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Prevention wasn't always viewed as so important. In the past, maintaining good health took a backseat to disease treatment. Few visited the doctor for routine checkups or thought much about what could happen to their bodies -- until it did. But times are changing.
As an increasing number of studies show that lifestyle measures like eating healthfully, exercising, and reducing stress have an enormous impact on the development of disease, mainstream medical experts are starting to take prevention more seriously. "Our health-care system still focuses largely on treating disease, but that's begun to shift," says Tracy Gaudet, M.D., director of Duke Integrative Medicine at Duke University and a Body+Soul columnist. "It's becoming more apparent how important it is to be proactive with our health."
That's easier than you might think. Prevention doesn't call for a daily regimen of knocking back wheatgrass juice at dawn, running five miles at lunch, and meditating for an hour after a dinner of barley and raw kale (unless you want to). Protecting your heart, brain, breasts, bones, and the rest of your body can be as tasty as a bowl of blueberries, as enjoyable as hiking in the woods with a friend, and as easy as taking a deep breath. Here, our experts have helped us compile a guide to keep you in top shape, from head to toe.
The older you get, the more likely you are to experience a change of heart -- literally. With age, the walls of this organ begin to stiffen and your blood vessels become thicker and less elastic, which can lead to high blood pressure. If you have high cholesterol, deposits of plaque can further narrow arteries. And your blood may get "stickier" and form clots that block blood vessels, triggering a heart attack or stroke. But none of these changes is inevitable. "Your heart should stay strong throughout your life if you make the right choices about your health," says Jaime Moriguchi, M.D., codirector of the clinical heart-failure program at UCLA. Along with following heart-healthy diet and exercise plans and not smoking, these steps will help keep your ticker going strong.
Know Your Risk
Your odds of developing heart disease depend on whether you have risk factors for it, including smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, stress, and a family history of heart problems. Get your cholesterol and blood pressure checked regularly, and ask your doctor about other tests you might need, such as an electrocardiogram, a stress test, and blood tests of blood sugar and C-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation. Many of these risk factors are in your control. "You aren't fated to develop heart disease, even if you have a family history of it," says Moriguchi. "Keep your risks in mind as you make everyday decisions."
Brush and Floss
Some studies show that gum disease may harm the heart, possibly because this bacterial infection can trigger chronic inflammation, which has a heart-disease link. (Smoking may raise that risk even higher.) Brush and floss twice a day and get regular dental checkups.
Don't Skip Breakfast
Research suggests that eating in the a.m. helps stabilize blood sugar throughout the day, which helps keep LDL ("bad") cholesterol and triglycerides in check. What you eat is just as important: Quick-burning carbohydrates, such as cornflakes and bagels, raise blood sugar quickly, increasing your odds of developing diabetes and abdominal fat, both risk factors for heart disease. Instead, choose fruit, healthy proteins, and whole grains: A recent study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that people who ate whole grains shed more belly fat and lowered blood levels of C-reactive protein.
Take a Sip
It's not just what you eat that affects your heart; what you drink also counts. While too much alcohol can increase blood pressure and triglycerides, small amounts have been shown to raise HDL ("good") cholesterol and reduce the risk of developing and dying from heart disease. High in resveratrol, a compound linked to longevity, red wine may be particularly protective, says Moriguchi, who recommends that women stick to one drink or less a day. In some studies, the regular consumption of green or black tea was associated with fewer incidents of heart disease. Tea's antioxidant flavonoids seem to relax blood vessels and prevent clots.
Stress Less
Depression, anxiety, anger, grief, loneliness, and stress have been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular problems. Combat these now by finding a relaxation technique that you enjoy -- like breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation -- and get into the habit of practicing it regularly.
Go Nuts
A large review of studies published in November 2006 found that people who eat nuts more than four times a week have a 37 percent lower risk of heart disease than those who seldom eat them. That's likely because nuts like almonds and walnuts harbor high levels of heart-healthy fats, says Moriguchi. While not true nuts, peanuts contain resveratrol and therefore have heart-health benefits, too.
Lighten Up
Some research suggests that humorless, antisocial personality types have higher rates of heart disease, while their more easily amused counterparts are less likely to have heart problems. For help in the humor department, rent comedies, watch stand-up or improv, and do whatever else it takes to elicit belly laughs. Still having trouble letting go? Fake it till you make it: It may sound odd, but even pretending to laugh or forcing a smile can eventually lead to real laughter.
Stay Connected
People who cultivate social networks appear to have less heart disease and live longer than those who are more isolated, according to Nieca Goldberg, M.D., medical director of New York University's Women's Heart Program. In fact, a study on people nearing retirement age suggested that loneliness may harm the heart as much as smoking. No matter what your age, reach out -- and don't limit yourself, advises Goldberg. "Connecting with family, friends, social groups including church, and even pets can help."
A Healthy Heart Tonic
Herbalists have long relied on the berries, leaves, and flowers of the hawthorn plant to treat and prevent cardiovascular woes, and recent research confirms its benefits. A 2008 review of 14 studies, for example, found hawthorn as an adjunctive treatment can significantly improve the symptoms and outcome of congestive heart failure. Other evidence indicates hawthorn, which contains antioxidant compounds called procyanidins, may increase the integrity of blood vessel walls and improve blood flow to the heart. Talk to a health-care provider about the best dosage.
The specter of memory loss and Alzheimer's disease, on the rise in the United States, haunts many of us. Don't take every misplaced-key incident as a bad sign, though. It's true that our brains do decline with age. Over time, levels of chemical messengers fluctuate and the number of brain cells may slightly decrease, causing mild problems with memory. But we're able to form new connections between remaining cells, even in the later years. For help staying sharp, eat a healthy, whole-foods diet; get regular exercise; watch your blood pressure; and try the following steps.
Use it or Lose It
The magic bullet for good memory? It could be as close as the Times crossword puzzle. Studies have found that keeping your brain active -- by doing word games, playing an instrument, or having engaging conversations, for example -- may help ward off cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease.
Spice Things Up
Turmeric does more than add flavor to curry dishes. Curcumin, one of the compounds in this spice, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Some early research has linked it to a lower risk of cognitive decline. Preliminary animal studies suggest it may help prevent Alzheimer's disease, a condition that's rarer in India, where curry is a staple. Add turmeric to food regularly or mix 1/2 teaspoon with hot water and sip as a tea.
Think Positive
"Your brain will do what you ask of it," says David Rakel, M.D., director of the University of Wisconsin Integrative Medicine program. Instead of multitasking, he suggests taking a few minutes each day to focus on one positive thought, like the word "peace." Doing so, he explains, creates new neurological networks in your brain and helps you feel happy and compassionate more easily. On the flip side, harboring angry thoughts can create networks that make you feel more negative about life, more often.
Hit the Sack
Getting enough shut-eye doesn't just boost your energy -- it may increase brainpower as well. Research shows that a good night's sleep helps improve memory. In one recent study published in Nature Neuroscience, researchers found that sufficient sleep is also necessary to help retain episodic memory, your ability to remember times, places, and events. Although sleep needs vary, most of us require about eight hours a night.
Ditch the White Foods
White sugar, flour, and other refined carbohydrates are absorbed quickly as sugar into the bloodstream and can cause a spike in insulin levels. This promotes inflammation, which in turn has been linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease. Keep blood sugar stable by choosing slower-burning carbohydrates like whole grains, says Rakel.
Brain Power in a Pill?
Could popping a pill boost your memory? Not necessarily, according to recent studies of the herb ginkgo biloba. Although early evidence suggested a link between ginkgo and better cognitive function, newer research shows less impressive results. A study published in February in the journal Neurology found that ginkgo didn't improve memory in elderly people, while a 2007 review of studies concluded that any benefits of the herb for dementia and cognitive impairment were "unconvincing." Vitamin E could prove more promising: Although more research is needed, some studies suggest that this antioxidant may reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease and slow its progression.
Go Fish!
If there's one supplement that could hold the answer to many chronic health problems, it's fish oil. A growing body of research suggests that the omega-3 fatty acids found in oily fish such as salmon, sardines, and herring can help the heart, brain, and joints. Studies show that fish oil may slightly lower blood pressure and help prevent heart disease, stroke, dementia, depression, and inflammatory bowel disease. Look for supplements labeled "purified," a sign that they're free of mercury and other pollutants. Common dosages range from 1 to 4 grams daily; discuss with your health-care provider.
Bones and Joints
Our bones tend to become less dense over time, particularly those in the hip, wrist, and spine. Known as osteoporosis, significantly decreased density means bones break more easily. The cartilage that cushions our joints also thins, making joints more susceptible to injury and osteoarthritis. But this deterioration isn't a foregone conclusion. "Our bones and joints are living tissue, like the rest of the body," says Peter Sharkey, M.D., a joint-replacement specialist at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital's Rothman Institute. By nurturing this tissue, you can keep your body's structure strong.
Get Tested
A Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) scan can give you an idea of the state of your bone health and risk of osteoporosis. Although the US Preventive Services Task Force recommends bone density testing at age 65 and older, other experts say it's a good idea to get screened earlier. "I recommend women get a DEXA scan around menopause," says Gaudet. "The results can encourage you to start making changes to prevent bone loss before it becomes severe."
Cover Your Bases
Calcium-rich foods such as yogurt and collard greens help you maintain bone mass, says Gaudet. Since most women don't get adequate calcium through their diet, she recommends supplementing with 600 mg of calcium citrate and 200 mg of magnesium twice daily. Evidence now shows that vitamin D may be equally essential for bone health -- helping with calcium absorption as well as osteoporosis and fracture prevention -- yet most of us don't get enough. Getting 15 minutes of sun exposure on your arms and legs twice a week helps your body produce D, says Rakel. Many health experts now recommend supplementing with 1,000 IU of vitamin D3 as well.
Exercise -- and Rest
Regular exercise, both aerobic and resistance training, is a must for healthy bones and joints. But you also need ample rest between workouts, says Sharkey. Because the body doesn't heal itself as quickly as we get older, constant activity can set the stage for injury. After about age 50, balance intense aerobic or resistance exercise with rest by allowing a day or two for joints to repair themselves, just as you would with your muscles.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Your knees carry the brunt of your weight, and burdening them with extra pounds increases the risk of joint damage. But recent research suggests that low-level inflammation plays a role, too. "Fat cells contain substances that stimulate inflammation," Sharkey explains. "That may be why overweight people are also more likely to develop osteoarthritis in non-weight-bearing joints, such as those in the shoulder and hand." If you're overweight, losing just 10 pounds can significantly lower your risk of osteoarthritis.
Eat Your Antioxidants
A study published in July 2007 suggests that people who consume plenty of fruits high in vitamin C and vegetables high in the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin have fewer early signs of knee osteoarthritis and cartilage defects than those who eat less of these staples. Pile your plate with produce like dark leafy greens, bell peppers, and citrus fruits.
Attain Balance
Breaking a bone is the biggest risk of osteoporosis. Prevent falls and stay on your feet by practicing exercises that test your stability. Studies show that people who do tai chi regularly improve their balance and reduce their risk of falls. Other good options include yoga (think Tree pose), qigong, and Pilates.
Breasts and Reproductive System
Changes that occur to our breasts and reproductive systems bring a measure of emotion and fear. After all, the hormonal shifts that accompany aging often result in hot flashes, mood swings, and other unpleasant symptoms. And menopause isn't the only change that comes with time: As our fertility wanes, our risk of cancers of the breast, cervix, and ovaries increases. Here's how to stay healthy.
Get Tested
Taking a proactive approach to your health means getting an annual exam that includes a Pap smear (official recommendations change with age, so consult your doctor) and, after age 40, a mammogram. Talk to your physician if you have a family history (particularly your mother or sister) of breast or ovarian cancer, as you may need more frequent testing. As for breast self-exams, some studies have shown no decreased risk of death from breast cancer in women who perform them. That said, they do often help reveal suspicious lumps, says Kristine Rinn, M.D., an oncologist specializing in breast cancer at Seattle's Swedish Medical Center.
Stay Slim
Extra pounds have been linked to a higher risk of breast, ovarian, and cervical cancer, possibly because of excess weight's effects on the hormone estrogen. (Weight gain after menopause especially seems to raise the risk of breast cancer.) In addition, gaining a lot of weight affects your chances of getting pregnant. "Obesity interferes with fertility," explains Gaudet.
Be Sensible About Diet
Should you eat soy or avoid it? Does dietary fat cause cancer? What about red meat? Unfortunately, says Rinn, "there aren't any clear answers yet about the effects of diet on breast cancer risk." Indeed, a 2005 study of more than 90,000 women found no significant link between dietary patterns and breast cancer; other research is mixed.
Likewise, the relationship between food and gynecologic cancers also remains uncertain. So rather than obsess about what foods may cause or prevent breast cancer, stick with the basics of a whole-foods diet (see "A Menu for Good Health," page 106). One area in which diet may help is fertility: A large study in the November 2007 issue of Obstetrics and Gynecology showed that women who ate more monounsaturated fat, vegetable protein, dairy products, and low-glycemic carbs along with fewer trans fats and less animal protein boosted their odds of getting pregnant.
Drink with Caution
While moderate drinking can benefit heart health (see "Take a Sip," page 102), studies generally show the opposite when it comes to other conditions: Women who consume one to two alcoholic drinks a day have a 30 to 50 percent higher risk of breast cancer, and some research has linked regular alcohol consumption to a higher risk of infertility. But you don't need to abstain entirely, especially if you're looking to protect your heart. "There's no hard and fast rule," says Rinn, "but a drink every other day is reasonable."
Weigh Your Options
Once a standard approach to menopausal symptoms, supplemental hormone therapy came under fire in 2003, when the large Women's Health Initiative study linked the combination of estrogen and progestin to an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and breast cancer. Yet hormone therapy has also been shown to lower the risk of colorectal cancer and osteoporosis. Oral contraceptives are also a mixed bag: "They do slightly increase the risk of breast cancer, but they decrease the risk of ovarian cancer," says Rinn. The bottom line? "Discuss the risks, benefits, and different forms of hormone therapy with your doctor," advises Gaudet.
Muscle Up
Sure, regular physical activity boosts your reproductive and breast health (see "Your Exercise Prescription," page 110). But another type of exercise can also help: Regularly performing Kegel exercises to strengthen the pubococcygeus, or PC, muscles in your pelvis can help prevent urinary incontinence, improve sexual function, and ready your body for childbirth if you're pregnant. Locate your PC muscles by stopping the flow of urine when you go to the bathroom; then practice this squeezing motion when you're not urinating, up to 30 times a day.
Get Emotional
With stress linked to infertility, sexual dysfunction, and breast and ovarian cancer, don't wait to get in touch with your feelings. "Many of us are very good at nurturing others without taking care of ourselves," says Gaudet. "But repressing emotions can be very unhealthy." Take some time to recognize and deal with feelings like sadness, anxiety, and anger, whether by keeping a journal, meditating, or talking with a close friend on a regular basis. "Our body speaks in whispers," explains Gaudet. "Don't wait until it screams to do something."
Be Safe
As you've probably heard by now, the biggest risk factor for cervical cancer is the human papilloma virus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection that often has no symptoms. At least 50 percent of sexually active women and men acquire the infection at some point in their lives. Over time, HPV can trigger precancerous changes in the cervix usually identified with a Pap smear. Although they don't completely protect against HPV, condoms can lower the rate of infection by about 70 percent. (An HPV vaccine is available but is recommended for women and girls who have not yet had sex.)
Gastrointestinal Tract
Most age-related changes to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract go barely noticed, but two can create bothersome symptoms. Your production of stomach acid naturally decreases, making it more difficult to absorb nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, and calcium. And food tends to move through the large intestine more slowly, setting you up for constipation. In addition, colon cancer, the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in both women and men, becomes far more common after age 50. Making smart choices now can improve digestion and protect your long-term gut health.
Stay Regular
Elimination is critical in detoxifying our bodies. Prevent constipation by staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and going when the urge strikes, says Rakel. When planning meals, "focus on foods that have vitality and function," says Gerard Mullin, M.D., director of integrative GI nutrition services at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Such super foods -- like broccoli, berries, and whole grains -- serve multiple purposes. They're rich in antioxidants and other
Get Tested
You might cringe at the idea of a colonoscopy, but this screening test can catch colorectal cancer early and even allows your doctor to remove suspicious tissue at the time of the test. The American Gastroenterological Association and other experts recommend a colonoscopy every 10 years starting at age 50; yours may suggest the test earlier or more often if you have a family history.
Go the Natural Route
Because stomach acid naturally decreases with age, it's important to maintain what you do have. "Acid-blocking drugs like Pepcid and Zantac are incredibly overprescribed," says Mullin. According to recent research, using these drugs for long periods of time might lead to cognitive decline; proton-pump inhibitor drugs such as AciPhex and Nexium may lead to nutrient deficiency. If you have acid reflux, try addressing your diet and stress levels rather than popping pills.
Manage Stress
That feeling of butterflies in your stomach has a physiological basis. "There's a lot of cross talk between the brain and the gut," explains Mullin. Your GI tract has its own nervous system, which is why stress can cause digestive problems such as diarrhea, heartburn, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Learn to manage stress -- and reduce GI problems -- by exploring massage, art therapy, breathing exercises, and other relaxation techniques.
Join the Culture Club
"Your digestive tract is a delicate ecosystem of both good and bad bacteria," says Rakel. When you eat a lot of processed food or take antibiotics, you can wipe out these "friendly" bacteria. This allows the bad guys to take over, leading to IBS, diarrhea, and other problems. Maintain a healthy balance of bacteria by eating a daily cup or two of yogurt labeled "contains active cultures." If you have digestive problems, Mullin recommends taking a probiotic supplement that includes good bacteria. Look for products with Lactobacillus GG, Bacillus coagulans, or those in the Bifidobacteria family.
Eliminate Allergens
Food sensitivities can trigger digestive problems, says Mullin; common culprits include soy, corn, eggs, wheat, and dairy. If you suspect certain foods are bothering you, consult with a nutritionist, who might have you eliminate them from your diet, then gradually add them back in. If your symptoms go away and then reappear, you may have an allergy or sensitivity and should avoid that food.
Regular physical activity has countless benefits, from head to toe.
Stimulates brain chemicals like endorphins, which boost mood and help prevent depression and anxiety; helps reduce stress; promotes better sleep; may improve memory and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia
Strengthens the heart; improves circulation; lowers blood pressure; reduces risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and stroke
Bones and Joints
Builds muscle tone and strength; increases bone mass; improves balance and joint flexibility
Digestive System
Improves digestion and prevents constipation; may help prevent colorectal cancer
Breasts and Reproductive System
Reduces the risk of breast cancer, endometrial (uterine) cancer, and ovarian cancer
For Optimal Benefits, Aim for:
- Thirty to 60 minutes of aerobic exercise (like brisk walking, swimming, dancing, cycling) most days of the week; be sure to build rest in, too, to avoid wear and tear on your joints
- Twenty minutes of strength training (lifting weights, using body bands, doing lunges and squats) at least twice a week
- Exercises that stretch your muscles and improve balance (Pilates, yoga, tai chi) twice a week or more
An impressive body of research links a healthy diet (and even specific foods) to a lower risk of a variety of conditions, including heart disease, cognitive decline, and several types of cancer. The key, say our experts, is to choose foods that help fight, not promote, inflammation, believed to be a root cause of illness. Here's what to eat -- and what to avoid.
Eat More
- Fruits and vegetables; aim for five to nine servings a day
- Oily, cold-water fish like salmon, sardines, and black cod; aim for two servings a week
- Flaxseed; sprinkle freshly ground flaxseed on salads or add 1 tablespoon to smoothies daily
- Olive oil; make it your go-to cooking oil
- Whole grains and beans
Cut Back On
- Processed, snack, and junk foods
- Saturated fat (in red meat, full-fat dairy, and other animal foods)
- Refined grains and sugars
- Safflower, sunflower, corn, and other polyunsaturated oils


