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O'Connnor Belting International Takes Delaware-Made Products to the World, with the Help of SBA
Newark, Del.-Based Production Firm Saves Delaware Jobs, Thriving International Export Business, and Manufacturing Sector Growth Potential, Thanks to SBA Financing
At its Newark, Delaware production facility, O'Connor Belting International crafts products that touch almost every aspect of modern life and every corner of the globe. O'Connor Belting produces European-style conveyor belting that sorts and packages product for customers worldwide, including household names as Kraft Foods; National Gypsum; and Tootsie Roll Industries (O'Connor Belting's are the only conveyor belts used in its Junior Mints candy production).
Since first opening its doors in Delaware as a production facility 20 years ago, O'Connor Belting has built on its international roots to develop both a thriving stateside and international export business. In 1993, O'Connor Belting was opened by European manufacturer Fabreeka International under its own name and then joined the Holland-headquartered Derco BV corporate family in 2007. In 2011, O'Connor Belting International took its current form, following its purchase by its American plant manager, Paul O'Connor. Today, O'Connor Belting is the only east-coast-based producer of customized European-manufactured conveyor belting and the sole American distributor of sought-after Derco brand belting. From its convenient mid-Atlantic location, O'Connor Belting ships European-manufactured belting customized at its Delaware facility across the nation and around the globe with customer service support, shipping rates and efficiency unmatched by European-based competitors. Along with a thriving stateside customer base, O'Connor Belting now exports to customers in a host of foreign countries, including Brazil, Argentina, South Africa and Zimbabwe, as well as other African and Indonesian countries.
The Future Hangs in the Balance
But the business world is fickle and provides no guaranty of success, even for a promising, proven business like O'Connor Belting. Since launching O'Connor Belting for its then-owner, Fabreeka International, in 1993, the Delaware facility's head, Paul O'Connor, has grown the business exponentially. By 2010, demand for the Delaware facility's European-manufactured belting made the Delaware site a strong candidate to become a full-blown belting manufacturing facility with unlimited job growth potential. Nonetheless, in 2010, the Delaware facility's future – including the jobs of the growing number of employees relying on the facility for their livelihoods – hung in the balance; a sell-off of the facility by its then owner, Derco BV, threatened to close the Delaware operation's doors for good.
Saving the Delaware production facility's cadre of jobs and bright future would take every ounce of business savvy, perseverance and resource available to its leadership. But, if anyone was up to the task, it was Paul O'Connor – a Delaware native, Vietnam War combat veteran, and former U.S. Army Special Forces Green Beret with nearly 30 years of belting industry experience. And, if any business resource was equipped to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with O'Connor to secure the business he had built, it was the U.S. Small Business Administration.
An Offer He Couldn't Refuse
In 2010, Derco put the Delaware facility – its belting division – on the market for sale, seeking to exit the fabrication business entirely to focus purely on manufacturing. The realities of the conveyor belting industry meant that the Delaware facility would most likely be purchased by a big-business Derco competitor located far from Delaware, and the Delaware-based enterprise's cutting-edge equipment and solid jobs would be moved out-of-state.
Without a local buyer, the Delaware facility's fate was all but sealed.
Paul O'Connor knew all too well what was at stake when Derco's management approached him with the offer of a lifetime. If O'Connor could muster a sufficient cash down payment, he could purchase Derco's Delaware-based enterprise and continue the business in Delaware as the only U.S.-based Derco distributor. Closing this deal would secure the future for Paul O'Connor, his family, and the entire Delaware-based team, as well as preserving the facility's potential to grow into a significant manufacturing facility, benefitting the entire region's economy.
By 2010, Paul O'Connor had invested his entire career in the belting industry. Working his way from the shop floor to management, O'Connor knew every aspect of the business. There was no doubt that O'Connor's career was built in in the belting industry, but, by the same measure, O'Connor had built his life in his native Delaware. Now, O'Connor had the opportunity to finish his career in his home state. And, as owner of the business, O'Connor could realize another dream – he could create his own family business. O'Connor's two sons, Paul, Jr., and Eric, were already following in their father's career footsteps, logging 17 and 5 years, respectively, building their own careers at the Delaware facility and moving from the shop floor and into management. As the Delaware facility's owner, O'Connor could join with Paul, Jr., and Eric to shape the business into a legacy to pass to future generations.
Finally, if O'Connor could purchase the Newark enterprise, he could secure its jobs and its economic development potential here, in Delaware. Since opening the Delaware enterprise in 1993, O'Connor had built a trusted staff, many of whom had worked with him at previous employers and moved with him when he started Fabreeka's Delaware operation. With O'Connor at the helm of the Delaware operation, the business could stay – and grow – in Delaware. Over a lifetime in the belting industry, O'Connor had built a full book of European-manufactured belting customers across the nation and around the world. As the only U.S.-based Derco distributor, O'Connor was confident that he could keep and build on that customer base, in turn, keep and grow his employee roster. With that anticipated incremental growth, O'Connor hoped to support the Delaware facility's expansion into a full-blown manufacturing enterprise, with all of the revenue and job growth that that would entail.
But all of Paul O'Connor's plans – along with the livelihoods of the entire Delaware facility staff – would hang in the balance until Paul O'Connor could put the financing in place to purchase the Delaware enterprise.
Enter: SBA
When Derco USA's Delaware facility hit the market in 2010, the economy had hit rock bottom, and, with it, most small business' commercial financing prospects. But Paul O'Connor was not "most small business people," and his Delaware operation was not "most small businesses." By 2010, O'Connor had an established relationship with SBA lender Wells Fargo, and Wells Principal Relationship Manager Shawn Heller understood the true value of O'Connor's proposed purchase of Derco's Delaware facility, beyond Wells Fargo's own return-on-investment interest. O'Connor's purchase of the Delaware facility would mean everything to the facility's employees – their very livelihoods hung in the balance. And, by that measure, the purchase could mean everything to an entire recession-battered region, starved for the job creation promise of a facility like O'Connor Belting, poised to develop into a significant manufacturing facility if allowed to grow. And, when the crushing realities of the greatest economic recession since the Great Depression made putting together a financing package to make that purchase a reality seem impossible, Heller understood the power of Well Fargo's lending partner, the SBA.
Through its flagship financing program, the 7(a) Loan Guaranty Program, SBA makes it easier for participating lenders like Wells Fargo to make small business loans, even in a strained economy. By guaranteeing the lender that SBA will repay 75-85% of the loan amount should the borrower default, SBA empowers lenders to provide qualifying entrepreneurs secure financing on reasonable terms.
So, undaunted by the challenge of a still-recovering economy, Heller recruited Wells Fargo's SBA lending department to back the financing that O'Connor needed to purchase the Delaware production facility. Soon after Wells Fargo brought the SBA team headed by Andrew Eshleman, its Vice President of SBA Business Development, to the table, O'Connor was approved for the loan, settlement was complete, and O'Connor Belting International was born. Financing in hand, O'Connor could finally turn the page on the future – for himself, his entire cadre of employees, and for a region eager to see what tomorrow brings for this manufacturer-in-the-making.
To learn more about SBA small business assistance, like the SBA-backed financing that O'Connor Belting secured through Wells Fargo, visit http://www.sba.gov.
Delaware's Oldest Printer 'Resets the Presses' on its Future
Steadily building their Wilmington-based printing business—The Mercantile Press— over a period spanning three centuries, the Bye family weathered its share of business unpredictability. But, by the 1960's, The Mercantile Press had proven it was "here to stay," running two shifts daily and providing its full stable of employees with living wages, full benefits, and steady work in a well-respected trade. The firm had proven its mettle and reached its all-time growth peak just in time to face the industry-wrenching challenges of the coming decades.
The advent of the internet and increased competition from cut-rate overseas commercial printing operations would bring the American commercial printing industry to its knees, mercilessly thinning its ranks as once-reliable customers all but evaporated, favoring online communication or cheaper foreign labor over stateside traditional print shops. Surviving commercial printers were competing for an ever-shrinking customer base, and profitability in this harsh new business landscape required new perspectives and new strategies. For The Mercantile Press, one of the few Delaware-based commercial printers to survive into this new era, that meant forging a new partnership – a partnership with SCORE Delaware. Together with SCORE – an SBA-backed small business advisement organization – Mercantile Press President Coleman Bye, III, identified new markets prime for his firm's services and tailored his print shop to land that lucrative business, firmly reclaiming control over the firm's future.
