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An insider's view of what is really happening in the Harris County Criminal Courts
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
The Brian Wice Editorial
Some jurors want to know what will happen to the defendant after the trial is over. Some will be looking for affirmation that they arrived at the right decision. Some will want to know what "the rest of the story" was. I always try to answer their questions to the best of my ability. Jurors get emotionally and intellectually invested in the trials they sit on, and I think they deserve to have their questions answered.
As most of you know, last week local hand surgeon Michael Brown was acquitted of Felony Assault against his wife, Rachel Brown. Yesterday, Brian Wice, who defended Dr. Brown along with Dick DeGuerin, Catherine Baen and Carmen Roe, wrote an editorial criticizing the prosecution team of Jane Waters and Nathan Hennigan for comments they made to the jury and media after the trial was over.
In his editorial, Wice describes prosecutor Nathan Hennigan's comments as "a backhanded slap at Judge Wallace", "cross[ing] the line on both a personal and professional level", and "classless".
Okay, let's look at this for a moment.
Shortly after the acquittal, Dick DeGuerin made a big production of cutting off Dr. Brown's ankle monitor in front of the media before doing a press conference doing a character assassination on Rachel Brown (who, last I looked, wasn't charged with a crime). This type of circus-like production isn't exactly what I would equate with "class" in the first place, so Wice attacking Nathan for talking to the jurors about "the real Michael Brown" rings a tad bit hypocritical.
Brian's description of the prosecutor's comments as "a backhanded slap at Judge Wallace" is ludicrous. Judge Wallace made rulings that affected the integrity of the trial he presided over. Nathan and Jane followed those rules throughout the trial. None of Nathan's comments were along the lines of "We would have won the case if that big old mean judge just hadn't made a dumb ruling." He discussed an extraneous aggravated assault that Michael Brown had been on deferred adjudication for after the trial. Brian claiming that Nathan was giving a "backhanded slap" was designed solely to make Judge Wallace angry with the prosecutor and portray him as disrespectful to the court.
Nothing could be further from the truth.
And finally, Wice alleges that Hennigan's statements as violating Rule 3.06 of the State Bar Disciplinary Rules, because his "post-verdict comments" could harass, embarrass or influence actions in future jury service. He calls it a "thinly veiled attempt to make the jury feel bad about its verdict".
Um, Brian, are you forgetting that your part-time job of being a legal analyst for Channel 2? Don't you regularly make "post-verdict comments" about what you thought was good or bad about a trial? Don't you do analysis of evidence that may or may not ultimately get in front of jury? Aren't you the same guy who appeared in about 5 episodes of 48 Hours criticizing Kelly Siegler and calling her every name in the book as you criticized the verdict in the Susan Wright case?
Are you really suggesting that only us members of the Defense Bar can give our opinions of cases in the aftermath, but the prosecution can't?
Wice wraps up his editorial by encouraging District Attorney Pat Lykos to counsel with her "minions" about their post-verdict statements. If Pat Lykos is any type of leader, she will politely tell Brian where he can put his editorial advice.
I don't know near as many sports analogies as Brian Wice. The lessons I learned from my father and coaches were short and to the point: Play with class and be as gracious in victory as you are in defeat.
Brian Wice took the time out to publicize what he perceived to be a lack of class by the prosecutors in defeat.
Perhaps he should more closely examine how gracious he was in victory.
67 comments:
He sounded pretty accurate to me. And you'll notice that he complimented other prosecutors who were well behaved in the past. Sure, he could have thrown Deguerin's show boating in there, but what the prosecutor did was flat-out unethical. I see Plaintiff's lawyers in Beaumont and the Valley do that in civil cases all the time when they get a verdict they don't like. It's shameful, and is intended to make sure the jurors do something different next time. Convict when they aren't sure, or award money when they think back about what that other lawyer said and feel that regardless of the evidence, there must be more to the story.
But mostly, this was a way for a loser to feel better about herself.
And that pretty much epitomizes many small-minded ADAs. If they lost, it wasn't their fault. It was the evidence they couldn't bring in. It was the judge. It was someone's fame. It was anything--but them. Yes, defense and civil lawyers do it too. But another person's lack of ethics shouldn't be used to excuse your own, or that of a friend and former colleague.
Face it sweet tits, you lost. Now suck it up, and get the next guy.
- September 28, 2011 at 10:06 AM
Apparently, Mrs. Brown is attracted to rich men who beat their spouses. Her credibility was an issue. Michael Brown's credibility wasn't an issue because he never testified. And, there should NEVER be a level playing field in criminal prosecutions. The tie should always go to the runner, and the presumption of innocence should always be a high hurdle to jump. If you don't like the way the game is played, take your ball to another court.
- September 28, 2011 at 10:21 AM
I haven't commented on your blog since Todd Dupont's beloved dad passed away earlier this year, but I wanted to respond to a few things you said in your entry today, and to clarify one very important point.
1. In my capacity as a legal analyst at Ch. 2, I comment on criminal trials on an almost-weekly basis. My comments and analysis, however, are limited to what happened inside the courtroom based on the evidence that the trial judge found admissible. I have not, and would never, to quote DR 3.06(d), make comments about a juror calculated to harass or embarrass that juror or to influence his actions in future jury service. While lawyers on BOTH sides of the aisle have been and will continue to be the subject of comment, jurors have not and never will. Like civilians and family members in old gangster movies, they are out-of-bounds.
2. While I was on two, and not "about 5" episodes of "48 Hours," in connection with the Susan Wright case, my comments were never directed at a juror or jurors or the legitimacy of their verdict, but rather with the competency of defense counsel and what I believed to be prosecutorial overreaching. At the end of the day, a unanimous Court of Criminal Appeals, not known for being kind to convicted defendants, agreed that the punishment stage had been unfair.
3. I am not claiming that only the defense bar can give our opinions of cases in the wake of a jury verdict. My point was that Nathan's comments to the jury and to the media went beyond his mere opinion of "cases in the aftermath." While I am sure that Nathan feels he did nothing wrong, he is as entitled to his opinion as I am to mine.
4. Dick did not assassinate Rachel Brown's character at any press conference. After cutting off Michael Brown's ankle monitor, Dick's comments were brief and did little more than restate what the jurors had told us about not finding Rachel credible.
A little while ago, Nathan called me and we spoke for about 20 minutes. Without getting into the substance of the call, I want your readers to know that I believe now, as I believed when I wrote the op-ed piece last weekend, that he is a kind and decent man with a great sense of humor, and whose courtroom talents are undeniable. And, if I wrote the piece today, I would have stuck with the sports analogies and not engaged in an ad-hoc discussion about whether Nathan ran afoul of any DR. To use one last sports analogy, if I was guilty of piling on, I'll gladly take the 15-yard penalty Knowing the kind of guy that Nathan is, I am fairly confident he would decline it.
Brian Wice
Attorney At Law
- September 28, 2011 at 10:38 AM
I cannot believe Brian Wice referred to Nathan as a minion in the news. That is classless.
- September 28, 2011 at 11:48 AM
Easy to say you went too far AFTER you disparaged Nathan in the press. Well done, Brian Wice.
- September 28, 2011 at 12:06 PM
I'm impressed that Wice got out of the make-up chair long enough to respond to anyone. Then again, when is that little troll going to pass up an opportunity to toot his own horn? God, how pathetic.
- September 28, 2011 at 12:13 PM
Here's what's posted by someone on the comments section of the article:
Nhennigan 11:49 PM on September 27, 2011
I am the "out of line" prosecutor. My name is Nathan Hennigan. Wice didn't want to call me by name, but I feel a necessity to respond, as most don't know who I am, due to his subterfuge, but I am proud to say,,. Brian Wice is an appellate attorney. He is a good appellate attorney, but he isn't a trial attorney. That is because he is not a likable person in the least. He actually reminnds me of the weasels from "Who Framed Roger Rabbit." Uncanny. What happened in the jury room is as follows...Dick Deguerin went on a 5 minute rant on what a psycho the complainant was. I wanted just to answer questions, but, I felt it was my duty to explain the truth. The truth was Michael Brown beat Darlina with a bedpost while she was 7 months pregnant. The truth was he is probably the worst person I've ever dealt with, (and that includes an MS13 Gang member I locked up for life). I offer no apologies to Wice, DeGuerin, or anyone else. I am proud to stand up for the Harris County District Attorney's Office and fight for what is right. Even if it isn't easy.
- September 28, 2011 at 12:47 PM
Wonder what Todd Ward and Neal Davis would say in response to Brian Wice always "acting with class" after a trial? Wice pretty much slammed them every chance he got when a camera was within 50 yards.
- September 28, 2011 at 1:11 PM
How unbelievably hypocritical! Anyone remember Dick standing on the steps of the courthouse after the David Temple guilty verdict and proclaiming to all, "Kelly Siegler has finally gone and done it, convicted an innocent man."
- September 28, 2011 at 1:15 PM
[internal shot of house; phone rings]
(ring, ring)
Girl: Hello? Um-hum. Okay, I'll
tell him.
Hey Brian, it's 1980. They want their clothes back!
- September 28, 2011 at 1:48 PM
Brian Wice is a true believer, is good at what he does for a living, and is the king of sound-bites and self-promotion. We can all agree -- friends and foes alike -- to these characteristics. But Brian has never been, is not, nor will he ever be someone who wins with grace. He is well known at the DAs office for calling up the ADAs in writs and appeals when he wins just to let them know that he won and they lost. He can't help himself. He loves to gloat. And writing a post about what the ADA's did in the jury room -- "tisk tisk" -- gives him the chance to remind everyone (again) that his team won.
I've seen Brian give praise to ADAs, when it is deserved. But his first priority is to give himself praise; that's just the way he's wired.
Face it, we have all been frustrated with jury results at one time or another. It is very easy to walk into that jury room with those frustrations and let the moment expose them (I've been there myself). While I don't know what happened in this meeting, I do know the battle was a tough one and both sides invested a lot of time and energy into it. Regardless of lost, they were bound to have invested feelings, which probably came out afterwards. I've seen it happen too many times before.
Perhaps its best if you find yourself losing it in the jury room, whether you're a criminal defense attorney or a prosecutor, to exercise some self control and pass on the post-trial chit chat. (This may also be true when you and opposing counsel have had a particularly difficult trial and there is no respect or professionalism left. Every trial with Deguerin is bound to leave his opponent feeling this way!)
Ask yourself whether you ever learn anything from these visits (besides "jurors are idiots"). If you are able to learn and grow from these meetings, then keep having them. If you're like Murray and view it as a public service of sorts, then do it (if you can keep your cool). But if you let it tick you off and bitch to your colleagues about it at happy hour, do yourself and the jurors a favor and just walk away.
- September 28, 2011 at 2:34 PM
First of all, it sounds like there's a lot of butthurt going on with the ADAs on the blog.
But second, this:
He is well known at the DAs office for calling up the ADAs in writs and appeals when he wins just to let them know that he won and they lost. He can't help himself. He loves to gloat.
...sounds almost exactly like the in memoriam post Murray did for that lawyer who died and couldn't stop telling people how much money he had, or how good he was.
I don't get why one guy was loved, and this guy is hated.
I'm sure it has to do with how many times he beat you.
- September 28, 2011 at 3:46 PM
Hey Brian Wice Attorney at Law,
