The El Tovar at the Grand Canyon / If you’re looking for the ultimate in dining and innkeeping at the Grand Canyon, then of course you’re going to look to the El Tovar Hotel, the showpiece of the South Rim. I worked at the El Tovar, and it is still one of my very favorite classic National Park Lodges. It’s beautiful, elegant, and a little funky at the same time.
It’s also a little pricey for national park fare, so I recommend experiencing the El Tovar dining room during breakfast, especially early in the morning, when it won’t be as crowded and you can enjoy the canyon views from some areas of the restaurant. You can enjoy a hearty, gourmet breakfast for a fraction of what you’d pay for dinner, and you’ll still be able to experience the ambiance of the room and its history.
For a real treat, ask to sit in the “Canyon Room.” This special dining room off the main room is used for special events and during the busy season, but often, they’ll allow you to sit there if the rest of the dining room isn’t too busy. You’ll get the best views of the canyon from this room, and the tables are a bit more private and intimate, as well.
After breakfast, enjoy a hot cup of coffee in front of the huge fireplace in the hotel lobby, while you read about the history of this beautiful old lodge. Built in 1905 of Oregon cedar logs shipped to the site, the lodge has been rennovated several times, but still enjoys its original charm and appeal. The lobby area, with its large stone fireplace, and two-story central area is much the same as it was when the lodge was first built.
Take some time to enjoy the El Tovar hotel, it’s one Grand Canyon experience you shouldn’t pass up!
1/14/2008
Igor De Laurentiis
A Ã�ltima Legião / Informações:TÃtulo Original: The Last LegionPaÃs/Ano de Lançamento: EUA - 2008Gênero: Ação / AventuraTamanho: 700MbFormato: DVDRipÃ�udio: PortuguêsLegenda: S/LDownload no Flyupload Download no A2zuploadsDownload no FriendlyfilesDownload no EatlimeDownload no AdriveElenco: Colin Firth, Ben Kingsley, Igor De Laurentiis, Ferdinand Kingsley, Aishwarya Rai.Sinopse: Todo mundo conhece a lenda de Rei Arthur, mas ninguém sabe como tudo começou. Numa batalha devastadora, o antigo Império Romano é destruÃdo por rebeldes e o único sobrevivente da dinastia de César é o pequeno Romulus, um garoto de 12 anos, que é capturado e exilado num verdadeira fortaleza. Lá, guiado pelo mago Ambrosinus, ele encontra uma misteriosa espada, que segundo a lenda dará força e poder à pessoa que empunhá-la. Agora ele poderá retomar seu Império e, com a ajuda da Ã�ltima Legião, reconquistar a tão sonhada liberdade de seu povo.
Data Recover
Hard Drive Data Recovery St. Petersburg-Based Companies / Currently living in St. Petersburg, Florida? Got a problem with your computer hard drive? Want to find hard drive data recovery in St. Petersburg? If your answer to these questions is yes, then I bet you would be happy to know that a few hard drive recovery St. Petersburg companies are now servicing online. They are currently offering hard drive data recovery St. Petersburg services knowing that more and more computer users in St. Petersburg, Florida are haunted by hard drive problems and data loss which need to be fixed as soon as possible.
Here are three of the most visited hard drive data recovery St. Petersburg companies that have been offering hard drive data recovery St. Petersburg services for the residents of St. Petersburg, Florida. Consider these companies for they might be the right hard drive data recovery St. Petersburg service providers for you.
DTI Data Recovery
Probably you've known about DTI Data Recovery for this has long been considered as the industry's premier data recovery company. Well, DTI Data Recovery is the ideal destination for both physical and logical hard drive data recovery St. Petersburg. This hard drive data recovery St. Petersburg-based company offers the most competitive pricing in the data recovery industry, and it's nice to know that this hard drive data recovery St. Petersburg-based company provides a hundred percent satisfaction guarantee. Perhaps a concrete proof of this guarantee is that DTI hard drive data recovery St. Petersburg company do not require their customers to pay a cent until the data is recovered. Today, DTI Data Recovery is composed of engineers who work with all types of hard drive data recovery St. Petersburg services, as well as server and RAID crashes and failures.
ACS Data Recovery
Another well-known name in the hard drive data recovery St. Petersburg industry is ACS Data Recovery. Just like DTI and other hard drive data recovery St. Petersburg companies, ACS Data Recover can help you get back your lost data, be it due to a hard drive crash, natural disaster or sabotage. They also offer a hundred percent customer satisfaction guarantee on all of their hard drive data recovery St. Petersburg work, and today ACS Data Recovery offers a "no data, no charge" promise, which means that if they are unable to recover the data you are looking for, then you pay nothing. In addition, this hard drive data recovery St. Petersburg-based company is do not charge an evaluation fee or attempt fee on the standard IDE drive configurations.
Micronix Data Recovery
Micronix offers a 24-hour hard drive data recovery St. Petersburg service for their customers online and offline. Also, they provide repair services with a 99% success rate depending on the problem incurred on the hard drive. Another nice thing to know about this hard drive data recovery St. Petersburg-based company is that Micronix offers an evaluation process once you contact them. This evaluation process is considered for you to gain more knowledge of your issue so to address the problem immediately. Today, this hard drive data recovery St. Petersburg-based company is composed of highly trained and experienced personnel who do the hard drive data recovery task for you.
Data Recover Now At Staples by Seagate
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Data Recover Now At Staples by Seagate
Jesuitical
Jesuitical / Cullen Murphy captures the meaning of ‘Jesuitical‘ (not to be confused with Jesuit):
Very early, owing in part to English Protestant propagandists, the word “Jesuitical” came to characterize a form of argument designed less to seek the truth than to make a case, a form of argument that was aggressive and clever but perhaps not always sincere - indeed, one that was at times cunningly equivocal or downright deceitful. Aside from pure anti-Jesuit animus, this nuance probably arose from the work of some 17th-century Jesuit theologians who imperfectly employed a method known as “casuistry” in resolving questions of moral theology - an approach that gave the broadest possible leeway to individual behavior. This form of justification, which became known as “laxism,” may explain why Jesuit priests were the confessors of choice among Europe’s Catholic aristocracy.
An example from Robert Hare’s ‘Without conscience’:
When asked if he had ever committed a violent offence, a man serving time for theft answered, “No, but I once had to kill someone.”
Theme song: Parsing is such sweet bullcrap.
——————
Cullen Murphy (1996) Jesuitical vs. Talmudic: Making arguments, splitting hairs. Slate June 25.
Robert Hare (1993). Without conscience: The disturbing world of the psychopaths among us. New York and London: The Guilford Press, p.125.
Photo: Side Altar at the Jesuit Church in Vienna, originally uploaded by jrodenbiker
Benevolent
The Monkey Nurse Has Landed / My sister ditched her East Coast roots last week and moved in with us. She left traffic snarled Northern Virginia for snow covered Utah, and so far it seems good.Â
She took a job with a traveling nurse company and has a thirteen week stint at a children’s hospital here in Salt Lake City. She is my younger sister so she is used to my reigning status as the Benevolent Dictator. In fact, I think she likes it.Â
The kids like it too, and the Bear was a little put out several times this week when the Monkey Nurse didn’t fetch her from school, and she was stuck with me.  The Monkey Nurse will probably be put out with the Bear this weekend when she watches her seven year old niece ski circles around her while we have to pick up the MN off the snow. We’ll see.Â
I think its going to work out just fine.
Comcast: Evil or Benevolent Empire?
A Bee & A Duck
Don’t Wanna Be An American Idiot
All Hail Moe, for Moe is a Benevolent God!
I Guess Its Just A Memory Now
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Comcast: Evil or Benevolent Empire?
A Bee & A Duck
Don’t Wanna Be An American Idiot
All Hail Moe, for Moe is a Benevolent God!
I Guess Its Just A Memory Now
2008 Chevrolet Malibu
2008 Chevrolet Malibu available at Courtesy Chevrolet / The all-new 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is available at Courtesy Chevrolet, a leading dealership for new and pre-owned Chevrolet vehicles in San Jose and Morgan Hill, California. For details call San Jose (800)-476-8150 or Morgan Hill (800)-476-6242 or visit http://www.courtesychevrolet.com/. [SANEPR 4 January, 2008]
Charlotte Convention Center
Upcoming 21st Century Transportation Committee meetings /
Upcoming Meetings
Â
January 4, 2008, 12:00 noon
Intermodal Committee - Agenda
Company Shops Station, Burlington, NC (MAP)
January 9, 2008, 10:00 am
Prioritization/Best Practices/Efficiency Committee
421 LOB
January 16, 2008, 9:00 - 10:00 am
Prioritization/Best Practices/Efficiency Committee
Charlotte Convention Center, Room 201AB, 501 S. College St, Charlotte, NC (MAP)
January 16, 2008, 9:00 - 10:00 am
Intergovernmental Committee
Charlotte Convention Center, Room 202AB, 501 S. College St, Charlotte, NC (MAP)
January 16, 2008, 9:00 - 10:00 am
Intermodal Committee
Charlotte Convention Center, Room 209AB, 501 S. College St, Charlotte, NC (MAP)
January 16, 2008 9:00 - 10:00 am
Finance Committee
Charlotte Convention Center, Room 210AB, 501 S. College St, Charlotte, NC (MAP)
January 16, 2008 10:30 am - 12:30 pm
21st Century Transportation Committee - Agenda
Charlotte Convention Center, Room 203B, 501 S. College St, Charlotte, NC (MAP)
I’m staffing the Intermodal Committee.
charlotte construction companies
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charlotte construction companies
Kelly Monaco
kelly monaco / Kroger Profit Rises, Raises Fiscal Year Outlook. Now playing TheLittle Propecia hair growth of Horrors. I use faux suede and I domohair. She loves feminine things but lives on Skid Row. Just a coupleof regular Joes. . Here is some great news on the fate of KellyMonaco and it is good, she is staying on. I guess that means she isn'tthe one to be murdered, so let's cross her off that list. Unless herdeath is faked but then again that staple is so old . Around the:Sports. Try different words that mean the same thing. Compare autoinsurance quotes from top companies online. Low cost consumers friendsearch all options online now. Visit our Web site and get a free e. .The relationship definitely benefited from Kelly Monaco's absence inthat it got them a few steps away from the manipulation of earlier andI now genuinely have the sense that they're happy to see each otherwithout an ounce of cheese. . ENTER HERE TO WATCH NEW SEX TAPE. Readand post comments | Send to a friend. my name moussa camara. ofguinea . kelly jackson playboy kelly lebrock nude playboy kellymonaco gallery playboy kelly monaco in playboy kelly monaco inplayboykelly monaco on playboy kelly monaco playboy april 1997 kelly monacoplayboy april kelly monaco playboy center . Kroger Profit Rises,Raises Fiscal Year Outlook. Now playing The Little Propecia hairgrowth of Horrors. I use faux suede and I do mohair. She lovesfeminine things but lives on Skid Row. Just a couple of regular Joes.. Kelly Monoco is the hot girl who won the 25 edition of dancing Withthe Stars. She should also be the winner of the hottest body. Yoursearch Kelly monaco nude did not match any documents. Also, you canbrowse today's headlines on the. Search and browse, news sourcesupdated continuously. Obama, Huckabee lead race in Iowa poll. IowaContests Tight In Both Parties. . 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Kelly is on the ABCsoap opera 'General Hospital' and was also the first season winner of'Dancing With the Stars'. * Click for code *Kelly Monaco topless inthe desert in soft li'l bikini bottoms. . stacy start dancing keiblerstacy video dancing kelley pole sheila dancing kelly monaco dancingkelly monaco picture star dancing kelly monaco star dancing kellymonaco star video dancing kelly star dancing kerry dancing keyboarding. I would pretend to be Grace Kelly in Monaco. Reality Budget?Dunrobin Castle in Scotland. The two adjectives that best describe meare____ and________? I tried. I thought. I failed at choosing. Sorryfolks. I will remain a mystery. . . stacy start dancing keibler stacyvideo dancing kelley pole sheila dancing kelly monaco dancing kellymonaco picture star dancing kelly monaco star dancing kelly monacostar video dancing kelly star dancing kerry dancing keyboarding . myname moussa camara. of guinea . 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Actually, this gives me an idea; maybe I can track. . stacy start dancing keibler stacy video dancing kelley polesheila dancing kelly monaco dancing kelly monaco picture star dancingkelly monaco star dancing kelly monaco star video dancing kelly stardancing kerry dancing keyboarding . The relationship definitelybenefited from Kelly Monaco's absence in that it got them a few stepsaway from the manipulation of earlier and I now genuinely have thesense that they're happy to see each other without an ounce of cheese.. YES, it's official, 5 seasons of Dancing With The Stars later,Kelly Monaco is the only female celebrity competitor who holds thecoveted trophy. After Kelly won on the 1st season(the rematch doesn'tcount coz it was stupid and petty), . . smith gallery kelly lebrockgallery kelly lynch gallery kelly madison gallery kelly monaco gallerykelly monaco photo gallery kelly monaco pic gallery kelly nude teengallery kelly osbourne gallery kelly photo r gallery kelly photo .
