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The first 82 games are in the books. Now the games really count. Before the start of the playoffs, here's a look at how the Bruins graded out during the regular season.
One year after finishing dead last in the NHL in goals score per game, the Bruins bounced back and finished fifth this season.
They did it with a balanced attack led by emerging sniper Milan Lucic, who totaled a career-high 30 goals. Most of Boston's top scorers were streaky, but they streaked upward at the right times. And the Bruins produced some offensive eruptions that pushed the goals average toward the top of the league.
Defensively, the forward corps backchecked well and the majority of forwards dropped the gloves at least once over the course of the season. Their lack of finish hurt the power play, but when they kept their feet moving and forechecked aggressively the Bruins' forwards accomplished most of what they wanted during the 82-game schedule.
Here are the final regular-season report cards for the Bruins' forwards:
Patrice Bergeron
First-quarter grade: B
Midseason grade: A-minus
Third-quarter grade: A
Final grade: B-plus
He didn't reach the 70-point plateau like Boston was hoping, but Bergeron still enjoyed a solid season as the Bruins' best shutdown center with a little more of an offensive bent than he showed in the past. Unfortunately, his goal-scoring took a hiatus from February on and left the Bruins with just one line that scored consistently. Nonetheless, he was plus-20 and finished ninth in the league in faceoff percentage.
David Krejci
First-quarter grade: B-minus
Midseason grade: C
Third-quarter grade: B
Final grade: B
His third full NHL season came with a test as the club's full-time No. 1 center, and Krejci mostly passed it. Like his usual linemates, Milan Lucic and Nathan Horton, Krejci suffered through some dry spells. But if you take out the games he was still shaking off the cobwebs after a concussion, he scored at nearly a point-per-game pace. The Bruins needed more than just 12 points from Krejci on the power play. He was a plus-20 while logging nearly 19 minutes of ice time a night.
Milan Lucic
First-quarter grade: A-minus
Midseason grade: B
Third-quarter grade: B-plus
Final grade: A-minus
It was a great breakout year for Lucic, who set a career-high with 30 goals. For a guy who some worried had lost his physical edge, he still racked up seven fighting majors and led the team with 167 hits. His goal total was padded some by a few empty-netters, but that just proved how responsible he became in his own end – head coach Claude Julien was able to trust Lucic in the closing seconds of tight games. Lucic suffered through some expected lulls in production when he got away from banging and grinding. That's to be expected, however, from a 22-year-old.
Mark Recchi
First-quarter grade: B
Midseason grade: B-plus
Third-quarter grade: B
Final grade: B
There's no way to describe the 43-year-old's season other than to call it solid. Sure, he popped in just 14 goals and wasn't as productive as Boston needed on its appalling power play. But he was a hard-working presence every night, especially on the forecheck and playing against other teams' top lines with Bergeron and Brad Marchand. As far as leadership, few were more valuable than Recchi. The truth about what he meant to do with his comments about Montreal in the aftermath of the Max Pacioretty Affair probably lies somewhere between meaning what he said and trying to take the heat off his captain Zdeno Chara. Either way, it worked and Recchi proved his return for another season was about more than just all the personal milestones he achieved.
Nathan Horton
First-quarter grade: B-plus
Midseason grade: C-plus
Third-quarter grade: B-minus
Final grade: B
That stretch of games in the middle of the season that seemed like a Grand Canyon-sized scoring drought – and featured Horton often floating along as if nothing was wrong – turned out to just be a pimple on a season that pretty much looked like the Bruins had predicted. He didn't get the 30 goals, but 26 got the job done – especially when you consider Horton became a physical menace with seven fighting majors. Like most of his teammates, Horton could've finished better on the power play. Even when he was playing well down the stretch, there were still a few invisible nights with no shots on the stats sheet at the end.
Michael Ryder
First-quarter grade: B
Midseason grade: B
Third-quarter grade: B
Final grade: C
By taking Ryder's $4 million salary out of the equation, you could take his 18 goals and 40 points and figure the Bruins had themselves a decent third-line winger. Julien obviously expected more, and over the season's final month he took the unexpected step of scratching Ryder a few times to get his attention. If it worked, we might not find out until the playoffs. Ryder finished with just one goal in his final 17, and that was on a penalty shot. The rest of his game outside of the offensive zone was non-existent for much of the season and even his focus at the offensive end was often lacking.
Brad Marchand
First-quarter grade: A-minus
Midseason grade: A
Third-quarter grade: A-minus
Final grade: B-plus
It was a rough finish for the rookie, who scored just twice over his last 20 games of the season. Still he provided 21 more goals than many expected when the season started, and he was responsible enough defensively to stay on the second line for almost the entire second half. Marchand was a great penalty-killer, but his boneheaded hit on R.J. Umberger cost him two games to suspension. His extracurricular on-ice activities, which were toned down earlier in the season, made for a little bit of a distraction for both Marchand and his teammates down the stretch. He'll have to tamp down the enthusiasm a bit in the postseason to avoid costing his club.
Tyler Seguin
First-quarter grade: B
Midseason grade: B-minus
Third-quarter grade: B
Final grade: B-minus
We'll never know what Seguin would've done as a rookie had he gone to a bad team with plenty of available ice time, or if he'd spent the entire season back in junior. All we know is that late in his rookie season, Seguin began to show he understood what was expected of him as far as not only creating chances but working hard and asserting himself physically. And then he forgot it.
That forced Julien to pull back the rookie's minutes again and re-started the argument over whether he had to play to produce or if his lack of production meant he had to be replaced in the lineup. The Bruins have to hope that the two-week window they saw the assertive Seguin will someday become the norm. For now, they can just hope that being around the NHL team all season, and now for the playoffs, will speed his maturity as a person and a player.
Gregory Campbell
First-quarter grade: A-minus
Midseason grade: A-minus
Third-quarter grade: A-minus
Final grade: A
In all seriousness, the Bruins could not have asked for much more from Campbell, who was their fourth-line center all season and produced 13 goals, 29 points and amazing veteran leadership. He took on all comers when it came to dropping the gloves and racked up 11 majors. He was second among forwards in blocked shots and fifth overall in hits. With his play and production, Campbell definitely changed the definition of "fourth-line center" for years to come.
Shawn Thornton
First-quarter grade: A
Midseason grade: A
Third-quarter grade: A-minus
Final grade: A
There's no other way to grade a guy who pulled off the rare triple-double with 10 goals, 10 assists and 14 fighting majors – and did it in just 10:05 of average ice time. Thornton wasn't just a leader on the ice, he was a major contributor. Only a 40-something-stitch gash over his right eye caused him to not skate in all 82 games for the Bruins, who needed Thornton's enthusiasm during some desperate times early in the year when he was among the team's top goal-scorers.
Daniel Paille
First-quarter grade: C
Midseason grade: C-plus
Third-quarter grade: C-plus
Final grade: B-minus
Paille managed to salvage the season once he was given a regular spot on the fourth line for a decent amount of games in a row. After struggling to find a way to contribute during the times he was in and out of the lineup on a nightly basis, Paille scored four goals in his last nine games. An effective penalty-killer that helped the Bruins improve in that area down the stretch, he also showed a physical side that should keep him in his fourth-line spot for the postseason.
Rich Peverley
First-quarter grade: None
Midseason grade: None
Third-quarter grade: Incomplete
Final grade: B
Peverley certainly lived up to his billing as an excellent skater who's proficient at the faceoff dots (58 percent with Boston). You would've liked to have seen him chip in more offensively, but his play boosted the penalty kill and at least made the third line a threat again.
Chris Kelly
First-quarter grade: None
Midseason grade: None
Third-quarter grade: Incomplete
Final score: C-plus
It will always be a mystery whether the Bruins would've paid a second-round pick for Kelly if they knew they were going to get Peverley a couple days later. While Kelly boosted the much-battered penalty kill and won 53 percent of his faceoffs, he chipped in just two goals and was really a fourth-liner centering the third line just because the Bruins didn't want to move Campbell. Maybe it took longer for Kelly to adjust to his first NHL change of team than other players and he'll show more of what Boston liked about him in the postseason.


