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An elastic-powered shrink laminate includes a shrinkable layer and an elastic layer bonded together while the elastic layer is in a dimensionally unstable, stretched state. The elastic layer remains substantially in the stretched state prior to shrinkage of the shrinkable layer. When the shrinkable layer is activated, the laminate retracts, and the retraction is aided (i.e. powered) by the elastic layer. The elastic-powered shrink laminate is useful in personal care absorbent articles where latent, post-assembly retraction of a waistband region is desired.
1. An elastic-powered shrink laminate, comprising:
a heat shrinkable layer; and
an elastic layer;
wherein the heat shrinkable layer and elastic layer are bonded together when the elastic layer is in a dimensionally unstable, stretched state, and the elastic layer remains substantially in the stretched state prior to shrinkage of the heat shrinkable layer.
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22. An elastic-power shrink laminate, comprising:
a heat shrinkable film layer having a retraction potential of at least 20%; and
an elastic filament layer;
wherein the heat shrinkable layer is bonded to the elastic filament layer when the elastic filament layer is stretched to a stretched length at least 25% greater than an unstretched length, the elastic filament layer has a recovery potential of at least 20% of the stretched length, and the elastic layer remains at about the stretched length prior to shrinkage of the heat shrinkable layer.
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27. An absorbent article comprising a liquid permeable bodyside liner, a substantially liquid impermeable outer cover, an absorbent core between them, and a waistband which includes an elastic-powered shrink laminate, wherein the elastic-powered shrink laminate comprises:
a heat shrinkable layer; and
an elastic layer bonded to the heat shrinkable layer when the elastic layer is in a dimensionally unstable, stretched state;
the elastic layer remaining substantially in the stretched state prior to shrinkage of the heat shrinkable layer.
This invention is directed to an elastic-powered shrink laminate including a stretched elastic layer bonded to a heat shrinkable layer.
Personal care absorbent articles, such as training pants, adult incontinence articles, swimwear and some diapers, advantageously include a waistband that shrinks when heated. In one example, a waistband may include an elastic layer laminated between two nonwoven facing layers when the elastic layer is in a stretched state. For reasons relating to equipment and processing, the waistband remains in a substantially flat, extended state during manufacture of the absorbent article. Once the garment has been formed, the waistband is heated to cause shrinkage of the waistband. When the waistband shrinks, it pulls in the other materials to which it is laminated, enabling the absorbent article to properly and comfortably fit the wearer.
In the past, it has been difficult to provide waistband materials which have both heat shrinkage and significant elastic properties. If a material is elastic, it tends to recover to a dimensionally stable, retracted state at ambient temperature, and tends not to retract further upon heating. If a material is heat shrinkable, it tends to a) remain in a dimensionally unstable stretched state prior to heating, b) retract to a dimensionally stable unstretched state only after heating, and c) behave as an inelastic material at its dimensionally stable state after retraction and cooling. While polymer combinations have been developed to provide both elasticity and heat shrinkage, the properties tend to oppose each other such that greater elasticity coincides with insufficient heat shrinkage, and greater heat shrinkage coincides with insufficient elasticity. There is a need or desire for a better hybrid material that exhibits sufficient elasticity and heat shrinkage, for use in waistbands of personal care absorbent articles.
The present invention is directed to an elastic-powered shrink laminate including a heat shrinkable layer and an elastic layer. The heat shrinkable layer and elastic layer are bonded together when the elastic layer is in a dimensionally unstable, stretched state. The heat shrinkable layer, elastic layer and bonding are configured and designed so that the elastic layer remains substantially in the stretched state prior to shrinkage of the heat shrinkable layer.
When the laminate is heated to an activation temperature of the heat shrinkable layer, the heat shrinkable layer shrinks, and the shrinkage is powered by retraction of the elastic layer. The powering by the elastic layer may cause the heat shrinkable layer to shrink more rapidly and/or to a greater extent than it otherwise would.
The elastic-powered shrink laminate may or may not behave as an elastic laminate after shrinking and subsequent cooling of the heat shrinkable layer. If the elastic layer recovers to about the same extent that the heat shrinkable layer retracts, then the resulting laminate may have limited elasticity due to the relative inelasticity of the heat shrinkable layer. A laminate prepared in this fashion may then be rendered elastic by subsequent mechanical stretching, or manual stretching during use, of the laminate material. Alternatively, the heat shrinkable layer may be elastic or easily stretchable after shrinkage, and the resulting laminate may have adequate elasticity without further processing.
If the elastic layer recovers to a sufficiently greater extent than the heat shrinkable layer retracts, then the elastic layer may intermittently separate from the heat shrinkable layer and cause gathering of the heat shrinkable layer between the bonded regions. In this embodiment, the resulting laminate may behave as an elastic laminate without requiring subsequent mechanical stretching or manual stretching of the laminate and its heat shrunk layer. Such subsequent stretching may be employed to further increase the elastic stretch and recovery of the laminate.
By proper selection and design of the heat shrinkable and elastic layers, an elastic-powered shrink laminate can be prepared which has any desired amount of heat shrinkage, and any desired amount of elasticity subsequent to the heat shrinkage. Because the heat shrinkage and elasticity are contributed by different layers, the heat shrinkage and elasticity can coexist in the laminate to a greater extent than was previously possible with hybrid materials formed of a single polymer or polymer combination.
With the foregoing in mind, it is a feature and advantage of the invention to provide an elastic-powered shrink laminate having a tailored amount of heat shrinkage and a tailored amount of elasticity.
It is also a feature and advantage of the invention to provide an elastic-powered shrink laminate having more rapid and/or greater heat shrinkage than conventional elastic or heat shrinkable materials.
It is also a feature and advantage of the invention to provide a personal care absorbent article which incorporates the elastic powered shrink laminate in a waistband material.
The term �activation temperature� refers to a minimum elevated temperature (above ambient temperature) which initiates the shrinkage of a heat shrinkable material. This is often a temperature at which the polymer molecules begin to soften, allowing the molecules to return from a higher energy �oriented� state to a lower energy �random� state, and allowing the material to retract from a stretched dimension toward a pre-stretched dimension. Heat shrinkable materials will shrink at or above the activation temperature, but are typically maintained below the temperature where the material melts or otherwise loses its integrity.
The term �continuous filaments� refers to strands of continuously formed polymeric filaments. Such filaments will typically be formed by extruding molten material through a die head having a certain type and arrangement of capillary holes therein.
The term �elastic,� �elasticized,� or �elastomeric� refers to a material which, upon application of a stretching force, is stretchable to a stretched length at least about 25 percent greater than its relaxed length at 25� C., i.e., can be stretched to at least about one and one-quarter times its relaxed length, and upon release of the stretching force will recover at least about 40 percent of the elongation at 25� C., i.e., will, in the case of 25% elongation, contract to an elongation of not more than about 15%. For example, a 100 centimeter length of material will, under the foregoing definition, be deemed to be elastic if it can be stretched to a length of at least 125 centimeters and if, upon release of the stretching force, it contracts, in the case of being stretched to 125 cm, to a length of not more than about 115 centimeters. Many elastic materials used in the practice of the invention can be stretched to a stretched length at least 50% greater, or at least 75% greater, or at least 100% greater than their relaxed length. Many elastic materials, upon release of the stretching force, will recover at least 50% of the elongation, or at least 75% of the elongation, or at least 90% of the elongation, or about 100% of the elongation.
The term �film� refers to a polymer sheet or layer formed using a film forming process such as cast extrusion, blown extrusion, extrusion coating or the like.
The term �heat shrinkable� refers to a material that will shrink in at least one direction when it is heated to an elevated activation temperature or higher, but will not exhibit corresponding shrinkage at ambient temperature. For example, a heat shrinkable material having a length of 100 cm may shrink by at least 20% (to a length of 80 cm), or by at least 25% (to a length of 75 cm), or by at least 33% (to a length of 67 cm), or by at least 50% (to a length of 50 cm) when heated to its activation temperature or higher. Whether or not a material is heat shrinkable depends both on the polymer(s) used to make the material and how the material is made. Often, a heat shrinkable material is made by a) forming a film or other layer from a suitable polymer, b) stretching the material at or above its activation temperature, c) cooling the material while maintaining the stretched configuration, and d) removing the stretching force. The heat shrinkable material so made will maintain its stretched configuration until it is again heated to its activation temperature, at which time the material will retract toward its original pre-stretched dimension. Some heat shrinkable materials may be made by stretching the film or other layer at ambient temperature, or below the activation temperature, and will maintain the stretched configuration until heated to or above the activation temperature.
The term �latent,� �latent elasticity,� or variation thereof refers to materials having a certain degree of stretchability which are capable of becoming more stretchable upon activation, e.g. by heat activation, microwave, ultrasound, chemical treatment, and so forth. The materials may or may not be elastic prior to activation, but will be elastic after activation.
The term �nonelastic� or �inelastic� refers to any material which does not fall within the definition of �elastic� above.
The term �polymer� or �polymeric� generally includes, but is not limited to, homopolymers, copolymers, such as, for example, block, graft, random and alternating copolymers, terpolymers, etc. and blends and modifications thereof. Furthermore, the term �polymer� includes all possible geometrical configurations of the material, such as isotactic, syndiotactic and random symmetries.
The terms �machine direction� or �MD� means the direction along the length of a fabric in the direction in which it is produced. The terms �cross machine direction,� �cross directional,� or �CD� mean the direction across the width of fabric, i.e. a direction generally perpendicular to the MD.
The term �nonwoven web� refers to a web having a structure of individual fibers or threads that are interlaid, but not in an identifiable, repeating manner. Nonwoven webs have been, in the past, formed by a variety of processes such as, for example, meltblowing processes, spunbonding processes and bonded carded web processes.
