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CHAMPIONS LEAGUE LIVE: Manchester United 1 Real Madrid 2 - as it happened from Old Trafford
Live scores
Champions League last 16 - second leg
Borussia Dortmund 3-0 Shakhtar (agg 5-2)
Man Utd 1-2 Real Madrid (agg 2-3)
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Follow Sportsmail's coverage of the Champions League as Manchester United host Real Madrid at Old Trafford in the second leg of their last 16 clash.
The first match at the Bernabeu ended 1-1 to hand Sir Alex Ferguson's side a priceless away goal, and ensured that the Premier League leaders need only a win or a goalless draw on home soil to progress to the quarter-finals at the expense of Jose Mourinho's outfit.
In the night's other last 16 tie, Borussia Dortmund also hold an away goals advantage as they host Shakhtar Donetsk at the Signal Iduna Park.
The German champions drew 2-2 at the Donbass Arena and will now be favourites to reach the last eight.
Send me your thoughts on the action at firstname.lastname@example.com or via Twitter @Ripinho.
21.47: Well that's all from me here. Thanks for following but remember to check back tomorrow evening as Celtic travel to Juventus and David Beckham's Paris Saint-Germain take on Valencia in the Champions League. Cheerio.
21.44: In the other game, Borussia Dortmund recorded a comforatble 3-0 victory (agg 5-2) over Shakhtar and they will join Madrid in the quarter-finals.
21.41: Madrid boss Jose Mourinho has just told ITV 'that the best team lost'. In case you didn't hear it the first time, he said it twice. The Portuguese manager was already on his way down the tunnel before the end of the game in injury time by the way.
21.38: Bitter scenes at the final whistle. The United fans let out a chorus of heavy boos, but it's not for their side (who gave it their best shot), but for referee Cuneyt Cakir whose baffling red card decision has arguably cost United dear this evening.
Rio Ferdinand showed his displeasure to the match official by sarcastically clapping in his face after the game.
Uneasy meeting: Rio Ferdinand approaches the match officials at the end of the game
Full-time: Manchester United 1-2 Real Madrid (agg 2-3)
90+3min: From Sportsmail's Neil Ashton at Old Trafford:
'Mourinho cannot believe there is five minutes of added time. Looks in disgust at the digital display, then sits down.'
90+2min: Yet another amazing save from Lopez! From a corner, Vidic heads powerfully on target but the keeper reacts like a cat to punch the ball to safety.
United should have a penalty moments later after Evra is fouled by Ramos but nothing is given - The Red Devils really have suffered at the hands of the officials this evening.
Down and out: Ryan Giggs looks on from the Old Trafford turf
90+1min: There will be five added minutes as De Gea makes a fantastic stop to deny Ronaldo in a one-on-one opportunity. Pepe is booked for Madrid.
88min: And a chance for Madrid! Kaka's near post shot takes a deflection before clattering off the woodwork and De Gea's back, but the Spaniard recovers to prevent the ball from crawling over the line.
87min: Change for United as Antonio Valencia replaces Rafael - time is running out for the hosts.
84min: It's just not happening for United! Seconds after Lopez's shoulder denies Van Persie from point blank range, the ball finds its way back into the visitor's box where Rooney volleys over from a few yards out.
Late change: Wayne Rooney replaces Tom Cleverley for Manchester United
83min: Great save from Lopez! Following a short corner, Giggs whips a cross into the near post where Carrick's header is well kept out by the Madrid keeper.
81min: Welbeck's day is done as he is replaced by Ashley Young.
79min: Half-chance for United, Welbeck, who has had a cracking game, picks up the ball inside the box but his powerful strike is blocked by the arm of Ramos. Far too little distance between the two players to suggest a penalty kick though.
Talking tactics: Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho barks orders at his Real Madrid side
76min: From Sportsmail's Ian Ladyman at Old Trafford:
'This is tough on United. It's hard to get away from the fact that the sending off has changed the game. It has to be said, though, that United have not made a particularly good job of playing with ten. They have seemed to panic a little. More than 15 minutes still left, though, and Rooney has just come on. It ain't over yet….'
73min: As Kaka and Carrick are booked, Wayne Rooney replaces Cleverley.
71min: A change for Madrid as Pepe replaces Ozil.
Spurred on: Luka Modric equalised for Real Madrid
Edging ahead: Cristiano Ronaldo refused to celebrate after scoring for Real Madrid
69min: GOAL! Manchester United 1-2 REAL MADRID (agg 2-3)
If only we were heading for extra-time. Higuain crosses low along the six-yard box and at the back post is Cristiano Ronaldo who pokes home. The winger keeps his celebration mute, but United now need two goals to progress.
66min: GOAL! Manchester United 1-1 REAL MADRID (agg 2-2)
As it stands we are heading for extra-time. Luka Modric collects a pass from Ronaldo 25 yards out, before moving a couple of yards to the right and unleashing a wonderful strike past De Gea, off the post and into the net. Superb effort.
65min: From InfostradaLive:
Manchester United have won their last four CL matches in which one of their players was sent off #mufc #Realmadrid
64min: From former referee and Sportsmail's Graham Poll:
'Rafael stopped the equaliser with his arm and should have joined Nani in the 'early bath'
The penalty which followed could have levelled the score. MU can look at the dismissal of Nani and blame the ref bit it could have been so much worse there.'
63min: Meanwhile it's 3-0 to Dortmund now after Jakub Blaszczykowski finishes from close range.
62min: It's all Madrid now as Rafael saves off the line from Higuain's close range header - it appeared to come off his arm but United survive for now.
Encourage: Sir Alex Ferguson urges the Manchester United fans to make more noise
60min: From former referee and Sportsmail's Graham Poll:
'Wow! That is a shock. I expected a yellow card as the foot was high. For me that is an incorrect and very important card. He'll have been certain or he wouldn't have shown it!'
59min: Arbeloa for the record has had to go off injured with former Tottenham midfielder Luka Modric replacing him.
Ferguson is now waving the Old Trafford crowd to raise their voices and they are certainly doing that - they are heavily booing every Madrid touch.
57min: I was expecting a booking but this seems very harsh. Nani raises a high foot challenging for a loose ball, but he was far from malicious as he made contact with Arbeloa. The referee thinks otherwise though and gives him a straight red card. Sir Alex Ferguson is absolutely furious.
Seeing red: Nani was controversially sent off for United
56min: RED CARD (Nani, Manchester United)
53min: And the Madrid threat is there. Higuain delivers a brilliant low cross into the six-yard box from out wide, but it ends up evading everyone as it fizzes away to safety.
50min: That doesn't change much for Madrid by the way. They still need just one goal but it's now to force extra-time rather than win in 90 minutes.
United lead: Sergio Ramos diverted the ball into his own net
48min: GOAL! MANCHESTER UNITED 1-0 Real Madrid
Old Trafford is rocking now. After Welbeck and Van Persie are denied by desperate defending from close range, the ball falls for Nani at the far post, whose low cross is deflected by Welbeck on to Sergio Ramos and into his own goal.
46min: From Gary Lineker on Twitter:
Terrific first half from Welbeck. Just needs to add goals to his game and he'll be a superb player.
Second-half: Away we go again at Old Trafford.
Making the tackle: United's Ryan Giggs challenges Madrid's Ronaldo
20.41: One side who look on their way to the quarter-finals are Borussia Dortmund who are 2-0 up and cruising at home to Shakhtar.
As it stands the Ukrainian outfit need two goals to force extra-time but they will have to improve first after being outplayed by the German champions in the first half.
20.38: From former referee and Sportsmail's Graham Poll:
Half time and Cakir has performed well although it has not been a huge test. A few people have text me to say that the Real Madrid goalkeeper kit looks quite similar to the outfield players.
The referee will have had all kits presented at the security meeting at 10am this morning and I expect they look very different live than on TV. They are both dark though.
Ball to hand: Vidic heads over the bar for United, before taking an accidental punch from Lopez
20.35: So far so good for United who as it stands will progress to the quarter-finals on away goals. The hosts have defended well in the first 45 minutes but you sense there is more to come from Real Madrid yet.
20.32: From Sportsmail's Neil Ashton at Old Trafford:
'Mourinho walks down the tunnel to wait for his team… bizarre moment at the end of the first half. Suspect he wants a word with Di Maria, who just appeared to give up before Mourinho made the call to sub him.'
Half-time: Manchester United 0-0 Real Madrid
45min: That's not a bad option to call from the bench. Di Maria is off but the Spanish side send Kaka on in his place.
42min: We were worried about Cleverley picking up an injury earlier in the game, but while the United midfielder has recovered from his knock it's now Madrid with injury concerns.
Di Maria is already on his way down the tunnel as the visitors prepare a change.
39min: Another goal in Dortmund and the home side are running the show as Mario Gotze turns home a cross from Robert Lewandowski.