From Humble Beginnings
In 1871, Mercantile Press' founder Harry Bye, broke into the printing business at the age of 12 when he invested $7.00 in a crude printing outfit and began publishing a monthly paper called "Youth's Banner" with a subscription price of $0.10 per year. Thirteen years later, in 1884, Harry and his brother, Elmer, purchased some used printing equipment and founded The Mercantile Press in the city of Wilmington, Delaware.
Over the ensuing generations, The Mercantile Press built a strong customer base deeply rooted in the agricultural, chemical and pharmaceutical industries that grew to dominate Delaware's economy. The Mercantile Press was thriving, growing into a two-shift operation and employing nearly 50 skilled print tradesmen.
A Whole New World
But by December 2001, when The Mercantile Press' current President, Coleman E. Bye, III ("Corky"), took the business' helm, everything had changed. Six months before, one of The Mercantile Press' largest customers had moved its manufacturing overseas, taking with it more than 20% of the firm's annual sales. Undaunted, the company re-tooled, adding the political direct mail business to its roster of client industries and stabilizing its bottom line.
Until the Great Recession of 2008 dealt the entire commercial printing industry a devastating blow.
The Eye of the Storm
By the end of 2009, The Mercantile Press' sales had fallen 29% compared to the previous year. While better than the printing industry average decline of 33%, these sales figures cast a shadow of uncertainty on the company's future. Surviving this crisis would take leadership, innovation, and a healthy dose of business savvy.
With SCORE's help, Coleman and his Mercantile Press team were up to the challenge.
The Road to Recovery
By 2010, Coleman had his company on the recovery track. In 2009, he landed a promising federal government purchasing agreement, paving the way for a new and lucrative business stream. That year, Coleman's new market growth strategy expanded as he identified the label market as having great potential and approached SCORE Delaware to help him develop a business plan to tap into it.
Together with his SCORE Delaware counselor, Robert O'Brien, Coleman drafted a Strategic Business Plan, along with a Business Case that would guide The Mercantile Press' way to recovery. The company's new plan re-focused its business strategy on new markets innately insulated from the online and overseas outsourcing trends seducing Mercantile's traditional customer base. The new plan provided a step-by-step roadmap to sustainable growth, and it wasn't long before a new trickle of customers had grown into a healthy stream.
Thanks to the vision and perseverance of its President, Coleman Bye, and some strategic perspective from SCORE Delaware, The Mercantile Press had reclaimed its future and was, once again, "here to stay."
Today, The Mercantile Press is the oldest printing company in the State of Delaware. The company is a full-service print communications company specializing in product labeling, direct mail printing and packaging.
From Humble Beginnings Delaware's 2012 Small Business Persons of the Year
From Humble Beginnings…
Delaware's 2012 SBA Small Business Person of the Year
First State Manufacturing owners Eli Valenzuela, Sher Valenzuela, and Ashley Wolfe have been selected as the U.S. Small Business Administration's Delaware Small Business Persons of the Year. This is the story of the genesis and growth of their business.
It began in 1998 with a man, a woman, a sewing machine, and a dream in a Milford, Delaware garage. A humble beginning that today has become First State Manufacturing (FSM), a thriving business employing more than 40 technicians working in a new 66,000 sq. ft. facility funded by a $650,000 Small Business Administration (SBA) 504 loan.
As an Army communications technician, Eli Valenzuela took a correspondence course on upholstery while serving with the Second Armored Division in Germany. Little did he know that the course would lead to a second career and ownership of a multi-million dollar business. After his military service, Valenzuela returned to Texas and first worked in civil service upholstering military aircraft and later moved to Delaware, where he secured a position at Dover Air Force Base upholstering the C-5 Galaxy, one of the largest aircraft in the world and the largest airlifter in the Air Force inventory.
Oftentimes, as he discussed his work day with his wife Sher, he would think out loud about how much American taxpayers paid for upholstery work contracted out for the C-5, specifically how he knew ways to provide a better product at a better price. Together the husband and wife decided that they should start a business to do just that.
With help from SBA resource partners SCORE and the Small Business Technology and Development Center the Valenzuelas composed a business plan and opened First State Manufacturing in their garage with an old but reliable sewing machine named "Betsy." Rapidly outgrowing the garage, they secured financing through a SBA $20,000 Express loan and leased space in a 2,000 sq. ft. warehouse.
Providing higher quality at lower costs led to rapid growth and with assistance from their local Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) they secured more and larger contracts. Earning an SBA 8(a) certification enabled FSM to leverage a number of long-term contracts from 2000 to 2009 as the business expanded to include military and commercial contracts across the country.
Mr. Valenzuela, president, is known for his ability to create, design and manufacture textile products to meet a commercial or defense customer's exacting specifications and has led FSM to more than $10 million in government contracts. Ms. Valenzuela has significant experience in public relations and marketing campaigns for FSM and a variety of Fortune 500 companies. The important addition of Ashley Wolfe to the ownership and management team brought a different area of expertise to the business as executive director. Wolfe contributes his 30-year background in manufacturing and production with an emphasis on efficiency and innovation. Together the three principals have developed a strong management team with a workforce that produces and delivers quality products while providing above-average wages to more than 43 employees.
By 2001 FSM was ready to grow again, with a $96,500 SBA backed 7(a) loan to modernize and expand their inventory, with recurring business from national restaurant and hotel chains. Their reputation grew for quality, cost effectiveness and innovation. Through extensive testing with Chili's restaurant chain, FSM developed a trademarked seating product, Speedy Cushion, made with environmentally-friendly cushion foam and a "green" maintenance protectant that reduces fading from the sun.
The 9/11 tragedy brought a massive downturn in business to FSM and challenged their very existence. Once again FSM turned to SBA for assistance, with a $65,800 SBA Disaster loan they were able to maintain their business and employees until revenues returned.
The heart of FSM's business lies in unique, customized, military aircraft solutions. FSM has consistently demonstrated its ability to provide quality, durable products to meet customized solutions. A small sampling of innovative products FSM provides and awards won include:
- FSM was chosen by the US Air Force to participate in a joint venture to standardize manufacture and installation of all C-5 insulation due to its innovation and knowledge of C-5 Galaxy fuselage insulation characteristics.
- During reengineering of the V-22 Osprey aircraft, FSM provided custom-made fabric oil plugs and engine covers needed for the tilt-wing aircraft to remediate several issues including durability, safety, storage ease, and timely installation.
- FSM developed a customized watertight cover, now in use throughout the military, for the Joint Air to Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM).
- Recipient of the Lockheed Martin Small Business of the Year award in for superior quality and early completion of work.
- SBA Minority Small Business Person of the Year for Delaware and Region Three.
- U.S. Defense Logistics Agency Vendor of Excellence for Small Disadvantaged Businesses.
- Named by Delaware Today as one of the "Best Places to Work" in Delaware.
Using virtually every SBA program and resource partner available, FSM reached out to the state of Delaware's resources as well. With funding from the Delaware Economic Development Office they trained staff to receive AS9100 Quality Certification, which allowed FSM to secure contracts for the commercial equivalent of the military aircraft it supported, such as the Boeing 737, in need of insulation and upholstery. FSM also worked with the Delaware Manufacturing Extension Partnership to improve processes and efficiency and after receiving support from the Delaware Workforce Investment Board, FSM's owners now serve on their executive board.
Through good economic conditions and bad FSM has a history of growth and job creation. From two employees in 1998 to 43 employees in 2011, FSM has continued its growth while many companies were reducing staff. With the recent expansion of facilities, employment is forecasted to continue to increase steadily over the next three years.
Revenue growth over the last four years has more than doubled. FSM's revenue growth has been generated through the expansion of its sales from primarily local markets to national markets, national chains, government contracting, and international markets. Consistent with the growth in revenues, FSM has also demonstrated growth in profitability. Profits declined during the recession and due to increased occupancy costs, personnel and administrative expenses absorbed while transitioning to the plant's new facility. However, throughout the first six months of 2011, FSM reported net income that placed them on track to double their pre-recession profits.
