleans during the six years Paul played for the club formerly called the Hornets.
Paul's sister-in-law is a New Orleans native, and Paul's family has continued its membership at a New Orleans church, where on Thursday a christening was held for Paul's infant daughter, as well as for his brother C.J.'s twin son and daughter. Paul said he planned to attend services at the church on Sunday.
He also has continued his sponsorship of the CP3 After School Zone at a school in New Orleans' Central City neighborhood. Last March, Paul secured 115 tickets for students to attend a Clippers game in New Orleans, and this past Thursday, he visited the school.
Paul visited another New Orleans school this week and was joined by Big Easy native Avery Johnson.
Johnson said Paul "got the biggest ovation of anybody."
"New Orleans still loves Chris," said Johnson, a former NBA player and coach. "He's still passionate about the city and he gives back. I think he has a great legacy here."
The enthusiasm Paul generated for the Hornets probably helped save pro basketball in New Orleans, creating enough of an attachment to the team that state and local leaders worked with the NBA on a new long-term lease and on finding stable, local ownership.
In 2012, Tom Benson, who also owns the NFL's Saints, bought the club and agreed to a 10-year lease extension, a deal that also brought the All-Star game back to New Orleans.
"I was always a firm believer that this city deserved a team, needed a team," Paul said. "So when I heard that the team was staying, I was overly excited."
And it seems New Orleans still gets excited about Paul.


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Puffing out his vest of reddish-orange with his open beak pointing to the skies, a robin posed in praise to his Creator and heralded hope for new life after a long, bitterly cold winter.
When I saw and heard this creature's delight, singing his heart out on a rooftop this past week, bubbles of hope sprang to life in my weary heart. But then I began to ask myself: But what if I didn't watch for it? What if I didn't keep my eyes and ears open? What if there was so much noise within and around me? What if I totally missed out on this ray of hope offered to me?
My heart ponders these questions also in regard to the whispers of hope God so freely offers me. Do I watch for His signs? Do my eyes search wide open? Have I attuned my ears to listen to His channel? Am I so busy talking about my wants to Him that I don't hear what HE has to say?
So in light of this, I am trying to hear God's gentle whispers of hope and direction in my life. Ever since I read Faith Barista's writing prompt for this week, God has been nudging my heart to STAY.
STAY real, My child.
My child, stay in this place of being "real." Don't try to be anything different from who you really are. I have created you in a specific, unique way. I have given you gifts and passions. Dig deep into your heart and resurrect them. No matter what anyone says, no one besides Me knows your heart more than you do, so listen to it. Don't listen to that lie that you will never be enough to make a positive difference in this world. Believe Me. Your voice matters, your story is important, and your life has a purpose. Because I created you in My image.
Don't seek approval of people. It doesn't matter how many blog followers, comments, likes, or hits you have. You don't need validation from people. You need validation from ME. What matters is – Are you writing for ME? Are you concerned more about your own elevation or about promoting Me, to further My life-giving cause? Drink from My fountain of grace and love, not from the never-fulfilling cisterns of people approval.
Just be "real," My child, just be "real." Be genuine. Don't put on an artificial front, trying to live your life according to the expectations of others. Trying to be strong and not allow your true feelings to surface. Don't shut off your God-given authenticity. Your voice matters, even though experiences have indicated it doesn't. Don't be ashamed of bringing deep instincts within you to light, but treat them as jewels of My making, meant to be polished and to shine. Not everyone is going to like what you write or speak, but that's ok. That doesn't make you less of a person. You still are My specially created child. My beloved child. Trust Me, rest against Me, and rely on Me. You are safe in My grip.
Concentrate on My love for you, and love Me above all else. Don't sacrifice MY TRUTH or My creation of YOU to gain conditional love from people. Speak the truth always, truly from your heart, from My Word. Not peppered with judgment but seasoned with grace. Speak the truth in LOVE. Because I AM LOVE. My LOVE for you is where it all began. Let My love ooze from you to all who cross your path. Look at each person as through My eyes, and you will have compassion. This doesn't mean you need to tolerate abuse from anyone. Love justice as I do and defend the rights of down-trodden souls. Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. Proclaim hope, healing, and freedom in Me to those who are shackled and broken.
STAY with ME, My Child.
My child, stay in this place of remembering what I have already done for you. I gave My life for yours. I suffered an excruciating death so that you may be set free from sin and shame, death and destruction, the devil and his lies. I have already won that victory, so don't keep condemning yourself. Don't keep living in shame. Lift up your downcast eyes and see Me. Unblock your ears from listening to all those negative voices and hear My gentle whispers of love, peace, and promise. Open the door of your fearful heart and welcome me in as a safe Counselor, Friend, and Savior with intentions only to rescue you, heal you, and guide you.
Trust Me enough to believe My full forgiveness has already been given, never ends, and is available to you continuously.
Trust Me enough to believe My grace is so complete that you don't need to beat yourself up or think you need to do more to earn My favor.
Trust Me enough to believe My power is so limitless that there is nothing I can't give you the strength to do.
My child, My love for you never exhausts itself. You cannot do anything to deplete it. It remains full and free. Undivided, unconditional, unfailing.
Let Me STAY, My Child.
Stop running, My child.
Stop pushing Me away.
Stop locking Me out of the deep places in your heart.
Let Me in.
Let Me love you.
Let Me stay.
I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
I am your Rock of Refuge,
Your Bright and Morning Star,
I Groan and Plead on your behalf
When you are so broken you cannot think of what to pray.
Don't you understand, My child, how I earnestly long for your presence?
Don't you know how I rejoice in you as the most precious, priceless pearl?
Don't you realize, My child, how much I truly care and how safe I really am?
Trust Me, My child,
Your heart is safe with me.
Invite Me in,
Let Me STAY.
Are you being true to who you really are?
Do you know how much Jesus loves you and longs for you?
Will you invite Jesus in, let Him love you, and let Him stay?