Ruled out: Real Madrid had the ball in the net but the strike was ruled out after Sergio Ramos (left) was adjudged to have fouled Manchester United's Robin Van Perise
37min: Seconds after Rafael goes down a little too easily under pressure from Ramos inside the Madrid box, Alvaro Arbeloa is booked for a clumsy foul on Evra - the full-back has only himself to blame following his poor control of a pass which saw him trap the ball further than I can kick it.
35min: It may be 0-0 but this game is coming to the boil nicely. Van Persie forces Lopez to parry a shot straight to Welbeck, before the Spaniard makes a recovery to deflect the striker's rebound over. Either way the 31-year-old looks far from comfortable between the Madrid sticks.
32min: There's been a goal in Dortmund as Felipe Santana has given the hosts the lead through a powerful header against Shakhtar.
Blocked on the line: Madrid keeper Diego Lopez saves from Danny Welbeck
31min: Real Madrid are starting to come back into this game but have still yet to force a save from David De Gea. Higuain crosses low across goal for Ronaldo but Michael Carrick makes a vital block to only concede a corner.
29min: From Usain Bolt on Twitter:
'Lets do this my team #MUFC'
28min: Old Trafford gasps a sigh of relief. A long ball over the top finds an unmarked Ronaldo inside the area but Vidic gets across goal very well to block the Portuguese's eventual shot.
On the bench: Wayne Rooney (front) warms up for Manchester United
25min: Still United apply the pressure. Sergio Ramos blocks Welbeck's shot behind for a corner, before Nani's delivery to the far post is miscued by Van Persie trying an acrobatic volley.
22min: Graham Poll has more on Evra's booking:
'Evra knew exactly what he was doing and was rightly cautioned. He didn't help himself by kicking the ball away two minutes before after conceding a needless foul.'
21min: How are United not in front?! From a corner, Nemanja Vidic crashes a header against the post, and after Welbeck does well to react quickly and turn the rebound towards goal, he can only kick it straight at Diego Lopez's groin. It's just as well the Madrid keeper saved it as Welbeck was well offside there, but no flag was raised.
On the chase: United's Rafael (right) attempts to put pressure on Madrid's Ronaldo
19min: Our first booking of the game as Patrice Evra is cautioned for pulling down Angel Di Maria.
18min: United are starting to get on top now as Danny Welbeck threads through Nani on the left. The winger manages to use his quick pace to get to the byline but his cross is deflected behind for a corner.
16min: From former referee and Sportsmail's Graham Poll:
'Very quiet first 15 minutes – Cakir been spot on with all decisions. He'll be pleased with the start but aware that one error could change everything.'
Centre of attention: England boss Roy Hodgson was at Old Trafford
15min: Much better from United. Ryan Giggs plays a fantastic cross to Van Persie at the far post, but the striker at a difficult angle to goal sees his volley deflect off a defender and wide.
13min: Finally United are coming into this game as they win their first corner, Van Persie's delivery is cleared however and the visitors survive.
11min: Now that is a chance. Mesut Ozil plays a pass to Gonzalo Higuain on the edge of the box, but after making a yard of space, the Argentine shoots wide for Madrid.
Heads up: Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo (left) and Manchester United's Rafael contest a header
10min: No clear chances in the first 10 minutes but United have a minor injury concern here as Tom Cleverley has gone down following a 50/50 challenge on the ball with Ronaldo.
The midfielder is back up to his feet but is limping - let's hope he can run it off.
9min: From former referee and Sportsmail's Graham Poll:
Cakir is a referee known to dish out plenty of cards but seems nice and relaxed tonight.
No automatic card for early handball and not even a word with Giggs after heavy foul.
Good start.
7min: Don't forget folks, a 0-0 draw would see United go through so the emphasis is on Madrid to attack.
That's exactly what the Spanish side are doing as they win a corner, but United clear the set-piece delivered to the near post.
6min: From Sportsmail's Neil Ashton at Old Trafford:
'Old Trafford stands to applaud Ronaldo, incredible reception when his name was read out moments before kick off.
'England manager Roy Hodgson due here this evening. Not spotted him yet. Interesting that Rio Ferdinand can get a game for Manchester United against Real Madrid, but not for the national team against San Marino this month.'
4min: Free-kick to Madrid near the left of the penalty box, but as Cristiano Ronaldo stands over the ball for what seems like an eternity, he blasts his effort into the wall.
3min: We are underway at Dortmund too as Real Madrid boss the early possession at Old Trafford.
Kick-off: Away we go at Old Trafford.
Behind the team: Rory McIlroy showed his support for Manchester United before the game
19.43: The players are out. Real Madrid are in their green kit tonight as their white shirts apparently clash with United's white shorts.
19.40: It's a big evening for Cristiano Ronaldo on his return to Manchester United and to follow the forward's progress more deeply in this game, may I point you towards Declan Warrington who will be on Ronaldo watch this evening.
19.37: For the record, Roy Keane has told ITV he thinks Rooney's exclusion could be more than just tactical. The former Manchester United midfielder has gone one step further and suggested that the writing could be on the wall as far as the striker's Old Trafford career is concerned.
Keane said: 'Whatever the reasons are, it is a big blow for Wayne. Maybe he'll think the writing is on the wall for him.'
19.34: The word going around Old Trafford is that Tottenham's Gareth Bale is at the stadium this evening to watch this clash.
There is one (very) blurry picture of the Welsh wizard to help back this up, but what do we make of that Spurs fans?
Is he plotting his next move in the summer or just in town to watch arguably the biggest match in Europe this week.
19.31: Sir Alex Ferguson spoke to ITV before the game on why he has left out Wayne Rooney:
The qualities of Madrid. We tried to do something in the first game and Xabi Alonso controls the game, Danny Welbeck is the best at helping control Madrid and help Van Persie. Wayne Rooney needs a game or two to be honest, but he'll probably come on the second half & win it for us'
Familiar turf: Cristiano Ronaldo warms up at Old Trafford before the game
19.28: From Sportsmail's Neil Ashton at Old Trafford:
Real Madrid supporters singing for Mourinho, there are about 2,000 in the seats already. Pretty raucous bunch.
19.26: From Manchester United midfielder, Nani on Twitter:
'Ready for the game.'
19.24: Yellow card watch: Two United players are one booking away from a one-match suspension in Rafael and Robin van Persie, while Xabi Alonso and Sergio Ramos are also one caution away from having to sit on the sidelines for their next European match.
Warm welcome: A young United fan greets Cristiano Ronaldo's return
19.21: From Sportsmail's Chris Wheeler at Old Trafford:
'A big cheer from the visiting Spanish fans as Real's goalkeepers come out to warm up at their end of the stadium. Still digesting the news of Wayne Rooney's omission from United's starting line-up. Huge call that by Sir Alex Ferguson.'
19.18: Time for a quick change of focus - here are the teams from tonight's other last 16 tie at the Signal Iduna Park:
Borussia Dortmund v Shakhtar Donetsk
Borussia Dortmund: Weidenfeller, Piszczek, Subotic, Felipe Santana, Schmelzer, Gundogan, Bender, Blaszczykowski, Gotze, Reus, Lewandowski. Subs: Langerak, Kehl, Leitner, Sahin, Grosskreutz, Schieber, Bittencourt.
Shakhtar Donetsk: Pyatov, Srna, Rakitskiy, Kucher, Rat, Fernandinho, Hubschman, Alex Teixeira, Mkhitaryan, Taison, Luiz Adriano. Subs: Kanibolotskiy, Stepanenko, Eduardo, Kobin, Gai, Douglas Costa, Kryvtsov.
Referee: Damir Skomina (Slovenia)
19.13: From Coleen Rooney on Twitter:
'Can't believe @WayneRooney isn't starting tonight!!!'
Inspiration for Rooney: David Beckham came off the bench to score twice for United against Madrid in 2003
19.10: The big games require the big names but I doubt many of you will be familiar with tonight's referee.
John Terry and Chelsea fans certainly will but in case you're still a little puzzled, let former referee and Sportsmail's Graham Poll give you the lowdown on Cuneyt Cakir.
19.07: Wayne Rooney is sensationally left out of the Manchester United starting line-up to face Real Madrid this evening.
It had been anticipated Sir Alex Ferguson would only tinker with his starting line-up from the Bernabeu three weeks ago.
Instead there are four changes, with
Ryan Giggs handed his 1000th senior game, and Nani, Tom Cleverley and
skipper Nemanja Vidic also included.
It means there are no places for Jonny Evans, injured Phil Jones and Saturday's hat-trick hero Shinji Kagawa.
However, the absence of Rooney is the
biggest bombshell after his return to first-team duties against Norwich
at the weekend following a sinus infection.