FSM's owners actively give back to their local community and the state:
- Supports Junior Achievement expansion in Delaware: FSM speaks to and supports area students to broaden their perspective of career and entrepreneurial paths, and donated 13,000 sq. ft. to establish a Junior Achievement campus.
- Partners with City of Milford and State of Delaware (Department of Labor) to establish "First State Moves the Nation," a Small Business Manufacturing Accelerator, and donated 15,000 sq. ft. of space to establish a non-profit virtual center to guide manufacturers to state and federal resources.
- Serves as executive board member of Delaware Workforce Investment Board
- Received First Place in "Megabizfest," SBA-supported Business Plan competition for GrowUSA, a line of information products that enables small businesses to succeed through leveraging of small business state and federal resources.
- Co-creators with State of Delaware: first Governor's Entrepreneurial Business Conference in 2009.
- Monthly financial supporter of local family-oriented radio station and orphanages throughout Africa, India and the Philippines to provide basic necessities and advanced education degrees to children who would not otherwise succeed.
- Provides free sewing and upholstery classes to the local community.
- Chair, City of Milford Economic Development Panel.
First State Manufacturing, Inc. is a financially sound small business that has demonstrated consistent growth and sustainable employment in a highly competitive field and difficult economy. Through the creative use of resources, technical knowledge, experience, thorough understanding of Delaware and national markets, FSM has competed successfully, won competitive projects against significantly larger firms and established its niche as a premier provider of textile manufacturing products.
FSM was built on the concept of doing more than what is required. When asked where that extra effort originated Valenzuela said, "As a second generation Mexican-American, I grew up very poor in the projects of Corpus Christi, Texas. My father told me "Eli, never be like a wheel barrow… it only goes as far as you push it." This instilled the belief that hard work is rewarded and that hard work would be his only path to success – clearly expressed in FSM's moniker and business practice: "AND THEN SOME." From humble beginnings and hard work, great things can come.
The 2012 observance of National Small Business Week is May 20-22 in Washington, D.C. where more than 100 outstanding small business owners from around the country will be honored and the National Small Business Person of the Year will be announced.
The Delaware District Office's Small Business Week event, to be held at The Executive Banquet and Conference Center at 205 Executive Drive, Newark, Delaware on Monday, May 14th, will honor Delaware's Small Business Persons of the Year along with seven other business and business champion award winners. Additionally, seven lenders will be recognized for their support of small businesses in Delaware by making loans for business startup and expansion. Nominations for all of the awards were accepted last fall, and winners were selected by an independent panel of judges. Contact Jim Provo at (302) 573-6294 x227 for more information.


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A long journey
DENVER — It was a long journey back to the Colorado state wrestling championships for Ian Konrad, but he made it. The Fruita Monument High School junior qualified for state as a…
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09 January 2014
Posted in Otronicon
To a kid, Otronicon is a dream come true — four floors of video games, robots, virtual reality and more. While the event can be known for the fun that can be had, it's also recognized for sparking a child's interest in science and tech careers through the appeal of interactive technology.
The event promotes the concept of "made in Orlando, played in Orlando" with many chances to interact with the creative professionals that make popular video games and discover the growing career opportunities available locally.
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- Welcome to Jurassic Ridge
- Egg Drop Challenge Photos 11-09-2013
- Red Tails Monument Dedication Ceremony Photos 11-11-2013
- 2013 Harriett Lake Caveman Couture Contest Photos


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At the 1997 New England Meetings Industry Conference & Exposition (NEMICE), which drew a record 1,200 attendees to the World Trade Center Boston in April, the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau (GBCVB) announced the June launch of meetingpath. An interactive Web site (www.meetingpath.com), meetingpath enables meeting planners to access information from 2,000 suppliers in New England and send those suppliers information about their own meeting requirements.
The Web site will allow planners to narrow down a selection of, say, hotels in a particular region by specifying the number of guest rooms, the number of meeting rooms, and/or the capacity of meeting rooms they require. Planners then send RFPs (requests for proposals) to the list of hotels that meet their criteria. Each hotel will send a yes-or-no response, along with the date they expect to e-mail a proposal to the planner.
Developed with planner and supplier input, meetingpath includes an updated listing of sales contacts at each facility. Another feature allows planners to create customized distributions lists for suppliers they contact regularly. The service, which is geared to help planners with smaller meetings, not citywides, is free to members and planners. Designed by the GBCVB and MarketStream, LLC, in Westwood, MA, meetingpath has been endorsed by the New England Society of Convention & Visitors Bureaus.
Currently a regional service, the site may expand nationally, according to MarketStream and the GBCVB. Leslie Mathieu Hogan, vice president of marketing, GBCVB, will be meeting with Karen Jordan, president and CEO of the International Association of Convention and Visitor Bureaus, to discuss meetingpath. "An IACVB endorsement would be wonderful," Hogan says.


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With data being both more plentiful and accessible than ever, tools that help users quickly make sense of it become increasingly valuable. As expected, much of the data being used comes from social sites. We come across mashups that access this data and provide interesting ways of looking at it from influence circles, tweet impacts and search results. Here is a look at four that caught our attention.
Twitter Mosaic – Twitter search results displayed and updated in a mosaic of pictures. APIs used include: Twitter. More at our Twitter Mosaic profile.
Where Does My Tweet Go? – In a 2D or 3D view, WDMTG enables you to see who was reached and impacted by a tweet, and what role people played in the spread of information. APIs used include: Twitter. More at our Where Does My Tweet Go? profile.
BuzzData – BuzzData lets you share your data in a smarter, easier way. Instead of juggling versions and overwriting files, use BuzzData and enjoy a social network designed for data. APIs used include: Twilio. More at our BuzzData profile.
Hypertrout – Visualize people's Klout circles of influence. Data is collected & computed by Klout and the Klout Rest API and displayed in graph. APIs used include: Klout. More at our Hypertrout profile.
©ProgrammableWeb.com 2014. All rights reserved.
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Financial Aid
Scholarships at UC Davis School of Law
Law scholarships for current students are awarded on a competitive basis for academic achievement and, in some cases, financial need. Scholarship criteria may also include participation in extracurricular activities; specific major; career interests; geographic origin; high school or community college attended; parentage; perseverance; and many other personal characteristics. The majority of UC Davis' scholarships are not renewable; therefore, students must reapply to be considered for scholarships on an annual basis.
In order to be considered for need-based scholarships, you must complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) by March 2.
King Hall Scholarships
Martin Luther King, Jr. Public Interest Scholarship for First Year Law Students – March 30 Deadline
Outside Agency Scholarships
A variety of scholarships are available through service organizations and corporations, which are not sponsored by UC Davis. For your convenience, we have posted to this Web site information sent to us by various organizations about available scholarships. We encourage students to apply for as many scholarships as possible. Scholarship funds reduce a student's need to borrow more loans.
Entering Law Students
ABA Legal Opportunity Scholarship – March 3 Deadline
Rhode Island Bar Foundation Scholarship – March 21 Deadline
George H. Nofer Scholarship for Law and Public Policy – April 10 Deadline
California Bar Foundation Diversity Scholarship – June 6 Deadline
Bay Area Minority Law Student Scholarship - April 11 Deadline
Current Law Students
Scholarship Search Engines
No Conditional Scholarships
UC Davis School of Law does not award scholarships that are conditional on law school academic performance. Therefore, the law school does not post an ABA "conditional scholarship retention worksheet."
The only requirement for retaining a scholarship at UC Davis School of Law is to remain in good academic standing as outlined in the Law School Regulations (Article IV, 4.1 Good Standing).
Awarding Procedures
All UC Davis Law and outside agency/private scholarships are posted to the recipient's UC Davis student account. When credited, the scholarship will first cover any unmet need; then, it will replace student loans. Grants and other gift aid will be reduced last, if necessary. In general, scholarships that are less than $2000 will be disbursed fully in fall semester; awards over $2000 will be divided and disbursed evenly over fall and spring semesters, unless otherwise specified by the scholarship terms.
Outside scholarship checks should be made payable to UC Regents and sent directly to the Cashier's Office, not the School of Law Financial Aid Office and accompanied by a memo stating the student recipient's full name and UC Davis student ID number. The Cashier's Office address is:
Cashier's Office
University of California, Davis
PO Box 989062
West Sacramento, CA 95798-9062


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EDMONTON - Elementary school children were rerouted on their lunchtime walk to after-school care Wednesday when a coyote was spotted scampering around the south-side school field.