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2 days ago
Canberra extend Shire's drought as Cronulla are eliminated
The Canberra Raiders have destroyed the hopes and dreams of the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks as the green machine ran out victorious in front of a sell out Canberra Stadium today.
The Sharks were the first to score after just four minutes with Anthony Tupou giving rookie Ricky Leutele a great ball. Todd Carney passed to Tupou who ran a great line on his inside, with the big forward catching and passing almost instantly to send Leutele crashing over to score the first points. Todd Carney converted and the home side were behind by 6.
The Raiders were desperate to get back into the match and light up their bumper home crowd. That moment came in the 16th minute as Canberra five eighth Josh McCrone drew in the Sharks defensive line, drawing the outside winger to commit to a tackle, with the pivot cutting the ball out to Sandor Earl who crossed over in the corner. The Raiders were right back in it but Jarod Croker could not convert the try.
Just moments later, Sam Williams threw a big dummy pass to scream through a yawning gap, passing to Jarrod Croker who ran the ball across field, drawing the outside defensive line in, putting a brilliant kick across field for Earl to score his second. This time he converted with the home side up 10-6 after 22 minutes.
Sam Williams then applied the pressure to the Sharks back three, attempting a great 40/20 shot on the third tackle after a try, but Gordon picks the ball up and tries to get out of his in goal. He runs to the five metre line before the tough defence of the Raiders drag the fullback into touch. It wasn't to be but a mountain of possession had the Raiders in good stead.
In the 35th minute, the Raiders finally crossed the line again, with Shaun Berrgian trying to burrow his over the line. He was unable to put the ball down but got a brilliant offload to McCrone who passed the ball to a charging Josh Papalii, scoring the next Raiders try. Croker converted and the Raiders went up 16-6.
Josh Papalii and Paul Gallen entered into a little battle after the Raiders forward almost knocked Gallen out, with commentators mentioning that Gallen reportedly telling the referee:
"He has got me twice, I am going to get him back."
The game headed into half time with both teams flaring up.
The second half was tense and the Sharks got themselves back into the game in the 50th minute with two great bullet passes, with the ball ending up in Paul Gallen's hands as he tore through a sleeping defensive line, offloading to Wade Graham who scored the try. Jarrod Croker scored a penalty goal in the 56th minute as the game was in the balance, 18-12.
Cronulla scored in the corner through a shift out wide with Stapleton crossing under a forward pass cloud. The officials said no and all of a sudden the Sharks were behind by just two points in the 61st minute.
Sam Williams put a smart kick over the defensive line with Blake Ferguson jumping up and scoring the vital try for the Raiders against his old club.
The flood gates opened with Glenn Buttriss, Blake Ferguson and Sam Williams all scoring in a flurry of points that saw the Canberra Raiders run out winners, 34-16.
The Canberra side will now face the Rabbitohs at ANZ Stadium next week and the Sharks will now have a holiday.
Match Details
Canberra Raiders 34 defeated Cronulla Sutherland Sharks 16
National Rugby League - Finals Week 1 - Sunday September 9, 2012 4:00pm
Venue: Canberra Stadium
Referee: Tony Archer and Chris James
Video Referee: Sean Hampstead and Phil Cooley
Touch Judges: Jeff Younis and Adam Reid
Crowd: 0
Halftime: Canberra Raiders 16 Cronulla Sutherland Sharks 6
Leagueunlimited.com players of the match:
3 Points - Sam Williams (1 Try)
2 Points - Bryce Gibbs
1 Point - Blake Ferguson (2 Tries)
Tries: Glen Buttriss, Blake Ferguson (2), Sandor Earl (2), Sam Williams, Josh Papalii
Conversions: Josh Dugan (0/3), Jarrod Croker (2/3), Blake Ferguson (0/1)
Penalty Goals: Jarrod Croker (1/1)
Tries: Wade Graham, Nathan Stapleton, Ricky Leutele
Conversions: Todd Carney (1/1), Nathan Stapleton (1/2)
LeagueUnlimited.com Live Commentary We are just minutes from kick off in this elimination final from the nations capital! CHANGES: Raiders no changes, 1-17 :: Sharks - John Williams, Ben Pomeroy OUT; Issac Gordon, Ricky Leutele, Wade Graham IN
Both teams are on the field!
1 min: The Sharks kick down to the Raiders and our second elimination final is under way!
1 min: McCrone puts the ball deep into the Sharks half but Gordon comes out of his in goal to be stopped by Canberra defence. Loud crowd.
1 min: Carney rolls the ball into touch. Scrum Canberra 20 metres out from their line.
2 min: Ferguson puts the ball down. Scrum Sharks 30 from the Canberra line.
4 min: The ball is spilled out and the Raiders go on the attack but the referee call it back for a Canberra knock on. Scrum 10 metres out for the Sharks.
6 min: TRY
The Sharks are over for first points after four minutes. Carney goes short to Tupou who catches and passes to Leutele who scores in his tenth game.
Cronulla Sutherland Sharks 6-0
7 min: Sharks working it out of their half now
8 min: Earl collects the kick from the Sharks and takes it back to the line.
8 min: Raiders are up to halfway
9 min: Gordon has the ball 20 metres from his line. Both teams fighting hard for their seasons.
9 min: Time off and Paul Gallen has not moved.
9 min: INFRINGEMENT: Penalty Sharks. High tackle. CAN 0-1 CRO.
9 min: Carney kicks deep into the Raiders half. Sharks are on the attack
10 min: Gordon drops a simple ball after some razzle dazzle passing. Scrum Raiders 10 from their line.
11 min: Another knock on, Buttriss simply puts the ball down, 40 from their line.
12 min: Sharks very close. 10 metres from the try line.
12 min: Dugan just gets out of the in goal. Raiders working it off their line.
13 min: Josh Dugan goes for a 40/20 but Issac Gordon touches it and it goes into touch. Raiders scrum 10 out.
15 min: Matthew Wright defuses some Canberra attack and the Sharks will kick a drop out.
16 min: Canberra lose the ball through Thompson and the Sharks are working from their half
17 min: Another dropped ball and the Raiders have a scrum on halfway
19 min: TRY
Josh McCrone draws in the Sharks defenders, bringing in the winger, cutting the ball out wide to Sandor Earl who runs 10 metres and score in the corner. Croker misses the conversion.
Cronulla Sutherland Sharks 6-4
20 min: Raiders are working it out after points now. Sharks trying to force a mistake
20 min: Dugan triees to cut them to pieces but is stopped by scramble defence.
20 min: VIDEO REF: Earl in the corner again, after a great kick from Croker. Checking foul play from Sharks.
23 min: TRY
After a line break from the Raiders, Croker backs up in attack to get the ball, running 10 metres across field before placing a perfect kick across to Earl who strolls over for his second in as many minutes. Croker adds the extras.
Canberra Raiders 10-6
23 min: The Raiders will have a scrum 10 minutes from the Sharks line. After a third tackle kick, attempting a 40/20, Gordon tries to get out of his in goal and head back in field but the Raiders defence drag him out.
24 min: The ball hits the ground and the Sharks have the ball
24 min: INFRINGEMENT: Penalty Sharks. Inside the 10. CAN 0-2 CRO
25 min: Sharks put a kick through in goal but it goes dead; Earl rushes it back to the 20 and is taken on the 30.
26 min: INFRINGEMENT: Penalty Raiders. Offside. CAN 1-2 CRO
27 min: Williams puts a kick across field and Stapleton takes it, and runs quickly to the 20. Quick tap and the Raiders stop him 30 out
28 min: Forward pass. Raiders get the scrum on the halfway line.
29 min: Knock on from Croker; handover. Sharks play the ball 10 out from their line.
30 min: Carney rolls the ball into touch. Scrum for the Raiders 10 out from their line.
31 min: A smart kick from the Raiders ends with Wright being tackled on the 10
33 min: INFRINGEMENT: Penalty Raiders. Tackled in the air. CAN 2-2 CRO
34 min: Some confusion but the Sharks have the ball back. Big defence from the Raiders.
35 min: Raiders force the mistake and are on the attack
38 min: TRY
Shaun Berrigan tries to burrow over but is forced back by the Sharks, but somehow gets the ball offloaded, McCrone scoops it up and gives it to a charging Josh Papalii who scores the try. Croker converts.
Canberra Raiders 16-6
38 min: Raiders working it up field now
39 min: Sharks have the ball back now, looking desperate
39 min: Papalii and Gallen collide, leaving the Sharks captain motionless
39 min: Gallen is up. Sharks kick the ball on the last and the Raiders have the ball back.
40 min: A fiery end to the first half. Sharks down by 16-6 as the Raiders are looking to continue their great work to knock out the Sharks.
40 min: Both teams are entering back onto the field.
40 min: The Raiders kick down to the Sharks; 40 minutes away from finding out our next eliminated team!
40 min: Sharks clear it and Earl brings it back to his 30
41 min: Canberra earn six more but drop it immediately losing the ball after the Sharks had knocked it backwards.
42 min: Sharks are over halfway
43 min: Some frantic Sharks attack has the ball ending up in Croker's arm for the Raiders
43 min: The Raiders run it on the last and the Sharks will have the ball back on the 40 metre line.
44 min: INFRINGEMENT: Penalty Sharks. Not clearing the ruck. CAN 2-3 CRO
44 min: Sharks lose control and the Raiders have the scrum 10 from the line.
45 min: Another forward pass from the Raiders and the Sharks will have the scrum.
46 min: Sharks inside the Raiders 30
50 min: TRY
The Sharks go wide through two quick bullet passes, before Gallen hits a great gap to go just 5 metres from the line before offloading to Graham who scores the try. Nathan Stapleton converts the try.
Canberra Raiders 16-12
50 min: Todd Carney has come from the field unable to walk.
50 min: Caberra have a chance to hit back as Gallen loses the ball.
51 min: Colin Best grabs the ball from the Raiders on the last and runs 40 metres up field
52 min: The Sharks have a scrum 10 metres from the Raiders line after Josh Dugan messes up a bomb, putting it into touch.
52 min: VIDEO REF: Obstruction.
52 min: Jeff Robson is denied a try after an obstruction.
52 min: INFRINGEMENT: Penalty Canberra. Obstruction. CAN 3-3 CRO
54 min: Croker is a bit sick going down after a tackle.
54 min: INFRINGEMENT: Penalty Canberra. High tackle - Jeremy Smith on report. CAN 4-3 CRO
56 min: PENALTY GOAL
Croker converts and the Raiders extend their lead to 6.
Canberra Raiders 18-12
56 min: Raiders working hard to get up field.
57 min: Williams puts the ball into touch. Scrum Sharks 20 from their line.
57 min: "It felt like someone shot me in the ankle" - Todd Carney, confirms Achilles injury
58 min: INFRINGEMENT: Penalty Sharks. Late hit on kicker. CAN 4-4 CRO
61 min: TRY
Simple play as the Sharks spread the ball wide to the Best, who passes to Stapleton to get the Sharks right back into the game. Stapleton misses.
Canberra Raiders 18-16
61 min: Raiders get down and belt the Sharks in defence.
62 min: Stapleton stops the Earl and forces him backward. Sharks muscling up
63 min: Dugan kicks the ball down but Stapleton runs into the Raiders half easily.
63 min: Gallen shoots himself in the foot. Scrum Raiders 30 out from their own line.
64 min: Raiders rush up into the Sharks half
64 min: Raiders force a goal line drop out.
65 min: Raiders well on the attack in the 20 of the Sharks
66 min: Croker down in pain once again.
69 min: TRY
Sam Williams puts a last tackle kick up and Blake Ferguson comes from no where to score a crucial try for the Raiders. Dugan misses and Croker has left the field.
Canberra Raiders 22-16
69 min: INFRINGEMENT: Penalty Canberra. Out on the full off kick off. CAN 5-4 CRO
69 min: Raiders attacking inside the 30
72 min: TRY
Glenn Buttriss goes from dummy half, dummies the defence and sprints his way to the try line. Dugan misses. Is the Sharks season over?
Canberra Raiders 26-16
72 min: Short kick off ends up in the hands of the Raiders.
72 min: McCrone drubs it dead. 20 metre restart for the Sharks.
73 min: The Sharks almost go through the Raiders defence but Dugan comes back on the attack and gets into the Sharks half
77 min: TRY
The Raiders go wide, a Sharks defender tries to intercept the ball but Ferguson picks the ball up off his shoe lace and ends the Sharks' season. Dugan misses.
Canberra Raiders 30-16
77 min: INFRINGEMENT: Penalty Raiders. Out on the full. CAN 6-4 CRO
80 min: TRY
Williams throws a big dummy and runs through scoring the try. Ferguson misses.
Canberra Raiders 34-16
80 min: The Raiders win and will go on to face the Rabbitohs, while the season is over for the Sharks.


