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Spotlight on an Alumnus - Reuven Abedon
How does someone who studied Torah at Ohr Somayach and Chinese and Economics at Harvard combine all three of these achievements into a service to the Jewish community?
The answer comes from the recent announcement that alumnus Reuven Abedon has been appointed the director of the Baltimore-based Star K kashrut supervision office in Shanghai, China.
When Reuven arrived at Ohr Somayach two decades ago he brought with him a research paper he had done on "The Over-representation of Jews in Cults". His thesis was that the hunger for spirituality led Jewish youths to pasture in foreign fields. But Reuven wanted the real thing and dedicated his academic skills to learning Torah at Ohr Somayach.
After many years of learning he taught in a Day School in the U.S. and was involved in the world of finance. His new role as a kashrut mashgiach and office director in the Far East offers him an opportunity to combine his educational background and experience in expanding the frontiers of kosher food for Jews throughout the world.


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Asvin Balloo has posted the second part of his geolocate with PHP tutorial series - using the mapping information gathered from the previous article to plot them on a map.
In the first part of this series I showed how you could get the country of a visitor via his IP address. Now with this precious information, I'll show you how to map the visitor visually on the world map using Google Maps.
The full code is provided - the PHP to pull the latitude/longitude information from the GeoIP library and the Javascript to get the Google Map to plot the point. You can check out the live demo for an example or just grab the source and try it out for yourself.

subset: commoncrawl


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Sunday School – 10:00 am
Worship Service – 11:00 am
Bible Study – 12:15 pm
Wednesday Bible Study - 6:30 pm
12859 Martin Road Spur
Northport, AL 35473
Watering the Tulips
December 19, 2012
"Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another" – Romans 14:19
Christian people are to stand for the truth. Numerous verses could be supplied to prove this. 1 Corinthians 16:13, for instance, says, "Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong". This speaks loudly to seeking out the truth of "the faith" and standing for it. However, the manner in which we stand must never be arrogant or spiteful. In fact, the verse that follows this one says, "let all that you do be done with love" (1 Corinthians 16:14).
Christian people are going to disagree. Jesus Himself told us, "It is impossible that no offenses should come…" (Luke 17:1). There isn't a one of us that will live through this life without disagreeing with somebody else. Where there is no disagreement, somebody is leading the parade. If, however, we all enter into a study of God's Word, we will sometimes find ourselves with different understanding. Now, somebody is incorrect – perhaps all of us. But, there is a right way to handle our differences.
There has, perhaps, never been a man more bold (outside of the Lord Himself) than our brother Paul. He boldly spoke the truths of God's Word. This does not mean, however, that Paul was purposely offensive. In fact, he said we ought to be "…speaking the truth in love…" (Ephesians 4:15). There are two admonitions in this verse. Most certainly, we are to speak the truth if we talk of the Lord and His precious Word. Hopefully, there is no disagreement there. Secondly, this is always to be done in a loving manner. There simply is no excuse for treating our fellow man in a way contrary to the way the Lord has treated us.
God's Word is the "sword of the Spirit" (Ephesians 6:17). We do not wield the sword that is the Word of God. The Holy Spirit alone has this right. Unquestionably, we are to stand on the Lord's Word in all that we do. We are to find our doctrines and practices from the Bible and it alone. Yet still, we do not wield the Word of God. Our job is to preach it. If it pierces "even to the division of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow" (Hebrews 4:12), the Spirit must do that. We have neither the right nor the power to make the Word so effectual.
So, what is being said here? Simply, we are to contend for the faith once delivered to the saints with the right motive and the right attitude. Our motive should always be that we may "edify one another" (Romans 14:19). Our attitude should always be such as will "make for peace". God's children ought to be known by love (John 13:35).
Child of God, pray today that God will empower you to stand firm in the truth. While you pray along these lines, ask Him to help you do this in the right way.
Watering the Tulips is brought to you by Sovereign Grace Baptist Church in Northport, AL. For more information, please visit www.sovereigngrace.net. "Your App to the Gospel" is available the iTunes app store as well as Google Play. Please download it today!


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Rhymes with lovey: Charlottesville rainmaker refuses to retire
Hovey Dabney's elegant office suite doesn't much look like the hangout of a retiree. It's huge enough that he could sublease parts of it to a start-up company, and it's tastefully decorated with memorabilia from the University of Virginia and Jefferson National Bank, two institutions that have loomed large in both Dabney's– and his hometown's– life. This is the man the Daily Progress perennially kept on its annual "most powerful" list (until the newspaper replaced the list with a "distinguished dozen").
Dabney officially retired from Jefferson National Bank in 1993 but stayed on as chairman of the board until early 1998, when new-owner Wachovia told him to leave. Dabney's term as rector on UVA's Board of Visitors ended that same year. So what does he do with all that office space?
"Play," says Dabney with a twinkle. "It's my retirement office."
He claims he needs it for his board work, and he reels off the names of four on which he sits: UVA Foundation, Jefferson Area Board for Aging, WHTJ public television, and the MERCI Project that reclaims unused medical supplies.
Dabney's life could have been taken from the pages of Tom Brokaw's The Greatest Generation a book about men who fought in World War II.
"It was a fantastic experience," says Dabney. "I wouldn't want to do it again. Bailing out of a burning plane is not a lot of fun."
When he was a young radio operator on his first mission, Dabney's B-17 Flying Fortress was shot down over Budapest. He broke both ankles jumping out and was treated by Russian doctors.
For that mission, Dabney received a Purple Heart. He went on to fly 24 more missions.
"I didn't know my ankles were broken," recalls Dabney. "My flight surgeon told me they were and said, 'Since you've been flying, you might as well keep on.'"
Years later, flying was one of the things Dabney liked best about being UVA's rector, because he got to fly to all the football games with the team. "Being closely involved with the team was a lot of fun," he says.
Dabney was rector during UVA's immensely successful capital campaign in the '90s and using his special talents as rainmaker, he convinced his old friend John Kluge to donate his 7,400-acre estate to the university.
Dabney is too diplomatic to admit any regrets about selling locally owned Jefferson National Bank, except to say, "We were the community bank, involved with the community."
And in a community full of distinguished names, just what is the source of Dabney's unusual moniker? "My father was a shoe salesman for F.M. Hoyt Shoe Company," he explains. "Its president was Hovey Slayton. I was named for him."
One other question. When is Dabney going to slow down and act retired? "I'm not ready to sit down and do nothing," he says. "That doesn't interest me in the slightest."
Age: 79
What brought you here? The stork
What's worst about living here? Traffic
Favorite hangout? Farmington Grill
Most overrated virtue? Smart
What would people be surprised to know about you? I'm a pussycat.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? I'd be more understanding.
What accomplishment are you proudest of? I helped start the Health Service Foundation.
What do people find most annoying about you? My persistence
Whom do you admire? Jay Gillenwater
Favorite book? Follow the River by James Thom
What subject causes you to rant? The attacks on the World Trade Center
What thrills you about life in the 21st century? The many cures for disease
What creeps you out about life in the 21st century? The lack of a middle-class population. We're losing that.
What do you drive? A Volvo. After driving a Cadillac for 25 years, I decided I'd go small.
What's in your car CD player right now? Garth Brooks
What's your next journey? Outer Banks
What's the most trouble you've ever gotten in? Getting shot down overseas.
What do you regret? Not giving more time to the needy.
Favorite comfort food? Vanilla ice cream
What's always in your refrigerator? Diet Pepsi, vanilla ice cream
Must-see TV? Everybody Loves Raymond
Favorite cartoon? Snoopy
Describe a perfect day. Sunny and warm and looking at the mountains
Walter Mitty fantasy? I haven't got one.
Who'd play you in the movie? Chauncey Brown
Most embarrassing moment? After I was sick in the McCue Center, I was walking to the car, and I'd lost so much weight that my pants fell off as three ladies walked by.
Best advice you ever got? My mother told me, "When you finish your job, you go help someone, and you'll learn something."
Favorite bumper sticker? I saw this in New York on a plumbing truck: "We would like to fix Farrah's Fawcett."Read more on: hovey dabney


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TORONTO — Two veteran attacking players provided the goals as the Chicago Fire earned a hard fought, 2-1 road victory over a cellar-dwelling Toronto FC side at BMO Field on Wednesday evening.
Alvaro Fernandez and Chris Rolfe found the back of the net in the first half against a listless TFC side that rallied some in the second 45, but could only halve the lead with Eric Hassli's late gaol.
Fernandez's goal in the 13th minute set the tone for the game, as the Uruguayan winger headed home from a Pavel Pardo cross. The goal came after Chicago had forced a turnover out of Aaron Maund, then strung together a quick series of passes in the final third. Pardo got onto the last one, but fired his shot off the post – only to see the rebound come right back to him. He spun and found Fernandez unmarked for the 1-0 lead.
Chicago kept generating chances against a sloppy TFC side who were short a number of regulars due to injury and international duty. The persistence paid off when Rolfe got his team-leading sixth of the season, slamming home a drive from 22 yards after a corner kick was poorly cleared.
After falling behind by two goals in the first half, TFC Head Coach Paul Mariner attempted to kick start his team's offense in the second half with the insertion of Ashtone Morgan and Eric Avila in place of Andrew Wiedeman and Logan Emory, eventually switching to a 3-5-2. Those moves paid off in the 79th minute when midfielder Luis Silva set up Designated Player Eric Hassli for a late goal by the home side.
The two teams exchanged several more salvos down the stretch as TFC made Chicago sweat, but Sean Johnson was big off his line several times while both Sherjill MacDonald and Brazilian attacker Alex failed to salt the game away.
The victory gives Chicago (14-8-5, 47 points) a clean sweep of all three matches played against Toronto this year and has now earned them their fifth win in their last six league matches. They move to second place in the East, and will endeavor to continue their positive run of form at home against the Montreal Impact on Sept. 15.
Toronto (5-17-6, 21 points), meanwhile, will try to avoid stretching their winless streak to nine games against Philadelphia on Saturday in another home fixture at BMO Field.