The term �meltblown� or �meltblown fibers �means fibers formed by extruding a molten thermoplastic material through a plurality of fine, usually circular, die capillaries as molten thermoplastic material or filaments into a high velocity gas (e.g. air) stream which attenuates the filaments of molten thermoplastic material to reduce their diameter, which may be to microfiber diameter. Thereafter, the meltblown fibers are carried by the high velocity gas stream and are deposited on a collecting surface to form a web of randomly disbursed meltblown fibers. Such a process is disclosed, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,849,241 to Butin, which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference thereto.
The term �spunbond� or �spunbonded fibers� refers to small diameter fibers formed by extruding a molten thermoplastic material as filaments from a plurality of fine, usually circular, capillaries of a spinerette with the diameter of the extruded filaments then being rapidly reduced as by, for example, eductive stretching or other well-known spun-bonding mechanisms. The production of spunbonded nonwoven webs is illustrated in patents such as, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,340,563 to Appel et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 3,692,618 to Dorschner et al. The disclosures of these patents are incorporated by reference.
The term �bonded carded webs� refers to webs that are made from staple fibers which are usually purchased in bales. The bales are placed in a fiberizing unit/picker which separates the fibers. Next, the fibers are sent through a combining or carding unit which further breaks apart and aligns the staple fibers in the machine direction so as to form a machine direction-oriented fibrous nonwoven web. Once the web has been formed, it is then bonded by one or more of several bonding methods. One bonding method is powder bonding wherein a powdered adhesive is distributed throughout the web and then activated, usually by heating the web and adhesive with hot air. Another bonding method is pattern bonding wherein heated calendar rolls or ultrasonic bonding equipment is used to bond the fibers together, usually in a localized bond pattern through the web and/or alternatively the web may be bonded across its entire surface if so desired. When using bicomponent staple fibers, through-air bonding equipment is, for many applications, especially advantageous.
The term �retraction potential� refers to the maximum potential shrinkage of a heat shrinkable material, i.e. the maximum amount of shrinkage that will result if a heat shrinkable material is heated to or above its activation temperature, and is not restrained from shrinking. For instance, a heat shrinkable material having a length of 100 cm in any one direction has a retraction potential of 33% if it shrinks to a length of 67 cm when heated to or above its activation temperature, without restraint. Some heat shrinkable materials shrink only partially at the activation temperature, and reach maximum shrinkage only when heated to a somewhat higher temperature. In these instances, the �retraction potential� refers to the maximum potential shrinkage at the higher temperature.
The term �recovery potential� refers to the maximum potential recovery of an elastic material which is being maintained in a stretched state at 25� C., when all restraining forces are removed. For instance, an elastic material that is initially maintained at a stretched length of 100 cm in any one direction has a recovery potential of 33% if it recovers to a length of 67 cm at 25� C. when all restraining forces are removed.
The term �personal care absorbent article� refers to diapers, training pants, swimwear, absorbent underpants, adult incontinence products, feminine hygene products and the like.
Referring to
The layers of the elastic-powered shrink laminate 10 or 20 are suitably configured and designed so that the elastic layer 16 remains substantially in the stretched state prior to shrinkage of the heat shrinkable layer. For end use applications such as personal care absorbent articles, it is desirable to maintain the elastic-powered shrink laminate in a flat (extended) configuration during manufacture and assembly of the article, and subsequently activate the laminate to cause shrinkage. To this end, the elastic layer 16 should not be so powerful or heavy relative to the remaining layers that the elastic layer dominates the laminate prior to the heat shrinking step, and causes premature retraction of the laminate.
One way of reinforcing the elastic layer 16 in the stretched state is to employ additional layers as shown in
Another way of reinforcing the elastic layer 16 in the stretched state is to form the elastic layer 16 of a relatively light, intermittent material and to form the heat shrinkable layer(s) 12 of a relatively heavy, uninterrupted material. In the embodiments shown in
Another technique for reinforcing the elastic layer 16 in the stretched state is to make sure the elastic filaments 18 (or other elastic material) are substantially continuously and strongly bonded to the heat shrinkable layer 12. This is suitably accomplished using a substantially continuous adhesive layer 14 to bond the elastic layer 16 to the heat shrinkable layer 12. If the bonding is discontinuous, the stretched elastic layer 16 will have a greater tendency to recover in the unbonded regions between the bonded regions, causing premature gathering of the remaining layer(s). While other bonding techniques may also be employed, adhesive bonding is considered to be more suitable. With thermal bonding, for instance, care must be taken to avoid premature shrinkage of the heat shrinkable layer 12. With ultrasonic bonding, care must be taken to avoid damaging or severing the elastic filaments 18.
Other techniques such as proper selection of polymers, basis weights and layer thicknesses, and amount of stretching of the elastic layer 16, will also influence the ability of the elastic-powered shrink laminate to maintain the elastic layer 16 substantially in the stretched state prior to shrinkage of the heat shrinkable layer 12. More than one of the foregoing techniques may be employed, in combination, to achieve this result. By �substantially in the stretched state,� it is meant that the elastic layer 16 should retain a recovery potential of at least about 25%, suitably at least about 33%, or at least about 50%, in the elastic-powered shrink laminate before the heat shrinkage step has been performed. Prior to the heat shrinkage step, the elastic-powered shrink laminate should maintain a substantially flat configuration and should not be gathered by the elastic layer 16.
The heat shrinkable layer 12 can be a film, nonwoven web or other material, and is suitably a film. The film thickness may vary depending on whether one or two heat shrinkable layers are employed, whether additional outer facing layers are employed, and the retractive force exerted by the elastic layer 16. The heat shrinkable film may have a thickness of about 5-100 microns, suitably about 10-50 microns, or about 15-40 microns.
The heat shrinkable layer 12 may be designed with a polymer or polymer blend to provide an activation temperature of about 28-35� C., or about 35-55� C., or about 55-75� C., or higher. In one interesting embodiment, the heat shrinkable layer 12 may have an activation temperature of about 28-35� C., which is low enough to activate the shrinkage using the heat of a wearer's body. For instance, a wearer could don a personal care absorbent article which employs the elastic-powered shrink laminate as a waistband material. After the garment is donned, the heat from the wearer's body may cause the waistband to shrink to the extent required to obtain a comfortable fit.
In most instances, a higher activation temperature will be required in order for the elastic-powered laminate to withstand processing, packaging, transportation and storage without exhibiting premature shrinkage. An activation temperature of at least 55� C., or about 55-75� C., may be particularly suitable.
The heat shrinkable layer 12 should have a retraction potential of at least about 20%, or at least about 25%, or at least about 33%, or at least about 50%. This means that the heat shrinkable layer is capable of shrinking by a corresponding percentage in at least one direction when heated to its activation temperature or higher, and when no restraining force is applied which inhibits the retraction. The retraction potential of a heat shrinkable layer is typically related to the extent that the heat shrinkable layer remained stretched after formation, cooling and annealing. For example, a heat shrinkable film formed by stretching a precursor layer above its activation temperature to twice its pre-stretched length, and cooling the film at that length, may have a retraction potential of up to 50% based on its ultimate length.
A variety of thermoplastic polymers and polymer mixtures can be used to form the heat shrinkable layer 12. Suitable polymers and polymer mixtures include those which (when formed into a film or other layer) can be stretched, and which remain stretched below an activation temperature. Suitable polymers include without limitation ethylene homopolymers, ethylene-alpha olefin copolymers containing up to about 20% by weight of a C3 to a C12 alpha-olefin comonomer, propylene homopolymers, propylene copolymers containing up to about 20% by weight ethylene or a C4 to C12 alpha-olefin comonomer, amorphous poly-alpha olefins (e.g. propylene homopolymers made partially with atactic polypropylene, and certain copolymers of propylene with ethylene and/or butylenes), polyvinyl chlorides, and combinations thereof. These polymers may be blended with other polymers, such as elastic polymers, provided that the blend yields a layer 12 with suitable heat shrink properties. The heat shrinkable layer 12 may suitably have elastic properties after heat shrinkage, and the inclusion of elastic polymers facilitates these properties.
Single-site catalyzed olefin polymers, e.g. ethylene homopolymers and ethylene-alpha olefin copolymers, are particularly suitable for forming the heat shrinkable layer 12. These polymers exhibit rapid crystallization when the heat shrinkable layer is initially formed and cooled, and many of them have convenient activation temperatures between about 55-75� C. Both the polymer density and activation temperature of these polymers vary inversely with the level of alpha-olefin comonomer. Suitably, the polymer density is about 0.86-0.94 grams/cm3, or about 0.90-0.935 grams/cm3. If the comonomer content is too high and the density is too low, the activation temperature approaches ambient temperature and the polymer behaves more like an elastomer. Single-site catalyzed ethylene homopolymers and ethylene-alpha olefin copolymers are sold by ExxonMobil Chemical Co. under the trade names EXACT and EXCEED, and by Dow Chemical Co. under the trade names AFFINITY and ENGAGE.
The heat shrinkable layer may be a breathable film, which is permeable to water vapor but not aqueous liquids. A breathable film may have a water vapor transmission rate (�WVTR�) of at least about 500 grams/m2-24 hours, suitably at least about 1000 grams/m2-24 hours, or about 1000-5000 grams/m2-24 hours, measured using the WVTR test described herein. A breathable film can be prepared by mixing one or more of the foregoing polymers with about 25-75% by weight, or about 40-60% by weight of a suitable particulate filler (e.g. calcium carbonate), and stretching the resulting film in at least one direction to form micropores or microvoids around the filler particles. Techniques for making breathable films are known.
The elastic layer 16 may be a film or nonwoven web, but is suitably formed of spaced apart, nonintersecting, substantially parallel elastic filaments 18 as shown in
The elastic layer 16 in the laminate should have a recovery potential which is at least as high as the retraction potential of the heat shrinkable layer(s) 12. If the recovery potential of elastic layer 16 is less than the retraction potential of heat shrinkable layer(s) 12, then the elastic layer 16 will not be able to retract as much as the heat shrinkable layer(s) 12 are activated. For instance, the elastic layer 16 should have a recovery potential of at least about 20% based on the stretched length, suitably at least about 25%, or at least about 33%, or at least about 50%.