Leslie Stefanson
Leslie Stefanson / Leslie StefansonAmazon Works to Kindle Leslie stefanson in Its New Digital Reader. Waiting for NEWS' Welcome! See about Impregnation wife. Make sure all words are spelled correctly. The US flag is displayed on Main Street in Annapolis. ...frirl.comLeslie Stefanson of a breakthrough in stem cell research, the ...Last blog news about Beach palm toyota west. Bloomberg Youths fought police for a second night in suburbs north of Paris last night, injuring more than officers, as unrest triggered by the death of two teenagers spread. ...mapnjshow.bwasupport.orgComputer in the US and Canada Leslie Stefanson donates a second ...What Everybody Ought to Know About Looking for jobs. Make sure all words are spelled correctly. By Michael Abramowitz and Glenn Kessler On the eve of President Bush. Trent Lott will cost Congress one of its premiere deal makers and ...mapnjshow.bwasupport.org...
Holland House Candles
Holland House Candles / Holland House Candles was established in 1974. When I was 16 years old, I had the opportunity to open a candle shop on Windmill Island, in Holland, Michigan. It was decided that between my mother and I, we could staff the seasonal shop, and it would be something fun to do while I was in High School. Well, here we are all these years later, still making candles, still enjoying our livelihood. My parents have long since retired, and my husband Bill and I have been overseeing our little enterprise since 1985. In 2007, after 32 years of continuous operation, we closed our shop at Windmill Island, which was a seasonal shop. But we are still at our Dutch Village shop (on the corner of US 31 and James St. in Holland, MI) which is more of a year-around location. We have enjoyed a brisk business there since 1990, and have more recently expanded into the World Wide Web. We are a small business, and we keep it that way intentionally so that our quality is not compromised and we can be proud of every candle we sell. If you have been to either of our shops in Holland, either at Dutch Village or Windmill Island, you have probably met us. I think our experience shows and I hope you agree. We have developed a wide variety of original designs that are unparalleled in the candle world. Each of our candle artisans usually apprentice for a year or more before their creations are offered for full-price. Our Dutch Garden candles are what we are most well-known for, with their uniquely Holland theme. But our Wedding candles have emerged as a most sought-after gift as well. We have developed so many new designs in recent years, you will just have to take a look for yourself to see what candle most appeals to you!-ValerieRelated searches:carved candles, holland candles, hand carved candles, holland house
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Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti / Pongal / Celebrated on January 14, during the beginning of the month of Magh/Makar (Capricorn, Zodiac Month), Makar Sankranti is a period called Uttarayan (Uttar - north; ayan - movement) when the transit of sun into the northern hemisphere takes place. It marks the change in season and celebration to mark the end of winter.Variations:In Punjab it is celebrated as Lohri. In Bihar, it is Sankranti. In West Bengal & Assam, it is Bhogali Bihu. In Gujarat & Rajasthan - Uttarayan (Kite flying festival). In Tamil Nadu, it is Pongal. In Karnataka & Andhra Pradesh it is Sankranthi. In Kerala Makara Vilakku Festival in Sabarimala Temple. Other parts of India it is Makara Sankranti.Religious Significance:It is believed that the gods have slumbered for six long months awake and the portals of heaven are opened! People visit temples and do charity lavishly. People start fresh cultivation for the coming seasons. Harvesting takes place related to the region and crops. Since Sun is believed to be the god that gives and light and life, this is actually a thanksgiving festival to Sun God.Food, Fun & FairsOn this day, people prepare varieties of dishes depending on the places they belong and with more traditional and auspicious values.Punjabis prepare sarson ka saag (mustard leaves and spices) & makki ki roti (maize flat bread). Biharis prepare Choora-dahi (flattened rice and curd). In Gujarat, multi-colored tilguds made from til (sesame seeds) and sugar and til-laddus made from til and jaggery are the main recipe prepared on this day. In Tamil Nadu, pongal is the special recipe that is prepared on this particular day. In Karnataka, pongal, and laddus or other sweets of Til & Gur are prepared. In Andra Pradesh, sweet pongal along with other sweets are prepared.On this occasion, people from the south enjoy cooking pongal in front of the courtyard and offer it to Sun god. Unmarried girls design rangolis in front of the courtyard especially in Andra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. In Gujarat, people spend time flying kites. Kites are good market during this season. In Punjab, the dance around bonfire offering tills and puffed rice to the fire.In South the festival is celebrated for 3 to 4 days. The second day is thanksgiving day for farmers. The third day is the thanksgiving day for Cattle and fourth day fun & fairs. Family and friends get together to enjoy the occasion. They exchange sweets and happiness to friends and neighbors.Many fairs are held on Makar Sankranti, like Kumbh Mela (every 12 years), or Magh Kumbamela every year. Bikanar festival in Rajasthan. International Kite Festival in Gujarat. Jallikkattu in Tamil Nadu.Wish You All A Happy Makar Sankranthi/Sankranti/PongalPhotos:Kamala L.; Meanest Indian; entrelec ; Velacherry Balu ; Prakhar
Makar Sankranti, Uttarayan & Pongal (Jan 14-15, 2008)
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Makar Sankranti, Uttarayan & Pongal (Jan 14-15, 2008)
Chris Kaman
Chris Kaman is having an incredible season for the Los Angeles Clippers / Where would the Clippers be without Chris Kaman? They would probably be battling the Timberwolves for the worst record in the league considering all of the injuries they have had. Kaman has played in 30 games so far this season and he is averaging 39.7 minutes, 18.0 points, 14.0 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 2.9 blocked shots per game.  Kaman is the best center in the Western Conference right now and it’s not even a close call.
Magic 113 - Clippers 106 / So many ledes, so little time... I don't want to stay up all night, but here are the six or so posts I could write about this game. Lede 1 - The Psychology of Trailing The Clippers fell behind by 18 points in the first quarter through a combination of atrocious offense and disinterested defense (and some pretty good shooting by the Magic). From a score of 35-17, the Clippers started their journey back, beginning with a Corey Maggette three to end the first. They began playing better defense, which in turn led to better offense, and eventually they got to within 1 point early in the third quarter. But never caught the Magic. Then, in another dismal stretch, they once again fell behind by 18. And they once again fought back with solid defense and some timely shooting. And they got to within one point, coincidentally at 99-98, so that our boy Ralph became particularly interested in the next bucket. That bucket turned out to be a Rashard Lewis three, Lawler's Law clicked in, and the game was over soon thereafter. During their night-long comeback, the Clippers on five separate occasions had the ball down by either 1 or 2 points, with a chance to tie or take the lead. Here are those 5 possessions: 6:09 2nd, 43-41 - Josh Powell misses a 16 footer with 10 seconds on the shot clock. Really? This is the shot we want with a chance to completely erase an 18 point deficit? At the other end, Turkoglu gets the and-one three point play. 2:44 2nd, 50-48 - Chris Kaman is called for an offensive foul. Remember that lob play they ran for Thornton in the Spurs game when they were down two in the fourth? Same play. Kaman was called for a foul setting the back screen on Evans guarding Al. It was a crap call - not a foul. Turns out the play wasn't going to work since Howard was standing in front of the rim at the time, but it stunk to not even get a shot with a chance to tie. At the other end, Bogans nails a three. 10:29 3rd, 59-58 - OK, I can't emphasize this enough. The Clippers have erased all but 1 point of an 18 point hole. They have scored the first four points of the second half, and have Kaman at the line shooting two free throws. He misses the first. He misses the second. The Magic then go on a 23-6 run to open up... you guessed it... an 18 point lead. And still the Clippers come back. 4:15 4th, 99-98 - Dwight Howard has just been stuffed by Kaman inside, after which he drew a technical foul for complaining about how people aren't supposed to do that. After Maggette makes the T to bring them within one, the Clippers flash Cat across the lane thinking he has a post up advantage on Dooling. But Dooling plays it well, and Cat has nothing. The other four Clippers are standing, not that Cat was really looking to pass the ball. He forces a very tough shot which clangs off the rim. This time, for the first time, the Clippers actually get another stop so they get another shot to take the lead. 3:19 4th, 99-98 - The Clippers set looks a little better this time. Maggette has the ball high on the left, and they want Thomas against Rashard on the left block (Thomas has been a monster all night). Lewis is fronting the post, and Howard has the basket. Kaman wisely flashes to the high post, and when Howard has to follow, Jameer Nelson is caught cheating to Thomas from the weak side. Corey, to his credit, recognizes this and realizes that Brevin Knight is all alone, without a defender within 15 feet of him. So Corey promptly... throws the ball into the first row. Brevin is not tall, but this was not a difficult pass to make. Nobody was there. He just had to throw it to the guy. This time, the Magic make their three to push the lead back out. Five possessions to take the lead. Two turnovers, two ugly shots, and two missed free throws. When you come back against a team, if you allow them to retain the lead, you allow them to keep the momentum. For long stretches of this game, the Clippers weren't just better than the Magic - they were significantly better. But they couldn't get over the top, and ended up losing a game they really should have won. Lede 2 - Sam Cassel's Slump For the third consecutive game, Sam Cassell made 1 field goal. In his last three, Sam is 3 for 23. It's one thing to be cold. But during a 5 minute stretch of the fourth quarter, Sam was 0 for 4. He used 5 possessions (he did draw a foul and make his free throws) while the Clippers were clawing back. He used 5 out of 9 possessions and got 2 points out them. On the other 4 possessions, LA got 7 points on 3 of them, and Kaman had great position on the fourth but got stripped by Evans. Everything was working... except Sam's shot. It's one thing to have the testicular fortitude to take big shots in the fourth quarter. But right now, Sam's balls are too big for the hoop. Lede 3 - Joe Forte is Off the Christmas Card List It started before the game. Some sort of clerical error meant that recently release Richie Frahm was still on the roster that was delivered to the officiating crew instead of just signed Guillermo Diaz. Forte ruled that Diaz couldn't play if he wasn't on the active roster. MDsr argued the point vehemently right up to team introductions, and really until the opening tap. I find this interesting - I mean, MDsr is a pretty anal guy. He knows the rules better than anyone, and he would know whatever rule Forte was invoking. Clearly MDsr had some point beyond, 'Oh c'mon Joe, pretty please? I mean, he's such a good kid. You're gonna hurt his feelings.' Whatever argument he used, it didn't work. And he was pissed. With 7:45 left in the third (this is as the Clippers only recently re-attached wheels were coming back off), Al Thornton grabbed a defensive rebound. Howard reached not once but twice to try to knock the ball away from Al, right in front of MDsr, and the coach can be heard yelling for a foul. Play goes down to the Clippers offensive end, where Sam Cassell misses an easy shot (naturally). As the Magic bring the ball back up, you can catch a glimpse of MDsr, way out of the coach's box, getting ready to say something choice to Forte, who happens to be patrolling that side. As play continues, you kind of see Forte getting ready to light the coach up, but the Magic are about to score, which probably gives MDsr enough time to escalate things from a misdemeanor to a felony. Evans makes the layup, the whistle blows, a couple seconds later the whistle blows again, and MDsr is gone. Forte wasn't doing the Clippers any favors during the game. LA started the second quarter on a 9-0 run, at which point Kaman made an absolutely perfect block on a Dooling dunk attempt. Forte called a foul, and the Magic had their first points of the quarter. This block was pristine. Often when a shot blocker gets the ball, the follow through will get arm, or there will be contact on the body - and usually that is allowed if they get ball. But I'm telling you, this was literally nothing but ball. Even Dooling can be seen telling Kaman it was clean. Who knows what Forte thought he saw. Foul trouble for Kaman was a major factor in the Clippers third quarter collapse. If Forte doesn't blow this call, Kaman doesn't pick up his fourth in the third quarter and leave the game. And as I mentioned before, he also got a bad call setting a back screen. Frustratingly, of the five fouls called on Chris in the game, only one of them was committed on Howard. In the third quarter, Tim Thomas stripped Jammer Nelson on a fast break, and the official closest to the play let it go. But our friend Mr. Forte decided it was a foul, trailing the play from half court. (This one could have been called a foul for sure - there was contact. But it wasn't Forte's call.) Finally, just to seal the deal, Forte was the one who called a touch foul on Kaman showing on the screen and roll on Turkoglu, 45 feet from the basket, with 12 seconds left in the game and the Clippers down 3. A stop in that situation and the Clippers still have a chance. But two Turkoglu free throws courtesy of Monsieur Forte slammed the door. Anyway, it was a funny sub plot to the game. It's not often you see such open animosity between a coach and an official. Lede 4 - A Basketball IQ Test I was a point guard and captain of my high school basketball team. I couldn't shoot a bit, but my coach liked me out there - I was his coach on the floor - I'm told I have a high basketball IQ. Now, I would never actually be in a position to touch a ball sitting on the rim, or goal tend a ball on the other end. But it is not exactly rocket science that you don't touch a ball AFTER THE WHISTLE has already blown. In the second quarter, Josh Powell interfered with a Tim Thomas shot that was sitting on the rim AFTER the foul had been called. The whistle has blown Josh. Either the ball goes in or not - if you touch it, even if it's not basket interference, the basket won't count, because the play is dead. This is not a difficult concept. Don't touch that ball. Thornton, for his part, goal tended a Rashard Lewis 10 footer about two feet from the rim. Now, it's got to be tough to judge whether the ball has started coming down at game speed. But if you're LOTS closer to the basket than you are to the shooter, odds are the ball is going down, you know? That's just physics. Corey got a steal in the first quarter, and with Q Ross trailing the play all alone, he went one-on-one against Turkoglu, and never once looked behind him. The Clippers came away empty. That's some bad court awareness. But it gets worse. At the end of the third quarter, the Clippers got what could have been a crucial stop with 23 second left. Now, there's this thing in the NBA called the 24 second clock, and when there's only 23 seconds left in the quarter, the 24 second shot shot clock is turned off. That means it's time to hold for one shot. Strangely, Brevin Knight did not seem to realize the situation at first, and went flying up court. But he realized his mistake, and pulled the ball back out. He passed to Corey - who shot a three with 15 seconds left. Now, Ralph and Mike were apologizing about how Corey didn't know the clock, and how the other guys told him later and he said 'my bad' like that makes it all better. WTF? Did it even occur to him that the clock might be important? Or, how about during those 7 or 8 seconds from the time the Clippers gained possession until he got the ball, taking just a quick peak at the clock? It would be one thing if it was a good shot. He took a HORRIBLE shot. A three pointer 8 seconds into a possession with no rebounders under the basket. That shot only makes sense if the clock is at 1 or MAYBE if the clock is at 30 (and you want the two for one). And in either of those cases YOU'D HAVE TO KNOW THE CLOCK! Monumentally stupid. Lede 5 - Why Do I Even Care If the Clippers Win? This isn't the Clippers team. They're missing two starters for FSM's sake. If they play well, but lose, that's sort of like having your cake and eating it too, right? I mean, if we can get a solid performance from Kaman and Al Thornton, we'll happily take the ping pong balls as well. But I do care. I was really mad when Maggette threw that ball out of bounds. Lede 6 - Chris Kaman is Better Than Dwight Howard At least he was in this game. I can only assume this wasn't Howard's best effort. Yeah, I know he had 17 rebounds to Kaman's 9 (not Chris' best rebounding night - he had one rebound going into the fourth). But Howard was a non-factor on defense - he had one blocked shot, and meanwhile Chris had better looks in this game than he has had in a while. It's a shame the refs took Chris off the floor and the Clippers didn't go to him a bit more: he should have gone for 25 at least. Look, Dwight Howard is a freak. He is a mountain of a man, and an absurd athlete on top of that. But he hardly seemed interested in this game. I realize it's unfair to criticize him for ONLY getting 17 and 17 when I think he should have had more, but that's what I'm doing. Howard has no discernible post moves. Most of his points came after he caught lob passes in deep post position. Kaman on the other hand displayed his usual array of right and left handed jump hooks and spins, and he even had a couple of dunks. I gotta say, if Dwight Howard is the gold standard in NBA centers right now, I'm feeling pretty good about Chris Kaman.