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davidjmedlock avait besoin d'un nouveau design de page web et a lancé un concours sur 99designs.
2gagnants ont été selectionné parmi 18 designs proposés par 7 designers freelance.
This is an eCommerce site that will sell magazine subscriptions at the lowest prices publishers will allow.
Desired Color Scheme:
I'm flexible on the color scheme. I can change the logo if you come up with a color scheme I like.
Desired Style:
Clean, crisp, professional, easy to use, NOT overly busy, NOT plain (i.e. flat boxes w/borders and flat headers). NOT ANYTHING LIKE ANY OTHER MAGAZINE SITE.
Accepted File Formats:
Adobe Photoshop PSD
The design needs to be clean, easy to navigate and include the following elements:
Logo (http://www.magazinesquad.com/images/logo.jpg - I can change colors based on the template, so dont feel restricted to these colors)
1) White or light background, unless you've got something else that will knock my socks off.
2) Think "sleek", "modern", "simple and attractive, but not over-simplified and not simple-but-ugly"
3) Clean: No clutter, no banners, no buttons or images that detract from the main content (product listings)
4) Every element on the page should compliment, not compete with, the main focus of the website: selling magazine subscriptions
A. Main Navigation Elements: Home, New Subscriptions (or New Subs or New Mags), Features, Specials (or Bargain Bin), Browse All Magazines (or just Browse All), Contact Us, FAQ, Shopping Cart, Checkout
B. Category Navigation: Need plenty of room for categories. You can use the following list of categories for placeholders.
Arts & Crafts
Animals & Pets
Antiques & Collectibles
Aviation & Planes
Business Magazines
Cars & Automobile
Childrens Magazines
Comics & Humor
Computers & Electronics
Cooking & Food
Family & Parenting
Fashion & Style
Fishing, Hunting & Outdoors
General Medical
Hair Style
Home & Garden
Mens Magazines
Medical Professional Journals
Music & Musicians
News & Opinion
Photography & Video
Regional Periodicals
Trade Journals
Magazine Packages
Please factor in the following in the design: 1) Categories will have subcategories. (Well only go one level deep.) 2) Factor in that some category titles are longer and may wrap to the next line. Your design can either have them wrapping to the next line or give them plenty of room to be all on one line. I dont mind either way.
C. Search Box somewhere easily accessible in the design
D. Product Listing: Include magazine/product image, name, newsstand (list) price and our price along with Add to Wishlist and Buy Now (or Add to Cart) buttons.
E. Footer Area should contain something like: Home, About Us, Privacy Policy, FAQ, Contact
Now, heres an important point: Ive looked at probably a dozen or more magazine sites out there and I HATE THEM ALL. Theyre too busy, ugly, plain and they look lazy. I dont want this site to look lazy. I want it to look like I care (because I do). So, if you go out and look at one of those sites and come here with something that looks like everyone else, then Im going to be pretty blunt about what I think Just want to warn everyone up front.
If you have any additional questions, please feel free to post here. Ill respond regularly, at least once per day during the week and Ill try to respond once on the weekend.
Im willing to pay an additional $75 to anyone who can code the final template into a ZenCart / osCommerce template. (The winner will get first dibs on this and Ill offer it to others if the winner chooses not to code it.)


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- Details
- Specs
- Reviews
- What's Included
The Intermatic WP1110C Weatherproof Outdoor Single Gang Vertical or Horizontal Mount Receptacle Cover can be used outdoors or in other wet locations (protects receptacles while in use for unattended applications). The cover is UL listed and meets the requirements for all outdoor low voltage landscape lighting as defined by UL 1838. It also meets UL and CSA Cold Impact Testing at -60°F (-51°C), is CSA certified, NEMA 3R rated and meets National Electrical Code requirements covered by Article 406.8(B). The single gang Flexi-Guard models are all designed to mount horizontally or vertically.
- Brand: Intermatic
- Manufacturers part number: WP1110C
- Color finish: Clear/Gray
- Depth (inches): 2-5/8
- Height (inches): 5-1/2
- Width (inches): 3-13/16
- Brand: Intermatic
- Weatherproof cover, base and gasket
- Toggle, round, GFCI and duplex inserts
- Baggie assembly with mounting hardware
- Weatherproof cover, base and gasket


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Hi HG, My wife and I love your recipes! However, I'm not that great in the kitchen. Which recipes are really easy but impressive enough for a surprise dinner? Novice Nick
Dear Nick,
Awww! I love that you want to surprise your wife with a guilt-free, homemade meal. HG recipes are generally pretty simple. If you're not confident in your kitchen skills, my best advice is to first read through all the directions, and then prep your ingredients before starting. This way, following the recipe will be extra easy. And make sure to double any single-serving recipes, so there's enough for two of you! I happen to have some impressive date-night recipes for you. This email features a caramelized onion appetizer, a sweet 'n spicy chicken entrée, and a DELICIOUS bread pudding for dessert. This one has a tropical cocktail, a super-sized shrimp and rice dish, and yet another bread pudding for two. And this quintessential date-night menu of recipes includes Chicken Amore! (one of my favorite recipes ever), Very Berry Dreamboat Parfaits, and a huge roundup of date-ready recipes. I will say that the absolute easiest of that bunch are the caramelized onion app, the Chicken Amore!, and the caramel bread pudding. If you still feel nervous about heading into the kitchen, maybe try one of these super-simple recipes: Sauced 'n Simmered Dijon Chicken (just double the ingredients and increase the cook time, if needed) and Sweet & Sour Meatloaf (nothing wrong with leftovers!). And here's a roundup of really easy sides to serve with any entrée. I'm also partial to foil packs, since they are SO easy to prepare and clean up. Try the Jump for Choy! Fish Pack and Cha-Cha-Cherry BBQ Chicken Pack -- both make two servings. Lastly, if you want to whip up something without even turning on the oven, try these no-cook recipes: Spicy Thai-Style No-Cook Stir-Fry and Shrimp Cocktail Tacos. Good luck, and let me know how it turns out!
Hungry Girl, I recently went to a restaurant and got a salad, figuring it would be my best bet. When I checked the nutritional info later, it turned out to be worse than some of the burgers and pasta meals! Can you give me any advice for choosing sensible salads? Jenny in Jenkintown
Hi Jenny,
Salads really can be food fakers! Here are some DOs and DON'Ts to help you avoid a disaster...
DO get your dressing on the side. Then dip your fork into the dressing; don't pour the stuff on. Ask for light options as well. No need to stick with the exact dressing that comes on that salad. Sometimes I skip the dressing altogether and go with salsa, balsamic vinegar, or a squeeze of lemon.
DON'T be afraid to special order. If a salad looks healthy, for the most part, but includes a few questionable ingredients, ask your server if they can be left off. Common culprits behind fatty salads: tortilla/wonton strips, candied nuts, crumbled bacon, and cheese.
DO look for salads loaded with raw vegetables, like tomatoes, cucumbers, mushrooms, and carrots. I especially love chopped salads with these items. Be a little cautious of cooked veggies, though, which are often prepared with butter or oil.
DON'T be fooled into thinking that scoopable tuna or chicken salad is a good choice. It's typically loaded with mayo. Grilled fish or chicken is a much better pick.
DO try to do some research ahead of time. Check the restaurant's website for nutritional info before you head out. And if you unexpectedly find yourself out to eat and didn't get a chance to check the stats online, pull up the restaurant's website on your smartphone or see if your server can give you a nutritional brochure. That can help you make a more informed decision.
For more info, check out this amazing Salad Bar Survival Guide. Happy chewin'!
Know someone looking for an easy date-night menu? Got pals who could use this salad advice? Click "Send to a Friend" to pass along today's Qs & As!
October is International Microwave Month. Celebrate with easy microwave-friendly food finds, and talk to them with foreign accents.
Have a question for Hungry Girl? Send it in! She answers new Qs each week (but cannot respond to emails personally).
SmartPoints® value not what you expected? Click here for more info on how the values are calculated, plus more FAQs about PointsPlus® and SmartPoints® values on our website.


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American Road Safety for Everybody (A.R.S.E.) is an organization promoting road safety and is maniacally against all forms of two-wheeled transportation. By 1998, their efforts had bicycles banned from Liberty City and by 2001 they managed to get motorcycles off the streets as well. Their campaign to ban motorcycles is featured in an article written by Gaylord Morrisen in the Liberty Tree instruction manual that comes with Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories:
- "Motorcycles cause more deaths per year than old age. They are the number one killer in our city and must be banned. If the city doesn't take action, then we the people are going to have to start. Pehople on motorbikes are trying to kill all of us, so we at A.R.S.E. say it's time to fight back. All bikers will be treated as fair game going forward and every civic-minded citizen is encouraged to knock these killers off their motorcycles."
- ―An A.R.S.E. spokesman.
The Maibatsu Corporation of America generously made a donation to A.R.S.E. which helped them to become known. This may have been in hope that they would increase the sales of their new model, the Maibatsu Monstrosity which was to be released in 2001.
- The name's abbreviation comes from arse, the British way to say ass, pointing at adult humor.


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Andy Hall, over at Dead Confederates has made a series of interesting posts related to Robert Smalls and the escape of the CSS Planter since his first post about this topic on May 13. They are all well worth reading. The subsequent posts include:
"The Black Confederate Who Stole The Steamboat Planter." (May 16, 2012) Which discusses Robert Smalls' associate William Morrison, who also escaped aboard the Planter.
"Suck to Be You, Lieutenant." (May 17, 2012) Features the letter of Confederate Bvt. Lt. F. G. Ravenel, who had the unenviable task of writing the official Confederate report on the Planter's escape.
"'. . . to be divided between Robert Smalls and his associates.'" (May 18, 2012) Discusses the efforts to award Smalls and crew members of the Planter that escaped with him naval prize money.