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New Car Review Video
2013 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: New Car Review - Video
It's no secret that the 2013 Mercedes-Benz G-Class luxury SUV plays to a fairly narrow audience. In fact, fewer than one thousand G-Class units were sold last year. But that hasn't stopped Mercedes from giving this rugged, high-end utility some fresh updates and new features. Plus there's an ultra-powerful AMG version, which also returns for this model year.
Features Galore
On the outside, both G-Class models -- the G550 and G63 AMG -- are essentially oversized boxes on wheels, but now they feature new LED running lights and redesigned outside mirrors that resemble those found on other Mercedes models.
The interior of the G-Class or G-Wagon, as it has been called, remains unique, starting with the retro upright dashboard, which receives some noticeable improvements. It has a new gauge setup and a larger 7-inch navigation display that's been repositioned to the top of the dash. This gives the driver a better viewing angle of the COMAND electronics interface. Other new touches include a reconfigured center console, a smaller shift lever and a redesigned steering wheel. The traditional 12-speaker Harman/Kardon Logic7 sound system is no slouch, either. Comfort-wise, there's plenty of headroom in the G-Class, but legroom is limited.
On the safety front, there are now a number of new standard features, including radar-based cruise control, parking assist and blind spot monitoring.
Power, Performance, Prowess
The G550 has a 5.5-liter 382-horsepower V8 and a 7-speed automatic transmission sending power to all four wheels through a 2-speed transfer case. Its Electronic Traction System and three locking differentials combine to make the G-Class as good in the wild as it is on the highway. If you need even more power, the new G63 AMG is motivated by a tremendous 6.2-liter 536-hp twin-turbo V8, also mated to a 7-speed automatic.
Both versions of the G-Class are quick and each can tow up to 7,000 pounds when properly equipped. But gas mileage falls short when you have this much power. Expect no more than 15 miles per gallon on the highway and only 12 mpg in the city.
The Wrap Up
Costwise, the G-Class starts in the low six figures. The G550 has a base price of $113,000, while the uber-performing G63 AMG stickers for over $134,000. If you're interested in this kind of large, luxury, people-moving vehicle, you may want to try the Land Rover Range Rover or Lexus LX570 for comparison.
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz G-Class isn't an SUV that appeals to the masses, but that's the whole idea. This pricey status symbol continues to command loyalty among a select group of buyers. It's a boxy, short-on-legroom gas guzzler, but for those shoppers who can afford it and desire a truly premium off-road experience, the G-Class may be the ideal choice.