Clippers vs. Magic - Game Preview and Open Thread / vs.10-2122-14Staples CenterJan. 9, 2008 - 7:30 PMProbable starters: Sam CassellPG Carlos ArroyoQuinton RossSG Keith BogansCorey MaggetteSF Hedo TurkogluAl ThorntonPF Rashard LewisChris KamanC Dwight Howard The Big Picture: I probably shouldn't say it, but when you look at the Murderer's Row of Division leaders and 22 win teams the Clippers have been playing (we're on opponent 7 in a string of 9 out of 10 games), this is the one you think, hey, we can win that one. Why? Well, it's probably just Western Conference bias. Not to mention a since of history. The Mavs, Suns and Spurs have been great for years - the Magic had a losing record last season. But it goes beyond that. Despite the 16-4 start, one always had the feeling that the Magic were overachieving. Indeed, they have since gone 6-10. Add in the fact that the generic Clippers are as healthy as they have been since game 3 of the season, and I have a very good feeling about this game. The Clippers played well enough to have beaten a lesser team than the Spurs Sunday. The Magic are a lesser team than the Spurs. The Antagonist: OK, so why all the Magic bashing? No reason really. When they were 16-4, without looking under the hood, I assumed that several things had happened. (1) Dwight Howard had arrived. (2) The Rashard Lewis signing had paid off big time. (3) Jameer Nelson was playing well. It turns out, that only one of those three things is true. Dwight Howard is playing like the monster he is. But other than Hedo Turkoglu, no one else on the Magic is having a particularly good season. Lewis is who he is - a one-dimensional player (albeit one who has destroyed the Clippers in recent years). Meanwhile, Jameer Nelson has been benched in recent games. Hence 10 losses in the last 16 games (I can't really explain the 16-4 start). In fact, in their last 9 games they are 4 and 5, but the four wins came against New York, Miami, Charlotte and Chicago - literally the 4 worst teams in the Eastern conference. They have one win against a team with a winning record in their last 16 games - which is one more than the Clippers have, but still. Their first forward off the bench is Mo Evans. Their backup center is Adonal Foyle. Dwight Howard is shooting almost 61%, but no other shooter is better than 46% (most are much worse). Dwight Howard is averaging 15 rebounds per game, but the starting forwards combine for just over 11 (almost identical to the Clippers' situation.) This team is beatable. The Subplots Dwight Howard is a liar. I'm told that he's a good Christian boy, but Dwight Howard apparently lied about being able to touch the top of the backboard. According to this fascinating book excerpt from TrueHoop today, Dwight Howard says he can touch the top of the backboard, but no one's ever seen him do it, despite all the tricky videos of him kissing the rim and what-not. Everyone always says his 'sticker dunk' score from last year's dunk contest was too low, and I agree, but you can understand why it happened. When Dwight's been telling everyone how he can touch the top of the backboard, what's with a sticker 9 inches below? He may have overpromised a tad on that one. (Seriously, this guy is a complete freak of an athlete, top of the backboard or not. He's such a good athlete, that it doesn't much matter that he's still not that great a basketball player. He just dunks on people because he's so much stronger and bigger than they are.) Kaman vs. Howard. Ready or not, here he is. And Kaman knows it. For all of his quirkiness, Chris Kaman is one of the more self-aware guys in the NBA. He knows his numbers, and he knows Howard's numbers, and he knows that people will watch this matchup tonight. Statistically speaking, there are really only four centers worth talking about in the NBA - Howard, Stoudemire, Yao and Kaman. If you consider that Stoudemire is really more of a power forward, that leaves three traditional, back to the basket centers. If you want some combination of scoring, rebounding and blocked shots, these are your guys. Howard averages 22.6, 15.2 and 2.6; Yao is at 21.6, 10.5 and 2.3; and Kaman is at 18.1, 14 and 2.9. That's some pretty impressive company. Chris has had trouble handling big challenges in the past. How he fares in this one will go a long way toward determining the Clippers' chances. Lots of Practice Time. While the schedule has been brutal in terms of the opposition, it's been strangely kind in terms of the pace of games. In four weeks from Dec. 22nd until next Friday, Jan. 18th, the Clippers play 10 games, essentially playing 1 game every three days. Indeed, they've had two days off since the Spurs game Sunday, and they get 2 days off for each of the next 3 after this one as well. Big deal you say. Well, to put this in some perspective, look at it this way. During the season, if the team has back to back games, there's no time for anything more than some game film and a shootaround. If they have one day between games, they can have a full practice, but with aging players and injuries, most teams will keep it pretty light and basic. It's these times with at least two days between practice that coaches can introduce new wrinkles and push their teams to improve. Between Dec. 22 and Jan. 18, the Clippers have a total of 7 such lulls. After that, not counting the All Star Break, they don't have another one until March 23. So if it seems like the Clippers haven't been playing much lately, you're right, but it's going to change in about a week. Will Thornton Remain the Starting 4? Now that Tim Thomas is back, it remains to be seen if MDsr will leave Al Thornton in the starting lineup. He was still there against the Spurs, but of course that was Thomas' first game back. I think you know how I feel on the subject. As it happens, the Magic essentially start two small forwards in Lewis and Turkoglu, so there's no reason not to start Al tonight. The Guillermo Diaz Era Begins - Tonight could mark the NBA debut of the Clippers 2007 second round pick, Guillermo Diaz. For what it's worth, he could actually square off against his countryman Carlos Arroyo. By my count, Arroyo, Diaz and Juan Jose Barea are the only three Puerto Rican players currently in the NBA. See, it's these little things that keep you coming back to ClipsNation. Bringing the Subplot Full Circle - Diaz is athletic. How athletic? Well, in a follow-up to the 'top of the backboard' story referenced above, TrueHoop says that "[David] Thorpe saw Diaz get his hand within a couple of inches of the top of the backboard when Diaz was not in peak shape." Holy crap. Given that Diaz is 6'2", that would make him the greatest leaper in the NBA.
Magic 113 - Clippers 106 / So many ledes, so little time... I don't want to stay up all night, but here are the six or so posts I could write about this game. Lede 1 - The Psychology of Trailing The Clippers fell behind by 18 points in the first quarter through a combination of atrocious offense and disinterested defense (and some pretty good shooting by the Magic). From a score of 35-17, the Clippers started their journey back, beginning with a Corey Maggette three to end the first. They began playing better defense, which in turn led to better offense, and eventually they got to within 1 point early in the third quarter. But never caught the Magic. Then, in another dismal stretch, they once again fell behind by 18. And they once again fought back with solid defense and some timely shooting. And they got to within one point, coincidentally at 99-98, so that our boy Ralph became particularly interested in the next bucket. That bucket turned out to be a Rashard Lewis three, Lawler's Law clicked in, and the game was over soon thereafter. During their night-long comeback, the Clippers on five separate occasions had the ball down by either 1 or 2 points, with a chance to tie or take the lead. Here are those 5 possessions: 6:09 2nd, 43-41 - Josh Powell misses a 16 footer with 10 seconds on the shot clock. Really? This is the shot we want with a chance to completely erase an 18 point deficit? At the other end, Turkoglu gets the and-one three point play. 2:44 2nd, 50-48 - Chris Kaman is called for an offensive foul. Remember that lob play they ran for Thornton in the Spurs game when they were down two in the fourth? Same play. Kaman was called for a foul setting the back screen on Evans guarding Al. It was a crap call - not a foul. Turns out the play wasn't going to work since Howard was standing in front of the rim at the time, but it stunk to not even get a shot with a chance to tie. At the other end, Bogans nails a three. 10:29 3rd, 59-58 - OK, I can't emphasize this enough. The Clippers have erased all but 1 point of an 18 point hole. They have scored the first four points of the second half, and have Kaman at the line shooting two free throws. He misses the first. He misses the second. The Magic then go on a 23-6 run to open up... you guessed it... an 18 point lead. And still the Clippers come back. 4:15 4th, 99-98 - Dwight Howard has just been stuffed by Kaman inside, after which he drew a technical foul for complaining about how people aren't supposed to do that. After Maggette makes the T to bring them within one, the Clippers flash Cat across the lane thinking he has a post up advantage on Dooling. But Dooling plays it well, and Cat has nothing. The other four Clippers are standing, not that Cat was really looking to pass the ball. He forces a very tough shot which clangs off the rim. This time, for the first time, the Clippers actually get another stop so they get another shot to take the lead. 3:19 4th, 99-98 - The Clippers set looks a little better this time. Maggette has the ball high on the left, and they want Thomas against Rashard on the left block (Thomas has been a monster all night). Lewis is fronting the post, and Howard has the basket. Kaman wisely flashes to the high post, and when Howard has to follow, Jameer Nelson is caught cheating to Thomas from the weak side. Corey, to his credit, recognizes this and realizes that Brevin Knight is all alone, without a defender within 15 feet of him. So Corey promptly... throws the ball into the first row. Brevin is not tall, but this was not a difficult pass to make. Nobody was there. He just had to throw it to the guy. This time, the Magic make their three to push the lead back out. Five possessions to take the lead. Two turnovers, two ugly shots, and two missed free throws. When you come back against a team, if you allow them to retain the lead, you allow them to keep the momentum. For long stretches of this game, the Clippers weren't just better than the Magic - they were significantly better. But they couldn't get over the top, and ended up losing a game they really should have won. Lede 2 - Sam Cassel's Slump For the third consecutive game, Sam Cassell made 1 field goal. In his last three, Sam is 3 for 23. It's one thing to be cold. But during a 5 minute stretch of the fourth quarter, Sam was 0 for 4. He used 5 possessions (he did draw a foul and make his free throws) while the Clippers were clawing back. He used 5 out of 9 possessions and got 2 points out them. On the other 4 possessions, LA got 7 points on 3 of them, and Kaman had great position on the fourth but got stripped by Evans. Everything was working... except Sam's shot. It's one thing to have the testicular fortitude to take big shots in the fourth quarter. But right now, Sam's balls are too big for the hoop. Lede 3 - Joe Forte is Off the Christmas Card List It started before the game. Some sort of clerical error meant that recently release Richie Frahm was still on the roster that was delivered to the officiating crew instead of just signed Guillermo Diaz. Forte ruled that Diaz couldn't play if he wasn't on the active roster. MDsr argued the point vehemently right up to team introductions, and really until the opening tap. I find this interesting - I mean, MDsr is a pretty anal guy. He knows the rules better than anyone, and he would know whatever rule Forte was invoking. Clearly MDsr had some point beyond, 'Oh c'mon Joe, pretty please? I mean, he's such a good kid. You're gonna hurt his feelings.' Whatever argument he used, it didn't work. And he was pissed. With 7:45 left in the third (this is as the Clippers only recently re-attached wheels were coming back off), Al Thornton grabbed a defensive rebound. Howard reached not once but twice to try to knock the ball away from Al, right in front of MDsr, and the coach can be heard yelling for a foul. Play goes down to the Clippers offensive end, where Sam Cassell misses an easy shot (naturally). As the Magic bring the ball back up, you can catch a glimpse of MDsr, way out of the coach's box, getting ready to say something choice to Forte, who happens to be patrolling that side. As play continues, you kind of see Forte getting ready to light the coach up, but the Magic are about to score, which probably gives MDsr enough time to escalate things from a misdemeanor to a felony. Evans makes the layup, the whistle blows, a couple seconds later the whistle blows again, and MDsr is gone. Forte wasn't doing the Clippers any favors during the game. LA started the second quarter on a 9-0 run, at which point Kaman made an absolutely perfect block on a Dooling dunk attempt. Forte called a foul, and the Magic had their first points of the quarter. This block was pristine. Often when a shot blocker gets the ball, the follow through will get arm, or there will be contact on the body - and usually that is allowed if they get ball. But I'm telling you, this was literally nothing but ball. Even Dooling can be seen telling Kaman it was clean. Who knows what Forte thought he saw. Foul trouble for Kaman was a major factor in the Clippers third quarter collapse. If Forte doesn't blow this call, Kaman doesn't pick up his fourth in the third quarter and leave the game. And as I mentioned before, he also got a bad call setting a back