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Welcome to Mercy Regional Medical Center
Southwest Colorado's largest and most technologically advanced medical facility. Continuing the legacy of care that began in 1882 when the Sisters of Mercy opened Durango's first hospital, Mercy is a not-for-profit, full service, acute care hospital designated as a Level III trauma center. As a not-for-profit medical center, Mercy is committed to improving the health and wellness of the communities it serves and the individuals who receive care at the hospital. The new Mercy Regional Medical Center opened in the Grandview area of Durango in June, 2006. It includes state-of-the-art medical technology in an environment designed to promote a sense wellness and healing.
Our Staff
Medical staff at Mercy is comprised of 135 board-certified physicians who represent 35 medical specialties and sub-specialties
One of the largest employers in Durango with more than 800 full and part-time employees
Hospital Services
Surgical Care - 5 state-of-the-art operating rooms, including dedicated caesarian-section, spine surgery, and general surgery suites; dedicated surgery elevator; 4 additional surgical suites in the medical office building
Cardiac Care - Mercy Regional Medical Center is the only hospital in Southwest Colorado with both medical and interventional cardiologists on staff
Orthopedic & Spine Center of Excellence - A collaborative effort that involves physicians, the hospital, and physical therapy providers who closely coordinate patient care
Family Birth Center - has its own elevator and waiting area, features a special birthing tub for families interested in underwater birthing, has a Jacuzzi tub in almost all rooms, offers expecting families classes on topics including childbirth and breastfeeding, and a surgery suite specifically dedicated to emergency caesarian sections
Our Healing Environment
A unique healing environment: labyrinth and meditation alcove onsite
An Executive Chef on staff to make nutritious, unique meals not typically found in hospitals
Touch, Love, and Compassion (TLC) Program - includes complementary therapies for inpatients and outpatients (fee for service) such as gentle massage, aromatherapy, music therapy, and pet therapy. Outpatient acupuncture procedures are also available.
Contact Us
Mercy Regional Medical Center
1010 Three Springs Blvd.
Durango, CO 81301
Phone number: 970-247-4311
Mercy Regional Medical Center is located at 1010 Three Springs Blvd. in Durango, Colorado. Three Springs Blvd. intersects the north side of Hwy 160 East between the Hwy 160 East / Hwy 550 South intersection (Farmington Hill) and the Hwy 160 / County Road 234 / Highway 172 intersection (Elmore's Corner). Direction are also available by calling (970) 247-4311.


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The CW has released an official description of the episode
7.19 – "Of Grave Importance". Airs: Friday, April 20th, 2012 at 9/8c
AN OLD HUNTER FRIEND RECONNECTS WITH SAM AND DEAN — Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean (Jensen Ackles) get a call from Annie Hawkins (guest star Jamie Luner), an old hunter friend, asking for help on a case. When they arrive in town, they find out Annie has disappeared. They trace her last whereabouts to an old abandoned house that is haunted by a powerful ghost.
Written by: Brad Buckner & Eugenie Ross-Leming, Directed by: Tim Andrew
Source: The CW

subset: commoncrawl


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CC Corso Como : Flats
Classic and comfortable women's flats made for every day wear. Your feet will thank you.
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Women's Flats
Flats are a versatile, stylish staple for any woman's wardrobe. Whether you're heading to a big meeting or grabbing a beer with friends, your tried and true flats are always there with you. Dress them up or dress them down, ballet flats, loafers, and slip-ons will always be your go-to.
Styles of Flats We Offer
Love a classic pair of white sneakers for running errands? How about a pair of oh-so-femme ballet flats? Maybe you want to add some vacation-flair to your wardrobe with a pair of embroidered espadrilles? No matter what you're looking for, our wide range of flats are perfect for any occasion.
How to Style Your Flats
Flats are one of the easiest shoes to style, but it's all about the outfit. If you're keeping it casual with dark jeans and a tee shirt, throw on a pair of ballet flats for a touch of effortless style. If you're headed to the office, throw on a pair of stylish loafers with tailored slacks for a cool and contemporary look. If the bar is in your near future, transition from day to night with a pair metallic sneakers to keep your look fresh and fun throughout the day. The possibilities are endless.


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Dot Richardson, a two-time Olympic softball gold medalist for Team USA, has been named the fifth head coach in the history of the softball program, as announced by Liberty University Director of Athletics Jeff Barber, earlier today.
Richardson brings a vast knowledge of the game, which she has shared during stints as both a coach and a clinician. She has coached at the collegiate level, including as an assistant coach at Adelphi University while completing her master's degree in 1988 and as a volunteer at Oregon State. Most recently, Richardson served as an advisor/instructional coach for Montverde Academy's softball team.
She is the founder of the Dot Richardson Softball Association – a not-for-profit organization which provides instruction to coaches and athletes to help them reach their full potential. As part of this foundation, a travel ball organization was founded, with Richardson coaching "Dot's Diamonds" to NSA National Championships at both the 10U and 18U levels.
Through the Dot Richardson Softball Series, Inc., Richardson has organized and taught at instructional camps and clinics throughout the nation since its founding in 1984.
Richardson takes over Liberty's head coaching position after Paul Wetmore retired from the position in May following a 20-year career that included a program-record 547 career victories. Richardson becomes the program's second head coach at the Division I level since the program was reinstated in 1994.
Richardson is one of the most decorated collegiate, national and international players in softball history. She helped Team USA win Olympic gold in Atlanta in 1996 and Sydney in 2000, hitting the game-winning home run in the gold medal game in 1996.
Internationally, she also played in five Pan American Games (1979, 1983, 1987, 1995 and 1999) and five World Championships (1982, 1986, 1990, 1994 and 1998). She helped her team win five Pan American Game gold medals and four World Championship gold medals.
As a collegiate player, Richardson was a five-time All-American, earning AIAW All-America honors at Western Illinois and three All-America honors at UCLA. After transferring to UCLA from Western Illinois, she was recognized one year as an All-American by both organizations.
While at UCLA, Richardson helped the Bruins win their first of 11 NCAA national championships in 1982. She finished as a three-time Bruin softball team MVP and completed her career with a .349 batting average.
The standout shortstop was named UCLA's All-University Athlete Award winner in 1983, sharing the honors with three-time Olympic track & field goal medalist Jackie Joyner Kersee. Additionally, Richardson was named the 1980's NCAA Player of the Decade to cap off her stellar collegiate accomplishments. She is listed No. 43 on the Top 100 NCAA Student-Athletes of the Century.
Richardson is a 16-time Amateur Softball Association (A.S.A.) All-American and was inducted into the A.S.A. Hall of Fame in 2006.
Additionally, Richardson has been inducted into the State of Florida Hall of Fame (1992) and the UCLA Athletics Hall of Fame (1996).
During her international playing career, Richardson was nominated for the Olympic Sportswoman of the Year award four times (1981, 1989, 1990 and 1996) and the Sullivan Award (Outstanding Amateur Athlete in the United States) four times (1981, 1989, 1990 and 1996).
Some of Richardson's other national softball awards include the 1996 United States Olympic Committee Award, 1997 Babe Zaharias Award (Female Athlete of the Year), 1998 Sports Legends Award and the 2008 NCAA Silver Anniversary Award.
After retiring from the game of softball in 2000, Richardson has served as the Executive Director and Medical Director of the National Training Center in Clermont, Fla.
After graduating from UCLA with an undergraduate degree in kinesiology/pre-med in 1984, Richardson received a M.A. in Exercise Physiology/Health from Adelphi in 1988 and her M.D. from Louisville in 1993.
She completed a five-year post-doctoral residency in orthopedic surgery from the USC/Los Angeles County Medical Center (July 1993 to June 1999) and participated in an orthopedic sport medicine fellowship at the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopedic Clinic in Los Angeles, Calif., the following year.
An active member of the Central Florida community, Richardson was named the 2012 Citizen of the Year in Lake County, Fla. She also received the 2012 Summit Award from the Women's Research Center from UCF. Richardson is married to Bob Pinto, the National Director of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Softball Ministry. Richardson also serves in the organization as board chair.
Richardson has authored two books (Go For It! A Conversation About Being You! and Living The Dream: The Dot Richardson Story), and produced The Dot Richardson Instructional Video Tape/DVD library.
Richardson has worked as a television commentator for NBC's coverage of the Athens Olympics in 2004 and helped cover numerous softball games, including the NCAA Softball College World Series, for ESPN.
Chancellor/President Jerry Falwell, Jr. on Richardson: "I had the privilege of spending the better part of a day with Dot Richardson and her husband, Bob, during her on-campus interview. We discussed in detail her vision for Liberty Flames softball and for many other softball-related programs that could be created at Liberty. Her vision seemed to mesh perfectly with ours and I am thrilled that she will soon be Liberty's new softball coach. She brings a wealth of experience and achievement that uniquely qualifies her to fulfill the vision for Liberty Flames softball."
Director of Athletics Jeff Barber on Richardson: "We are thrilled to announce Dr. Dot Richardson as our new softball head coach. Her experience as a collegiate and international player, as well as her understanding of the game is unparalleled. Additionally, Dot is a great Christian leader and motivator and will bring tremendous value to our softball program and the Liberty University community."
Coach Dot Richardson on taking the head coaching position at Liberty: "I am extremely excited and deeply humbled for the opportunity the Lord has presented to be a part of the Liberty family, as the head softball coach. The Liberty Way of 'Training Champions for Christ' speaks to my soul and defines the true definition of coaching and working with student-athletes. As the head coach for Liberty Softball, I can say without hesitation, that I and my staff are committed to serving others with the focus and goal to glorifying the Lord through the gifts and opportunities He has given each of us and our players. I invite all to follow and enjoy Liberty Flames softball and experience with us what the Lord has in store for building champions for Him both on and off the field."
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It was a big day for my Kentucky Derby 2014 contenders in the Grade I Breeders' Cup Juvenile at Santa Anita Park on Saturday, November 2.