As explained further below, with respect to
As explained above, elastic layer 16 is suitably formed of spaced apart elastic filaments 18. When in the stretched state, as shown in
The elastic layer 16 may be formed from a variety of elastic polymers. Suitable elastomers include without limitation styrene-diene block copolymers, styrene-olefin block polymers, polyurethanes, copolyether esters, polyamide-polyether block copolymers, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers, and combinations thereof. The elastomers may be combined with other polymers (e.g. polyolefins), provided that the polymer blend performs suitably as an elastomeric polymer in the elastic layer 16. Such polymer blends should include at least 50% elastomer, or at least 60% elastomer, or at least 75% elastomer. A low molecular weight polyolefin wax such as EPOLENE�C-10, sold by Eastman Chemical Co., may be present at about 5-25% by weight to aid in processing.
Particularly suitable elastic polymers and polymer blends are sold by Kraton Polymers LLC of Houston, Tex. under the trade name KRATON�. KRATON� polymers include styrene-diene block copolymers, for example styrene-butadiene, styrene-isoprene, styrene-butadiene-styrene, and styrene-isoprene-styrene. KRATON� polymers also include styrene-olefin block copolymers formed by selective hydrogenation of styrene-diene block copolymers. Examples of styrene-olefin block copolymers include styrene-(ethylene-butylene), styrene-(ethylene-propylene), styrene-(ethylene-butylene)-styrene, styrene-(ethylene-propylene)-styrene, styrene-(ethylene-butylene)-styrene-(ethylene-butylene), styrene-(ethylene-propylene)-styrene-(ethylene-propylene), and styrene-ethylene-(ethylene-propylene)-styrene. These block copolymers may have a linear, radial or star-shaped molecular configuration. Specific KRATON� block copolymers include those sold under the brand names G-1652, G-1657M, G-1730, D-1114, D-1116, and D-1102.
The adhesive layer (or layers) 14 can be formed of a hot melt or melt spray adhesive which a) provides a sufficiently strong bond between elastic layer 16 and heat shrinkable layer 12 to maintain elastic layer 16 in the stretched state prior to heat shrinkage, and b) can be applied substantially continuously over the interfacial regions between elastic layer 16 and heat shrinkable layer(s) 12. Suitable adhesives include without limitation styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer adhesives available from Bostic, Inc. of Wauwatosa, Wis. under the brand names H2096 and H2808-07. The adhesive may be applied to an inner surface of the heat shrinkable layer 12 and/or to the elastic layer 16 at a basis weight of about 1.5-7.5 grams/m2, suitably about 2.0-4.0 grams/m2. The adhesive, which suitably has elastic properties, may be applied using a melt spraying process or other suitable techniques such as brushing or extrusion film coating. The adhesive may cover at least 70% of an interfacial area between heat shrinkable layer 12 and elastic layer 16, suitably at least 80%, or at least 90%, or about 100%.
To enhance the adhesion, the elastic layer 16 (e.g. elastic filaments 18) may include tackifying resin combined with the elastomeric polymer. Particularly suitable tackifying resins include tackifiers based on hydrogenated styrene hydrocarbon resins and sold by Eastman Chemical Co. under the trade name REGALREZ�. Tackifiers may constitute up to about 40% by weight, suitably about 10-25% by weight of a polymer blend which includes the elastomer and tackifier.
As illustrated in
Suitable facing layers 22 include without limitation nonwoven layers, such as spunbond webs, meltblown webs, bonded carded webs and combinations thereof. Also suitable for facing layers 22 are film/nonwoven laminates. Facing layers 22 can be bonded to the adjacent layers(s) using adhesive, thermal or ultrasonic bonding, and are suitably joined using an adhesive. In one embodiment, facing layers 22 are joined using the same type of adhesive, or the same adhesive, that is used to join heat shrinkable layer(s) 12 with elastic layer 16.
If the retraction potential of the heat shrinkable layer 12 is about the same as the recovery potential of the elastic layer 16, the laminate 20 may heat shrink to a second length shown in
If the recovery potential of the elastic layer 16 exceeds the retraction potential of the heat shrinkable layer 12, then the laminate 20 may shrink to an even shorter third length shown in
A second extruder 135 is mounted for extruding a molten polymer film 134 onto chilled positioning roller 132 and over chilled roll 133, which cool and solidify the film. The elastic filaments 114 and film 134 are drawn toward a nip defined by rolls 119 and 120, which pulls the layers at a speed fast enough to stretch the filaments 114 (resulting in stretched elastic layer 16) and to stretch the film 134 (resulting in heat shrinkable layer 12). The speeds of the chill rolls 112, 113, 132 and 133 may be adjusted relative to the speed of nip rolls 119 and 120 to regulate the amount of stretching of elastic layer 16 and heat shrinkable layer 12. An adhesive spray head 131 deposits adhesive layer 14 onto the heat shrinkable layer 12 to ensure its bonding to the elastic layer 16.
In the embodiment shown, nonwoven facing layers 22 are unwound from rolls 127 and 128, coated with adhesive from spray heads 123 and 124, and combined with elastic layer 16 and heat shrinkable layer 12 to form elastic-powered shrink laminate 125. The nonwoven facing layers 22, which are present in some embodiments of the invention, may be spunbond webs, meltblown webs, bonded carded webs, film/nonwoven laminates or the like. The facing layers 22 may be formed from a wide variety of thermoplastic polymers, including without limitation ethylene homopolymers, ethylene-alpha olefin copolymers, propylene homopolymers, copolymers of propylene with ethylene or an alpha-olefin, polyamides, polyesters, polyurethanes and the like. When the elastic powered shrink laminate 125 is activated, the facing layers 22 will typically gather as the heat shrinkable layer 12 retracts and the elastic layer 16 recovers.
Referring to
Training pant 200 defines a three-dimensional pant configuration having a waist opening 250 and a pair of leg openings 252. The training pant includes a front region 222, a back region 224 and a crotch region 226. An absorbent chassis 232 extends from the front region through the crotch region and into the back region. The absorbent chassis 232 typically includes a liquid-permeable bodyside liner 233, a liquid-impermeable outer cover 235, and an absorbent core 237 between them.
A front waistband region 238 and back waistband region 239 are located longitudinally outward from the absorbent core 237 in the front and back regions of the article, respectively. Each waistband region may be defined by extensions of the bodyside liner 233, the outer cover 235, and an elastic-powered shrink laminate 10 of the invention. The elastic-powered shrink laminate 10 may be affixed to the bodyside liner 233 and/or outer cover 235 using adhesives and/or other bonding techniques conventionally used to install waistband materials, with the difference being that the elastic-powered shrink laminate 10 replaces the conventional waistband materials. When the elastic-powered shrink laminate 10 is activated for heat shrinkage, it causes shrinkage of the waistband regions 238 and 239 and localized gathering of the bodyside liner 233 and outer cover 235. The elastic-powered shrink laminate 10 may completely encircle the waist opening 250, or may be present in only part of the front waist region 238 and/or back waist region 239.
The illustrated training pant 200 also includes a pair of side panels 234, each including a front side panel portion 236 and a back side panel portion 237 joined at a seam 254. The side panels 234 can be joined to the chassis 232 along seam edges 258. Alternatively, the side panels 234 may be formed using extensions of the bodyside liner 233, the outer cover 235 or both, alone or in combination with other materials. The side panels 234 may be formed of elastic materials, or may include elastic materials. Each side panel 234 may extend the entire length 256 from the respective leg opening 252 to the waist opening 250 of the absorbent article.
The training pant 200 may also be equipped with leg elastics 240 at least partially surrounding each leg opening. In one embodiment of the invention, the elastic-powered shrink laminate 10 may also be incorporated into the leg elastics 240, in place of conventional materials. In another embodiment, the elastic-powered shrink laminate 10 may be incorporated into the side panels 234 to provide a snug fit around the wearer.
Except for the elastic-powered shrink laminate 10, the various components of the training pant 200 may be formed of conventional materials. The elastic-powered shrink laminate 10 is designed for incorporation into an otherwise conventional absorbent article, without requiring significant re-design of the article.
Using a process similar to the one illustrated in
The spunbond facing layers were formed of polypropylene and had a basis weight of about 17 grams/m2 in a laid out (flat) state. Each spunbond layer was treated with 3 grams/m2 of FINDLEY H2808-07 adhesive, available from Bostic Inc., using a melt spray process. The adhesive-coated spunbond facing layers and stretched elastic filaments were combined in a nip similar to the one illustrated in
Examples 3-5 (inventive) were prepared using a similar process except that one of the spunbond facing layers was replaced with a heat shrinkable film. The heat shrinkable film was unwound from a roll (instead of being formed in-line, as suggested by
The heat shrinkable film used in Example 3 was formed from an experimental, single-site catalyzed ethylene-octene copolymer from Dow Chemical Co. having a density of 0.863 grams/cm3 and a melt index (190� C.) of 2.5 grams/10 min. The heat shrinkable film had a thickness of 25 microns (after stretching), a basis weight of 20 grams/m2, and was formed using a stretching temperature of 38� C. and a stretching ratio of 1.5.
The heat shrinkable film used in Example 4 was formed from an experimental propylene-based plastomer or elastomer (�PBPE�) having a density of 0.858 grams/cm3, a melt flow rate (230� C.) of 2 grams/10 min and an ethylene content of 15% by weight of the PBPE. These PBPE materials are taught in WO 03/040442, and U.S. Application 60/709,668 (filed 19 Aug. 2005), each of which is incorporated by reference. The heat shrinkable film had a thickness (after stretching) of 29 microns, a basis weight of 25 grams/m2, and was formed using a stretching temperature of 38� C. and a stretching ratio of 1.65.
