Raymond Bureau
Raymond is a high-school math and science teacher (since 1993) and has also taught English for high school and college. He is a former radio announcer/producer and loves baseball -- he once had his own baseball radio talk show. He has coached his high school and junior high teams but currently coaches his son's Little League teams.
Raymond is a devoted husband, father, and Christ follower. His life verses are Philippians 4:13, John 14:6, and Isaiah 41:10.
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Raymond is a devoted husband, father, and Christ follower. His life verses are Philippians 4:13, John 14:6, and Isaiah 41:10.
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Master s degree in educationMotto
Don't wait for the walk; swing for the fences!
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Displaying Results 1 - 200 (of 412) for All Content
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Cubs Should Not Rush Anthony Rizzo: Fan OpinionSince the Cubs are building, let Anthony Rizzo develop as much as possible. The long term is the most important time frame to consider.
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College Graduates and Unemployment: A Teacher's PerspectiveToday’s unemployment rate affects all people regardless of college degree. I hope that the economy will improve soon so everyone will have a better chance at securing full-time employment.
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Are the Yankees Really a .500 Team? Fan OpinionI have a hard time believing that entering play on May 23, the New York Yankees are only one game over .500 at 22-21.
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Our Son is Learning to Appreciate What He HasWho knew that a game room would teach personal responsibility and a dead battery would expose it?
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NHL 2K11 Mobile App -- Fast-Paced Hockey Anywhere, Any Time: Sports Video Game ReviewI have played NHL 2K11 on home consoles and mobile devices. I can honestly say that the mobile versions are just as fast and as much fun as the console versions.
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Winter Sports from Majesco -- Disappointing: A Sports Video Game ReviewWinter Stars did not suit our tastes, but we will still try other winter sports games, and we will give more games from Majesco Entertainment a fair chance.
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Cubs First-Quarter Report Card: Fan OpinionBeginning play on May 20, here is how I would grade the Cubs so far.
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Goodbye, Kerry Wood; Cub Fans Will Miss You: Fan ReactionThe game and the team may have lost a pitcher, but they will always have a friend.
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We expect our son's best efforts: A dad's perspectiveOur son is learning to do the best he can on all tasks while young so he will grow into a similarly responsible adult.
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How Budgeting Strategies Led to Our Stronger Personal Financial StatusBudgeting strategies have transformed our wondering where the money went into knowing where it will go and how much we will have left.
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Derek Jeter -- How Far Will He Climb Up the All-Time Hit Ladder?Derek Jeter leads all active players, and he has garnered his hits with one team. He will not pass Pete Rose, but I expect that he will keep climbing the ladder into the top ten and likely into the top five.
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Making sure my son knows what happens in this world: Dad's perspectiveMost of our son's 12-year-life has existed on a Christian school and church campus and in our own neighborhood. Now that he has turned 12, he needs to understand what happens outside of those boundaries.
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Maintaining Health and Having Fun at 42 by Staying ActiveI tried health clubs and fitness programs, but I tired of them too easily. I prefer staying active daily. I have found some fun activities – depending on the season -- that keep my heart beat up and weight down.
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Who Should Close for the Cubs? Fan OpinionI asked that question even before Carlos Marmol landed on the disabled list.
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NBA 2K12 Mobile App -- Action on the Go: Sports Video Game ReviewThe mobile version of NBA 2K12 is just as great as it is on traditional modern game consoles.Also published on:
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Dealing with pre-teen backtalk: From a dad's perspectiveOur son has turned 12. We knew all along to expect backtalk; we just did not expect it to begin so soon.
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Chicago Cubs -- I Have Not Given Up YetAfter a terrible 3-11 start, the Cubs have won 10 of 17.
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First Person: Summer Vacation on a BudgetVacation planning is one of many budgeting and saving strategies that we have learned in recent years. We need our vacations, and thanks to our plans, we can enjoy them.
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St. Augustine, Florida: A Forbes Top 10 TownWe live close to St. Augustine, and we will take a day, a weekend, or a full vacation to enjoy our nation’s oldest city. We visit a few times each year, and we enjoy it more and more each time.
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Samardzija Proving Me Wrong -- and I like It: Fan ReactionI hate to admit when I am wrong, but in the case of Jeff Samardzija’s pitching so far, I graciously acknowledge it.
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No, Why, and Mine -- Our Toddler's Three Favorite Words (and How We Handled Them)We dealt with each matter carefully but diligently, and our son – now twelve – understands why we often have to do things against his own will.
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Tips for Baby-Proofing the HouseBaby-proofing our home was easier than we expected. We simply used common sense. We protected all things low and moved other things up high.