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Photographic Prints
Dick & Michele Benesh of Brodhead, Wisconsin, seem to have entered the photography business as the latest natural step in the progression of their lives. Both born and raised in small-town Iowa (one northwest, one northeast), they each developed a love of the outdoors and the many opportunities it offers for enjoying the natural environment. Choosing photography as a hobby at a young age seemed to be a natural decision.
Dick has held a variety positions during his adult life, including the military (Air Force Intelligence), high school teacher (German, Russian, English); professor of German at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and at the University of Iowa in Iowa City; and, consultant to several Indian tribes and communities for development of human and economic resources. He is currently teaching German at Beloit Memorial High School.
Michele was a teacher in Iowa and Wisconsin for 33 years after earning her BS and MA degrees from the University of Iowa. Having first taught in "regular education," she was a learning disabilities teacher for the last 28 years, and retired from the School District of Beloit at the end of the 2003-2004 school year.
The Beneshes decided to venture into the photography business because, as they say, "We were taking so many pictures we had to do something to keep us in film!" Self-taught through extensive reading and experimentation, they entered their first art show in early 1991. Since then they have participated in about 30-40 shows a year in the Midwest. They have won many awards at judged shows, including several for "Best of Show" and "1st Place - Photography." Specializing in disappearing Americana, humor, and international subjects, they capture subjects as they see them, without utilizing special lighting, filters, or set-ups. Most images have a "story" behind them. Their goal is to make people smile, and they find that their customers relate personally to the beauty, nostalgia, and/or humor which they see in their work. They do all of their own matting and framing, using conservation materials and creative mat designs.


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Arbor Snowboards is proud to announce that they have signed on as the official snowboard sponsor for Bear Mountain Resort located in Big Bear Lake, California. Arbor has made a move into the youth market with the development of "The System," a series of snowboards, several of which are, specifically designed for freestyle riding. The System Series snowboards are perfect for riding The Park at Bear Mountain. "We are still 100-percent committed to our roots customer and our freeride snowboard offering and now we have expanded into the youth market by delivering snowboards for those riders who are taking it to the parks and streets," says Arbor team director, Brad Farmer. "We've worked hard to enter the youth market in an authentic way and this new partnership with Bear Mountain truly highlights this effort. Bear Mountain builds some of the best terrain parks in the world and to have their park developers, managers and crew riding and loving our snowboards is something we are very proud of."
Bear Mountain and sister resort, Snow Summit have been leading the way in terrain park development for nearly two decades. Their solid line up of mountain sponsors has always been an important part of their relationship with the snowboard industry. "We are happy to have Arbor Snowboards as the official snowboard sponsor of Bear Mountain," says Big Bear Mountain Resorts marketing director, Chris Riddle. "Arbor has a long history of quality products and their move into the youth market has created a new line of snowboards that are a great match for our park crew. This new partnership is a nice compliment to all of our mountain sponsors."
Scotty Vine is a Bear Mountain team rider and a new addition to the Arbor Snowboards international team. "It's really crazy to see so many Arbor Snowboards around Bear Mountain this year," says Vine. "I've been on the Bear team for a long time and this is my first year with Arbor and it's nice to have the two come together in this new partnership. Arbor makes incredible snowboards and Bear Mountain builds the best parks so this just makes a lot of sense." Vine rides Arbor's System snowboards including the Westmark, which has been a top choice of the Bear Mountain park crew, along with the Draft, Cadence, Coda and Del Rey.
For more information on Bear Mountain check out www.bearmountain.com and on Arbor Snowboards visit www.arborcollective.eu .


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From left: Kate wears a Marc Jacobs dress. Emporio Armani clutch. Ewa wears a Marc Jacobs top. Katie Ermilio skirt. Vita wears a Bebe dress, $169. Marc Jacobs top and flats. Malaika wears an ASOS shirt, $27, and shorts, $54. Marc Jacobs heels.
Kate wears an Emporio Armani dress. Nine West clutch, $69. Fendi heels. Vita wears an ASOS dress, $212. Aldo clutch, $35. Chloé flats. Malaika wears a Joe Fresh capelet. Topshop dress, $360. Burberry Prorsum wedges.
Kate wears an American Retro jacket. Windsor dress, $100. Atelier by Christopher Kane necklace. Malaika wears a J. Crew dress, $228. Atelier Swarovski by Christopher Kane necklace. Ewa wears a Kate Spade New York jacket. Topshop sweater, $85. Prabal Gurung for Target skirt, $30. Marc Jacobs sunglasses, $240.
Malaika wears a McQ Alexander McQueen tudo jacket. Thom Browne New York shirt, $290. Marciano pants, $158. Ewa wears a Marc Jacobs top. Express pants, $70. Louis Vuitton headband. Kate wears a Calvin Klein Collection blazer. Brooks Brothers shirt, $60. Porter Grey shorts, $325. Nine West clutch, $69. Fendi shoes. Vita wears a Marc Jacobs dress and heels.
Kate wears a Max and Cleo evening gown, $188. Gucci clutch. Marc Jacobs flats. Malaika wears a Jill Stuart dress. Emporio Armani shoes. Ewa wears a Jessica Simpson Collection gown, $248. Emporio Armani shoes. Vita wears a Jill Stuart dress, and bra, $448. Gucci clutch.
In this story: hair, Christian Eberhard at Julian Watson Agency; makeup, Hiromi Ueda using Chanel; manicure, Jenny Longworth at CLM Hair & Make-up; production, Grace Holbrook at D+V Management; set design, Hana Al Sayed at D+V Management.


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Three Montagu's Harrier (Circus pygargus) chicks, found on 2 July 2013 during agricultural activities taking place near the village of Lower Vapa, were temporarily housed in shelters for wildlife at Palic Zoo, and were then released to their natural habitat in Sjenicko-Pester plateau.
After assessing that the species were capable of independent living, the Institute for Nature Conservation of Serbia, an IUCN Member, and the Reserve Uvac Ltd. in cooperation with the wildlife shelter of Palic Zoo, organized the release of the birds in the same place where they were found just one month before by local resident Sead Papic.
Montagu's Harrier is a rare bird of prey listed as strictly protected in Serbia and also included in the international lists of protected species. In Serbia, nests can be found in the regions of Vojvodina and of the Sjenicko-Pešter plateau. The birds found in July this year on Pešter are probably the first record of this species nesting during modern times in Serbia.
The successful return to nature of the three Montagu's Harriers is a significant contribution to the protection of this endangered species – and to biodiversity conservation in Serbia as a whole. According to the Director of the Institute for Nature Conservation of Serbia, Alexander Dragisic, their numbers in Serbia have been recently estimated at only 10 to 17 pairs. The occurrence of the Harrier on Pešter field reaffirms the natural value of the area, which is why the Department has initiated steps to protect it as an exceptional example of specific reed moist habitats. These provides habitats for the survival of many vulnerable, endangered and critically endangered species. Pešter field was in fact already declared a Ramsar site in 2006 for its rich diversity in bird species.
"Returning wildlife to its natural habitat is always a big challenge, because young birds easily connect to humans", said Kristijan Ovari from the wildlife shelter of Palic Zoo.
"What is also the value of today's action is the return of an extremely rare and endangered species to its natural habitat in Serbia. This occurred thanks to the timely reaction of villagers who found the birds, and the successful cooperation of Special Nature Reserve Uvac, Palic wildlife shelter and the Institute for Nature Conservation of Serbia", continued the Director of the Institute for Nature Conservation of Serbia, Alexander Dragisic.
On this occasion, Branko Bjelić, Director of the Special Nature Reserve Uvac expressed the hope that the Reserve Uvac known for Griffon Vultures will bring back other birds of prey that due to human activities disappeared from the region, such as the Eurasian Black Vulture (Aegypius monachus) and Lammergeier (Gypaetus barbatus) amongst others.
For more information please contact:
Maja Radosavljevic, Public Relations
Zavod za Zastitu Prirode Srbije / Institute for Nature Conservation of Serbia
Related links:
- Institute for Nature Conservation in Serbia
- Overview of the Uvac Special Nature Reserve, Serbia
- Palic Zoo in Serbia
- Country Focus on Serbia
- IUCN's work in South-Eastern Europe


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GREEN TOWNSHIP, OH (FOX19) - Events like Monday's shooting at La Salle high School always spawn the conversation about warning signs, specifically on social media.
Dr. Jennie Noll at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center has done studies on the impact of social media and kids. She says whether like it or not, this is the way that kids communicate, and it's important for parents to have a dialogue about what their kids are doing on these sites.
"Almost every kid you talk to has access and is engaging in social media," said Dr. Jennie Noll.
It's unclear what sparked the incident at La Salle High School, leaving a student in critical condition after suffering a self-inflicted gunshot wound, but much like other school tragedies, the question 'why' remains at the top of the list.
Dr. Noll says often times troubled kids will turn to social media before the incident to express themselves, but don't fully realize the consequences or the impact their post may have on themselves or others.
"The adolescent brain is not fully developed, and it's not fully developed in ways that are really key to decision making, impulse control, things like that," said Dr. Noll.
Knowing full well the speed in which information travels on social media, the parents of the La Salle junior made a request through a hospital spokesperson to prevent any speculation on today's incident.
"We also ask friends of our son to please not post anything on Twitter or Facebook," said Diana Lara with UC Health.
Dr. Noll says there are sometimes warning signs that family and friends should be aware of.
"Language like I can't take it anymore, or I have a means to hurt myself, or on this day or that time I'm going to hurt myself. Those are all real red flags that something really should be intervened on," said Dr. Noll.
But Dr. Noll stresses that just monitoring your children's accounts isn't enough.
"You can snoop on your kids all you want but it's really easy to hide your profiles on Facebook. You can make 2,3,4 profiles," explained Dr. Noll.
So what's the most important thing parents can do? Well according to Dr. Noll, it's staying in touch with other parents with what's going on and having a routine dialogue with their kids.
"Constantly keep ahead of what they're doing and ask what are the kids doing at school, what's on your phone, show me how that works, show me how I can get that on my phone, how do I follow you, how do you do your privacy settings. I'll never know as much as they do about it," said Dr. Noll.
Copyright 2013 WXIX. All rights reserved.