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€129.00 – €379.00
The Cute Couple Ceremony Pamphlet contains a summarised version of your wedding ceremony, the pamphlet is a DL size with 6 pages and opens to an A4 size. You can choose to print your pamphlet on a classic matt white or pearlescent card. We will email a template document of the wording to you which you can edit with your own information.
Card Weight: 350gsm
Pamphlet Size: 210 X 298mm
Delivery: Free of Charge within Ireland. Outside of Ireland is additional
Card Type: Matt or Pearlescent Card


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Student environmental group presses UNH to stop investing endowment in fossil fuels
DURHAM, N.H. (AP) — Students concerned about the environment want the University of New Hampshire to stop investing in fossil fuel companies.
The UNH chapter of the Student Environmental Action Coalition is delivering 1,000 petition signatures to President Mark Huddleston's office on Thursday, and will be holding banners and handing out informational flyers outside Thompson Hall.
The students want to meet with Huddleston in the next two months to discuss the possibility of divesting UNH's endowment from fossil fuel companies. They argue that while UNH is a leader in institutional sustainability, it is contradictory to invest in companies that threaten the environment.


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Eating Well During Pregnancy Week By Week
Eating well during pregnancy will not only help you manage the changes and pregnancy symptoms heading your way, it will also help you grow a healthy baby. From tips for healthy weight gain to advice on planning meals throughout your 40 weeks, these articles will help guide you through your pregnancy diet—pickles, ice cream and all!
First Trimester
Weeks 1 and 2: Preconception Diet
Begin your eating-well campaign even before you conceive and you'll be doing yourself (and your soon-to-be embryo) a favor.
Week 3: Fertility Diet
Baby-making (and building!) is like a marathon -- you need the right foods to fuel your run. Here's the lowdown on nutrients you need now to help you conceive.
Week 4: Caffeine During Pregnancy
How to enjoy a cup of coffee while also setting healthy limits.
Week 5: Food Aversions During Pregnancy
What's going on in your pregnant belly (and what can you do about it?) when you can't stomach your former favorites?
Week 6: Combating Queasiness During Pregnancy
How to knock out nausea and morning sickness nibble by nibble
Week 7: Food Substitutions During Pregnancy
How to find food substitutes for former favorites when they've suddenly struck out
Week 8: Food Cravings During Pregnancy
Whether it's pickles and ice cream or pesto and papaya, pregnancy cravings can do a number on your taste buds.
Week 9: Energy Foods During Pregnancy
How to boost your pregnancy energy levels the old-fashioned way
Week 10: Relieving Constipation During Pregnancy
It may not be something you want to talk about at parties (or anywhere), but irregularity is certainly a regular part of pregnancy. Here are some ways to make it go away.
Week 11: Best Foods to Eat While Pregnant
Twelve superstar foods that should headline in your pregnancy diet
Week 12: Weight Gain and Eating Right
Slow and steady wins the race when it comes to pregnancy weight gain.
Week 13: Foods to Avoid When Pregnant
Sure, what you eat is important when you're making a baby — but just as important is what you don't eat
Second Trimester
Week 14: Nutrients That Make a Baby
Baby's counting on you for every bite. Here are a few nutrients you can count on to deliver, big time.
Week 15: Smart Shopping and Healthy Eating
Healthier eating during pregnancy starts with smarter shopping, so it pays to know all the aisles of your grocery store (not just the snack food shelves).
Week 16: Planning Meals
How to break the meal-skipping habit now that there's a little someone else depending on you for regular feedings
Week 17: Eating Out for Two?
Good nutrition for pregnant women is almost always on the menu — though in some restaurants, you'll have to look a little more closely to find it.
Week 18: Eating Vegetarian and Vegan
Pregnant women can live by vegetables alone — as long as there's protein somewhere in the mix. Here's how to get the protein (and a few other key nutrients) you need without sacrificing your vegetarian principles.
Week 19: Herbal Remedies, Supplements, and Teas
Herbal preparations promise all-natural solutions to some of the symptoms of pregnancy — but natural doesn't always spell safe.
Week 20: Relieving Gas During Pregnancy
Why are you suddenly producing more gas than OPEC? Learn how to avoid paying the high price of gas during pregnancy.
Week 21: Iron Supplements
It's easy — and oh so important — to get enough of this vital nutrient without even breaking a sweat.
Week 22: Gaining Too Much Weight During Pregnancy
Is your bathroom scale on the fast track these days? Here's why you should apply the brakes, and how to do it safely.
Week 23: Eating Well on a Budget
Counting your pennies doesn't have to mean scrimping on nutrition. Here's how to save on food during pregnancy.
Week 24: Eating Organic During Pregnancy
Should you spring for the extra cost of organic foods? And what does organic mean, anyway?
Week 25: Not Gaining Enough Weight During Pregnancy?
For once, it's not only okay to pack on the pounds — but vital. If you're having trouble putting on enough, here's how to ramp up your pregnancy weight gain.
Week 26: Too Busy to Eat Healthy?
Simple strategies for making the Pregnancy Diet fit your schedule, instead of the other way around
Week 27: Safety in the Kitchen
Avoiding risky foods is only half the challenge during pregnancy — your food is only as safe as your own handling and cooking habits. So handle, and cook, with care.
Third Trimester
Week 28: Eating Fish While Pregnant
If it tastes like fish, it's a tasty dish – but is it a safe one during pregnancy? Here are the fish facts.
Week 29: Good Fats vs. Bad Fats: Pregnancy and DHA
You've no doubt heard of good fats and bad fats. Well, step up and meet a truly great fat: DHA.
Week 30: Healthy Snacks During Pregnancy
Good ideas for turning midday munchies into nutritional noshes.
Week 31: Artificial Sweeteners During Pregnancy
Which pastel packets, sugar substitutes, and artificial sweeteners to pick during pregnancy
Week 32: Foods for Cold and Flu During Pregnancy
How to baby yourself (and your baby) when you're bugged by a cold, flu, or other everyday illness
Week 33: Drinking Enough Water While Pregnant
Take a moment (or eight) to raise your glass to a healthy pregnancy.
Week 34: Calcium Supplements During Pregnancy
Kinder, gentler sources of calcium for those not in the milk mustache club
Week 35: Eat to Ease Pregnancy Swelling
Don't blame the salt for those puffy feet — they're a normal part of pregnancy. Here are some ways to ease edema.
Week 36: Heartburn Relief During Pregnancy
Pregnancy hormones cause the ring of muscle that separates the esophagus from the stomach to loosen, causing prenatal heartburn. Learn how to put the fire out.
Week 37: Benefits of Protein During Pregnancy
Not just another pretty face, protein is one brainy baby-maker.
Week 38: Memory During Pregnancy — Your Brain on Choline
Lost so many brain cells, you're afraid you'll leave the baby on the bus? Choline to the rescue!
Week 39: Foods That Induce Labor
Is there any truth to rumors that certain foods could hasten the arrival of labor day?
Week 40: Eating During Labor
Once the contractions kick in, should you take all food off the table?
Week 41: Losing the Pregnancy Weight
You haven't delivered the baby yet, but you may already be starting to shed pounds (or at least ounces). What's up with that?


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IOCC Sends New Wave of Relief to Serbia's Earthquake Survivors
The past year has been a struggle for the villagers living in and around Vitanovac, Serbia, the epicenter of a jarring 5.4 earthquake last November that left two people dead and tens of thousands of people homeless. With winter coming and the need for assistance still critical, International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) through ongoing support from the Serbian Orthodox Metropolitanate of Australia and New Zealand, is delivering much needed relief to families still laboring to rebuild their homes and replace belongings destroyed in the earthquake.
IOCC latest efforts include a shipment of bed linens, baby kits and quilts to vulnerable rural families living around Vitanovac, a village just a few miles away from the city of Kraljevo. The distributions are being done in cooperation with the Red Cross of Serbia. Through a generous gift from the Serbian Orthodox Metropolitanate of Australia and New Zealand, IOCC also provided wood burning stoves and firewood for 150 families last spring as well as hygiene kits and personal care products for the elderly.
Bishop Irinej of the Serbian Orthodox Metropolitanate Australia and New Zealand believes that directing aid to these rural families affected by the earthquake is especially critical due to the fact that the villages in the area are highly populated by refugees from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia, as well as people who have been displaced from Kosovo.
"These people have already experienced the loss of their belongings and houses, some even several times, and are already extremely vulnerable and unable to reconstruct their households without assistance, "says Bishop Irinej. "We pray that through IOCC, our efforts will bring some comfort to families as they continue to recover from this upheaval."
The greatest destruction from the 2010 earthquake was recorded around Kraljevo where it caused serious damage to houses, the power supply, water and sanitation facilities, roads and critical public buildings such as hospitals and schools. The initial earthquake was followed by almost 100 aftershocks that destabilized already vulnerable buildings even further, and destroyed homes beyond repair.
The Metropolitanate of Australia and New Zealand of the Serbian Orthodox Church contributed USD $53,100, which represents 25% of the total value of the project; whilst the remaining 75% was contributed by IOCC in the amount of USD $150,000, bringing the end value of the project to USD $203,100.
Source: Metropolitanate of Australia and New Zealand


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For immediate release:
New York, NY. – February 5, 2009 –
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) has selected DOCOMOMO US as recipient of the 2009 Institute Honors for Collaborative Achievement. The award, to be presented at the 2009 AIA National Convention and Design Exposition in San Francisco, recognizes and encourages distinguished achievements of allied professionals, clients, organizations, architect teams, knowledge communities, and others who have had a beneficial influence on or advanced the architectural profession.
Affiliated with more than 50 international working parties and 10 national chapters, DOCOMOMO US is dedicated to the documentation and conservation of buildings, sites, and neighborhoods of the Modern Movement. John Morris Dixon, FAIA, on behalf of the AIA Committee on Design, nominated the organization for its vigorous and effective work to publicize Modern landmarks, document key works for archives, and research and disseminate preservation techniques particular to Modern buildings. "DOCOMOMO US, with its diverse membership of architects, preservationists, historians, and enthusiasts, has become both a recognized force and a respected name in the preservation of Modern heritage in the U.S.," lauds MoMA Philip Johnson Chief Curator Barry Bergdoll.
Other award recipients include the collaborative contributions of a photographer (Peter Aaron) and an engineer (Guy J.P. Nordenson); a textbook (The Architecture Handbook: A Student Guide to Understanding Buildings, by Jennifer Masengarb with Krisann Rehbein) and a magazine (Metropolis); and an essay competition (Berkeley Undergraduate Prize for Architectural Design Excellence).
About The American Institute of Architects
For over 150 years, members of the American Institute of Architects have worked with each other and their communities to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and cityscapes. By using sustainable design practices, materials, and techniques, AIA architects are uniquely poised to provide the leadership and guidance needed to provide solutions to address climate change. AIA architects walk the walk on sustainable design. Visit www.aia.org/walkthewalk.
AIA Contact:
Matt Tinder
DOCOMOMO US Contact:
Theodore H.M. Prudon, Ph.D, FAIA President, DOCOMOMO US


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Discussion in 'Tutorials and Tools' started by Silent, Oct 7, 2018.