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JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (Nov. 8, 2009) -- The ETSU men's basketball team will play its second and final exhibition game of the preseason Monday night, hosting Carson-Newman inside Memorial Center. Tip is schedule for 7 p.m.
The Buccaneers, who were 113-61 winners over Milligan College last week in their first exhibition game, are looking to make their final adjustments and tune up in preparation for their season opener Saturday against Appalachian State. That game against the Mountaineers is scheduled for 4 p.m. and will culminate the week's Homecoming activities on campus.
For more on Monday's game, click on the above game notes link or read the game notes below:
The series against Carson-Newman
While this year's meeting will be an exhibition contest, the Bucs and Eagles have met 52 times in regular season play over the years ... Though most of these matchups occurred in the early and mid-part of the 20th century, the all-time series between the two teams stands at 32-10, with ETSU holding the advantage ... The last time the two teams met was in 1995, with ETSU winning 86-63 ... ETSU holds a five-game regular season win streak currently over C-N.
Last time out
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (Nov. 3, 2009) - Despite having three players on the bench in street clothes - including preseason All-Atlantic Sun Conference selection Mike Smith (Vandalia, Mo.) - the ETSU men's basketball team showed some depth in its first public performance of the 2009-10 season, rolling to a lopsided 113-61 victory over nearby Milligan College in exhibition play Tuesday night at Memorial Center ... An impressive crowd of 3,472 came out for the exhibition and looked on as the defending Atlantic Sun Conference champions placed six players in double figures offensively, while the ETSU defensive pressure picked up where it left off last year, forcing 25 Milligan turnovers on 14 steals. The Bucs were led offensively by junior Micah Williams (Manchester) and freshman Sheldon Cooley (Tampa), both of whom posted 19 points in the game ... "I'm really pleased with the effort tonight," said ETSU head coach Murry Bartow. "Six different guys in double figures was nice, and I think we saw a lot of positives out there. There are still things to work on obviously, like we didn't shoot free throws well and had some guys in foul trouble. But overall it was good. For us right now the most important thing is to get healthy." ... The Bucs were without the services of Smith, junior guard Justin Tubbs (Trussville, Ala.) and redshirt freshman J.C. Ward (Marietta, Ga.), all of whom are nursing bumps and bruises. All are expected to return to action soon and missed the game as a precaution ... In the first half, ETSU wasted little time taking away any hopes the Buffaloes had of picking up an upset win in this battle of backyard neighbors. The Bucs outscored Milligan 15-5 in the first five minutes, and extended that lead to as many of 23 points at 48-25 with 1:44 left in the half ... At the intermission, ETSU led 50-30 and as a team the Bucs were shooting 56 percent from the floor, while holding Milligan to just 37 percent shooting ... The second half was much the same story, with the Bucs pressuring Milligan into poor offensive decisions and capitalizing on those mistakes offensively. The result was ETSU building its lead out to the 113-61 final ... As expected, the numbers were heavily in favor of the Bucs, who outrebounded Milligan 58-32 and shot 53 percent from the floor for the game. ETSU held Milligan to 33 percent from the floor, while holding a 62-20 advantage in points in the paint and a 39-11 edge in points off turnovers ... Along with Williams and Jones, the Bucs got 15 points from sophomore guard Adam Sollazzo (Tampa), while freshman forward Lukas Poderis (Port Richey, Fla.), sophomore forward Isiah Brown (Miami) and junior forward Tommy Hubbard (Boston) each pitched in 14 apiece.
Big questions surround Bucs as 2009-10 season starts
With the loss of seniors Courtney Pigram and Kevin Tiggs -- one of the most dynamic offensive duos in the country -- the Bucs have a lot of questions to answer on the offenisve end of the floor this season ... Having averaged 78.1 points a game a year ago, which ranked 21st nationally in all of Division I play -- ETSU has lost 44.0 of those points to graduation when one includes now departed senior Greg Hamlin in that trio ... In addition to the losses on offensive, the Bucs' 13-man roster includes just eight players who have experienced actual floor time in college ... The other five players are either true freshmen, redshirt freshmen or walk-ons.
Sollazzo to honor Coy with number change
When ETSU's rising sophomore forward Seth Coy (Montgomery, Ind.) was tragically killed in a car accident this summer, it left the entire Buccaneer community with a deep sense of loss ... As is often the case, those that are left to mourn have looked for ways to remember the Bucs' 6-foot-11 "Gentle Giant." ... For sophomore guard Adam Sollazzo (Tampa), who was Coy's roommate, the answer was simple ... Changing his jersey number from No. 20 to Coy's No. 43, Sollazzo will play the 2009-10 season to honor his friend and have that memory with him each night.
Preseason polls pick Bucs middle of the pack
The ETSU men's basketball team was picked fourth by the Atlantic Sun Conference coaches and fifth by the league's media in preseason polls release Wednesday by the conference office ... The conference's two most recent tournament champions, ETSU (2009) and Belmont (2006-08) place fourth and fifth, depending on the poll. The Buccaneers edged out the Bruins for the spot from the coaches while the media gave the nod the Bruins. Both teams suffered tremendous losses due to graduation. ETSU must replace Courtney Pigram (Memphis) and Kevin Tiggs (Flint, Mich.), one of the highest scoring duos in the nation a season ago. Mike Smith (Vandalia, Mo.), a Preseason All-Atlantic Sun selection looks to build a bounce-back season in 2008-09 when he averaged more than 15 points and seven rebounds per game.
Bucs offering families "value" for attending games
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (Oct. 28, 2009) - With the considerable expense of entertainment options today and the difficult economic times faced by many local families, the ETSU Department of Intercollegiate Athletics in cooperation with Fun Expedition� Family Center of Johnson City are teaming up to make it more affordable than ever for families to attend Buccaneer basketball games during this 2009-10 season ... The Fun Expedition� Family Pack and the Fun Expedition� Family Zone will provide ETSU fans with a pair of options to make attending ETSU basketball games easier on the pocketbook. In fact, the program will offer tickets for free to children 10 and under (with the purchase of an adult ticket), while also offering discounts of more than 50 percent on packaged ticket deals ... Below are specific details of how each of these two programs will work:
-- Fun Expedition� Family Packs: These special family packs will contain 4 bronze level tickets (located in sections C and E), a concessions coupon for FREE popcorn, and a coupon from FUN EXPEDITION�. The total cost of one pack is $20, which is a savings of well over 50 percent on the regular cost of admission (reserved single seats are $10 each).
-- Fun Expedition� Family Zone: In addition to the family pack option, the Fun Expedition Family Zone will provide kids 10 and under a FREE Blue Level ticket (located in sections B and F) with the purchase of an adult Blue Level ticket. The free kids' tickets will be available to the first 900 fans, and these special family tickets can be purchased at the booth located between Memorial Center and Brooks Gym. Parents with more than two children will be able to get as many as four FREE tickets with the purchase of two regular-priced tickets.
ETSU the "only" A-Sun team picked among nation's best "Prestige" programs
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (July 22, 2008) - Since the beginning of the modern era for NCAA Division I-A basketball - marked by the expansion of the NCAA Tournament field to 64 teams in 1984-85 - the ETSU men's basketball program ranks in the Top 30 percent of the 300 programs that were eligible for the postseason at that time, this according to a new "Prestige" ranking released by ESPN.com ... The Buccaneers, who have enjoyed six NCAA Tournament trips, one NIT berth, seven 20-win seasons, and a slew of conference regular season and tournament championships since 1984-85, ranked tied for 82nd out of 300 teams, meaning they were in the Top 27 percent of schools making the list. ETSU was ranked ahead of every current Atlantic Sun Conference team, as well as former Southern Conference rivals Appalachian State, Western Carolina, Georgia Southern and UNC Greensboro. The Bucs also were placed ahead of every current member of the Colonial Athletic Association with the exception of Old Dominion ... In addition, the Bucs ranked ahead of SEC schools such as Tennessee, Vanderbilt, South Carolina, Mississippi State, Georgia, Mississippi and Auburn, as well as other major programs such as Virginia Tech, Notre Dame, DePaul, Bradley, Clemson, California and Florida State.
Home Sweet Dome
Since the 1996-97 season, the Buccaneers are an amazing 130-40 inside Memorial Center, good for a winning percentage of 77 percent ... The Bucs had won five straight at Memorial Center during the 2006-07 season before a loss to Belmont (1/2) ... The Bucs then rattled off 10 straight at home to stand at 15-1 on the Memorial Center floor that season, but fell to Belmont in the championship of the A-Sun Tourney... In 2007-08, the Bucs were 11-2 at Memorial Center ... In 2008-09, the Bucs were again 11-2 at home.