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Application Details:
Version: 3.1.87 updated
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PONS Kompaktworterbuch Russisch (Android) - contains around 130,000 headwords and phrases. The ideal reference work for learners of Russian and German.
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Youth-Hostel Cologne-Riehl - City Hostel
The Youth Hostel is located right on the riverbank of the Rhine in a public park in the Riehl district.
breakfast buffet is included in the overnight prices!
our hostel has a no smoking policy.
we are 10 minutes from the city center by subway!
Availability & RatesTo view availability and prices please select dates and click 'Update Dates'
Hostel Facilities & Policies
- 24 Hour Reception
- Bar
- Bicycle parking
- Board Games
- Free Breakfast
- Café
- Card Phones
- Common Room
- Credit Cards Accepted
- Elevator
- Free Parking
- Hair Dryers For Hire
- Hot Showers
- Internet Access
- Linen Included
- Security Lockers
- Luggage Storage
- Meals Available
- No Curfew
- Non Smoking
- Outdoor Terrace
- Parking
- Reading Light
- Restaurant
- Tours/Travel Desk
- Towels For Hire
- Vending Machines
- Washing Machine
- Wheelchair Friendly
Cancellation PolicyThis property has a 1 day cancellation policy. Failure to cancel within this time will result in a cancellation charge equal to the first night of your stay.
Must-Read Hostel InfoThis property has specific Terms & Conditions.
The mentioned rates include VAT, taxes, charges (without cultural city tax) valid at the current date of booking. The City of Cologne is raising a cultural tax of the room rate for private travelers as from 01.12.2014, which has to be paid at the Youth Hostel.
DirectionsShow MapHide Map
By rail:
To Cologne main station (Koeln / Hbf); from there take Subway Line 18 towards Thielenbruch / Buchheim. Get off at Boltensternstrasse (8 min. journey); walk across parking area: hostel is located at the end of the parking lot
By car:
Cross Zoobruecke (Zoo bridge) from East to West; take first exit Rheinuferstrasse; turn left onto Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer direction Muelheim; turn right onto parking lot after AXA building and Circus ZAK.
From Airport Cologne/Bonn:
Take S13 leaving every 15 min. to Cologne main station (Koeln/Hbf); from there see above
Located Near
Tram Station Boltensternstrasse (U18) 200 m
Bicycle, walking path 50 m
Rhine River 50 m
Zoo with aquarium & flora 1.3 km
Central Train, Tram and Bus station (Koeln Hbf) 3 km
Airport Cologne / Bonn 15 km
Old town Cologne with restaurants and bars 3 km
Cologne Dom (cathedral) 3 km
Sightseeing and museums 3 km


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Beltane Blessings, my Beloveds!
I wanted to talk a little about something that most people tend to ignore. Intuition. That little inner voice that tells us when we are about to fuck up. Ooops, outside voice.
I know you all know what I mean. You're thinking about doing something. You have this nagging feeling that it's not the right thing, but...it's not consistent with that "other" thing you really, really want to do...so you ignore it!
I can't tell you how many times my "Inner Bell" went off as a warning about situations and/or relationships and instead of following it, I decided that I was just being neurotic and danced happily into hell!
We humans are creatures of emotional complexity. We've evolved into a species that chooses intellect over instinct. We lust after people and things that can destroy us, and indulge in behaviors that can lead to our untimely demise, simply because we can't resist not to. And we will come up with every reason under the Moon and Stars to justify our decision.
This being said, it's very difficult to listen to a little disembodied voice in our heads. It's often suggested that people who talk to themselves are crazy...but, I think the true madness lies in not listening to ourselves.
From a Witch's standpoint, developing one's intuition is a crucial element in a successful practice. My best advice is to start small. Our egos have an uncanny knack for interfering with our instincts, so begin by practicing with things that will cause the least amount of damage. You're driving home, you always make a right at a certain intersection, but instead, today you feel you should make a left, try it. But, if you have $30 to your name till pay day and something is telling you to indulge in $300 gift for yourself, that's your ego talking. Tell it to "shut the fuck up!" Oooops, outside voice!
I do most of my best work when I work solely on gut instinct. The Internet is great if you are just beginning this journey and need a general idea, but I tend to not follow those recommendations. You are using someone else's suggestion for work you are doing for yourself. It's your work! Perfect it!
Try this. The next time you are considering doing work, quiet your mind. and focus on exactly what you want to achieve. What is your purpose and intent? Ask yourself the question, "how do I make this happen?" I find that I will get bursts of inspiration in which every ounce of my being screams, "Yes, yes, yes!" Kind of like a psychic orgasm! I might mull over things for a few days or longer if needed and over that time, things change, evolve and gain more clarity I might decide a black candle would work better than a red, carving something in mirror script (the way writing appears in a mirror's reflection) would work better than writing on parchment, burning something rather than burying it, (although burning shit is, ya know, always fun), etc. Often, by the time I'm actually ready to do the work, I am absolutely certain of what I need to do and I can "feel" it, rather than just "know" it. If however, you are standing at your altar or where ever the work is taking place and suddenly something doesn't feel right or you think it needs a little something, listen to the little voice in your head! Ferfuxsake! Ooops, outside voice :)
Oh and most importantly, when you meet that person you distrust at first sight? The worst thing you can do is assume you're wrong!
In Darkness, Light!


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Party Idea! A Build-Your-Own Bánh Mì Sandwich Bar
When a group of my friends came together last summer to plan a bridal shower for me, they knew two things: 1) I'm not one for cutesy, girly themes and 2) I love sandwiches. My favorite part of the chic, theme-free party they created was a build-your-own bánh mì bar, a Vietnamese-inspired twist on the usual sandwich platter.
A bánh mì buffet isn't radically different from the usual sandwich set-up, but I asked my friends for some tips on sourcing and making the components.
• The bread: The traditional bánh mì baguette is made with a mix of rice flour and wheat flour, which gives it a light texture and crisp crust. If there is a Vietnamese bakery in your area, it is worth seeking out the loaves for their special texture, or try a local Vietnamese restaurant — my friends contacted a local restaurant and were able to buy bread in bulk. Otherwise, any soft baguette-type loaf will work, as long as the crust isn't too thick and chewy.
• The protein: Our spread included braised beef brisket, bought from the same restaurant that supplied the bread, as well as my friend Lydia's Asian-style spin on her mother-in-law's very Southern pickled shrimp recipe (linked below). Slow-cooked pork is another good make-ahead meat option, as is Bon Appetit's hoisin-glazed meatloaf. If you want to provide a non-meat option, try Emily's recipe for bánh mì with lemongrass tofu.
• The vegetables: Pickled daikon radish and carrots are traditional bánh mì accompaniments, but my friends simplified things slightly by skipping the pickling part, just cutting carrots and cucumbers into long matchsticks. A big bowl of sesame-red cabbage slaw was a crunchy side, or another garnish to be piled onto the sandwiches. And don't forget the cilantro!
• The condiments: Doctoring up store-bought mayonnaise is an easy way to add an extra layer of flavor to sandwiches. We had a roasted garlic version and a spicy Sriracha version, but there is a lot of room to play around with herbs, sauces and other flavorings to create a one-of-a-kind spread.
The brunch also included spicy Bloody Marys and store-bought shrimp chips, which echoed the flavors of the bánh mì buffet. It was such a tasty and inventive party, memorable for more than the sandwiches, of course — but dang, those sandwiches were good.
• Get the shrimp recipe: Lemongrass Pickled Shrimp at Apples & Onions
Do you have any other ideas for sandwich buffets that go beyond the usual?
Related: Smörgåstårta: 15 Savory Sandwich Cakes
(Images: Beth Liebetrau; Apples & Onions)


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Romantic, AAA Four-Diamond Estate Overlooking Great Smoky Mountains
With Greek-style columns at its back veranda, Christopher Place is majestic in its own right—but especially so considering its location in the Great Smoky Mountains. The estate's romantic allure cannot be denied, as guests can settle into white adirondack rocking chairs on the elevated portico and look to the blue-tinged peaks in the distance as they crest above swaying treetops. The intimate resort's 200 wooded acres overlook Great Smoky Mountains National Park, helping to earn Christopher Place recognition as 1 of the Top 10 Romantic Inns of 2010 from iLoveInns and as a prestigious AAA four-diamond resort for 15 consecutive years.
Quiet suites have king or queen beds and PrimaLoft hotel pillows, with each enveloping guests in a distinct style. In the Lion's Den, a window opens to expansive views of the forested mountain ridge or lush foliage in the estate's gardens. The Tournament of Roses is a secluded guesthouse with a separate entry and a wood-burning fireplace. A full breakfast awaits guests each morning, with a daily changing menu that may include options such as pancakes, waffles, egg frittatas, and fresh fruit.
Recreation is stressed just as much as relaxation; lodgers can stay active at the outdoor pool, the tennis courts, and the gym. A mile-long hiking trail on the resort grounds funnels wanderers up the scenic English Mountain. Back at the inn, chef Karen Valentine creates a gourmet four-course meal six nights a week at the Mountain View Dining Room restaurant. Marston's Library Pub, the resort's more casual eatery, serves pub fare such as bangers and mash, with no reservations required.
Newport, Tennessee: Private Portal to Great Smoky Mountains Recreation
Newport is situated 11 miles from the Cosby entrance of the popular Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which offers about 800 miles of trails embellished with rolling hills, wildflowers, and cascading waterfalls. Among the hikes, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the park at 6,643 feet with a viewing distance of up to 100 miles on a clear day. The 4.4-mile hike to Hen Wallow Falls culminates at a 90-foot waterfall. An 11-mile bike ride on Cades Cove Loop Road passes by restored 19th-century home sites and natural ecosystems rife with wildlife engaged in poker tournaments. Starting in May, bicyclists have the road to themselves on Wednesday and Saturday mornings.
In nearby Gatlinburg, shoppers can peruse the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, an 8-mile loop of more than 100 independent shops. Artisans showcase candles, baskets, quilts, pottery, jewelry, clothing, paintings, and photography.