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Water main break creates sinkhole in road
Crews called to Lucerne Road in Randallstown
Department of Public Works crews are at the scene of a water main break that caused a sinkhole in Randallstown.
DPW officials said an 8-inch water main broke around 5:45 a.m. Friday in the 8600 block of Lucerne Road.
11 News reporter Lowell Melser said the break has opened a 6-foot-deep, 5-foot-long sinkhole in the middle of the street.
"And all of a sudden I heard a whooshing sound, and the sinkhole just fell in. I was just watching it little by little falling in," Viola Rozzell said.
Rozzell said she got the scare of a lifetime Friday morning when waking up to a growing sinkhole in front of her Randallstown home that started in the street and crept its way slowly towards her lawn.
"I was just afraid that some child would walk by and fall in, because people were walking by and getting very close to it, and I noticed each little piece was just falling through," Rozzell said.
DPW officials said water had to be shut off to about 60 homes, but sewage lines were unaffected.
Rozzell said the event could have been much worse, as she usually parks her car in front of the mailbox in front of her home, but for some reason, this time, she decided not to.
"Just so happened today I parked it in the driveway here. Normally, a car would have been there," Rozzell said.
Crews from both the city and county worked throughout the afternoon to fix the line, which they said was easy to find.
Rozzell said she was happy no one was hurt and was glad WBAL-TV 11 News was there to show she had a good reason for missing work.
"So now my manager knows why I'm not at work today, you know," Rozzell said.
Officials said crews are working on repairs and are expected to have the break fixed by early Friday evening; however, there's no word yet on how long it will take to fix the hole in the road.
That section of Lucerne Road has been blocked off.
Do you have photos of the sinkhole? Post them to ulocal!


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If there's one part of your grooming regimen you should never, ever skip, it's shaving. And now that Whish has debuted this lady-friendly shaving set, you have an easy and stylish way to get rid of those unwanted hairs regularly. It comes with a trio of delicious pomegranate-laced products: Shave Crave, Body Butter, and Body Wash. Not only are the petite, TSA-approved bottles great for travel, but they also make lovely gifts.
The Shave Crave shaving cream is one of the best products I've ever used. The Body Butter is even more perfect to use after the shaving cream. The pomegranate smell is wonderful as a body wash. I will be a life-long buyer of Whish products. I find it hard to believe any other product could change my mind.5
I recently received the Blueberry shave cream in my Birchbox and immediately fell in love, so when I saw this travel kit in Pomegranate I knew I had to have it. I cashed in some points, complete with free shipping, and I am one happy girl. Each of the products (shave cream, body butter, and body wash) lock in moisture and smell wonderful. Also, the formulas used for each of these boast only the best ingredients...your skin will thank you! I'd love to try this kit in other scents as well, if they offered them (hint, hint!).5


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Rescheduling the Intel SSD DC S3700 Reviewby Anand Lal Shimpi on November 6, 2012 5:52 PM EST
This is a rare situation so I thought I'd post a quick explanation here. There was a miscommunication relating to the exact date and time of the embargo lift on performance data for Intel's SSD DC S3700. As a gesture of good faith to all involved I've pulled the review for now. We'll repost it when the final embargo date/time is determined (I should have that later today). There's nothing wrong with the content, just a misunderstanding about when we're allowed to post it.
If you read the review, nothing will change when we repost it, if you didn't, you'll have to wait a little while longer. The drive is pretty cool, it's just not exactly time to talk about it yet.
Sorry for the confusion.
Update: It's back up!
14 Comments
View All Comments
Samus - Tuesday, November 6, 2012 - linkMade it through the first page :\ Reply
Impulses - Tuesday, November 6, 2012 - linkTurns out you can put the cat back into the bag after all! Reply
Adul - Tuesday, November 6, 2012 - linkGlad I read through it most of it. Looks good :) Reply
KarateBob - Wednesday, November 7, 2012 - linkWHEN? Reply
piroroadkill - Wednesday, November 7, 2012 - linkExactly! I'm awaiting the review.. Reply
piroroadkill - Wednesday, November 7, 2012 - linkActually, don't wait, you can get the whole thing right now, using google cache.
http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?hl=en... Reply
UltraWide - Wednesday, November 7, 2012 - linkthanks! Reply
mura - Wednesday, November 7, 2012 - linkGood review, indeed. Hope thet Intel is not too problematic with these embargo times - it would be a pity if Anand would not be in the first line reviewing new units (I think he has been the one of the first and best to thorughly review and promote SSD-s).
The unit itself rocks, if it is actually able to hold its constant IOPS over a constant, long period - my main grief with some controllers are these darn hiccups. Reply
crimson117 - Wednesday, November 7, 2012 - linkSorry to spoil the fun, Anand, but information must be free. So, here's a summary of the review for those who missed it:
- Intel is releasing a new SSD called the DC S3700
- It is 100 faster than the DC S3600
- It is targeted at enterprise gamers
- There is a limited run version called the LA S3700 and it comes factory-beadazzled Reply
jamyryals - Wednesday, November 7, 2012 - link100 faster!? I laughed, thanks. Reply


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With Lenor you can now transform that "Love at First Sight" feeling into a long term love affair with your clothes. Using Lenor Spring Awakening fabric conditioner will help to fight against the three signs of clothes ageing. This fabric softener is developed to nurture, enrich and help maintain fabrics from day one while its Anti-Age3 technology helps protect from stretching, fading and bobbling, to keep clothes looking beautiful for longer and fresh. Furthermore, wrapped in the scent of spring flowers and hints of natural patchouli and white cedar, you can look forward to a revitalizing, uplifting experience that will leave you feeling invigorated and totally refreshed. To complement your favourite Lenor fabric softener, use together with Lenor Unstoppables in-wash scent booster. 22 washes based on 25ml per wash.
• Helps protect and enhance your clothes from 3 signs of aging: Stretching, fading, bobbling
• Reduces wrinkling, makes ironing easier, reduce drying time and decreases static cling
• Releases a waft of freshness from your clothes throughout the day (12 hours in wear)
• Help to enrich and preserve the relationship with your clothes
• Long lasting freshness on the clothes you love
• Super Concentrate. Delight your senses, choose your right dosing
• Fabric Conditioner with soft relaxing fragrance, build around warm flowers, white musk and sandalwood scents
How does Lenor work?In machine, wash after wash, cloth fibres lose some of their original mechanical properties and integrity because of the intense stress they are submitted to and also because of water hardness. Textile fibres become rough over time and tend to entangle. In the absence of fabric softener, through the drying process, fibres remain untangled and clothes become stiff. When a fabric conditioner is used in the rinse, it helps keep the textile fibres smooth. It reduces the friction between them and on the skin. As fabrics slide on each other more freely, clothes are more supple and show less wear over time, especially heavily stressed parts such as collars, elbows and cuffs. The lower friction on skin and the clothes suppleness produce a gentle feel and a high sense of comfort.Lenor also features our latest generation Freshness technology with Perfume Capsules (PMCs) delivering a gradual release of perfume, providing a long-lasting freshness effect on your clothes. The Perfume Capsules are deposited on clothes during the last stage of the wash cycle. With friction (like rubbing, hugging, towelling off, putting on clothes etc) these capsules burst provide your clothes with long-lasting freshness.Does Lenor work on all fabrics?It works on every item of clothing (except for those fabrics mentioned on the pack's warning label and dry clean only items). It will be easier to see and feel the difference on fluffy items like towels.What is the effect of Lenor on my skin?The fabric conditioner smoothes fibres, reducing the mechanical friction against the skin and therefore helps avoid delicate skin becoming irritated. Many dermatological studies have been run, with random human volunteers on Lenor which demonstrate that Lenor and Lenor-treated fabrics are safe for the skin.I heard that using a fabric conditioner can stop towels from absorbing. Does Lenor do this?Generally, towels and fabrics that have been washed with any fabric conditioner may not absorb water as quickly.Can I put Lenor straight into the machine drum?No, Lenor, as with any other fabric conditioner, should be poured into the fabric conditioner compartment of your machine.How much product should I use?For standard washing machines and normal loads, we recommend using 25ml. For larger loads and washing machines, you may want to use more; this will also provide with extra softness and freshnessI've only got half a load; can I use half of the amount of Lenor?Yes, you should be able to, by dosing more this will also provide you with extra softness and freshness. Also check the machine manufacturer's handbook just in case they have any guidelines for your particular model.Can I use Lenor for any type of cycle of my washing machine?Yes, you can use Lenor with any cycle type.Does Lenor cause damage to the washing machine over time?Lenor is safe to use for any type of washing machine and does not cause damage over long term use.
This area allows consumers like you to express their own opinions and comments. Lenor does not represent or warrant the accuracy of any statements or product claims made here, nor endorses any opinions expressed by the reviewer.
Bring back the old yellow lenor please this one is no where near as nice doesn't last as long it's so disappointing. So many people loved the 'old yellow lenor and the smell lasted for ever! It was awesome . I no so many people that switched to comfort when the yellow lenor changed sad times ... Bring it back???
Not Recommend Product
I honestly thought that something was really wrong with my senses when I used this. The smell in the bottle was okay, if a little chemical, but the odour it bakes into your clothing during a wash is vile. I can only describe it as smelling like the world's worst potpourri, and the cloud of stink it releases at the slightest amount of warmth above room temperature almost induced an asthma attack. AND it gets even worse - I have washed my clothing three times since with various other cleansers to attempt to remove the smell, and yet somehow my laundry has still retained a stale fug of this fabric conditioner, which also has me concerned that I'll have to throw out my clothes and sheets just to get away from the smell.
I bought this after seeing the advert on TV, but after using it couldn't believe that my clothes smelt so awful. At first I thought it was my car freshener, but my clothes and sheets all smelt the same. I HATE it. Perhaps I shouldn't have taken the yellow one, but have bought some Comfort and will re-wash all my clothes, sheets and duvet covers and hope the smell goes. Sorry Lenor.