1. What would you call a guy who wears more make-up than a burnt out Vegas whore whose primary function in life is to criticize the performance of those who actually do what he has never done but pretends to be an expert at?
2. What would you call a guy who levels extremely personal vitriolic comments to colleagues which are not remotely relevant to the legal issue at hand?
3. What would you call a guy who puts his personal publicity and bravado above the best interests of his "client"?
4. "4. Dick did not assassinate Rachel Brown's character at any press conference."--Brian Wice Attorney at Law
Yet I watched with shock and disbelief as Brian Wice, Attorney at Law and his boy Dick were laughing in the hallway (with TV cameras rolling) about Rachel Brown's affair with Jeff Bagwell.
Technically that was not a "news conference", right Brian Wice Attorney at Law? Actual intent and effect, notwithstanding.
5. What would you call a guy obsessed with the use of sports analogies yet was never any good at any sport?
Just Sayin'
- September 28, 2011 at 4:51 PM
"I don't get why one guy was loved, and this guy is hated.
I'm sure it has to do with how many times he beat you.
Ragepunk, I guess that explains Dick DeGuerin's hatred for Kelly Siegler.....who knew?
- September 28, 2011 at 4:58 PM
Well put Murray.
Does anyone actually expect anything else from Brian Wice?
Would the Chronicle even have published his rant if he took the position that prosecutors acted ethically and tried a good hard case?
The answer is obviously NO.
It's a shame that we have to even comment on his article and give him more press, because everyone knows he writes these things just to get his name and his ego out there. So here we are, playing right into his hands.
Again, a great posting! Can't wait to read the comments.
- September 28, 2011 at 5:50 PM
I'm just glad Murray finally found something juicy to blog about. The deaths and updates on quitting prosecutors was making the blog somber. That said! Back to the in-fighting amongst Counsel.
- September 28, 2011 at 6:04 PM
Does this mean that the Lykos-Chron love fest is over?
Does anyone besides me see the irony of the Chronicle publishing an editorial about poisoning the jury pool by disclosing inadmissible evidenc, ie. Dr. Brown's previous deferred adjudication for assault, when the Chronicle mentioned it in EVERY article published during the trial?
Also as a side note, the only thing Pat Lykos said that I have ever agreed with was during the 2000 Campaign when she said, "Brian Wice is a legend in his own mind."
- September 28, 2011 at 6:16 PM
I was deeply disturbed to see 2 of the three defense attorneys gleefully cutting ex-dr brown's ankle monitor.
I respect the attorneys who are fair and work hard, no matter what side.
But this was extra - and personal - and frankly, it looked and felt so wrong and bad.
I couldn't help but have a sick feeling that they were unleashing him to continue his years' long path of damaging women and children.
- September 28, 2011 at 7:47 PM
Murray, you and Brian have one thing in common. You are the only ones brave enough to comment under your own names.
- September 28, 2011 at 8:39 PM
September 28, 2011 5:50 PM
Anonymous said...
I'm just glad Murray finally found something juicy to blog about. The deaths and updates on quitting prosecutors was making the blog somber. That said! Back to the in-fighting amongst Counsel.
Agree big time with the above!
- September 28, 2011 at 8:45 PM
Just Saying@ 4:51,
It's a close call between non-trial attorney Brian Wice and the anonymous county geek who calls himself Rage. Brian uses sports analogies while Rage's insecurities are based on war stories so the correct answer is Brian Wice. And there you f'ing have it.
- September 29, 2011 at 7:54 AM
- Scott C. Pope said...
Well we can add your name to the list too Alex, obviously .
- September 29, 2011 at 8:32 AM
Nothing says class like calling someone a "minion" and writing an absurd call for disciplinary action in the chron!
I don't see any op-eds for his poor clients...
- September 29, 2011 at 8:46 AM
I haven't seen Rage tell a single war story. I have seen him school you chumps time and again, though.
- September 29, 2011 at 8:58 AM
There is no one left at this office, and they are scared of the media -- especially of cases like this where you will probably lose and lose badly and have nasty articles like this written about you with no way to respond.
Good for NH for taking it straight on!!!! There's no one left in this office who is willing to say boo, so this high profile disaster went to a junior prosecutor with the most guts in the building. Sad.
I didn't think much about NH until this. He's shown he has guts to spare and will go forward with what is right, not what will be easy. He will be an astounding DA if this office can hold on to him. I doubt that.
- September 29, 2011 at 10:04 AM
What's hard to believe is there are still a few Prosecutors who, like Hennigan, have chosen to stay because of their character and legal skills.
Sure would love to see Leitner, Bridgewater, or Morris try a case like this. It would be like watching Larry, Curly, and Moe.
- September 29, 2011 at 10:58 AM
Anon 10:58,
How dare you disparage the 3 Stooges--Moe, Larry and Curly would kick Wee Man Leitner and Company's butts and you know it. My boys deserve an apology.
Sweet Teats
- September 29, 2011 at 11:59 AM
Well, word has circulated among the "rank and file" that the administration has suspended Hennigan for a week without pay.
- September 29, 2011 at 2:44 PM
NH is suspended for one week without pay and then being moved to the intake desk for 6 months.
DAs-if you publish something with your name on it, be prepared for the wratch of Pat.
- September 29, 2011 at 3:32 PM
I'm sorry, if this case was so high profile, why was it given to a junior DA? This makes NO SENSE! Where are all the veteran prosecutors?
This just sticks to the heavens to me.
- September 29, 2011 at 3:42 PM
Well, this should help morale.
Just wait until you get a high profile case. Hope you don't lose! HA HA!
- September 29, 2011 at 4:00 PM
Years ago Brian magnanimously offered to "train" HCDA appellate attorneys as to how to effectively present oral argument. Fortuitously for Brian that offer was declined thereby allowing him to now indulge in his "courtesy" calls to those appellate attorneys. It appears from commnents to this blog, however, that those calls and his otherwise "kind" remarks regarding attorneys (e.g. recent editorial) on both sides of the criminal bar have permitted Brian to apparently maintain his status and "respect" with many attorneys. Since sport themes appear appropriate, quoting Yogi Berra: "It's like deja vu all over again."
Calvin A. Hartmann
- September 29, 2011 at 4:20 PM
Anon 3:42,
With all due respect, who really thinks this same result would have occurred had Kelly Siegler represented the State of Texas against Dick DeGuerin and side kick Brian Wice with all their bravado?
Where have all the veteran prosecutors gone?
What did you expect when the old Republican Guard of Harris County favored pure politics over proven performance in 2008?
Kelly Siegler or Pat Lykos...you decide which choice would have been best for Harris County given 20/20 hindsight.
- September 29, 2011 at 4:44 PM
The issue as to the suspension was that Nathan Hennigan spoke in the press and made what could have been handled privately, if at all, a public matter. He fully invoked the name of the Office. I don't think he was suspended because of his statements to the jury. He was suspended because of his statements in the Chronicle. I would hope he could accept the consequences and stay on board with the D.A.'s Office.
- September 29, 2011 at 5:05 PM
The not guilty would have been the same for a veteran prosecutor, but the throwing under the bus part would not.
My heart hurts for this poor junior DA, in an office where mistakes are not allowed.
I have no idea why anyone is left at the DA's office.
- September 29, 2011 at 5:20 PM
Anon 5:05, Sounds like a spin by "Little Jimmie" to me.
Makes me sick.
- September 29, 2011 at 6:12 PM
As someone that watched a decent amount of the trial, I can say Nathan was excellent. He got the opportunity to try the case because he has excelled at the office and he performed as well as everyone expected. It was a tough case, they lost, but that was a reflection of the strength of the case, not Nathan and Jane. Should Nathan have commented in the Chronicle? Probably not. But can you blame him? You have Wice calling him unethical, but do you think the administration would have done anything to defend him? Today's punishment was laughably overreaching by an administration that every ADA now knows, if they didn't already (see Rifi and Mark) does not have their back.
- September 29, 2011 at 6:34 PM
I am sorry to "contribute" again, but I hope that the blogs vis-a-vis the suspension of the named prosecutor are wrong, but if true: As a former member of the disciplinary commitee for many years I hope that this prosecutor (who I do not know nor have I ever met)was at least afforded the due process which we always gave prosecutors who were afforded that right before any action was taken for any alleged misconduct. Unfortunately, I suspect that was not the case based upon the sad history and environment of the HCDA office since it was overtaken by an assortment of previously rejected electoral misfits as the result of the actions of a multitude of what might fairly be described as uninformed (or actually dumb ass) Republican voters. I suggest that those voters now should be obligated to go lie in same the muck that apparently populates that office at the top. Hopefully, the "Fat Lady will sing" in November 2012.
Calvin A. Hartmann
- September 29, 2011 at 7:13 PM
I am enraged that Nathan was disciplined in that manner! That was completely overreaching and incredibly inappropriate!! I applaud Nathan for standing up for himself! As someone who has chosen to stay because I truly love the job - I continue to find it hilarious and sad that I learn about the "goings on" at the office from your blog! Thank goodness for the blog!!! That's how us "minions" stay informed!
-keeping it anonymous so I don't get disciplined!!!
- September 29, 2011 at 7:56 PM
My disagreement isn't with Wice. This argument has been around as long as I can remember. If he or Dick think they have a good argument for an ethical violation, they have a duty to file a grievance rather than slam someone in the paper. Perhaps then we would get an answer.
My real disagreement is with Lykos. When is she going to exercise some leadership. If she has an educated opinion about whether one of her prosecutors stepped over the line after gathering the facts, then she needs to make them aware of what they should or should not do in that circumstance. Of course, it would help if she actually tried a case. But, to levy punishment (disproportionate I might add) every time she perceives that the public won't like what one of her staff does, only reinforces the apparently accurate opinion of many that she is incompetent, vindictive and a political stooge.
- September 29, 2011 at 8:01 PM
- A Harris County Lawyer said...
Wice baited Lykos into doing something to Nathan by naming her in his editorial. He knows that Lykos has all the common sense of a catfish and would bite on the bait.
Lo and behold, she did and now Nathan has been disproportionately punished.
Congrats to Brian for knowing just how stupid Lykos is and getting her to do exactly what he wanted her to.
And Calvin, the Disciplinary Committee apparently disappeared when Rosenthal left. I didn't get a shot at a hearing when Magidson terminated me on Christmas Eve, either. I just got canned.
- September 29, 2011 at 8:29 PM
I have not commented in quite awhile with good reason. I refuse to give Rage any of the attention that he is so desperately desires. He reminds me of Bart Simpson constantly yelling, hey look at me. Not worth the effort of a read much less a response. Quite frankly I would put Wice in the same category.
Now learning that Nathan has been suspended for a week without pay and then transferred to intake for six months just makes me sick. I read the post in the Chronicle and assuming Nathan did post the comment, he surely must be questioning if the Harris County District Attorney's Office is willing to stand up for what is right and fight for the citizens of Harris County. I can tell you the answer is NO.
Someone posted that Nathan was "disciplined" because of invoking the name of the office in the comments in the Chronicle. If this is true then there are others who have failed. Bridgewater is the person in charge of professional development training. Did he fail to train or did he poorly train? In either case, I would expect some administrative response. In addition, I have heard he has invoked the name of the office in his election material and I believe there was a memo to those running expressly prohibiting the use of the office's name. Can we expect Bridgewater to be disciplined? I doubt it because it is not in the Chronicle.
Why would the Chronicle print Wice's editorial? I get the feeling that any prosecutor who zealously represents his client, the citizens of Harris County, is perceived as wrong and Lykos has accepted the Chronicle's judgement.