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JM Smucker Company (NYSE: (SJM)) is a leader in the market for branded food products and has built the trademark Smucker's into a household name. The company sells kitchen staples like peanut butter, fruit spreads, cooking oil, and baking goods, and it has diversified its portfolio in recent years into special markets like organic and natural foods, beverages, and international sales. Smucker's brands are competitive in their respective niches, selling in the first or second positions in nine of the twelve industries in which the firm operates.
JM Smucker Co. has been in business for over 100 years, capitalizing on broad trends in the marketplace and building long term brand equity in its products. Trademarks like the Pillsbury doughboy and the red Smucker's picnic blanket remain widely recognized, but the firm is also pushing for growth, introducing 50 new products under a dozen brand names. Recently, the firm has capitalized on the health and wellness trend and produced a variety of sugar-free, low-calorie, and organic products.
But the financial reality for Smucker is harsh, as its core products in baking and packaged foods sell at low margins and in slow growing industries. Most of Smucker's products are placed in the center aisles of grocery stores, which are increasingly neglected as retailers push customers to the periphery of the store, towards fresh and prepared products. Smucker hopes to protect itself against falling sales in its core products, by branching out into new sectors like natural and organic foods, beverages, and international sales to try to boost its revenue.[1]
The J.M. Smucker Company earns revenue through sales of its food products to distributors in the United States (and a few overseas). Over the last three years, the U.S. retail market has comprised an increasing share of the company's revenue, most recently over 70%.[2]. In terms of product categories, the biggest contributors to Smucker's net sales were peanut butter, shortening and oils, fruit spreads, flour and baking products, and baking mixes. Together they comprised about 61% of net sales.[3].
Fourth Quarter Fiscal 2010 Results (ended April 30, 2010)[4]
J.M Smucker reported net income of $120.6 million, or $1.01 a share. In the same period last year the company earned $94.3 million, or 80 cents a share. Revenue rose less than 1 percent to $1.07 billion. Smucker benefited from the recession as shoppers stretched food budgets by buying more food to eat at home.
In the fourth quarter, the company's retail coffee revenue fell 1 percent to $417.7 million as volume fell 4 percent. This was the first full fiscal year the company owned the Folgers brand. In the oils and baking division, which includes Crisco vegetable oil as well as Pillsbury flour, revenue fell 12 percent to $163.2 million. Revenue in the consumer market — which includes products like jams and jellies, but not coffee or baking products — rose 5 percent to $270.4 million. Volume rose for Jif, Smucker's fruit spreads, Hungry Jack pancake mixes and syrups. Excluding the sale of the Hungry Jack potato business announced in March, volume in the segment rose 8 percent.
In 2009, Smucker's bought Proctor & Gamble's Folgers coffee unit for $2.95 billion. As part of the deal, P&G shareholders will receive a 53.5 percent stake in Smuckers. Smuckers will assume $350 million of Folger's debt.
The acquisition doubled the Smucker's market cap and made the company the leader in the coffee market. The Folger's brand takes in over $1 billion in sales annually, half of Smucker's total revenue.
Smucker also bought Jif and Crisco from P&G in a $1 billion stock deal in 2002.
Smucker's relies on its widely recognized brand names to compete with other firms for consumer food dollars. As a result, Smucker's must pay close attention to trends in consumer preferences, such as convenience, health concerns, and dietary trends. Smucker's acknowledges that continuing to develop new products is vital for maintaining and growing market share, asserting that the strong and growing market share of many of its brands is a sign of its mastery of this force.[5] Problems like food contamination, product recall, and consumer product liability claims might all impact consumer demand as well. A liability claim, especially one that is ruled against Smucker's, can also cause a loss in consumer confidence of its brands, negatively impacting its brand equity.[6] If a product is really contaminated, then Smucker's might have to recall an entire line, hurting inventory, sales, and its reputation, as ConAgra found last year in the Peter Pan debacle. In the short term, demand for Jif is bound to decrease as ConAgra brings Peter Pan back to market and restores consumer confidence in its products.
Smucker's uses many raw materials to manufacture its products including corn, sugar, fruit, wheat, and peanuts. The manufacture, packaging, and transportation of its products requires fuels like natural gas and oil. As a result, Smucker's earnings are greatly affected by fluctuations in oil prices, wheat prices, and corn prices, among many other commodities. Recent rising prices in these commodities will increase costs for Smucker's, and competition it faces with other manufacturers may prevent the company from passing these costs onto consumers. Although Smucker's uses forward and futures contracts to hedge against price increases, it acknowledges that even these may not be enough to fully offset higher costs the company faces when commodity prices are more volatile.[7]
Growth in consumer interest in natural and organic products has had a significant impact on the food industry, and grocery stores continue to increase their inventory of these products. While Smucker's has recognized this trend and acquired/released new brands to compete in this sector, if natural and organic products begin to take up more of consumer's limited food budgets, then Smucker's core brands will suffer. Grocery stores have also moved in recent years towards an emphasis on fresh and prepared foods, building sandwich and soup stands and preparing meals for same-day consumption. To make these new ventures profitable, stores are steering customers toward the periphery of the store where they can find prepared products - and away from the center aisles, where most of Smucker's brands can be found.
Smucker's competes for retail shelf space with other food product producers, both branded and private label. There is no one company that competes with Smucker's in all the food products that it sells. Smucker's brand Jif is a leader in the peanut butter category, as is Crisco in oils and food shortening. Smucker's is confident in its ability to be a strong competitor because of its brand, high quality, varied offerings, innovations, and distribution network.[8] Other companies that compete with the JM Smucker Company in multi-market categories include Conagra, Kraft Foods, Inc, General Mills, Inc., and Unilever. The table below compares a few metrics of these companies.
|Company Name[9]
|Operating Margin
|Market Cap
|Famous Brands[10]
|The J.M. Smucker Company
|$2.1 billion
|$3.1 billion
|Jif, Smucker's, Crisco
|Conagra Foods (CAG)
|$12.0 billion
|$12.6 billion
|Chef Boyardee, Slim Jim, Hebrew National
|Kraft Foods (KFT)
|$35.4 billion
|$54 billion
|Jell-O, Kool-aid, Kraft cheese
|General Mills (GIS)
|$12.4 billion
|$18.6 billion
|Yoplait, Honey Nut Cheerios, Pillsbury
|Unilever (UL)
|$49.6 billion
|$166.0 billion
|Skippy, Knorr, Ben and Jerry's
Another potential source of competition for Smucker's is private labels . These are private brands owned and used by retailers, such as Wal-Mart. A rise in private labels will hurt Smucker's business in the U.S.; Smucker's would be competing with not only companies like ConAgra, but the very retailers it sells its products to. Additionally, the natural foods boom has flooded the market with new small businesses and their organic products. As Smucker's tries to gain a foothold in this market, it must compete with these smaller labels. Smucker's also must deal with the increasing market share of Whole Foods Market and Trader Joe's, companies which focus on natural and organic products and which aim to draw more customers away from conventional grocery stores.