Staff at Holyrood After School Care phoned the city to report the coyote and also called to warn the neighbouring school, where students were just going on their 11:30 a.m. lunch break, said Sheena MacLeod, executive director for the after-school care.
"We went out there with the hockey sticks," MacLeod said. "And he was a beautiful specimen. He was quite big. He was strong, he was splendid and he could run like the wind. He was eating garbage and accosting some magpies."
The coyote was about as large as a medium-sized dog, and wasn't aggressive or barking, she said. The animal was in the field for about 15 minutes, eating some garbage such as a hotdog wrapper and running around the snowy field marking territory, she said.
"The snowmen," MacLeod said with a laugh.
"He was by the playground. He was by the sports field. He was by the rink. He was by the after-school care and the school. He was everywhere."
Les Hansen, principal at Holyrood Elementary School, 7920 94 Ave., walked the young students across the field in one large pack as a precaution.
"It caused a little excitement," Hansen said. "We took them all out the same door and huddled up and went together."
Cold temperatures meant the school kept students inside for recess anyway. At dismissal time, after-school care staff planned to escort kids across the field again.
The city sent two officers out to try to find the coyote but they didn't locate the animal, said park ranger Travis Young.
Officers always respond when a coyote is seen near a school or daycare, he said.
"They'll try and direct it back into the ravine or the nearest green space."
Coyote sightings are common in Edmonton and the animals tend to prowl urban areas more often in winter when food is harder to find, he said.
"There's about 1,500 to 2,000 that roam in the city at any given time," Young said.
Coyotes usually stay in the river valley but some scavenge for food in residential areas, looking for garbage, fruit or pet food, according to information on the City of Edmonton website.
The animals are territorial and can pose a danger to pets such as dogs, but are naturally afraid of humans, the site says.


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April 25, 2014
September 17, 2012
For this week's Hot on the Hanger CBS19's Tara Wheeler looks at some ways to make your spring and summer wardrobe last into the fall.
Layers can make your summer style last into the fall, layer no more than three tops by keeping longer pieces closer to your body and heavier fabrics on the outside.
To find ideas you on how to layer clothes you can visit Pintrest's website.
On the website you can see examples of how a spring skirt and summer dress can be worn in the fall by adding leggings, a scarf, a blazer or textured jacket.
The comments sections of Newsplex.com are designed for thoughtful, intelligent conversation and debate. We want to hear from our viewers, but we only ask that you use your best judgment. E-mail is required, but will not be displayed with comment.
As a host Newsplex.com welcomes a wide spectrum of opinions. However this is a site that we host. We have a responsibility to all our readers to try to keep our comment section fair and decent. For that reason The Newsplex reserves the right to not post or to remove any comment.
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Accepted Offer
Negative Experience
Very Easy Interview
I applied online and the process took 3 days - interviewed at Crocs in February 2012.
Interview Details Phone then face to face
Negotiation Details – They tell you what they will pay and thats it.
Accepted Offer
Positive Experience
Average Interview
I applied through an employee referral and the process took 4 days - interviewed at Crocs in March 2009.
Interview Details Interviewed with the District Manager in person first, followed by phone interview with the Regional Manager.
Interview Question – None. Pretty standard interview process. Answer Question
Negotiation Details – I turned down their initial offer, but they came back with a higher offer. Then I accepted.
Accepted Offer
Positive Experience
Easy Interview
I applied online and the process took 5 days - interviewed at Crocs.
Interview Details Not at all how I perceived it to be from the awesome interview I had!
Interview Question – Same questions as usual with really no surprise questions. Answer Question
Negotiation Details – Pretty simple actually. I told them what I wanted and they agreed. Outlets pay more than Full line stores do.
Accepted Offer
Neutral Experience
I applied online and the process took 4+ weeks - interviewed at Crocs.
Interview Details Took a month. 1 in person and one phone interview
Interview Question – Why crocs Answer Question
Negotiation Details – 2counters
Accepted Offer
Positive Experience
Average Interview
I applied through other source and the process took 2 weeks - interviewed at Crocs in February 2012.
Interview Details This was an interview for a promotion. I had to speak with both the RSM and the Director of Retail Operations. I reached out to a few others who had recently gone through the process to get some idea on how to approach the interview.
Interview Question – Because this promotion would involve relocation, I was asked if my family would be okay with it. I did not expect this to be asked at all. Answer Question
Negotiation Details – I spoke to the DSM three times before my figure was met.
Declined Offer
Negative Experience
Easy Interview
I applied through a recruiter and the process took 6 days - interviewed at Crocs in September 2012.
Interview Details Talked with recruiter, very laid back. Reviewed work history, experience and pay. He asked what pay I was looking for and told him I needed to be as close as possible to current rate. He said that fell into their hiring range. Said to expect an email or call within two weeks. The foolwing week I recieved a voicemail, the person was responding to an application I completed. He left his name and # but not the company. I called back, I actually had to ask what company he was with. He was so rude. From the moment he picked up the phone, his whole attitude screamed that I was wasting his time. He asked a few quick questions and got right to the pay. I can only offer this much, $10k less than what i asked. I told him i couldn't take the position for that amount. He said goodbye. A very rude individual.
Interview Question – Easy questions. Basic work experience and skills Answer Question
Reason for Declining – The offer was less than I was told to expect
No Offer
Negative Experience
Average Interview
I applied online and the process took 5 days - interviewed at Crocs in February 2012.
Interview Details I was contacted by a store manager from Sevierville, TN for the initial phone interview. She was great- friendly, personable, answered all questions I had, and took the time to really explain the job and the company to me. She forwarded my info to the district manager, who is based out of Atlanta. I met him early the next week for the second interview. He came sauntering up in gross jeans, a hoodie, and an old baseball cap. We came to the conclusion at the end of our interview that it would not be a good fit for me to work there, due to him being so "laid-back" (meaning non-committal and a hippie) and me being more high-energy. I would say if you get an interview, dress down. WAYYYYY down.
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Height: 6'2" Weight: 190 Age: 28 Experience: 7th season College: Coastal Carolina Drafted: 2008 R2 P15, Bengals
Posted: 11/13/2013 10:53am et
Minnesota Vikings head coach Leslie Frazier was still not ready to say definitely, whether WR Jerome Simpson would be available in Week 11. Simpson was arrested over the weekend for driving under the influence. 'We'll have further clarification as we learn more from the league as well as what we're going to do internally,' Frazier said Tuesday, Nov. 12. 'But from my standpoint there isn't a whole lot more I can add regarding his situation as we are continuing to gather more information.'
Huddle Up: Hopefully you can set your fantasy lineups without concern for Simpson's availability this weekend. Or put another way: if your fantasy season hinges on the availability of a secondary member of the Vikings' putrid passing game, you're more in need of treatment than Simpson.
Posted: 11/9/2013 6:47pm et
Minnesota Vikings WR Jerome Simpson has been arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated.
Huddle Up: Simpson already has a felony drug plea on his record. He hasn't topped 45 receiving yards in his last five games. Regardless of what happens to him legally, Simpson isn't on the fantasy radar right now.
Posted: 9/9/2013 10:25am et
Minnesota Vikings WR Jerome Simpson had seven catches for 140 yards in Week 1.
Huddle Up: This is the Simpson the Vikings thought they were getting last year. Fantasy owners expected bigger things Greg Jennings and Kyle Rudolph, but with Christian Ponder there isn't enough to feed multiple mouths in the Minnesota passing game. Tough to bank on Simpson being a consistent fantasy provider in that offense.
Posted: 5/29/2013 5:36pm et
Minnesota Vikings WR Jerome Simpson says his new Tempurpedic mattress has helped stabilize his back and keep him in good posture. Simpson suffered a lower-back ailment, which turned out to be a nerve issue, that squashed his production for two months. "It was more my push-off," he said. "I didn't really have my burst to be able to get away from my defenders when I needed to." Simpson says he's back at 100 percent.