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Organic Farm
About the Organic Farm
Connected to main campus by two trails through the campus forest, the Organic Farm is a working small-scale organic farm that serves as a learning laboratory focused on small-scale organic agriculture. The Organic Farm currently produces fruit, vegetables, eggs, chickens, herbs, cut flowers, and sheep.
Located in the northwest portion of the Evergreen campus the 5-acre developed area includes the Farmhouse (built by students in the 1970's), 3 acres of fields and orchards, greenhouses, a closed-tunnel composting facility and miscellaneous outbuildings.
The Organic Farm is Certified Organic by USDA, and has been certified Salmon Safe since 2008. In order for the farm to receive Salmon Safe certification, the farm must demonstrate the following:
- Work diligently to protect riparian areas
- Maintain appropriate water use
- Reduce erosion
- Practice integrated pest management
- Sustainable and ethical animal management
- Biodiversity conservation in accordance with both Salmon Safe and Organic certifications.
The Organic Farm as a Living Laboratory
Supported by staff, student farm aides and faculty, students enrolled in the Practice of Organic Farming program (POF) work as interns on the Organic Farm throughout the entire growing season. The growing methods practiced and taught at the Farm provide a working example of organic agriculture with a focus on soil health and water conservation. Students learn how to plan, plant, maintain and harvest a diverse array of crops while also developing a wide variety of agricultural skills. The internship is supported by academic work in the agricultural sciences. Problem based learning functions as a keystone to the learning experience. Students collaborate in groups to work through complex problems on the farm and gain valuable learning experiences relatable to their future endeavors.
Examples of these projects include the construction of the Organic Farmhouse, designing the Sustainable Agriculture Lab, the Composting Facility, installation of the composting toilet, expansion of the orchard, design and installation of an aquaponics system, and a compilation of Farm history.
Student Groups and Activities at The Organic Farm
Community Gardens Is a Student Activities group dedicated to providing gardening space to members of Evergreen and the greater Olympia community. Every year, the Community Gardens hosts a Harvest Festival at the Farm to celebrate the end of the growing season!
Demeter's Gardens is a community-based demonstration site, embodying the principles of permaculture and perennial polyculture systems.
The Medicinal Herb Garden is a classical four square garden of herbaceous and woody plants with healing properties including common culinary herbs such thyme, rosemary and sage.


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Swimming Lessons 4 All
Why not consider a residential swimming course with us.
Private Swimming Lessons
Learn to Swim – Residential Workshops
Intensive Swimming Courses
Irene at Swim-Easy
Gay at SwimWithUs
Steve at ErgoSwim
We know that making the decision to book swimming lessons is very difficult for some. For that reason we always make sure you have ample opportunity to talk with us first.
We are so confident that even the most fearful will enjoy Learning to Swim With Us with us that we promise that if you find you don't want to continue after your first private swimming lesson, then all it will cost you is your time and travelling.
We know that first step towards booking swimming lessons is all important. For that reason we always make sure you have ample opportunity to talk with us first.
Please note that this website is Gay's at Swim With Us. Irene and Steve each have their own websites and we work as individuals. I will be quite happy to help you find the right place for your lessons. Irene has a lovely private pool for your individual use. Steve teaches in public pools and can also offer private swimming lessons. He was also trained as a Total Immersion Coach. Whoever you choose for your residential swimming lessons, you can be assured of a first class service for your one-to-one lessons, with your instructor in the water with you.
Jumping Entries
Prior to teaching a jumping entry it is important to give consideration to the depth of water in relation to size of the pupil (hard impact with the pool floor can result in injury). It is important to teach the pupil how to land safely, i.e., bending the knees to absorb the force.
helper secured and holding pupil's hand
Teaching Points
toes over the edge
bend knees on landing
suitable for those with confidence
pupils must normally be able to stand in the water
not suitable in very shallow water
helper reaches towards the child
helper must be confident in the water
helper should be an adult
Once the pupil can jump confidently to a helper in the water the next step is to jump unaided. At this point it is vital to stress:
Teaching Points
look forwards
stress feet first entry
Benefits of an unaided jumping entry
al lows the whole group to enter at the same time
saves time
is good fun
swimming class for babies – swimming basics – swim lessons for toddlers
Back Crawl
Some learners prefer Back Crawl because the face is clear of the water and breathing is easy.
Back Crawl, with its continuous, alternating actions, is the most efficient backstroke and invariably used in backstroke competition.
There are obvious similarities between Front Crawl and Back Crawl. These associations are useful when pupils are reminded of a skill or a part of a skill which is familiar to them.
Body Position
Key Points
supine, horizontal and streamlined
the head is pillowed in the water, ears just submerged
the head is kept still, eyes look upwards or slightly towards the feet
the chin may be tucked down slightly to help to keep the legs in the water
the hips must be close to the surface
the shoulders lean or roll into the stroke
there is a slight slope down from head to hips to keep the legs in the water
the legs tend to sway towards the pulling arm. This is kept to a minimum by an efficient leg action
Leg Action
The leg action helps to maintain the horizontal body position and balances the arm action. This minimises the tendency for the legs to sway from side to side. It may contribute some propulsion,
Key Points
the continuous up and down alternating action is initiated at the hips
the legs work close together, big toes nearly brushing past each other
the legs are almost straight with the knees staying below the surface
the ankles are relaxed to allow the toes to point – (plantar flexed) and to in-toe naturally
the feet kick to the surface at the end of the upbeat without splashing
breast stroke – lessons swimming – swimming lessons video
Swimming Lesson Edinburgh
Mushroom (Jelly Fish) Float
"What goes up must come down", is true and applicable to learners who jump up to try and float. If the skill starts from a standing position, the shoulders should be lowered and the feet gently lifted from the pool floor.
There are a few who, because of their physical make up, are unable to remain afloat even with their lungs full of air. Such non-floaters may need to move their arms and legs a little to achieve flotation.
The mushroom float is easy because balance is achieved automatically. Some of the upper back should be above the surface, hence the name of the skill. It is a useful test for flotation.
shoulders down
take a breath
lift the feet
knees tucked
head down towards the knees
arms wrapped around the knees or shins
Pupils can count to time themselves. Ten seconds is adequate. Pupils should be discouraged from holding their breath for longer periods.
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Learn to Swim Edinburgh
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Tagged: Russell Mitchell
5-9-11 PNC Park
Today got off to a great start.
I got to the stadium around 4:25 PM or so and went down to the Riverwalk. Look what was waiting for me.
It was just laying there.
It had a nice scuff on it, so it likely bounced out of the stadium and just died in the grass. None of the passers by noticed it. Amazing stuff.
After a few minutes, several other ballhawks joined me on the riverwalk.
There were two younger ballhawks, Nick Pelescak, and another guy who stayed farther down towards the foul pole.
While there, a ball bounced out that the youngest of us grabbed, and another one bounced out that I completely misplayed. I notice a high fly ball that looked like it had a chance. I ran up to the wall, because it looked like it might just barely clear the wall. It did, after bouncing at least twice in the stadium. When the ball reappeared into my field of sight, I was to far to the left, and totally misplayed it. I tried to dive for it, but missed the ball, and one of the 'new' ballhawks grabbed it.
The rest of the time we spent staring at the sky, but nothing else came out.
When the gates opened, I ran in and found ball #2 laying on the cross aisle by the handicapped seats in left field. A food service employee actually pointed it out to me. He saw me sprinting, assumed I was looking for baseballs, and said, "There's one right there."
My third ball was hit by Steve Pearce. It was a ball that landed in section 133 and it rolled down the stairs under the bleachers and I just waited for it and picked it up.
Game: 6 balls (2 hit, 1 thrown, 1 device, 2 found)
Season: 97 balls (35 hit, 26 thrown, 22 device, 13 found)
Games: 16 games
Average: 6.06 balls per game
Career: 1,219 balls
Attendance: 11,373