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Thursday, Feb. 1
Meet the Artist Reception
Meet Oakland artist Karin Turner whose work is on exhibit in the Semans Library and KJ's Café throughout February. Her works reflect the Foothill Black History Month theme of reclaiming our identity. She specializes in creating images that feature diverse and ever-appealing spectrum of Black women. Her images feature a series of a semi-autobiographical character, H20Melon Girl, who boasts a crown of exotic natural hair, lives in the moment and is happy with the curvaceous figure she possesses.
Time: 1–2 p.m.
Location: KJ's Café
Free Admission
Tuesday, Feb. 6
National African American Read-In
Join more than one million readers from across the nation in the 18th Annual National African American Read-In. This annual Foothill College event features the poet and musician Avotcja, and members of her band, Modupe. You're invited to read from the works of your favorite African American poets or authors. Co-sponsored by the National Council for Teachers of English, Foothill Language Arts Division and Foothill College Bookstore.
Time: 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
Location: Library Quad Event Tent
Free Admission
Wednesday, Feb. 7
Bone Marrow Registry Drive
Give a chance for a new life to an ill patient, and you just might win a free iPod. It's a simple, fast process to participate and includes the painless procedure of swabbing your cheek with a Q-tip. Representatives from the National Marrow Donor Program Registry will join Foothill Health Services staff to bring awareness of the urgent need for people of African ancestry to become donors. Donors can help improve the lives of hundreds of patients who suffer from life-threatening diseases. For many, their diseases could be treated with a marrow or blood stem cell transplant—but only when a matching donor is found in time. Free refreshments. Co-sponsored by Foothill Health Services Office.
Time: 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
Location: Library Quad Event Tent
Free Admission
Wednesday, Feb. 7
Black History Month Official Opening Ceremony
The opening ceremony will feature speakers who present an overview of the monthlong celebration as well as a formal presentation by artist Milton Bowen. Can We Spare Some Change, Bowen's current exhibit had its initial showing at the Oakland African American Museum & Library in October. The show begins a national tour in February. He uses the word change in his exhibit to call for a change in attitude toward donating within the African American community. One of the paintings in the exhibit honors the life and work of Foothill Counselor and Pass the Torch Program Founder Dr. Jean Thomas, who passed away two years ago. The event concludes with the formal presentation of that painting to Foothill College. Free refreshments.
Time: Noon–1 p.m.
Location: Chinese Heritage Room (Room 3523)
Free Admission
Thursday, Feb. 8
Dallas Black Dance Theatre in Residency at Foothill College
Foothill College will host the world-renown Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT) for its 30th anniversary season. Under the guidance of founder and artistic director Ann Williams, the DBDT mission is to create and produce dance at its highest level of artistic excellence through performances and educational programs that bridge cultures and reach diverse communities and audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
Time: 11:50 a.m.–1 p.m.
Location: Library Quad Event Tent
Tickets: $15, general admission; $12, student with OwlCard
Thursday, Feb. 8
DBDT Lecture & Demonstration
More than 1,800 middle-school students will participate in two lecture demonstration/performances, take a campus tour and eat lunch on campus. For most of the visiting youngsters, this program is their first visit to a college campus as well as their first experience attending a live performing arts activity. The campus tours provide youngsters with opportunities for potentially life-changing interactions with Foothill students, and reinforce their aspirations to pursue a college education.
Time: 9:30 and 11 a.m.
Location: Smithwick Theater
Free Admission
Thursday, Feb. 8
Premiere DBDT Matinee Performance for VIP Senior Citizens
The VIP matinee performance includes an exciting director's notes presentation before the show, affordable single and group ticket prices, special parking and shuttle service, and complimentary reception. Co-sponsored by the Foothill College Disability Resource Center and Adaptive Learning Division. To purchase tickets, call (650) 949-7332 or (650) 949-7331.
Time: 3 p.m.
Location: Smithwick Theater
Tickets: Location: $20, general; $15, students with OwlCard
Friday, Feb. 9
Meet the Artist Reception
Meet Oakland artist Karin Turner whose work is on exhibit in the Semans Library and KJ's Café throughout February. Her works reflect the Foothill Black History Month theme of reclaiming our identity. Her images feature a series of a semi-autobiographical character, H20Melon Girl, who boasts a crown of exotic natural hair, lives in the moment and is happy with the curvaceous figure she possesses.
Time: 6-7 p.m.
Location: KJ's Cafe
Free Admission
Friday, Feb. 9
Dallas Black Dance Theatre Performance
The curtain goes up on this contemporary dance company's repertoire of modern, jazz, ethnic and spiritual works to provide a performance filled with excitement, energy and elegance that only DBDT's dancer can deliver. A complimentary reception follows the performance in the Library Quad Event Tent. To purchase tickets, call (650) 949-7360.
Time: 8 p.m.
Location: Smithwick Theater
Tickets: $25, general; $15, students with OwlCard.
Tuesday, Feb. 13
Black History Month Lecture Series Part I: Social & Personal Responsibility Featuring Comedian Vince Morris
To commemorate AIDS Awareness Week, comedian Vince Morris will discuss social and personal responsibility, AIDS awareness, safe sex, peer pressure, and alcohol and drug use. Morris will deliver passionate views on a variety of topics, including ignorance, hip-hop, self-respect, and being raised by a single father. With his smooth charismatic style and thought-provoking material, he challenges you to look at—and change—the negative images and stereotypes you accept in your daily life. His screen credits include The Late Late Show, segments on Comedy Central, Sex & The City and BET's Comic View. A complimentary reception follows in the Library Quad Event Tent. Co-sponsored by Health Services Office.
Audience Advisory: This presentation is rated R for strong language.
Time: Lecture from noon to 1 p.m.; Q & A Session from 1 to 2 p.m.
Location: Smithwick Theater
Free Admission
Monday, Feb. 12
Race Car Showcase: African Americans in Auto Racing
Last year, thousands of enthusiastic fans lined the streets for the San Jose Grand Prix, the National Auto Sports Association (NASA) U.S. Touring Car Championship. The race included three African American drivers. Driver David Mills, a San Jose native, competed in the Team Flewellen Acura which is owned by Clyde Flewellen. The NASA category was the second most popular group next to the Champ Cars, according to motorsport.com. Flewellen and Mills will bring their cars to campus for a showcase, and discuss the opportunities, challenges and history of African Americans in professional motorsports.
Time: Noon–1 p.m.
Location: Library Quad
Free Admission
Wednesday, Feb. 14
Black History Month Lecture Series Part II: The Nile Valley & Ancient African Civilization
Discuss the classical African civilizations of the Nile Valley as well as the longest recorded history of advanced civilizations in the world. These Black civilizations produced some of the greatest achievements in world history in mathematics, astronomy, astrology, engineering, medicine and writing. Presenter: History Professor Manu Ampim, M.A. Co–sponsored by Foothill Business & Social Sciences Division.
Time: Noon–1:30 p.m.
Location: Appreciation Hall (Room 1501)
Free Admission
Thursday, Feb. 15
Black History Month Lecture Series Part III: The "N" Word—A Message of Madness
Take an interactive, challenging and thorough look at the history of the "N" word using books and video footage. The audience will speak, critique and listen to this provocative word in an attempt to feel its effects and understand its impact. The audience will also ask and answer difficult questions, including where will we hear the word next; why are many Caucasian people afraid to use this word; what effect has rap music has had on the word; and why aren't more people upset and taking a stronger stand against the use of this epithet. Presenter: Eddie Moore Jr., Ph.D.
Audience Advisory: This presentation is rated R for strong language.
Time: Noon–1:30 p.m.
Location: Library Quad Event Tent
Free Admission
Friday, Feb. 16 through Saturday, Feb. 17
9th Annual California Student Association of Community Colleges Black Caucus Leadership Conference
Foothill students are encouraged to focus on leadership skill development with Foothill's Black Student Union by participating in this special conference. Students from across the California Community College system will explore leadership concepts that empower student leaders of African ancestry; discuss successful models/practices that build community outreach and involvement; and address advocacy and organizational development of Afro-centric organizations at the community college level. For more information, call or e-mail Foothill College Black Student Union President Anika Dodds at (404) 518-8800 or email@example.com.
Location: Laney College in Oakland, CA
Friday, Feb. 16 through Monday, Feb. 19
Presidents Days Observance
In observance of the Presidents Days holidays, Foothill College is closed Feb. 16 through Feb. 19.
Tuesday, Feb. 20
Black History Month Lecture Series Part IV: The Buffalo Soldier—A Retrospective of His Life, Service & Family
Through my grandfathers eyes, the ties that bind is the theme for the presentation by Anthony Powell, M.A., from San Jose State University. He'll guide you through history as you learn about African Americans in the U.S. Army. Examine the memories of retired 1st Sergeant Samuel N. Waller, who served from 1887 to 1927, as well as letters and photos from his many years as a Buffalo Soldier. Co-sponsored by the Foothill College History Department.
Time: Noon-1:30 p.m.
Location: Library Quad Event Tent
Free Admission
Wednesday, Feb. 21
9th Annual African Achievers Awards
The African Achiever Awards recognize outstanding academic achievement, leadership and service among graduating and/or transferring students of African ancestry. Foothill alumnus Qa'id Tauheed Aqeel MPA, who is also know as Andre Duke, is the featured speaker. A resident of Oakland, he serves as a youth advocate; community organizer; co-chairman of Youth for Dellums; and the Dellums for Mayor Executive Committee. Several hundred students from local high schools will be guests for lunch and a campus tour.
Time: 10:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
Location: Library Quad Event Tent
Free Admission
Wednesday, Feb. 21
Scholarships: A Wealth of Untapped Dollars
Education creates an opportunity to change your life and scholarships can help finance your educational goals. Find out where to start your scholarship search at this workshop. This presentation includes a discussion on how to locate and apply for scholarships. You'll also learn about scholarship essay guidelines; practical tips for writing an effective essay; and review the many scholarships that will be awarded by Foothill College during Spring Quarter 2007. Co-sponsored by Foothill College Financial Aid Office.
Time: Noon–1 p.m.
Location: Appreciation Hall, Room 1501
Free Admission
Saturday, Feb. 24
Make a Joyful Noise Gospel Concert XIII
Celebrate Black History Month with the Foothill College Gospel Choir as you walk through history from "negro" spirituals to contemporary gospel melodies. Witness the spiritually and uplifting performances by Bay Area gospel choirs and much more. A complimentary reception follows in the Library Quad Event Tent. To purchase tickets, call (650) 949-7360.
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Smithwick Theater
Tickets: $12, general; $8, seniors and students with OwlCard; $6; children ages 6-12; free admission for children under age 5.
Tuesday, Feb. 27
Black History Month Lecture Series Part V: The Colored Museum Film & Panel Discussion
Mainstream Black theater has evolved since George C. Wolfe's 1979 production, The Colored Museum, opened off-Broadway and deflated Black stereotypes in America. Three of the eleven original vignettes will be screened and discussed. Presenters: Foothill College English Instructor Natalia Menendez, M.A., and Foothill College Psychology Instructor Harry Saterfield, Ph.D.
Time: Noon–1 p.m.
Location: Room 5001
Free Admission
Wednesday, Feb. 28
Campus Abroad in Ghana, Summer 2008
For much of its history, Ghana has played a pivotal role in West Africa. Developments in Ghana have influenced regional politics in historical, cultural, socio-economic and ecological issues. The Foothill-De Anza Campus Abroad Program will provide an opportunity for students from all academic disciplines to learn about this country and its people. Learn how you can earn college units as you participate in a cultural and social immersion program in Ghana. Presenter: Foothill Communication Studies Instructor Shawn Townes, Ph.D.
Time: Noon to 1 p.m.
Location: Appreciation Hall, Room 1501
Free Admission
Additional Events & Activities
Earn College Credit