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Ladies and gentleman of the jury:
As you know, Jesus of Nazareth died and was buried some time ago, but the questions those events raised are still with us. Was Jesus just the son of Joseph and Mary and nothing else, or was he the son of God as he and his followers claim?
As the judge has informed you, there is no doubt that Jesus of Nazareth died on the cross on a Friday. The only question for you to consider is whether or not he came back to life on the third day.
The prosecutor has relied on the fact that you have never known a dead person to come back to life, and has cast aspersions on our witnesses who have testified that they saw Jesus alive after he was executed.
Since none of you have actually seen Jesus since he was executed, we are asking you to believe credible witnesses who have seen him. I would remind you that court cases are always decided by juries who hear witnesses and decide on the basis of the witnesses� testimony on the issues before them.
My first witnesses were hostile witnesses. They were the Roman guards whose duty it was to guard Jesus� tomb so none of his believers could steal his body and claim he was alive. They reluctantly admitted that somehow, they didn�t know how, the huge rock sealing the grave was rolled back and Jesus� body disappeared while they were on guard.
Next witnesses were two women who started preparing Jesus� body for burial but did not get to complete the job by sundown Friday before the Sabbath began. They returned to the tomb on Sunday hoping to persuade the guards to let them complete the job of preparing the body for burial. To their consternation, the guards were not there and the tomb was empty. They approached a man whom they believed to be the gardener and tearfully asked him what had happened to Jesus� body. As soon as they got themselves under control, they realized they were talking to Jesus and he was alive! They rushed to the place where the disciples were hiding to tell them the good news.
Unfortunately, the disciples didn�t believe the women, but the next witness, Peter, testified that he rushed to the tomb and, sure enough, it was empty.
Our next witnesses were two men who had been walking the seven miles from Jerusalem to Emmaus as they discussed the trial and crucifixion of Jesus. A stranger joined them and they were amazed to find out that he apparently had not heard about this trial and crucifixion. They invited him to eat with them and to ask the blessing. When he did this, they realized it was Jesus and he disappeared. They immediately rushed back to Jerusalem to tell the disciples that Jesus was alive.
The disciples were our next witnesses. They found it impossible to believe the almost hysterical women who claimed Jesus was alive. They were still doubtful when the two men from Emmaus told them the same thing. But then Jesus himself appeared in a locked room where they were gathered, talked to them, ate with them, and invited them to touch the wounds he received while on the cross, before disappearing again. They could fail to believe no longer. However, the disciples and other followers saw him from time to time for the next 40 days.
In his various appearances, Jesus told those who saw him that he would meet them later on the mountain. As they have testified, they told others and when they got to the mountain, Jesus was there. As you can imagine, I would gladly have offered the hundreds of people who saw and heard Jesus at the mountain as witnesses, but the judge only let me put up ten or twelve of them. They told you that Jesus was there, looking great, and preaching like God�s son, which he was. They swore that Jesus reminded the crowd gathered on the mountain that all power in heaven and on earth was his and that he was giving them their marching orders.
They testified to you, the jury, that Jesus ordered them to go everywhere and tell everyone that Jesus, God�s son, had come to earth to save them from having to pay the price for their sins, provided they believed in him. He further promised them that wherever they went telling the good news, he would be with them. They also testified that they witnessed Jesus ascend in to heaven. Then an angel came and reminded them that they were to go to all the world telling the good news.
So ladies and gentlemen of the jury, I contend that by believable witnesses, we have shown beyond a reasonable doubt that this Jesus who died on Friday was alive on Sunday, putting God�s stamp of approval on everything he had said or done.
I urge you to come back with a verdict that acknowledge that Jesus who died is now alive and offers salvation to all who reach a similar verdict.


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Partial or complete hair loss can be emotionally devastating to a patient. The only solution to medical hair loss is Farrell non-surgical hair replacement. And studies has have proven that the recovery process from a medical event is much quicker when a patient sees a health image when they look in the mirror. Farrell gives you that back and much more!
Patients can't be expected to wear uncomfortable wigs, scarves and hats because those items cannot provide a healthy-looking appearance. Everyone can see that the patient is sick. However a Farrell ultra-custom non-surgical hair replacement system is the only way a patient a completely regain their natural and healthy appearance.
A Farrell Hair Replacement system will replace all of the patient's hair to the exact density and aesthetic appearance the patient had before the loss of the hair. Patients can sleep, shower and perform all normal daily activities as if the system is their own growing hair. And most importantly, they will be confident enough about their appearance to continue with their normal, healthy lifestyle.
Farrell hair systems are on many actors, musicians and entertainment personalities because no other hair replacement company can match the quality of Farrell undetectable hair systems.
Richard Farrell is the world's most sought-after innovator and leader in non surgical undetectable hair system making. Richard Farrell is "hands on" and contributes to the production of each hair system in order for you to have the Best hair systems in the world.
At Farrell we save you from constantly spending thousands of dollars on new hair systems because we will keep your Farrell systems in the best condition. That's because we are hair system makers. Expect your hair systems to last 4 to 7 years! When you consider the longevity of our hair systems Farrell will cost you less than just about every other company. And during that time, you will look terrific!
Even sick people need to start being active again. So, whether you are at a yoga class or playing at the beach, your system must be as breathable as you own hair.
Partial or complete hair loss can be emotionally devastating to a patient, but there is a solution to this stage in a patient's medical recovery called non-surgical hair replacement. Instead of limiting a patient to wearing cheap wigs, scarves and hats which cannot provide a healthy-looking appearance, a Farrell ultra-custom, non-surgical hair replacement system is the only process capable of giving a patient a completely natural, healthy appearance after hair loss.
Farrell Hair Replacement Serves These Fine Cities Worldwide and Their Surrounding Areas:


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Sibylle's Charming DIY Vintage Kitchen
Sibylle Roessler of the design blog Funkytime is not afraid of a little DIY. The kitchen in her former 680-square-foot Montreal apartment (she now lives in Spain) is a lesson in repurposing flea-market finds, which she calls "terribly charming."
Details to look out for: a chalkboard paint fridge, a vintage meat grinder turned flower pot, a vintage pulley chandelier, and—my favorite—a twig wall holder for the rolling pin!
Read More: A Peek Into Sibylle's DIY "Funkytime" Home
• Visit Sibylle's blog: Funkytime
(Images: Sibylle Roessler)


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SOURCE: VeriSign
November 01, 2012 13:53 ET
RESTON, VA--(Marketwire - Nov 1, 2012) - VeriSign, Inc. (NASDAQ: VRSN), the trusted provider of Internet infrastructure services for the networked world, today provided a statement on the pending review by the Department of Commerce of Verisign's .com Registry Agreement renewal with Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) to serve as the authoritative registry operator for the .com registry.
The .com Registry Agreement was approved by Verisign's Board of Directors on June 16, 2012, ICANN's Board of Directors on June 23, 2012, and tendered by Verisign to the Commerce Department for its review and approval on June 26, 2012. The Commerce Department is reviewing the .com Registry Agreement as required by the Cooperative Agreement (http://www.ntia.doc.gov/page/verisign-cooperative-agreement) between the Commerce Department and Verisign. While the authority to approve the renewal rests exclusively with the Commerce Department, the Commerce Department seeks inputs from other U.S. agencies, which includes the Department of Justice.
Both the Commerce Department and Justice Department were involved in reviewing the current .com Registry Agreement in 2006. The Commerce Department approved the current .com Registry Agreement as being in the public interest in 2006. The approved version of 2006 included pricing terms and the ability to raise prices in four of six years. This price increase structure, among other restrictions, was negotiated with the Justice Department in order to cap Verisign's ability to increase prices, a structure deemed then by the Commerce Department to be in the public interest. The proposed .com Registry Agreement tendered to the Commerce Department for review and approval in June 2012 is virtually identical to the current .com Registry Agreement approved by the Commerce Department in 2006 except for new provisions regarding indemnification, audit rights and more stringent service levels (SLAs).
The Commerce Department and Verisign entered into Amendment 30 (http://www.ntia.doc.gov/files/ntia/publications/amend30_11292006.pdf) to the Cooperative Agreement in 2006 to address renewals of the .com Registry Agreement in 2012 and thereafter. The renewal of the .com Registry Agreement in 2012 is the first exercise of the renewal process described in Amendment 30 of the Cooperative Agreement.
Amendment 30 of the Cooperative Agreement provides that Verisign shall not enter into any renewal of the .com Registry Agreement under Section 4.2 (http://www.icann.org/en/about/agreements/registries/com) of the agreement (which is the specific provision of the .com Registry Agreement under which Verisign and ICANN have approved the renewal) without the Commerce Department's prior written approval. Amendment 30 provides that the Commerce Department shall provide such written approval if it concludes that approval will serve the public interest in (a) the continued security and stability of the Internet domain name system and the operation of the .com registry, and (b) the provision of .com registry services offered at reasonable prices, terms and conditions.
Amendment 30 provides that the Commerce Department and Verisign have an expectancy of renewal of the .com Registry Agreement. Amendment 30 requires Verisign to apply to the Commerce Department for approval of the renewal 90 days prior to the expiration of the current term on Nov. 30, 2012, which meant applying on or before Sept. 1, 2012. Verisign completed the renewal of the .com Registry Agreement with ICANN, following a public comment period and approval by the board of directors of ICANN and the board of directors of Verisign, on June 23, 2012. Verisign applied to the Commerce Department on June 26, 2012, over two months ahead of the date for application specified in the Cooperative Agreement. If the Commerce Department does not approve or needs more time to review the renewal prior to Nov. 30, 2012, then Amendment 30 provides that the Commerce Department shall agree to an extension of the term of the .com Registry Agreement for six months or such other term as the Commerce Department and Verisign shall mutually agree.
The Commerce Department has acknowledged Verisign's record on security and stability, the first criteria of the public interest determination under Amendment 30. Verisign was informed in October 2012 that the Commerce Department, with input from the Justice Department, is reviewing the pricing terms in the .com Registry Agreement under the second prong of the Amendment 30 public interest test: The provision of .com registry services offered at reasonable prices, terms and conditions.
Verisign operates the .com registry at the highest SLAs of any generic Top-Level Domain and the new .com Registry Agreement approved by the Boards of Directors of ICANN and Verisign impose even more stringent SLAs than the current .com Registry Agreement. The .com registry has an unequaled record of achievement, with full availability of DNS resolution in .com for more than 15 consecutive years. The economic activity supported by the .com registry is significant by any measure in an environment where the consequences of a failure of even a very short duration or degradation of the Domain Name System (DNS) resolution service, due to either a cyber attack or failure of hardware, software, or personnel, would have significant economic and non-economic impacts to the global economy. The reliability of .com over the years has provided the stable platform on which stakeholders have made substantial economic investment.
The level of security and stability offered by Verisign is only possible with investments in overcapacity and redundancy, network security, intellectual property (IP) and in human capital: The engineers and employees at Verisign who operate the .com registry and ensure its security and stability. The pricing terms of the .com Registry Agreement enable Verisign to make these investments, develop the necessary IP, know-how and purpose-built systems, respond to new threats to stability as they emerge, and recruit and retain the specialized talent necessary to maintain our network, including dozens of globally distributed constellation sites and data centers in the U.S. and elsewhere.
Verisign believes that under the terms of Amendment 30 the public interest is served in the security and stability of the DNS and through Verisign's operation of the .com registry. The stakeholders that rely on the availability and secure functioning of the DNS are numerous, including businesses large and small, and individual Internet users.
Verisign also believes that under the terms of Amendment 30 the public interest is served by the provision of .com registry services offered at reasonable prices, terms and conditions. Verisign believes that $7.85 per year for a .com domain name and the increases contemplated by the current pricing terms are reasonable prices for unlimited access to .com resolution services, given the security and stability offered by the .com registry, and particularly in light of accelerating query loads and increasing cyber threats. The current pricing terms are also reasonable because, unlike other registry service providers, Verisign offers performance and reliability under the most stringent contract-mandated SLAs, may not monetize any user registration data, and has the most restrictive price caps on its service of any gTLD. The current price of a .com domain name was anticipated in 2006 when the current .com Registry Agreement was approved by the Commerce Department as in the public interest. Any review of the pricing terms of the .com Registry Agreement by the Commerce and Justice Departments is bounded by the provisions of Amendment 30.
Under Amendment 30's standard that renewal of the .com Registry Agreement serve the public interest in (1) the continued security and stability of the Internet DNS and the operation of the .com registry, and (2) the provision of .com registry services offered at reasonable prices, terms and conditions, coupled with the Amendment 30's expectancy of renewal, Verisign believes it serves the public interest for the Commerce Department to approve the renewal of the .com Registry Agreement as approved by the Board of Directors of ICANN and Verisign in June 2012.
While the review process with the Commerce Department may extend beyond Nov. 30, 2012, it could also be concluded by Nov. 30, 2012. In either case, Verisign expects to continue to run the .com registry. Verisign believes that as of this date, the Department of Justice has substantially concluded its own review process.
Verisign will provide updates when appropriate regarding new information on the .com Registry Agreement renewal.
About VeriSign
VeriSign, Inc. (NASDAQ: VRSN) is the trusted provider of Internet infrastructure services for the networked world. Billions of times each day, Verisign helps companies and consumers all over the world connect between the dots. Additional news and information about the company is available at www.verisigninc.com.
Information available on, or accessible through, websites mentioned in this statement is not incorporated herein by reference.
Statements in this announcement other than historical data and information constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as amended. These statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause Verisign's actual results to differ materially from those stated or implied by such forward-looking statements. The potential risks and uncertainties include, among others, the uncertainty of whether the .com Registry Agreement renewal will occur on or before November 30, 2012, if at all, and if the .com Registry Agreement is renewed, whether it will be renewed on the terms previously approved by ICANN's and Verisign's Board of Directors; the uncertainty of future revenue and profitability and potential fluctuations in quarterly operating results due to such factors as increasing competition, pricing pressure from competing services offered at prices below our prices and changes in marketing and advertising practices, including those of third-party registrars; changes in search engine algorithms and advertising payment practices; challenging global economic conditions; challenges to ongoing privatization of Internet administration; the outcome of legal or other challenges resulting from our activities or the activities of registrars or registrants, or litigation generally; new or existing governmental laws and regulations; changes in customer behavior, Internet platforms and web-browsing patterns; the uncertainty of whether Verisign will successfully develop and market new services; the uncertainty of whether our new services will achieve market acceptance or result in any revenues; system interruptions; security breaches; attacks on the Internet by hackers, viruses, or intentional acts of vandalism; whether Verisign will be able to continue to expand its infrastructure to meet demand; the uncertainty of the expense and timing of requests for indemnification, if any, relating to completed divestitures; and the impact of the introduction of new gTLDs, any delays in their introduction and whether our gTLD applications or the applicants' gTLD applications for which we have contracted to provide back-end registry services will be successful. More information about potential factors that could affect the Company's business and financial results is included in Verisign's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K. Verisign undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking statements after the date of this announcement.
©2012 VeriSign, Inc. All rights reserved. VERISIGN, the VERISIGN logo, and other trademarks, service marks, and designs are registered or unregistered trademarks of VeriSign, Inc. and its subsidiaries in the United States and in foreign countries. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.
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Today I Was On MovieStarPlanet, And I Found Out That They Have A New Magazine In Shops Now! I Went To Tescos, Like, Straight Away And My Mum Bought It For Me;'] There's A New Issue Every Month And It's £3.99! It's Awesome, As You Get A Code Which Gets You 1000 StarCoins And An Exclusive Pet! Here Are Some Pics, Click To Enlarge!
Hehe! Thats Me With It ^^
There's Loads To Do In It, Like Enter Competitions, Fashion Tips, Models That You Can Cut Out And Fashion Things You Can Cut Out! Also, It Comes With A Load Of Stickers!
It's Amazing, Get It!
-Lottie89115 x


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Nine New Colors from Farrow & Ball
Farrow & Ball, renowned for the rich paints and luxury wallpapers manufactured in their Dorset, England factory are unveiling nine gorgeous new hues!
Inspired by everything from Dorset coast fossils to shades found in 17th-century manors, Farrow & Ball's newest colors have a rich heritage and are right on-trend. Launching today, these new hues are also just in time for fall paint projects.
At Farrow & Ball, the same time-tested production methods and recipes that were first pioneered by John Farrow and Richard Ball when they started the firm in the 1930s are still used today. Their fastidious attention to the quality of ingredients, amounts of pigment, and rich resin binders that go into each paint results in colors and finishes of unmatched quality and depth of color.
What has changed at Farrow & Ball is their edited range of 132 colors. Once new colors are introduced, the ones they replace are retired to the company's archive, where they remain available to order. Their newest colors work beautifully in modern spaces and bring a strong tradition of fine craftsmanship to any room.
We love all of Farrow & Balls new colors (you can see their entire collection here) but we've chosen our favorites in the gallery above. Which would you like to see in your own home?
Farrow & Ball paints and wallpapers are available at fine retailers worldwide. Or, you can also explore the collection and shop online.


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Kurt Busch Starting 17th in Kansas
October 8, 2011
KANSAS CITY, Kansas (Oct. 7, 2011) – Shell-Pennzoil Dodge driver Kurt Busch will start Sunday's Hollywood Casino 400 from the 17th position after turning in a qualifying lap of 31.155 seconds (173.327 mph) in this afternoon's time trial session here at the 1.5-mile Kansas Speedway.
"It's been a really up-and-down day for our Shell-Pennzoil Dodge team," Busch said after making his run against the clock. "We've been tight. We've been loose. We spent most of the first practice in qualifying trim and just haven't been able to find that happy medium that the car likes.
"On my qualifying run, the front end just wouldn't settle like it needed to," Busch added. "We scrubbed off too much speed. Tomorrow is a new day. We've got two more cracks at practice to try and dial the car in for Sunday."
Greg Biffle claimed the Coors Light Pole Award here this afternoon with his fast lap of 30.877 seconds (174.887 mph). Carl Edwards claimed the outside pole with a lap of 30.933 seconds (174.571 mph). Kyle Busch (30.955 seconds/174.447 mph) was third, with Matt Kenseth (30.957/174.436), Kasey Kahne (30.961/174.413), Paul Menard (30.978/174.317), Denny Hamlin (30.995/174.222), Martin Truex Jr. (31.012/174.126), Mark Martin (31.018/174.092) and Jeff Gordon (31.026/174.048) rounding out the top-10 qualifiers.
The remaining Chase drivers' efforts today will see Ryan Newman starting 11th here on Sunday, with Penske Racing teammate Brad Keselowski 12th (lap of 31.031 seconds/174.020 mph in the No. 2 Miller Lite Dodge), Kevin Harvick 14th, Dale Earnhardt Jr. 18th, Jimmie Johnson 19th and Tony Stewart 22nd.
"Yeah, we won the pole here in the June race, so we came in here hoping to win another," said crew chief Steve Addington. "But the most important thing is how we perform on Sunday. The good thing is that we have two big practice sessions here tomorrow and plenty of time to get race-ready. We have our teammates, the 'blue deuce' team parked right next door in the garage. I feel confident that we'll get it all sorted out here tomorrow and both Penske teams will be tough here on Sunday."
Saturday's schedule here at Kansas Speedway calls for morning practice from 11:30 a.m. till 12:15 p.m. and the final "Happy Hour" practice session from 12:50 p.m. till 1:50 p.m. Sunday's Hollywood Casino 400 (267 Laps, 400.5 miles) has a scheduled 1:00 p.m. CDT (2:00 p.m. EDT) starting time and features live coverage by ESPN-TV and MRN Radio.