Three of my original exceptional eleven Derby contenders competed in the BC Juvenile, and they took down the top three spots.
New Year's Day rose to the occasion for Bob Baffert, coming off a layoff and running down G1 Champagne hero Havana. They both finished in front of front runner Strong Mandate.
New Year's Day owns a promising pedigree and might have the most potential. Havana has a ton of raw talent but might have distance limitations. D. Wayne Lukas will give Strong Mandate every opportunity to make the Derby starting gate.
The winning 2013 BC Juvenile BSF was a respectable 88. Last year's Juvenile was a negative prep. The 2011 BC Juvenile was a key race. The 2013 edition probably falls somewhere in between.
Click on the names of each horse below (Top 5) to view their Horse Racing Nation profile page, which includes pedigree information, results, and video.
Jarrod Horak's "Exceptional Eleven" Kentucky Derby 2014 Contenders
1. PURPLE SKY (Pulpit – Tessa Blue, by Awesome Again)
Trainer: Al Stall Jr. – Owner: Bruce Lunsford
Latest Workout: Breezed 4f in :50.80 (75/97) at Churchill Downs on 11-2.
Comments: 3rd behind Honor Code and Misconnect in Aug. 31 Saratoga debut and raced green that day. He overcame adversity to earn diploma at Churchill Downs (one mile) on 9-28.
UPDATE: Purple Sky is entered in the 7th race at Churchill Downs on Saturday, Nov. 9. He is the 5-2 morning line favorite vs. nine optional claiming rivals at a mile and a sixteenth on the main track.
2. HONOR CODE (A.P. Indy – Serena's Cat, by Storm Cat)
Trainer: Shug McGaughey – Owner: Lane's End Racing & Dell Ridge Farm
Latest Workout: 4f bullet in :47 (1/24) at Belmont Park on 10-27.
Comments: Made up more than 20-lengths in his career debut (Saratoga slop) to score by 4-1/2 lengths at 7f on 8-31 (89 BSF). He rallied to miss by a neck in the G1 Champagne on 10-5. He skipped the G1 BC Juvenile in favor of the G2 Remsen at Aqueduct on Nov. 30.
3. NEW YEAR'S DAY (Street Cry – Justwhistledixie, by Dixie Union)
Trainer: Bob Baffert – Owner: Gary & Mary West
Comments: Rallied for 3rd in his 5.5f Del Mar debut 8-17 and beat next out G1 FrontRunner winner Bond Holder in a one mile maiden race at that same venue 8-31. He came off the bench and showed his talent with a professional score in the G1 BC Juvenile.
4. HAVANA (Dunkirk – Missy Turtle, by Kyle's Our Man)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher – Owner: Taber, Magnier, and Smith
Comments: Went wire-to-wire in his Saratoga debut on 8-23 and earned a 102 BSF. Put away Debt Ceiling and Grand Arrival early, and held off Honor Code by a nose in the G1 Champagne (93 BSF) at Belmont on 10-5. Stalked and pounced from post 13 in BC Juvenile but could not hold off New Year's Day.
5. STRONG MANDATE (Tiznow – Clear Mandate, by Deputy Minister)
Trainer: D. Wayne Lukas – Owner: Baker & Mack
Comments: Finished 5th in his 7-22 Saratoga bow. He graduated by 4-1/2 lengths at 6.5f at the Spa on 8-17 and cruised by 9-3/4 in the G1 Hopeful at 7f (mud, sealed) on 9-2 (85 BSF). He never got untracked in 7th place Champagne puzzler. He shot to the front from post 14 and finished an improved 3rd in the BC Juvenile.
6. MISCONNECT (Unbridled's Song – Summer Raven, by Summer Squall)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher – Owner: Repole Stable
Latest Workout: 4f in :51.08 (41/45) at Belmont Park (dirt training) on 10-14.
Comments: Battled on the pace throughout and was 2nd best to Honor Code in his 8-31 debut at the Spa. He graduated by a length at Belmont on 9-28 (85 BSF).
7. SCHOOLOFHARDROCKS (Rock Hard Ten – Miss Chapin, by Royal Academy)
Trainer: David Hofmans – Owner: Amerman Racing LLC.
Latest Workout: 5f in 1:00.80 (32/48) at Santa Anita on 9-25.
Comments: It is not easy to win a route race first time out, but he did just at Del Mar on 8-31. Veteran jockey Victor Espinoza is high on this one. "He's a very talented horse," Espinoza said of the son of Rock Hard Ten. "I liked him the first time I saw him. I was impressed with how he ran going a mile and winning from the one hole (at odds of 10-1 Aug. 31 at Del Mar). I feel he'll get even better." Schoolofhardrocks scratched out of the FrontRunner Stakes. "It's not too significant," trainer David Hofmans said of the unrevealed injury. "It's a problem we're working on."
8. GRAND ARRIVAL (Harlan's Holiday – Grandstone, by Grindstone)
Trainer: Nick Zito – Owner: Ameche Jr., Ameche III, & Prancing Horse Enterprises
Latest Workout: 4f bullet in :47.98 (1/24) at Saratoga on 10-26.
Comments: Distant 3rd in his 7-22 Saratoga debut (Strong Mandate 5th). Romped by 6-1/4 lengths as the 3-2 favorite at that same venue at 7f second time out on 8-31 (sloppy, sealed). Attended pace and retreated to 8th in Champagne. He should get better with age.
9. KENDALL'S BOY (Sky Mesa – Golden Damsel, by Gold Token)
Trainer: Tom Amoss – Owner: Jerry Namy
Latest Workout: 4f in :48.80 (8/44) at Churchill Downs on 10-14.
Comments: Clearly second best to Havana in his 8-23 debut (94 BSF) at the Spa and rolled by 5-1/4 lengths at 6f under the Twin Spires on 9-13. He never appeared comfortable on synthetic footing and was not persevered with in 11th place Breeders' Futurity effort.
10. GIVE NO QUARTER (Tiz Wonderful – Roadtohanna, by Not for Love)
Trainer: Graham Motion – Owner: Sagamore Farm
Latest Workout: 4f in :49.20 (5/11) at Fair Hill on 10-30.
Comments: Two races at Presque Isle with a clear place finish in his 5.5f bow on 8-15 and a 22-length romp at one mile on 9-17 (85 BSF). He was eased without an apparent excuse in the G3 Grey Stakes at Woodbine on Oct. 6. From Graham Motion's Twitter account: @GrahamMotion – I'm afraid I can't give an explanation for Give no Quarter's poor performance at Woodbine today. He seems to have cooled out fine.
11. CANDIP (Candy Ride – Indefinable, by Storm Cat)
Trainer: W. Bret Calhoun – Owner: Sanders and Hirsch
Latest Workout: Breezed 4f in :51.41 (8/14) at Remington Park on 9-22.
Comments: Coasted home by 4-1/4 lengths in his 5.5f Remington bow on 9-2 (89 BSF).
Pedigree Spotlight: New Year's Day
New Year's Day's sire Street Cry (Machiavellian – Helen Street, by Troy) went 5-for-12 from 2000-02 and won such prestigious stakes races as the G1 Dubai World Cup and G1 Stephen Foster. He has sired multiple stakes winners including Desert Party, Street Boss, and Zenyatta.
Machiavellian (Mr. Prospector – Coup de Folie, by Halo) was a group one winner in France. He retired with four wins from seven starts and earnings of $355,790. In addition to Street Cry, he sired 47 stakes winners including Dubai World Cup winner Almutawakel.
Mr. Prospector (by Raise a Native) won 7 of 14 starts including the Whirlaway and Gravesend Handicaps in 1974.
Legendary "Sire of sires" Mr. Prospector is one of the most influential horses in the history of thoroughbred racing, siring 181 stakes winners (47 Grade 1 or Group I winners) and 16 champions.
Street Cry's dam Helen Street (GB) was a group one winner in Ireland in 1985. Her sire Troy (GB) won 8 of 11 races in 1978-79 including the Epsom Derby.
New Year's Day's dam Justwhistledixie (Dixie Union – General Jeanne, by Honour and Glory) won the G2 Davona Dale and G2 Bonnie Miss at Gulfstream Park in 2009. She was 2nd in the G1 Acorn at Belmont P:ark later that year.
Dixie Union (Dixieland Band – She's Tops, by Capote) won the G1 Haskell in 2000, defeating Captain Steve and Milwaukee Brew. He also captured the G1 Malibu in his final career start and sired 39 stakes winners from his first eight crops including Gone Astray, Grasshopper, and G1 Belmont Stakes hero Union Rags.
Dixie Union's sire was Dixieland Band (by Northern Dancer), a Maryland-bred horse I remember when I first started following racing in the early 1980′s. Dixieland Band won the G2.
New Year's Day has a nice blend of speed and stamina throughout his pedigree, and ten furlongs on the first Saturday in May could easily be within his grasp. He is lightly raced, improving, and has plenty of upside for Bob Baffert.


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Day 6
The sixth day is the final training day on this trip by the Chinese National Team in their preparation for the LEIBHERR World Championships in Paris, France (Monday, 13th May to Monday, 20th May) at the Werner Schlager Academy in Schwechat, Austria, a suburb of Vienna.
Tomorrow morning, 10th May, the full squad will be flying to Paris to show the world their standard. Please be prepared to be impressed.
Mentoring Confirmation?
In yesterday's report, we had some fun speculating on a possible Chinese mentoring program, with two candidate pairs specifically mentioned: Wang Hao/Fan Zhendong and Wang Liqin/Zhou Yu.
In the morning session, Wang Liqin took a rest, but right out of the gate we see again the Wang Hao and Fan Zhendong matchup! We may be on to something here.
Just in this week's time, it seems a greater camaraderie has developed between them, as well as a better sense of each other's games, making for a spectacular display of power shot making that is almost impossible to look away from.
Boy, this is fun.
Introduction to the Big Time
We know the Chinese coaching staff is a shrewd bunch, with very analytical and thoughtful decisions. Throughout the week, a consistently used matchup has been Ma Lin and one of the younger players, with an emphasis on playing games.