19.02: Full line-ups from Old Trafford:
Man Utd v Real Madrid
Man Utd: De Gea, Rafael, Vidic, Ferdinand, Evra, Carrick, Cleverley, Nani, Welbeck, Giggs, van Persie. Subs: Lindegaard, Evans, Valencia, Rooney, Hernandez, Young, Kagawa.
Real Madrid: Diego Lopez, Arbeloa, Varane, Sergio Ramos, Fabio Coentrao, Khedira, Alonso, Di Maria, Ozil, Ronaldo, Higuain. Subs: Adan, Pepe, Kaka, Benzema, Albiol, Modric, Callejon.
Referee: Cuneyt Cakir (Turkey)
All smiles: Real Madrid fans gather outside of Old Trafford
18.59: An interesting little statistic from OptaJoe concerning Wayne Rooney's omission. Maybe there is a method in the madness of dropping him:
8 - Wayne Rooney's last eight CL goals have come away from Old Trafford. He last scored there almost 3 years ago (10/3/2010). Gap.
18.56: From Gary Neville on Twitter:
Manchester is alive !! Can't wait for this tonight!
18.53: From Gary Lineker on Twitter:
'Congratulations to Ryan Giggs on his 1000th senior appearance. A remarkable achievement!'
18.50: Of course leaving out Rooney was suggested by Sportsmail's Ian Ladyman yesterday. Either way this is an almighty gamble by Fergie. Still from what I have head, this Robin van Persie chap is not a bad striker to lead the line...
Special one: Jose Mourinho arrives at Old Trafford
18.47: From Sportsmail's Chris Wheeler at Old Trafford:
'The pitch looks in better condition but by all accounts the players still find it very bobbly. Can't help feeling that for once it will suit United more than their opponents tonight.
'Three days ago we were sat here waiting for United v Norwich to kick off. I'm sure there are similarities between the two games, but I really can't think of any at the moment.'
18.44: So no Wayne Rooney in the United XI - but he is on the bench. There are shades of Ferguson dropping David Beckham for the 2003 clash there, I just hope United don't regret it like they did 10 years ago.
Meanwhile Ryan Giggs will of course makes his 1000th senior appearance tonight.
18.41: Real Madrid starting XI:
D. Lopez, Arbeloa, Varane, S. Ramos, Coentrao, Alonso, Khedira, Di Maria, Ozil, Ronaldo, Higuain.
18.38: Manchester United starting XI:
De Gea, Rafael, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Carrick, Cleverley, Nani, Welbeck, Giggs, Van Persie.
18.35: As you can see below, there are loads of items on sale outside the ground to celebrate the return of Cristiano Ronaldo, while a few Manchester United fans have dusted off some old scarves and flags from the past to welcome back CR7 this evening - great to see.
18.30: United may have the advantage with the away goal this evening, but who has the edge in terms of talent on the pitch? Sportsmail's Spanish football expert Pete Jenson rates both teams heading in to tonight's tie.
Welcome back: Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo arrives at Old Trafford
18.25: From Sportsmail's Neil Ashton at Old Trafford:
'Patrick Vieira patiently waiting at the side of the pitch for a TV interview. Still looks like he's in good enough shape to play. He'd love a game like this.'
18.20: From OptaJoe:
13 - Since losing 1-0 to Milan in Feb 2005, Man Utd have won 13 and drawn one of their 14 CL knockout games at Old Trafford. Dreamy.
18.15: From Sportsmail's Chris Wheeler at Old Trafford:
'Old Trafford is still practically empty apart from the television crews along the touchline but there is a real sense of occasion about this one. The old stadium has seen some great nights and let's hope this is another.
'The first groups of Real Madrid fans are allowed into the stadium and their signing temporarily drowns out The Universal by Blur. Yes it really really really could happen...'
Welcome back Ron: Manchester United fans arrive at Old Trafford ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo's return
18.10: This game is a big enough sell on Manchester United v Real Madrid alone but let's not forget this is the latest chapter in the battle between Sir Alex Ferguson and Jose Mourinho.
The latter has promised no glory runs down the touchline if his side come out on top tonight, but to get you in the mood here are five classics between two of the game's finest managers.
18.05: From Sportsmail's Neil Ashton at Old Trafford:
'Manchester United team bus arrives at Old Trafford, hundreds of fans already here to welcome the players.'
18.00: The only big shame about this tie is it is happening in the last 16 - many would argue that this is worthy of being a final and that's not just based on the size and history these clubs represent.
These two often have delivered on the entertainment front as well. Ronaldo (the Brazilian one) stole the show for Madrid on their last Old Trafford visit in 2003, but for me I still have great memories of that outrageous piece of skill Fernando Redondo used on Henning Berg to help the Spanish club defeat Sir Alex Ferguson's men in 2000. Genius.
Special Guest: Diego Maradona checks in to a Manchester hotel ahead of the match at Old Trafford tonight
Great Dane: Former United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel arrives at the Lowry Hotel
Big night: Sir Alex Ferguson (left) and Rio
Ferdinand arrive at the Lowry Hotel in Manchester city centre this
afternoon ahead of the big Champions League match with Real Madrid
17.50: We are still waiting for the official team news to drop for the 7.45pm kick-off but I can ensure you as soon as we get them, we will have them posted to you as soon as possible - that goes for the clash at Dortmund too.
17.40: As you can see from the pictures below, Manchester has been buzzing all day - and it's not just the locals. Madrid fans who have flown over for this tie have also been in the party spirit on what has been a pleasantly warm day over the majority of these shores.
17.30: 'The world will stop to watch this tie' according to Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho and if they are not following this last 16 clash they better have a good reason as to why!
It's a European classic as Manchester United host Real Madrid, and tonight one is going to the quarter-finals of the Champions League and one is heading for a miserable exit. It's going to be a very eventful evening.
Here in force: Real Madrid fans singing in Manchester city centre this afternoon in anticipation of the Champions League showdown
Countdown to kick-off: Spanish fans - and a few United ones - taking advantage of the Manchester hostelries
Three amigos: Real fans with some colourful and patriotic headgear in Manchester this afternoon
Skills: These fans were kept entertained by a football-playing dog known as Ronaldo
Snapshot: These Madrid fans met the local police... but only to get a souvenir photograph
Marked man: Manchester United will be out to stop former Red Devil, Cristiano Ronaldo (left)
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The Cajuns and Trojans Helped ME Make College Basketball History – From the Bird's Nest
Thursday night's game between Louisiana and Arkansas-Little Rock was one for the record books. But I don't think anyone keeps these kind of records. More on that in a bit.
If you are a college basketball fan and didn't enjoy the heck out of last night's game, shame on you. Now, it wasn't perfect by any stretch. But boy, it was fun.
Officiating notwithstanding, we saw some very good talent...some clutch playing...a tough injury...a gutty performance...and two very good coaches (who happen to be close friends) play a game that was tantamount to a chess match.
That's when in this game of chess, Cajuns' senior Bryant Mbamalu played like a king.
The Ragin' Cajuns wound up winning the game, 93-85 in double overtime. Louisiana led the game by as many as nineteen points in the first half as the Cajuns executed Marlin's game plan. When Shawn Long went to the bench with two fouls in three minutes, Marlin made an adjustment that got UALR on its heels. But Shields countered to cut the lead to 12 at halftime and then made more adjustments in the locker room. Defensively, the Trojans played a lot of zone which made it difficult for the Cajuns to penetrate and get to the rim. UALR forced three shot clock violations. They rotated all five players in tight and dared the Cajuns to shoot it from the outside.
Marlin countered by making an adjustment which allowed Payton the opportunity to penetrate, thinking more often than not, he'd get fouled. And, that worked well enough, even though Payton only hit 7-14 free throws.
UALR was able to stay in the game despite missing leading scorer Will Neighbour and senior Leroy Isler. The Trojans also lost Montreal native Keme Osse who tore a patella tendon in the first half.
Josh Hagins and Payton dueled in the second half. Payton blocked several of Hagins' shots, and held the sophomore from Bossier City to just 8-24 shooting. But Hagins made several clutch baskets, and hit two free throws in the final seconds of the first overtime to set up the second extra period.
That's when in this game of chess, Cajuns' senior Bryant Mbamalu played like a king.
The Houston native, who missed the first twelve games of the season with an injury, scored seven points, grabbed three rebounds and nabbed a steal...all in the final five minutes. The catalyst was an offensive rebound on a shot that did not hit the rim and a putback with :01 on the shot clock which gave the Cajuns the lead for good.
The Cajuns missed 15 free throws in the game. Yet they shot 68.8% because they shot
And, that's where I get into the history books.
48 free throws. The Trojans were whistled for 31 fouls. UALR, already missing four scholarship players (including J. T. Thomas who did not make the trip) had five players foul out of the game.
Steve Shields, with ten seconds left, had no one to put in the game. And, the Trojans played those ten seconds with only four players.
And, that's where I get into the history books.
I have called play by play when a team had six players on the court at the end of the game (WKU two years ago) and four on the court (last night.) I'm thinking there may not be another Division I broadcaster who has experienced that.
After all these years, I'm finally famous.


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David Villa returns to fold as Messi's partner
David Villa returns to fold as Messi's partner
Apr. 11, 2013
BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — Not so long ago, David Villa spent more time watching Lionel Messi lead Barcelona to victory than doing his part to help.
Then came his decisive goal against AC Milan, and now Wednesday's clever back-heeled pass to set up Pedro Rodriguez for the decisive goal against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League quarterfinals.
Almost lost in between Messi going on as a substitute on a sore right leg and Pedro's pinpoint strike was Villa's savvy, split-second decision to tap Messi's pass to Pedro.
That touch of quality proved to be just as critical to Barcelona's quest for a fourth European title in eight seasons as Villa's curling strike to turn the previous series against Milan in Barcelona's favor last month.
After Wednesday's match, Villa joined in the praise being heaped on Messi for sparking Barcelona to life while still not fully recovered from his right hamstring injury after PSG forward Javier Pastore had scored.
Messi had only been cleared to play by team doctors an hour before kickoff, and Barcelona didn't start him hoping they could cope without the four-time world player of the year.
"Leo is the best player in the world and on our team," Villa said. "Messi changes everything by just being on the field. I want to thank him for the gesture of commitment he showed to the team, the club, and football in general."
Pedro's goal from the passing combination by Messi and Villa put Barcelona through on away goals.
Villa is Spain's all-time leading scorer, but the 31-year-old striker had struggled to reclaim his spot in Barcelona's starting lineup after returning from long layoff following a broken shin bone. There was even speculation that he might seek a transfer during in January.
All that has changed in less than three months.
Villa has gone from getting most of his minutes as a reserve or in the Copa del Rey to being a fixed starter as Barcelona makes its way to the Spanish league title and prepares for the Champions League semifinals.
The most telling shift has been his on-the field connection with Messi. Last September, Messi vented his frustration with Villa for not passing him the ball quickly enough during a game.
Fast forward to Feb. 23 after Villa and Messi had both scored to rally Barcelona to a 2-1 win over Sevilla. Messi said that Villa's presence as a second clear scoring threat for the defense to take into account "opened up spaces" for him to exploit.
Then came Villa's 55th-minute curling strike on March 3 to tilt the series against Milan in Barcelona's favor after Messi had started the comeback by scoring twice. Barcelona went on to win the game 4-0, becoming the first team to overcome a 2-0 first-leg defeat in the Champions League.
Five days later against Rayo Vallecano, Villa scored from a pass by Messi before returning the favor and then some by setting up Messi to net two more in a 3-1 victory.
Barcelona, which leads the Spanish league by 13 points over Real Madrid, will know its next rival in the Champions League on Friday. Madrid and German pair Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund are the other semifinalists.
"We're very happy, after having suffered so much we know that that's also a way to win," Villa said. "The other three semifinalists are all very tough teams. We'll fight as hard as possible against whichever one we are drawn against."


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PiCL design and deliver creative learning projects and programmes in businesses, schools and communities.
Our mission is to facilitate learning with all that we work with, using creative tools and techniques, exciting and fresh collaborations and designing activity that really does make a positive change, on a personal, organisational and academic level.
So, if you're looking to try a new approach and make a difference in your bit of the world, get in touch. We'd love to chat it through and see how we can use our experience and expertise to help you realise your ambition.
An interactive exhibition In the Intu Potteries Shopping Centre exploring the big questions and the space between the truth and what we believe to be true. Alongside being open to the public on Thursday and Saturdays, the shop was open for previews, workshops and networking events.


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Large Orchids (Export Grade)
High Quality Export Grade Cymbidium Orchids
Super long lasting orchids will delight Mum for sure! These Orchids are large stems with appx 6-7 blooms per stem and are of export quality. Due to the seasonal nature of colour, and the wonderful assortment to choose from, we will send the most pretty colour available. Select from 3 sizes!


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Category Archives: software
Wabbitemu TI Calculator Emulator
Wabbitemu TI Calculator Emulator Developed By Spencer Putt, Chris Shappell, and James Montelongo For Windows and Mac OS X and Android From the project site: Wabbitemu – An accurate emulator/debugger for the TI-73, TI-81, TI-82, TI-83, TI-83+(SE), TI-84+(SE), TI-84+CSE, TI-85, … Continue reading
Posted in software Tagged Android, calculators, computations, computer, emulator, mathematics, OS X, software, TI, windows Leave a comment
Excel: Primitive Bar Graph and Roman Numerals
Excel has a repeat function called REPT that will repeat a text character any number of times. It's format is REPT(TEXT, Value) where Value is the number of times that TEXT is repeated. You can use "i", "o", "-", or any other letters/symbols … Continue reading
Posted in Excel, software Tagged computations, Excel, software Leave a comment
Excel Tip: Convert Number to Text
Here are four basic ways to convert a number in a cell to text. Method (1) Format Cells 1) Right click cell(s) of interest and click on "Format Cells…" 2) Under the Number tab Choose Text as your Category Method (2) Text function … Continue reading
How Do I Average In Excel?
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LEAP Bridge Enterprise Release V12.01.00
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Mathcad Express
PTC has announced the release of Mathcad Express. They "Mathcad Express is a free version of Mathcad that allows any user to utilize some selected features of Mathcad Prime 2.0, for an unlimited time." "Mathcad Express does include the … Continue reading
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Blender 2.62 Relased
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RISA News has published an article on why plate meshing is important. Basic understanding proper plate meshing is required to get reliable results on or Finite Element Mesh. Without proper meshing of plates, inaccurate results are sure to follow. Their … Continue reading
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How to Append or Merge Multiple Models Together in RISA-3D
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New Release LEAP Bridge V11.00.00
Leap Bridge has released V11.00.00. For list of enhancements and additions visit their product update page LEAP Bridge V8i Enterprise is a consolidation of all configurations of LEAP Bridge (i.e. LB Suite, LB Precast and LB Cast-in-Place). This single executable … Continue reading
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Mark and Stacy ❘ Same Day Edit
Mark and Stacy: Same Day Edit from DREAMECHANICS by Teej & Melanie on Vimeo.
Congratulations to the beautiful couple Stacy Falcon Ocampo and Mark Ocampo. Thank you for letting us be part of your special day. You two are already blessed, but we wish you continued blessings and a lifetime of joy together. 12.28.11
Preparation and Reception: Velada Estate, Antipolo
Wedding Ceremony: St. Arnold Janssen Shrine Parish


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3 Alcohol and Drug Rehab Centers in Upland, CaliforniaCall: 800-959-6280
Located on the foothills of the majestic San Gabriel Mountains, sits the town of Upland, California. This thriving community is far enough away from the hustle and bustle of life in the big city that those looking to recover from a substance abuse problem can find the peace and quiet they need to refocus and live a life of sobriety.
In addition to its beautiful scenic views, Upland has a number of valuable resources that can help those suffering from substance abuse problems. Whether looking for a residential rehabilitation program or a support group, Upland has the resources you need.
Airport Information for Upland
Upland is only 5 miles away from LA/Ontario International Airport. When family or friends come to visit the area, it will take just a matter of minutes to drive home from the airport due to its close proximity.
Several major carriers including Southwest and Delta have multiple daily flights into and out of LA/Ontario International Airport. The flights connect to major cities all across the United States.
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Upland weather is extremely dry. In fact, many consider the conditions to be semi-arid as very little rainfall occurs during the summer months. Most of the rainfall that does happen occurs during the winter months of January and February. The yearly rainfall for the area is approximately 17 inches.
The city's close proximity to the mountains helps the area avoid extreme temperatures throughout the year. Summer months typically experience temperatures around 80 to 90 degrees with some days reaching into the 100s. The temperatures during the winter months are calmer and cooler. The average winter temperature is approximately 55 degrees.
Drug Abuse Information/Rehabilitation Center
Upland's recovery programs are ideal for anyone who is looking for inpatient treatment with the opportunity to help transition back into the community. The area has three rehabilitation centers which offer services that range from inpatient treatment, outpatient counseling, and day treatment programs.
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Transitioning back into the community can often be overwhelming. Inland Valley Recovery Services – Upland Recovery Center offers a number of resources that can help individuals find the tools and resources needed to live a healthy, independent life filled with sobriety. Resources that are available at this rehabilitation center include outpatient counseling, support groups, and partial hospitalization or work programs.
Lodging in Upland
Lodging located directly in the city of Upland is extremely limited. There is a Super 8 Motel and the GuestHouse Hotel & Suites Upland. Each of these hotels and motels provides comfortable accommodations that are perfect for out of town guests.
Other hotel and motel options, including Best Western and Hampton Inn, are available in nearby Ontario. Ontario has a more diverse selection of hotels to choose from and it is only a short 5 minute drive away from Upland.
Employment Opportunities in Upland
Employment opportunities in Upland are extremely diverse. Jobs may be available in education, retail, hospitality, government, healthcare or insurance. Some of the biggest employers to the area include Upland Unified School District, Target, Home Depot, The City of Upland, The Insurance Agency Network, and San Antonio Community Hospital.
New House Inc Residential Programs
- Residential beds for clients' children
- Court ordered addiction treatment
- ASL or other assistance for hearing impaired
- Addiction treatment for Christians
- Residential long-term inpatient treatment (60, 90, 120 days)
Inland Valley Drug and Alcohol Recovery Services/Men/Women/Children
- Dual diagnosis treatment (Persons with co-occurring mental and substance abuse disorders)
- Addiction treatment for pregnant/postpartum women
- Addiction treatment for women
- Addiction treatment for men
- Residential beds for clients' children
- Court ordered addiction treatment
- ASL or other assistance for hearing impaired
- Addiction treatment for Christians
- Residential short-term inpatient treatment (30 days or less)
- Residential long-term inpatient treatment (60, 90, 120 days)
Inland Valley Recovery Services Upland Recovery Center
- Adolescents (teen) addiction treatment
- Addiction treatment for pregnant/postpartum women
- Court ordered addiction treatment
- ASL or other assistance for hearing impaired
- Addiction treatment for Christians
- Outpatient counseling treatment
- Inpatient partial hospitalization/day treatment/work programs
- Holistic rehabilitation treatment, alternative treatment


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TI 32-mm glass transponders provide superior performance and operate at a resonance frequency of 134.2 kHz. Specific products are compliant to ISO 11784 and ISO 11785 global open standards. TI LF transponders are manufactured with TI's patented tuning process to provide consistent read and write performance. Before delivery, the transponders undergo complete functional and parametric testing to provide the high quality that customers have come to expect from TI. The transponder is well suited for use in a broad range of applications including, but not limited to, access control, vehicle identification, container tracking, asset management, and waste management applications.
shows the RI-TRP-DR2B transponder.


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From Hope King writing at CNN:
Snapchat thought it had found a way to have a little fun on Wednesday, April 20, with a Bob Marley themed graphic. But the company went a little too far, according to irate users online.
To acknowledge 4/20, known as "Weed Day," Snapchat created a special "lens" that morphed people's faces into Bob Marley, the late reggae icon.
The lens added dreadlocks, a crochet slouch cap, changed the shape of eyes and noses, and darkened skin color.
People flooded Twitter with accusations that Snapchat had created a blackface filter.
Read the rest of the story at CNN.


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Hello everyone,
I am going to graduate school at UIUC and I was thinking of making a road trip out of this as I do not know if I will get to explore and sightsee new areas any time soon when school starts. I was born and raised in San Jose and never really traveled much but this will be my first road trip that I am really considering.
I wanted some opinions on the best enjoyable route for a complete novice like me. To be honest, I was thinking of doing this on the fly (ex. Not booking my stays weeks in advance) and was wondering what you experienced folks think I should do? The one thing I am always worried about is the gaps between services and wondering if that is ever problem? Like there will services every several or seceral dozen miles or are there cases where I will not see services for 100's of miles? I am planning to go by myself and driving a 2014 Honda Civic.
I apologize but I started to buckle down and look at my options of travel so I do not have much info on the roadtrip.
Thank You!


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text: Scleroatrophic syndrome of Huriez is a rare congenital genodermatosis of autosomal dominant inheritance, characterized by scleroatrophy of the hands and feet, nail hypoplasia, palmoplantar keratoderma and hypohidrosis. This 16-year-old boy was born with mild PPK that slowly progressed and worsened alongwith the development of sclerodactyly and nail dystrophy. The development of aggressive squamous cell carcinoma of the affected skin is distinctive feature of the syndrome, occurring in >15% of affected individuals. SCC in Huriez syndrome is characterized by early onset, mostly in the third to fourth decade of life, and by early metastasis.


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Preview - Tutorial 35, "The Perfect Weapon"
A brief excerpt from Tutorial 35:
I'm going to approach the topic from the standpoint of someone who is starting with a completely blank page, an empty trailer. This individual wants to go racing, and wants to be as successful as possible with the least investment necessary. In my examples, I'm going to describe my thought process in that order: success is the top priority. We'll keep cost effectiveness in mind, but we'll assume that initial cost isn't a major concern. With that in mind, where does he or she begin?
I'll preface my thoughts by noting that I certainly realize what I'm characterizing is the perfect situation in a highly imperfect world. In reality, most of us are handcuffed to a particular racing vehicle or at least a genre of competition vehicles due to economic constraints, individual talents or preferences, sponsorship obligations, and in many instances an emotional bond to a machine that's been a part of the family, so to speak, or that we've invested countless hours of labor and love that can never be replaced. Believe me, I get that. But this column is going to look beyond that. If we truly had a blank page, what vehicle would give us the best tool for the job, and why?


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Views: 219, Replies: 0 » Jump to the end
Jan 11, 2016 1:14 PM CST
|This plant has been very neglected, but it seems to bloom regularly. This one has been left outside under an olive tree in weather as cold as 20 and high as 118. It has a drip on it that waters it once a week in summer and never in the winter because we get winter rains. I almost never look at it, and it's form is pretty ugly, but it flowers all the time. During it's lifetime it has both frozen and been sunburned. That's why it isn't nice and green like the other photos!
Handcrafted Coastal Inspired Art SeaMosaics!
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Lensrentals' blog has an article:
That talks about the equipment they got back damaged by heat during the eclipse. If the link gets removed, google
"LensRentals Rental Camera Gear Destroyed by the Solar Eclipse of 2017"
Everybody in this forum either knew what could happen or wasn't paying attention. There was abundant warning from several conspicuously knowledgeable contributors.
Yes, but the linked article has pictures of the actual damage.
Worse than this... while I was in Casper imaging the eclipse, one of the club members in my group spotted a guy nearby who was looking at the sun without solar glasses.
We had free solar glasses to give away (compliments of Google & NASA - many of us are invovled in outreach and they were keeping us supplied with glasses to give away). We told him to take a pair.
He told the club members (I wasn't nearby) that he was one of Stan Lee's real-life super-humans and that he believed his eyes could not be damaged by looking directly at the sun. He claimed he had been staring at the sun all morning and was not blind (apparently that was his confirmation that he had super-hero eyes.)
I am not a doctor and have no special training on the physiology of the eye. But as I like to do solar observing and do outreach to schools... I thought it would be a good idea to get educated on the sun & eye-safety (more than just "don't stare at the sun" - I wanted to understand the process and consequences from informed sources.)
There are no pain receptors in the back of your eyes. So as you destroy the retina cells, you wont feel it. But this process is a bit like getting a sun-burn. You don't experience the effects straight away... it sets in a few hours later and that's when you realize you over-did it. It can take 24-48 hours before the effects set in and usually the effects wont be apparent for at least 12 hours. You stare at the sun, think you're ok (you felt no pain) and can still see afterwards. Many hours later the damage starts to set in. The damaged area in the back of your eye begins to swell and your cornea can no longer produce a focused image on that area. Your vision might recover (or partially recover) -- or you might have permanent damage.
Anyone who thinks they may have stared at the sun too longer should seek medical attention.
This guy told us he had been looking at the sun for hours. We kept urging him to take the glasses... he refused. Once we explained the process.... (no pain recepters... and symptoms wont show up for hours and often 24-48 hours) he sort of had this "uh oh" look on his face and then left the area.
A person can get another camera. They can't really get another set of eyes. That was stupid and tragic.
Back on the topic of cameras.... one of the biggest factors is the physical size of the "entrance pupil" of the lens or telescope. This is the phsyical diameter of the objective lens. We sometimes refer to telescope's as "light buckets" - because if you think of the photons of light in the way you might think of raindrops, then all the "drops" hitting that physical area are funneled to the back. The larger the area, the more energy you can collect and focus. ... when you're trying to look at really really faint objects in in the universe, the bigger the light bucket... the better. When you're looking at the sun, you want to try to find a way to reject and/or dump the energy without doing damage.
The filter on the front (or the solar glasses for your eyes) is a basic energy-rejection-filter. An ND 5.0 solar filter is blocking 99.999% of the Sun's light. I'm told the "safe" limit is 99.997% (you must block at least that much or more to be safe for extended viewing.)
I have a refractor with a white light "solar wedge" (also called a "Herschel Wedge" because the device was invented by astronomer John Herschel back in 1830. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herschel_wedge ). This device is different because all of the Sun's energy passes through the telescope and the energy isn't dumped untiil it reaches the back -- at the eyepiece end.
Anyway, the caveat for my particular instrument is that it can only safely be used in refracting telescopes with an objective lens aperture of 4" or smaller. Anything larger and it will collect more heat than it can safely dump and the reflection may be too bright to be safe.
And of course... this is a device designed to take the heat and dump it. The camera has nothing in it that's desgined to do that.
They demonstrated the damage using a Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM lens. At f/4 that would put the effective aperture at 150mm. That's even too much for something with a herschel wedge at the back dealing with the heat. The camera doesn't have anything like this.
I can't belive that this is true, but on "Wait, Wait, Don't Tell Me" they said that some folks were admitted to a hospital in Northern California because they had put sunscreen on their eyes to watch the eclipse.
kvbarkley wrote:
I can't belive that this is true, but on "Wait, Wait, Don't Tell Me" they said that some folks were admitted to a hospital in Northern California because they had put sunscreen on their eyes to watch the eclipse.
And while Congress wrangles over how much we can afford to spend to help those whose homes and businesses were destroyed by this year's two (so far) massive, unavoidable hurricanes, other public funds will be expended to provide medical attention, training, transportation, guide dogs, etc. to those who were too arrogant and stupid to listen to the warnings about the eclipse. To coin an expression, "Sad."


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Christopher Whiteside MBE is the Conservative County Councillor for the Egremont North & St Bees Division of Cumbria County Council. The division includes St Bees, Bigrigg, Wood End, most of Moor Row, the Western part of the Mirehouse area of Whitehaven, and surrounding countryside. Chris lives and works in Copeland with his wife and family. Chris is a former member of Copeland Borough council, and an Honorary Alderman of the City and District of St Albans.
Friday, January 08, 2016
The Norway Option
And some of those who think this might be a good option are so convinced they are right about this that they have been accusing David Cameron of lying when he says that the "Norway Option" would make Britain subject to the rules of the European Single Market without any say in setting them.
Let's be clear, I am not accusing those who believe that Norway has significant influence over the rules of the EU Single Market of lying.
I do think they are wrong.
And I think it is most unhelpful when they accuse those who disagree with them of lying, not least because the Prime Minister and others who have expressed this opinion have not simply made it up, but are repeating what has been said many times by senior members of the Norwegian government.
A few months ago I published on this blog a review of a Special Report published a few days before in The Economist magazine, "The Reluctant European" which analysed the arguments for and against British exit from the EU. (It is available here as a sequence of articles and here as a PDF)
I predicted that both sides would quote extensively but selectively from it, a prediction which proved accurate, because it recognised that one particular argument for Brexit had a good deal of force, but severely criticised a number of the arguments put by both sides, particularly most of the other arguments for Britain's departure from the EU. I also wrote that one thing in "The Reluctant European" which was particularly likely to upset some Brexit supporters was that, quote,
"The Economist challenges head on an argument often put by advocates of British exit from the EU, that despite not being in the EU the rules still give Norway and other EEA members some influence over what those rules are. When he was an academic, Norway's present attorney general led a study of the relationship between the country and the EU which reported 'serious democratic concerns because Norway was forced to implement laws that it had no say in making.'
"The magazine quotes Vidar Helgesen, Norway's Europe minister, as saying that because his country is not represented in the Brussels institutions, it often finds it difficult even to discover what laws are being proposed and adopted. They say that the Norwegian Prime Minister and Attorney general have advised Britain 'to steer clear of the Norwegian model at all costs.'
It is not at all difficult to find on the internet plenty of articles and interviews in which Fredrik Sejersted, formerly a professor of law who took over as Norway's Attorney General last year, has indeed expressed precisely the views which "The Economist" attributes to him.
So has Vidar Helgesen, who combined the jobs of Minister for European affairs in the Norwegian cabinet, and chief of staff in the Prime Minister's office, until less than a month ago: he is still in Norway's government but moved to become Minister of Climate and the Environment on 16th December 2015.
In 2012 Fredrik Sejersted and Ulf Sverdrup wrote a report for the European Council on Foreign Relations on the Norwegian model. At that time Fredrik Sejersted was director of the Centre for European Law at the University of Oslo and Ulf Sverdrup was director of the Norwegian Institute for International Affairs (NUPI). They wrote an article in The Independent about the report they were writing which any British Eurosceptic who is thinking of supporting a "Norway Option" solution for Britain would be very well advised to read, which you can do here.
They noted that
"Norway has stayed out of the European Union, and seems to manage quite happily, reaping the benefits of the single market without the aggravations of membership. To many British Eurosceptics that must seem like the perfect deal.
"Well, it is not. On closer examination, the 'Norwegian option' is not an example to be followed, but should rather serve as a warning about how difficult a 'half in; half out' approach to Europe is. While Norway is formally outside the EU, in reality we are deeply integrated but without the rights of representation. The model is complex and costly, as well as problematic both in terms of democracy and national interest."
They went on to explain that
"Norway has taken more than three-quarters of EU law and policy, and this has had tremendous effects on the national political and legal system."
"The real lesson to be learned from Norway is that for a modern European country with an open economy there is nowhere to hide from the EU."
"The common feature is integration without representation.
"Through the agreements Norway is in effect obliged to implement new law and policy coming from Brussels, but without any say in the decision-making processes.
"A veil of formal sovereignty hides the transfer of real powers, creating a special kind of democratic deficit."
Earlier the same year, a committee chaired by Professor Sejersted had written a report commissioned by the Norwegian government on the country's EU membership which delivered similar findings as you can read in an article on the BBC website here: that report argued that Norway's status outside the EU was essentially "an illusion."
Let's look at the comments made by Vidar Helgeson while he was Norway's European affairs minister and Chief of Staff to the Norwegian PM, and here again the problem of selective quotation by pro- and anti- BREXIT campaigners becomes apparent.
Mr Helgeson has said things which can be quoted out of context by those Eurosceptics who like the Norwegian option as inferring that Norway has substantial influence on single market rules, and he has also said things which can be quoted by those who wish to express concern about the Norway option to imply the opposite.
In fact his views are perfectly consistent but much more nuanced than those looking for a quote to support a black-and-white view of the matter might wish. A good place to read them in context is an interview at EurActiv.com in which he discusses both Norway's influence on the single market and how much Norway has to pay for European Economic Area (EEA) status: the relevant page is called
"Vidar Helgesen: our EEA contribution costs almost as much as EU membership."
Talking of the pre-work by technical experts, he says that
"we have the right to take part in committees under the Commission where Norwegian experts do participate.
"As long as you have knowledge and expertise and bring that to the table, our voice is heard as much as EU member states. A lot of these discussions are technical. In some areas, we are globally leading in the technical expertise."
However he immediately went on to add:
"If and when there are bigger political issues our shortcomings are more evident because we are not at the table when the decisions are made."
Later in the article he says that
"There is very clearly a paradox in that the single international actor that influences the Norwegian society and our daily life the most, the EU, is the only big international organisation that we are not a member of."
You can immediately see why one side of the argument about the "Norway option" might want to selectively quote the first three sentences there and leave out what follows, and the other side of the argument might wish to do the reverse!
Commenting on those British "leave" campaigners who hold up Norway as
"an example of a successful nation operating outside of Brussels' control."
Vidar Helgesen told Sky News that "the truth is much more complicated and much less rosy."
He said that "We import three quarters of EU legislation with virtually no say in the decision making process. It's a very good solution for our economy - some argue it's not necessarily a good solution for our democracy ..."
He told the Telegraph in an interview written up as "Why Britain should not leave the EU to be like Norway: by a Norwegian minister" that
"Without a seat at the table, it is difficult to play a real part in decision-making."
"During the past 20 years, Norway has incorporated more than 10 000 EU rules into the EEA Agreement. We see the results of these rules every day – in our daily lives, in our work and in business. However, we have had little direct influence over their development. Although we implement more than three quarters of EU legislation, we have to work very hard to make our voice heard."
"Norway's trade with EU countries accounts for a greater share of our foreign trade than is the case for the UK. We are part of Schengen, and in relative terms we have more EU labour immigrants than the UK. We regularly align ourselves with EU positions on foreign and security policy. And our financial contributions are on a par with comparable EU member-states. Basically, with the exception of our agricultural policies, we are part of the same European integration process as the UK. But we do not have the right to vote in Europe."
He gave a very interesting three minute TV interview on the subject of British EU membership and the Norway option in October 2015 which you can watch on the MSN site at
Interestingly the last line of the interview was the statement that another lesson from Norway is not to try to predict referendum results!
Pulling the threads together it seems to me that those "Leave" supporters who think that a "Norway Option" would give Britain dramatically more freedom from Brussels than we have now have mistaken the illusion referred to by Fredrik Sejersted for the reality and failed to see through the veil of formal sovereignty which hides the transfer of real power to the EU.
7 comments:
- Jim said...
There are a few basic errors in there. Whilst I am not going to accuse you of telling porkies, I think it stems down to a mine of misinformation.
First one is the no say part - As Anne Beathe Tvinnereim (Norwegian Minister for Local Government & Regional Development - Norwegian Centre Party) pointed out in the video I linked the other day, norway are not there to vote on the wrapping and packaging of a regulation, they do have a lot of clout before it reaches the EU, then of course after that they have a veto on it. This was most recently exercised on the postal directive, which does not apply in Norway, but the UK could not veto it.
Norway adopting 3/4 of EU law is also misleading, it may be that Norway has chosen to adopt their own versions of certain laws that are passed by the EU, but it only has (or rather is expected to, and not veto, though it can if it wants) adopt the 22% of the acquis that is in direct relation to the single market.
Another one people will mis place is that the acquis is 750,000 pages. This is misleading as well. whilst this much has been written, yes. A lot of laws update or replace, or join older ones - thats just one that is incorrectly used usually by the Brexit side.
The vital point is that Norway has a full seat on the WTO, UNICE and other governing body's, the UK does not. Norway has a veto over single market rules it does not like, the UK does not. Norway is not subject to the rulings of the ECJ, the UK is. Norway is not subject to the CFP or the CAP, the UK is. Norway can set its own VAT rates, the UK can not. Norway can negotiate its own external trade deals - the UK can not.
Which ever way you look at it the Norway option is preferable to EU membership, be that full or Associated Membership. Whilst I do admit The Norway Option Is Not Perfect I do live in the real world, and I know nothing ever is perfect, but the norway option is off the shelf, is do-able, is workable, wont damage UK trade and is only proposed as a short term fix whilst we negotiate better.
- 3:42 pm
- Jim said...
If only one of the leave campaigns had some sort of guidance and adopted the Norway option as a vital part of an exit strategy. Something along the lines of "a Market Solution", one that is a Flexible approach and continues with continuous development. If only one of the main campaigns would do that, then we may have a hope (kind of like episode IV).....................
- 3:57 pm
- Chris Whiteside said...
We're obviously not going to agree on this.
The situation is a lot more complex than the more hardline and extreme positions on either side suggest. As I said in my post, it's very easy to find selective quotations from the same people going opposite directions.
I was trying to avoid doing that which is why I illustrated the point with the quote from Vidar Helgesen in which his first three sentences appeared to support one extreme and the next thing he said appeared to go to the opposite extreme, and only be reading all of it can you get the true position.
I am not accusing you of deliberate selective quotation but I strongly suspect that the comments by Anne Beathe Tvinnereim in the video which you linked to may be a similar example of a picture which gives only one side of the story: in other words, the truth and nothing but the truth but not the whole truth.
I also disagree with your statement that we don't have a full seat at the WTO.
Oh yes we do.
Britain is a full member of the WTO and we have a permanent representative to the WTO with the rank of ambassador: this post is currently held by Julian Braithwaite who blogs about his work: here is a blog post he wrote about World Trade and the WTO last month as the WTO's tenth ministerial conference was starting.
Granted, he "doubles up" this job with acting as ambassador to UN and other international organisations based in Geneva but part of his office is to ensure that the UK has a direct channel of communication to find out what is going on at the WTO for which we are not dependent on the EU.
And although the UK and other EU members usually find it convenient to make representations through the EU rather than individually we do actually have our own seat. The vast majority of the time Britain chooses not to use it but if we thought the EU was barking completely up the wrong tree we could.
- 11:12 pm
- Chris Whiteside said...
However I think we are both agreed that in the real world there are no perfect options.
The Norway option is not perfect, the Swiss option isn't the WTO isn't -
but the status quo is not perfect either and neither will whatever DC negotiates be.
- 11:14 pm
- Chris Whiteside said...
Both you and I are trying to spot good arguments and mistakes by both sides - I did pick up your point about the acquis.
I think that this, sadly makes both of us light years more open minded than far too many partisans in both the "Leave" and "Remain" campaigns.
- 11:17 pm
- Jim said...
Ineresting speech from Dan Hannon which touches on a lot of the points you are making, and a few more. Jim Mellors into is also very good.
- 5:19 pm
- Chris Whiteside said...
The chairman who followed Dan summed it up, though, immediately after Dan's rousing speech, when he said "Thank you Dan for that excellent and emotional analysis."
It was a brilliantly rousing call to battle for those who have already decided which way to go.
And yet as someone who is still thinking about the matter, what Dan said had a strong appeal to my heart but no appeal whatsoever to my head.
Why is being in the EU "Retreating from the world?"
It might be if the EU itself was inward-looking but IMHO that isn't one of the EU's many faults.
Dan talked about how great Britain's Universities are, which is true.
And yet I'm on the Court of one of the Russell Group Universities, (that's the club for the top division of British Universities) and at a meeting at that University just before Christmas the Vice Chancellor talked about how valuable the EU's programme to support scientific research is to the University, what a world-class programme it is and how much he would regret EU exit because it would mean losing preferential access to that programme. (Other academics at the meeting expressed the same view.)
So talking about how great Britain's Universities are is actually an argument for "Remain" to those of us who are sufficiently well informed about the academic world to know that the majority (I'm not pretending it's 100% but it is a majority) of senior academics at those Universities like the service they are getting from the EU and want to remain.
Dan referred to Britain's "soft power." Yes, a recent study found that we had more "soft power" than any other nation - but that calculation referred to power exercised through networks of allies and memberships of organisations one of which was the EU.
And the allies whose relationships with us form part of that soft power are urging us to stay inside the EU and exercise that power in favour of reform. I don't know the views of every ally on the subject, but all the allies whose views I do know - certainly the USA and Norway - want us to stay in.
No easy answers, I'm afraid!
- 1:22 am


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New ferry boat for Barbuda
Coral of the Sea is operating as a ferry, going to Antigua FROM Barbuda - and returning on the same day. Schedules are posted up in the village along with Jicky announcements.
Now, it's been too long.
Too long, too long in slavery.
Free the people and let them move in liberty
Now, it's been too long.
Too long, too long in slavery.
So the struggle continue.
But while the struggle continue, I'm going to tell you.
We rastaman will set the world free...
Joseph Hill - Culture
This is a community website based in Barbuda. We charge a small subscription for local businesses in order to fully represent our community and to maintain the cost of the site. Full details of what it costs to be on here are listed on our site information page. If you have found the information here helpful and would like to support us with a donation please look for the paypal link on our 'contact us' page.
We love to hear from you if you are a Barbudan here or overseas, tell us and we will promote your event, your business or your news. Or maybe you visited Barbuda for the first (or second or third) time? Send us your pictures. It's easy to be on the website - just send us an e mail.


text:
the spirists are so lucky of have a wallpaper to beautiful dedicated to they ^^
thanks for share your beautiful work. ^_^
(evil hug)
1280x1024 Wallpaper
Artist Comment
Finally finished my wallpaper for the great ^_^sister-princess-fan-club-big-wallpaper-contest
Well the vector was a bit difficult to make since i'm new at this ^_^' but i tried to do my best here yoshh >.O
The character is Chikage from Sister Princess. I found a scan of her, taken directly from the manga. I liked the way she was posing, and thought it was perfect to turn into a wallpaper ^^ I put the tatoo in her back, it's a brush from deviantart in the bg i just made some abstract effects and they are spirits, the wallpaper is dedicated to them so it's Espiritus. I've used a texture from here DA! Desktop Anime. Well that's it ^_^
Hope you like the wall, coments and favs always welcome XD
My lovely groups ^_^
More Sister Princess Wallpapers
Browse Sister Princess Gallery: Recent | Popular.
annakee Mar 29, 2007
the spirists are so lucky of have a wallpaper to beautiful dedicated to they ^^
Angi Retired Moderator Mar 29, 2007
beautiful! ^.^
its simple, and pretty, like the colors!
Sinever Mar 29, 2007
more than beautifull
I love the scan that you used
& everything is looking good
well done Lum-sann
nejika Mar 29, 2007
Wow, u did show your efforts on your wallie ne?
It's nicely done especially the clothes. what program do u use?
Good work Lum-sann ^_~
chikage-kekinha Mar 29, 2007
Wow! so beautiful!
is looking good^^
great vector!^^
It's great \o/
cghetto Mar 29, 2007
Melisandre Mar 29, 2007
Great wallie, I like the tattoo on her back, simple but very clean, congrats ;)
rika23 Mar 30, 2007
Wow XD
Lovely vector that you do ;)
OrpheusTheBard Mar 30, 2007
Very cute! Turned out great :)
eternallegend Mar 31, 2007
the vector is nicely done and i like the simple look of your wall :D the tattoo is an interesting touch and i like the effect of the textures in your wall :) nice wall ^^
Rassvetnaya Mar 31, 2007
really nice, but i think, you should've placed tatoo in a different way. cause it stands out of whole wall a bit
IzumiChan Apr 06, 2007
Lum-chan, you made so many wallies so quickly! XD
Let me think slowly... XD
This is really great! The perspective looks very cool and the crop was made in the perfect place. ^_~
The tatoo was very well placed and fits well, but to be honest, I didn't like it. I don't like tatoos, and this delicate pose of Chikage should show pure skin... but that's only my no-tatoo policy. XD XD
The textures rock and the BG looks cool... I wonder how it'd look with dark tones like purple/blue... :o
Either way, that's a really pretty wallie, congrats~ :D
Yay! ^_^
AnimeFan4Life Restricted Member Apr 08, 2007
Love It. You did a great job. Keep up the good work. :)
veibkreuz Mute Member Apr 06, 2010
Nice wallpaper. I like it XD
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text:
Our offseason previews for all 31 National Hockey League teams continues with the Toronto Maple Leafs and their outlook for the summer.
There was no competition for the remaining playoff spots in the Atlantic Division this season as only three teams were truly in contention for the top spot through divisional seedings.
While the Tampa Bay Lightning sat atop the Atlantic Division standings for about 95-percent of the season, the Maple Leafs and Boston Bruins swapped 2nd and 3rd all season long until Boston started peaking in March.
Toronto finished the regular season 3rd in the Atlantic with a 49-26-7 record and 105 points on the season, lining up on the road for Games 1 and 2 of their First Round matchup with the Bruins.
It was the first postseason meeting between the two clubs since their 2013 Eastern Conference Quarterfinals matchup and epic collapse in Game 7 by Toronto. Like 2013, however, the Maple Leafs won Games 5 and 6 in the series, forcing a decisive Game 7 back at TD Garden.
This time, though, the Bruins cruised in the third period to a 7-4 victory and won the series, 4-3.
Head coach, Mike Babcock, faced criticism from Toronto media and fans alike for back-to-back years of First Round exits, while Lou Lamoriello fulfilled his three years as General Manager.
Lamoriello's seven-year contract with the club intended on keeping him in the role of GM for three years, then as a senior advisor for the final four years. Instead, Lamoriello resigned from Toronto and joined his son with the New York Islanders (and was subsequently promoted as General Manager).
Since Brendan Shanahan took a front office job with the Maple Leafs, there's been another name prime for the GM job. Kyle Dubas.
Hired as an assistant GM as a 28-year-old, the prolific analytics-driven evaluator became General Manager of the Leafs at 32 as his Toronto Marlies (AHL) won this year's Calder Cup championship.
The old regime is almost completely new-school in the 6ix.
2018 NHL Entry Draft
Dubas and his Maple Leafs scouting crew hold onto the 25th overall pick in the first round of the 2018 Draft and it's not entirely clear cut on who they'll likely target. There's no immediate need to fill with a teenager, the 2018 Draft is deeper than usual and Toronto could always trade the pick.
There's no ties to a player like Erik Karlsson, but the Leafs seem prime to make some type of acquisition this summer via a trade in addition to sticking with the plan.
Pending free agents
Toronto has about $22.340 million in cap space heading into July with some big names to consider re-signing.
Tomas Plekanec, Tyler Bozak, Leo Komarov, Dominic Moore and James van Riemsdyk are all pending-UFAs as of July 1st– with van Riemsdyk as one of the hottest players not named "John Tavares" potentially hitting the open market.
Acquired around the deadline from the Montreal Canadiens, 35-year-old Tomas Plekanec is two games away from the 1,000th in his NHL career. He recorded two assists in 17 games down the stretch with the Leafs and had six goals and 20 assists (26 points) in 77 games with Toronto and Montreal this season.
Since he amassed 54 points in 2015-16, Plekanec has averaged 27 points over the last two seasons. That kind of production drop-off is to be expected at some point in the waning days of his NHL career, but still important to the depth scoring of any organization.
He brings intangibles to the locker room, like leadership and good chemistry with Mitch Marner and Patrick Marleau that boosted Toronto's playoff performance and helped extend the series with Boston to seven games.
The question is, can Dubas keep two 35-plus members on the roster, let along on the same line for another year or two (though nightly lineups are at Babcock's discretion) and will Plekanec be allowed to regrow his goatee if he re-signs now that Lamoriello is gone?
Regardless, it's been noted that Plekanec and his turtleneck have a desire to go back to Montreal, but if he truly wants to win a Cup before the end of his playing days…
Bozak, 32, is six games shy of his 600th career NHL game and had 11-32–43 totals in 81 games this season. One of Toronto's more consistent point-producers, Bozak has only surpassed 20 goals once in his career (he scored 23 goals in 2014-15).
The veteran center has long been a playmaker, reaching 30-plus assists three times in his career– including the last two seasons.
He should get another look, but at what cost given some of the other big names potentially heading for the open waters of free agency from Toronto.
Komarov, 31, had 19 points this season. He's never reached the 20 goal plateau in his career and– despite being a fan favorite
and Brad Marchand's man-crush— he shouldn't expect a big contract from Dubas if he wishes to extend his stay in Ontario's capital city.
Moore, 37, resurrected his career last season with Boston, notching 11-14–25 totals in all 82 games, but the fourth line center scored just six goals in 50 games with the Maple Leafs this season.
Three games shy of 900 in his career, his 12 points on the year this season doesn't scream "extension" in a Leafs sweater, but might find work elsewhere as a bottom-6 forward in what could be his last chance at a Cup.
van Riemsdyk, 29, reached the 30-goal plateau for the second time in his career since being drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers 2nd overall in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft. He first scored 30 goals and 31 assists (61 points) with Toronto in 2013-14.
He had 33 assists last season and 36-18–54 totals this season.
Under Dubas, the Leafs are on their way to becoming the next Washington Capitals in prospect development. The Marlies just won the Calder Cup with a mixture of grizzled former NHLers in Colin Greening and young, developing, players that are intentionally overcooked at the AHL level for an easier transition to the NHL game.
Moving on from older pending-UFAs is bound to happen and it just might be this offseason's plan.
In his second full season at the NHL level, pending-RFA William Nylander, 22, matched his rookie season point total (61) on the heels of 20 goals and 41 assists in 82 games this season. Sophomore year went swimmingly for the top-6 forward.
Now he's a pending-RFA and will need a pay raise with Auston Matthews entering the final year of his entry-level deal.
It might seem easy for Toronto to crunch some numbers, keep van Riemsdyk, Bozak, Nylander and the rest of the gang together, but without a little proper planning for the future, the club could easily get themselves in some deep trouble.
32-year-old pending-UFA defender Roman Polak over came a leg injury, signed a PTO and landed a one-year renewal for his fourth season as a Maple Leaf in October. He had 4-7–11 totals in 75 games last season and improved to 2-10–12 totals in 54 games this season with Toronto. He even recorded his third career point in the playoffs (an assist).
But for the St. Louis Blues's 160th overall pick in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft, it doesn't seem like another year in a Leafs uniform is in the cards. Not when Travis Dermott was making waves as a potential top-6 defender next season in the playoffs and Polak was being blown past by Bruins forwards.
Connor Carrick— a 24-year-old, pending-RFA defenseman– had a career-year in goals (4), assists (8) and points (12) in 47 games this season. Why he's not utilized more is perplexing. He was a healthy scratch for 32 games, injured for two more and did not play in the postseason.
Both Dermott and Carrick should see precedence over Polak next season– especially in today's game and with Ron Hainsey already as an anchor veteran on the blueline at 37-years-old– but that all depends on whether Dubas makes an effort to bring Carrick back and mend whatever's between Babcock's viewpoint and Carrick's play on the ice.
If the Leafs get older and more reliant on guys like Hainsey, Polak and Marleau, like they did this postseason, Babcock risks being viewed similar to Ken Hitchcock in his loss of being adaptable in an increasingly younger, faster and more skilled than ever league.
That's not to discredit Babcock as one of the greatest NHL coaches of all-time, but rather to point out he's got a challenge ahead of him and his staff– and Babcock likes challenges, because he usually excels at them.
In goal, Frederik Andersen, 28, is under contract through the 2020-21 season with a $5.000 million cap hit and backup Curtis McElhinney, 35, has one-year remaining at $850,000.
There's no need to disrupt something that's working in net in the dynamic duo that is Andersen and McElhinney, but you can expect to see 24-year-old Garret Sparks get a few extra looks having led his team to the Calder Cup championship.
Other pending free agents throughout the organization include:
Colin Greening (UFA), Miro Aaltonen (RFA), Frederik Gauthier (RFA), Andreas Johnsson (RFA), Martin Marincin (RFA), Kyle Baun (UFA), Justin Holl (RFA), Calvin Pickard (RFA)
Of note, Toronto has $1.200 million in retained salary on the books (Phil Kessel) through the 2021-22 season.