screen. Frustratingly, of the five fouls called on Chris in the game, only one of them was committed on Howard. In the third quarter, Tim Thomas stripped Jammer Nelson on a fast break, and the official closest to the play let it go. But our friend Mr. Forte decided it was a foul, trailing the play from half court. (This one could have been called a foul for sure - there was contact. But it wasn't Forte's call.) Finally, just to seal the deal, Forte was the one who called a touch foul on Kaman showing on the screen and roll on Turkoglu, 45 feet from the basket, with 12 seconds left in the game and the Clippers down 3. A stop in that situation and the Clippers still have a chance. But two Turkoglu free throws courtesy of Monsieur Forte slammed the door. Anyway, it was a funny sub plot to the game. It's not often you see such open animosity between a coach and an official. Lede 4 - A Basketball IQ Test I was a point guard and captain of my high school basketball team. I couldn't shoot a bit, but my coach liked me out there - I was his coach on the floor - I'm told I have a high basketball IQ. Now, I would never actually be in a position to touch a ball sitting on the rim, or goal tend a ball on the other end. But it is not exactly rocket science that you don't touch a ball AFTER THE WHISTLE has already blown. In the second quarter, Josh Powell interfered with a Tim Thomas shot that was sitting on the rim AFTER the foul had been called. The whistle has blown Josh. Either the ball goes in or not - if you touch it, even if it's not basket interference, the basket won't count, because the play is dead. This is not a difficult concept. Don't touch that ball. Thornton, for his part, goal tended a Rashard Lewis 10 footer about two feet from the rim. Now, it's got to be tough to judge whether the ball has started coming down at game speed. But if you're LOTS closer to the basket than you are to the shooter, odds are the ball is going down, you know? That's just physics. Corey got a steal in the first quarter, and with Q Ross trailing the play all alone, he went one-on-one against Turkoglu, and never once looked behind him. The Clippers came away empty. That's some bad court awareness. But it gets worse. At the end of the third quarter, the Clippers got what could have been a crucial stop with 23 second left. Now, there's this thing in the NBA called the 24 second clock, and when there's only 23 seconds left in the quarter, the 24 second shot shot clock is turned off. That means it's time to hold for one shot. Strangely, Brevin Knight did not seem to realize the situation at first, and went flying up court. But he realized his mistake, and pulled the ball back out. He passed to Corey - who shot a three with 15 seconds left. Now, Ralph and Mike were apologizing about how Corey didn't know the clock, and how the other guys told him later and he said 'my bad' like that makes it all better. WTF? Did it even occur to him that the clock might be important? Or, how about during those 7 or 8 seconds from the time the Clippers gained possession until he got the ball, taking just a quick peak at the clock? It would be one thing if it was a good shot. He took a HORRIBLE shot. A three pointer 8 seconds into a possession with no rebounders under the basket. That shot only makes sense if the clock is at 1 or MAYBE if the clock is at 30 (and you want the two for one). And in either of those cases YOU'D HAVE TO KNOW THE CLOCK! Monumentally stupid. Lede 5 - Why Do I Even Care If the Clippers Win? This isn't the Clippers team. They're missing two starters for FSM's sake. If they play well, but lose, that's sort of like having your cake and eating it too, right? I mean, if we can get a solid performance from Kaman and Al Thornton, we'll happily take the ping pong balls as well. But I do care. I was really mad when Maggette threw that ball out of bounds. Lede 6 - Chris Kaman is Better Than Dwight Howard At least he was in this game. I can only assume this wasn't Howard's best effort. Yeah, I know he had 17 rebounds to Kaman's 9 (not Chris' best rebounding night - he had one rebound going into the fourth). But Howard was a non-factor on defense - he had one blocked shot, and meanwhile Chris had better looks in this game than he has had in a while. It's a shame the refs took Chris off the floor and the Clippers didn't go to him a bit more: he should have gone for 25 at least. Look, Dwight Howard is a freak. He is a mountain of a man, and an absurd athlete on top of that. But he hardly seemed interested in this game. I realize it's unfair to criticize him for ONLY getting 17 and 17 when I think he should have had more, but that's what I'm doing. Howard has no discernible post moves. Most of his points came after he caught lob passes in deep post position. Kaman on the other hand displayed his usual array of right and left handed jump hooks and spins, and he even had a couple of dunks. I gotta say, if Dwight Howard is the gold standard in NBA centers right now, I'm feeling pretty good about Chris Kaman.
Clippers vs. Magic - Game Preview and Open Thread / vs.10-2122-14Staples CenterJan. 9, 2008 - 7:30 PMProbable starters: Sam CassellPG Carlos ArroyoQuinton RossSG Keith BogansCorey MaggetteSF Hedo TurkogluAl ThorntonPF Rashard LewisChris KamanC Dwight Howard The Big Picture: I probably shouldn't say it, but when you look at the Murderer's Row of Division leaders and 22 win teams the Clippers have been playing (we're on opponent 7 in a string of 9 out of 10 games), this is the one you think, hey, we can win that one. Why? Well, it's probably just Western Conference bias. Not to mention a since of history. The Mavs, Suns and Spurs have been great for years - the Magic had a losing record last season. But it goes beyond that. Despite the 16-4 start, one always had the feeling that the Magic were overachieving. Indeed, they have since gone 6-10. Add in the fact that the generic Clippers are as healthy as they have been since game 3 of the season, and I have a very good feeling about this game. The Clippers played well enough to have beaten a lesser team than the Spurs Sunday. The Magic are a lesser team than the Spurs. The Antagonist: OK, so why all the Magic bashing? No reason really. When they were 16-4, without looking under the hood, I assumed that several things had happened. (1) Dwight Howard had arrived. (2) The Rashard Lewis signing had paid off big time. (3) Jameer Nelson was playing well. It turns out, that only one of those three things is true. Dwight Howard is playing like the monster he is. But other than Hedo Turkoglu, no one else on the Magic is having a particularly good season. Lewis is who he is - a one-dimensional player (albeit one who has destroyed the Clippers in recent years). Meanwhile, Jameer Nelson has been benched in recent games. Hence 10 losses in the last 16 games (I can't really explain the 16-4 start). In fact, in their last 9 games they are 4 and 5, but the four wins came against New York, Miami, Charlotte and Chicago - literally the 4 worst teams in the Eastern conference. They have one win against a team with a winning record in their last 16 games - which is one more than the Clippers have, but still. Their first forward off the bench is Mo Evans. Their backup center is Adonal Foyle. Dwight Howard is shooting almost 61%, but no other shooter is better than 46% (most are much worse). Dwight Howard is averaging 15 rebounds per game, but the starting forwards combine for just over 11 (almost identical to the Clippers' situation.) This team is beatable. The Subplots Dwight Howard is a liar. I'm told that he's a good Christian boy, but Dwight Howard apparently lied about being able to touch the top of the backboard. According to this fascinating book excerpt from TrueHoop today, Dwight Howard says he can touch the top of the backboard, but no one's ever seen him do it, despite all the tricky videos of him kissing the rim and what-not. Everyone always says his 'sticker dunk' score from last year's dunk contest was too low, and I agree, but you can understand why it happened. When Dwight's been telling everyone how he can touch the top of the backboard, what's with a sticker 9 inches below? He may have overpromised a tad on that one. (Seriously, this guy is a complete freak of an athlete, top of the backboard or not. He's such a good athlete, that it doesn't much matter that he's still not that great a basketball player. He just dunks on people because he's so much stronger and bigger than they are.) Kaman vs. Howard. Ready or not, here he is. And Kaman knows it. For all of his quirkiness, Chris Kaman is one of the more self-aware guys in the NBA. He knows his numbers, and he knows Howard's numbers, and he knows that people will watch this matchup tonight. Statistically speaking, there are really only four centers worth talking about in the NBA - Howard, Stoudemire, Yao and Kaman. If you consider that Stoudemire is really more of a power forward, that leaves three traditional, back to the basket centers. If you want some combination of scoring, rebounding and blocked shots, these are your guys. Howard averages 22.6, 15.2 and 2.6; Yao is at 21.6, 10.5 and 2.3; and Kaman is at 18.1, 14 and 2.9. That's some pretty impressive company. Chris has had trouble handling big challenges in the past. How he fares in this one will go a long way toward determining the Clippers' chances. Lots of Practice Time. While the schedule has been brutal in terms of the opposition, it's been strangely kind in terms of the pace of games. In four weeks from Dec. 22nd until next Friday, Jan. 18th, the Clippers play 10 games, essentially playing 1 game every three days. Indeed, they've had two days off since the Spurs game Sunday, and they get 2 days off for each of the next 3 after this one as well. Big deal you say. Well, to put this in some perspective, look at it this way. During the season, if the team has back to back games, there's no time for anything more than some game film and a shootaround. If they have one day between games, they can have a full practice, but with aging players and injuries, most teams will keep it pretty light and basic. It's these times with at least two days between practice that coaches can introduce new wrinkles and push their teams to improve. Between Dec. 22 and Jan. 18, the Clippers have a total of 7 such lulls. After that, not counting the All Star Break, they don't have another one until March 23. So if it seems like the Clippers haven't been playing much lately, you're right, but it's going to change in about a week. Will Thornton Remain the Starting 4? Now that Tim Thomas is back, it remains to be seen if MDsr will leave Al Thornton in the starting lineup. He was still there against the Spurs, but of course that was Thomas' first game back. I think you know how I feel on the subject. As it happens, the Magic essentially start two small forwards in Lewis and Turkoglu, so there's no reason not to start Al tonight. The Guillermo Diaz Era Begins - Tonight could mark the NBA debut of the Clippers 2007 second round pick, Guillermo Diaz. For what it's worth, he could actually square off against his countryman Carlos Arroyo. By my count, Arroyo, Diaz and Juan Jose Barea are the only three Puerto Rican players currently in the NBA. See, it's these little things that keep you coming back to ClipsNation. Bringing the Subplot Full Circle - Diaz is athletic. How athletic? Well, in a follow-up to the 'top of the backboard' story referenced above, TrueHoop says that "[David] Thorpe saw Diaz get his hand within a couple of inches of the top of the backboard when Diaz was not in peak shape." Holy crap. Given that Diaz is 6'2", that would make him the greatest leaper in the NBA.
Damask
Merry Damask Kauni Steek! / Hey, it’s Maria.
I did it!!! On Christmas day, I steeked the Damask Kauni. While I won’t say it was the highlight of Christmas, I’m certainly glad it’s done. I put that off long enough.
I decided on a crocheted steek, using directions found on Euny Jang’s old website. I’m not sure how it works, but it does. I’m not a crocheter, but I thought it was kind of fun. I did the center front first and then the arm holes.
Not bad for a first steek, huh?
And then I did the math and figured out the sleeves. I had to pick up stitches evenly and get the pattern in the right place. I’ve only done a couple of rows, but I think it’s going to work!
I need to get a smaller circ before I continue the sleeves.
On December 26, I pulled out my Mr. Greenjeans (or Mrs. Greenjeans, as I’m calling it.) It has one sleeve, with a second on the way.
The sleeve went really quickly. The only thing I don’t like is how it pooled at the elbow. So, today’s project is the other sleeve.
I’ll bet you want to know what I did last night. I partied with my mom and my non knitting sister. Woo Hoo!!! We went to Starbuck’s and knit with the Rockstar knitters. First there was rondaben. She was working on a sock. She made me a row counter bracelet and some awesome stitch markers. Thanks Ronda!!! I also met the knitting fairy. I could spend time with her! (Actually, I could spend time with all of them!) She was working on an entrelac project. Next to me was the ever crazy texaspurlgirl. She was working on a hat and the Central Park Hoodie. Tasha is working on the Sundara Kimono pattern. She’s going to sew the buttons on her sweater today. Go Tasha!!! Gina (blogless) was working on a very fun sock with Knitpicks yarn. Christina was totally enjoying knitting that baby blanket!!!! Sorry, Christina, I don’t have a link for your blog!!! It was a fun night. I found out that Texas knitters are about as crazy as Minnesota knitters.
I’m off to finish Mr Greenjeans.
Hey Lexi, are you ever knitting again?
Carolina Patrocinio
Cristiano Ronaldo e Carolina Patrocinio / Tem sido noticiado o namoro recente entre Cristiano Ronaldo e a apresentadora do Clube Disney, Carolina Patrocinio.
Carolina Patrocinio
Cristiano Ronaldo Carolina Patrocinio new love in the air?
CAROLINA PATROC�NIO EM BIQUINI
Pai Natal e Animação Gratuita no Freeport de Alcochete
Carolina Patrocinio in other blogs:
Cristiano Ronaldo Carolina Patrocinio new love in the air?
CAROLINA PATROC�NIO EM BIQUINI
Pai Natal e Animação Gratuita no Freeport de Alcochete
Andy Stanley
Pastors Whoâ��ve Influenced Me: Andy Stanley / Recently, Iâ��ve been privileged to meet with men of God that I admire deeply. This week Iâ��ll share some of what I’ve learned from them.
Andy Stanely is the founding and senior pastor of North Point Community Church in Georgia. If you are not familiar with this church, you have to check them out–now!
Some pastors are great communicators. Some are great leaders. Andy is great at both.
If you aren�t yet familiar with Andy, you�ll benefit from his:
Humility: You won�t meet a more down to earth and humble person.
Preaching: His book Communicating For a Change is one of the best on the subject you�ll read. He is one of the most gifted communicators in the country.
Leadership: Andy is a leaderâ��s leader. His leadership talks, books and podcasts are simultaneously simple, yet profound. (If you haven’t read Visioneering, Choosing to Cheat, and Next Generation Leader, you need to.)
Wisdom: Andy�s dad, Charles Stanley, has led a strong church and international radio and television ministry. Growing up with that perspective, followed by leading a massive movement, Andy is rich with deep wisdom.
Focus: North Point Community Church is one of the best models of a focused church.
Stewardship: Andy says, �Leadership is stewardship.� He encourages his team to wisely steward all resources for God�s Kingdom.
Andy and his assistant, Diane, spent a little over and hour with Bobby and me. We had a very powerful conversation (at least from our perspective).
Andy told me (I�m loosely paraphrasing) that when a ministry becomes successful, there are many forces that will try to pull you away. He reminded me to keep my focus on what God shows me is most important. Very wise.
What is your favorite Andy Stanley lesson or quote?
Preaching - The One Thing in Two Parts (according to Andy Stanley) / Can anyone else relate?  “One Thing” by Steve Mathewson (Read the whole thing here) “Andy Stanley refuses to stand up and preach until he knows the answer to two questions. He reveals these questions in his newest book, Communicating For a Change, which is co-authored with Lane Jones. The questions are (drum roll, please!) . . . 1. [...]
Preaching - The One Thing in Two Parts (according to Andy Stanley) / Can anyone else relate?  “One Thing” by Steve Mathewson (Read the whole thing here) “Andy Stanley refuses to stand up and preach until he knows the answer to two questions. He reveals these questions in his newest book, Communicating For a Change, which is co-authored with Lane Jones. The questions are (drum roll, please!) . . . 1. [...]
Phoenix Marathon
Back to Being a Running Fool / Thursday
Quote of the Day: “Some have been thought brave because they were afraid to run away.”
- Thomas Fuller
Well, I guess it�s about time to hammer out some running stuff.
To bring everyone up to speed, I had a great year last year, running more races than any other year in my life. Here is what I accomplished:
2007 Rock & Roll Phoenix Marathon
2007 Carlsbad Half Marathon
2007 Miami Marathon
2007 San Dieguito Half Marathon
2007 Los Angeles Marathon
2007 Wild Miles Adventure Relay
2007 Wild Wild West Trail Marathon
2007 Bishop 50-mile Ultra-Marathon
2007 America’s Finest City Half Marathon
2007 San Diego 100 Ultra-Marathon
Although I had my first DNF (Did Not Finish) with that last race, I did crank out 56 miles of it and I will be back in 2008 to settle the score.
Since then, I have been taking a bit of a break. Not by choice but work and life events have kind of got the better of me and I have not been disciplined in getting out on the road.
This week, that changed. I ran my normal 7.5 mile loop … well, kind of ran it. I gave myself the opportunity to ease into it and did a lot of walking. I normally use up an hour but this first one required about 1 hour and 45 minutes since I walked most of it.
But then I came back and ran it the next day in about 1:04.
Then the next day at 1:02.
So I�m getting back.
I also got a bit of holiday weight to lose so that will be my focus along with getting the miles in. It�ll be good to get back in my running routine after the end of the year I had.
As far as CrossFit, I can go back any month I want but I think I will use it as a one-month toner where I pick a month (maybe every other month) and hit it hard. I�ve realized I can�t do distance training while I�m doing CrossFit so I have to alternate.
Here is my proposed schedule for 2008:
2008 Rock & Roll Phoenix Marathon: I signed up for it but am not ready. I really do not want to travel to Phoenix unprepared and have a lousy race, especially since I got my PR on this course last year.
2008 Carlsbad Half Marathon: already signed up!
2008 Miami Marathon: I won’t be travelling to Miami for this. It was great last year but I’m no longer an active member of the Achilles team.
2008 San Dieguito Half Marathon: already signed up!
2008 Los Angeles Marathon: I MIGHT be running this if the Achilles team wants my help.
2008 La Jolla Half-Marathon: Part of the Triple Crown. I skipped this one last year.
2008 Wild Miles Adventure Relay: the organizers are not putting this on this year. Taking a break I guess.
2008 Wild Wild West Trail Marathon: I have the application and will be hitting this for the 9th consecutive year.
2008 Bishop 50-mile Ultra-Marathon: already signed up!
2008 America’s Finest City Half Marathon: I can’t sign up for this yet but when it opens, I will. Part of the “Triple Crown” series.
2008 San Diego 100 Ultra-Marathon: I got a score to settle.
Free Advice for Today: �Learn to identify local flowers, birds, and trees.�
- H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
Phoenix Marathon
Running:Training has begun for the Phoenix marathon
Phoenix Marathon!
1/8/08
12/29/07
12/22/07
12/15/07
Phoenix Marathon in other blogs:
Phoenix Marathon
Running:Training has begun for the Phoenix marathon
Phoenix Marathon!
1/8/08
12/29/07
12/22/07
12/15/07
Krista Allen
Sexy picture of Krista Allen / Sexy picture of Krista AllenChoose a dress that flatters your individual figure.The most important feature of your new dress -- more important than its trendiness, designer or color -- is how well it flatters you. Does it make you feel attractive and gorgeous? Do you feel confident when wearing that dress? If you can answer yes, you�ve probably chosen the right one.
Soulstorm Demo
Soulstorm Demo / Fileplanet subscribers can reserve and preload the soon-to-be-released demo.Soulstorm Demo
Soulstorm Demo Out Now! (edit)
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Soulstorm Demo Out Now! (edit)
Taryn Manning
Taryn Manning / Rain Rain Rain it was pouring down so hard here that the power went out for a few hours so sadly no blog earlier in the night just waiting for it to finally come back so I went out and saw JUNO which was an amazing movie. Ellen Page is an amazing actress may have to shoot her for something one of these days! This week is going to be a crazy one for sure have a few shoots coming up that will be crazy…I will try and get some behind the scenes footage if I can swing it.
This is Taryn Manning from the Jan Feb Item magazine cover shoot it was a crazy shoot got some amazing shots of Taryn.
This is a new photo of Taryn Manning.
What did you do tonight?
Have you seen Juno?
What do you do when the power goes out?
What is your song of the day?
Miriam Delicado
Blog Radio Interview Jan 10th / Thank you for looking over this blog site…….
I am very happy to share with you my first live interview date and hope you will all join me. I really enjoyed my preinterview conversation with Host Peter . His focus is on the positive side of life and how we can all learn from each other. Well worth the time to listen to his programing.
It would be fantastic to have some of you call in to the show to ask questions. The great thing about this interview is if you miss it you will be able to listen to it from Peter Tongue’s website at your convenience. At some point when I am able to have my website manager set it up for me I will have the interview available here at the bluestar blog and/or website.  I will keep you posted.
The information on where and when is below.
Peter Tongue will be starting the New Year with an inspiring segment on his radio show, interviewing Miriam Delicado, who had contact with Tall Blond extra-terrestrial beings in 1988. Their message is one of hope and peace for our future on Earth.Â
Miriam is now ready to share her story and their message with the world!! She has written her first book BLUE STAR: FULFILLING PROPHECY.  For more information or book purchase visit www.alienbluestar.com
To hear Miriam’s story, listen to Peter’s interview LIVE on www.blogtalkradio.com/quickenradio on Thursday, January 10th at 7:00pm (Pacific Time). Peter’s segments are always archived, 5 minutes after the show is complete, so if you miss the live show you can listen at any time in the future.
Find out what the connection is between the Aliens that communicated with Miriam, the Hopi Prophesy and the End Times !! This will be a fascinating show - please join us.
“Most people who have had direct, physical contact will choose not to speak publicly. They have to be concerned about ridicule by the general public.” - Miriam Delicado
“The aliens gave me warnings of a possible future in which the planet and/or the human race could face destruction. They asked me to share with you what role they will play if we are threatened as a species or if there is a threat to the Earth itself. It is a peaceful and positive message.” - Miriam Delicado
Schedule for 01.11.08 - 01.17.08 / Schedule for 01.11.08 - 01.17.08 Hosted by George Noory Guest(s) Open Lines Friday, January 11 Open Lines Hosted by Ian Punnett Guest(s) Miriam Delicado Saturday, January 12 Since 1988, Miriam Delicado has been in contact with Tall Blond ET beings. She will discuss their message for the world and how it ties in with Hopi Prophecy and the End Times. 6-10pm PT: Art Bell- Somewhere in Time returns to 3/23/00 for a discussion with John Milor on his book Aliens in the Bible. Hosted by Ian Punnett Guest(s) Oberon Zell Sunday, January 13 Practicing Wizard Oberon Zell will discuss his arcane knowledge and a compendium of cryptozoological and mythical creatures. Hosted by George Noory Guest(s) TBA Monday, January 14 TBA Hosted by George Noory Guest(s) Amelia Kinkade Tuesday, January 15 Animal and inter-species communicator Amelia Kinkade will discuss her work helping humans to understand the thoughts and emotions of animals by using telepathy. Hosted by George Noory Guest(s) James Mullaney Wednesday, January 16 Astronomy writer James Mullaney will discuss his book Edgar Cayce and the Cosmos, which examines the American prophet’s readings about the universe. Hosted by George Noory Guest(s) Brad Steiger Thursday, January 17 Author Brad Steiger will discuss his landmark work, Atlantis Rising, which was one of the first books to cover the study of lost civilizations and alien contact. Coast to Coast AM is live nightly from 10pm to 2am Pacific.
Schedule for 01.11.08 - 01.17.08 / Schedule for 01.11.08 - 01.17.08 Hosted by George Noory Guest(s) Open Lines Friday, January 11 Open Lines Hosted by Ian Punnett Guest(s) Miriam Delicado Saturday, January 12 Since 1988, Miriam Delicado has been in contact with Tall Blond ET beings. She will discuss their message for the world and how it ties in with Hopi Prophecy and the End Times. 6-10pm PT: Art Bell- Somewhere in Time returns to 3/23/00 for a discussion with John Milor on his book Aliens in the Bible. Hosted by Ian Punnett Guest(s) Oberon Zell Sunday, January 13 Practicing Wizard Oberon Zell will discuss his arcane knowledge and a compendium of cryptozoological and mythical creatures. Hosted by George Noory Guest(s) TBA Monday, January 14 TBA Hosted by George Noory Guest(s) Amelia Kinkade Tuesday, January 15 Animal and inter-species communicator Amelia Kinkade will discuss her work helping humans to understand the thoughts and emotions of animals by using telepathy. Hosted by George Noory Guest(s) James Mullaney Wednesday, January 16 Astronomy writer James Mullaney will discuss his book Edgar Cayce and the Cosmos, which examines the American prophet’s readings about the universe. Hosted by George Noory Guest(s) Brad Steiger Thursday, January 17 Author Brad Steiger will discuss his landmark work, Atlantis Rising, which was one of the first books to cover the study of lost civilizations and alien contact. Coast to Coast AM is live nightly from 10pm to 2am Pacific.
Suze Orman
Avon Products, Inc. Partners with Acclaimed Financial Expert Suze Orman to Educate and Empower Women / Avon Products, Inc. announced a special partnership with Suze Orman, renowned personal finance expert, award winning television host and best-selling author.
Cnapest
cnapest / CNAPEST - Search the Web. CNAPEST · NOUVEAU SITE · www.cnapest2.8m.com.cnapest - Search the Web. cnapest.Livre D'Or du CNAPEST - ... of 8388608 bytes exhausted (tried to allocate 89784 bytes) in /data/members/free/multimania/fr/c/n/a/cnapista/htdocs/livre/livredor.php on line 161.cnapest.com - Arabic Site for teachers - Cnapest.com is an Arabic site for teachers. They are receiving many searches this morning. I�ve translated the site for cnapest and it appears the teachers ...cnapest-mostaganem - C�est la voie qu�a choisi le CNAPEST, refusant l�accompagnement et la fatalit�, sans jouer les jusqu'au-boutistes qui disent non � tout mais oeuvrent plut�t ...nomillion: www.cnapest.com - Sally field i www.cnapest.com, point so the rule. Robert c atkins www.cnapest.com, season shapiro said usual- receive cnapest, that nobody ever body. ...CNAPEST BEJAIA - Wilaya de B�jaia · 1 - INFORMATIONS & P-V. 2 - COMMUNIQUES & APPELS. 3 - DECLARATIONS & PERSPECTIVES · 4 - DONNEZ VOTRE AVIS · 5 - CNAPEST NATIONAL ...Trendite - Current Hot Trends - cnapest - allAfrica: African news and information for a global audience ... scolaire, le conseil de wilaya du CNAPEST effectue sa sortie au niveau de Bouira . ...prop 92: www.cnapest.com - Is a burden www.cnapest.com, maintaining marital harmony never. Of the incumbent www.cnapest.com, lobbies are already south, laugh cnapest, name for linux ...cnapestPopular topics today: data recover, dendrology, anjelah johnson, open water 2, fire in the sky, katt williams height, travis walton, audiosurf, pearl harbor movie, brawl central, buynowbehttp://timefullradio.blogspot.com renault yeni
cnapest / CNAPEST - Search the Web. CNAPEST · NOUVEAU SITE · www.cnapest2.8m.com.cnapest - Search the Web. cnapest.Livre D'Or du CNAPEST - ... of 8388608 bytes exhausted (tried to allocate 89784 bytes) in /data/members/free/multimania/fr/c/n/a/cnapista/htdocs/livre/livredor.php on line 161.cnapest.com - Arabic Site for teachers - Cnapest.com is an Arabic site for teachers. They are receiving many searches this morning. I�ve translated the site for cnapest and it appears the teachers ...cnapest-mostaganem - C�est la voie qu�a choisi le CNAPEST, refusant l�accompagnement et la fatalit�, sans jouer les jusqu'au-boutistes qui disent non � tout mais oeuvrent plut�t ...nomillion: www.cnapest.com - Sally field i www.cnapest.com, point so the rule. Robert c atkins www.cnapest.com, season shapiro said usual- receive cnapest, that nobody ever body. ...CNAPEST BEJAIA - Wilaya de B�jaia · 1 - INFORMATIONS & P-V. 2 - COMMUNIQUES & APPELS. 3 - DECLARATIONS & PERSPECTIVES · 4 - DONNEZ VOTRE AVIS · 5 - CNAPEST NATIONAL ...prop 92: www.cnapest.com - Is a burden www.cnapest.com, maintaining marital harmony never. Of the incumbent www.cnapest.com, lobbies are already south, laugh cnapest, name for linux ...Un appel au CNAPEST et CLA : GARDEZ les avis de radiation pour la ... - __From__: Droit-et-justice; __Subject__: Un appel au CNAPEST et CLA : GARDEZ les avis de radiation pour la plainte au BIT; __Date__: Tue, ...cnapestPopular topics today: data recover, dendrology, anjelah johnson, open water 2, fire in the sky, katt williams height, travis walton, audiosurf, pearl harbor movie, brawl central, buynowbehttp://tvhitechmore.blogspot.com kyle brady
Www.cnapest.com
cnapest / CNAPEST - Search the Web. CNAPEST · NOUVEAU SITE · www.cnapest2.8m.com.cnapest - Search the Web. cnapest.Livre D'Or du CNAPEST - ... of 8388608 bytes exhausted (tried to allocate 89784 bytes) in /data/members/free/multimania/fr/c/n/a/cnapista/htdocs/livre/livredor.php on line 161.cnapest.com - Arabic Site for teachers - Cnapest.com is an Arabic site for teachers. They are receiving many searches this morning. I�ve translated the site for cnapest and it appears the teachers ...cnapest-mostaganem - C�est la voie qu�a choisi le CNAPEST, refusant l�accompagnement et la fatalit�, sans jouer les jusqu'au-boutistes qui disent non � tout mais oeuvrent plut�t ...nomillion: www.cnapest.com - Sally field i www.cnapest.com, point so the rule. Robert c atkins www.cnapest.com, season shapiro said usual- receive cnapest, that nobody ever body. ...CNAPEST BEJAIA - Wilaya de B�jaia · 1 - INFORMATIONS & P-V. 2 - COMMUNIQUES & APPELS. 3 - DECLARATIONS & PERSPECTIVES · 4 - DONNEZ VOTRE AVIS · 5 - CNAPEST NATIONAL ...prop 92: www.cnapest.com - Is a burden www.cnapest.com, maintaining marital harmony never. Of the incumbent www.cnapest.com, lobbies are already south, laugh cnapest, name for linux ...Un appel au CNAPEST et CLA : GARDEZ les avis de radiation pour la ... - __From__: Droit-et-justice; __Subject__: Un appel au CNAPEST et CLA : GARDEZ les avis de radiation pour la plainte au BIT; __Date__: Tue, ...cnapestPopular topics today: data recover, dendrology, anjelah johnson, open water 2, fire in the sky, katt williams height, travis walton, audiosurf, pearl harbor movie, brawl central, buynowbehttp://tvhitechmore.blogspot.com kyle brady
Cnapest in other blogs:
Www.cnapest.com
Chemistry
Chemistry Jan. 1-10 / QSAR and molecular modeling studies in heterocyclic drugs
QD 400.3 Q83 2006
Physics and chemistry of ice: International Conference on the Physics and Chemistry of Ice (11th : 2006 : Bremerhaven, Germany)
QC 926.3 I57 2006
Analogue-based drug discovery
RM 301.25 A53 2006
Ligand design for G protein-coupled receptors
QD 474 L534 2006
Metal catalysed reactions in ionic liquids
QD 562 I64 D97 2005
Toni Morrison
Interview with Toni Morrison / For those planning to read Toni Morrison, 1993 Nobel Laureate, here is an interesting video which gives us some insight on her work.An hour conversation with Nobel Prize-winning author Toni Morrison about her publications "The Bluest Eye", "Sula" and "Song of Solomon". She discusses the impact of the publication of "Beloved" in 1987, her Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1988 and her book "Paradise", which details the social upheaval that affects a small, proud all-black town over time.Cheers to the New Year, and to new reads!
Stalag 17
Stalag 17 Quotes Volleyball Cute Volleyball Quotes For Tee Shirt / Stalag 17 Quotes Volleyball quotes about losing volleyball games
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Categories: Stalag 17 Quotes, Stalag 17 Quotes, Stalag 17 Quotes
Timothy Bottoms
Timothy Bottoms / Critical Shopper Come Out of Your Cave and Get Used to the Price - New York TimesNew York TimesCritical Shopper Come Out of Your Cave and Get Used to the PriceNew York Times, United States -It was a carefree, de-gorgeous era, when I often wore girl�s-size thermals printed with snowflakes or flowers and $3 thrift store bell-bottoms. The world's weirdest cases (Times Online Sunday)A meticulous collector of amusing and curious anecdotes from the world of law, Professor Gary Slapper's Case Notes column has long been a staple of The Times' Law section. From next week, his collection of legal oddities will be on display in a new column, Weird Cases.www.timesonline.co.ukBucks County real estate transactions (The Philadelphia Inquirer)These transactions were recorded in July. 208 Kulp Dr NVR Inc to William C Cox Jr, $250,265. 417 Saddlery Dr NVR Inc to Thomas D Jr and Christi L Hunter, $395,915.www.philly.comHerzog shoots (part one) (The Observer)Things happen on a Werner Herzog set: mutinies break out, actors' lives are threatened, crew members are beaten and thrown in jail in the wildest corners of the world - and all in pursuit of the 'ecstatic truth' about humanity.observer.guardian.co.uk93 sign House letter urging ban on off-highway vehicles in Utah wilderness (The Salt Lake Tribune)WASHINGTON - A band of House members sent a letter Tuesday urging the federal government to block off-highway vehicle use in some of Utah's most remote lands, citing the cultural and archaeological treasures that might be damaged.www.sltrib.comThe Paper ChaseExpecting only the basic pressures of attending Harvard Law School, a serious, hard-working student (Timothy Bottoms) finds himself the fearful adversary of the school's most imperious, sarcastic professor (John Houseman). ...shopping.microuse.comPeople Aguilera back basics christina Names Matt Damon at the Top ...Christina Aguilera confirms pregnancy in magazine interview. Edition that her plans for New Year. Being just before he wed Lopez in. Hoping to have started a beautiful family with my husband. Timothy bottoms! ...yourdenj.family.ericsato.netOn this day in History - Aug. 301951 - Timothy Bottoms was born. American actor 1951 - Dana (singer) was born. Irish singer and politician 1953 - Robin Harris was born (d. 1990). American comedian. 1953 - Horace Panter was born. British musician (The Specials and ...sztdrewsheera.nestsites.netTimothy Treadwell CampTimothy Treadwell Camp3 min As a reporter, I did a lot of stories on a man named Timothy Treadwell, aka Grizzly Man. Here is footage of his campsite. Look for his shoe in the bottom right corner. I added music....
Travis Walton
Fire in the Sky (Travis Walton) / Billy Booth has a piece on the Walton case:The Walton Abduction.In 1975, Travis Walton and a few of his co-workers encountered a UFO. Walton went missing, he was found five days later, the rest is UFO history.A movie; Fire in the Sky, was made in 1993 about Walton�s experiences. (Robert Patrick co-starred; Patrick was the actor who replaced David Duchovny in The X-Files.)Naturally, the debunkers, particularly the late Philip Klass, did their best to rip Walton apart. Travis Walton and the other witnesses still stick to their story, to this day, no one�s managed to reveal anything, show any compelling evidence, that proves they�re lying. As Booth says:Personally, I believe that the Walton abduction really occurred, and those who disagree with me cannot offer any evidence to support their negative position.There�s a link he provides to a video about the case from the Weird Travels program.cut and paste if link doesn�t work: http://ufos.about.com/b/2007/12/17/the-walton-abduction.htm
Travis Walton
Fire in the sky
Travis Walton in other blogs:
Travis Walton
Fire in the sky
The Tattooist
Tattooist US Release /
Tatau spooks up the big screen in The Tattooist, a supernatural thriller with an evil Samoan spirit wreaking revenge over a tattoo theft. Jason Behr (Grudge) plays the white guy with hot brownies Robbie Magasiva (Sione�s Wedding), Mia Blake (No 2) and Dave Fane (Bro Town).
The film is a Singapore/New Zealand co-production produced by Robin [...]
Gia
Waka /
My current work in progress, next in the Demons of Dunmore series, has a distinctly oriental flavor. The heroine has studied the arts of war in the east for many years.
As I have researched eastern culture, I have come across some utterly beautiful poetry. Traditional Japanese poetry is called waka. It literally means Japanese poem. Waka has no concept of rhyme, in fact certain arrangements of rhyme (even accidental) are considered dire faults in traditional Japanese poetry.
There is little concept of line…instead waka has the unit, or phrase, which is often turned into line when the poem is translated into western languages.
In ancient times it was common for writers to exchange waka instead of prose…especially between lovers. A famous example of this is found in the book Hannibal Rising, by Thomas Harris. The exchange takes place between a young Hannibal Lector and the Japanese aunt he has fallen in love with:
~Women pick up surveillance faster than men do, as part of their survival skills, and they at once recognize desire. They also recognize its absence. She felt the change in him. Something was missing behind his eyes.
The words of her ancestor Murasaki Shikibu came to her and she said them:
�The troubled waters
Are frozen fast.
Under Clear Heaven
Moonlight and shadow
Ebb and flow.�
Hannibal made Prince Genji�s classic reply:
�The memories of long love
Gather like drifting snow.
Poignant as the mandarin ducks
Who float side by side in sleep.�
�No,� Lady Murasaki said. �No. Now there is only ice. It�s gone. Is it not gone?�
�You are my favorite person in the world,� he said quite truthfully.
She inclined her head to him and left the room.~
A very emotional scene that gets to the heart of Lector�s character.
Let me share a few more waka that I find particularly lovely. Translated by Kenneth Rexroth, 1955:
I have always known
That at last I would
Take this road, but yesterday
I did not know that it would be today.
NARIHIRA (9th century)
Out in the marsh reeds
A bird cries out in sorrow,
As though it had recalled
Something better forgotten.
KI NO TSURAYUKI (10th century)
This life of ours would not cause you sorrow
if you thought of it as like
the mountain cherry blossoms
which bloom and fade in a day.
MURASAKI SHIKIBU (974-1031)
In the dusk the path
You used to come to me
Is overgrown and indistinguishable,
Except for the spider webs
That hang across it
Like threads of sorrow.
IZUMI SHIKIBU (11th century)
Not speaking of the way,
Not thinking of what comes after,
Not questioning name or fame,
Here, loving love,
You and I look at each other.
YOSANO AKIKO (modern)
I hope you have enjoyed. Gia
ADV To “PiQ” Interest
Quickie: What Is VIZ Up To?
Utada Hikaru Rips Off Shokotan; Is Less Cute
Ravenwear Gia
Gia in other blogs:
ADV To “PiQ” Interest
Quickie: What Is VIZ Up To?
Utada Hikaru Rips Off Shokotan; Is Less Cute
Ravenwear Gia
Gia
Waka /
My current work in progress, next in the Demons of Dunmore series, has a distinctly oriental flavor. The heroine has studied the arts of war in the east for many years.
As I have researched eastern culture, I have come across some utterly beautiful poetry. Traditional Japanese poetry is called waka. It literally means Japanese poem. Waka has no concept of rhyme, in fact certain arrangements of rhyme (even accidental) are considered dire faults in traditional Japanese poetry.
There is little concept of line…instead waka has the unit, or phrase, which is often turned into line when the poem is translated into western languages.
In ancient times it was common for writers to exchange waka instead of prose…especially between lovers. A famous example of this is found in the book Hannibal Rising, by Thomas Harris. The exchange takes place between a young Hannibal Lector and the Japanese aunt he has fallen in love with:
~Women pick up surveillance faster than men do, as part of their survival skills, and they at once recognize desire. They also recognize its absence. She felt the change in him. Something was missing behind his eyes.
The words of her ancestor Murasaki Shikibu came to her and she said them:
�The troubled waters
Are frozen fast.
Under Clear Heaven
Moonlight and shadow
Ebb and flow.�
Hannibal made Prince Genji�s classic reply:
�The memories of long love
Gather like drifting snow.
Poignant as the mandarin ducks
Who float side by side in sleep.�
�No,� Lady Murasaki said. �No. Now there is only ice. It�s gone. Is it not gone?�
�You are my favorite person in the world,� he said quite truthfully.
She inclined her head to him and left the room.~
A very emotional scene that gets to the heart of Lector�s character.
Let me share a few more waka that I find particularly lovely. Translated by Kenneth Rexroth, 1955:
I have always known
That at last I would
Take this road, but yesterday
I did not know that it would be today.
NARIHIRA (9th century)
Out in the marsh reeds
A bird cries out in sorrow,
As though it had recalled
Something better forgotten.
KI NO TSURAYUKI (10th century)
This life of ours would not cause you sorrow
if you thought of it as like
the mountain cherry blossoms
which bloom and fade in a day.
MURASAKI SHIKIBU (974-1031)
In the dusk the path
You used to come to me
Is overgrown and indistinguishable,
Except for the spider webs
That hang across it
Like threads of sorrow.
IZUMI SHIKIBU (11th century)
Not speaking of the way,
Not thinking of what comes after,
Not questioning name or fame,
Here, loving love,
You and I look at each other.
YOSANO AKIKO (modern)
I hope you have enjoyed. Gia
ADV To “PiQ” Interest
Quickie: What Is VIZ Up To?
Utada Hikaru Rips Off Shokotan; Is Less Cute
Ravenwear Gia
Gia in other blogs:
ADV To “PiQ” Interest
Quickie: What Is VIZ Up To?
Utada Hikaru Rips Off Shokotan; Is Less Cute
Ravenwear Gia
Susan May Pratt
Nicholas Hytner / Hytner appeals for �mischievous right wing� play to spice up National - StageHytner appeals for �mischievous right wing� play to spice up NationalStage, UK -National Theatre artistic director Nicholas Hytner has issued a call for �offensive� plays challenging liberal values that he could stage at the flagship Keitel Will Be Springer in Carnegie Hall Jerry Springer: The Opera (Playbill)Stage and screen star Harvey Keitel will play the title role in Jerry Springer � The Opera in Concert , which will be presented at Carnegie Hall Jan. 29 and 30, 2008.www.playbill.comKeitel to play Springer in 'Opera' (Moldova.org)Harvey Keitel is set to play the title role in a concert version of "Jerry Springer --The Opera in Concert" for a brief engagement at New York's Carnegie Hall. Keitel, who is best-known for his roles in the films "Taxi Driver,""Bugsy,""Pulp Fiction" and "Reservoir Dogs," will play the popular U.S. talk-show host on Jan. 29-30, Playbill.com reported. Producers told The New York Times that if ...movie.moldova.orgKeitel to play Springer in 'Opera' (EARTHtimes.org)Harvey Keitel is set to play the title role in a concert version of Jerry Springer --The Opera in Concert for a brief engagement at New York's Carnegie Hall. Keitel, who is best-known for his roles in the films Taxi Driver, Bugsy, Pulp Fiction and... www.earthtimes.orgLifting the curtain (Guardian Unlimited)Arts & entertainment: The stage, Michael Billington says, is the art form that best reflects the mood of the nation.arts.guardian.co.ukAmanda Schull OnlineDirected by Nicholas Hytner.A film by Nicholas Hytner with bAmanda Schull/b, Ethan Stiefel. CinemaSense Rating: SILVER. Movie Reviews of the Heart.Bild: Center Stage: bAmanda Schull/b,Zoe Saldana,Susan May Pratt,George Fenton,Nicholas...cayui.mevent.orgAmanda Schull picture from the movie - Amanda Schull movie stillsDirected by Nicholas Hytner.Empire Records, Stage, Nicholas Hytner, Movie, Written, Screenplay, Peter, bAmanda/b bSchull/b. b/b Stage, Eion Bailey, Ethan Stiefel, bAmanda Schull/b, Julie Kent. b/bCenter Stage (2000): bAmanda Schull/b, ...www.snomi.orgAmazon.co.uk: Amanda Schull: DVDBild: Center Stage: bAmanda Schull/b,Zoe Saldana,Susan May Pratt,George Fenton,Nicholas Hytner by bAmanda Schull/b,Zoe Saldana,Susan May Pratt,George Fenton b/bYahoo! Shopping is the best place to comparison shop for bAmanda Schull/b ...www.snomi.org...
Greg Long
“Mom’s Gone Fighting The Deaf Wars” - Chpt. 25 / This is a blog serial - so please read the preceding chapter if you havenâ��t done so yet. To see the list of characters, please refer to the Preface post.
Ms. Marr never went that far again in the mainstream classes again, after being forced to apologize. Nevertheless, she took extreme pleasure at seeing me yelled at by the teacher or being in a frustrating situation.
She would also regale me with stories of her childhood. Long, boring stories about how dependent her deaf parents were on her, and how about she had to take care of her deaf and mentally retarded sister. Ms. Marr would also preach to me how wonderful religion was and took it upon herself to try to instill morals in me. I swore to myself that if I ever had hearing children, I would not be dependent on them like Ms. Marr’s parents were. I didn’t want my children to turn out like her.
I would also become extremely attuned to people’s body language. By observing Ms. Marr’s body language, and others as well, I would know whether today would be a good day or not. As an indirect result of that, I also became a very good actor because I would steel myself for what I knew would be a bad day coming, and I would act like it didn’t affect me. The next day, after something horrible happened, I would carry on perfectly normal conversations with her and with whoever else harassed me. Needless to say, it wasn’t good for my psyche. I clearly remember that year, at least once a week, I would cry myself to sleep over what happened to me that day.
Most of the time, I did report to Mom about what happened - Ms. Marr and the others didn’t terrify me like Joan did. I can’t pinpoint exactly why, but I think it’s because Joan was far more cold than anyone else, and even as a teenager I could see that Ms. Marr was just a pathetic creature. But anyway, there were a lot of complaints filed that year.
It also was during that year that LaSotta, the Northview superintendent, found out that his contract would not be renewed. It was never really acknowledged, but we all knew it was because of our lawsuit and appeal.
Near the end of ninth grade, we held another meeting. We were still stuck with the stay-put, but we needed to meet anyway, to discuss my progress and so on. It was during that meeting that Doreen told Mom that it was obvious that I had a learning disability in mathematics. Mom denied it and thought Doreen was full of it. She told Doreen, ‘Fine. Let’s find out. I’m going to take Jeannette to be evaluated by Dr. Greg Long and prove you wrong!’
So that summer, Mom drove me all the way down to Northern Illinois University, where Dr. Long was at. I was nervous, because I knew that I was definitely struggling with math, and that was unusual. Everything else wasn’t that difficult for me, so I suspected that Doreen could be right. It would explain why I was struggling so hard.
Dr. Long gave me a battery of psychological tests, and I’ll never forget this part. We were in a room with an one-way mirror, so grad students could watch Dr. Long administer the test to me. Up to this point, I had basically aced all of the tests. But when Dr. Long pulled out the puzzles, I knew I was in trouble. I was never good at puzzles, and I wanted to pass the tests, but I knew I couldn’t pass this one.
The puzzle pieces were spread out on the table, and this was just an example one - I should have been able to easily put together that puzzle. And I couldn’t. Dr. Long raised his eyebrows and put it together for me, and it was an apple.
A child’s puzzle, and I couldn’t put it together. I did have a learning disability in math.
When summer ended, Northview had a new superintendent, Dr. Pat Oldt. We also were finished with the state appeal and appealing to the federal courts. It was also arranged that I would have tutoring pretty much everyday after school in math. And of course, Ms. Marr was interpreting the tutoring sessions.
The tutoring sessions for the most part, were okay. It was one on one with the mainstream math teacher, so Ms. Marr couldn’t really get out of hand. But one day, Ms. Marr didn’t show up to the session, and both the teacher and I were puzzled. It was always understood that I would come by for tutoring, and I would inform them only if I didn’t want it that afternoon.
So I went home and told Mom about the no-show. She called Kiley and asked what was going on. Kiley told her he would call back after talking with Ms. Marr about it. A few hours later, Kiley called back and of course, laid all of the blame at my feet. He claimed that I didn’t tell Ms. Marr about the tutoring session, therefore she didn’t show. But unknown to Kiley, my brother who attended high school with me, had told Mom that Sherri E. collapsed that day, with chest pains.
So Mom put two and two together, and she told Kiley, “I don’t think so. I think this is what really happened. It’s understood by everyone that Jeannette will be there, unless she says she won’t be. I think that Ms. Marr was so worried about her co-worker, that she forgot all about the tutoring session.”
A long silence ensued. Then he softly said, “Yeah. You’re right. You’re not going to file a complaint about this, are you?”
Mom didn’t file a complaint over this one. There were already so many complaints that it was practically a bloodbath. But I was tired of getting the blame when something went wrong. Why was it always my fault?
When the appeal reached the federal courts, the magistrate was shocked. Mom told me that he wrote roughly along those lines, “I do not understand why this is here. This case should not be here. I see a long list of valid, legitimate concerns on the parents’ side, but all I see from the schools is a litany of personal, vicious criticisms leveled at the mother.
I see no substantial defense on the schools’ part, and I am looking at the schools with an extremely jaundiced eye. I am ordering the two parties to attempt to settle, or otherwise I am very inclined to rule in the parents’ favor.”
So in the winter in my tenth grade year, Mary Polonawski with two other regional directors sat down with Mom and attempted to write out a settlement agreement.
Mom would recount to me years later that they were sitting in a meeting room, and Mom had a box of complaints behind her. She at this point, was exhausted and enraged over what happened to me and her. At one point during the meeting one of the directors was dismissive of what Mom was saying. So she pulled up the box and pulled out a complaint and slapped it down on the table. “This complaint is about Deb Mills’ forgery. What do you think that is worth to a jury?”
Another complaint was slapped down on the table. “This complaint is about Ms. Marr’s pervasive harassment of my daughter. What do you think this is worth to a jury?”
Yet another complaint, complaint and complaint were slapped down on the table. “This complaint.. this complaint.. this complaint.. What do you think this is worth to a jury? What do you think this is worth to a jury? What do you think this is worth to a jury? I have a basement full of those boxes!”
They stared at her in stunned silence, then one of them said, “You’re going to bankrupt us! What do you think is going to happen? People are going to be upset with you for bankrupting us! Northview won’t be able to provide services to the students anymore if we go to a jury!”
Mom leaned over the table and snarled, “Me bankrupt you?! I did not do those things and nor did my daughter. Your school personnel did those things! And by God, someone is going to pay for this. There are going to be consequences for what you did. You were the ones who committed those crimes! CRIMES!“
I can only imagine that Mom’s raw words echoed through that room.
After a long silence, with tears on her face, Mary then said, “Okay…”
Mom stared at her, waiting.
After taking a deep breath, Mary then said, “What do you want in the agreement?”
Mom sat back in her chair with a small sigh. The long ordeal was finally about to end…
Continue to Chapter 26
Table of Contents
Hamburger Helper
Hamburger Helper Sample / A sample of Hamburger Helper Microwave Singles has just launched on StartSampling.com. Click here to visit StartSamping and grab a sample. You will receive a sample of one of three flavors - Cheesy Lasagna, Stroganoff or Cheeseburger Macaroni. Enjoy!
Free Hamburger Helper Microwave Singles / Hamburger helper is now quicker and more convenient than ever. They’ve got single serving microwave packs now. Don’t ask me how hamburger can be stored in a dry packet, but it’s in there. You just add water and microwave for a hot, quick hamburger helper meal. Request Free Hamburger Helper
Free Hamburger Helper Microwave Singles / Hamburger helper is now quicker and more convenient than ever. They’ve got single serving microwave packs now. Don’t ask me how hamburger can be stored in a dry packet, but it’s in there. You just add water and microwave for a hot, quick hamburger helper meal. Request Free Hamburger Helper
Charles Manson
Mother of Manson love child: Set my Charlie free / THE MOTHER of Charles Manson�s secret love child vows to fight for the helter-skelter madman until prison officials see what she calls �the error of their ways� - and release him from prison for good!
“I wonâ��t rest until Charles is a free man,” Sister Margaret Peers told me exclusively. The nun claims she trysted with Manson just days before his arrest in 1969 and then gave birth to a daughter while his trial for the murders of actress Sharon Tate and six other people was in full swing.
â��Iâ��m not saying he isnâ��t guilty,” she continued in telephone interview from her apartment in Los Angeles. “Iâ��m saying heâ��s been punished enough. Itâ��s time to let bygones be bygones.
�Even Charlie Manson deserves a chance to connect with the daughter he�s never met. She�s a respected doctor and she very much wants to bond with her dad.�
Sister Margaret, 61, says she entered a convent five years after she sizzled with Manson, who was, she claims, the first and last man to �know� her.
She declined to identify their love child by name, but did say the accomplished young woman �has Charlie�s eyes and quick wit, lives in northern California, and will celebrate her 38th birthday in August.�
Officials at California�s Corcoran State Prison, where Manson is serving a life sentence for orchestrating the LSD-fueled murder rampage that sent five members of his devoted �family� of outcasts to prison, aren�t talking a blue streak, either.
Asked about Sister Margaret�s attempts to free Manson, one high-ranking official snapped: �The only way Charlie is leaving the big house is in a pine box with pennies on his eyes and the lid nailed shut.�
The nun�s crusade isn�t going to thrill survivors of the victims, either. They�ve argued passionately against parole for �the most dangerous man in America� since he became eligible for release in 1992.
And to hear one observer tell it, �they�re just getting warmed up.�
�I understand their pain, but Charlie can help them find closure if they�ll just trust God and open their hearts to love,� counters Sister Margaret, who claims to have spoken to Manson �in several letters� and insists that �he wants his freedom as much as I do.�
If that�s true, he�s certainly playing it close to the vest, refusing to respond to questions from reporters who are anxious to hear what the 68-year-old �icon of evil� he has to say about the nun, his love child - and parole.
Scuttlebutt coming from prison insiders is as conflicted and contradictory as the madman himself. Sources have alternately reported that Manson:
O Doesn�t know Sister Margaret.
O Fondly recalls their one-night stand in the back of a stolen VW bus and still has �a thing� for her.
O Doesn�t want to meet his love child under any circumstances.
O Can�t wait to meet his love child so he can kill her.
�Charlie ain�t just crazy - he�s real crazy,� says a fellow inmate. �He�s senile, too. And all he wants to do walk down memory lane and talk about killing people and cackle like an old hen.
�But who knows? Maybe if you let him out of prison he�ll pull himself together. He�s still a charmer when he wants to be. Maybe he could become a preacher.�
The chances of a Manson parole seem slim at best. He�s already been turned down 10 times - and his next opportunity is in the year 2009.
Meanwhile, Sister Margaret vows to fight for his freedom �to my last breath.�
�Every mother in America knows where I�m coming from,� she says. �I�m not only doing this for Charlie, I�m doing this for my child.�
John Dillinger
I Am Pleased / Oh, what a happy day this has turned out to be!
So what if I’m swamped with work or just interviewed for a three-days-a-week job without pay!
What’s got me in such a good mood? I just found out that two of my favorite pieces of man mean will star in a movie together. Some of you ladies might need to sit down for this. Let me know when you’re ready. Ready? Okay.
Johnny Depp ::drool:: and Christian Bale ::drool:: will star in the movie “Public Enemies.” (I read that Bale is in negotiations to star along side Depp, but that’s good enough for me!)
Said to be in production this March, “Public Enemies” is a movie about John Dillinger, a bank robber from the early 1900’s who was “considered by some to be a dangerous criminal, while others idealized him as a latter-day Robin Hood.”
According to Wikipedia, “His exploits, along with those of other criminals of the 1930s Depression era, such as Bonnie and Clyde and Ma Barker, dominated the attentions of the American press and its readers during what is sometimes referred to as the public enemy era, between 1931 and 1935, a period which led to the further development of the modern and more sophisticated FBI.”
Bale plays Purvis, “the legendary FBI agent who led the manhunt for John Dillinger.”
Here’s a fun fact for you: Dillinger’s last day of freedom was July 22, 1934. Dillinger attended the film Manhattan Melodrama (coincidentally, a gangster film) at the Biograph Theater in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago. He was killed outside. If you’ve ever been on a Richard Crowe Ghost Tour, he takes you there and tells you the story. Thought I’d share!
Thank you movie gods. A happy Friday to all!
The Shins
The Shins� Marty Crandall Proves that Even the Artsy can get in on Domestic Abuse /
The Shins� Marty Crandall with longtime sweetheart and supermodel Elyse Sewell, presumably before their Sacramento arrrest
If you thought that domestic violence was a pastime of coked up defense lawyers and drunk bow hunters, think again. Earlier this month, The Shins� Marty Crandall proved that arty hipsters can get down and dirty with the best of them. The only difference is that they blog about it on Live Journal.
On January 4, Crandall and his girlfriend of seven years, Elyse Sewell, the edgy egghead who appeared on the first season of America�s Next Top Model, ended up in the custody of Sacramento County police after the two got into a drunken scuffle in their hotel room...
Interview: Jesse LeDoux on The Shins, expanding the five inch square, and the creative benefits of viaduct gridlock / Interview by Spike Jesse LeDoux will not be constrained by a five inch square canvas. Read on. Occasionally a record appears featuring artwork so visually arresting — so completely in tune with the musical content — that it becomes almost impossible to separate the two. It’s as if the proverbial creative egg cracked, and the songs and the artwork teetered out together to have a squint at the world. Chutes Too Narrow by The Shins is one of those teetering squinters, and the man behind the wildly creative die-cut artwork and packaging is Jesse LeDoux. Let’s see what he has to say about all this. Had you heard any — or all — of Chutes Too Narrow before starting on the artwork? Jesse: I did! I had a copy of the record about an hour after The Shins finished mixing it. I had heard a couple of the songs during a trip to the recording studio, but I felt it was important to hear the album in its entirety before starting on the art. The songs on the record are rather varied, so I wanted to be sure the art encompassed the vibe of the entire album. At least that was my excuse for needing a copy of the record IMMEDIATELY after it was finished — the bigger reason being, I really like the band and was eager to get my hands on the new album. Was it a collaborative effort with The Shins? Or were you pretty much left alone to do your thing? Prior to starting on the album, James (Mercer, The Shins’ songwriter) and I sat down for an hour to talk about the artwork. We looked through a bunch of books and magazines, but by the end of our meeting the only direction we decided to go in was to have the art be a significant departure from the monochromatic simplicity of Oh, Inverted World, and to include his handwritten lyrics in the package somehow. I kept the band in the loop throughout the entire process, but at the same time they were really great about trusting me to come up with something. They all seemed genuinely happy with what I came up with. It was really a dream project in a lot of ways. Have you noticed downloading/iTunes affecting record packaging at all? Originally I thought it would affect it adversely… but from what I see in stores, it seems the opposite. The CD/vinyl release often looks more deluxe than ever, to entice fans into wanting to own the actual record. I would agree with that view in theory, but from the album packages I’ve worked on, labels seem more inclined to offer bonus tracks or DVDs to entice buyers more than spending production budgets on crazy packaging. Sub Pop has always been great about placing a high value on how their records look, and this has made them a unique label. Although the Chutes Too Narrow package would have initially been cheaper to produce without the die-cut booklet, the die-cut helped it to stand out from the rest of the albums on the record store shelves. Plus, the cost of that die, when distributed over the amount of units sold, only adds a fraction of a penny to the cost of each unit. While it’s typically pretty easy to convince bands that fancier packaging is a good idea, it ultimately depends on the record label. Some labels are cutting loose and making the packages more exciting — others are, unfortunately, reining it in and viewing CDs as a near extinct format, which really only expedites their demise. You’ve got such a cool body of work now — not to mention a Grammy nomination. Your name must really be out there as a designer of choice for lots of folks. Any bands or solo artists — from small to huge — that you’d really love to work with? I’ve found the bands I really like are the most difficult ones to create artwork for. I end up trying too hard to make everything perfect, overthinking the artwork in the process. I’m typically able to break through this “stage fright” period. However, it certainly adds time to the project — and usually results in a few sleepless nights. Ultimately, a dream job for me would be to work with a band whom I’ve never heard of — which isn’t hard, as I live with my head under a rock most of the time — who turns out to be really good, and is willing to let me do my thing and get a little wacky with the packaging. Either them or David Bowie. For more of Jesse’s artwork, including t-shirt designs, limited edition prints, and even a line of toys, go to LeDouxville. Also, check out the preliminary work Jesse shared after the interview: Here’s my original folding mock-up “sketch.” I made it while my bus was stuck in gridlock on the viaduct on my way to work one morning. All I had on me was that week’s Stranger, so I ripped it out and started cutting it up. By the time the traffic started flowing and I got to work, I pretty much had the concept set.
The Shins - Strange Powers (Live Magnetic Fields Cover) / Since the Magnetic Fields have a new album and tour coming up this month and The Shins “Wincing the Night Away” made my list of favorite albums of 2007, It seems appropriate that now would be as good a time as any to post a Shins cover of a Magnetic Fields song. This is a track from their 2005 between-albums tour when they played Webster Hall in NYC. “Chutes Too Narrow” had come out 2 year earlier in 2003, yet The Shins had not a single new song except for this Magnetic Fields cover off of the album Holiday. I was pissed with The Shins for years but much has now been forgiven with “Wincing the Night Away”. Note to all bands out there: Being an active band and doing a tour some years after the last record with not a single new song is a really good way to get my goat, and believe me, you don’t want to get my goat. My goat is a demon goat. Download: The Shins - Strange Powers (Live)
Interview: Jesse LeDoux on The Shins, expanding the five inch square, and the creative benefits of viaduct gridlock / Interview by Spike Jesse LeDoux will not be constrained by a five inch square canvas. Read on. Occasionally a record appears featuring artwork so visually arresting — so completely in tune with the musical content — that it becomes almost impossible to separate the two. It’s as if the proverbial creative egg cracked, and the songs and the artwork teetered out together to have a squint at the world. Chutes Too Narrow by The Shins is one of those teetering squinters, and the man behind the wildly creative die-cut artwork and packaging is Jesse LeDoux. Let’s see what he has to say about all this. Had you heard any — or all — of Chutes Too Narrow before starting on the artwork? Jesse: I did! I had a copy of the record about an hour after The Shins finished mixing it. I had heard a couple of the songs during a trip to the recording studio, but I felt it was important to hear the album in its entirety before starting on the art. The songs on the record are rather varied, so I wanted to be sure the art encompassed the vibe of the entire album. At least that was my excuse for needing a copy of the record IMMEDIATELY after it was finished — the bigger reason being, I really like the band and was eager to get my hands on the new album. Was it a collaborative effort with The Shins? Or were you pretty much left alone to do your thing? Prior to starting on the album, James (Mercer, The Shins’ songwriter) and I sat down for an hour to talk about the artwork. We looked through a bunch of books and magazines, but by the end of our meeting the only direction we decided to go in was to have the art be a significant departure from the monochromatic simplicity of Oh, Inverted World, and to include his handwritten lyrics in the package somehow. I kept the band in the loop throughout the entire process, but at the same time they were really great about trusting me to come up with something. They all seemed genuinely happy with what I came up with. It was really a dream project in a lot of ways. Have you noticed downloading/iTunes affecting record packaging at all? Originally I thought it would affect it adversely… but from what I see in stores, it seems the opposite. The CD/vinyl release often looks more deluxe than ever, to entice fans into wanting to own the actual record. I would agree with that view in theory, but from the album packages I’ve worked on, labels seem more inclined to offer bonus tracks or DVDs to entice buyers more than spending production budgets on crazy packaging. Sub Pop has always been great about placing a high value on how their records look, and this has made them a unique label. Although the Chutes Too Narrow package would have initially been cheaper to produce without the die-cut booklet, the die-cut helped it to stand out from the rest of the albums on the record store shelves. Plus, the cost of that die, when distributed over the amount of units sold, only adds a fraction of a penny to the cost of each unit. While it’s typically pretty easy to convince bands that fancier packaging is a good idea, it ultimately depends on the record label. Some labels are cutting loose and making the packages more exciting — others are, unfortunately, reining it in and viewing CDs as a near extinct format, which really only expedites their demise. You’ve got such a cool body of work now — not to mention a Grammy nomination. Your name must really be out there as a designer of choice for lots of folks. Any bands or solo artists — from small to huge — that you’d really love to work with? I’ve found the bands I really like are the most difficult ones to create artwork for. I end up trying too hard to make everything perfect, overthinking the artwork in the process. I’m typically able to break through this “stage fright” period. However, it certainly adds time to the project — and usually results in a few sleepless nights. Ultimately, a dream job for me would be to work with a band whom I’ve never heard of — which isn’t hard, as I live with my head under a rock most of the time — who turns out to be really good, and is willing to let me do my thing and get a little wacky with the packaging. Either them or David Bowie. For more of Jesse’s artwork, including t-shirt designs, limited edition prints, and even a line of toys, go to LeDouxville. Also, check out the preliminary work Jesse shared after the interview: Here’s my original folding mock-up “sketch.” I made it while my bus was stuck in gridlock on the viaduct on my way to work one morning. All I had on me was that week’s Stranger, so I ripped it out and started cutting it up. By the time the traffic started flowing and I got to work, I pretty much had the concept set.
The Shins - Strange Powers (Live Magnetic Fields Cover) / Since the Magnetic Fields have a new album and tour coming up this month and The Shins “Wincing the Night Away” made my list of favorite albums of 2007, It seems appropriate that now would be as good a time as any to post a Shins cover of a Magnetic Fields song. This is a track from their 2005 between-albums tour when they played Webster Hall in NYC. “Chutes Too Narrow” had come out 2 year earlier in 2003, yet The Shins had not a single new song except for this Magnetic Fields cover off of the album Holiday. I was pissed with The Shins for years but much has now been forgiven with “Wincing the Night Away”. Note to all bands out there: Being an active band and doing a tour some years after the last record with not a single new song is a really good way to get my goat, and believe me, you don’t want to get my goat. My goat is a demon goat. Download: The Shins - Strange Powers (Live)