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First Person: Refinancing -- Once Great, Twice a NightmareRefinancing seemed like a great idea at the time. After all, it worked well the first time.
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Pettitte Could Join Yankees' Rotation SoonBringing up Andy Pettitte now is a good move for the Yankees. He has the experience, know-how, and arm to help get the Yankees' rotation back on track.
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NHL 2K11 for Wii -- Fast-Pace Fun: Sports Video Game ReviewI am only a casual hockey fan, but I enjoy sports video games. NHL 2K11 for Wii is fast-paced and fun. I highly recommend it to any hockey fan or sports video game fan in general.Also published on:
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Mariano Rivera -- Please Do Not End it This Way: Fan ReactionI hope and pray that Mariano Rivera will get another chance to pitch even if very briefly. He has earned the privilege of ending his career on his own terms.
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Dempster Watches Another Win Fade Away: Fan ReactionWhat else does Ryan Dempster have to do to get a win?
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Jacksonville Jaguars Mother's Day Gift GuideWhatever the gift, Mother’s Day is a day of celebrating the moms in our lives. With these, she can cheer on her favorite team and enjoy her special day all season long.
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Matt Garza's April Warrants a Long-Term Deal: Fan OpinionMatt Garza is the Cubs’ ace. I hope Hoyer and Epstein will do what it takes to sign him long-term and keep him in Wrigley Field.
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Yankees April Progress Report: Fan OpinionThe Yankees are scoring runs, but they are giving them up almost as often. It is still very early, but here is how I would grade the Yankees through April 29.
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Let Cubs' Bryan LaHair Hit the Lefties: Fans' TakeThis is a rebuilding year. If he does not get the opportunities, then how will he improve?
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Finishing the school year strong: Dad's perspectiveWe will not tolerate any lack of effort regardless of reason.
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Planning Our Son's Summer ActivitiesKeeping our son active means giving him a summer full of many different activities.
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Do Cubs' Walk-Off Wins Give Fans Hope? Fan's TakeThese two games show us that this team will not give up. I have faith in the new management’s patience in building a winner within a few years.
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First Person: Is It Time for a New Cell Phone Plan?I discovered that I would pay the same amount or more each month to switch to a different wireless provider.
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NFL 12 Pro for iPad and iPod Touch: How to Obtain and Play This Excellent GameSports video game fans, especially those who enjoy football games, would do well to download this application.
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Cubs Let Byrd Fly to Boston: Fan ReactionI like this trade. The Cubs are looking toward the future, and the future did not include Byrd anyway.
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Cubs' Maholm Snaps Two Losing Streaks: Fan ReactionLefty Paul Maholm of the Chicago Cubs ended two long losing streaks on April 21, 2012, one of which dated back to mid-2011.
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Cubs' Schedule Does Not Get Easier for a While: Fan's TakeIf the Cubs can survive the upcoming schedule against the National League’s best, then they should fare well by this time – but that is a huge if.
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Yankees and Red Sox Resume Rivalry: Fan PreviewNo matter the standings, team records or venue, this is still Yankees vs. Red Sox. Get ready for high-intensity baseball from players and fans.
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First Person: Reducing Our Water BillsWater use gets expensive and increases our utility bills. My wife and I use only the amount of water necessary so we can reduce our bill and ensure that we do not waste this precious resource.
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Diaper Changing -- Expect the UnexpectedEvery one of these and other diaper moments brought us laughter, and we still chuckle about them today. We tell these stories to expectant parents in casual conversation to try to lighten up the potential worries.
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FIFA 12 for Wii Scores a Goal: A Sports Video Game ReviewFIFA Soccer 12 for Wii is a very good game for soccer fans and sports video game fans. I am not a big soccer fan, but my son and I agree that this game scores a goal.
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First Person: Reducing Our Electric BillBy reducing the air conditioner use, running ceiling fans more, and controlling the use of our lights and smaller appliances, we can reduce the total amount of electricity that we use and lower our monthly bill.
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Making sure my son speaks up for himself: Dad's perspectiveHe must learn while young to speak up. It is my job to get him to.
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Cubs' 10-Game Progress Report: Fan OpinionIt is still very early, but here is how I would grade this team so far.
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Rewarding our son for 6 years of hard work: Dad's perspectiveWe do not expect him to be the very best, but we do expect him to do his very best. As for now, he earned this reward.
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Cubs' Offense Explodes for Two Straight Games: Fan ReactionIf only this could happen every day.
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Cubs Getting Strong Starting Pitching but Little Run Support: Fan's TakeIn the first six games, the Cubs had either great pitching and no offense or good offense and poor pitching. In Game 7, they finally put the two good sides together.