On each and every occasion, this has proved to be intriguing to watch, with one theme prominent in the results throughout the several players Ma Lin confronted. With Ma Lin the clearly more effective player, the most distinguishing quality between him and them is play early in the point, particularly service return and initial attack. At times, it was at a degree of challenge for the more junior players that it was a source of some considerable frustration, in one case to the extent where the younger player wanted to stop playing games.
This same phenomenon was seen with Wang Hao and Fan Zhendong.
From this is an opportunity for the young player to gain in appreciation of these aspects of the sport. To tell a player of this importance is one method; to directly subject the player to the play dynamic experience is another level of learning absorption.
This is testimony to the great power of mentoring.
Bombs in the Morning; Silence in the Afternoon
Early in the morning session, I noticed a definite increase in the men's offensive force on the ball when compared with other days. In their standard drills, all were driving the ball above the customary standard they had used throughout the week, a curious change to note from this observer.
The mystery was solved in the afternoon session, for it was then indicated that the men were skipping this session to rest.
This simple episode has a number of interesting implications. It is obvious the men pushed themselves even harder than their usual high standard due to the knowledge of the time off they were to receive. Despite this extraordinary effort not being mandatory, their self-initiative drove them to a higher exertion and a more demanding mental and physical pressure.
Also suggested is a mature sense of the optimal exertion level expended over a given training time frame. This is one of the noteworthy characteristics of top athletes in all sports; the knowledge and awareness of their optimal energy expenditures throughout a discrete training period.
This stands as more testimony to the exceptional qualities of this team.
Another Training Theme
In every session of every day during this Werner Schlager Academy visit, and the other visits as well, there is one thread of training that is pervasive, that subtly yet powerfully is incorporated into much of the drill variations employed. That skill quality is judging the length of the oncoming ball. Early in the training point, the essential length categories of short, medium, and long are continually being used to test and to improve the judgment of the players.
It is obvious when a misjudgment is made, and it is in these situations that most often play is stopped by the coach for a comment to be made or a discussion is to be held. Because specific techniques are used depending on the oncoming ball length, the accuracy of this judgment is of critically high importance.
Essentially, the player attribute under pressure is adaptability, first to make the correct judgment, then to select the proper technique and to execute. This is one of the key elements in the multi-faceted domain of competencies associated with play early in the point, a time period forever in the forefront of the Chinese coaches' minds.
A Few Fun Items
During the week some not-so-serious items came up. Here are a few:
During the middle of his matchup with Wang Liqin, Ma Long commented to me he was having some problems seeing the ball clearly, noting Wang's white shirt in their all-white ball environment. I stated in response "Yes, Wang Liqin is very intelligent." Ma Long just laughed a bright laugh. The next day, who shows up in a white shirt? Ma Long, while being paired with Hao Shuai. Too much to resist, I said "Ah, a white shirt" to which Ma Long said "He (Hao Shuai) is angry," enjoying another good laugh.
Only one member of this Chinese National Team of 23 uses edge tape on the racket. Who? Zhang Jike. Asking a few of the coaches and players as to why the lack of popularity, no one had a good sense of it. One player said edge tape was not popular in Asia. One coach said it changed the feeling of the racket. Coach Kong Linghui issued the most convincing argument "They don't like it" with an accompanying big smile and a laugh.
Speaking of smiling, Wang Liqin is seemingly always smiling. He smiles during the points, before the points, after the points, on the sidelines. Undeniably he is very happy to be here. This facial pose is distinct from prior times, when he was more cut from the Wang Hao cloth of an about-to-be-released scowl. We are happy for his happiness.
Team Solidarity
A definite pattern governs each training session.
The men's and women's teams always arrive on time, promptly walks out to their designated playing area for a brief team meeting, then begin a disciplined session.
Once the formal agenda for the training is completed, the actual training just meanders to a close, with each player selecting one of many choices, from stopping to continuing as they please. It is at this time that the team solidarity often becomes manifest, as the men begin playing with the women. There is such a naturalness to this, such a comfortable engagement in the interaction.
In the final session of the final day, Wang Hao played with the women's chopper Hu Limei, Liu Shiwen played with Fan Zhendong, and Yan An played with Wu Yang. Both coaches and players very much enjoy watching these serious confrontations. This is a team.
Final Thoughts
Werner Schlager Academy co-CEO Martin Soro never tires of expressing his admiration and appreciation for the Chinese National Team. Recently he said this: "We have had players from 145 different countries here at the WSA. There are times when things become difficult with some of our visitors. With this Chinese team, there is never a problem. Their professionalism in as aspects of their engagement here is impeccable. Their behaviors and demeanor make it a dream for us when they are here. It is always a great pleasure to be with them."
Unquestionably, the Chinese National Table Tennis Team is one the greatest teams in all of sport. Observing their standards of excellence is an exciting experience for those who hold deep regard for sport's brilliance. The privilege and honor of associating with this monument of the very finest is beyond expression. As Martin Soro stated so directly "They have earned and deserve all the greatness that is theirs."
Now, on to Paris!
Day 5
The fifth day of the Chinese National Team training preparation for the LEIBHERR World Championships in Paris, France (Monday, 13th May to Monday, 20th May) at the Werner Schlager Academy in Schwechat, Austria, on the outskirts of Vienna was back to the standard of two sessions.
One variation in the schedule was the length of time between the sessions. Many involved felt that a four to five hour break became a bit too much dead time as these highly conditioned athletes do not need that much time to recover. Furthermore, with the new schedule being moved up two hours, the amount of evening free time is extended, allowing for more opportunities.
A Jolt to Start the Day?
Right at the beginning of the first session, a surprise occurrence: in walks the women's team, but not a men's member to be seen. What could this be? Overslept? Skipping the morning? Oh no, they are all outside running.
Amelia Solja vs Li Xiaoxia
Yesterday I reported the highly demanding matchup of Fang Bo of the men's team against Li Xiaoxia. With Fang's constant offensive pressure, Li was seemingly forever on the defensive, fast shot after fast shot slinging off of Fang's racket to all places on the table. So, as they say in America, this must be a setup, for Austria's Amelia Solja equipment of anti-spin and short pimpled rubber is most often used to slow the game down, the direct opposite of what came from Fang.
No one understood this difference more than Li Xiaoxia. Many points early in the interaction baffled Li to the point of her own humor. Even with all she brings into the play, the contrast, executed beautifully by Amelia, was very challenging for Li for some not short period of time.
Eventually, as we all would expect, Li Xiaoxia got her groundings and made the points exciting and versatile.
One additional residual element Li brought into this match from the Fang Bo match was her defense. Amelia, through much hard work, has developed a very strong forehand, used when the opportunities arise. Particularly in the first half of the session, these opportunities most certainly did become available and Amelia frequently ripped forehands at Li. What happened? Well, Li has two speeds of quickness; very quick and extremely quick. After the Fang experience, Li was extreme.
Chen Weixing vs Ma Long
Today's match for Austria's Chen Weixing, a good friend of the Chinese team and a former member, was against Ma Long.
I've always found Chen an interesting fellow. Often he starts matches with a very customary style that he plays, then, if needed, adapts to the play dynamics that develop. Not this time, for Chen is way too smart for that. He knows who he's playing, and that he cannot waste one point if he hopes to perform well.
From the very beginning, Chen Weixing maximized the variability of his game, constantly changing shot types and spins and locations. It is not too crazy to say that he may be the only table tennis player in the world that could execute with this much diversity with this much skill. Pick a technique, any technique, and he used it at a world class capability. It was absolutely stunning to watch.
The first game result? Playing to 11 points: 19 -17 to Ma Long. You get the idea.
Ma Long won the match 4 – 0. Chen Weixing summarized for me his analysis of his play: "Very bad". Trust me on this one, dear audience, he is completely wrong.
One of the correct observations about the Chinese National Team is its remarkable ability to, generation after generation, stay dominant in the sport, developing top players to replace top players. There are many elements in their system that contribute to this continuity, including means to transfer hard earned player insights to the next generation of players. As with many other disciplines, an exceptional method of achieving this is with mentoring, understood as a relationship and process between a dedicated senior and a developing associate wherein the senior helps guide the associate's growth.
With the outstanding success of this team, we must suspect just such a program is active within their system. In my view, watching closely the day-to-day coaching decisions, this trip has revealed two very good candidate possibilities.
The first is Wang Liqin and Zhou Yu. Both as doubles partners and as a singles training pair, there is a very clear nature of mentorship to Wang's interaction with Zhou. In a highly respectful and warm manner, Wang often advices Zhou on a very wide range of circumstances encountered, demonstrating proper approaches and promoting repeated attempts.
The Chinese coaching staff is wise; Wang Liqin is a perfect selection for this; and Zhou Yu is blessed.
The second mentoring prospect is a pairing mentioned in a previous report: Wang Hao and Fan Zhendong. Again today they were put together, the veteran and the junior. There is some naturalness to this coupling, as both the physical appearance and the spirit and style of play resemblance cannot be missed. The mentoring approach certainly differs from Wang's; less talk, more as a functioning role model. Watching them play you can see the difference in their levels. Each session with the great Wang Hao is a Fan Zhendong lesson, growing step by step.
Something New for Ma Lin?
There seems to have developed an understanding of a tactic against Ma Lin that the coaching staff wants to address. Ma continues to feature his traditional backhand penholder style for defensive blocking purposes (he uses his reverse penholder style for creating offensive shots). If an opponent can topspin into Ma's backhand with sufficient ball speed to prevent Ma from turning to play his forehand, Ma often commits to his traditional racket side and is quite restricted at that point in playing aggressively against that ball because of the blocking racket angle he has selected.
What seems new is an effort, upon recognizing this specific circumstance, to switch to a more offensive oriented racket angle (with his traditional racket side) and to more strongly topspin (versus block) against this shot, thus increasing the speed and spin quality of the response. Some considerable training is devoted to this.
Even at this point of his career, we continue to see the standards of professionalism come through.
Welcome Visitors to the Hall
A crew of journalists and video/photography personnel from the international XINHUA News Agency arrived today to capture much of the Chinese Team's action. Included in their activities were interviews with the Head Coaches Liu Guoliang and Kong Linghui.
Introducing the New Family Member
Werner Schlager's beautiful new daughter, Nea Nika, is 10 months old. Because the Chinese team has not paid a visit here in a year, introductions were in order, with Werner himself presiding, to the delight of all.
Ma Long
Ma Long made his first big mark on the international stage at a scary young age, winning the World Junior title (Under age 18) when he was 14. To say he is special is to speak the obvious to an unnecessary degree.
In watching him closely over the years in training contexts, interacting with the multi-generational best, he retains his distinct specialness among these special players.
He spends more time on new features than anyone else. He trains ball contacts over the table more than anyone else. He more frequently plays subsets of his complete style to increase the challenge and difficulty of the routine than anyone else. He is the greatest serve returner on earth.
In today's afternoon session, he wore a cartoon t-shirt with the statement "The King of Table Tennis." I agree.Ma Long is my pick for the Men's Singles World Champion in Paris.
Day 4
Only a morning session was held on Day Four of the Chinese National Team training preparation for the LEIBHERR World Championships in Paris, France (Monday, 13th May to Monday, 20th May) at the Werner Schlager Academy in Schwechat, Austria, on the outskirts of Vienna. This schedule matches the team's prior visits, as a well deserved mid-week break for sightseeing positions them comfortably for a quality effort in the few training days remaining. Of course, the use of the term "break" must be understood in the context of the standards of this great team. It means they train hard only once in the day, not twice. This pause will allow us to catch up on a few things.
Indications of the Competition Nearing
As with the prior day, the men completed an abbreviated warm-up followed by a 15 minute period of point playing at a 70% level of intensity. The next activity was counter looping off the table, with a point-like disposition of moving the shot placement randomly in an attempt to win the point.
In addition, beginning yesterday and expanded upon today, more points were played among the players, emphasizing game situations. One of the features of this change is the use of only a single ball per table, again an effort to simulate competition environments.
It is clear these changes indicate the competition is nearing.
Fastest Multi-ball
In yesterday's session, Li Xiaoxia was subjected to the fastest multi-ball session of this team's visit—fastest both in ball speed and the frequency of the balls fed. Perhaps today's pairing was the reason for the extra pressure the prior day, for Li was matched up with Fang Bo to play points against.
If the intention of the coaches was for Fang Bo to emulate the pressure of the multi-ball session, they were definitely not disappointed, for from the first point to the last, he was really going after the ball. As Li is known for her own formidable power in initiating and sustaining the attack, it was an abrupt and not completely comfortable role to constantly be in a responsive and reactive mode. I speculated it may have been the most defense she has ever played. Fang, in offense, was relentless as Li was relentless in defense. It was an exhilarating battle of remarkable athletes.
Most Improved
It is always interesting to watch players evolve and mature their games. Even in the cases of these very advanced Chinese team members, year over year advancements are evident. This year, my vote for most improved from the prior year is Yan An. Although he was a terrific player last year, there were features of his play not fully solid at the edges of high stress. These all seem gone now, replaced by a poised and confident playing stature indistinguishable from the best in the hall.
Bananas – Now and Then
With an accelerating popularity resembling the youthful attention bestowed upon the latest Justin Bieber-like new performer, the so-called banana flip or flick is all the rage in table tennis circles. It is a bit difficult to describe: It is a backhand technique that seems to be used primarily in service return, particularly against underspin serves with a compatible sidespin to the motion of the stroke. Its name comes from the curvature of the racket movement that resembles in the mind's eye the curvature of a banana. With the tip of the racket under the ball, the racket moves up and around the ball in a curved manner.
During last year's team visit, the two players most devoted to developing the banana were Wang Hao and Zhang Jike. Interestingly, while all the men have a form of it in their repertoire, its presence is far less pronounced with the women.
This year, in contrast with the concerted efforts to develop this technique last year, the team has evolved to a greater focus of responding to the banana of the opponent. A number of training methods are used to accomplish this.
Two elements of the banana technique, in particular, are well understood by the coaches and reflected in the responses developed to it. The first element is that, upon its initiation, it is very obvious it is being executed. Whereas other techniques have optional selections that may be used from a baseline approach to the ball, with the banana you see immediately you are getting the banana. Secondly, the technique always produces long length shots that travel a considerable distance off the table, a very valuable understanding to have.
The highly intelligent Chinese approach to the response to this technique has incorporated an awareness of both of these elements. The key quality both elements share that is so effectively exploited is the opportunity of anticipation. Much is well known prior to the actual need to respond to the ball. This anticipation creates a time period that may be used to enhance the responsiveness to the shot.
In one part of yesterday's session that was directed to this matter, Wang Hao demonstrated precisely how it is to be done, as he strongly drove each and every high quality banana thrown at him.
These Chinese coaches are very smart.
Chen Weixing versus Xu Xin
In what is a daily highlight, Chen Weixing, the former Chinese national team player and long time top international representing Austria, plays a series of games against a Chinese team member. Today it was Xu Xin, who at the moment is ranked number one in the world.
This match was much different than yesterday's against 16 year old Fan Zhendong, a right handed power player. Xu Xin is left handed and has a much more developed touch and spin game than his younger mate. Xu used this to great effect, winning 4 – 1, with all the games tight affairs. A critical determining factor in the match was the wide range of options Xu had at his disposal in response to the very great variation Chen is expert in creating. With these skills available on key points, he held a slight advantage.
One interesting feature of the match was the frequency that Chen, customarily with his pimpled rubber on his backhand, would switch to use his inverted forehand rubber for backhand techniques. Xu's lefty forehand frequently goes diagonally across the table to Chen's backhand court. Although Chen is great at responding with a defensive shot over and over again, he was never able, by just defensively chopping the ball, to break the point to his advantage. Xu's forehands just kept coming until the point tilted to Xu's favor. To remedy this, Chen switched to his inverted rubber on intermittent occasions to counter attack, changing significantly the rhythm of the point to a much more disrupted state. It was this one change that evened the match considerably.
A Full Team Meeting
At the conclusion of training session, Head Coach Liu Guoliang held a joint meeting with the men's and women's team. He spoke in sober tones for 20 minutes then, without comments or questions, the meeting was adjourned.
A Very Special Visitor
1993 Men's World Champion Jean-Philippe Gatien is in the house! Mr. Gatien is working on a table tennis documentary for French television to be broadcast during the upcoming LEIBHERR World Championships in Paris. His team is video recording some of the Chinese training as well as other activities in the Academy. Furthermore, he certainly would not miss the chance to inquire into the thoughts of Werner Schlager, which he did at length.
It was another great training day at the Werner Schlager Academy.
Day 3
Day three of the Chinese National Team training at the Austrian-based Werner Schlager Academy in preparation for the LEIBHERR World Championships in Paris, France (Monday, 13th May to Monday, 20th May) was divided into the typical morning and afternoon sessions. The morning session was further divided between table time and gym time, with approximately equal allocations between them. The team was in the gym on Day one, so it was time to return, for their pattern in prior visits is to never do gym work on consecutive days. It is also to be mentioned that they make clear distinctions between the type and severity of their training between off-season and in-season work. Essentially, the in-season work, as is being done here, is to maintain the exceptionally fine conditioning they developed in rigorous off-season strivings, a time when playing is reduced and physical conditioning is emphasized.
A Warm-up Variation
The men in the morning used a new variation in getting the day started. After an abnormally brief warm-up, they played points for 15 minutes at about 70% speed. A wise coach knows that in the day-to-day schedule that this team keeps, it is very easy to become a bit stale if the process becomes too routine. Adding this variety helps with the focus and enthusiasm.
Spectacular Counter Looping Display
Following this period, the men completed the warm-up stage with counter looping at a typical counter looping distance from the table. Although each table was a beautiful display of the highest caliber, for this observer there was specialness with the Xu Xin-Wang Liqin pairing. The descriptive word that comes to mind is spectacular, for the dosage of flair and fire made them catch the most eyes.
The Austrian Contingent
The Chinese coaches have a clear approach to incorporating the invited Austrian players Liu Jia, Amelia Solja, and Chen Weixing into the proceedings. The purpose of this training trip is preparation for the competition at the LEIBHERR World Championships, so the most mutually beneficial tactic would be to use these fine players for match experience, as was the decision. On each and every occasion, the Austrians performed with high level competencies, to the obviously impressed and pleased Chinese coaches. [On a side note: Amelia plays with short pimpled rubber on the forehand and anti-spin rubber on the backhand. Upon inquiring, I was told that in the full group of Chinese Women's Team players in China, there are short and long pimpled rubber players, but no anti-spin rubber players. Amelia is a special opportunity for them.]
Among these players' matches today, of particular interest was the contest between 16 year old World Junior Champion Fan Zhendong and the very veteran Chen Weixing, age 41. A number of observations come to mind in watching the match, the first from this observer is that Chen Weixing certainly did not look or play old and Fan Zhendong certainly did not look or play young. I love this sport.
The match started not so well for Chen, as his initial approach placed way too little pressure on this big gun. In long points and short points, Fan was comfortable orchestrating the proceedings to his favor.
In response to this, Chen Weixing, who is nothing if not adaptable, forthrightly changed the point patterns considerably. He stopped his chopping defense on his forehand, choosing to counter loop on every opportunity to his forehand side. Most often this tactic did not score the point outright, but forced Fan to reply to a shot type of high contrast to the extreme underspin coming from Chen's backhand defense. One consequence of this change was that Fan was now less well positioned to play as strongly against Chen's backhand defense, resulting in a greatly reduced number of winners against the chop.
Furthermore, Fan's drop in the speed shot quality against the backhand chop permitted Chen much more opportunity to turn to his forehand with a strong offensive shot on Fan's shots that came to the middle and backhand courts of Chen's. The result of this was not only more strong Chen offensive forehands, but big forehands coming from all different angles, a much more difficult proposition for this young star.
The final chapter? Chen Weixing wins 3 – 1.
The One and Only
A most favored drill on this team is a pattern of one player blocking with the backhand all over the table and the other player attempting to play forehand attacking shots on all occasions back to the backhand. Although all the players are exceptionally good in both roles, from a viewing perspective there is little that distinguishes the players in this drill, with the one great exception of Ma Lin in the blocking role. No one on this great team has anything that approaches the magnificent diversity of blocking techniques of Ma Lin. The highly experienced in this sport will remember these techniques emphasized during the prominent short pips penholder player days of the past but, alas, it seems to be, very soon, a lost art. Now, the blocking choices seem to be limited to hard and harder. I'm very happy and privileged to be watching Ma Lin.
A Concern Eliminated?
In the first five minutes of the first day's first session I noticed all was not right with Liu Shiwen. Although in good spirits, she was playing less time than the other players, playing less hard, playing sometimes only with the coaches, and leading all team members in time spent with the physiotherapist. With the LEIBHERR World's soon to be, this did not look promising.
Happily it may now be reported that she seems to be at full speed, her accustomed self strong in both singles and doubles work. May good fortune permit this to continue (plus, she's my pick for the Women's singles title in Paris).
In the Afternoon
The women stayed focused on hard, demanding drills through most of the session, interspersed with some doubles preparation. My doubles favorite here on the Women's side is Ding Ning and Liu Shiwen. Maybe the coaches agree with this view of their strength, for today they were matched against Wang Liqin and Zhou Yu and brilliantly fought the men all the way.
The men did something very interesting all afternoon; they played matches. With score cards manned by the coaches so that all could follow the action, most of the top players in the world interspersed with the most of the top junior players in the world did battle. What a show it was! All the best-of-three-games matches were close, the outcomes in question until the end.
From the caliber of play on display, you could not distinguish the experienced from the youngsters. Very impressive.
A Very Fun Yet Meaningful Conclusion
As things were winding down for the day, head coaches Kong Linghui and Liu Guoliang set up a serving contest – the boys against the girls. Placing nine sheets of paper on the table to create target areas, the coaches would select areas for each player to serve to. The laughter and applause rang out as player after player stepped up to accept the challenge. To the great delight of all, the greatest players on earth had "variable" results.
What matters not at all are the details of this, but what it symbolizes and represents. Rare is the opportunity to see expressed within a group, in the most genuine way, the unqualified camaraderie, closeness, and affection each person has for all the others. The thoroughness and authenticity of this heartfelt spirit could never be surpassed. As captivating, awe-inspiring, and great as this team's table tennis play is, this team's human expression toward each other is even greater.
Day 2
The city of Vienna, Austria has a history of brilliance coming in many forms. Whether it is a symphony orchestra, a classical music composer, an Alpine skier, or a scientist, the shining historic brightness of this city makes it a very special place. To pick just one example as an illustration, there is Wolfgang Pauli, the theoretical physicist. While still only in his early twenties, he produced a highly technical account of the theory of relativity which expressed insights that were beyond even Einstein's knowledge of the details of the theory, a fact that Einstein admitted with enthusiasm. Later, in one of the greatest advancements in quantum physics, he developed the exclusion principle, for which he was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1945.
The sport of table tennis has its own proud history of brilliance which, when we pause for a moment to think about it, makes us stand a little bit taller. It comes in the form of both individual and team performances. On the individual stage, another resident of Vienna has been to the mountain top: Werner Schlager, the 2003 Men's World Champion. With challenges coming from all directions, he delivered to be above all the rest, in a thrilling display. On the team stage, in the most recent phase of the modern era the discussion begins and ends with the great Chinese teams. One of those teams is with us today, here at the eponymous Werner Schlager Academy in the outskirts of Vienna, a center of excellence ranked at the top by the ITTF and recognized by no other than the great individual Chinese player Liu Guoliang who, as now head coach of this team, declared the Academy to be the best in Europe.
It is with these warm thoughts that we start Day Two of the Chinese National Team training at the Academy as they prepare to defend their historic results at the LEIBHERR World Championships in Paris, France (Monday, 13th May to Monday, 20th May).
An Absence and an Addition
Transitions should be noted, for it helps us with our bearings; where we have been and where we are going. On this Chinese team, Guo Yan is not here. In thinking about what a truly great performer she has been in her illustrious career, we will remember her quiet leadership and impeccable character that stood as a constant role model for table tennis players on her team and around the world. On a personal note, I recall her here one night in a past visit as the last standing in the hall, just her, performing those ridiculously difficult forward giant frog leaps over and over until she could not do another. She would rest for a minute, and then begin again. When we look at Guo Yan, we must all look up to see her.
On the brighter side, former Chinese team member and now fully Austrian, Chen Weixing joined the training for the first time this trip. He is integrated into the activities as he should be, using his exceptional defensive chopping skills to help the others sharpen their game. He is a contributor appreciated by his training partners.
The most popular training shirt for this team says on the front: "I Love Table Tennis", with the symbol of a heart representing the Love. We should surely not be surprised at the popularity of this slogan with this team, for at their level of expertise, there is indeed very much to love.
Perhaps another training shirt I spotted may be even more insightful. It said on the front "Feel your heart beat". Remarkable are the number of times a training point is completed not by the usual means of an error or a stumble but by the sheer exhaustion of the amazingly consistent players involved. On these occasions, they most certainly can hear their hearts beat.
Youth Integration
Seven players on this team—four boys and three girls—are ranked in the top ten of the ITTF Under 21 category. That is a large number of comparatively inexperienced players to incorporate within the finest table tennis team in the world. By observing closely the pairings of players, it seems clear there are two guiding principles the Chinese coaching staff are following when selecting training partners. The first principle is the need for mentoring the youth. This is accomplished by matching a young player with a veteran. This exposure will promote the proper enculturation as well as an opportunity for a very formidable playing standard. The second principle is the recognition that the young players are not yet at the senior level capability, thus the matchup of young player with a veteran often results in a somewhat lower standard of training than a veteran-to-veteran pairing. This is managed by moving the younger players frequently among the veterans, thereby spreading the mentoring function equitably and allowing sufficient veteran-standard training for the most developed.
There is always thoughtfulness with the Chinese coaching staff.
First Impressions of the Youth
The future seems always to be of interest, so observations on the next generation of players are topical.
First it must be said that all of the seven Top 10 Under 21 ranked players here are very impressive players at their current state of development. Their rankings are correct. Among the girls, all three play a comparable standard in the work they are doing here. On the boys' side, the standout is Fan Zhendong. In watching him train with much more experienced players, I now know why he won the World Junior title. Judgment should be reserved in comparing him with Ma Long at the same age, for Ma Long at that time was off the scale with his own personal standard that shouldn't be arbitrarily applied to others. With that cautionary comment made, we may with confidence anticipate stardom for Fan Zhendong.
A Lesson in Serving
At the end of the morning session, an interesting serve training engagement occurred. With the formal morning period completed, Head Coach Liu Guoliang, typically concentrating on the Men's side, began assisting Ding Ning in her service motions. He was soon assisted by Ma Lin.
The direction he was providing corresponded to the tradition use of a service model that is helpful in thinking about how to serve. In this model, there are three distinct motion phases, performed in sequence. The middle (or second) motion is the movement that contacts the ball and is the only mandatory phase among the three. The first motion is a fake motion, used to distract the opponent from correctly observing the second motion that actually contacts the ball. The third motion is a fake motion too, with the intention of harming the opponent's understanding of the second motion that just occurred.
From the demonstrations of both Mr. Liu and Mr. Ma, it was clear the emphasis they place on the second and third motion phases, with little to no regard for the use of the first phase (using the traditional model terminology). The key to the deceptive effect in their approach is very quick racket movements that transition, at lightning speed, from the motion that contacts the ball to the following fake motion intended to deceive the opponent. It was a fascinating 30 minutes of instruction.
To manage the length of this article, I will conclude coverage of the second day of training now. Much more that was interesting surfaced today. What was not included here will be incorporated into the other days' discussions.
Day 1
For the third time, the Chinese National Table Tennis Team has selected the Werner Schlager Academy on the outskirts of Vienna, Austria for its final preparation phase prior to the World Championships, this time specifically the LIEBHERR World Champions to be held in Paris (Monday, 13th May to Monday, 20th May). A full team contingent is on hand – 38 persons strong, including 23 players, 5 officials, 8 coaches, and 2 medical personnel. Arriving on 3rd May, they depart 10th May.
All who know this team knows they waste no time so, despite an 11:09 p.m. arrival in Vienna (Bejiing to Frankfurt to Vienna) on Friday night, the next morning they were in the hall at 11 a.m. showing no signs of a weariness one might expect. A true professionalism and commitment on display, with both good humor and strong strivings in the mix.
The first day was split into two sessions, the morning devoted exclusively to work in the gym using the top-of-the-line exercise equipment, while the afternoon was all on the table tennis tables.
In the afternoon session, being consistently gracious visitors as they always are, the Chinese team welcomes a number of players not on their team into the training sessions, with a particular favoring of those affiliated with Werner Schlager Academy and the Austrian national association. One conspicuous change from last year is the absence of Daniela Dodean as her recovery from a medical procedure, though proceeding very well, is not yet complete. Also missing is Li Qiangbing due to the condition of her pending motherhood. From the Austrian group of last year, the most-likeable-and-ever-sunny Lui Jia and the very special anti-spin rubber player Amelia Solja are on duty.
New to these proceedings is the fast rising young Austrian Sofia Polcanova. In watching her first few minutes on the table, it would be far to say that training with the formidable Chinese was initially an emotionally challenging task, but this soon passed and she was at her very best the rest of the way.
Different Groups – Different Approaches – Same Spirit: The standard model for the training sessions puts the men on one row of tables and the women on the other. Each group is directed differently, with distinct approaches evident. For instance, the men stretch, then run, while the women run, then stretch. As each session proceeds, it is evident the activities of men and the women are not interrelated.
With those differences noted, it is the similarities that one finds most striking. With all the players, a spirit of full involvement in mind and body is pervasive. In every dimension the quality is the very highest; in skill, in effort, in commitment to the objective of each drill. This team has evolved a culture of excellence the standard of which is to be aspired to by those that seek to be the best they can be.
From Last Year to This Year: Some definite points of individual player developmental emphasis were evident during last year's visit that again showed up during the first table tennis training session this year. Here are some examples.
Ma Long continues to lead all team members in time spent training attacking shots over the table against serves and short control shots, with a continually expanding set of techniques of higher and higher quality. New to this year is a greater emphasis on shot placement to compliment his unrivaled ball speed and spin.
Ma Lin has no team peer in his time spent training 3rd ball attack, striking strongly against his opponent's passive serve return. He starts this training earlier than the others and does it longer than anyone else. His adaptability in this circumstance seems unparalleled.
Xu Xin had two points of emphasis last year; maturing his reverse penholder backhand techniques, particularly defensively, and sustaining his offensive play closer to the table than had been his tendency in the past. In this first day this year, it was clear the significant progress in both areas, as little traditional backhand was seen and most of his time was spent closer to the table in both offensive and defensive postures.
Wang Hao showed great efforts last year in striving to improve his backhand reverse penholder opening attack against underspin balls. In observing today, it is accurate to say that not only has he succeeded here, he has also added the dimension of shot placement with a high degree of proficiency.
Someone Familiar – Someone Not: For those who have followed the highest heights of table tennis in recent times, it still remains a great thrill to see Wang Liqin. We know the generational transformations that are inevitable and that the time with Wang Liqin into the future will be shorter than the time we have had with him in the past. That makes each of these moments that much more special, as our last lion of table tennis graces our confines with his continuing brilliance. We will cherish this time with him.
On the unfamiliar side is Fan Zhendong, the youngest on the team at age 16. With his great success in the junior ranks, he is now with the biggest guns around to test his mettle. This first day he was paired with Wang Hao, leaving the impression that coach Liu Guoliang desired one table to be designated the "table of the brutes" for in style and spirit, neither plays shy. What fun to watch! It is clear from this first day that the coaches are right: Fan Zhendong belongs on the team.That's it for the first day.


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The state's Office of Technology Services will have two service offerings up and running by the end of summer 2013: a private cloud and a public cloud.
A recent study by mobile solutions company Citrix found that more than 50 percent of Americans believe weather can affect cloud computing. Meanwhile, California Technology Agency (CTA) officials say this service Americans find so foggy will fundamentally change the way the state operates — in a good way.
And, no, rain does not affect "the cloud." The cloud is simply an approach to the way service providers — in this case, the California Office of Technology Services (OTech) — provide computing services and resources to their constituents.
OTech will pool resources — hardware, software, network connectivity — to offer to state agencies and departments in a shared environment, i.e. a "cloud," meaning individual customers formerly housing their own rack of servers, storage and access will be able to share these computing resources and pay only for their utilization.
At the helms of this new operation is OTech Director Ron Hughes, appointed by Gov. Jerry Brown in April 2012. Prior to joining OTech, Hughes was the president of the California Data Center Design Group (CDCDG) for ten years where he designed over 3 million square feet of data center space in the US, Europe, Asia, Latin America and the Middle East.
Among the impressive list of projects on Hughes' resume: KIO Networks data centers in Mexico, Central and South America (the largest provider of cloud services in Latin America), the SCIF data center in Vacaville, and The National Center for Atmospheric Research supercomputer center in Cheyenne Wyoming.
Hughes previously worked for the state at the Stephen P. Teale Data Center from 1990 to 1999 and was the project manager for the new data center at Gold Camp, later leading the Y2K testing for California.
There are currently approximately 800 staff at OTech, which has a budget of roughly $300 million annually. OTech does not receive any support from the general fund; rather, funding is based on fees paid by state agencies and departments.
When Hughes met with these customers to see what they needed as he began his job at OTech, cloud services topped the list — not surprising, according to Hughes.
"When you look at the advantages of cloud services — speed to provision, flexibility, the ability to scale up or down depending on need, cost savings, having a usage-based billing model — these are all things that will make the state's information technology more efficient and cost-effective," Hughes said.
OTech's customers will only pay for their scaled utilization — and even have access to virtualized desktops, which will help the state manage things like tablet mobile devices.
The two service offerings OTech will have up and running by the end of summer 2013: a private cloud to be located on the data center's raised floor in Sacramento and Vacaville; and a public cloud (shared data) to be located on the vendor's raised floor. Both services will be vendor-supplied and vendor-supported, but managed by OTech, who will release the Request For Proposal (RFP) in February.
CTA Secretary Carlos Ramos and other government officials are quick to point out the great access to choices customers will have with the cloud offering.
Once the cloud services are in place, customers can choose where to locate their systems: OTech-provided and managed services, Tenant Managed Services (Colocation), private cloud, or public cloud.
"What systems they choose to run in each service offering or where they choose to locate their data will be the customers' decision, but we would anticipate that systems with significant security or privacy sensitivity would likely be run by OTech-provided private cloud service offerings," Hughes said.
Security vulnerabilities are the biggest concern by government employees. However, a private cloud, located on OTech's raised floor mitigates most of these concerns, Hughes said.
Intel executive Gregg Descheemaeker furthered Hughes' point at a recent Techwire In Studio interview alongside Hughes: "If we take lessons learned from public cloud environments that have been in place now for a number of years and what they've had to do to ensure the security and privacy of people's information, whether it be Amazon with transactional-based data or your banking environment, I think there's a great opportunity in the public sector to improve on security posture based on the inherent capabilities the cloud offers," he said.
Cloud-based services are new to state government, although the federal government has had a cloud first initiative for the last several years. According to Hughes, a number of large states, including Utah and Michigan, are looking to use the same cloud model as California.
Some California city and county governments have already begun taking advantage of the cloud's speed to deliver public Geo Spatial (GIS) data and more. City of Fresno CIO Carolyn Hogg recently talked with Techwire about Fresno's creation of a hybrid cloud (public and private) with the City of Clovis and Clovis School District to share GIS data and data for public safety, while also sharing infrastructure for their comprehensive fiber plan.
"We no longer need to have our own individual systems, because there is so much sharing that needs to take place outside of that individual city," she said.
Hughes reiterated Hogg's comments: "Cities and counties are experiencing similar budgetary challenges as the state," he said. "Having access to cloud services will allow them to significantly reduce their operating costs." He cited cloud-based email as a way to reduce costs through a reliable, secure service.
And for normal Californians who still feel a little hazy when it comes to cloud comprehension? CTA Secretary Carlos Ramos says not to worry.
"In reality, it should be invisible and seamless," he said. "But from the taxpayers perspective, it should be cheaper. Governments should be more responsive and flexible in leveraging technology and by doing that, better able to deliver services to constituents."
California capitol photo from Shutterstock
This article was originally published at Techwire.net
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The following story is in reference to Sirk's Notebook: Medeival Times.
'Twas a night intended for glory. Two months into the epic anguish known as "preseason," the figurative Black and Yellow Knights of Columbus desired an evening of majesty, excitement, and copious amounts of medieval fare. The greatest warriors of the lands convened in the mysterious realm known as Orlando. Little did the young squires know, this…was a night of fate and destiny.
With per diem weighing heavy in their pockets, the (figurative) Knights of Columbus felt the manly urge for meat and mead. After much deliberation and angst amongst themselves, it was determined that an evening watching the greatest warriors of any dinner show in the mysterious land of Orlando, and stuffing their faces, was in order. The small brigade of eight (figurative) Knights of Columbus boarded their great white carriage which happened to be a large Chevy passenger van. Escorted by their fearless leader, Andrew of House GreenTree (more widely known by his war name 'The Hebrew Hammer') the (figurative) black and yellow Knights of Columbus made their two mile journey to the castle of Medieval Times Orlando. As they disembarked their great white chariot, their eagerness as they sauntered across the moat and through the castle gates was palpable.
After a small amount of waiting in a line full of peasants and peons, the (figurative) Knights of Columbus had their chance to order their tickets. Fully expecting a lofty price of entry per person, the Knights were pleasantly surprised by the generous group rate with which they were given. Following the purchase and the less than necessary and fully creepy comments from their ticket wench, the knights realized the gravity of the seats they were assigned. The knight with which they were now linked to, in both honor and allegiance, was indeed the Black and Yellow Knight. This twist of fate only heightened the excitement for the young brigade. As the knights made their way inside, they were stopped by some wizardry which captured their images which could later be purchased for $9.99 plus tax. The image has since been recognized as one of the greatest depictions in Columbus Crew lore.
The waiting area was full of common folk buying expensive and useless trinkets. The knights' throats were dry, and needed quenching. The barkeep had a familiar dialect to one of the knights. Young Konrad of House Polandia (more commonly known by his war name 'The Polish Pistol') was more than willing to converse with the bar wench in their common tongue of Polandia. After acquaintances were met, the (figurative) black and yellow Knights of Columbus patiently waited for their group to be called into the arena…group yellow 4.
The King's Herald beckoned for the yellow 4's and the black and yellow (figurative) Knights of Columbus made their way to the arena. They found their places and patiently waited for their feast to begin. By this point, it was clear that the devotion to the Black and Yellow knight held no equal comparatively to the other crowds. Daniel of House Withrone (known by his war name 'Otto') staked his claim as the black and yellow section leader through his extroverted loyalty to their cause. He let his voice be heard throughout the arena, and spurred his companions to voice their support. By this point in the challenges, whether it be jousting, swordplay, horse-riding, or spear throwing, it was clear that the black and yellow knight was far superior to his competitors. The (figurative) Knights of Columbus took every chance they could to ensure that everyone in the arena was aware of their knight's superiority. One may even go so far as to classify it as "yellow swag," as there is no basketball or football team in the Land of Columbus. Soon it became evident that even the other opposing knights themselves had come to recognize and spurn the black and yellow section. Some may have classified the black and yellow (figurative) Knights of Columbus' support as obnoxious…and it probably was. However, the knights themselves could feel their support truly making a difference. Young Eric of House Gehrigan took it upon himself to even provide our knight with the war name, "The Hammer." It only seemed fitting due to his overwhelming power, girth, and work ethic. Young Eric of House Gehrigan even went so far as to start chants of "Hammer! Hammer! Hammer! Hammer!" which surprisingly enough, everyone in the Black and Yellow section willingly joined.
Nearing the later portion of the festivities, it was clear the opposing knights were getting annoyed. The Blue Knight (presumably from Montreal) went so far as to make gestures to the (figurative) Knights of Columbus as they heckled him. No one had ever believed it possible, but not only had the (figurative) Knights of Columbus managed to rattle the Blue Knight, they had managed to get him to break character. Challenge after challenge, the Black and Yellow Knight imposed his dominance over his competitors. In the final sword duel, while there were times that he looked in dire peril, the young (figurative) Knights of Columbus were there to support him on to victory. The Black and Yellow Knight was the Champion of Medieval Times. What an incredible twist of fate. The Knights of the Columbus Crew immediately came to the realization of how incredible this night truly was. Not only were they destined to represent the same colors with which they embody on the field of battle, but those colors evoke undying devotion from their supporters at Crew Stadium as well. And above all, the Black and Yellow Knight was crowned the champion, the ultimate goal that these young men strive for every single day.
Following the exodus out of the arena and into the common room once again, all of the defeated knights were there to mingle with the common folk. As the troop of (figurative) Knights of Columbus made their way through the people, they were tickled to overhear comments such as, "Not THESE guys again," and "Oh geez, it's THOSE guys." They took those comments as endearing compliments, and continued our search to convene with their champion. By happenstance, the young men ran into the Blue Knight. After a laugh, the Blue Knight ensured the knights that everything was predetermined, and that they had no sway in the outcome of the evening. Joshua of Kleve Land advised us all to blow these comments off entirely, as he had both sensed and labeled the Blue Knight (presumably of Montreal) as a sore loser. And then, like an angel coming from the heavens, the Black and Yellow knight emerged. He had an aura, an ambiance about him. After the young men rushed him to show their gratitude and support, it became apparent that the (figurative) Knights of Columbus legitimately embarrassed this man. However comical it was, the brigade implored for a group photo. Everyone stood proud to be in the presence of the champion. Justin of the Meramese Islands and Kyle of the High-Lands may have even shed a few tears of appreciation and admiration. Following the Tebowing in front of the King himself, the (figurative) Knights of Columbus took their leave.
They frolicked to their great white Chevy carriage, already reminiscing one of the greatest evenings of their lives. With flags, cups, and crowns in hand, Andrew of House GreenTree lead them back to Castle Embassy Suites. With the taste of victory and fare still on their lips, the atmosphere was rather energetic on the two mile return venture. The young men of the black and yellow disembarked their motorized carriage already recollecting upon their exploits. As the (figurative) Knights of Columbus scampered briskly up the steps of Castle Embassy Suites, they had heard a foreign ruckus that caught their ear in a nearby living quarters. Eyeing that the door to this area was ajar, full of both zeal and excitement, the young men burst within the room. Much to their incredulity and anticipation the room was filled with fellow Black and Yellow (figurative) Knights of Columbus. These particular Black and Yellow knights, however, were representative of the faraway lands of Sudamericanos (known for their technical skills, questionable attire, and uncanny ability to all fit in the same vehicle). The immediate interaction was full of shouting, astonishment, and uncertainty. After the photographs were shoved in the faces of the Sudamericanos, they began spewing questions to the (figurative) Knights of Columbus in some strange language. One Sudamericanos (figurative) Knight of Columbus seemed to take the lead over the others in his bewilderment. He was later determined to be the legendary Sir Frederick of House Eegwhyeen (known by his war name 'Pipa' and distinguishable by his strange resemblance to hobbits in stature). After it was clear their conversations were taking them nowhere, the young (figurative) Knights of Columbus scrambled out the door just as they had entered it, hastily and awkwardly. It was at this time that the young warriors of the Black and Gold went their separate ways, to relive, revel, and dream of what they had accomplished that grand evening.
Was everything that happened coincidence? Was it just chance that they represented the Black and Yellow? Was it happenstance that the Black and Yellow Knight was crowned Champion of the realm? That is for you to decide, but as a lowly scribe and witness to that night, I happen to think it is indeed a vibrant symbol for things to come.
Mathyew of House Lampsonite


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of these music source hardware reviews from your perspective, Tyll. I think they'll help expand our audiophile interests to the occasional mainstream product that's worth our attention.
I recently discovered, quite by accident, that my T-Mobile (LG) G-Slate is a worthy FLAC player when coupled with Poweramp. I was researching something on the Web totally unrelated to audio topics when I came across a press release from Wolfson mentioning that one of their DACs was built into the G-Slate. Sure enough! I loaded up Poweramp and some FLACs and discovered audio quality surpassing my Yahama chip equipped Galaxy S II mobile phone.
Running the G-Slate's headphone output into an O2 amplifier is a nice combination, and the size of the G-Slate makes for useful and attractive Poweramp screens.


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- 3Shape Implant Studio easily integrates with 3DS' ProJet 3510 and VisiJet Stoneplast for the ultimate distributed dental manufacturing solution
- 3Shape Implant Studio easily integrates with 3DS' ProJet 3510 and VisiJet Stoneplast for the ultimate distributed dental manufacturing solution
ROCK HILL, South Carolina – March 25, 2014 – 3D Systems (NYSE:DDD) today announced that its ProJet® 3510 MP 3D printer and proprietary VisiJet® Stoneplast dental materials are now also available for use with 3Shape Implant Studio™, allowing dental professionals to output accurate and fully functional dental implant drill guides that are designed using the 3Shape Implant Studio software. Implant Studio is 3Shape's newest software product for implant planning and surgical guide design. 3Shape Implant Studio will be launched in the EU countries in April 2014. Implant Studio is not available for sale in the US.
The ProJet 3510 MP uses 3DS' proprietary Stoneplast dental material in a transparent or opaque build mode. The printed surgical guides are based on ready-to-print, Implant Studio-exported STL models to produce accurate, fully functional surgical guides.
"3D Systems' ProJet 3510 MP and Stoneplast materials produce accurate prints and easily integrate with our software for the ultimate distributed manufacturing solution," said Rune Fisker, VP Product Strategy, 3Shape. "This digital workflow with 3D printing integration brings the dental field a highly precise and affordable solution."
"We are very pleased to offer our dental lab customers a proven solution for manufacturing drill guides using 3Shape's new Implant Studio software, a solution that combines the latest products from two leading providers forming a powerful and affordable manufacturing tool," said Lee Dockstader, VP Business Development, 3DS.
For complete product information on the ProJet 3510 MP dental printers, visit http://www.3dsystems.com/.
About 3D Systems Corporation
3D Systems is a leading provider of 3D printing centric design-to-manufacturing solutions including 3D printers, print materials and cloud sourced on-demand custom parts for professionals and consumers alike in materials including plastics, metals, ceramics and edibles. The company also provides integrated 3D scan-based design, freeform modeling and inspection tools. Its products and services replace and complement traditional methods and reduce the time and cost of designing new products by printing real parts directly from digital input. These solutions are used to rapidly design, create, communicate, prototype or produce real parts, empowering customers to manufacture the future.
Leadership Through Innovation and Technology
- 3DS invented 3D printing with its Stereolithography (SLA) printer and was the first to commercialize it in 1989.
- 3DS invented Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) printing and was the first to commercialize it in 1992.
- 3DS invented the Color-Jet-Printing (CJP) class of 3D printers and was the first to commercialize 3D powder-based systems in 1994.
- 3DS invented Multi-Jet-Printing (MJP) printers and was the first to commercialize it in 1996.
Today its comprehensive range of 3D printers is the industry's benchmark for production-grade manufacturing in aerospace, automotive, patient specific medical device and a variety of consumer, electronic and fashion accessories.
More information on the company is available at www.3DSystems.com.
About 3Shape
3Shape is a Danish company specializing in the development and marketing of 3D scanners and CAD/CAM software solutions designed for the creation, processing, analysis and management of high-quality 3D data for application in complex manufacturing processes. 3Shape envisions the age of "full digital dentistry," and its 400 employees, including more than 175 developers provide superior innovation power toward reaching this goal. 3Shape's flexible solutions empower dental professionals through automation of real workflows, and its systems are applied in thousands of labs in more than 100 countries worldwide, putting 3Shape technologies at the peak of the market in relation to units produced per day by dental technicians. With TRIOS®, 3Shape now brings its vast expertise and innovation power directly to dentists. 3Shape boosts its first-line distributor support network with a training and support force of over 50 in-house experts placed in 6 support and service centers strategically located around the globe. 3Shape is a privately-held company headquartered in Copenhagen, with the market's largest team dedicated to scanner and software development for the dental segment based in Denmark and Ukraine, production facilities in Poland, and Business Development & Support Offices at several locations in Europe, in North America, Latin America and in Asia.
For further information regarding 3Shape, please refer to www.3shapedental.com. Visit us on www.facebook.com/3shape, or view mobile site on m.3shapedental.cohttp://m.3shapedental.comm


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086 822 1338 or 087 954 0842
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Please note that all prices shown here exclude VAT
Approved by IIRSM & CPD
CPD Units: 2
Duration 75 mins*
This course outlines exactly what constitutes manual handling and covers the regulations and legislation that apply to manual handling tasks. It then goes on to cover safe handling techniques and how to develop good habits in relation to manual handling. It finishes off by introducing some practical solutions and the use of mechanical aids.Important note: Please note that this is an awareness course only, if your duties include manual handling you will also need further practical training, you can get in touch with us to arrange this.
*The course duration is based on the amount of video content shown and is rounded off. It does not account in any way for loading time or thinking time on the questions
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The Apple/Foxconn saga continues to take interesting turns. If you haven't been following the story, Apple computer has been taking a beating in the U.S. press, mostly courtesy of the NY Times, regarding the treatment of the overseas workers who put most of its gleaming gadgets and awe-inspiring computers together. The national paper of record ran a scathing expose on conditions at Foxconn, the ginormous China-based manfacturer which is a major Apple subcontractor. Apple to its credit released the results of its own internal investigation, which though not as damning as the New York Times report, was hardly flattering.
Soon after the Times stories hit the streets, Apple announced that yet another investigation of conditions at Foxconn was being undertaken, at Apple's invitation, by the Fair Labor Association, an international watchdog of labor conditions. In January, Apple became the first technology company admitted to the Fair Labor Association.
Eyebrows were quickly raised, however, about the thoroughness of that investigtation after the FLA's President Auret van Heerden described conditions at Foxconn as "way, way above average" after just one visit to one of its sprawling facilities. Worse van Heerden suggested "the problems" at Foxconn could probably be attributed to boredom and monotony rather than a high-pressure work environment. Foxconn factories have suffered a number of fatal accidents and a score or so of worker suicides. It responded by ringing its upper windows with netting.
"The facilities are first-class; the physical conditions are way, way above average of the norm," van Heerden said. "I was very surprised when I walked onto the floor at Foxconn, how tranquil it is compared with a garment factory," he said. "So the problems are not the intensity and burnout and pressure-cooker environment you have in a garment factory. It's more a function of monotony, of boredom, of alienation perhaps."
His comments were no surprise to critics of the FLA, who have described the association as a "fig leaf" for manufacturers seeking to whitewash abysmal labor conditions.
But just a few days after comments which seemed to suggest an impending Apple fudging of the problem, van Heerden was back in the news with comments that indicate Foxconn's report card will not be a good one.
Bloomberg news reports that van Heerden said, "We're finding tons of issues," en route to a meeting where FLA inspectors were scheduled to present preliminary findings to Foxconn management. "I believe we're going to see some very significant announcements in the near future."
He did not elaborate on those findings, but the FLA plans to release more information about its inspection in the coming weeks. By then, the company will have had a chance to contest or agree to steps to prevent further violations and U.S. consumers will begin to have some understanding of how seriously Apple is committing itself to labor reform among its vast network of Asian subcontractors. Certainly no other U.S. high-tech manufacturer has gone even this far and many of them, like Apple, are Foxconn clients. The compounding investigations are already beginning to have some impact. Foxconn announced on Feb. 18 that it was raising its worker wages 16 to 25 percent–to $400 a month.


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Vip3C, a novel class of vegetative insecticidal proteins from Bacillus thuringiensis
(American Society for Microbiology, 2012) info:eu-repo/semantics/article,
Three vip3 genes were identified in two Bacillus thuringiensis Spanish collections. Sequence analysis revealed a novel Vip3 protein class (Vip3C). Preliminary bioassays of larvae from 10 different lepidopteran species ...


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Seibertron.com - The Ultimate Transformers Fansite
Megatron_Wolf wrote:Gamertag: Megatron Wolf
PSN: MegatronWolf
Feel free to add me. Especially on the PS3. I have only one friend on PSN so far.
The Happy Locust wrote:Effort is not power, knowledge is not power, even money is not power. True power is not caring that you f*ck up all the time.
JaAm wrote:Could we add Steam IDs to this? Mine is Inferno42.
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Haven't worked on WIP in a bit, but can I post in here for wishing I could? I am buried under lesson plans right now. Maybe I'll get to spend a few minutes on it later.
Barely a paragraph today, but it's something, right?
Right! And every paragraph is one more paragraph closer to a finished story. CELEBRATE!
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Florida Panthers Agree to Entry-Level Contract With F Aleksander Barkovby Staff Writer / Florida Panthers
|Forward Aleksander Barkov was selected with the second overall pick in the 2013 NHL Draft.
SUNRISE, Fla. – Florida Panthers Executive VP & General Manager Dale Tallon announced today that the club has agreed to an entry-level contract with F Aleksander Barkov (@barkovsasha95).
"We are pleased to have signed Aleksander," said Tallon. "He is a mature, strong and skilled forward who plays well at both ends of the ice and strengthens our line-up down the middle. Aleksander is a creative and dynamic player who our fans will enjoy watching. We look forward to his contributions to our organization both on and off the ice."
Barkov, 17, recorded 48 points (21-27-48) in 53 games with Tappara (Finnish Elite League) during the 2012-13 season, finishing second on his team in goals and points. He earned the No.1 ranking among European Skaters according to Central Scouting entering the 2013 National Hockey League Draft.
"I am very excited about signing my first NHL contract with Florida," said Barkov. "I enjoyed meeting with the Panthers coaches, my future teammates and our fans at development camp last week. I will continue to train hard and look forward to competing for a spot on the team when training camp opens in September."
The 6-foot-2, 205-pound center has represented Finland at each of the last two World Junior Championships. He recorded seven points (3-4-7) in six games during the 2012-13 tournament in Ufa, Russia. In 2011-12, Barkov became the youngest Finnish player ever to be selected to play in the World Junior Championships. During that same tournament, Barkov became the second youngest player to ever score a goal in the WJC competition at the age of 16, finishing with four points (1-3-4) in six games.
Sunrise Sports & Entertainment is the premier company of its kind in South Florida. Florida Panthers Social Media is powered by Ford - follow us on Twitter and Facebook. Home to the Florida Panthers Hockey Club and internationally recognized concerts and events, the Broward County-owned BB&T Center is one of the top ranked venues of its kind in the world.


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Although many Terrebonne residents have said they are offended by the portrayal of their parish in a reality TV show about the Sheriff's Office, an upcoming episode may offend in a more personal way.
Although many Terrebonne residents have said they are offended by the portrayal of their parish in a reality TV show about the Sheriff's Office, an upcoming episode may offend in a more personal way.
Footage from the search in September for a man who officials said drowned from a boat crash will air next week on the A&E show "Cajun Justice," according to his family members, who have said they would prefer those scenes not be on television.
The family of the late Sterling Authement Sr., 73, a shrimper from Bourg, did not know the show's film crew was with sheriff's deputies during the search in Bayou Little Caillou and the Houma Navigation Canal in Cocodrie, said Authement's son-in-law Jamey Hebert.
A friend told them about two weeks ago that the September incident was going to be featured on the show, said Hebert, who is a lieutenant with Houma Police. The "Cajun Justice" website describes one of the episode's events as "a violent boating accident" in which Sheriff Vernon Bourgeois "joins forces with multiple agencies to recover a boat, and possibly a body, from the murky depths of the Mississippi waters."
Family members have been in touch with one of the show's producers, Mark Kadin, to ask that the show be done in good taste. Hebert said he was able to reach him after a day of trying, and Kadin has not avoided his calls.
"He was receptive to the family's concerns," Hebert said. "We spoke in detail about the episode that would be aired. He promised the family that it would be done in good taste. ... We're hoping it is."
The episode will air June 28, even though it was originally scheduled to be on television tonight. Kadin said producers decided to postpone it, but not because of his conversation with the family or to edit it, Hebert added.
Kadin assured the family Authement's name will not be used on the show, Hebert said. The scenes are not recreations, as the Sheriff's Office and former deputies have said of other parts of the show. A&E will air real footage of the search, Hebert said.
"So that's why the family is so upset," he said. "Our family understands freedom of the press, and while we don't discourage freedom of the press, we just regret that it has to be relived ... reliving the memories that are still fresh. It's opening up fresh wounds."
Another "Cajun Justice" producer, Ken Reichling, has referred to himself as a member of the press before, when he declined to testify at a Terrebonne civil trial in which a Chauvin woman sued his production company, MAK Pictures, and the Sheriff's Office.
Authement was returning from a fishing trip the morning of Sept. 28 when his 25-foot shrimp boat collided with a 36-foot aluminum hull boat at the bayou and the navigation canal, according to authorities involved in the search at the time.
The Coast Guard, Terrebonne and Lafourche sheriffs' water patrols, Wildlife and Fisheries, Houma Police, Acadian Ambulance, Little Caillou firefighters and T. Baker Smith came together to search all day for Authement's body. They worked all day Sept. 28, called off the search for the night and found his body the next morning, officials said.
At the time, family members said Authement, who crafted the boat himself, was in the habit of trawling early, typically starting between 2 and 3 a.m. and returning home by 8 a.m.
Family members saw cameras out on the water, but they thought they were manned by Houma television station HTV, Hebert said. They were not happy with that idea either, but their primary concern was recovering Authement's body at that time.
Houma resident Tammie Boudreaux, 54, said in a post on The Courier's Facebook page that she is upset by A&E's decision to air the footage.
"I knew Mr. Sterling personally and feel that he would not like his death used in this manner," Boudreaux said. "He was a proud, yet quiet man. ... I think the right thing would have been for his family to be asked if his story could be told and informed on how it would be portrayed. This is insensitive, tasteless and harboring on total disrespect for the deceased."
Bourg resident Victoria Martinez, 21, laid the blame with Bourgeois rather than A&E.
"It seems like our sheriff is more concerned about the money coming from the show rather than the people he swore to protect," Martinez said. "He is making a joke out of us, and putting this family through their loss again on national television is just wrong. To me that speaks volumes about him. Let this family grieve in its own way."
Hebert said over the past two weeks he has viewed reality crime shows in a different light.
"You look at 'The First 48.' They show a lot of stuff on those shows, and that's where you realize, you feel sorry for those families once it happens to you," he said.
Staff Writer Katie Urbaszewski can be reached at 448-7617 or email@example.com.