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Two wonderful things happened to me in October of 1985. My daughter Stefanie was born, and the Kansas City Royals won the World Series.
Two wonderful things happened to me in October of 1985. My daughter Stefanie was born, and the Kansas City Royals won the World Series. It might have been more serendipitous had it been my son Eric who was born during the Royals' championship run—as it is he who has grown up to share his father's frustrating passion for the Royals.
But Eric was about a year and a half old when his baby sister made her appearance and the Royals kept their appointment with destiny. Unfortunately, that means he was too young at the time to really be able to enjoy either memory today.
Since then, the long-term results of both blessed events have been remarkably different in their outcomes. Stefanie has gone on to earn a BS, an MS and a Specialist degree and become a school psychologist; gotten married; become a step-mom; and in general developed into a fine, productive citizen that her mom and dad couldn't be any more proud of.
For the Royals, things have not followed that same upward trajectory. 1985 marked the Royals' last appearance in the post-season—the longest such drought in Major League Baseball. No other team is even within 7 years of the Royals' dubious standard of futility.
As the team embarked upon 2013 with a newly minted starting rotation, hope once again sprang eternal in the hearts of long-suffering fans. (Royals fans are always described as "long-suffering", and for good reason, as the above paragraph shows.) There were whispered concerns about the Royals failure to upgrade their line-up, but it was hoped that the pitching would be able to overcome the lack of punch in the batting order.
With the team off to a good start in April, the faithful—who had become conditioned to pessimism over the years—began to allow themselves to hope that perhaps this was, in fact, going to be "the year."
Now, with May in full swing, the Royals' offensive shortcomings have become glaringly apparent as they find themselves mired in their first losing streak of the season. Although their record still remains over .500 as of this writing, it seems apparent to many observers that without a serious upgrade to the offense, the Royals are going to spend the rest of the season sliding back into mediocrity.
So what's a fan to do? Well, to paraphrase my idol Bogart in Casablanca, "We'll always have 1985." No matter how bad things get this year, we can always recall those heady days back during the Reagan administration when the Boys in Blue got the better of the Boys in Red.
The 1985 World Series was known at the time as the I-70 Showdown Series or the Show-Me Series, as the fall classic that year featured the Royals against the St. Louis Cardinals from across the State of Missouri.
KC had reached the series by winning the AL West (only 2 divisions per league back in the day) and besting the Toronto Blue Jays 4-3 in the ALCS. St. Louis advanced by winning the NL East and then downing the LA Dodgers 4-2.
The Cards took game one at Royals Stadium 3-1 behind ace John Tudor, Danny Jackson taking the loss for KC. In game two, KC was ahead until the 9th, when manager Dick Howser inexplicably left Royals starter Charlie Leibrandt in the game, instead of inserting ace reliever Dan Quisenberry. The Cards posted a 4-spot in the 9th to claim game two as well, 4-2.
With St. Louis up two games to love, the series packed up and shifted east on I-70 to play the next three games at Busch Stadium. In game three, Bret Saberhagen beat 20-game winner Joaquin Andujar 6-1 to give KC its first series win. Ace John Tudor threw a shutout at the Royals in game four and the Cards were poised on the brink of a series victory, up three games to one.
This was in the days before I had learned to be pessimistic about the Royals, or perhaps I was still just in a good mood from the birth of my daughter. At any rate, I was just beginning my second year as a teacher at Pratt High School. I can still clearly remember telling my colleagues at lunch that all was not yet lost. If we could just get the series back to KC, we were going to win— because the Cardinals were out of good pitchers (Tudor having just pitched.)
Facing elimination, the Royals with Danny Jackson on the mound sent the series back to KC with a 6-1 triumph. Game 6 proved to be the turning point of the series, and one of the most memorable games in post-season history. It has fueled the Royals-Cardinals rivalry ever since.
Game 6 was the game in which "The Denkinger Call" played a vital role. With St. Louis up 1-0, Jorge Orta led off KC's bottom of the 9th with a comebacker to Cards closer Todd Worrell. Orta hustled down the line, but every angle of replay showed he was clearly out. Yet 1B umpire Denkinger's arms went out sideways in the classic 'safe" call. Was it a "make-up call" for Frank White having been called out on the bases earlier in the game when he was clearly safe? Was it just a mess-up? We may never know.
What is known is that the game came unraveled for St. Louis after that call. Cardinal catcher Darrell Porter misplayed a routine foul pop by Steve Balboni, who responded to the reprieve by singling. Jim Sundberg's sac bunt attempt was botched and Orta was gunned down at 3rd base, leaving runners at 1st and 2nd with one out.
An often overlooked, but absolutely critical, play came next. Darrell Porter committed his second blooper of the inning, a passed ball allowing the runners to advance to second and third. Porter and Worrell had a signal whereby if Porter touched his mask, it undid the previous sign. Porter called for a fastball, but then reached through his mask to adjust his eyeglasses. Worrell misinterpreted his catcher's intent, and threw the slider. Expecting a fastball, Porter was not anticipating a slider in the dirt—and ended up having to chase the ball back to the screen.
Cards manager Whitey Herzog was forced to walk Royals pinch-hitter Hal McRae, loading up the bases. Dane Iorg followed with a pinch-hit single that plated two and KC won game six 2-1.
The climactic game seven was actually an anti-climax. With St. Louis obviously still stunned and fuming from the events of the previous evening, they were never really a part of the game. Cardinal ace John Tudor attempted to pitch again on only three days rest after having tossed two previous games in the series. The Royals roughed him up, chasing him in the 3rd inning with the Royals up 5-0.
Tudor was so distraught over the recent events that he went into the clubhouse and had a fistfight with a ventilation fan. The fan won, with Tudor having to throw in the towel after suffering a cut finger. Media reports that "Tudor punched a fan in the Cardinal clubhouse" were misinterpreted by many as indicating an altercation between the pitcher and a disgruntled team supporter.
Outside, things were going from bad to worse for the Cards. Joaquin Andujar relieved Tudor, and was eventually ejected. Feeling that Denkinger had cost them them the previous night's game with his incorrect call, and NOW he was squeezing the strike zone, Andujar basically went insane and charged Denkinger not once, but twice. Cardinal manager Whitey Herzog was also tossed in the melee as St. Louis' title hopes fell apart. KC took game seven 11-0. Darryl Motley caught a fly ball for the final out and Bret Saberhagen jumped into George Brett's arms in two of the iconic scenes from the Royals' triumph.
Yes, those were the days. Two blessed events in October 1985 in which the subsequent results were diametrically opposed. Regarding the Royals' permanent residence in Frustration City ever since that point, we can say, "Well, at least we'll always have 1985." Regarding my daughter, I can borrow another Bogie line from Casablanca and say, "Here's looking at you, kid!"


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Anger, fear, aggression... The dark side of the Force are they. Easily they flow, quick to join you in a fight. If once you start down the dark path, forever will it dominate your destiny, consume you it will... Quicker, easier, more seductive. To weakness it appeals. But yours must be the strength that does not flow from rage.
Idaho State Senate Candidate Leif Skyving Delivers an Uppercut to the Idaho Press Tribune
Leif Skyving is currently a Caldwell School Board Trustee running for Idaho State Senate District 10. District 10 includes most of Caldwell.
He is also a boxer.
Leif Skyving literally fighting for you! See Leif's Facebook page for more photos of of him in action.
"After a long, testy debate last week, the Caldwell School Board voted 3-2 to retain its membership with the Idaho School Board Association," reads an editorial in the September 18 Idaho Press Tribune.
Those who follow the Caldwell School Board know Skyving is also among the board's more liberal members. He ran as a Democrat for a seat in the Idaho Senate against former Sen. John McGee and staunchly opposed key components of Idaho Schools Superintendent Tom Luna's Students Come First education plan. ...
So when the ISBA encouraged Idaho lawmakers earlier this year to adopt key elements of failed Proposition 1 — limiting conditions of teachers' salary contracts to one year, giving districts permission to reduce salaries and shorten teacher contracts, and allowing school boards to operate under the district's "last, best offer" if negotiations stall — Skyving was not amused. He and Amy Rojas voted to end Caldwell's affiliation with ISBA, and he cited the endorsement of that legislation as a major reason. ...
If Skyving and other board members believe they can get by without ISBA services, they should come to a rational, deliberate, thoughtful conclusion and end their affiliation. But terse, emotional arguments based on policy disagreements shouldn't play a role in the ultimate verdict.
Skyving counterpunched:
I was disappointed to see the Press-Tribune editorial board on Sept. 18 question my motives for making a motion to save the Caldwell School district $10,000 per year by withdrawing our membership from the Idaho School Board Association.
Turning the editorial in to a partisan issue by using politically charged phrases such as "Skyving is one of the more liberal members of the school board and has run as a Democrat against John McGee," the IPT claimed that I made my decision on a "rash" and "emotional" basis because I was known to oppose the parts of the defeated "Luna Laws" that the ISBA had helped usher back in using lobbyists paid for with tax dollars.
Had the editorial board members actually attended the school board meetings in question, they would have heard my complete statements. Yes, I was opposed to the "Luna Laws," as were the majority of voters, and yes, the ISBA's use of taxpayer dollars to nullify the will of the people did offend me.
They also would've heard me say that this action had: "awakened me to take a close look at what we are paying the ISBA and what we are getting in return" and that when I found we were paying $10,000 per year for services that we already receive through two law firms that we employ, I believed we could use that money for something that would actually benefit the kids.
As a trustee, I don't see saving the Caldwell school district $10,000 as a "liberal" or "conservative" issue; I see it as common sense.
To further the irony, the reason the IPT gave for not endorsing my candidacy when I ran for state senate was that I opposed the state of Idaho borrowing $900 million and paying a whopping $50 million per year in interest for road construction. The IPT did not agree with me that we should "pay as we go" so as not to burden Idaho taxpayers with this huge debt and interest payments.
Being fiscally conservative seems too "liberal" a concept for them to accept.
And in true tag-team form, local educator Bob Solomon hopped in the ring today:
The IPT editorial board had no right to personally tar Caldwell School Board member Leif Skyving with those terrible words: "Democrat" and "liberal." Had they reviewed the agendas for the last several months, they would realize that a long-planned policy decision was being made after strong debate.
Skyving pointed out that the ISBA "services" had not been used for over two years, that some of the "services" were duplicative, and that the $10,000 could be used for other pressing needs. Sounds rather conservative to me.
Then he proposed (what audacity!) that the board adopt "benchmarks" (it refused) by which to evaluate whether the board's experience with the ISBA helped the citizens of Caldwell. Note: everything in education today is evaluated by benchmarks.
So in what way does it make sense for the IPT to attribute partisanship to a public servant, serving in a non-partisan office without remuneration, who questions excessive government expenses and insists on accountability? In the old days this was called "good government."
For more information see facebook.com/ILikeLeif and be sure to support and vote for this terrific candidate for District 10!
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New York State's $150-billion public pension fund has sued Qualcomm Inc., seeking to force the chipmaker to reveal its political spending, according to the state comptroller.
The suit was filed late on Wednesday in Delaware Court of Chancery, after Qualcomm refused the request by the New York State Common Retirement Fund -- a Qualcomm shareholder -- to inspect records detailing the use of corporate resources for political activities, said state comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, who oversees the fund.
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"Without disclosure, there is no way to know whether corporate funds are being used in ways that go against shareholder interests," DiNapoli, a Democrat who is up for re-election in 2014, said in a statement.
The suit opens a new front in the fight over corporate political spending, which has risen dramatically since the U.S. Supreme Court's 2010 ruling in Citizens United.
That decision lifted restrictions on corporate political spending and led in part to an unprecedented $6 billion of spending on the recently held U.S. elections.
While other companies have agreed to increase their disclosure of political spending, Qualcomm has not, the lawsuit said.
A spokeswoman for San Diego, California-based Qualcomm said the company had no immediate comment.
The New York State fund, the third-biggest public pension plan in the United States, owns more than 6.1 million Qualcomm shares, which are valued at about $396 million, based on Thursday's share price. The stake represents 0.36 percent of outstanding Qualcomm shares and makes the fund the company's 52nd largest shareholder, according to Thomson Reuters data.
New York is Qualcomm's largest U.S. public pension fund shareholder. The California Public Employees Retirement System, the largest U.S. pension fund with $241 billion in assets, owns about 4.3 million Qualcomm shares.
Since at least August 2012, the pension fund has repeatedly attempted to get the information from Qualcomm, but the company has refused to divulge it, the suit claimed.
New York's pension fund is "concerned that it cannot determine whether senior executives and directors of Qualcomm are spending corporate resources to support their favored political candidates" or on causes that aren't focused on boosting shareholder value, the complaint said.
Other sources show that in 2012, Qualcomm spent more than $4.7 million on federal lobbying efforts, according to the complaint.
The precise total is not known, DiNapoli told Reuters.
"Qualcomm has been particularly resistant in terms of disclosure," he said.
"The real question is we don't know what kind of spending they're doing," he said. "We have the right to have access to books to see where the spending is going."
In 2010, the fund and a group of other institutional investors asked most of the 500 biggest U.S. companies to disclose contributions.
Over the past two years, the group filed 27 related shareholder resolutions seeking more transparency, reaching deals with 10 companies, the comptroller said.
The suit is believed to be the first in Delaware, where Qualcomm and most major U.S. companies are incorporated, to use the state's books-and-records law to compel political spending disclosures, a DiNapoli spokesman said.
As an institutional investor, the fund could attempt to remove directors from Qualcomm's board or sue board members if they were found to have wasted assets, the complaint said.
DiNapoli's office previously asked Qualcomm to provide documents that identified the date, recipient and amount of each political expenditure the company has made since Jan. 21, 2010, as well as documents detailing the company's expenses for trade associations and other tax-exempt groups.
DiNapoli's office also asked for minutes of board meetings during which political causes or candidates were discussed.
The case would be tough to win if New York State claims that shareholders are entitled broadly to all documentation about political spending, according to Larry Hamermesh, a professor at Widener University School of Law in Wilmington, Delaware.
"I can't see a court saying that is correct any more than what a company spends on business in China are a legitimate subject for shareholder inspections," he said.
Hamermesh said investors might gain access if they take a targeted approach such as seeking contributions to specific races or contributions approved by the CEO.
Charles Elson, director of the Weinberg Center for Corporate Governance at the University of Delaware, said that if DiNapoli's legal team cannot point to evidence -- such as news reports that raised suspicions about the company's spending -- the lawsuit might not survive scrutiny by a judge who sees it as a fishing expedition,
But if it passes muster, the suit could become a model for other shareholders, Elson said.
DiNapoli's complaint said that studies indicate that corporate political spending is, in general, negatively correlated with enterprise value and can indicate widespread deficiencies in corporate governance.
Political donations can also backfire on corporations. For instance, Target Corp. in 2010 donated $150,000 to a political group that supported Minnesota gubernatorial candidate Tom Emmer, who opposed same-sex marriage. The contribution sparked backlash and led Target to later apologize, the suit noted.