The heat shrinkable film used in Example 5 was a breathable two-layer film. The core layer (constituting about 98% by weight of the film thickness) contained 50% by weight particulate calcium carbonate (SCC 21382 from Standridge Color Corp.), 20% by weight of a commercial ethylene-alpha olefin copolymer having a density of 0.860 grams/cm3 and a melt index of 3 grams/10 min (EXACT 5631 from ExxonMobil Chemical Co.) and 30% by weight of an experimental ethylene-octene copolymer having a density of 0.863 grams/cm3 and a melt index of 5 grams/10 min (from Dow Chemical Co.). The skin layer (constituting about 2% of the film thickness) was formed from LD202.48, a branched low density polyethylene commercially available from Dow Chemical Co. The heat shrinkable film had a basis weight of 25.6 grams/m2 and was formed using stretching temperatures of 35-80� C. and a stretching ratio of 4.48, using multiple stretch rollers.
The laminates of Examples 1-5 were heat activated by submerging them in a water bath at 71� C. for 30 seconds. Comparative Examples 1 and 2 exhibited heat shrinkage of 33% and 36%, respectively. Examples 3 and 4 exhibited heat shrinkages of 42% and 47%, respectively, significantly better than comparative Example 1 which also contained a 15 grams/m2 elastic layer. Example 5 exhibited heat shrinkage of 41%, significantly better than comparative Example 2 which also utilized a 30 grams/m2 elastic layer.
Following heat shrinkage, the laminates were cycle tested for elastic properties using the Cycle Testing procedure described below. As shown in Table I (below), the inventive Examples exhibited elastic properties similar to the comparative Examples prepared using an elastic layer having the same (15 gsm or 30 gsm) basis weight.
The materials were tested using a cyclical testing procedure to determine load loss and percent set. In particular, 2 cycle testing was utilized to 100 percent defined elongation. For this test, the sample size was 3 inch in the MD by 6 inch in the CD. The Grip size was 3 inch width. The grip separation was 4 inch. The samples were loaded such that the cross-direction of the sample was in the vertical direction. A preload of approximately 10-15 grams was set. The test pulled the sample to 100 percent elongation, and then immediately (without pause) returned to the zero. The results of the test data are all from the first and second cycles. The testing was done on a Sintech Corp. constant rate of extension tester 2/S with a Renew MTS mongoose box (controller) using TESTWORKS 4.07b software (Sintech Corp. of Cary, N.C.). The tests were conducted under ambient conditions.
A suitable technique for determining the WVTR (water vapor transmission rate) value of a film or laminate material of the invention is the test procedure standardized by INDA (Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry), number IST-70.4-99, entitled �STANDARD TEST METHOD FOR WATER VAPOR TRANSMISSION RATE THROUGH NONWOVEN AND PLASTIC FILM USING A GUARD FILM AND VAPOR PRESSURE SENSOR� which is incorporated by reference herein. The INDA procedure provides for the determination of WVTR, the permeance of the film to water vapor and, for homogeneous materials, water vapor permeability coefficient.
The INDA test method is well known and will not be set forth in detail herein. However, the test procedure is summarized as follows. A dry chamber is separated from a wet chamber of known temperature and humidity by a permanent guard film and the sample material to be tested. The purpose of the guard film is to define a definite air gap and to quiet or still the air in the air gap while the air gap is characterized. The dry chamber, guard film, and the wet chamber make up a diffusion cell in which the test film is sealed. The sample holder is known as the Permatran-W Model 100K manufactured by Mocon/Modern Controls, Inc., Minneapolis, Minn. A first test is made of the WVTR of the guard film and the air gap between an evaporator assembly that generates 100% relative humidity. Water vapor diffuses through the air gap and the guard film and then mixes with a dry gas flow which is proportional to water vapor concentration. The electrical signal is routed to a computer for processing. The computer calculates the transmission rate of the air gap and the guard film and stores the value for further use.
The transmission rate of the guard film and air gap is stored in the computer as CalC. The sample material is then sealed in the test cell. Again, water vapor diffuses through the air gap to the guard film and the test material and then mixes with a dry gas flow that sweeps the test material. Also, again, this mixture is carried to the vapor sensor. The computer then calculates the transmission rate of the combination of the air gap, the guard film, and the test material. This information is then used to calculate the transmission rate at which moisture is transmitted through the test material according to the equation:
The embodiments of the invention described herein are exemplary. Various modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the spirit and the scope of the invention. The scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims. All changes that fall within the meaning and range of equivalents are intended to be embraced herein.
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Great Weekend Get Away At Laluna Hotel and ResortChiang Rai, Thailand Hotels & ResortsA small gem of Chiang Rai with truely great impression... $35 Per Night
Vikasa Yoga ResortSurat Thani, Thailand Hotels & ResortsVikasa is an ideal place to practice yoga, find like-minded people, eat healthy food and chill-out in an amazing environment. The Vikasa lifestyle inspires personal evolution through yoga, food, wellness, philosophy and our unique community....Starting at $70 Per Night
Boomerang Village Resort, PhuketKata, Thailand Hotels & ResortsLocated in the suggestive surroundings of Kata Beach, Phuket, the Boomerang Village Resort Phuket offers a warm welcoming as well as an attentive service to all its guests....Starting at 1,650 Per Night
Buffalo Bay Vacation ClubAo Nang, Thailand Hotels & ResortsThis gorgeous little island is truly the undiscovered pearl of the Andaman Sea. With long white sandy beaches, clear blue sea and coral reefs, it's the perfect place to really get away from it all....Starting at $20 Per Night
Swiss Ticino Home Stay & Restaurant - Chiang MaiChiang Mai, Thailand Hotels & ResortsSwiss Ticino Home Stay and Restaurant at Chiang Mai - Thailand - Our tasty food and comfortable rooms will make you feel at home....Starting at 600 Per Night/Room
The Park Nangrong ResortNang Rong, Thailand Hotels & ResortsThe Park is located in quiet and private surroundings in Nangrong, Buriram, Thailand. For more pictures, see theparknangrong dot com. The rooms are decorated in a modern resort home style, and have lots of facilities....Starting at 400 Per Night
Little Buddha PhuketPhuket Island, Thailand Hotels & ResortsSituated in Nanai Road, Patong Beach. About 600 meters from the beach, but with easy access by motorbike or on foot. Brand new and spotlessly clean accommodation in 26 fan or air conditioned rooms. Rooms have air con, fan, hot & cold water, closet , ... $16 Per Night/Room
Experience the true Thai country lifestyle, SakaeoAo Nang, Thailand Hotels & ResortsWe are situated in Sakaeo Province, Thailand and offer a different experience for travelers. When guests stay with us they can experience the true country lifestyle, while still enjoying comfortable accommodation and authentic Thai cuisine....Starting at $15 Per Night/Room
New World City HotelAo Nang, Thailand Hotels & ResortsLocated in the heart of Bangkok within minutes of the city's business and shopping area a short distance from Khaosan Road.
... $30 Per Night
Samui Hotel, Buddy Samui Boutique Hotel, Koh SamuiKoh Samui, Thailand Hotels & ResortsBuddy Samui Boutique Hotel (Buddy Lamai Beach), the luxurious boutique style hotel is situated on Lamai Beach, Samui Island, the most charming and famous Island of Thailand where are most visited by a lot of foreign tourists.... 2,500 Per Night
Seaview Italian Style Agritur., Villa,Resort&SPAKoh Samui, Thailand Hotels & ResortsSeaview Italian Style Agriturismo. Villa/resort&SPA.**** At the entrance of a natural, open wildlife park. Family athmosphere with all modern conforts. Let the songs of birds of Paradise, lyra and raibow larks mark the hours of your vacation. RELAX....
Jungle Trekking in Northern ThailandChiang Mai, Thailand Hiking & TrekkingJungala Nature Treks offers adventures of 1-3 day jungle trekking at different levels with bamboo rafting and elephant riding. Experience traditional ethnic Karen culture and life style, explore the nature and relax at waterfalls....Rates from 1,000 Per Person
Surfing in Phuket Thailand- Phuket Surf SchoolPhuket Island, Thailand SurfingSurfing thailand phuket & Asia, Thailand surfing lessons. Learn to surf and get cool Thai surf accessories from our shop in Phuket. Surfboards, Bikinis, bodyboards, boardshorts, surfing gear .please include your contact details in your inquiry...Starting at $20 Per Event
Similan Islands Dive CruisePhuket Island, Thailand Scuba & SnorkelingLiveaboard diving cruises to the Similan Island and Richelieu Rock - the best diving in Thailand. Departures from October to May with a variety of boats to suit all budgets. Trips are generally for 4 days and 4 nights.... $540 Per Trip
Trekking in non touristic area ,ThailandChiang Mai, Thailand Llama TrekkingTrekking in real deep jungle which non toristic area mean private area this site is non electric.* After you come back from trip. you have different good feeling, happiness and fun-filled Sure!!! *... $200 Per Trip
Practice with AwarenessKoh Samui, Thailand YogaCentered Yoga offers yoga teacher training courses for aspiring yoga instructors. We were one of the first to offer this type of training and are also part of the Yoga Alliance....