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LaVelle Neal informs us that Justin Morneau, who reported to spring training on Monday, is ready to participant in the team activities but still is not 100%.
While the majority of us would be satisfied with simply having Morneau back on the field by Opening Day, Fangraphs.com's Jeff Zimmerman collected some research on the 50 players who have returned from the disabled list after a concussion and reviewed their pre-concussion and post-concussion performance.
Zimmerman's research revealed a notable drop-off in offensive performance – especially in the on-base percentage and slugging categories.
Because the data pool is extremely small, it's hard to know whether these findings are really indicative of a post-concussion performance. Furthermore, we don't know if the drop-off incurred was due to the concussion or the time off. After all, any player who spends 60 days away from baseball-related activity will likely experience the same sort of regression. Given Morneau's description of his symptoms – including fogginess – you can see how one's on-base percentage may drop when attempting to judge a strike zone through a haze or trying to get a beat on a mind-bending curveball.
In Morneau's case, back in 2005 when he took a Ron Villone fastball to the dome, he came back strong, hitting .265/.333/.500 in his first 60 games upon his return but finished what turned out to be his worst season as a major leaguer. After missing 81 games last year - in addition to the time off this winter from baseball-related activities - you have to wonder if Morneau is in going to witness a significant drop-off once he returns to action in 2011.
Neal also notes that Scott Baker spent time throwing in the bullpen with little discomfort – only when tossing his changeup.
To me, I do not think Baker is out of the woods for concern over his arm but this is some good news after the initial reports. Baker doesn't typically use his changeup that often – throwing it 7.5% of the time, mostly to left-handers. On top of that, it is one of his least successful pitches, amassing a career -1.9 runs above average with it and according to Inside Edge, over the last two years, opponents have hit .320 off of his change.
As I noted in the beginning of February, getting Baker healthy again so he can regain the arm angle he dropped in 2010 will likely led to fewer pitches that run astray on him as they did last year.
The Pioneer Press's John Shipley tracked down hitting coach, Joe Vavra, and picked his brain regarding Tsuyoshi Nishioka's swing mechanics. Vavra's response? It looks good.
Said Vavra:
"I've seen enough on the highlight films and the YouTube and the various different media outlets to know that he's a pretty good hitter. He gets his hands inside the ball well, is able to spray the ball, and it looks like he's able to rotate the ball and drive it."
I've taken a couple opportunities to talk about Nishioka's mechanics this winter and essentially have concluded the same as Vavra. Another interesting nugget provided in the same article was that the Twins do not have their left-handed batting practice arm in camp yet so Nishioka took all his swings from the left-side of the plate.
1500ESPN.com's Phil Mackey caught up with reliever Anthony Slama who said that he has added a cutter to his repertoire this off-season in efforts to subdue left-handed opponents.
The 27-year-old Slama is a pitcher that appears to be on the cusp of breaking into a full-time relief role. In his four seasons in the Twins organization since being drafted in '06, Slama has put up attractive numbers working as a closer. In his 249 innings of work, he's whiffed 345 while producing a 0.4 HR/9 career average leading to a 1.95 ERA. However, while dominant against his right-handed competition, lefties have has some level of success when facing him. Last year in Rochester, righties were limited to a .130 average against with a 2.94 K/BB ratio while lefties hit .242 with a 1.60 K/BB ratio.
Remarked Slama about the cutter:
"That'll be a good pitch for me. I kind of struggled a little bit against lefties. The changeup is a bit of a take pitch for them because they see it early. And typically it'll kind of dive away from them. That's what I'm trying to get groundballs on, and a changeup isn't really a groundball pitch. So I'm hoping a cutter will kind of offset that and give me something to move in the other direction so that the changeup will be nastier."
In his short exposure last year with the Twins, Slama faced twelve lefties, allowing six of them to put the ball in play. Every one of those had elevation as he induced zero grounders.
Reviewing Slama's limited pitch f/x data on his 4.2 innings at the major league level last year, we see that Slama used his four-seamer/two-seamer combination along with his changeup on the outer-half of the plate which moves away from lefties. Without much available to keep these opponents from diving out over the plate on those pitches, Slama clearly needed another weapon that he could go inside with to keep them honest. If effective, the cutter should then keep lefties from getting solid wood on the change-up, instead beating those into the turf more regularly.
Mackey's cohort down in Fort Myers, Tom Pelissero, uploaded a video of the contrast between Joe Nathan and fireballer Jim Hoey while going through their bullpen sessions.
Yup, the ball explodes out of Hoey's hand. In 2007, Hoey was averaging 95.7-mph for the Orioles while flirting with triple-digits in the minors. Of course, what the clip didn't show is where the pitched ended up. He's got the heat but he's got the wildness too.
I maintain the prediction I made back in January that Hoey has the potential of being a major contributor out of the bullpen this year – provided he harnesses his command and stays healthy.
Charley Walters, in his infamous 'Don't Print That' section of his column, hints that the Twins are not interested in keeping Danny Valencia long-term.
Since he's cheap at least through 2012 when Valencia will likely enter his arbitration years, I'm assuming this issue doesn't mean the Twins will trade him, just progress year-to-year with him until he becomes expensive.
While Valencia emerged as a strong presence at third base – rocking left-handed pitching and fielding his position far better than what had been anticipated – his 322 plate appearances likely do not reflect what his results would be when given a full season. I anticipate some decline in his numbers in 2011 as opponents start to pick through his soft-spots in his swing but expecting his totals to come close to his minor league career rate isn't farfetched (.298/.353/.469) as he hits breaking pitches extremely well while hitting the ball to the big part of the field often.
Joe Mauer, cover boy for the second consecutive year of MLB: The Show, told reporters that he and some of his teammates actually use the video game as a method for scouting some of their rivals.
You kind of wonder if that sort of a statement is actually part of his duties as the game's chief spokesman or if the genuinely flip on the game for on-field insight. At the very least, it is infinitely superior to those of Nintendo's RBI Baseball. Mauer said that the details within the game – specifically, hand placement – is spot-on.
With scouting companies like Inside Edge, who contributed their stats package to Major League Baseball 2K10, you can see how there is something to be learned from today's modern games but while this sort of information could be useful in some capacity, accessing video footage of those players should be the preferred method for accurate information.


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My last blog was about direction in the navigational sense, where my instincts constantly betray me. Driving a bobsled is an entirely different set of instincts, instincts that are fortunately learned, but require just as much humility.
Bobsled is fast. That's the one thing people know about it, if they know about it... which most do thanks to Disney's loving family-film portrayal of the Jamaican Bobsled Team. I never get sick of people referencing it, because it makes us relevant. In a world that we put so much time, money, and effort into, a little relevance goes a long way.
So not only is bobsled fast, it's unnaturally fast thanks to innovation in equipment, skilled coaching, and stronger/faster athletes. For the most part, the law of gravity in combination with the steep grade of a track says that you will be going fast no matter what. It's the addition of physics that allows the sled to cross the finish line not only on all fours, but faster than gravity can pull it. It's the brakeman's job to help accelerate that sled as fast as possible at the start, and the driver's job to accelerate the sled as fast as possible down the track.
Each turn on every track is completely unique and requires its own plan, which changes based on how the ice is cut as well as how you enter a turn and where you want to exit. People have been studying curve theory since the dawn of sliding sports, which is looking for the fastest line in each curve.
Like race car driving, you want to use the g-force of a turn to accelerate the sled out of it. Steering too much will cut too much ice and slow you down, while steering too little will leave you out of control and slamming walls. In all sliding sports you are looking for the least amount of input into the sled at the precise time to be most effective. If you are steering a ton and working too hard for perfect lines, you are only slowing yourself down. To aid in this perspective, doubles men's luge, because of its precise steering capability, actually goes faster than a 4-man bobsled.
What's important to note is that all of this is learned. No one is a natural at driving a bobsled. Yes, some have greater propensity than others, but it is an entirely learned skill that takes years to develop sensitivity and a feel for the g-force pressures from your d-rings through the bungees to the runners on the ice. Drivers often smash around their first few years, but after enough time you develop driving instincts that are utterly essential.
When you're driving a bobsled at speeds of up to 93 mph (my all-time fastest on a training run in Whistler), there is no time to ponder. Think of the time it takes you as you slow to a stop sign and decide to go right or left, that amount of time can equal 4 turns gone in a bobsled run. You have to have a plan, a plan that's rehearsed and visualized so much that when you're in the track it becomes instinct. There is absolutely no time to think ahead or dwell on a mistake, because the time it takes for those thoughts equals turns gone by.
The official training in a World Cup week allows drivers to adjust to how a track is currently shaped (entrances and exits change based on the build up of ice), and formulate their official plan for the race. But like anything in life, it's only a plan and you have to be ready for anything and everything. That is where the learned and honed instinct comes in. You can have a plan, but as in any elite sport, game day is about relaxing and finding the zone where you're almost outside yourself.
Like in life, I've found that the more I try to plan a run in bobsled, the more it resists. You can't force the ice; you can only flow with it. Push a track and it will push back in a major way, which is why most bobsled drivers are so humble. The track is the boss and will humble you in a second if you think otherwise.
As instincts develop, I've often found that my first runs down the easier tracks are my best. These are the runs where I am reacting, flowing, and not thinking. We are remarkable beings, and it's amazing how well our initial instincts serve us. It's when we start to question them that we go astray. I've found that the closest I come to truly living in the moment, being utterly present, is during those 60 seconds of a bobsled run where you have no choice. You deal with each turn as it comes to the best of your ability, with no room to dwell or anticipate. That's almost certainly part of why I love this sport so much. It's the challenge and the chance to be outside myself and my mind for roughly 120 seconds a day in search of the perfect run.