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DURHAM (WTVD) --A local family is coming to terms with an immense loss.
Seven-year-old Jamarcus Graham, of Goldsboro, passed away Sunday morning after he was rushed to Duke Medical Center Hospital.
The little boy was found Saturday floating face down in a pool at the Brightleaf Community Center.
"He was just a baby and I've got kids of my own," said Laura Smathers, an eyewitness. "And it's just something that you can't ever unsee."
Police say the little boy was at the pool with a guardian and was attending a pool party when the accident happened.
"As a parent, it's just something that you just don't ever want to see," Smathers said. "I'm just praying really hard for that family right now."
The little boy was from Goldsboro and both of his parents live there. It was around 3 p.m. Saturday when someone started yelling to call 911. A doctor just happened to be at the pool at the time.
An eyewitness told ABC11 over the phone that the doctor was doing chest compressions from the second the child was pulled out of the water. The eyewitness said she was holding the little boy's hand as the doctor worked.
Smathers said the boy had only been at the pool for about 15 or 20 minutes before he was found in the water.
"Everybody responded really quickly and there was medical professionals here and that started CPR right away," Smathers said. "And they did everything that they possibly could. I mean it was just a horrible tragedy."
Management at the Community Center echoed the same sentiment, calling the accident a "sorrowful tragedy."
Police don't believe anything suspicious happened, but they are still investigating.
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I hate to be a pain. I really love the photo gallery but if you look at a lot of pages on there it can be a real pain trying to get back to the main site. Esp if your comp is a slow as mine.lol I think it would help alot if you put a link to the main site and the forum on there. It would be cool if you could put a link to The photo Gallery on the main forum page too.
Sometimes when I am on there I feel like I am at a dead end and I have to click the back button 50 times to get back to the main page.lol


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Holy Land 2015 Bulletin Announcement
Parish bulletin announcement:
Join an unforgettable journey of faith and hope during a JANUARY 17-27, 2015 PILGRIMAGE TO THE HOLY LAND. Cosponsored by U.S. Catholic magazine and Catholic Theological Union (CTU), this 11-day trip will be led by noted scripture scholar and Jerusalem expert Father Leslie J. Hoppe, O.F.M. The tour will pray in Nazareth, visit the sites in Bethlehem, see the Mount of Beatitudes, take a boat tour on the Sea of Galilee, and retrace the steps of Jesus in Jerusalem. The days will include daily Mass at many sites that were significant in Jesus' life and countless opportunities to contemplate our Christian faith where it all began. Tour packages (incl. airfare, accommodations, meals, and transportation) start at $3,190 (departing from New York) or $3,290 (departing from Chicago). For more information, please visit www.uscatholic.org/HolyLand2015.


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- Home
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What Defines Sexy To Lydia?
Take notes people! Lydia, as well as all of the 12 thought confidence was key to being sexy.
Describe Lydia's Personal Style?
Lydia likes to keep it classy, but tries to not be an over-achiever. She said she would totally wear sweatpants and a t-shirt everyday if she could.
What Would Lydia Do If She Won The Lottery?
If Lydia won the lottery, she would buy herself a new car and go shopping until she couldn't walk anymore.
What Are Lydia's Pet Peeves?
What really makes Lydia tick, is people chewing with their mouth open and a squeeky pencil during a test.
What Is Lydia's Favorite Time Of The Year And Why?
Lydia's favorite time of year is the first few months of school. She loves the atmosphere and getting to meet new people, plus her birthday is in September!


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It looks like the success of Rihanna's latest album, Unapologetic, paid off in more ways than just a number one debut on the Billboard 200 charts.
Rih was presented with a pretty dope gift from Jay-Z's Roc Nation imprint—a $160,700 Porsche 911 S Cabrio. On Dec.19th, she showed her excitement by jumping on Instagram & throwing up pics of the whip, with captions like, "Turbo on dat a$$," and "Ain't nobody phuckin wit my clique!! Thank you to my Roc brothers! I love you guys, y'all are crazy for getting me this bad ass ho".
This definitely makes us want to get a deal with The Roc, asap.


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What are we welcoming with open wallets?
This past week was interesting. In observance of Halloween, TV stations and movie theaters ran horror film marathons designed to scare us senseless.
Then we had the mid-term elections. That scared us even more. I am sure, however, that was not the original intent.
According to a recent blog I read about the subject of fearsome films, Hollywood has built an industry out of the horror genre. Filmmakers apparently know a lot about how to terrify us.
We must like being frightened, because we have been paying good money to allow them to scare us out of our wits for decades.
Although film fright started with boogeymen and monsters like "Dracula," starring Lon Chaney Jr., and "Frankenstein," with Boris Karloff, it did not take long for the movie moguls to discover techniques that were more sophisticated to instill maximum fear.
In the heyday of Chaney and Karloff, special effects that would be laughable by today's standards chilled the blood that ran through the veins of their avid fans.
Over the years, Hollywood has managed to produce a film for just about every phobia known to mankind. As a result, the American moviegoer is "phobiaphobic," if there could be such a thing.
Some of the more memorable examples include coulrophobia, the fear of clowns, in movies such as "It," a Stephen King film starring Tim Curry. Then there was dentophobia, the fear of dentists, as in "Marathon Man," starring Dustin Hoffman and Roy Scheider.
When discussing phobic films, it would be criminal not to mention the most fearsome phobia of all, selachophobia, which is the fear of sharks, as in "Jaws." The classic Steven Spielberg film again starred Scheider, along with Richard Dreyfuss.
Some of the phobias that are lesser known such as ephebiphobia, or fear of youth and adolescents, still played an important role in Hollywood's quest for true horror. "Children of the Corn," "The Omen" and "The Exorcist" filled the bill quite nicely.
I would think that life itself would be enough to give many parents ephebiphobia, especially if the term includes teenagers.
If we want to go to the extreme, we must also mention paraskavedekatriaphobia, which is the fear of Friday the 13th. I did not make that up; it is a real term. "Jason" fans will attest to it.
I cannot help but wonder why there is not a phobia for fear of politicians. That could be a blockbuster. People who fear charismatic self-promoters that can mesmerize millions at a time with empty, outlandish promises would make formidable audiences.
However, when I stop and think about the subject seriously, people do not fear politicians – they like them. They should fear them, but for the most part, they embrace them.
Most people enjoy the fear that these individuals bring into their lives. Vote a good politician into office and it won't be long before you'll have real fear to consider.
The country fears unemployment, lack of health care, lack of retirement funds, and loss of homes. That's first-class fear. For some unknown reason, we like to wallow in it.
We must, because we keep voting the same kind of people into office. An inspired politician learns about the sensitive issues, and then makes promises to put those at the top of the agenda if elected into office. If the candidate is reasonably attractive, and has a magnetic personality, that person is elected.
Whether candidates have so much as a modicum of expertise in government matters is of little consequence. They only have to be popular and make people believe that there is hope if they are elected.
Even that is not the most diffi cult thing to understand. People do not realize they like living in fear or they would not elect the unqualified.
Nonetheless, if we are to believe statistics, 61 percent of the American work force hates their job. Yet, unemployment is at the top of the list of things most feared.
Granted, we have to work to make a living. Whether we like our jobs is another matter. But let's face it; Americans love to complain. If unemployment is high, we can complain. If we are employed, we can complain about our jobs.
I believe that most Americans fear they won't have anything to complain about. When we compare our standard of living with the rest of the world, we have no right to complain.
Perhaps fear of embracing happiness plays a larger part than we realize in this system we can't understand.