All Yoga teacher trainings now in ThailandSurat, Thailand YogaLocated in the beautiful southern islands of Thailand, All Yoga Thailand is the top destination for yoga aspirants from all over the world. We offer 200hr and 300hr yoga teacher trainings in Koh Samui and Koh Phangan
- Yoga Alliance accredited -...Starting at $2,800 Per Event
Yoga & Wellness RetreatsSurat Thani, Thailand YogaSituated in one of the quietest and most beautiful areas of Koh Samui,in close froximity to the sea front, Marga Yoga offers Yoga Retreats, Detox & Wellness Retreats, Massage & Reiki Therapies...Starting at 25,000 Per Week
Isaan - Undiscovered Northeastern ThailandBangkok, Thailand Sight-Seeing ToursIf Bangkok is the head of Thailand, then the countryside is where its heart resides. Travel into the heartland of Thailand and stay in Thai houses and villages....Starting at $2,115 Per Person
Bangkok & Countryside Bicycle Absolute ExplorerBangkok, Thailand Sight-Seeing ToursAbsolute Explorer is a bicycle tour operator in Bangkok offers you to view Bangkok and countryside in one day, visit farmers, local temple, market, and school. It's an easy pace everyone can do....Starting at $40 Per Person
Family Adventure In Chiang MaiChiang Mai, Thailand Sight-Seeing ToursDiscover the Rose of the North, Chiang Mai, and its beautiful surrounding countryside. Explore the city, forests, hills and rivers by bicycle, raft and elephant....Starting at $1,375 Per Person

subset: commoncrawl


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Liturgy & Music
Multicultural Ministry
Ministry of Care
Religious Education
Youth Formation
Sacrament Preparation
Safe Environment
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"Little Blue Books" for the Advent/Christmas Season
Many of you have been requesting copies of the "Little Blue Book" for the Advent/Christmas Season. The Little Blue Book Reflections begins with the First Sunday of Advent, Nov 30 and ends on the Baptism of the Lord on Sun, Jan 11. Reflections are based on the daily Gospels of Advent.
We currently have both English and Spanish books in stock.
The cost is $3.00/book and copies can be purchased in the parish office.
[ Advent/Christmas ]
Adult Ed Class: Our Lady of Guadalupe, Patroness of the Americas
Tuesday mornings, Dec 2 and 9
9:15-10:45am in Wellens Hall
Deacon Gene Messer, Facilitator
Repeated on Wednesday evenings,
Dec 3 and 10
6:00-7:15pm in Wellens Hall
The Blood and the Rose is a documentary film shot on location in Mexico and Spain. The film investigates the historical, scientific, and spiritual significance of the apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe on Tepeyac Hill in Mexico to St. Juan Diego.
On December 9, 1531, the Blessed Virgin Mary first appeared to Juan Diego, an ordinary man of extraordinary faith. Juan Diego humbly embraced the call to serve as a Messenger Eagle. Today this apparition is known as "the Virgin of Guadalupe." The beautiful miracle of that day is chronicled in this story that begins with Mary's faith filled yes. This eternal struggle of good versus evil is the battle for our souls.
Please contact Cindy at 480-325-5375 or firstname.lastname@example.com if you can join us so that we have sufficient handouts prepared. Walk-ins are also welcome.
[ Faith Formation ]
Annual Christmas Giving Trees
Our Annual Christmas Giving Trees are set up in the Church and Anderson Hall. These giving trees will help brighten Christmas for many residents in our neighboring nursing homes. Every family is encouraged to stop by the trees and pick up a tag. Please SAVE THE TAG and tape it to the wrapped gift. This is VERY IMPORTANT as the colored tag tells us which nursing home the gifts are to be delivered to.
Please bring your gift to the church no later than Mon, Dec 15.
They can be returned to the Christmas trees, parish or RE offices. As in years past, the Holy Cross Community has been so GENEROUS in buying and returning the gifts. For many residents, these are the only gifts they will receive. Thank you for your kindness and generosity. If you have any questions or wish to assist with this project please contact the RE Department at 480-325-5375.
Nuestros árboles navideños anuales para regalar ya están en la Iglesia y en el salón Anderson. Los regalos navideños, que usted done, alegraran la Navidad de muchos residentes en los hogares de ancianos a nuestro alrededor. Invitamos anima a que cada familia pase por los árboles y recojan una etiqueta. Por favor guarde la etiqueta y con cinta adhesiva póngala en el regalo ya envuelto. Es muy importante la etiqueta porque nos da a saber el hogar de ancianos al cual se entregara el regalo.
Por favor traiga su regalo a la Iglesia a más tardar el lunes, 15 de diciembre.
Se puede regresar al los árboles de Navidad, a la oficina parroquial o a las oficinas de Educación Religiosa. En años pasados, la comunidad de Santa Cruz ha sido muy generosa en traer los regalos. Para muchos residentes, éstos son los únicos regalos que van a recibir para la Navidad. Gracias por su bondad y generosidad. Si usted tiene alguna pregunta por favor póngase en contacto con el Departamento de Educación Religiosa al 480-325-5375.
[ Advent/Christmas ]
Thanksgiving Multicultural Mass
Nov 27, 2014 (9:00a)
Let us TOGETHER give Thanks to God for the many blessings we have received this year…
Please bring food from your own heritage and feel free to wear your cultural attire.
Bread to be blessed during Mass (to take home).
Appetizers to share with the community at a reception in the courtyard after Mass.
Demos gracias a Dios por todas las Bendiciones que nos ha dado esta año…
Traigan comida que refleje su cultura.
Pan para bendecirlo durante la Misa y llevarlo de regreso a casa.
Bocadillos para compartir con la comunidad de la Santa Cruz en una recepción después de Misa.
[ Special Mass/Event ]
Hand Carved Religious items from Bethlehem
Nov 29, 2014 to Nov 30, 2014
Please stop the main courtyard after all Masses the weekend of November 29/30 to see a beautiful display of religious wares from Bethlehem. There will be nativity sets, rosaries, statues, crucifixes, charms and more! These items make great Christmas gifts!
Ayman Khair represents about 140 Christian families from Bethlehem. These families have been dependent upon sales of their hand carved religious articles to tourists of the Holy Land. Due to the conflict in the Middle East, the tourism has been cut off. In order to survive, they have turned to Christian communities in the United States to purchase their articles.
These hand carved religious articles are beyond description. Carved from wood of the sacred Olive tree, this workmanship has been traditional for these families for hundreds of years. It is hoped that through the efforts of Mr. Khair that these families have a little income and are able to stay living in the Holy Land.
Amazingly enough, the Christian population has dropped from 22 % to less than 2% in the last 30 years.
Thank you in advance for your support.
[ For Sale ]
December Ultreya
Dec 4, 2014 (12:00p)
in Room J
Come share and celebrate the Cursillo movement with your friends at Holy Cross who have made the Cursillo. It's an experience to help you stay connected to Christ and to serve Him.
[ Cursillo ]
Advent/Christmas Concert
Dec 6, 2014 (5:30p)
Featuring Jaime Cortez and all the Music Ministry of Holy Cross Church.
Bring the entire family and join us for:
Pictures with Santa
Refreshments in Anderson Hall following the concert
A free will offering will be taken to benefit our parish programs.
Concierto de adviento y navidad en la Iglesia de la Santa Cruz con Jaime Cortez y todos los músicos de la parroquia.
[ Advent/Christmas ]
Mass of healing and reconciliation for survivors of abuse and their families
Dec 9, 2014 (6:30p)
Bishop Thomas Olmsted and The Office of Child & Youth Protection would like to cordially invite you to gather for a Mass of healing and reconciliation for survivors of abuse and their families on Tue, Dec 9 at 6:30pm, at Ss. Simon and Jude Cathedral, 6351 N. 27th Ave, Phoenix.
Questions: Please call your local parish or the Office of Child and Youth Protection at 602-354-2396.
[ Around the Diocese ]
Caregivers Support Group Meeting
Dec 10, 2014 (2:30p)
Holy Cross Caregivers: The holidays are upon us bringing lots of things to do and an extra dose of stress. Take a break from this busy moments of the holiday season and de-stress with other caregivers at our next support group meeting on Wed, Dec 10 at 2:30pm. We meet in classrooms 3 and 4 on the second floor at Mountain Vista Medical Center which is located on the southeast corner of Southern Avenue and Crismon Road in Mesa. Park in the east parking lot and come in through the outpatient entry located on the east side of the Center.
Those planning to attend are encouraged to call 1-877-924-9355 to pre-register. For any questions about the caregivers' support group, call Holy Cross parishioner and group facilitator, Evelyn Sanchez, at 602-882-5197.
[ Caregivers Support Group ]
Advent Retreat
Dec 13, 2014
Theme: The Blessed Mother and Advent
Deacon Tom and his retreat team will explore the meaning of Advent and especially the role of Mary. Who was Mary, before and after the visit by the Angel Gabriel?
Cost: $10.00 (to cover cost of refreshments and lunch)
Please bring pad /pen and bible.
Please register by calling or coming into the parish office.
[ Advent/Christmas ]
Advent Penance Service
Dec 15, 2014
at 2:00pm and 7:00pm
[ Advent/Christmas ]
Sacramental Preparation for Adults
Jan 11, 2015 (9:00a - 11:30a)
We are currently accepting registrations for the Spring Adult Sacrament Class. This session is for adults baptized in another Christian denomination and adults who are baptized Catholic but have not completed Communion and/or Confirmation.
Classes begin Sun, Jan 11 from 9:30-11:30am.
Please contact Cindy Benzing, coordinator of Religious Education, at 480-981-2021 x 214 or email@example.com to schedule an introductory meeting.
[ Sacrament Preparation ]
5th Annual Phoenix Catholic Women's Conference "That which is True, Beautiful and Good"
Feb 21, 2015
at Xavier College Prep, Phoenix
Speakers include: Leah Darrow, Leila Miller and Ruth Ristow
Please join us for a Spirit-filled day!
New this year: Breakout Session for young Catholic ladies ages 16-22 years old!
Vigil Mass will be celebrated by Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted
Tickets now available!
Cost: Early bird tickets: $50
After Thu, Jan 15: $60
Young Catholic Ladies (16-22): $25
For more information call Roberta at 602-471-1944 or visit pdccw.com.
Hosted by the Phoenix Diocesan Council of Catholic Women
[ Around the Diocese ]


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As Gundam Build Fighters Try continues to impress us with its Solid Winning Streak, Studio Megaane has used his Retro Gunpla building skills to turn the show's opening into an 8-bit masterpiece. All in all, Megaane's ta...
|Salvador GRodiles
7:00 PM on 10.11.2014
Rejoice: Right Stuf to distribute more Gundam shows in North America
At long last, Right Stuf's deal with Sunrise has expanded outside of Gundam UC, as the company's been given the rights to release the original Gundam series in North America. On top of that, Right Stuf is distributing Gu...
10:00 AM on 09.11.2014
A Daily Dose of Music: Old School Thursdays
Time now for your blast from the past! It's Old School Thursdays! Today's dose contains some real history for your ears, as we've got the original theme from Space Battleship Yamato, the anime that started it all. Well, almo...
8:00 PM on 06.16.2014
Licensing GET: Discotek grabs Shin Mazinger Z Impact
Today is a joyous day for Go Nagai and super robot anime fans everywhere. Discotek Media has announced on their Facebook page that they've licensed Shin Mazinger Z Impact (a.k.a. Shin Mazinger: Shogeki Z-Hen!). As a pers...
First Impressions: Captain Earth
by Elliot Gay
I secretly loved Star Driver.
The ridiculously over-the-top posing, flashiness, strange imagery, and the beautiful animation; it all came together to make for an entertaining whirlwind of confusion and glee. That shouldn't come as too much of a surprise when it had such a strong team working on it. With names like Yoji Enokido (writer of Revolutionary Girl Utena), Takuya Igarashi (Sailor Moon), and a host of others attached to the project, it was bound to at least be intriguing...even if incomprehensible.
Enter Bones' new project, Captain Earth.
Sporting a host of alumni from the Star Driver project, this new giant robot anime is Bones' latest attempt at striking gold.
Is the first episode any good? Are the robots appropriately robotic? Do things go boom?
The answer and so much more, after the break.view full story + comments
9:00 AM on 03.26.2014
Aldnoah.Zero reveals new trailer, images and staff!
Acclaimed Fate/zero director Ei Aoki and the show's writer Gen Urobuchi are teaming up once again, this time for the original mecha series Aldnoa.Zero, slated for this July. At AnimeJapan this past weekend, anticipating anim...
9:00 PM on 12.28.2013
Finally! Fafner: Exodus' first trailer has launched
At long last, Xebec has launched its first trailer for Fafner: Dead Aggressor: Exodus! Personally, I was a bit disappointed that we didn't to see any of the Fafner units in action. On the bright side, we get to see Kazu...
12:00 PM on 12.26.2013
Japanese robot wins DARPA challenge, is anime reference
Robots are great. A lot of folks would agree with me, including the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), the institution doing all manner of top-secret, top-awesome projects for the government. Another thing th...
10:00 AM on 11.30.2013
Pirate Asuka is dubbed in a new Evangelion 3.33 trailer
Ahoy me hearties! Ready to see Captain Asuka take this battle into space? No problem at all, as Manga UK have released a new trailer featuring the English dub cast for Evangelion 3.33: You Can (Not) Redo. There's still a lit...
Japanator Arena: Alteisen Riese VS Blodia
by Salvador GRodiles
*ding, ding, ding*
It's Over!
Due to his lack of experience with fighting opponents outside of the Akuma and Noah Clan, Allen Walker wasn't GAR enough to go up against Kazuma the Shell Bullet. All it took was one Shocking First Bullet to the face, and the white-haired exorcist went down in a matter of seconds. Kazuma wins! (9 > 0)
There's something fulfilling about brutally stabbing your opponent with a giant stake after pummeling them with a barrage of heavy missiles and bullets. That being said, of course it's time to feature a brawl between two machines that love to impale their foes in the most brutal way possible.view full story + comments
9:00 AM on 10.29.2013
AnimEigo aiming to Kickstart Bubblegum Crisis Blu-Ray
Fans of 80's anime and powersuits are sure to be familiar with Bubblegum Crisis, the show about a group of mercs called the Knight Sabers fighting robotic threats. A few years ago, the original eight-episode OVA got a gorgeou...
3:30 PM on 10.22.2013
Mechs and sakura blossoms, new Titanfall trailer
I always find myself hesitant to write about first-person shooters on this site, especially ones developed by western studios. Not because I don't play them, because admittedly I do, but because they simply fail to appeal to...


text:
After being swept at home by No. 5 Florida last weekend, the No. 19 Alabama Crimson Tide (30-18, 13-11) will host the Jacksonville State Gamecocks (26-20, 14-10 OVC) on Tuesday night. The non-conference midweek game is scheduled to begin at 6:05 p.m. CT from Sewell-Thomas Stadium, and will be available on ESPN3/WatchESPN.
Click here for the original story.
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September 24, 2010 — A KALW radio broadcast conducted by New America Media features an interview with Samar Minallah, Chang Lin Tien Visiting Fellow at The Asia Foundation and the Founder of Ethnomedia. In the 17-minute interview, Samar discusses the importance of using culturally-sensitive media and film to raise awareness about women's issues in Pakistan. Listen to the full interview: "New America Now: Making Changes for Future Generations."
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Encinitas, California
Check out my website at http://tarayarte.wix.com/tarayartephotography & FB page at http://www.facebook.com/tarayartephotography
California Living
by Tara Yarte
Phone Cases
Protect your iPhone with a one-piece, impact resistant, flexible plastic hard case featuring an extremely slim profile. Simply snap the case onto your iPhone for solid protection and direct access to all device features.
- 93Promote
Thanks Nina! :) Yes, it sure is beautiful here. I've lived a lot of beach-and-palm-trees places the last few years so I am excited to see where the military takes us next :)


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Very lightweight but at the same time very pigmented, full coverage foundation. You need such a small amount, which sounds like the most overused phrase, except this time it's actually true. My skin is combo, with a slightly oily t zone. On me, it lasts the whole day, sometimes the whole night too ( if I'm not in the condition to take it off before bed, but shhhhhhh! this doesn't happen often).
I set mine with Ben nye translucent powder which does not add color, only longevity.
I have shade 35, in Mac terms I am approx NW30. On me it's about an 85% perfect match. I say 85 because it's about 15% darker than my own skin tone but I definitely make up for it with the amount of bronzer I apply on top.So I'm content. 25 was too light. Very much recommend!
7 out of 7 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No
I bought this product to combat my acne which has reappeared with vengeance! I was a bit worried at first because it is so heavy I thought that everyone would notice that I caked it on over my problem areas, however you really only need the smallest amount! It works so well and i'm so pleased with it, I put it onto the back of my hand and then apply it with a Mac 217 brush to blend it in so that it leaves no harsh lines or obvious concealing. I also use the vichy dermablend stick foundation for those really stubborn spots for double coverage..literally only the tiniest bit! Its an amazing product if you have not tried anything else that helps, as its very full coverage.
Wow! This stuff is a godsend. I needed a foundation that had the coverage and blendability of this to cut down my routine and I'm so happy I found one. I use the Nude color and it's almost an exact match to my skin, and covers all dark marks with just a dab. The tube can be messy but it's okay for me. It should last a while at the rate I'm using it. Price is right for the quality. I dab it over a layer of Clinique BB cream that I use as a primer of sorts and it does not transfer. I may touch up after 6 hours or so. All in all a very good product, but those with very dry skin be aware because the pigment is rich and the coverage may make dryness look cakey.
I found out about this product reading glamourai blog, she says there that it gives photoshoplike skin, so i went to Boots and i bought this foundation in opal. WOW!!!
I am amazed and my roommate as well. You cant see that you wear a foundation, yet it produce velvetlike, perfect, flawless skin. I have dry skin, without acne or scars and i can says that it doesnt accentuate dryness, but brings me relief. I always put heavy cream underneath foundation, so i wont look cakey or patchy.
This is one of the best foundations i have ever used. I also like Lancome Photogenic Lumessence.
Although the lightest shade is too dark, I mix this with the lightest shade in Colorstay for the perfect coverage, texture, staying power & of course colour!
Great for covering up my acne scarring, does not break me out and has the desire "matte" look. Will definitely repurchase! I find myself not even using concealer after applying this. x
Looks a little cakey on my face... I have dry skin and large pores (fair complexion). 15 Opal is a very good match for NW-15/20, it is yellow based and colour blends in easily.
HOWever, once it dries and settles, it looks kinda caked on...maybe it's too matte for me. And it also makes my pores look very obvious. Coverage is pretty good.
Still looking for that perfect FULL coverage, dewy foundation....
What more needs be said? This is a great foundation, very versatile in uses: mixed with moisturizer for a sheer look, used straight for max coverage, buildable to cover all blemishes.....BUT the color choices? OY!
Damn Vichy! Why you no make in more colors? FOR REAL! 4 colors? Lord! Everyone will have to buy 2 or more to mix to match their shade. BAH HUMBUG.
5 out of 5 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No
This is definitely a full coverage foundation and works amazing. I have found that I need to use a brush with it..no matter what. It will not go on well at all if you try to use your fingers. I mix a lighter shade with the current one i purchased b/c i did not feel like returning it and had a sample of a lighter shade at home.I swear when I start to put this on it is like the foundation is magically erasing all of my red post acne scars. It also does not break me out which is a miracle in itself. The only negative thing that i can possibly say is that it does transfer easily to clothes if you do not set it with powder.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No
I wanted to like this product, as I have mild rosacea and like a full coverage foundation, but this just didn't work with my skin. It felt nice at first, and covered blemishes really well, but after a while it started feeling a bit sticky and tacky. I guess a powder foundation just works better with my skin.
DISCLAIMER: I'm Italian and I'm so sorry for my rusty English ;-)
In Italy this foundation is not so cheap: it costs more than 20 (and for that price I can buy Makeupforever, Kryolan or MAC)!
*I love the all-in-one products: Dermablend is a nice concealer for my eyes and for my red nose ;-)
*I chose the right shade: NUDE is simply perfect for me!
*If you have a normal skin and you have to wear it just for few hours (maybe for a photoshooting or a video) is perfect!
NO...I won't buy it again!!!
I'm not happy, really...I'm going to hate this product!
*I need no-transfer foundation...this Dermablend leaves so dirty:
horrible stains everywhere and oil on my glasses...no way!
*You have to fix it with a lot of powder...or spray!
*If you see your face at the mirror with the sunlight you can see that it doesn't cover a lot: it's not like a Kryolan Dermacolor for Camouflage!
*This foundation is not for sensitive skin at all (and not for everyday use):
When I bought it I tried it on the neck and has quickly become red!!!
But (silly me) I decided to try the same all over my face!
*The packaging is not handy...it leaks!
Now I have a terrible dermatitis...and maybe Dermablend is really guilty for that!
I can't put my makeup on my skin, I feel so bad...I'll use mineral makeup!!!
Don't waste your money!
5 out of 6 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No


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The 47th annual Celebrity Sports Night at The Viscardi Center in Albertson was held on May 16 to raise funds for educational programs serving children, adolescents and adults with disabilities. The event featured several notable individuals such as former NFL stars Joe Namath and Joe Theismann—both Super Bowl Champions—as well as former TNA World Heavyweight Champion Mick Foley.
The event was attended by more than 600 guests, including 35 athletes and celebrities.
Councilman Anthony Macagnone attended Farmingdale Soccer Club's annual Soccer Day at Ellsworth W. Allen Park. Each year at this event, the Farmingdale Soccer Club awards scholarships to participants who have represented the community well by working hard and displaying a commitment to teamwork.
For months the parents and players had this weekend circled on their calendars. Some players started a count down; they couldn't wait. The parents checklist was drawn, uniforms, cleats, bathing suits, goggles, blender…check.
Now it was the girls' turn and they didn't disappoint. The GU 10 HBC Xtreme, were crowned division champions of the Poconos Cup Memorial Weekend tournament.
The girls went undefeated in their four games to take first place. They played outstanding soccer defeating two New Jersey teams and two Long Island teams.
"Championship, Cortland and Chipotle." These buzz words, created by Farmingdale girls' lacrosse coach Shari Campbell, were motivation for the Lady Dalers (14-3, 7-2 Nassau Conference I), as they held on to beat Bay Shore, 12-11 and claim the Long Island Class A Championship at Adelphi's Motamed Field on Sunday, June 2.
Campbell promised her team that if they won, she would take the team Chipotle to celebrate, following the match.
"That was the biggest motivation for us all," senior attack Nadine Hadnagy joked.
The Second Annual Big Daddy Celebrity Golf Classic Honorees' Evening Cocktail Party will be held on Monday, June 24 at 6:30 p.m. at Oheka Castle in Huntington, hosted by Richard "Big Daddy" Salgado of New Hyde Park. This year's honorees are Scott Rechler, chairman and CEO of RXR Realty and Michael Strahan, FOX NFL Sunday and co-host of Live with Kelly and Michael. Proceeds of the golf outing and gala will benefit the Long Island Children's Museum and North Shore Long Island Jewish Brain Aneurysm Center at Cushing Neuroscience Institute in Manhasset, and will also include silent and live auctions. Salgado is the founder and president of Coastal Advisors, LLC, insurance consulting with many professional athletes and television personalities as clients. Visit www.bigdaddygolfclassic.com for information, tickets to the gala, or to make a donation.
The St. Kilian CYO program will be holding registration for the upcoming 2013-14 season of its girls and boys basketball teams on Wednesday, June 12 from 7 to 9 p.m. in the gym lobby at St. Kilian's on Cherry Street in Farmingdale. Boys and girls in grades 3-8 are invited to register for participation on a travel basketball team representing St. Kilian Parish. Also needed: volunteer coaches in all age brackets. Any adults who would like to volunteer to coach will need to submit background check paperwork and take the parish mandated VIRTUS training. Payment of $150 is due at time of registration. Sibling discounts are available. More details at registration.
Farmingdale Titans Football and Cheerleading league will hold registration on Friday, May 24 from 7 to 9 p.m. and again on Saturday, May 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Allen Park, in Farmingdale. Children are guaranteed playing time regardless of experience or skill level.
Registration is free for five-year-olds for football and cheer.
For ages six to13, the registration fee is $115. The cheer-only option for ages five through eight is $75. Discounts are available.
For information on football call Bob Thompson, 516-404-4345 or Tina Gangale 516-293-1381; for cheerleading: Laura Cincotta, 631-796-8538 or visit www.farmingdaletitans.org.
Zwanger-Pesiri Radiology picked up its first win of the season with a 23-19 victory over McCourt & Trudden Funeral Home. ZP jumped to a quick 4-0 lead in the first, but M&T battled back and took the lead until the third inning. That's when ZP broke out with 10 hits and 10 runs, its biggest inning of the young season.
Bethpage Pharmacy, in a real close nail biter, won their second in a row by edging out Zwanger Pesiri Radiology 10-9. Barco jumped out with two in the bottom half of the first on a sac fly by Kevin Moloney and an RBI hit by Terry McPartland, but Zwanger tied it up in the third.
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SOURCE: NBC News
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Solved! How Ancient Egyptians Moved Massive Pyramid Stonestags: pyramids, Egypt
The ancient Egyptians who built the pyramids may have been able to move massive stone blocks across the desert by wetting the sand in front of a contraption built to pull the heavy objects, according to a new study.
Physicists at the University of Amsterdam investigated the forces needed to pull weighty objects on a giant sled over desert sand, and discovered that dampening the sand in front of the primitive device reduces friction on the sled, making it easier to operate. The findings help answer one of the most enduring historical mysteries: how the Egyptians were able to accomplish the seemingly impossible task of constructing the famous pyramids.
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- Raleigh Trevelyan, Chronicler of a Notable Family, Dies at 91
- Former spokesman of B.C. anti-immigration group wants UBC history prof fired
- Harvard's Steven Shapin Wins History of Science Award
- Middle East Studies Association Fights a Rising Tide of Critics
- Juan Cole says the postwar Middle East governments were modeled on the Soviet Union, though not communist (interview)


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i draw this on 2007,is it good???
Comments (3)
Qbees Jue, 05/28/2009 - 23:56
Thats a very beautiful picture you drew of Michael
VIP. BELQUIS .VIP Vie, 04/24/2009 - 23:23
you are great
you are great
think you.
Qbees Vie, 04/24/2009 - 23:01
I love your drawing
I love your drawing
its very beautiful


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- U.S. News & World Report ranks Emerson's MFA in Creative Writing among the country's top graduate programs of its kind. Emerson is also home to an undergraduate program in Writing, Literature, and Publishing.
Tag Archives: Karin C. Davidson
The Best Story I Read in a Lit Mag This Week: "We Are Here Because of a Horse" by Karin C. Davidson
In Issue 34 of Passages North, Karin C. Davidson introduces us to Tulsa, in her story "We Are Here Because of a Horse," by writing that "Tulsa by night shines like a shattered gold watch." I've arrived in Tulsa much the … Continue reading


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Appleby - Black Hill - Dufton -Greenhow - Flakebridge - Appleby.
Guided Walks
All FoSCL guided walks are free of charge and there is no need to book in advance. The current programme is shown below. You can browse through all the walks, or search for specific walks matching your criteria. Walks are automatically removed a day after they take place. Some walks involve the use of an additional bus service. In these cases normal fares and concessions will apply.
To download a printed copy of the current leaflet click here.
For further important information about the walks (including travel details) please click here.
Please note that on days when engineering work causes alterations to the published timetable planned walks are likley to be cancelled. Please check details of individual walks for up to date information.
Special note summer 2014
Please note that some leaders have reported a significant number of paths are very overgrown - especially around stiles etc. Walkers are advised to wear long trousers to avoid stinging nettles and brambles etc.
Guided Walks
Park Fell - Simon Fell - Ingleborough - Gaping Gill - Sulber Gate.
Settle - Stackhouse - Little Stainforth - Moughton - Horton.
Settle - Craven Ridge - Four Lane Ends - Brunton Road - Feizor -
Stackhouse - Settle.
For details and booking for meal contact Andy Feather on 01729 824305. Deadline for bookings 1 December 2014 (places limited to 40).
Long Preston - Hunter Bark - Attermire Scar - Victoria Cave - Catrigg Force - Langcliffe lime kiln - Settle.
Dent to Ribblehead. Route dependent on weather conditions and
group size etc.
Garsdale - Lady Anne's Highway - Cotterdale - Pennine Way - Hawes
Settle - Scaleber Force - Rye Loaf Hill - Stockdale - Warrendale Knotts - Settle
Carnforth - Hawes Water - Summer Hill - Arnside
Arnside - Arnside Knott - Far Arnside - Silverdale - Jenny Brown's Point - Warton Crag - Carnforth
- home
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Travel notes for guided walks
All walks are free of charge and begin and end at one of the stations along the line. The start time is determined by the arrival time of the relevant train at the start station. For details of the connecting trains please click here
Some walks involve additional service bus journeys on which normal fares and concessions apply.
Guided walk grades...
E: Easy - Short walk on well defined paths with ample time for stops etc.
M: Moderate - may involve small hill climb(s)
MS: Moderately strenuous with a hill climb(s)
S: Strenuous - lengthy with hill climb(s)
VS: Very strenuous - long with many hill climbs and time constraints to meet train times.


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Select () or exclude () categories to narrow your recipe search.
As you select categories, the number of matching recipes will update.
Find exactly what you're looking for with the web's most powerful recipe filtering tool.
1/3 Photos of Hawaiian Chicken Wings
Prep Time:
Cook Time:
20 mins
10 mins
From Sam Choy's "Island Flavors" The Macadamia nut crust keeps the chicken moist and adds a rich nutty flavor. You can also use the crust for fish.
Units: US | Metric
Serving Size: 1 (415 g)
Servings Per Recipe: 4
Every recipe, menu, tip and how-to is right here, at your service.


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"Overall I was very pleased with this card. I read the reviews before I purchased it so I knew to expect the texture verses a flat card; however, even though the paper wasn't completely smooth, I didn't have a hard time writing on it at all. It has the perfect coloring for what I was looking for, and it looks just like the picture available on the webiste. Also, it is the perfect size for a thank you card with just the right amount of space to write."
"These notecards are perfect for the guest of honor to receive as part of her baby shower gift. She can use them to send notes to her guests thanking them for the gifts they brought. They are simple, elegant single notecards with your choice of monogram letter and footer that can be personalized."
"I ordered these cards for my brand new granddaughter and her Mommie loves them and looks forward to writing short and sweet notes for all the treasures she is receiving from family and friends."
"These cards have a nice weight to them. The design is adorable without being too cutesy. My nine year old was thrilled with her new stationery."
"Very happy with the quality. Came out just how I wanted it to. It matched the invitations I ordered. I would highly recommend this product."


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Birth Control Health Center
Hormonal Birth Control: Risk of Blood Clots - Topic Overview
In some women, the estrogen in combination hormonal birth control methods increases the risk of a blood clot in a leg (deep vein thrombosis, or DVT) or a blood clot in a lung (pulmonary embolism, or PE). A blood clot in a leg vein can travel through the circulation system and cause pulmonary embolism.
The risk for DVT or PE is overall very low with hormonal contraceptives. In the past, combination birth control pills contained a higher dose of estrogen, which increased the risk of DVT and PE. Now the combination pill contains a lower dose of estrogen, and the risk is reduced. The risk for DVT or PE is actually higher for a pregnant women than for nonpregnant women taking hormonal contraceptives.
Recommended Related to Birth Control
Long-Term Birth Control: New Implants and Patches
Birth control pills aren't for everyone. If you've forgotten your pills too many times -- or can't take them -- there are plenty of options. The birth control patch (Ortho Evra), vaginal ring (NuvaRing), and three types of birth control implants (Mirena, Implanon, and Essure) offer long-term birth control that is virtually hassle-free for months, years, or forever. If pregnancy is still a future possibility for you, make your choice carefully. With Ortho Evra, NuvaRing, and Mirena, fertility...
Read the Long-Term Birth Control: New Implants and Patches article > >
Combination hormonal birth control pills that contain the progestin called desogestrel increase the risk of blood clots more than birth control pills that contain other types of progestin.1 The progestin called drospirenone (found in pills such as YAZ or Yasmin) also might have a greater risk of blood clots than other types of progestin.2 Talk to your doctor about the risk of blood clots when deciding which pill is right for you.
The birth control patch delivers more estrogen than the low-dose birth control pills do. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns that women using the patch are slightly more likely to get dangerous blood clots in the legs and lungs than women using birth control pills. So talk to your doctor about your risks before using the patch.
The known risk factors for blood clots (DVT or PE) include:3
- Pregnancy and the first 6 weeks after delivery.
- Personal or family history of blood clots.
- Obesity.
- Surgery. Birth control pills are usually stopped within 1 month of major surgery to decrease the risk of a blood clot. The risk needs to be balanced against the risk of an unintended pregnancy by stopping the pills.
- Coagulation disorders, such as factor V Leiden mutation. This is a genetic blood clotting problem.
- Inactivity, such as during long distance travel in cars or airplanes.
Studies have shown that high blood pressure, diabetes, and superficial varicose veins do not increase the risk for blood clots.3
In this article
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise


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Optivest Properties
Optivest Properties Jobs & Careers in Hesperia, CA
Property Manager
Optivest – Big Bear Lake, CA
Are you looking to work for a business that you operate like it is your own? Optivest Properties is an industry leader and looking for high quality… Glassdoor
Optivest Properties Reviews
"A good company but needs to hire better (and smarter) facility managers. "
- Comp & Benefits
- Work/Life Balance
- Senior Management
- Culture & Values
- Career Opportunities
I worked at Optivest Properties part-time (more than an year)Pros
Optivest is a good company to work for. I liked that they were VERY flexible with my school schedule. The pay is decent (as an entry-level worker) and anyone can execute the facility procedures. You just need to be trained. Give yourself a week working there and you'll master the procedures. However, learning the computer software will take longer. Working for the facilities that Optivest operates was super easy. Your responsibilities pretty much stay the same everyday. Optivest operates numerous facilities and I really liked the corporate management but I can't say the same for the managers they hire for the facilities they work with.Cons
I worked at more than one facility and the facility managers I worked for usually had mediocre to below-average leadership abilities. Out of all the facilities I worked for, there was only one who demonstrated good leadership. But other than that one manager, all of them were uneducated, had no leadership traits, indecisive, (mostly) lazy, had no vision, made many mistakes, unable to handle difficult customers and computer illiterate. In essence, they really shouldn't have been managers but I'm aware why they get hired - because educated and successful-prone employees wouldn't work as a facility manager. So Optivest has to settle for mediocre candidates. Don't get me wrong though, because of their nature it made working there SUPER easy and stress-free. So that was a big plus. If you're one who doesn't care about that stuff (which is completely fine) then you would LOVE working there. Despite having mediocre managers I still recommend to work for them so as long as it's entry-level.Advice to ManagementAdvice
Hire better-quality facility managers. I'm not entirely sure what the interview process is like but it definitely wasn't a good system in my opinion.RecommendsPositive OutlookApproves of CEO


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Kansas City Royals' top 10 prospects
Kansas City Royals' ten best prospects
The farm system of the Kansas City Royals has been a topic of discussion for many years and hardly more so than now. Two years ago they had more prospects in Baseball America's top one hundred than any other club and shortly thereafter those prospects started appearing at the major league level. Eric Hosmer, Mike Moustakas and Salvador Perez all had good to excellent starts to their careers after having been top prospects before that.
But the Royals pitching lagged and their young pitchers tended to fall victim to injury or unreadiness. So the farm system was brought into the news again with a blockbuster trade that sent Wil Myers, Jake Odorizzi and Mike Montgomery, three of the Royals top prospects, to the Tampa Bay Rays away in an effort to get good pitching.
The success or failure of that trade is still to be determined, but it and the ascension to the major league level of several prospects does leave the Royals' prospect list looking rather different than it did two years ago. But it is by no means empty. The Royals still have some excellent players coming up through the ranks courtesy of years of high draft picks. The major league roster is better than it has been in years, but it is worth looking at who might be coming behind them in a few years time to possibly contend for a roster spot. It is a much more speculative effort than it was even a fortnight ago, but one of the beauties of baseball as opposed to American football is development of talent through a minor league system and it is fascinating to see how players are coming on.
10 - Christian Colon
Shortstop Christian Colon was the Royals' first round draft pick in 2010 and has spent most of his time at AA Northwest Arkansas, though he finished 2012 at AAA Omaha. He put up solid numbers this year, hitting .289 at AA before having a 7-17 run at AAA. In the long term he is blocked at shortstop by Alcides Escobar, but has played some games at second base and might have a better shot trying to unseat Johnny Giavotella.
9 - Jason Adam
The Royals drafted pitcher Jason Adam directly out of high school in the fifth round of the 2010 draft and he has had two good minor league seasons. This year he played in advanced A-ball and although he was under .500 he had a 3.53 ERA and struck out 123 batters in 158 innings whilst walking only 36. His biggest problem is that he does give up a lot of hits; in 2012 that number stood at 148.
8 - John Lamb
The inclusion of pitcher John Lamb on this list is certainly speculative. But a reasonable speculation, I think. Lamb was one of the best pitchers in the Royals organisation after he was drafted in 2008. But Tommy John surgery ended his 2011 season and he is just starting to come back from that. He did pitch in 2012 though and should get back on the right track in 2013.
7 - Sam Selman
The Royals took Sam Selman in the second round of this year's amateur draft after the Los Angeles Angels had drafted and failed to sign him back in 2009. But there is a good reason the Angels tried to get him out of high school and a good reason the Royals took him so early this year. In his short minor league career he has continued to show that, putting up a 2.09 ERA and 89 strikeouts in sixty innings.
6 - Adalberto Mondesi
Infielder Alberto Mondesi has a .290 batting average in fifty games for Idaho Falls (rookie ball) as his primary professional attribute. Which really does not seem like it ought to be enough to make a list of prospects at all, until one realises that Mondesi is only 17 years of age. He's not much of a power hitter, (though he's not fully grown that may change), but he is excellent defensively and looks like one to watch.
5 - Jorge Bonifacio
Another very young player, Jorge Bonifacio has put up three very solid minor league seasons and is still six months away from his 20th birthday. He managed 61 RBIs in just 105 games (that would work out to a quite respectable 94 RBIs in a full big league season) and had an OPS of .768, quite high for his league. He would do well to bring down his strikeout numbers though; he had 84 last year.
4 - Justin Marks
Pitcher Justin Marks minor league numbers were good enough that he went to the Arizona Fall League as one of the Royals' representatives and there he dazzled, going 5-1 with a 2.59 ERA. It won't be next year, but he might have a shot at getting to the majors in two or three years.
3 - Yordano Ventura
Unusually for most of the players in the Royals' farm system, Yordano Ventura has already pitched at Kauffman Stadium. He started the 2012 Futures Game for the Rest of the World and not only pitched a perfect inning, he hit 100 miles per hour according to the stadium radar gun. That might deserve an asterisk, the radar at Kauffman tends to be a bit hot, but it does not change the fact that Ventura has one of the best arms in the minor leagues. The fact that he has other pitches with which to work means that he should find himself continuing to rise quickly through the system.
2 - Derek Starling
The Royals drafted Derek Starling (more commonly known as 'Bubba') out of high school in the first round of the 2011 draft and he put up good numbers in his only minor league season. But any first round pick will be a high prospect and Starling's talent makes him no exception. He has good speed and good power and if he matures in the way the Royals are hoping he will be an excellent outfielder.
1 - Kyle Zimmer
It's almost a rule that a list of prospects be topped by a first round draft pick and this one is no exception. Kyle Zimmer was drafted by the Royals this year in the first round. It was not only his blazing fastball, but a variety of other pitches all of above average quality that made him such a coveted commodity. He got off to almost as good a start to his minor league career as one could ask; striking out 42 in 39.2 innings and walking only eight. If he stays healthy we will be hearing a lot more about him.
James Shields Should Be Pirates' Top Target
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