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Santa Claus and a fleet of festive water crafts are set to take sail along the coast starting this weekend in celebration of the holidays.
Santa Claus and a fleet of festive water crafts are set to take sail along the coast starting this weekend in celebration of the holidays.
Swansboro, Jacksonville, Topsail Island, Morehead City and Beaufort are all preparing to host holiday flotillas this year, a time when residents bring out their illuminated boats to lift holiday spirits and continue a longtime tradition.
Historic Downtown Swansboro will begin the celebration with its annual Christmas Flotilla along the waterfront on Friday, Nov. 23. A rain date will be set for Saturday, Nov. 24.
Boats will begin to make their way from the Emerald Isle bridge at 5:30 p.m. towards the Swansboro Waterfront for arrival at 6 p.m. Boats of all styles and sizes are invited to decorate with lights and compete for first, second and third prize in two size categories.
�Generally we have about 15 to 20 boats; there are some people from other areas but for the most part it�s locals,� organizer Judy Hailey said. �Each boat generally has a theme and with that theme they really elaborate. From Santa Claus to a swan representing Swansboro, they make it creative and they may play music to really get in the spirit.�
Santa Claus himself will be making a special appearance during the parade of boats to greet visitors at the Swansboro Pavilion on the corner of Front and Church Streets.
Awards will be presented over breakfast on Sunday, Nov. 25, at 9 a.m.at the Icehouse Waterfront Restaurant in downtown Swansboro. Cash prizes of $100, $75, and $50 for first, second and third places in both size categories will be rewarded.
TopsailIsland�s Holiday Boat Flotilla will add its own touches to the holiday season also on Friday, Nov. 23, at 6 p.m.The annual parade of decorated and lighted boats sails down the Intracoastal Waterwaybeginning at sunset in SurfCityat the bridge and continuing past the south end of TopsailBeach. Guests can watch the flotilla from any sound dock or at the SoundsidePark.
Two more will be held on Dec. 1.
The Jacksonville Breakfast Rotary Club presents its annual Christmas Flotilla on Dec. 1 at 5:30 p.m.at New RiverWaterfrontParkwith holiday music and the lighted parade of boats at 6:30 p.m.The flotilla will be held in conjunction with The City of Jacksonville�s Winterfest celebration from 2to 8 p.m., featuring decorations, lights, Christmas trees, entertainment and activities. A parking shuttle will be available.
CarteretCountywaterfronts will light up by sunset on Dec. 1 when the Crystal Coast Christmas Flotilla Parade begins on the MoreheadCitywaterfront at 5:30 p.m.and arrives on the Beaufort waterfront at approximately 6:15 p.m.An awards ceremony will acknowledge several lucky winners for their most creative boats following the flotilla at the WatercraftCenterat the N.C.MaritimeMuseumin Beaufort.
PineKnollShoreswill host its annual Christmas Flotilla on Nov. 24 at 5 p.m.The route will begin at BrockBasinat 4:30 p.m., and visitors are welcome to watch lighted boats take sail at McNeil Inlet beginning at sunset and back to BrockBasin. An after party will follow the flotilla with refreshments, marshmallows and a possible visit from Santa himself.
Contact Max Magazine Features Writer Aniesa Holmes at 910-219-8473 or firstname.lastname@example.com.
� Registration forms for the Swansboro Flotilla are available at swansborofestivals.com and area locations. After registration entrants are asked to attend the Captain�s Breakfast at the Swansboro Town Hall Annex at 9 a.m. on Friday. For additional information, call 910-326-7370 or visit swansborofestivals.com.
� Participants in the Crystal Coast Flotilla can register until noon on Dec. 1 by calling the NC Maritime Museum at 252-728-2141.
� Participants in Topsail Island�s Flotilla will meet at Banks Channel at 5:30 p.m. Friday. For more information, call 910-328-1621.
� Interested participants for the Jacksonville Christmas Flotilla can contact David Zelinski at Tideland Marine to fill out a participant form. Entries must be submitted by Sunday, Nov. 25. A captain's meeting will be held on Dec. 1 at 4 p.m. at Tideland Marine. Captains will receive goody bag and participation plaques and crews will be invited to a dinner at Tideland Marina immediately after flotilla. For more information, call David Zelinski 910 340-2284 or 910-455-3200.
� Participants for the Pine Knoll Shores Flotilla can line up and sign in at BrockBasinon Nov. 24 at 4:30 p.m.For more information, call Bill at 252-240-2395.


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Rugged SUV for Xtreme adventure.
Sport Utility Vehicles
Editor: New Car Test Drive
$21,130 Base Price MSRP
$29,075 As Tested MSRP
Model Lineup: Nissan Xterra X ($21,130); S ($22,880); SE ($26.630); X 4WD ($23,180); S 4WD ($24,880); Off-Road 4WD ($26,330); SE 4WD ($28,630)
Standard Engine: 4.0 liter DOHC 24-valve V6
Engine Options: 261-hp 4.0-liter DOHC 24-valve V6
Standard Transmission: 6-speed manual with 2-speed transfer case
Transmission Options: 5-speed automatic; 6-speed manual
Basic Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
Assembled In: Smyrna, Tennessee
Model Tested MSRP: Nissan Xterra Off-Road ($26,330)
Standard Equipment: power door locks, mirrors, window; Vehicle Security System with Immobilizer; remote keyless entry; cruise control; 16-in. alloy off-road wheels with full-size spare; 265/7516 B.F. Goodrich Rugged Trail off-road tires; unique blue seat fabric; locking differential; Bilstein gas-filled shocks; skid plates; clutch interlock override switch; cargo net, flat-fold front passenger seat; drivers side front seatback pocket, first aid kit
Options As Tested: Supplemental Airbag Package ($700) includes side-curtain air bags with rollover sensor, side-impact air bags; Technology Package ($1,300) with Rockford Fosgate audio, 6CD in-dash changer, MP3 capability, 8 high performance speakers plus subwoofer, steering wheel audio controls, auxiliary input jack, speed-sensitive volume control, pre-wiring for XM Satellite Radio, and auto-dimming inside rearview mirror with compass
Standard Safety Equipment: ABS, EBD, dual frontal airbags with Nissan Advanced Air Bag System; 3-point height-adjusting seatbelts w/pre-tensioners and load limiters; 3-point rear center seatbelt; LATCH system and three child seat tether anchors, child-safety rear door locks; Vehicle Dynamic Control, tire pressure monitor
Optional Safety Equipment: side-impact airbags, side-curtain/rollover airbagsDestination Charge: $745
More than that, however, what separates the Xterra from the Pathfinder is attitude. The luxurious Pathfinder seems more suburban and settled, while the bare-bones Xterra almost demands youthful, outdoor exuberance, the kind of fun-and-games that Generation-Y so loves to misspell Xtreme." Don't look for leather on the options list. Nissan has kept the Xterra true to its original concept as the rugged outdoors type with everything you need, and nothing you don't.
Well, maybe a few things: For 2008, even the base-grade X model surrenders its window cranks for standard power winders, along with power locks, power mirrors, remote keyless entry, and cruise control. Similarly, S-models now come with standard step rails and a first aid kit. An available Technology Package includes a Bluetooth hands-free phone system and XM Satellite Radio. If you're going to go Xtreme, you may was well go there comfortably.
The truth is that, like the Pathfinder, the Xterra is substantial, sophisticated, and refined, sharing a well-engineered, fully boxed ladder frame. Sophisticated electronics help maintain traction and stability over all kinds of uncertain terrain. Power comes via a 4.0-liter version of Nissan's acclaimed VQ V6 used in the 350Z.
Still, the Xterra remains one of the few truck-style SUVs available with a manual transmission, and that alone may sway the buying decisions of some enthusiast drivers. In a market crowded with high-posture posers, the Nissan Xterra is the genuine article: a real, Safari-grade adventure vehicle that still handles everyday life on pavement with refinement and aplomb."
The 2008 Nissan Xterra is available in four trim levels: X, S, Off-Road, and SE. Four-wheel drive (4WD) is standard on Off-Road, optional ($2,000) on the others. All models are powered by the 4.0-liter V6. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on all but SE; a five-speed automatic is available ($800-$1,000).
Xterra X ($21,130) comes standard with power windows, mirrors, and door locks; remote keyless entry; cruise control; and sun visor vanity mirrors and extenders, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD stereo, engine-speed-sensitive power steering, 60/40 split fold-flat second-row seats, a carpeted cargo area, roof rack side rails, and a security system with engine immobilizer.
Xterra S ($22,880) adds a driver's-seat adjustable lumbar support, upgraded seat fabric, roof rack cross bars and gear basket, and aluminum alloy wheels. The rear cargo area features an adjustable channel system with four moveable hooks and Nissan's Easy Clean surface instead of carpet. Also standard for 2008 are step rails and a first aid kit.
Xterra Off-Road ($26,330) adds exclusive off-road features such as electronic Hill Descent Control and Hill Assist; an electronic locking rear differential; gas-pressurized Bilstein shock absorbers; skid plates; and 265/75R16 B.F. Goodrich Rugged Trail T/A off-road tires. Off-Road models also come with fog lamps, unique blue seat fabric, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a fold-flat front passenger seat. Four-wheel drive is standard on the Off-Road model.
Xterra SE ($26,630) skips the serious rock-climbing gear for a more luxurious ambiance. Tires are 265/65R17 BF Goodrich Long Trails. Automatic transmission is standard. The SE also adds a trip computer, lighted vanity mirrors, auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass, and a 380-watt, eight-speaker-plus-subwoofer Rockford-Fosgate audio system that includes a six-disc in-dash changer, XM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, steering wheel controls, speed-sensitive volume control, and MP3 capability with an auxiliary jack for an iPod or similar device.
The Rockford-Fosgate stereo is included (with the auto-dimming inside mirror and compass) in the Technology Package ($1,450) for Off-Road models with automatic transmission; a similar package ($1,300) for manual Off-Roads is pre-wired for XM but does not include the receiver. A Tow Package ($455) consisting of a Class III hitch and wiring harness is available on all but X, as are an iPod jack ($290). cargo organizer ($145), retractable cargo cover ($85), and auto-dimming rear-view mirror with compass ($245). Portable navigation ($745) and a dockable DVD player ($1,250) are available as port-installed options on all models.
Safety equipment for all Xterras includes an advanced air bag system, which consists of dual-stage front supplemental air bags with seat belt sensors and a front occupant classification sensor. Also standard are three-point seat belts for all rear seat occupants (including the center-rear position) a child seat anchor system, and a tire-pressure monitor A Supplemental Airbag Package ($700), optional for all models, includes side-impact air bags, a rollover sensor, and side curtain air bags. Active safety features that come standard are Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock (ABS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
Walk Around
The Nissan Xterra looks big, tough and powerful; especially at the front, where the massive bumper (molded at the bottom center to suggest a conspicuous skid plate) and V-strut grille conspire to add bulk and menace in rear-view mirrors.
The roofline kicks upward toward the rear, to increase second-row headroom. Side mirrors are large and rectangular. Wheel wells are accentuated with squared-off lines, adding muscular shoulders to the Xterra's stance. The bodywork is intended to suggest off-road performance.
At the same time, the Xterra still projects a high-utility image. A largely tubular roof rack adds size and a look of no-nonsense purpose. Available side steps provide easy access to the roof rack, functionally underscoring the utility of the roof rack and its integrated cargo box. The angled C-pillar carries Nissan's signature high-mounted rear door handles, a unique design trait that visually links the new Xterra with the original, as well as with the rest of the Nissan SUV family, the Pathfinder and the full-size Armada.
In fact, the Xterra, like the Pathfinder is built on the same F-Alpha" mechanical platform as the Armada and the full-size Titan pickup."
The Nissan Xterra is roomy inside, roomier than other SUVs in this price class. It works well for whisking four large adults and their gear into the backcountry. Second-row seating is stadium-style, meaning that the rear passengers sit higher so they can see over the front-seat occupants.
Cargo capability is a priority. The rear seat folds down when needed, and on Off Road and SE the front passenger seat also folds flat, meaning that lengthy recreational gear or lumber can be more easily accommodated. After all, the Xterra is no poser. It's not a mommymobile masquerading as a rugged SUV for outdoor types. It is, in fact, a rugged SUV for outdoors types. Total cargo capacity with the rear seats folded is 65.7 cubic feet.
The center-console storage area and dashboard glove box are both generously sized, and there is also additional instrument panel storage. On all but X, the cargo area has an easily cleaned surface, four moveable hooks in the floor, plus four stationary hooks in the ceiling and two more in the side panels. In fact, Xterra's inside-rear is set up to handle anything the roof rack can't, such as a dirty dog or muddy gear. There is an adjustable channel system on the cargo floor making it easier to secure bike racks. A built-in first-aid kit is included with all but the X.
The Rockford Fosgate stereo sounds good. Getting good sound in an SUV interior can be difficult, since there are many hard surfaces combined with soft shapes to reflect and muffle sound. In this case, 380 watts, eight speakers and a subwoofer carry the day.
Driving Impressions
The Nissan Xterra is an excellent choice for outdoor adventures. It cruises well on the highway. That's important because outdoor adventures often require many miles of highway travel to get to the outdoors.
The automatic transmission, a five-speed overdrive unit, wins points around town. For commuting or driving in traffic, we prefer it. But on the open road, the six-speed manual is a sweet gearbox, with an overdrive gear so tall the engine barely murmurs at cruising speeds. In addition, the six-speed's first four ratios are all lower than in the automatic, so we could really feel all the torque when we shifted for ourselves.
The 4.0-liter V6 offers very good throttle response. High-speed passing with the automatic transmission does create some noise and vibration as the engine revs toward redline, but only at speeds well above the normal cruising level. No such issues with the manual, which is strikingly refined, yet sporty. We're told the six-speed is a version of the same transmission used on the Nissan 350Z, and we recommend it for those who like to drive.
Regardless of the power train, the Xterra is easy to keep in its lane on the highway, probably due to its combination of rack-and-pinion steering and a speed-sensitive steering assist.
Even though the Xterra's utility quotient is its main design priority, effort has been made to reduce wind noise, and the results are tangible. Large mirrors, an angled grille, a big roof rack, open side steps: These are features that invariably create wind noise, and at speeds over 75 mph, noise does begin to become a factor. Yet below those speeds, the Xterra remains nicely calm and quiet. The roof rack, a prime source of wind whistle, has been designed with oval beams, which slice through the air more cleanly than round or square tubing. Engine noise, likewise, is kept to a minimum through techniques such as a silent timing chain, microfinished surfaces and Teflon-coated pistons.
On smaller roads, the Xterra retains a handy feeling, driving with the ease of a large family sedan. If you push it, the long-travel chassis will show some roll from side to side, and the tires will complain, but in ordinary driving, the Xterra feels consistently composed and, for a truck, highly refined. The 4.0-liter engine has some guts in the midrange and the Xterra accelerates well when coming out of a corner.
We left the highway for a graded dirt road near the Grand Canyon. It had rained in the desert the night before, and as we approached the river, water trickled across the road, accumulating in the middle and flowing down the path. Eventually the trickle became a torrent, then a series of streams, and we found ourselves driving down a canyon path of loose gravel with rivulets of water running around us on all sides. The crunch of gravel gave way to the sound of water and rock in the wheelwells. We were forced to move carefully from side to side to find the firmest ground, crossing running water gingerly, for about a quarter mile. The electronic traction control kicked in and out, but we never got stuck. Eventually, we turned a corner, crested a little hill and arrived at our destination, none the worse for the moisture.
The Off-Road model is intended for situations such as this, because out-of-the-way places are often subject to changes in weather and circumstance. All it takes is a little rain, or snow, or falling rock, to create a challenge. In this case, our Xterra Off-Road model, with its traction control, all-terrain tires and locking differential, not only got us in, it got us out again, which is the whole point with a vehicle like this.
Hill Descent Control allows going down steep, slippery hills without constantly applying the brake pedal. Hill Descent Control is engaged by the driver via an HDC switch. It can be activated at speeds up to 31 mph in 4HI and 15 mph in 4LO.
The Xterra is likely Nissan's most capable off-highway vehicle, one that ca
There is nothing else quite like the Nissan Xterra. It's in its element when used as a truck, a dirt-road prowler, or an adventure vehicle. It can handle wet or dirty cargo and clean up like a champ. It has room, power, and carefully thought-out utility features. It's built on a rugged chassis. Yet it's sufficiently refined, making it a practical everyday vehicle as well.
Top Cars