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westab wrote:g-boaf wrote:I haven't encountered any yet. I try to feed the local ones around where I ride in the hope that it might make them more friendly towards me.
Good luck with that - hope it works as the one that I see near my work swoops me on the bike but when I walk through the carpark it leaves me alone (I don't feed it). The one at home will also swoop me on my bike but will eat worms out of my hand (even when wearing cycle gear) he just seems to hate the bike.
The one around here, when it was a youngster used to walk around my front yard, following me.
I quite remember the first day it did it - I was sitting on the front steps, and it came walking up - and decided it liked the look of my shoelaces. So it started tugging at them. The parent bird decided it would have a play with them too. Wonderful! I had the biggest grin on my face ever on that morning.
And since then - I occasionally give it some little bits and pieces of left overs, along with a ready supply of fresh water, nothing too much - but enough that it will hopefully teach its youngsters when they come along that I'm not a problem. It still walks around and warbles away quietly when I'm outside. It seems pretty friendly - and I hope it will remain that way, and will not be scared by my bicycle.
They are amazingly intelligent birds - just that some of them are a bit overzealous in their protective parenting.


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It's a bird. It's a plane. It's . . .
As we prepare for the BIG BIG SHOE DIARIES ROAD TRIP ACROSS AMERICA, I can't help but get excited about the large expanses of open road and the ability to see clouds from far, far away. To prep me for this, Antonio Is Hairier than Kate Moss sent a great I SEE PENIS: in the sky to get me excited. Hope you like it too!


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Aviation Subcommittee Roundtable "How to Best Utilize FAA UAS Test Range Data"
2255 Rayburn House Office Building
The FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 required the FAA establish a program designating six UAS test ranges to gather a variety of critical UAS safety and operational data. The roundtable discussion will explore how the FAA will gather, analyze, and utilize the data collected from the test ranges to help safely integrate UAS into the national air space. The discussion will also include how to best share the data with stakeholders and other government agencies.
In addition to Subcommittee Members, roundtable participants will include:


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Heart patients who used common pain relievers called NSAIDs even briefly are at much higher risk of having a repeat heart attack or of dying than those who stay away from the drugs, which include such widely used over-the-counter medications as ibuprofen and naproxen, a new study concludes.
The research, published Tuesday in the American Heart Assn.'s journal, Circulation, suggests that for patients who have suffered a heart attack, even short-term use of NSAIDs, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for headaches, back pain or sore muscles and joints is a bad idea.
Research in the last seven years has linked regular use of NSAIDs to an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. In the process, cardiologists and primary care physicians have been warned that patients with established cardiovascular disease should avoid taking NSAIDs for long periods of time, but suggest that brief or episodic use is probably safe.
The latest study establishes that despite safety concerns about this class of drugs for such patients, the medications are used by many in the wake of a heart attack. Of 83,677 Danish heart attack patients followed in the study, 42.3% received NSAIDs from Danish pharmacies, which keep records that allowed researchers to piece together each patient's medication history. In all, 35,257 of those patients had a repeat heart attack or died.
Among the widely used pain relievers, researchers found the risk of heart attack or death rose immediately three- to fourfold with the use of diclofenac, an arthritis medication sold under the commercial names Voltaren and Cataflam, and continued to be elevated--although less dramatically than in week one, for 14 weeks of use. The risk of death or repeat heart attack showed deven steeper increases with the use of celecoxib (commercially marketed as Celebrex) and Rofecoxib (marketed as Vioxx until September 2004 when its maker voluntarily withdrew the drug from the worldwide market). But those risks peaked in weeks four and six of use, respectively.
Ibuprofen --sold under such commercial names as Motrin and Advil--proved the safest of the NSAIDs, but did elevate the risk of death or a repeat heart attack slightly, peaking in week six. Naproxen (marketed as Naprosyn and Aleve) also was associated with a slight rise in death or heart attack risk, but the peak in that risk came in the first week of use.
"Our results indicate that there is no apparent safe therapeutic window for NSAIDs in patients with prior myocardial infarction, and challenge the current recommendations of short-term use of NSAIDs as being safe," the authors write.


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Discussion of " The Launhardt Formula, and Railroad Bridge Specifications by Henry B. Seaman"
See related content
by William H. Breithaupt,
Serial Information: Transactions of the American Society of Civil Engineers, 1899, Vol. XLI, Issue 1, Pg. 166-169
Document Type: Discussion & Closure
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|Episode Description
|Thursday, Oct 18, 2012 - 8:00 AM
"School of Dance/Curious George Sounds Off"
School of Dance - Little monkeys love to dance, which is why George can't wait for Allie's dance party. When Bill announces he's leaving town because he doesn't know how to dance the box step, George creates a footsteps dance step map to help. But you can't take a dance map to a party! How will Bill keep from stepping on toes without one? Curious George Sounds Off - Chef Pisghetti is distraught: his chickens won't lay any eggs! After spending a night in the chicken coop, George discovers that the chickens aren't sleeping and are too tired to lay eggs. D
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Sure it was only a pointless three-match ODI series against a team missing Philander, Amla, De Villiers and Steyn. But the Kiwis won it. And they did it missing JESSE RYDER. That's like running a marathon without your heart, lungs and quadriceps.
They were also missing Taylor, Vettori, Southee and Ronchi. I mean, they don't even know what Ronchi is yet. Yet, they beat what was left of South Africa without them. Look, it's the first win of their entire existence in South Africa, I don't care if they were playing an entire team of Derek Crookes and Nicky Bojes, this is a big deal for New Zealand. New Zealand are roadkill in South Africa, they only go over because people make them. But they won, and that was great.
If I was a rich Kiwi, I would have hired kids to walk the streets yelling: "Extra! Extra! The Blackcaps win in South Africa! I know, weird isn't it?" They've created an amazing historic event in an ODI series people forgot as they were watching it. Mike Hesson should have a Peter Jackson film named after him. Not bad taste.
England were hoping to continue their historic trip to India, but their Christmas holiday and constant informed player rotation left them a few players short of beating India. India might currently play Test Cricket like it's a badly translated version of Waiting for Godot in Mandarin, but they're OK in ODI still. England's ODI tour was best summed up when KP was reprimanded in a toilet by the ICC. As Ashley Giles said: "It was just a little word."
No reprimand was needed for the Australian Women's team who some might say found the true spirit of cricket when Kiwi Nicola Browne, was knocked over by a shot from her team mate Amy Satterthwaite. While Browne was down, the Aussies took the bails off. It was brilliant cricket from the Aussies, who refused to be put off by the theatrics of a fallen batsman. I was proud to be Australian when I heard it. Unfortunately the World T20 winning captain Jodie Fields recalled Browne.
Upul Tharanga was so sick of Phil Hughes making hundreds and drawing the series that he did something stupid on twitter. It seems that the account @Upul_Tharanga misunderstood a tweet from fan @SidathSam and sent him a direct message that was fairly clear and concise: "U fuck u bitch fucken cunt". The Sri Lankan allrounder @farveezmaharoof confirmed the twitter account was legit. Later on @Upul_Tharanga was shut down. Probably around the same time everyone was tweeting the image of the direct message.
Sri Lanka may have won the series had it not been for a bizarre rain cloud which delivered what is known scientifically as 'magic pixie lightest rain ever that sticks to grass for longer than normal rain'. The rain was so special that even the rope that usually mops up every single bit of moisture couldn't stop it. 'Magic pixie lightest rain ever that sticks to grass for longer than normal rain' is very light, and instead of settling into the turf, it stays on the grass just long enough for Javagal Srinath to decide that the conditions are unfair. I always thought the point of cricket was to be unfair.
While the 'magic pixie lightest rain ever that sticks to grass for longer than normal rain' may have harmed the chances of the Sri Lankans, it gave the SCG the chance to put together something truly special, and worthy of the high regard commentators have for the ground: a 175-metre beer snake. To put that in perspective, that's almost the length of Shoaib Akhtar's run up.
Beersnakes are usually stunted by overly-cautious people trying to stop the fun, which is essentially what Haroon Lorgat has accused FICA, the players' union, of doing. Haroon Lorgat thinks that FICA suggesting that players don't turn up to the Pakistani Super League might mean it is not a success. It probably does, but probably not as much as the images of automatic gunfire or the tales of injuries and near-death experiences from Sri Lanka's tour there. FICA suggested that security in Pakistan was unmanageable, which sounds like what most coaches have probably said about Shahid Afridi in the past.
The PCB are trying to make it as attractive as possible. They're offering players tax free cash and an insurance policy of up to 2 million bucks. An insurance policy is nice, but it also reminds you of the danger of touring Pakistan. That said, you do get to play in a super league, so it's worth it.
What is super is that the PCB have decided to give 19 blind cricketers contracts as professional cricketers. It's easy to make fun of cricket boards, and the PCB generally write the punch lines themselves, but this is a great move from a board which is not exactly flush with cash.
The Pakistani women's team had enough trouble just staying in the Women's World Cup last week. Now, six days before the Women's World Cup starts, the ICC have confirmed where the matches will be played. Sorry, that should have read, "Now, a whole six days before the start of the Women's World Cup, the ICC have confirmed where the matches will be played". Wankhede pulled out of the tournament when someone realized they could make much more money charging people to come in and watch Sachin play Ranji Trophy.
It's pretty ordinary that the ICC can wait until six days before the tournament to settle on a schedule. Of course, it's not the first time the ICC have treated the women less professionally than the men. In the World T20 the women received smaller per diems than the men. Considering the schedule and Pakistan problems, the players will probably just be happy if the tournament starts at all.
For the USA cricketers, having a league that starts at all would be a massive achievement. Their proposed (as it may always be known) professional Twenty20 league has been delayed until 2014. That should be the worst news of the week for USACA, but the twice-suspended cricket board now has a potential rival. The American Cricket Foundation looks as if within a few weeks it could have more member leagues than USACA, and given USACA's tragic mismanagement of cricket, the ICC might look to the ACF.
One player who would appear in a T20 league in America, no matter who was organising it, is Brad Hodge. But while he is currently scoring over 5000 T20 domestic runs in the BPL, he's announced his intention to make an Ashes comeback bid, which could mean he will retire from controversial statements about Australia's selection policy. Hodge is currently retired from first-class cricket, but has obviously looked around Australian cricket and thinks he's a chance. If he comes back, he has three Shield games with Victoria to prove himself. His 147 first-class matches for Victoria earned him six Tests, so it's doubtful these three will add to that.
Hodge plays for the Melbourne Stars, but used to play for the Melbourne Renegades. Stars' Cameron White said this week that people don't like Renegades' Marlon Samuels. Marlon Samuels said this week: "I am the legend now". Marlon wins that one.
White has left the Big Bash nonsense behind him now, and is intent on winning the shield for Victoria. This week he did that by picking three legspinners (if you count him, which I do for this sentence) in the 12-man squad for their comeback game. James Muirhead was the second one, and everyone's favourite Pakistani Victorian, Fawad Ahmed, had to miss out. Not because he isn't great, but because three leggies in one eleven is too much awesomeness for the world to handle.
Victoria won the first–innings points, because that's what they do. Lankan slayer Phil Hughes made runs, and Chadd (that's not a typo, there really are two Ds) Sayers took six wickets.
If you've got anything you think should be in next week's cricket news hurl, email cricketnewshurlatgmail.com or tweet #cricketnewshurl. I am the legend now. I am the legend now. I am the legend now. I am the legend now. I am the legend now. </blockquote>Advertisements


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askwendy needed a new print or packaging design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 106 designs submitted by 24 freelance designers.
see requirements for details
We are a content creation company and work with various organizations to help them create books, audio books, and other similar material. We are always on the lookout for good graphic designers and if you do a good job for us, we will have more work for you. The last designer we chose has now been hired for five additional covers.
PLEASE NOTE - It is likely we will pick more than one submission.
This book is for parents who want to home school their children and need more information. It is NOT curriculum.
Many homeschool teachers (usually mothers) feel overwhelmed. We want imagery that tells these women that they actually can have everything they hoped for when deciding to home school, including a great family, life with their husbands, home life, and personal worth.
So any imagery which makes these women feel like this book has the missing piece to having a great life would be good! :)
There are several books on this topic available, so you can look to those covers for examples of the style most familiar to this audience.
We are open to designs that play on the "school" theme, but would also like to see plain/standard designs, as the client sometimes likes to have a "conservative" design as backup. Because of this, we will likely pick more than one design for this project.
Examples of a "school" theme include "apples on a teacher's desk" or "chalkboards."
We want imagery that conveys these words...
- education
- family
- school
- success
Title: Homeschooling Success
Sub-Title: A Homeschool Help Guide to Juggling School … Work … Home … and Your Life!
Author Name: Wendy Mead
Size: 6"x9"
Resolution:300 dpi
Color Space: CMYK
LPI (lines per inch): 180
Preferred file format: TIFF
Bleed: 1/8" (3.2 mm) all sides
NOTE: Once we approve final cover front, we can supply you with a template, if that helps.
We will provide all back cover copy and ISBN information/graphic once front cover is approved.


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White Papers and Application Notes
Evaluation of Tensile Modulus of Carbon Nanotube Bundle Based Composite with Interface Using Finite Element MethodM. S. Islam, F. O. Riktan, S. C. Chowdhury, M. M. R. Chowdhury, and S. Ahmed
Bangladesh University of Engineering & Technology (BUET)
Dhaka, Bangladesh
Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) have remarkable mechanical, thermal and electrical properties. The properties of CNTs depend on atomic arrangement (how the sheets of graphite are rolled), the diameter and length of the tubes and morphology of nanostructure.
In this paper effective elastic properties of CNT based polymer composites are evaluated using a square Representative Volume Element (RVE) in finite element method (FEM). COMSOL Multiphysics 3.5 is used for making the models and doing simulations.
Tensile modulus of a Single CNT based polymer composites are evaluated analytically and validated by simulation technique. The effect of varying CNT diameter and length on elastic properties of CNT reinforced composites is estimated and analyzed. In every model an interface is used between matrix and CNT.


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Alex R. Spirikaitis pleaded guilty Monday in U.S District Court to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud at the failed Taupa Lithuanian Credit Union.
The 51-year-old former president/CEO could be sentenced to 30 years in federal prison and a $1 million fine for his role in the $15 million embezzlement, one of the largest in credit union history. Spirikaitis did not make a statement in court regarding the plea.
His sentencing hearing will be held May 9.
Also Monday, former Bookkeeper Vytas Apanavicius pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit embezzlement and also faces a May 9 sentencing hearing.
Apanavicius owned VPA Accounting Inc., through which he provided bookkeeping and accounting services from 1995 through 2013. He is accused of stealing nearly a million dollars from Taupa Lithuanian, with help from Spirikaitis.
Spirikaitis admitted to personally embezzling about $4.2 million from Taupa Lithuanian between 2001 and 2013. With those stolen funds, he built a $1.6 million home in an affluent Cleveland suburb, paid for a stadium luxury suite at Cleveland Browns games and bought nine vehicles.
Spirikaitis also inexplicitly used embezzled credit union funds to amass an arsenal of semi-automatic weapons and more than 10,000 rounds of ammunition that he stored at the cooperative's office in Cleveland.
Sometime after Spirikaitis was hired at the cooperative's president/CEO in 1995, he began to conspire with three former employees and members to embezzle millions and managed to conceal that theft from auditors, the board of directors and members.
For years, the six individuals wrote checks against their credit union accounts with the understanding that Spirikaitis would not require them to make personal deposits to cover overdrafts. Additionally, Spirikaitis did not make personal deposits to cover overdrafts in his own accounts.
Instead, the former CEO transferred funds from Taupa Lithuanian internal accounts to cover the overdrafts. In many cases, these overdrafts amounted to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Spirikaitis initially concealed the embezzlement scheme by simply taping over Taupa's financial statements with false information, which he provided to auditors. Court documents also show he later used a software program to manipulate and print financial statements.
Federal prosecutors also unveiled that Spirikaitis provided Taupa's correspondent bank, Corporate One Federal Credit Union in Columbus, Ohio, with an incorrect zip code for Taupa's auditors, which caused the original account statements from the correspondent bank to be mailed to a post office box in Cleveland that Spirikaitis controlled, allowing him to alter the statements.
Two other individuals, former teller Michael Ruksenas and credit union member John Struna, have each been charged with one count of conspiracy to commit embezzlement.
Three more people are expected to face charges in the coming days or weeks. Those individuals have been identified in court documents only by their initials.
A.B. was a full-time employee at Taupa Lithuanian CU from 1991 to 2004 and worked part-time at the credit union from 2004 to July 2013, according to court documents. Two other individuals, G.C. and P.B. were members and provided IT services to the cooperative from a company they jointly owned, show court documents.
The NCUA and the Ohio Department of Commerce took possession of Taupa Lithuanian and placed it into receivership due to its insolvency last July.
Sunday, February 9, 2014
Spirikaitis Pleads Guilty in Cleveland
Posted by Terrence Rice Milwaukee, Wisconsin at 5:14 AM
Labels: CREDIT UNION EMBEZZLEMENT, Ohio
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Wilkes Community College
Wilkes Community College a member of the North Carolina Community College system is a public two-year open-door institution serving the people of Wilkes Ashe and Alleghany counties and beyond. Wilkes Community College enhances the quality of life through quality education and workforce development including basic skills occupational technical and pre-baccalaureate programs; economic development services to business and industry both public and private; and community development through a variety of services cultural activities and recreational opportunities.
School Information1328 South Collegiate Dr
Wilkesboro, North Carolina 28697
Calendar: Semester
Locale: Rural: Fringe
Open Admissions: Yes
Sector: Public, 2-year
Carnegie Basic: Associate's--Public Rural-serving Medium
Religious Affiliation: Not applicable
Accrediting Agency: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Locale: Rural: Fringe
Open Admissions: Yes
Sector: Public, 2-year
Carnegie Basic: Associate's--Public Rural-serving Medium
Religious Affiliation: Not applicable
Accrediting Agency: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Students & Faculty
Total Students
Male Students
Female Students
Total Intl Students
Intl Male Students
Intl Female Students
* All data is provided by the school or compiled from IPEDS as of May 2013
Total Tuition $9,592.00
Degrees & Programs
|Applied Horticulture/Horticulture Operations, General
|Architectural Engineering Technology/Technician
|Autobody/Collision and Repair Technology/Technician
|Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician
|Baking and Pastry Arts/Baker/Pastry Chef
|Building/Construction Finishing, Management, and Inspection, Other
|Business Administration and Management, General
|Child Development
|Commercial and Advertising Art
|Computer Engineering Technology/Technician
|Computer Programming/Programmer, General
|Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications
|Criminal Justice/Police Science
|Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
|Culinary Arts/Chef Training
|Dental Assisting/Assistant
|Diesel Mechanics Technology/Technician
|Early Childhood Education and Teaching
|Electrical, Electronic and Communications Engineering Technology/Technician
|Electromechanical and Instrumentation and Maintenance Technologies/Technicians,
|Elementary Education and Teaching
|General Studies
|Information Technology
|Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other
|Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
|Marketing/Marketing Management, General
|Medical/Clinical Assistant
|Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions, Other
|Office Management and Supervision
|Radio and Television Broadcasting Technology/Technician
|Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
|Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist
|System, Networking, and LAN/WAN Management/Manager
|Teacher Assistant/Aide
|Welding Technology/Welder


text: Vortex Designs Ltd is one of the leading uniform suppliers in the UK and offer a stunning collection of premium quality blouses, tops and knitwear. Our range is designed especially for customer facing staff, where a professional first impression really counts! The beautiful soft fabrics used in the collection are both durable and easy care, and with sizing ranging from 6-26 Vortex are confident you will find the perfect uniform solution.


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Mexico charges cops with trying to kill CIA agents
MEXICO CITY (AP) -- Mexican prosecutors charged 14 federal police officers Friday with trying to kill two CIA agents and a Mexican navy captain in an August ambush south of the capital.
The announcement by the Attorney General's Office did not state a motive for the attack, but said the officers had been charged with attempted homicide and damage to property.
Mexican authorities initially had said the attack was probably an accident by well-intentioned police officers who thought they were shooting at criminals. Later, however, U.S. and Mexican officials who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity said they were leaning toward the idea that it was a targeted attack masterminded by a drug cartel.
Since then, Attorney General Marisela Morales had acknowledged that her office was investigating whether organized crime was behind the attack.
An official with the Attorney General's Office said the police officers were on duty at the time of the shooting and required to be wearing uniforms and driving official vehicles. Instead they wore civilian clothes and drove private cars when they fired 152 bullets at the U.S. Embassy vehicle that was heading to a military training camp.
"They should have been in their uniforms and in the patrol unit. That was strange," said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak with journalists.
He said investigators were still trying to determine whether a drug cartel planned the attack.
The U.S. vehicle tried to escape and more vehicles joined the aggressors in the chase as the police officers continuously shot the diplomatic vehicle. The two CIA men were wounded, but survived. The navy captain was not injured.
A prosecutors' statement said the fact that the U.S. vehicle was armored helped the men survive.
Prosecutors said the shooters changed into uniforms and arrived in police patrol cars after they were called in for questioning hours after the Aug. 24 shooting.
Homicide and attempted homicide charges are usually state crimes in Mexico, but the Mexican official said this was a more serious case because the suspects were federal police.
The Mexican officers have spent nearly 80 days under a form of house arrest that Mexico uses in organized crime cases.


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Hi everyone! My daughter is 5.5 months old and is growing like a bad weed, EBF! Yay! She is teething, and since I didn't wanna hijack someone else's recent post about teething/possible biting, I'm writing my own. All the advice I've read on here has helped me reaffirm that I'll nurse my daughter till she no longer wants to, but I don't know exactly what to tell people when they say, "you better watch out when she gets teeth..."
First of all, the fact that they think its their business to talk about my nipple being bitten weirds me out (especially men...DH hasn't even said anything like that!), plus it bugs me that people think it would be ok for me to just switch to pumping/formula just because my kid has a couple teeth!
How do I respond in a nice way...?


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The Cubs will leave town and then figure to call up Anthony Rizzo, and that's the right order.
The headache-inducing rules regarding free agency forced the Cubs to wait until a certain number of days had expired during the season. Don't ask. Just take my word for it. The safe period for the Cubs to bring up Rizzo from Triple-A and also control his rights for the most years comes this weekend.
Perfect: Better to start the left-handed slugger in Arizona and even New York -- anyplace but Chicago. Cubs fans and the media don't know how to handle phenoms. Our speakers go to 11. Rizzo is better off opening his Cubs career on Comcast SportsNet and WGN than Clark and Addison.
I know Rizzo has been in the majors before, but never as a Cub. Rizzo came up last season with the Padres after being the gem in the Adrian Gonzalez trade. That's a bigger burden than being the gem in the Andrew Cashner trade. But San Diego is nothing compared to Chicago. In Chicago, sports matter. In San Diego, sports come after the zoo, Sea World and SPF 15.
Nobody builds up prospects like Cubs fans and the local media. It's what we do here. Guilty, your honor. I think we're on the 20th Second Coming. What's worse, the grandiose expectations grow exponentially when the Cubs stink and there's a savior in magical Iowa. Hel-LO.
So, whether by design or service time, I like the idea of almost a week in uniform before Babe Rizzo's beatification at the shrine.
The White Sox needed a game from Gavin Floyd to salvage something in this series.
Floyd needed a game to salvage his spot in the rotation.
Floyd was coming off a string of five losses in six starts in which he had allowed 35 earned runs and wore a 10.38 ERA. Ugly with a capital Ugh. Floyd and Philip Humber seemed to be battling to see who would be sent to the bullpen first.
Both of them probably escaped that assignment when John Danks remained on the disabled list, but Floyd certainly did it with his outing against the Cubs on Wednesday night. He exited to a standing ovation after giving up no runs, four hits and one walk while striking out four in 6 1/3 innings. It was the kind of game he gave the Sox in four starts before his recent bad stretch.
Floyd delivered shutdown innings in the fourth and fifth after the Sox scored, then produced a Peavy-like sixth when he mowed down the heart of the Cubs order after Starlin Castro led off with a triple.
With Floyd, you never know. He might have no-hit stuff. He also might have no chance. On Wednesday, Floyd gave the Sox something they desperately needed. Something he desperately needed, too.
Floyd also got a huge play from Eduardo Escobar, who made a diving stop on the line and threw out Darwin Barney leading off the second. Floyd had a great curveball, so he might've gotten out of it, but it seemed that play gave him some confidence.
Reed Johnson's throw from right to third that almost got Alex Rios in the seventh inning didn't hurt his trade value.
None of the three City Series games drew 35,000. The Sox are probably upset that the Cubs didn't call up Rizzo on Monday.
Same probably goes for the Cubs, who went from 12 runs to two to nothing.


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DARTMOUTH — A burst pipe damaged at least five rooms and flooded parts of UMass Dartmouth's Science and Engineering building early Monday morning, officials said.
DARTMOUTH — A burst pipe damaged at least five rooms and flooded parts of UMass Dartmouth's Science and Engineering building early Monday morning, officials said.
The flooding, which began in a centrally located, third-floor utility closet, prompted university officials to close the building for all of Monday. It is set to partially reopen today, according to an email sent to the university community by interim Provost Alex Fowler late Monday afternoon.
Staff located and closed off the frozen, burst pipe at about 5 a.m. after noticing a water leak an hour prior. The 1-inch cold water pipe caused a "significant" volume of water to flood onto the building's first, second and third floors before staff sealed the leak, university spokesman John Hoey said.
The flooding did not release any hazardous materials from laboratories, Hoey said.
Science and Engineering is one of UMass Dartmouth's oldest buildings and was built at least 30 years ago as part of the Southeastern Massachusetts University campus.
Asked if the building's age played a role in the incident, Hoey said the university was still finalizing its investigation into the pipe rupture. The total volume of water pushed into the building remained under investigation Monday night, as well, although it was enough to burst through ceiling tiles in some places, Hoey said.
Marine biology graduate student Katyanne Shoemaker told The Standard-Times that she rushed to campus early Monday morning to make sure her lab still had electricity. Hoey said the power remained on.
Shoemaker said in an email that a university police officer told her the flooding left between half an inch and an inch of standing water on the second floor.
The university was still assessing the damage and Hoey said two of the rooms affected by flooding were computer labs, although staff was able to cover most of the computers during the leak.
Classes in some of the flooded rooms are canceled today and others were moved. All classes will resume later in the week but in different locations on campus, Hoey said.
Details on the closings were sent to the campus community in Fowler's email Monday night.


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2013-02-07 / Front Page
Having meals together strengthens family ties
(NAPS)—Hectic schedules and increasing demands continue to impact today's American families, but perhaps one of the strongest barometers of families is family mealtime. Welch's Kitchen Table Report shows families are stronger than ever—making time to eat together frequently and enjoying sharing quality time as a family.
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Beyonce gave yet another tease to her upcoming fifth album Thursday with the release of the single "Standing on the Sun" as the backing track for a 90-second video spot featuring H&M's 2013 summer collection.
That's right, it's Bey in bikinis and little else, dancing, writhing and posing on a Bahamian beach. We're sorry, make that, "Beyonce as Mrs. Carter."
The beach sequences, which feature Beyonce as both blond and brunet and no doubt sent sand in places better left to the imagination, lead up to a nighttime tribal scene featuring fire dancers and abundant flames in general.
Jonas Akerlund was behind the camera once again, having directed Queen Bey in a commercial pitching "The Mrs. Carter Show" tour's 10 dates at the O2 arena in London, as well as Lady Gaga's "Telephone" video, which featured B.
The singer is currently on tour in Europe, where she and hubby Jay-Z were spotted taking 15-month-old daughter Blue Ivy out to lunch in Paris. The tour kicks off its North American leg with a June 28 show at Los Angeles' Staples Center.
Follow Christie D'Zurilla on Twitter and Google+. Follow the Ministry of Gossip on Twitter @LATcelebs and on Facebook facebook.com/ministryofgossip.


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Michael Essien has stressed that Real Madrid will do everything they can to win the Champions League this season ahead of their round of 16 tie against Manchester United.
The Santiago Bernabeu side have been struggling in La Liga throughout the 2012-13 campaign, but they are desperate for success in other competitions as they aim to go all the way in Europe.
"The Champions League is hugely significant. As a footballer you dream of winning it. We'll give everything and see if we can win it," Essien told EFE.
Jose Callejon, meanwhile, has admitted that United will prove to be a tough opponent, but is positive about his side's chances.
"Manchester United are showing how strong they are in the Premier League, but we want to beat them and we'll do everything possible to go through," Callejon stated.
The first leg of the round of 16 tie is scheduled to take place at the Santiago Bernabeu on February 13.