Huddle Up: Is that an endorsement deal I smell? Simpson never had a chance to flash his explosive ability last season, and the back issue was a big reason. Since he's now sleeping better, perhaps he'll emerge opposite Greg Jennings to give the Vikings a downfield threat. His big-play upside makes him worthy of a late-round fantasy flier, but that's what we thought last year as well and that didn't exactly work out.


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10400 Old Georgetown Rd, Bethesda, MD | Directions 2081439.025439 -77.126830
Sun-Thu 11 am-10 pm, Fri-Sat 11 am-11 pm
Neighborhoods: North Bethesda
Somewhere between fine dining and fast food lies this upscale burger chain. – The Scene
The first Hamlet opened on the Sunset Strip in 1950. After gaining success within the Hollywood community, the thriving burger joint opened franchises across the Southland. In recent years, the chain's popularity has ebbed, but thanks to friendly service and an old-school atmosphere, the remaining spots see a steady flow of families and locals.
The Food
The chain updates its traditional Americana menu with Cajun and Mexican trimmings, but the hearty ground-beef delights are the Hamlet's mainstay. The Just Plain and Delicious burger is exactly what the name implies--six ounces of juicy beef garnished with lettuce, tomato, pickle and onion. Other burger concoctions come with decadent toppings--ham, bacon, sour cream--but why clutter charbroiled perfection with anything more than a slice of cheese? Beyond burgers, there's creamy lobster bisque soup, loaded Cobb salads, and roasted chicken. Desserts lean toward the basics--chocolate cake, ice cream--and easily serve two or more.
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Fargo man faces attempted murder charge in brutal beating of ex-girlfriendMOORHEAD – A 21-year-old Fargo man faces kidnapping and attempted murder charges after he allegedly beat his ex-girlfriend with a car jack handle, choked her and threatened to kill her if she went to police, according to documents filed in Clay County District Court.
By: Mike Nowatzki, INFORUM, Forum Staff Reports, inforum.com
MOORHEAD – A 21-year-old Fargo man faces kidnapping and attempted murder charges after he allegedly beat his ex-girlfriend with a car jack handle, choked her and threatened to kill her if she went to police, according to documents filed in Clay County District Court.
The woman's injuries included a broken front tooth, a ligature mark on her neck, a heavily bruised and swollen face and cuts on her face, head and neck. She also had a bite mark on her arm and spray paint on her face, the complaint states.
Mason William Seaborn was arrested Sunday at his residence in north Fargo. He was being held today in the Cass County Jail in Fargo awaiting extradition to Clay County.
According to the complaint, a sheriff's deputy was called at 4:59 a.m. Sunday to a residence in Georgetown for a report of a domestic assault.
The caller said the assault may have happened about two hours earlier, but she believed she may have been unconscious for a while and had to walk for help. An ambulance crew took her to the hospital for her injuries.
The woman told authorities she had been drinking with Seaborn at a Fargo bar and had left with him and two other men. She said Seaborn became angry and broke out the back window of his pickup.
The woman and two men tried to get away from Seaborn, but he allegedly dragged the woman back into the pickup and held her head down so she couldn't see where he was driving. She said he began punching her and hitting her with what was later determined to be a jack handle.
According to the complaint, "she felt as though if he hit her one more time, she would die."
Seaborn then allegedly tried to strangle the woman with what authorities believe was a phone charger cord. She said he eventually calmed down and passed out, allowing her to escape. She said she walked a few miles in bare feet to the residence in Georgetown for help.
A Clay County detective went with Fargo police to Seaborn's residence in the 1100 block of Eighth Street North. Seaborn's mother became angry with officers for handcuffing her son, and as police placed him in a patrol car, she yelled that the woman had beaten Seaborn with a pipe, strangled him and left him for dead on the side of the road, the complaint states.
Authorities obtained a search warrant for Seaborn's pickup, and a detec-tive observed blood inside and outside the vehicle, the complaint states.
The charge of kidnapping to commit great bodily harm or terrorize is punishable by up to 40 years in prison and a $50,000 fine. The first-degree attempted murder charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years imprisonment.
Seaborn also is charged with one count each of first-degree assault and domestic assault by strangulation.
Tags: news, fargo, moorhead, crime, updates


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I have nowhere else where I can say this.
Maggie first got sick on September 4th, 2009. It was the start of her first year of high school. She was strong and healthy and ready to start playing field hockey. In 8th grade she had finally had the chance to be a goalkeeper, and she only had 2 goals scored on her all season. She was going to start with an elite training program and had several upcoming national tournaments to look forward to.
The softball coach was chomping at the bit for her to start softball as the varsity catcher.
Then cancer hit.
She's been OT since last April, but she is still suffering the effects - bad neuropathy, loss of muscle from the steroids and inactivity that has left her weak and prone to injury. She's dealing with really bad sciatic pain now that is limiting her.
Maggie is one of those kids who needs sports like she needs air. She isn't "herself" unless she is on the field.
Yesterday she played in her first field hockey game - she was goalkeeper for the second half. She did great - considering where she has been and all that she is struggling with. But she isn't a great player anymore. She let in 2 goals. At the end of the game I heard the mom of the other goalie (the other girl is a senior who has been the goalie since freshman year.) She was talking to another parent and they mentioned the 2 goals scored on our team. She said, "hey, it wasn't MY daughter."
I wanted to yell across the bleachers at her - "NO, it was MY daughter, and I AM DAMN PROUD OF HER FOR EVEN BEING HERE!"
But I didn't. Instead, my heart hurt. And I felt bad and for a second, embarassed, that my child hadn't peformed the way she used to and that her team would feel that. And then I felt ashamed that I even felt that for a second. Another mom came up and put her arm around me, and I told her that 6 months ago Maggie couldn't even walk across that field, and it's amazing that she is out there playing at all. When she got in the car, Maggie told me that she is worried that she'll get knocked down to JV after that game.
I hate cancer.
I struggle so much with being grateful that I have her with me at all, and counting my blessings with all she has, and as a mom, with all that I want for her, and all that I know was taken from her because of this disease. Most of the time, I focus on the postive and I try and celebrate each day. But yesterday I was struggling. Last night I was upset that I couldn't give her back all that she lost. I was sad because as a junior in highschool, she'd be looking back at 2 years of playing , thinking about playing in college, and looking forward to the upcoming national tournaments over the next few months. I was worried that she was sad and missing it all. I didn't say anything about it, but Maggie reads me like a book, and she knew I was feeling bad. She told me to look at the glass half full. She told me that instead of being out there playing at all, she could be six feet under. This from my 16 year old. She is awesome.
Just wanted to write to say, "I get it." Totally get it. You have every right to feel exactly that way. And yesterday I was struggling with the exact same feelings, just with different issues facing my 5 year old child, 7 months OT.
I am SO full of joy, almost all the time, that I still have Elke here with me, to have and to hold (she's going to get sick of me hugging and kissing her soon!). I truly do my best to find the joy in every single moment, no matter how mundane, and mostly succeed. But there are days, like yesterday, when I feel resentful that I am "supposed" to be just overjoyed to have my child with me, and not allowed to feel bad about the fact that she couldn't walk yesterday because she was wailing in pain from neuropathy in her feet, that a recent DEXA scan shows her to be still osteoporotic, and that her necrosis has not regenerated in the least, almost two years after discontinuing steroids. We had to do an ER run last night for copious amounts of blood in her urine. I just want all this to go away.
So I get it. And I've decided that we need to allow ourselves some moments, here and there, to mourn what our children have suffered and what they have lost. We wouldn't be human if we didn't feel this way. And I think the point is, people like you and me really should be allowed to mourn here and there, because we're clearly not the kind of people who will allow ourselves to wallow in it. We have our priorities straight -- we know how incredibly lucky we are to have our children with us at all. We do. And we do our best to just appreciate that simple, but overpowering, fact. As another parent so aptly stated to me recently, I'd rather be going through this than mourning.
BUT, it's hard to describe, but I feel like we live in two different worlds -- with one foot firmly planted in the "normal" world, and one foot that will forever remain in the pediatric cancer world. In that latter world -- the cancer world -- it's so easy to be joyful, and appreciative, of what we have. Nothing is easier. The problems come in that first world, the "normal" one, where Maggie plays GK for the first time in eons, lets a couple of goals in (btw, I have a soccer GK in my family), and someone makes an asinine remark like that. What Maggie has accomplished in the cancer world is incredible -- mind-boggling, honestly. But when we're confronted with comparisons of our kids with "normal" kids, well, they just can't quite measure up. The chemo, and cancer, took care of that. And when that's thrown in your face, like it was yesterday, it hurts. Plain and simple. Let yourself feel the pain, and acknowledge you have every right to. Because I know you'll move on. It's only if you can't that there's a problem. And I don't see that with you.
Btw, Maggie IS awesome.
I am so right there with you. I got a lump in my throat just reading your post. We are almost 8 months OT and I feel exactly the way you do... My heart hurts for Aidan SO HARD some days watching him limp. Watching him struggle to remember simple things. so hard. so hard. so hard. My heart shares your pain and Maggie's. It also shares the joy and pride you feel when they shake us out of that somber mood with something that makes us realize and appreciate that great and wonderful people are created from tragedy too. We have great and wonderful, wonderful kids!
I think what Angela said is key -- great and wonderful people are created from tragedy too. Our kids may never be able to truly "compete" in the areas they shone in pre-cancer, but they've developed such strength, will power and fortitude of character, I have to believe that they will shine, truly shine, in areas that may surprise us (and them). The trick is to have the patience and vision to help them develop in "new" arenas.
Thanks so much. It's such a relief to have a place to share with people who get this. Angela, you are right - there are many things gained from this as well. Today was a better day - I had a much easier time enjoying the moments.
I was so saddened to read your post. It is so unfair that Maggie is not doing what she once was. And that life is just so much more difficult than it should be
I can so commiserate. Pete was doing so great last year, even when he was on chemo. But after his relapse I can see that he has lost a lot. Last year at school he could write, and this year he just can't anymore. He can still read, but doesn't have the strength or cognitive ability any more to write. It makes me so sad. But at the same time, I am so desperately relieved that he is here at all.
So yes, I totally agree, I totally hate what cancer takes from our kids. And I think it is a lot harder when they do go off treatment and you aren't so much on the life/death struggle anymore, but on just trying to get them to reach their potential.
It is only so natural to struggle with it all, and I am so glad that we do have places like this where other parents do get it.
By the way, I think that Maggie is just amazing. You have one incredible daughter
I'm so impressed by Maggie's wisdom and her clarity about what's really important. I'm also amazed that she's able to play again--that other team's two goals are nothing compared to Maggie's triumph at being out there again. If you tell her about your post, please let her know how absolutely wonderful we all think she is and how much we love it that she's playing field hockey. I want all of our children to reclaim their lives like that.
I'm also acutely aware of what cancer has taken from them, and sometimes I'm filled with rage over it. And there's just so little to do with that anger. Emma has 3 months (87 days) left of LTM. She was 6 when she was diagnosed, and she'll be 9 when she's OT. I find myself struggling to remember what she was like before dx, and wondering what she'd be like if she hadn't had to go through all this. I've had moments in the past two years of feeling such anger toward healthy, happy children--completely innocent, lovely children who love my daughter--not because of anything they've done or that their parents have said. I've just been furious at their blissfully ignorant enjoyment of something Emma doesn't have any more, a lovely, thoughtless innocence that our children lose pretty quickly during induction.
That's me. Oddly, I don't think Emma experiences it like that. She's pretty clear about how strong she is and that she's gone through things that her friends couldn't have handled with the same bravery and grace under pressure that she's learned over the past 2+ years. She recently made a list of the things that we wouldn't have or wouldn't have gotten to do if it weren't for leukemia. Her list included 3 fashion shows (Fashion Funds the Cure by the Pediatric Cancer Foundation), throwing out the first pitch at a major league baseball game, our new TV (bought in an odd shopping spree brought on by stress over methotrexate toxicity), and her Children's Dream Fund trip to NYC and the American Girl Store. That's a list I would not make, left to my own devices. But her great delight in making her list made me think about what would be on mine. I think my list would be include what Angela says--strong, remarkable people grow out of this sort of struggle. Our children are brave and strong. They've learned to handle set backs, pain, loss. I absolutely hate and resent that they've had to learn it this way, or at all, and at such young ages, but I do think those are character traits that will serve them well in the futures they are struggling so hard to have.
So here's virtual toast (with very high end virtual champagne--the only kind I can afford, having bought that stupid TV) to all of our children--those who are still fighting through treatment, those who are struggling with the aftermath, and those whose battles ended bravely but too soon. And here's to us as well, survivors of a different sort.
Annie -
You said exactly what I feel. The guilt over not being able to give your child back what they lost and then watching them get up every day and go on. It was five years this June that Emily was dx and this disease is still taking. She had her hip replaced the end of June so it was another summer being home and having to say "no" when her friends asked her to do things. It just seems that things keep smacking her in the face and having to make such life changing decisions. Having been dx with cancer right after Emily- going thru chemo and having to think for the first time in my life about dying (I was 49) - I get so mad that this has been put on her. I want so much to be able to change the course of the last 5 years and people outside of this community have no idea what this journey has done to our family. I am 53 - October will be 5 years since my dx and losing my breast. But I also know how lucky we both are. My husband, older daughter, Emily and I are together and strong.
Thanks for listening - Cindy
This post couldn't have come at a more appropriate time for me! Last night was a hard one. My son was diagnosed with ALL as a freshman. He had just finished his HS soccer season playing JV and Varsity. He was captain of his premiere team that went to Tampa for Nationals. His sophomore year he could barely walk to the soccer field and he just suppported the team, he earned a Varsity letter though because the coach said he would've been on the Varsity team. His junior year he was on JV and Varsity but mainly JV. He never complained being one of only 3 juniors on JV and played his heart out. This year his senior year he is a starting Varsity player but you can see he is not the same player he used to be. It kills him, it's like my husband said, You can see his brain working but his body doesn't do what it wants. He was pulled last night and replaced by a freshman. I don't know what this means for future games but Aj was crushed when he came home. Last night was the first night I saw my husband cry, he knew how upset Aj was. These kids did not ask for this to happen to them and it sucks that they are dealing with the side effects that treatment has left. Yes, we are glad he is here, everyone keeps saying that to us, but a teen doesn't look at it like that and when your child hurts for whatever reason, you hurt. They remember what they used to be able to do and what their abilities used to be. It is heartbreaking to see him go through this and there is only so much I can say to make him feel better. Good luck to your daughter! I know exactly what you are going through as a parent watching your child try so hard to make a comeback.
Boy, I can REALLY relate to this.
Sam was dx in Jan. of his freshman year. Soccer was the only sport he ever played, and he loved it. He played every minute of every game on the freshman team as sweeper, and they won the conference championship among the freshman teams. Our school has a very very competitive soccer program with multiple state soccer championships.
By sophomore year, he was just finished DI, weak, bald, nauseous, and fatigued. He jumped onto the high school JV team , but could barely run. He got into a few games at the end of the season when the JV team was up by a few goals, for a few minutes, but had no stamina or strength on the field. But even still, I was crying just to see him out there. I was so glad to see him even out there. Hell, I was just glad he was ALIVE.
Summer after sophomore year he had the infamous trampoline accident, shattering his knees. In cast and on crutches throughout the summer, and physical therapy rehab throughout the fall. The varsity team won the state championship. He was on the sideline cheering them on, but could not participate. He tried late in the season, but one of his knees blew up with water on the knee from the missing cartilage.
Summer in between the junior and senior years, he was playing on a club team in the spring and summer. We were playing another team, and Sam was defending against their top scorer. He was having a great day, feeling good, in good shape, and was all over this guy, preventing him from scoring on numerous chances. Standing on the sidelines, I heard the father of the opposing team's player, right next to me, say "wow, that number 11 is a great defender." I could not help but tell him -- "yeah, not bad for a kid with cancer, huh?" His jaw dropped. (and we then talked for a while, because he wanted to know the whole story.)
Senior year, he was on the Varsity team, but mostly sat the bench. Did not have a lot of stamina, still in LTM. Sick off and on. Nonetheless, he loved being around the guys, and was constantly cheering them on. He got into a few games for some minutes, one or two blowouts he got in for an entire half (when they were already up by a few goals). I don't recall him getting any minutes in the playoff games. The school once again went to the state championship, losing in the state final this year. I could tell he was disappointed that he could not be out there making a difference. (He heads the ball away from the goal and clears the ball out of the defensive zone with the best of them).
OT at high school graduation.
Sophomore year of college (after transferring colleges up to Tufts in Boston), he made the JV soccer squad. He proved to himself that he could do it, and he got some good minutes in games. Loved playing the game at a highly competitive level.
Ultimately, he decided it took too much time away from studying and other pursuits, and only played club soccer in later years (along with Ultimate Frisbee and on the cycling club). But it has been great to see him get back into enjoying sports, since he loved them so much prior to dx.
So, annie, I can really relate to what you are talking about. I hope Maggie has an attitude that allows her to be mostly pleased about being out there --although I know it will be impossible for her not to be disappointed about not being able to perform up to her previous norm, and her expectations.
It's a hard thing for our kids. They strive so much to be normal, that they don't want to realize that we are just happy they are ALIVE.
But the sports make them feel ALIVE. So I hope she enjoys it.
This really hit me hard during the high school football awards night late last fall. Fall of 2008, Graham was on JV football and really showing some promise to be a solid Varsity player the next year. However, instead of getting stronger as the season progressed, he was getting weaker (we didn't even realize it at that point; one of his buddies pointed it out after diagnosis when he recalled how Graham couldn't bench as much by the end of the season!) Diagnosed Feb '09. He would be inpatient with the HD Mtx treatments during that summer, and talking about how all the guys were starting conditioning for the upcoming season. He'd have every intention to join them when he got out of hospital, but in reality he was just too weak and sick. But, come fall of 2009 he had just started DI, and was at every practice and every game that he wasn't at clinic. He knew there was no way he could play, but it gave him focus and he thrived on the camaraderie. But he worked on keeping himself in shape through the rest of the year, and by last fall we hoped we would get to see him get some playing time.
Now, I can understand that the name of the game is winning, and our son was not the strongest player, but what I will NEVER comprehend is how, even when it is a blowout of a game (I mean ahead by 5, 6, 7 touchdowns- they were a good team!), a coach can be so cruel as to put a freshman in the game ahead of a kid who has been dedicated and supported his team, despite enormous physical hurdles, and as a Senior has only limited opportunities to play anyway! The whole season, from Aug to the Thanksgiving finals, our son got about 5 minutes playing time.
I will tell you, I was so concerned that all his efforts would go unrecognized that I called one of our local news stations just to give Graham a shout out during one of their High School Football coverage shows. They took it up a huge notch and did an entire segment on him! I really felt bad that it was his mommy that got that going (and I was afraid Graham might be embarrassed, but he was happy )
Back to awards night: you have to sit there, applauding the accomplishments of all these young men. Healthy, vibrant, young men. Hard enough, when you know your son should have--and certainly could have, if it were not for the battle of his life- been among them. But then at the very end, they ran a video that somebody put together. They showed our son briefly. Standing on the sidelines. Yes, I was glad he was even there. But I HATED cancer. Again. I couldn't contain myself and left quickly in tears. And I felt very alone because, of course, nobody understands what cancer takes from our kids....
Today Maggie played terribly. Michele, that's exactly it - her head knows what to do, but her body won't do it. She was taken out of the game after several goals and I could see she was really upset. She turned her back to the field and I could see that she was crying. Several of her teammates went over to her and were trying to console her. After the game she came up to me and her eyes were all red. She told me that she needed a hug and when I hugged her she held on so tight!
Then she started telling me how hard it is getting in school because she is having cognitive processing delays. She ran out of time on a quiz in math class - she says she knows it, but it's like her brain is working in slow motion. I've already contacted the school about arranging for more time on assignments but they are taking forever to set up a meeting. I HATE CANCER.
I'm so sad, and PISSED that our kids have to go through. Just need to vent it out so that I can come to terms with it all and moved forward.
Cindy, I'd wondered if Emily had had the surgery. How is she doing now with the hip replacement? I hope that it's helping her and finally giving her some relief! Wow, 5 years for both of you!
This is so very timely for me as well. Jakob is OT but during tx I think we all focused on keeping him alive that I could brush aside the other stuff. During tx he had mobility issues and got AVN--he did see other kids (on tx too) that could keep playing hockey,soccer,basketball during that time but he seemed to be able to shrug it off. Now that he is OT, he still has restrictions due to AVN and brittle bones, he really wanted to re-start Teakwondo (sp?) but combat is off the table which means he can't move up in belt or participate in half the classes. He tried last spring doing part-time but hated the looks of pity from the other kids during testing/combat. I just want him to be DONE with this cancer business. It is so frustrating to watch him struggle to find his new place. Others don't understand that "yes, he's done tx. But he's still fighting the beast " All he wants is to be 14. It breaks my heart to see him standing on the sidelines. He was never an elite athlete and I don't expect that now--I just want him to get his life back. That sounds silly because of course our kids are alive and that's wonderful. I am waiting, somewhat naively, to put cancer behind us once and for all.
After writing that post Aj played and started in another game and he was pushed from behind and fell. He ended up breaking his wrist. So, he is now playing with a huge cast on his arm. Trying to find the positives because he is so upset being that the cast is so uncomfortable. It could've been a leg, and he would be sidelined for the rest of the season, or need a hip replacement like a friend of his from clinic who is only a freshman in college. Last night he started again and I was so happy but you can clearly see he gets tired so quickly. I am looking for positves and am really trying to boost Aj up. It's hard, cause he doesn't want to hear it. He makes no excuses for himself, he is his worst critic. I can't wait till he is OT. By then HS soccer will be over. sigh.... Annie, I feel for you and Maggie. I know exactly how you feel and Aj and Maggie are going through the same thing. It really sucks!! Good luck to Maggie and the rest of her season, I am glad to read that her teammates were supporting her. That is so important. Aj's remember the player he used to be and they respect him and support him so much.
I'm going to offer a another perspective.
Sweetpea has always been an active kid. She was diagnosed the summer before she was to enter high school. She isn't a great runner but was planning on going out for cross country to maintain fitness for winter sports (she's a nordic skier) but mostly because her friends were running. Cancer certainly threw a wrench into that.
Once we got to LTM I was surprised when she expressed an interest in running again. It wasn't easy, as you guys all know. The first season she ran short courses, she would start at the back and head up the course trailing everyone. A coach would be out recording splits and that's where she would stop.
I really can't say enough about how this worked out for her. It got her out with her friends where she could work on regaining her strength in a supportive atmosphere. I think we underestimate the damage that isolation does to teenagers, it was difficult for her to not be doing the same things as her friends. She's a social kid and she needed to be a part of high school life.
And she is getting stronger. Yeah, it happens slowly. But it is happening. She's running again this fall and is doing complete courses, usually finishing DFL, which doesn't seem to matter. She's doing well enough that she can hang for a while with the tail-enders and there is a boost from that.
I know it sounds trite but everyone on the team is learning about how there is more to it than finishing times. I hate what cancer takes from our kids, when I think about how the past years might have gone otherwise it seems like those years were stolen. But I'm not going to shortchange the growth and bonds she's made as a result.
Thank God for a place to be able to vent with like minded people. It is uplifting to hear your courageous stories. I have no idea what mountains lay in our path, but one thing is for sure, these kids never stop proving their super powers.
God Bless,


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Martin Whitmarsh admitted that McLaren needed a reality check at the end of the 2013 season in order to prepare better for next year.
McLaren endured arguably their worst season since 1980 when they failed to record even a single podium finish in 2013 and finished fifth in the Constructors' Championship with less than half the amount of points as fourth placed Lotus.
The Woking squad has made several changes ahead of the 2014 season, however.
Former Sauber chief designer Matt Morris was recruited, while Red Bull aerodynamics expert Peter Orodromou will join McLaren in 2015 when they will partner with Honda.
Mexican driver Sergio Perez was also replaced after one season, with
Formula Renault 3.5 champion Kevin Magnussen given the opportunity to partner Jenson Button.
"Failure is a painful thing but a kick up the pants sometimes you need it personally and the organisation needs it," Whitmarsh told Autosport.
"I am an optimistic type of fellow, so I come out of it and say, 'I didn't like that much', but looking to the future it has made us make some decisions that would have been difficult to make last winter because, until Australia, we thought we were as good as anybody.
"The majority cannot sit there and say we don't need to change or we have done a good enough job, because we haven't.
"Change in this environment is quite a lot easier, and change is essential in any organisation whether it is on top of its game or not.
"It is just more difficult to implement when it perceives itself to be on top of its game.
"The fact is if the wheel falls off, it is my fault. If the car is not good enough, it is my fault. If the driver makes a mistake, it is my fault.
"People talk about the pressure, but most of the pressure is internal."
Although a dramatic improvement in form in just one season is unlikely, Whitmarsh is confident that the partnership with Honda will bring more titles to McLaren.
"With the Honda deal, we know we are going to be here as a top team in 10 years," he added.
"We have secured that, and there are not that many teams that have got a secure commercial future in the way that we have."


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Planned Parenthood Federation of America Releases New Video Encouraging Women to Get Checkups in Recognition of National Womens Health Week
New York As part of National Womens Health Week (May 12-18), Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) released a new video today in an effort to promote well-woman exams to help women remain healthy by getting preventive checkups, including breast cancer screenings and, if recommended, a Pap test. Early detection saves lives. The animated video explains what to expect at a well-woman exam and addresses any concerns women may have that keep them from getting the preventive care they need.
At Planned Parenthood, we know firsthand the importance of regular checkups in protecting womens health and preventing serious health issues, said Deborah Nucatola, MD, PPFA Senior Director of Medical Services.
But some women may be nervous about personal questions and the exams, themselves, she said. The video explains that its perfectly OK to be nervous and that at Planned Parenthood we understand. We also keep your information completely confidential. Well-woman exams are how we work together to keep you healthy.
Planned Parenthood health centers offer a wide range of preventive health services, including lifesaving cancer screenings, birth control, diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted infections, breast health services, the HPV vaccine, and sexual health information and education. Last year alone, Planned Parenthood performed 585,000 Pap tests, 640,000 lifesaving breast exams, and nearly 4.5 million tests and treatments for sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.
Planned Parenthood also offers online tools that can help people start a conversation with providers about health care: The Check can help users figure out whether to get tested for STDs and My Method can prepare women for a conversation with their providers about the most appropriate and best birth control option for them.
People can visit plannedparenthood.org to find their closest health center and schedule a wellness exam.
Under the Affordable Care Act, womens preventive health will be covered without co-pays. Already, some women who have insurance are receiving birth control without co-pays, and more will receive the benefit as it kicks in across more health plans. In addition, uninsured women will be able to begin enrolling in health coverage plans starting October 1. For more information on the Affordable Care Act benefits and eligibility for coverage, go to healthcare.gov.
Planned Parenthood is the nations leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable health care for women, men, and young people, as well as the nations largest provider of sex education. With more than 750 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect and without judgment. Through health centers, programs in schools and communities, and online resources, Planned Parenthood is a trusted source of reliable health information that allows people to make informed health decisions. We do all this because we care passionately about helping people lead healthier lives.


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NDS™ Dual Impact™ Stack - EVOLEAN™ & Censor®
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WESTERN SAN JUANS – For some, it's a merger that has been a long time coming and now it's been finalized. Officials with the Telluride Montrose Regional Air Organization announced on Tuesday it has signed a management services agreement with the Telluride Tourism Board to oversee its operations – including personnel supervision, administration, strategic planning, fundraising and marketing efforts.
Since the two organizations both underwent separate reorganizations in the early 1990s, many observers wondered why organizations with such similar goals didn't work more closely with one another. On Tuesday that question was finally put to rest when the agreement was signed.
The move not only signifies the two entities will work more collaboratively and efficiently together as one, but it is also a step toward a more regional effort to bring visitors to Telluride, Ouray, Ridgway, Montrose, Gunnison and Crested Butte.
"This partnership will give the destination the collaborative strength to build momentum for existing inbound markets as well as develop a better awareness regionally of the economic benefits of both the Telluride and Montrose regional airports," Telluride Tourism Board President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Martelon said when the announcement was made. "Ultimately, it boils down to collaboration. If you are able to bring as many people as possible into the room and make decisions, it's going to make a difference. Not that it hasn't been attempted but it was all happening in different silos."
TMRAO Board President Dirk dePagter said the decision is important for the region and comes after various entities gave clear direction to do so. The timeline leading to Tuesday's announcement goes back to when the Telluride Tourism Board was originally formed approximately seven years ago. DePagter said that after TTB was formed there were some members of the community who asked why the air organization and the TTB worked as separate entities.
It is the role of the TTB to bring visitors to the region while it's the role of the TMRAO to ensure there are airline seats into the region. Over the years, the two entities with separate funding sources, separate boards and separate administration, worked toward a similar goal: Bring visitors to the region.
"If we go back a few years, there was TMRAO and the tourism board," Telluride Mayor Stu Fraser said. "At times they didn't speak to one another. Several of us got together and said there has to be at least some communication. It's got to be a coordinated effort. By having TMRAO actually within the tourism board is going to make it even better and it will be a more positively run organization and more effective."
Over time, dePagter said, the pressure mounted and change became a possibility.
"Roughly six months ago, [Mountain Village] Mayor Bob Delves came into one of our meetings and said, in no uncertain terms, 'You guys have to figure this out. We need this to happen.'"
With the task of replacing TMRAO's Executive Director Scott Stewart, who announced his resignation earlier this year, already on the table, dePagter said the board finally agreed it was time to negotiate with the TTB on how the two could work as one.
"We feel that it is better to integrate one message and one structure," he said. "In the past, the tourism board controlled the summer message and the Telluride Ski and Golf Co. controlled the branding of the winter message. What is happening now is that we are taking control of the message 365 days a year." Delves said on Wednesday the restructuring is a step toward solving a larger, regional problem.
"We are fractured," Delves said. "We just have too many silos of too many organizations with narrow missions. We often don't cooperate in a harmonious approach to get people to come here."
Delves listed a number of organizations including TMRAO, TTB, the Telluride Mountain Village Owners Association, the Telluride Ski and Golf Company, the governments of Telluride, Mountain Village, San Miguel County, City of Montrose…
"You can go on and on," Delves said. "There are a lot of pieces and I think what we need to do is pull down these silo walls and do a better job of working together. This is one that we have been talking about for a long time. The air organization and the tourism board really need to need to be in lockstep on this and hopefully the ski company comes in and supports it as well."
Telski Executive Director of Marketing and Sales Ken Stone said the reorganization makes sense.
"We are working closely with them for new flights as well as existing flights to maximize all of our resources together," Stone said. "It's a good move to put more resources behind the air organization."
As part of the reorganization, TMRAO has hired Matt Skinner as chief operating officer working with Martelon under the terms of the management services agreement. Skinner brings over a decade of resort industry experience to the organization including past positions on the boards of the Durango Air Task Force and TMRAO. "We are thrilled to have such a dynamic leader join the TMRAO team," dePagter said. "Matt has a strong understanding of our regional community, the Telluride destination and our core markets that will translate to success for the organization."
Most recently, Skinner held the position of vice president of sales and marketing at Telski where he collaborated with the TMRAO Board to market the destination and improve air service into the region.
As COO of TMRAO, Skinner will focus on air guarantee and risk mitigation programs, airline revenue and yield management, and developing additional service, partners and funding. Skinner will also have the benefit of Stewart's history with the organization through an anticipated independent consultant agreement after the first of the year.
"Air service is a critical component of our destination's long-term success and regional economic sustainability," said Skinner. "I look forward to building on the existing accomplishments of the organization, and working with the Telluride Tourism Board on these efforts."
DePagter emphasized that the reorganization is in the best interest of the entire region, especially in light of trends in the travel industry
"The world is shrinking so rapidly," he said. "We need to be more cooperative within the region and the only way to be more cooperative in the region is if we are joined at the hip here locally. How can we communicate with Montrose, which is vital because of the air and economic base they bring, if we aren't on the same page here? We need to be lockstep with those guys."
DePagter went on to say that at some point he would like to change the name of the air organization because it is working to bring visitors to the entire region.
"I would like to see this not be the Telluride-Montrose Regional Air Organization," he said. "I want it to include and branch out to Ouray, Ridgway, Norwood, Gunnison, Crested Butte. We are a region. We need to operate in this new world as a region if we want to be competitive."
Twitter: @Gusgusj


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