- September 29, 2011 at 9:04 PM
I take issue with Anon 5:05. Since when do you get punished for defending yourself when accused of being unethical? Is that a right you forfeit when you work for that office now? Sure glad that wasn't the case when I worked there, and I doubt I would have stayed 25 years had it been. It also seems to prove the point that the punishment was political.
- September 29, 2011 at 9:08 PM
The motive here is for the admin to again appease the defense bar, which was upset at Nathan's defense of himself in the Chronicle. Lykos has made it abuntantly clear that she does not care at all about her people - see, e.g., Mark and Riffi. She does, however, care what the defense bar thinks.
- September 29, 2011 at 9:56 PM
Sorry Calvin, but the Harris County Republican Party is much more interested in holding on to any offices it can REGARDLESS of how unqualified the officeholder is. The Fat Lady will sing but it is likely it will be a repeat performance. As the Chronicle has proved over and over, they never let the facts stand in the way of a good story. There is a prostitute-client relationship going on there. Not sure which one is the client...
- September 29, 2011 at 10:11 PM
This is gut-wrenching. Obviously that place now has no resemblance to the office I knew and left and loved.
I can't even imagine how those poor Baby DAs feel, working their tails off. For this. Well, kids, nobody's got your back, in case that wasn't already clear.
- September 29, 2011 at 10:27 PM
To A Harris County Attorney: I am sorry that you did not get a disciplinary hearing under Magidson; you should have under the dictates of the Operations Manual; I assure you if Holmes had been there you would have. As to the gutless performance once again by the leadership of the HCDA office, other writers, including yourself, have accuartely described this scenario better than I. As Jigmeister cogently observed: if there was a grievance matter, it should have been referred to the bar. The Houston Comical was not the place to litigate this matter. As you have fairly described Wice effectively played Lykos for a fool, and not unexpectantly prevailed with the "straw man" he erected. It is apparent that Lykos has but one objective as a minion of the Houston Comical, that is to please their editorial staff in order to be endorsed regardless of the number of employees that it will be necessary to sacrifice in order to do so.
- September 29, 2011 at 10:44 PM
I agree with your assessment of the Republican Party. Unfortunately, however, the same can be said for the Democratic Party as well. Neither party is concerned with qualifications so long as the elect has either a "R" or a "D' after their name. I have practiced law for forty-one years and have seen, in my opinion, more than a smorgasbord of unqualified candidates assume to the judiciary and other elected offices from both parties in Harris County.
Calvin A. Hartmann
- September 29, 2011 at 11:03 PM
Wow Murray you "finally" got back to writing the type of story that made this blog what it is~50 comments and counting are proof enough.
Sad that the only DA related stories since Lykos sashayed into the CJC are generally so pathetic.
Sad that people seem so defeatist in their collective acceptance of this dysfunctional situation.
Sad that I haven't heard any sincere ADA rally behind a legitimate challenger to this vile administration.
Sad that the informed people at the CJC damn well know at least 1 person who would be able to restore honor and justice to the DA's office but are too afraid to openly support her.
Sad, sometimes how adversity reveals character so unabashedly.
United we once stood--divided we have fallen.
- September 30, 2011 at 8:35 AM
Lykos should have defended Nathan instead of throwing him under the bus. Wice tossed her the bate and she was stupid enough to bite!! It doesn't matter what reason Nathan was told - the suspension is WRONG!
The sad news is that in 5 years Nathan will be prosecuting Dr. Brown again for beating wife #5. Yes, Dr. Brown will charm someone else, but his behavior won't change; hopefully, Nathan will stay with the office for Round 2!
I also predict that in 5 years, one of Lykos' cronies will have received a beating (or two) from his / her charming spouse - and may volunteer to step out of their cozy office to help Nathan. People don't change even when the spouse (aka victim) changes!!!
- September 30, 2011 at 9:03 AM
In 2008, I was quoted in an article in the Chronicle by Brian Rogers where I stated that "it was getting hard to ignore the pink elephant in the room." The article was about Chuck's implosion and everyone knew exactly what I meant. I wasn't disciplined for it. In fact, I wasn't even called to the 6th floor because it was true. I, too, agree that this situation should have been handled without an editorial in the Chronicle and without Nathan commenting on it. However, what ever happened to the 1st amendment? Nathan's commment wasn't a slap at the Harris County District Attorney. Back in 2008, mine sure was. Sorry they don't have anyone's back over there like they did then. People need to be careful what they ask for. Nathan, you are a good man. You will get through this, just like Rifi and Mark did.
- September 30, 2011 at 9:20 AM
Brian Wice would throw his own mother under a bus if it meant camera time. He is a classless, arrogant but quite articulate piece of feces. Apparently, that's all it takes to get some glam press coverage. I'm surprised Lykos hasn't offered him a position in the office. He would fit right in.
- September 30, 2011 at 9:36 AM
It hurts me to see how Pat has destroyed the office I once took such pride in. Nathan's suspension is completely inappropriate! My guess is he will quit, and the citizens of Harris County will lose another good prosecutor.
Under Holmes, a supervisor would have sat down and talked to the prosecutor in private and addressed the situation. If necessary, there would have been a hearing before the disciplinary committee prior to determining a punishment. Holmes was not afraid of the media. He wasn't trying to kiss ass for votes. If you messed up, he addressed it, and if he felt you did your job, he stood up for you and got your back.
Now, if the Chronicle prints something with your name, true or false, you get fired or demoted so Pat can get another vote.
- September 30, 2011 at 9:50 AM
The DA's office should make it very difficult for Wice to practice in Harris County. And when he volunteers to be the "appellate lawyer" at counsel table in high profile cases, the real trial lawyers will not want him around. Future clients should know that if you hire Wice, it's going to be that much harder to get a positive result. The DA's office does not respect him and they will work harder against you just because of your lawyer.
- September 30, 2011 at 9:50 AM
To: 9:50 a.m. - I vigorously disagree with your conclusion vis-a-vis Brian Wice and other similarly disliked attorneys. Regardless of one's personal opinion as to Wice or any other criminal defense attorney the prosecutor should never penalize an accused for his or her misjudgment in the employment of one's attorney. The accused should be penalized, upon conviction, for their misconduct only. Brian Wice's clients should be treated no differently than those of any other attorney. Although it is tempting to penalize the defense attorney in the manner suggested by the blogger such a practice was strongly condemned during the Holmes' era.
Calvin A. Hartmann
- September 30, 2011 at 10:50 AM
@ Anon 9:36 I agree, Wice would fit right in. There should be an opening or ten in the next couple weeks for him. Maybe they can make him another overpaid media position!
Speaking of which, where were all the MEDIA PEOPLE? What on earth were they doing? Sitting around with Felony #2 salaries, ignoring the highest profile case they have right now? Clearly they were watching out for rogue comments, not writing the obvious counter-article, or I don't know doing the press conference themselves.
- September 30, 2011 at 12:39 PM
12:39pm: The media people in the office make Chief pay. How does that make you feel?
- October 1, 2011 at 4:01 PM
I wonder when Wice is going to print his retraction in the Chronicle - like the one he posted here?
- October 1, 2011 at 4:44 PM
RE: [The media people in the office make Chief pay. How does that make you feel? October 1, 2011 4:01 PM]
You are so right Anonymous 4:01. Not only do they make Chief's pay, but it includes unlimited smoke breaks. If you have Chronicle connections,you can write your own meal ticket. The hiring criteria is not what you can do for the office, but what can you do for me?! (on the tax payer's nickel)
- October 1, 2011 at 10:03 PM
The prospect of vesting and/or retirement is what keeps the people at the office. In another couple of years, the office will lose the rest of the true talent that is left, and it will be replaced with "yes" men and women who have to spine or courage.
Congratulations Lykos. You took one of the best offices in teh country (and some would suggest the best), and have made it into just another DAs office. If your voters knew what you were truly like, you would be voted out in a heart beat. Sadly, they fall for your sound bites and never look to your actions.
Voters (especially republican voters) - challenge Lykos to name ONE pro law enforcement policy. EVERY new policy has been to appease the defense bar.
- October 2, 2011 at 10:10 AM
You know, there are still a bunch of us at the office who are NOT here just to get retirement - we're here because we want to do the job.
Give us a break, please.
I get the feeling a lot of folks WANT us to fail - you want to dance on the administration's grave so much that you're willing to bury us alive too.
And - no - this isn't a "plant" comment before some of you rev-up.
I am just a regular person who wants to do a good job - been there more than 10 years and plan on staying.
A little support, please?
- October 2, 2011 at 11:52 AM
It's admirable that you are there to do your job and you deserve to be supported for that. However, you are very much in the minority. You never worked for Johnny Holmes, who set the gold standard for managing a District Attorney's Office. If you had, the current Administration would make you gag.
- October 2, 2011 at 3:41 PM
Back in the mid 1990"s there was a hightly publicized incident which resutled in a prosecutor being severely disciplined. The Disciplinary Committee met, had a hearing and made a recommendation to then District Attorney, John B. Holmes, Jr. Holmes followed the recommendation. Afterwards, Holmes convened a meeting of the ENTIRE office to explain the process, the punishment and made clear what was expected of his assistants. There was no guesswork required on the part of the staff. Holmes also discussed the matter himself with the media. The process was transparent (you know the word that Pat can say but cannot grasp). The District Attorney showed leadership.
Can you imagine something so above board happening today? First you would have to tear Leitner away from either reading this blog, playing solitare or yapping with his buds Greenwood and Morris. Pat would never demean herself by getting in to details with her minions.
Anon 11:52, if you are that far out from retirement, my advice to you is leave. That is the same advice I give anyone who has to go more than 6 months into the second term of this farce. It is only going to get worse for all of you who stay. I am sorry to say that Anon 11:10 is totally accurate.
Hey Jim, read this and weep!
- October 2, 2011 at 4:46 PM
Sadly, many people who read this have no idea who Holmes is.
- October 2, 2011 at 10:04 PM
- Francis Bacon said...
Please set the record straight. Nathan will tell you he and Jane were counseled by the 1st assistant regarding their out of court statements and admonished not to make further remarks. Unfortunately, Nathan responded to the Op-Ed. A disciplinary hearing was held before all the bureau chiefs and they rendered their verdict. Nathan is a talented young man who made a mistake.
- October 3, 2011 at 5:04 PM
With all due respect to whoever is "Francis Bacon" I unfortunately do not believe one word coming forth in support of Lykos, or for that matter from the District Attorney's Office - everybody in that office now, in my opinion, is too intimidated by Lykos apparently as the result of what appears to be a favorite expression: "Off with (his) (her) head." That is why they need the media people - to propagandize. Since these two alleged miscreants were told not to comment further on this matter, however, is that an invitation to seek their termination by suggesting that they be quizzed further on the happenings? Of interesting note, though, one might look at the time Wice's comment was posted on the web and when the response was posted by Hennigan. At first blush it appears the punishment to be ex post facto.
Calvin A. Hartmann
- October 3, 2011 at 8:31 PM
Today Lisa Falkenberg asks "Where is honesty,transparency now?". News flash Lisa it remains where it has always been for Team Lycos, non-existent!
- October 4, 2011 at 7:00 AM

subset: commoncrawl


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The Eight: Reindeer Monologues, Frosty Farm, San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
Events December 12-December 18, 2019
Various Authors noon, Dec. 8
On Friday, I broke the unexpected news that Saint Archer Brewery (9550 Distribution Avenue, Miramar) had parted ways with brewmaster Ray Astamendi. Today, I was able to confirm a rumor that had been swimming around the local suds scene since Friday evening. Saint Archer has filled its brewing vacancy by acquiring a young cornerstone of San Diego brewing empire, Pizza Port, Yiga Miyashiro.
Miyashiro gained notoriety for leading Pizza Port Ocean Beach to Best Small Brewpub in the country in 2011, the brewery-affixed restaurant's first year in business. He went on to craft numerous quality beers before being summoned from OB to play a crucial role in Pizza Port's massive expansion project in Carlsbad's Bressi Ranch development. That facility, which is scheduled to open in a matter of months, includes a production brewery, canning line, storage and administrative space for the company's production brewing arm, Port Brewing, as well as a large restaurant.
Miyashiro was in charge of overseeing installation of the brewhouse and dialing it in along with fellow Pizza Port brewer Sean Farrell. It remains unknown how Pizza Port will adjust its staffing at Bressi Ranch in light of Miyashiro's departure.
In joining Saint Archer, Miyashiro will be reunited with a familiar friend and brewing partner, lead brewer Kim Lutz. Miyashiro and Lutz collaborated a number of times at Pizza Port Ocean Beach as well as Lutz' old station, Maui Brewing Co.'s Hawaii brewpub. The two have proven their ability to create great tasting beers together. In the short term, at least, they will be charged with producing large quantities of Saint Archer's trio of core beers.
Over the past 48 hours, I was also able to confirm that, though he is still the brewmaster for Pacific Beach eatery, California Kebab & Beer Garden's nanobrewery operation, Amplified Ale Works, brewer Cy Henley is now a full-time employee of Saint Archer. In the span of two days, the business has gone from being down a brewmaster to being fully staffed with industry veterans.


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ROCKFORD — The Illinois Department of Transportation will resurface West State Street from Springfield Avenue to Day Avenue beginning Aug. 18.
The road will remain open to traffic during construction activities, with periodic lane closures. The work is expected to be completed in late September.
Drivers are reminded to stay alert for workers when driving through the construction zone.
For information: 815-967-4311.


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PULLMAN, Wash. (AP) Spencer Dinwiddie scored 16 points and had eight rebounds as Colorado came up with a great defensive performance to beat Washington State 58-49 Saturday night.
Two freshmen contributed with double figures for the night as Xavier Johnson added 14 points and Josh Scott chipped in 11 as Colorado (12-6, 2-4 Pac-12) rebounded from a loss Wednesday night against Washington.
Colorado led 23-19 at halftime. The Cougars erased the deficit by going on a 12-4 run to start the second half, taking a 31-27 lead near the 15-minute mark. The teams traded baskets until 6:08 when Dinwiddie hit Colorado's only three of the night to take a 47-42 lead. Colorado would then go on a run to put the game out of reach at 54-46 with under a minute to play.
Brock Motum and Mike Ladd had 13 points apiece for Washington State (10-8, 1-4). Motum also had seven rebounds.


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16 May 2013 at 10.10am | Comment on this article
Audrey Niffenegger's book Raven Girl is now available to buy in the Royal Opera House Shop.
The novella forms the basis for a new ballet by Royal Ballet Resident Choreographer Wayne McGregor and, to celebrate their exciting new collaboration, both Wayne and Audrey will be signing copies of the book at the Royal Opera House Shop at 4:30pm on Wednesday 29 May
A dark, illustrated fairytale, it follows the tale of a girl who is part-bird part-human. The ballet Raven Girl, which features designs by Vicky Mortimer and music by Gabriel Yared, will have its world premier later this month.
Audrey and Wayne recently took part in an Insights preview session to demonstrate some of their creative process. Find out more here. You can also find out more about the inspiration behind the story in our interview with Audrey.
Raven Girl will be performed in a mixed programme with Symphony in C. It opens on 21 May and will run until 8 June. Tickets are still available.


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New creative effects lens for Micro Four Thirds and Sony α NEX cameras features the Tilt Transformer, letting photographers shoot tilt photography with Nikon mount lenses with an unprecedented amount of tilt
PORTLAND, Ore. -- Lensbaby announces today the newest addition to the Lensbaby Creative Effects camera products line-up, the Composer with Tilt Transformer available immediately for Panasonic Lumix G Micro System and Olympus PEN digital cameras and in Q4 2010 for Sony α NEX cameras.
The Tilt Transformer allows photographers to mount any Nikon mount lens onto their Micro Four Thirds or Sony α NEX camera and tilt up to twice the amount of standard tilt-shift lenses, delivering photos that have a slice of focus through the image, bordered by a soft blur.
"The more creative tools available, the better a photographer can express her or his unique vision." said Craig Strong, Lensbaby Co-Founder and President. "We got excited when we realized that the Lensbaby Optic Swap system could be extended to include Nikon mount camera lenses, including primes, fisheyes, zooms and macro lenses. This unique design for Micro Four Thirds and Sony α NEX cameras gives photographers more freedom to capture images they see in their mind's eye by opening up unprecedented new creative opportunities. I'm looking forward to seeing the unique and compelling photographs that photographic artists make with these new creative tools."
The Tilt Transformer also serves as the foundation for the Composer Focus Front. When used together, they become the Composer with Tilt Transformer, for use on Micro Four Thirds or Sony α NEX cameras. This provides photographers with access to the limitless creativity offered by the Lensbaby Optic Swap system.
The Tilt Transformer allows photographers to fluidly tilt their Nikon mount lens up to twice as much as a standard tilt shift lens, giving photographers extraordinary control over the size and placement of a slice of focus through their photograph. The Tilt Transformer's swivel ball is based on the patent pending design Lensbaby developed for the award winning Lensbaby Composer creative effects camera lens. The front of the swivel ball has a Nikon mount, allowing photographers to mount Nikon mount lenses.
Vertical slice taken with Nikon 25mm lens (photo by David Akoubian)
Horizontal slice taken with Nikon 50mm lens (photo by Keri Friedman)
Diagonal slice taken with Nikon 50mm lens (photo by Tyson Robichaud)
Tilting a Nikon mount lens on the Tilt Transformer will place the slice of focus in different orientations within the image. Vertical, horizontal and diagonal slices are possible depending on the direction the lens is tilted. Objects in both the foreground and background can be in focus within that slice. For example, a photographer can focus on one person close up in the left portion of the frame while also focusing on someone standing much further away from the camera on the right side of the frame. The ability to focus on several items at once (while blurring out the rest of the image) when each item is placed at a different distance from the camera, is typically possible only with traditional tilt-shift lenses or view cameras.
The size of the slice of focus is dependent upon the aperture used. For example, f1.4 will produce a very thin slice of focus with abundant blur while f22 will produce a very wide slice of focus with just at tiny bit of blur. Also, when tilting extremely and shooting at a very wide open aperture like f1.4 the slice of focus will appear even thinner than when shooting at f1.4 with minimal tilt.
Due to the extraordinary tilt available with the Tilt Transformer, photographers can produce a more extreme angled slice of focus than possible with standard tilt-shift lenses. For instance, with the Tilt Transformer a photographer can focus on an object very close to the camera in the extreme lower left hand corner of the frame while simultaneously focusing on an object in the extreme upper right hand corner at infinity.
Tilt Transformer product specs and features include:
The Lensbaby Composer is a manual focus lens based on a ball and socket configuration that delivers smooth selective focus and other creative photography looks with unparalleled ease. Photographers can simply tilt the lens to a desired angle and then focus with a manual focusing ring. The Composer stays in the desired bent position without requiring a locking mechanism.
The Composer with Tilt Transformer is compatible with the Lensbaby Optic Swap System* and ships with a Double Glass Optic installed. Additional optics can be swapped in and out, providing photographers with a wide range of creative effects including: Single Glass, Plastic, Pinhole/Zone Plate and Soft Focus.
Composer with Tilt Transformer specs and features include:
* Includes the Composer Focus Front Optic Adapter that allows Lensbaby Double Glass, Single Glass, Plastic, Soft Focus and Pinhole/Zone Plate optics to focus to infinity when used with the Composer with Tilt Transformer. As Micro Four Thirds and Sony α NEX cameras do not have an internal mirror, the lens is closer to the sensor than with SLR cameras, requiring this adapter. The Fisheye optic is not compatible with the Composer with Tilt Transformer.
The Tilt Transformer and Composer with Tilt Transformer are available from select specialty photo stores worldwide and from http://www.lensbaby.com, amazon.com, adorama.com and bhphotovideo.com. The Tilt Transformer retails for $250 MSRP. The Composer with Tilt Transformer retails for $350 MSRP. For more information contact PR Representative Jessica Darrican at [email protected].
Lensbaby is a Portland, Oregon based manufacturer of award-winning Creative Effects SLR camera lenses. Lensbaby was launched in February 2004 by Craig Strong, a professional photographer and the inventor of the patented Lensbaby Creative Effects SLR lens system. Lensbaby sells to photographers all over the world through its Web site, http://www.lensbaby.com, by calling (877) 536-7222 or (971) 223-5662, at trade shows, in leading photo retailers and through a growing global network of international distributors.


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Irish tenor, Ronan Tynan, is coming to The Summit At Plantsville to speak and sing on Monday, Sept. 9 for an "Honor & Remember 9/11" Ceremony.
First introduced to audiences as a member of the Irish Tenors, Tynan has gained international recognition. He is currently one of the most sought after motivational speakers delivering over 50 speeches to major corporations and charity organizations annually, during which he recounts his impressive life experience as a singer, physician, and a Paralympic gold-medalist.
Though Ronan enjoyed singing as a boy, he did not seriously consider formal voice study until he was 33, when he was well into his residency as a physician. His quick success is a typical development in a life of extraordinary achievement.
Born with lower limb disability that threatened to sideline him throughout his childhood, he still kept active. When he was 20, his legs had to be amputated below the knee after an auto accident caused serious complications.
Just weeks after the operation, he was climbing up the steps of his college dorm, and within a year, he was winning gold medals in the Paralympics as a multitalented athlete. Between 1981 and 1984, Tynan amassed 18 gold medals and 14 world records of which he still holds nine. In 1998, Tynan joined Anthony Kearns and John McDermott (later Finbar Wright) as The Irish Tenors, an instant worldwide sensation.
Tynan then launched a solo career. Among his performances are his renditions of "Amazing Grace" and "Ave Maria" at the funeral of President Reagan, an appearance at the wedding of New York Mayor Rudy Guliani, the 80tj birthday celebration of President George H.W. Bush, the singing of "God Bless America" at countless seventh inning stretches at Yankee Stadium, and most recently a performance at the Washington D.C. Memorial Day celebration.
Admission to the event at The Summit is $50 per person. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Limited seating available. Checks should be made out to "The Summit At Plantsville" and sent to: The Summit At Plantsville c/o Colleen Donahue 261 Summit St., Plantsville, CT 06479.
For additional ticket information, contact Barbara Blau or Colleen Donahue at The Summit At Plantsville, (860) 628-0364.


text:
Large filter for very large engine.
Reviewed By Mark V (HUNTSVILLE, AL) Reviewed for a 2015 Ford F-250 —9/29/2014 11:55 AM
Does what it is supposed to do. The wrench off fitting is very helpful. Backflow preventer is key for cold starts.
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text:
I will promote a civil public square after the principles in The Global Public Square by Os Guinness. We affirm the 1948 UN Declaration of Universal Human Rights and will work to restore Articles 18 & 19, seeking a 21st century solution that accommodates everyone.
We will work together to rebuild our cities, towns and rural areas for the benefit of all residents, across racial and demographic lines, for the genuine thriving of all who live there.
We will seek to resolve differences peacefully through dialogue and discussion. We will ask questions to seek understanding of the other person's point of view, following the Stephen Covey principle of Seek first to understand, then to be understood.
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Geneste portlets
Geneste portlets
From the very beginning, service and the community have been a vital part of the Kristin experience. At the very first meetings in 1972 it was clear that Kristin's values would be those of family and community. An interdenominational school which embraced a Christian way of living, it has always been the people at Kristin who made it such a unique and nurturing environment.
These days the community has grown but the values remain the same. Kristin Family and Friends is comprised of many groups of parents, grandparents and friends of the school who, just like in those early days at Kristin, come together to support the community and facilitate occasions such as productions, sports matches and events.
Our Kristin Alumni groups remain strong, regularly coming together for reunions and special Alumni events, and we are proud to welcome back a large number of Alumni who are now Kristin parents themselves.
Over the years Kristin has accumulated a rich collection of documents, photos, videos and memorabilia that tell the story of the School's history. These archives are collected, collated and maintained by our archivist, John Winn. Available to view by appointment, the Kristin archives offer a rich and interesting insight into the years gone by at Kristin.


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Veteran free safety Ed Reed wore a gray suit Monday night along with a wide grin as he embraced his first hours back in Louisiana after touching down in New Orleans.
From chowing down on charbroiled oysters with his teammates at the popular New Orleans restaurant, Dragos, to playfully tapping reporters on the arm as he worked the crowd, the Louisiana native soaked up every moment upon arrival for Super Bowl XLVII.
"I can't explain it, man," said Reed, who plans to visit his family Tuesday in St. Rose, La., for some Cajun cooking. "This is awesome, man. To come home to be in Louisiana in front of the home crowd playing here for the Super Bowl, I'm really speechless.
"Everything I've been through to get to this point, everything we've been through as a team, it's just awesome. I'm just trying to enjoy it and not hold anything in, any emotions. To be playing in my first Super Bowl in New Orleans, it's special."
Reed's intense focus is on Sunday's matchup against the San Francisco 49ers at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, not on his future plans.
Reed reiterated that he has no plans to retire after stating late last week that he has more football left in him.
"That question was asked a couple of days back about this being my last ride," Reed said. "I'm not focused on that right now."
Although this would seem like a perfect ending to an accomplished career, Reed has never embraced a conventional approach.
"There can't be no talk about us both because he's trying to get me to come back," said Ravens inside linebacker Ray Lewis, who is retiring following the Super Bowl. "Ed is going to do what Ed is going to do. I think both of our paths are totally different.
"Our courses are totally different. Same mindset, but totally different paths. He'll make his decision whenever he makes his decision. Like I told him, if he was going to go out, what better way to go out than feeling that confetti as world champions."
As Lewis, 37, prepares to walk away from the game, Reed, 34, wants to send his friend and mentor out as a victor Sunday night hoisting the Vince Lombardi trophy.
"Of course, we want to send him off the right way," Reed said. "I'm not about to say this is my last game and have everybody join in with that. If that's what it takes to get the guys pumped, though. Nah, man, it's not about me."
This isn't Reed's first Super Bowl experience in New Orleans.
Back in 1997 as a high school football standout at nearby Destrehan High School in St. Rose, La., outside of New Orleans, Reed won a regional Punt, Pass and Kick competition. That earned him the right to attend Super Bowl Media Day as the Green Bay Packers and the New England Patriots prepared for a game ultimately won by the Packers.
"It was awesome," said Reed, who ran the Wing-T offense as a high school quarterback before signing with the University of Miami to play safety. "I still have those visions."
Reed acknowledged that the game of football has taken a grueling toll on his body.
He's been dealing with a nerve impingement in his neck and shoulder for several seasons, affecting his durability and tackling. This season, he played through a torn shoulder labrum.
"When I said before I'm thinking about retiring, that's me assessing my body physically," Reed said. "I've been playing with the nerve impingement for the past six, seven years. I know that's affecting me. I tore my shoulder labrum early in the year. That's still affecting me ergonomically. The game takes a toll on your body."
In January of 2011 prior to the Ravens' playoff game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Reed's brother, Brian Reed, died after jumping into the Mississippi River while trying to elude police following a car chase. Brian Reed had a history of mental illness, according to his family.
"He's already proud of me," Reed said when asked about his late brother. "He's looking down on me right now. He's here with me."


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A convicted killer who had been on death row for 23 years was executed by lethal injection at Florida State Prison on Tuesday.
Marshall Lee Gore, 49, was pronounced dead at 6:12 p.m., authorities said.
Gore, a former Miami-Dade escort service owner, was convicted of killing two women in the 1980s and executed for the March 1988 murder of of one of those women, exotic dancer Robyn Novick. The 30-year-old nude body was found dumped in rural Miami-Dade County.
Gore was also convicted of killing another woman, Susan Roark, and the attempted murder of another woman.
In addition to the two death sentences, Gore was given seven life sentences plus another 110 years in a case involving the attempted murder.
Tuesday was the fourth time Gore's execution has been scheduled this year. Twice, courts put the execution on hold due to insanity claims. Attorney General Pam Bondi's staff also once asked that it be postponed because it conflicted with her political fundraiser.
On Monday, Gore's attorneys asked for a stay from the U.S. Supreme Court.
Gore said he suffered from delusions related to a conspiracy theory in which the purpose of his execution is so that the elite and wealthy people can harvest his organs. Gore has also said he was being targeted by satanic worshippers for human sacrifice, that he hears voices telling him to hang himself and that he was somehow injected with the virus that causes tuberculosis.
The appeals judges sided with a panel of state-appointed mental health experts who concluded Gore's "insanity" was all an act "designed to mislead the panel and avoid responsibility for his past actions."
Gore was arrested after attacking a third woman, who survived, and later testified at his trial in connection with Novick's death. The survivor said Gore beat her with a rock, choked, raped and stabbed her, leaving her near where Novick's body was found.
The FBI tracked the woman's stolen car to Paducah, Ky., and arrested Gore. When he was found, he had the woman's bank and credit cards in his jacket pocket, according to court documents.
Upon questioning about all three crimes and shown pictures of Novick's body, police said his eyes filled with tears and he said, "If I did this, I deserve the death penalty."
Gore initially denied knowing any of the women, according to police. But he later testified that all three women worked for him at an escort service.
More Local Stories:
- Funeral Held for Murdered Homestead Teen
- Child Found on Street Corner After Mom Left Kids Home Alone: Miami Police
- Suspended Homestead Mayor Plans on Getting Job Back


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Benedict XVI
Benedict XVI (Latin: Benedictus PP. XVI), born Joseph Alois Ratzinger, is the 265th and current Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, and by virtue of that office, Sovereign of the Vatican City State. He was elected on 19 April 2005 in a papal conclave, celebrated his Papal Inauguration Mass on 24 April 2005, and took possession of his cathedral, the Basilica of St. John Lateran, on 7 May 2005. Pope Benedict has both German and Vatican citizenship. He succeeded John Paul II, who died at the beginning of April 2005.
Dialogue with Christian religions
Speaking at his weekly audience in St Peter's Square on 7 June, 2006, Pope Benedict asserted that Jesus himself had entrusted the leadership of the Church to his apostle Peter. "Peter's responsibility thus consists of guaranteeing the communion with Christ," said Pope Benedict. "Let us pray so that the primacy of Peter, entrusted to poor human beings, may always be exercised in this original sense desired by the Lord, so that it will be increasingly recognised in its true meaning by brothers who are still not in communion with us." The Roman Catholic Church teaches that the Pope has a leading role among Christians because as bishop of Rome he is successor to the apostle Peter who first held the office. The role of the Roman Catholic papacy remains a source of controversy, not only for Protestant denominations but also for Eastern Orthodox churches and members of the Restorationism movement, which does not accept the dogmas of the First Vatican Council.
The bishops of the Ecumenical Orthodox Patriarchate of Constantinople have expressed concern over Pope Benedict XVI's decision to drop "patriarch of the West" from his official titles in the Vatican yearbook. In a June 8, 2006 statement, the chief secretary of the Orthodox bishops' synod said dropping "patriarch of the West" while retaining the titles "vicar of Jesus Christ" and "supreme pontiff of the universal church" is "perceived as implying a universal jurisdiction of the bishop of Rome over the entire church, which is something the Orthodox have never accepted." The statement was issued after synod members discussed the change during their early June meeting. Cardinal Walter Kasper, president of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, said in a March statement that dropping the title of patriarch in reference to the pope does not minimize the importance of the patriarchal office, particularly in relation to the ancient Eastern churches. "Even less can this suppression be seen as implying new claims" of power or authority on the part of the Vatican, he said. However, members of the Orthodox synod disagreed. From their point of view, "the geographical limits of each ecclesiastical jurisdiction" have been a key part of the structure of the church from the earliest days of Christianity. The church as a whole is "a unity of full local churches" and not a monolith divided into local units simply for the sake of easier governance. The Orthodox synod's statement said that, with the international Catholic-Orthodox theological dialogue set to begin again in September with plans to deal with the "thorny problem" of papal primacy, it would have been better not to have dropped the title without consultation.
A leading Ukrainian Orthodox spokesman has said that a visit to Ukraine by Pope Benedict XVI would be "untimely," according to the country's RISU news service. "If Pope Benedict is a moral and a spiritual person and wants only good for Ukraine and its people, he will never take such an unreasonable step," said Valentyn Lukianyk, the head of the Union of Orthodox Brotherhoods of Ukraine. He was responding to the news that Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko has invited the Pope to visit the country. There have been numerous clashes between Orthodox and Catholic believers over the ownership of parish properties that were confiscated by the Communists and handed over to Orthodox clerics. At the same time, Orthodox leaders have complained that Catholics are engaged in "proselytism," seeking converts among Orthodox believers. In his statement opposing a papal visit, Lukianyk said that relations between Catholics and Orthodox in Ukraine are now "warming." A visit by Pope Benedict, he said, would place an undue burden on those sensitive ties.
External links
- Benedict's call on papacy will increase divisions, says Italian Protestant
- Orthodox express concern about dropping 'patriarch of the West' title
- Ukrainian Orthodox spokesman opposes papal visit
Benedict XVI
|Preceded by:
John Paul II
|Roman Catholic Pope
|Succeeded by:


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CHICAGO - Rookie Brandon Saad and Jonathan Toews scored 55 seconds apart midway through the third period, and the Chicago Blackhawks rallied to beat the Nashville Predators 5-3 on Sunday night to become the first team to clinch a NHL playoff spot this season.
Chicago (29-5-4) had fallen behind 3-2 early in the third on a goal by David Legwand, but Saad and Toews connected against Pekka Rinne to put the Blackhawks back ahead.
The Blackhawks defeated the Predators for the second time in two days and improved to 13-0-1 against Central Division teams. Andrew Shaw and Bryan Bickell also scored for Chicago, and Patrick Kane added an empty-net goal.
Shea Weber and Nick Spaling each had a goal and an assist for the Predators (15-17-8), who are 13th in the Western Conference with 38 points, five behind eighth-place Detroit at the post-season cutoff.
Chicago's Ray Emery stopped 19 shots, following a 20-save, 1-0 win at Nashville on Saturday. The Blackhawks improved to 4-0 against the Predators.
BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) — Nathan Gerbe scored the only goal in the shootout to give Buffalo a victory over New Jersey that extended the Devils' losing streak to seven games.
Ryan Miller stopped 37 shots through overtime, and all three shootout attempts — including a victory-clinching glove save on Travis Zajac.
Steve Ott extended his goal streak to three games, and Patrick Kaleta also scored for Buffalo, which won its third straight.
Steve Sullivan and Mark Fayne, who forced overtime with a short-handed goal, scored for the Devils, who are 0-3-4 in their past seven. That is their longest winless streak since going 0-4-2-1 from Nov. 10-23, 2001.
The Devils' loss clinched a playoff spot for the Eastern Conference-leading Pittsburgh Penguins.
New Jersey (15-14-10), 1-5-6 in its past 12 road games, is 6-12-7 following a 9-2-3 start. The Devils haven't won since star forward Ilya Kovalchuk injured a shoulder.
The Sabres (16-17-6) jumped ahead of idle Philadelphia and into 11th place in the East, two points behind the ninth-place Devils.
SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP) — Jamie Benn scored the lone goal in the shootout and Kari Lehtonen stopped all three attempts as Dallas snapped San Jose's seven-game winning streak with a come-from-behind victory.
Alex Chiasson started the rally from a two-goal deficit in the third period when he scored his second goal of the game, and Loui Erickson tied it for the Stars, who have won two straight following a three-game losing streak. Eric Nystrom also scored, and Lehtonen made 32 saves through overtime for Dallas.
The Stars also erased a 2-0 deficit before falling behind 4-2.
Tommy Wingels, Brent Burns, TJ Galiardi and Marc-Edouard Vlasic scored for the Sharks, who had won the first six games of their seven-game homestand. San Jose failed in its attempt to become the first NHL team to win every game on a homestand of at least seven games, according to STATS.
San Jose's Antti Niemi made 30 saves.
DETROIT (AP) — Brian Elliott made 28 saves for his 19th career shutout and Chris Porter scored the game's only goal in St. Louis' win over Detroit.
Porter scored his second goal of the season off a goalmouth scramble with 3:32 remaining in the second period. Elliott earned his first shutout of the season.
Jimmy Howard stopped 24 shots for Detroit, which dropped from seventh to eighth in the West.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Niklas Backstrom made 24 saves, and newcomer Jason Pominville had a goal and an assist to help Minnesota snap a three-game losing streak by beating Columbus.
Pominville, acquired this week from Buffalo, earned his first points with Minnesota.
Ryan Suter's wrist shot in traffic started the scoring, and Charlie Coyle benefited from a perfect pass from Mikael Granlund as the Wild netted two power-play goals in the second period.
Backstrom and his staunch defence did the rest until Pominville scored late off a tape-to-tape pass from Zach Parise. Backstrom earned his second shutout of the season and 28th of his NHL career.
WASHINGTON (AP) — Alex Ovechkin scored twice to make it five goals in two games, and Washington beat Tampa Bay.
Ovechkin scored his 24th and 25th goal — giving him 16 in 14 games — to pull even with Tampa Bay's Steven Stamkos for the top spot in the NHL.
John Carlson and Joel Ward also scored for the Capitals, who moved two points ahead of the second-place Winnipeg Jets in the Southeast Division with a game in hand.
Michal Neuvirth, making his first start since March 16, had 28 saves, including a pair of point-blank one-on-one stops against Vincent Lecavalier.
Washington has won four straight and eight of 10.
Lecavalier and Alex Killorn scored for the Lightning. Tampa Bay trails Washington by eight points with three weeks remaining in the regular season.
ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Corey Perry scored late in the second period and added the winning goal in the shootout, leading Anaheim closer to the Pacific Division title with a victory over Los Angeles.
Matt Beleskey scored the tiebreaking goal on a power play for Anaheim with 15:06 to play, but Kings captain Dustin Brown tied it with 3:45 left in regulation in the third Freeway Faceoff of the season.
The Ducks were outshot 38-22, but the Pacific Division leaders were perfect in the shootout. Bobby Ryan and Saku Koivu scored on Jonathan Bernier before Perry ended Anaheim's fourth win in six games with a wrist shot.
Jeff Carter and Drew Doughty scored for the defending Stanley Cup champions, who had won five of seven.
SUNRISE, Fla. (AP) — Dmitry Kulikov scored a power-play goal 10:46 into the third period to lift Florida over Ottawa and send the Senators to their fourth straight loss.
Kulikov's wrist shot from top of the left circle beat Craig Anderson as Sergei Gonchar served a holding penalty.
Scott Clemmensen made 40 saves, and Marcel Goc also scored for Florida, which has won four of five.
Ottawa's Cory Conacher scored his first goal since being acquired from Tampa Bay on Wednesday. Anderson stopped 15 of 17 shots in his return from an ankle injury sustained against the New York Rangers on Feb. 21.


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Hey loves, I know I have been MIA. BUT, I had a good reason. A few weeks ago I wanted to get circle lenses SO BADLY! I mean don't we all want bigger eyes? If you don't know circle lenses are..they can come in prescription and nonprescription. They are colored lenses that are usually bigger in diameter than most contacts. The ones I am wearing are 15mm in diameter contacts, where as my usual size is about 14 mm. There are a lot of benefits to circle lenses, such as they can make your eyes appear larger, there are more styles and colors to choose from, and there is no prescription needed to order them! SO I have been wearing them for 2 weeks now and really giving them a go, to serve you up my own most honest opinion and review of them! 😀
When you visit you optometrist, if you wear contacts, can recommend some colored contacts in the same brand that you already wear that are CRAZY EXPENSIVE. Yes, they have a range of colors that are all somewhat natural looking, and the most exciting color is light purple, and 3 pair will charge $175. Which is ridiculous. Being the cheepo I am I decided I was not going to pay that for colored contacts…I mean aren't they just pieces of plastic you use and discard?! So naturally I googled. I found http://www.thedollyeye.com, and I read multiple reviews myself to see what their rep was. They are amazing contacts, that I have really grown to be in love with! Their site apart from contacts, has other beauty products as well, and is definitely worth checking out. Under the circle lenses tab, is where the fun begins!
They have so many colors, styles, themed, and sizes, and prescription/non-perscription lenses to choose from! The biggest challenge is figuring out from all the kinds which ones you want to buy, they are all wicked cool! I wanted like 20 pairs, for real :p On their site they also have links to pictures taken by real people wearing them so you can see better what they will look like in person, which is great. AND they are only around $25 per pair which is way better than the actual recommended ones from your doctor. In most cases always go to your doctor first, but in this case, I have been wearing contacts for 7 plus years now, and have tried many different contacts and brands, and as long as you buy them from a reliable source, know your script number, and use them correctly you are golden!
As you can see, this is what you get when you order your contacts! Two vials containing your contacts in solution, I bought the Twilight Green ones, because I already have green eyes and wanted a more fun intense green look! Mine are in a -3.75 prescription, as you can see on the lid, and they even give you a little carrying lens case to keep them in. So to be honest, you have to get used to them…at first if you already where contacts you know the drill, don't sleep in contacts, keep them clean in refreshed daily solution, ect. Circle lenses however, since they are much larger, deprive your eyes of more oxygen. With this being said, NEVER sleep in these contacts. Regular contacts you can get away with this once in a while, but which such a large contact lens, this can really harm and damage your eyes while you sleep. It is pretty much eye murder by means of suffocation lol
When you first get them, take them remove them from the vile, by unscrewing the sharp (be careful) metal caping mechanism, and poor them into the lens carrying case and fill with fresh solution. If you have never warn contacts you can buy the solution at Target or anywhere for $3. It is hard to explain, but if you don't know how to put a contact lens in, Youtube a video of it. Basically, what I do is gently pull down the lower lid, with head tipped somewhat down, and apply it to your eye while looking up, so you don't touch your pupil, then let go and roll your eyes around till the contacts adjust to your pupil. If there is a lot of discomfort at first make sure they are clean, not bent, and are not in folded backwards, ha ha this happens sometimes…
AT FIRST, I got somewhat of a head ache…but naturally your body needs time to adjust to new things…as if you had a caffein headache. But after I got used to them, I have been absolutely loving them! 🙂 Mine are really intense but that's just my style, but they have natural ones on their site as well! I recommend only wearing them for a bit when you start out, not to add stress on your sensitive eyes! Start off by wearing them for 6 hours maximum, and see how they feel. I don't wear mine all day long, everyday. I wear them as more of a special thing, when I am going out, or want a dressed up look. I have gotten so many complements from people on these colored ones, it makes me just want more kinds. They are fun, and unique, and can really switch up your look. They are also great for people like me, who are always trying to make their eyes look bigger or more enhanced.
I love pairing these lenses with lots of eyeliner and mascara, even false lashes, to really play them up and give them that Barbie Doll look, I mean why not? I suggest if you want them to look more natural, pick a color somewhat close to your eye color. If you want natural looking blue eyes, but have dark brown ones normally, it will be a little difficult for you can slightly see your natural eye color underneath the pupil opening in the lens, but only if someone was really looking. I have been wearing them for a couple weeks now, and completely in love, they are just that interesting pop to my makeup looks! I suggest giving them a try since they are so affordable, and you can really choose whatever ones fit your life best 🙂 You can find them at http://www.thedollyeye.com
Here is an example of a makeup look I rocked to enhance the color of the contacts, since they are green I chose a warm gold tone 🙂 You can see my own green eyes a bit, but it is not so noticeable in person, I love love love these bad boys! :p
If you guys have any questions about the wear of these or my thought on them please post in the comments below! I love hearing your feedback 🙂 Please stay tuned for more posts, I am trying to schedule a time to post more regularly. Thank you so much for reading and Love always Pearlsnheels ❤
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The Echoriath or Encircling Mountains were a mountain range in the north of Beleriand.
The Echoriath formed a natural circle of rock, enclosing the valley later called Tumladen, within which lay the Elven city of Gondolin. A hidden ravine provided the only access through the Echoriath — a way guarded by seven gates.
Echoriath is Sindarin. It means "encercling fence", from echor "encircling" and iâth "fence".
Christopher Tolkien mentioned that his father's intent was to rename the Echoriath as Echoriad, but perhaps this knowledge eluded him while publishing The Silmarillion.


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Merida, the spunky heroine with a messy mop of burnt orange curls atop her head, is like a breath of fresh air. She's the star of Pixar's new Brave, and unlike so many female protagonists in children's films she's not a prissy, pink-wearing princess who's waiting for her knight in shining armor to charge through the castle door. She's sporty and fierce, determined and strong, and rides on her horse through the Scottish Highlands shooting arrows.
"Brave is notable because it's Pixar's first movie that features a female main character," says Betsy Bozdech, managing editor of Common Sense Media, a nonprofit advocacy group that helps parents navigate media. "And unlike a lot of princess stories, which tend to focus on the princess's romantic prospects, Brave is centered on parent-child relationships and Merida's personal growth from self-centered teen to a more selfless princess. That makes her a pretty strong alternative to the more stereotypical animated princesses we've seen over the years."
Merida has quickly captured the hearts of children (and moms and dads) across the country and the film Brave opened to mostly positive reviews. It seems America was hungry for a female protagonist, an anti-princess, a role model for little girls, somebody who could kick Cinderella's butt (although Merida would never do that because she's not a bully).
While Merida might seem like an entirely new species in children's films, Hollywood has graced us with a few other family movies starring notable female protagonists. SFGate reached out to Common Sense Media to help come up with a list of those movies, and you'll find their selections in the slide show below. If your kids liked Brave, you ought to check out one of these films. And please chime in with more movie starring powerful female characters in the comments.
Common Sense Media provided suggested ages for the movies. The website is a great resource for determining whether a movie is appropriate for your child.


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March 2, 2011
LONG BEACH, Calif. - The UC Santa Barbara men's swim team opened the Pac-10 Swimming Championships on Wednesday evening and has already posted a new school record in the 800 freestyle relay. The championships, which run through Saturday, are being held at Belmont Plaza in Long Beach.
The Gauchos' `A' 800 free relay team of Garrett Thompson, Lucas Norman, Ryan Hanni and Mike London broke the UCSB record in the event with a time of 6:30.06, which is a NCAA `B' cut. The time breaks the previous record, which was set in 2009, by 1.01 seconds. UCSB placed fifth in the event.
In the first event of the meet, the 200 medley relay, the Gaucho `A' team of Kevin Ferguson, Tim Freeman, Max Horrell and Chris Peterson finished fourth with a time of 1:28.28. The mark is a NCAA `B' cut and the third-best time in program history.
The Gaucho `B' medley relay team of Ryan Garcia, Evan Simoni, Dylan Templeton and Andrew Latimer posted a time of 1:32.66. The 800 free `B' team of Alexander Campbell, Randy Aakhus, Andrew Dossa and Scott Nocco posted a time of 6:46.59.
After today's two events, UCSB is in fourth place with 58 points. Stanford is currently in first with 74 points.
The Pac-10 Championships will continue on Thursday with the 500 free, 200 individual medley, 50 free and the 200 free relay.


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Once the Second World War was over, the American vehicle manufacturing industry was still tooled up for production of military equipment, and while there were some factories that were able to quickly adapt to peace-time production, others were bigger and therefore their moves were cumbersome.
However, there was another category which is worth mentioning here – those companies whose products did find civilian uses with minimal modifications, like the iconic Willys Jeep, which got stripped out and sold to farmers who would plough the fields with it, or spread seeds.
Motor Trend wants to see if that purposefully-utilitarian philosophy to building off-roaders has been preserved until the modern day, or in other words, if a modern Jeep Wrangler can cut it on the farm. The chosen vehicle is a Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited, powered by the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, coupled to a manual gearbox. It proves that it has more than enough power and traction to do some really hard work, and while it doesn't have PTO (power take-off) at the back to provide drive to the more advanced farming equipment, it really isn't bad.
But all of this text would be irrelevant without the video, which is a nice history lesson and generally quite informative, as well as also being posted below.
By Andrei Nedelea


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Creator of TV Dramas Delves into the Dark Side
Like many Barnard undergraduates, Veena Sud used her time at college to explore new worlds, but hers were a far cry from the ones most students pursue. During her freshman year, she visited Chinatown with a police officer from the vice squad for a crash course on the sex industry. "I've always been fascinated by law and order, and dark, gritty worlds," she says. That fascination—bolstered by the research she has done on criminals and the police since the age of 16—laid the groundwork for a successful career writing and producing such TV shows as Cold Case and The Killing.
After Barnard, Sud spent several years working as a journalist at Pacifica Radio and at the media-watchdog group Fairness and Accuracy in Reporting. She also married and had a son. In her spare time, she made experimental films like Stretchmark, a semi-autobiographical piece about being a single mother.
At 28, she enrolled at New York University's film school, where she studied with Spike Lee, who allowed Sud and his other students to view rough cuts of the movie on which he was working. After graduation, she spent a year directing MTV's The Real World, then made her way to Los Angeles. She landed a job on the short-lived show Push, Nevada before meeting the creator of the CBS police drama Cold Case, who hired her as a writer. Three years later, she became the show's executive producer. "I got to learn everything at hyper speed," she says.
In 2010, Sud adapted a moody Danish police drama called Forbrydelsen for American viewers. The Killing was conceived as "an anti-genre cop show with slow-burn storytelling," Sud says. Eschewing the one-episode resolution of many such shows, each episode of The Killing, set in Seattle, captured one day in the investigation of the murder of teenager Rosie Larsen. But the storytelling focused not just on the police work, but also on the lives of the detectives and the victim's family. As always, Sud delved into research, meeting with families who had lost children. "It was one of the most powerful experiences I've ever had," she says. "And it became even more important to me to tell their story accurately and authentically."
Sud also consulted with detectives in Philadelphia and Los Angeles, and took the show's writers on a visit to the morgue. Her youthful forays into police precincts "emboldened me to ask questions and go places," she says. "It's been a useful tool all my life as a writer. I realized what people have to say is much more interesting than what I could make up." Yet translating that research into a fictional world is "a fine balancing act. You're a creator of a made-up world and a documentarian. When you inhabit the space in between, you hit your sweet spot," she says.
As executive producer and head writer for The Killing, Sud worked on everything from creating the budget to studying the color of the leaves outside the windows of the fictional police department. To make the home of the victim's family look appropriately lived in, Sud would trail crumbs around the kitchen and make sure there were piles of papers scattered on counters. "Visuals are an important part of my storytelling," she says. "That level of detail seems like it's not that important, but it is important if you're trying to suspend disbelief."
The Killing earned high ratings and critical acclaim. In The New York Times, Ginia Bellafante wrote, "With its lyrical pacing, restrained performances, and a palette so visually cool that it feels as though you are watching from inside a Sub-Zero, The Killing is at once a procedural and a rich exploration of the perils of obsession." But the show ran into trouble at the end of its first season when the killer was not revealed. Viewers took to the Internet to protest, complaining that they felt cheated. Sud was shocked by the backlash, having always intended to reveal the killer's identity at the end of the second season. AMC cancelled The Killing in July after its second season concluded, leaving Sud disappointed. "The show has so much more to say," she says.
After a well-deserved vacation, Sud is back at her writing desk. She is at work on the screenplay for a remake of Alfred Hitchcock's 1941 thriller Suspicion for Paramount Pictures. It will be her first feature-film script. With nominations for both an Emmy for outstanding writing and a Writers Guild of America award for her work on The Killing, Sud is poised for a promising career. "The world has so many great stories to be told," Sud says.