Friday 31 December 2010

Lane Kiffin ASU Q&A

USC head coach Lane Kiffin discusses the Oregon loss and the week ahead.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rm8T0KJYlBo&hl=en

Thursday 30 December 2010

Why We Sing performance

The 2008 Jacksonville State University Honor Choir for Middle School students performs the song "Why We Sing" by Greg Gilpin on May 3.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EWbXtmn1CU8&hl=en

Wednesday 29 December 2010

Alabama vs. Penn State 9/11/2010

Pre-game hype video I made. Enjoy. PS Some of your favorite plays from the '09 season aren't in this video; they will come with my next video dedicated to the upcoming season.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eszz9T6Syes&hl=en

Tuesday 28 December 2010

2008 Marching Southerners - "From Russia with Love" (1 of 2)

At the 2008 JSU Contest of Champions, the Jacksonville State University Marching Southerners performed their 2008 production. "From Russia with Love." The show features the music of several Russian composers and includes quite a few charts made from by DCI drum and bugle corps: Russian Sailors Dance from the Red Poppy (1994 Santa Clara Vanguard) - Reinhold Gliere "Trepak" from the Nutcracker Suite (1987 Phantom Regiment) - Peter IlyichTchaikovsky Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini (1995 Phantom Regiment) - Sergei Rachmaninoff "Finale" from Symphony No. 5 (1996 Phantom Regiment) - Dmitri Shostokovich "The Great Gate of Kiev" from Pictures at an Exhibition (1987 Santa Clara Vanguard) - Modest Mussorgsky If you listen carefully you will also hear snippets of James Bond theme (not sure how similar but the Cavaliers did a Bond show in 2004) and a snippet of the Bottle Dance from Fiddler on the Roof, a Santa Clara Vanguard classic. So whether you are a drum corps who wants to hear some of DCI's "greatest hits" played in way to take you back to the shows of the Vanguard and Phantom Regiment or whether you just enjoy marching band enjoy the 2008 Southerners. I think you will see why the Southerners are, without a doubt, the best marching band in America! And now for the moment you have all been waiting for....THE JACKSONVILLE STATE UNIVERSITY MAAAAAAAARCHING SOUTHERNERS!!! BLOW SOUTHERNERS!!



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OrhtdcFn6Wk&hl=en

Sunday 26 December 2010

Jesse Owens - His Story

The man known to the world as Jesse Owens was given the full name of James Cleveland Owens when he was born on the 12th of September in 1913. His parents were Henry and Emma Owens, who provided for their ten children by planting various crops on their farm in Oakville, Alabama.

Financial difficulties forced the Owens family to relocate to Cleveland, Ohio. The seventh of the ten, young J.C. earned the moniker Jesse when his teacher mistook "JC" for Jesse, and it stuck with him.

Life still proved difficult for the family, and young Jesse had to perform various odd jobs after school to help. Nevertheless, he still found time to engage in his favorite activity: running. And it was in one of these gym exercises that coach Charles Riley saw the potential in the young man.

Jesse Owens joined the high school team, and there was no turning back. In his last year at high school at Cleveland East High he equaled the 100 yard world record, and duplicated the feat when he competed in the Chicago Interscholastic Championships.

Although a budding track star, Jesse Owens experienced many more hardships especially when he entered Ohio State University in 1933. Racial discrimination was still widespread; he could only participate in "blacks only" campus events, and was also denied scholarship. Furthermore he could only stay and enter hotels and eateries that were for blacks. Yet he persevered.

On May 25, 1935, Jesse Owens established three world records and equaled another. This feat, which took place in Ann Arbor, was made all the more remarkable because the time involved spanned less than 45 minutes. In addition, Owens had an injured back. Yet despite this, he equaled the 100 yard dash time of 9.4 seconds. At his very first attempt at the broad jump, he leapt 26 feet 8¼ inches, smashing the previous mark by six inches.

Next, he clocked in 20.3 seconds at the 220 yard dash, obliterating the old record by three tenths of a second. Finally Jesse Owens set another world record at the 220 yard low hurdles, setting a new mark by completing it in 22.6 seconds.

It was against this background that Jesse Owens entered the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Here, Adolf Hitler wanted to prove to the world that the German Aryan race was superior, but Owens instead emerge victorious in the broad jump,100 meter, the 200 meter sprint and was part of the 400 meter relay team that took the gold.

For all his success on the field, Jesse Owens still had financial problems. He could not get any endorsements because he was black, so he had to resort to performing in exhibitions, running against baseball players, race horses, bikes etc.

Eventually he became involved in public speaking engagements and this proved so successful he managed to establish his own PR firm. He spoke for Olympics committees, companies, and also the youth.

In 1976, US President Gerald Ford awarded Jesse Owens the Medal of Freedom for having fought and defeated the forces of racism and bigotry to emerged triumphant.

Jesse Owens died on March 31, 1980 in Tucson Arizona due to lung cancer, and in 1990 was posthumously given the Congressional Gold Medal by US President George H. Bush. His determination to overcome adversity has become a symbol for the indomitable will of the human spirit.

Saturday 25 December 2010

2010 JSU Sonic Boom of the South - America the Beautiful

The 2010 Jackson State University Sonic Boom of the South at halftime during the JSU vs Alabama A&M game, 10/9/2010.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jE7UsGBAQ78&hl=en

Friday 24 December 2010

Alabama AllState White Band '08 grade 9 "A Festival Prelude"

Alabama Allstate White Band in 2008. this is "A Festival Prelude" played at auburn university. April 19, 2008, 2 pm.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRBchtnZ1aE&hl=en

Thursday 23 December 2010

Penn State vs Alabama - Joe Pa vs The Bear (4 of 4)

Alabama vs Penn State 2010 It's sad to think that this year and the next will probably be the last time these two teams meet with Joe Pa on the sidelines...



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pfFWMxvkFsI&hl=en

Wednesday 22 December 2010

LeFlore High School band at ASU

2006-2007 LeFlore Prepatory Academy (John L. LeFlore High School)Rattler Band at the Alabama State University vs Arkansas Pinebluff football game.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QIQa41y8KOg&hl=en

Monday 20 December 2010

Speed Traps - Legal Or Not They Can Cause Problems For Drivers

Only 11 states in the U.S. have laws regarding speed traps. Although these operations are usually set up to provoke safer driving in areas that are prone to speeding, they aren't always a good thing. If you're a driver who's been caught speeding as a result of a speed trap setup, you may be angered and upset that you were set up like that. The easiest and most obvious way to avoid being the victim of a speed trap would be to simply drive the speed limit. However, there are some areas across the nation where the speed limit is grossly under-posted, and you may not be aware of how fast you are supposed to be going. Additionally, most speed limits are prevailingly ignored, and traffic moves at its desired flow, regardless of posted limits. Thus, if you are in an unknown city or area, you might be caught in a speed trap due to being under-informed or unaware of your surroundings.

Every state has laws regarding posted speeds, and what speeds should be in different areas. For example, in most cities and downtown areas, the average speed is 25 mph, as it is in most residential neighborhoods. However, when you are in a commercial area, depending on the specific location, speed limits will usually be set at 35-40 mph. Highway speeds generally range between 55-60 mph for state highways, and 65-75 for interstate highways, again depending on your location. Check your local state laws for more information on speed limits in your state.

If you're traveling to an unfamiliar place, and want to avoid being the wrongful victim of a speed trap, you should research laws in that area and ensure you are informed as to what speeds are acceptable in which areas. Additionally, you can consult the Speed Trap Exchange, sponsored by the National Motorists Association, for a list of known speed traps across the country, categorized by state: Speed Trap Listings by State. This site not only allows you to view various speed traps as reported by other drivers, but you are also able to report any speed traps that you are aware of, if they aren't already listed.

Take into consideration that by providing this information, we aren't promoting unsafe driving and/or speeding. We are simply attempting to provide you with useful information so that you don't become the victim of a wrongful traffic stop due to speed traps and under-posted speed limits. You should always obey the speed limit and exercise caution and safety when you are driving.

Sunday 19 December 2010

Free DNA Testing

The majority of the companies offering DNA testing services provide DNA analysis and counseling for researching biological relationships. Most of these laboratories offer DNA testing kits at no charge for potential customers, in order to improvise on their database.

DNA testing, DNA typing or DNA profiling is one of promising techniques used to distinguish between individuals of the same species. The process uses samples of their DNA for identifying their genetics. In 1985, the process was publicly launched by Sir Alec Jeffreys at the University of Leicester. Genetic fingerprinting exploits highly variable repeating sequences called microsatellites in finding the differences between two human beings. The process states that two unrelated humans are likely to have different numbers of microsatellites at a given locus. By using PCR to detect the number of repeats at several loci, the process establishes a match that is unlikely to have arisen by coincidence.

DNA testing is subject to the legal code of the jurisdiction of the state where it is being undertaken. In most cases, testing is undertaken voluntary but incase of search warrant or court order, the testing is made mandatory. Several jurisdictions have now started assembling databases containing DNA information of convicts. The United Kingdom has the most extensive DNA database in the world, with over two million records by the end of 2005.

The companies offering these kits access an individual's case to determine the type of testing best suited for him, i.e., either a personal DNA or legal DNA test. They also provide necessary materials for DNA collections, and the results are given to the person in three to five working days. Mostly, DNA reports produced by the testing are fully accredited by the law, because most of the companies comply by methods specifically drawn by the state laws.

Friday 17 December 2010

Niagara vs Bemidji State (Nov 03, 2007)

Climie post eighth career shutout in Beavers' 3-0 win. The Bemidji State University men's ice hockey team got multiple-point efforts from three players while senior goaltender Matt Climie (Leduc, Alberta) stopped 31 shots en route to his eighth career shutout Saturday as the Beavers salvaged a series split with No. 18 Niagara, 3-0, at the John S. Glas Fieldhouse.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y_htPCPLYwE&hl=en

Thursday 16 December 2010

Top 3 SEC Football Teams For the 2009 College Football Season

With the 2009 college football season quickly approaching, anticipations are high, especially for fans of the Southeastern Conference. Coming off another national championship, thanks to the commanding Urban Meyer and his Florida Gators, the SEC is a proud conference with a long tradition of championships. If you are looking for a smooth avenue for football betting, you may not wish to look any further than the SEC brand of football.

After all, many preseason football polls have the SEC accounting for four teams in the top ten including Florida, Alabama, LSU, and Ole Miss. While Ole Miss Head Coach Houston Nutt has traditionally choked under pressure when expectations are high, the other three teams are consistently rock solid. And before you commence football betting for this season, examine the impact these teams are poised to make on the rest of the college football world.

Alabama: Nick Saban's big move to Crimson Tide country rattled a lot of cages, but none more so than those found in Louisiana. The coach built his legendary reputation on the campus of Louisiana State University, where he brought home a national championship and two SEC championships in his tenure from 2000-2004. After a lackluster professional career with the Miami Dolphins that lasted only one season, he made his triumphant return to the SEC with a different team. The Crimson Tide, in two seasons of Saban tutelage, has already won the SEC Western Division once, and held the #1 team in the nation slot until Florida knocked them from their throne late last season.

LSU: If the LSU Tigers are holding a grudge against Nick Saban, it certainly hasn't shown. Since Alabama's new head coach left the Tigers in 2004, LSU has enjoyed an additional SEC and national championship, thanks in part to coaching stalwart Les Miles. After a disappointing 2008-2009 season that saw the Tigers close with a loss to the talent-zapped Arkansas Razorbacks (in their first year under new head coach Bobby Petrino, no less), you can bet that this is a program itching for redemption.

Florida: It is very hard to do an analysis of these teams without placing the focus on coaching. Saban and Miles are both highly successful coaches, but the real story when it comes to blowing the whistle is with the Florida Gators. In just four years, Head Coach Urban Meyer has won two national championships. And that was after having gone unbeaten in his short time with the Utah Utes. Meyer has developed a reputation as someone who has his teams prepared. His brief career, in addition to the national titles, includes two SEC championships and two Mountain West Conference championships. He has already had a Hall of Fame-worthy career, but will it be enough for the 2009 college football season? Only time will tell.

Agree or disagree with any of the above? Luckily, you will have a chance to prove your football betting skills. And if you want, there are sportsbooks that make it a little easier for you by offering a bookmaker bonus. With a bookmaker bonus, you enjoy rewards simply by placing your bets with an experienced service. You are going to take part in the football betting season anyway, so why not take advantage of the incentives, such as the bookmaker bonus codes you can get from any reputable company?

The road to the national championship goes through the SEC. Get in on the action for Saturdays that are both relaxing and rewarding.

Wednesday 15 December 2010

TnSU- "Word Up"

Tennessee State playing "Word Up" vs. Alabama A&M in 2002



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hVr8v9EYQ6o&hl=en

Monday 13 December 2010

Sunday 12 December 2010

College Football Recruiting - Look Out SEC - Alabama Rates No 1 As Saban Prepares to Go to War

If you think football in the Southeastern Conference is just a game that generates a ton of money for the schools and the NCAA that regulates it in a highly publicized environment, you do not understand what success is about in the SEC.

SEC games are not battles between teams, they are outright warfare with a fight to the last man standing won by heavy artillery (talent). That is why Wednesday's (2-6-08) first day of signing letters of intent by high school seniors was so significant. According to several analysts, Nick Saban and Alabama ranked No. 1 with the nation's best class of talent.

Among Rivals.com Top 50 prospects, Alabama picked up No. 4 Julio Jones, a 6-foot-4, 215-pound wide receiver from Foley (AL); No. 28 B. J. Scott, a 6-foot, 195-pound wide receiver-super athlete from Vigor (AL); No. 30 Tyler Love, a 6-foot-7, 290-pound offensive lineman from Mountain Brook (AL); No. 34 Jerrell Harris, a 6-foot-3, 215-pound linebacker from Gadsden (AL); and No. 35 Alonzo Lawrence, a 6-foot-1, 190 pound defensive back from George County (MS).

Add to that distinguished list No. 55 Mark Barron, a 6-foot-2, 202-pound athlete from Mobile (AL) and No. 60 Barrett Jones, a 6-foot-5, 271-pound offensive lineman from Memphis (TN), and no school in America had 7 of the Top 60 Rival.com prospects except Alabama.

Southern Cal had 6 in the Top 60, Ohio State had 5 and Notre Dame had 5. Notre Dame's recuiting class was rated No. 2 by Rivals.com, Ohio State's No. 8 and Southern California's No. 10.

Nick Saban, the highest paid college coach at about $4 million a year, earned his pay. Saban was able to sign 7 of the top 11 prospects in Alabama. Auburn did not have a single recruit among Rivals.com Top 100 prospects; the Tigers came up sucking pond water.

Look for Saban and the Crimson Tide to start a concerted march to a higher place as a current Division 1A powerhouse and national title contender. Should the Top 60 picks stay injury free and reach their potential on the college turf, they will most certainly be playing in the NFL on Sundays.

If you are not stoked about Alabama football you need to live in another state.

Three other schools catch my personal attention because I have ties to Washington, Arizona State and Michigan State.

Ty Willingham's Washington Huskies had the highest Rivals.com pick among these 3 teams with No. 57 Kavario Middleton, a 6-foot-6, 250-pound tight end from Lakewood (WA). Middleton was joined by his teammate, Jermaine Kearse, a 6-foot-2, 175 pound wide receiver.

Washington also signed Everrette Thompson, a 6-foot-6, 255-pound defensive end from Burien (WA); Alameda Ta'amu, a 6-foot-4, 330-pound (yes, 330 pounds!) offensive guard from Seattle; Allen Carroll, a 6-foot-3, 290-pound offensive guard from Oakland (CA); Chris Polk, a 5-foot-11, 195-pound running back with 4.5 speed from Redlands (CA); and Jordan Polk, 5-foot-10, 170-pound wide receiver with 4.46 speed from Portland (OR).

Washington's catch is being called the best recruiting class since Reggie Williams and Charles Frederick in 2001.

The Huskies also picked up some speed with linebacker Kurt Mangum (4.59), cornerbacks Adam Long (4.45), Anthony Gobern (4.4) and Justin Glenn (4.5), safety Johri Fogerson (4.55), and running backs Demitrius Bronson (4.5) and David Freeman (4.4). Let me be the first to dub Kurt Magnum as Magnum P.I. (Personal Intimidator) and Demitrius Bronson as Death Wish Bronson.

All of this comes as a surprise as Ty Willingham, unlike Nick Saban, does not have a rep as a recruiter. The fact that redstart freshman quarterback Jake Locker started last year and impressed almost everyone with his agility, speed and savvy probably did not hurt a lick.

Scout.com rated Washington's recruiting class as the 14th best among the NCAA's 119 Division 1A schools. Look for the Huskies to finally win more games than they lose next year. If they do not, Willingham may be looking for another job.

Scout.com rated Dennis Erickson and his Arizona State Sun Devils class as the 17th best nationally. Among Erickson's top prospects was Jack Elway, none other than the son of NFL Hall of Fame quarterback John Elway.

Jack Elway has his father's arm but apparently not his speed. Nonetheless, he comes from an excellent gene pool. In addition to his dad, his mother Janet was an outstanding college athlete as a swimmer for Stanford University.

Here are two facts you may not know about John Elway. 1) He may have played football at Stanford University but he was born and raised in Port Angeles (WA). 2) He had 47 career game-winning or game-tying drives in the 4th quarter, an NFL record.

Mark Dantonio and his Michigan State Spartans (my alma mater, Class of 1966) did not fare as well as Washington or Arizona State. Other than any local coverage in Michigan and a little among Big Ten teams, the Spartans received zero national attention.

That tells me they ended up with the short end of stick, and that is indeed bad news.

Dantonio knows that Jim Tressel and his Ohio State Buckeyes are only going to get better; Dantonio was the defensive coordinator for Ohio State's undefeated (14-0) national championship team in 2002. Tressel also won 4 Division 1AA national championships at Youngstown State, and his won-loss record as head coach at Ohio State is a stunning 83% (73-15).

If Ohio State is not enough competition for Michigan State, Michigan will cause the Spartans headaches as well since Rich Rodriguez left West Virginia to coach the Wolverines next year.

Michigan has won more games than any other team in college football history, and now along comes Rodriguez, who spent 7 seasons at West Virginia compiling a 60-26 record (69%) with 4 Big East titles.

Rodriguez, 1 of only 2 Hispanic head coaches in Division IA football, went 32-5 (86%) his last 3 years at West Virginia. Rodriguez is great for Michigan; for Michigan State he is two legs and bad news. The Spartans may get the snot kicked out of them by Michigan for the next 5 years.

I am praying that Dantonio can find a couple of nuggets among the scrap heap of players that are left over after all of the good programs have used up their scholarship allotments. The Spartans need talent and speed immediately, they do not have nearly enough at the moment.

The justified enthusiasm among Crimson Tide fans at Alabama does need to be tempered by the knowledge that recruiting is not an exact science. While we know that the sun will come up tomorrow, we do not know how these recruits will play out.

What we do know is that coaching can make average players better; Rich Rodriguez is an example. His recent West Virginia recruiting classes were rated mid-30s to mid-50s yet he led the Mountaineers to 2 BCS bowl wins in the last 3 seasons, and he came within 1 win of playing for last year's national title.

We also know that a position player like a quarterback, who touches the ball on every play, can make a team much better. An example this year was Todd Reesing of Kansas who led the Jayhawks to a 12-1 record and an Orange Bowl victory. Reesing was rated a 2-star to 3-star player by the rating services (5 stars is best) yet he became a 5-star player when given the opportunity to do so.

Since many of these kids will become redshirts (meaning they will not play their freshman year) and become redshirt freshman (like Jake Locker of Washington) when they start playing their sophomore year. It may take all of 5 years to determine who among the many players just signed will become tomorrow's stars and NFL draftees.

In the meantime, I will be praying for Mark Dantonio and my Michigan State Spartans. I view myself as an important intercessor as the Spartans have continued to disappoint in recent years. Wherever they have been I do not want to go.

Copyright © 2008 Ed Bagley

Saturday 11 December 2010

Alabama State University Marching Hornets

Alabama State University Marching Hornets perform at the Chicago Classic Vs. Mississippi Valley



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMyGbnF8Wbo&hl=en

Friday 10 December 2010

The Saving of NASCAR's Jack Roush

It was Friday evening, and Larry and Donna Hicks were about to watch the six o'clock news in their lakeside home at Palos Verdes Estates outside Troy, Alabama. Hicks was a 52-year-old retired Sergeant Major with the Marines, now working as a conservation enforcement officer for the state of Alabama. He had arrived home from work half an hour earlier, and he and Donna had talked about going to a movie, but decided against it.

The TV news was just starting, when they looked out the window and saw a small plane flying down the shoreline of Palos Verdes Lake.

"I wonder if he knows about the power lines," Larry said, just as the aircraft suddenly shuddered to a halt, flipped over, and headed straight down into lake. Hicks was already running out the back door as the plane hit the water, yelling behind to his wife, "Call 911! I'm going to see if I can help the pilot."

Fortunately, Larry's brother, Wayne, had left a 14-foot aluminum johnboat, with an electric trolling motor, at the lake in preparation for bass fishing that day, then had not shown up. Donna made the call to 911, and ran outside in time to see Larry commandeering the johnboat, headed toward the Air-Cam, which was about 100 yards off shore.

Years before, when Hicks had been stationed at the Marine Air Corps Station in Iwakuni, Japan, he had spent two-and-a-half months, part time, in an intense Search and Rescue program. A major got him into it because he thought Hicks would be good at it since he was muscular and into weight building. The training was specifically directed toward saving pilots who had gone down in water in fixed-wing or rotary-wing planes. Hicks learned how to get pilots out of planes that had crashed upside down. However, he remained in the telecommunications unit, and never had the opportunity to use his specialized training.

The engine of the Air-Cam was hot when it hit Palos Verdes Lake, and the airplane was smoking in the water. High octane aviation fuel from a ruptured fuel tank floated over the surface making greasy patterns. The back half of the aircraft and a broken wing were sticking up from the water. Hicks climbed out of the boat onto the wing and tethered a line to the plane to keep the boat from floating away. The heavy smell of gas assaulted his nostrils. It was only later that he thought about the danger of the plane blowing up.

The water was murky, and Hicks had trouble getting his bearings underwater. The plane had crashed in the middle of an underwater "stump field," but luckily had missed hitting any trees. The first time down, Hicks ran out of air and was forced back to the surface without locating the pilot. The second time, he felt the back of the man's neck under his hand. After another trip to the surface, he took a deep breath, and descended a third time.

Larry's military training--the repeat drill of what to do until it became second nature--took over: "Locate Pilot, Extract Pilot..." Hicks felt for the pilot's seatbelt; fortunately, it was one he recognized by feel from his training in the military. He released the belt, and the pilot floated into his arms. Hicks swam to the surface, pulling the man with him. The pilot had bones sticking through his legs, and his feet were turned the wrong way.

The man was bleeding through the nose and mouth, and was no longer breathing. He had drowned. The Troy police had arrived on the lake bank by now. Larry yelled to the officers,"He's not breathing," and he heard one police officer say to another, "He's dead."

Hicks hauled the man up against the wing that was sticking above the water and put a modified Heimlich maneuver under his ribs and pulled up to get the water out of his lungs, then started modified CPR. The inert figure coughed up water and blood, then on the fifth breath, started to breathe. "I've got him breathing again," Hicks yelled to the rescue unit on the shore.

Hicks gripped the wing of the plane with his left hand, lying on his back in the water, supporting the pilot on his chest with his right arm to keep his head above water. He felt a stinging sensation from the aviation fuel, which worsened until he was in great pain. He found out later, the top layer of his skin had burned off.

The rescue unit brought out an extra boat, put the pilot on the backboard and floated him to shore. Larry tried to follow the four members of the rescue team as they walked out of the lake, but his legs gave way. He and the pilot were transported to the Troy hospital.

While Hicks was being treated for the gasoline burns on his upper body, he heard the helicopters arrive to airlift the pilot to the University of Alabama Medical Center in Birmingham. After a decontamination shower, Hicks was released.

Word was out almost immediately that a light plane had crashed, piloted by celebrity Jack Roush, NASCAR and Winston Cup car owner since 1988. An aircraft aficionado, friends of Roush had arranged for him to fly the Air-Cam, a specialized aircraft built specifically for photography, as a birthday gift.

Roush was initially put on a respirator, with a trauma team working on him. He had inhaled water and gasoline and suffered closed-head injuries, rib fractures, a collapsed lung, compound fractures to his left leg, and broken ankles. He did not remember anything from the time of the accident until he woke up in the hospital that weekend.

Amazingly enough, six days after the accident, Roush was running his business by telephone from his hospital bed. By Sunday, he had arranged for Larry and Donna to be flown by private jet to Birmingham, Alabama, to visit him.

Six weeks later, Roush piloted a plane from his Michigan home and hobbled around on crutches at Dover International Speedway in Dover, Delaware, overseeing his four-car Winston Cup team. Larry and Donna were by his side.

Larry Hicks has no doubt that a Higher Power was at work in Jack Roush's incredible rescue. If the Air-Cam had hit the high tension power lines instead of the support wires as it did, the plane would have gone down in flames. If it had crashed on the ground or hit a tree in the underwater stump field where it landed, Roush would have been killed instantly. If Larry and Donna had gone to a movie that evening, as they had discussed, or simply been in another part of the house, they would not have seen the plane go down, and Jack Roush would have died. If Wayne Hicks had not left the johnboat ready to go, there would have been no rescue.

But, most amazing of all, Hicks was one of a small percentage of the populace with the specialized knowledge necessary to save a pilot in an upside-down plane from a watery grave. And, one other thing was necessary to save Jack's life, which is that Hicks is a man of action who did not hesitate to put himself at risk to save a stranger's life.

Epilogue

Larry Hicks was recognized with many honors as a result of his heroic rescue of Jack Roush, including the Marine Corps Medal of Heroism, the Carnegie Award for Heroism from the Carnegie Foundation, the Kiwanis International Robert P. Connally Medal for Heroism, and the Society of the Sons of the American Revolution Medal for Heroism. The story of the rescue appeared in People magazine, and Larry and Jack were on the cover NASCAR Illustrated.

Larry exhibits great pride that he lived up to the United States Marine Corps Code of serving his country with Honor, Courage, and Commitment, with selfless service.

Thursday 9 December 2010

University of Hawaii Football

The University of Hawaii at Manoa is the flagship campus in the University of Hawaii System of higher education that sports fans think of when they discuss the football program known both on and off the mainland as the Hawaii Warriors. On January 1, 2008 the Warriors made college football history by coming out of the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) to become only the third non BCS (Bowl Championship Series) conference school to compete in a BCS game when they took the field against Georgia in the Sugar Bowl. While the Hawaii football team disappointingly came up short against Georgia in the 2008 New Year's Day game by a score of 41-10 this event was just a road bump in the rich history of an accomplished program that is determined to persevere for future greatness.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa has more than 20,000 students currently enrolled at the school based in the urban neighborhood of Honolulu (metro population 900,000) known as Manoa. The school that is located in the state capital was founded in 1907 and the football team had its first season in 1909. What is particularly remarkable about both the timing of the establishment of the university as well as the year of the first kickoff is that the island of Hawaii did not become an American state until August 21, 1959 and commercial air travel would not become common place for decades.

Long before the University of Hawaii played in the 50,000 seat Aloha Stadium that it now calls home the College of Hawaii took the field as the "Fighting Deans" and won the first game it ever played. The lopsided 95-5 victory was perhaps to be expected considering the roster of college athletes competed against high school students from McKinley High School in that inaugural contest. The competition would eventually ramp up with the first game against another college being a 14-0 losing effort against the University of Nevada on Christmas Day, 1920.

Over the years the University of Hawaii football program would incur its fair share of ups and downs. Among the low points in the history of the program are the cancellations of the 1912-1914 seasons as a result of World War I and the subsequent cancellations of the football seasons from 1942-1945 following the attack on Pearl Harbor and ensuing World War II involvement. A notable high point in the history of the program was the massive upset of the powerhouse Nebraska Cornhuskers in Lincoln, NE in 1955, just one year after Hawaii suffered an embarrassing 50-0 home loss to the perennial power Cornhuskers.

Due to travel budget concerns it was not until 1966 that the University of Hawaii could afford to schedule a full season comprised entirely of collegiate competition. Up until this point sporadic competition was often found in the form of area teams located on the remote set of islands that make up Hawaii.

Throughout the years the Hawaii program would grow due in no small part to its 1979 inclusion in the mid-tier Western Athletic Conference (WAC) which guaranteed that Hawaii would become exposed to an increased national audience. Eventually the Hawaii football program would produce All-Americans, first round NFL draft picks, record breaking quarterbacks, and Super Bowl champions. The January, 2008 Sugar Bowl appearance was a true testament to just how far the University of Hawaii football program has come.

Tuesday 7 December 2010

Monday 6 December 2010

ASU Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc 2

ASU'S Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc strolling before the AKA probate



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGULYXFiyOc&hl=en

Sunday 5 December 2010

Capps College - The Super Specialty Training Institute

Capps College gives specialized training in health care and related training courses. When as a pupil, you aim to join the prestigious college, rest assured you are in absolute safe hands and your career can only take an upward graph towards more and more success. Following the leader, Capps College established since 1984. You may call on their private telephone numbers or log in on their official website for more details and information about the institute.

Established in the year 1984, Capps College has been inspirational to all medical fraternity and aims to serve the entire health care society in Alabama and Florida. The many locations of its branches include Montgomery, Foley in Alabama and even in Pensacola of Northern Florida.

Capps College aims to provide complete medical assistant training courses along with office specialist courses, pharmacy technician, and dental assistant junior doctors, massage specialist and therapists and also junior cosmetologist. For enrolling as a potential student, all you need is to fill the online form that asks detailed specifications about your location choices and the course you need to specialize in as a medical assistant. Even financial help is rendered or advised to prospective students for more convenience.

The success rate is nearly 100% in relation to growth prospects and personal accomplishments. As a student you need only to adhere to all their disciplined academic rules and regulations, training methods, experience the luxury of handling state of art technology and devices, seek help of medical fraternities and commit yourself wholeheartedly towards achieving your aim and success has to follow you-as a unique Capps Collegian.

The fantastic training and professionalism of all the staff members is really commendable, and this is what takes the Capps students a step ahead than other colleges for medical courses. The main focus and attention is to take your career in the right direction and give you a confident feeling. There is perfect training such as an on the field-job experience that you may find nowhere else. You get equal training of classroom sessions as well as real practice in reality medical set-ups as an apprentice or junior learner. This type of specialty training works well with al students who aim for the best and reach there with help of Capps college unique training system.

A Capps Graduate majors in all clinical understanding of the following medical devices and its varied uses that includes

1. Five panelized drug screen

2. CPR Authorization

3. The Tuberculosis Tine test

4. Hepatitis B First Injection

5. Complete Background Check

6. Special Certification In A Nationalized Level

The job-oriented training sessions give you the right kind of exposure to various personalized areas and attitude required, the level of attendance, being confident with an absolute knowledge and sheer hard work for that 100% performance combined with good skilled work, this is what a graduate of Capps College gets as a result of studying inside the valued institution. A graduate from Capps is a boon to the medical community in all.

Friday 3 December 2010

Stomp the Yard Celebrates the Black Greek Tradition of Stepping

Sony Pictures new movie "Stomp the Yard" is timed to release in January 2007, only a few weeks after a monumental celebration for all Black Greeks. Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, Inc. will be 100 years old on December 3, 2006. The significance of this date affects the movie because it is a sign of the tremendous influence that the organization has on African American culture.

A college step show is a part of everyday African American culture. Nearly all African Americans can identify all of the historically black fraternities and sororities also known as the Divine Nine. Each organization has its own history based on the actual lives of founders and organizers. Each organization has its own set of colors, letters, and shields. Each organization has its own traditions that can be traced back to its origins. One of the most popular traditions that all black Greeks share is the tradition of stepping.

Each Greek lettered organization followed the template that was laid out by White Greeks. Each organization had a shield, motto, ritual, and membership regimen. The overall purpose of Greek letter organizations is for networking purposes. It was on the heels of Alpha Phi Alpha that other black Greeks took flight.

Stepping can be described as a combination of signing, dancing, and rhythm. There is a military type precision in the step routines performed by each organization. The history of stepping comes from multiple sources, but one trend is true. Black fraternities began with singing and added the elements of dance, marching, and chanting. The result became a popular art form that has continued until today. Each organization has its own identity in stepping. The Alphas (Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, Inc.) can be expected to use precision steps utilizing common moves associated with Egyptian themes. The AKAs (Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, Inc.) utilize steps that promote their beauty. Kappas (Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity, Inc.) commonly use canes to step and twirl with accuracy. The Deltas (Delta Sigma Theta sorority, Inc.) emphasize their strength and character. Omegas (Omega Psi Phi fraternity, Inc.) often use rhythmic hops that equally match their chants and calls. The Zetas (Zeta Phi Beta sorority, Inc.) step to signify finer womanhood. Sigmas (Phi Beta Sigma fraternity, Inc.) use extremely lively moves to show dexterity and accuracy. Sigma Gamma Rhos (Sigma Gamma Rho sorority, Inc.) can be seen using canes along with traditional stepping. Iotas have a signature walk that showcases their spirit. All organizations that participate in stepping show a high level of energy and pride as they give tribute to their organization and traditions.

The central premise of "Stomp the Yard" is based on the tradition of stepping. Without stepping, the movie would only be another drama about a dance contest. Hopefully, the movie will pay homage not only to the tradition of stepping, but also the organizations that participate in the tradition. Happy 100th Alpha Phi Alpha! The impact that the organization has made on African American culture through stepping should be expanded with the release of the movie January 2006.

Thursday 2 December 2010

Pheasant Hunting in Ohio - List Of Top Bird Hunting Locations In Ohio!

While Ohio may not top a pheasant hunter's list of places to hunt in his lifetime, with preservation efforts and new hunting land popping up everywhere in recent years, it is fast becoming a Midwest pheasant hunting destination.

While the top places for upland bird hunting are usually South Dakota, Kansas, Alabama, and others, Ohio has seen a resurgence in this popular sport. Previous to this the only sportsmen hunting pheasant in Ohio were Ohio natives themselves. With one out of every seven people hunting or fishing in Ohio, many local economies have come to depend on the sportsmen for their livelihood. There are 33,015 jobs supplied directly by Ohio sportsmen, which is more than what Ohio State University provides at 26,000. The jobs sportsmen provide equal to $823 million dollars worth of salaries and a state tax revenue of $139.5 million. To add to that, Ohio sportsmen spent $1.7 billion, which exceeds the combined receipts of the films Titanic, Star Wars, and E.T. at $1.49 billion.

To help maintain a healthy pheasant population, Ohio recently released more than 15,000 pheasants in 29 public hunting areas. Ohio pheasant season also remains open later than most, into January. The state has also added an additional 5,000 acres of hunting land available in the state's southeast region. This is also good news for Ohio turkey hunters who gained 15,896 acres in Vinton Country as a working forest and outdoor recreation area.

Southeast Ohio is home to Hocking Hills, a great hunting destination not just for the pheasant population, but also for the striking landscapes, woodlands, and various vegetation and outcroppings. Some of the best spots to take advantage of this scenery are Zaleski State Forest, Tar Hollow State Park, Wayne National Forest, and Hocking State Forest. With meandering trails, soaring cliffs, hidden caves, and more than 10,000 acres for the hunter to take advantage of, Ohio is a first class hunter's paradise. An Ohio pheasant hunt also makes a great weekend trip as it's so centrally located to many of the Midwest states.

Be sure to check local hunting regulations and license requirements while planning your trip to Ohio pheasant country. Bag limits change from year to year, as do specific dates pertaining to hunting season. As always, exercise safety and caution when out in the field; be sure to wear orange visible to other hunters, and for those under the age of 15, an adult 18 years or older is required.

Wednesday 1 December 2010

Chipola College in the Florida Panhandle

Chipola College, a liberal arts college in Marianna, Florida serves the population of the entire state of Florida and beyond but primarily sees enrollment from students who live in surrounding communities. The school has a long history of bettering the community through education and service and continues to expand into the future. Within the past 10 years, Chipola made the move from two year to four year college. 

Chipola still primarily offers two year associate's degrees to students who are on their way to receiving a four year bachelor's degree. Chipola enjoys a varied student population but most students who attend Chipola come from the surrounding counties of Jackson, Washington, Holmes, Calhoun and Liberty County. Chipola is located in Marianna, in the Florida Panhandle, bordering on Alabama and Georgia. 

Enjoying a long heritage and a diversified student body, the college population is split nearly 50/50 between males and females. Roughly two thirds of the student body are Caucasian with a mixture of other backgrounds making up the rest of the population. The school strives to keep itself diversified, welcoming people from out of state and all around Florida to apply. The majority of students who attend Chipola College are from 17 to 24 years of age.

The majority of students are a commuter so the school does it's best to accommodate with scheduling. Most of the student body holds a part time or full time job in addition to attending school so classes are held between 8 am and 2pm, Monday through Friday with evening courses available.

The school was founded in 1947 as a private educational institution but with the passing of the Florida Minimum Foundation law in 1948, local counties were allowed to begin contributing to the school's upkeep. Once this law was enacted, the school became a public institution. The three counties that surround Chipola College continue to support the school financially.

The original building stood on the grounds of the Marianna Army Air Base from 1947 until 1953. The following school year, the school began operating in it's current location. Chipola College was known as Chipola Junior College until 2003. In 2003, the school changed it's academic standard and began offering bachelors degrees in the fields of Science and Math.

Chipola College recognizes that students may not always be interested in pursuing a degree in these fields and provides for the highest rate of transference of credits to other outstanding institutions. The majority of the populations of Chipola College's students are involved in student life-athletics, charitable organizations and more.

Tuesday 30 November 2010

College Football - Florida, Oklahoma, USC, Virginia Tech, East Carolina and Buffalo Win Titles

It was the biggest game of college football regular season play, No. 1 and unbeaten Alabama (12-0) versus No. 2 Florida (11-1) at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta for the Southeastern Conference Championship and the right to play in the BCS National Championship Game.

When it mattered the most, the Florida Gators-led by junior quarterback and last year's Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow-showed up. Tebow was 0-5 in games when his Gators trailed in the second half, but he overcame that statistic Saturday (12-6-08) by throwing the last of his 3 touchdown passes with less than 3 minutes remaining to seal Florida's 31-20 victory.

Despite trailing in the second half, Florida did win the first half 17-10 and also won the second half 14-10. Tebow was 14-of-22 passing for 216 yards and led his team in rushing with another 57 yards. When Florida needed a play the most, Tebow played a big role in making it happen.

The win gave Florida another SEC title under coach Urban Meyer and its second trip in three years to the BCS National Championship Game. The Gators routed Ohio State for the national championship in 2006. Florida will now face No. 4 Oklahoma for the BCS national title in Miami (FL).

Oklahoma staked its claim to face Florida by dusting off No. 19 Missouri, 62-21, for the Big 12 Championship. All you need to know about this game is that it was 38-7 at the half.

The 4 teams in contention for the BCS game during the final two weeks of the season were Alabama, Florida, Texas and Oklahoma. All had one loss except Alabama. Florida, which eventually prevailed over Alabama, had lost at home to Ole Miss 31-30 in its 4th game of the season, and then rattled off 8 wins in-a-row by huge margins before ruining Alabama's run for the national title.

Oklahoma had lost at home to Texas 45-35 in its 6th game, and then routed 6 teams before its big win over Missouri. The Sooners scored 60+ points in their last 5 wins.

The Texas Longhorns won 8 straight before losing on the road to Texas Tech, 39-33. After winning their last 3, they needed Oklahoma to lose to Missouri to have any chance at a title shot.

Elsewhere, No. 12 and unbeaten Ball State (12-0) joined Alabama by losing its first game in the Mid American Conference Championship as Turner Gill's 7-5 Buffalo team took down the Cardinals, 42-24, for the title. In just 3 years, coach Turner Gill has turned around a Buffalo program that was one of the worst in America.

East Carolina (8-4) hung on and hung tough in beating Tulsa (10-2) in the Conference USA Championship game, 27-24. Coach Skip Holtz won 3 games, including victories over Virginia Tech and West Virginia, lost 3 games and then won 5 of his last 6 before beating Tulsa for the title.

Virginia Tech (8-4) went on to capture the Atlantic Coast Conference Championship by beating No. 18 Boston College (8-4), 30-12. Not to be outdone, Southern Cal kept UCLA at bay on the road, 28-7, to win its 7th straight Pac 10 Championship and 4th straight BCS bowl appearance.

With Alabama and Ball State losing their first game, only No. 7 Utah at 12-0 and No. 9 Boise State at 12-0 remained unbeaten among the 119 Division 1-A schools.

In other action, it was No. 19 Pittsburgh on the road over Connecticut 34-10, California at home horsewhipped the winless 0-12 Washington Huskies 48-7, Navy shut out Army 34-zip, Arizona ripped Arizona State 31-10, and No. 13 Cincinnati on the road outlasted Hawaii 29-24.

So it's Florida and Oklahoma in the BCS National Championship Game, and the other 4 BCS Bowl Games will find Penn State and Southern Cal in the Rose Bowl, Ohio State and Texas in the Fiesta Bowl, Utah and Alabama in the Sugar Bowl, and Cincinnati and Virginia Tech in the Orange Bowl.

Copyright © 2008 Ed Bagley

Monday 29 November 2010

Jacksonville State University Gospel Choir

Jacksonville state university gospel choir , Dr Myrtice Collins, Saved: By James Hall, Directed By Mr Randall nUnn Dr. Prince yelder hosts Praze N da house, in Birmingham al.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfZB6_C1QwY&hl=en

Saturday 27 November 2010

Which Universities Offer the Best PhD Programs?

Most every state in the United States of America offer top billing for PhD Universities, with the exception of the state of Nevada. Depending whether you would like to stay in state, or travel out-of-state to pursue your doctorate degree is entirely up to you. The cost, however often times defines if a person is able to attend the out-of-state university of their dreams, or if they are forced to settle for the programs the universities of their states provide. Luckily, by doing a search on the web you can research the top universities for PhD programs available in any state from A to Z....er..."W" for Wyoming.

Starting with the state of Alabama, you will find the best PhD programs are offered at Auburn University as well as the University of Alabama and the University of Mobile. If you are interested in pursuing your PhD in Animal Studies, Auburn University offers an excellent Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine. California Baptist University offers an excellent PhD program in the field of Ministry and Theology as well as a wonderful Psychology program focusing on Christian behavioral sciences, social work and life-span development.

Harvard University in Massachusetts has an excellent doctorate in Dentistry Program, but Harvard is best known for their doctoral studies in Law. You can receive a Doctor of Juridical Science degree which has you focus your studies on teaching in a law school one day.

If you are looking for a good Medical School, Johns Hopkins University in Maryland is one of the finest PhD universities around today. Although this is a teaching hospital and university, it is also considered the crème de la crème of Medical Schools and you should consider it a tremendous honor to be asked into the program.

Columbia University in New York is one of the best universities to receive your PhD in today offering one of the oldest and largest Post Baccalaureate Premedical Programs available today. This program is geared to help college students who wish to pursue an education in the medical field but have not reached the required core science courses to be accepted into medical school.

No matter what type of doctorate you are aiming to reach, there is no question that you will be able to find some of the best PhD universities in the United States of America. Choosing which one will be the best fit for you may be the tougher than completing your actual doctoral degree!

Friday 26 November 2010

FSU Marching Chiefs

FSU Marching Cheifs at the Alabama vs. FSU game in Jacksonville 2007



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_DKzuvum0uo&hl=en

Thursday 25 November 2010

Electrolysis Schools II

Electrolysis is the way that the compounds that are chemically bonded are separated by passing electric currents through them. In addition, it can be defined as passing electric currents through ionic substances. Electrolysis schools are beauty schools that use electrolysis method to remove hair from one's skin. It is specially used by the women who want to have a smooth and supple body texture. Not all the beauty schools are able to perform this method, for it is dangerous. One has to attend the electrolysis schools to be able to perform the procedure. The electrolysis method can remove hair permanently depending on what the client would like.

Electrolysis schools are the only ones that perform the permanent hair removal service, which most women prefer, and some of them may not even think of the consequences. Though the electrolysis method is strictly supposed to be passed only where the client has suggested for it is a permanent hair remover. Just as other treatments of beauty, one will find a number of electrolysis schools, which specialize in the training of individuals through this particular field. The electrolysis schools involve the art of the state equipment that are university like classes. The lessons are taught to individuals whose attention is greatly needed. The students not only need to learn the process but also to be able to understand the science behind it. That is why these schools specialize in specifically the electrolysis method.

Electrolysis schools differ when it comes to the curriculum, which is based on the states rules and regulations. Some schools may require duration of thirty hours course. Others may require a maximum of up to six hundred hours to complete the course work. The fees of the electrolysis schools may also vary from school to school for they differ in the time in tuition. Some may be as low as two thousand five hundred dollars while others are up to seven thousand dollars or even more. With the little fees schools they may not offer the required standardized lessons as they may not have equipment hat is required to do the procedures. Expensive schools would be having the equipment to do some of the procedures literally and not just shown through dummies. The students are not to perform any of the experiments without a tutor.

The electrolysis schools are in many states and can be easily located. Before a student attends electrolysis schools one is required to not only look at the brochures and make up their mind. One is required to visit the school, tour it as well as ask all the questions possible. A person should also tour a few other schools that offer the same services, comparing prices as well as the quality of education one can achieve from it. It is important for one to talk to some of the students there so as one can know how good the level of education is asking them questions. One may not to pay fees and a tutor attends class once a week therefore wasting a student's time. One can also locate the electrolysis schools physically.

Wednesday 24 November 2010

Tuesday 23 November 2010

Wal-Mart Online Job Application

Wal-Mart is one of the biggest employers in the U.S. If you are considering a job with Wal-Mart, then you will need to fill out an application online. While there are a number of websites out there telling you that you that the Wal-Mart online job application is a myth, it really does exist, and you need to know how to fill it out correctly.

You need to begin by going to the Wal-Mart Career website, so you will need access to a a computer. It is okay if you do not have a computer, as you can fill out the application from your local library or at one of the kiosks in the store. If you are looking for a professional position with Wal-Mart, though, you should not fill out the Wal-Mart online job application. Instead you will be given another address where you can send your resume.

You then need to register with your own ID and password. Before you get to that point, though, there are several statements that you have to read. Each one has legal disclaimers and reminders, so make sure you read each part of the Wal-Mart online job application thoroughly. If you have any criminal history, make sure you pay close attention to the disclaimers prior to filling out the application, because the disclaimer tells you if you have to state anything about your criminal history.

After you read the disclaimers on the Wal-Mart online job application, you then need to create a user name, passwords, and tell the application where you want to work. Then the application asks to choose your stores and positions of choice. Like many other online applications, you will need to fill out personal information like your address and phone numbers. Also, you will be asked about your availability for work. Then you will need to provide two references.

The Wal-Mart online job application is fairly standard from that point. You will need to provide a listing of your education and work experience. Be sure that you are double-checking your information. Also, know what type of language to use on these applications. When you give your reason for leaving, make sure you state things in a politically correct manner. Never insult your previous employer, even if he or she was a total tyrant. Saying something negative about a previous employer will make the hiring manager wonder what you will say about them one day.

Most of the Wal-Mart online job application is the same as you have seen on other applications, but you still need to make sure you check for spelling and grammatical errors. Also, make sure you are honest on the application. Most employers, Wal-Mart included, are not necessarily forgiving for dishonesty.

Give yourself about 20 to 30 minutes to fill out the Wal-Mart online job application. Besides having to enter all of your job history, you will also need to answer a number of questions prior to submitting the application. Take your time and fill everything out accurately before you submit your final application. Then make sure you follow up with the hiring manager at the store if you do not hear back from them within a timely manner. Visit the Wal-Mart Career website for more information.

Monday 22 November 2010

Marching Southerners 2008 Midsouth Exhibition

The Jacksonville State University Marching Southerners performed at the 2008 Midsouth Exhibition in Gadsden, Alabama on September 27th.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VpNH73lA-6g&hl=en

Saturday 20 November 2010

2010 University of Alabama Million Dollar Band - Halftime

Million Dollar Band performing Celebration by Kool and the Gang and Yea Alabama during halftime of the Alabama vs. San Jose State football game won by Alabama 48 - 3.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qHpGArNozN0&hl=en

Friday 19 November 2010

Sweet Home Alabama Pre-Game vs. Penn State 9-11-10

Pre-game scenes leading up to Penn State vs Alabama college football game in Tuscaloosa, Alabama on Sept. 11, 2010. Alabama won 24-3. RHS Productions Video and editing by Robert Stephens robertstephens@cox.net Tags: The Mound, The tailgating scene on the Quad, Alabama team arrival...



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gPxnFtx_4aI&hl=en

Thursday 18 November 2010

Professional Land Surveyor Qualifications

The requirements for licensing as a professional land surveyor vary from state to state. To find out the requirements for the state in which you intend to practice, contact your state licensing board through the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). Generally, a professional land surveyor must complete the licensure requirements in their state of residence, after which time they are awarded a professional license. In many states, they must also re-register every few years in order to practice land surveying as a profession.

Components of a state license for land surveying usually include a land surveying examination, as well as a work record of several years of active work in surveying. Most states require at least four years of experience before the examinations may be attempted. Most professional land surveyors first obtain a degree in land surveying, and then work to gain experience for several years before becoming qualified as a professional land surveyor. There are tests offered by every state, and nationally, to qualify for a Professional Surveyors license. One of the most common tests is the ELSES, LLC, which is offered by NCEES. Many states also offer their own licensing examinations; contact the state in which you reside for specific information on the tests required for licensure in your state.

To gain the knowledge required for these examinations, most people studying for this license obtain a B.S. degree in Land Surveying from a school accredited by ABET, or the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology. This nationally recognized organization sets the standard for engineering and similar programs to ensure that graduates of such programs will have the knowledge to pass the examination and obtain the correct licensure. However, it is usually possible to obtain a license without this degree, though it will likely require more effort to pass the examination. In many cases, regardless of your education you must be approved by your state in order to sit for the exam.

After obtaining their first Professional Land Surveyor license, land surveyors in most jurisdictions must complete continuing education requirements. The number of hours of training to be completed each year varies greatly by state. This continuing education ensures that professional land surveyors stay current on consumer expectations and other current issues in their field, and allows for updated knowledge and skills. All land surveys must be completed by a licensed surveyor who has kept up with the continuing education requirements as laid out by the state in which they are licensed.

If you move to a different state after becoming a Professional Land Surveyor, in most cases you will need to repeat the process for licensure, as the requirements differ between states. For example, you may need to pass an additional exam, or submit proof of your experience, education, or prior examinations or licenses.

Although membership in a professional society for land surveyors is not a requirement to practice land surveying, most professional land surveyors belong to such societies. To remain a member of most professional organizations for the practice of land surveying, surveyors must maintain a code of ethics.

Wednesday 17 November 2010

Swingin' Doodle Dandy (2000) "Sound of the South"

2000 "Sound of the South" Marching Band Troy (State) University - Robert W. Smith, DIrector of Bands Ralph Ford, Assistant Director of Bands



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uf9Mjc1bf5c&hl=en

Tuesday 16 November 2010

Mexican Talavera Pottery Revealed

Have you read all over the internet just to find a multitude of different things being said about Mexican talavera pottery? Well, we are here to clear up the confusion and give you the real scoop on talavera!

We would like to discuss the BIG QUESTION..."What makes talavera authentic versus imitations?" Well, in order to be "authentic" Mexican talavera pottery there is a long list of criterion that must be met. Authentic talavera, certified by the Talavera Regulating Council, must be made using the exact techniques from the 1600s when the production of talavera first began in Mexico. This is where most talavera manufacturers fall off the map for producing genuine pieces of talavera. The reason isn't that the manufacturers don't want to abide by the rules set forth by the Talavera Regulating Council, but the fact that the original process requires a harmful amount of lead.

In the 1600s, the manufacturers were clueless about the harmful effects that lead could produce to human health. However, nowadays many manufacturers are aware that lead can cause harm to human health and have reduced the lead content to levels well below FDA standards making their products safe to eat and drink from, but at the same time understanding that they won't be eligible to become a Certified Talavera Fabrica. Talavera from a Certified Talavera Shop contains harmful amounts of lead and can only be used for decorative purposes. The FDA permits the production of such products under the strict condition that it must be stated on each piece that it is not to be used for food. Sometimes you can find "Not for Food Use" engraved or stamped onto a piece a talavera. Though, other times you may only find a sticker labeled "Not for Food Use" and this is perfectly acceptable by the FDA. However, what happens when the sticker finally falls off or gets washed off? Will the next owner of the talavera be aware that their health could be in danger if they use the piece for food? Probably not, unless they do a ton of research to find out where the talavera was produced and then, they may not even find their answer. You may be saying to yourself, "Well, what about those home lead tests kits?" Good idea, but little research will reveal that these kits are not reliable giving many false positive results and even a few false negative results. The only way to know for sure is to send your talavera to a materials testing lab and have them run a leachate lead analysis on it which can cost $225 per piece. However, this is very costly, can permanently damage your talavera, and some labs won't be able to return your talavera to you. While we are at it, we would also like to clear up the confusion about "lead-free" Talavera. All Mexican Talavera Pottery has some amount of lead. However, to be called "lead-free" the amount of leachable lead must not exceed the FDA approved levels of leachable lead. This is how many manufacturers and retailers are able to state that their talavera is lead-free.

A second criterion that many manufacturers fall short of is that authentic talavera pottery must be made in the state of Puebla, Mexico from the clays of the state. Talavera is produced throughout Mexico. However, it's up to you to decide how important it is for your talavera to be produced where the production began and made from the original clays used since the 15th century.

A third condition is that mexican talavera pottery must be hand-formed and cannot be poured into molds. Pouring clay into molds can produce brittle, low-quality, and mass-produced pottery! EXACTLY what you don't want to spend your hard earned money on! Authentic talavera can only be hand-formed on a potter's wheel or hand-pressed into molds.

Think Mexico, think color! The vibrant colors of talavera pottery are what make it truly Mexican! This leads us to the fourth criterion which is that only natural mineral pigments can be used to create the intricate colored designs found on every piece of talavera pottery. The basic mineral pigments are blue, white, green, yellow, red, brown, and black. These colors can be combined in a variety of ways to produce tones of orange, purple, and blue that we see in talavera today. Commercial paints or stains are not used in the production of authentic talavera pottery.

Now that you know some of the criteria for the production of authentic Mexican talavera, let us help you determine the differences by examining your talavera. All authentic talavera will bear the signature of the artist and the place of production, Puebla, Mexico. Authentic talavera pottery should also bear designs with slightly raised borders. The glazed background should also be a light cream instead of bright-white. A bright-white background could mean that the Talavera was mass-produced. The glazed background will also appear somewhat freckled, porous, and exhibit crazing. Talavera will not appear perfect or made by a machine. Imperfections in talavera are the result of being hand-made by an individual and not a machine which in turn makes imperfections actually desirable. No two pieces, even in the same design, will be identical. Each piece of Mexican talavera pottery is unique, making it a beautiful work of art for you to enjoy in your home! Talavera is more than just pretty pottery... It's a piece of culture, a tradition, and a work of art!

Monday 15 November 2010

Sunday 14 November 2010

College Football's First Controversial Call of 2008 May Have Cost Washington a Huge Upset

Taking University of Washington quarterback Jake Locker out of a college football game is like taking Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant or LeBron James out of the National Basketball Association, or taking Tom Brady out of the National Football League, but that is what effectively happened last Saturday (9-6-08) in Seattle.

A controversial unsportsmanlike conduct penalty on Jake Locker was a prime topic of conversation over the weekend by fans, coaches, play-by-play announcers, sports commentators and officials in 49 of 50 states. A survey revealed that the only state that agreed with the call was Utah.

That was because it was the No. 15-ranked Brigham Young University Cougars who benefited from the call, barely getting out of Husky Stadium with a 28-27 win. Utah is home to BYU.

Pacific-10 Conference referee Larry Farina leveled the 15-yard penalty on Locker for tossing the football into the air after scoring a touchdown with 2 seconds remaining in the game. A successful Washington extra point attempt would have tied the game at 28 all.

The penalty made the Dawg's extra point attempt a 35-yard effort rather than a 20-yard attempt. More important, it rattled a team of young, inexperienced players, allowing the attempt to be blocked as time expired, ending what could easily have been an overtime game.

We will never know if the extra point attempt would have been made from 20 yards out because the referee effectively took the game out of the hands of the players and coaches in favor of interpreting the rule book by the letter of the law.

Obviously embarrassed by the call upon reflection, and by the fan and player reaction after the game, referee Larry Farina issued this statement in defense of his call:

"It is a celebration rule that we are required to call. It was not a judgment call," said Farina to the media representatives.

David Perry, national coordinator for college football officiating, thought differently. While saying the penalty was correct (according to the rules), Perry added that ALL calls are judgment calls. Amen, David, amen.

Jake Locker was clearly not taunting any BYU player. He was not looking at any BYU player, throwing the football at any BYU player, speaking to any BYU player, or gesturing to any BYU player. He was simply excited about scoring a touchdown on the last possible play of the game to create an opportunity to tie the game and settle the outcome in overtime.

Even the national coordinator for college football officiating conceded that the penalty could not have been called if judgment was exercised, saying "I think it's safe to say on emotional moments officials might become a little more lenient."

Of course, Brigham Young coach Bronco Mendenhall totally agreed with and defended the call. Why not? It was in his best interest to do so. Even Washington coach Ty Willingham initially agreed with the call, taking the side of the referee. On Monday, Willingham, perhaps the nicest, most politically correct, polite coach in college football, changed his mind.

"I think we all know that was not the right call," Willingham said. "The proper judgment was not used. That was not the act of a young man taunting. That was not an unsportsmanlike act at all. It should have been viewed in its totality and not just isolated as the letter of the law."

Thank you, Ty, for going to bat for your most important player, one of the most exciting and talented players in college football today. Thank you for going to bat for your team, for the University of Washington, and for fans everywhere who were reacting to the unjustified call.

It is the officials and head referee that set the standard for sportsmanship in any game, and in this case, Larry Farina could have made a better call.

In Husky nation, there is no rest for the weary. Washington, now 0-2 after facing No. 18-ranked Oregon and No. 15-ranked Brigham Young to open the season, will host No. 3-ranked Oklahoma next. Rather than adding insult to injury by sharing with you how much trouble Washington will have beating Oklahoma, this is all you need to know:

Oklahoma is 783-295-53 in its 114th season of football. The Sooners have won 7 Associated Press national championships, 41 conference championships, 24 bowl games, have gone undefeated 14 times, have an NCAA-record 30 (yes, 30) 10-win seasons, and have set the NCAA big-school record with a 47-game winning streak between 1953 and 1957.

Ouch! Good luck, Washington, and God speed. I will try to remember you in my prayers, knowing that it is OK to pray for a victory like it depends on God, but much better to act like it depends on you (the Huskies). They find in Oklahoma that the bigger, faster, more talented the Sooner players are, the better prayer works in the Dust Bowl.

Copyright © 2008 Ed Bagley

Saturday 13 November 2010

Top 5 Forensic Accounting Schools

Forensic accountant has played an important role in solving white collar crimes. As the demand for forensic accountants keeps increasing, forensic accountant has been selected as one of the "20 hot job tracks of the future" by US News & World Report. There are more and more universities offering this particular degree program either offline or online.

Here are the Top 5 Forensic Accounting Schools in Unites States:

1. The Florida Atlantic School of Accounting
It is the fastest growing state university with the track record of having the highest passing rate in CPA examination for the past 10 years. It is also ranked as one of the top 50 Business schools for entrepreneurs.

2. Aakers College
It has been established for more than 100 years and it is famous for its Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, State Board for Vocational and Technical Education. It offers online programs to students world-wide.

3. University of Phoenix
It is well known for providing quality online accounting courses to working adults and people who prefer home based learning. It has created opportunities for people who wish to obtain higher education at home

4. Birmingham's School of Business, The University of Alabama
It has been ranked as one of the Top 10 metropolitan state business schools, offering two levels of Accounting Degree programs, i.e. Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Master of Accounting

5. American Intercontinental University (AIU)
It has been supported by over 400 major companies who serve as education partners. They offer dynamic virtual campus experience to students and they make the studies as practical as real world.

Friday 12 November 2010

State University of New York at Binghamton Information

For any university, setting up a standard may not be difficult but maintaining that standard throughout is an uphill task. For consecutive ten years, the State University of New York at Binghamton is ranked among top fifty in the nation. Also the university is famous for its numerous faculties. However, claim is that vastness is not proportional to the distance between student and teachers here. The professors and student relations are the most important when it comes to better education and this university claims to be a testimony to this.

Beside the elite school of management, there are innumerable faculties in the university. Nursing, arts and science, health and physical education, community and public affairs, engineering and applied science, PhD college are some of the wonderful faculties this university provides. For undergraduate courses, enough emphasis is laid upon the academic excellence and personal achievements. For graduate and post graduate levels, along with academics, research takes the priority. Any research should aim at the creation of newer avenues for the students after the research. Some students may opt for good corporate jobs after research and some may opt for further research. Whatever is their priority, the university takes the responsibility of making the world safer for them and creating various job opportunities for them.

The State University of New York at Binghamton provides creative activity and scholarship through many of its faculties. For the students interested in degree programs, enormous avenues are available under the university. Ranging from Accounting, Anthropology to Cinema and computer sciences, all faculties are equally competent to create knowledgeable students. Its school of management is considered one of the elite institutes offering full range of BS, MBA, Executive MBA, MS Accounting and PhD programs. A good mixture of theoretical and practical knowledge makes students well aware of business tactics as well as academic research.

Campus of the college is also one of the attracting factors for most of the students. With the most modern set up, the university offers full fledged activities for students from all over. Even students from abroad enroll in good numbers in this university. Initially started as a center for the needs of local veterans at the end of World War II, now the university has over 14373 students from all over the globe. The well-maintained campus situated on a wooded hillside above the Susquehanna River, offers amazing and most modern physical facilities too. The university is also famous for good resident facilities for undergraduates.

Finding the right aptitudes of the person before enrolling to further graduate courses is very imperative for better assessment of future. This is done by career development center so that the students can explore their own talents and skills.

Thursday 11 November 2010

Sounds of Dynomite "Glad to See You Again"

The Alcorn State University Sounds of Dynomite (Alumni and current members) doing the stand routine to "Glad to See You Again"



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=75S1ky5Rj-Y&hl=en

Wednesday 10 November 2010

Tattoo Artist - What Do I Need to Become One?

The first thing you need to understand before pursuing a tattoo artist career is what the regulations are in your state. The only states that currently do not have regulations covering this field or their equipment are New Mexico, North Dakota, and Washington D.C. These regulations vary from state to state. For example, in my state Nevada, the state requires the city or county to develop the regulations for the tattoo artist.

Now some other important things to consider on becoming a tattoo artist are


Talent - You will need to have a talent at drawing. If you do not have this talent you need to develop it by going to a drawing school. If you do have the talent, you will need to continue to practice your art, all the time. Nothing can ruin your career quicker than by being a sloppy drawer. Remember, your drawing is going on someones body and cannot be removed easily.
Teacher - You will need to apprentice with a master tattoo artist so you can learn. True there are tattoo artist schools, but be wary of these schools. Especially if there are more than two students per instructor and instruction lasts less than 10 months.There are books you can read but, nothing beats getting one on one instruction from a certified master. Going this way you will more than likely have to sign a contract and pay for the opportunity to learn from a master.
Health Training - Being in this field will require you to get health training in blood borne pathogens, cross contamination controls, CPR/first aide, dermatology and other issues dealing with health concerns
Good Personality - You will need to be able to communicate effectively with many different personalities. From the big ruff and tumble biker to the sweet little old lady.

Tuesday 9 November 2010

Powerful Black Female Poets

In 1773 Phyllis Wheatley became the first African American and the third woman in the United States to publish a book of poems. A second manuscript was written, but never published, nor found. Since that time, black female poets have spoken loud and clear about the angst and optimism of the black experience. Four of these sisters who broke new ground are Nikki Giovanni, Sonia Sanchez, Gwendolyn Brooks and Maya Angelou.

Yolande Cornelia "Nikki" Giovanni, Jr. was born June 7, 1943, in Knoxville, Tennessee and grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio. Giovanni attended Fisk University and In 1967 earned in B.A. in history. Later she became a professor of writing and literature at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. She has penned two dozen books, most notably her works of poetry during the 60s. These works include "Black Feeling, Black Talk" (1968), "Black Judgement" (1968), and "Re: Creation" (1970). Her three most recent works are "Love Poems," "Blues: For All the Changes," and "Quilting the Black-Eyed Pea; Poems and Not Quite Poems," and "Ego-Tripping and Other Poems for Young People." In 1988 she published a collection of essays, "Sacred Cows...and Other Edibles."

It has been written that, "Her collection of poetry, 'Black Feeling, Black Talk, Black Judgement,' captures the militant attitude of the civil rights and Black Art movements of that time."

Wilsonia Sonia Benita Sanchez is a poet/playwright and educator borm September 9, 1934, in Birmingham, Alabama. Like Ms. Giovanni she earned a B.A. degree. Sanchez received hers in political science from Hunter College in 1955. She has won numerous literary honors including the Lucretia Mott Award, a National Endowment for the Arts award and an honorary Ph.D from Wilberforce University (1972).

In 1972 Sanchez joined the Nation of Islam. However, she left in 1975 because some of her views conflicted with the Nation of Islam's position on women's roles. Sanchez has always been known for the fact that her political activism is also evident in her plays and poetry. Her work includes, "Homegirls & Hand Grenades" (1985), for which she received the American Book Award. Her most notable plays include, "The Bronx is Next" (1970), "Sister Sonji" (1972), "Malcolm Man/Don't Live Here No More" (1979), and "I'm Black When I'm Singing, I'm Blue When I Ain't" (1982).

In 1965 she joined the faculty at San Francisco State University. She also taught at Rutgers University, the University of Pittsburgh, Manhattan Community College of CUNY; The City College of CUNY, Amherst College, and the University of Pennsylvania. Ten years later she was on the faculty of Temple University.

Gwendolyn Brooks was born June 7, 1917 in Topeka, Kansas. However, the Brooks family soon moved to Chicago. According to researcher Kenny Jackson, as a young woman Brooks was fortunate enough to meet "James Weldon Johnson and Langston Hughes, who urged her to read modern poetry--especially the work of Ezra Pound, T. S. Eliot, and e. e. cummings--and who emphasized the need to write as much and as frequently as she possibly could."

Subsequently, much of her work was featured in the Chicago Defender. In 1945 her first book of poetry was published, "A Street In Bronzeville." That same year she received a Guggenheim Fellowship. While it was critically well received, as was her second book 1949's "Annie Allen." Five years hence Ms. Brooks struck pay-dirt. That year she became the first black woman to win a Pulitzer Prize.

Over the years she was invited to read at a Library of Congress poetry festival (1962), named as a poetry consultant to that same body (1985) and in 1994 she was selected by the National Endowment for the Humanities as the 1994 Jefferson Lecturer, the highest award in the humanities given by the federal government.

According to Jackson, "A turning point in her career came in 1967 when she attended the Fisk University Second Black Writers' Conference and decided to become more involved in the Black Arts movement. She became one of the most visible articulators of 'the black aesthetic.' Her 'awakening' led to a shift away from a major publishing house to smaller black ones. While some critics found an angrier tone in her work, elements of protest had always been present in her writing and her awareness of social issues did not result in diatribes at the expense of her clear commitment to aesthetic principles."

Some of her works include, "Bronzeville Boys and Girls" (1956), "In the Mecca" (1968).

"The Bean Eaters" (1960), "Selected Poems" (1963), and "Report from Part One: An Autobiography" (1972). Her latest work is a book of poetry titled, "In Montgomery." Many of her poems are powerful pieces that dealt with the abject nature of inner city life and racial inequality. It has been written that the impetus for a lot of her work came about by "looking out of the window of her second-floor apartment house in Chicago." Perhaps Brooks is best known for the succinct and soulful, "We Real Cool":

We real cool. We

Left school. We

Lurk late. We

Strike straight. We

Sing sin. We

Thin gin. We

Jazz June. We

Die soon.

Brooks said of the pool players in her classic work, "They have no pretensions to any glamour. They are supposedly dropouts, or at least they're in the poolroom when they should possibly be in school. You're supposed to stop after the 'We' and think about their validity...I want to represent their basic uncertainty, which they don't bother to question every day."

Maya Angelou was born Marguerite Ann Johnson on April 4, 1928 in St. Louis, Missouri. During her twenties Maya studied dance in New York City and also sang in nightclubs on both coasts. She has lived all over the world, even serving as editor for The Arab Observer, a Cairo newspaper. She also taught in music and drama in Ghana and studied cinematography in Sweden. Marguerite later married Tosh Angelos, a Greek-American sailor. Theirs was a short-lived marriage and they divorced.

Angelou is a poet, actor, director, producer and author of stage, film and television. She is the author of "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" (1969), which focused on growing up in the racist South and her rape by her mother's boyfriend, and her volume of poetry "Just Give Me a Cool Drink of Water 'Fore I Die" (1971). She earned a Pulitzer Prize nomination for the score she wrote for the film, "Georgia." In 1977, she was nominated for an Emmy award for her portrayal of Nyo Boto in the television miniseries"Roots."

She has served under Presidents Ford and Carter, as a member of the Bicentennial Commission and a member of the Commission for the International Woman of the Year. In 1993, she was asked to read an original poem for the William Jefferson Clinton inauguration--a piece titled, On the Pulse of Morning."

According to Wikipedia, "Comedian David Alan Grier spoofed Angelou while hosting the sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live. The gag was that Angelou (played by Grier) had been hired as the new spokesperson for Pennzoil motor oils. In character, Grier read a poem dramatically, using Afrocentrism as an analogy for motor oil. There was a similar joke during the same episode with Grier-as-Angelou hawking Froot Loops breakfast cereal. Angelou is said to have requested a copy of the sketch on videotape because she so enjoyed it."

Angelou once penned:

...Men themselves have wondered

What they see in me.

They try so much

But they can't touch

My inner mystery.

When I try to show them

They say they still can't see.

I say,

It's the arch of my back,

The sun of my smile,

The ride of my breasts,

The grace of my style.

I'm a woman

Phenomenally.

Phenomenal woman,

That's me...

Sources:

Nikki Giovanni biography Wikipedia

"Women of Color Women of Word, African American Female Playwrights--Sonia Sanchez." Author and publication unknown.

"An Interview with Brooks: On 'We Real Cool'," by George Stavros

"Gwendolyn Brooks' Life and Career," by Kenny Jackson Williams

"Maya Angelou, biography,"