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We Take as Many Pictures as PossibleWe capture as many memories as possible by taking pictures very frequently.
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Talking to Our Son About SmokingWe have already discussed the dangers of alcohol, and the time has come to teach our son about the dangers of tobacco in all forms, especially cigarettes.
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First Person: Why I Am Not Looking for a New Job in a Struggling EconomyI cannot be sure that I would last in a new job if the business had to cut back on costs. The new ones in are generally the first to go – not always but quite often. I am willing to stay where I am for a number of reasons.
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Yankees Swept in Opening Series with Rays: Fan ReactionI am a Yankee fan, but I am realistic. The Rays are good. The American League is the best and toughest division for a reason.
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Cubs' Early Bullpen Woes: Fan ReactionI know that the Cubs have played only two games and they are not expected to win much. However, the veterans need to get it done when the Cubs have chances to win. So far, the two relievers they are relying on the most have not gotten it done.
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Opening Day -- Five Observations: Fan's TakeIf these are only the precursors, then this should be a fun season.
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First Person: Why Timeshare Maintenance Fees Are Worth the CostThe maintenance fees cost us money each year, but we get far more benefit – both monetary and otherwise – from our ownership.
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First Person: I Failed Miserably at Network MarketingI will never again venture into something that I should not have even tried in the first place.
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2K Sports' Top Spin 4 for Wii is an Ace: A Sports Video Game ReviewI am not a big tennis fan, but I will try nearly any type of sports video game. Top Spin 4 captured my interest as one of the best tennis video games I have tried to date.
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Florida Keys: A Great Vacation SpotDuring our spring break of March 2012, my wife and I decided to heed my parents' advice from years ago and visit the Florida Keys. From Key Largo to Key West, there is so much to do and enjoy.
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First Person: My Student Loan Is My ResponsibilityI knew all along that I would have to pay back the loan, and I still accept full responsibility for finishing the payments. I do not expect anyone to else to do it for me.
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Night-Night, Chicken Nugget: Putting Our Little One to BedMany young kids do not like going to bed, but we found ways to make bedtime more of a fun time for a few more minutes each night.
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MLB Opening Day -- for Real Games Only: Fan OpinionWe should not have any exhibition games the day of the first regular-season game.
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Cubs' Rotation No Longer a Mystery: Fan ReactionA huge Chicago Cubs fan, I have waited throughout Spring Training to see which of the many candidates would make the Cubs’ final season-opening rotation.
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Letting my son know I am proud of him: Dad's perspectiveWords from a parent, particularly a father, can influence a child in the biggest ways.
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First Person: We Aren't Letting the Economy Run Our LivesWhen we let the economy decide things for us, we feel inferior and subjective to numbers. When we make our own decisions with careful planning, we feel much more in charge of our own lives.
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Alfonso Soriano's Red Hot Spring Needs to Continue in April: Fan's TakeIf Alfonso Soriano can hit all season like he has this spring, then the Cubs could win more games than we might expect.
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First Person: Our Long-Term Retirement Planning GoalsWe will have a good retirement because of the personal responsibility to begin private accounts and patience to see them through.Also published on:
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Madden NFL 12 for Wii Slightly Above Average: A Sports Video Game ReviewAlthough I would not consider this game one of my most favorites, I do rate it slightly above average in keeping me entertained.
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First Person: Keeping Track of My Insurance DeductiblePaying the deductible is not nice, but it beats paying full price, and I save for that exact purpose. I see that as my personal medical and financial responsibility.
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Phil Hughes: Starter or Reliever? Fan's TakeThe Yankees have an abundance of starters and may need Phil Hughes in the bullpen.
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LaHair is Correct Choice to Start Season at First Base: Fan OpinionDale Sveum and Jed Hoyer made the correct choice in Bryan LaHair to start the season at first base.
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Checking my own attitude: Dad's perspectiveI made a terrible mistake with my son that could hurt our relationship. I will not do that again.
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MLB 2K vs. MLB the Show: A Sports Video Game Series ComparisonAny game that can make me forget that I am playing a video game for even a brief moment gets my attention first.
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Clevenger or Castillo for Cubs' Backup Catcher? Fan's TakeThe backup catcher is often a thankless job, but the Cubs have two candidates who appear ready and able to fill the role when needed.
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Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee - Smoky Mountain FunSince we married in 1995, my wife and I have visited Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, three times. We lodged in Gatlinburg for its natural beauty and shopping and drove the few miles north into Pigeon Forge for high-quality entertainment.
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Samardzija and Volstad Making Strong Cases for Starting Rotation: Fan OpinionJeff Samardzija and Chris Volstad look like the front runners for the back end of the Cubs' rotation.
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Welcome Back to New York, Andy Pettitte: Fan ReactionThe Yankees signed the retired lefty Andy Pettitte to a one-year deal.
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Early Spring ERAs Not Something Cub Fans Should Worry About Too Much: Fan's TakeThe Cubs have not pitched well in the first half of Spring Training, but the pitching will improve.
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Look, Dad! I Can Ride a Bike!Learning to ride a bike is a major accomplishment in a six-year-old's life.
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First Person: I'm Already Planning Ahead for Next Year's TaxesEach year after submitting our tax return, we examine our financial activity and adjust to better reach our goals for the next tax season.Also published on:
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I Set Person Preference Aside for Better MLB Replay Use: Fan's TakeI personally do not like using instant replay in any sport, but with the technology available today, I can understand its limited use, and I can set aside my personal bias to make sure the calls are correct
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Is our son old enough for an email account?This may seem trivial to many parents, but these days, we take these matters very seriously because we never know who is on the other end of an email message.
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MLB 11 The Show: The Most Realistic Baseball Game I Have PlayedI have played many baseball video games. However, MLB 11 The Show is the most realistic one yet.
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MLB 2K12--a Little Disappointing: A Sports Video Game ReviewAlthough I do not completely dislike MLB 2K12, I did find this year’s version a little disappointing compared to recent editions.
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Cubs Off and Running -- Literally: Fan ReactionI am glad to see new manager Dale Sveum emphasize fundamentals in Spring Training. I hope it all carries over into and throughout the regular season.
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N.L. Central -- Cardinals Division Champs: Fan PredictionHere are my predictions for the 2012 N.L. Central race.
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Cubs' Offense Scoring Runs Early in Spring: Fan ReactionThe Cubs have scored 37 runs in five Spring Training games. Let's hope it continues and carries into the regular season.
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Giving Our Son Proper Rewards: A Dad's PerspectiveWe enjoy giving our son his favorite rewards when he earns them.
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Appropriate discipline for our 12-year-old son: A dad's perspectiveSuccessful discipline varies depending on the situation, but we have found the three options that – so far – have worked the best when we need to get our son’s attention.
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First Person: Gas Prices Will Not Affect Our Travel PlansWe have already planned and booked our spring 2012 vacation even before the gas prices began to climb. Many people allow the gas prices to determine how much they will travel, but we do not.
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Should Soriano Lead Off? Fan OpinionAlfonso Soriano should not lead off. I hope someone steps up soon and resumes the role or the Cubs will have trouble scoring runs once again.
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Coaching Kids' Baseball -- Pre-Game Warm-Up: Coach's PerspectiveKeeping the players in baseball motion and mind-set throughout pre-game warm-up gets them ready both mentally and physically to play the game. Then, they will all play harder until the final out.
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Top Seeds in MLB 2012 Postsesaon Will Open on the Road: Fan ReactionThe team with the best record in each league will open the postseason on the road. At least it is for only one postseason.
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Saving Money on MoviesBecause of high prices and other reasons, we do not visit the movie theater very often. We save money by watching movies at home.
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Monitoring our son's video games: A dad's perspectiveMy wife and I would not try to dictate to other parents what games to allow their kids to play or anything else. We have our standards for our son; some parents agree and some do not. What we find okay some other parents do not, and that is fine with us.
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My Bad Experiences with Fantasy SportsEven though I do not participate, I like the idea that fans can play fantasy sports. I do not play for the following reasons.
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Winning the Battle with a Picky EaterWe battled the fuss – and often lost – before we figured out how to get our son to eat what we give him.
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Glad to See the Cubs Focus on Bunting: Fan's TakeThe Cubs have not displayed strong fundamentals in recent years, so I am very glad to see a healthy bunting competition as the Cubs progress through Spring Training.
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NBA 2K11--a Realistic Experience: A Sports Video Game ReviewBasketball fans and sports video game fans will enjoy hours of fun with NBA 2K11. It is one of the most realistic video games to come along in the past few years.
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N.L. East -- the Nationals Will Surprise Everyone: Fan PredictionThe 2012 National League East may have the best division race in baseball. Four teams will battle for the entire season.
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A.L. East -- the Yankees Will Win: Fan PredictionHere is the first of my division predictions. The Yankees will win the A.L. East
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The Alphabet Walkway And Other Methods of Teaching the ABC'sWe have fun teaching our son, and he loves learning. We pray that is love of learning will continue for his entire life.
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I enjoy coaching my son: A dad's perspectiveCoaching my son is another way for me to make sure that I get to watch him grow up.
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Watch your toddler every second: A dad's perspectiveEnjoy the blessings of having children, but watch them constantly because anything can happen at any time.
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Manny Can Still Be Manny in Oakland: Fan's TakeWe may not see Manny being Manny inside Fenway Park’s Green Monster during game time or cutting off throws from centerfield, but we may get a whole new batch of fun moments out of him in Oakland.
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First Person: How Much Life Insurance Do We Need?We decided that each of us would purchase ten times his or her total income so that the survivor can perform necessary financial tasks easily.
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First Person: My Health Savings Account Covered My Medical EmergencyIf I had not saved money into my HSA, I would have panicked when my recent bills came due. Because of the discipline to save, that panic will not happen.
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Can Carlos Marmol Overcome Control Problems? a Fan's TakeNew pitching coach Chris Bosio may have found a solution.
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Tim Wakefield is a True Gamer: Fan OpinionTim Wakefield's record and his willingness to do what his team needed made him a solid pitcher and a gamer for 19 seasons.
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Yankees Can Fill Voids with Ibanez and Chavez: Fan OpinionAdding Raul Ibanez and Eric Chavez would fill in voids in the Yankees’ DH and bench roles. Both players showed that they can hit when it counts even if their overall statistics may not look as impressive. Yankee fans should welcome both into the lineup.
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Trade Good for Burnett as Well as Yankees: Fan OpinionA trade of Burnett to the Pirates would work out for both A.J. Burnett and the Yankees. Burnett gets a new start, and the Yankees get $13 million back.
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First Person: Our $700 HoneymoonThe amount of money we spent did not matter as long as we stayed in an affordable range. We still cherish the memories, and we truly had the perfect honeymoon.
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My Three Favorite Minor League Teams and Stadiums: Fan OpinionFor those of us who cannot get to Major League games very often, Minor Baseball provides a strong baseball fix as we watch the starts of the future develop today.Also published on:
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Why Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is Worth Repeated VisitsWe have visited Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, four times and already have reservations for a fifth visit. This is one of our favorite vacation destinations for many reasons. We have made many memories in Myrtle Beach, and we look forward to making more.
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First Person: We've Added at Least $40,000 Worth of Home Improvement Value in 7 YearsSince 2005, we have gradually completed a number of projects that have improved our home’s financial value and made it even more comfortable for us to enjoy. In addition, some of the projects have helped us save money on our monthly bills.
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Using What I Teach in School on the Baseball FieldI have found that I can bring many of my classroom lessons onto the field to help my players improve their game.
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NBA 2K12 is a Slam Dunk: A Sports Video Game ReviewNBA 2K12 provides hours of enjoyment for sports video game fans of all ages. Those who like the realistic experience of game play, announcing, season play, and championship play will truly enjoy this game.Also published on:
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Teaching our son emergency contacts: A dad's perspectiveWe occasionally see or hear news about a child dialing 9-1-1 to save his or her parents or others. Whenever I hear this story, I first give thanks that the victim is all right. I then think about my own son and how he might handle a similar situation.
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Which New Manager Inherited the Best Situation? Fan DebateTo answer this, I considered more than just team strength; I also considered fan expectation.Also published on:
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Preparing Our Son for Junior High SchoolAs parents, we want our son to succeed in school, and we will prepare him as much as possible. As teachers, we know how to prepare him even more from the educational standpoint.
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First Person: 5 Ways I Have Made Money OnlineI have made money online in five different ways since 2005. I still do three of these tasks, and I enjoy or enjoyed each one that I have tried.
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Yankees Add Bats from Both Sides: Fan ReactionThe New York Yankees signed left-handed slugger Russell Branyan and right-handed hitting Bill Hall to Minor League contracts and invited both to Spring Training.Also published on:
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Consulting each other in parenting decisions: A dad's perspectiveWe want our son to know that we mean what we say, and discussing matters with each other first allows us the assurance that he knows we do.
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First Person: We've Been Hit With 3 Fraudulent Charges in 4 YearsThankfully, we have a fraud protection service watching our account around the clock as well as an extra identity theft protection service. They have successfully stopped three separate attempts to access our money, and we thank them for doing so.
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First Person: I Lost My Scholarship, But I Still Paid My Own Way Through CollegeOne day in my junior year Algebra II class, I suddenly realized that I wanted to teach math. I decided that I wanted to teach others the fascination of how numbers work. Once I made that decision, I had to figure out how to pay for my college education.
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Let Mark Teixeira and Other Sluggers Bunt: Fan DebateI frequently wonder why more players do not bunt against the shift or at least try to poke one down the left-field line.Also published on:
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The New Matt Garza Deal is Not Enough: Fan DebateI would like to see the Cubs keep Matt Garza in the rotation for a at least few more years and build a winning team around him.Also published on:
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First Person: Our Budget Works, as Long as We Follow ItSince we learned how to budget and save, we have greatly improved our financial condition. However, when we fail to plan ahead, problems from the past creep back up.
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Learning the Potty: Train but Do Not Force ItWe had to remember that he would complete potty training at his own pace. We could not force it regardless of how much we wanted to escape the diaper changing.
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Top Five MLB Play-In Games of My Lifetime: Fan OpinionWith the advent of the new wild card round and the one-game play-in still in discussion, I thought back to the top five play-in games from my lifetime (since 1969).Also published on:
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Stone Mountain: More Than a Mountain - a Memorable Vacation ExperienceMy wife and I have visited Stone Mountain, Georgia, twice – once before we had our son and once when he was three. Each visit brought lasting memories, and we plan to visit again in the future.
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One-Game Play-In Pros and Cons: A Fan's TakeThe playoff expansion could begin in 2012. Here are my pros and cons of the one-game play-in.Also published on:
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Maintaining contact with the teacher: A dad's perspectiveMy wife and I see both sides of the parent/teacher relationship, and we appreciate those parents who show concern for their kids’ grades and education just as we do with our own son. The kids may not always admit it, but they do, too.
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Top Five 2011-12 MLB Offseason Winners: Fan DebateEven though I realize that more roster changes can and likely will occur before Opening Day, I have chosen the five teams that I feel have made the best offseason acquisitions to date to improve their chances of making and going deep into the postseason.Also published on:
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My Cubs Opening Day Rotation: Fan OpinionRoster changes can and still may occur, but as for now, here is my Chicago Cubs Opening Day pitching rotation.Also published on:
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First Person: Sometimes Treating Ourselves Is Worth the CostEven on teachers’ salaries, when we manage our money well, we can enjoy these activities that give us some stress relief and time well spent together.
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First Person: No More Mortgage Refinancings for UsHad we learned by 2002 what we now know about managing our finances, we would not have made the foolish decision to refinance with extra cash. If we had kept the original mortgage contract, we would have the house paid off by 2019.
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First Person: The 4 Financial Mistakes I'll Never Make AgainAdvertising makes buying the newest items so appealing, but our new will is, thankfully, much stronger.
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Coaching Kids' Baseball: Pitching Mechanics -- Coach's PerspectiveI currently coach in the U-12 division of our boys’ athletic association, and I have coached varsity and junior high as well. In each level, I have had the pitchers practice the following mechanics repeatedly, and they have worked.
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Branson, Missouri: Our Favorite Vacation SpotAll three of us will definitely visit Branson again when the next opportunity arises. Even more than five years after our first visit, we still talk about the fun we had.
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Removing the Static Cling of SeparationEven though I was on the same campus the entire day, to him it seemed as if we were both a million miles away.
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Weaning Off the Baby Formula -- Our Sneak AttackThe simple task of weaning him off of formula onto milk took much more effort than we thought it would. Fortunately, I could outsmart an infant, at least in this one instance. I devised a scheme that took some time but got him off of the formula.
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How raising pets benefits our son: A dad's perspectiveBy having him help us take care of these four pets, our son is learning that pets play an important role in our lives and become valued members of our family.
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My Cubs Opening Day Lineup: Fan OpinionWith less than a month before spring training begins, I have decided to stop thinking of whom I wish the Chicago Cubs would have and start considering whom they do have.Also published on:
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Yankees Sign Gardner for 2012: Fan ReactionIn this day in which many marginal players make far higher salaries, $2.8 million for a solid Yankees outfielder is a bargain.Also published on:
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Coaching Kids' Baseball: Pitching Philosophy -- Coach's PerspectiveSome players will never pitch past Little League, but as many as possible should get a chance when young to learn. Even those who may not develop into even high school pitchers will appreciate the opportunity and remember the coaches who gave it to them.
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First Person: The Ups and Downs of Shopping OnlineOnline shopping allows shoppers to purchase item conveniently from home or other private places, but it can also have its drawbacks.
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First Person: The Dollar Bill Savings Plan Works for UsWhile listening to the radio one day, I heard of a very simple plan that helps me save a little at a time that can add up to quite a bit. The host called it the dollar bill saving plan.
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Yankees' Rotation Looks Much Stronger: Fan OpinionThe Yankees began the offseason with many questions in their starting rotation. So far, I like the answers.Also published on:
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Studying counts as homeworkOur sixth-grade son often thinks that homework must come in written form and that studying for a test does not count. As parents and teachers, my wife and I think otherwise.
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Yankees Trade Montero to Mariners for Pitcher Pineda: Fan TakeIn effort to strengthen their starting rotation, the New York Yankees traded away highly-touted catching prospect Jesus Montero to the Seattle Mariners for starter Michael Pineda.Also published on:
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Kerry Wood Signs with the Cubs: Fan ReactionRelief pitcher Kerry Wood signed a one-year, $3million deal with a club option for 2013.Also published on:
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2012 -- Not Resolutions but Lifestyle Changes that I Can MaintainIn the past, I would give up on my resolutions. I would return right back to old habits. However, as I get older, I see the need to keep trying. This time, though, I consider them lifestyle changes, which helps me keep them all.
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High School Baseball Excitement Begins: A Fan and Coach's PerspectiveHigh school baseball has begun in Florida and some other parts of the country as players and coaches begin conditioning in early to mid January.
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2012 Parenting ResolutionsAs our son gets closer to his teenage years, my wife and I must prepare him -- and ourselves -- for the situations that come along with those years.
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First Person: We Cut the Cost of Roadside Assistance Coverage By 87% a YearRoadside assistance coverage has proved vital to us financially and given us piece of mind and security during a break down. In January 2012, we found a much less expensive alternative for roadside assistance through our new auto policy holder.
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Lefty Paul Maholm Joins Cubs' Rotation: Fan ReactionThe Chicago Cubs have added another southpaw to the starting rotation in Paul Maholm.Also published on:
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First Person: Why We Always Prepare Our Own Tax ReturnsWe originally paid hundreds of dollars to a professional tax preparation service only to receive small refunds or even pay extra tax. Now, we prepare our own returns easily for a much smaller fee.Also published on:
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First Person: Financial Resolutions for the New YearMy wife and I resolve to continue and strengthen the financial strategies that have reshaped our financial status into a much more positive situation.
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The Enjoyment of Frequent Family TravelsAs teachers and vacation club owners, my wife and I take great pleasure in traveling a number of time each year.
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Too old for some things, too young for others: A dad's perspectiveWe have told our son that he is too young for some things, too old for others, and just right for even more. I understand his confusion. In his mind, he has a hard time following all of it.
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Cubs Bring in Anthony Rizzo from Padres: Fan ReactionFor the third time since 2007, Jed Hoyer has acquired first base prospect Anthony Rizzo.Also published on:
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All One-Team Team: Fan OpionionI have chosen my all-time team of players who spent their entire MLB careers with exactly one team (starter listed first) and most of it at the indicated position. Most are in the Hall of Fame or will be before too long.Also published on:
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Cubs Say so Long to Carlos Zambrano: Fan ReactionThe Chicago Cubs traded Carlos Zambrano to the Miami Marlins but will pay much of his 2012 salary.Also published on:
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Our Son Needs Time with Extended FamilyExtended family is very important to us, and we want it to become important to him also.
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First Person: Keeping Track of My Freelance Income TaxesEarning income for something that I truly enjoy makes the extra paperwork and even the tax liability worth the effort and cost.Also published on:
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First Person: Why I'll Always Take Classes OnlineWhen given a choice, I will always take classes online. Never again do I want to sit in a classroom at night after having taught in one all day.
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Doing chores to earn what he gets: A dad's perspectiveOur parents made us work for what we wanted, and that system taught us responsibility and a strong work ethic. I want the same for my son.
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Monitoring our son's television and computer use: A dad's perspectiveBy no means do my wife and I dictate to other parents what to let their children see on television or do online. We simply have our own standards for our son.
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MLB Said Goodbye to Stars in 2011: A Fan RemembersMLB lost a number of heroes and other figures. We pay honor to those who left us.Also published on:
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Cubs Trade Sean Marshall to Reds for Travis Woos: Fan ReactionThe Cubs traded away their best reliever for a young left-handed starter who had a mediocre 2011. Let us hope that it works out well.Also published on:
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We require our son to finish what he starts: A dad's perspectiveLearning to keep his commitments now will cause our son to make his adult decisions more carefully and keep much more serious commitments as an adult.
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First Person: How Communication Put an End to Our Money ArgumentsConstantly tired of fighting about money, my wife and I finally decided to consult each other before spending large amounts. This simple step seems so easy, but we did not always follow this advice earlier in our marriage. Hence, arguments ensued!
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First Person: Changing Jobs Is About More Than Just SalaryI decided that even a higher salary would not justify the drastic changes in my family life.
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Top Five Items on My Chicago Cubs Christmas List: Fan DebateThis Christmas, I sent my letter to Santa requesting some gifts for the Cubs. Here are the top five items on my 2011 Chicago Cubs Christmas wish list.Also published on:
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Learning from Parenting MistakesHere are three examples of mistakes that I have made as a father. Thankfully, I have learned from them how to handle future matters better.
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Teaching Our Son Contentment with What He HasOur son wants the bigger and better things, but he has to learn contentment with what he already has.
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Keeping Track of Our Son's HomeworkWe will always want to know how much of what homework assignment our son must complete each night.
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New York Yankees Jesus Montero: MLB Network #1 Breakout Prospect: Fan ReactionMLB Network predicted New York Yankees' catcher Jesus Montero as the #1 prospect to break out in 2012.Also published on:
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Three MLB Scoring Rules that Need ChangingIn order of importance, I chose three scoring rules (plus a post script) that I deem outdated and in need of change.Also published on:
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Attend your kids' activities: A dad's perspectiveWe get only one chance to watch our son grow up, and we refuse to miss it.
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Coaching Kids' Baseball: Catcher-- Coach's PerspectiveAs kids reach higher levels of youth baseball, The catchers have more responsibility as the hitters improve and the runners begin to steal on the pitch. Skills become more important for the catchers beginning with this league.
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Cubs: Why Not Gio Gonzalez? a Fan's OpinionOakland A's lefty Gio Gonzalez may become available. The Chicago Cubs should try to get him.Also published on:
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First Person: Making Sure We Have Enough for 'Rainy Days'We want a safety umbrella for those "rainy days." See why we try always to stay above a minimum limit in each of our accounts.
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We Chose a Dental Plan that Covers OrthodonticsNot all dental plans cover orthodontics. When given the choice, we selected a plan that does.
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First Person: Why I Quit Buying Extended WarrantiesToo often, I paid hundreds for extended warranties only to have to pay full price for repairs anyway. See why I quit buying the extended warranties.
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Cubs Tender Six Contracts, Keep Matt Garza: Fan ReactionThe Cubs made their best roster move of this offseason so far in tendering pitcher Matt Garza’s contract.Also published on:
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First Person:The Local Credit Union vs. the BankWe discovered that credit unions in our area did not charge the fees that the chain banks did charge to use our own money.
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First Person: Why We Maintain an 'Intermediate Fund'My wife and I recommend an intermediate retirement fund – not as the main account but as a supplement. It serves a dual purpose as both a savings and a checking account, and it brings in high returns over time.
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All-Yankees Team of My Lifetime: Fan OpinionThe Yankees history is loaded with icons and legends, Therefore, I limited my team to players of my lifetime, since 1969. Here is my All-Yankees team of my lifetime.Also published on:
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Teaching Our Son About AlcoholWe cannot keep our son young, but we can do our best to ensure that he grows up knowing to avoid this toxic substance.
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My 2006 Saturn Vue -- the Best Car I Have OwnedFrom 1986 to late 2005, I have had many unreliable cars. Finally, I have a great car, the best one I have owned so far. Here is why I love my 2006 Saturn Vue.
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We Love the WiiWe have played a number of video game systems from the time they first began in the 80s. So far, the Nintendo Wii has suited us the best and continues as our favorite system of all time.
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Rays Sign Moore for Less: MLB Fan's ReactionThe Tamps Bay Rays made a terrific roster and business move on December 9, 2011, when they signed their young star in the making, LHP Matt Moore, to an eight-year contract.Also published on:
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Cubs Remain Quiet at Winter Meetings: Fan ReactionThe Cubs stayed quiet during the winter meetings, and they made low-key and low-impact moves.Also published on:
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First Person: Saving on Heating Costs by Servicing EarlyOur winter electric bills suddenly skyrocketed, and it took a while to notice that our heater did not function properly. This time, we called a repair service and will not have to pay those high electric bills.
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Miami Marlins Making Major Moves: MLB Fan ReactionThe 2012 Miami Marlins will have a new look -- and not just on their uniforms.
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Alarm Monitoring is Well Worth the CostWe never again want to come home to find our possessions laid out or missing or – even worse – find someone in our home!
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Making Sure Our Son Chooses Good FriendsMy wife and I work very hard to instill in our son the same morals and values that our parents taught us. We want him to care about others and make friends that will truly care for him.
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First Person: Saving $5,200 a Year, One Week at a TimeWe wish that we had started this saving and budgeting plan much earlier in our marriage, but now we enjoy much better financial success.