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Welcome to Watch List, where we identify five things on TV to watch while you stay at home and downgrade your credit rating to a D-. Come on, now. You know you deserve it after buying that hoverscooter on layaway. LET'S GO!
BACHELOR PAD – 8:00PM (ABC) It's the second season of ABC's reality show featuring former "Bachelor" and "Bachelorette" contestants living in the same house and hooking up all over the place. And this time around, they even added former "Bachelor" Jake Pavelka along with his season's "winner," the saucy temptress Vienna Girardi. And here I thought those two would live happily ever after. Turns out "happily ever after" actually means, "break up and begin greedily accepting every invitation to appear on reality television until their lives are little more than vacuous holes desperately looking to be filled with fleeting attention from the general public." I love stories with happy endings. ANTICIPATION: WASH YOUR HANDS!
ANTHONY BOURDAIN: NO RESERVATIONS – 9:00PM (Travel Channel) It's one of my favorite musicians on one of my favorite shows, as Queens of the Stone Age frontman Josh Homme and Tony cruise around the California high desert together. I know they won't do this, but if they were to just spend the entire hour showing close-ups of tostadas and playing "Make It Wit Chu," I'd be a happy man. ANTICIPATION: ROCK AND ROLL!
TIA & TAMERA – 9:00PM (style) New show! This one features twin actresses Tia and Tamera Mowry, whom I'd never ever heard of until just now. And while both this show and these people are almost certainly of no consequence, I am depressed to know that they're now doling out reality shows to people I've never heard of. Makes me feel crazy old. ANTICIPATION: RANDOM SHALLOW PEOPLE!
SUGAR HIGH – 10:30PM (Food Network) Another new show, this one featuring "Ace of Cakes" star Duff Goldman (DUFFMAN!) going around the country to check out the world's most creative desserts. Meanwhile, yesterday I microwaved a cup of Skippy peanut butter and then put a scoop of chocolate ice cream in the center. The result was proof of a higher power. ANTICIPATION: SWEET!
NORWAY MASSACRE: THE KILLER'S MIND – 9:00PM (Discovery) It's an instadoc on the horrible Norway shootings, and as someone who just read Dave Cullen's brilliant book "Columbine," I can pretty much guarantee that we'll need a whole lot of years to pass before we can even begin to comprehend how and why this tragedy happened. ANTICIPATION: SAD!
Monday Watch List: The Return Of Jake & Vienna
Welcome to Watch List, where we identify five things on TV to watch while you stay at home and downgrade your credit rating to a D-. Come on, now. You know you deserve it after buying that hoverscooter on layaway. LET'S GO!


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Carly Fiorina's Reasons for Not Breaking Up HP Are the Same as Meg Whitman's (Video)
The Hewlett-Packard-Is-Breaking-Up meme — reignited earlier this week by confirmation of rival Dell's announcement that it will go private in a $24.4 billion leveraged buyout, combined with a heavily-hedged report in Quartz that the HP board is "studying a breakup" as well as other options for the company, such as keeping it together (duh!) — refuses to die.
As we've reported numerous times, HP isn't planning on breaking up, even though there are many voices out there arguing that it should. CEO Meg Whitman continues to assert that the company is better in one piece than in pieces, and has reiterated that point numerous times. All indications are that the board, for now, supports her in this.
The reasons are pretty simple: HP is stronger in one big piece than it is in pieces. Being big gives HP a lot of leverage with the many companies it buys parts and components from, including Intel and Seagate, as well as manufacturing partners like Foxconn. Plus, despite the overall decline in the state of the PC business, the return on invested capital is strong enough to make staying in the business attractive. This is why Whitman cancelled a plan to spin off HP's PC unit not long after taking the helm in 2011.
So when former HP CEO Carly Fiorina took to CNBC yesterday, the first thing she was asked about was her thoughts on a breakup. As the CEO best known for making HP significantly bigger with the huge and controversial 2002 acquisition of Compaq Computer, she conceded that there was a time during her stint as CEO that the board considered a breakup, along with other strategic alternatives. (Again, duh!)
The reasons the board didn't go for a breakup then sound a great deal like the reasons that the current HP isn't going for a breakup now. Watch: